NY Sports Day » Kansas City Royals

Yankees Wait For October To Start

Rich Mancuso — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 09:05:58 +0000

BRONX, NY – All that is left now for the New York Yankees is counting the days until October. There is also some unfinished business in the final regular season games of 2009 including the individual milestones and achievements that will put a cap on a successful regular season.

Pitcher A. J. Burnett attempted to get his the 100^th win of his career at Yankee Stadium Tuesday evening, but the Kansas City Royals with a two-run seventh inning, helped by a throwing error from reliever Phil Coke, put the Royals ahead. The Yankees would eventually win 4-3 on their 15^th walk off win of the season in the ninth.

The rookie, Juan Miranda this time was the hero. Miranda, who replaced first baseman Mark Teixiera in the eighth inning, lined a pitch off the leg of former Yankees relief pitcher Kyle Farnsworth that scored Eric Hinske with the winning run giving the Yankees their Major League leading 102^nd win and 50^th come from behind victory that also leads baseball.

Sunday, in the Bronx, the Yankees won their 16^th American League east title since divisional play began in 1969. The work started since spring training returning to the post season was accomplished, and the Yankees can relax a bit having secured the best record in Major League Baseball and home field advantage in the playoffs.

However manager Joe Girardi has made it known the remaining games are there to win, also keeping the regulars sharp for the upcoming post season next week Another seven game winning streak and more milestones make this ending significant. Still to come is a Friday evening start for CC Sabathia, who goes for his 20^th win of the season at Tampa Bay.

“Think you’re evaluating players and trying to keep them sharp and strong,” said Girardi in his post game comments. “But you are trying to win the game and we’ll continue to try and win series and games,” he said.

Still to be determined is who the Yankees will face in the first round of the American League Divisional series. It will be either Detroit or Minnesota who are still battling for first place in the Al central division. So the final games this week in the Bronx against the Royals, and down in Tampa Florida against the Rays, will be time for Girardi to also assess his roster plans and pitching rotation for the first round of October baseball.

Sabathia is slated to pitch game one of the ALDS, and then it could be Burnett or Andy Petttite in game two. Burnett has held opponents to two earned runs in his last three starts and may have pitched his way to be the number two starter striking out eight, walking three on three hits in 6 1/3 innings.

Explaining his recent success, this after struggling after the all-star break Burnett said “If I am going to pitch in the postseason I definitely have to go one pitch at a time. That’s just me. A little bit of the streakiness was due to mechanics but we looked at some videos and straightened out some kings,” Burnett also stated that most of his mechanic flaws may have been mental mistakes.

So Girardi will use his roster accordingly in the next few days. Some of the rookies will get playing time, including the newest hero Miranda who became the ninth different Yankee to record a walk off hit this season and the second rookie to do it, the other Francisco Cervelli at the stadium against Toronto earlier this month.

And as the Yankees play out the string and prepare for their quest of a 27^th world championship they also honor their players. Prior to the game Melky Cabrera got a ring for hitting a cycle, Mariano Rivera got the rubber from the mound at Citi Field for recording his 500^th career save and Derek Jeter received numerous items from the old stadium,.

Perhaps the only anticipation remaining besides the milestones is Burnett getting a chance to put a whipped crèam pie in the face of two important players who have yet to have a walk off hit for a win. Jeter and Teixeira are on guard.

“These are the two guys left on the list, Tex and Jeet,” said Burnett with a smile. And the Yankees hope to continue that smiling, so does Burnett when it gets more interesting in the Bronx next week.

In the game New York continued their drive to home run prominence. Mark Teixeira hit his 39^th home run in the bottom of the sixth that got the Yankees closer and Nick Swisher hit his 28^th in the bottom of the seventh that made it 3-2 Kansas City. The Yankees lead baseball with 239 home runs and are four shy of tying their franchise record of 242 set in the 2004 season

e-mail Rich Mancuso: Ring786@aol.com

Lazzari’s Sports Roundup – 8/11/09

Bob Lazzari — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 20:30:35 +0000

Paul Ferrante–a local baseball stadium historian–recently chimed in on the new Yankee Stadium: “Surely, it’s a shrine to the Yankees–but it’s also a shrine to EXCESS”……….TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1983 Kansas City Royals had three players on the team who stole more than 25 bases apiece. Can you name these three individuals? Answer to follow……….Newly-acquired N.Y. Mets outfielder Jeff Francoeur recently told the New York Post that his favorite actress is Charlize Theron. Two things: 1) This guy just became my favorite athlete in New York. 2) There is absolutely NOTHING wrong with his eyesight……….GM Charlie Dowd and the Connecticut Defenders continue to give fans a huge “bang for their buck.” Senior citizens can truly benefit from the many promotions at Dodd Stadium as there are three “Senior Citizen Wednesdays” remaining this season (8/12, 8/26, and 9/2). Fans 55 and older can purchase tickets for just $3 and are allowed to participate in “Seniors Stroll The Bases” following the game. More info can be obtained by visiting the Defenders’ website at www.ctdefenders.com ……….This week in sports history, August 10, 1980: The great Jack Nicklaus wins his fifth PGA Championship–shooting a final round 69 at the Oak Hill Country Club in Rochester, New York. It was the 19th major tournament win in the “Golden Bear’s” fabulous career and his 68th career victory overall. His four-round total of 274 was SEVEN shots better than runner-up Andy Bean–making for the largest margin of victory in the history of the tournament……….I still think my favorite Chris Berman nickname of all-time is the one given to former outfielder Bernard “Innocent Until Proven” Gilkey……….Newly-enshrined Hall of Famer Rickey Henderson was named after famed singer Ricky Nelson; the former player’s full name is Rickey Nelson Henley Henderson. Ah, that now seems to be very appropriate seeing that this “Travelin’ Man” played for a whopping NINE different teams over his long, storied career……….Speaking of well-traveled men, how ’bout Todd Donovan of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats (AA Eastern League)–who’s played for SEVEN different organizations (Padres, Dodgers, Indians, Orioles, Rangers, A’s and Blue Jays) over the past decade or so? If THIS guy doesn’t deserve a lucrative endorsement deal from American Tourister or Samsonite, then NO ONE does……….I had the pleasure of interviewing former MLB outfielder Carlos May on “Monday Night Sports Talk” recently–a man who lost his thumb back in 1969 while serving in the Marine Reserves. Luckily, May was able to adjust socially and proceeded to enjoy a fairly productive baseball career thereafter–both here and in Japan. However, it’s become very clear that many individuals who’ve served in Operation Iraqi/Enduring Freedom–including some athletes not as talented as Mr. May–are struggling mightily these days. Enter the VOIEF (Veterans of Operation Iraqi and Enduring Freedom), founded by Kurt Schwab–a fine organization that helps men/women who have fought for our country transition/cope after returning home. More info about donating to this terrific cause/organization can be obtained by visiting www.voief.org or by emailing Mr. Schwab at kschwab@voief.org ……….Great point made by Tim McCarver during last week’s Yankees/White Sox game on FOX–talking about pitching success: “Even at its highest level, baseball remains a simple game: STRIKE ONE”……….Answer to trivia question: WILLIE WILSON (59), UL WASHINGTON (40), and JOHN WATHAN (28)……….Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league first baseman George Canale–who blows out 44 candles on August 11th. Don’t remember this native of Memphis? You’re forgiven. Canale played just three years in the “bigs” with Milwaukee from 1989-’91–appearing in only 44 games–and he surely didn’t make Brewers fans forget about Cecil Cooper. In 73 career at-bats, Canale tallied just 12 hits–thus resulting in a lifetime batting average of just .164. I guess an optimist points out that four of Canale’s 12 lifetime hits were home runs–a terrific ratio–and that he also walked a dozen times during his short major league tenure. Best wishes, George……….Finally, condolences go out to the family of former major league relief pitcher Luis Quintana–who died recently in West Palm Beach, FL; it was determined that Quintana died of natural causes after being found in his car after it crashed. Quintana appeared in a total of 22 games in 1974 and ‘75 for the California Angels–going 2-3 with an ERA of 5.03. A native of Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, Quintana was originally signed by the S.F. Giants back in 1971 as an amateur free agent; he was 57 years old at the time of his death. May Luis Quintana rest in peace.

Lazzari’s Sports Roundup – 7/2/09

Joe McDonald — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 16:05:51 +0000

From the “Mouths of Babes” Dept.: A friend of mine wrote to me the other day, telling me about the rivalry between her husband and his brother; one’s a Yankee fan and the other a Red Sox fan. She went on to say that when her daughter was three years old, her husband told the young girl to tell her uncle that the Red Sox stink. The little girl proceeded to get on the phone and uttered the following: “Uncle Doug–you have stinky socks!” Priceless……….TRIVIA QUESTION: The 1990 Kansas City Royals’ team leader in wins was a pitcher who appeared mostly in relief. Can you name this hurler? Answer to follow……….This just in: New York Mets SS Jose Reyes is now suffering from a nasty hangnail; he will reportedly see a finger specialist this week–who will most likely recommend extended rest along with a 3-4 week rehabilitation period. His return date is still unclear as of this time……….Being the optimist that I am, I’ve been trying to think of SOMETHING positive that can come from the ridiculous sentence (30 days) given to WR Donte’ Stallworth after his guilty plea to DUI manslaughter charges. I can only come up with this: From this day forward, whenever yours truly makes an AWFUL decision, I’ll think of the judge’s pathetic actions in this tragic case–and my own terrible decision won’t seem too bad after all……….This week in sports history, June 29, 1956: Charley Dumas, a freshman at Compton Junior College in California, breaks a major track and field barrier–high-jumping 7 feet, 1/2 inch during the Olympic trials held at the Los Angeles Coliseum. With 50,000 fans looking on in disbelief, Dumas cleared the height rather easily after having missed badly on his first try. Dumas’ previous best jump was 6-10 1/4–a mark he reached back in 1955 during the Amateur Athletic Union meet held at the same L.A. Coliseum……….Regarding all this recent precipitation and the horrendous spring we experienced here in Connecticut: With all the exorbitant taxes we pay in this section of the country, shouldn’t the ‘powers that be’ have enough money left over to put a dome around the entire REGION of New England?……….Just thinking: If LPGA golfer Meena Lee married former big league pitcher Bryan Harvey–divorced–then married former BYU lineman David Oswald, would she REALLY want to be known by her full married name of Meena Lee Harvey Oswald?……….I saw a picture the other day of lovely actress Michelle Pfeiffer arriving at a screening of her new film “Cheri” in midtown Manhattan. Let’s just say that if pitcher Randy Johnson had aged as well as Ms. Pfeiffer has after the age of 40, he would have recently celebrated win #400 instead of 300……….Answer to trivia question: STEVE FARR–who won 13 games while appearing in 57 games for John Wathan’s sixth-place club……….Column reader Dr. David Kramer of California reminds me of one of the all-time great sports quotes–made by Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach John McKay back in the 70’s. When asked about what he thought of his winless team’s execution he said, “I’m in favor of it”……….Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league catcher John Boccabella–who blows out 68 candles on June 29th. A native of San Francisco who attended Santa Clara, “Boc” spent 12 seasons in the “bigs” between 1963 and 1974–appearing in 551 games as a member of the Cubs, Expos, and Giants. Boccabella was a MUCH better receiver than he was a hitter; during five of his big league seasons, Boccabella failed to hit .190 or better and finished his career with a lifetime batting average of just .219. However, Boccabella did have the pleasure of catching such fine pitchers as Fergie Jenkins, Ken Holtzman, Steve Rogers, and Bill Stoneman during his dozen years in baseball. Best wishes for many more birthdays to come, John……….Finally, condolences go out to the family of former major league player Woodie Held–who died recently in Wyoming following a long battle with cancer. Held played with seven different American League teams between 1954 and 1969 and was a member of the 1966 World Series champion Baltimore Orioles. Woodie Held was an extremely versatile player–having played all three outfield positions as well as second, third, and shortstop over the course of his 14-year career. His best season came in 1959 as a member of the Cleveland Indians–a year in which he hit 29 homers and drove in 71 runs while appearing in 143 games. Held was acquired by Cleveland on June 15, 1958, from the Kansas City Athletics in a multi-player trade for future home run king Roger Maris; may Woodie Held rest in peace.

Lazzari’s Sports Roundup – 6/20/09

Bob Lazzari — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 12:31:12 +0000

While attending an Eastern League AA baseball game in Norwich last week, I was treated to CT Defenders mascot “Cutter” boogying to Aerosmith’s “Walk This Way” between innings on the home team’s dugout; PRICELESS. Yes, while this entertaining figure may not be the Phillie Phanatic (then again–who IS?), this individual truly gives the fans in Norwich their money’s worth at each and every home game……TRIVIA QUESTION: In 1978, the Cleveland Indians had two starting pitchers with the same first name who pitched more than 200 innings apiece. Can you name these hurlers? Answer to follow…….Just thinking: In the case of yours truly, you KNOW you’re getting old when you can blame some of the ongoing, nagging morning stiffness and soreness on old athletic injuries that were incurred when GERALD FORD was our president…….This just in: Brett Favre, in the mood for water-based activities the other day, wanted to go swimming–but decided to go fishing instead. After further thought, he opted for snorkeling, but changed his mind when he found out the water was murky. After continued pondering, he decided to go water skiing–but thought better of it because he didn’t have the right equipment. Finally, after thinking some more, he scrapped all the ideas and decided to stay home…….This week in sports history, June 22, 1947: Cincinnati Reds pitcher Ewell Blackwell comes within two outs of pitching consecutive no-hitters–but has to settle for a two-hit shutout as his team beats the Brooklyn Dodgers 4-0 in the first game of a doubleheader at Crosley Field. Trying to equal Johnny Vander Meer’s amazing feat of 1938, Blackwell lost his no-hit bid with one out in the ninth inning when Eddie Stanky singled up the middle; Jackie Robinson would hit another single later that inning. Four days earlier, Blackwell had held the Boston Braves hitless during a 6-0 Reds victory that was also played in Cincinnati…….I’m truly convinced that the N.Y. Yankees’ walk-off win last week vs. the Mets, due to Luis Castillo’s dropped pop-up, should go down in history as a gift larger than the one the people of France gave to the U.S. well over a century ago–a lady that still stands on Ellis Island……A message to the “suits” at NESN (New England Sports Network): If you’re ever worried about viewers changing the channel when the Red Sox are on the short side of a blowout game, just keep a split shot of sideline reporter Heidi Watney on the TV screen for the remainder of the telecast. I GUARANTEE that the average guy watching goes NOWHERE after that…….The most surprising/disturbing thing about the aforementioned Luis Castillo dropped pop-up fiasco last week? The credit/attention given to Mark Teixeira for simply doing his JOB and running out the play. Sheesh–are we now THAT far removed from fundamentals and have to actually applaud millionaires for playing baseball the way it was MEANT to be played?…….Speaking of the CT Defenders–who’ve been the subject of relocation rumors lately–I asked GM Charlie Dowd the other day about the status of the franchise right now: “If we get good weather this summer, we should do well attendance-wise,” Dowd told me. “And as long as our front office staff works hard and we put out an exciting team, we’ll be fine.”…….Answer to trivia question: RICK WAITS (230.1 IP) and RICK WISE (211.2 IP)…….Happy birthday wishes go out to former major league infielder Marty Barrett–who blows out 51 candles on June 23rd. In a career that spanned from 1982-1991, Barrett spent nine of his ten seasons as a member of the Red Sox before finishing his career with the San Diego Padres. A second baseman, Barrett led the AL in sacrifice hits three consecutive years from 1986-’88; he was a lifetime .278 hitter. Marty was also the MVP of the 1986 ALCS when he hit .367 vs. California; he went on to hit a sizzling .433 in the World Series vs. the Mets that year. A native of California, Barrett had the reputation of being a VERY difficult guy to strike out–always finishing near the top of the league in that category. Best wishes, Marty…….Finally, condolences go out to the family of former major league infielder Jack “Lucky” Lohrke–who died recently at the age of 85 in San Jose after suffering a stroke. Lohrke played seven seasons for the Giants and Phillies between 1947 and 1953; he also appeared in two World Series games for the Giants in 1951 vs. the Yankees. Lohrke will forever be remembered for his ability to cheat death AWAY from the baseball diamond. He fought in the D-Day invasion of Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge; on various occasions, soldiers on both sides of him were killed in combat while he emerged unscathed. He was also bumped off bus and plane rides on two different occasions during the 40’s where ‘would-be’ fellow passengers would later die in tragic accidents. Yes, by the time Jack Lohrke was even 25 years old, he appeared to have escaped death at least six times. May “Lucky” Lohrke rest in peace.

Yankees Have Hughes Problem

Russ Rose — Sat, 02 May 2009 19:47:02 +0000

It seems like only yesterday that Phil Hughes, along with fellow right-hander Ian Kennedy were projected as can’t miss prospects by both baseball experts and those within the Yankees organization. They were so revered that Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman refused to put them into any deal, including a swap that would have brought two-time Cy Young Award winner Johan Santana from the Minnesota Twins to the Bronx in 2008.

Hughes, specifically, was viewed as an immediate starter for the Yankees. Making the Opening Day roster in 2007 Hughes made his first start on April 26 against the Toronto Blue Jays. Hughes lasted just 4.1 innings, giving up 4 runs on 7 hits, absorbing the loss. Making his second start against the Texas Rangers on May 1 Hughes flashed the brilliance seen by others assessing his talent. He was throwing a no-hitter until, with one out in the sixth inning; Hughes injured his left hamstring while throwing a 0-2 curveball to Ranger first baseman Mark Teixeira. Hughes would miss the next three months rehabbing his injured leg.

Hughes returned to the Yankees on August 4, making his next start against the Kansas City Royals. He went 4.2 innings, earning a no-decision.

2007 also marked the first time Hughes pitched in the post season. Once again, Hughes took advantage of the spotlight. In Game 1 of the American League Divisional Series Hughes faced the Cleveland Indians, entering the game in relief of starter Roger Clemens. Hughes sparked as he shut down the Indians in 3.2 innings of work to earn the victory. It was the only win the Yankees would produce against the Tribe.

Another bit of trivia, Hughes was the youngest player (21) on the roster and he replaced the oldest player (45) in Clemens who left the game with a hamstring injury of his own.

During the winter Hughes was sought after by many teams, with the most notable being the Twins. The Twins as a small market club needed to unload their premier pitcher, Santana, because they knew he was going to fetch a huge contract that the Twins could ill afford to meet. The Yankees contacted the Twins about Santana, but they wanted Hughes and center fielder Melky Cabrera in return. The Yankees ultimately said NO!

Hughes and Cabrera stayed and Santana signed with the New York Mets.

All-in-all, things were looking up for the young righty. Hughes and Kennedy both made the starting rotation to start the 2008 season. Hughes, who wore the number 65 in 2007, switched his number to 34 for the 2008 campaign. It was the number he wore in high school and at the 2006 All-Star Futures Game.

Coming out of Spring Training everything appeared to be on track for Hughes. He did well in his first start of the season where he went 6.0 innings against the Toronto Blue Jays on April 3. Hughes earned a no-decision, as the Yankees nipped the Jays 3-2. In the game Hughes struck out four, walked one and gave up two earned runs.

After that Hughes season unraveled in a hurry. In his next 5 starts Hughes’ record dropped to 0-4. He averaged 3.06 innings of work, and his ERA ballooned to 9.00. To add to Hughes’ woes he landed on the disabled list on April 30 with a strained oblique and a cracked rib. On May 2 Hughes visited an optometrist and it was discovered he was nearsighted. He began wearing glasses on the mound.

After recovering from his injuries Hughes spent the summer in the minors at Scranton/Wilkes-Barrie helping the Yankees Triple-A team win the 2008 International League title.

The Yankees recalled Hughes on September 13 and he made his first start on September 17 against the Chicago White Sox. Hughes threw 4.0 innings, but showed signs of life again. He surrendered just one run while striking out 4 and walking two batters to help the Yankees to a 5-1 win. In his next start Hughes pitched 8.0 innings in Toronto. His line was very encouraging to the Yankees as he only gave up 2 earned runs on 5 hits, while striking out 6 and walking none. In that one game Hughes lowered his ERA from 7.96 to 6.62. It was a tremendous building block for Hughes to carry with him into the off-season, which came early as the Yankees failed to make the playoffs.

Hughes had a marvelous 2009 spring training where in 4 appearances (12.1 innings of work) he only gave up 3 earned runs on 5 hits, and had a terrific ERA of 2.19. However, when camp broke to start the regular season Hughes returned to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.

As it has been said many times, “fate is the hunter.” Fate found Phil Hughes.

No one in their right mind expected the start RHP Chien-Ming Wang has had to start this season. A two-time 19-game winner, Wang was 8-2 in 2008 before going on the DL after injuring his right foot on June 15, while facing the Houston Astros in an interleague game. Wang was attempting to score a run when he pulled up lame and was taken out of the game. It proved to be a season ending injury.

Wang had a pedestrian spring training, but announced himself ready for the start of the season. Wang was penciled in by manager Joe Girardi as the No. 3 starter behind newly acquired pitchers C.C. Sabathia (Milwaukee Brewers) and A.J. Burnett (Toronto Blue Jays). In Wang’s first 3 starts he has allowed 23 earned runs on 23 hits in just 6.0 innings of work. That worked out to an ERA of 34.50. Wang was pulled from his next start as the team contemplated what it was going to do with him.

“We have some time. We have a day off I think Thursday and we’re going to have to decide what’s best for Chien-Ming Wang and the team,” Girardi said at the time.

What they decided was to put Wang on the disabled list, which opened up the slot for Hughes.

Hughes made the most of the opportunity, and yesterday he was stellar in his start against the Detroit Tigers. Facing a very formidable lineup Hughes allowed no runs, only 2 hits, while striking out 6 Tigers and walking two. He also hit a batter. Hughes mixed his pitches well and kept the Tigers off balance for the most part. He kept it even, until the Yankees took advantage of an outfield fielding error, and broke the game wide open for an 11-0 win. The victory snapped a 4-game losing streak.

“It’s a good feeling,” Hughes said to reporters after the game. “I didn’t have one all last year, so to get one in the first start is nice.”

Hughes was just what the Yankees needed. His performance was the positive, feel good tonic that has been missing from the clubhouse since the Yankees hit the road nearly a week ago.

“That’s the best that I’ve seen him throw,” Joe Girardi said. “It was something we needed. That’s a pretty good hitting lineup and he shut them down.”

Another guy that may be on the hot seat, if Hughes continues to shine, is No. 5 starter Joba Chamberlain. Chamberlain, who made a splash in 2007 coming out of the bullpen, hasn’t looked as good this season in the starting rotation.

In three starts Chamberlain is 0-0 with a 3.94 ERA. He has not pitched deep into a game, averaging 5.37 innings per start. Flashing a near-100 mph fastball in 2007 while coming out of the bullpen Chamberlain has barely reached the mid-90s this year. He went on the DL in 2008 with a shoulder injury, which was diagnosed as shoulder tendonitis. He returned to close out the season, but so far this year his performances have been mixed. Chamberlain has struck out 11, but walked 10. He is averaging a little over 90 pitches per game. This is in accordance with the “Joba Rules” imposed upon Chamberlain by the team. According to Girardi wants Chamberlain limited to 150 innings this year, but at the same time make approximately 30 starts. Girardi admitted that may necessitate pulling Joba from games after 5 innings.

However, there is no restriction on Hughes, and if he can continue to pitch as he did Tuesday that is going to create some interesting headaches for Girardi.

For one, the bullpen has been a mixed bag of tricks since the season started. The Yankees have the highest team ERA in baseball and the bullpen has been a large part of that. Chamberlain has proven he can dish coming out of the ‘pen so that is a great option for Girardi. RHP Brian Bruney who also went on the DL the same time as Wang had been the one bright spot in the relief corps and once he comes back the Yankees could be looking at a triumvirate much like the Nelson-Stanton-Rivera trio of the 90s. With both Bruney and Chamberlain in the bullpen with Rivera the Yankees could go a Bruney-Chamberlain-Rivera pairing to shorten the game to six innings.

Secondly, you have to reward effort. With Wang on the DL for a few more weeks Hughes is going to get the opportunity to show management he belongs in the majors full time. If he continues to perform like he did against Cleveland sending him back down to the minors would be counterproductive. It could hurt Hughes psyche as to whether he feels like he’s wanted or not.

The next couple of weeks are going to be very telling for the Yankees and their pitching corps. If Wang comes back strong and reverts to the pre-injured pitcher he was Girardi is going to have to make some heavy duty decisions (and he won’t be making them alone). Personally, if Hughes and Wang are pitching at their optimum levels, sending Chamberlain back to the bullpen is the correct move. He would instantly shore up a leaky group of relievers, and, along with Bruney give them legitimacy.

Decisions, decisions!! This is why they pay Girardi the big money, because he is the one who is eventually going to have to figure this roadblock out. It’s a nice problem to have for a while, but ultimately whether or not some personnel like the moves that are going to be made Girardi is going to have to make them for the betterment of the team.

In the meantime, all Phil Hughes can do is take the ball, pitch the best he can, and let the chips fall where they may.

2009 Baseball Preview

Bob Lazzari — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 16:16:29 +0000

Yes, folks, the 2009 season is underway; there’s further talk of steroids, a bad economy, and ticket prices resembling monthly rent payments–yes, those made in the HIGH RENT district. Here’s how they’ll finish this season:

AL EAST AL CENTRAL AL WEST
N.Y. Yankees        Minnesota Twins         L.A. Angels
Boston Red Sox       Cleveland Indians           Oakland A’s
T.B. Rays               Chicago White Sox           Texas Rangers
Toronto Blue Jays    Kansas City Royals          Seattle Mariners
Baltimore Orioles      Detroit Tigers
**Notes:
AL EAST- Flip a coin between New York and Boston; it’ll all come down to who stays more healthy–but I think Teixeira’s impact will be huge. Sox’ staff deeper, but Yanks will have a sense of desperation with their older core players–and make the most of it. Rays’ young staff to blow out come September. Halladay in Toronto doesn’t get enough help from his fellow starters. Orioles have a totally new pitching staff–but it won’t matter; yes, poor Brian Roberts.
AL CENTRAL- I like the Twins starting pitching better than Cleveland’s–and Joe Nathan is still Joe Nathan; however, Mauer must return to full strength. I’m not crazy about Chicago’s bullpen–and there are health concerns. Royals low on-base percentage will hurt them–but they could surprise somewhat. Tigers’ young, talented arms of ‘06 now a distant memory; if they were to win this division, then yours truly could be dating Charlize Theron come October.
AL WEST- Angels just too talented in an otherwise weak division, but will they get enough production out of the 1B and DH spots? Giambi will test cleanly and Oakland will score more runs–but their pitching is suspect. As usual, Rangers’ pitching is “iffy,”–to say the least. Mariners start the season without Ichiro, and their ”big” off-season acquisitions were an over-the-hill Griffey, Jr. and Russell Branyon–telling you all you really need to know.

NL EAST NL CENTRAL NL WEST
N.Y. Mets                   Chicago Cubs             L.A. Dodgers
Philadelphia Phillies     Milwaukee Brewers   Arizona D’Backs
Atlanta Braves             St. Louis Cardinals    S.F. Giants
Florida Marlins             Houston Astros         Colorado Rockies
Washington Nationals   Cincinnati Reds         S.D. Padres
Pittsburgh Pirates
**Notes:
NL EAST- Mets’ acquisitions of Putz and K-Rod put them over the top–but WHICH Oliver Perez will show up every five days? Phillies will score, but starting pitchers like “Father Time” Moyer will disappoint. Braves lack power–and will have trouble closing games. Marlins may make more errors than the Bush administration did; Nationals located in D.C.–where NOTHING good happens these days.
NL CENTRAL- Cubs starting pitching still excellent–and Milton Bradley helps the offense. Brewers will simply try to outscore opponents–but this isn’t bowling. Cards will have trouble closing games–and they have no bench. Houston has too many #5 starters; I don’t like the Reds outfield. Pirates’ only hope is that SOME people show up in person to see them finish last once again.
NL WEST- Infielder Hudson helps Dodgers a lot, but will Manny quit come September? Haren and Webb may win 40 for Arizona–but they’ll fall short. Giants’ lack of power puts too much pressure on a decent staff. Rockies can’t outscore people like they used to and will miss Holliday too much. If you can name the Padres lineup, you have WAY too much time on your hands.
*Postseason: I’ll say the Yankees’ off-season money machine propels them to yet another World Series appearance–despite A-ROID appearing on the cover of the New York Post at least a half-dozen times this summer. Cubs make up for the embarrassment of last postseason (and the past 100 years!) and win the World Series in early, bone-chilling November.

Enjoy the season, everyone!

Posada Makes Catching Debut

Russ Rose — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 13:17:29 +0000

It’s no secret that from the time catcher Jorge Posada headed to the disabled list last July the New York Yankees have missed him. Posada, a home grown Bomber favorite, ended his 2008 season with shoulder surgery to repair a torn labrum and a damaged rotator cuff that refused to improve with rest and rehabilitation. His backup, Jose Molina, did a wonderful job standing in for the 37-year old Posada, but where he could cover Posada on the defensive side of the ball he couldn’t come close on the offensive side.

From 1998 through 2007 Posada averaged 21.2 home runs and 83.6 RBI. His high water mark was in 2003 when Posada hit .281 with 30 home runs and 101 RBI. The home run mark tied the Yankees single season record for a catcher previously held alone by Hall of Famer Yogi Berra. As a career .277 hitter, Posada notched his best overall season at the plate in 2007 by hitting .338 to lead all catchers in the majors. He added 20 round trippers and 90 RBI, and recorded career highs in OBP (.426) and SLG% (.543). The Yankees rewarded Jorge with a new contract at the end of the season by signing him to a 4-year, $52.4 million contract.

The promise of a going into a new season armed with a new contract faded quickly as it became apparent Posada wasn’t performing at his usual high level. It became obviously clear that Posada was hurting. He had no zip on his throws when trying to nail runners trying to steal on him. In 41 attempted steals Posada was only able to gun down 7 of them for a .171 percentage, which was far and away the poorest showing in his career.

On April 9 the day after a game against the Kansas City Royals where he complained of having “dead arm” Posada had an MRI performed on his right shoulder area. Originally the MRI revealed a strain on the hinge and Posada was happy he wasn’t headed for a place he’d never been…..the disabled list.

“I am really happy it’s not bad,” said Posada at the time. “It’s good news it’s not worse.”

Posada tried to work through the pain and attempted to strengthen the area, but no improvement came forth. On April 28 Posada shut it down and headed for the basement.

“It’s the biggest disappointment of my career, probably,” Posada said after making his decision. “Being on the D.L., not being able to participate in games, it’s really tough for me. I thought it was coming along, but it’s not. We have to find out what’s really bothering me.”

Posada returned to New York and later met with Dr. James Andrews of Birmingham, Ala. who operated on Posada’s labrum in 2001. Posada said that he thought surgery wasn’t needed, but was worried the injury wasn’t getting any better.

“It’s not getting any better, so we’ve got to find out what it really is,” Posada said. “The M.R.I. showed a strained muscle, and I think it’s more than that.”

While on the DL Posada rested, took batting practice and playing long toss, trying to strengthen the shoulder enough for him to return to the team. He was expected to DH and play first base in order to get his bat back into the lineup.

On May 31 Posada threw to twice to second in an extended spring training game and reported no pain in the shoulder.

“The second one was better than the first one,” Posada said. “It felt good throwing the ball. I’m happy with it. I’m happy the way I felt.”

Posada returned from the disabled list on June 5, but didn’t start the game. The next day Posada told the press that he would have labrum surgery performed at the end of the season.

“It’s good enough. I think it’s good enough to get going here… There’s no discomfort. Obviously something’s messed up in there. We’re going to have to get that fixed after the season,” Posada said.

However, things were not “good enough to get there.” Posada, when he was allowed to catch a game, continually had trouble throwing runners out. Teams caught on and they purposely ran on Posada, because he was a defensive liability. That forced manager Joe Girardi to play backup catchers (especially) Jose Molina and Chad Moeller more.

Not only did Posada’s defense suffer, but his hitting started suffering as well. By July 19 Posada was hitting only .268 with 3 home runs and 11 RBI.

The next day, Posada went on the DL for the second time and the Yankees went hunting for a bat. They found one in Pittsburgh in the person of Xavier Nady. The Nady trade sealed the deal for Posada who said with Nady on board there wasn’t the pressure to return before the end of the season.

On July 30 Posada underwent arthroscopic shoulder surgery to repair the labrum, and then began a six month rehabilitation and strengthening program in order to get back to catching for the Yankees in 2009.

The Yankees for their part have brought Posada along slowly. He reported with pitchers and catchers in mid-February and it was decided Posada wouldn’t catch a game until mid-March.

“If everything goes according to plan, the first month might be a little slower than the other months to ease him back into it, but we have plans for him to be our everyday catcher,” Girardi said.

The Yankees stuck with that plan as Posada had been a DH going 9-for-22 (.364) so far in the spring. Yesterday Posada saw his first action behind the plate in nearly 7 months. Posada caught four innings; 3 with Andy Pettitte and one with reliever Phil Coke as the Yankees beat the Houston Astros 5-1 in Tampa.

Posada didn’t have a baserunner attempt to steal on him in the game.

“Today was very important,” Posada said to reporters. “I wasn’t nervous; I was excited. I was really looking forward to catching. It felt surprisingly good.”

The closest Posada came to having a chance to test his arm was when the Astros speedy center fielder Carlos Gomez stood at first base.

“I was hoping he would take off so I could make a throw,” Posada said. “Not try to rush anything, just make a throw, be under control and see how it felt.”

The times Posada did throw, like throwing down to second in between innings, to third after a strikeout and throwing back to the pitcher, he reported no pains or problems with his shoulder. His teammates seemed just as pleased to see No. 20 behind the plate.

“It was good to see him back there,” Pettitte said to reporters after yesterday’s game. “He seemed normal to me. I guess I’m so used to seeing him back there; the way he sets up is embedded in my head. He said he felt great. The biggest thing for him is going to be when guys try to steal, seeing how his arm reacts.”

So far it’s good for both Posada and the Yankees. According to Girardi the Yankees are hoping to work Posada into catching between 100 and 110 games this season. Posada didn’t want to put a cap on the possibilities.

“Let’s not put a number on it,” Posada said. “Today is one of many. I have no idea how much I’m going to catch. I feel good, and if I’m healthy, I’d like to catch a lot more than they’re talking about. We won’t know until we play games and get to that point.”

General Manager Brian Cashman put it this way.

“It’s good that we got to this day,” Cashman said. “We thought we wouldn’t be ready until mid-March to start catching in games – and here we are. So we got to this point, that’s an important first step of many more. These next few weeks, we’ll really see how he’s getting through this.”

At least now, not all of those steps are uphill.