Game 108: Angels at Yankees

YANKEES (59-48)
Damon DH
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
A. Rodriguez 3B
Giambi 1B
Cano 2B
Nady LF
P. Rodriguez C
Cabrera CF
Pettitte LHP

Manny Talks Heating Up

There have been talks on going that the Sox have been in discussion with the Marlins and possibly the Pirates to swing a three way deal. Will Carroll believes that the Commissioner's Office has received word of the players involved in the deal. Though they have not agreed on the prospects yet here is how the trade is looking now: 

• Marlins get Manny Ramirez, one prospect (BOS), and cash (likely Ramirez’s remaining salary) 
• Pirates get Jeremy Hermida and three prospects (two FLO, one BOS) 
  
• Red Sox get Jason Bay and John Grabow

Peter Gammons says talks will continue into tomorrow. We will keep you posted as the news gets out.

This is good news for the Yankees, Man-Ram always rips on the Yankee pitching. I think he will adjust well in Florida. He can do whatever the hell he wants and no one will care, because no one watches the games. He said this to ESPN Deportes today: 

“The Red Sox don’t deserve a player like me. During my years here I’ve seen how they have mistreated other great players when they didn’t want them to try to turn the fans against them. “The Red Sox did the same with guys like Nomar Garciaparra and Pedro Martinez, and now they do the same with me. Their goal is to paint me as the bad guy. I love Boston fans, but the Red Sox don’t deserve me. I’m not talking about money. Mental peace has no price and I don’t have peace here"

What a Guy.

Please Trade Me

LaTroy Hawkins Traded to Astros

Recently DFA'd LaTroy Hawkins has been traded to the Houston Astros for Matt Cusick. Cusick is a 22 year old second baseman currently in A-ball. I don't know what level he will play at for the Yankees, but here is some background info on him: He was a tenth-round pick out USC in 2007. While at USC, he had an OPS over .800 all three years he played there, including a .970 OPS his second year. Last year he had an .807 OPS in 92 games at Low-A. So far in High-A this year, he has an .832 OPS.

Breaking: Yanks Trade for Pudge

I don't have a link yet, but i just saw this on ESPNEWS. According to Buster Olney, the Yankees have traded Kyle Farnsworth to the Tigers for Ivan "Pudge" Rodriguez. I like this trade for the Yankees. Farnsworth is average at best, and the Yankees have guys in the minors who could easily replace him. Pudge has an OPS+ of 101 this year, so he's about a league average pitcher, which is solid out of the catcher spot, and he plays plus defense. This isn't a season changing move, but it should definitely help the Yankees.

Game 107: Orioles at Yankees

YANKEES (58-48)
Damon LF
Jeter SS
Abreu DH
Rodriguez 3B
Giambi 1B
Cano 2B
Nady RF
Cabrera CF
Molina C
Chamberlain RHP

ORIOLES (51-55)
Roberts 2B
Jones CF
Markakis RF
Huff DH
Mora 3B
Scott LF
Millar 1B
Quiroz C
Fahak SS
Sarfate RHP

Progress...

While we all try to forget about the game tonight, here is some rehab news courtesy of River Ave. Blues:

• Phil Hughes threw 28 pitches in three innings for Low-A Charleston. He allowed two hits, walked a batter and threw 20 of his pitches for strikes. Five of his outs were groundball outs.
• Carl Pavano started the game for Charleston and threw two innings, striking out four and allowing two baserunners.
• Chien-Ming Wang got his cast taken off today
• Andrew Brackman will throw off a mound on thursday
• Eric Milton threw 35 pitches in a simulated game
  

Game 106: Orioles at Yankees

YANKEES (58-45) 
Damon LF
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez DH
Giambi 1B
Cano 2B
Betemit 3B
Cabrera CF
Moeller C
Rasner RHP

We are going!

Minor League Notes

So there were a bunch of promotions/demotions yesterday:

• Mark Melancon and Chase Wright were promoted to Scranton
• To make room for them, Wilkins Arias and Steven White were sent down to Trenton
• Eric Wordekemper was sent down to Tampa. This season has been a major disappointment for him
• Zach McAllister won pitcher of the week in the Florida State League
• Brandon Braboy won pitcher of the week in the NY-Penn League
• Brian Baisley won hitter of the week in the NY-Penn League
  

Bleacher Creatures

Tonight Nate and I are going to the game are going to be sitting among the Bleacher Creatures. That's right, we are headed to section 39 for tonight's game. I have not sat in the Bleachers before and I am very excited for the roll call. If you are a little cloudy of your bleacher creature history then check out the wikipeida. 

Bleacher Creatures: The Bleacher Creatures are a group of fans of the New York Yankees, who occupy sections 39 and 37 of Yankee Stadium's right-field bleachers. A prominent aspect of the Bleacher Creatures atmosphere is their use of a number of chants and songs, the most famous one being the Roll Call, which is done at the beginning of every game. Often, the opposing team's right fielder, who stands right in front of the Creatures, is a victim of jeers and insults.

"BOX SEATS SUCK"

Game 105: Orioles at Yankees

YANKEES (58-46)
Damon DH
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
Giambi 1B
Cano 2B
Nady LF
Cabrera CF
Molina C
Mussina RHP

Breaking News: Posada to Have Season-Ending Surgery

The headline says it all. I just heard the news on Sportscenter. This was pretty much expected after the Nady trade, because there would be no room for Posada at first base or DH. This is definitely the right move, because it will allow Posada to come back at full strength at the start of 2009 as a catcher.

Game 105: Orioles at Yankees

YANKEES (58-46)
Damon DH
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
Giambi 1B
Cano 2B
Nady LF
Cabrera CF
Molina C
Mussina RHP

Jeremy Guthrie is pitching for the O's. The Yankees try to make it eleven straight at home, as the Red Sox have to deal with the Angels at Fenway.

Game 104: Yankees at Red Sox

YANKEES (58-45)
Damon DH
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
Nady LF
Cano 2B
Sexson 1B
Cabrera CF
Molina C
Ponson RHP

Washburn to Yankees Close to Done

MLBTR is reporting that Washburn to the Yankees may be done within 48 hours. Olney suggests that the move is a salary dump with $13-14MM still owed to Washburn ($3-4MM in '08, $10.35MM in '09). I hope they dump Kei Igawa to the Mariners.

Gane 103: Yankees at Red Sox

YANKEES (57-45)
Damon DH
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
Giambi 1B
Cano 2B
Nady LF
Cabrera CF
Molina C
Pettitte LHP

RED SOX (60-44)
Pedroia 2B
Youkilis 1B
Ortiz DH
Ramirez LF
Lowell 3B
Drew RF
Lowrie SS
Crisp CF
Cash C
Wakefield RHP

TV: FOX

Nady Trade Reconfigured

According to Pete Abe, the last two players in the trade for Xavier Nady and Damaso Marte are not Phil Coke and George Kontos, but Jeff Karstens and Dan McCutchen. I don't like this trade as much anymore, but I still like it a lot. McCutchen will end up being better than Coke and Kontos, but Karstens is basically worthless.

Trade Analysis

So you all know the trade right now: Xavier Nady and Damaso Marte for Jose Tabata, Ross Ohlendorf, Phil Coke and George Kontos. While it's hard to say for sure until a few years from now, I would say the Yankees won this trade. Nady is a good righty bat who will step in and help immediatley. The same goes for Marte, as he gives us the good lefty we have wanted all year, and gives us an excuse to DFA LaTroy Hawkins. Also, these are not rentals. Marte has a $6 million option for next year, and will probably be a type A free agent if the Yankees let him walk. Nady still has two arbitration years left, and could step in as the everyday right fielder next year if Bobby Abreu walks. He also gives us some versatility because he can play first base. Now to the guys we sent away. Tabata is the centerpiece of this deal. He could be great, but he could just as easily be bad. He is nineteen years old, and has some nice tools, but he's almost all projection at this point, and probably wouldn't have helped the big club very soon anyway. Some people are very high on Ross Ohlendorf, but I am not. I think he could be a solid number three starter one day, but I believe that is his ceiling. That's valuable, but the Yankees have a crowded future rotation, which may become more crowded if the Yankees sign CC Sabathia. I see Coke and Kontos as spare parts who may be number five starters or decent middle relievers one day, but could very easily flame out in the minors.

Breaking News

The Yankees have traded Jose Tabata, Ross Ohlendorf, Phil Coke and George Kontos to the Pirates for Xavier Nady and Damaso Marte! More details as they come. 

Game 102: Yankees at Red Sox

ANKEES (56-45)
Damon DH
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
Giambi 1B
Cano 2B
Cabrera CF
Molina C
Gardner LF
Chamberlain RHP

RED SOX (60-43)
Ellsburg LF
Pedroia 2B
Ortiz DH
Youkilis 1B
Lowell 3B
Drew RF
Lowrie SS
Varitek C
Crisp CF
Beckett RHP

Yankees at Red Sox, A Preview

The Yankees have won six straight games, and are now just 3.5 games back of the Rays, 3 back of the 2nd place Red Sox. On Friday, the Yankees head to Boston for the biggest series of the year so far. A sweep (unlikely) would tie them with the Red Sox. It will be Joba against Beckett on Friday, which should be a great game to watch. On Saturday, it will be Pettitte vs. Tim Wakefield and Sunday will be Sidney Ponson agaist Jon Lester. It is very difficult to beat the Red Sox at Fenway, but if the Yankees win two out of three, it will be a very successful series.

Game 101: Twins at Yankees

YANKEES (55-45)
Damon DH
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
Sexson 1B
Cano 2B
Cabrera CF
Molina C
Christian LF
Mussina RHP

Yankees after Washburn

ESPN's Buster Olney is reporting that the Yankees are taking a look at Jarrod Washburn. This is from MLBTR:

Washburn, 34 in August, has a 4.75 ERA in 110 innings this year.  For what it's worth, he has a 3.03 ERA in 62.3 innings since May 25th. That's cherry-picking, though - 4.50-4.75 is Washburn's level.  He can chew up 190 innings at the back end of a rotation.

Washburn is owed $10.35MM in '09, and has limited no-trade protection.  Olney believes it would mainly be a salary dump, and the Mariners might consider something like Kei Igawaand a secondary prospect. Yankees GM Brian Cashman hasn't struck a deal with the Ms since '03, when he worked with Pat Gillick on an Armando Benitez for Jeff Nelson swap.

Game 100: Twins at Yankees

YANKEES (54-45)
Damon DH
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
Giambi 1B
Cano 2B
Cabrera CF
Moeller C
Gardner LF
Rasner RHP vs Slowey 

The Dark Knight

Sorry I couldn't post the lineups tonight I was off seeing the newest installment in the Christian Bale Batman series (and Nate is in Cooperstown until tomorrow). I have to say The Dark Knight is possibly the greatest movie I have ever seen. If you have not seen it yet run out to the theater, it deserves to be seen on a big screen. This is no exaggeration and I am not over hyping it. Heath Ledger gives one of the most chilling performances as a villain and really immersed himself in the role. Joe over on my other blog C & C Game News wrote a great review about the movie check it out. 

Yankees after Burnett?

MLBTR is reporting that there is a slight chance that the Bombers are after the Blue Jay. Ca$h Money and J.P. do have trade history but they are both in the same division.

CBS Sports' Danny Konbler wrote:

"Blue Jays general manager J.P. Ricciardi told Toronto reporters that he now doesn't expect to trade A.J. Burnett. But Burnett's Friday night start at Tampa Bay attracted more than a dozen scouts, including two from the Yankees. Several of the scouts in attendance didn't stay for the rest of the weekend series, a clear indication that they were in town strictly to watch Burnett" 

There are signs that they are looking at him but no hard evidence. 

Pete Abe Interview

Pete Abraham is a beat writer for the Yankees and he was courteous enough to answer some of our questions in an Interview. Here is is (Pete answers are in italics):

1. How is the atmosphere in the clubhouse this year as compared to previous years when the Yankees had more success?

I don’t think the atmosphere has changed much. The Yankees are a little younger this season than they have been in the past, so it’s a little looser and a little louder. The mood generally revolves around Jeter, Posada, Damon and the older guys.

2. What do you think would be the players’ response if the Yankees signed Barry Bonds?

I think the response wouldn’t be good, Signing Bonds would be a media circus and every player would be asked how he felt, etc. I don’t know that the Yankees have any personal opinions on Bonds. Outside of LaTroy Hawkins and Dan Giese, I don’t think any of the guys have played with him.

3. Do you get the feeling the players want Brian Cashman to make a big trade at the deadline, or do they feel that they will be okay with the players they have now?

It would obviously depend on the player. It’s hard to answer that question without knowing who the player is and what they would give up to get him. I don’t get the sense that the players are demanding a trade.

4. Young players such as Phil Hughes, Ian Kennedy and Melky Cabrera have struggled this year, causing some fans to lose confidence in them. It appears that the front office wants to stick with them, but what are the players’, especially the veterans’, feelings about the youngsters?

Until a rookie proves himself, they’re all the same in the eyes of the veterans. They’re sort of there until they deserve otherwise.

5. What is the hardest part of being a beat writer for the Yankees

There’s nothing that is hard necessarily. It can be a challenge to get people you need on the phone when you’re working on a story away from the park. Flight delays suck, that’s an issue sometimes.

6. What do you think the Yankees chances of making the playoffs this year?

I wrote before the season that I didn’t think they would make it and I haven’t seen much to change my mind. If anything, things have gotten worse with the injuries to the pitchers.

7. Is there any information or story you have collected as a beat writer about a player that is funny or not know by the public?

Not really, anything that I would be comfortable sharing, I have published in the paper or on the blog. Mike Mussina is a really good guy who says a lot of funny things. I think sometimes people get the wrong impression of him.

8. What do you think of the Yankees knocked down the stadium. What would you do different?

I think they need a new stadium; I wouldn’t do anything different. I do think they’ve done an awful job of celebrating the final year of the old stadium. I was hoping there would be some special guests to throw out the first pitch, sing the National Anthem, etc. It’s been pretty boring outside of the All-Star Game and MLB ran that.

9. If you were the GM would you sign Barry Bonds because of the setbacks that Damon and Matsui are encountering?

No, no, a thousand times no. His OBP was inflated by 48 IBBs last season, which was a product of San Francisco’s awful lineup. Plus, he’s old and presumably off whatever drugs he was on. The Yankees need young players who could develop, not old guys trying to recapture their glory.

10. What do you think is the root of the trouble that Robinson Cano is having at the plate?

The Yankees do not have a very experienced coaching staff. A guy like Cano misses having     somebody like Larry Bowa or Don Mattingly around. Girardi seems to just have blind faith in the power of positive thinking. The old regime used to put some fear into kids.

11. Do you think the Yankees will make a blockbuster move before the trade deadline to improve their playoff chances?

Not a blockbuster, no. Cashman has made it pretty evident he’s not going to suddenly start throwing around his best prospects.

Thanks so much for your time Pete. This is part 2 of THE CHUCK KNOBLOG INTERVIEW EXTRAVAGANZA.

Next we have an interview with the guys over at Saber Scouting. 

Moose

Moose- 

12 wins

3.49 ERA

15.2 VORP 

4.625  STRIKE OUT TO WALK RATIO

Who says he is washed up?

Game 97: Athletics at Yankees

YANKEES (51-45)
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
Giambi DH
Posada C
Cano 2B
Betemit 1B
Cabrera CF
Gardner LF
Chamberlain RHP

ATHLETICS (51-45)
Sweeney RF
Suzuki C
Cust DH
Gonzalez CF
Crosby SS
Ellis 2B
Murton LF
Bankston 1B
Hannahan 3B
Gallagher RHP

NOTES: The Yanks have won 5 straight at home. Let's make it 6. Its gonna be HOT, it's 90º now and it is only going to get hotter. (this is our 300th post!) 

Why the Yankees Should Sign Barry Bonds...

The top ten Major League Baseball players in lifetime OPS (with at least 3,000 plate appearances through 2007, active players in bold) are:

1. Babe Ruth, 1.1638
2. Ted Williams, 1.1155
3. Lou Gehrig, 1.0798
4. Barry Bonds, 1.0512
5. Albert Pujols, 1.0402
6. Jimmie Foxx, 1.0376
7. Hank Greenberg, 1.0169
8. Todd Helton, 1.0138
9. Rogers Hornsby, 1.0103
10. Manny Ramírez, 1.0023

The top ten single-season performances in MLB are (all left-handed hitters):

1. Barry Bonds, 1.4217 (2004)
2. Babe Ruth, 1.3818 (1920)
3. Barry Bonds, 1.3807 (2002)
4. Barry Bonds, 1.3785 (2001)
5. Babe Ruth, 1.3586 (1921)
6. Babe Ruth, 1.3089 (1923)
7. Ted Williams, 1.2875 (1941)
8. Barry Bonds, 1.2778 (2003)
9. Babe Ruth, 1.2582 (1927)
10. Ted Williams, 1.2566 (1957)

Game 96: Athletics at Yankees

YANKEES (50-45)
Derek Jeter SS
Bobby Abreu RF
Alex Rodriguez 3B
Jorge Posada DH
Richie Sexson 1B
Robinson Cano 2B
Melky Cabrera CF
Jose Molina C
Brett Gardner LF
Mike Mussina RHP

The Big Sexy makes his debut in pinstripes tonight, but I'm not sure he has to replace Giambi.

NOTES: Billy Traber was optioned down to Scranton to make room for the Big Sexy. Sexson will wear number 39.

Game Time: 7:05

TV: My 9

RADIO: WCBS 880

Richie Sexson Is Not The Answer

In the post below this, Charlie applauded the Yankees signing of Richie Sexson. While it's true that he may help out against lefties, he probably won't do too much. I'm not really against the signing, but at best Sexson will add about half a win. Maybe. The Yankees are averaging 4.59 runs per game, good for 15th in the majors, and 8th in the AL. This middle of the road performance is far from what was expected, and it can't continue if the Yankees want to make the playoffs. Obviously there is room for improvement. Derek Jeter, Bobby Abreu, Robinson Cano and Melky Cabrera are all having sub-par seasons and could theoretically improve. There has been a lot of speculation about trading for Ichiro, Matt Holliday, Xavier Nady, etc. These are all solid options, but there is one player who could be had for a lot less in terms of money and prospects: Barry Lamar Bonds. True, he hasn't played baseball in a while, but he wants a contract, so he has been staying in shape. Give him two weeks in the minors and he should be ready. After all, he's one of the best hitters ever. He had a 1.045 OPS last year. It's safe to say he will regress from that mark, maybe by a lot, but would .850 be a safe estimate, wouldn't it? That's basically Matsui, so there you go, Bonds is the replacement, and he doesn't cost Phil Hughes or Austin Jackson. If Bonds doesn't produce, he can be cut easily, since he will be making the pro-rated minimum.

Called It!

As I said in an earlier post it would make some sense for the Yankees sign Richie Sexson. Since our blog has such a high importance in the Yankees decision making, the organization has come to a tentative agreement with Big Sexy. As I said before this will improve the bombers hitting against left handed pitching. The better move would be to sign the Big headed Bonds but the Yankees stupidly stated that they are not interested in Barry Bonds. 

MLB Trade Rumors Interview

Tim Dierkes the head of the great website mlbtraderumors.com was kind enough to let us interview him. All of Tim's answers are in italics:

Interview
1. Many of the upcoming big name free agents (CC Sabathia, Ben Sheets, Mark Teixeira) have been generating interest from the Yankees. Which of them do you see actually signing with the Yankees, and for how much?

I have actually not heard much about serious interest from the Yankees in any of those three. I could see a Sheets signing in the range of four years and $72MM, but more likely if Cashman leaves.

2. The Yankees may want to sign an outfielder in the offseason, and Adam Dunn and Pat Burrell seem the best options there. Do you see either of them signing with the Yankees? Also, regardless of where those two guys sign, how much do you think they will get, considering they aren't really looked at as the premier free agents for next year, but are still good players.

I would be surprised to see the Yankees add either of those players with Hideki Matsui and Johnny Damon both under contract. Neither Dunn nor Burrell could replace Abreu in right field. Free agent options for RF are uninspiring, so I am not sure what they'll do. Also, I think it makes sense to leave the DH spot somewhat open to rotate in various older players.

Dunn and Burrell will probably command four or five years at $14-16MM per. Just a guess.

3. Last year, the Yankees gave Mariano Rivera a 3-year, $45 MM deal, a huge deal for a closer. On your site, you recently said that Francisco Rodriguez wants $55 MM. Do you think he will get that, and if not, how much?

$55MM was mentioned as the number the L.A. Times' Kurt Streeter thought the Angels should offer, rather than what he wants. I expect him to snag that fifth year, maybe for a total of $65MM or so.

4. Mike Mussina's resurgence this year has surprised a lot of people. Do you think the Yankees will resign him this offseason or will they let him walk?

I expect them to bring him back. It'd be great to see him reach 20 wins for the first time. He's missed it due to various fluke situations.

5. Do you see the Yankees going after a bullpen arm like Brian Fuentes or Damaso Marte, or will they just stick with the bullpen they have now?

I do think they'll make a move, with Marte the top target for them.

6. A lot of people are wondering why certain teams don't sign Barry Bonds. Do you think he could help a team that would be willing to sign him?

I do, and there are good arguments for all the reasons people bring up not to sign him. If I was a GM, I would probably sign him.

7. Who do you see as the winners of the four most recent trades involving big name players (Santana, Haren, CC, Harden)?

I hate to cop out on you but most of those deals need 3-5 years to really determine the winner. I will say that of all the teams trading away their veteran starters, the Twins come out looking the worst. Not only is the package of players questionable, but they might be in first place right now with Johan.

8. Two of the biggest names that were expected to be traded (Sabathia and Harden) at the deadline have already been dealt. Do you see any more blockbusters happening before (or on) July 31st?

Not sure if Brian Fuentes and Xavier Nady are blockbusters, but I expect those guys to be moved. Holliday, Teixeira, Bay I see staying put.

This is part one of The Chuck Knoblog Interview EXTRAVAGANZA. Many thanks to Tim over at mlbtraderumors.com. Later this week we will put up an interview with one of the Yankees beat writers Pete Abraham.

Matsui and Damon Not Making Progress

According to Pete Abraham, both Johnny Damon and Hideki Matsui have both suffered setbacks in their rehab down in Florida. This is very bad news for an unproductive offense. Both of those guys were having very good seasons before getting hurt, and them being out longer means more Wilson Betemit and Brett Gardner/Melky Cabrera. It's too bad there are no future Hall of Famers just sitting around waiting to play for the pro-rated fastball. Oh well.

Home Run Derby

Great Home Run Derby last night after it all Morneau is the champion. Thought he didn't win the entire crowd was behind Josh Hamilton. I personally thought that Fat Elvis (Lance Berkman) or Dan Uggla would win. That tricky Canadian came out of no where. Personally I am glad A-Rod was not in it. Josh Hamilton took so long to hit A-Rod would have the opportunity to have a few more affairs.

Here is a great video of Chase Utley responding to the cries of the New York fans:

All Star Fan Fest

Two days ago I attended the All Star Fan Fest in the Javits center in New York. This was a great great event well worth the 30$ admission. The fan Fest is a convention of baseball that includes everything from interactive games to signed and game worn merchandise. If you are even remotely a fan of baseball it is the place to be. The hall of fame and silent auction exhibits were incredible. They included everything from the Mets 86 World Series trophy to Thurmon Munson's credit cards.

Check out the pictures I took Here

Jonathan Papelbon is a Bumbling Idiot

Do you think that's a little harsh? I don't. Today he said he thinks he should close the all-star game.

“If I was managing the team, I would close. … But I’m not managing the team,”

This man clearly has no respect for, or knowledge of, the game of baseball. Mariano Rivera is the greatest closer of all time, and this is his stadium. Mo's ERA+ this year is 384, compared to Papelbon's 178. Mariano Rivera is the epitome of a closer, never losing his cool. His expression never changes, whether he just blew the World Series or won it. Papelbon is another story. >>>>>>

All-Star Lineups Announced

AMERICAN LEAGUE LINEUP
Ichiro Suzuki RF
Derek Jeter SS
Josh Hamilton CF
Alex Rodriguez 3B
Manny Ramirez LF
Milton Bradley DH
Kevin Youkilis 1B
Joe Mauer C
Dustin Pedroia 2B
Cliff Lee RHP

NATIONAL LEAGUE LINEUP
Hanley Ramirez SS
Chase Utley 2B
Lance Berkman 1B
Albert Pujols DH
Chipper Jones 3B
Matt Holliday RF
Ryan Braun LF
Kosuke Fukudome CF
Geovany Soto C
Ben Sheets RHP

CARL PAVANO PREGANT!

As I was skimming through the German newspapers this morning I came across this interesting article in the Süddeutsche Zeitung. Here is what it looked like:


















Don't worry why its not in German. It looks like Pavano is pretty far along. He claims that A-Rod is the father. I can't wait until the back of the Daily Post gets a hold of this.

Andy's Got It Right

After another frustrating loss in Canada today, this one a 4-1 loss to AJ Burnett, who was dominant, Andy Pettitte had this to say:

“If we want to make the playoffs we’ve got to be better,” said Andy Pettitte. “We stink right now for the most part. As a team we’ve kind of stunk it up lately.”

For right now, at least, Andy Pettitte is one hundred percent right. The Yankees are 50-45, and really are not showing any signs of getting better. That's not to say they cannot improve, but they're not playing like a team that's about to go on a run. They have a 24 run differential, which is right in line with their current record, so we can't chalk this up to bad luck. As Andy said, if they want to make the playoffs, they will have to start playing better.

Game 95: Yankees at Blue Jays

YANKEES (50-44)
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
Giambi DH
Posada C
Cano 2B
Cabrera CF
Betemit 1B
Gardner LF
Pettitte LHP

Bobby Murcer

Bobby Murcer Yankees player and announcer lost his battle to cancer this afternoon. This is a sad day for the Yankee organization. They had this to say :

It is with deep sadness that the New York Yankees announce the passing of former player, executive and broadcaster Bobby Murcer due to complications from brain cancer. He passed away Saturday afternoon surrounded by family at Mercy Hospital in Oklahoma City. He was 62 years old.

“Bobby Murcer was a born Yankee, a great guy, very well-liked and a true friend of mine,” Yankees Chairperson George M. Steinbrenner said. “I extend my deepest sympathies to his wife Kay, their children and grandchildren. I will really miss the guy.”

A family service will be held in the next several days in Oklahoma City. An additional celebration of his life will be held at a date to be determined. He is survived by his wife Kay, his children, Tori and Todd, and his grandchildren.

Big Sexy to the Big Apple?

Now that Richie Sexson has been cut by the last place Mariners the Yankees are have internal discussions on weather to sign the big first baseman. His number this year were not exactly sparkling his season line is .218/.315/.381 but Big Sexy knows how to hit a home run with 11 on the season. I am all for signing him what have we really have to lose? Another one dimensional 1st baseman on the Yankees. I would rather have him up there than Chad Moeller who is playing today for the first time in a month or so, and Justin Christen.

He is also REALLY REALLY BIG

Game 94: Yankees at Blue Jays

YANKEES (49-44)
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
Giambi 1B
Posada DH
Cano 2B
Cabrera CF
Cano 2B
Moeller C
Gardner LF
Rasner RHP (4-7) vs Litsch (8-5)

TV: YES Network

RADIO: WCBS 880

Notes: I am going to the fan-fest today at 2 so I will give you a post later with details.

Yankees Bringing Back Milton

Former Yankee top prospect Eric Milton has resigned with the team on a minor league deal. As you know, Milton was sent to the Minnesota Twins, along with Christian Guzman for the namesake of this blog, THE Chuck Knoblauch. Milton is recovering from Tommy John surgery and is still six weeks from games, so apparently the Yankees are also making this move for next year. Milton hasn't thrown a full season since 2005 with the Reds, and has a career ERA+ of 93, but I guess its always good to have depth.

Stache & Yankees Lose

After that loss to the POWERFUL PIRATES that is the 31th game that the Yankees were held to 2 runs or less and to top it off The Giambino lost the final vote to the youngster Evan Longoria. Well its not all bad news, those crazy guys over at the Giambi Mustache Squad emailed me and informed me of the new Gimabi Stache shirts that just came in. 15% of the profit goes to charity and they are only 12.95 each and these shirts are b-e-a-utiful. Come check out the shirts. 

The Shirts Design

Game 92: Yankees at Pirates

YANKEES (49-42)
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
Posada 1B
Cano 2B
Cabrera CF
Molina C
Christian LF
Mussina RHP

Final Vote!!

VOTE FOR THE STACHE 

I just wanted to spread the word and try to get the four people who read this blog (all four of my grandparents) to vote for the Stache for the All-Star Game. I mean really there is already a blog devoted to that furry thing above his lip. Girardi is even behind it! 

As is Kim Jones!

So is cranky old Moose!

As you can see the support is widespread from Blonde Bimbos to old crossword totting cranks everyone want the Stache to be an All-Star.

To celebrate I will share with you one of the funniest articles I have read this month from the fellows over at The Sports Hernia.

Here is is:

State Trooper Giambi Reports for Duty

By B. Weiss

NEW YORK – Jason Giambi is taking his new moustache to a different level.  After growing his perfect ‘stache, he immediately assumed the role of State Trooper Giambi, which started as tongue-and-cheek nickname, but has turned into a full-on personality.

State Trooper Giambi is not fucking around.

“I was playing first base and Giambi got a walk, which is always nice to exchange some words with him, but things got weird,” said White Sox first baseman Paul Konerko.  “He said ‘Sir, license and registration please.’ I laughed and thought he was joking.  Well, as soon as he got me in a choke hold and cuffed me with his batting gloves, I knew this was no joke.”

This bizarre change of personality is making fellow police officer Olden Polynice very jealous.  “I was watching that game, and I said, it is about time someone arrested that bastard,” said Polynice, from his barracks in Arkham Asylum. 

Fellow teammate and another recent moustachee, Johnny Damon, said he thought Jason looked real cool and mentioned he should be a State Trooper for Halloween.  “Well, that was the beginning of the end for us. Since then he has arrested Cano, Carbrera, Posada and Rivera and threatened to deport their asses.  He also gave a speeding ticket to the groundskeeper mowing the outfield.” 

News is spreading fast across the American League.  Players are cleaning up their acts everywhere, especially first basemen. 

“The other night skip wanted me to play some first base against the Yankees,” said Red Sox David Ortiz.  “ I said no way, I told skip I have not seen my Visa in a couple of months, and there is no way State Trooper Giambi is going to bust me.”

Bud Selig is giddy as hell and asked if State Troopers had the authority to bust steroid dealers, much to his dismay they can only bust them if they are transporting the drugs.  However, several other commissioners have expressed interest in Giambi. David Stern wants to make him a referee.

“I spoke with Mr. Stern the other day, but contractually it is not possible,” said Yankees GM Brian Cashman.  “Jason is a little different and he gets some slack around here, but we had to put our foot down last week when he showed up to the ball park and his Mercedes has police lights, a siren and shotgun in the front seat.  We told him to lose the shotgun.” 

Giambi could not be reached for comment because he was setting up a speed trap on the Taconic State Parkway.

 

Great stuff. My hat is off to those guys.

Game 91: Rays at Yankees

YANKEES (48-42)
Gardner LF
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
‘Stache 1B
Posada DH
Cano 2B
Cabrera CF
Molina C
Ponson RHP

Game 90: Rays at Yankees

YANKEES (47-42)
Cabrera CF
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
Posada DH
Betemit 1B
Cano 2B
Molina C
Gardner LF
Pettitte LHP

RAYS (55-33)
Iwamura 2B
Crawford LF
Upton CF
Pena 1B
Longoria 3B
Navarro C
Aybar DH
Gomez RF
Zobrist SS
Kazmir LHP

A-ROD-ICA

Yes, you all have heard A-Rod is now affiliated with Madonna (he could do better) and his wife officially filed for divorce today leaving A-Rod. A source over at Deadspin said that:

"A co worker of mine has a good friend who is married. His wife’s family owns a private jet business i

n NYC and confirmed to me that A Rod and Madonna have been using the plane for get a ways for the last couple of months."

At least he is hitting better now.

Game 89: Red Sox at Yankees

YANKEES (46-42)
Gardner LF
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
Giambi 1B
Posada DH
Cano 2B
Cabrera CF
Molina C
Chamberlain RHP

RED SOX (52-38)
Ellsbury LF
Pedroia 2B
Drew RF
Lowell 3B
Youkilis 1B
Casey DH
Crisp CF
Lugo SS
Cash C
Wakefield RHP

All Star Teams Revealed

AMERICAN LEAGUE STARTERS

First base: Kevin Youkilis (Boston)
Second base: Dustin Pedroia (Boston)
Shortstop: Derek Jeter (New York)
Third base: Alex Rodriguez (New York)
Catcher: Joe Mauer (Minnesota)
Outfield: Josh Hamilton (Texas)
Outfield: Manny Ramirez (Boston)
Outfield: Ichiro Suzuki (Seattle)
DH: David Ortiz (Boston) *

Pitchers:
Mariano Rivera (New York)
Scott Kazmir (Tampa Bay)
George Sherill (Baltimore)
Roy Halladay (Toronto)
Jonathan Papelbon (Boston)
Justin Duchscherer (Oakland)
Joe Nathan (Minnesota)
Joakim Soria (Royals)
Cliff Lee (Indians)
Francisco Rodriguez (Los Angeles)
Ervin Santana (Los Angeles)
Joe Saunders (Los Angeles)

Reserves:
J.D. Drew (Boston)
Jason Varitek (Boston)
Joe Crede (Chicago)
Carlos Quentin (Chicago)
Grady Sizemore (Cleveland)
Carlos Guillen (Detroit)
Justin Morneau (Minnesota)
Milton Bradley (Texas)
Ian Kinsler (Texas)
Michael Young (Texas)
Dioner Navarro (Tampa Bay)

NATIONAL LEAGUE STARTERS

First base: Lance Berkman (Houston)
Second base: Chase Utley (Philadelphia)
Shortstop: Hanley Ramirez (Florida)
Third base: Chipper Jones (Atlanta) *
Catcher: Geovany Soto (Chicago)
Outfield: Ryan Braun (Milwaukee)
Outfield: Alfonso Soriano (Chicago) *
Outfield: Kosuke Fukudome (Chicago)

Pitchers:
Aaron Cook (Colorado)
Tim Lincecum (San Francisco)
Dan Haren (Arizona)
Ben Sheets (Milwaukee)
Carlos Zambrano (Chicago)
Brandon Webb (Arizona)
Ryan Dempster (Chicago)
Brian Wilson (San Francisco)
Edinson Volquez (Cincinnati)
Kerry Wood (Chicago)
Brad Lidge (Philadelphia)
Billy Wagner (New York)

Reserves:
Brian McCann (Atlanta)
Aramis Ramirez (Chicago)
Matt Holiday (Colorado)
Dan Uggla (Florida)
Miguel Tejada (Houston)
Russell Martin (Los Angeles)
Nate McLouth (Pittsburgh)
Albert Pujols (St. Louis)
Ryan Ludwick (St. Louis)
Adrian Gonzalez (San Diego)
Cristian Guzman (Washington)

* Injured, may be replaced on team.

UPDATE: Giambi was not named as a starter but he was named a Final Vote Candidate 

Here are the other Final Vote Players:

AMERICAN LEAGUE
Jermaine Dye, White Sox
Jason Giambi, Yankees
Jose Guillen, Royals
Evan Longoria, Rays
Brian Roberts, Orioles

NATIONAL LEAGUE
Pat Burrell, Phillies
Corey Hart, Brewers
Carlos Lee, Astros
Aaron Rowand, Giants
David Wright, Mets

Go here to vote

That was a Little Too Close!

I was at todays game and I have to say it got my blood a boiling. At least we got a win off of the Sox. While I was at the game I caught some pre-game footage of Joba throwing underhand to Edwar as a joke and I thought I would post it.

Game 87: Red Sox at Yankees

YANKEES (45-41)
Damon LF
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
Giambi 1B
Posada DH
Cano 2B
Cabrera CF
Molina C
Rasner RHP

RED SOX (51-37)
Ellsbury LF
Pedroia 2B
Drew RF
Ramirez DH
Lowell 3B
Youkilis 1B
Crisp CF
Varitek C
Lugo SS
Beckett RHP

Happy 4th of July Everyone

Game 86: Red Sox at Yankees

YANKEES (45-40)
Damon LF
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
Giambi DH
Posada C
Cano 2B
Betemit 1B
Cabrera CF

RED SOX (50-37)
Ellsbury LF
Pedroia 2B
Drew RF
Ramirez DH
Lowell 3B
Youkilis 1B
Crisp CF
Varitek C
Lugo SS

Andy Pettitte (LHP, 9-5, 3.98) vs. Jon Lester (LHP, 6-3, 3.48)

If the Yankees sweep this series they are tied with Boston in the standings, but I don't see that happening. The next seven games are very important for the Yankees, with four against the Red Sox and three against Tampa.

Game 85: Rangers at Yankees

Texas Rangers (44-41)	New York Yankees (44-40)
Ian Kinsler 2B	Johnny Damon LF
Michael Young SS	Derek Jeter SS
Josh Hamilton CF	Bobby Abreu RF
Milton Bradley RF	Alex Rodriguez 3B
Frank Catalanotto DH	Jason Giambi DH
Chris Davis 1B	Jorge Posada C
Max Ramirez C	Robinson Cano 2B
Brandon Boggs LF	Wilson Betemit 1B
German Duran 3B	Brett Gardner CF

Luis Mendoza (1-2, 5.40 ERA) vs. Sidney Ponson (5-1, 3.50 ERA)

Time: 7:05 p.m.
TV: YES
Radio: WCBS-AM 880, XM Radio Channel 176

Rangers vs. Ponson

• Young: 9-27, 2 2B, 4 RBI
• Bradley: 0-4
• Catalanotto: 13-39, 1 2B, 4 RBI

Yankees vs. Mendoza

• No Yankees have experience against Mendoza.

Yankees International Signings To Date

Saber-Scouting has the info: The Yankees have signed five international free agents thus far.
- INF Giancarlo Arias
- C/3B Jackson Valera
- OF Ramon Flores
- SS Anderson Felix
- RF Yeico Calderon
According to Saber-Scouting all of these guys are good hitters with good offensive upside, but the defense is questionable with some of these guys. They most likely will play corner postitions, though a few may be able to stay up the middle. I'll update this post as the Yankees add to their list of confirmed signings.

Some Good News for Matsui

Hideki Matsui, who was recently put on the DL with a knee injury, could take batting practice sometime this week. So I guess that means he won't need surgery, and the Yankees probably won't be signing Barry Bonds. Matsui is eligible to come of the DL on July 8th, but he will probably stay on the DL until after the All-Star break, as the Yankees want to be cautious with his rehab.