Tuesday, July 31, 2007

Tonight's Lineups (7/31)

Contreras vs. Mussina

White Sox

J. Owens cf








J. Fields 3b








J. Thome dh








P. Konerko 1b








A.J. Pierzynski c








J. Dye rf








S. Podsednik lf








J. Uribe ss








D. Richar 2b


















Yankees








J. Damon dh








D. Jeter ss








B. Abreu rf








A. Rodriguez 3b








H. Matsui lf








J. Posada c








R. Cano 2b








A. Phillips 1b








M. Cabrera cf








Tonight's Lineups (7/31)

Contreras vs. Mussina

White Sox

J. Owens cf








J. Fields 3b








J. Thome dh








P. Konerko 1b








A.J. Pierzynski c








J. Dye rf








S. Podsednik lf








J. Uribe ss








D. Richar 2b


















Yankees








J. Damon dh








D. Jeter ss








B. Abreu rf








A. Rodriguez 3b








H. Matsui lf








J. Posada c








R. Cano 2b








A. Phillips 1b








M. Cabrera cf








Gagne Dealt to Red Sox

ESPN is reporting that Engel Beltre would be included in an Eric Gagne deal with the Rangers, giving Texas three players. Kason Gabbard and David Murphy are believed to be the other two.

Gagne still has to waive his no-trade clause to make the deal happen.


UPDATE 3:45 PM - Gagne has waived his no-trade clause and the deal is official.

Gagne Dealt to Red Sox

ESPN is reporting that Engel Beltre would be included in an Eric Gagne deal with the Rangers, giving Texas three players. Kason Gabbard and David Murphy are believed to be the other two.

Gagne still has to waive his no-trade clause to make the deal happen.


UPDATE 3:45 PM - Gagne has waived his no-trade clause and the deal is official.

Proctor Sent to Dodgers

The Dodgers and Yankees have agreed in principle on a trade that would send reliever Scott Proctor to the Dodgers for infielder Wilson Betemit, sources told ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney.

The Dodgers, who have a 5.61 bullpen ERA since the All-Star break, have been in on a number of trade discussions involving relievers but zeroed in on Proctor over the last 24 hours.

The Yankees view Betemit as another first-base/DH/bench option for this year, and a potential third-base replacement for Alex Rodriguez next year.

Betemit is batting .231 with 10 home runs and 26 RBIs this season off the Dodgers' bench. Proctor is 2-5 with a 3.81 ERA in 54 1/3 innings out of the Yankees' bullpen. Source

Proctor Sent to Dodgers

The Dodgers and Yankees have agreed in principle on a trade that would send reliever Scott Proctor to the Dodgers for infielder Wilson Betemit, sources told ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney.

The Dodgers, who have a 5.61 bullpen ERA since the All-Star break, have been in on a number of trade discussions involving relievers but zeroed in on Proctor over the last 24 hours.

The Yankees view Betemit as another first-base/DH/bench option for this year, and a potential third-base replacement for Alex Rodriguez next year.

Betemit is batting .231 with 10 home runs and 26 RBIs this season off the Dodgers' bench. Proctor is 2-5 with a 3.81 ERA in 54 1/3 innings out of the Yankees' bullpen. Source

Monday, July 30, 2007

Mets Acquire Luis Castillo

The Mets, not happy enough with Ruben Gotay's defense, acquired 2nd Baseman Luis Castillo from the Twins. today In return, Minnesota gets prospects Dustin Martin and Drew Butera.

Source

Mets Acquire Luis Castillo

The Mets, not happy enough with Ruben Gotay's defense, acquired 2nd Baseman Luis Castillo from the Twins. today In return, Minnesota gets prospects Dustin Martin and Drew Butera.

Source

Braves Fall Short of Acquiring Dotel

Update- This deal did not go through, hitting a last minute snag. Octavio Dotel is still available.

The Braves are making a serious push for the NL East. With the Mark Teixeira deal nearly official, the Braves have also picked up closer Octavio Dotel from the Royals for Kyle Davies.

Source

Braves Fall Short of Acquiring Dotel

Update- This deal did not go through, hitting a last minute snag. Octavio Dotel is still available.

The Braves are making a serious push for the NL East. With the Mark Teixeira deal nearly official, the Braves have also picked up closer Octavio Dotel from the Royals for Kyle Davies.

Source

Off Day News and Notes

Phil Hughes made, what hopefully will be, his last rehab start for Scranton on Sunday. Dr. Phil Good threw 6.2 shutout innings, allowing just 2 hits. He struck out 4, throwing 91 pitches.

Joba Chamberlain
was scratched from his Sunday start and will move to the bullpen immediately in hopes of helping the big club. Chamberlain is expected to throw 1 inning today and Wednesday.

For anyone who cares, Jose Canseco is working on a new book and said he has "some stuff" on A-Rod. Joe Torre and Johnny Damon defended A-Rod. Source

"You worry about anything like that, because unfortunately, when people see it in print, they add credence to it. That's the sad part about it," Torre said. "It's a shame, because when you play this game, you'd like to believe you play with some kind of respect. Obviously, Jose needs the money."

"I just hope he thinks about not ruining someone's life, marriage, or whatever he plans on doing," Damon said. "If that's what Jose Canseco wants to be remembered for, so be it.

"To me, Alex is a great teammate who will always respect the game, play the game right and work hard. He loves the game, so hopefully nothing that can ruin a family or something comes out. ... Hopefully (Canseco will) think twice about it."


In addition to Kyle Farnsworth grousing about his use, he threw a pitch in yesterday's game that Jorge Posada didn't call for. The pitch hit Posada on wrist and both players were steaming. Alex Rodriguez played peacemaker. Source

Off Day News and Notes

Phil Hughes made, what hopefully will be, his last rehab start for Scranton on Sunday. Dr. Phil Good threw 6.2 shutout innings, allowing just 2 hits. He struck out 4, throwing 91 pitches.

Joba Chamberlain
was scratched from his Sunday start and will move to the bullpen immediately in hopes of helping the big club. Chamberlain is expected to throw 1 inning today and Wednesday.

For anyone who cares, Jose Canseco is working on a new book and said he has "some stuff" on A-Rod. Joe Torre and Johnny Damon defended A-Rod. Source

"You worry about anything like that, because unfortunately, when people see it in print, they add credence to it. That's the sad part about it," Torre said. "It's a shame, because when you play this game, you'd like to believe you play with some kind of respect. Obviously, Jose needs the money."

"I just hope he thinks about not ruining someone's life, marriage, or whatever he plans on doing," Damon said. "If that's what Jose Canseco wants to be remembered for, so be it.

"To me, Alex is a great teammate who will always respect the game, play the game right and work hard. He loves the game, so hopefully nothing that can ruin a family or something comes out. ... Hopefully (Canseco will) think twice about it."


In addition to Kyle Farnsworth grousing about his use, he threw a pitch in yesterday's game that Jorge Posada didn't call for. The pitch hit Posada on wrist and both players were steaming. Alex Rodriguez played peacemaker. Source

Yankees Get Away With One

Chien-Ming Wang was effective enough and the offense came back to life, as the Yankees salvaged the final game of the 3 games series with the Orioles, 10-6. After failing to solve Jeremy Guthrie or Brian Burres, the Yankees took advantage of early wildness by Orioles starter Daniel Cabrera to jump out to a 4-0 lead after 2 innings.

But Wang (12-5) struggled with his command and exited after 6 with a 4-3 lead. Leading 5-4 in the 8th, the Yankees finally broke the game open. Melky Cabrera started things with a 1-out single against Paul Shuey. Jorge Posada, pinch-hitting for Jose Molina, drew a walk and the Yankees were in business. Johnny Damon, whose 9th inning double play grounder killed a potential big rally on Saturday, delivered his 3rd hit of the day, an RBI double to give the Yankees a 6-4 lead. Derek Jeter walked, which sent Shuey to the showers in favor of Danys Baez. Bobby Abreu, who K'ed for the final out on Saturday, singled to right to plate both runners for a 8-4 lead. Hideki Matsui drove in the 9th run with a ground out and Robinson Cano brought home the final tally with an RBI double.

The Yankees would need all of those runs, because once again Kyle Farnsworth spit the bit, allowing a 2-run home run to Brian Roberts. After the game, Farnsworth had the balls to blame inactivity for his lack of command. Granted it was only the 2nd time he had pitched in 11 days, but that's because he STINKS.

Cabrera's (7-11) control issues have plagued his career and they did to start the game. Cabrera issued walks to Damon and Abreu sandwiched around a Jeter single. He managed to escape with the Yankees scoring just 1 run on Matsui's sac fly.

Cabrera wouldn't be so lucky in the 2nd. Andy Phillips and Melky Cabrera stroked back to back doubles for a 2-0 lead. After a sac bunt by Molina, Damon singled through the right side for a 3-0 lead. Back to back walks to Jeter and Abreu brought Alex Rodriguez up for the 2nd time with the bases loaded. A-Rod, who has not had a hit since his 499th home run, bounced into an odd double play that both scored a run and ended the inning. Abreu, smartly stopped between 1st and 2nd as Orioles' 2nd sacker Roberts threw to 1st. With the force off, Damon crossed the plate with the 3rd run of the inning. With Abreu in a run down, Jeter raced for home. He appeared to elude the tag of catcher Paul Bako, but home plate umpire Sam Holbrook called him out. The play would have a far greater impact as Jeter jammed his shoulder and would leave the game in the 8th inning. Of course he said he will play on Tuesday.

Wang uncharacteristically walked 4 hitters, including the light hitting Bako 3 times. It got him into trouble in the 4th when Luis Rodriguez single in a pair of runs, and again in the 5th, when a Roberts single cut the lead to 4-3.

...

Hideki Matsui drove in 3 runs in the game without a hit. He had 2 sacrifice flies plus an RBI ground out.

Melky Cabrera's 3 hits raised his average to a season high .291.

Andy Phillips' 2nd inning double extended his hitting streak to a career high 11 games.

The start of the game was delayed about 40 minutes by the threat of rain. It never did actually rain. The fans didn't mind though as the Orioles played part of the hall of fame ceremonies on their big video screen. Orioles great Cal Ripken was among those honored.

Yankees Get Away With One

Chien-Ming Wang was effective enough and the offense came back to life, as the Yankees salvaged the final game of the 3 games series with the Orioles, 10-6. After failing to solve Jeremy Guthrie or Brian Burres, the Yankees took advantage of early wildness by Orioles starter Daniel Cabrera to jump out to a 4-0 lead after 2 innings.

But Wang (12-5) struggled with his command and exited after 6 with a 4-3 lead. Leading 5-4 in the 8th, the Yankees finally broke the game open. Melky Cabrera started things with a 1-out single against Paul Shuey. Jorge Posada, pinch-hitting for Jose Molina, drew a walk and the Yankees were in business. Johnny Damon, whose 9th inning double play grounder killed a potential big rally on Saturday, delivered his 3rd hit of the day, an RBI double to give the Yankees a 6-4 lead. Derek Jeter walked, which sent Shuey to the showers in favor of Danys Baez. Bobby Abreu, who K'ed for the final out on Saturday, singled to right to plate both runners for a 8-4 lead. Hideki Matsui drove in the 9th run with a ground out and Robinson Cano brought home the final tally with an RBI double.

The Yankees would need all of those runs, because once again Kyle Farnsworth spit the bit, allowing a 2-run home run to Brian Roberts. After the game, Farnsworth had the balls to blame inactivity for his lack of command. Granted it was only the 2nd time he had pitched in 11 days, but that's because he STINKS.

Cabrera's (7-11) control issues have plagued his career and they did to start the game. Cabrera issued walks to Damon and Abreu sandwiched around a Jeter single. He managed to escape with the Yankees scoring just 1 run on Matsui's sac fly.

Cabrera wouldn't be so lucky in the 2nd. Andy Phillips and Melky Cabrera stroked back to back doubles for a 2-0 lead. After a sac bunt by Molina, Damon singled through the right side for a 3-0 lead. Back to back walks to Jeter and Abreu brought Alex Rodriguez up for the 2nd time with the bases loaded. A-Rod, who has not had a hit since his 499th home run, bounced into an odd double play that both scored a run and ended the inning. Abreu, smartly stopped between 1st and 2nd as Orioles' 2nd sacker Roberts threw to 1st. With the force off, Damon crossed the plate with the 3rd run of the inning. With Abreu in a run down, Jeter raced for home. He appeared to elude the tag of catcher Paul Bako, but home plate umpire Sam Holbrook called him out. The play would have a far greater impact as Jeter jammed his shoulder and would leave the game in the 8th inning. Of course he said he will play on Tuesday.

Wang uncharacteristically walked 4 hitters, including the light hitting Bako 3 times. It got him into trouble in the 4th when Luis Rodriguez single in a pair of runs, and again in the 5th, when a Roberts single cut the lead to 4-3.

...

Hideki Matsui drove in 3 runs in the game without a hit. He had 2 sacrifice flies plus an RBI ground out.

Melky Cabrera's 3 hits raised his average to a season high .291.

Andy Phillips' 2nd inning double extended his hitting streak to a career high 11 games.

The start of the game was delayed about 40 minutes by the threat of rain. It never did actually rain. The fans didn't mind though as the Orioles played part of the hall of fame ceremonies on their big video screen. Orioles great Cal Ripken was among those honored.

Teixeira to Braves, all but done

From Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports:

The Braves are on the verge of acquiring Rangers first baseman Mark Teixeira. The deal is done, pending a review of the medical records of the players involved, according to major-league sources.The Braves will receive Teixeira and left-handed reliever Ron Mahay.The Rangers will receive catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Class A shortstop Elvis Andrus and two pitching prospects.

A crushing blow to my 2008 fantasy team.

Teixeira to Braves, all but done

From Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports:

The Braves are on the verge of acquiring Rangers first baseman Mark Teixeira. The deal is done, pending a review of the medical records of the players involved, according to major-league sources.The Braves will receive Teixeira and left-handed reliever Ron Mahay.The Rangers will receive catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Class A shortstop Elvis Andrus and two pitching prospects.

A crushing blow to my 2008 fantasy team.

Sunday, July 29, 2007

Epitome

Merriam Webster

Epitome:

2
: a typical or ideal example :
embodiment epitome of tradition — Richard Joseph>

Last night's game epitomized the Yankees season. The starting pitcher, Roger Clemens, isn't outstanding, but keeps his team in the game. The bullpen, Mike Myers-Luis Vizcaino-Brian Bruney, throw grease on the fire, putting the game out of reach. The Yankees hitters do nothing against a soft tosser, Brian Burres, and rally late, but the 2 guys who have killed them all season, Johnny Damon and Bobby Abreu, kill a 9th inning rally.

'Nuff said.

Epitome

Merriam Webster

Epitome:

2
: a typical or ideal example :
embodiment epitome of tradition — Richard Joseph>

Last night's game epitomized the Yankees season. The starting pitcher, Roger Clemens, isn't outstanding, but keeps his team in the game. The bullpen, Mike Myers-Luis Vizcaino-Brian Bruney, throw grease on the fire, putting the game out of reach. The Yankees hitters do nothing against a soft tosser, Brian Burres, and rally late, but the 2 guys who have killed them all season, Johnny Damon and Bobby Abreu, kill a 9th inning rally.

'Nuff said.

Saturday, July 28, 2007

Tonight's Lineup (7/28)

Clemens vs. Burres

Yankees








J. Damon dh








D. Jeter ss








B. Abreu rf








A. Rodriguez 3b








H. Matsui lf








J. Posada c








R. Cano 2b








A. Phillips 1b








M. Cabrera cf








Totals








Orioles








B. Roberts 2b








C. Patterson cf








N. Markakis rf








K. Millar 1b








M. Tejada ss








A. Huff dh








R. Hernandez c








J. Payton lf








C. Gomez 3b

















Tonight's Lineup (7/28)

Clemens vs. Burres

Yankees








J. Damon dh








D. Jeter ss








B. Abreu rf








A. Rodriguez 3b








H. Matsui lf








J. Posada c








R. Cano 2b








A. Phillips 1b








M. Cabrera cf








Totals








Orioles








B. Roberts 2b








C. Patterson cf








N. Markakis rf








K. Millar 1b








M. Tejada ss








A. Huff dh








R. Hernandez c








J. Payton lf








C. Gomez 3b

















Saturday in the Park Trade Rumors

Talks between the Angels and Rangers over Mark Teixeira have apparently fallen through. While the teams appeared to have agreed on Casey Kotchman and Joe Saunders, the Rangers wanted another high level prospect (e.g. Brandon Wood), while the Angels wanted to add a mid-level prospect. The Braves are now the clear front-runners. Source

The Yankees remain in the hunt for bullpen help. They're in the mix for the very popular Royals closer, Octavio Dotel, and also have asked the Nationals about setup man Jon Rauch. But because they're offering only midrange prospects (or questionable veterans such as Proctor and Farnsworth), it's more likely they'll have to set their sights on some of the lower-level available relievers (i.e. Qualls, Wheeler). Source

The Mets may turn their attention to the Twins' Luis Castillo to fill the void at 2nd Base created by the injury to Jose Valentin. The Mets like Ruben Gotay, but would like to upgrade defensively. Source

Saturday in the Park Trade Rumors

Talks between the Angels and Rangers over Mark Teixeira have apparently fallen through. While the teams appeared to have agreed on Casey Kotchman and Joe Saunders, the Rangers wanted another high level prospect (e.g. Brandon Wood), while the Angels wanted to add a mid-level prospect. The Braves are now the clear front-runners. Source

The Yankees remain in the hunt for bullpen help. They're in the mix for the very popular Royals closer, Octavio Dotel, and also have asked the Nationals about setup man Jon Rauch. But because they're offering only midrange prospects (or questionable veterans such as Proctor and Farnsworth), it's more likely they'll have to set their sights on some of the lower-level available relievers (i.e. Qualls, Wheeler). Source

The Mets may turn their attention to the Twins' Luis Castillo to fill the void at 2nd Base created by the injury to Jose Valentin. The Mets like Ruben Gotay, but would like to upgrade defensively. Source

Minor League Scoreboard - 7/27

Louisville 11 Scranton 1 (11)

Angel Chavez's solo HR gave Scranton a 1-0 lead in the 8th, but Louisville rallied to tie the game in the 9th and scored 5 times in the 11th. Jeff Karstens continued a successful rehab stint with 6 shut out innings and Edwar Ramirez struck out 2 in his 1 inning of work.


Reading 13 Trenton 5

Chase Wright was hammered for 10 run in just 4.1 innings. Matt Carson homered and drove in 3 runs.


Tampa was rained out


Charleston 5 Greenville 1

Seth Fortenberry (17th) and Kevin O'Brien (4th) homered, and 4 River Dogs pitchers kept the Greenville bats at bay.


Staten Island 2 Tri-City 0 (6)

In a rain shortened victory, Zach McAllister threw 5 innings to raise his record to 3-2. Braedyn Pruitt and David Williams each drove in a run.


GCL Yankees 7 GCL Tigers 3

Gerardo Rodriguez homered and Prilys Cuello knocked in 2 runs. Noel Castillo (3-2) allowed 1 run in 5 innings for the win.

Minor League Scoreboard - 7/27

Louisville 11 Scranton 1 (11)

Angel Chavez's solo HR gave Scranton a 1-0 lead in the 8th, but Louisville rallied to tie the game in the 9th and scored 5 times in the 11th. Jeff Karstens continued a successful rehab stint with 6 shut out innings and Edwar Ramirez struck out 2 in his 1 inning of work.


Reading 13 Trenton 5

Chase Wright was hammered for 10 run in just 4.1 innings. Matt Carson homered and drove in 3 runs.


Tampa was rained out


Charleston 5 Greenville 1

Seth Fortenberry (17th) and Kevin O'Brien (4th) homered, and 4 River Dogs pitchers kept the Greenville bats at bay.


Staten Island 2 Tri-City 0 (6)

In a rain shortened victory, Zach McAllister threw 5 innings to raise his record to 3-2. Braedyn Pruitt and David Williams each drove in a run.


GCL Yankees 7 GCL Tigers 3

Gerardo Rodriguez homered and Prilys Cuello knocked in 2 runs. Noel Castillo (3-2) allowed 1 run in 5 innings for the win.

Pettitte Hard Luck Loser...Again

Andy Pettitte pitched his heart out, but came away with another loss, because of a lack of run support. Pettitte allowed 3 runs in the 3rd inning as part of a 7 inning stint. But the Yankees, who were shut out on 6 hits against the Royals on Thursday, managed only 2 runs and 6 hits off of starter Jeremy Guthrie and the Orioles bullpen.

The game started about a half-hour after the Yankees completed an 8-7 win the game suspended on June 28. The Yankees struck first when Andy Phillips drew a 2-out walk in the 2nd inning, and came home on Melky Cabrera's booming triple to left-center. But Cabrera was stranded when Johnny Damon's hard one hopper was snared by shortstop Miguel Tejada. Tejada was playing his first game since June 21st when he suffered a broken wrist. Of course in the odd recordkeeping for the suspended game, he is now credit as playing on June 28th since he had an at-bat in the resumed game.

Pettitte (6-7) escaped a bases loaded jam in the 2nd, but wouldn't be so lucky in the 3rd. With runners on the corners and 1 out, Pettitte struck out Tejada for the 2nd out, but then walked Aubrey Huff. Ramon Hernandez's single to left scored 2 and Jay Gibbons lined an RBI single to right for a 3-0 lead.

The Yankees mounted a rally in the 5th when Phillips and Damon singled. Jay Payton booted the ball, allowing runners to move up to 2nd and 3rd with just 1 out. But Guthrie (7-3) froze Derek Jeter with a wicked breaking ball for a called 3rd strike, and Bobby Abreu grounded out to 1st.

The Yankees cut the deficit to one in the 6th. Alex Rodriguez, celebrating his 32nd birthday, walked and came around on singles byHideki Matsui and Robinson Cano. But Phillips grounded into an inning ending double play. That would end the night for Guthrie, who the Yankees were glad to see go.

Scott Proctor, who lately has been serving up gopherballs like IHOP serves up pancakes, gave up a solo shot to Yankees-killer Kevin Millar for an insurance run. It would be more than enough as the Yankees could only manage 2 base runners against John Parrish, Paul Shuey, Jamie Walker, and Chad Bradford (1st save).

....

Phillips was 2-3 to extend his career high hitting streak to 9 games and is hitting .345 in July.

Pettitte has allowed 3 or fewer runs in 9 starts this season without getting a win. The Yankees have scored 2 or fewer runs in 6 of his last 15 starts.

The Tampa Yankees were rained out on Friday, pushing Jason Giambi's rehab back a day.

Pettitte Hard Luck Loser...Again

Andy Pettitte pitched his heart out, but came away with another loss, because of a lack of run support. Pettitte allowed 3 runs in the 3rd inning as part of a 7 inning stint. But the Yankees, who were shut out on 6 hits against the Royals on Thursday, managed only 2 runs and 6 hits off of starter Jeremy Guthrie and the Orioles bullpen.

The game started about a half-hour after the Yankees completed an 8-7 win the game suspended on June 28. The Yankees struck first when Andy Phillips drew a 2-out walk in the 2nd inning, and came home on Melky Cabrera's booming triple to left-center. But Cabrera was stranded when Johnny Damon's hard one hopper was snared by shortstop Miguel Tejada. Tejada was playing his first game since June 21st when he suffered a broken wrist. Of course in the odd recordkeeping for the suspended game, he is now credit as playing on June 28th since he had an at-bat in the resumed game.

Pettitte (6-7) escaped a bases loaded jam in the 2nd, but wouldn't be so lucky in the 3rd. With runners on the corners and 1 out, Pettitte struck out Tejada for the 2nd out, but then walked Aubrey Huff. Ramon Hernandez's single to left scored 2 and Jay Gibbons lined an RBI single to right for a 3-0 lead.

The Yankees mounted a rally in the 5th when Phillips and Damon singled. Jay Payton booted the ball, allowing runners to move up to 2nd and 3rd with just 1 out. But Guthrie (7-3) froze Derek Jeter with a wicked breaking ball for a called 3rd strike, and Bobby Abreu grounded out to 1st.

The Yankees cut the deficit to one in the 6th. Alex Rodriguez, celebrating his 32nd birthday, walked and came around on singles byHideki Matsui and Robinson Cano. But Phillips grounded into an inning ending double play. That would end the night for Guthrie, who the Yankees were glad to see go.

Scott Proctor, who lately has been serving up gopherballs like IHOP serves up pancakes, gave up a solo shot to Yankees-killer Kevin Millar for an insurance run. It would be more than enough as the Yankees could only manage 2 base runners against John Parrish, Paul Shuey, Jamie Walker, and Chad Bradford (1st save).

....

Phillips was 2-3 to extend his career high hitting streak to 9 games and is hitting .345 in July.

Pettitte has allowed 3 or fewer runs in 9 starts this season without getting a win. The Yankees have scored 2 or fewer runs in 6 of his last 15 starts.

The Tampa Yankees were rained out on Friday, pushing Jason Giambi's rehab back a day.

Friday, July 27, 2007

Red Sox Don't Dye, for Now

The Red Sox had a three-way deal in place to acquire White Sox outfielder Jermaine Dye
earlier this week, but the trade fell through because of an unspecified issue with a player from the third club, according to an industry source.
Dye, who is a free agent at the end of the season, was willing to consider waiving his limited no-trade protection to join the Red Sox in exchange for guarantees about playing time and incentive bonuses, the source said.

The Sox told Dye that they were prepared to play him five days a week. It is unclear how they would have created the playing time, considering that they are set in all three outfield positions and the DH spot.

Read more from Ken Rosenthal

Red Sox Don't Dye, for Now

The Red Sox had a three-way deal in place to acquire White Sox outfielder Jermaine Dye
earlier this week, but the trade fell through because of an unspecified issue with a player from the third club, according to an industry source.
Dye, who is a free agent at the end of the season, was willing to consider waiving his limited no-trade protection to join the Red Sox in exchange for guarantees about playing time and incentive bonuses, the source said.

The Sox told Dye that they were prepared to play him five days a week. It is unclear how they would have created the playing time, considering that they are set in all three outfield positions and the DH spot.

Read more from Ken Rosenthal

Yankees Win, Time to Play Again

Mariano Rivera walked the tightrope in a 5 out save as the Yankees hung on for an 8-7 win. No A-Rod home run, so 500 will be 500.

Here are the lineups for the regular game.

Pettitte vs. Guthrie

Yankees

J. Damon dh








D. Jeter ss








B. Abreu rf








A. Rodriguez 3b








H. Matsui lf








J. Posada c








R. Cano 2b








A. Phillips 1b








M. Cabrera cf


















Orioles








B. Roberts 2b








C. Patterson cf








N. Markakis rf








K. Millar 1b








M. Tejada ss








A. Huff 3b








R. Hernandez c








J. Gibbons dh







J. Payton lf

Yankees Win, Time to Play Again

Mariano Rivera walked the tightrope in a 5 out save as the Yankees hung on for an 8-7 win. No A-Rod home run, so 500 will be 500.

Here are the lineups for the regular game.

Pettitte vs. Guthrie

Yankees

J. Damon dh








D. Jeter ss








B. Abreu rf








A. Rodriguez 3b








H. Matsui lf








J. Posada c








R. Cano 2b








A. Phillips 1b








M. Cabrera cf


















Orioles








B. Roberts 2b








C. Patterson cf








N. Markakis rf








K. Millar 1b








M. Tejada ss








A. Huff 3b








R. Hernandez c








J. Gibbons dh







J. Payton lf

Double Rain Delay?

I guess to get the weather just right, like it was the night of June 28, a thunderstorm is rolling through the Baltimore area. This could ba LONG night.

Double Rain Delay?

I guess to get the weather just right, like it was the night of June 28, a thunderstorm is rolling through the Baltimore area. This could ba LONG night.

Igawa Demoted

Woo hoooooooooo! Kei Igawa has been demoted to Scranton. Infielder Chris Basak has been recalled for now.

Michael Kay got a call on his show today from Buster Olney. Olney says there is actually a market out there for Igawa. That teams with bigger ball parks thinks he can still have success - apparently they haven't watched him pitch - and his actual contract is not that bad. Praying should be reserved for bigger things, but you might want to add this too while you're at it.

Igawa Demoted

Woo hoooooooooo! Kei Igawa has been demoted to Scranton. Infielder Chris Basak has been recalled for now.

Michael Kay got a call on his show today from Buster Olney. Olney says there is actually a market out there for Igawa. That teams with bigger ball parks thinks he can still have success - apparently they haven't watched him pitch - and his actual contract is not that bad. Praying should be reserved for bigger things, but you might want to add this too while you're at it.

Phillies Acquire Iguchi

With Chase Utley out 4-6 weeks with a broken hand, the Phillies have acquired second baseman Tadahito Iguchi from the White Sox for RHP Michael Dubee.

Phillies Acquire Iguchi

With Chase Utley out 4-6 weeks with a broken hand, the Phillies have acquired second baseman Tadahito Iguchi from the White Sox for RHP Michael Dubee.

Yankees vs. Orioles Preview

Alex Rodriguez's 32nd birthday, the chase for 500 home runs, and the conclusion of a suspended game are just part of tonight's start of a 3 game series between the Yankees and the Baltimore Orioles.

The Yankees have to be glad to be not seeking Erik Bedard in the serires.

Pitching Probables

Friday (susp) -
The suspended game picks up with Derek Jeter on base and the Yankees leading 8-6. Hideki Matsui is at the plate. Mike Myers was the last pitcher used by the Yankees, but Joe Torre has not said who will pitch the bottom of the 8th. Chien-Ming Wang and Luis Vizcaino have already been used in the game. Chris Ray was pitching for the O's, but is now on the DL.

Friday - Andy Pettitte (6-6, 4.12) vs. Jeremy Guthrie (6-3, 2.88)
These two faced off against each on June 26 and were both outstanding. Each allowed 2 runs- Pettitte in 7 innings, Guthrie in 6.1. Scott Proctor walked 3 in the 9th, including Ramon Hernandez with the bases loaded to give the O's the win.

Saturday - Roger Clemens (3-4, 3.72) vs. Brian Burres (4-4, 4.33)

The Yankees don't do well against guys they don't know, and Burress has only pitched 3.1 relief innings against them.

Sunday - Chien-Ming Wang (11-5, 3.57) vs. Daniel Cabrera (7-10, 5.04)
Hopefully the ace of the Yankees staff is finishing off a good series on Sunday with a win. This was the starting match up in the suspended game on June 28.

...

Wil Nieves accepted his minor league assignment and reported to Scranton.

Yankees vs. Orioles Preview

Alex Rodriguez's 32nd birthday, the chase for 500 home runs, and the conclusion of a suspended game are just part of tonight's start of a 3 game series between the Yankees and the Baltimore Orioles.

The Yankees have to be glad to be not seeking Erik Bedard in the serires.

Pitching Probables

Friday (susp) -
The suspended game picks up with Derek Jeter on base and the Yankees leading 8-6. Hideki Matsui is at the plate. Mike Myers was the last pitcher used by the Yankees, but Joe Torre has not said who will pitch the bottom of the 8th. Chien-Ming Wang and Luis Vizcaino have already been used in the game. Chris Ray was pitching for the O's, but is now on the DL.

Friday - Andy Pettitte (6-6, 4.12) vs. Jeremy Guthrie (6-3, 2.88)
These two faced off against each on June 26 and were both outstanding. Each allowed 2 runs- Pettitte in 7 innings, Guthrie in 6.1. Scott Proctor walked 3 in the 9th, including Ramon Hernandez with the bases loaded to give the O's the win.

Saturday - Roger Clemens (3-4, 3.72) vs. Brian Burres (4-4, 4.33)

The Yankees don't do well against guys they don't know, and Burress has only pitched 3.1 relief innings against them.

Sunday - Chien-Ming Wang (11-5, 3.57) vs. Daniel Cabrera (7-10, 5.04)
Hopefully the ace of the Yankees staff is finishing off a good series on Sunday with a win. This was the starting match up in the suspended game on June 28.

...

Wil Nieves accepted his minor league assignment and reported to Scranton.

Indians Bring Back Lofton

The Texas Rangers dealt Kenny Lofton to the Cleveland Indians today for minor league catcher Max Ramirez. This will be Lofton's 3rd stint with the Tribe. The 40-yr old is expected to help the Indians' running game. Cleveland has just 54 stolen bases. Lofton stole 21 while with the Rangers.

Source

Indians Bring Back Lofton

The Texas Rangers dealt Kenny Lofton to the Cleveland Indians today for minor league catcher Max Ramirez. This will be Lofton's 3rd stint with the Tribe. The 40-yr old is expected to help the Indians' running game. Cleveland has just 54 stolen bases. Lofton stole 21 while with the Rangers.

Source

Minor League Scoreboard - Games of 7/26

Louisville 13 Scranton 7

Matt DeSalvo's return to the minor leagues was worse than his last major league start. The right-hander was smacked around 6 earned runs in 5.2 innings. T.J. Beam and Russ Ohlendorf were no better. Kevin Thompson drove in 3 for Scranton.


Reading 11 Trenton 7

Tyler Clippard
gave up 3 runs in 3 innings and the Thunder bullpen blew a 6-3 lead. Noah Hall hit his 6th home run and drove in 3 runs.


Tampa was rained out.


Charleston 13 Greenville 8

Eric Hacker (7-2) allowed 2 unearned runs over 6 innings and the River Dogs belted 6 home runs. Tim O'Brien homered twice and drove in 4 runs. Josue Calzado, Wilmer Pino, Jon Muich, and Chase Odenreider added a long ball each.


Oneonta 5 Staten Island 3

Jose Gil
had 3 doubles and Justin Snyder had a pair of hits and RBI.


GCL Yankees 3
GCL Tigers 2

Tim Dennehy
threw 5 innings up shutout ball to raise his record to 4-1. Wady Rufino hit a 2-run HR, his 4th of the season.

Minor League Scoreboard - Games of 7/26

Louisville 13 Scranton 7

Matt DeSalvo's return to the minor leagues was worse than his last major league start. The right-hander was smacked around 6 earned runs in 5.2 innings. T.J. Beam and Russ Ohlendorf were no better. Kevin Thompson drove in 3 for Scranton.


Reading 11 Trenton 7

Tyler Clippard
gave up 3 runs in 3 innings and the Thunder bullpen blew a 6-3 lead. Noah Hall hit his 6th home run and drove in 3 runs.


Tampa was rained out.


Charleston 13 Greenville 8

Eric Hacker (7-2) allowed 2 unearned runs over 6 innings and the River Dogs belted 6 home runs. Tim O'Brien homered twice and drove in 4 runs. Josue Calzado, Wilmer Pino, Jon Muich, and Chase Odenreider added a long ball each.


Oneonta 5 Staten Island 3

Jose Gil
had 3 doubles and Justin Snyder had a pair of hits and RBI.


GCL Yankees 3
GCL Tigers 2

Tim Dennehy
threw 5 innings up shutout ball to raise his record to 4-1. Wady Rufino hit a 2-run HR, his 4th of the season.

TGIF Trade Rumors

Nothing new on the Mark Teixeira front other than the Angels "tweaking" their offer and apparently making Tex their #1 target. In addition to Casey Kotchman, the Rangers were thought to be after Ervin Santana. But Santana has struggled badly and it looks like they would now take Joe Saunders. The Rangers also want another prospect added to the mix. Source

The Tigers denied yesterday's published report that they had an interest in Kyle Farnsworth. The Yankees, Dodgers, Twins and Red Sox are among the teams most interested in Ty Wigginton. Source

The Padres are thinking about bringing back 2nd Baseman Mark Loretta. Loretta tried to sign with the Padres last off-season before inking a deal with the Astros. The Pads are also considering Taduhito Iguchi of the White Sox. Source

Now that Sammy Sosa has some trade value, the Rangers would like to move him out. Sosa's playing time keeps prospects Jason Botts and Nelson Cruz from getting at-bats. Source