"A New York Treasure" --Village Voice

Hamstrung

2001 ToppsJorge Posada tweaked his already-tender right hamstring while sliding into second base in the sixth inning of last night’s game. He had an MRI this morning, which revealed a Grad 2 strain, and was placed on the 15-day disabled list soon after. He’s likely to miss a month if not more. The Yankees had hoped to get an offensive boost with Alex Rodriguez’s return from hip surgery, likely on Friday, but with Posada out, Rodriguez’s return will merely return the Yankees to the status quo, as Rodriguez will be hard pressed to out perform the .312/.402/.584 line Posada has put up thus far this season.

That’s the bad news. The good news is that the status quo is pretty darn good. Entering tonight’s game, the Yankees are tied with the Texas Rangers for the second most runs scored per game in the American League behind the overachieving Blue Jays. The Yankees’ 5.84 R/G is nearly a run better than their mark from 2008 (4.87 R/G, seventh in the AL), and is evenly split between home (5.8 R/G) and the road (5.87 R/G). Also, Rodriguez is going to be in the lineup more often than Posada, who had been on pace for 115 games between catcher and DH.

It’s still bad news, but it’s not as devastating as Posada’s shoulder injury was last year because of the additions of Mark Teixeira and Nick Swisher, and the rebounds of Robinson Cano, Hideki Matsui and, thus far, Melky Cabrera. It’s also good news that we’re talking about a fairly routine hamstring injury and not a recurrence of Posada’s shoulder woes.

Still, losing Posada for any length of time creates a hole in the lineup. Jose Molina’s .257/.333/.343 line looks robust next to his 2008 performance (.216/.263/.313), but it’s simply replacement level rather than well below and falls short of what the Yankees had been getting from Ramiro Peña (.313/.371/.344), though the bottom would surely to fall out on Peña were he to stay in the lineup much longer.

Francisco Cervelli has been called up from Double-A to take Molina’s spot on the bench. After losing most of last year to a broken arm, Cervelli now looks not unlike the catcher-version of Peña. He’s a strong defender, easily major league quality, with little to recommend him at the plate other than a good batting eye. Cervelli looked overmatched at the plate in his very brief September call-up last year, while playing for Italy in the WBC this March, and in spring training after Italy’s elimination from the tournament. The sample size is minuscule, of course, but the competition in each was something less than what he’s likely to see in the majors in May, and he went a combined 4-for-25 (.160) with just one extra base hit and, despite that good batting eye, just one walk across those three appearances. Thus far this year, he’s hitting just .190/.266/.310 for the Trenton Thunder.

Cervelli’s here because the top catcher at Triple-A Scranton, Chris Stewart, is hitting .178/.275/.200 and isn’t nearly as good behind the plate as Cervelli. Kevin Cash, who was supposed to be the third-string catcher, is on the DL with a shoulder injury of his own. I’m not particularly worried about the Yankees “rushing” the 23-year-old Cervelli because Jesus Montero is now just a level behind him at High-A Tampa and is crushing the ball. Montero’s defense is far from major-league-ready, if it ever well be, but he’s nipping at Cervelli’s heals. Peña has handled the jump to the majors wonderfully. Cervelli, who has a veteran disposition—despite his lack of production he was a clubhouse leader on Team Italy—seems as likely as anyone to do likewise.

One hidden aspect of Posada’s DL stay is that it will make the loss of Xavier Nady sting all the more. The Yankees haven’t suffered in right field since Nady’s injury because Nick Swisher has been on fire, hitting .300/.434/.688 on the season. Where the Yankees have missed Nady is in their limited pinch-hitting options late in close games. A three-man bench of Jose Molina, Angel Berroa, and Brett Gardner doesn’t offer Joe Girardi much in terms of late-game pop. That wouldn’t have mattered as much with both Rodriguez and Posada in the lineup, but with the hole at third moving to catcher, the Yankees will continue to long after a bench bat. All the more reason for them to use Rodriguez’s return as an excuse to designate Angel Berroa for assignment and purchase the contract of non-roster slugger Shelley Duncan, who is now hitting .347/.421/.716 with ten jacks for Scranton.

As for tonight’s game, the Yankees are still looking for their first win of the season against Boston. They send Joba Chamberlain to the mound looking to build off his strong seven innings in Detroit. The Red Sox counter with Josh Beckett, who only seems to get worse with every start. After seven dominant innings against the Rays in his first start of the regular season, Beckett has posted a 9.14 ERA over his last four, most recently allowing seven runs in 4 2/3 innings against those same Rays. When the Yankees faced him at Fenway, Beckett coughed up eight runs in five innings. Here’s hoping for more of that tonight.

406 comments

Show/Hide Comments 1-100
1 PJ   ~  May 5, 2009 5:48 pm

I'm afraid to go to the bathroom, out of fear that would be screwed up, too!

Quite telling when the callup you want to make was Cash, and you can't, because even he's hurt!

Wow man... wow...

: /

2 zack   ~  May 5, 2009 6:15 pm

It continues to amaze me that so many people are so comfortable and confident with Jose Molina being an everyday player. "But he's the best backup catcher in baseball and he provides incredible defensive value that makes him a wash!" Except that he's no longer a backup and is one of the WORST everyday catchers ever, and his defense (whatever they even mean, I guess his throwing arm?) has been proven (certainly by Cliff) to, in fact, not compensate for his atrocious offense.

Jose Molina is a great back up catcher only in the sense that he is a good late inning defensive replacement, I guess. As a catcher asked to actually provide production, he simply stinks, and continues a trend of the Yankees failing miserably there.

To me, they should (really should have already) trade for an at least adequate back up who can eventually take over most of Posada's time and then help break in Montero/Romine, if they make it of course. And yes, you give up what you have to because let's face it, Posada isn't going to be staying very healthy these days

3 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 6:49 pm

Not being able to call up Cash is probably a blessing in disguise. His career OPS+ is 38. Molina's, in contrast, is 62! The question that should be asked is why did they even sign Cash?

Some people may complain about people who complain about the decision making that led to the Yankees' lack of depth, but with a $200+ million payroll, how can any reasonable fan remain silent?

4 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 6:49 pm

Honestly, I'd rather have Posada than Rodriguez in the line-up. Here's hoping A Rod can convince someone to tip pitches for him during important at-bats!

5 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 6:52 pm

[3] The problem is the payroll is hideously out of proportion, with truckloads of money going to certain guys. I hate to say it but the Red Sox seem to resemble those late 90s Yankees teams more than the Yankees do; they're just a more balanced team.

6 Diane Firstman   ~  May 5, 2009 7:07 pm

[3]

Its the "stars and scrubs" philosophy .... which is useful in fantasy baseball ...

real baseball .... not so much.

7 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 7:09 pm

Christ! Po out a month or more? I am the ultimate optimist, but this is very bad news. We must have started with a real good team, to have so many key injuries and underperformances, have played the least home games, and still be over .500... and well ahead of TB.

8 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 7:11 pm

well this is an inspiring start

9 BrianLevy2020   ~  May 5, 2009 7:11 pm

Hard to keep the pessimists at bay with a start like this.

10 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 7:11 pm

Jeter keeping his uni clean. JEEZ!!!!!!!!!!!

11 Diane Firstman   ~  May 5, 2009 7:12 pm

Ortiz has been outhomered by Aaron Hill ...

12 Diane Firstman   ~  May 5, 2009 7:13 pm

[9]

This is the "Bay of Pessimists"

(tonight ... featuring Jason Bay)

13 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 7:14 pm

Uh, boy. Here we go again...

14 BrianLevy2020   ~  May 5, 2009 7:14 pm

Re: Ortiz's RBI single

Eyugh.

15 cult of basebaal   ~  May 5, 2009 7:15 pm

another great fucking 1st inning ... sigh

16 zack   ~  May 5, 2009 7:15 pm

This team is such a joy to watch, huh?

17 BrianLevy2020   ~  May 5, 2009 7:16 pm

Well, I'll see you guys tomorrow.

18 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 7:16 pm

well that was predictable

19 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 7:16 pm

I always liked Bay. Why did he have to sign with the Red Sox?

20 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 7:16 pm

I miss Detroit

21 zack   ~  May 5, 2009 7:16 pm

That was just so utterly freaking predictable. Red Sox sure seem to overcome all of their injuries and aging players...

22 Diane Firstman   ~  May 5, 2009 7:17 pm

[12]

OK .... I was only joking .... sigh.

23 zack   ~  May 5, 2009 7:17 pm

Looks like Joba is back to the off-speed, nibbling pitcher afraid to throw his FB that has no control and lacks velocity

24 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 7:18 pm

ya know, I'm a patient man Focker...

25 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 7:19 pm

Do we have another longman, becides Aceves?

26 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 7:19 pm

What makes me so sick is how easy it seems to be for the Sox vs the Yankees. Within seconds, Ellsbury was on third. Next thing ya know ...

That combined with it being Joba, who last week seemed to turn a corner (uhhhhh deja vu from last night's story) and is now back to square one. Our two young co-aces. Sweet.

27 BrianLevy2020   ~  May 5, 2009 7:20 pm

[25] Time to call up Brett Tomko....

Might as well start cutting me off the 40 anyway.

28 Diane Firstman   ~  May 5, 2009 7:20 pm

Hmmm .... I benched Beckett on my fantasy team tonight ...

29 PJ   ~  May 5, 2009 7:21 pm

Welcome to the $200M $1.3B unwatchable baseball team!

I cannot do this... they make me sick with their daily lack or preparedness!

Goodnight everybody!

30 Chyll Will   ~  May 5, 2009 7:24 pm

Okay, can I say something before I go? Flash and I believe Cone both said that the relievers have not been aggressive in the zone, and I see the same thing with some of the starters as well. Flash pointed to Eiland, suggesting that he's not experienced or showing much gumption (my words) with working with the staff. My question is then, what really is Eiland's role as a pitching coach, and how much of an effect does he really have on both game day and in between? Because if Eiland is the problem, why is it so obvious to the broadcasters and not the team? And if Eiland is not so much responsible, than do you blame Girardi and Cashman for not choosing the best talent/options over period of time when you certainly could have known better? I've decided that bad luck really has little to do with this; how would you convince someone who doesn't believe in bad luck at all?

31 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 7:28 pm

The thing that makes this difficult is that nothing about the Yankees says "underdog", yet that's exactly what they are to the Sox. This is where the payroll affects a fan. It's embarrassing cause you really have nothing to say. You vastly outspend the competition and yet still are their bitch.

32 Chyll Will   ~  May 5, 2009 7:30 pm

[19] Yankees are starting to make me think they are a team where "great players come to get injured."

33 Chyll Will   ~  May 5, 2009 7:32 pm

(Crossing my fingers) "Please don't be the Knicks, please don't be the Knicks!"

g'nite...

34 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 7:36 pm

Joba needs to throw strikes.

35 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 7:40 pm

Definitely looks like more status quo from the Yankees, and I am sorry, but "status quo is NOT pretty darn good". I know Cliff was specifically referencing the offense, but this team cannot simply keep rolling along like this. "It's early" was the excuse used last year and the Yankees wound up playing a lot of meaningless games. It's nearing time for a shake up.

36 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 7:48 pm

ARod in Tampa today: 3 for 6, 2 HRs.
For a 'no bat' guy, Pena has some nice ABs.

37 Chyll Will   ~  May 5, 2009 7:49 pm

(35) (when Rodriguez comes back and the Yanks are still status quo after he settles in, then changes should be made.)

38 cult of basebaal   ~  May 5, 2009 7:53 pm

nice change from Joba there

39 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 7:53 pm

[37] The Yankees were in the same boat last year though. When Arod was out, everyone was waiting for him to return, and while he did boost the offense, other areas continued to struggle. Besides, the offense has not really been the problem. The Yankees issues run much deeper and I can very close to thinking that this team needs a jolt. Unfortunately, the only obvious way to do that is to change the manager. If Girardi had not been managing so poorly, I guess I'd be more reticent, but he has definitely been a part of the problem.

40 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 7:56 pm

Interesting shot on YES showing every Bay HR being on just about the same pitch. Do the Yankees game plan?

41 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 8:02 pm

I'll be amazed if Jorge comes back sooner than 6 weeks. Shoot that hammy up with some platelets!

Agree with you Cliff regarding roster moves & Duncanstien.

I maintain the only thing this team needs to be a legit contender again is quality starts. And I expect to get them. Eventually. Hopefully soon. Cuz it ain't going to be today.

42 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 8:03 pm

A Rod returning is not going to fix this team and unless he has a monster year, he won't even improve it much.

43 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 8:04 pm

YAAAAY for the Yankees!!

BOOOOO for my fantasy team

44 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 8:04 pm

Keep shutting me up, Damon!

45 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 8:04 pm

[41] If you want to be an eternal optimist, the Yankees are 13-7 against every team but Boston, and only have to play them 13 more times. Sometimes a team just has your number, so I think we need another 7-14 games before making a big decision, but that Saturday game is really the one burning in my craw.

46 Diane Firstman   ~  May 5, 2009 8:04 pm

If "Jeterian" swing is acceptable English, then "Molinian" footspeed should also be acceptable.

(I am now glad I kept Beckett off my roto team tonight .... go Damon)

47 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 8:05 pm

It's the return of "Upper Deck" Beck!

48 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 8:05 pm

Well I picked a good time to get home and turn the game on! Caught Joba mowing down Bay and Lowell, then Damon whacks one!

So was Joba nibbling before which lead to the runs?

49 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 8:05 pm

Singleton nailed it about Tex after his first AB.

50 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 8:06 pm

How funny would it be if Arod returns to a hero's welcome and Teixeira becomes the new whipping boy.

51 Diane Firstman   ~  May 5, 2009 8:06 pm

I bet Adam Dunn could reach the upper deck .....

52 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 8:07 pm

[51] My money is on Ryan Howard when the Phillies visit in late May.

53 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 8:07 pm

God Tex is sucking. I was worried with those 2 homers he would just start swinging for the fences.

54 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 8:07 pm

It's absolutely true that quality starts are what's been missing from the equation.

It's the Red Sox that are killing us. If you take the Red Sox games out, the team looks pretty good. But it being the Red Sox and all, it's difficult to come to grips with the Yankees' record vs them. You can go game-by-game and aside from last Sunday, they really didn't turn in a true stinker. However the whole is more than the sum of its parts: The Yankees feel hapless against the Red Sox. A few breaks go their way and maybe it's a different story, but it is what it is.

55 cult of basebaal   ~  May 5, 2009 8:07 pm

hey, how 'bout that JD.

guess everybody on this team shouldn't be buried alive up to their necks and covered in honey to be consumed by ravenous ants ...

56 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 8:07 pm

[49] What did he say?

57 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 8:09 pm

[55] Would that be wrong?

58 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 8:09 pm

[54] The worst part of it is if the Yankees were playing well (or even decently) against them, they could be the ones with the 5-0 record.

59 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 8:10 pm

[56] Basically what you said at [53]. Becoming too HR conscious after hitting a couple.

60 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 8:10 pm

[54] And 2 of the games were of the gut punching variety (6-0 meltdown, Mo blows it games).

[45] I don't even think it requires an eternal optimist when looking at the performance of the hitters and the quality (based on careers of the vets and talent of the kids) of the starters. But we'll certainly agree that this is frustrating as hell.

61 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 8:11 pm

[58] But for the Friday night blown save by Mo I think the two series would have played out differently.

62 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 8:12 pm

The Lowell loverfest has to stop...those were routine plays.

63 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 8:12 pm

[60] err, when I wrote "gut punching variety" I shoulda just written "losses snatched from the jaws of defeat and therefore maybe not representative of the population"

64 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 8:12 pm

"Singleton nailed it about Tex after his first AB."
Can you tell me what he said?

You guys do know that agreat team loses 62 games a year... right?
ARod, Nady, Posada, Bruney, Marte, Sabathia, Wang, Teixeria.
Almost an All-Star team there. All injured or vastly underperforming.
But that won't last all year.

65 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 8:14 pm

[61] The AJ game pissed me off more - Mo is somewhat human against the Sox, and he's going to blow a game twice a year. AJ eats pieces of shit like the Sox for breakfast, had a 6-0 lead, and exploded.

66 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 8:15 pm

[61] I think the Saturday game did it. Because they came roaring back after Mo blew it on Friday - a good sign - only to have Burnett lose it and everything go haywire. I think that broke their spirit. At least on that Sunday, they looked dead in the water.

67 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 8:16 pm

[62] First one was pretty impressive, second one wasn't anything to write home about. Of course thats never stopped Kay before...

good lord Joba

68 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 8:17 pm

[65] AJ eats pieces of shit for breakfast?

69 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 8:17 pm

Didn't see note of this elsewhere, but Petey saz the Yanks have re-signed Hungry Humberto, which is nice enough. He also makes the following excellent (!) point:
"f you’re keeping track the Yankees now have Posada, A-Rod, Xavier Nady, Chien-Ming Wang, Brian Bruney, Damaso Marte and Cody Ransom on the DL.
If you take any team in the game and remove the catcher, third baseman, right fielder, No. 2 starter and top two set-up men, that’s trouble.
Look at it this way, there are roughly 16 important players on the team. Eight position players, five starters, three top relievers. The Yankees are down six of them. That’s nearly 40 percent of their core players."

70 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 8:17 pm

[65] In the Friday game, Bay beat Mo pure and simple. You can live with that. In the Saturday game, the Yankees beat themselves. The same goes for last Saturday and that Easter game against the Royals. Those are three wins the Yankees should have in the bank, which would make them 16-9.

71 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 8:19 pm

[70] We've made Bay into Manny. He's good, but not that good. That game was in the bank, or should have been.

72 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 8:19 pm

[69] That's not exaclty encouraging though because only one player has a defined return time.

73 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 8:20 pm

[71] I haven't made him into anything. It could have been Marco Scutaro with the walk-off. The point is the Yankees had a lead with their best on the mound and Bay won the battle.

74 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 8:21 pm

[68] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y1JVyDNo0rQ

Man Joba looks Jeckel and Hyde. I'm starting to believe the BP-Starter back and forth the past 2 years (mostly last year) really hurt him. My premise is that his problem is not ability but approach and game-planning. He just seems... confused about how to go about things. I can only gather that, based on his wild success in the minors as a starter that this was brought on by the BP stuff, and also maybe the shoulder injury.

75 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 8:22 pm

[73] You know I had "(remember Scutaro)" in my comment [65], but I took it out because it's too painful. Thanks alot!

76 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 8:23 pm

[73] I was unclear. Not you. The way Bay has produced against the Yankees.

77 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 8:23 pm

[70] Of those three however, and the only reason I bring this up is because you seem to think "a change" is whats needed, the only one you can truly pin on Girardi is the KC game. That was horrible late inning bullpen management pure and simple, it should have been a win.

The Saturday Boston one is on AJ more than anyone (admittedly I did not see this game when it was played), and this past Saturday I was at the game and my inclination was a) Damon has to catch that ball and b) CC has to bear down and get out of that inning.

78 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 8:24 pm

The Yankees can't get back in the game and then stop scoring like yesterday. They need to get a lead.

79 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 8:24 pm

brilliant Melky, absolutely brilliant

80 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 8:24 pm

I don't hate that play...with Molina and Pena next, that extra base would have been very important.

81 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 8:26 pm

i'd like to see another replay at 3rd

82 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 8:27 pm

Now I hate that play.

83 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 8:28 pm

I always hate getting thrown out at third. or second. or the plate.

84 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 8:28 pm

i think he was safe, the throw beat him but the tag was late

85 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 8:28 pm

Hughes didn't get that call.

86 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 8:28 pm

Melky made the right play. He was bustin' it all the way. It was a great throw by Dustpan.

87 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 8:29 pm

[85] but joba's been getting it all game

88 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 8:30 pm

[86] It really was. Don't know why Singleton's praising Drew so much, his throw was high.

89 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 8:30 pm

[88] they both made very good plays, especially pedroia, but i still think the tag came when melky's hand was on the base

90 Diane Firstman   ~  May 5, 2009 8:30 pm

The throw wasn't high .... Pedroia is just short :-)

91 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 8:32 pm

[89] I'm not so sure, but at least the ump was right on top of the play - it really burns me when they're asleep.

92 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 8:33 pm

[90] HEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 'Height impaired'.

93 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 8:33 pm

The game is winnable. They have to keep it that way and then prevail.

94 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 8:35 pm

Wow, how did joba throw just 23 pitches in that 4 run 1st inning

95 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 8:36 pm

Stop nibbling!! I just don't get it.

96 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 8:36 pm

Nice hustle by Melky. It was the right thing to do. And the subsequent error may not have happened if he was on third, so no regrets there.

97 ms october   ~  May 5, 2009 8:37 pm

just tuned in - so is it accurate to say joba had a rough first inning or so and then settled down (8 ks of the last 12)?

98 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 8:37 pm

pedroia's height impaired strike zone is bullshit

99 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 8:38 pm

these stats Kay is quoting are making way too much sense for some people

100 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 8:38 pm

I know the Joba-to-the-bullpen tools will be out, but this start really says to me that: he might be great - just not this month, so chill.

Show/Hide Comments 101-200
101 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 8:40 pm

[100] No question. It's a shame that it has become an issue.

102 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 8:40 pm

this umpire is as bad as last night's, but at least it seems pretty even

103 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 8:40 pm

Joba's changeup looks like a weapon.

104 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 8:41 pm

Settle down Joba....stop showing up the umps. He is stomping around like a child now.

105 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 8:41 pm

Jerry Meals sitll an idiiot.

106 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 8:41 pm

Hah, Pedroia got a gift for ball 3 but doesn't like strike 3. Eat it.

107 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 8:41 pm

If he stays healthy, Joba will be STUD. No question.

108 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 8:42 pm

Think this will be Joba's last inning?

109 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 8:42 pm

Eiland needs to make a trip because Joba is letting the umpires anger him.

110 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 8:42 pm

at least 3 strikes in that at bat (the first 3 pitches)

111 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 8:43 pm

Now he's working quickly, rushing back to the rubber, being aggressive - crossing the lines for the umps though, they don't deserve that.

112 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 8:43 pm

And Jason Bay gets plunked in the back.

113 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 8:44 pm

This is a really danger AB...Joba really lost his composure, which he can't do with the team down a run.

114 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 8:44 pm

Damnit. All we need is more guys on the DL. Red Sox clearly think that was intentional

115 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 8:44 pm

These umps suck. Suck.

116 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 8:44 pm

give me a break he clearly swung

117 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 8:44 pm

he's never gonna get a checked swing is he?

118 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 8:44 pm

The Yankees behavior is going to cost them calls in this game.

119 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 8:44 pm

[114] So what? It wasn't.

120 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 8:44 pm

[114] do you think it wasn't?

121 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 8:45 pm

Noooo. Not Veras!

122 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 8:45 pm

If Jeter makes an out, Damon will get plunked.

123 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 8:46 pm

I did think it was intentional, for a second, until I realized the context (close game, guy on, etc)

124 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 8:46 pm

Veras is up? NFW

125 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 8:46 pm

[118] they better start behaving!!

126 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 8:46 pm

That reaction is bush from Joba. He has given up 4 runs over 5 innings and reacts like he won the W.S.

127 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 8:46 pm

sick

he better start the 6th

128 Just Fair   ~  May 5, 2009 8:46 pm

The O needs to blast this one out of the water. That's the ol' Hut we've been missin'.

129 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 8:47 pm

[123] i think joba made up his mind that bay was gonna get plunked at some point and this was likely his last chance. plus i think he was pissed about the bullshit calls to ortiz.

130 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 8:47 pm

Eck says someone is about to get hurt...

131 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 8:47 pm

Wow, 10 K's. That, uh, is good. When was the last time a Yankee starter K'd 10?

132 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 8:47 pm

[126] so what?

133 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 8:47 pm

[126] It may not be optimal, but if that's what he needs to do to be effective, we'll have to live with it.

134 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 8:48 pm

please lets have a brawl....

135 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 8:48 pm

Joba's at 97 pitches. That's why Veras is warming up.

136 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 8:48 pm

[129] You might be right. I duno. If the situations were reversed I would be positive it was intentional... so...

137 Mr. OK Jazz TOKYO   ~  May 5, 2009 8:48 pm

4 runs in the 1st but 10Ks for Joba?? Just turned on here, he must be dealing it today!

138 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 8:51 pm

it's weird that in the last few starts it seems like joba has needed a few innings to warm up, considering how good he's been in the 8th.

139 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 8:51 pm

[132] I don't that's how you behave on a baseball field.

140 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 8:51 pm

Why BABIP is such a good stat.

141 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 8:52 pm

I'm surprised Tex didn't get hit on the on1st pitch...

142 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 8:53 pm

Maybe a better slump buster than the HRs.

143 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 8:54 pm

Now that's a slump buster

144 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 8:55 pm

thats not the definition of "slump buster" I'm familiar with...

145 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 8:56 pm

[144] Explain.

146 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 8:56 pm

[139] happy that you got out of a jam? i really don't understand all the "showing up your opponent" nonsense. isn't that what they're supposed to do? there's something to be said for mariano-type elegance, but isn't there also something to be said for joba-type excitement? what is the real harm? it upsets the sox and their fans?

147 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 8:59 pm

I'd have pulled Joba from the start of the inning, but having said that, how can he even consider going to Veras.

148 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 9:00 pm

[145] well, this MIGHT be considered offensive...

http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=slumpbuster

149 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 9:01 pm

6th inning... throwing 95. Now, 12 Ks in the last 5 IP.

150 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 9:01 pm

I would like to see Robertson when needed. Veras is "the towel" until proven otherwise.

I like stretching Joba out a bit here, 100 pitches should not be the hard limit (maybe 110-115, from what I've read)

151 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:02 pm

I would use Robertson.

152 Just Fair   ~  May 5, 2009 9:02 pm

Well, I'll drink to that. Now it's hold on to your hat time.

153 Raf   ~  May 5, 2009 9:02 pm

[148] I remember an Arliss episode built around that term :)

154 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 9:02 pm

[146] Two things...after an inning of showing up the umps, it also shows up the other team. There is something about respecting the people you share the field with. Could you imagine if Bay did a dance around the bases? Everyone here would murder Manny for his pose, so you have to be consistent.

Secondly, he seems to be celebrating his own accomplishment because the team is losing! Joba did not have a good start...he may have had great stuff and racked up some Ks, but 4 runs in 5 2/3 is not even a quality start.

I have no problem with excitement, but it needs to be kept in check.

155 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:02 pm

[148] Nice. I must be getting old....

156 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 9:03 pm

108 pitches for Joba. Betteck now with a 6.95 ERA.

157 Raf   ~  May 5, 2009 9:04 pm

Robertson in the Chris Britton Memorial role :)

158 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 9:04 pm

[154] Well, the Sox reactions to some of the ring-ups have been less than respectful - it seems to be that kind of night

159 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 9:04 pm

Shit... it's pouring

160 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 9:04 pm

[148] Wow. I never knew about that baseball superstition.

161 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:04 pm

If Joba was a reliever we could bring him in now. :)

162 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 9:05 pm

[154] don't say "everyone" because not everyone was offended by manny. some of us thought and still do think that this is a game and you should have fun while playing it, especially if you do something to help your team. no matter what you think about joba's start, he certainly was pitching well when he offended you. and quality start or not, i'd say he pitched extremely well but for one bad pitch.

163 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:05 pm

[157] Someone brought that up somewhere else. Robertson's stats are clearly better than Britton's,

164 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 9:05 pm

When was the last time a Yankee starter had TWELVE Ks?!??!?!?!??!!?!??!?

165 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 9:05 pm

More rain coming. My guess is the umps give us 3 more outs to tie this game up.

166 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 9:06 pm

[155, 160] I think it was first in "Ball Four" but I may be wrong

167 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:06 pm

To clarify [163]

Minor league stats.

168 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 9:07 pm

[162] He pitched well for himself...but he put his team in a hole. The Yankees are losing this game...if the score holds up, Joba's Ks are meaningless.

169 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 9:07 pm

In my book this counts as an "almost" quality start. Which I'll take. Now go lump up Beckett

170 Mr. OK Jazz TOKYO   ~  May 5, 2009 9:08 pm

[160] I didn't know the other uses of the term! Feeling old and distant now..

Joba is 23 yrs old..cut him some slack on the celebrating? William, yes he gave up 4 runs in the 1st but then kept the team in the game and was dominant..that's good work.

171 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 9:08 pm

Another long night ahead. This game will finish after midnight because the upcoming delay looks to be well over an hour.

172 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 9:09 pm

Last chance here....

173 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:09 pm

[168] The Ks may bode well for his subsequent starts.

174 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 9:10 pm

[164] And the YES stats researchers come through:

Mike Mussina, May 7, 2003

175 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 9:11 pm

[174] Sweet. CC and AJ are officially on notice!

176 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:11 pm

Would it be crazy to PR Gardner because of the rain?

177 Just Fair   ~  May 5, 2009 9:12 pm

I wonder if Ken has ever said, "David, please don't call me Singy." Ok, Singy. : )

178 Mr. OK Jazz TOKYO   ~  May 5, 2009 9:12 pm

[176] I think so..the soggy field takes away his speed, doesn't it?

179 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:13 pm

[178] TBH, I'm not sure.

180 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:13 pm

It's moot now unless they try to steal home.

181 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 9:13 pm

DAMN IT! DAMN IT! DAMN IT!

How bout a squeeze, Joe?

182 Mr. OK Jazz TOKYO   ~  May 5, 2009 9:13 pm

[177] Hahaha, "Singy" is lame but "Coney" is much much worse..I HATE baseball nicknames like that!

183 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 9:14 pm

SHIT! That cost us a run!

184 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 9:14 pm

Ugh. Insane rain. I don't think they can keep playing.

185 Raf   ~  May 5, 2009 9:14 pm

[163] I was referring more to his usage than anything else

186 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 9:14 pm

[170] I am not calling for his head...I think it was bush and would like him to tone it down. I will still root for him feverishly regardless.

187 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 9:15 pm

Well, another double for Melky

188 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 9:15 pm

SQUEEZE!!!

189 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 9:15 pm

[182] What's wrong with nicknames, Jazzy?

190 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 9:16 pm

A BH here and we steal this game.....
Shit...
Beckett stalling

191 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:16 pm

A few Red Bulls for the grounds crew?

192 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 9:17 pm

he's just gonna make that joke every time isn't he?

193 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 9:17 pm

[187] Thanks in part to the rain. Dunno how much longer this game can go.

194 Diane Firstman   ~  May 5, 2009 9:17 pm

Insane in the hard rain .... insane in the brain!

195 Mr. OK Jazz TOKYO   ~  May 5, 2009 9:18 pm

[189] D'oh!! No fair, can't call you "ny2ca2da-rod" or add a "y" to the end for you

196 bartap   ~  May 5, 2009 9:18 pm

[177] For some reason, the Singy stuff really bugs me.

I think tonight might be the night that Joba turned the page and became the elite starter the Yanks hope he'll become. Next up, Hughes...

197 Just Fair   ~  May 5, 2009 9:18 pm

Single here. Call the game. Everybody's happy. Well.... almost everybody. : )

198 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 9:18 pm

PLAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY BAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAALLLLLLL!

199 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 9:19 pm

It's raining, the ball is wet...why can't we squeeze?

200 ms october   ~  May 5, 2009 9:19 pm

[197] everyone who counts is happy :}

Show/Hide Comments 201-300
201 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 9:19 pm

Jose 'DP' Molina on deck..........

202 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:19 pm

No way.

203 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 9:19 pm

NO WAY!

204 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 9:19 pm

what the fuck

205 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:20 pm

Thanks ump, you lowlife.

206 ms october   ~  May 5, 2009 9:20 pm

that was a generous strike and then he struck out chasing one - damn

207 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 9:20 pm

Does Girardi see the conditions! How the hell can you not bunt with that matchup?

208 Mr. OK Jazz TOKYO   ~  May 5, 2009 9:20 pm

Should have bunted..

209 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 9:20 pm

Once again, we are beaten by the HP ump

210 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:20 pm

I would rather have Gardner up.

211 Mattpat11   ~  May 5, 2009 9:20 pm

As soon as the ball bounced over the wall you knew the Yankees were going to lose the game.

212 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 9:21 pm

[209] Don't blame the ump when the team has a manager who refuses to doing anything to help the team win.

213 Raf   ~  May 5, 2009 9:21 pm

[209]
I thought they'd squeeze, actually, especially after the count went 2-0

214 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 9:21 pm

Molina can't GIDP. There are two outs.

215 ms october   ~  May 5, 2009 9:21 pm

crap

216 Mattpat11   ~  May 5, 2009 9:22 pm

This team is a fucking disgrace. Just a total embarrassment.

217 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:22 pm

There's a problem with the manager. Sorry, but it's true.

218 Mr. OK Jazz TOKYO   ~  May 5, 2009 9:22 pm

[212] Agreed..how do you let Pena swing away there in the middle of a monsoon?

219 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 9:22 pm

[211] Again, teams make their luck. That double set up the perfect squeeze opportunity. I am finished with patience for Girardi. If he was fired after this blunder, I wouldn't bat an eye.

220 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 9:22 pm

Hard to complain about the umps wide zone when our guy K's 12, most (?) looking

221 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 9:22 pm

And Molina lands on his shoulder while running at top speed.

Luckily, that's not very fast.

222 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 9:23 pm

In other news, Molina and Pena are still awful awful hitters. I'm not ready to kill Girardi, but I really, really want to know why he didn't squeeze. And I'm sure none of the hack beat writers will bother asking.

223 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 9:24 pm

Gotta get that run in. Failure!

224 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 9:24 pm

Epic fail

225 Mattpat11   ~  May 5, 2009 9:24 pm

Can a 4-3 game really be a duel?

226 ms october   ~  May 5, 2009 9:25 pm

[221] yeah that had the potential to be scary.

wonder how many games molina will catch per week while jorge is out?

227 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 9:26 pm

[212] Waddayamean? Girardi called that Ball 3.

228 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:26 pm

I have no problem with bringing Coke in, but I hate the handedness obsession.

229 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 9:26 pm

I wonder what they do with that mud they scraped off the mound. Put it back out on the infield once it's dry? Put it in bags and sell it in the gift shop?

230 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 9:27 pm

[222] How can you not kill him for that move? What possible reason could there be to put the game in the hands of Pena and Molina vs. Beckett, especially amid a rainstorm.

Sometimes team's fail because the opponent is better; the Yankees have had several games where they have failed because their manager has put them in a position to do so. If Girardi can't manage the obvious, why should we keep waiting for him to figure it out?

231 Mr. OK Jazz TOKYO   ~  May 5, 2009 9:27 pm

[229] Snicker...

232 Mattpat11   ~  May 5, 2009 9:28 pm

[228] I think Sabathia would be pulled so Edwar could pitch to me.

And I'd walk.

233 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 9:28 pm

Eck is a RS broadcaster and fan. His statement after that Beckett pitch:
"In what way can that be a strike?"

234 Just Fair   ~  May 5, 2009 9:29 pm

[229] I think Damon uses it in his "Glaucoma Garden." : )

235 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 9:30 pm

As a fan of baseball, I call for a squeeze every time it makes sense, just for aesthetic purposes. You have a chance to score and do something cool - fucking do it!!!

236 ms october   ~  May 5, 2009 9:30 pm

jesus, stop pitching that leprachaun up!

237 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:33 pm

Runs...............

238 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 9:33 pm

whoa Coke, be easy brother

239 Mr. OK Jazz TOKYO   ~  May 5, 2009 9:33 pm

Painful game now..hope we can come back in time but..at least the Japanese feed cuts away from Kate Smith to show highlights

240 Mattpat11   ~  May 5, 2009 9:37 pm

Run

241 OldYanksFan   ~  May 5, 2009 9:37 pm

Nice AB by the Cap'n.

242 Just Fair   ~  May 5, 2009 9:38 pm

I have undying optimism that the good guys will pull this one out. Basically b/c the other option is too depressing.

243 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 9:40 pm

[230] I give the guy the benefit of the doubt, especially when the squeeze is such a rare play.

244 Mattpat11   ~  May 5, 2009 9:41 pm

I hate this team.

245 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:42 pm

[243] Ellsbury's steal of home was even rarer. Sometimes you have to think outside the box.

246 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:44 pm

Send a message, Tex.

247 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:46 pm

Wrong message.

248 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 9:47 pm

The rain is brutal.

249 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:48 pm

We suck.

250 Just Fair   ~  May 5, 2009 9:49 pm

Where's O'Neill to remnd Kay that a ball that's short of the warning track is not deep? Douche.

251 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 9:50 pm

Hey, what happened to Ellsbury?

252 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 9:50 pm

[243] [245] That's the problem with Girardi. He manages like Torre, but without the same quality of team. This was a chance for him to put a stamp on this game, but instead he sat by watching as the Yankees plod their way to another loss. I am tired of that approach.

253 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:51 pm

Not an Alby fan.

254 its430   ~  May 5, 2009 9:51 pm

Why are we not running?
6 SBs for Carl Crawford the other day off of the noodle arm of Varitek and yet Jeter stays put on first?
In a one run game?
When it is raining out?

Unfortunately, this goes in the: bad decisions or lack of planning charged to Girardi file.

255 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 9:52 pm

Clearly Coke must be spent after 11 pitches. It makes perfect sense to cycle through the bullpen when so many are struggling.

More awful defense from the Yankees...the beat goes on.

256 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 9:53 pm

of course

257 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 9:53 pm

[254] Stolen bases? Only sissy teams use strategy.

258 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:54 pm

Molina sucks at baseball.

259 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 9:54 pm

this is gonna be a demoralizing inning

260 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 9:55 pm

bay seems quite winded for sprinting 90 feet

261 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 9:55 pm

Drews up...sure would be nice to have a lefty like Coke available.

262 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 9:56 pm

you know a wild pitch is coming up

263 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 9:56 pm

you just know that this asshole is gonna come through in this spot and all we're gonna hear tomorrow is "thats why the Red Sox are so good and the Yankees suck, they have gamers like Bailey!!"

264 Just Fair   ~  May 5, 2009 9:57 pm

If this schlub knocks in a run my undying optimism will take a hit. I agree with the head scratching with Jeter not stealing. WTF!!

265 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 9:57 pm

oh i'm not allowed to say "of course" again

266 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 9:57 pm

Great job, Girardi...let's go to the pen again and see if we can find out who else is ineffective!

267 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 9:59 pm

[266] i agree about the bunt before, and i wish he'd put some play on with jeter on 1st last inning, but i'm not sure he has that many options with the bp. i don't want him to push coke too much.

268 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 9:59 pm

[267] Coke threw 11 pitches! What are we saving him for if not win a game against Boston?

269 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 9:59 pm

Why do we need to see that replay?

270 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 10:00 pm

Shoulda kept Giese and DFA'd Alby.

271 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:00 pm

I wish the Yankees had Lebron James on this team.

272 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 10:00 pm

peteabe makes a good point, where is melancon? I'd rather have seen him to start the 8th

273 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:01 pm

[268] yeah but then he'd have to face 2 righties leading off this inning, one of whom has been killing us

274 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 10:01 pm

[272] No veteraness.

275 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:02 pm

That's an awful pitch by Albaledejo...that run might as well be a grand slam.

276 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 10:02 pm

Thanks Girardi.

277 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 10:02 pm

wow, manufacturing a run...novel concept

278 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 10:02 pm

Where's the old George when you need him?

279 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:02 pm

cone: "3 straight sliders and they all progressively got worse." true.

280 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:03 pm

[278] he was never a good reliever.

281 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:03 pm

[273] Coke has handled righties in his brief career (.558 OPS against). I hope Girardi knows that, but then again, I doubt he does.

Meanwhile, the Yankees gift wrap more runs to the opposition.

282 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 10:04 pm

[280] George Steinbrenner.

283 Mattpat11   ~  May 5, 2009 10:04 pm

This is just not a fun team to watch.

284 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:04 pm

[278] George was impulsive with managers, but I really think that kind of decisiveness is needed right now.

285 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:05 pm

[282] i know.

why are we even watching this???

286 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 10:05 pm

[284] That's my point!

287 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 10:05 pm

[278] I think thats precisely what this team DOESN'T need right now. George's diatribes rarely had the intended effect.

288 Mr. OK Jazz TOKYO   ~  May 5, 2009 10:05 pm

[279] Ouch..

6 weeks into the season now..is it time to worry about this team? I don't mean to be a pessimist but I don't see any signs of this being a championship caliber team..the defense, bullpen and managing are all sub-standard so far. If A-Rod comes back and hits 40 hrs the rest of the season maybe that will save the season?

289 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 10:06 pm

WTG, Giradi. Save Melancon for when the game gets closer.

290 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:06 pm

what a joke. some of this is just comically bad luck.

291 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 10:06 pm

Crap. How did Nick Green hit that one? It was about a foot off the plate.

292 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:06 pm

No surprise...it was nickle and dime stuff, but when you bring in a guy who has fringe stuff, this kind of thing happens. Joe Girardi has been the Yankees most formidable opponent in this game. It is time for him to go...right now.

293 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 10:06 pm

[287] What they don't need is this manager.

294 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:07 pm

[288] It definitely is...and I hope Cashman/Hal/Hank are on red alert because if the Stadium seems empty now, just wait and see what happenes if this keeps up.

295 Just Fair   ~  May 5, 2009 10:08 pm

Time to watch "Rescue me." Perfect.

296 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 10:08 pm

Now Edwar. What a piece of work.

Robertson and Melancon are dead to him.

297 Mattpat11   ~  May 5, 2009 10:08 pm

[292] The organization sort of has a fascination with fringey relievers. We trade for them for fuck sakes. The problem goes beyond Girardi.

298 ny2ca2dc   ~  May 5, 2009 10:09 pm

[292] I often agree with you, but that's absurd. Please don't take offense at my disinclination to make a complete case, but that's my reaction and I don't begrudge yours.

299 Mattpat11   ~  May 5, 2009 10:10 pm

[294] I might be more concerned if those three decide to take action.

300 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 10:10 pm

[288] It's Jorgie I'm worried about. What are we going to do about catching? I think it's clear we can't really depend on Posada any more. I love the guy, but 37 is geriatric for a catcher. Where's our young catcher of the future?

Show/Hide Comments 301-400
301 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:11 pm

i don't agree that girardi is the main problem. the main problem is that the team plays like shit. you can fault him here and there for not sparking a struggling team, but he isn't causing the struggles. still, there's a case to be made that he isn't great, no doubt. but with whom do you propose replacing him?

302 Mr. OK Jazz TOKYO   ~  May 5, 2009 10:11 pm

Paging Dick Williams..is Earl Weaver in good health? Davey Johnson calling..Is Terry Bevington still in baseball? Maybe Jerry Glanville is tired of highschool football...sigh...

Goodnight everyone, let's get 'em tomorrow!

303 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:12 pm

[298] I don't take offense...if you think the team is in good hands, that's fine. I am just sick and tired of first guessing Girardi every game. He is so inert as a manager, he makes Torre look like Casey Stengel.

304 Mattpat11   ~  May 5, 2009 10:13 pm

I'm convinced the Yankees are just making yelling random numbers when they give the attendance.

305 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:14 pm

[301] Showalter is available...I think he would be the tactician this team needs.

I am not asking Girardi to part the red sea. There are obvious moves that he doesn't make and I just don't see the point of having a do-nothing manager with this team.

306 Mattpat11   ~  May 5, 2009 10:15 pm

[303] Now, that's not fair. He's very good at making bizarre, pointless moves that make you tear your hair out. Remember when we needed a sac fly and he decided to pinch hit with Bret Gardner?

307 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:15 pm

i don't know. i see what you mean about girardi sometimes, but as far as i'm concerned the far bigger problem is our lack of depth. we keep hearing about how great oppenheimer et al are, but that's obviously bullshit. we have the most money in baseball by far, yet continually get out-drafted by the sox, who have less money and approximately the same draft picks. the pitching quality in the minors picked up substantially, but where the fuck are the hitters? we have no fucking bench and no one to step in when one of our aging stars gets hurt. this is especially apparent when we play the sox. i'd say the development team needs to be replaced way before girardi.

308 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:16 pm

Michael Kay...the story of this game is not Joba! It's the Yankees inability to beat the Red Sox and sustain any level of quality play. The story is a team that can't cash in opportunities and a manager who sits idly while his team whithers. The story is an organization that has stopped raising its standards and seemingly accepted moral victories like Joba's 12 Ks.

309 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 10:18 pm

[307] Fine, we can't fix he bigger problems right now. We can change the manager.

Now Melancon is up. What a moron.

310 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:19 pm

[307] If Girardi can't win with the offense he has, then what's the point? It isn't about development as much as using the pieces you have, as limited as they may be. The non-bunt front Pena is such a glaring error in judgment that it can't be overlooked. Saving Melancon until after the game is out of reach is another absurdly stupid decision. At some point, Girardi has to take responsibility for the team's mediocre results.

311 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:19 pm

[308] it's also an organization that just built a new stadium and paid $400 million plus to get the best pitching and hitting available. it's a little simplistic to say the organization isn't raising its standards.

312 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 10:20 pm

[308] Seriously. The story of the game is five straight losses to the Red Sox. To start the season. The story is: The shoe is so very, very much on the other foot now, it is actually almost funny.

313 Raf   ~  May 5, 2009 10:20 pm

[300] Austin Romine? He's @ Tampa, I believe.

314 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:21 pm

[311] All the more reason that another .500 April and May should not be acceptable. If Kay is right and the story of this game is Joba, then I guess the Yankees are settling for moral victories.

315 nyyjim   ~  May 5, 2009 10:21 pm

I see Shelley Duncan was batter of the week down in AAA. Why not bring him up to help with our lack of offense.

316 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:22 pm

[310] i agree that some of girardi's moves have been baffling, but i also thought some of showalter's moves were baffling 15 years ago. in fact i've never seen a manager who doesn't make baffling and/or stupid moves. that's not to defend him, but just to say that i think you're focusing a little too much on girardi and not on the underlying problem, which is that the sox have created a better and deeper system.

317 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 10:23 pm

[315] Because we need precious 40 man roster spots for the Alby's of the world to suck.

318 Raf   ~  May 5, 2009 10:26 pm

the pitching quality in the minors picked up substantially, but where the fuck are the hitters

Lower minors, I believe. Romine, Corban Joseph, Kyle Higashioka among others

319 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:26 pm

if we could hire, say, nate silver to manage the yankees, i'd be all for it. but since the alternative is likely to be someone just as clueless if not more so than girardi, i'm not so sure it's worth it just to "shake things up" or whatever.

320 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 10:26 pm

[316] Not to mention the offense is good as is.

321 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 10:26 pm

[313] Sigh. I remember when we drafted Montero, and everyone was saying we'd need someone who would major-league ready before him, because of Posada's age.

322 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:27 pm

[318] and montero of course, but why have we let them get away with neglecting the hitting side for years?

323 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:27 pm

[316] I'm sure Showalter made some baffling moves, but if managers are really that irrelevant, then might as well fire Girardi simply to light a fire under the team.

Again, I don't think the Yankees problem is the sox develop players better. The Sox have not played very good baseball against the Yankees...the Yankees have played lousy baseball. The problem isn't what the Red Sox are doing, but what the Yankees are not.

324 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 10:28 pm

[319] So anyone we hire would be bad or worse. I'm not buying it.

325 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:30 pm

[322] Maybe it's just me, but I'd rather have Teixeira than Lars Anderson. The Yankees have offensive talent, so I am not sure why the lack of players in the minors is such an issue. I honestly think a better manager would have made a bigger difference this season than a good bench.

326 Raf   ~  May 5, 2009 10:30 pm

not on the underlying problem, which is that the sox have created a better and deeper system.

But is that really a problem? The Yanks act independent of the Sox, and the Sox of the Yanks.

327 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:31 pm

it's not that managers are irrelevant, it's that i don't think we can substantially improve just by switching managers when it isn't clear the alternative would be any better. i'm not willing to give up on girardi when it seems the problem right now has more to do with how utterly awful our pitching, particularly bullpen, has been.

328 Raf   ~  May 5, 2009 10:32 pm

but why have we let them get away with neglecting the hitting side for years?

Because hitters can be bought? I would say pitching is more at a premium than hitting.

329 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 10:33 pm

Lets be honest, if a change were to be made (and I'm not entirely convinced it should be) chances are we'd be looking at Pena as the manager for the rest of the year. Is that really what everyone thinks would help this team? Tony Pena calling the shots? I'm not buying it.

330 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:33 pm

[325] of course i'd rather have teixeira than anderson, but that's not even close to the point. what about ransom and berroa and molina and cervelli and even pena? wouldn't it be nice to have backups who can play defense and get some hits? and i shouldn't have said it as if it's just a sox/yanks thing, it's just that the sox provide a good example of what we should be doing since they are similarly situated in the draft.

331 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 10:33 pm

[328] I think that's quite true. Cashman has said his strategy was to grow his own pitching, but buy free agent hitters.

332 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:34 pm

[327] But Girardi did nothing with 2nd and 3rd amid a pouring rain, and Girardi lifted his most effective reliever after 11 pitches. Someone made those decisions.

333 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:34 pm

[328] and yet the pitching in our recent dynasty years was almost entirely "bought" whereas the core of the hitting was home-grown.

334 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 10:35 pm

Maybe bringing Melancon in earlier wouldn't really have made a difference...

335 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:36 pm

[332] someone made those decisions, and someone would be making questionable decisions no matter what. [329] is exactly right. the yankees are not likely to hire a genius to replace girardi, it will be the same old.

why the fuck didn't girardi go to melancon to start the 8th???

336 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:38 pm

[335] I disagree...I don't think managers are inherently clueless. If Showalter, LaRussa, etc. were in the dugout, Pena would have bunted. If you are right though, then once again, why not simply fire Girardi to send a message.

337 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 10:39 pm

I guess you could call this inning insult to injury.

338 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 10:39 pm

[335] Because he has talent but he's overthrowing. When he makes the right decision and it goes wrong I won't criticize him, but he makes the wrong one way too often.

We can do better.

339 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 10:39 pm

I also think it will do this team wonders to get the hell away from the Sox for the next month after tonight

340 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:39 pm

[335] Girardi had to go to Melancon because he lifted his most effective reliever after 11 pitches. It's the same mistake he has made all season...he cycles through everyone, ensuring he'll find the guy(s) who will suck.

341 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:40 pm

[336] because i think he might not be as bad as the alternative. i don't want to be girardi's defender, he's pissing me off lately too. i just think we might be too hasty in our calls to fire him when there are obviously other areas more at fault than he is.

maybe this is where robertson catches his attention.

342 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:41 pm

[339] That says a lot though...if the Yankees are going to keep cowering at the site of the Red Sox, then they aren't a championship team.

343 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 10:41 pm

[340] Melancon sucked tonight, but he doesn't suck.

344 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:42 pm

[341] That's where we disagree...I think Girardi has managed so poorly this season, I think anyone would be better.

345 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 10:43 pm

And nobody hires "genius" baseball managers. Allegedly Girardi is pretty clever himself, but who gives a shit? It's baseball, you don't need to be a genius. The most important thing a manager can do is keep his team firing on all cylinders. The rest is garnish.

346 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:43 pm

ok that worked out fine, but why didn't molina go to robertson's out pitch when he was up in the count?

347 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 10:43 pm

[342] I don't think anyone is a championship team on May 5th, I really don't. I can remember plenty of years where one team looked to be in a completely other league from the other one early on and by mid-July it was a completel different story.

348 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:43 pm

[343] I didn't say he sucks...but chances are on any given night, if you use every bullpen member, one of them will suck. That's why you don't have your better reliever throw only 11pitches.

349 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:44 pm

uh where was that pitch?

350 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 10:44 pm

I think Girardi believed his own press regarding getting all the relievers involved last year. He seems to go out of his way to do it and it's burned the team a few times thus far, for sure.

351 Raf   ~  May 5, 2009 10:45 pm

and yet the pitching in our recent dynasty years was almost entirely “bought” whereas the core of the hitting was home-grown.

I don't know about that, I would say the majority of the hitting was bought in as well.

352 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 10:45 pm

Fuck you, ump.

353 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:46 pm

those were both strikes up in the zone.

354 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:46 pm

The irony of this game is that it gives more credence to the Joba to the bullpen argument. If this is what the Yankees are going to get all year from the bullpen, then Joba might be more valuable in that roll, especially if he is going to be inconsistent as a starter.

355 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 10:47 pm

This is the same Robertson who Girardi has buried.

356 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 10:48 pm

It's kind of chippy in here, and I think that though there may be some valid points being bandied about, everyone is just miserable because of this horrible game, and what it means ... for now, anyway. Maybe the next time the Yanks see the Sox, they'll be a different team.

357 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:48 pm

[354] i completely disagree. he had 12 strikeouts, 1 bad inning (pitch). he's a starter for good.

358 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 10:50 pm

via Abe:
The Yankees were last 0-5 to start the season against Boston in 1985. That led to Yogi Berra getting fired after 16 games.

Now that leads to an interesting/pointless seque. Yanks were 6-10 after 16 games, Yogi was unceremoniously/controversially canned in Chicago, and Billy comes in and takes the team down to the wire in Toronto only to lose out on the 2nd to last day of the season.

I do not see a Billy Martin waiting in the wings here, not in Tony Pena or Buck Showalter or anyone really. If you told me Tom Kelly is gonna come out of the Twins front office and take the reins then maybe I'll listen, otherwise I don't think the Yankees will be well served by cutting off their nose to spite their face.

359 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:50 pm

[357] If Bruney doesn't come back, having Joba give you 5 innings per start isn't going to help this team much. As much as it pains me to say it, they may need him more in the pen. Between Girardi's managing and the general ineptness of the pen, close games are going to be very hard to win.

360 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:51 pm

[356] i don't know about anyone else, but my misery extends far beyond this baseball game.

361 Just Fair   ~  May 5, 2009 10:51 pm

Zach Greinke was not so good in his age 20-22 seasons. If the Royals just moved him to the bullpen imagine how many saves he'd have racked up by now. : )

362 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 10:51 pm

I'd almost prefer they don't rally here. I'm sure it'll fall short.

Just go to sleep, lads ... shhhh shhhhh ... There, there.

363 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:51 pm

[358] What about Bobby Valentine...I can see him as at least a short-term solution. He very much fits the Martin role.

364 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:52 pm

[359] but i don't think it's ever really been a question whether it would be better if he were in the pen this year. the question is long-term, and games like tonight's show why he has to be a starter.

365 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 10:53 pm

[363] It's OK with me, but Cash is reflexively patient.

366 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 10:53 pm

Seeing Brett Gardner fills me with such confidence. That is the icing on the cake, that is.

367 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 10:53 pm

[363] That's the one name that semi-intrigues me, but I think the fact that you would now have someone in the clubhouse with the ability to cause even more drama than Alexander Emmanuel should be taken into account.

368 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 10:54 pm

I think if Garner were wheelchair-bound, his swing would be exactly the same.

369 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:54 pm

[363] if that's a realistic option, i'd definitely consider it.

370 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 10:54 pm

Of course, you don't need to swing to strike out.

371 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:54 pm

[367] Let that be the team's personality then because what they have now isn't working.

372 Mr. OK Jazz TOKYO   ~  May 5, 2009 10:55 pm

[367] Is that a bad thing? Give the tabloids someone else to focus on..

This is the most depressing game I've watched in ages..Gardner whiffs looking wa very predictable

373 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:55 pm

i was going to write a paper after this game. ughhhh

374 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:55 pm

Is there a situation in which Gardner wont take a called third strike?

The Yankees re going to have to dip into the trade market for a reliever, and it probably will cost them.

375 Raf   ~  May 5, 2009 10:57 pm

What about Bobby Valentine…I can see him as at least a short-term solution. He very much fits the Martin role.

Why would Bobby V want to come here, last I saw he was revered in Japan. Is Marines management acting up again?

376 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 10:57 pm

I think the Yankees have to use Melancon, Robertson and Coke in big spots and live with any short term pain for huge mid to long term gain.

377 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:57 pm

[372] Depressing and embarrassing.

378 its430   ~  May 5, 2009 10:57 pm

Can we get an informal poll from the masochists left on this board?
Just give a one word answer:

Girardi or Bobby V. ?

379 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 10:57 pm

I think Girardi tries to be too much like Torre in his disposition, and he can't pull it off. He doesn't have the gravitas, nor the paternal (grand-paternal?) stature ... To be Mr. Unflappable, you have to actually be that way.

380 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 10:57 pm

[375] They're still the NY Freakin' Yankees.

381 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 10:58 pm

Girardi (but check back with me on June 1st)

382 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 10:58 pm

[375] Last time I heard, he was no longer managing in Japan and was back here in the States.

383 51cq24   ~  May 5, 2009 10:58 pm

[378] i'll say bobby v but i'll also argue that this is not the best time to take an impartial poll

384 The Hawk   ~  May 5, 2009 10:59 pm

That Verducci piece on SI.com really paints a sad picture of Sabathia's season. Phooey.

385 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 11:00 pm

[382] I'm wrong...good point...maybe Valentine wouldn't want to take on a club like this one.

386 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 11:01 pm

What did Verducci say about CC's April 2008 ERA of 7.76 ?

387 Mr. OK Jazz TOKYO   ~  May 5, 2009 11:02 pm

[382] He's still here with the Marines. They did not renew his contract for next year though.

388 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 11:02 pm

[385] Then again, it seems as if the team will not renew his contract after this season, so maybe he is ripe to return. I think Valentine would be a huge upgrade for the Yankees.

389 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 11:02 pm

No way Valentine turns down the Yanke job, but he may want $4 million a year.

390 RagingTartabull   ~  May 5, 2009 11:03 pm

I really think CC is gonna turn the corner soon, I don't worry about him at all. He's already shown us flashes, it's just a question of consistency.

391 randym77   ~  May 5, 2009 11:03 pm

I'm an agnostic on the manager change issue. I don't think Girardi is long for the job. But I don't think firing him in mid-season would be very helpful.

392 Chyll Will   ~  May 5, 2009 11:04 pm

Save for Joba, Damon and Melky, these guys look soulless. Even Swish seems like he's on Ritalin. How can you root for this? It's almost like if just one thing doesn't go right, they fall apart or lose their shit. Why?

And I have to agree with William, the story is not Joba, it's about the lack of execution from the offense and the lack of aggressiveness from the pitchers. Why??

393 its430   ~  May 5, 2009 11:04 pm

I say Valentine as well.

This team, and this city, pays for performance.
Right now we're not getting it.
Put him on the street.

394 Rich   ~  May 5, 2009 11:05 pm

Right now, the Sox have the Yankees psyched out.

395 Chyll Will   ~  May 5, 2009 11:11 pm

Ain't nobody else motivating him out there, Kay...

396 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 11:14 pm

Damn, this team is a mess. How did it get to this?

397 Raf   ~  May 5, 2009 11:18 pm

[378] I'd take Valentine, but I'm biased; I like Bobby V.

[385] My point was that from what I've seen from Valentine's time in Japan, managing the Yanks would be a step down. I could see him accepting the job because he seems the type to love a challenge.

398 Raf   ~  May 5, 2009 11:24 pm

Damn, this team is a mess. How did it get to this?

You'll have to look at the transaction list... Perhaps use the roster better.

399 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 11:25 pm

So much for the tough NY media. Instead of asking about the non-squeeze and lifting Coke after 11 pitches, they focus on Joba. The former issues deal with winning and losing, while the latter deals with an ongoing soap opera.

400 Raf   ~  May 5, 2009 11:34 pm

[399] They talked about his bullpen usage as well

Show/Hide Comments 401-406
401 a.O   ~  May 5, 2009 11:40 pm

Girardi should be fired for letting Jorge play with a tweaked hammy. WTF?!

402 Mr. OK Jazz TOKYO   ~  May 5, 2009 11:42 pm

[401] What do you mean?

403 williamnyy23   ~  May 5, 2009 11:50 pm

[399] They talked about how hard it must be for Girardi to trust his options, but they didn't ask why he would lift his most reliable middle guy after only 11 pitches. That's the pink elephant.

404 Chyll Will   ~  May 5, 2009 11:51 pm

Wowzers, saw the highlights from the Mutts game... Delgado almost became The Biggest Loser for dropping an infield pop fly with a runner on third, which naturally extended the inning and the Braves scored another run before their closer induces a flyout from Chipper. As bad as we've looked against Boston, be glad we're not the Mutts...

405 Raf   ~  May 6, 2009 12:16 am

but they didn’t ask why he would lift his most reliable middle guy after only 11 pitches

He may be most reliable, but is he most trusted? :)

406 The Hawk   ~  May 6, 2009 8:27 am

[386] Exactly

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"This ain't football. We do this every day."
--Earl Weaver