Quick Bits: Recap, Posada, Joba, Downs
July 28, 2010, 12:15 pm by Chris H. · 101 Comments
Here are a few quick items on the day:
- Thanks mainly to rookie right-hander, Josh Tomlin, the Yankees lost to Cleveland last night, 4-1.
- Jorge Posada missed yesterday’s game with a sore left knee. Posada also admitted to dealing with a cyst in the back of the knee – the culprit for the soreness – all season. Posada will likely DH today.
- Joel Sherman writes that Joba Chamberlain has lost his role as the Yankees’ setup-up man.
- According to the NY Post, if the Yankees want Scott Downs, they’ll have to send Joba to Toronto.
The Yankees should just give up on the thought of trading within their own division. At this point, AL East teams will require not only an arm and a leg, but a heart and soul, in order to deal (see Ty Wigginton). It’s absurd.
Photo by Getty Images
A front line (future) starter for a BP arm, even if it is a lefthanded arm…not a chance in this world.
Like or Dislike:
0 
1
Ken, I completely agree with you. Joba has way to much value to throw him away. The only way I trade Joba is in a deal for a young ace like John Danks or Josh Johnson.
Like or Dislike:
0 
1
Roost would you trade him for Oswalt?
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Ballpark to be fully honest I don’t know at this moment. The truth imo is that with an Oswalt acquisition the Yankees basically assure themselves of a WS berth. On the other hand Joba still has the potential to be better then Oswalt long term. With better mechanics and a consistent delivery Joba can do everything a pitcher needs and wants to do on the mound.
I thought on this for a few minutes and believe keeping Joba is the right decision. I feel the Yankees can still win without trading for either a starter or pen arm. I think if Aceves comes back healthy along with Pettitte and Albaladejo the Yankees will be fine pitching wise.
After the trade deadline if the pen is still faltering it’s very likely that Woods and Farnsworth or someone of there ilk will still be available.
I think the Yankees can make better deals in the off season then they can at the trade deadline so I would pass on all potential major trades but would look into a minor deal or two that might include a player like Pendleton being traded then more prominent prospects.
Like or Dislike:
1 
0
Damn rooster, is this one of your longest posts?
I regress, anyhow, I must say I agree with you. We even have Nova and Phelps as untapped resources. One thing we do have is arms…how much help they would be this year, I don’t know. Pitchers of their quality, show very well in the minors (see Joba) but, this is the big boys division.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
The Yanks always have a lot of depth at pitcher in their system. This is why Cashman is always looking to trade quantity for quality.
When it comes to the post-season, top quality arms make the difference. You need 3 big-time starters and 3 trusted relievers. This is why Cashman has been big game hunting in Lee, Haren, Oswalt and Soria.
Unfortunately, the price has been just too high to make any of these deals yet. I still think Oswalt is a possibility but it may not happen til the August deadline.
Cash will wait to see how Andy & Aceves recover from injury and if Hughes, AJ, Robertson & Joba can start consistently pitching up to their abilities.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
I can’t believe some yankee fans are dying for cashman to make this trade
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
I can’t either BCD! “Ain’t they got no learn’ins.”
Of course, I am the last one to ok a trade of our better players anyhow. I have seen too many average(+) AA/AAA players come up and take off as if they were all-stars. Some players (as do some teams) play to their competition.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
“Of course, I am the last one to ok a trade of our better players anyhow”
exactly nothing gets moved unless you give the ok. Thats the way it should be
Like or Dislike:
1 
0
BCD…
I meant that to mean, “I am the last poster to be in favor of a trade.”
Sorry ’bout dat!
To many trades at this time of the year, are bad for us, the other teams always end up with more then they should get for a player because we are the Yankees!
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
BCD – Which trade are you talking about, Joba for Downs? If so, I agree……that would be a bonehead move of epic proportions.
However, by no means should Joba be untouchable. They key is getting good return if he is dealt. IMO, that would be a top of the rotation starter with at least 2 yrs left on his deal or a young lock-down closer.
IF everything works out and Joba reaches his MAXIMUM potential, he can be a top starter or shut-down closer. So if you can deal him now for someone who is already like that, why wouldn’t we?
Joba is hitting his arbitration yrs so he has about 3 yrs left til Free Agency. IMO, I would deal him for Oswalt if HOU would eat some of the $36M owed him the next 2.3 yrs.
I’d also deal him for Soria who is signed for this yr plus 4 more.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Yea I’m talking about dealing joba for downs. I’m not sure if I would deal him for Oswalt. I would probably deal him for Soria. The only thing is how would he handle pitching in NY and can he deal with not being a closer over the next couple of yrs
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Ballpark, I am hoping that Kevin Towers is the guy that is advising Cashman on pitching. All you have to do is see the Padres staff beyond Garland to realize that he knows a thing or two about pitching.
Like or Dislike:
1 
0
Roost very good point.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Ballpark thank you…here is a heads up for Thursday’s Batting Practice show on Yes. Patrick from Pinstripes Plus will be on talking about the Yankees minor leagues.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Ken Rosenthal says that the Yankees want Adam Dunn but they don’t feel confident that they can get him.
Also it seems like they are starting to take a look at Royals’ utility man Willie Bloomquist.
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/new_york_yankees
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Dunn would be a very dangerous hitter in YS HITTING IN THE MIDDLE OF THE YANKEE LINEUP!
It may be that after getting shot down on big name pitchers that Cash is looking to make up for it by putting a monster bat in the lineup.
The lineup would have to be altered,what would you guys do?
My lineup ;
GARDY
JETER
TEX
AROD
CANO
DUNN
POSADA
SWISHER
GRANDERSON
Like or Dislike:
1 
0
I think Gardy thrives at the number 9 hole and seems to me that he steals more bases when hitting 9
Jeter
Swisher
Tex
Arod
Cano
Dunn
Posada
Granderson
Gardy
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Matt, I understand about the stolen bases but I have to agree with Ballpallpark. Gardner, in my opinion is a lot like Johnny Damon for several reasons:
1. He is kind of a slash hitter.
2. He is patient, works the count deep, and fouls off a lot of pitches – his pitches per plate appearence ratio is 4.59 (Jeter’s is 3.54)
The qualities above make for a very good leadoff hitter. BTW that 4.59 ratio leads the majors.
In addition…
He is a huge threat on the basepaths and he is on them 39% of the time (.390 OBP). This will divert the pitcher’s attention to him instead of the batter – therefore Jeter, Tex, A-Rod are going to see better pitches and there will be more mistakes and we know how Tex and A-Rod like to capitalize on those.
And anyway, Jeter is not having a great year so it is good to give Gardner a chance to leadoff and show what he’s got.
Like or Dislike:
2 
0
mike…
Very well writen and very true!
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Ballpark…
You dun, dun good again.
Have you ever noticed when Brett steals with Jeter following him?
It seems to me he Waite’s until Jeter gets two strikes. That leaves the hole open for Jeter…am I seeing something that isn’t there?
The only thing with your line-up is Ego…Jeters’, would he except the #2 spot? How about Swisher between Cano and Dunn or at #9? I really don’t buy into the idea of splitting up Leftys and rightys, good hitters hit good pitchers as well as good pitchers punch out good hitters. If one has so so hitters, I think it is called for but, do you see any so so hitters in that line-up?
What is your take on splitting up the hitters?
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Ken the reason leftys and rightys are alternated is so that teams cannot bring in their lefty specialist and therefore the opposing manager will have less options.
Here is my suggested lineup:
1. Gardner L
2. Jeter R
3. Teixeira S
4. Rodriguez R
5. Cano L
6. Posada S
7. Dunn L
8. Swisher S
9. Granderson L
Having no consecutive same side hitter (besides the switch hitters) really makes it difficult on the opposing team.
And great point about Gardner stealing with 2 strikes and Jeter getting a gap, Ken.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Damn. Rosenthal says the Yanks are out on Dunn for now.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Mike you should never put Posada 6th because he isn’t going to play consistently.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Do you mean because of his knees? Because thats where hes batted all year.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
No, because he will be replaced in the lineup a lot with Cervelli so why move everyone around if you don’t have too?
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Mike…
You are right…for most teams but, in a way it weakens the strong points of the Yanky line-up.
By the way, you still have a lefty backing up a lefty #9/#1. That hurts Granderson more then it does Brett.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Oops- well only 1 pair of consecutive leftys isn’t that bad.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Truly stated mike!
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
The ASTROS got WHAT for OSWALT? LMAO
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Its okay rooster- the Yanks will be fine. And now since there aren’t really any more big name pitchers left (unless you count Ted Lilly as one), there is room for Lee to be signed in the offseason.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
An absolute steal for Philly.
Not only did they not give up a big package but HOU kicked in $11 Million!!!!!!
Are you kidding? That means Philly pays Oswalt, $12 Million for this yr and next yr and have a $13M option (b/c the $3m buyout is paid) for 2012.
That is the salary relief I was looking for that would make Oswalt attractive to the Yanks. At basically $9M for next yr, they could have STILL afforded to get Cliff Lee:
1- CC
2- Cliff Lee
3- Oswalt
4- Hughes
5- AJ
Wow! Oh well, I don’t think Cash is out yet. Makes Philly even tougher if we should face them in the WS again. Last yr, they had 1 ace starter and nothing else. Now they have an ace starter and a very good #2.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
I think the Yanks will resign Javy so there will only be 1 spot to fill and that is Pettitte.
Yes Javy had a horrible start of this season but that was a mechanical issue and mechanics have rarely been an issue to him in his career.
Im sure you guys will think that there is somebody better than him to replace Javy, but looking at the SP free agency list— there isn’t. (besides Lee)
There is:
1. Bronson Arroyo — has club option
2. Erik Bedard — mutual option
3. Jorge De La Rosa — most likely to be resigned by the Rockies
4. Jeff Francis — has club option
5. Jon Garland
6. Rich Harden
7. Livan Hernandez
8. Ted Lilly
9. Rodrigo Lopez
10. Jake Westbrook
Frankly, I prefer the Javy we’ve been having since his bad start to anyone of them.
So therefore the rotation will be:
1. CC
2. Lee
3. Hughes
4. Vazquez
5. Burnett
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Mike thats a solid rotation.QUESTIONS TO THINK ABOUT.
What if Andy comes back?
How much will Javy command in years and salary?
What if we don’t get LEE?
Is there someone in the system that could help?
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
If Andy comes back which I really doubt, I guess they would rather sacrifice having Javy in their rotation than Lee so Javy would be let go.
I think at most Javy will get a 2 or 3 year contract. He is already 33 and has said he does not want to pitch until he is 40. Also- his velocity has declined so I don’t think he’ll get a big contract.
If they don’t get Lee I think they will definitely resign Javy and I think they will explore possible trades like: Greinke, Johnson, Kershaw. But I really think that since Lee wants to win, wants to be in NY, and is good friends with Sabathia in combination with the Yanks being the top bidder he will be a Yankee next year.
I think Ivan Nova will get some starts in and do some long-relief especially if Pettitte is back and needs more rest than usual.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Whats up BP? Hows the vacation treating you?
Javy gets an incomplete grade for this season until he shows what he can do vs the big boys and in the post-season. He’s been a solid innings-eater so far, but at 34 with a significant decrease in velocity (over 2 mph), I am concerned how his stuff will play going forward.
IMO, I don’t think Javy will be back UNLESS Andy retires and we don’t get Lee. But the Yanks appear infatuated with Lee the same way they were about CC. They had the opportunity to add both Haren & Oswalt but passed to keep the spot open for Cliff.
I wouldn’t be surprised to see Andy come back. He’s having a great yr and his arm is sound. How’s this rotation look:
1- CC
2- Lee
3- Pettitte
4- Hughes
5- AJ
If Pettitte retires and we get Lee, I would prefer to go cheap with our #5 guy. Someone like Ivan Nova, David Phelps or Joba
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Fishjam, the only problem I see is that your rotation would have three lefties in a row. CC-Lee-Pettitte
It should be more like
CC
Lee
Hughes
Pettitte
AJ
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Yeah, I don’t mind what order we put them in as they’d all get around the same # of starts. It would be great to have 3 great lefties in the rotation at Yankee Stadium.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
The Yankees could never get the Astros to kick in that kind of cash.
This is just anoter reason why Nova should have started instead of Mitre. If he showed something his value would so much higher.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Gose for Wallace…scratching my head again…
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
LANCE BERKMAN is the bat the Yanks should add for these reasonns;
1-He is available and the Astros are in full dump mode.
2-he is a switch hitter and could slot into the lineup quite easily.
3-Posada’s bad knee .
4-If Cash cannpt trade for an upgrade in the pen because prices are way too high,beat teams to death with a killer O.
5-CHECK OUT BERKMAN’S NUMBERS.He has been one of the best hitters in all of baseball over his career and even during the last 3 years.He got off to a slow start due to an offseason surgery.
6-Coming to a pennant race with the Yanks and getting away from a terrible Astro yeam will energize this seasoned hard nosed vet.
So please Cash give us something.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Hey Ballpark – another blog just did a story on getting berkman. here it is if you want to read it.
http://riveraveblues.com/2010/07/another-adam-dunn-alternative-32889/
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Ballpark how are you?
Berkman would look very nice batting 6th behind Cano. Alex would start scoring a lot more runs with him as the DH.
All that is really needed for the Yankees to repeat is better middle relief pitching. If they can fix the 6th inning look out. I really liked what Moseley did last night an if that performance is indicative of how he’s going to pitch the rest of the season he’s a great addition.
Ballpark do you think the rush job the Yankees did with Mitre was to try to show he was healthy so they could trade him? He could be a nice fit in San Diego. Only one of Mitre/Mosely has a chance to make the Yankees team next year. Moseley has 3 team controlled years left compared to Mitre just one.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Rooster, I know you asked Ballpark but I would like to give my input too. It could be that they were showcasing Mitre. However, I think there are only 3 scenarios in which they would trade him:
1. If Alfredo Aceves is expected to return and pitch well like before his injury and last year.
2. If they get another bullpen guy in return or in another trade.
3. If they want to give Ivan Nova, Melancon, or Romulo Sanchez some bullpen-time in the Majors.
I still think Gaudin or Park are more likely to be traded than Mitre. Mitre outside of his 2 spot-starts has actually been pretty good out of the bullpen.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Hey Mike chime away. I agree with you about Aceves as he’s the key pen pitcher for the Yankees If he can come back healthy and we should know a good bit more on that later today. Ace threw his second bullpen of the week yesterday an if he feels good he should be in line to go on rehab assignment this weekend. If the Yankees had a healthy Ace they could easily have won another 5 games.
When it comes to Mitre I don’t know what the Yankees want to do with him. Donkey Joe back when the Yankees were in Toronto with AJ giving up 6 runs on that Friday night had Mitre come in for him instead of saving him for Saturday which Gaudin blew in extra innings. This was when they said they were going to use Mitre as a short inning reliever and didn’t. Mitre has talent but no role at the present time. If the Yankees really believe in Moseley’s stuff they should trade Mitre as he should have some decent value especially with the Cardinals, Padres and Dodgers.
As for Gaudin he needs to just go asap! Park has pitched better of late but last night Donkey Joe abused him. Park hit 93 mph so his velocity is coming back up bit.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
I think when/if Aceves is back their bullpen should like so:
CL – Mariano
SU – Robertson / I personally would like to see Soria here
MRP – Aceves / Joba / Mitre
LRP – Moseley
If you factor in Aceves and then acquire someone like Soria, Breslow, Downs — someone like that then you have a very solid bullpen that doesn’t include Gaudin or “Better of late but still not trustworthy” Park.
To me that bullpen above would be a huge plus and would be unstoppable in the postseason — hinging on Joba of course.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Wow I forgot the leftys in Boone Logan and hopefully healthy by the postseason Damaso Marte. I think Marte, after Mariano and SU is the most important piece of the Yankees bullpen. We’ll need him because we could easily face:
Big Papi / Adam Dunn (if CHW gets him) / Carlos Pena / Josh Hamilton / Ryan Howard
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Roost I can’t figure out what the Yanks are doing with the pen.
They seem to be going to a situational type pen ,not counting Moe .However they need 2 LHP’s to properly impliment that scenerio.
Mosely has been impressive and is a strike throwing machine with a good feel for what he is doing out there.
Robertson seems to be getting better.
Logan could be 1 of 2 LHP’s and has the more upside than anyone.He could be a Matt Thorton .
Joba is shot so moving him down the pecking order may take the pressure off.
I can’t figure out why Alby doesn’t get a shot!
Ring has also been lights and could be the 2nd lhp.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Ring may be doing well in AAA but he isn’t proved in a Majors or in the Playoffs like Marte is. We know for sure how good Marte was against leftys in the World Series especially against the heavily lefty Phillies lineup.
Now if Marte’s shoulder injury continues to be a problem, then I think Ring will be given a chance unless the Yankees get Craig Breslow who is a lefty.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Breslow plays for the A’s so there’s no chance of a trade for him…Beane’s price will be ridiculous.
Ring is a solid reliever who should do well especially against lefties in the 6th/7th innings. If fact he should be on the Yankees right now with them playing the Rays tonight. I never realized just how poorly Crawford is against lefties this season as we complain about Granderson. Pena can’t hit them either. The Yankees could really benefit this weekend if they could bring Ring up.
As for the post season if Pettitte is healthy I would if possible start both lefties one two. Both could pitch in relief on there throwing day instead of a bullpen limiting the need for 2 lefty relievers.
Ballpark you are right I have no clue what the Yankees are trying to do with the pen. Donkey Joe has forced Joba into a role he is clearly uncomfortable in which is just silly. Albaladejo definitely has a role but why isn’t he with the team? Mitre I really think needs to go as he seems intimidated pitching in NY. Keeping Gaudin around is just plain stupid!
I still wouldn’t mind the Yankees bringing back Farnys as he could help in many ways as he’s pitched in pretty much every inning from the 5th through extra innings.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Hey guys – It appears the Yankees may not be out on Adam Dunn. Ken Rosenthal says he heard from a rival executive that the Yankees just said they were out to tell the Nationals to stop messing around. I hope they get him. If the White Sox get him, they’ll be the complete team to beat in the AL Central.
http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/chicago-white-sox-trade-adam-dunn-edwin-jackson-073010
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Let’s get Dunn from the Nats, and Lindstrom from the Stros. Check out http://www.thefantasybaseballguru.com leave comments ask qs and follow me on Twitter at beatboston1995
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Lindstrom has a good ERA — 2.54 but opponents are hitting .284 off him (factor in an AL DH and that’ll rise), 44 hits and 14 BB in 39 IP.
Still an upgrade over Gaudin or Park but Breslow, Downs, or Soria are more favorable options.
In fact I think the Yankees should make a big push for Craig Breslow — LHP and opponents are batting .186 off him!
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Adam Dunn – 1B – WAS
The Bergen Record’s Bob Klapisch says the Yankees are definitely out of the mix for Adam Dunn.
So far, there’s nothing saying that an Edwin Jackson-for-Dunn swap is complete. Dunn may yet remain with the Nationals. Jul. 30 – 2:01 pm et
Source: Bob Klapisch on Twitter
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Yeah but Matt remember that nobody knows for sure whether the Yankees are out or not because there have been many mixed messages from executives.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Mike just heard on the WFAN that the yankees are talking to Houston about Berkman and would like to get the deal done this afternoon.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
I wonder if the deal may include Lindstrom. As I said his numbers have some flaws but he’d still be a good guy to have.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Lindstrom gives up to many hits and his LOB% is above 80 so he is do for a regression. I would pass on him.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Berkman would accept a deal to the Yankees, according to Joel Sherman of the New York Post (via Twitter). Earlier today we heard that Berkman would like to play with former teammate Andy Pettitte.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Lance Berkman – 1B – HOU
Brian McTaggert reports that Lance Berkman is out of Houston’s lineup for Friday’s game against the Brewers.
Berkman has done a fair amount of sitting against lefties as of late, but he had a great series against the Cubs and the Astros had Thursday off: it’s hard to believe the team would want him to sit two days in a row. Maybe a trade is close. THe Yankees and White Sox appear to be the primary suitors. Jul. 30 – 4:36 pm et
Source: Brian McTaggert on Twitter
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Mike why Breslow? He is arbitration eligible for the first time after this year. There is no reason for the A’s to consider trading him.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
I know but many teams seem to be going after him. Whether this means the A’s are willing to deal him I don’t know. You have a good point. But if he is available, then he is someone worth looking at.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Guys – got new info:
1. Mark Feinsand of the NY Daily News says Berkman not Dunn is a possibility for the Yanks at this point and that he doesn’t expect Nick Johnson to play again this year.
2. Jim Bowden on his Twitter says that the Yankees are making a hard run at Ted Lilly and Scott Downs and have had conversations with the Astros about Berkman.
3. Joel Sherman tweets that the Yankees are definitely considering Berkman seriously.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Do we need Lilly?
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
No. I don’t think we need any other starting pitchers.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
No, Lilly would be a huge waste of assets.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Guys – The deal for Berkman, according to Mark Feinsand is imminent.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
This lineup will be amazing.
And then when Cervelli catches they’ll just put him 9th and move up the other batters to accomadate.
vs. RHP
Jeter R
Swisher S
Tex S
A-Rod R
Cano L
Berkman S
Posada S
Granderson L
Gardner L
vs. LHP
Jeter R
Swisher S
Tex S
A-Rod R
Cano L
Posada S
Thames R
Gardner L
Granderson L
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Mike if Granderson continues to hit he will likely bat second against right handed pitching wish Swisher going in against lefties.
I think this deal ends Thames playing time but for pinch hitting.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
What you could do when there is a lefty, is DH Posada and have Cervelli catch or occasionally Thames can DH if he has good numbers against the pitcher. I think they are going to use Berkman solely against rightys because he has hit horribly against leftys this year.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
He hit horribly right handed in a very right handed friendly park which is some what concerning.
Like or Dislike:
0 
1
It looks like Berkman is coming to the Yankees!
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Hey guys I don’t want to jinx it but it looks like old Ballpark called it. In the winter I also thought Berkman would be a guy traded at the deadline to either Boston or the Yanks.This guy will help this team he is a hardnosed sob and is said to be very good friends with Andy.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Hey what’s with the new name? If this is just a salary dump for the Astros it’s a good deal for the Yankees but if they are giving up real prospect I would have issue.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Sorry Roost I’m on my daughters Laptop
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Ballpark I am just busting on you a bit that’s all. Hey how’s your vacation going? I hope Kevin Long can get Berkman going right handed. If he can the Yankees can really rest Alex, Jeter, Tex and Posada with full days off but for pinch hitting duty. The only sad aspect is this likely ends Miranda’s playing time.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
I think this means that Miranda will now be used as trade bait – maybe for a high end reliever?
However, he has a load of talent and Berkman won’t be a Yankee next year so there may still be use for Miranda next year.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Roost the vacation is just what the doc ordered,its been great.Thanks for asking.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
I wonder, Has anyone taken notice of the fact, they had Joba pitch two innings tonight?
Does this foretell of a move to the starting roll…per chance replacing Phil? Phil is closing in on his innings limit, would they feel better going into the play-offs with Phil and Joba in the BP rather then just Joba?
Post season games are played by three, maybe four pitchers, therefore, the need for Joba/Phil in the starting rotation is minimal. Granted, I would rather have Phil then Vaz but, Phil will have too many innings.
What say you guys?
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
I don’t think there was ever a chance of Hughes making the rotation for the playoffs.
I think the reasoning behind letting Joba pitch 2 innings tonight is the fact that he finally finished an inning without throwing 26+ pitches, if I’m not mistaken he was at 15 pitches with 1 out in the 2nd inning of work which for any pitcher but especially Joba is being very pitch conservative. Besides that they were already losing the game when he came in and allowing him to go 2 innings in one game is a way to help boost his confidence.
They are going to go 3 man for as long as they possibly can (especially if they get Andy back and he stays healthy for the playoff run) and then Vasquez will be the 4th starter who will only make 1 or 2 starts in the post season as a whole.
I’m not sure how much Joba will be relied upon in the playoffs but I think it’s clear they are going to have Robertson and Hughes be the top 2 righties in the pen come PO/WS time.
Like or Dislike:
0 
1
T.O. – I think its still too early to determine who their 4 playoff startes will be yet.
No doubt that Phil is the one who is best suited for the pen because of his success last yr. But I think the Yanks have concerns about starting AJ and Javy in Games 3 & 4 of a playoff series and add in the uncertainty of Andy’s groin. So if Hughes is pitching much better than AJ & Javy or Andy isnt recovered, Phil will start.
I believe the reason they went hard for Lee and later Haren was so they could afford to use Hughes in the pen and still only have to use one of AJ or Javy in the playoff rotation as a 4th starter.
The ideal situation is Andy makes a full recovery, AJ & Javy finish strong and Hughes can be converted back to the pen in late Sept.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Morning FISHjam…
Just got back from fishing, not good today, ugh!
Last year Phil had a few bad spots from Sept., on, into the play-offs…wore out(?). Joba did well (not 2007, well).
Starting pitching, play-offs for the Yanks; ??????????!…we ain’t nowhere near that yet!
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Phil needs to start getting groundball outs! If he can’t do this anymore he’ll be back in the pen. Back in 06 he was part of a Hardball Times article about pitcher who got 25% K’s and 50% groundouts and he needs to find that ratio again.
I wrote above in this thread that the Yankees should have brought up Ring for this series as a second loogy. If they did would Hughes have pitched to Joyce?
Like or Dislike:
0 
1
The only problem with what Hughes did to Joyce is bad pitch selection.
Hughes throws Joyce a 2-1 curve that was vicious and Joyce swung right over the top so why go with the 2-2 fastball up in to the lefty? He should have dropped the hammer 2-2 and have the choice between the curve and fastball on 3-2. He had a nasty breaker all game he just didn’t trust it when it was on.
Like or Dislike:
0 
1
Roost, I agree if Joe is going to a situational pen he needs a second LHP.Hughes pitched a great game he missed with his location on the FB to Joyce.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
…a need since spring training.
Like or Dislike:
0 
1
I think Hughes is going to run up on the innings limit and I think he is going to have to be forced into the bullpen… I mean do you really want to end up in a situation where AJ or Javy is coming out of the pen and Hughes gets hurt or suffers a setback next year because he throws to many inning this year?
The only way Hughes gets real consideration for the rotation is if Andy isn’t healthy and we would otherwise have to go with AJ in game 2 and Javy in game 3, in that case I think there is a good chance they do say screw it with the innings and let Hughes start in the playoffs for the betterment of the rotation.
Like or Dislike:
0 
1
Ken, I don’t think it means that Joba will start to start again. I think, since he had such an easy 1st inning they wanted to have him pitch a good 2nd inning. This would be to help build his confidence back and possibly turn him around.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Mike, Joba imo should be a starter and should have always been a starter. He has to much talent to waste in the pen. He is too emotional to closeout games. Starting will mellow him out more then coming out of the pen an allow him to mature as a pitcher without regressing into being a mere thrower of a baseball.
Like or Dislike:
0 
1
rooster for GM, please take a bow!
You got it in a nut shell, one thing to add would be;
He doesn’t have to come in and blow them away, as a starter. He can use everything he has when ever he wants to (or needs to) etc. and so-forth and etc again.
Heck, we could go on with the reasons he should be a starter.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Thanks Ken as I would just loved to be a GM! There was an article that had some quotes from Jeff Niemann of the Rays on the adjustments he made last off season that has helped him be the pitcher he is today. He changed up his repetoire to better handle MLB hitters. I think Joba can do the same this off season. I think throwing a cutter instead of his slider as hitters are laying off it an a 2 seamer more will go along way. Joba’s 4 seamer is unhittable up in the zone when spotted properly. He really can become a great starter with more consistent mechanics an a better delivery.
Like or Dislike:
0 
1
the only question roost is will they once again allow him to become a quality starter? I know ppl say cashman hasn’t closed the door but can they really go throw the media circus of putting him back there
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
I don’t understand why the Yankees don’t have Joba throwing a changeup in the pen this year! A changeup would speed his fastball up to the hitter and he has always had a decent 11-12 MPH difference in his fastball and change he just needs to use it to gain the confidence in the pitch.
I thought he should have started the season in Scranton as a starter as many of you here did, at least in Scranton he could have had whole games where he worked primarily on finding good changeup counts and throwing a controlled chanegup. To me this is the most important pitch Joba could master even more so than a sinker or cutter because on the days where his fastball is playing a little down a a changeup solves that problem.
Look at Lincecum lately he has been throwing in the 90-93 MPH range and truthfully his fastball isn’t much different than Joba’s in the rotation at this point (obviously his delivery is more deceptive) but the thing that has stayed the same is how effective his changeup is (I believe it’s the best in the league the past 2 seasons) and that has allowed his fastball velocity to drop since coming to the majors without seeing his effectiveness drop off.
I’m just not sure the Yankees want Joba starting anymore and it’s sad they may not correct a major problem with a once very promising arm.
Like or Dislike:
0 
1
very well said T.O. they have him throwing the curveball occasionally why not toss a change-up in there just to give the batter a different look.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
BCD and O.T….
The change-up is a big time feel pitch, much more then anything else Joba would throw. If he works on it all winter and spring as a starter…he may ( maybe, could , might) learn to throw it well enough to have it as an effective pitch. He has always had the pitch but, it was a work in progress…even more so now. Almost every pitcher can throw a change but, not very many can throw it well enough to get major league hitters out.
I would always (and do) teach a pitcher the change before anything else, then comes the Cutter or curve. The two latter pitchs are much harder on the arm but, most guys can (and do) learn one of the two much quicker.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
That’s a good point ken since the change is a feel pitch it’s not something he can throw at will. Hopefully during the winter he has the chance to work on it as well as other things. It will be interesting to see the moves that the yankees make because it will have an impact on what happens with joba
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
mike, you did it, you were the first one to break my bubble. You should be ashamed of yourself.
There are so many ways the Yankees could go in upgrading them selves but, most of them are risky.
As rooster (and others) wants Ring, Phelps, Nova and Nunez brought up, ok I like that idea…who do you send down? Are they better then those we already have?
Anyone get the idea, “I don’t like to give up on young blood, of our own”?
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
Ken, even though I am disappointed that both Colin Curtis and Juan Miranda are likely going back to AAA both got playing time this year. Both if not traded will be back up in September and have likely secured bench roles next year with their play this year.
Ring should be up with Gaudin flushed asap!!!
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
I agree rooster…
Anytime a good AAA player gets the chance to see what it is all about with the big guys, on the big stage is an opportunity to learn. Now they know…the Big Stars put their pants on the same as everyone else. They also know they are close to the “Show”, not just trade bait…and they have had some success, now they have to work on improving their game more.
Like or Dislike:
0 
0
I like the idea of Nova staying in Scranton until rosters expand just because it allows him to start and develop his pitches in a less win now environment and it’s never a good idea to rush someone to the major just to win games and ruin there development we have seen this with Joba and with Ramiro Pena and the bat.
Like or Dislike:
0 
1
T.O….
True I was trying to point out the obvious…one can’t just bring up a player and plug him in to a starting spot. There are moves and for each move there has to be a counter move.
I agree with you on letting them stay in AAA until the expansion…we don’t need another Joba mess, do we?
Like or Dislike:
0 
0