Derek Jeter is Topps - Commemorate His Big Night

Derek Jeter's.induction into Monument Park on Sunday was the capper on his illustrious Yankees' career. Now, you can own a part of the evening.

Topps has issued special baseball cards to commemorate the night. But, you have to hurry to purchase the six-pack. They are only available from the Topps website until Thursday, May 18, 3:30 EDT.

Below are a couple of samples from the card pack:

Jeter Reveals Players' Tribune Site

Derek Jeter has a job! No having to apply for unemployment! The choice of job is a curious one though. The freshly retired Yankees' shortstop is the publisher of his own brand new website, The Players' Tribune.

It's a site for "unfiltered" talk between athletes and the fans (and the media?) from a player who was notorious for not giving the media many worthy sound bites. This is a snippet from Jeter's website welcome:

"I do think fans deserve more than “no comments” or “I don’t knows.” Those simple answers have always stemmed from a genuine concern that any statement, any opinion or detail, might be distorted. I have a unique perspective.

Many of you saw me after that final home game, when the enormity of the moment hit me. I’m not a robot. Neither are the other athletes who at times might seem unapproachable. We all have emotions. We just need to be sure our thoughts will come across the way we intend."

Some would disagree about the robot part and the timing is strange considering Major League Baseball is in the middle of the post-season. While not comparing apples to apples, Alex Rodriguez was vilified when he opted out of his contract with the Yankees during the 2007 World Series.

Quick tip from a longtime blogger - Make sure your site isn't out of alignment like it is right now on the closing paragraph. Centering an entire paragraph usually doesn't look good. ;)

The Players' Tribune intro closing

"Introducing The Players’ Tribune, a new media platform that will present the unfiltered voices of professional athletes, bringing fans closer to the games they love than ever before. Founded by Derek Jeter, The Players’ Tribune aims to provide unique insight into the daily sports conversation and to publish first-person stories directly from athletes. From video to podcasts to player polls and written pieces, The Tribune will strive to be “The Voice of the Game.”

The initial reaction of the fans is "huh?" while some in the mainstream media would like to figuratively, or literally, flip Jeter the bird. The site mentions there will be more of a real today, October 2. Stay tuned.

Derek Jeter's appearance on the Today Show

Giants OC Gilbride to Retire

After a season that wasn't as good as a mediocre 7-9 record would indicate, the New York Giants had to make changes. If Tom Coughlin was to remain head coaches, some of his lieutenants were going to have to go. Fox Sports' Mike Garafolo reported that Giants offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride is set to retire after seven seasons as the head offensive coach with the Giants.(Gilbride spent 2004-2006 as QB coach)

Though the team won two Super Bowls (XLII, XLVI) during Gilbride's tenure as the OC, he was often criticized by fans and the media for his play calling. It led to the less than flattering nickname "Killdrive" that played off his last name.

The 62-yr old is expected to make the announcement official Thursday evening, though this is clearly the case of retiring instead of firing. The Giants had a miserable season on the offensive side of the ball, much of it due to injuries on the offensive line and backfield, but there were also poor play calls, offensive schemes, and one of the worst seasons of Eli Manning's career. The two-time Super Bowl MVP threw a career high and league leading 27 interceptions and was also sacked 39 times, the most of his career.

Manning and head coach Tom Coughlin backed Gilbride and Manning called for his return, but the Giants needed to make a coaching change just as they need to make many on-field personnel moves.

Gilbride was an assistant coach in the NFL for seven season with the Houston Oiler and Jackson Jaguars, the latter of which was with Coughlin. He had one plus seasons as head coach of the San Diego Chargers and was fired six games into the 1998 season. Overall, Gilbride recorded a 6-16 record.

Prior to coming to the Giants, Gilbride was best known for getting punched in the head by then Oilers defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan during a game against the New York Jets in 1993.

 

Pettitte's Last Hurrah - Announces Retirement

I started writing this column as Andy Pettitte took the mound to face the Toronto Blue Jays on Tuesday. Little did I know that my feelings and thoughts on Pettitte possibly retiring after the season would come to fruition before the season even ended.

On the last Friday of the Summer, Pettitte decided to announce his retirement at season's end. He didn't want to encroach on Mariano Rivera's big day at Yankees Stadium on Sunday, when the Yankees will honor the greatest closer of all time. Pettitte decided to announce it at Rivera's urging and so that the fans would know before Game 162. (Pettitte already has a lot on his plate this week; he'll be deposed as part of the Brian McNamee's lawsuit against Roger Clemens.)

Here's Pettitte's statement released earlier Friday afternoon.

“I’m announcing my retirement prior to the conclusion of our season because I want all of our fans to know now — while I’m still wearing this uniform — how grateful I am for their support throughout my career. I want to have the opportunity to tip my cap to them during these remaining days and thank them for making my time here with the Yankees so special. 

“I’ve reached the point where I know that I’ve left everything I have out there on that field. The time is right. I’ve exhausted myself, mentally and physically, and that’s exactly how I want to leave this game. 

“One of the things I struggled with in making this announcement now was doing anything to take away from Mariano’s day on Sunday. It is his day. He means so much to me, and has meant so much to my career that I would just hate to somehow take the attention away from him.”

During his 3:30 PM press conference Friday afternoon Pettitte said he was mentally exhausted. That he was using up everything he had in the tank. Pettitte had intended to retire after the 2012 season, but changed his mind after a broken ankle forced him to miss most of the season.

As a fan I have two regrets regarding Andy Pettitte. One, that he left for Houston after the 2003 season and two, his use of HGH that will eliminate any chance of him earning a spot in the MLB Hall of Fame. Pettitte was asked about regrets during the presser and he brought up the HGH, but in an odd way. He felt bad that it got out and that any kid would think he tried to cheat the game, the fans, other players, etc. He never said he regretted using HGH and as much as I respect him, Pettitte is wrong not to say that he never cheated or tried to cheat anyone.  I do believe he used it to get back quicker, not to get an advantage, but that still is taking a short cut/cheating.

Pettitte leaves with five World Series rings, 255 career wins as of Friday (YES' Jack Curry mentioned on YES that Pettitte is one of just 26 pitchers to have a career record of at least 100 games over .500), three All-Star appearances and four top five Cy Young finishes. (I still believe that Pettitte, not Pat Hentgen, should have won the award in 1996 when he came in second place, six votes behind the Blue Jays pitcher.)

Here's what I had written Tuesday 9/17 and hadn't finished:

Before the Yankees sleep walked their way through a 2-0 loss to the last place Toronto Blue Jays, I pondered the very real notion that Andy Pettitte was making on of the last starts of his career. The 41-year old was the hard luck loser after he allowed a Colby Rasmus solo home run in the 4th inning. (Shawn Kelley surrendered a solo shot as well to Rajai Davis.)

Pettitte's season started strong then went through a big rough patch and finally straightened back out. Unfortunately, the Yankees bullpen blew a couple of games and Tuesday night he got no run support. His 10-10 record is completely misleading - in his last 48.2 innings, the tall Texan has allowed just 11 earned runs (2.03 ERA). Weather permitting, Pettitte is scheduled for two more starts, this Sunday at home against the San Francisco Giants (very apropos that it is Mariano Rivera Day since the Yankees closer has saved more games for Pettitte than anyone else.)

While much has deservedly been made about Rivera's final season, people don't know what to think about Pettitte since he's in his third tour of duty with the Yankees and sat out the 2011 season. My hunch is that this will be the end of the line for Pettitte. He recently said the mental preparation is tougher than physical readiness.

With home so far away and his kids growing up, I believe Pettitte will determine that full time Dad is his job for the foreseeable future.  The departure of Rivera, Derek Jeter's injury, Alex Rodriguez's pending suspension, Robinson Cano's free agency...it all has to play into Pettitte's thinking. The Yankees ability or inability to compete in 2014 could have a major impact on Pettitte's final decision.

Jorge: Hip Hip Mo

Jorge Posada caught Mariano Rivera longer than any other catcher in the Yankees organization. Here's what he had to say about his long-time teammate's retirement announcement.

“There is only one Mariano Rivera. There won’t be another person who will come along and do what he did. No one does it like him. It was an honor to catch him and play alongside him for as long as I did. He made my job as a catcher so much easier. Mariano is a special person and obviously a special player.

“I’m so happy he is going out on his terms. Now every time he steps into a ballpark this year, teams and fans can celebrate and appreciate what he has meant to this great game we play.”

Mo Throws, Puts Career Announcement on Hold

Mariano Rivera usually doesn't throw for a number of days after his arrival in Tampa for Spring Training. But the all-time saves leader never came to camp post ACL surgery that cost him nearly the entire 2012 season.

Rivera threw 25 pitches on Tuesday and was all smiles as he joked with teammates. He also told reporters on Wednesday that he has made his decision on the future, but will not reveal it publicly until "the time is right".

The greatest closer of all time turned 43 in November and is looking forward to the coming season.

Mariano Hints At Closing Out Career

I wrote the other day that I felt this would be Mariano Rivera's final season in the Major Leagues. At Yankees' camp today, Rivera pretty much put affirmed those feelings when he met with reporters.

"I know now," Rivera said when asked if this would be his final season. "I just don't want to tell you. I know now. I will let you guys know when I think I should tell you." Rivera added that he wanted to leave before his game went downhill.

"I don't want to be seen like that. It is important for me to leave the game on top if God allows me to do that, just finish on top, knowing I did what I was called to do."

No matter what type of season he has, Rivera said he will not change his mind. If he were to come back in 2013, he certainly wouldn't make a statement like that.

Thet time has come...the time to appreciate every Rivera appearance and hope he stands on the mound in November celebrating the Yankees 28th World Championship.

Jorge Rides Off Into The Sunset

Tuesday morning, Jorge Posada said goodbye to the New York Yankees organization. A "family" that he had been a part of for 17 years in the Major Leagues and 21 years since he was drafted in the 24th round of the 1990 amateur draft out of Colegio Alejandrino (Guaynabo, PR) High School.

After initially playing 2nd base, Posada was converted to catcher, a switch that may potentially land him in the Baseball Hall of Fame. That debate will be talked about over the next five years until Posada first appears on the Hall of Fame ballot and for years beyond. But what Posada meant to the Yankees wasn't just about his own personal statistics. It was his love for the game, his drive to win, and his leadership in the Yankees clubhouse that made him special to the fans and the organization.

All those sentiments were echoed at Yankee Stadium yesterday, when Posada, his wife Laura and children Jorge Jr. and Paulina met with members of the media to officially announce his retirement. Among those in attendance were former teammates and close friends Derek Jeter and Mariano Rivera, along with CC Sabathia, retired teammates (John Flaherty), former coaches (Willie Randolph), his last manager (Joe Girardi), and of course, members of the Steinbrenner family and Yankee Stadium front office and other employees. Posada thanked everyone in attendance, those who meant the most during his career, and most of all his family, calling wife Laura, "His rock".

He became very emotional, switching to his native Spanish, to talk about his parents, and was choked up discussing his relationship with Jeter, Rivera, and Andy Pettitte, all of whom grew up together in the Yankees' organization. He thanked the two Major League managers who watched over him in all but one season (1995 and Buck Showalter), Joe Girardi and Joe Torre, the latter to whom he referred to as a father figure. He reiterated that he only wanted to wear the Yankees pinstripes in his career and had told his agents not to bother pursuing any deals with other teams for the 2012 season.

He told reporters how he would quote Joe DiMaggio, "I want to thank the good Lord for making me a Yankee" each time he entered Yankee Stadium. He recalled some of his finest moments- catching David Wells' perfect game- and talked openly and honestly about the many bad nights as well. Those spent in the minors when he was making the transition to catcher and those nights in the Majors when he felt like a failure beyond the plate. But Posada swung a steady bat throughout his career and his catching improved, in large part thanks to work with Gary Tuck, as the years went by. (I'll skip talking about his poor base running.)

There were, of course, tributes to Posada, including a video montage of Yankees fans thanking Posada for his career contributions and his time in pinstripes. Diane Munson, widow of the Yankees last great catcher Thurman Munson, spoke glowingly of Posada and his family. She told those in attendance that it was "Jorge who got me back to baseball." When Thurman had died, Mrs. Munson had lost her passion for baseball, but after meeting and getting to know Posada, that passion had returned. She felt privileged to have "Loved two catchers" in her life. When the two had first met, Posada told of his admiration for Munson and showed her the quote ("Batting fourth and being in the lineup is important, but I think the stuff I do behind the plate is more important.") that he kept taped to the wall of his locker.

The Posadas have also done tremendous work with their foundation for children afflicted with Craneosinostosis and their families. Jorge Jr. has gone trough several surgeries due to the condition and if not for the work of the Jorge Posada Foundation many families might still feel alone and uninformed in their fight against the congenital disorder. One such family is Lisa Niederer and her husband, and their son Brett, who was diagnosed with Craneosinostosis when he was 2 1/2. That's about a year later than the disease should be diagnosed, Lisa pointed out. Lisa, with Brett at her side, spoke glowingly of the Posada Foundation and how it helped turn their lives around upon learning of its existence during the 2002 All-Star game. In fact, Lisa now mentors other families in her work with the foundation.

Posada's Yankee career began in the Major Leagues in 1995, as a pinch-runner no less. Posada spent the next few years being groomed to take over for Joe Girardi. Five World Series rings would be captured over his career, the last coming in 2009 when he played for Girardi, and was reunited with Andy Pettitte, who along with Mariano Rivera and Derek Jeter, was on all five title teams.

But 2011 was a challenge, by far the toughest season of Posada's career. (Not counting when he had to balance playing with Jorge Jr.'s surgeries.) He was told prior to Spring Training that he would not be catching at all during the upcoming season. He was to be the team's full-time DH, a role he was not accustomed to, and it showed. He struggled at the plate, lost at-bats to others and was eventually benched. For the most part he handled it professionally, especially since he knew he wasn't hitting. But on May 14, all that changed.

Posada arrived at the ballpark to find out he was not in that day's lineup despite the fact a right-hander was on the mound and Posada was getting all of his at-bats from the left side of the plate. He was unhappy and approached Girardi at 6 p.m. to ask out of the lineup. Posada's wife, Laura, took to social media to tell everyone that her husband had a stiff back. Things were then inflammed when GM Brian Cashman told the media that Posada had asked out of the lineup and no physical issue was mentioned.

Girardi publicly backed his player, telling the media that sometimes a player needs a break during stressful times. Posada, meanwhile, went along with his wife's explanation and told reporteres that his back had acted up on him. Not too many believed him. His struggles continued throughout the season, but when the Yankees needed him most, Posada came through. There was the game against the Angels in September when he was forced to go behind the plate for the first time all season. Howie Kendrick immediately tried to steal second base and was thrown out by the proud Posada. He also had several big hits down the stretch as the Yankees held off Tampa Bay to win the AL East. Posada finished off his career by batting .429 and posting a 1.150 OPS in a first round loss to the Detroit Tigers in the post-season. Posada had trouble talking to reporters after the deciding game five, and had to choke back tears. He knew his time with the Yankees and in baseball was likely over.

A new, undecided chapter now begins in Posada's life. He'll spend summers with his children for the first time. Perhaps some time in the future he'll want to coach or manage, and it would not be surprising to see him back as a Spring Training instructor down in Tampa. For now, he walks away on his own terms and no player can ask for more than that. For the rest of us, one final "Hip Hip Jorge" and may the Hall of Fame debate continue.

BD Hot Stove Breaking News: Pettitte To Call It Quits | Baseball Digest

BD Hot Stove Breaking News: Pettitte To Call It Quits | Baseball Digest

Michael Kay of the YES Network and 1050ESPN radio announced this morning that Andy Pettitte intends to officially retire tomorrow (Friday) after 16 seasons in the major leagues.

Since Pettitte’s return to New York prior to the 2007 season, he’s taken his time each off season to decide whether or not to return the following season. Since the 2010 season ended, Pettitte seemed to be heavily leaning towards calling it quits. Conversations with manager Joe Girardi and GM Brian Cashman gave every indication that the chances of Pettitte’s return for 2011 was less than 50%.

Pettitte finishes his career with a 240-138, 3.88 mark after playing in New York from 1995-2005, followed by three seasons in front of his hometown crowd in Houston, Texas, and a return to New York in 2007. His four years back in the Bronx included his 5th World Series ring in 2009.

Pettitte finishes with 203 wins as a Yankee, trailing only Whitey Ford (236) and Red Ruffing (231) in franchise history. His 1,823 strikeouts were 133 behind the franchise leader Ford. His overall numbers and post-season success make him a viable Hall of Fame candidate, but his admitted use of HGH will probably keep him from being seriously considered.

Pettitte’s retirement also means the Yankees only have three guaranteed spots in their rotation- CC Sabathia, Phil Hughes, and A.J. Burnett. The final two spots will be determined in spring training. Among the candidates are Ivan Nova, Bartolo Colon, Freddy Garcia, Sergio Mitre, any and all prospects, and whomever the Yankees can sign between now and opening day.

We wish you the best in retirement Andy Pettitte. You always carried yourself with class even when you proved you were human.

Breaking News: Lou Piniella Retiring Today

Lou Piniella had already announced he would be retiring after this season, but he's cut the season even shorter to be with his ailing 90-yr old mother.

My best wishes go out to Lou and his family in this tough time.

Not everyone likes or loves Sweet Lou (my Mrs. included), but he will always have a special place in my heart for his time as a Yankees player. One of a kind.

The Big Fugly Calls it a Career

Randy Johnson's time in New York wasn't a pleasant one for him or Yankees fans, but the "Big Unit" had a Hall of Fame career with stops in Montreal, Seattle, Houston, Arizona (twice), and San Francisco. Today, after 22 seasons, the left-hander called it a career.

Johnson, who should be a first ballot Hall of Fame entrant in 2014, finished his career with 303 wins and 4,875 strikeouts (tops among left-handers). Among Johnson's accomplishments was five Cy Young awards, 10 All-Star appearances, two no-hitters (one of which was a perfect game), a 20-strikeout game, and he was a three-time 20-game winner.

And despite his bad back, bad attitude, and really bad hair, he was a 2-time 17-game winner in the Bronx (2005-2006).

The End of An Era

photo courtesy of NY Daily News

It's been unofficial for a couple of years now. Yesterday it became official. Bob Sheppard, the "Voice of God" officially retired as the Yankees P.A. announcer.

It was just a matter of time. Mr. Sheppard, 99 years old, had never fully recovered from upper respiratory issues that sidelined him over the past two seasons. And though he never used the word retired in his official statement, Mr. Sheppard did say,

"But," he acknowledged yesterday, "I don’t intend at this moment to see myself back as a public address announcer at Yankee Stadium, feeling the way I do now."

Reached at his Baldwin home, Sheppard hedged, but only slightly, saying, "It wasn’t a resignation. It wasn’t quitting. It wasn’t throwing in the glove."

So he isn’t ruling out a future return? Sheppard laughed.

"Let me start from the bottom: I am now 99 years old," he said. "I don ’t think a man 99 years old goes back to work after two years of separation."

All of us Yankees fans have missed the impeccable speech, the succinct pronunciation of each name, and the low-key manner in which Mr. Sheppard delivered his announcements. Listening to an over the top presentation like the one delivered by Detroit Pistons' P.A. man John Mason makes you appreciate Mr. Sheppard even more.

We hope one day to hear the "Voice of God" echo throughout the new Yankee Stadium, but if not, we will always treasure the memories.

Jeff Kent to Hang it Up

Jeff Kent has decided to hang it up after 17 seasons in the bigs, the last four of which were spent with the Dodgers. The official announcement is expected to be Thursday at Dodger Stadium. Kent finishes his career with 377 home runs, 1,518 RBI and a .290 batting average.

The 5-time All-Star was the 2000 NL MVP while with the Giants, and also played for the Blue Jays, Mets, Indians, and Astros.

Though he doesn't have the fielding reputation of 9-time Gold Glove winner Ryne Sandberg, his offensive numbers dwarf that of the Cubs' Hall of Fame entrant, and could lead to enshrinement in Cooperstown one day.