The Daily Yankeeland

It's been a while since I put a Daily Yankeeland out there, so here we go.

Yogi Berra remained hospitalized with a fractured foot according to the Star Ledger's Marc Carig. It was originally thought that the living legend had gone home Sunday night.

ESPN's Rob Neyer says the Yankees will be rewarded by being patient with Joba Chamberlain.

The Washington Post's Allan Sloan knows the Boss jumped ship at the right time.

Lou Piniella has popped one cork too many. The former Yankees outfielder has decided to hang it up as manager after the season. Sweet Lou's old fashioned ways don't work with today's players too much and he certainly had to have tired of the Milton Bradleys and Carlos Zambranos of the world.

Kevin Long explains how he fixed Mark Teixeira's season long slump.

Sergio Mitre's last rehab start wasn't a good one. Pitching for Scranton last night Meat Tray allowed 3 earned runs and 4 hits in 4.2 innings.

Charleston RiverDogs are watching what they eat.

The Daily Yankeeland - 7/15

Probably going to have to rename this feature, "The Once in a While Yankeeland".

Filed Under: Yankees

Tags: Aroldis Chapman • chien-ming wang • damaso marte • Eastern League All-Star Game • Ian Snell • jesus montero • Old Timer's Day • Sergio Mitre • Views from the Facade • Yankees News and Notes • Zach McAllister

The Yankees have acknowledged that Damaso Marte does still exist. Watching MLB Network last night, I noticed on the crawl that Marte will begin a rehab assignment on Thursday with the Gulf Coast League Yankees.

The Trenton Thunder host tonight’s Eastern League All-Star game. Thunder team members, and Yankees prospects, Jesus Montero, Zach McAllister, Mike Dunn, Josh Schmidt, Reegie Corona, Eduardo Nunez, and Jorge Vazquez will represent the Northern squad. Trenton manager Tony Franklin will be at the helm of the North along with his coaching staff.

The Yankees begin a 10-game homestand beginning Thursday night with Detroit. After 3 games with the Tigers, the Orioles come to town for 3 before the A’s finish the homestand with a 4-game set. The Tigers series includes Old-Timer’s Day on Sunday, July 19.

When the Chien-Ming Wang’s spot in the rotation comes up, the Yankees will probably go with Sergio Mitre and move Al Aceves back to the pen.

The Yankees will also look elsewhere for a starting pitcher. According to the NY Post, Pittsburgh’s Ian Snell is among those who have piqued the Yankees interest. The Bombers are also looking into Cuban defector Aroldis Chapman.

The Daily Yankeeland - 5/4

Views from the Facade

May 4th, 2009

Filed Under: Yankees

Tags: Alan Horne • Alex Rodriguez • chien-ming wang • Daily Notes • damaso marte • George Kontos • Joe Girardi • Phil Hughes • Selena Roberts • Yankees Universe • Yankees vs. Red Sox

The Yankees open a two game series with the Boston Red Sox tonight at the new Stadium (yes, I really still feel the need to say new). Joe Girardi hopes that some home cooking will help exact a measure of revenge for last week’s embarrassing 3-game Fenway Flop. With yesterday’s rain out against the Los Angeles Angels, Phil Hughes will start tonight against left-hander Jon Lester. The brief series concludes tomorrow night with Joba Chamberlain going up against Josh Beckett, who has been hammered for 15 runs in his last two starts. Both games are at 7:05 ET on YES.

When Damaso Marte returned from the WBC, he complained of pain behind his throwing shoulder. He then confessed to pitching through the pain in order to represent his country. To say Marte was awful the first month of the regular season, would be like saying a hurricane is a little drizzle. The Yankees finally placed the lefty, who signed a three year free agent deal in the off-season, on the 15-day DL with shoulder tendinitis. Anthony Claggett has been recalled from Scranton to take his place on the roster.

The Yankees also discovered that Chien-Ming Wang’s hip abductor issue was caused by a weakness in his right foot. Wang hadn’t fully recovered the strength in the foot after last season’s Lysfranc injury, and as a result, strained his hip. Physical therapy, rather than throwing, will now be Wang’s main focus.

Alex Rodriguez played third base over the weekend as he continued his rehab in Tampa. It’s possible that A-Rod could get into some Tampa Yankees games before being activated from the disabled list this week or next.

Timing is everything and it’s no shock that writer Selena Roberts’ unauthorized bio of A-Rod hits the stores today. Very convenient. One person who is not happy about it is Yankees manager Joe Girardi, who questioned the timing as well as the need for the book at all. Girardi talked to reporters prior to yesterday’s scheduled game with the Angels, and gave an unsolicited opinion of the book. Girardi felt that what one does in his or her own personal life does not need to be shared wit the public, especially when that person’s children could be exposed to harmful/hurtful information.

The biggest issues that come out in the book are, of course, non-personal. Accusations of pitch tipping while a member of the Texas Rangers, and steroid use in high school and with the Yankees are the hot items that has caused MLB to further investigate A-Rod’s statements. It’s understandable though that Girardi would lash out. He’s under tremendous pressure to win and he doesn’t need his best player or the rest of his team hurt by distractions.

Two years ago pitcher Alan Horne was near the top of the Yankees‘ prospect rankings. Then came shoulder problems that led to off-season surgery. Horne is back from extended spring training and made his season debut for the Trenton Thunder on Saturday. He struggled his way through a 3 inning, 3 run, 4 walk effort.

Right-hander George Kontos has been promoted from Trenton to Scranton after going 1-1, 2.66 in four starts. He struck out 24 batters in 20.1 innings pitched. I did a Q & A with Kontos prior to this season that you may find interesting.

And Then the Sun Shone Brightly

Beautiful day in the neighborhood after last night's monsoon. The Yankees fucked over their fans again by not calling the game until around 7 p.m.. That's NOT how you treat your customers. The game will be made up sometime in June, possibly as part of a day-night, two stadium doubleheader when the teams have a series at Shea.

Darrell Rasner's turn will be skipped so it will be Andy Pettitte facing fellow lefty Johan Santana this afternoon. Sunday night will now have Oliver Perez against Chien-Ming Wang, which is unfortunate because a John Maine vs. Wang match up would be a lot more exciting. Throw in the fact that the Yankees aren't getting any production against left-handers and you would rather face Maine even though he's a lot better pitcher than Perez.

Jorge Posada, Bobby Abreu, and Mets catcher Brian Schneider were at Mickey Mantle's restaurant yesterday to promote their charity driven wine labels. Posada is making good progress, but will not rush himself back even though the Yankees are hurting as much as he was.

"I'm going to be smart about it. ... I want to be back and I want to be healthy for the long run," said Posada..."

"I'm getting there," he added. "I'm really eager to get back. I feel good. I'm progressing. Every day is a different thing and so far it's been good."

Posada also had no problem with Boss Jr.'s recent outburst.

"He's saying the truth," Posada said. "He wants to win. There's nothing wrong of your owner wanting to win. So it's a matter of us really coming through and performing the way we need to."

Abreu agreed.

"We just have to go out there and do it," said Abreu. "You always have pressure. You just have to go out, do your job and help the team win."

Though the fans still get pumped up for the series, the impact isn't quite the same, especially for the Yankees that have been around a while. Andy Pettitte is one such player.

"Am I excited about it anymore? Not really, no," Pettitte said. "It's exciting for the fans, you get great crowds and the fans are into it. But as far as for me, it's not that exciting anymore."

Pettitte's more concerned about his poor pitching of late.

"Obviously I'm not happy at all with the way I pitched in my last start," said Pettitte, who left that game trailing 5-0. "And I'm definitely not happy working only four innings. Really, for me, that's unacceptable."

Here's to turning things around starting today.

Pettitte and Derek Jeter were among the players who praised Willie Randolph and hoped he survives the recent firing rumors.

"Obviously, I know him well and I wish him nothing but the best, so you never want to hear somebody might lose their job," Pettitte said yesterday before the Subway Series opener was rained out. "I hope that nothing like that would happen to him or his family."

"It's always tough on the manager. He doesn't pitch. He doesn't hit," Posada said. "The same lineup is going to be put out there by the next manager and every five days it's the same starting pitcher. It's tough to do the job. People take him for granted."

Jeter who has been buds with Randolph for a long time was even more emphatic in his backing of Willie.

"I don't see how people make such a big deal out of teams 40 games into a season. That always baffles me," Jeter said. "It's always baffled me how people write how a team's underachieving and this and that and you have 120 games left in a season. I guess that's my reaction to it. Not just 'cause it's Willie. It's 'cause it's anybody."

Said Jeter, "Willie was fun to be around. He likes to work. He's easy to talk to. He's played here in New York. He's managed in New York. He's coached in New York. He's been in the front office in New York. So he's pretty much been doing everything, so in terms of experience, you really can't get any more experience, especially in New York City, than Willie."

Unfortunately, Randolph has gotten the ill-fated "Vote of Confidence" from GM Omar Minaya.

And Then the Sun Shone Brightly

Beautiful day in the neighborhood after last night's monsoon. The Yankees fucked over their fans again by not calling the game until around 7 p.m.. That's NOT how you treat your customers. The game will be made up sometime in June, possibly as part of a day-night, two stadium doubleheader when the teams have a series at Shea.

Darrell Rasner's turn will be skipped so it will be Andy Pettitte facing fellow lefty Johan Santana this afternoon. Sunday night will now have Oliver Perez against Chien-Ming Wang, which is unfortunate because a John Maine vs. Wang match up would be a lot more exciting. Throw in the fact that the Yankees aren't getting any production against left-handers and you would rather face Maine even though he's a lot better pitcher than Perez.

Jorge Posada, Bobby Abreu, and Mets catcher Brian Schneider were at Mickey Mantle's restaurant yesterday to promote their charity driven wine labels. Posada is making good progress, but will not rush himself back even though the Yankees are hurting as much as he was.

"I'm going to be smart about it. ... I want to be back and I want to be healthy for the long run," said Posada..."

"I'm getting there," he added. "I'm really eager to get back. I feel good. I'm progressing. Every day is a different thing and so far it's been good."

Posada also had no problem with Boss Jr.'s recent outburst.

"He's saying the truth," Posada said. "He wants to win. There's nothing wrong of your owner wanting to win. So it's a matter of us really coming through and performing the way we need to."

Abreu agreed.

"We just have to go out there and do it," said Abreu. "You always have pressure. You just have to go out, do your job and help the team win."

Though the fans still get pumped up for the series, the impact isn't quite the same, especially for the Yankees that have been around a while. Andy Pettitte is one such player.

"Am I excited about it anymore? Not really, no," Pettitte said. "It's exciting for the fans, you get great crowds and the fans are into it. But as far as for me, it's not that exciting anymore."

Pettitte's more concerned about his poor pitching of late.

"Obviously I'm not happy at all with the way I pitched in my last start," said Pettitte, who left that game trailing 5-0. "And I'm definitely not happy working only four innings. Really, for me, that's unacceptable."

Here's to turning things around starting today.

Pettitte and Derek Jeter were among the players who praised Willie Randolph and hoped he survives the recent firing rumors.

"Obviously, I know him well and I wish him nothing but the best, so you never want to hear somebody might lose their job," Pettitte said yesterday before the Subway Series opener was rained out. "I hope that nothing like that would happen to him or his family."

"It's always tough on the manager. He doesn't pitch. He doesn't hit," Posada said. "The same lineup is going to be put out there by the next manager and every five days it's the same starting pitcher. It's tough to do the job. People take him for granted."

Jeter who has been buds with Randolph for a long time was even more emphatic in his backing of Willie.

"I don't see how people make such a big deal out of teams 40 games into a season. That always baffles me," Jeter said. "It's always baffled me how people write how a team's underachieving and this and that and you have 120 games left in a season. I guess that's my reaction to it. Not just 'cause it's Willie. It's 'cause it's anybody."

Said Jeter, "Willie was fun to be around. He likes to work. He's easy to talk to. He's played here in New York. He's managed in New York. He's coached in New York. He's been in the front office in New York. So he's pretty much been doing everything, so in terms of experience, you really can't get any more experience, especially in New York City, than Willie."

Unfortunately, Randolph has gotten the ill-fated "Vote of Confidence" from GM Omar Minaya.

The Daily Yankeeland

According to Joe Girardi, Harlan Chamberlain's condition has improved slightly, but the hospital is still running a battery of tests. There's no timetable for Joba Chamberlain's return to the team.

Jorge Posada made 45 throws from the outfield yesterday and said he felt better. He's still not sure when he'll be back behind the plate though. Jose Molina's hamstring has improved enough to the point where he doesn't think he'll need to go on the DL.

Ian Kennedy woke up yesterday morning with just a mark from the seams of the baseball that Jason Bartlett lined off his hip area. The team kept him from running yesterday, but he'll be able to resume normal activities with no problem.

The Tommy John surgery twins are making some progress. Humberto Sanchez threw off a full mound for the first time this year, while last year's number one pick, Andrew Brackman, threw off a half mound.

The Star-Ledger's Lisa Kennelley has a piece today on the waste of money known as Carl Pavano. The angle is that while he can rehab his arm, he can't rehab his image. The best line though comes from Pavano's agent, Tom O'Connell.

"Carl's a 1-2 starter," O'Connell said. "Those guys don't grow on trees. Those guys are very rare, 200-inning guys are very rare in this game, and they're the ones that make the money. And he did it two years in a row, before he got hurt, and I'm sure he's going to do it again."

Yeah, okay.

Tonight's first pitch may take a while to get to home plate. Astronaut Dr. Garrett Reisman will be throwing out the ceremonial ball from the International Space Station.

Reisman, a lifelong Yankee fan, carried a Yankee banner, a cap autographed by George Steinbrenner and a pile of dirt from the Yankee Stadium pitcher's mound with him onboard the International Space Station on March 12.

The New Jersey native said throwing the first pitch will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

"I am really honored to have this opportunity, in such a historic season, in the House that Ruth Built," he said.

Alex Rodriguez has exemplified the Yankees problems with runners in scoring position. He's just 1-14. He's got a chance to avenge his poor weekend series in Boston, with a 2-game series against the Red Sox in front of the home crowd.

The Daily Yankeeland

According to Joe Girardi, Harlan Chamberlain's condition has improved slightly, but the hospital is still running a battery of tests. There's no timetable for Joba Chamberlain's return to the team.

Jorge Posada made 45 throws from the outfield yesterday and said he felt better. He's still not sure when he'll be back behind the plate though. Jose Molina's hamstring has improved enough to the point where he doesn't think he'll need to go on the DL.

Ian Kennedy woke up yesterday morning with just a mark from the seams of the baseball that Jason Bartlett lined off his hip area. The team kept him from running yesterday, but he'll be able to resume normal activities with no problem.

The Tommy John surgery twins are making some progress. Humberto Sanchez threw off a full mound for the first time this year, while last year's number one pick, Andrew Brackman, threw off a half mound.

The Star-Ledger's Lisa Kennelley has a piece today on the waste of money known as Carl Pavano. The angle is that while he can rehab his arm, he can't rehab his image. The best line though comes from Pavano's agent, Tom O'Connell.

"Carl's a 1-2 starter," O'Connell said. "Those guys don't grow on trees. Those guys are very rare, 200-inning guys are very rare in this game, and they're the ones that make the money. And he did it two years in a row, before he got hurt, and I'm sure he's going to do it again."

Yeah, okay.

Tonight's first pitch may take a while to get to home plate. Astronaut Dr. Garrett Reisman will be throwing out the ceremonial ball from the International Space Station.

Reisman, a lifelong Yankee fan, carried a Yankee banner, a cap autographed by George Steinbrenner and a pile of dirt from the Yankee Stadium pitcher's mound with him onboard the International Space Station on March 12.

The New Jersey native said throwing the first pitch will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

"I am really honored to have this opportunity, in such a historic season, in the House that Ruth Built," he said.

Alex Rodriguez has exemplified the Yankees problems with runners in scoring position. He's just 1-14. He's got a chance to avenge his poor weekend series in Boston, with a 2-game series against the Red Sox in front of the home crowd.

The Daily Yankeeland

Bobby Abreu's game winning hit last night was the Yankees hit with runners in scoring position this season. So far they are 1-17.

Mark Melancon had to leave last night's Tampa (Single-A) game after warming up. He never faced batter. Melancon is coming back from Tommy John surgery, but there was no word on what occurred last night.
Update 3:10 pm EDT - Chad Jennings of the Scranton Times Tribune spoke with the boys down in Tampa and found out that Melancon had erroneously been left off the lineup card, making him ineligible to pitch.

The NY Times' Tyler Kepner has a nice story about Ian Kennedy and his anonymity.

All 3 pitchers the Yankees received from the Tigers for Gary Sheffield have opened the 2008 season on the DL. Humberto Sanchez is on the major league DL, while Kevin Whelan and Anthony Claggett are both on Trenton's injured list.

Yes, spring training is over, but that doesn't mean that the drills normally associated with spring training are. The Yankees took part in pitcher's fielding practice (PFP) before yesterday's game. Though Mike Mussina was late covering 1st Base in Wednesday night's game, Joe Girardi had planned this well in advance. Teammates jokingly left a note in Moose's locker that read, "Thanks for the P.F.P.".

The 2 sac bunts in one innings by the Yankees last night was the first time the Yankees pulled off that feat since 2003.

The Daily Yankeeland

Bobby Abreu's game winning hit last night was the Yankees hit with runners in scoring position this season. So far they are 1-17.

Mark Melancon had to leave last night's Tampa (Single-A) game after warming up. He never faced batter. Melancon is coming back from Tommy John surgery, but there was no word on what occurred last night.
Update 3:10 pm EDT - Chad Jennings of the Scranton Times Tribune spoke with the boys down in Tampa and found out that Melancon had erroneously been left off the lineup card, making him ineligible to pitch.

The NY Times' Tyler Kepner has a nice story about Ian Kennedy and his anonymity.

All 3 pitchers the Yankees received from the Tigers for Gary Sheffield have opened the 2008 season on the DL. Humberto Sanchez is on the major league DL, while Kevin Whelan and Anthony Claggett are both on Trenton's injured list.

Yes, spring training is over, but that doesn't mean that the drills normally associated with spring training are. The Yankees took part in pitcher's fielding practice (PFP) before yesterday's game. Though Mike Mussina was late covering 1st Base in Wednesday night's game, Joe Girardi had planned this well in advance. Teammates jokingly left a note in Moose's locker that read, "Thanks for the P.F.P.".

The 2 sac bunts in one innings by the Yankees last night was the first time the Yankees pulled off that feat since 2003.

The Daily Yankeeland

A-Rod's 519th home run last night put him within 2 long balls of Ted Williams and Willie McCovey for 15th place on the all-time list. It was also the 174th of his Yankees career.

Shelley Duncan and Melky Cabrera are scheduled to meet with Bob Watson on Monday to appeal their 3 game suspensions.

The minor league affiliates begin their seasons today. Scranton (Triple-A) hosts Lehigh Valley, Trenton (Double-A) is at Binghamton, Tampa (Advanced 'A') hosts Lakeland, and Charleston ('A') is in Rome.

Morgan Ensberg learned the hard way that you can't talk on your cellphone will driving in New York City. He'll have to shell out $50 for the ticket he received.

Much has been made of Joba Chamberlain's over the top celebration after a big strikeout. But not everyone is bothered by it. Growing up, one of Joba's heroes was Frank Thomas, who he blew a fastball past to end the 8th inning on Tuesday. Joba's dad Harlan had a chance to talk to Thomas and told him about the poster Joba had hanging up of the Big Hurt when he was growing up.

"I just wanted to tell him how much of a dream that was," Harlan said he told Thomas.

Thomas told Harlan, "He brought it, and he deserved it."

And Thomas said he took no exception to Joba's fist pump after the strikeout.

"Well, the game has changed a lot in the last six or seven years," Thomas told reporters. "The bottom line is, if I get a hit in that situation, it doesn't happen."

Girardi said he would not tell Chamberlain to give up the fist pump.

"I'm not going to take that away from him," Girardi said. "Because I don't think he's showing people up. I think it's emotion, and you want emotion in this game. And sometimes people take the emotion the wrong way, that we're supposed to be just kind of -- playing. But I think emotion is good in this game as long as you're not showing anybody up."

Alex Rios now has a 22 game hitting streak against the Yankees. That's the longest string since the White Sox' Nellie Fox did it in 1951-52.

The Daily Yankeeland

A-Rod's 519th home run last night put him within 2 long balls of Ted Williams and Willie McCovey for 15th place on the all-time list. It was also the 174th of his Yankees career.

Shelley Duncan and Melky Cabrera are scheduled to meet with Bob Watson on Monday to appeal their 3 game suspensions.

The minor league affiliates begin their seasons today. Scranton (Triple-A) hosts Lehigh Valley, Trenton (Double-A) is at Binghamton, Tampa (Advanced 'A') hosts Lakeland, and Charleston ('A') is in Rome.

Morgan Ensberg learned the hard way that you can't talk on your cellphone will driving in New York City. He'll have to shell out $50 for the ticket he received.

Much has been made of Joba Chamberlain's over the top celebration after a big strikeout. But not everyone is bothered by it. Growing up, one of Joba's heroes was Frank Thomas, who he blew a fastball past to end the 8th inning on Tuesday. Joba's dad Harlan had a chance to talk to Thomas and told him about the poster Joba had hanging up of the Big Hurt when he was growing up.

"I just wanted to tell him how much of a dream that was," Harlan said he told Thomas.

Thomas told Harlan, "He brought it, and he deserved it."

And Thomas said he took no exception to Joba's fist pump after the strikeout.

"Well, the game has changed a lot in the last six or seven years," Thomas told reporters. "The bottom line is, if I get a hit in that situation, it doesn't happen."

Girardi said he would not tell Chamberlain to give up the fist pump.

"I'm not going to take that away from him," Girardi said. "Because I don't think he's showing people up. I think it's emotion, and you want emotion in this game. And sometimes people take the emotion the wrong way, that we're supposed to be just kind of -- playing. But I think emotion is good in this game as long as you're not showing anybody up."

Alex Rios now has a 22 game hitting streak against the Yankees. That's the longest string since the White Sox' Nellie Fox did it in 1951-52.

The Daily Yankeeland

Andy Pettitte and Ian Kennedy through a minor league intrasquad game against each other back in Tampa yesterday. Pettitte felt good and reached his goal of 77 pitches. He threw six scoreless innings of 1 hit ball, walking 1, and struck out 6. Kennedy threw 75 pitches in throwing 5 shutout innings. He allowed 4 hits, 1 walk, and struck out 5.

Robinson Cano, Chien-Ming Wang, and Jason Giambi are on our roto baseball team.

Bobby Murcer is still recuperating from a procedure earlier this month and won't be in attendance today. He's expected back soon though.

This is the first opening day with a new Yankees manager since Joe Torre came on the scene in 1996.

The NY Times' Tyler Kepner has a piece on the Yankees, "the more things change, the more they stay the same" attitude. "Win now or else" is still the motto.

The NY Post's Filip Bondy (still a weird looking dude) talks to the Bleacher Creatures about the Stadium. They want to stay right where they are.

The Yankees have won their last 10 home openers. They haven't opened against the Blue Jays during that stretch.

Today's anthem will be sung by the West Point Glee Club and the West Point Cadet Color Guard will present the American flag. Two F-18 fighter jets will also do a fly over. No eagle and no Ronan Tynan (though he could have God Bless America in the 7th) ? Pre-game ceremonies start at 12:40 p.m.

This will be Derek Jeter's 12 opening day start, surpassing Phil Rizzuto for the team record at shortstop.

The Yankees haven't had a lot of success against Roy Halladay (10-4, 2.99 in 26 games, 24 starts). Robinson Cano (5-13, .385, 2 HR), Johnny Damon (22-67, .328, 1 HR), Jason Giambi (17-54, .315, 3 HR), and Jorge Posada (12-37, .324, 1 HR) would be the exceptions. This is Halladay's 6th straight opening day start. He's 2-2, 4.09 in the previous 5.

Chien-Ming Wang is 3-2, 4.20 against the Blue Jays in 7 career starts. His ERA is higher from the 2.2 inning, 8 run fiasco he had last August. Aaron Hill (9-14, .643), Matt Stairs (4-10, .400), and Vernon Wells (6-16, .375) have done well against him.

The Daily Yankeeland

Andy Pettitte and Ian Kennedy through a minor league intrasquad game against each other back in Tampa yesterday. Pettitte felt good and reached his goal of 77 pitches. He threw six scoreless innings of 1 hit ball, walking 1, and struck out 6. Kennedy threw 75 pitches in throwing 5 shutout innings. He allowed 4 hits, 1 walk, and struck out 5.

Robinson Cano, Chien-Ming Wang, and Jason Giambi are on our roto baseball team.

Bobby Murcer is still recuperating from a procedure earlier this month and won't be in attendance today. He's expected back soon though.

This is the first opening day with a new Yankees manager since Joe Torre came on the scene in 1996.

The NY Times' Tyler Kepner has a piece on the Yankees, "the more things change, the more they stay the same" attitude. "Win now or else" is still the motto.

The NY Post's Filip Bondy (still a weird looking dude) talks to the Bleacher Creatures about the Stadium. They want to stay right where they are.

The Yankees have won their last 10 home openers. They haven't opened against the Blue Jays during that stretch.

Today's anthem will be sung by the West Point Glee Club and the West Point Cadet Color Guard will present the American flag. Two F-18 fighter jets will also do a fly over. No eagle and no Ronan Tynan (though he could have God Bless America in the 7th) ? Pre-game ceremonies start at 12:40 p.m.

This will be Derek Jeter's 12 opening day start, surpassing Phil Rizzuto for the team record at shortstop.

The Yankees haven't had a lot of success against Roy Halladay (10-4, 2.99 in 26 games, 24 starts). Robinson Cano (5-13, .385, 2 HR), Johnny Damon (22-67, .328, 1 HR), Jason Giambi (17-54, .315, 3 HR), and Jorge Posada (12-37, .324, 1 HR) would be the exceptions. This is Halladay's 6th straight opening day start. He's 2-2, 4.09 in the previous 5.

Chien-Ming Wang is 3-2, 4.20 against the Blue Jays in 7 career starts. His ERA is higher from the 2.2 inning, 8 run fiasco he had last August. Aaron Hill (9-14, .643), Matt Stairs (4-10, .400), and Vernon Wells (6-16, .375) have done well against him.

The Daily Yankeeland

The Yankees finish up the spring training schedule (hard to believe we're there already) with a pair of games in Miami against the Florida Marlins. It's a bit of a homecoming of course for Joe Girardi who was manager of the year as the Marlins skipper in 2006 and then was fired after clashing with the Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria. Girardi also butted heads with the beat writers at times so it should be interesting to see what they write this weekend. Both games will broadcast on WCBS radio.

The Yankees 25 man roster is just about finalized. We know that Morgan Ensberg, Shelley Duncan, Jose Molina, and Wilson Betemit will be on the bench, and the final bullpen spots will probably be go to Darrell Rasner (please, anyone but Igawa) and Brian Bruney. Scott Patterson had better be here some time this season.

Kay is for Kool-aid: Michael Kay was overly effusive with his praise of George Steinbrenner in the wake of the Legends Field renaming ceremony. You would have thought Georgie was the greatest thing since sliced bread according to his YESman Kay, who poured on the praises on his 1050ESPN radio show. As you recalled Kay also shredded JoeTorre for weeks after his contract negotiation fell through. Stick to announcing Michael.

Former traveling secretary George Costanza David Szen has asked the court to be spared prison time for failing to report more than $50,000 in tips from players and coaches. Szen pleaded guilty back in December.

According to Peter Abraham, Andy Pettitte threw a 25-pitch bullpen session today in Tampa and felt great.

“As far as during my bullpen and stuff like that, I feel great,” Pettitte told the AP. “It loosened up good. Do I still feel it walking around? Yeah. Sunday is a good day. I need to get some good work in. That’s all I’m looking for now.”

The Daily Yankeeland

The Yankees finish up the spring training schedule (hard to believe we're there already) with a pair of games in Miami against the Florida Marlins. It's a bit of a homecoming of course for Joe Girardi who was manager of the year as the Marlins skipper in 2006 and then was fired after clashing with the Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria. Girardi also butted heads with the beat writers at times so it should be interesting to see what they write this weekend. Both games will broadcast on WCBS radio.

The Yankees 25 man roster is just about finalized. We know that Morgan Ensberg, Shelley Duncan, Jose Molina, and Wilson Betemit will be on the bench, and the final bullpen spots will probably be go to Darrell Rasner (please, anyone but Igawa) and Brian Bruney. Scott Patterson had better be here some time this season.

Kay is for Kool-aid: Michael Kay was overly effusive with his praise of George Steinbrenner in the wake of the Legends Field renaming ceremony. You would have thought Georgie was the greatest thing since sliced bread according to his YESman Kay, who poured on the praises on his 1050ESPN radio show. As you recalled Kay also shredded JoeTorre for weeks after his contract negotiation fell through. Stick to announcing Michael.

Former traveling secretary George Costanza David Szen has asked the court to be spared prison time for failing to report more than $50,000 in tips from players and coaches. Szen pleaded guilty back in December.

According to Peter Abraham, Andy Pettitte threw a 25-pitch bullpen session today in Tampa and felt great.

“As far as during my bullpen and stuff like that, I feel great,” Pettitte told the AP. “It loosened up good. Do I still feel it walking around? Yeah. Sunday is a good day. I need to get some good work in. That’s all I’m looking for now.”

The Daily Yankeeland

Ed Price of the Star Ledger sat down for a Q&A with Hal Steinbrenner, who has his own definitive opinions on how the Yankees should be run.

So it's the same process? Cashman makes recommendations to ownership, and then those are acted on?

Exactly the way it should be, in my opinion.

Andy Pettitte won't pitch the 2nd game of the season as originally anticipated, but after yesterday's side session he was confident he'll pitch one of the first five games.

Long time Yankees beat writer Bill Madden talks about his memories of Yankee Stadium.

Mark Feinsand has a piece on the confidence shown by the Yankees Big 3 - Joba Chamberlain, Phil Hughes, and Ian Kennedy.

Republicans and Democrats are split across party lines again...on Roger Clemens. This time about whether or not he told the truth before the Congressional oversight committee. Can you guys concentrate on something important, like say, ENDING THE WAR?

Johnny Damon was scratched from the lineup against the Phillies today as he's still experiencing flu like symptoms. He's expected to play again on the weekend.

The Daily Yankeeland

Ed Price of the Star Ledger sat down for a Q&A with Hal Steinbrenner, who has his own definitive opinions on how the Yankees should be run.

So it's the same process? Cashman makes recommendations to ownership, and then those are acted on?

Exactly the way it should be, in my opinion.

Andy Pettitte won't pitch the 2nd game of the season as originally anticipated, but after yesterday's side session he was confident he'll pitch one of the first five games.

Long time Yankees beat writer Bill Madden talks about his memories of Yankee Stadium.

Mark Feinsand has a piece on the confidence shown by the Yankees Big 3 - Joba Chamberlain, Phil Hughes, and Ian Kennedy.

Republicans and Democrats are split across party lines again...on Roger Clemens. This time about whether or not he told the truth before the Congressional oversight committee. Can you guys concentrate on something important, like say, ENDING THE WAR?

Johnny Damon was scratched from the lineup against the Phillies today as he's still experiencing flu like symptoms. He's expected to play again on the weekend.

The Weekend Yankeeland

Dave Eiland would never have been mistaken for Joba Chamberlain when he was playing. Eiland didn't have the greatest stuff, but worked hard to get to the majors. After an up and down playing career, he's made the big time as the Yankees pitching coach. The Star Ledger's Ed Price has a wonderful piece on Eiland and the influence his late Dad had on his life and his work.

Former Yankees great Graig Nettles has revealed he is suffering from prostate cancer.

"A pretty good scare," Nettles said. "They said I may have had it a few years. So there wasn't any urgency. I always thought there would be an urgency of getting it out of your body, but they thought it wouldn't matter a couple months."

Nettles was diagnosed last November, but doctors told him surgery could wait until after spring training. Nettles served in his usual role as a special instructor for the Yankees. Our thoughts and prayers go out to "Puff" for a speedy recovery.

In case you missed it the other day, Chien-Ming Wang got the official nod that as the Yankees opening day starter. The Wanger was supposed to start last year's opener, but pulled a hamstring muscle. It's still hard to believe that Carl Pavano made that start.

Speaking of Pavano, he was once again added to the 60-day DL to make room for Morgan Ensberg on the 40-man roster.

The Weekend Yankeeland

Dave Eiland would never have been mistaken for Joba Chamberlain when he was playing. Eiland didn't have the greatest stuff, but worked hard to get to the majors. After an up and down playing career, he's made the big time as the Yankees pitching coach. The Star Ledger's Ed Price has a wonderful piece on Eiland and the influence his late Dad had on his life and his work.

Former Yankees great Graig Nettles has revealed he is suffering from prostate cancer.

"A pretty good scare," Nettles said. "They said I may have had it a few years. So there wasn't any urgency. I always thought there would be an urgency of getting it out of your body, but they thought it wouldn't matter a couple months."

Nettles was diagnosed last November, but doctors told him surgery could wait until after spring training. Nettles served in his usual role as a special instructor for the Yankees. Our thoughts and prayers go out to "Puff" for a speedy recovery.

In case you missed it the other day, Chien-Ming Wang got the official nod that as the Yankees opening day starter. The Wanger was supposed to start last year's opener, but pulled a hamstring muscle. It's still hard to believe that Carl Pavano made that start.

Speaking of Pavano, he was once again added to the 60-day DL to make room for Morgan Ensberg on the 40-man roster.

The Daily Yankeeland

The Yankees play the Rays once again tonight- 7:15 at G.M.S. Field in Tampa. Darrell Rasner will get the start for the Bombers. Chien-Ming Wang will go up against minor leaguers this afternoon.

Big Yankees fan, pun intended, Meat Loaf has always been a big Yankees fan (if you have never heard the Scooter on "Paradise by the Dashboard Light", you must do so...NOW!) and a fantasy baseball fan as well. MLB.com's Doug Miller tells you all about it.

Cody Ransom has impressed the Yankees with his versatility and has a serious shot at making the club as an extra utility man. Chris Woodward was thought to be the front-runner, but he's been slowed by a hamstring injury. MLB.com's Bryan Hoch has a profile.