One Hit Wonder

We barely had time to enjoy Friday night's win against the A's, before the Yankees went out and embarrassed themselves, yet again, on Saturday. The Yankeed had 1, count 'em, 1 hit this afternoon. Chad Gaudin, who was cut loosely in a premature move by the Blue Jays, has started to emerge as a starter for Oakland this season. He had struggled in his last 3 starts, but took a no-hitter into the 6th inning today at Yankee Stadium.

Johnny Damon finally singled up the middle to snap the hitless streak, but Gaudin and Rich Harden combined on a 1-hit shutout as the A's won 7-0. It's the 5th time this season the Yankees have been blanked, already one more than all of last season.

Kei Igawa was up and down in his start for the Yankees. He retired the first 8 hitters he faced, then gave up back to back HRs to Jason Kendall (2nd) and Shannon Stewart (7th) in the 3rd. Meanwhile the Yankees could only manage two base runners - walks to Hideki Matsui in the 2nd and Melky Cabrera in the 5th - against Gaudin.

Igawa settled back down after getting out of the 3rd and kept the Yankees in the game until the 6th. That's when he issued a 2-out walk to Eric Chavez. Igawa nearly struck out Dan Johnson looking to end the inning, but home plate ump Angel Hernandez disagreed. Igawa then left a hanger up in the zone and Johnson (8th) pounded it into the upper deck in right for a 4-0 A's lead.

The A's picked up 3 more runs in the 7th against Scott Proctor and Mike Myers (2 batters faced - 1 walk, 1 hit- I hate this man) and the game was all but done. Gaudin went 7 before Harden, who due to arm troubles is pitching out of the pen, allowed 2 walks in a pair of scoreless innings.

~~~

In Friday night's 2-1 victory, Alex Rodriguez picked up his 34th RBI of June. It's tops in the majors and ties the amount he had in April. Imagine if he had a decent May!

Kyle Farnsworth's tantrum when he was pulled in the 8th inning of Friday's game - in case you missed he was shaking his head and muttering on his way to the dugout, then slammed his mitt from the top step - is just more reason this jerk has to go. How he even had the balls to complain is beyond me. He's been nothing short of awful in his 1+ years here and is considered a jerk by most who deal with him. And take Myers with you.

One Hit Wonder

We barely had time to enjoy Friday night's win against the A's, before the Yankees went out and embarrassed themselves, yet again, on Saturday. The Yankeed had 1, count 'em, 1 hit this afternoon. Chad Gaudin, who was cut loosely in a premature move by the Blue Jays, has started to emerge as a starter for Oakland this season. He had struggled in his last 3 starts, but took a no-hitter into the 6th inning today at Yankee Stadium.

Johnny Damon finally singled up the middle to snap the hitless streak, but Gaudin and Rich Harden combined on a 1-hit shutout as the A's won 7-0. It's the 5th time this season the Yankees have been blanked, already one more than all of last season.

Kei Igawa was up and down in his start for the Yankees. He retired the first 8 hitters he faced, then gave up back to back HRs to Jason Kendall (2nd) and Shannon Stewart (7th) in the 3rd. Meanwhile the Yankees could only manage two base runners - walks to Hideki Matsui in the 2nd and Melky Cabrera in the 5th - against Gaudin.

Igawa settled back down after getting out of the 3rd and kept the Yankees in the game until the 6th. That's when he issued a 2-out walk to Eric Chavez. Igawa nearly struck out Dan Johnson looking to end the inning, but home plate ump Angel Hernandez disagreed. Igawa then left a hanger up in the zone and Johnson (8th) pounded it into the upper deck in right for a 4-0 A's lead.

The A's picked up 3 more runs in the 7th against Scott Proctor and Mike Myers (2 batters faced - 1 walk, 1 hit- I hate this man) and the game was all but done. Gaudin went 7 before Harden, who due to arm troubles is pitching out of the pen, allowed 2 walks in a pair of scoreless innings.

~~~

In Friday night's 2-1 victory, Alex Rodriguez picked up his 34th RBI of June. It's tops in the majors and ties the amount he had in April. Imagine if he had a decent May!

Kyle Farnsworth's tantrum when he was pulled in the 8th inning of Friday's game - in case you missed he was shaking his head and muttering on his way to the dugout, then slammed his mitt from the top step - is just more reason this jerk has to go. How he even had the balls to complain is beyond me. He's been nothing short of awful in his 1+ years here and is considered a jerk by most who deal with him. And take Myers with you.

Tonight's Lineups

Joe Kennedy vs. Mike Mussina

Time for Moose not pitch like a horse's ass.

A's
M. Kotsay cf
N. Swisher rf
J. Cust dh
E. Chavez 3b
M. Ellis 2b
D. Johnson 1b
B. Crosby ss
J. Kendall c

Yankees
D. Jeter ss
H. Matsui lf
A. Rodriguez 3b
J. Posada dh
B. Abreu rf
A. Phillips
R. Cano 2b
W. Nieves c

Tonight's Lineups

Joe Kennedy vs. Mike Mussina

Time for Moose not pitch like a horse's ass.

A's
M. Kotsay cf
N. Swisher rf
J. Cust dh
E. Chavez 3b
M. Ellis 2b
D. Johnson 1b
B. Crosby ss
J. Kendall c

Yankees
D. Jeter ss
H. Matsui lf
A. Rodriguez 3b
J. Posada dh
B. Abreu rf
A. Phillips
R. Cano 2b
W. Nieves c

Oakland Brings Their A's Game

Yankees return to the Bronx tonight to kick off a 10 game homestead against the A's. The pre-All Star break stretch ends July 8 vs. the Angels. The Yankees lost 2 of 3 to Oakland back in May. All three games were decided by one run.

Pitching Probables

Friday - Joe Kennedy (2-5, 3.98) vs Mike Mussina (3-5, 4.98) - try not to scream every time Michael Kay refers to Kennedy as "the patriarch". I need nearly put my foot through the TV when he said it during a promo on Thursday.

Saturday - C. Gaudin (6-3) vs. K. Igawa (2-1, 7.13) - Hopefully Igawa doesn't pitch like himself.

Sunday - Danny Haren (9-2, 1.91) vs. Andy Pettitte (4-5, 3.24) - 1.91, in this day and age?!

Oakland Brings Their A's Game

Yankees return to the Bronx tonight to kick off a 10 game homestead against the A's. The pre-All Star break stretch ends July 8 vs. the Angels. The Yankees lost 2 of 3 to Oakland back in May. All three games were decided by one run.

Pitching Probables

Friday - Joe Kennedy (2-5, 3.98) vs Mike Mussina (3-5, 4.98) - try not to scream every time Michael Kay refers to Kennedy as "the patriarch". I need nearly put my foot through the TV when he said it during a promo on Thursday.

Saturday - C. Gaudin (6-3) vs. K. Igawa (2-1, 7.13) - Hopefully Igawa doesn't pitch like himself.

Sunday - Danny Haren (9-2, 1.91) vs. Andy Pettitte (4-5, 3.24) - 1.91, in this day and age?!

TGIF Rumors

The San Diego Union Tribune is reporting that Oakland A's have dealt problem child Milton Bradley to the San Diego Padres for a pitching prospect.

Several sources have reported that the Chicago White Sox and Mark Buehrle are on the verge of agreeing to a 4-year, $56 million deal that will take Buehrle off the potential free agent market. And he'll be able to keep his facial hair..what a relief.

TGIF Rumors

The San Diego Union Tribune is reporting that Oakland A's have dealt problem child Milton Bradley to the San Diego Padres for a pitching prospect.

Several sources have reported that the Chicago White Sox and Mark Buehrle are on the verge of agreeing to a 4-year, $56 million deal that will take Buehrle off the potential free agent market. And he'll be able to keep his facial hair..what a relief.

500/3000

It was a big milestone day in major league baseball yesterday, as two long time veterans helped their efforts to gain entry into the Hall of Fame.

First it was the Blue Jays' Frank Thomas slugging a 1st inning, 3-run shot for career home run #500. In an odd twist, Thomas was thrown out of the game in the 9th by home plate umpire Mark Wegner after arguing balls and strikes.

Later in the evening, Craig Biggio had a remarkable 5 hits again the Colorado Rockies, the 3rd of which was career hit # 3000. Biggio was thrown out trying to advance to 2nd on the play, but was still able to enjoy the applause and love shown him by the home fans. The next highest hit total among active players is Barroid Bond with 2,896.

Frank Thomas' milestone HRs

1 – Aug. 28, 1990 @ MIN vs. Gary Wayne
100 – Aug. 31, 1993 @ NYY vs. Sterling Hitchcock
200 – June 9, 1996 @ BAL vs. Jimmy Haynes
300 – Aug. 7, 1999 @ OAK vs. Kevin Appier
400 – July 25, 2003 @ TB vs. Jorge Sosa
500 – June 28, 2007 @ MIN vs. Carlos Silva

500/3000

It was a big milestone day in major league baseball yesterday, as two long time veterans helped their efforts to gain entry into the Hall of Fame.

First it was the Blue Jays' Frank Thomas slugging a 1st inning, 3-run shot for career home run #500. In an odd twist, Thomas was thrown out of the game in the 9th by home plate umpire Mark Wegner after arguing balls and strikes.

Later in the evening, Craig Biggio had a remarkable 5 hits again the Colorado Rockies, the 3rd of which was career hit # 3000. Biggio was thrown out trying to advance to 2nd on the play, but was still able to enjoy the applause and love shown him by the home fans. The next highest hit total among active players is Barroid Bond with 2,896.

Frank Thomas' milestone HRs

1 – Aug. 28, 1990 @ MIN vs. Gary Wayne
100 – Aug. 31, 1993 @ NYY vs. Sterling Hitchcock
200 – June 9, 1996 @ BAL vs. Jimmy Haynes
300 – Aug. 7, 1999 @ OAK vs. Kevin Appier
400 – July 25, 2003 @ TB vs. Jorge Sosa
500 – June 28, 2007 @ MIN vs. Carlos Silva

Suspend Your Disbelief

The Yankees finally had a lead late in a game last night. And then the rains came and did not want to stop. It was as if God was saying, "Thy shall not win just yet". The game, thanks to baseball's new rules, was suspended and will be completed the next time the Yankees are in Baltimore (July 27). The old rule would have had the game revert back to the previous inning, which would have meant an Orioles victory.

Chien-Ming Wang was cruising along with a 4-2 lead in the 7th when the Orioles and the first waive of rain struck. After Nick Markakis singled, Kevin Millar hit a slicing fly ball to right that fell in front of a semi-lunging Bobby Abreu (you will NEVER see Abreu dive for a ball) and rolled to the wall for an RBI triple.

The Yankees brought the infield in and Wang retired Aubrey Huff on a ground out to Robinson Cano. But Melvin Mora walked and the struggling Jay Gibbons lined a double up the gap in left-center to give the Orioles a 5-4 lead. Corey Patterson pinch ran for Gibbons and immiedately stole 3rd. To make matters worse, Jorge Posada's throw sailed into left field for a run scoring error. A walk to Paul Bako finally got Joe Torre to summon Luis Vizcaino from the bullpen.

Vizcaino struck out Jay Payton before Brian Roberts singled. Then the rains came. After a lengthy delay, Mike Myers came on to retire BrandonFahey on an inning ending ground out.

The Yankees came right back in top of the 8th, before another wave of very heavy rain would suspend the game. Orioles reliever John Parrish issued back to back walks to Posada and Abreu to start the frame. Melky Cabrera drove home Posada with a double, and Cano's RBI ground out tied the game.

Orioles' closer Chris Ray came on to retire Andy Phillips for the 2nd out, but Johnny Damon hit a tapper up the middle for an infield single, Cabrera moving to 3rd. After Damon stole 2nd, Derek Jeter singled back up the middle to bring both runners home and give the Yankees the lead back 8-6. That's when umpires decided it was time to build an ark or call the game. Melvin Mora got into a heated argument with home plate ump Tim Tschida, feeling (and probably rightly so) that the game should have been stopped sooner.

The game will replayed prior to the Yankees-Orioles regularly scheduled game on July 27 in Baltimore.

~~~

Andy Phillips homered in the 3rd inning, his first since returning to the Yankees. He also laid down a nice sacrifice bunt in the 7th that helped lead to a run. Unfortunately, he also popped out to end a bases loaded rally.

Over his last 2 starts, Wang has allowed 10 earned runs in 12.2 innings.

Suspend Your Disbelief

The Yankees finally had a lead late in a game last night. And then the rains came and did not want to stop. It was as if God was saying, "Thy shall not win just yet". The game, thanks to baseball's new rules, was suspended and will be completed the next time the Yankees are in Baltimore (July 27). The old rule would have had the game revert back to the previous inning, which would have meant an Orioles victory.

Chien-Ming Wang was cruising along with a 4-2 lead in the 7th when the Orioles and the first waive of rain struck. After Nick Markakis singled, Kevin Millar hit a slicing fly ball to right that fell in front of a semi-lunging Bobby Abreu (you will NEVER see Abreu dive for a ball) and rolled to the wall for an RBI triple.

The Yankees brought the infield in and Wang retired Aubrey Huff on a ground out to Robinson Cano. But Melvin Mora walked and the struggling Jay Gibbons lined a double up the gap in left-center to give the Orioles a 5-4 lead. Corey Patterson pinch ran for Gibbons and immiedately stole 3rd. To make matters worse, Jorge Posada's throw sailed into left field for a run scoring error. A walk to Paul Bako finally got Joe Torre to summon Luis Vizcaino from the bullpen.

Vizcaino struck out Jay Payton before Brian Roberts singled. Then the rains came. After a lengthy delay, Mike Myers came on to retire BrandonFahey on an inning ending ground out.

The Yankees came right back in top of the 8th, before another wave of very heavy rain would suspend the game. Orioles reliever John Parrish issued back to back walks to Posada and Abreu to start the frame. Melky Cabrera drove home Posada with a double, and Cano's RBI ground out tied the game.

Orioles' closer Chris Ray came on to retire Andy Phillips for the 2nd out, but Johnny Damon hit a tapper up the middle for an infield single, Cabrera moving to 3rd. After Damon stole 2nd, Derek Jeter singled back up the middle to bring both runners home and give the Yankees the lead back 8-6. That's when umpires decided it was time to build an ark or call the game. Melvin Mora got into a heated argument with home plate ump Tim Tschida, feeling (and probably rightly so) that the game should have been stopped sooner.

The game will replayed prior to the Yankees-Orioles regularly scheduled game on July 27 in Baltimore.

~~~

Andy Phillips homered in the 3rd inning, his first since returning to the Yankees. He also laid down a nice sacrifice bunt in the 7th that helped lead to a run. Unfortunately, he also popped out to end a bases loaded rally.

Over his last 2 starts, Wang has allowed 10 earned runs in 12.2 innings.

Tonight's Lineups (6/28)

Wang vs. Cabrera

Yankees

J. Damon dh
D. Jeter ss
H. Matsui lf
A. Rodriguez 3b
J. Posada c
B. Abreu rf
M. Cabrera cf
R. Cano 2b
A. Phillips 1b

Orioles

B. Fahey ss
N. Markakis rf
K. Millar 1b
A. Huff dh
M. Mora 3b
J. Gibbons lf
P. Bako c
J. Payton cf

Tonight's Lineups (6/28)

Wang vs. Cabrera

Yankees

J. Damon dh
D. Jeter ss
H. Matsui lf
A. Rodriguez 3b
J. Posada c
B. Abreu rf
M. Cabrera cf
R. Cano 2b
A. Phillips 1b

Orioles

B. Fahey ss
N. Markakis rf
K. Millar 1b
A. Huff dh
M. Mora 3b
J. Gibbons lf
P. Bako c
J. Payton cf

Thursday's "Rumours"

No rumor on this one- the Angels, after failing to make a deal, the Angels have DFA'ed Shea Hillenbrand. That gives the team 10 days to get something done or see Hillenbrand walk away. Now for the rumor- According to Newsday, the Yankees are involved again in talks with the Angels.

The Minnesota Twins are the latest team to tell the Chicago Cubs, "um, no" to acquiring (or in this case, reacquiring) Jacques Jones. The Marlins balked about an earlier deal as well because the Cubs aren't willing to pick up enough of Jones's salary.

Talks between the Mets and White Sox have intesified concerning Jose Contreras. Although Contreras would rather stay put, the Chicago Daily Herald reports that Contreras is willing to waive his no-trade clause.

Thursday's "Rumours"

No rumor on this one- the Angels, after failing to make a deal, the Angels have DFA'ed Shea Hillenbrand. That gives the team 10 days to get something done or see Hillenbrand walk away. Now for the rumor- According to Newsday, the Yankees are involved again in talks with the Angels.

The Minnesota Twins are the latest team to tell the Chicago Cubs, "um, no" to acquiring (or in this case, reacquiring) Jacques Jones. The Marlins balked about an earlier deal as well because the Cubs aren't willing to pick up enough of Jones's salary.

Talks between the Mets and White Sox have intesified concerning Jose Contreras. Although Contreras would rather stay put, the Chicago Daily Herald reports that Contreras is willing to waive his no-trade clause.

Paul Simon Can't Lose

Timing is everything in life. Roger Clemens served up a 3-run gopherball to the Orioles' Aubrey Huff at about 8:56 EST tonight. Paul Simon was being awarded the Library of Congress' first Gershwin Award on PBS at 9:00 EST. Thanks for not stringing me along Rocket.

Perhaps Simon and Garfunkel were talking about the Yankees set up to Mariano when they sang "Bridge Over Troubled Waters". Of course, Simon's great hit, "Slip Sliding Away" was clearly about this season.

Simon's lyric "where have you gone Joe DiMaggio?" was a reference to the lack of any punch in the Yankees lineup. And "She wore diamonds on the soles of her shoes"- a clear reference to the $200+ million underachieving payroll.

The team is now in a stage of unwatchableness (sic) that has not been seen in about 15 years or so. Well actually, it was just this past May. I would say it's like watching paint dry, but then again sometimes runs do occur during painting.

The Yankees made another pitcher look like Sandy Koufax, Bob Gibson, and well, Roger Clemens all rolled into one. They managed only 5 hits off of Erik Bedard and the beleaguered Orioles pen in a 4-0 loss. For those of you keeping score at home, that's 7 losses in 8 games and 4 in a row- all to sub par teams (although they may be par compared to those fakes in pinstripes).

Roger Clemens struggled his way through 5 innings, making like Houdini a couple of times to keep the game scoreless. But it finally caught up to him in the 6th, Huff's blow the crusher.

Anyone notice that the Red Sox just got swept by the Mariners? Sadly, it doesn't matter.

Will I put on the game tomorrow? Yep, cause I'm "Still crazy after all these years".

Paul Simon Can't Lose

Timing is everything in life. Roger Clemens served up a 3-run gopherball to the Orioles' Aubrey Huff at about 8:56 EST tonight. Paul Simon was being awarded the Library of Congress' first Gershwin Award on PBS at 9:00 EST. Thanks for not stringing me along Rocket.

Perhaps Simon and Garfunkel were talking about the Yankees set up to Mariano when they sang "Bridge Over Troubled Waters". Of course, Simon's great hit, "Slip Sliding Away" was clearly about this season.

Simon's lyric "where have you gone Joe DiMaggio?" was a reference to the lack of any punch in the Yankees lineup. And "She wore diamonds on the soles of her shoes"- a clear reference to the $200+ million underachieving payroll.

The team is now in a stage of unwatchableness (sic) that has not been seen in about 15 years or so. Well actually, it was just this past May. I would say it's like watching paint dry, but then again sometimes runs do occur during painting.

The Yankees made another pitcher look like Sandy Koufax, Bob Gibson, and well, Roger Clemens all rolled into one. They managed only 5 hits off of Erik Bedard and the beleaguered Orioles pen in a 4-0 loss. For those of you keeping score at home, that's 7 losses in 8 games and 4 in a row- all to sub par teams (although they may be par compared to those fakes in pinstripes).

Roger Clemens struggled his way through 5 innings, making like Houdini a couple of times to keep the game scoreless. But it finally caught up to him in the 6th, Huff's blow the crusher.

Anyone notice that the Red Sox just got swept by the Mariners? Sadly, it doesn't matter.

Will I put on the game tomorrow? Yep, cause I'm "Still crazy after all these years".

Clemens RHP (1-2, 5.09) vs. Bedard LHP (5-4, 3.60)

YANKEES
Damon DH
Jeter SS
Matsui LF
Rodriguez 3B
Posada C
Abreu RF
Cabrera CF
Cano 2B
Cairo 1B

ORIOLES
Roberts 2B
Gomez SS
Markakis RF
Hernandez C
Huff DH
Mora 3B
Millar 1B
Gibbons LF
Patterson CF

Clemens is one of 7 pitchers 40-years old or older going tonight

Clemens RHP (1-2, 5.09) vs. Bedard LHP (5-4, 3.60)

YANKEES
Damon DH
Jeter SS
Matsui LF
Rodriguez 3B
Posada C
Abreu RF
Cabrera CF
Cano 2B
Cairo 1B

ORIOLES
Roberts 2B
Gomez SS
Markakis RF
Hernandez C
Huff DH
Mora 3B
Millar 1B
Gibbons LF
Patterson CF

Clemens is one of 7 pitchers 40-years old or older going tonight

Torre Defenders, Time to Wake Up

Prior to the 1996 season, I was furious that Buck Showalter was let go and "Clueless" Joe Torre was hired. But in time Torre proved that circumstances can certainly make or break a manager. I wholeheartedly disagree with those who say any team could have won with the Yankees teams of '96 - '00. That's just plain garbage. Sparky Anderson used to hear the same thing when he managed the Reds teams of the '70s.

Torre pushed every right button, and used his personnel to perfection in garnering those WS championships. But over time, poor decisions by the front office and poor decision making by Torre have caught up to him.

The biggest red mark on Torre's report card is his handling of the bullpen. It was a piece of cake in '96- Mariano Rivera for 2 innings and John Wetteland to close. In the ensuing years he was able to mix and match with Mike Stanton and Jeff Nelson as the bridge to Mo. But Torre has not met the challenge of managing a less than stellar bullpen.

Torre's m.o. is to use a reliever until said reliever's knuckles are scraping the ground, while he ignores other relievers he deems untrustworthy. The 2003 World Series turned on Torre's decision to use the horrendous Jeff Weaver instead of Chris Hammond in extra innings. Weaver served up a walk-off gopher ball and the Marlins went on to win the series. In 2004, Torre overworked Paul Quantrill into ineffectiveness, then overtaxed Tom Gordon and Rivera as a result.

In 2005 he abused Tanyon Sturtze. In '06 it was Scott Proctor and Ron Villone, and this year it's, well, Scott Proctor again. Last night's loss to the Orioles was a prime example of what happens when you a pitcher is shot. Proctor had absolutely no control, but Torre let him hang out to dry.

There's no question that this year's bullpen is less than start quality, and took an early beating because of the starter's ineffectiveness. But Torre has mismanaged them to a new level.

Torre's defenders need to wake up, this isn't 2000 any more. His detractors have to give him the credit he deserves for those glory years. But Torre's 4 rings is what got him a bye after the '03 and '04 seasons, but now is the time for Torre to not pass go and go directly to the unemployment line.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The bullpen problems MUST be resolved by Brian Cashman, who along with the Tampa morons, has the responsibility for the makeup of the pen. Here are some things to shake up that leaky pen.

Kyle Farnsworth - Has to go. Having a 1 inning pitcher, other than your closer, who can't work back-to-back days is a waste of space. The Yankees overpaid him, and if that means eating a chunk of his salary, so be it. This guy is awful. (it would also end Michael Kay's constant, "he's got such great stuff" commentary).

Scott Proctor - Can still be the 7th/8th inning guy if he gets some time off. Proctor may have to beanball his way to another suspension in order to get some rest.

Brian Bruney - Doesn't matter how hard you throw if you walk the ball park. This guy should be used in critical spots until Ron Guidry gets his straightened out.

Mike Myers - The Poster Boy has to go. He's a roster spot killer. A lefty specialist who can't retire lefties. Go take your windup to a beer softball league where you belong.

Ron Villone - Could still be an innings eater out of the pen, but Torre has lost faith in him- again. Last year he practically used him every day until he was ineffective.

Luis Vizcaino - Has seemed to turn things around of late, thanks to tutoring from Mo. Should be given the chance to pitch in the crucial 7th/8th inning spots again.

Mariano Rivera - Doesn't have to be a tie game or a save situation to use your best reliever. Torre doesn't want to him wear out like he has in the past. That doesn't mean forgetting about him for days on end.

Give the Farm some tryouts.

We've gone on and on here many times wondering why the Yankees refuse to use Chris Britton. He should be up here..NOW.

Edwar Ramirez - We won't know if this guy is the goods or a dud until he gets the chance. He failed as a starter for the Angels, but has wracked up amazing numbers (74 Ks in 40.1 innings) in the Yankees system. Started the year in Trenton before being bumped up to Scranton a few weeks back.

Kevin Wheelan - Probably still too early to make the jump from Double-A, but the kid might be worth a look. He's only his 2nd full season in the minors after being selected by the Tigers in the June, 2005 draft. Eastern League opponents are only hitting .182 off of him, but Whelan has issued 25 walks in 31 innings.

Sean Henn - Had moderate success earlier in the year before old control problems cropped up. Would still rather give him a chance then Myers.

Jim Brower - the 34-year old veteran was released earlier this season by the Pirates organization. He's struck out 28 in 26 innings and walked just 5 since joining Scranton. Brower has a 2.08 ERA to boot.

Runelvys Hernandez - Picked up after being dropped by the Red Sox organization. The one time prospect could be used as a long man out of the pen. Something the Yankees are still lacking.

Torre Defenders, Time to Wake Up

Prior to the 1996 season, I was furious that Buck Showalter was let go and "Clueless" Joe Torre was hired. But in time Torre proved that circumstances can certainly make or break a manager. I wholeheartedly disagree with those who say any team could have won with the Yankees teams of '96 - '00. That's just plain garbage. Sparky Anderson used to hear the same thing when he managed the Reds teams of the '70s.

Torre pushed every right button, and used his personnel to perfection in garnering those WS championships. But over time, poor decisions by the front office and poor decision making by Torre have caught up to him.

The biggest red mark on Torre's report card is his handling of the bullpen. It was a piece of cake in '96- Mariano Rivera for 2 innings and John Wetteland to close. In the ensuing years he was able to mix and match with Mike Stanton and Jeff Nelson as the bridge to Mo. But Torre has not met the challenge of managing a less than stellar bullpen.

Torre's m.o. is to use a reliever until said reliever's knuckles are scraping the ground, while he ignores other relievers he deems untrustworthy. The 2003 World Series turned on Torre's decision to use the horrendous Jeff Weaver instead of Chris Hammond in extra innings. Weaver served up a walk-off gopher ball and the Marlins went on to win the series. In 2004, Torre overworked Paul Quantrill into ineffectiveness, then overtaxed Tom Gordon and Rivera as a result.

In 2005 he abused Tanyon Sturtze. In '06 it was Scott Proctor and Ron Villone, and this year it's, well, Scott Proctor again. Last night's loss to the Orioles was a prime example of what happens when you a pitcher is shot. Proctor had absolutely no control, but Torre let him hang out to dry.

There's no question that this year's bullpen is less than start quality, and took an early beating because of the starter's ineffectiveness. But Torre has mismanaged them to a new level.

Torre's defenders need to wake up, this isn't 2000 any more. His detractors have to give him the credit he deserves for those glory years. But Torre's 4 rings is what got him a bye after the '03 and '04 seasons, but now is the time for Torre to not pass go and go directly to the unemployment line.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The bullpen problems MUST be resolved by Brian Cashman, who along with the Tampa morons, has the responsibility for the makeup of the pen. Here are some things to shake up that leaky pen.

Kyle Farnsworth - Has to go. Having a 1 inning pitcher, other than your closer, who can't work back-to-back days is a waste of space. The Yankees overpaid him, and if that means eating a chunk of his salary, so be it. This guy is awful. (it would also end Michael Kay's constant, "he's got such great stuff" commentary).

Scott Proctor - Can still be the 7th/8th inning guy if he gets some time off. Proctor may have to beanball his way to another suspension in order to get some rest.

Brian Bruney - Doesn't matter how hard you throw if you walk the ball park. This guy should be used in critical spots until Ron Guidry gets his straightened out.

Mike Myers - The Poster Boy has to go. He's a roster spot killer. A lefty specialist who can't retire lefties. Go take your windup to a beer softball league where you belong.

Ron Villone - Could still be an innings eater out of the pen, but Torre has lost faith in him- again. Last year he practically used him every day until he was ineffective.

Luis Vizcaino - Has seemed to turn things around of late, thanks to tutoring from Mo. Should be given the chance to pitch in the crucial 7th/8th inning spots again.

Mariano Rivera - Doesn't have to be a tie game or a save situation to use your best reliever. Torre doesn't want to him wear out like he has in the past. That doesn't mean forgetting about him for days on end.

Give the Farm some tryouts.

We've gone on and on here many times wondering why the Yankees refuse to use Chris Britton. He should be up here..NOW.

Edwar Ramirez - We won't know if this guy is the goods or a dud until he gets the chance. He failed as a starter for the Angels, but has wracked up amazing numbers (74 Ks in 40.1 innings) in the Yankees system. Started the year in Trenton before being bumped up to Scranton a few weeks back.

Kevin Wheelan - Probably still too early to make the jump from Double-A, but the kid might be worth a look. He's only his 2nd full season in the minors after being selected by the Tigers in the June, 2005 draft. Eastern League opponents are only hitting .182 off of him, but Whelan has issued 25 walks in 31 innings.

Sean Henn - Had moderate success earlier in the year before old control problems cropped up. Would still rather give him a chance then Myers.

Jim Brower - the 34-year old veteran was released earlier this season by the Pirates organization. He's struck out 28 in 26 innings and walked just 5 since joining Scranton. Brower has a 2.08 ERA to boot.

Runelvys Hernandez - Picked up after being dropped by the Red Sox organization. The one time prospect could be used as a long man out of the pen. Something the Yankees are still lacking.

Wednesday's Rumors

Shea Hillenbrand doesn't like being "put on a back-burner" and would like a trade out of LA. "The New York Yankees expressed interest in Hillenbrand a few weeks ago, but then Kotchman suffered a concussion, Garret Anderson aggravated his hip injury, and trade talks were tabled."
More (registration required)

Mets GM Omar Minaya has begun discussion with White Sox main man Kenny Williams about Jose Contreras. Rumors have been circulating that the White Sox will give Mark Buehrle a new deal, which may free up Contreras for a deal. More

With Miguel Tejada out until August, it's unlikely the Orioles will move their big hitting shortstop. Trade talks could crop up again in the off-season.

Joe Torre would still like to add a 1st Baseman with a good bat, reports the NY Post.

Asked yesterday about the lack of pop in the Yankees' lineup - the team began play ranked seventh in the AL in homers - Joe Torre indicated it's a concern that could be addressed through a trade.

"We've lost a couple of first basemen this year, so that would be one area," Torre said. "You wouldn't replace any of the outfielders and you wouldn't replace any of the infielders or the catcher, so it's a matter of finding someone who can give you a little pop or would be a threat."

Paul Konerko and Ty Wiggington are two of the names being kicked around.

The Phillies would love to move outfielder Pat Burrell, but aren't finding any takers. In addition to a no-trade clause, Burrell will make $27 million over the next 2 seasons. Mor

Wednesday's Rumors

Shea Hillenbrand doesn't like being "put on a back-burner" and would like a trade out of LA. "The New York Yankees expressed interest in Hillenbrand a few weeks ago, but then Kotchman suffered a concussion, Garret Anderson aggravated his hip injury, and trade talks were tabled."
More (registration required)

Mets GM Omar Minaya has begun discussion with White Sox main man Kenny Williams about Jose Contreras. Rumors have been circulating that the White Sox will give Mark Buehrle a new deal, which may free up Contreras for a deal. More

With Miguel Tejada out until August, it's unlikely the Orioles will move their big hitting shortstop. Trade talks could crop up again in the off-season.

Joe Torre would still like to add a 1st Baseman with a good bat, reports the NY Post.

Asked yesterday about the lack of pop in the Yankees' lineup - the team began play ranked seventh in the AL in homers - Joe Torre indicated it's a concern that could be addressed through a trade.

"We've lost a couple of first basemen this year, so that would be one area," Torre said. "You wouldn't replace any of the outfielders and you wouldn't replace any of the infielders or the catcher, so it's a matter of finding someone who can give you a little pop or would be a threat."

Paul Konerko and Ty Wiggington are two of the names being kicked around.

The Phillies would love to move outfielder Pat Burrell, but aren't finding any takers. In addition to a no-trade clause, Burrell will make $27 million over the next 2 seasons. Mor

Time to Say Goodnight Joe

The Yankees-Orioles games ended moments ago with Scott Proctor walking Ramon Hernandez with the bases loaded and 1 out in the bottom of the 9th. It should be the last pitch ever thrown with Joe Torre as manager.

Walks have absolutely killed the Yankees this season and Proctor (does he pitch every day or is that just my imagination?) put himself in immediate trouble by walking Corey Patterson to start the 9th. A Brian Roberts single put two men on and none out.

Did Joe get anyone warming up? No

Proctor then made a tremendous play, diving to snare a bunt off the bat of Chris Gomez. Proctor would have easily doubled Patterson off 2nd, but appeared to be shaken up on the play. With temps around 80 and high humidity, it would have been nice if Torre had come out with Gene Monahan to give Proctor a blow, but this is Joe Torre. He was too busy thinking of ways to blow another game.

Proctor then walked Nick Markakis- meanwhile we see a shot of the Yankees pen, everyone sitting nicely on the bench- to load the bases.

Was the end ever in doubt here? Proctor got away with one pitch as he nearly hit Hernandez with a wild pitch that goes to the backstop. Luck was momentarily on the Yankees side as Patterson froze at 3rd. But the inevitable was to happen.

Ball Four- Yankees lose. Now can Torre. Not in a few weeks, not after the season. NOW.

Time to Say Goodnight Joe

The Yankees-Orioles games ended moments ago with Scott Proctor walking Ramon Hernandez with the bases loaded and 1 out in the bottom of the 9th. It should be the last pitch ever thrown with Joe Torre as manager.

Walks have absolutely killed the Yankees this season and Proctor (does he pitch every day or is that just my imagination?) put himself in immediate trouble by walking Corey Patterson to start the 9th. A Brian Roberts single put two men on and none out.

Did Joe get anyone warming up? No

Proctor then made a tremendous play, diving to snare a bunt off the bat of Chris Gomez. Proctor would have easily doubled Patterson off 2nd, but appeared to be shaken up on the play. With temps around 80 and high humidity, it would have been nice if Torre had come out with Gene Monahan to give Proctor a blow, but this is Joe Torre. He was too busy thinking of ways to blow another game.

Proctor then walked Nick Markakis- meanwhile we see a shot of the Yankees pen, everyone sitting nicely on the bench- to load the bases.

Was the end ever in doubt here? Proctor got away with one pitch as he nearly hit Hernandez with a wild pitch that goes to the backstop. Luck was momentarily on the Yankees side as Patterson froze at 3rd. But the inevitable was to happen.

Ball Four- Yankees lose. Now can Torre. Not in a few weeks, not after the season. NOW.

Tonight's Lineups (6/26)

Yankees
Damon DH
Jeter SS
Matsui LF
Rodriguez 3B
Posada C
Cano 2B
Cabrera CF
Abreu RF
Cairo 1B

Orioles
Roberts 2B
Gomez SS
Markakis RF
Hernandez C
Huff DH
Mora 3B
Millar 1B
Payton LF
Patterson CF

Not DL'ing Damon makes no sense.

Tonight's Lineups (6/26)

Yankees
Damon DH
Jeter SS
Matsui LF
Rodriguez 3B
Posada C
Cano 2B
Cabrera CF
Abreu RF
Cairo 1B

Orioles
Roberts 2B
Gomez SS
Markakis RF
Hernandez C
Huff DH
Mora 3B
Millar 1B
Payton LF
Patterson CF

Not DL'ing Damon makes no sense.

Rags and Gator

The Yankees visit to San Fran this past weekend gave old friends Ron Guidry and Dave Righetti a chance to catch up. YES' Michael Kay got the chance to talk to the great lefthanders turned pitching coaches. Righetti and Guidry

Rags and Gator

The Yankees visit to San Fran this past weekend gave old friends Ron Guidry and Dave Righetti a chance to catch up. YES' Michael Kay got the chance to talk to the great lefthanders turned pitching coaches. Righetti and Guidry

Rumors for a Tuesday

According to the Boston Herald, the Red Sox are no longer in the running for Mark Buehrle. He's likely headed to the NL.

The Denver Post reports that Don Baylor is very much interested in becoming the Orioles skipper. The Post also says the Rockies have a strong interest in Octavio Dotel.

As reported by the Chicago Tribune, Cubs President John McDonough said a committee of Tribune Co. executives is in charge of the purse strings when it comes to whether to resume contract negotiations with Carlos Zambrano. Talks ended Opening Day when the company announced it planned to sell the Cubs.

"There's a group of people involved, and I think we're seeing the real Carlos Zambrano," McDonough said. "He got off to a rough start, and I think any team would love to have him."

Not a rumor, but a request - Mike Mussina sure would look good in a Braves or Phillies uniform (and out my pinstripes).

Rumors for a Tuesday

According to the Boston Herald, the Red Sox are no longer in the running for Mark Buehrle. He's likely headed to the NL.

The Denver Post reports that Don Baylor is very much interested in becoming the Orioles skipper. The Post also says the Rockies have a strong interest in Octavio Dotel.

As reported by the Chicago Tribune, Cubs President John McDonough said a committee of Tribune Co. executives is in charge of the purse strings when it comes to whether to resume contract negotiations with Carlos Zambrano. Talks ended Opening Day when the company announced it planned to sell the Cubs.

"There's a group of people involved, and I think we're seeing the real Carlos Zambrano," McDonough said. "He got off to a rough start, and I think any team would love to have him."

Not a rumor, but a request - Mike Mussina sure would look good in a Braves or Phillies uniform (and out my pinstripes).

Got a Wife and Kids in Baltimore Jack...

...I dropped 5 of 6 and I never came back. - Bruce Yanksteen

The Yankees continue their quest for mediocrity (can you tell I'm still angry) in Baltimore this week before returning to the friendly confines of Yankee Stadium. The season is hanging by the narrowest of threads and although the Yankees should probably be sellers at the trade deadline, that doesn't happen in George's kingdom.

Here are the matchups for the 3 game set

Tuesday - Andy Pettitte (4-5, 3.28) vs. Jeremy Guthrie (4-1, 2.42)
Pettitte is coming off an outing in Colorado that looked worse on paper. That's because Joe Torre left Pettitte in way too long and he took a hammering. Pettitte said after the game that he stopped being a pitcher when trouble struck, and was simply a thrower. Too bad your manager didn't recognize that before the game became a blow out.

Guthrie was once a highly touted prospect in the Indians organization, but his minor league success never translated to the majors. He's gotten a fresh start in Baltimore and the chance to work with pitching guru Leo Mazzone. So far it's paid off for the O's. Guthrie has 10 starts in his 16 appearances and he's been nothing short of phenomenal. Over the last 2 months, he's 3-0, 1.79 ERA in 9 starts and has pitched 7 innings or more in all but one of those starts.

Wednesday - Roger Clemens (1-2, 5.09) vs. Erik Bedard (5-4, 3.60)
The world's most expensive relief pitcher moves back into the rotation tonight, hoping to bounce back from a rotten outing in Denver. Clemens has faced the Orioles 44 times in his career, going 19-11. It's the Rocket's first meeting with the O's since 2003.

Bedard is 3-3 lifetime against the Bombers, including 1-0, 2.25 against them last year. The big lefty is the ace of the O's staff, but has still not quite stepped into the stardom the O's have predicted/counted on for him.

Thursday - Chien-Ming Wang (7-4, 3.51) vs. Daniel Cabrera (6-8, 4.98)
The Wanger is coming off a shaky outing against the Giants on Saturday, that may have partially been the result of a torn fingernail. Wang was bothered by it earlier this season and the Yankees keep gluing it back together.

Cabrera is hard thrower with control problems. When he's on, he's on, but when he's not he can walk the ballpark. A patient Yankees team could take advantage of that fact.

33

Believe it or not the Captain is 33 today. Ed Price of the Star-Ledger put together a funny and corny piece on what it means for Jeter to be 33.

It so happens it's also the birthday of the Jeter's teammate, the poster boy for failure. Hopefully the phrase Jeter's teammate won't be used for him much longer.

Got a Wife and Kids in Baltimore Jack...

...I dropped 5 of 6 and I never came back. - Bruce Yanksteen

The Yankees continue their quest for mediocrity (can you tell I'm still angry) in Baltimore this week before returning to the friendly confines of Yankee Stadium. The season is hanging by the narrowest of threads and although the Yankees should probably be sellers at the trade deadline, that doesn't happen in George's kingdom.

Here are the matchups for the 3 game set

Tuesday - Andy Pettitte (4-5, 3.28) vs. Jeremy Guthrie (4-1, 2.42)
Pettitte is coming off an outing in Colorado that looked worse on paper. That's because Joe Torre left Pettitte in way too long and he took a hammering. Pettitte said after the game that he stopped being a pitcher when trouble struck, and was simply a thrower. Too bad your manager didn't recognize that before the game became a blow out.

Guthrie was once a highly touted prospect in the Indians organization, but his minor league success never translated to the majors. He's gotten a fresh start in Baltimore and the chance to work with pitching guru Leo Mazzone. So far it's paid off for the O's. Guthrie has 10 starts in his 16 appearances and he's been nothing short of phenomenal. Over the last 2 months, he's 3-0, 1.79 ERA in 9 starts and has pitched 7 innings or more in all but one of those starts.

Wednesday - Roger Clemens (1-2, 5.09) vs. Erik Bedard (5-4, 3.60)
The world's most expensive relief pitcher moves back into the rotation tonight, hoping to bounce back from a rotten outing in Denver. Clemens has faced the Orioles 44 times in his career, going 19-11. It's the Rocket's first meeting with the O's since 2003.

Bedard is 3-3 lifetime against the Bombers, including 1-0, 2.25 against them last year. The big lefty is the ace of the O's staff, but has still not quite stepped into the stardom the O's have predicted/counted on for him.

Thursday - Chien-Ming Wang (7-4, 3.51) vs. Daniel Cabrera (6-8, 4.98)
The Wanger is coming off a shaky outing against the Giants on Saturday, that may have partially been the result of a torn fingernail. Wang was bothered by it earlier this season and the Yankees keep gluing it back together.

Cabrera is hard thrower with control problems. When he's on, he's on, but when he's not he can walk the ballpark. A patient Yankees team could take advantage of that fact.

33

Believe it or not the Captain is 33 today. Ed Price of the Star-Ledger put together a funny and corny piece on what it means for Jeter to be 33.

It so happens it's also the birthday of the Jeter's teammate, the poster boy for failure. Hopefully the phrase Jeter's teammate won't be used for him much longer.

Rumor Mill Picking up Steam

June is winding down, which means the major league non-waiver trade deadline is a little over a month away. Teams are assessing and reassessing their place in the standings. Buyers or Sellers? Buyers in early July, sellers late.

There are a lot of names dangling out there. Pending free agents, baseball legends, and players that may just need a change of scenery. We'll now take a look at some of the names and possible scenarios.

The Banged Up Bangers

Two of the top hitters being bandied about are on the DL right now and will be out for a significant stretch. Mark Teixeira (bruised quad) and Miguel Tejada (fractured arm) would be a big boost to any team's lineup. Teixeira becomes a free agent after the 2008 season, but Rangers GM Jon Daniels may want to strike while the iron is hot. The Rangers are not likely to re-sign Teixeira, which leaves 3 scenarios. 1-trade him before July 31. 2-trade him in the off-season. 3-trade him before next year's deadline. As each step goes, so goes the value of a deal. Now is when Texas will get the most for Big Tex, since they do not have to deal him.

Yankees - Will be a definite player if Tex is seriously marketed.

The Orioles have been contemplating dealing Tejada for a few seasons now. He's expressed unhappiness at times, and its been reflected in his play at the end of the season. A trade to a contender could certainly change that, though he may be forced to play 3rd Base if a team like the Angels were to acquire him.

Yankees - No interest

The Legend

Ken Griffey Jr. eclipsed Mark McHGH on the all-time HR list this weekend and is soaring towards 600 career HRs. There's also been talking of the Reds moving him in order to get more playing time for younger players. The interesting scenario here could be a return to Seattle. Jr. was admittedly nervous about the reception he would received when he returned this weekend. Those fears were for naught, as the Mariner's fans showered him with love. Jr. then got to thinking about ending his career back where it began. It certainly would help the Mariners in the box office.

Yankees - There will be interest, but does it really make any sense?

The Arms

The biggest demand at the deadline is for pitching- both starters and the pen. Actually the greatest demand at any time is pitching. There are a few big names out there that could be plucked.

Dontrelle Willis - The quirky will be arbitration eligible the next 2 years before becoming a free agent in 2010. He's still just 25 years old, and is left-handed, fitting the bill for a lot of teams. His enthusiasm and his want for the baseball would help a contending team. AL teams of course are concerned if his "stuff" would translate to their league.

Yankees - Limited interest

Mark Buehrle - A free agent after this season after spending in his entire 7 year career in Chicago. Buehrle is probably the hottest pitching commodity right now. He's a proven winner, a leader, and has already tossed a no-hitter this year. If GM Kenny Williams decides not to let Buehrle ride the year out, he'll being commanding plenty in return as he tries to re-stock his faltering team.

Yankees - Rumored interest as reported by the NY Post. Williams wants the Yankees top pitching prospects in return. I'd personally strangle Brian Cashman if he made a move like that.

Eric Gagne - Gagne made only 16 combined appearances in 2005-2006, but despite a couple of DL stints this year, has been pitching effectively as the Rangers closer. Daniels realizes that he has a hot commodity here that he had better move before Gagne gets hurt again. The biggest drawback here is the loss of "stuff" on the 2nd game of back-to-back appearances. But with so many teams needing bullpen help someone will pull the trigger.

Yankees - Interested, but let the buyer beware.


Hometown Boy

Torii Hunter has only known the Minnesota Twins in an 11 year career. He heard trade rumors throughout last season, before helping lead the Twins to the playoffs. This season, a contract year, Hunter has been phenomenal. He's hitting .306-15-57 with 10 stolen bases. And of course he still flashes the leather in center as well as anyone. There's no question that a team will want him, the question is will the Twins move him. They're not likely to give him the money he wants after this season, but he is a Twins legend and that may prevent them from making a move.

Yankees - Not likely with Johnny Damon already tied up for another 2 years.


Adam Dunn, Jacques Jones, Andruw Jones, Troy Glaus, the list goes on and on. Some will go, some will stay. Whatever happens, the next month will be an intriguing one.

Rumor Mill Picking up Steam

June is winding down, which means the major league non-waiver trade deadline is a little over a month away. Teams are assessing and reassessing their place in the standings. Buyers or Sellers? Buyers in early July, sellers late.

There are a lot of names dangling out there. Pending free agents, baseball legends, and players that may just need a change of scenery. We'll now take a look at some of the names and possible scenarios.

The Banged Up Bangers

Two of the top hitters being bandied about are on the DL right now and will be out for a significant stretch. Mark Teixeira (bruised quad) and Miguel Tejada (fractured arm) would be a big boost to any team's lineup. Teixeira becomes a free agent after the 2008 season, but Rangers GM Jon Daniels may want to strike while the iron is hot. The Rangers are not likely to re-sign Teixeira, which leaves 3 scenarios. 1-trade him before July 31. 2-trade him in the off-season. 3-trade him before next year's deadline. As each step goes, so goes the value of a deal. Now is when Texas will get the most for Big Tex, since they do not have to deal him.

Yankees - Will be a definite player if Tex is seriously marketed.

The Orioles have been contemplating dealing Tejada for a few seasons now. He's expressed unhappiness at times, and its been reflected in his play at the end of the season. A trade to a contender could certainly change that, though he may be forced to play 3rd Base if a team like the Angels were to acquire him.

Yankees - No interest

The Legend

Ken Griffey Jr. eclipsed Mark McHGH on the all-time HR list this weekend and is soaring towards 600 career HRs. There's also been talking of the Reds moving him in order to get more playing time for younger players. The interesting scenario here could be a return to Seattle. Jr. was admittedly nervous about the reception he would received when he returned this weekend. Those fears were for naught, as the Mariner's fans showered him with love. Jr. then got to thinking about ending his career back where it began. It certainly would help the Mariners in the box office.

Yankees - There will be interest, but does it really make any sense?

The Arms

The biggest demand at the deadline is for pitching- both starters and the pen. Actually the greatest demand at any time is pitching. There are a few big names out there that could be plucked.

Dontrelle Willis - The quirky will be arbitration eligible the next 2 years before becoming a free agent in 2010. He's still just 25 years old, and is left-handed, fitting the bill for a lot of teams. His enthusiasm and his want for the baseball would help a contending team. AL teams of course are concerned if his "stuff" would translate to their league.

Yankees - Limited interest

Mark Buehrle - A free agent after this season after spending in his entire 7 year career in Chicago. Buehrle is probably the hottest pitching commodity right now. He's a proven winner, a leader, and has already tossed a no-hitter this year. If GM Kenny Williams decides not to let Buehrle ride the year out, he'll being commanding plenty in return as he tries to re-stock his faltering team.

Yankees - Rumored interest as reported by the NY Post. Williams wants the Yankees top pitching prospects in return. I'd personally strangle Brian Cashman if he made a move like that.

Eric Gagne - Gagne made only 16 combined appearances in 2005-2006, but despite a couple of DL stints this year, has been pitching effectively as the Rangers closer. Daniels realizes that he has a hot commodity here that he had better move before Gagne gets hurt again. The biggest drawback here is the loss of "stuff" on the 2nd game of back-to-back appearances. But with so many teams needing bullpen help someone will pull the trigger.

Yankees - Interested, but let the buyer beware.


Hometown Boy

Torii Hunter has only known the Minnesota Twins in an 11 year career. He heard trade rumors throughout last season, before helping lead the Twins to the playoffs. This season, a contract year, Hunter has been phenomenal. He's hitting .306-15-57 with 10 stolen bases. And of course he still flashes the leather in center as well as anyone. There's no question that a team will want him, the question is will the Twins move him. They're not likely to give him the money he wants after this season, but he is a Twins legend and that may prevent them from making a move.

Yankees - Not likely with Johnny Damon already tied up for another 2 years.


Adam Dunn, Jacques Jones, Andruw Jones, Troy Glaus, the list goes on and on. Some will go, some will stay. Whatever happens, the next month will be an intriguing one.

Mel Hall - More Than Just a Bad Influence on Bernie

Mel Hall was a semi-successful outfielder for the Yankees in the early 1990s. But they didn't like how he teased and tortured a young prospect named Bernie Williams. The Yankees, rightfully so, saw great things in Bernie, but not so much in Hall. So they let the Hall walk in 1992 and didn't really care if the door hit him on the way out.

Well Hall apparently has been a bad influence on others. This story from Deadspin -

Former major league outfielder Mel Hall has been charged with sexually assaulting two girls in 1998 and 1999 when he was coaching them on a select basketball team.

The 46-year-old Hall was released from jail Friday on $35,000 bail. He was arrested the previous day on charges of sexual assault of a child under 17 and aggravated sexual assault of a child under 14, police said Saturday. The second charge carries a possible life sentence because of the age of the alleged victim.

Mel Hall - More Than Just a Bad Influence on Bernie

Mel Hall was a semi-successful outfielder for the Yankees in the early 1990s. But they didn't like how he teased and tortured a young prospect named Bernie Williams. The Yankees, rightfully so, saw great things in Bernie, but not so much in Hall. So they let the Hall walk in 1992 and didn't really care if the door hit him on the way out.

Well Hall apparently has been a bad influence on others. This story from Deadspin -

Former major league outfielder Mel Hall has been charged with sexually assaulting two girls in 1998 and 1999 when he was coaching them on a select basketball team.

The 46-year-old Hall was released from jail Friday on $35,000 bail. He was arrested the previous day on charges of sexual assault of a child under 17 and aggravated sexual assault of a child under 14, police said Saturday. The second charge carries a possible life sentence because of the age of the alleged victim.

Roid Rage

Every day and every way I get angrier and angrier at how the likes of Barroid Bonds and Sammy Steroids have tainted the game. While legitimate HR records are being approached by Ken Griffey Jr., Frank Thomas, Jim Thome, and A-Rod, we have the daily watch of this cheating piece of human filth in San Francisco. The only thing making it worse is how the fans out there are drinking up the Kool-Aid (the Kool-Aid mascot has a smaller head than Barroid).

"He never failed a test!"

"You guys are chicken for not pitching to him"

"He should be sainted" (ok, I made that one up, but that's how it feels)

Until someone else, who is a legitimate ballplayer, comes along to break Hank Aaron's record, he is the record holder. Barroid not only disgraces himself every day, but Hammerin' Hank as well. Aaron was, and is, one of the classiest individuals to ever grace a uniform. His pursuit of Ruth's record and the racially motivated garbage that he had to put up with along way, truly makes him the all-time home run king.

I've said it before, but again I applaud him for not attending Barroid's games. Why should he taint his reputation by association with such a piece of human garbage. And the Giants fans are part of that garbage too. As well as anyone, and I mean anyone, who has tried to make this a racial issue (for that matter Barroid is a disgrace to the African-American community too).

There's no question that the dog and pony show surrounding Jason Giambi is an effort to somehow try to knock down Barroid. Only time is running out. He's only 6 away from tying Aaron.

Getting back to Sammy Steroids, who last week hit his 600th tainted home run. What was remarkable is how Sammy's ability to speak English came back! Amazing. I wonder if he went to a healer? That could be the only explanation for how he completely forgot how to speak English while in front of Congress. And that poof- it's back. What an amazing story.

Barroid, Sammy Steroids, Big steroid-filled Mac, Rafael Palmliar. The only hall they should go into is the Hall of Shame. You all disgust me- now go rot in baseball hell (Kansas City?).

Roid Rage

Every day and every way I get angrier and angrier at how the likes of Barroid Bonds and Sammy Steroids have tainted the game. While legitimate HR records are being approached by Ken Griffey Jr., Frank Thomas, Jim Thome, and A-Rod, we have the daily watch of this cheating piece of human filth in San Francisco. The only thing making it worse is how the fans out there are drinking up the Kool-Aid (the Kool-Aid mascot has a smaller head than Barroid).

"He never failed a test!"

"You guys are chicken for not pitching to him"

"He should be sainted" (ok, I made that one up, but that's how it feels)

Until someone else, who is a legitimate ballplayer, comes along to break Hank Aaron's record, he is the record holder. Barroid not only disgraces himself every day, but Hammerin' Hank as well. Aaron was, and is, one of the classiest individuals to ever grace a uniform. His pursuit of Ruth's record and the racially motivated garbage that he had to put up with along way, truly makes him the all-time home run king.

I've said it before, but again I applaud him for not attending Barroid's games. Why should he taint his reputation by association with such a piece of human garbage. And the Giants fans are part of that garbage too. As well as anyone, and I mean anyone, who has tried to make this a racial issue (for that matter Barroid is a disgrace to the African-American community too).

There's no question that the dog and pony show surrounding Jason Giambi is an effort to somehow try to knock down Barroid. Only time is running out. He's only 6 away from tying Aaron.

Getting back to Sammy Steroids, who last week hit his 600th tainted home run. What was remarkable is how Sammy's ability to speak English came back! Amazing. I wonder if he went to a healer? That could be the only explanation for how he completely forgot how to speak English while in front of Congress. And that poof- it's back. What an amazing story.

Barroid, Sammy Steroids, Big steroid-filled Mac, Rafael Palmliar. The only hall they should go into is the Hall of Shame. You all disgust me- now go rot in baseball hell (Kansas City?).

The Poster Child

The Poster Child

Over and Out

June 24th - mark this season done. Forget the 9 game winning streak and the 11 of 12. That was just an aberration. The team that just lost 5 of 6, the one that lost 2 out of 3 to a horrible Giants team, is the real deal. All the good feelings built up beating the garbage of the NL and the temporarily slumping Red Sox and Mets is gone. There's nothing now but disgust.

Losing to the Rockies is one thing, though it shouldn't have been 3 straight, but to lose 2 of 3 to the Giants is inexcusable. After blowing Saturday's game, it was easy to see that they would lose again today. That Joe Torre would weaken his lineup, sitting Jorge Posada, to appease Mike Mussina. That the bullpen would be garbage as it is nearly ever game.

This team needs a makeover. This team CANNOT succeed with the likes of Mike Myers, Wil Nieves, Andy Phillips, Ron Villone, Mike Mussina, Brian Bruney, Kyle Farnsworth. The list could go on and on. It's time to get rid of the old and bring in the new.

A guy like Bruney can still be good, but right now he's walking the ball park. Chris Britton had a good rookie year with the Orioles and has been dominant at Scranton, but he can't catch a break. Instead the Yankees call up garbage like Colter bean.

A career minor leaguer like Shelley Duncan should be given a chance to play 1st Base. Phillips has proven he can't hit major league pitching. Hell, bring Eric Duncan up and let him audition.

If A-Rod or Jeter don't come up big, no one does (with the exception of Posada, and occassionally Matsui).

This team is old and decrepit and disgusting.

Over and Out

June 24th - mark this season done. Forget the 9 game winning streak and the 11 of 12. That was just an aberration. The team that just lost 5 of 6, the one that lost 2 out of 3 to a horrible Giants team, is the real deal. All the good feelings built up beating the garbage of the NL and the temporarily slumping Red Sox and Mets is gone. There's nothing now but disgust.

Losing to the Rockies is one thing, though it shouldn't have been 3 straight, but to lose 2 of 3 to the Giants is inexcusable. After blowing Saturday's game, it was easy to see that they would lose again today. That Joe Torre would weaken his lineup, sitting Jorge Posada, to appease Mike Mussina. That the bullpen would be garbage as it is nearly ever game.

This team needs a makeover. This team CANNOT succeed with the likes of Mike Myers, Wil Nieves, Andy Phillips, Ron Villone, Mike Mussina, Brian Bruney, Kyle Farnsworth. The list could go on and on. It's time to get rid of the old and bring in the new.

A guy like Bruney can still be good, but right now he's walking the ball park. Chris Britton had a good rookie year with the Orioles and has been dominant at Scranton, but he can't catch a break. Instead the Yankees call up garbage like Colter bean.

A career minor leaguer like Shelley Duncan should be given a chance to play 1st Base. Phillips has proven he can't hit major league pitching. Hell, bring Eric Duncan up and let him audition.

If A-Rod or Jeter don't come up big, no one does (with the exception of Posada, and occassionally Matsui).

This team is old and decrepit and disgusting.

Jason Giambi's Official Statement

Here's what the Giambino had to say after agreeing to meet with George Mitchell. Giambi finally utters the word, steroid.

Today, I have agreed to Commissioner Selig's request that I meet with Sen. George Mitchell. In a direct conversation the commissioner impressed upon me the idea that the game of baseball would be best served by such a meeting. I will continue to do what I think is right and be candid about my past history regarding steroids. I have never blamed anyone nor intended to deflect blame for my conduct. I alone am responsible for my actions and I apologize to the commissioner, the owners and the players for any suggestion that they were responsible for my behavior.

I've come to this decision for a number of reasons. I did not want to put my family through a lengthy legal challenge in support of my position. In addition, the uncertainty of my playing status could detract from the efforts of our team to win the American League East. My focus at this time needs to be on rehabbing my injury, getting back on the field and contributing to the goals of my team. To be embroiled in a legal battle could undermine all of this and I would never put my family, my teammates or the Yankees in that position.

Accordingly, I have agreed to this meeting. As I have always done, I will address my own personal history regarding steroids. I will not discuss in any fashion any other individual. My hope is that this meeting will serve as a positive step, as all parties involved seek the best approach in dealing with the issue of "drugs in sport." That has always been the intent behind all of the comments I have made on the subject and it remains so to this day.

Jason Giambi's Official Statement

Here's what the Giambino had to say after agreeing to meet with George Mitchell. Giambi finally utters the word, steroid.

Today, I have agreed to Commissioner Selig's request that I meet with Sen. George Mitchell. In a direct conversation the commissioner impressed upon me the idea that the game of baseball would be best served by such a meeting. I will continue to do what I think is right and be candid about my past history regarding steroids. I have never blamed anyone nor intended to deflect blame for my conduct. I alone am responsible for my actions and I apologize to the commissioner, the owners and the players for any suggestion that they were responsible for my behavior.

I've come to this decision for a number of reasons. I did not want to put my family through a lengthy legal challenge in support of my position. In addition, the uncertainty of my playing status could detract from the efforts of our team to win the American League East. My focus at this time needs to be on rehabbing my injury, getting back on the field and contributing to the goals of my team. To be embroiled in a legal battle could undermine all of this and I would never put my family, my teammates or the Yankees in that position.

Accordingly, I have agreed to this meeting. As I have always done, I will address my own personal history regarding steroids. I will not discuss in any fashion any other individual. My hope is that this meeting will serve as a positive step, as all parties involved seek the best approach in dealing with the issue of "drugs in sport." That has always been the intent behind all of the comments I have made on the subject and it remains so to this day.

I Found My Heart...in San Francisco

No, it's not the popular Tony Bennett tune. It's what the Yankees need to do a after a completely uninspired performance in Denver. The Yankees open a 3 game series tonight at Pac Bell AT&T Park, looking to snap their 3 game skid.

The Yankees haven't been out here since the 1962 World Series. There are images associated with that series. Helicopters being used to dry the rain soaked field of Candlestick Park, and Bobby Richardson snaring Willie McCovey's bases loaded line drive to end Game 7.

The only time the two teams have met, in games that counted, was a 3 game series at The Stadium in 2003. I was there for the Sunday game when Roger Clemens plunked Barroid right on the elbow. Aw shucks. Clemens and Steve Karsay pitched around Barroid the entire game, walking him 4 times. This prompted Giants fans to plead that he be thrown a hittable pitch. These are the same fans that think Barroid is a saint - "he's never failed a test".

Clemens won that day as did Mike Mussina in the first game on Friday. Mariano lost a tie game in the 9th on Saturday. In that same game, Barroid hit a 3-run shot off of Ted Lilly.

This is an exciting series for Chien-Ming Wang as there is a large Asian community in the bay area. (Wonder what the Wanger thinks about the Yankees signing a pair of pitchers from the People's Republic of China?)

The Giants' stud prospect Tim Lincecum was originally slated to pitch in the series, but was pushed back due to some recent shaky outings. Good move by manager Bruce Bochy. Bochy, who faced the Yankees in the 1998 series as manager of the Padres, is one of the most underrated skippers in baseball.

Here are the pitching matchups for this weekend. All eyes are on tonight's Yankees starter as Kei Igawa makes his return to the majors.


Friday (10:15) - Kei Igawa vs. Matt Cain
Saturday (3:55) - Chien-Ming Wang vs. Matt Morris
Sunday (4:05) - Mike Mussina vs. Non-Matt, Noah Lowry