Thursday, July 31, 2008

We Apologize

For last year's questioning of why Chris Britton wasn't given a chance to pitch. We admit our mistake. If he never puts the Pinstripes on ever again, it will be too soon. (that wasn't really good English, but we're pissed).

We Apologize

For last year's questioning of why Chris Britton wasn't given a chance to pitch. We admit our mistake. If he never puts the Pinstripes on ever again, it will be too soon. (that wasn't really good English, but we're pissed).

Trade Deadline Recap

This was one of the most active trade periods in recent memory. Not only were a number of deals that got done, but a number of high profile players exchanged places. Let's take a look at today's big deals and a couple of ones that had already taken place.

3 Hall of Fame Players - Manny Ramirez, Ivan Rodriguez, and Ken Griffey Jr. were all dealt today. There have been rumors of Jr. to the White Sox on and and off for a couple of months. He finally went today, after waving his no-trade clause, for infielder Danny Richar and pitcher Nick Masset. Richar was thought to be the starting 2nd baseman for the White Sox this season before injury stalled his year. Eventually Alexi Ramirez made Richar expendable. Masset is a mediocre reliever who will just add some depth to the Reds pen.

Ivan Rodriguez gives the Yankees much needed punch at catcher while the Tigers got some much needed help in their bullpen with the acquisition of Kyle Farnsworth.

By adding Manny Ramirez to their lineup, the Dodgers have an excellent shot at overtaking the Diamondbacks for the NL West crown. Who ever would have thought Joe Torre would be managing the Man-child, and for that matter, Nomar.

The Red Sox get back a very solid player in Jason Bay. He's not Manny, but he's still a good addition. The biggest difference will be no protection for David Ortiz.

The poor fans in Pittsburgh, those who actually pay attention to baseball, get back 4 prospects. Reliever Craig Hansen, who was once thought to be closer material, and outfielder Brandon Moss, who has tremendous upside. He's a good outfielder with a decent bat, and will be just 25 in September.

From LA, the Pirates got Andy LaRoche, who joins his brother Adam, and pitcher Bryan Morris. The younger LaRoche will see time at 3rd base and eventually could supplant his brother on the other side of the diamond. He's got good power and will finally get the chance to see if he can live up to his hype. Morris is in just his second minor league season after missing 2007 due to Tommy John surgery. The 21-yr old's best pitch is his curveball.

The Reigning AL Cy Young Winner - CC Sabathia has been outstanding since his trade to the Brewers, going 4-0, 1.82 in 5 starts. The Indians have the chance for an outstanding bat in Matt LaPorta who was hitting .288-20-66 in 84 games in Double-A. He's made a slow transition to the Indians team in Akron, hitting just .212-1-7 in 14 games. Last year he drove in 31 runs in 30 games.

The Stud - Rich Harden finally won his first game as a Cub today. And yes, we are being sarcastic. Harden hasn't given as many innings as Sabathia, but his arm has to be cared for a lot more. Nonetheless, he's been outstanding, putting together a 1.11 ERA in 4 starts. He's also struck out 39 batters in 24.1 innings. Sean Gallagher is in the A's rotation and projects to be a number 3 or 4 starter. The reports on outfielders Matt Murton and Eric Patterson are mixed. Murton, soon to be 27, did well in 2006, hitting .297-13-62 with an .809 OPS. But he's tailed off since. Patterson is getting a shot now after tearing the cover off the ball in 14 minor league games after the trade, and has the bigger upside.

The Big Bat - Mark Teixeira is playing in his second game in an Angels uniform tonight. After going 0-4 against Boston, he's 2-4 against the Yankees and drove in his first run in for the Halos. This was a great deal for the Angels. Casey Kotchman will be a very solid defender for the Braves, but the jury is still out on his bat. Pitcher Steve Marek is a hard thrower, but is pretty much a crap shoot.

So there you have it. Big names, big deals, big difference makers.

Trade Deadline Recap

This was one of the most active trade periods in recent memory. Not only were a number of deals that got done, but a number of high profile players exchanged places. Let's take a look at today's big deals and a couple of ones that had already taken place.

3 Hall of Fame Players - Manny Ramirez, Ivan Rodriguez, and Ken Griffey Jr. were all dealt today. There have been rumors of Jr. to the White Sox on and and off for a couple of months. He finally went today, after waving his no-trade clause, for infielder Danny Richar and pitcher Nick Masset. Richar was thought to be the starting 2nd baseman for the White Sox this season before injury stalled his year. Eventually Alexi Ramirez made Richar expendable. Masset is a mediocre reliever who will just add some depth to the Reds pen.

Ivan Rodriguez gives the Yankees much needed punch at catcher while the Tigers got some much needed help in their bullpen with the acquisition of Kyle Farnsworth.

By adding Manny Ramirez to their lineup, the Dodgers have an excellent shot at overtaking the Diamondbacks for the NL West crown. Who ever would have thought Joe Torre would be managing the Man-child, and for that matter, Nomar.

The Red Sox get back a very solid player in Jason Bay. He's not Manny, but he's still a good addition. The biggest difference will be no protection for David Ortiz.

The poor fans in Pittsburgh, those who actually pay attention to baseball, get back 4 prospects. Reliever Craig Hansen, who was once thought to be closer material, and outfielder Brandon Moss, who has tremendous upside. He's a good outfielder with a decent bat, and will be just 25 in September.

From LA, the Pirates got Andy LaRoche, who joins his brother Adam, and pitcher Bryan Morris. The younger LaRoche will see time at 3rd base and eventually could supplant his brother on the other side of the diamond. He's got good power and will finally get the chance to see if he can live up to his hype. Morris is in just his second minor league season after missing 2007 due to Tommy John surgery. The 21-yr old's best pitch is his curveball.

The Reigning AL Cy Young Winner - CC Sabathia has been outstanding since his trade to the Brewers, going 4-0, 1.82 in 5 starts. The Indians have the chance for an outstanding bat in Matt LaPorta who was hitting .288-20-66 in 84 games in Double-A. He's made a slow transition to the Indians team in Akron, hitting just .212-1-7 in 14 games. Last year he drove in 31 runs in 30 games.

The Stud - Rich Harden finally won his first game as a Cub today. And yes, we are being sarcastic. Harden hasn't given as many innings as Sabathia, but his arm has to be cared for a lot more. Nonetheless, he's been outstanding, putting together a 1.11 ERA in 4 starts. He's also struck out 39 batters in 24.1 innings. Sean Gallagher is in the A's rotation and projects to be a number 3 or 4 starter. The reports on outfielders Matt Murton and Eric Patterson are mixed. Murton, soon to be 27, did well in 2006, hitting .297-13-62 with an .809 OPS. But he's tailed off since. Patterson is getting a shot now after tearing the cover off the ball in 14 minor league games after the trade, and has the bigger upside.

The Big Bat - Mark Teixeira is playing in his second game in an Angels uniform tonight. After going 0-4 against Boston, he's 2-4 against the Yankees and drove in his first run in for the Halos. This was a great deal for the Angels. Casey Kotchman will be a very solid defender for the Braves, but the jury is still out on his bat. Pitcher Steve Marek is a hard thrower, but is pretty much a crap shoot.

So there you have it. Big names, big deals, big difference makers.

Yankees Getting Crushed by Angels

Yankees Getting Crushed by Angels

Breaking News: Dodgers Get Manny Ramirez

Jon Heyman is reporting that Manny Ramirez has been sent to the Dodgers as part of a 3-way deal that will send Jason Bay to the Pirates.


Update 4:45 P.M. EDT

The Pirates are said to be receiving 4 minor leaguers, though which teams they are coming from is not known.

Ramirez had dropped his no-trade clause ahead of time in return for the options for 2009 and 2010 being dropped from his contract.

UPDATE 4:50 P.M. EDT

Ken Rosenthal reports that the Pirates will receive Andy LaRoche and Bryan Morris from LA and Brandon Moss and Craig Hansen from the Red Sox.

Breaking News: Dodgers Get Manny Ramirez

Jon Heyman is reporting that Manny Ramirez has been sent to the Dodgers as part of a 3-way deal that will send Jason Bay to the Pirates.


Update 4:45 P.M. EDT

The Pirates are said to be receiving 4 minor leaguers, though which teams they are coming from is not known.

Ramirez had dropped his no-trade clause ahead of time in return for the options for 2009 and 2010 being dropped from his contract.

UPDATE 4:50 P.M. EDT

Ken Rosenthal reports that the Pirates will receive Andy LaRoche and Bryan Morris from LA and Brandon Moss and Craig Hansen from the Red Sox.

Yankees Deal Alberto Gonzalez

The Yankees have traded minor league shortstop Alberto Gonzalez to the Washington Nationals for pitcher Johnny Nunez.

We don't quite get this one unless the Yankees needed to make room on the 40-man roster and didn't want to just lose Gonzalez.

Yankees Deal Alberto Gonzalez

The Yankees have traded minor league shortstop Alberto Gonzalez to the Washington Nationals for pitcher Johnny Nunez.

We don't quite get this one unless the Yankees needed to make room on the 40-man roster and didn't want to just lose Gonzalez.

Breaking News: Rays Do Not Acquire Bay

It has not been confirmed yet, but MLB.com is reporting that the Rays will acquire Jason Bay from the Pirates for highly regarded prospects, shortstop Reid Brignac and pitcher Jeff Niemann.

UPDATE 4:15 P.M. EDT
Ken Rosenthal says the deal is dead. MLB.com was premature in reporting the deal, which is not likely to happen at this point.

Breaking News: Rays Do Not Acquire Bay

It has not been confirmed yet, but MLB.com is reporting that the Rays will acquire Jason Bay from the Pirates for highly regarded prospects, shortstop Reid Brignac and pitcher Jeff Niemann.

UPDATE 4:15 P.M. EDT
Ken Rosenthal says the deal is dead. MLB.com was premature in reporting the deal, which is not likely to happen at this point.

Yankees vs. Angels - July 31

The Yankees begin a tough 4-game series with the Los Angeles Angels and their new slugger, Mark Teixeira, this evening at Yankee Stadium. The Yankees haven't fared well in recent years against the Halos and the addition of Teixeira won't help to change that.

The Yankees will have their new acquisition, Ivan Rodriguez, in the lineup as well. It's not know where he will hit yet, or for that matter what number he wears. I-Rod usually wears number 7, which of course is retired in honor of The Mick.

Here are the pitching probables for the series, which is the first meeting between the two teams this season.

Thursday: John Garland vs. Andy Pettitte
Friday: Ervin Santana vs. Sidney Ponson
Saturday: Jered Weaver vs. Mike Mussina
Sunday: John Lackey vs. Darrell Rasner

As you can see, two of the match ups swing very favorably in the Angels direction.

UPDATE 4:20 P.M. EDT

Here is tonight's Yankees lineup with Ivan Rodriguez wearing number 12 and hitting 8th.

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

As expected, Chad Moeller was designated for assignment. Unexpectedly, Chris Britton has been recalled from Scranton.

Yankees vs. Angels - July 31

The Yankees begin a tough 4-game series with the Los Angeles Angels and their new slugger, Mark Teixeira, this evening at Yankee Stadium. The Yankees haven't fared well in recent years against the Halos and the addition of Teixeira won't help to change that.

The Yankees will have their new acquisition, Ivan Rodriguez, in the lineup as well. It's not know where he will hit yet, or for that matter what number he wears. I-Rod usually wears number 7, which of course is retired in honor of The Mick.

Here are the pitching probables for the series, which is the first meeting between the two teams this season.

Thursday: John Garland vs. Andy Pettitte
Friday: Ervin Santana vs. Sidney Ponson
Saturday: Jered Weaver vs. Mike Mussina
Sunday: John Lackey vs. Darrell Rasner

As you can see, two of the match ups swing very favorably in the Angels direction.

UPDATE 4:20 P.M. EDT

Here is tonight's Yankees lineup with Ivan Rodriguez wearing number 12 and hitting 8th.

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

As expected, Chad Moeller was designated for assignment. Unexpectedly, Chris Britton has been recalled from Scranton.

Tampa's Bay

With the Manny Ramirez talks apparently dead, Jayson Stark is reporting that the Rays are back in discussion with the Pirates for Jayson Bay. The Rays have been reluctant to part with any of their top prospects, but no deal will get done unless they do.

Tampa's Bay

With the Manny Ramirez talks apparently dead, Jayson Stark is reporting that the Rays are back in discussion with the Pirates for Jayson Bay. The Rays have been reluctant to part with any of their top prospects, but no deal will get done unless they do.

Manny Deal Appears Dead

Ken Rosenthal and Jayson Stark have joined Peter Gammons in saying that the three way deal between the Marlins, Red Sox, and Pirates, concerning Manny Ramirez, is dead.

The Pirates are apparently blaming the Marlins and vice-versa. Word is that the Marlins want more money.

I hate the idea of contraction, but the Marlins should have been contracted a long time ago.

UPDATE 2:30 P.M. EDT

ESPN's Peter Gammons reported that Florida asked Boston for 2 million additional dollars beyond the amount to cover Ramirez's contract, plus two prospects. Like we said, contract the Marlins.

Manny Deal Appears Dead

Ken Rosenthal and Jayson Stark have joined Peter Gammons in saying that the three way deal between the Marlins, Red Sox, and Pirates, concerning Manny Ramirez, is dead.

The Pirates are apparently blaming the Marlins and vice-versa. Word is that the Marlins want more money.

I hate the idea of contraction, but the Marlins should have been contracted a long time ago.

UPDATE 2:30 P.M. EDT

ESPN's Peter Gammons reported that Florida asked Boston for 2 million additional dollars beyond the amount to cover Ramirez's contract, plus two prospects. Like we said, contract the Marlins.

Yankees Want Southpaw from the North Side

ESPN's Jayson Stark is reporting the Yankees, as well as the Red Sox, are among the teams going after Cubs left-handed reliever Scott Eyre. With Damaso Marte expected to have a prominent role, Brian Cashman would want another left-hander to serve as a specialist.

Yankees Want Southpaw from the North Side

ESPN's Jayson Stark is reporting the Yankees, as well as the Red Sox, are among the teams going after Cubs left-handed reliever Scott Eyre. With Damaso Marte expected to have a prominent role, Brian Cashman would want another left-hander to serve as a specialist.

Junior Heading to the South Side

Ken Rosenthal reports that Ken Griffey Jr. has accepted the trade from the Reds to the White Sox. In exchange for Junior, the Reds will receive pitcher Nick Masset and infielder Danny Richar. Cash will be exchanged as well, but the details are not yet disclosed.

With Jermaine Dye and Carlos Quentin in the outfield, and Jim Thome as DH, the White Sox will probably move Nick Swisher to 1st base, thereby descreasing Paul Konerko's playing time.

Junior Heading to the South Side

Ken Rosenthal reports that Ken Griffey Jr. has accepted the trade from the Reds to the White Sox. In exchange for Junior, the Reds will receive pitcher Nick Masset and infielder Danny Richar. Cash will be exchanged as well, but the details are not yet disclosed.

With Jermaine Dye and Carlos Quentin in the outfield, and Jim Thome as DH, the White Sox will probably move Nick Swisher to 1st base, thereby descreasing Paul Konerko's playing time.

Around the Horn - 7/31

The Phillies and Mets continue to play leap frog in the NL East. The Phils took a half game lead last night with an 8-5 win over the Nationals. Chase Utley and Shane Victorino both went deep to help Jamie Moyer pick up his 240th win, 12th best (tied with Frank Tanana) among left-handers.

The Mets meanwhile couldn't hold an early lead and red hot Mike Pelfrey was cooled off by the Marlins 7-5. The Marlins sit just 1.5 games back.

Garret Anderson put up a 4-hit, 4 RBI night as the Angels beat the Red Sox 9-2. It was LA's second three game sweep of the Red Sox this month. The Rays gained a game on Boston with a 3-2 win over the Blue Jays.

Colorado still can't make up its collective mind as to buy or sell today. Had they lost three straight to the Pirates they probably would have been sellers. But the Rockies snapped the 2-game losing streak last night, 7-4, as Aaron Cook won his 14th game.

Dan Haren won his 11th game of the season in the Diamondbacks 7-3 win over the Padres. That kept them one game ahead of the Dodgers, who got a complete game shutout from Chad Billingsley in a 4-0 win over the Giants.

The Diamondbacks have to wonder what their offense would be like had they kept Carlos Quentin. The White Sox outfielder continued his breakout season with his 28th home run and drove in 4 runs in the Chisox 8-3 win over the Twins. Quentin has 83 RBI for the season.

The Cubs beat the Brewers for the third straight night, this time 7-2, behind a strong outing by Ryan Dempster, who picked up his 12th win. The Brewers will try to salvage the finale of the series, but they're up against Rich Harden.

Around the Horn - 7/31

The Phillies and Mets continue to play leap frog in the NL East. The Phils took a half game lead last night with an 8-5 win over the Nationals. Chase Utley and Shane Victorino both went deep to help Jamie Moyer pick up his 240th win, 12th best (tied with Frank Tanana) among left-handers.

The Mets meanwhile couldn't hold an early lead and red hot Mike Pelfrey was cooled off by the Marlins 7-5. The Marlins sit just 1.5 games back.

Garret Anderson put up a 4-hit, 4 RBI night as the Angels beat the Red Sox 9-2. It was LA's second three game sweep of the Red Sox this month. The Rays gained a game on Boston with a 3-2 win over the Blue Jays.

Colorado still can't make up its collective mind as to buy or sell today. Had they lost three straight to the Pirates they probably would have been sellers. But the Rockies snapped the 2-game losing streak last night, 7-4, as Aaron Cook won his 14th game.

Dan Haren won his 11th game of the season in the Diamondbacks 7-3 win over the Padres. That kept them one game ahead of the Dodgers, who got a complete game shutout from Chad Billingsley in a 4-0 win over the Giants.

The Diamondbacks have to wonder what their offense would be like had they kept Carlos Quentin. The White Sox outfielder continued his breakout season with his 28th home run and drove in 4 runs in the Chisox 8-3 win over the Twins. Quentin has 83 RBI for the season.

The Cubs beat the Brewers for the third straight night, this time 7-2, behind a strong outing by Ryan Dempster, who picked up his 12th win. The Brewers will try to salvage the finale of the series, but they're up against Rich Harden.

The Mustache Hates the Shift

Kudos to Peter Abraham for coming up with this. We're figuring this was prompted by Jason Giambi losing a 2-run single earlier in the game due to Brian Roberts playing short fielder.




UPDATE - Some asshole apparently complained to youtube about the video and its been removed.

The Mustache Hates the Shift

Kudos to Peter Abraham for coming up with this. We're figuring this was prompted by Jason Giambi losing a 2-run single earlier in the game due to Brian Roberts playing short fielder.




UPDATE - Some asshole apparently complained to youtube about the video and its been removed.

Deadline Deal Rumors

The Manny Ramirez, three team trade is of course the biggest rumor out there. Jayson Stark of ESPN quoted an official in the know as saying there's a 50/50 chance it will happen.

Ken Rosenthal reports that Reds outfielder Ken Griffey Jr. is deciding whether or not to waive his no trade clause to accept a trade to the White Sox. No details on the trade itself. The White Sox are reportedly interested in relievers David Weathers and Jeremy Affeldt as well. The Chicago Sun-Times also reports the White Sox are interested in acquiring A's closer Huston Street to serve in a set up role to closer Bobby Jenks.

The Twins continue their search for a 3rd baseman. Much talk has been made about their interest in Adrian Beltre (Nick Blackburn, Scott Baker, Kevin Slowey, Glen Perkins or Denard Span), but the Mariners are reportedly asking for too much in return. According to the San Francisco Chronicle the Twins have turned the sights on a lesser player such as the Giants' Rich Aurilia. (Yankees should send them Wilson Betemit..NOW). The Giants are also listening to offers for catcher Bengie Molina and shortstop Omar Vizquel.

The Mariners have clearly lost their minds
. Jarrod Washburn has been on a tremendous roll, but their asking price for him is crazy, especially considering he's set to make $10.9 million next season. The Mariners asked the Rockies for top prospects Dexter Fowler and Casey Weathers, and were looking for a Jon Niese or Fernando Martinez type prospect from the Mets. The Mariners are also shopping closer J.J. Putz.

Deadline Deal Rumors

The Manny Ramirez, three team trade is of course the biggest rumor out there. Jayson Stark of ESPN quoted an official in the know as saying there's a 50/50 chance it will happen.

Ken Rosenthal reports that Reds outfielder Ken Griffey Jr. is deciding whether or not to waive his no trade clause to accept a trade to the White Sox. No details on the trade itself. The White Sox are reportedly interested in relievers David Weathers and Jeremy Affeldt as well. The Chicago Sun-Times also reports the White Sox are interested in acquiring A's closer Huston Street to serve in a set up role to closer Bobby Jenks.

The Twins continue their search for a 3rd baseman. Much talk has been made about their interest in Adrian Beltre (Nick Blackburn, Scott Baker, Kevin Slowey, Glen Perkins or Denard Span), but the Mariners are reportedly asking for too much in return. According to the San Francisco Chronicle the Twins have turned the sights on a lesser player such as the Giants' Rich Aurilia. (Yankees should send them Wilson Betemit..NOW). The Giants are also listening to offers for catcher Bengie Molina and shortstop Omar Vizquel.

The Mariners have clearly lost their minds
. Jarrod Washburn has been on a tremendous roll, but their asking price for him is crazy, especially considering he's set to make $10.9 million next season. The Mariners asked the Rockies for top prospects Dexter Fowler and Casey Weathers, and were looking for a Jon Niese or Fernando Martinez type prospect from the Mets. The Mariners are also shopping closer J.J. Putz.

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Miami Manny?

Will Carroll of Baseball Prospectus is reporting that the Boston Red Sox are ready to ship Manny Ramirez to the Florida Marlins as part of a three team deal. The Pittsburgh Pirates would send outfielder Jason Bay and left-handed reliever John Grabow to Boston. The Marlins would send outfielder Jeremy Hermida and two prospects to Pittsburgh, with another prospect coming from Boston.

The deal would be contingent on Manny waving his no trade clause.

Miami Manny?

Will Carroll of Baseball Prospectus is reporting that the Boston Red Sox are ready to ship Manny Ramirez to the Florida Marlins as part of a three team deal. The Pittsburgh Pirates would send outfielder Jason Bay and left-handed reliever John Grabow to Boston. The Marlins would send outfielder Jeremy Hermida and two prospects to Pittsburgh, with another prospect coming from Boston.

The deal would be contingent on Manny waving his no trade clause.

Hawkins Gets Jettisoned to Houston

Wow, two in one day. The Yankees, who DFA'ed LaTroy Hawkins recently, dealt him and cash to the Houston Astros for minor league infielder Matt Cusick. The cash will pay for the remaining money on Hawkins one year, $3.75 million deal.

Hawkins Gets Jettisoned to Houston

Wow, two in one day. The Yankees, who DFA'ed LaTroy Hawkins recently, dealt him and cash to the Houston Astros for minor league infielder Matt Cusick. The cash will pay for the remaining money on Hawkins one year, $3.75 million deal.

Yankees Crush Orioles in Finale

The Yankees Yankees took whatever frustrations they have felt the last three days out on the Orioles this afternoon, pounding the Baltimore squad, 13-3. Bobby Abreu had a huge day with a pair of home runs and Alex Rodriguez also went deep to help Joba Chamberlain earn his 4th win of the season.

The Orioles took a 1-0 lead in the top of the 1st inning on an Aubrey Huff single, but it was all Yankees after that. They took a 3-1 lead in the bottom of the 1st when Alex Rodriguez's single scored Derek Jeter and Bobby Abreu came home when Nick Markakis' throw sailed over the head of catcher Guillermo Quiroz. A-Rod came across when Quiroz mishandled a Dennis Sarfate pitch for the first of two run scoring passed balls on the day.

Singles by Brian Roberts, Brendan Fahey, and Markakis cut the lead to 3-2 in the third, but Chamberlain rebounded, retiring Huff on a line out and Melvin Mora on a ground out to Robinson Cano.

The Yankees began to break things open in their half of the inning when Johnny Damon drew a lead off walk and two batters later Abreu hit his 12th home run of the year. The Yankees then put things away with a pair of 4-run innings in both the 6th and 7th frames.

Brian Burres was the victim in the 6th when Jason Giambi, Abreu, and Xavier Nady produced run scoring hits. In between the innings, Edwar Ramirez made the fastest exit in recent memory. His first pitch to Kevin Millar sailed over the Yankee killer's head and was immediately tossed out of the game by home plate umpire Mark Wegner.

Though Joe Girardi came out and argued vehemently, Ramirez didn't see upset, as though the pitch "didn't slip". If that's the case it was in retaliation for Daniel Cabrera hitting Alex Rodriguez on Tuesday night. It would be a lot better though if the Yankees pitcher stopped head hunting and drilled some ribs.

Back to baseball, Abreu and A-Rod hit back to back home runs in the bottom of the 7th. For Abreu it was his first two home run game as a member of the Yankees, and 13th of the season. A-Rod's home run, his 23rd, was the 541st of his career.

July 30, 2008

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 R H E
Baltimore
1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0
3 6 1
NY Yankees
3 0 2 0 0 4 4 0 X
13 11 1

BaltimoreABRHRBIBBSOLOBAVG
Roberts, 2B4110021.284
Castillo, A, P0000000.000
Jones, CF4000023.274
Markakis, RF4021001.294
Huff, DH3011003.302
a-Castro, J, PH-DH-SS1111000.146
Mora, 3B4000004.249
Scott, LF4000011.256
Millar, 1B3000110.245
Quiroz, C4000011.215
Fahey, SS-2B3110021.244
Totals343631915

a-Homered for Huff in the 8th.

BATTING
HR: Castro, J (1, 8th inning off Robertson, 0 on, 2 out).
TB: Roberts; Markakis 2; Huff; Castro, J 4; Fahey.
RBI: Huff (72), Markakis (56), Castro, J (2).
2-out RBI: Huff; Castro, J.
Runners left in scoring position, 2 out: Mora; Scott; Roberts.
Team LOB: 5.

FIELDING
E: Markakis (2, throw).
PB: Quiroz (3).

BaltimoreIPHRERBBSOHRERA
Sarfate (L, 4-2)4.02533514.00
Burres 1.14440105.64
Cabrera, F 0.23332224.80
Castillo, A 2.02111302.08


NY YankeesABRHRBIBBSOLOBAVG
Damon, LF2101210.316
a-Christian, PH-LF1011000.280
Jeter, SS3100133.284
b-Betemit, PH-SS1000012.242
Abreu, DH4433100.288
Rodriguez, A, 3B4222001.328
c-Moeller, PH-3B1000010.227
Giambi, 1B3111011.256
Sexson, 1B1110100.222
Cano, 2B5110012.266
Nady, RF4222010.325
Cabrera, CF3000101.245
Molina, C3000023.226
Totals3513111061113

a-Singled for Damon in the 7th. b-Struck out for Jeter in the 7th. c-Struck out for Rodriguez, A in the 8th.

BATTING
2B: Abreu (29, Burres), Nady 2 (28, Burres, Castillo, A).
HR: Abreu 2 (13, 3rd inning off Sarfate, 1 on, 1 out; 7th inning off Cabrera, F, 0 on, 0 out), Rodriguez, A (23, 7th inning off Cabrera, F, 0 on, 0 out).
TB: Christian; Abreu 10; Rodriguez, A 5; Giambi; Sexson; Cano; Nady 4.
RBI: Rodriguez, A 2 (65), Abreu 3 (71), Giambi (62), Nady 2 (60), Damon (44), Christian (5).
2-out RBI: Damon; Christian.
Runners left in scoring position, 2 out: Jeter 2; Betemit.
Team LOB: 5.

FIELDING
E: Cano (8, fielding).


NY YankeesIPHRERBBSOHRERA
Chamberlain (W, 4-3)6.05210602.24
Ramirez 0.00000002.35
Robertson 2.01111314.91
Giese 1.00000002.76

Cabrera, F pitched to 3 batters in the 7th.

WP: Cabrera, F, Robertson.
Balk: Chamberlain.
IBB: Cabrera (by Cabrera, F).
HBP: Molina (by Castillo, A).
Pitches-strikes: Sarfate 68-39, Burres 27-18, Cabrera, F 35-18,
Castillo, A 33-20, Chamberlain 98-60, Ramirez 1-0, Robertson 40-26, Giese 10-7.
Ground outs-fly outs: Sarfate 2-5, Burres 2-1, Cabrera, F 0-0,
Castillo, A 2-1, Chamberlain 5-7, Ramirez 0-0, Robertson 1-2, Giese 2-1.
Batters faced: Sarfate 17, Burres 8, Cabrera, F 7, Castillo, A 10,
Chamberlain 24, Ramirez 0, Robertson 8, Giese 3.
Inherited runners-scored: Cabrera, F 2-2, Castillo, A 2-1.
EjectionsNew York Yankees pitcher Edwar Ramirez ejected
by HP umpire Mark Wegner. (7th).
Umpires: HP: Mark Wegner. 1B: Jeff Kellogg.
: Sam Holbrook. 3B: Chad Fairchild.
Weather: 82 degrees, partly cloudy.
Wind: 6 mph, In from LF.
T: 3:08.
Att: 54,296.

Yankees Crush Orioles in Finale

The Yankees Yankees took whatever frustrations they have felt the last three days out on the Orioles this afternoon, pounding the Baltimore squad, 13-3. Bobby Abreu had a huge day with a pair of home runs and Alex Rodriguez also went deep to help Joba Chamberlain earn his 4th win of the season.

The Orioles took a 1-0 lead in the top of the 1st inning on an Aubrey Huff single, but it was all Yankees after that. They took a 3-1 lead in the bottom of the 1st when Alex Rodriguez's single scored Derek Jeter and Bobby Abreu came home when Nick Markakis' throw sailed over the head of catcher Guillermo Quiroz. A-Rod came across when Quiroz mishandled a Dennis Sarfate pitch for the first of two run scoring passed balls on the day.

Singles by Brian Roberts, Brendan Fahey, and Markakis cut the lead to 3-2 in the third, but Chamberlain rebounded, retiring Huff on a line out and Melvin Mora on a ground out to Robinson Cano.

The Yankees began to break things open in their half of the inning when Johnny Damon drew a lead off walk and two batters later Abreu hit his 12th home run of the year. The Yankees then put things away with a pair of 4-run innings in both the 6th and 7th frames.

Brian Burres was the victim in the 6th when Jason Giambi, Abreu, and Xavier Nady produced run scoring hits. In between the innings, Edwar Ramirez made the fastest exit in recent memory. His first pitch to Kevin Millar sailed over the Yankee killer's head and was immediately tossed out of the game by home plate umpire Mark Wegner.

Though Joe Girardi came out and argued vehemently, Ramirez didn't see upset, as though the pitch "didn't slip". If that's the case it was in retaliation for Daniel Cabrera hitting Alex Rodriguez on Tuesday night. It would be a lot better though if the Yankees pitcher stopped head hunting and drilled some ribs.

Back to baseball, Abreu and A-Rod hit back to back home runs in the bottom of the 7th. For Abreu it was his first two home run game as a member of the Yankees, and 13th of the season. A-Rod's home run, his 23rd, was the 541st of his career.

July 30, 2008

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 R H E
Baltimore
1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0
3 6 1
NY Yankees
3 0 2 0 0 4 4 0 X
13 11 1

BaltimoreABRHRBIBBSOLOBAVG
Roberts, 2B4110021.284
Castillo, A, P0000000.000
Jones, CF4000023.274
Markakis, RF4021001.294
Huff, DH3011003.302
a-Castro, J, PH-DH-SS1111000.146
Mora, 3B4000004.249
Scott, LF4000011.256
Millar, 1B3000110.245
Quiroz, C4000011.215
Fahey, SS-2B3110021.244
Totals343631915

a-Homered for Huff in the 8th.

BATTING
HR: Castro, J (1, 8th inning off Robertson, 0 on, 2 out).
TB: Roberts; Markakis 2; Huff; Castro, J 4; Fahey.
RBI: Huff (72), Markakis (56), Castro, J (2).
2-out RBI: Huff; Castro, J.
Runners left in scoring position, 2 out: Mora; Scott; Roberts.
Team LOB: 5.

FIELDING
E: Markakis (2, throw).
PB: Quiroz (3).

BaltimoreIPHRERBBSOHRERA
Sarfate (L, 4-2)4.02533514.00
Burres 1.14440105.64
Cabrera, F 0.23332224.80
Castillo, A 2.02111302.08


NY YankeesABRHRBIBBSOLOBAVG
Damon, LF2101210.316
a-Christian, PH-LF1011000.280
Jeter, SS3100133.284
b-Betemit, PH-SS1000012.242
Abreu, DH4433100.288
Rodriguez, A, 3B4222001.328
c-Moeller, PH-3B1000010.227
Giambi, 1B3111011.256
Sexson, 1B1110100.222
Cano, 2B5110012.266
Nady, RF4222010.325
Cabrera, CF3000101.245
Molina, C3000023.226
Totals3513111061113

a-Singled for Damon in the 7th. b-Struck out for Jeter in the 7th. c-Struck out for Rodriguez, A in the 8th.

BATTING
2B: Abreu (29, Burres), Nady 2 (28, Burres, Castillo, A).
HR: Abreu 2 (13, 3rd inning off Sarfate, 1 on, 1 out; 7th inning off Cabrera, F, 0 on, 0 out), Rodriguez, A (23, 7th inning off Cabrera, F, 0 on, 0 out).
TB: Christian; Abreu 10; Rodriguez, A 5; Giambi; Sexson; Cano; Nady 4.
RBI: Rodriguez, A 2 (65), Abreu 3 (71), Giambi (62), Nady 2 (60), Damon (44), Christian (5).
2-out RBI: Damon; Christian.
Runners left in scoring position, 2 out: Jeter 2; Betemit.
Team LOB: 5.

FIELDING
E: Cano (8, fielding).


NY YankeesIPHRERBBSOHRERA
Chamberlain (W, 4-3)6.05210602.24
Ramirez 0.00000002.35
Robertson 2.01111314.91
Giese 1.00000002.76

Cabrera, F pitched to 3 batters in the 7th.

WP: Cabrera, F, Robertson.
Balk: Chamberlain.
IBB: Cabrera (by Cabrera, F).
HBP: Molina (by Castillo, A).
Pitches-strikes: Sarfate 68-39, Burres 27-18, Cabrera, F 35-18,
Castillo, A 33-20, Chamberlain 98-60, Ramirez 1-0, Robertson 40-26, Giese 10-7.
Ground outs-fly outs: Sarfate 2-5, Burres 2-1, Cabrera, F 0-0,
Castillo, A 2-1, Chamberlain 5-7, Ramirez 0-0, Robertson 1-2, Giese 2-1.
Batters faced: Sarfate 17, Burres 8, Cabrera, F 7, Castillo, A 10,
Chamberlain 24, Ramirez 0, Robertson 8, Giese 3.
Inherited runners-scored: Cabrera, F 2-2, Castillo, A 2-1.
EjectionsNew York Yankees pitcher Edwar Ramirez ejected
by HP umpire Mark Wegner. (7th).
Umpires: HP: Mark Wegner. 1B: Jeff Kellogg.
: Sam Holbrook. 3B: Chad Fairchild.
Weather: 82 degrees, partly cloudy.
Wind: 6 mph, In from LF.
T: 3:08.
Att: 54,296.