Boss Jr. Lays the Plan Out to Francesa

Hal Steinbrenner, the Yankees managing general partner and youngest son of the late George Steinbrenner, was on WFAN Tuesday afternoon with Mike Francesa.

Among the topics covered were the luxury tax/payroll cut, the sale of YES shares to Fox, Alex Rodriguez and his assorted issues, Robinson Cano's possible contract extension, and the ticket/Stub Hub controversy.

Here's the transcript, with some of my editorial comments in bold italics along side:

MF: "Do you have any plans to sell the Yankees?"

Hal: "No thoughts at all of selling the Yankees. There have been no discussions with anybody about selling the Yankees. (I still find it hard to believe that the Steinbrenners may not be open to the idea even if they have had no negotiations with anyone to this point.)

MF:  "How would you describe your participation in the YES deal?"

Hal: "I think it's great. Fox is going to be a great partner. They obviously know what they're doing and they've been doing it a long time."

"I think it's going to bring great things to the YES Network and take us to places that, quite honestly, we might not have been able to get to on our own..."

MF: "Why is that a good deal for the Yankees compared to where your ownership structure was?"

Hal: "...we've had some partners that wanted to get out, number one, so we've been looking here and there for a while. But we had some partners that wanted to get out and Goldman gets into these things for a certain number of years and then they want to get out and go on to the next big deal for them.

"So, this made sense and the key was to get a good partner, and we know the Murdochs and my Dad is close to Rupert...."

"And they know what they're doing. So I think it's going to be good, and the bottom line is that some of the partner that wanted to get out are now going to be getting out, and we're going to have a really good, big company that I look at, quite frankly, as a family company."

MF: "So you are commited as a family to be in this long term?"

Hal: "We are commited as a family to be in this long term. We enjoy this; this is why we are all involved, all of my siblings. And we are going to continue, every year, to field a championship caliber team. I want the fans to know that that commitment will always be in place, because we know they expect it."

MF: "What is your thought, if any on A-Rod and the investigation going on?"

Hal: Well I don't know any more than you do Mike, I really don't. It's not our investigation obviously and anybody is innocent until proven guilty. So we'll just have to see where the investigation leads.

MF: "Have you had any discussions with A-Rod?"

Hal: "I have not."

MF: "Okay. Any plans to?"

Hal:  "I have not seen him around here and I haven't had any plans to have any discussions, no. Doesn't mean we won't at some point." (Hal may not have, but you can be sure a number of different people - Cashman, Girardi, etc. have spoken with him.)

MF: "How would you categorize the Cano negotiations to this point?

Hal: "Well this is going to be a work in progress for weeks and weeks and weeks, and the one thing I'm not going to do Mike is read about it in the papers every day. So, any significant developments we're going to let everyone know, but  things have been quiet the last couple of weeks. He's been off with the Dominican team, we've got Spring Training going on, so we'll see what the weeks ahead lead to."

MF: "Is it fair to say it's going to be shelved from now on from your standpoint to the end of the season or would you guys be open to discussions during the season?"

Hal: "No, look, every rule has exceptions, right? And obviously we've talked to Scott (Boras) about Robbie and I can see that happening on more than one occasion as the season progresses, but we'll just have to see. We have to get through opening day first and get the ball rolling here."

MF: "There's a very large incentive to be under the luxury tax sometime in the near future. I know that 2014 has been a point, a target point, let's say. Is it something that is a very important part of your strategy to be under it, for the obvious reasons, to be under it in 2014?"

Hal: "There's many reasons to be under and they've been well documented, but what hasn't been documented is I don't believe you have to have the $200MM payroll to be world champions. So it is something important to us, but only if we're sure we're fielding a championship caliber team.  I just can't say that enough.

We are going to field a championship caliber team every single year." (Somehow I think he's forgotten what team he's put together this year.)

MF: "Did the idea of being under the 189 next year impact any of your negotiations that want on this past winter?"

Hal: "I think the one year deals were partly that Mike, but they're partly because of the age of some of the players. I think if you can do a one year deal on a guy that's in his upper 30's it's probably a wise thing to do, as long he's okay with it, you're okay with it.

So I think it was partly due to that. We certainly think ahead, but it's more we're thinking 65, 70% of this  year, because that's what's in front of us."

MF: (preceded by talk about the rewards for being under the cap) "Will this be a one year thing or is it something the Yankees want to do in the future; try to be stay under that tax?"

Hal: "Again Mike, I think you can be a world champion and have a payroll under 189. Are we there yet? I don't know. We have to see how these young players do this year. And it's going to have to be a good blend, as I have been saying, of the young players and the veterans. And that's the way that every other team, every other world champion's been the last 10 years."

MF: "It will be a year to year situation, it won't be that the Yankees must stay under that for you in the future, or is that going to be kind of an edict for you?"

Hal: "Again, it's an absolute goal for me to be under 189. It makes sense for all of the reasons we've been talking about, BUT, the priority is always going to be fielding a championship caliber team."

MF: "And you believe you can do that without over...even though the Yankees have spent their life over the tax, you still feel you can put together a plan and be as competitive as you can be on the field, and keep the money under control?"  (How many times is he going to keep asking him?)

Hal: "Yes, every other team seems to."

MF: "But you guys have been in the playoffs more than a lot of the other teams. I mean you really have. You've been there, you have won't a lot of championships since 2000, but you've been in the playoffs every year which you can't say about everybody else."

Hal: "Well, time will tell Mike. As I said, the young players have to continue to develop in the minor leagues, number one, and the players already up at the Major Leagues, the young ones, have to continue - the Novas and the Phelps - to contribute, and the Pinedas. So, you know it remains to be seen. (Keep in mind Pineda may have no impact at all this year.)

MF: "With the injuries this  year, especially to your core group...there is a feeling that the Yankees are going about this in a very different way than in the past. Would you agree with that or you don't agree with that?"

Hal: "Well the way is to always field a great team and that's what we're trying to do. The free agent market, as you know, wasn't that great last year. We felt we wanted to concentrate on pitching, so we worked hard to get Andy (Pettitte) back, to get Kuroda back, Mo (Rivera), and we did the best we could.

I don't know what to tell you, but, um, so...." (Hal not too happy with the structure of the roster now either, hmm?)

MF:  "I mean right now does Brian (Cashman) have the ability to go out and bring in some players who might be costly even on a one year basis. Is that something, we see Wells, could there be more of that or is there a limit to it?"

Hal: "Well, look there a limit to anything Mike, but my door's always open to Brian and he knows that and we talk every day multiple times. And you know this Wells thing I think is going to be good for us. I think he's going to have a rebound year and he's going to contribute in a big way.

And hopefully we get Tex back, and get Granderson back, but uh...you know, no stone is left unturned. So whatever..if he (Cashman) comes into my office, we're going to sit and talk about it, and consider it."

MF: "Do you think Hal, there's been a lot of talk about tickets this year. There's been a lot of talk this year about, maybe some economic pressure. Is it cyclical?...is just seems to be there's a tougher time selling for everybody this year than the last couple of years.

We're learning about all this secondary market stuff and that's impact and everything else. Do you see business as being a little more challenging in 2013 for the Yankees than it has been, say in the last five or six years or is that not an accurate picture?"

Hal: "I think there are numerous teams that are down. I think we'll have to see where the numbers come in. But our ticket sales are coming around. Obviously Spring Training...beginning that whole process helps. We could use some warm weather up there Mike, that would be good to get people in the frame of mind.

But look, the secondary market is what it is. It's not going anywhere and we're trying to keep our season ticket holders happy and all of our fans happy, and give them a great experience and a great team to watch."

MF: "Hal, you're a good business man, this is an interesting question right now and maybe a dilemma for teams. The idea of what fans do with their tickets as season ticket holders. How the secondary market, how teams play this. Have you given that a lot of thought or is it still kind of evolving?"

Hal: "Well we've given it a lot of thought, which is why we have set up Yankees ticket exchange. Our own program so our season ticket holders can got on there, sell the tickets they don't need or don't want for cheaper. And in a way more convenient and safe environment. That's why we've undertaken this, so obviously we've put a lot of thought into it." (It's disgraceful for Hal to infer that Stub Hub isn't a safe place to buy and sell tickets. It's been done many times.  The Yankees do not want tickets sold on Stub Hub at a much lower price than the minimum the Yankees have set with Ticketmaster aka the devil of ticket sellers. The Yankees will also not be accepting e-tickets this season, which is the normal ticket type on Stub Hub. Instead you will need to get the actual tickets from anyone selling tickets on Stub Hub. And you know the majority of the fans hate this new procedure. It's not the fans fault that the Yankees were greedy and priced out so many fans in the new Stadium.)

MF: "But you made the move away from Stub Hub too, so you must have thought there must have thought there needed to be a change too, right?

Hal: "Well, I'm not going to get to much into Stub Hub, but I will say Mike that that partnership was not good for the New York Yankees, but every team's different and every sport's different".

MF: "Do you think it's a changing business though? That's really my point. Do you see now, 'cause I think it might be. I can't really tell, do you think the ticket business is becoming a changing business for teams right now?"

Hal: "Well I think one thing to consider is are season tickets becoming less and less because of other ways to purchase tickets? I don't know any more than you do, but I can tell you we still have a very strong season ticket base and we're very proud of that. So time will tell, but we just want to be sure that our season ticket holders have a place to resell their tickets that's a safe place." (Perhaps consider the ridiculously high price of tickets and a rough economy and high unemployment.)

MF: "Does the YES deal change the Yankees relationship TV-wise at all Hal, or does it change your business plan at all or is it business as usual even though you are going to have a different relationship with YES than you've had in the past?"

Hal: "It's absolutely business as usual. We made it absolutely clear to Fox and they were absolutely great about this- that no deal is worth doing if we lost the control we needed as to how the broadcasts were run and basically anything having to do with the franchise and the organization itself, and they were great about that and they understand. So really we still control things that are important to us."

MF: "How do you feel about this new model that baseball is going to? Do you like the model they are putting in now, that they are.installing? Do you like what they've done with the luxury tax? There's clearly incentive and a lot of people feel it was built and designed to give the Yankees some incentive. Do you like the plan that was installed? (Never though he was actually going to let Hal answer.)

Hal: "Well it was well thought out, there's no doubt about it. I haven't really philosophically thought about that Mike, to be honest with you. I'm just...my fundamental reason, one of the reasons, for this goal is that I truly believe that 189 is a lot of money and with a good mix veterans and player development guys, you'll win championships and I firmly believe that. Time will tell if I am right or not.

MF: "Do you feel your team has made the steps in the farm system to be able to replenish, and really a key to that is coming up with power arms 'cause that's what costs so much money for the most part. With that being the case do you feel that you guys have made inroads that you need to make to replenish your system that way?"

Hal: "Well I think our pitching's been good. Phelps was a pleasant surprise last year. Nova, and uh we've got a couple of other guys. Betances, we'll see what kind of year he has. And we did trade away Austin Jackson, we traded away Jesus Montero, so a couple of good position players that aren't there for us. But I think the next couple of years for position players is going to be tricky. We're going to have to navigate through that. But, I've been pretty pleased with the young pitching.

MF: "You know this is a year for the first time Hal, in many years...maybe going back to say, might be '94. I mean maybe there was a year here and there where the Red Sox were slight favorites...this is the first time the Yankees probably haven't been favored leaving spring in a very, very long time. What is the level of your optimism with this team right now?"

Hal: "I'm always optimistic, that's just me, and you can't pay attention to rankings. You just can't do that. It's a marathon of a season, you know that better anybody, and there's injuries and six months to get through. So, I'm confident that we've got a good group of veterans that's been through the fire before, and they're going to produce."

The Captain and Cash Visit With Francesa

Mike Francesa opened his WFAN radio show on Thursday with the Captain himself, Derek Jeter, and then brought on GM Brian Cashman to discuss the upcoming season.

Jeter maintains he will be ready for opening day, hedging just a little in saying he will need to get enough at-bats. Among the things Jeter discussed were:

1. He knew his ankle was broken in the ALCS the instant it happened. He was afraid to look at it though in case it was pointing in the wrong direction.

2. He likes the makeup of the current Yankees. It reminds him of the early teams he was on when the Yankees didn't need to rely so much on home runs to win games. Jeter further stated he prefers to play the type of baseball the Yankees will need to now play with so many home run bats missing from last year's lineup.

You can more of the interview at the YES Network.

Among the things that we learned from Cashman were:

1. The catching job will be held down by Francisco Cervelli and Chris Stewart. Why? Because they are out of options. Cashman didn't feel Austin Romine had any shot at the job when queried by Francesa. Since he has options and basically no Major League experience, Romine needs to start the season in Triple-A.

2. Cash was really hoping Russell Martin would return, but things couldn't be worked out. Francesa asked if there was any miscommunication between the Yankees and Martin, but Cash said there was none.

3. You can tell Cash does not love the WBC, but he has become accustomed to it and shrugged it off.

4. Cash expects Curtis Granderson back the first week of May. Until them the team will "evaluate what we have" and they will also check the waiver wires. Right now there is no player ahead of the others to win the left field job.

5. Francesa asked, "Is Nunez your insurance policy at shortstop?" - Cash said Nunez or (Jayson) Nix and said that the team may only carry one of them. Francesa also asked if Eduardo Nunez had the chance to be the right-handed DH. Cash said he wanted something more, which I would interrupt as someone with the more pop/power in his bat.

You can hear more of the interview at the YES Network website.

Thursday games wrap up

The wins and losses don't matter during Spring Training, but the efforts do. Though the Yankees lost both games on Thursday (against the Astros and Blue Jays), there were some high notes.

David Phelps tossed three scoreless innings in 1-0 loss to Toronto. He allowed a couple of hits, walked a batter and struck one out.  Reliever David Aardsma tossed a scoreless inning and Juan Rivera was 2-2.

The Yankees lost to the Astros 7-6 after they had built a 5-1 lead. All fives runs came in the 6th inning when Melky Mesa belted a 3-run home run. Mesa, who's full first name is Melquisedec, has been mentioned as a possible fill-in in left field until Curtis Granderson returns. Mesa only hit .230 in 33 games after an in-season promotion to Scranton last year, but had 9 HR and 21 RBI.  Zoilo Almonte continued to impress with a pair of hits and an RBI.

Not such a great start for Dellin Betances, who showed the control trouble he struggled with last year. In one inning against the Astros Betances walked two and struck out two. Betances averaged 8.3 walks per nine innings at Triple-A last year, which led to a demotion to Trenton. He was a little better there with an average of 4.8 walks per nine innings.

Chris Stewart did something you don't see too often in Spring Training. He was ejected for arguing a call at first base.

Go to Mo

Mariano Rivera took the next step in his return by throwing an 18 pitch simulated game.

The Broken Record

Any who listens to Mike Francesa on WFAN-AM knows you get a mix of entertainment, information, absurdity, arrogance, knowledge, etc. all rolled into one (no, that's not a weight joke). You also get repetitiveness and repetitiveness and ..you get the idea.

Yesterday afternoon I saw a blog post by the Journal News' Peter Abraham about Francesa discussing Joba to the bullpen...again. This was early in the afternoon. I got into the car close to 5:30 and guess what? He was still talking about harping on it.

And as is his usual style, he shot down differing view points or twisted them so that they really didn't fit the argument.

Case in point- a caller who mentioned that the Yankees should show some patience and let Joba establish himself as a starter. Francesa quickly went into a whole diatribe, something to the effect of, "Haven't you learned by now that the Yankees don't develop young pitchers? This is New York, not some last place team where you can pitch for 5 years and stink".

What does that have to do with leaving Joba in as a starter? Another caller mentioned that despite his struggles this season (we are in total agreement with that), Joba still has a sub-4.00 ERA.

Francesa deflected it by saying (again paraphrasing), "You just agreed that Joba will not have much of an impact as the #5 starter".

So what you are saying Mike, is that if Joba won't have an impact a starter in the playoffs, he shouldn't be a starter in the regular season? Sheer nonsense.

It is much easier to replace bullpen components than it is to get a good young starter. In addition to his ERA, Joba's 9.13 strikeouts per 9 innings is outstanding. Sure, you can use him in the pen come playoff time, if indeed the Yankees get there, but for now he should be taking the ball every 5th game.

And Mike Francesa should stop beating a dead horse already.

Posada Defends Torre

Jorge Posada joked that it would take "3 years" to get through Joe Torre's book, but he insisted that Torre did nothing wrong in writing "The Yankee Years". The Daily News' Anthony McCarron and Peter Botte spoke to Posada, who is rehabbing from shoulder surgery in Tampa.

One thing Posada was quick to correct was the use of the word, "A-Fraud", to describe Alex Rodriguez.

And, Posada said, the infamous "A-Fraud" moniker for Alex Rodriguez was nothing more than a clubhouse joke uttered solely by former bullpen catcher Mike Borzello - now with Torre in Los Angeles - in front of Rodriguez himself. Rodriguez, Posada said, would be among those chuckling while Borzello tweaked him.

"There was not one player on those teams that said those words," Posada said. "Never. If we heard it, it was just (Borzello) messing with Alex and Alex would be right there and he'd be laughing about it. It was never out of disrespect at all. . . . It was never said behind his back by any teammate."

Posada hasn't read the book yet, but plans to pick it up. So far his reactions have been based on the excerpts released, and the media's reaction to the book.

"Joe's done nothing wrong, in my eyes. He's been a father figure to me, so I don't think he can do any wrong."

Torre was on with Mike Francesa this afternoon and repeated much of what we've already heard in prior interviews and comments. It's clear that some things written were Tom Verducci without consulting Torre, but Torre defended his friend and co-author, and stands by the book. You can listen to the complete interview on the WFAN website.

The Daily Yankeeland - 11/20

Plenty of praise and a few shots coming in today for Mike Mussina after word came out yesterday he would be calling it a career. Here's some of what's being said by the area writers:

Pete Abraham

Mike Lupica

Joel Sherman

George King

Mark Feinsand

Tyler Kepner


Moose held a press conference today in which he apologized to reporters for misleading them. He had intended 2008 to be his last season from the first day of Spring Training.

Nick Swisher was on with Mike Francesa the other day. He's quite a character. You can take a listen for yourself on WFAN's website.

Joe Girardi and Michael Kay were among the honorees at Tuesday night's "Remember When, Remember Now" fundraiser for Alzheimer's Disease. Girardi's dad suffers from the hideous disease. MLB.com's Bryan Hoch had a chance to talk to the manager about the 2009 season.

Phil Coke was named to the Topp's Double-A All Star team. Do you get free baseball cards?

The Daily Yankeeland - 11/20

Plenty of praise and a few shots coming in today for Mike Mussina after word came out yesterday he would be calling it a career. Here's some of what's being said by the area writers:

Pete Abraham

Mike Lupica

Joel Sherman

George King

Mark Feinsand

Tyler Kepner


Moose held a press conference today in which he apologized to reporters for misleading them. He had intended 2008 to be his last season from the first day of Spring Training.

Nick Swisher was on with Mike Francesa the other day. He's quite a character. You can take a listen for yourself on WFAN's website.

Joe Girardi and Michael Kay were among the honorees at Tuesday night's "Remember When, Remember Now" fundraiser for Alzheimer's Disease. Girardi's dad suffers from the hideous disease. MLB.com's Bryan Hoch had a chance to talk to the manager about the 2009 season.

Phil Coke was named to the Topp's Double-A All Star team. Do you get free baseball cards?

The Daily Yankeeland - 10/8

It's been a few days, but we were under the weather and then had to catch up on our day job. The league championship series are set, Mariano Rivera had his surgery, and the winter leagues are underway.

First and foremost, Mariano Rivera is doing well after Tuesday's surgery to remove bone spurs from his right shoulder. He should be able to start throwing in January.

Jon Heyman was on with Mike Francesca the other day. Among the topics of discussion was Joe Girardi's difficulties with the media. Peter Abraham also points out that Tony Pena was marginalized, because Girardi liked to lean on "his coaches" (Meacham, Harkey, etc.).

Another strange twist in the Yankees closing ceremony plans- there won't be any. The Yankees have decided that the finale on September 21 was a fitting end. Which means that the Giants, boxing, etc., will not be acknowledged.

Ross Newhan of the LA Times wrote a nice piece on Don Mattingly's contribution to the Dodgers' success.

Harvey Araton of the NY Times says Joe Torre bleeds Dodgers blue, but has a Pinstripe undershirt.

Derek Jeter's spikes and bat are among new items featured in the baseball Hall of Fame.

The Daily Yankeeland - 10/8

It's been a few days, but we were under the weather and then had to catch up on our day job. The league championship series are set, Mariano Rivera had his surgery, and the winter leagues are underway.

First and foremost, Mariano Rivera is doing well after Tuesday's surgery to remove bone spurs from his right shoulder. He should be able to start throwing in January.

Jon Heyman was on with Mike Francesca the other day. Among the topics of discussion was Joe Girardi's difficulties with the media. Peter Abraham also points out that Tony Pena was marginalized, because Girardi liked to lean on "his coaches" (Meacham, Harkey, etc.).

Another strange twist in the Yankees closing ceremony plans- there won't be any. The Yankees have decided that the finale on September 21 was a fitting end. Which means that the Giants, boxing, etc., will not be acknowledged.

Ross Newhan of the LA Times wrote a nice piece on Don Mattingly's contribution to the Dodgers' success.

Harvey Araton of the NY Times says Joe Torre bleeds Dodgers blue, but has a Pinstripe undershirt.

Derek Jeter's spikes and bat are among new items featured in the baseball Hall of Fame.

You can't be Sirius?

Mad Dog is officially on board at Sirius radio. The announcement came down this morning. "Siriusly", what are these people thinking? Mad Dog Radio? An entire station? Sirius stock should start plummeting (farther) soon.

You can't be Sirius?

Mad Dog is officially on board at Sirius radio. The announcement came down this morning. "Siriusly", what are these people thinking? Mad Dog Radio? An entire station? Sirius stock should start plummeting (farther) soon.

Francesa on the Move Too

No, Mike Francesa is not bailing on WFAN like his tongue-tied partner. But according to the Daily News' Bob Raissman, Francesa's show will be leaving the YES Network when the current contract expires. According to Raissman, Francesa already has a deal in place with MSG to switch the show over there.

The MSG Network took a huge hit with the loss of the Yankees, and though this clearly won't make up for it, it adds some better attention to MSG than Isaiah Thomas' missteps, and some additional revenue.

Raissman is also reporting that Chris Russo's deal with Sirius Satellite radio should be announced shortly. Russo hasn't been forthcoming with his plans, but he's been seen quite often at Sirius HQ.

Now the question is what will YES do with the time vacated by MMD? Since YES is already practically the Michael Kay network, they could simulcast his ESPN radio show, which runs from 3-7 P.M. EDT. That would still leave a gap from 1-3, which they could fill with yet another Yankees-Royals instant classic (sarcasm). They wouldn't be able to air Kay's entire show during the Yankees season since the pre-game show generally begins at 6 P.M..

It would also be hard to imagine that ESPN would allow one of its shows to be simulcast on another television network. YES hasn't been innovative in years so it will be interesting to see what transpires.

Francesa on the Move Too

No, Mike Francesa is not bailing on WFAN like his tongue-tied partner. But according to the Daily News' Bob Raissman, Francesa's show will be leaving the YES Network when the current contract expires. According to Raissman, Francesa already has a deal in place with MSG to switch the show over there.

The MSG Network took a huge hit with the loss of the Yankees, and though this clearly won't make up for it, it adds some better attention to MSG than Isaiah Thomas' missteps, and some additional revenue.

Raissman is also reporting that Chris Russo's deal with Sirius Satellite radio should be announced shortly. Russo hasn't been forthcoming with his plans, but he's been seen quite often at Sirius HQ.

Now the question is what will YES do with the time vacated by MMD? Since YES is already practically the Michael Kay network, they could simulcast his ESPN radio show, which runs from 3-7 P.M. EDT. That would still leave a gap from 1-3, which they could fill with yet another Yankees-Royals instant classic (sarcasm). They wouldn't be able to air Kay's entire show during the Yankees season since the pre-game show generally begins at 6 P.M..

It would also be hard to imagine that ESPN would allow one of its shows to be simulcast on another television network. YES hasn't been innovative in years so it will be interesting to see what transpires.

Breaking News: Mike and the Mad Dog are no More

It's been speculated upon since the spring and now it is confirmed, the Mike and the Mad Dog Show on WFAN is no more. Operations director Mark Chernoff announced this evening that Christopher Russo, aka the Mad Dog, would be leaving the station to pursue other interests.

"Mike and Chris pioneered the genre more than 18 years ago and have shaped the sports talk format into what it is today," Mark Chernoff said in a statement.

"As we embark on this next step in WFAN's history, we wish Chris nothing but the best and look forward to all that Mike will do in a role in which he has excelled at for years.''

Though there is no official word as of yet, speculation is that Russo is headed towards Sirius Satellite radio. The station also announced a new contract for Francesa, whose deal was expiring.


Source: Newsday

Breaking News: Mike and the Mad Dog are no More

It's been speculated upon since the spring and now it is confirmed, the Mike and the Mad Dog Show on WFAN is no more. Operations director Mark Chernoff announced this evening that Christopher Russo, aka the Mad Dog, would be leaving the station to pursue other interests.

"Mike and Chris pioneered the genre more than 18 years ago and have shaped the sports talk format into what it is today," Mark Chernoff said in a statement.

"As we embark on this next step in WFAN's history, we wish Chris nothing but the best and look forward to all that Mike will do in a role in which he has excelled at for years.''

Though there is no official word as of yet, speculation is that Russo is headed towards Sirius Satellite radio. The station also announced a new contract for Francesa, whose deal was expiring.


Source: Newsday

Mushnick Jabs Sterling

A lot of what Phil Mushnick says can be taken with a grain of salt, but he's usually on the money when it comes to criticizing the likes of John Sterling, Mike Francesca, and Chris Russo. Today's column took a shot at both, particularly at Sterling, though it had nothing to do with sticking his finger's in Wednesday's dessert.

THAT we should never expect better from John Sterling doesn't make it any easier. To be stuck in a car, forced to listen to the 20-year Voice of the New York Yankees describe a game, is to be the victim of a crime against baseball, broadcasting and the public trust.

Mushnick's remark concern a bang bang play at the plate in Monday's Yankees-Twins games. Bobby Abreu's throw home to Jose Molina easily arrived ahead of the runner, Brendan Harris, but moments later home plate ump Mike Everitt was signaling safe. Molina was livid, but replays showed that, in all likelihood, Molina missed the tag. That didn't stop the man Bob Raismann calls "Pa Yankee" from ripping Everitt and his brethren.

After all, Sterling said, once upon a time had Bobby Abreu charged that hit, fielded it cleanly, thrown a fastball strike to catcher Jose Molina, who then merely had to await the arrival of Harris before he tagged him out, Harris would have been called out.

There's nothing more annoying then the "the ball beat him" call in baseball. So maybe, just maybe, in this case the ump got it right. Suzyn Waldman, who is awful in her role as color commentator (partially due to the fact that Sterling never lets her speak), even pointed it out.

But stuck in a car with John Sterling, voice of the most famous team in sports, Harris was out by a mile. Mile, after mile, after mile, season after season, to be stuck in a car with Sterling is to be stuck like no other baseball fans, anywhere.

Mushnick also took a shot at the arrogant one, Francesa, for basically plagiarizing a Mike Vacarro column for his commentary on Johan Santana. Radio listeners have to realize that if Mike and the Mad Dog do go kaput, it's a good thing.

Mushnick Jabs Sterling

A lot of what Phil Mushnick says can be taken with a grain of salt, but he's usually on the money when it comes to criticizing the likes of John Sterling, Mike Francesca, and Chris Russo. Today's column took a shot at both, particularly at Sterling, though it had nothing to do with sticking his finger's in Wednesday's dessert.

THAT we should never expect better from John Sterling doesn't make it any easier. To be stuck in a car, forced to listen to the 20-year Voice of the New York Yankees describe a game, is to be the victim of a crime against baseball, broadcasting and the public trust.

Mushnick's remark concern a bang bang play at the plate in Monday's Yankees-Twins games. Bobby Abreu's throw home to Jose Molina easily arrived ahead of the runner, Brendan Harris, but moments later home plate ump Mike Everitt was signaling safe. Molina was livid, but replays showed that, in all likelihood, Molina missed the tag. That didn't stop the man Bob Raismann calls "Pa Yankee" from ripping Everitt and his brethren.

After all, Sterling said, once upon a time had Bobby Abreu charged that hit, fielded it cleanly, thrown a fastball strike to catcher Jose Molina, who then merely had to await the arrival of Harris before he tagged him out, Harris would have been called out.

There's nothing more annoying then the "the ball beat him" call in baseball. So maybe, just maybe, in this case the ump got it right. Suzyn Waldman, who is awful in her role as color commentator (partially due to the fact that Sterling never lets her speak), even pointed it out.

But stuck in a car with John Sterling, voice of the most famous team in sports, Harris was out by a mile. Mile, after mile, after mile, season after season, to be stuck in a car with Sterling is to be stuck like no other baseball fans, anywhere.

Mushnick also took a shot at the arrogant one, Francesa, for basically plagiarizing a Mike Vacarro column for his commentary on Johan Santana. Radio listeners have to realize that if Mike and the Mad Dog do go kaput, it's a good thing.

Joba and Other Stuff

Let the pundits go at it again. The Yankees made it official last night, Joba Chamberlain is now in the transition phase of becoming a starting pitcher once again. What this means is that Mike Francesca will make your ears bleed for 5 hours today talking about what a mistake it is. Steve Phillips will go on the Michael Kay radio show and disperse his usual incorrect information. And the newspapers (Joel Sherman, Bill Madden, will go on about it for several days.

It's clear that this had to be done. Just how many 8th inning leads has there been to protect this year? The team is barely treading water and just because they've recovered the past couple of years to make the playoffs, doesn't mean it will happen this year. And if they do and make another quick first round exit will it even be beneficial to be a playoff team? With Phil Hughes struggling and injured, with Ian Kennedy unable to retire t-ball hitters, and Andy Pettitte and Mike Mussina getting old and creaky, it was a move that had to be done.

Much to everyone's surprise Joe Girardi revealed that Joba will NOT be sent to the minors at all in the attempt to stretch out his arm and assist in the transition. Conceivably, Joba could become the long man in the pen until he's ready for more innings.

In more nonsensical news, the NY Post has a blurb stating that Derek Jeter's latest catch is Friday Night Lights star Minka Kelly.

Don't have a cow man. Both of the scheduled starters, Chien-Ming Wang and Felix Hernandez, for Saturday's Yankees-Mariners game are iffy with mild calf strains.

The Yankees will be ending their 11 year sponsorship deal with Adidas at the end of the season. They've signed a new 5 year mega deal that with Nike that will kick off in '09.

As part of their coverage of Asian Heritage Month, NY1 has a feature on Johnny Damon's work in the Asian community. Damon's mom is of Thai heritage and the Yankees left fielder takes pride in his background. He hopes to serve as a role model and wants to encourage Asian youngsters to play baseball. That being said, this quote almost sounds like he's stereotyping his own culture.

“I can spread the word and people are seeing now that an Asian ballplayer can be in front of a mic and when he talks people listen,” says Damon. “Asians who look at me probably think I talk well in front of a camera and hopefully it just gives them the courage and the confidence to do it themselves.”

While we appreciate Damon's heritage and his pride, he's never come across as particularly articulate or bright. His quote kind of backs that up.

Joba and Other Stuff

Let the pundits go at it again. The Yankees made it official last night, Joba Chamberlain is now in the transition phase of becoming a starting pitcher once again. What this means is that Mike Francesca will make your ears bleed for 5 hours today talking about what a mistake it is. Steve Phillips will go on the Michael Kay radio show and disperse his usual incorrect information. And the newspapers (Joel Sherman, Bill Madden, will go on about it for several days.

It's clear that this had to be done. Just how many 8th inning leads has there been to protect this year? The team is barely treading water and just because they've recovered the past couple of years to make the playoffs, doesn't mean it will happen this year. And if they do and make another quick first round exit will it even be beneficial to be a playoff team? With Phil Hughes struggling and injured, with Ian Kennedy unable to retire t-ball hitters, and Andy Pettitte and Mike Mussina getting old and creaky, it was a move that had to be done.

Much to everyone's surprise Joe Girardi revealed that Joba will NOT be sent to the minors at all in the attempt to stretch out his arm and assist in the transition. Conceivably, Joba could become the long man in the pen until he's ready for more innings.

In more nonsensical news, the NY Post has a blurb stating that Derek Jeter's latest catch is Friday Night Lights star Minka Kelly.

Don't have a cow man. Both of the scheduled starters, Chien-Ming Wang and Felix Hernandez, for Saturday's Yankees-Mariners game are iffy with mild calf strains.

The Yankees will be ending their 11 year sponsorship deal with Adidas at the end of the season. They've signed a new 5 year mega deal that with Nike that will kick off in '09.

As part of their coverage of Asian Heritage Month, NY1 has a feature on Johnny Damon's work in the Asian community. Damon's mom is of Thai heritage and the Yankees left fielder takes pride in his background. He hopes to serve as a role model and wants to encourage Asian youngsters to play baseball. That being said, this quote almost sounds like he's stereotyping his own culture.

“I can spread the word and people are seeing now that an Asian ballplayer can be in front of a mic and when he talks people listen,” says Damon. “Asians who look at me probably think I talk well in front of a camera and hopefully it just gives them the courage and the confidence to do it themselves.”

While we appreciate Damon's heritage and his pride, he's never come across as particularly articulate or bright. His quote kind of backs that up.

Friday Hot Stove

Seems like the Twins' beat writers are creating more havoc this winter than those covering the Yankees. Yesterday it was Joe Christensen of the Minneapolis Star Tribune stating the Twins were willing to do a deal with the Mets for 5 prospects, but the Mets were unwilling to include Fernando Martinez.

Mike Francesa, a legend in his own mind, said he spoke to a Mets official, who stated that no talks between the two teams had not included Jose Reyes. The official also felt a deal would be done within 2 weeks, with whichever team it happens.

Obviously all the teams are balking at unloading a bunch of prospects and then giving Santana a huge contract.

The Texas Rangers are said to be close to signing free agent pitcher Jason Jennings to a multi-year deal. Imagine that, the Rangers getting pitching.

The Mariners brought back Chris Reitsma with a minor league deal, and former Yankee Josh Phelps inked a minor league contract with the Cardinals.

The Rays brains are getting together to figure out whether to give the 3rd Base job to Evan Longoria or start out the stud prospect at Triple-A. Hopefully the Rays make better decisions than they have in the past.

Akinori Otsuka is undergoing elbow surgery though it is not known if it is Tommy John surgery. Why did he wait so long?

Tim Wakefield can relax (actually Jason Varitek can relax), the Red Sox have brought back his personal catcher, Doug Mirabelli, with a 1 year deal.

The Mariners have joined the Marlins in showing interest in Luis Gonzalez, especially if the M's decide to deal Adam Jones.

Friday Hot Stove

Seems like the Twins' beat writers are creating more havoc this winter than those covering the Yankees. Yesterday it was Joe Christensen of the Minneapolis Star Tribune stating the Twins were willing to do a deal with the Mets for 5 prospects, but the Mets were unwilling to include Fernando Martinez.

Mike Francesa, a legend in his own mind, said he spoke to a Mets official, who stated that no talks between the two teams had not included Jose Reyes. The official also felt a deal would be done within 2 weeks, with whichever team it happens.

Obviously all the teams are balking at unloading a bunch of prospects and then giving Santana a huge contract.

The Texas Rangers are said to be close to signing free agent pitcher Jason Jennings to a multi-year deal. Imagine that, the Rangers getting pitching.

The Mariners brought back Chris Reitsma with a minor league deal, and former Yankee Josh Phelps inked a minor league contract with the Cardinals.

The Rays brains are getting together to figure out whether to give the 3rd Base job to Evan Longoria or start out the stud prospect at Triple-A. Hopefully the Rays make better decisions than they have in the past.

Akinori Otsuka is undergoing elbow surgery though it is not known if it is Tommy John surgery. Why did he wait so long?

Tim Wakefield can relax (actually Jason Varitek can relax), the Red Sox have brought back his personal catcher, Doug Mirabelli, with a 1 year deal.

The Mariners have joined the Marlins in showing interest in Luis Gonzalez, especially if the M's decide to deal Adam Jones.