Where is Clay? A NEW NY Yankee blog

Yanks at Twins

2008-08-11T17:17:00.003-04:00

Here is tonight's line up via Peter Abraham .

Christian LF
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
A-Rod 3B
Nady DH
Cano 2B
Sexson 1B
Pudge C
Melky CF

Sidney Ponson (7-2 4.23 ERA) vs Glen Perkins (8-3 4.38 ERA).

The Yankees need to get on a roll here, because the season is winding down and the playoffs get further out of reach with every loss. Sidney has pitched well against the Twins this season. In three starts, Sidney is 2-0 with a 2.25 ERA in 2o innings. It's surprising to see Johnny get a day off, he was playing well so far on the road trip, maybe his shoulder might be aching. The Yankees are hitting Perkins pretty well. They have a .422 batting average to go along with a .994 OPS, in only 45 at bats.

Pitching Matchups

2008-08-11T11:26:00.004-04:00

Here are the pitching match ups for the upcoming series at the Minnesota Twins starting tonight.

Monday - Sir Sidney (4-2 4.23 ERA) vs Glen Perkins (8-3 4.38 ERA)

Tuesday - Mike Mussina (15-7 3.27 ERA) vs Nick Blackburn (9-6 3.60 ERA)

Wednesday - Who Knows vs Kevin Slowey (8-8 4.07 ERA)

Yankees vs Rangers, Aug 6

2008-08-06T18:19:00.002-04:00

First off I gotta get back to writing so I'm going to...

Here is the line-up per Peter Abraham:

Damon CF
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
A. Rodriguez DH
Giambi 1B
Nady LF
Cano 2B
I. Rodriguez C
Betemit 3B

Ponson RHP

A few notes:

The Yankees desperately need to run off a string of victories. It is getting late in the year and the Red Sox and Rays are pulling away in the division. It is very disheartening when the Red Sox and Rays BOTH lose and alas, the Yankees lose too. The offense needs to be consistently good from here on out also. They cannot have 3 games scoring 2 runs then explode for 14 in a game. I'd much rather take 5 runs a game over those 4 then 20 runs the other way.

I hate Sidney Ponson. Bring up Aceves, Kennedy, Wright (I know, I know you all hate him because he struggled IN A FEW INNINGS (he pitched well except for a back-back-back-back inning and a few other bad innings), but he is diong great in AAA and deserves a shot, plus he is lefty), but Giese is starting for Rasner so he is not an option. The Yankees are thin in the rotation with Joba going down, which is another reason for my pessimism.

Still no word on Joba, but I am bracing myself for the very worst. Personally I would end his season. This season does not look like it is going anywhere fast for the Yankees and we need Joba to be a LONGGG term starter for us, not a guy we are going to ruin because we went for broke this year, especially when the playoff prospects for us aren't looking too hot.

Those of you who know me know that I have been a Melky fan from the very start. I wanted him up when he was in the minors, through when he was overmatched in Boston, all through last year, and I had very high hopes for Melky this season and beyond. However, Melky needs to get sent down to AAA for a while. He needs to know that he is not guaranteed a spot in the line-up and that if he doesn't produce he is replaceable with either Damon, Christian, or you can bring back Gardner (the Yankees did go on quite a run with Gardner playing, even if he struggled). Austin Jackson might be able to make the leap to the majors next year and the battle for CF should be quite a good one in the preseason.

Joba Update

2008-08-06T05:47:00.003-04:00

Joba Chamberlain is being sent down to Alabama to meet with specialist Dr. James Andrews for a second opinion, which cannot be good news. It looks like Ian Kennedy will be brought up to start either Friday or Saturday in Anaheim. If the Yankees loose Joba for any sort of extended period of time they are in trouble. They lost last night after Andy Pettitte didn't pitch exceptionally well, and tonight Sir Sidney is on the mound, the Knight with the 1.66 WHIP.

Some good news coming out of Tampa, Phil Hughes will start Thursday night in Scranton-Wilkes Barre. He will get up to 65-70 pitches, hopefully one or two more starts and he can be brought up and see if he can help this mess of a rotation.

Yanks at Rangers

2008-08-05T18:23:00.003-04:00

Here is tonight's line up courtesy of Peter Abraham:

Damon LF
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
Nady DH
Cano 2B
Sexson 1B
Molina C
Christian CF

Andy Pettite (12-8 4.18 ERA) vs Matt Harrison (2-2 7.40 ERA).

The Melk Man gets another day off, which is good considering he is awful lately. Molina is catching Pettitte tonight. As you probably recall, Pettitte pitched terrible his last outing, with Pudge behind the plate. Joba Chamberlain had his MRI today, but the Yankees will not release any information on him until Dr. James Andrews checks out the results. Matt Harrison has never faced any of the Yankee batters.

Joba's Injury

2008-08-05T05:31:00.003-04:00

Last night during the 5th inning of the ball game, Joba Chamberlain was removed from the game was a shoulder injury. "He has a little stiffness. We believe it's muscular," Girardi said. "We'll see what the tests reveal. I don't think it's serious. I don't think he'll be shut down a long time." If Joba's injury is serious I think you can kiss this season goodbye. Joba most definitely miss his next start, and barring any changes you are looking at Rasner, Ponson and Giese in the rotation for at least the next week.

The Yankees sent Joba back to New York for tests, so maybe we will know something later today.

Yankees at Rangers

2008-08-04T17:23:00.002-04:00

Here is tonight's line up via Peter Abraham :

Damon DH
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
A-Rod 3B
Giambi 1st
Nady LF
Cano 2B
Pudge C
Christian CF

The pitching match up looks like this : Joba Chamberlain (4-3 2.24 ERA) vs Vincente Padilla (12-5 4.52 ERA)

Some notes : Melky is 3 for his last 23, so it is no surprise that he is getting a night off. He has been really struggling as of late. The Yankees are 4-5 since acquiring Xavier Nady and Damaso Marte. Speaking of Nady, he was named Co-Player of the Week with Mike Aviles, shortstop for the Royals. Nady hit .529 with 3 home runs, 3 doubles and 10 RBI's last week. Some unfortunately news to pass along, Giambi has shaved the mustache.

Yanks vs Angels

2008-08-01T15:52:00.002-04:00

Here is tonight's lineup per Peter Abraham.

Damon LF
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
A-Rod 3B
Giambi DH
Cano 2B
Betemit 1B
I-Rod C
Cabrera CF

Sir Sidney is on the mound, maybe for the last time if he has another outing like his last one. Sidney has to keep runners off base, his current WHIP is 1.66, which is terrible. What is Joe Girardi's fascination with Wilson Betemit, he has been playing god awful lately and yet still manages to find himself in the lineup.

Old Timers Day

2008-07-31T22:20:00.003-04:00

The Yankees have announced a list of former Yanks that will be at the final Old Timer's Day at Yankee Stadium, Saturday afternoon and 1:30.

Here's the list :

Jim Abbott
Luis Arroyo
Steve Balboni
Jesse Barfield
Don Baylor
Paul Blair
Johnny Blanchard
Ron Blomberg
Wade Boggs
Scott Bradley
Dr. Bobby Brown
Homer Bush
Andy Carey
Chris Chambliss
Horace Clarke
Jerry Coleman
David Cone
Ron Davis
Bucky Dent
Al Downing
Brian Doyle
Dave Eiland
Tony Fernandez
Ed Figueroa
Oscar Gamble
Joe Girardi
Eli Grba
Ken Griffey, Sr.
Ron Guidry
Rickey Henderson
Tommy John
Pat Kelly
Jimmy Key
Gene "Mickey" Klutts
Johnny Kucks
Don Larsen
Al Leiter
Graeme Lloyd
Hector Lopez
Kevin Maas
Tino Martinez
Bobby Meacham
Ramiro Mendoza
Gene Michael
Rich Monteleone
Jeff Nelson
Graig Nettles
Gil Patterson
Joe Pepitone
Tim Raines
Bobby Richardson
Mickey Rivers
Buck Showalter
Charlie Silvera
Bill "Moose" Skowron
Luis Sojo
Darryl Strawberry
Wayne Tolleson
Jeff Torborg
Mike Torrez
Tom Tresh
Bob Turley

Unfortunately, no Clay Bellinger

Upcoming series vs the Angels

2008-07-30T20:24:00.003-04:00

The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim come in tomorrow for a 4 game set at the stadium. They just made a big trade, acquiring Mark Texiera from the Atlanta Braves. The Angels are 66-40, the best record in all of baseball.

Here are the probable starters for the series :

John Garland (9-6, 4.30 ERA) vs. Andy Pettitte (12-7, 3.76 ERA)

Ervin Santana (11-5 , 3.57 ERA) vs. Sidney Ponson (4-2, 4.59 ERA)

Jered Weaver ( 9-8, 4.11 ERA) vs. Mike Mussina (13-7, 3.56 ERA)

John Lackey (9-2, 2.93 ERA) vs. Darrell Rasner (5-8, 4.92 ERA)

Pudge Reaction

2008-07-30T20:10:00.003-04:00

Today the Yankees made a big move. They traded away Kyle Farnsworth for Pudge Rodriguez straight up. I think this is a great move. The Yanks get a Hall of Fame catcher who is hitting .295 this season, who also is a stud defensively. Jose Molina is only hitting .226 and is obviously wearing down after being forced to play everyday.

Kyle Farnsworth was clearly having his best season in pinstripes, but it is very tough to trust him in big spots because he rarely ever does well. He is going to help the Tigers bullpen acting as a bridge from the starters to closer Todd Jones. This is going to be Kyle's second stint in the Motor City, he pitched there for half of 2005 before getting traded to the Atlanta Braves.

Who will take Farnsworth's spot in the bullpen? Brian Bruney is almost ready to come off the Disabled List after suffering a Lisfranc injury. Mark Melancon was just promoted to Triple-A, so he might get considered in the near future. Scott Strickland is also a possibility for a call up with his 2.19 ERA and 0.99 WHIP, impressive numbers.

In game thoughts...

2008-07-29T20:50:00.004-04:00

No post game tonight because I am gonna be in bed, so I am making a few in game points:

Giambi is playing terrible, I think the big G needs some time off to rest. His average is back under .250 and he looks lethargic out there. It also may be time to retire the mustache.

When is a Yankee pitcher going to throw at Millar or at least brush him back? He is flat out killing the Yankees.

Is this season the beginning of the end of Derek Jeter being an elite player? He is hitting a paltry .285ish, and I say paltry because he has absolutely no pop in his bat. He never hits home runs and the double he hit today was the first time I have seen him drive the ball in what seems like ages.

Abreu also really has to pick his game up. Since there is no way the Yankees resign him for next year with the glut of outfielders we have someone should really let him know that he is playing for what probably amounts to his last big contract. Maybe the thought of him getting paid for the last time will get him to start hitting the ball like he used to (and hopefully still can).

One good thing is A-Rod continues to rake. His name should definitely be on the short list for AL MVP again, especially if the Yankees make the playoffs.

Yankees vs Orioles, July 29

2008-07-29T17:12:00.002-04:00

Here is the line-up for todays game via Peter Abraham:

Damon LF
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez DH
Giambi 1B
Cano 2B
Betemit 3B
Cabrera CF
Moeller C

Rasner RHP

A few things:
Rasner gets the start so we have Moeller behind the plate. I'll continue to say this before every start for Rasner and Ponson: Rasner needs to pitch well or he is easily expendable from the rotation. I say easily because the way he and Ponson have both pitched, you can easily bring up a guy like Aceves from AAA and give him a look, or, hopefully not, you can make a trade for a guy like Washburn. I hope Rasner doesn't do so bad tonight that the Yankees feel pressure and make a bad trade for a menial pitcher like Washburn.

Hopefully this day off is a good thing for Nady, I guess we will see tomorrow. It will be interesting to see how Damon does in his first day back in the field since his injury. I'll bet anything that the O's will be off to the races if the ball happens to get hit to left field, be it taking an extra base or tagging up on a shallow fly ball.

New poll

2008-07-29T13:01:00.004-04:00

I am putting up a new poll because the other poll has been exhausted.

The results of the Will the Yankees make the playoffs poll were:

51% Yes, AL Wildcard
42% Yes, AL East Champs
6% No

The new poll is:

Should the Yankees resign Mike Mussina, and for how long?

On my lunch hour..

2008-07-29T12:52:00.002-04:00

Just eating lunch and decided to make a few comments about the game last night and the current state of the Yankees:

Last night's game was awful. The Yankees were even worse then the final score indicated and the offense was anemic against Guthrie. The Yankees never seem to be able to handle the Orioles as well as they should and this is a problem because at this point in the season you need to win every game you can, especially when the two teams you are ahead of both lose. Moose, from the start, had absolutely nothing last night. He was due for a game like this and here's hoping that this isn't a sign of his miraculous season slowing down a little bit. I hate to sound pessimistic, but Moose is up there in age, has had injury problems, and has had a history of slowing down considerably as the season wore on in recent years. However, I also want to note that he has been shellacked by the Orioles this year so it's reasonable to say this is just a blip for him.

I do not think the Yankees should make any trades that include Washburn, Texiera, or any other player who they are going to have to overpay for. If they want to go out and get a better back-up catcher, or someone that can evenly split time with Molina that is fine. Texiera's asking price is wayyy too high to consider and the situation with Posada impacts the first base position for a long time coming. Nothing is certain about Posada's injury post-surgery and it looks like he will be more of a DH/first basemen for the remainder of his contract. Washburn I think is just garbage and we should not give up anything more then Kei Igawa, also garbage, for him. Anything other then that is just not feasible.

Tonight is a big game for the Yankees and they have to bounce back with a solid showing. Hopefully the Red Sox and Rays both lose again and we can actually pick up some games on them.

Yankees vs Red Sox, July 27

2008-07-27T17:54:00.005-04:00

Here is tonight's line up via Peter Abraham :

Damon DH
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
A-Rod 3B
Nady LF
Cano 2B
Sexson 1B
Cabrera CF
Molina C

Tonight's pitching match up is Sidney Ponson (6-1 4.02) vs Jon Lester (8-3 3.20). The Yankees are 8-0 since the All Star break. The Yankees are one game back of Boston for second place in the AL East. Ponson has to cut down on base runners allowed. Ponsons WHIP this year is 1.61, which is not good. Sooner or later its going to come back to bite him, hopefully its not tonight.

A few more things: Nady getting the start in LF again and batting in the 5 hole. He should get some good RBI chances in that spot, hopefully a lot of chances tonight. Sexson gets the nod at 1st base because the Yankees are facing the southpaw Jon Lester tonight.

Let's see if the situation with Manny Ramirez has any effect on his or the rest of the team's play tonight or in the upcoming games. Manny said today he wasn't going to talk about the contract with the team and that he is sick of them and they are sick of him so after 2008 they can just send him a letter and let him know his situation. I don't think the Red Sox will trade Manny because they are definitely not as good without his bat and because I think that if they do try to trade him he will demand that his $20 million options for the next two years get picked up or he will demand a contract extension with any new team. He did just recently hire Scott Boras as his agent and Boras will want the commission from Manny's last big hurrah.

Also, Jarrod Washburn pitched today for the Mariners. Washburn went 8 IP, 4 hits, 1 ER, 2 bb, and 2 Ks. Washburn definitely knows his name is out there and if I were him I'd pitch my heart out as well to try to get traded from the awful Mariners. I still do not think the Yankees should pursue him as I think the price is high and is probably going up and because I think that he is marginal at best and would not have much of an impact this year or next.

Nady and Marte trade

2008-07-26T12:05:00.002-04:00

As of last night, the Yankees received Xavier Nady and Damaso Marte for minor leaguers Jose Tabata, Ross Ohlendorf, Phil Coke, and George Kontos. That report was incorrect. The Yankees trade Tabata, Ohlenforf, Jeff Karstens, and Dan McCutchen. The one player I am upset about losing is McCutchen. I thought he had a shot to be a contributer at the big league level. Jose Tabata is having a terrible year in Double A and he has emotional problems. Tabata has been suspended already this season for leaving a game after an at bat.

Someone has to say it

2008-07-25T21:21:00.002-04:00

Someone has to say it, screw Kevin Youkilis, he is one of the biggest babies in the major leagues and he should just shut up and play. Stop pouting when Joba throws inside and the pitch gets away, only a dope would throw at a guy in a 1-0 game in the 7th inning...

Analysis of the Yankees and Pirates trade to come soon...

Ortiz is back tonight

2008-07-25T18:28:00.002-04:00

As everyone must know by know David Ortiz is off the DL and back in the line-up for the Red Sox. It will be interesting to see if the wrist has an effect on Ortiz now that he is facing major league pitching again and a fireballer such as Joba to boot. I know that Ortiz has tore up the minor leagues during his rehab, but the minors are the minors and now he is back in the majors. Hopefully Joba keeps Ortiz and the entire Red Sox line-up at bay tonight and this game sets the stage for a big series for the Yankees.

Yanks at Sox

2008-07-25T16:04:00.003-04:00

Here is today's line up via Peter Abraham:

Damon DH
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
A-Rod 3B
Giambi 1B
Cano 2B
Cabrera CF
Molina C
Gardner LF

Tonight's pitching match up is Joba Chamberlain (2-3, 2.52 ERA) against Josh Beckett (9-6 3.98).

Since the break the Yankees are 6-0 while the Red Sox are 3-3. This season Beckett is 3-0 with a 3.92 ERA against the Yankees. Joba Chamberlain has started one game against the Sox this year, going 6 innings, giving up 4 hits, 3 earned runs, with 4 walks and 5 strike outs.

Starting Pitching Roundup

2008-07-25T10:34:00.003-04:00

The Yankees are known to have interest in Seattle lefty Jarrod Washburn. Washburns numbers look like this : 4-9 4.75 1.48 WHIP. Washburns numbers are not that good and I would be very hesistant to acquire him and his $10.35 million salary for next season. I don't think anyone really knows what the Yanks would give up for the underachieving lefty, some reports say that Igawa is in the deal, while another says he isn't involved in a trade. The Yankees have said they would talk about Melky Cabrera, Brett Gardner, or Justin Christian in the right trade.

The Yankees have not spoken to the Reds about pitcher Bronson Arroyo, but apparently may have scouted him. The Reds insist he is not available. Roy Halladay supposedly wants out of Toronto but I do not think the Yankees would give him their top prospects for him. I also don't think they would trade him to a team in the same division. That same sentiment goes for A.J. Burnett as well.

Some catching possibilities

2008-07-24T21:13:00.002-04:00

I was reading today about a flurry of possible Yankee moves, but I wanna focus on the catchers that could be available (in order of best case to worst case)...

Bengie Molina: Bengie is the move I would like to see the Yankees make most. He has been very productive this season for the Giants with his bat and his glove. Jose's brother is signed to a reasonable contract through 2009 and would be a good guy to have even with a (hopefully) healthy Posada next year as he can be a good bat off the bench, a solid 2nd or 3rd catcher, and get some time possibly at first base and DH.

Gerald Laird: Laird is an interesting possibility. He is currently on the DL, but he has produced this season and could be gotten I think cheap. He is relatively young and could be useful in years to come with Posada's situation being very much up in the air.

Miguel Olivo: Olivo is a poor offensive catcher and an above average defensive catcher, unless I am wrong we have 2 guys like that on the team already. I'd stay away from Olivo.

Kenji Johjima: Johjima is interesting because I think he could be a nice throw-in in a deal for Jarrod Washburn. Personally, I do not want him. He has been surpassed by a young player in Jeff Clement and has taken a big step back after receiving a hefty contract this offseason.

Ivan Rodriguez: The Tigers would love to dump this contract. Hopefully the Yankees see that the catcher formally known as Pudge's best days are far behind him.

Unfortunately catcher is probably the hardest spot to fill of any on the diamond in the trade market. A good catcher is extremely hard to come by and if a team has a good back-up and an excellent starter they most likely would want to hold on to the back-up in case of an injury such as the one suffered by Posada. That being said, I am all for the Yankees trading a low to mid level prospect or two and reuniting 2 of the brothers Molina on the Yankees. The Yankees might also have to take back a player like Randy Winn in such a deal because the Giants are dying to get rid of his contract, but the Yankees can afford that if just to move him in another trade, cut him, or trade one of their other outfielders. Bengie makes some money but not an exuberant amount and he has done well both offensively and defensively for the Giants. The reunion with his brother may also have a positive effect on Bengie and Jose.

Morning Links

2008-07-24T09:12:00.003-04:00

Bill Madden thinks that both the Yankees and Jorge Posada are being selfish.

Richie Sexson, "awesome" at first base.

Mike Vaccaro thinks that Mike Mussina could be the teams MVP.

After some rehab games, David Ortiz is scheduled to return this weekend.

Do the Yankees really need a lefty reliever?

2008-07-23T14:54:00.003-04:00

The Yankees do not currently have a left handed reliever in their bullpen, and haven't all year except for the sporadic moments that Billy Traber was on the roster. The trade market has two pretty good lefty relievers on it, the Pirates Damaso Marte and the Rockies Brian Fuentes. In order to get the Rockies Fuentes, the Yankees would have to include Ian Kennedy, who the Yankees do not want to move. The Pirates have told the Red Sox that if they want to acquire Marte, Clay Bucholz is the price, so that would mean Phil Hughes is the starting point for any Marte trade. Neither of these trades will happen unless either teams lessen their demands. I don't believe the Yankees need to waste a roster spot for a lefty reliever.

Edwar Ramirez is holding lefty hitters to a .176 batting average with a .324 slugging percentage. Hitters have a .183 batting average to go along with a .383 slugging percentage against Jose Veras. Lefties are hitting .258 against Kyle Farnsworth, but in recent weeks his number have gone way down. Mariano Rivera are holding lefties to a paltry .160 batting average to go along with a .168 slugging percentage.

Damaso Marte's numbers against lefties are not as good as the Yankees current bullpen options. Lefties are hitting .255 against him, to go along with a .305 OBP and a .364 slugging percentage. Brian Fuentes numbers are much better than Marte's. Lefties are only hitting .185 off of him, with a .241 OBP and .185 slugging percentage. Fuentes is obviously a better option than Marte, but not at the Rockies asking price.

2008 MLB Draft Update

2008-07-23T13:29:00.002-04:00

Here is a list of players drafted by the New York Yankees and whether or not they are signed.

Unsigned
Gerrit Cole RHP
Jeremy Bleich LHP
Scott Bittle RHP
Brett Marshall RHP
Kyle Higashioka C
D.J. Mitchell RHP
Luke Anders 1B
Blake Monar LHP
Garrison Lassiter SS
Ben McMahan C
Andy Suiter LHP
Chris Dwyer LHP
Justin Harper RHP
Clay Caufield
Sam Mende SS
Mykal Stokes OF
Matt Summers RHP
Evan Ocheltree OF
Creede Simpson SS
Matt Veltmann RHP
Rob Scahill RHP
John Forlino RHP
Nik Turley LHP

Signed

David Adams 2B
Corban Joseph SS
Chris Smith OF
Dan Brewer OF
Mikey O'Brien RHP
Ray Kruml OF
Luke Grienke RHP
Jack Rye OF
David Phelps RHP
Matt Richardson RHP
Addison Maruszak SS
Brandon Braboy RHP
Mitch Abeita C
Pat Venditte RHP/LHP
Mitch Delaney 1B
Cory Arbiso RHP
Ryan Wilkes SS
Mike Lyon 3B
Jeff Nutt C
Chad Gross OF
Mike Jones OF
Spencer Lucian 2B
Tommy Baldridge OF
Brad Rulon RHP
Andrew Shive RHP
Eric Lovett 1B
Clint Preisendorfer LHP
Ryan Flannery RHP

Yankees vs. Twins

2008-07-23T11:29:00.002-04:00

Here is today's lineup via Peter Abraham:

Damon DH
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
A-Rod 3B
Sexson 1B
Cano 2B
Cabrera CF
Molina C
Christian LF

The starters are Mike Mussina (12-6 3.49) vs. Glen Perkins (7-2 3.84)

Some notes

The Yankees have won 5 in a row since the All-Star break. Molina is back in the lineup after get a needed day off. If anyone need a day off its Brett Gardner who is 3 for his last 20. Last time we saw Justin Christian he was falling on his face trying to steal second base.

What do the Yankees need?

2008-07-23T09:27:00.003-04:00

At 55- 45, 3.5 games out of first place and 3 games out of the Wild Card, the Bombers obviously need some help. People have been clamouring for an outfielder that can hit from the right side, a starter, and a lefty out of the bullpen. I think the most important piece to the playoff puzzle is outfield help. I'm a huge Brett Gardner fan but right now you could just see that he is completely lost at the plate. I think he might need to get sent down eventually because he isn't doing the things at the dish that got him called up to the Major Leagues.
Acquiring a starter is another possibility for the Yanks, although I don't know if any starters are worth their asking price. With so many buyers in this trade market the price for a decent starter could and should be too high for the Yankees to bite.
A left-hander out of the bullpen is also being considered by the club. The price for a decent lefty reliever is always high and this season will be no different.

Some Yankee Links

2008-07-23T08:55:00.002-04:00

Jon Heyman thinks that the Mariners might want to package a bum along with Jarrod Washburn to the Yankees.

Jorge Posada not given good news.

George A. King III says the Yankees are going to have a big meeting in Tampa.

Flip Bondy of the Daily News says he is enjoying this wacky season.

The Daily News' Mark Feinsand hears that the Yanks will make trades and go on a run.

Peter Abraham says that Darrell Rasner good performance came at a good time.

July 22: Twins vs Yankees

2008-07-22T15:33:00.003-04:00

Here is the line-up for tonight's game via Peter Abraham:

Damon DH
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
Giambi 1B
Cano 2B
Cabrera CF
Moeller C
Gardner LF

Rasner RHP

A few things to note:
Moeller gets the nod behind the plate tonight. It's been quite a while since we have seen him get a start, but something tells me that we will be seeing a lot more of him in the weeks and possibly months to come. Moeller started off red-hot for the Yankees, but has since cooled way off and has seemed to remember that he is in fact Chad Moeller.
This is a big start for Rasner. Rasner has not pitched well as of late and he is definitely a candidate to get bounced from the rotation should the Yankees make a move (hope not) or bring up a guy from their minor league stable (hope so). If Rasner does not pitch well tonight expect him to be booted from the rotation. One thing Rasner does have going for him is that he has pitched best when Moeller has played. That could just be a statistical anomaly, but who can say for sure.
Two things to keep up: Cano and Melky have been playing well since the break and hopefully they keep their roll going. The bullpen has also performed extremely well for the Yankees and that is going to be key tonight if Rasner struggles and Girardi has to go to the pen early. Much of how the rest of the season goes for the Yankees depends on the play of these elements.

Jarrod Washburn trade possibility

2008-07-22T15:17:00.002-04:00

Word from Buster Olney via ESPN Radio today is that the Yankees are "strongly considering" a trade with the Mariners that would send Kei Igawa and a minor league prospect, not a top prospect, for Jarrod Washburn. Washburn is having a decent year with 110 IP, 4.75 era, and a 1.482 WHIP. That being said I would consider him an upgrade over Rasner or Ponson depending who pitches worse. Washburn is 33 yrs old and is set to make $10.35 million next year, the last year of his contract.

Personally I would not make this deal. Although we can all agree Kei Igawa is useless, we do not need Washburn, who is an old 33, making over $10 million next year and clogging up the rotation for guys like Dan McCutchen and Alan Horne. The Yankees' problems this year can not be solved by adding a mediocre pitcher like Washburn, it would take a lot more then that. It is also fair to say that Washburn, who's WHIP has been increasing since 2002, will just continue to decline this year and next. The Yankees problem is that they are too old and that is something that Cashman has been trying to change. Adding Washburn is not the answer and if Rasner pitches poorly tonight and Ponson pitches poorly his next outing I think the Yankees would be better off bringing up McCutchen to see what they have and giving Ohlendorf a look as a starter in the big leagues to see what he can bring to the table. Let's give our young guys a shot before we make a deal that would not have a significant impact on the team.

Bad news for the Yankees

2008-07-21T16:31:00.003-04:00

Per Peter Abraham:

"Bad news for Posada. He will see Dr. David Altchek tomorrow and may soon have season-ending surgery to repair the torn labrum in his shoulder. The surgery is such that he may need to get it now to make sure he will be ready for next season. Posada admitted that he can’t throw and that it has been bothering him all season. Posada now has to realize his future is not behind home plate. He is going to see the majority of his time at first base and DH next year and that's how it should be. "

Abraham also notes that Matsui is going to try to rehab one more time before having surgery, but we all know how that is going to go... not good. With Posada going down for an extended period of time Matsui is all the more important, but we have to be realistic and brace ourselves for the worst.

This definitely complicates things for the Yankees too. If the team hits the way they should, I have said in the past they can carry Molina's bat. There is no catcher out there that they can go get to make up for Posada's offensive production and if there is a catcher in the minors somewhere undoubtedly the Yankees would have to give up way too much to get them.

Line-up for tonight:

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

Ponson RHP

So on the day we discover the extent of Posada's injury we also get Damon back in the line-up. Hopefully Damon feels no ill-effects from the injury to his shoulder and he gets right back to hitting the way he was before he went to the DL. Ponson has to pitch well tonight. He and Rasner have been very shaky in their last few starts and a bad start by either one of them in the upcoming starts could spell the end for them as Yankee starters.

A NY Giants tangent

2008-07-21T15:36:00.002-04:00

As you will see as time progresses, I will also be talking about the NY Giants as I am a big Giants fan. Today the Giants traded Jeremy Shockey to the NO Saints for 2009 2nd and 5th round draft picks. This was the same deal that the Giants declined during the NFL draft. Shockey was a big part of the offense for the Giants in the blocking and receiving games, but this was something that had to be done. His attitude was getting worse and worse as the season has drawn closer and unfortunately I do not think there was any way to make the situation work between Shockey and the Giants. I think they get some good value in the 2nd and 5th round picks and hopefully one or both can turn into quality players. The Giants have been very good at drafting talented players in the past so they should be able to be effective with the two picks. All that being said, Kevin Boss now has to step up and be a factor all year long. Boss should provide a nice option in the receiving game, but it has been said he needs to work on his blocking and be more physical on the line in helping with the ground game.

A few trade thoughts

2008-07-21T14:22:00.004-04:00

Personally I do not think that the Yankees are going to make any type of big move for a bat. The reason being that they simply have no where to put another hitter. They are filled at every position in the outfield and infield, so any type of trade for a hitter would have to include Melky or Gardner. I am not above trading either of those two, but the problem is that I don't think anyone else wants them. Now they may make a move for a reliever such as Brian Fuentes, who seems to be the hot name. Personally I would like them to go after Huston Street from the Athletics. I know that Billy Beane is going to make the asking price extremely high for Street, especially from the Yankees. I think that a fair trade for Street would be something like Melky and Kennedy, or perhaps you can add another player from Oakland, maybe a hitter like Emil Brown, who would provide some outfield depth now that Matsui is most likely done for the year and because we would be giving up one of our CFs in the trade, and then throw in a lower level prospect from the Yankees to finish the trade.

Weekly Minor League Recap

2008-07-20T20:34:00.002-04:00

Triple A Scranton-Wilkes Barre

Juan Miranda - 8 hits in 22 at-bats, 2 home runs, 5 RBI's, 1 walk, 4 strike outs
Eric Duncan - 5 hits in 19 at-bats, 1 home run, 5 RBI's, 1 walk, 8 strike outs

Jeff Marquez - 1-0, 7 innings pitched, 0 earned runs, 3 hits allowed, 3 strike outs, 2 walks
Ian Kennedy - 1-0, 12 innings pitched, 9 hits allowed, 5 earned runs, 8 strike outs, 2 walks
J.B. Cox - 2 innings pitched, 1 hit, 2 earned runs, 0 strike outs, 2 walks
Ross Ohlendorf - 4 1/3 innings pitched, 6 hits, 2 earned runs, 5 strike outs, 1 walk
Dan McCutchen - 5 1/3 innings pitched, 4 hits, 4 earned runs, 7 strike outs, 1 walk

Double A Trenton

Austin Jackson - 13 hits in 20 at bats, 1 home run, 3 RBI's, 3 walks, 2 strike outs, 1 stolen base
Colin Curtis - 3 hits in 20 at bats, 0 home runs, 2 RBI's, 4 walks, 1 strike out
Ramiro Pena - 4 hits in 16 at bats, 0 home runs, 1 RBI, 0 walks, 4 strike outs, 1 stolen base

Phil Coke - 2-0, 14 innings pitched, 5 hits, 0 earned runs, 21 strike outs, 5 walks
Mark Melancon - 6 innings pitched, 5 hits, 1 earned run, 4 strike outs, 3 walks
Anthony Claggett - 1 inning pitched, 0 hits, 0 earned runs, 2 strike outs, 2 walks

High A Tampa

Kevin Smith - 6 hits in 32 at bats, 1 home run, 5 RBI's, 2 walks, 3 strike outs, 2 stolen bases

Zach McAllister - 1-1, 14 innings pitched 14 hits, 4 earned runs, 5 strike outs, 1 walk
Ryan Pope - 2-0, 14 innings pitched, 11 hits, 2 earned runs, 12 strike outs, 0 walks

Low A Charleston

Jesus Montero - 10 hits in 26 at bats, 0 home runs, 5 RBI's, 2 walks, 6 strike outs
Austine Romine - 12 hits in 37 at bats, 3 home runs, 5 RBI's 3 walks, 2 strike outs, 1 stolen base
Carmen Angellini - 7 hits in 31 at bats, 0 home runs, 4 RBI's 4 walks, 9 strike outs, 3 stolen bases

Dellin Betances - 1-0, 10 innings pitched, 9 hits, 5 earned runs, 11 strike outs, 3 walks
Jairo Heredia - 1-0, 6 innings pitched, 2 hits, 0 earned runs, 6 strike outs, 2 walks

Yankees Sweep

2008-07-20T15:45:00.002-04:00

The Yankees got a big pitching effort from their big game pitcher, Andy Pettitte. Andy went eight strong innings while only giving up one earned run and four hits. Pettitte had 9 strike outs while not issuing a free pass to any of the Oakland batters. Jason Giambi has continued to prolonged hot streak. Giambi was 2 for 2 with a pair of walks to go along with the go ahead solo home run and an infield single. What are they going to do about Bobby Meacham? I don't think Larry Bowa made 2 mistakes all last year, let alone 2 in a weekend. Bowa is definitely missed.

Mariano Rivera came in for the 9th and got his 24th save in 24 chances, but it didn't happen without a screwy play. Oakland outfielder Ryan Sweeney was on first base when Bobby Abreu couldn't make the catch after dropping the ball on the transfer. Abreu then tried to throw the ball to Derek Jeter at short, but over threw him. Thank God that A-Rod was there backing up the throw and flipped it to Jeter for the out. Catcher Jose Molina then threw out Rajai Davis trying to steal second to end the game.

Brett Gardner needs to start hitting the ball on the ground. Gardner's speed is only effective when he hits the ball on the ground, not shallow fly balls to the outfielders. I think he is going to lose a lot of playing time when Johnny Damon comes off the Disabled List, maybe even get sent down. Gardner has to play every day, whether if its in New York or Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.

Yankees vs A's - Saturday, July 20

2008-07-20T11:32:00.003-04:00

Here is the line-up for today's game as per Peter Abraham:

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

Pettitte LHP

Molina is behind the dish today and Posada is getting the day off. Molina getting rewarded for his HBP yesterday and Posada again did not look good defensively behind home plate yesterday. Cano is in the 5 hole in front of Betemit who starts at first and behind Giambi at DH. Let's hope that Cano continues his hot hitting and that Betemit, Melky, and Gardner continue to produce as well at the bottom of the line-up. The big thing to look for today is how the Yanks perform with runners in scoring position and how the top half of the line-up produces, because neither of those things were good at all yesterday...

Big win today for the Yankees...

2008-07-19T16:30:00.014-04:00

This was a big win for the Yankees. At this point they need to win every game they can and the fact that they came from behind in the bottom of the 9th to tie the game when they were down to thier last strike, then scored in the inning to win the game is great for team spirit. Hopefully the good vibes from this win carry-over into tomrrow when the Yankees go for the sweep at the stadium.

Some thoughts on the game:

Let's start with the negative...

Well not all negative. Molina got hit by a pitch in the 12th innings today winning the game for the Yankees. I want to bring up something I mentioned in the pre-game posting that I was interested to see if the A's would run on Posada, well we have our answer people. In the 9th inning the A's manufactured the run off of Mariano with a couple of singles and 2 stolen bases, both of which were stolen very easily of Posada. I think that this is a big problem for the Yanks. You can't have such a liability behind home plate. The ball that got past Posada when Veras was on the mound was also a ball that probably should have been smothered rather then backhanded. Posada's defense is just really hurting this team and he should see more time at DH and first base. On top of the poor defense by Posada, Molina looks better every game defensively behind the dish. I know that he brings nothing offensively most of the time to the game, but he has hit a decent amount of doubles this year, he has come up with some clutch hits (and clutch HBPs as evident by today's game), and if the rest of the line-up starts to hit like it should they can definitely carry his weaker bat.

What is wrong with Mariano in tie games? Whenever he comes in and the game is tied he seems to always give up a run or at least get into a lot of trouble. Is this something mental with the aspect of being a closer? Today his defense, namely Posada, didn't perform for him, but ultimately Mariano is the one who gave up the singles. I know Mariano is great and is having one of his best statistical years of his career, but it is very scary when he comes in with the score tied.

Another thing to note is the fact that the Yanks were just 3-15 with runners in scoring position in this game, and were 2-12 until the Betemit single in the bottom of the 9th inning which tied the game. This has been the story all year for the Yankees and if they are going to make a serious run at the playoffs people have to, I repeat, have to start hitting with runners in scoring position.

Jeter, Abreu, A-Rod, Giambi, and Posada today were a combined 2-18 which is not acceptable. Jeter alone had 2 of the hits in a 2-6 day, both of his hits came in extra innings. They need to produce on a more consistent basis if this team is going to make it into postseason play.

A few good things to take from this game...

The play of Cano, Melky, and Gardner. Cano had one of his best games of the year and scored the tying run in the bottom of the 9th on a Betemit single. Cano was 4-6, but hit the ball on the nose every at bat and very well could have been 6-6 on the day. Fans should stay cautiously optimistic, but things certainly seem to have turned for Cano (knock on wood). Melky was 2-6 including a big hit in the bottom of the 9th to keep the inning alive to give Gardner, also 2-6, a chance to win the game, although he ultimately popped up. Melky was also robbed of a game winning hit in the 11th inning on a spectacular diving catch in right field by Carlos Gonzalez.

Betemit, Cano, Melky, and Gardner were a combined 10-22 with 3 RBI and 3 runs scored today. This is the type of production this team needs to accomplish what they want to accomplish over the course of the rest of the year.

Obviously the pitching of Joba. Joba was straight dealing this game and had just a few mistakes that led to a couple of runs. Joba went 6 innings, struck out 8, walked just 1, and let up just 1 ER. He has more then handled the switch to starting and has been dominant. You would like to see him go a little deeper into ballgames, but hopefully with experience that comes.

The pitching of Farnsworth. Farnsworth has been very good lately and pitched a scoreless inning today and picking up 1 strike out. I'm amazed to say he has developed into a very good 8th inning man and has been a good bridge to Mariano.

The pitching of Edwar Ramirez. Edwar continued to pitch well today. He was very effective and the more you watch him pitch, the more you doubt that major league hitters will ever figure out his change-up.

D-Rob, David Robertson, has pitched very well since coming up from the minors to join the big league club. Robertson does not get overwhelmed in big spots and he is not afraid to throw all his pitches in all situations. Hopefully he will continue to be a big weapon down the line for the Yankees.

Yankees vs A's - Saturday, July 19

2008-07-19T11:50:00.002-04:00

Great win for the Yankees last night. Good to see Moose get win #12 because time is running out for him to get the elusive 20 win season and without trying to jinx him, this could be his year. Sexson had a hit and an rbi in his Yankee debut, but admittedly he did not look very good in his other at bats, although he did work a walk. I was very happy to see Cano have a big game last night. Much has been said about him being a notoriously slow starter and that he always picks it up big time in the second half. Hopefully this type of a start to the second half with give him a springboard into a big final 66 games.

Today is game 2 of this series vs the Athletics. The Yankees need to continue winning and get on a roll here. It will be interesting to see if guys like Abreu, Cano, and A-Rod continue what they did last night into today and on into the rest of the season...

Here is the line-up per Peter Abraham:

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

Chamberlain RHP

So a few things to notice: Sexson is out today and Betemit gets the nod at first base. Jeter is in the lead-off spot again and personally I like that because he is more consistent getting on base then Melky and Gardner even with his down year thus far. With Melky and Gardner both in the outfield and Betemit at first base all at the bottom of the line-up we have a particularly weak bottom 3 in the line-up today. Hopefully they all bring something to the table. Posada is behind the dish today and it will be interesting to see how the A's handle that situation. The A's famously do not like to run a lot keeping in line with the Billy Beane's Moneyball way of doing things, but might they change their view to try to test Posada's questionable right shoulder??

Matsui's Season Finished

2008-07-18T13:36:00.002-04:00

According to Brian Heyman's new article, Hideki Matsui's season is over. He appears headed for surgery. This is Matsui's second knee surgery in a year, but this time the surgery will be performed on his other knee. Matsui's season long absence will be tough to handle especially while the Yankees are fighting for a playoff birth, whether its the Wild Card or the Division crown. Matsui was performing very well this season. In this 2008 Major League Baseball season, Matsui was hitting .323 with 7 home runs and 34 RBI's. Hideki also had a .404 on base percentage while slugging .458. The Yanks will obviously miss their 34 year old Japanese import. Someone will have to step up in Matsui's absence, it remains to be seen if that person is currently on the roster or not.

Bruney's Getting There

2008-07-18T11:29:00.002-04:00

Injured Yankees relief pitcher Brian Bruney is getting closer to making his return to the Yankees bullpen. Bruney has been on the Disabled List since April 23 with a Lisfranc injury. Rumors started to fly about Bruney being out for the season after going DL, but he has fought his way back and is probably just a back-to-back appearance away from returning to the Bronx. In six appearances between Tampa,Trenton, and Scranton-Wilkes Barre, Bruney has given up 6 hits, 5 walks, and 3 earned runs in 8 and 1/3 innings. Brian has also struck out 11 while giving up zero home runs. I think we will see Bruney back in the Bronx within a week. He will be a nice addition to the bullpen since he was pitching well before he got injured. Bruney is 1-0 with a save in 11 and 1/3 innings pitched, posting a 1.59 ERA with a 2:1 strikeout to walk ratio in the Major Leagues this season.

Hitting the Links...

2008-07-18T09:13:00.003-04:00

The Daily News' Anthony McCarron does not believe that the numbers add up for the Yankees playoff chances.

Nonsense.

Are the Yankees involved in the bonus scandal?

Vic Ziegel says the Yanks must resort to catching some Rays.

Can Joba Chamberlain do anything that will make Goose Gossage happy?

Joel Sherman thinks the Yankees offense needs to be more consistent.

Pete Caldera on how the Yanks first half could've been worse.

Heresss Johnny, well soon anyway...

2008-07-17T18:18:00.002-04:00

Johnny Damon says he should be ready to rejoin the team soon after he is eligible to come off the DL on Sunday and could be back by the end of next week. Damon was definitely producing this season with a line of .319, .387, .470, 6 hrs, and 37 RBIs in 82 games before going on the DL for the first time in his career after injuring his shoulder in that freaky play against the Red Sox in a 6-4 Yankee loss on the 4th of July. Now admittedly I was never high on signing Damon to the contract we signed him to because I saw him as a very old 31 and he had been beat up even without ever going on the DL. That being said, he has produced and hopefully when he gets back from the DL he can step back into left field, which is needed with Matsui possibly done for the year, and the competition between Gardner and Melky for playing time in center can hopefully wake up one or both of their bats to some better production...

More Sexson news

2008-07-17T14:36:00.002-04:00

I just read a report by Ken Rosenthal on FoxSports regarding Richie Sexson. Apparently the Yanks are closing in on a contract with Sexson and Sexson would play first base against lefty pitchers to give some time off to Betemit, who has been playing a lot as of late. I think we all saw this coming and I have to admit that I think it;s worth a shot since it doesn't cost any money and you can always release Sexson if he doesn't perform. However, what is troubling is that in the article it says that instead of sitting in the dugout on the bench with his fellow hitters and fielders, Sexson had spent a game sitting in the bullpen. It's been said that Sexson has a bad attitude and this just confirms that. I don't think the Yanks need a malcontent in the clubhouse because this team is going to have to come together if they are going to make a push for the playoffs. Hopefully if this deal does get done Sexson realizes that this is his last chance and he changes his act...

A new perspective on Bonds...

2008-07-17T12:05:00.002-04:00

I agree with Michael that the Yanks need to take a good look at Bonds because his production is hard to overlook. However, is there anyone out there that actually would want to deal with the media that would accompany Bonds to New York? Look at what the media does now with A-Rod, covering his every move, getting into his personal life, airing his dirty laundry, and generally having no shame in reporting any sliver of truth or even innuendo regarding A-Rod. It would be the same or even worse with Bonds because San Francisco reporters would surely come and cover Bonds for at least some of the year. Even if Matsui is hurt I think I would stay away from Bonds and go with Damon (when healthy), a Melky/Gardner platoon in center, and Abreu in right. If anything I would go after a guy like Xavier Nady or a second tier guy you can get for a mid-level prospect and perhaps Melky.

Matsui done? Barry Bonds?

2008-07-16T22:48:00.002-04:00

Rehabbing Yankees slugging leftfielder Hideki Matsui suffered a setback in his rehabilitation the other day and season ending surgery is an option that is gaining steam. Matusi has been on the Disabled List since the 22nd of June. The knee injury kept him from playing the outfield before he went on the DL. So if Mr. Matsui is indeed done for the season...

Barry Bonds?

He is the most attractive option out there, baggage and all. Bonds' agent has said that Barry would play for the league minimum and could be ready in ten days. Bonds' perjury trial is not set to begin until next March so that will not be a problem. I think that the Yankees would have to take a good hard look at Bonds if Matsui is going to need season ending surgery.

Forget the trade market, how about some in-house possibilities

2008-07-16T20:32:00.004-04:00

I know with the trade deadline coming up people are talking about the different players available for the Yanks to go after, hence our last post regarding the topic. However, I have to argue that the trade market does not have many quality players and the guys that are quality are gonna be wayyyy overpriced. I think we might have some guys in the minors who deserve a look if not soon then definitely at the September call-up...

Batters

Cody Ransom - Ransom was named to the International League All-Star team to replace recent call-up Justin Christian. Now Ransom is not a young hot-shot prospect (he is 32), but he is producing at the AAA level with a line of .261 .326 .474 with 15 hrs and 53 rbi in 88 games. I think the team needs a bit of a shake up and I wouldn't mind bringing Ransom up and letting him get a few games as the back-up infielder rather then Betemit, who in my opinion brings nothing to the table.

Juan Miranda - Miranda has been great this season in the minors when healthy. For AAA Scranton/Wilkes-Barre he has a line of .301 .390 .445 with 5 hrs and 30 rbi in 57 games. He has battled some injuries this season including injuries to his shoulder, so his power numbers should improve when he is 100%. The power is there as all of us who paid attention in the preseason know. Miranda was signed out of Cuba and is listed at 25 yrs old, but we all know that may not be true, but of course it very well could be (I hope it is). The Yanks may not want to rush Miranda with his injury history and I understand that, but again, we are not getting production out of first base with Betemit when he plays and Miranda may be able to give the team a lift.

Jason Lane - This is an interesting case. Lane was signed to a minor league deal in the off-season because he is coming off an injury and the Yanks wanted to have some depth in the system and if Lane approached what he has done in the majors in the past they could have struck gold. In 2005 Lane hit .267 .316 .499 with 26 hrs and 78 rbi. With AAA Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Lane is hitting a paltry .232, but has a .337 OBP and a .433 SLG with 14 hrs and 46 rbi in 89 games. Lane could also play first base and he is a right-handed bat, something the Yanks can definitely use.

Pitchers

Chris Britton - Britton has been up and down from the big leagues this season and has been a bit of a head-scratching case. Britton has been successful in the majors and he is always successful in the minors when he is sent down. He has lacked consistent work in the big leagues which may have contributed to his being sent down due to erratic performance. When you bring a guy up to pitch and don't pitch his for weeks at a time that kind of work can be expected. Needless to say, I am a Chris Britton guy and would like to see him get back with the big club and be a successful reliever.

Ross Ohlendorf - Ross was erratic at best in the majors out of the bullpen, but it was clear he had dominating stuff. Now that he has been sent down the Yanks have been working him out as a starter and he has had success in his return to the starting role. In 3 starts at AAA Ohlendorf has 12.1 IP, 2.92 era, 1.3 WHIP, and 15 Ks to just 3 BBs. With the state of the starting rotation in the majors (read: Sidney Ponson and Darrell Rasner) it is clear that the rotation could use a lift. Ohlendorf was originally a starter when the Yanks got him in the deal that sent the Big Unit to Arizona so he is familiar with the role and I think he would succeed using his variety of pitches of the course of multiple innings. He may need some more work before getting the call, but I think that before the year is out we may see Ohlendorf make a few starts with the big league club.

Daniel McCutchen - McCutchen is another option to bring up as a starter/long reliever. McCutchen has had success at AAA posting 65 IP, a 3.32 era, 1.22 WHIP, and 51 Ks to 10 BBs. McCutchen may be ready to come up and start before Ohlendorf, and if we see Ponson and Rasner struggle more McCutchen may get the call. McCutchen is 26 yrs old and is seasoned enough to most likely not be intimidated and overwhelmed by the call to the big leagues.

Alan Horne - Horne is another player who has had some injury problems this season. In 2007, Horne won the Eastern League Pitcher of the Year award. Horne has taken a bit of a step back in his development due to the injury problems, but he is still just 25 yrs old and does have very good stuff. He may be the least ready of the pitchers discussed here due to time missed, but has made progress this season at AAA should get a look around the time of the September call-ups.

These players all come from AAA Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and in my opinion are the players that would best be able to contribute to the big league club this season. It's important to keep in mine though that a lot of the top Yankee prospects (Austin Jackson, Jose Tabata, Jesus Montero, Dellin Betances, etc..) are in the lower levels of the minor league system and could definitly see a bump up in level this season and if not should definitely continue thier development this off-season....

Richie Sexson

2008-07-16T20:27:00.002-04:00

Recently, former Indian/Brewer/Diamondback/Mariner Richie Sexson was Designated for Assignment by Seattle. Various reports have circulated that he might be an option for the New York Yankees. So far this season Sexson has compiled a horrific line of .218 .315 .381 in 252 at bats. Richie also has 11 HR's and 30 RBI's this season. Perhaps the only aspect of his game that could net him another job somewhere is the fact that he can hit lefties exceptionally well, with a .344 .423 .623 line this year, compared to his .178 .281 .304 line against right handed pitchers. Richie's numbers against lefties this year are extremely higher than his career numbers. Sexson's career line against lefties looks like this : .265 .369 .510. I think the Yankees should take a chance on Sexson, this season he has been dominating lefty pitching and a major weakness of the Yanks is the inability to hit lefty pitcher. Sexson will only cost money, something the Yankee organization seem to have a lot of.

Trade Deadline

2008-07-16T12:31:00.005-04:00

With the trade deadline only 15 days away, I'm going to be taking a look at some of the needs and wants of the New York Yankees. Just by watching the games, its fairly obvious that the Bombers need a middle of the lineup type guy who can hit left handed pitching, lefty reliever, and a back of the rotation starter.

Xavier Nady - .321 .377 .525 12 HR's 56 RBI's. Against lefties Xavier is hitting .313 .427 .522 , but hasn't shown much power against them with only 4 HR's. Nady's average does jump from .304 to .340 away from PNC Park. I think the starting price for Nady would probably be Horne or Tabata, plus a guy like Ross Ohlendorf. I would have to pass on a trade for Nady.

Casey Blake - .282 .359 .449 9 HR's 52 RBI's. Casey is hitting .313 against lefties, but does not show any power against them, with only 2 HR's. Blake doesn't seem like anything more like a platoon player, do the Yankees need another one dimensional type of player?

Matt Holliday - .337 .421 .553 14 HR's 51 RBI's. Rakes against lefties hitting at a .357 .438 .586 clip. But what do you really get with Holliday? He is hitting 67 points lower on the road than at home and doesn't show the same power, so he is definitely better off in Coors Field. I think the Yankees need to pass on this guy, for the fact that it will cost an arm and a leg and he becomes a free agent soon.

Damaso Marte - Nady's Pirate teammate is having a decent season with a 3.22 ERA and 1.1 WHIP. He has a strikeout to walk rate of around 3:1. He will be a free agent at the end of the season if the Pirates or a team that trades for him declines his $6 million option for 2009. I'd say Ross Ohlendorf and a lower prospect could get this done, but I am very hesitant to give up on Ohlendorf yet, because I think he can develop into a power arm that could pitch the 8th inning. I make this trade if the Pirates take Shelly Duncan or Jeff Karstens.

Brian Fuentes - 3.41 ERA with a 1.18 WHIP. Free Agent at the end of the year and will still probably command a high level prospect, like an Ian Kennedy or a Mark Melancon. I would definitely pass on giving up that much for a free agent-t0-be lefty reliever. Fuentes' ERA might be under 3.00 away from Coors Field, I would still pass on him.

Erik Bedard - Erik has a 3.67 ERA in 81 innings. He is currently on the Disabled List and is a malcontent. I would stay far away from Bedard for those reasons. Bedard would also command a couple of top prospects and a hefty extension.

Paul Byrd - 5.47 ERA in 102 innings for the Indians. I would stay far, far away.

Joe Blanton - Joe is a workhorse pitching in 127 innings with a 4.96 ERA and a 1.42 WHIP. As sub par as his numbers are, they get even worse when he is on the road. Blanton has a 5.73 ERA with a 1.45 WHIP in only 37 2/3 innings. There is no chance in hell I would trade for him. Oakland General Manager Billy Beane will demand only the best prospects for his mediocre pitcher.

Freddy Garcia - Freddy is currently a free agent, rehabbing from surgery. He would only cost money and should be ready to pitch late August or early September. I would take a flier on him, only costs money.

First post

2008-07-14T17:20:00.000-04:00

This is the first post for our new blog about the Yankees. The purpose of the blog is mainly to give the voice of the everyday fan about how we would run the new york Yankees, mainly concerning roster moves, minor leagues, and free agents. We will also offer our opinions on all things Yankees and also provide news we come across regarding the new york Yankees.

More to come regarding the administrators of the blog...