Bobby Murcer in the House

Bobby Murcer vowed that he would be back broadcasting Yankees games this season. And now he is making good on his promise. With the Yankees coming into Arlington for a 3 game set, Bobby will not have to travel far to be part of the YES team.

In other health news...Carl Pavano threw off a mound on Sunday for the first time since April 9. Pavano says he's feeling better.

Jeff Karstens will be out 6-8 weeks with a broken fibula. Thankfully he needs no screws or cast.

Bobby Murcer in the House

Bobby Murcer vowed that he would be back broadcasting Yankees games this season. And now he is making good on his promise. With the Yankees coming into Arlington for a 3 game set, Bobby will not have to travel far to be part of the YES team.

In other health news...Carl Pavano threw off a mound on Sunday for the first time since April 9. Pavano says he's feeling better.

Jeff Karstens will be out 6-8 weeks with a broken fibula. Thankfully he needs no screws or cast.

Time to Right the Ship

Luckily for Joe Torre, there is no mutiny on his bounty, or something like that. Derek Jeter was the most prominent of players to come to Torre's defense after the Yankees lost to the Red Sox for the 5th time in 6 games. Jeter emphasized that Torre isn't the one out there pitching, hitting, or fielding. One has to wonder how Jeter would react if Torre was fired. He's the only manager that Jeter has ever played for in the bigs. Jason Giambi also pointed out that a lot of players come to the Yankees because they want to play for Torre.

So what can be done to get things moving in the right direction? Here are some things that couldn't hurt.

1. Change the Batting Order

There's nothing like a team slump to occur when the pitching stinks. It really emphasizes just how badly you need pitching.

Bobby Abreu is completely lost at the plate right now. Twice in the Sox series he tried to bunt (on his own) with 2 runners on and none out. Abreu is the #3 hitter, he's not there to be Miguel Cairo. Drop him down to 7th in the order until he gets his swing back.

Move Jason Giambi up to the 3 spot. He'll clog the bases some, but he'll still get on base and provide more RBI opps for A-Rod.

Move Jorge Posada and Hideki Matsui up to the 5 and 6 spots. Posada had a great April and as long as he stays hot, he'll be good protection behind A-Rod.

2. Kick Doug Mientkiewicz to the Curb

The guy is putrid. I take no pride in saying I told you so, but I told you so. I knew this was a giant mistake before Cashman officially signed him. There's no question that he's got a slick glove, no one is debating that. But he is simply over matched at the plate. Robinson Cano is in a bad slump right now and part of the reason is because Mientkiewicz bats behind him. As long as he does, Cano won't see good pitches.

Not that I am at all convinced that Josh Phelps is the answer, but for now he needs to get significant playing time no matter who is pitching.

3. Get Clemens Here

I don't like the self serving SOB, but there's no question that the Yankees need him. I don't care if they need to cater to his whims to get him here. Putting Clemens in the rotation will have a huge impact, especially if he can impart some wisdom on Phil Hughes.

If no Clemens, then you have to seriously pursue Carlos Zambrano. Zambrano looked like he was close to signing a long term deal with the Cubs, but then The Trib decided to sell the team. All contracts and possible trades are off limits for the time being. The Yankees have to pounce if the new owners decide to let him go.

4. Use Kyle Farnsworth or Trade Him

It's understandable that Joe Torre has to have trust in a guy to use him, but it can't be at the expense of the rest of the arms in the bullpen. You're only making a short bullpen even shorter. Either use this headcase or ship him out. I can't take looking at Scott Proctor every single day of the season.

5. Get Another Bat

You heard that correctly. Everyone talks about how great the lineup is. It really showed against the Tigers in last year's playoffs didn't it? The reason for another bat is simple, this is an aging beat up offense. Johnny Damon is having serious back issues. Jason Giambi is good for a debilitating injury every year. I'm not talking a guy who is going to hit .350. What the Yankees need is a Jeff Conine type. A guy who can play the outfield and 1st Base and contribute offensively.

Now get it done before I have to release a statement through Howard Rubenstein.

Time to Right the Ship

Luckily for Joe Torre, there is no mutiny on his bounty, or something like that. Derek Jeter was the most prominent of players to come to Torre's defense after the Yankees lost to the Red Sox for the 5th time in 6 games. Jeter emphasized that Torre isn't the one out there pitching, hitting, or fielding. One has to wonder how Jeter would react if Torre was fired. He's the only manager that Jeter has ever played for in the bigs. Jason Giambi also pointed out that a lot of players come to the Yankees because they want to play for Torre.

So what can be done to get things moving in the right direction? Here are some things that couldn't hurt.

1. Change the Batting Order

There's nothing like a team slump to occur when the pitching stinks. It really emphasizes just how badly you need pitching.

Bobby Abreu is completely lost at the plate right now. Twice in the Sox series he tried to bunt (on his own) with 2 runners on and none out. Abreu is the #3 hitter, he's not there to be Miguel Cairo. Drop him down to 7th in the order until he gets his swing back.

Move Jason Giambi up to the 3 spot. He'll clog the bases some, but he'll still get on base and provide more RBI opps for A-Rod.

Move Jorge Posada and Hideki Matsui up to the 5 and 6 spots. Posada had a great April and as long as he stays hot, he'll be good protection behind A-Rod.

2. Kick Doug Mientkiewicz to the Curb

The guy is putrid. I take no pride in saying I told you so, but I told you so. I knew this was a giant mistake before Cashman officially signed him. There's no question that he's got a slick glove, no one is debating that. But he is simply over matched at the plate. Robinson Cano is in a bad slump right now and part of the reason is because Mientkiewicz bats behind him. As long as he does, Cano won't see good pitches.

Not that I am at all convinced that Josh Phelps is the answer, but for now he needs to get significant playing time no matter who is pitching.

3. Get Clemens Here

I don't like the self serving SOB, but there's no question that the Yankees need him. I don't care if they need to cater to his whims to get him here. Putting Clemens in the rotation will have a huge impact, especially if he can impart some wisdom on Phil Hughes.

If no Clemens, then you have to seriously pursue Carlos Zambrano. Zambrano looked like he was close to signing a long term deal with the Cubs, but then The Trib decided to sell the team. All contracts and possible trades are off limits for the time being. The Yankees have to pounce if the new owners decide to let him go.

4. Use Kyle Farnsworth or Trade Him

It's understandable that Joe Torre has to have trust in a guy to use him, but it can't be at the expense of the rest of the arms in the bullpen. You're only making a short bullpen even shorter. Either use this headcase or ship him out. I can't take looking at Scott Proctor every single day of the season.

5. Get Another Bat

You heard that correctly. Everyone talks about how great the lineup is. It really showed against the Tigers in last year's playoffs didn't it? The reason for another bat is simple, this is an aging beat up offense. Johnny Damon is having serious back issues. Jason Giambi is good for a debilitating injury every year. I'm not talking a guy who is going to hit .350. What the Yankees need is a Jeff Conine type. A guy who can play the outfield and 1st Base and contribute offensively.

Now get it done before I have to release a statement through Howard Rubenstein.

Words from Mt. Olympus

It came as no great shock today when King George finally reacted to the start of the season. Of course the words were spoken by his minion, Howard Rubenstein.

“The season is still very young, but up to now the results are clearly not acceptable to me or to Yankee fans,” Steinbrenner said in a statement. “However, Brian Cashman, our general manager, Joe Torre, our manager, and our players all believe that they will turn this around quickly.

“I believe in them. I am here to support them in any way to help them accomplish this turnaround. It is time to put excuses and talk away. It is time to see if people are ready to step up and accept their responsibilities. It is time for all of them to show me and the fans what they are made of.

“Let’s get going. Let’s go out and win and bring a world championship back to New York. That’s what I want.”

Words from Mt. Olympus

It came as no great shock today when King George finally reacted to the start of the season. Of course the words were spoken by his minion, Howard Rubenstein.

“The season is still very young, but up to now the results are clearly not acceptable to me or to Yankee fans,” Steinbrenner said in a statement. “However, Brian Cashman, our general manager, Joe Torre, our manager, and our players all believe that they will turn this around quickly.

“I believe in them. I am here to support them in any way to help them accomplish this turnaround. It is time to put excuses and talk away. It is time to see if people are ready to step up and accept their responsibilities. It is time for all of them to show me and the fans what they are made of.

“Let’s get going. Let’s go out and win and bring a world championship back to New York. That’s what I want.”

A Case of the Mondays

It's time to get back to the real world. Meaning its time to do some blogging during work. Joe Torre survived the weekend, but the rest of us barely made it through Sunday's debacle. Thankfully the Rangers were battling the Sabres at the same time.

Let us go back to Saturday for a moment. I walk in at about 4:05 and turn on the TV. Kei Igawa is warming up and all I could muster is "What the f*ck". Is this a ploy by Joe Torre? Has he pulled a page from the old Earl Weaver playbook (have one pitcher set up as starter until the other team sets their lineup, then pull him after 1 batter for the pitcher you really want it in there)?

Of course, then we found out what happened to Jeff Karstens, who by the way, will be out 6-8 with a broken bone in his fibula. Even odder, however, was Kei Igawa went from the penthouse to the outhouse and back again so quickly. Igawa stunned everyone with 6 shutout innings. The first batter he faced, David Ortiz, bounced in a 6-4-3 double play. Later, he would get Ortiz to hit into another twin killing.

Jorge Posada, who is 2nd only to A-Rod for team MVP thus far, smacked a big time HR off of Tim Wakefield and the pen came through. It only took until April 28 for Mariano Rivera to get a save. That was even odder than Igawa's performance.

Sunday went right back down the tube again though. Chien-Ming Wang, The Wanger, My Boy, looked quite ordinary again. His pitches were up in the zone all day, partly because of a cracked finger nail that could effect the status of his next start. Alex Cora is about 3 ft tall and weighs about 50 pounds, or twice as big as Dustin Pedroia, but he slammed a back breaking home run off of Wang and later added a triple.

Julian Tavarez has been a solid reliever throughout his career, but pretty much blows as a starter. At least he did until yesterday. The Yankees simply could not do anything against him, and again made Hideki Okajima look like Sandy Koufax.

Jason Giambi managed a lead off double in the 9th off of Jon Papelbon, but Papelbon kept his perfect April saves record in tact.

Which all makes us glad that today is again an off day.

A Case of the Mondays

It's time to get back to the real world. Meaning its time to do some blogging during work. Joe Torre survived the weekend, but the rest of us barely made it through Sunday's debacle. Thankfully the Rangers were battling the Sabres at the same time.

Let us go back to Saturday for a moment. I walk in at about 4:05 and turn on the TV. Kei Igawa is warming up and all I could muster is "What the f*ck". Is this a ploy by Joe Torre? Has he pulled a page from the old Earl Weaver playbook (have one pitcher set up as starter until the other team sets their lineup, then pull him after 1 batter for the pitcher you really want it in there)?

Of course, then we found out what happened to Jeff Karstens, who by the way, will be out 6-8 with a broken bone in his fibula. Even odder, however, was Kei Igawa went from the penthouse to the outhouse and back again so quickly. Igawa stunned everyone with 6 shutout innings. The first batter he faced, David Ortiz, bounced in a 6-4-3 double play. Later, he would get Ortiz to hit into another twin killing.

Jorge Posada, who is 2nd only to A-Rod for team MVP thus far, smacked a big time HR off of Tim Wakefield and the pen came through. It only took until April 28 for Mariano Rivera to get a save. That was even odder than Igawa's performance.

Sunday went right back down the tube again though. Chien-Ming Wang, The Wanger, My Boy, looked quite ordinary again. His pitches were up in the zone all day, partly because of a cracked finger nail that could effect the status of his next start. Alex Cora is about 3 ft tall and weighs about 50 pounds, or twice as big as Dustin Pedroia, but he slammed a back breaking home run off of Wang and later added a triple.

Julian Tavarez has been a solid reliever throughout his career, but pretty much blows as a starter. At least he did until yesterday. The Yankees simply could not do anything against him, and again made Hideki Okajima look like Sandy Koufax.

Jason Giambi managed a lead off double in the 9th off of Jon Papelbon, but Papelbon kept his perfect April saves record in tact.

Which all makes us glad that today is again an off day.

Unlucky Seven

I’ve always loved the number 7. Okay, maybe love is too strong of a word. But its been my lucky number since I was a kid. It may very well have been because of Mickey Mantle, who retired when I was…7…but I don’t know the derivation of it.

I do know that the Yankees losing streak is at 7 and the end is nowhere in site. The only end in site might be Joe Torre’s tenure as manager of the Yankees. I happened to be discussing this fact with my brother last night. I felt that if the Sox swept the Yankees again this weekend, that could be it for Torre as the team would have lost 9 straight, 6 of them to the invaders from the north.

Apparently we weren't the only ones discussing it. This morning’s NY Times indicated that Torre will be fired if the Yankees are swept this weekend. Reportedly it’s because of the way Torre has been handling, or mishandling, the bullpen. Of course the bullpen’s woes are a manifestation of the horrible starting pitching the Yankees have gotten from just about anyone they've run out there.

Last night it was Andy Pettitte's turn to spit the bit. Give a 3-2 lead against Dice-K, Pettitte squandered the lead immediately and the Yankees want on to get trashed, 11-4. The Yankees have made Dice-K look ordinary at best in both of his starts against them. And they’ve lost both those games.

With Jeff Karstens on the mound today, thinks aren't looking much brighter. He’ll be opposed by Tim Wakefield, who has given the Yankees many fits in the past. They’ve hit him better lately, but the bats have suddenly gone cold.

The best shot for a win will be tomorrow afternoon when Chien-Ming Wang goes against Julian Taverez. Even if they do win, will it be too late for Torre? Only King George knows the answer to that.

~~~

Jason Giambi will start at 1^st Base today, with Johnny Damon getting some rest by DH'ing. Melky Cabrera will start in center field.

I was ripped by some before the season when I said Doug Mientkiewicz wouldn't hit for sh*t. I hate to have been right, but it’s time to cut this guy loose. Mientkiewicz is hitting .140 and has look overmatched several times. Last night he popped up in the infield with the bases loaded. He failed in several similar situations in Oakland on the west coast trip. If the Yankees merely want a good glove, call Andy Phillips back up from Scranton.

Unlucky Seven

I’ve always loved the number 7. Okay, maybe love is too strong of a word. But its been my lucky number since I was a kid. It may very well have been because of Mickey Mantle, who retired when I was…7…but I don’t know the derivation of it.

I do know that the Yankees losing streak is at 7 and the end is nowhere in site. The only end in site might be Joe Torre’s tenure as manager of the Yankees. I happened to be discussing this fact with my brother last night. I felt that if the Sox swept the Yankees again this weekend, that could be it for Torre as the team would have lost 9 straight, 6 of them to the invaders from the north.

Apparently we weren't the only ones discussing it. This morning’s NY Times indicated that Torre will be fired if the Yankees are swept this weekend. Reportedly it’s because of the way Torre has been handling, or mishandling, the bullpen. Of course the bullpen’s woes are a manifestation of the horrible starting pitching the Yankees have gotten from just about anyone they've run out there.

Last night it was Andy Pettitte's turn to spit the bit. Give a 3-2 lead against Dice-K, Pettitte squandered the lead immediately and the Yankees want on to get trashed, 11-4. The Yankees have made Dice-K look ordinary at best in both of his starts against them. And they’ve lost both those games.

With Jeff Karstens on the mound today, thinks aren't looking much brighter. He’ll be opposed by Tim Wakefield, who has given the Yankees many fits in the past. They’ve hit him better lately, but the bats have suddenly gone cold.

The best shot for a win will be tomorrow afternoon when Chien-Ming Wang goes against Julian Taverez. Even if they do win, will it be too late for Torre? Only King George knows the answer to that.

~~~

Jason Giambi will start at 1^st Base today, with Johnny Damon getting some rest by DH'ing. Melky Cabrera will start in center field.

I was ripped by some before the season when I said Doug Mientkiewicz wouldn't hit for sh*t. I hate to have been right, but it’s time to cut this guy loose. Mientkiewicz is hitting .140 and has look overmatched several times. Last night he popped up in the infield with the bases loaded. He failed in several similar situations in Oakland on the west coast trip. If the Yankees merely want a good glove, call Andy Phillips back up from Scranton.

Rock 'em, Sock 'em Robots

The Yankees and Red Sox have played many memorable games. Many before Derek and Nomar and Manny and Mo and Big Papi and A-Rod came along. Here's a look at some of the games that were more than just a game.

August 1, 1973

Thurman Munson is on 3rd with Gene Michael at the plate. The squeeze play is on, but Michael misses the pitch and Munson slams into catcher Carlton Fisk. Munson punches Fisk in the face and a bench clearing brawl ensues.

May 20, 1976

Bobby Murcer's birthday (in SF :( ), but its his good friend Lou Piniella involved with a bench clearer this time. Piniella tries to score from first on a base hit and slams into Carlton Fisk. A fight starts and the benches empty. Graig Nettles slams Red Sox pitcher, and resident space cadet, Bill Lee to the ground, separating Lee's shoulder.


May 24, 1952

Battle of the Nut Jobs

The Yankee's Billy Martin and the Sox' Jimmy Piersall screamed at each other throughout the game. It didn't end there, however, as the two brawl underneath the stands. After the fight is broken up, Piersall later gets into another fight with Maury McDermott...his teammate!

October 11, 2003 - ALCS Game 3

Pedro Martinez throws high and behind Karim Garcia, setting off a round of finger pointing and accusations. Pedro and Jorge Posada does his best Pedro Cerrano imitation, basically saying "bring that sheet to me man".

Tempers remain fiery and when Roger Clemens throws inside to Manny Ramirez, Ramirez overreacts, sending players scurrying from the benches and bullpens. Don Zimmer, the former Red Sox manager and current Yankees bench coach, decides to go after Pedro himself. Big mistake. Pedro uses him as a bowling ball and players from both sides realize its time to stop.

Of course Jeff Nelson and Karim Garcia will first pound a bullpen attendant.


July 24, 2004 - A'Rod's welcome to Fenway

Bronson Arroyo, already established as punk-ass bitch, hits Alex Rodriguez with a pitch. A-Rod takes exception and begins barking at Arroyo. Sox catcher Jason Varitek, still wearing his mask, intervenes and touches off a brawl. Various talking heads (alias for idiots) around baseball will say this is what sparked the Red Sox towards the championship. In fact, the Sox didn't start playing better until they dumped malcontent Nomar Garciaparra, and were still down 3-0 in the ALCS before coming back. Either way its a year to forget.

Rock 'em, Sock 'em Robots

The Yankees and Red Sox have played many memorable games. Many before Derek and Nomar and Manny and Mo and Big Papi and A-Rod came along. Here's a look at some of the games that were more than just a game.

August 1, 1973

Thurman Munson is on 3rd with Gene Michael at the plate. The squeeze play is on, but Michael misses the pitch and Munson slams into catcher Carlton Fisk. Munson punches Fisk in the face and a bench clearing brawl ensues.

May 20, 1976

Bobby Murcer's birthday (in SF :( ), but its his good friend Lou Piniella involved with a bench clearer this time. Piniella tries to score from first on a base hit and slams into Carlton Fisk. A fight starts and the benches empty. Graig Nettles slams Red Sox pitcher, and resident space cadet, Bill Lee to the ground, separating Lee's shoulder.


May 24, 1952

Battle of the Nut Jobs

The Yankee's Billy Martin and the Sox' Jimmy Piersall screamed at each other throughout the game. It didn't end there, however, as the two brawl underneath the stands. After the fight is broken up, Piersall later gets into another fight with Maury McDermott...his teammate!

October 11, 2003 - ALCS Game 3

Pedro Martinez throws high and behind Karim Garcia, setting off a round of finger pointing and accusations. Pedro and Jorge Posada does his best Pedro Cerrano imitation, basically saying "bring that sheet to me man".

Tempers remain fiery and when Roger Clemens throws inside to Manny Ramirez, Ramirez overreacts, sending players scurrying from the benches and bullpens. Don Zimmer, the former Red Sox manager and current Yankees bench coach, decides to go after Pedro himself. Big mistake. Pedro uses him as a bowling ball and players from both sides realize its time to stop.

Of course Jeff Nelson and Karim Garcia will first pound a bullpen attendant.


July 24, 2004 - A'Rod's welcome to Fenway

Bronson Arroyo, already established as punk-ass bitch, hits Alex Rodriguez with a pitch. A-Rod takes exception and begins barking at Arroyo. Sox catcher Jason Varitek, still wearing his mask, intervenes and touches off a brawl. Various talking heads (alias for idiots) around baseball will say this is what sparked the Red Sox towards the championship. In fact, the Sox didn't start playing better until they dumped malcontent Nomar Garciaparra, and were still down 3-0 in the ALCS before coming back. Either way its a year to forget.

Let the Rain Wash Away Your Sins...

or at least your really crappy play.

So the great Phil Hughes experiment went so-so. The try to snap the losing streak went much worse. The Yankees barely touched (they couldn't even put the ball in the air) A.J. Burnett and got blanked by the Jays 6-0. They extended their losing streak to 6 games with the Obnoxious Bunch coming to town for a 3 game series.

More rain could wipe out Friday night's game (a Friday game on Channel 9 usually means rain). If all goes as planned, here are the pitching match ups.

Friday - Dice-K vs. Andy Pettitte
Saturday - Tim Wakefield vs. Jeff Karstens
Sunday - Julian Tavarez vs. Chien-Ming Wang

After an off day on Monday, the Yankees travel to Texas for a 3 game set. Hughes should get a 2nd start in there.

Mike Mussina was supposed to have a rehab start for the 'AA' Trenton Thunder tonight, but the weather has nixed that. Instead Moose will throw a simulated game, and if all goes as planned, will be activated for the Rangers series.

With a sloppy track tonight, it would not be surprising to see Miguel Cairo out at shortstop for one more day.

Let the Rain Wash Away Your Sins...

or at least your really crappy play.

So the great Phil Hughes experiment went so-so. The try to snap the losing streak went much worse. The Yankees barely touched (they couldn't even put the ball in the air) A.J. Burnett and got blanked by the Jays 6-0. They extended their losing streak to 6 games with the Obnoxious Bunch coming to town for a 3 game series.

More rain could wipe out Friday night's game (a Friday game on Channel 9 usually means rain). If all goes as planned, here are the pitching match ups.

Friday - Dice-K vs. Andy Pettitte
Saturday - Tim Wakefield vs. Jeff Karstens
Sunday - Julian Tavarez vs. Chien-Ming Wang

After an off day on Monday, the Yankees travel to Texas for a 3 game set. Hughes should get a 2nd start in there.

Mike Mussina was supposed to have a rehab start for the 'AA' Trenton Thunder tonight, but the weather has nixed that. Instead Moose will throw a simulated game, and if all goes as planned, will be activated for the Rangers series.

With a sloppy track tonight, it would not be surprising to see Miguel Cairo out at shortstop for one more day.

Had Our Phil for the Night

The Phil Hughes debut is over. After much acclaim, we saw flashes of brilliance, and flashes of a 20-year old who definitely needs some seasoning. Make no mistake though, this kid has a live arm.

Rookie Adam Lind and veteran Vernon Wells provided the difference in the the type of night it was for Hughes. Lind struck out all 3 times he faced Hughes and looked over matched in doing so. Wells, one of the best players in the game, had hits all 3 times and stung the ball each time. Hughes showed good command and a very live fastball.

Hughes' final line score was 4 1-3 IP, 7 H, 4 ER, 1 BB, 5 K. He threw 91 pitches, 53 of which were for strikes. He left with 2 men on and one of those runners came home against Brian Bruney, and stands to lose if the 4-0 deficit is not overcome.


The Yankees bats have not been very lively so far, wasting whatever opportunities A.J. Burnett has give them.

Derek Jeter was in the original starting lineup, but was a late scratch due to his sore left thigh.

Had Our Phil for the Night

The Phil Hughes debut is over. After much acclaim, we saw flashes of brilliance, and flashes of a 20-year old who definitely needs some seasoning. Make no mistake though, this kid has a live arm.

Rookie Adam Lind and veteran Vernon Wells provided the difference in the the type of night it was for Hughes. Lind struck out all 3 times he faced Hughes and looked over matched in doing so. Wells, one of the best players in the game, had hits all 3 times and stung the ball each time. Hughes showed good command and a very live fastball.

Hughes' final line score was 4 1-3 IP, 7 H, 4 ER, 1 BB, 5 K. He threw 91 pitches, 53 of which were for strikes. He left with 2 men on and one of those runners came home against Brian Bruney, and stands to lose if the 4-0 deficit is not overcome.


The Yankees bats have not been very lively so far, wasting whatever opportunities A.J. Burnett has give them.

Derek Jeter was in the original starting lineup, but was a late scratch due to his sore left thigh.

Igawa to the Pen...For Now

That according to Joe Torre. Jeff Karstens will pitch against the Red Sox on Saturday and Igawa will be available from the pen.

How far this goes depends on Hughes and Karstens perform in these starts.

Igawa to the Pen...For Now

That according to Joe Torre. Jeff Karstens will pitch against the Red Sox on Saturday and Igawa will be available from the pen.

How far this goes depends on Hughes and Karstens perform in these starts.

Dr. Phil Good

Yesterday's rain out with the Jays may be a blessing in disguise. For one thing, we weren't subjected to another poor performance (starting pitching, bullpen, fielding, offense, take your pick) immediately after the back to back debacles in Tampa. It also held the losing streak at 5.

Better yet, with the Yankees wanting Phil Hughes to make his debut against the Jays , or more precisely, not against the Red Sox, Andy Pettitte will now face the Sox. Chien-Ming Wang goes on Sunday and either Jeff Karstens or Kei Igawa will go on Saturday.

The buzz surrounding tonight's game is quite amazing. The remaining tickets have been going fast since it was announced that Hughes would make his debut tonight. The game tonight is on local TV, so those without YES will even be able to get a peek at the future. My9 normally doesn't have a pre- or post-game show, but YES will have each tonight to commemorate the event.

It remains to be seen whether Hughes makes another start beyond tonight or goes back to Scranton afterwards. Either way this is the most excitement about a Yankee draft pick making his debut since Derek Jeter broke into the bigs in 1995. The Yankees haven't had much luck with most of the 1st round picks since Jeter, with Eric Milton being the only player to make a significant contribution (and it wasn't for the Yankees).

The Yankees hope this is the beginning of a trend. Their 1st pick last year, Ian Kennedy, has gotten off to a great start for Tampa and they have several other draft picks (both their own and those acquired in deals) hoping to make the jump to the majors in the near future.

We would all like a fantastic debut, but the clear-cut need is to keep the game close and make it into the 6th inning. Hughes' pitch count, which is about 90 now, could of course have an impact.

Dr. Phil Good

Yesterday's rain out with the Jays may be a blessing in disguise. For one thing, we weren't subjected to another poor performance (starting pitching, bullpen, fielding, offense, take your pick) immediately after the back to back debacles in Tampa. It also held the losing streak at 5.

Better yet, with the Yankees wanting Phil Hughes to make his debut against the Jays , or more precisely, not against the Red Sox, Andy Pettitte will now face the Sox. Chien-Ming Wang goes on Sunday and either Jeff Karstens or Kei Igawa will go on Saturday.

The buzz surrounding tonight's game is quite amazing. The remaining tickets have been going fast since it was announced that Hughes would make his debut tonight. The game tonight is on local TV, so those without YES will even be able to get a peek at the future. My9 normally doesn't have a pre- or post-game show, but YES will have each tonight to commemorate the event.

It remains to be seen whether Hughes makes another start beyond tonight or goes back to Scranton afterwards. Either way this is the most excitement about a Yankee draft pick making his debut since Derek Jeter broke into the bigs in 1995. The Yankees haven't had much luck with most of the 1st round picks since Jeter, with Eric Milton being the only player to make a significant contribution (and it wasn't for the Yankees).

The Yankees hope this is the beginning of a trend. Their 1st pick last year, Ian Kennedy, has gotten off to a great start for Tampa and they have several other draft picks (both their own and those acquired in deals) hoping to make the jump to the majors in the near future.

We would all like a fantastic debut, but the clear-cut need is to keep the game close and make it into the 6th inning. Hughes' pitch count, which is about 90 now, could of course have an impact.

Yankees vs. Blue Jays Preview

So the Yankees return home today after the disgraceful 0-5 road trip.

Some thing need to happen this week to get the ship righted.

1. Mike Myers must be jettisoned. I can't stress that enough
2. Brian Cashman needs to get down on his knees and beg Roger Clemens to come back to NY.
3. Phil Hughes needs to be ready and give the Yankees a boost.
4. Kyle Farnsworth needs to be either used or shipped out. He's an albatross right now. Torre won't use him, even at the expense of the other reliever's arms.

The Blue Jays come to town fresh off a 2 game sweep of the Red Sox. Thankfully, Roy Halladay pitched last night, so the Yankees won't face one of their killers. The Blue Jays have injury problems of their own. Closer BJ Ryan may need Tommy John surgery. For now, he's on the 60 day DL and won't be back any time soon. 3rd Baseman Troy Glaus is on the DL with an injured heel, and left fielder Reed Johnson is out until the summer after back surgery. Last night they lost their starting catcher Greg Zaun to a broken hand after he was hit with a foul ball.

Yankees vs. Blue Jays Preview

So the Yankees return home today after the disgraceful 0-5 road trip.

Some thing need to happen this week to get the ship righted.

1. Mike Myers must be jettisoned. I can't stress that enough
2. Brian Cashman needs to get down on his knees and beg Roger Clemens to come back to NY.
3. Phil Hughes needs to be ready and give the Yankees a boost.
4. Kyle Farnsworth needs to be either used or shipped out. He's an albatross right now. Torre won't use him, even at the expense of the other reliever's arms.

The Blue Jays come to town fresh off a 2 game sweep of the Red Sox. Thankfully, Roy Halladay pitched last night, so the Yankees won't face one of their killers. The Blue Jays have injury problems of their own. Closer BJ Ryan may need Tommy John surgery. For now, he's on the 60 day DL and won't be back any time soon. 3rd Baseman Troy Glaus is on the DL with an injured heel, and left fielder Reed Johnson is out until the summer after back surgery. Last night they lost their starting catcher Greg Zaun to a broken hand after he was hit with a foul ball.

We've Lost our Mojo

I was disappointed this morning to wake up and find out that this Mike Myers had not been dropped off the top of Tropicana Field last night. The garbageman threw away another one in a 6-4 loss that saw the Yankees drop into the AL East cellar.


Any of these 3 variations of Mike Myers would be acceptable over the waste of a roster spot that is currently clogging up a roster spot.

In case you missed it, and you are probably glad you did, Chien-Ming Wang made his return from the DL last night and gave the Yankees a solid 6 1-3 innings. The Yankees clung to a 3-2 lead entering the 7th when Wang allowed a single and double to put the tying and go ahead runs in scoring position.

Then over managing Joe Torre pulled him after only 81 pitches and brought in the overused, overrated Luiz Vizcaino. Torre opted to intentionally walk Rocco Baldelli to set up the double play. Vizcaino then got a huge break when Brendan Harris hit a frozen rope that Miguel Cairo (more on that later) speared for the 2nd out. With lefty Carl Crawford up, Torre went to the pen again for Myers, who is more of a nightmare than the character in Halloween.

Myers worked a 2-2 count, before Crawford, who already had 3 hits, crushed a flat, fat fastball into the seats for a grand slam. Double trouble as Mrs. MM then got mad at me for the plethora of 4 letter words that flew from my mouth. Nice job _____________ (fill in appropriate negative nickname here).


Things went from bad to better to worse in this one. Getting back to the Miguel Cairo situation, Derek Jeter took a 91 mph Scott Kazmir fastball to his left thigh, right above the knee, in the 1st inning. Jeter remained in for the 1/2 inning, but immediately left for the night when the team came out on defense. Of course Jeter was quoted as saying he would be ready on Wednesday. Since Jeter did not have an official at-bat, his 14 game hitting streak stays in tact.

Hideki Matsui's return to the lineup was an immediate boost as Godzilla smacked a long HR and added an RBI single in the 9th as a Yankees rally fell short.

A-Rod hit for the collar to end his 23 game hitting streak.

We've Lost our Mojo

I was disappointed this morning to wake up and find out that this Mike Myers had not been dropped off the top of Tropicana Field last night. The garbageman threw away another one in a 6-4 loss that saw the Yankees drop into the AL East cellar.


Any of these 3 variations of Mike Myers would be acceptable over the waste of a roster spot that is currently clogging up a roster spot.

In case you missed it, and you are probably glad you did, Chien-Ming Wang made his return from the DL last night and gave the Yankees a solid 6 1-3 innings. The Yankees clung to a 3-2 lead entering the 7th when Wang allowed a single and double to put the tying and go ahead runs in scoring position.

Then over managing Joe Torre pulled him after only 81 pitches and brought in the overused, overrated Luiz Vizcaino. Torre opted to intentionally walk Rocco Baldelli to set up the double play. Vizcaino then got a huge break when Brendan Harris hit a frozen rope that Miguel Cairo (more on that later) speared for the 2nd out. With lefty Carl Crawford up, Torre went to the pen again for Myers, who is more of a nightmare than the character in Halloween.

Myers worked a 2-2 count, before Crawford, who already had 3 hits, crushed a flat, fat fastball into the seats for a grand slam. Double trouble as Mrs. MM then got mad at me for the plethora of 4 letter words that flew from my mouth. Nice job _____________ (fill in appropriate negative nickname here).


Things went from bad to better to worse in this one. Getting back to the Miguel Cairo situation, Derek Jeter took a 91 mph Scott Kazmir fastball to his left thigh, right above the knee, in the 1st inning. Jeter remained in for the 1/2 inning, but immediately left for the night when the team came out on defense. Of course Jeter was quoted as saying he would be ready on Wednesday. Since Jeter did not have an official at-bat, his 14 game hitting streak stays in tact.

Hideki Matsui's return to the lineup was an immediate boost as Godzilla smacked a long HR and added an RBI single in the 9th as a Yankees rally fell short.

A-Rod hit for the collar to end his 23 game hitting streak.

A-Rod Should be Booed

Can't this guy hit 4 Home Runs in a game so the Yankees can win??!!!

But seriously folks, A-Rod is a fantasy baseball team all by himself. Lets take a look at the numbers.

Average - .400
HR - 14
RBI - 32
Hitting Streak - 18 games (plus 5 from last season)
Runs Scored - 26
OPS - 1.507

Amazingly, he's only been walked 7 times. You would think pitchers would risk pitching to Giambi instead. Of course with Damon, Jeter, and Abreu getting on base that is easier said than done.

Oh, on the downside, he's only stolen 1 base. That kills his credibility (rolling of the eyes may not commence).

~~~

The Wanger

Joy to the World..........Chien-Ming Wang returns tonight. Hopefully he has 150 pitch count, because the Yankees MUST have him get into the 7th inning. Wang was shaky against the Rays in '05, but went 3-0, 1.15 against them last year.

~~~

Sour Melk

Though he's still playing gold glove caliber defense, what has happened to Melky Cabrera this season. After being rushed to the majors in '05, Melky came on strong last year, showing tremendous promise at the plate. His patience and ability to work the count was outstanding for such a young player.

Melky is hitting an even .200 with 0 extra base hits in 70 at-bats. He has only struck out 8 times, but half have been in the last 4 games. The Yankees have only had their starting outfield in place on opening day, so Melky has been put to the test right away. It looks like his defense is the only think that's keeping him from a trip to Scranton.

A-Rod Should be Booed

Can't this guy hit 4 Home Runs in a game so the Yankees can win??!!!

But seriously folks, A-Rod is a fantasy baseball team all by himself. Lets take a look at the numbers.

Average - .400
HR - 14
RBI - 32
Hitting Streak - 18 games (plus 5 from last season)
Runs Scored - 26
OPS - 1.507

Amazingly, he's only been walked 7 times. You would think pitchers would risk pitching to Giambi instead. Of course with Damon, Jeter, and Abreu getting on base that is easier said than done.

Oh, on the downside, he's only stolen 1 base. That kills his credibility (rolling of the eyes may not commence).

~~~

The Wanger

Joy to the World..........Chien-Ming Wang returns tonight. Hopefully he has 150 pitch count, because the Yankees MUST have him get into the 7th inning. Wang was shaky against the Rays in '05, but went 3-0, 1.15 against them last year.

~~~

Sour Melk

Though he's still playing gold glove caliber defense, what has happened to Melky Cabrera this season. After being rushed to the majors in '05, Melky came on strong last year, showing tremendous promise at the plate. His patience and ability to work the count was outstanding for such a young player.

Melky is hitting an even .200 with 0 extra base hits in 70 at-bats. He has only struck out 8 times, but half have been in the last 4 games. The Yankees have only had their starting outfield in place on opening day, so Melky has been put to the test right away. It looks like his defense is the only think that's keeping him from a trip to Scranton.

A-Nother Night Wasted

If Only He Could Pitch; Yankees out slugged 10-8

The box score will look amazing again. 4 hits in 5 trips. 2 Home Runs. 4 runs scored. 3 RBI. Another notch will be marked off in the loss column, because Alex Rodriguez can't pitch. The Yankees scored 8 runs and it wasn't enough. Another Yankees starter with a worthless effort, followed by a worn out bullpen that's already throwing batting practice before April has even ended.

It's one thing to have a bad series against the Red Sox. It's whole other thing when it's against the Devil Rays. I don't want to hear anything about upstarts or peskiness. This team loss 13 straight spring training games. How do you even go about doing that?

That time has come. It's time to get the Hendricks brothers on the phone and start working things out with Roger Clemens. Moves will have to be made fast to save this quickly sinking season.

The Yankees have already gone to their future by calling up Phil Hughes to start on Wednesday. Who knows what we'll get from him this quickly.

Dontrelle Willis and Carlos Zambrano become free agents after this season. The Yankees need to closely monitor any contract negotiations that go on. I don't see any possible scenario of Florida signing the D-Train. We have enough prospects from the Johnson and Sheffield deals to swing a deal for one of these guys. And know it's not giving up the future. Both of them are young, aggressive pitchers. I'd give just about anything to have Zambrano in pinstripes.

Brian Cashman made some solid moves this past off-season, but right now the overpayment for Kei Igawa is a complete disaster. I don't care what kind of success this guy had in Japan, he needs to be mastering his craft at Scranton right now. El Duque hadn't pitched ina couple of years, so he obviously had to go to the minors before making his Yankees debut. Igawa has, for the most part, looked like he hasn't pitched in two years either.

~~~

A-Rod belted a solo HR in the 1st; lined a single to left in the 4th; singled again in the 6th, and smacked another HR, this time with a man aboard, in the 9th. He's had a hit in all 18 games this season and is hitting an even .400.

Igawa's control left him in the 2nd inning as he walked 3 batters. He then gave up a crushing 3-run HR to Rocco Baldelli. B.J. Upton, who had 4 RBI on the night, belted a solo shot off of him in the 4th.

The Yankees overtaxed pen is quickly falling in the ranks of AL staffs. Brian Bruney and Luis Vizcaino combined to give up 3 runs to put the game out of reach. All 3 were charged to Bruney.

Joe Torre finally woke up and gave Mariano Rivera an inning of work.

A-Nother Night Wasted

If Only He Could Pitch; Yankees out slugged 10-8

The box score will look amazing again. 4 hits in 5 trips. 2 Home Runs. 4 runs scored. 3 RBI. Another notch will be marked off in the loss column, because Alex Rodriguez can't pitch. The Yankees scored 8 runs and it wasn't enough. Another Yankees starter with a worthless effort, followed by a worn out bullpen that's already throwing batting practice before April has even ended.

It's one thing to have a bad series against the Red Sox. It's whole other thing when it's against the Devil Rays. I don't want to hear anything about upstarts or peskiness. This team loss 13 straight spring training games. How do you even go about doing that?

That time has come. It's time to get the Hendricks brothers on the phone and start working things out with Roger Clemens. Moves will have to be made fast to save this quickly sinking season.

The Yankees have already gone to their future by calling up Phil Hughes to start on Wednesday. Who knows what we'll get from him this quickly.

Dontrelle Willis and Carlos Zambrano become free agents after this season. The Yankees need to closely monitor any contract negotiations that go on. I don't see any possible scenario of Florida signing the D-Train. We have enough prospects from the Johnson and Sheffield deals to swing a deal for one of these guys. And know it's not giving up the future. Both of them are young, aggressive pitchers. I'd give just about anything to have Zambrano in pinstripes.

Brian Cashman made some solid moves this past off-season, but right now the overpayment for Kei Igawa is a complete disaster. I don't care what kind of success this guy had in Japan, he needs to be mastering his craft at Scranton right now. El Duque hadn't pitched ina couple of years, so he obviously had to go to the minors before making his Yankees debut. Igawa has, for the most part, looked like he hasn't pitched in two years either.

~~~

A-Rod belted a solo HR in the 1st; lined a single to left in the 4th; singled again in the 6th, and smacked another HR, this time with a man aboard, in the 9th. He's had a hit in all 18 games this season and is hitting an even .400.

Igawa's control left him in the 2nd inning as he walked 3 batters. He then gave up a crushing 3-run HR to Rocco Baldelli. B.J. Upton, who had 4 RBI on the night, belted a solo shot off of him in the 4th.

The Yankees overtaxed pen is quickly falling in the ranks of AL staffs. Brian Bruney and Luis Vizcaino combined to give up 3 runs to put the game out of reach. All 3 were charged to Bruney.

Joe Torre finally woke up and gave Mariano Rivera an inning of work.

It Had to be Hughes

In May, 2005, the Yankees called up Robinson Cano and Chien-Ming Wang in hopes of injecting some life into the ball club. They've been mainstays of the team ever since. Now another player has the same opportunity, though he comes with a lot more expected him than Cano and Wang combined.

The Yankees front office went against their initial plan and have decided to call up Phil Hughes to start Thursday night against the Toronto Blue Jays. Hughes is coming off his best start at Triple-A Scranton, where he was 2-1, 3.94.

What will make this scenario even more interesting is how the weather plays a factor in all this. Rain is expected for Wednesday and Thursday. If a rain out does occur, will the Yankees expose Hughes to the Red Sox-Yankees mania next weekend, or skip his start.

No matter what happens, the future has been moved up quite a bit.

It Had to be Hughes

In May, 2005, the Yankees called up Robinson Cano and Chien-Ming Wang in hopes of injecting some life into the ball club. They've been mainstays of the team ever since. Now another player has the same opportunity, though he comes with a lot more expected him than Cano and Wang combined.

The Yankees front office went against their initial plan and have decided to call up Phil Hughes to start Thursday night against the Toronto Blue Jays. Hughes is coming off his best start at Triple-A Scranton, where he was 2-1, 3.94.

What will make this scenario even more interesting is how the weather plays a factor in all this. Rain is expected for Wednesday and Thursday. If a rain out does occur, will the Yankees expose Hughes to the Red Sox-Yankees mania next weekend, or skip his start.

No matter what happens, the future has been moved up quite a bit.

Tonight's Lineups (4/23)

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

DEVIL RAYS
Baldelli DH
Harris SS
Crawford LF
Wigginton 1B
Young RF
Iwamura 3B
Dukes CF
Paul C
Upton 2B

Tonight's Lineups (4/23)

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

DEVIL RAYS
Baldelli DH
Harris SS
Crawford LF
Wigginton 1B
Young RF
Iwamura 3B
Dukes CF
Paul C
Upton 2B

5 Memorable Games vs Devil Rays

Didn't think it was possible, huh?

1. June 3, 1998

A legend debuts

Much was made of the story of the defection of Orlando "El Duque" Hernandez. Now was his time to show the Yankees and their fans if he could really pitch. The opportunity came a little earlier than expected when David Cone was bitten by his mother's dog. Needed a starter, the Yankees called up Duque from Triple-A Columbus.

Duque struck out Quinton McCracken to start the game a star is born. Hernandez breezed through 7 innings, allowing a run on 5 hits to top the Rays, 7-1. Duque walks 2 and strikes out 7 before turning it over to Mike Stanton to finish it out

Scott Brosius shows a glimpse of the super year he is having, driving in 4 runs.

2. June 21, 2005

Randy Johnson looks like the little unit and is hammered for 7 runs in just 3 innings work. Scott Proctor throws some grease on the fire in relief and the Yankees trail 10-2 after 4 innings.

The Yankees' offense chipped away so that the Bombers trailed 11-7 entering the 8th inning. That one went like this:

Robinson Cano single
Derek Jeter single
RBI ground out by Ruben Sierra
Gary Sheffield single
A-Rod RBI single
Hideki Matsui RBI double
Int'l Walk to Giambi
Bernie Williams bases clearing triple
Jorge Posada 2-run HR
Cano flies out
Jeter single
Sierra single
Sheffield 3-run HR
A-Rod HR
Matsui HR

Incredibly, the Yankees have their second 13 run inning of the season, both coming against the Devil Rays. They bang out 12 hits in the inning, including 4 home runs. 23 hits in all leads to a 20-11 win.

Sheffield drives in 7 runs, with 4 hits, incl. a pair of HRs. Bernie drives in 5.


3. April 18, 2005

The Yankees offense gives the fans something to remember. The 2nd inning of a scoreless game goes something like this:

Hideki Matsui walks
A-Rod hits a 2-run HR
Jason Giambi doubles
Jorge Posada grounds out
Tino Martinez delivers an RBI single
Tony Womack gets an infield single
Derek Jeter RBI single
Bernie Williams RBI single
Gary Sheffield RBI single
Matsui single to load bases
A-Rod 2-run double
Int'l Walk to Posada
RBI single for Giambi
Tino hits Grand Slam

13 runs are scored in the inning on 11 hits, 1 walk, and 1 error. Starter Rob Bell gives up 10 earned runs in just 1 1-3 innings. A-Rod and Tino Martinez have 6 RBI each and combine for 8 hits.

Jaret Wright stinks on the mound, but gets the victory despite giving up 8 runs in 5 1-3 innings. Final, Yankees 19 Rays 8


4. September 26, 1998

David Cone wins his 20th game of the season and breaks the MLB record for the longest span between reaching such heights. 10years earlier, Cone went an amazing 20-3 as a member of the Mets. It's the 2nd to last game of the season and there's no telling how far Joe Torre will allow Coney to go with the playoffs right around the corner.

The Yankees score single runs in the 3rd, 4th, and 5th innings, including another home run by Shane Spencer, who had a September to remember. Coney limits the Rays to 4 hits over 7 innings and strikes out 8. It's now up to the pen to nail down the milestone.

With 1 out in the 9th, Torre calls for Mariano Rivera. Mo gives up a quick double to Bubba Trammell, but gets Paul Sorrento to pop out to Posada for the 2nd out. And infield single by Rob Butler and a walk to Miguel Cairo loads the bases for pinch-hitter Mike Kelly (pinch-hitting for John Flaherty). Mo uncharacteristically walks Kelly to force in a run and put the tying runs in scoring position.

A nervous Coney watches as Mo induces a game ending ground out by Quinton McCracken.

5. July 29, 2006

The Ray's offense has their day of reckoning.

Randy Johnson had been abused by the Rays before and he will again on this day. The Rays jump all over Johnson for 9 runs in 3 plus innings. But the Rays aren't done yet. They hammer Shawn Chacon, Mike Myers, and T.J. Beam for 10 more and smoke the Yankees, 19-6.

Jae Seo is pretty awful himself, allowing 5 runs in 5 2-3, but gets his first victory in six decisions. The Rays get 4 home runs, one by Damon Hollins who drives in 5. Eduardo Perez continues to make Johnson his personal whipping boy with a 5 hit day.

5 Memorable Games vs Devil Rays

Didn't think it was possible, huh?

1. June 3, 1998

A legend debuts

Much was made of the story of the defection of Orlando "El Duque" Hernandez. Now was his time to show the Yankees and their fans if he could really pitch. The opportunity came a little earlier than expected when David Cone was bitten by his mother's dog. Needed a starter, the Yankees called up Duque from Triple-A Columbus.

Duque struck out Quinton McCracken to start the game a star is born. Hernandez breezed through 7 innings, allowing a run on 5 hits to top the Rays, 7-1. Duque walks 2 and strikes out 7 before turning it over to Mike Stanton to finish it out

Scott Brosius shows a glimpse of the super year he is having, driving in 4 runs.

2. June 21, 2005

Randy Johnson looks like the little unit and is hammered for 7 runs in just 3 innings work. Scott Proctor throws some grease on the fire in relief and the Yankees trail 10-2 after 4 innings.

The Yankees' offense chipped away so that the Bombers trailed 11-7 entering the 8th inning. That one went like this:

Robinson Cano single
Derek Jeter single
RBI ground out by Ruben Sierra
Gary Sheffield single
A-Rod RBI single
Hideki Matsui RBI double
Int'l Walk to Giambi
Bernie Williams bases clearing triple
Jorge Posada 2-run HR
Cano flies out
Jeter single
Sierra single
Sheffield 3-run HR
A-Rod HR
Matsui HR

Incredibly, the Yankees have their second 13 run inning of the season, both coming against the Devil Rays. They bang out 12 hits in the inning, including 4 home runs. 23 hits in all leads to a 20-11 win.

Sheffield drives in 7 runs, with 4 hits, incl. a pair of HRs. Bernie drives in 5.


3. April 18, 2005

The Yankees offense gives the fans something to remember. The 2nd inning of a scoreless game goes something like this:

Hideki Matsui walks
A-Rod hits a 2-run HR
Jason Giambi doubles
Jorge Posada grounds out
Tino Martinez delivers an RBI single
Tony Womack gets an infield single
Derek Jeter RBI single
Bernie Williams RBI single
Gary Sheffield RBI single
Matsui single to load bases
A-Rod 2-run double
Int'l Walk to Posada
RBI single for Giambi
Tino hits Grand Slam

13 runs are scored in the inning on 11 hits, 1 walk, and 1 error. Starter Rob Bell gives up 10 earned runs in just 1 1-3 innings. A-Rod and Tino Martinez have 6 RBI each and combine for 8 hits.

Jaret Wright stinks on the mound, but gets the victory despite giving up 8 runs in 5 1-3 innings. Final, Yankees 19 Rays 8


4. September 26, 1998

David Cone wins his 20th game of the season and breaks the MLB record for the longest span between reaching such heights. 10years earlier, Cone went an amazing 20-3 as a member of the Mets. It's the 2nd to last game of the season and there's no telling how far Joe Torre will allow Coney to go with the playoffs right around the corner.

The Yankees score single runs in the 3rd, 4th, and 5th innings, including another home run by Shane Spencer, who had a September to remember. Coney limits the Rays to 4 hits over 7 innings and strikes out 8. It's now up to the pen to nail down the milestone.

With 1 out in the 9th, Torre calls for Mariano Rivera. Mo gives up a quick double to Bubba Trammell, but gets Paul Sorrento to pop out to Posada for the 2nd out. And infield single by Rob Butler and a walk to Miguel Cairo loads the bases for pinch-hitter Mike Kelly (pinch-hitting for John Flaherty). Mo uncharacteristically walks Kelly to force in a run and put the tying runs in scoring position.

A nervous Coney watches as Mo induces a game ending ground out by Quinton McCracken.

5. July 29, 2006

The Ray's offense has their day of reckoning.

Randy Johnson had been abused by the Rays before and he will again on this day. The Rays jump all over Johnson for 9 runs in 3 plus innings. But the Rays aren't done yet. They hammer Shawn Chacon, Mike Myers, and T.J. Beam for 10 more and smoke the Yankees, 19-6.

Jae Seo is pretty awful himself, allowing 5 runs in 5 2-3, but gets his first victory in six decisions. The Rays get 4 home runs, one by Damon Hollins who drives in 5. Eduardo Perez continues to make Johnson his personal whipping boy with a 5 hit day.

Alec Baldwin Lambastes Joe Torre

First it was a message on his daughter's message machine and now this!

Left on Joe Torre's message machine

Joe, you made an ass of yourself again… You have insulted the fans for the last time! You don't have the brains or the decency as a human being… I don't give a damn that you're 66 years old or 67 year old, or clueless, or that your general manager is a thoughtless pain in the ass… you've made me feel like sh*t and you've made me feel like a fool… I'm gonna straighten your ass out when I see you, do you understand me?… You are a dumb thoughtless little pig!"

Alec Baldwin Lambastes Joe Torre

First it was a message on his daughter's message machine and now this!

Left on Joe Torre's message machine

Joe, you made an ass of yourself again… You have insulted the fans for the last time! You don't have the brains or the decency as a human being… I don't give a damn that you're 66 years old or 67 year old, or clueless, or that your general manager is a thoughtless pain in the ass… you've made me feel like sh*t and you've made me feel like a fool… I'm gonna straighten your ass out when I see you, do you understand me?… You are a dumb thoughtless little pig!"

Yankees vs. Devil Rays Preview

The Yankees are going to have to stow away their bad feelings from Beantown and go right back at it tonight in Tampa.

Pitching Match Ups

Monday - Kei Igawa (1-0, 6.06) vs. Casey Fossum (1-1, 6.11)
Tuesday - Chien-Ming Wang (0-0, 0.00) vs. Scott Kazmir (1-1, 5.25)


Kazmir got a no-decision in the Devil Rays opening day loss to the Yankees in New York. He gave up 5 runs in 5 innings, including a HR to Jorge Posada.

Fossum was pounded by Toronto in first start of the season, but bounced back with a pair of 7-inning quality starts against the Twins and O's. He's 4-4, 4.57 lifetime against the Yankees.

Chien-Ming Wang will be activated in time for Tuesday's game. He's 4-3, 3.62 against the Rays in his career.

The Yankees split the season opening series (W 9-5, L 7-6) in New York, with one game postponed by the weather.
~~~

Jorge Posada will probably sit again tonight as his swollen thumb is still very sore.

Alex Rodriguez singled in his 2nd to last at-bat last night to extend his hitting streak to 17 games.

Don't be surprised if a reliever is brought up today with Chase Wright being sent down, and then that reliever or Colter Bean dispatched when Wang returns.

Yankees vs. Devil Rays Preview

The Yankees are going to have to stow away their bad feelings from Beantown and go right back at it tonight in Tampa.

Pitching Match Ups

Monday - Kei Igawa (1-0, 6.06) vs. Casey Fossum (1-1, 6.11)
Tuesday - Chien-Ming Wang (0-0, 0.00) vs. Scott Kazmir (1-1, 5.25)


Kazmir got a no-decision in the Devil Rays opening day loss to the Yankees in New York. He gave up 5 runs in 5 innings, including a HR to Jorge Posada.

Fossum was pounded by Toronto in first start of the season, but bounced back with a pair of 7-inning quality starts against the Twins and O's. He's 4-4, 4.57 lifetime against the Yankees.

Chien-Ming Wang will be activated in time for Tuesday's game. He's 4-3, 3.62 against the Rays in his career.

The Yankees split the season opening series (W 9-5, L 7-6) in New York, with one game postponed by the weather.
~~~

Jorge Posada will probably sit again tonight as his swollen thumb is still very sore.

Alex Rodriguez singled in his 2nd to last at-bat last night to extend his hitting streak to 17 games.

Don't be surprised if a reliever is brought up today with Chase Wright being sent down, and then that reliever or Colter Bean dispatched when Wang returns.

Swept Under the Rug

After Friday's night painful loss, was there any doubt in anyone's mind that the Yankees would be swept this weekend? Friday's game was the crucial one to take in the series, since the pitching match ups for Saturday and Sunday were heavily in Boston's favor.

Now the really painful part, the Yankees, as they did on Friday, knocked around the Red Sox starting pitching, and still lost. Here's how it looked against the big 3.


Curt Schilling: 7 IP 8 H 5 ER 2 HR 6.43 ERA

Josh Beckett: 6 2-3 IP 4 ER 9 H 5.40 ERA

Dice-K: 7 IP 6 ER 8 H 1 HR 7.71 ERA


Those are not good numbers at all, but here's the problem:

Jeff Karstens: 7 ER in 4 1-3 innings
Chase Wright: 4 ER, 3 BB, 4 HR in 3 innings

The Bullpen on Fri and Sun: 8 ER in 7 2-3 innings. This comes out of too much too soon. With the starting staff, outside of Andy Pettitte, giving absolutely no innings, the pen has already been maxed out.

If you read my Friday night entry you know that I pinned the loss completely on Joe Torre. The weekend losses clearly go to Brian Cashman, the Tampa office, and George Steinbrenner. Starting pitching is what everyone craves, and was the centerpiece of the Yankees 4 World Series championships in 96 - '00.

But the moves made the last few years have gone directly against it and made this team resemble those of the mid 80s, when offense was abundant and pitching was scarce. When those teams didn't hit, they didn't win, and that's what we've seen with this team the last few years.

First there was the mistake of letting John Lieber walk, and the bigger mistake of bringing in Jaret Wright to replace him. No one could have foreseen the issues Carl Pavano would have, but they did base his contract on 1 big season. Acquiring Javier Vazquez seemed like a great deal, a steal even. But giving him a huge contract was another mistake. Jose Contreras' name can be thrown in there too.

There's no question in my mind that the Yankees were smart not to throw the kind of money at Dice-K that Boston did. It's time to change those erring ways of the past. The money towards Igawa was an overpayment, and was basically a panic move. The Yankees are going to have to stitch and sew their way to get through this year, which at once looked promising, and now looks rather dismal. The hope is that the return of Chien-Ming Wang and Mike Mussina bolster the rotation. Roger Clemens may or may not be the answer, but he couldn't be worse than Jeff Karstens or Chase Wright.

This could be a very long year.

Swept Under the Rug

After Friday's night painful loss, was there any doubt in anyone's mind that the Yankees would be swept this weekend? Friday's game was the crucial one to take in the series, since the pitching match ups for Saturday and Sunday were heavily in Boston's favor.

Now the really painful part, the Yankees, as they did on Friday, knocked around the Red Sox starting pitching, and still lost. Here's how it looked against the big 3.


Curt Schilling: 7 IP 8 H 5 ER 2 HR 6.43 ERA

Josh Beckett: 6 2-3 IP 4 ER 9 H 5.40 ERA

Dice-K: 7 IP 6 ER 8 H 1 HR 7.71 ERA


Those are not good numbers at all, but here's the problem:

Jeff Karstens: 7 ER in 4 1-3 innings
Chase Wright: 4 ER, 3 BB, 4 HR in 3 innings

The Bullpen on Fri and Sun: 8 ER in 7 2-3 innings. This comes out of too much too soon. With the starting staff, outside of Andy Pettitte, giving absolutely no innings, the pen has already been maxed out.

If you read my Friday night entry you know that I pinned the loss completely on Joe Torre. The weekend losses clearly go to Brian Cashman, the Tampa office, and George Steinbrenner. Starting pitching is what everyone craves, and was the centerpiece of the Yankees 4 World Series championships in 96 - '00.

But the moves made the last few years have gone directly against it and made this team resemble those of the mid 80s, when offense was abundant and pitching was scarce. When those teams didn't hit, they didn't win, and that's what we've seen with this team the last few years.

First there was the mistake of letting John Lieber walk, and the bigger mistake of bringing in Jaret Wright to replace him. No one could have foreseen the issues Carl Pavano would have, but they did base his contract on 1 big season. Acquiring Javier Vazquez seemed like a great deal, a steal even. But giving him a huge contract was another mistake. Jose Contreras' name can be thrown in there too.

There's no question in my mind that the Yankees were smart not to throw the kind of money at Dice-K that Boston did. It's time to change those erring ways of the past. The money towards Igawa was an overpayment, and was basically a panic move. The Yankees are going to have to stitch and sew their way to get through this year, which at once looked promising, and now looks rather dismal. The hope is that the return of Chien-Ming Wang and Mike Mussina bolster the rotation. Roger Clemens may or may not be the answer, but he couldn't be worse than Jeff Karstens or Chase Wright.

This could be a very long year.

Sox Overcome Torre, 7-6

I've ALWAYS been a Joe Torre supporter, but I felt it was time for a change prior to this season. Tonight's game only further solidified my thinking. It's time for Joe Torre's tenure as Yankees manager to end. The Yankees blew a 6-2 lead thanks to Torre's over managing and mismanaging. Not just tonight, but in the games leading up to tonight.

Mariano Rivera blew last Sunday's game against Oakland. It happens. Mo is human. But he hadn't pitched in 4 days and wasn't used in either extra inning game on Friday or Saturday.

Mo blew a game again tonight.

Why? Because he couldn't locate his pitches.

Why? Because Torre hadn't used him since last SUNDAY!!!

Torre is afraid of stressing Mo's arm after the elbow issues he had late last season. So instead of overusing him, he's underusing him at the expense of the rest of the pen.

Scott Proctor pitched tonight for the 10th time in 15 games.

Luis Vizcaino pitched tonight for the 10th time in 15 games.

Torre has absolutely no clue how to work his bullpen any more (many will argue that he never did). Clueless to Genius Back to Clueless again. Brian Cashman gets a share of my wrath too for assembling a shambles of a starting staff and a strength and conditioning coach who doesn't know what he's doing.

Torre also panicked in bringing Mo in early in the 8th as well, but I'll give him a pass on that one. What's worse is keeping one-note Johnny, Mike Myers around. His double to David Ortiz got the ball rolling in the 8th.

Oh and constantly pinch-running for Giambi late is moronic. You've got the lead Joe, there' s no need to steal a base. It's not a defensive replacement. More over managing.

The final kicker in all this is that SuperJerk Schilling gets off the hook.

~~~

He will, He will, Rock you

Another magnificent performance by Alex Rodriguez will already be forgotten in this one. 2 more HRs and 4 more RBI to the total. He's now hit 12 in 15 games to match Mike Schmidt for the best start.

Also lost in this game was another very good outing for Andy Pettitte. Pettitte has watched both of his potential victories fall away in a Mo meltdown.

~~~

That's all for now before I have a meltdown.

Sox Overcome Torre, 7-6

I've ALWAYS been a Joe Torre supporter, but I felt it was time for a change prior to this season. Tonight's game only further solidified my thinking. It's time for Joe Torre's tenure as Yankees manager to end. The Yankees blew a 6-2 lead thanks to Torre's over managing and mismanaging. Not just tonight, but in the games leading up to tonight.

Mariano Rivera blew last Sunday's game against Oakland. It happens. Mo is human. But he hadn't pitched in 4 days and wasn't used in either extra inning game on Friday or Saturday.

Mo blew a game again tonight.

Why? Because he couldn't locate his pitches.

Why? Because Torre hadn't used him since last SUNDAY!!!

Torre is afraid of stressing Mo's arm after the elbow issues he had late last season. So instead of overusing him, he's underusing him at the expense of the rest of the pen.

Scott Proctor pitched tonight for the 10th time in 15 games.

Luis Vizcaino pitched tonight for the 10th time in 15 games.

Torre has absolutely no clue how to work his bullpen any more (many will argue that he never did). Clueless to Genius Back to Clueless again. Brian Cashman gets a share of my wrath too for assembling a shambles of a starting staff and a strength and conditioning coach who doesn't know what he's doing.

Torre also panicked in bringing Mo in early in the 8th as well, but I'll give him a pass on that one. What's worse is keeping one-note Johnny, Mike Myers around. His double to David Ortiz got the ball rolling in the 8th.

Oh and constantly pinch-running for Giambi late is moronic. You've got the lead Joe, there' s no need to steal a base. It's not a defensive replacement. More over managing.

The final kicker in all this is that SuperJerk Schilling gets off the hook.

~~~

He will, He will, Rock you

Another magnificent performance by Alex Rodriguez will already be forgotten in this one. 2 more HRs and 4 more RBI to the total. He's now hit 12 in 15 games to match Mike Schmidt for the best start.

Also lost in this game was another very good outing for Andy Pettitte. Pettitte has watched both of his potential victories fall away in a Mo meltdown.

~~~

That's all for now before I have a meltdown.

Tonight's Lineups (4/20)

YANKEES
Johnny Damon CF
Derek Jeter SS
Bobby Abreu RF
Alex Rodriguez 3B
Jason Giambi DH
Jorge Posada C
Robinson Cano 2B
Melky Cabrera LF
Doug Mientkiewicz 1B

RED SOX
Julio Lugo SS
Kevin Youkilis 1B
David Ortiz DH
Manny Ramirez LF
J.D. Drew RF
Mike Lowell 3B
Jason Varitek C
Coco Crisp CF
Dustin Pedroia 2B

Tonight's Lineups (4/20)

YANKEES
Johnny Damon CF
Derek Jeter SS
Bobby Abreu RF
Alex Rodriguez 3B
Jason Giambi DH
Jorge Posada C
Robinson Cano 2B
Melky Cabrera LF
Doug Mientkiewicz 1B

RED SOX
Julio Lugo SS
Kevin Youkilis 1B
David Ortiz DH
Manny Ramirez LF
J.D. Drew RF
Mike Lowell 3B
Jason Varitek C
Coco Crisp CF
Dustin Pedroia 2B

Yankees vs. Boston Preview

3 Game Series

The Red Sox will be sending out their 3 guns, while the Yankees have their old reliable rifle and 2 starter pistols. But you never know.


Friday - Andy Pettitte vs. Curt Schilling

Saturday - Jeff Karstens vs. Josh Beckett

Sunday - Chase Wright vs. Dice-K


It took 14 games before Manny Ramirez finally hit one out of the park. Ramirez's HR tied the Jays up in the 8th yesterday, and the Sox went on to win in the 9th. Manny being Manny meant admiring his home run for a good 10 seconds or more before his walk broke out into a trot. Why doesn't anyone ever put one in this guy's ear? Manny has just reached the .200 level.

The Sox are getting solid starting pitcher so far, but their bats have been asleep. Hopefully they stay that way this weekend.

David Ortiz got off to a slow start, but Big Papi now has 5 HR and 13 RBI to go along with a .288 average.

Kevin Youkillis (.235), Jason Varitek (.189), Dustin Pedroia (.167), and Coco Crisp (.167) are all off to horrendous starts. On the other hand, J.D. Drew, who meaning talking heads feel will melt in the NY-Boston spotlight, has been hitting a torrid .341 with 8 walks.

The Sox bullpen has been a big worry to the team and understandably so. After failing to find a closer in spring training, the Sox restored Jon Papelbon to that role. That also meant, for the moment, moving Julian Tavarez, into the starting rotation. Mike Timlin has just returned from a strained oblique muscle, and is still struggling to find his way.

~~~

This little news item was barely noticeable yesterday. Humberto Sanchez underwent Tommy John surgery and is out for the rest of the year and part of next year. I happened to see a blurb about this on Rotoworld yesterday. But no mention during the radio broadcast of the game, or on any local radio sports updates.

Brian Cashman claims that no evidence of the ligament issue showed up on any scans, but became quite clear when Dr. James Andrews opened Sanchez's elbow up.

Mr. MRI himself, Carl Pavano, was found to have inflammation in his elbow and won't be back any time soon.

Yankees vs. Boston Preview

3 Game Series

The Red Sox will be sending out their 3 guns, while the Yankees have their old reliable rifle and 2 starter pistols. But you never know.


Friday - Andy Pettitte vs. Curt Schilling

Saturday - Jeff Karstens vs. Josh Beckett

Sunday - Chase Wright vs. Dice-K


It took 14 games before Manny Ramirez finally hit one out of the park. Ramirez's HR tied the Jays up in the 8th yesterday, and the Sox went on to win in the 9th. Manny being Manny meant admiring his home run for a good 10 seconds or more before his walk broke out into a trot. Why doesn't anyone ever put one in this guy's ear? Manny has just reached the .200 level.

The Sox are getting solid starting pitcher so far, but their bats have been asleep. Hopefully they stay that way this weekend.

David Ortiz got off to a slow start, but Big Papi now has 5 HR and 13 RBI to go along with a .288 average.

Kevin Youkillis (.235), Jason Varitek (.189), Dustin Pedroia (.167), and Coco Crisp (.167) are all off to horrendous starts. On the other hand, J.D. Drew, who meaning talking heads feel will melt in the NY-Boston spotlight, has been hitting a torrid .341 with 8 walks.

The Sox bullpen has been a big worry to the team and understandably so. After failing to find a closer in spring training, the Sox restored Jon Papelbon to that role. That also meant, for the moment, moving Julian Tavarez, into the starting rotation. Mike Timlin has just returned from a strained oblique muscle, and is still struggling to find his way.

~~~

This little news item was barely noticeable yesterday. Humberto Sanchez underwent Tommy John surgery and is out for the rest of the year and part of next year. I happened to see a blurb about this on Rotoworld yesterday. But no mention during the radio broadcast of the game, or on any local radio sports updates.

Brian Cashman claims that no evidence of the ligament issue showed up on any scans, but became quite clear when Dr. James Andrews opened Sanchez's elbow up.

Mr. MRI himself, Carl Pavano, was found to have inflammation in his elbow and won't be back any time soon.

No Sleep 'til Boston

So how many times have you watched the replay? 5? 10? 20? I lost count, between the Yankees website and Sportscenter, and the news. And being I caught the game on the computer yesterday, I watched the replay on YES last night.

Alex Rodriguez really did hit another walk off HR. Let's just forget the walk off for a minute. Alex Rodriguez hit another HR. That's a record 10 in the team's first 14 games. That's 9 in the last 11 games.

Back to the walk 0ff. A-Rod becomes the first player to hit a walk off grand slam and a walk off 3-run HR in the month of April. (Who does the data mining on this stuff?)

So instead of going up to Boston at even .500, the Yankees head north 2 games over the watermark.

Someone please just tell John Sterling to drop the "an A-Bomb for A-Rod". Really poor taste.
~~~

One of the delights following yesterday's game was listening to The FAN after the game. Mad Dog was a mad dog indeed, going ballistic at the Yankees' good fortune, and blaming others in the studio for the Indians blowing the game. Francesca, rightfully, gloated the whole way.

Then it was over to 1050 to hear Michael Kay's show. Before he came on, co-host Don LaGreca lambasted sidekick Joey Salvia for rooting for A-Rod, after booing him earlier. Classic stuff.

~~~

A few things were missed in yesterday's comeback. Sean Henn won his 1st major league game, joining Chase Wright and Kei Igawa to make it 3 straight games that a Yankees pitcher has done so.

Jorge Posada is living life far from the microscope. He's quietly put together a fine April, hitting .353 with 2 HR and 11 RBI. He's also added 3 doubles, 4 walks, and a .922 OPS.

Jason Giambi looks like he may finally be finding his swing. He went for 5-11 against the Tribe with a pair of HRs.

Bobby Abreu bounced back from a rough series in Oakland to completely hammer the Indians. The Quiet Man went 8-12 with 5 RBI, 2 walks, and 3 stolen bases.

~~~

Chien-Ming Wang is closer to rejoining the team after throwing a rehab stint in Tampa. The Wanger threw 74 pitches and another 15 in the bullpen afterwards. Roving pitching instructor and donut eater Billy Connor says Wang is ready to go.