Yanks/Blue Jays--Rain Delay

The tarp is on the field. The last opening day in the history of The House that Ruth Built is delayed. Here's a forecast from the Toronto Sun, "As of 11 a.m., the weather in New York was turning for the worse. A heavy tarp covered the infield as a misty rain fell, leaving the 1:08 start in doubt. Considering the fact that the weather is supposed to worsen tomorrow and the major festivities planned around today's final Opening Day at Yankee Stadium make it more likely that the teams will play through the elements." The show must go on, until then here's a few Yankees notes:

• "If you had a choice between a manager who was an expert at X's and O's or a skipper with excellent people skills, the guy with the personality would win every time."(paraphrased)--Tony La Russa. Case in point --Joe Torre.
• The first pitch hasn't been thrown yet but the second guessers are in mid-season form. The New York Daily News has an article quoting anonymous scouts (are there any other kind?) saying that the Yanks should have made the Santana deal. "...this year? Forget it...I love their future...but if you think those young guys aren't going to take their lumps, at times this year, against American league lineups, you're dreaming." We all agree that a youth movement is the smart way to go. It's how you do it that gets tricky. I suggested a year ago that the Yanks move out the old and audition the new. This way, it's clear that the organization will be down for a couple of years but than the foundation is set. It's easier said than done because the financial ramifications are always there. Instead, they chose to hype the kids and give the impression that major league ready talent was bursting at the seams. Well, hype subsides when the regular season starts and the facts are rebuilding requires time and patience. Just enjoy the process--easier said then done.
• Lo Hud has an amusing note about Girardi taking the ice cream and candy out of the clubhouse and replacing the junk with nutritious food. Nice concept, no chance of it working. We are hooked on sugar. (Hat tip Baseball Musings)

Update: the game was just called, make up tomorrow night.

Yankees notes & quotes

Yankees opening day, in the Bronx, the beginning of the end for the House that Ruth built. Here's some notes and quotes:

• "As we anticipate the final months, weeks and days of Yankee Stadium, the memories--mountains of memories can be overwhelming."--William C. Rhoden, NY Times (The Baseball 2008 section of the Sunday Times is a collectors item for Bronx Bomber aficionados.)


• "Chris Chambliss circled the bases after going deep against the Royals' Mark Littell, sending the Yankees to the World Series after a 12-year absence. Understand--this was an eternity for Yankees fans my age..."--Harvey Araton, NY Times. I can relate to the angst--how spoiled are we? Ask a Cubs fan.


• That was then, this is now, an interesting item at Lo Hud: "It’s amusing that Joe Girardi and Brian Cashman picked the same roster that Joe Torre and Brian Cashman would have.
  They went with big-league experience and power arms (Bruney, Ohlendorf) over minor-league stat sensations (Patterson, Ramirez).
  They went with experience and power (Ensberg) over youth and speed (Gardner).
  They went with an over-abundance of first baseman, just like they did last year.
  They went with guys Cashman traded for (Albaladejo) over guys he has released (Rasner)." Since Torre was "insulted" out of the dugout it's been open season for critics who harp on Torre's alleged failings but never seem to mention Cashman's role in the process. If this season's choices come up short, how long till the new Joe is the target while the architect hides behind the curtain.
• David Cone, new YES broadcaster, believes current Yankees ace Wang needs to develop an out-pitch other than the sinker, reliance on one pitch can be a disaster on days it isn't working--last season's postseason. "As a professional you have to develop your craft."

Tomorrow, the curtain rises on a new season, time to create some more, "sweet memories."

Maximizing Chamberlain's value

Joba Chamberlain's dominating presence sparks spirited debate as to how he should be used. The proponents of using him in the starting rotation echo Joe Torre's thinking, "would you use a young Clemens in the bullpen?" The relief advocates suggest his value pitching the back end of games is too important to leave in the hands of the usual dubious suspects, they point to last season's turnaround as a case in point. There is a third option that has started to enter the fray.

Tom Verducci of SI has put forth the proposition that the Yanks groom Chamberlain to follow a legend, "what Gossage was able to do should be an inspiration to use the best arm in occasional high leverage spots in the seventh, eight or 9Th." Contrast the value of this role, to the drop in the bucket of 8TH inning specialist.

Here's another voice, Michael Salfino of SNY, "Playing to win means relievers like Chamberlain should pitch up to once around the order about 60 times a year when the game appears to hang in the balance after the fifth inning into extra innings. If you give him a bunch of one-inning, 13-pitch deals you're needlessly putting the game in the hands of Kyle Farnsworth or LaTroy Hawkins in virtually all those games"

It's interesting to hear unconventional suggestions in a game dominated by conformity. Verducci writes, "..the game evolves. Some day some team by the way of happen stance or a maverick manager will use the closer for 100 innings." I'd like to think the game is that progressive and open-minded but don't see any evidence of it. Young pitchers of Chamberlain's talent are rare, their value is significant. It would take a lot of courage to employee them in an unconventional manner and risk the wrath that would come with injury. Can't think of anyone that brave.

Photo/NYINSIDER.com
Hat tip Baseball Think Factory

Yankees predictions

The Yanks open the regular season in three days, tis' the season of predictions. Before I turn it over to the experts, here's a few things that are virtual guarantees:

• Mike Mussina will not revert to his prime. He pitched 152 innings last year with an ERA of 5.15, at 39 years old, the end of a nice career.
• The only consistent thing about Hughes/Kennedy will be inconsistency.
• 5 inning starts from rotation spots #3-#5 will be the norm.
• The bullpen shuttle from the minors will be busy.
• Farnsworth and Igawa will not be reinvented.
• There will be many crooked numbers on the scoreboard as a potent offense attempts to carry a work-in-progress pitching staff.
• Posada won't come close to his career year .338/.426/.543 but free agents-to-be, Abreu and Giambi will compensate.
• The key statistic between the Yanks and Red Sox will be # of players on the DL.
• If everything goes right the Bombers win the AL East and don't make the Series, if everything goes wrong (kids not living up to the hype/significant injuries) they join the also-rans and GM Brian Cashman takes the responsibility.

Some expert opinions: 1) Baseball Prospectus-- 98 wins, 2ND to the Sox 102 2) Buster Olney ESPN and David Pinto Baseball Musings--Yanks win division based on offensive prowess 3) Peter Abraham Lo Hud Yankees 87 wins out of the playoffs. Pete's pick is the most sobering, as a beat reporter he sees these guys up close and personal.

No matter what happens, it will be an interesting season as youth reigns and Girardi infuses an aggressive style.

ESPN gibberish

"I still hear in my dreams the wild stupid gibberish coming out of that yo-yo's mouth."--Hunter S. Thompson



Pardon the interruption, before the Yank's opening day, but this is a non-story that won't go away. Recently, ESPN's Pardon the Interruption reported that Jose Canseco's accusations about A-Rod were uncovered by a blogger. When informed of this Tony Kornheiser shook his head and suggested it was a non-story while his co-host replied, "Yes, but it is interesting." As this thought provoking discussion took place the ESPN ticker incessantly noted the Canseco charges. Mr.Kornheiser is on record as having issues with bloggers (note on this particular day, he wasn't wearing one of his goofy, I mean humor inducing outfits.)



Yesterday, ESPN broadcast the Red Sox/A's game, Gary Thorne and Steve Phillips called the action. Mr. Thorne tries to introduce the Canseco/A-Rod non-story into the telecast, "Giambi says he introduced A-Rod to a steroid dealer and A-Rod tried to sleep with his wife." Phillips tries to correct his partner and mentions it was Canseco not Giambi. Thorne however has a story to relate and can't be deterred by the facts, "Can you imagine those throws from third to first?...It's always something with those Yankees...they'll have to have a meeting."(Paraphrased)



ESPN has given us Chris Berman with his wacky nicknames, Dick Vitale screaming and Mr. Kornheiser with his humor inducing outfits, to go along with fact-filled broadcasts, can it get any better than this?

Joba Chamberlain and expectations

Playing for the New York Yankees isn't easy. Dealing with exorbitant expectations and tabloid media while producing on the field is a job description most ballplayers can't handle. Joba Chamberlain burst on the Gotham scene last season, and delivered in dominant fashion. His personality (his Dad has referred to him as a "Clown") will help him deal with the voracious press corps. His talent will pave the way for on-the-field production, but nothing will prepare him for the never ending stream of over-the-top expectations.

The Village Voice gives a historical perspective,"Chamberlain looks to be the most intimidating right-hander that the Yankees have had in more than half a century. "In his velocity and his fearlessness," says baseball writer Roger Kahn, "the pitcher he most reminds me of is Allie Reynolds, who was the ace of Casey Stengel's five consecutive World Series winners from 1949 to 1953." Like Reynolds, who was part Creek Indian, Chamberlain is Native American on his father's side—the Winnebagos of Nebraska—and, like Reynolds, he can both start (which he did in college, for Nebraska) and relieve (which he's been doing for the Yankees). "A big difference between them," says Kahn, "is that Chamberlain is eight years younger than Reynolds was when he came to the Yankees. Another difference is that he throws even harder than Allie."

The New York Daily News sets up the future, Mark Feinsand writes, "It is the troika of talented young pitchers the Yankees are counting on to be the foundation of the next dynasty."

Joba Chamberlain has a lifetime total of 24 innings in the big leagues, apparently the rest will be history.

Photo/Sports Illustrated

Yankees notes

Here are a few Yankees related notes as spring training winds down and Japan catches MLB fever:

• Buster Olney of ESPN and David Pinto of Baseball Musings both pick the Bombers to win the AL East based on their potent offense. Last season's formidable production should be surpassed considering the health/conditioning issues the Yanks faced-- Matsui, Damon, Abreu and Giambi were all adversely affected. It doesn't hurt that Abreu and Giambi will be playing for new contracts, let's hope a Lowellesque resurgence is on the horizon.


• The Yanks will have to put up crooked numbers on a consistent basis to compensate for their work in progress pitching staff. As I write this, it is being reported Pettitte has been bumped from his first start because of lingering back spasms. How vulnerable is this staff? lets count the ways-- 1) Moose is your # two. 2) Hughes and Kennedy figure to be erratic all year (that's what young pitchers do.) 3) 18 guys in the bullpen and a viable long man is nowhere in sight. It's never easy.


• Jose Molina is en fuego since putting on pinstripes. Here's his numbers with the Angels last season: .224/.242/.288 contrasted to his Yankees production: .318/.333/.439. He is hitting .325 this spring. This new found offense will not continue but Baseball Prospectus' scouting report, "The Yankees found that one team's trash is another's treasure" rings true. Posada carried a heavy load last season; he'll get some quality relief this year.


• Today's exhibition against the Indians featured Ian Kennedy struggling with his command--90 pitches, 45 balls. He only went 4 2/3 innings and was relieved by Scott Patterson. A YES graphic flashes some impressive numbers that Patterson put up at Trenton, last season: 74 IP/ 1.09 ERA (who is this guy?--note he's 28 and pitching Double A.) Baseball Prospectus sheds some light, "His Double-A #s recall those of fellow indy-league grad Edwar Ramirez but his stuff is purely average, as he gets by on deception and angles on his low-90's fastball, which is unlikely to work in the bigs." They then issue an eye opening caveat, "no pitching is quite as good as it looks at Trenton thanks to Old Man Delaware." Now they tell us.

Yankees gibberish

"I still hear in my dreams the wild stupid gibberish coming out of that yo-yo's mouth..."--Hunter S. Thompson

Carl Pavano is old news. Last season's opening day starter is not relevant enough to assume his former position as the punchline of redundant jokes. Apparently, Yankees G.M Brian Cashman is an eternal optimist and Pavano is still in the mix. The New York Times quotes Cash, " He's doing quite well..his rehab is right on schedule. Eventually he'll be on the mound..."

Murray Chass writes, "Cashman, who could be blamed for the costly contract viewed the matter philosophically."

"That's the breaks," he said. "What are you going to do?...He has been a good starter when he has been out there."

Here's the lifetime production of Pavano in Pinstripes: 111IP/ERA 4.77/Whip 1.45 (rounded) The facts speak for themselves, Cashman should stop trying to reinvent history.

I'd like to take a stab at answering the question, "What are you going to do?" Start by giving all prospective acquisitions and prospects personality profile tests that may indicate if they can handle the Gotham heat, then do extensive background checks. With this information in hand, better decisions can be made about a player's character. There will always be a risk factor but, perhaps, it can be reduced. If these two steps are added to the process (I'm assuming they aren't in place now because it's hard to believe Giambi, Pavano and Igawa would have been signed) and a transaction still doesn't go as planned acknowledge the truth and move on.

Can Yanks harvest max value from farm?

The Yankees' highly publicized youth movement is receiving accolades from fans and media. The barren farm has been reseeded at a break neck pace as the Bombers flaunt their financial clout and reload. Last season's lethargic, under-performing roster filled with over-paid mercenaries was brought to life by a group of young players that played with joy and enthusiasm. Jaded fans were refreshed by the energy and winning that the kids sparked. The farm is now the foundation of the future.

Getting optimum value from prospects is a multi-dimensional job. The focus has been on minor league ratings and work-in-progress major league neophytes. It's not that easy. The Yankees must be willing to trade some of their prospects that are more hype than substance. No matter how many quality minor league players an organization has most will fall short at the major league level. Last season saw a long list of not ready for prime time players come and go, a year later many of them are off the radar--"and so it goes."

The Baseball Prospectus 2008 Guide gives a scouting report on the Los Angeles Angels that will apply to the Yankees. They note that the Angels are a quality organization with a strong farm system but note, "Have held on to too many prospects for too long, only to watch their value plummet as it turns out that they really aren't as good as cranked up to be... contrast this with the Braves who have proven consistently willing to peddle their oft-touted farm talent and who have rarely come to regret it." It is ironic that a key ingredient in the Yanks' future success will be the ability to trade prospects. Separating the wheat from the chaff will be a vital skill.

Brian Cashman has been quoted as saying, "there is a tendency to become attached to prospects." BP notes, "it requires wisdom to cut the cord to some of the prospects the organization has cultivated and perhaps, jealously treasured." It may sound premature to bring this topic up now, but the hype is at full bloom. Time will tell how much value the Yankees harvest from prospects real or imagined.

Yankees notes

A few random Yankees notes, while this Villanova grad. sweats out March Madness:

• Melky's motivation: Someone wrote the name Johan Santana inside of Melky Cabrera's helmet (S.I.) Austin Jackson is in the rear-view mirror, it will be interesting to see how Melky reacts to the business side of baseball. Last season, all he had to do was play. Joe Torre, "Melky plays like he's in the park."
• Morgan Ensberg has made the 40 man roster. I had hoped to see the versatile Cody Ransom. Guess you can never have enough part-time DH's who can possibly play first. Give Ensberg credit for saying he was giving up Paul O'Neill's number.
• Baseball Prospectus on Cleveland's #2 starter Fausto Carmona, "He's basically Chien-Ming Wang with better stuff." Reinforces the notion that Wang is a good pitcher but not a top of the rotation guy.
• BP delivers some more sobering news, "Young (Dimitri of the Nationals) plays first base with all the nimble grace of a mailbox. That might seem not so bad at first blush--Jason Giambi wishes he was a mail box..." They are, of course, talking about the old Giambi. The new version with the assistance of Ensberg, Betemit and Duncan figures to be in the first base mix until the first injury, than he'll join Matsui, Damon, Duncan, Ensberg and resting regulars as a part-time DH. Who built this team?
• Carl Pavano was moved to the 60 day DL for the 4Th straight season, to make room for part-time DH Morgan Ensberg, now I remember who built this team.

Chamberlain switches gears

Joba Chamberlain's demeanor changes when brought in from the bullpen to shut the door. The confidence that comes from domination is apparent. Confidence is contagious and can't be clearly measured by statistical analysis.

The game changes when Joba is in the bullpen mix. The usual suspects get demoted. Members of the work-in-progress rotation know that Chamberlain and Rivera have their back. Six innings becomes a good job, seven is lights out. Opponents know they have six innings to outscore the vaunted Bomber's lineup nine inning production. Large edges breed winning--the name of the game.

Peter Abraham, in an article titled, "Chamberlain back at home." chronicles Joba's notable return to the pen," I was more aggressive; just attach the zone. You let your competitive edge and your abilities take over. I think I did a better job of throwing my slider. It was back to the slider that I'm used to throwing and not trying to baby it."

Chamberlain's long-term role figures to be in the starting rotation. Joe Torre said, "Would you put a young Clemens in the bullpen?" You wouldn't if you had a stable rotation and a reliable pen. The Yanks aren't there yet, while the transition to the future materializes, the team is better served with a dominant reliever, whose confidence is contagious, than they are another "cautious starter."

Yankees game day--Toronto Blue Jays

Notes from today's Yankees/Blue Jays exhibition:

• Rising expectations--Peter Gammons quotes an anonymous Yankees source as saying, "Robinson Cano should have a breakout season, it's possible he could hit .335 with 40 hrs." I don't know if this is the same guy who said, "Melancon could be the next Joba" but I don't see the value of feeding the press these hyped remarks, off the record. It can't help the young player.
• Shelley Duncan barrels into home plate, avoids a collision and jubilantly shows off his raspberry in the dugout. He plays the game with the joy of a 10 year-old kid.
• Words of wisdom: "With young pitchers you always have to hold your breath... The AL East is a tough place to develop guys."--J.P Ricciardi, Blue Jays G.M.
• Kennedy's performance today shows the important role the bullpen will play in the regular season. Ian had good command, including his overhand curve. He produced: 4 1/3 innings, 1 run, no walks and threw 75 pitches. There will be plenty of days this season when the starter is good but the pitch count shows him an early exit, with two kids and Moose in your rotation, the pen will be up early and often.
• Joba makes his well publicized return to the pen by striking out the side on 11 pitches. His long-term home should be the rotation but his short-term value to the team is helping The Great Rivera shorten the game to 6 innings.
• Keith Law of ESPN.com, reports it would be reasonable to expect Hughes, Chamberlain and Kennedy to become solid members of the rotation by 2009-2010. This thinking is consistent with what I've been saying from the beginning--these things take time.
  

Yanks' competition--Boston Red Sox

The American league is loaded with quality teams. The World Champion Boston Red Sox top the list (the truth hurts.) The Baseball Prospectus 2008 guide projects the Sox to win 102 games. The underdog Bombers are expected to notch 98 victories (the computer is an optimist.) Boston has passed NY on the field and off ("if it doesn't kill you it'll make you stronger"--that's the theory, anyway.)

Here's an excerpt from B.P., "Upon taking the reins, Epstein said that he wanted to turn the Red Sox into a 'scouting and development machine.' To say that he did that would be an understatement...Theo Epstein has built a system that reduces his need to overpay, in coin or talent, for anything." Contrast this situation to the Yankees, Posada and Rivera become free agents after the organization chose not to offer new contracts during the regular season. There was no one remotely capable of replacing them and two more excessive contracts hit the books. The good news is that the Yanks have chosen to model themselves after the proactive Sox.

More from BP, "Everywhere you look the Red Sox are finding small edges, putting new practices in place and investing in their organization...He's built the model organization in baseball. This is what the start of a dynasty looks like." Yankees fans remember those days, when Williams, Rivera, Jeter and Posada came up there was no excessive hype, their names went in the lineup and the rest is history.

The Bronx Bombers have been knocked off their perch and it will take time to get back on top. Underdog is a new role that has some appeal, until you realize it could easily translate to also-ran.

Photo/NY Times

Yankees notes

New York Yankees notes:

• The organization showed class today by playing an exhibition game at Virginia Tech University. After a winter of negative news, it was nice to dwell on positives for a change. Girardi was asked if he would go easy on the college kids, he replied, "no, it's not in my nature." Karstens made the start and fortunately it may be a much needed confidence booster. The Yanks' regular lineup won conclusively, but the score is irrelevant, the campus got some positive memories, that's all that matters.


• Peter Abe from LO Hud, reports as only a beat writer can, "Andy Pettitte conveniently developed a case of mild elbow tendinitis last week, just in time to miss the game against the Tampa Bay Rays and the messy brawl that ensued. As younger players grappled and threw punches, he was safely back at Legends Field.
  Miraculously, he healed in time to throw a long bullpen session two days later and started against the Red Sox yesterday." Pete goes deep undercover to let us in on an alleged conspiracy.


• Girardi's first spring training has featured retaliation, manipulation, a take no prisoners attitude and the icing on the cake--getting Big Papi to move his feet (somewhere Manny is practicing his bail-out.) You get the distinct impression that if he had managed the Schilling "bloody sock" game, a few bunts would have been laid down.


• Walked into a Sports Authority store, large rack of Yankees' jerseys marked 50% off, check the name on the back--Clemens, all other Bomber jerseys full price. Fame is fleeting.


• Dose of reality-- An article titled, "Joba's job to change mid-season" mentions, "It's hard to imagine that Chamberlain would be forced into the rotation if Yanks' five starters are operating on all cylinders." Team architect Brian Cashman is quoted, "I certainly can't count on that." Candid comments are refreshing. In poker strategy, there is an expression that fits this situation, "it depends." If the Yanks' can acquire a real set up guy--Damaso Marte would be a nice fit--moving Joba makes a lot of sense (note, those who would hope he'll automatically dominate at the top of rotation need to check the history of young starters.) If no quality reinforcements are pending, moving a proven, dominant late inning guy ( I keep reading he'll be an 8TH inning specialist-he can easily handle more work than that) to be a work in progress starter, in a pennant race, is not an easy decision. Either way, it's nice to have options.
  

Yanks/Red Sox--Game Day

Notes from today's Yankees/Red Sox exhibition game from Tampa:

• Girardi starts 8 lefties against Bartolo Colon--A-Rod sits against a pitcher he owns. Colon hits 94 on the gun but gets shelled--2/3 rd of an inning, 3 hits,4 runs. If this guy makes the rotation, Yanks' chances improve.
• Jeter ranges far to his left, fields a ball to the right of the bag and throws out a runner. The captain has dismissed critics claims about his shaky defense, but is it a coincidence he's been working hard to improve his range? If the knee holds up, could some of those charts and graphs quantify some improvement?
• Pettitte moves Ortiz off the plate--a welcome sight. Flaherty comments,"you have to make a guy move his feet." On cue Big Papi (a career .318 hitter vs NY) whiffs. Girardi, "it's important guys don't feel comfortable."
• Pettitte has a good day at the office, throws 65 pitches, reports the elbow was fine and turns it over to Heath Phillips. Michael Kay on Phillips, "He's done a good job this spring." A graphic flashes--an ERA of 8+ in 4 IP--HUH? The Yankees used 18 relief pitchers last season and needed a Double A kid to rescue them, after Joba and Mo, there's still no relief in sight.
• Brian Bruney brings 100 MPH heat, on the corners, in the 8TH. He has gone from the penthouse (ERA of .87 in 20 innings in 2006--nobody could figure out why AZ. gave up on him.) to the outhouse ( ERA 4.68, 37 walks in 50 innings--we figured it out.) His massive off season weight loss signals that he's serious about getting his job back. Here's a note from Baseball Prospectus, "the hard throwing Bruney can still be an asset."
• The regular season opens with the Red Sox, on the road trip from hell, in Japan. The Bombers are in the Bronx with a chance to gain an advantage awarded them by the schedule maker. It would be nice to be on top looking down for a change.

Yanks/Indians game day

Notes from today's New York/Cleveland exhibition from Tampa:

• Wang vs. Sabathia will be a marquee match up during the regular season as each #1 starter will be vital for their team's postseason aspirations.
• Wang works 4 1/3 innings, throws 76 pitches, allows 4 runs and 6 hits, he features good stuff that results in 7 strikeouts.
• C.C. Sabathia is in his walk year and rumors are that he could be at the top of the Bomber's rotation, this time next year. Despite the talent, investing 200 million in an obese pitcher is a high risk venture. Baseball Prospectus' 2008 guide issues a warning, "the team worked the 26 year-old hard last year, to a point that seemed dangerous." If the Indians determine they can't resign him, will they be inclined to ride their horse extra hard in what figures to be a very competitive AL pennant race? Buyer beware.
• Girardi gets ready for the regular season by starting Duncan in right field and sitting Abreu. Duncan figures to get all his at bats when a southpaw is on the mound and will be shifted between first and right.
• Good question: Broadcaster John Flaherty mentions that prospect Brett Gardner asked about the correct way to question an umpire. "Gardner's an on-base-guy he wanted to know how the pros ask an umpire about the strike zone."(paraphrased) A thinking young player looking to optimize his skills--I like this kid already.
• The Yanks win a sloppy exhibition, Flaherty reports that this is the time of the spring when players tend to get bored.
• Yankees followers looking for comprehensive, objective scouting reports should consult Baseball Prospectus' 2008 Guide. Analysis, without hype, is a good thing. BP's projects that the Yanks will win 98 games this season, if that happens there will be euphoria in the Bronx and Girardi will be a favorite for manager of the year.
  

Costas judges Bloggers

Bob Costas has joined a list of media professionals who have issues with bloggers. The Miami Herald published an article titled, "Sports Bloggers weave a tangled web." Costas is quoted:
'But it's one thing if somebody just sets up a blog from their mother's basement in Albuquerque and they are who they are, and they're a pathetic get-a-life loser, but now that pathetic get-a-life loser can piggyback onto someone who actually has some level of professional accountability and they can be comment No. 17 on Dan Le Batard's column or Bernie Miklasz' column in St. Louis. That, in most cases, grants a forum to somebody who has no particular insight or responsibility. Most of it is a combination of ignorance or invective.''

Here's a response from David Pinto at Baseball Musings, "I'm not surprised he doesn't like bloggers. People who publicly challenge the lofty throne Costas sits on..."

I am surprised that a professional journalist of Mr. Costas' reputation would issue a statement that paints all bloggers with the same brush. Status and fame don't give a free pass to ignorance. Here is a recent article published by the Sporting News, follow that with a recent entry from the Yankees Republic blog, which is more credible and professional? Mr. Costas criticized a large group of people without knowing the facts, that qualifies as a, "combination of ignorance or invective."

Yankees spring training pitching notes

Spring training is a time to work out pitching issues. The regular season is two weeks away, there is work to be done. Here's some notes from two rough days:

• The fact that Phil Hughes struggled yesterday--2 2/3 I.P., 9 hits, 4 runs--isn't surprising. Someone said, "the only thing consistent about young pitchers is inconsistency." Hughes has yet to establish that he is a good big league pitcher, these things take time. Hype and potential will take a back seat to performance once the regular season starts.
• Ian Kennedy started today's exhibition game vs. the Rays. Here's how Baseball Prospectus' 2008 Guide describes him, "With a drinking bird windup reminiscent of Mussina from the stretch, he may be on the verge of a similar career." That will work.
• Paul O'Neill says, "The biggest step is Triple A to the Majors," as the next Moose gives up two taters in the 2ND inning.
• LaTroy Hawkins enters the game, Michael Kay notes, "He has a lifetime ERA 0f 9.64 in Yankee stadium. The highest of any pitcher in 50 years." I consult with the BP 2008 Guide, "doesn't have the stuff he had 5 years ago and his ERA could double at any time." Gulp.
• Kei Igawa enters to provide some relief (seriously) here's how BP describes him,"The arm that launched a thousand baseballs." On cue, 4 thunderous extra base hits follow, O'Neill compares him to Irabu (pronounced I Rob You.) Michael Kay mentions that the Yanks put him on waivers last season, the Padres put in a claim but Cashman pulled him back saying,"We aren't done with him yet." Kay says the Yankees are "befuddled" about Igawa. Sounds about right.

Last week the Yankees pitching was lights out, hope and optimism made an appearance. That was than this is now, two weeks to go, there's work to be done.

Photo/NY Post

Baseball Commissioner Selig's biggest fan

The Sporting News published an article written by Richard Justice titled, "Baseball's best-ever commissioner: Bud Selig." The author has an interesting perspective on Bud's reign. Here's a few nuggets of objectivity:

• "Bud Selig is the best commissioner baseball has ever had. It's not even close. To think otherwise is silly." Apparently, I'm guilty of being a tad "silly" but being a fact-based person I am open minded to learning the truth.
• "He brilliantly steered the sport from the dark days of the 1994 World Series cancellation to record-setting growth." Pesky fact alert--Selig took office in 1992, he spearheaded the fight that led to the biggest work stoppage in the sport's history and cancelled the World Series.
• "He is the biggest reason baseball has labor peace..." Apparently, Mr. Justice missed the chapter on baseball's collusion 1985-1987. MLB paid a 280 million-dollar fine as penalty for cheating, managed by the "greatest commissioner ever." What little trust the union may have had for the owners was voided by their boy Bud.
• "Steroids happened." We can agree on this point. "We can't ignore that." Well we can sure try, steroids reached the public arena in 1988--a World Series broadcast mentioned Canseco's name in possible connection. Tony La Russa has been quoted as saying they were prevalent in the 90's. 2008 has featured the home run king being indicted on perjury charges and the greatest pitcher of the modern era being reduced to a tragic reality show.
• "Selig is as decent and as honorable as anyone you'll ever meet...He believes in old fashion values." The values espoused by the Gordon Gecko character in the movie Wall Street come to mind, "Greed is good."
  

Yanks/Pirates Game Day

Notes from today's Yankees/Pirates exhibition game from Tampa:

• David Cone has made an impressive debut as an analyst at YES, watching a game and learning at the same time from a literate former player adds a lot to the experience, hopefully this catches on.
• Today's Coney Corner: He details how Girardi has been on Mussina to pitch inside, not just show a pitch but throw strikes. As the game unfolds Jose Molina consistently sets up inside, driving home the message. Moose delivers and pitches 5 shutout innings, Girardi had a reputation as a great handler of pitchers when he was behind the plate, we are seeing dividends already.
• Paul O'Neill gives a hitters perspective and says "concern about pitching inside at Yankee Stadium, to a left handed hitter is a fallacy, as a hitter it's hard to keep the ball fair."(paraphrased)
• More from Coney's Corner: "The pitcher has the ball in his hand and a feel for the pitch, he should have the power to select what pitch to call." (paraphrased) This is an interesting concept in the context of the Yank's young pitchers and the veteran catchers. (As I wrote this I remembered Joba shaking off Posada on several occasions) It will be interesting to see how much rope Girardi gives the young guns.
• Former Bomber bust, Jaret Wright take the mound. He's coming off a season that was injury riddled and featured a bloated ERA--go figure.
• Byung-Hyun Kim takes the mound, Bombers Cody Ransom (who is this guy) and Cano go deep, Yogi watches from the dugout--Deja Vu all over again as Kim has Diamondback flashbacks.
• More player perspective from Cone as he relates how important it is to read an opponents body language and take advantage of any weakness. As he communicates this idea the camera shows a crumpled Kim on the mound. O'Neill mentions he can recall Cone screaming from the opponents dugout, when one of his teammates showed weakness.
• The run of excellent Yankees pitching this spring ends when Moose leaves and Karstens/Traber blow a lead. As the season draws closer, the Yanks would be wise to keep Pirate lefty Damaso Marte on their radar (there have been rumors of interest.--Hat tip My Baseball Bias) He pitched an inning today, featured nasty stuff and would add a proven presence to a vital pen.

Yankees payback Rays

Baseball is the root of Shelley Duncan's family tree. His father Dave played on the championship Oakland A's teams of the Reggie Jackson era. Shelley's dad than went into coaching and has been Tony La Russa's highly respected pitching coach forever. Shelley grew up in the A's clubhouse and has learned a few things along the way about protecting your teammates.



Today was the first meeting of the Yankees/Rays since the controversial home plate collision involving a young aggressive Rays base runner Elliot Johnson and Yankees' prospect Francisco Cervelli. The catcher ended up in the hospital and will need surgery to repair his wrist.



Here's what Duncan said before the game,"I'm just hoping for a nice, good game. We'll see..."

Here's how Peter Abe at Lohud described what happened: "Shelley Duncan (of course) started the top of the second with a single. He tried to go to second as the ball rolled behind third base and was out by five feet. Duncan slid in with his spikes exceedingly high at Akinori Iwamura and was tagged out. He was immediately ejected." A brawl followed the ejection.



Just a nice day at the ballpark featuring good old-fashion country hardball. I'm sure Shelley's teammates appreciate the gesture.

Yankees game day

Notes from today's Yankees, Blue Jays exhibition game from Tampa:

• Expert commentary from David Cone: "Wang needs a finish pitch, he's excellent at getting ahead of hitters but struggles putting them away." He suggests the slider would be the appropriate pitch in his repertoire. "His arm strength is definitely there, it's a matter of adjusting his arm speed and wrist position." (Paraphrased) It's refreshing to hear a former player turned commentator give a literate analysis of how the game is played.
• Giambi lines a single to left center, a sight for sore eyes after watching years of grounders into the shift. The euphoria is short-lived as a discussion in the booth mentions that Giambi is the latest player (coming off a bad year) to cast aspersions at Torre. It seems poor Jason felt uncertain over his role at first base. Stats. are presented that shows Giambi is a .309 hitter when he plays the field and hits a paltry .241 as DH. Michael Kay correctly points out that, "his body was falling apart" for much of the time he spent at DH. No word how Torre influenced Giambi's PED abuse.
• Cone is asked if he would rather have a great defensive catcher who can't hit or a slugger with defensive issues. Coney says he'll take the defense every time.
• Wang's line: 4 innings, 58 pitches, no runs, a step in the right direction for the Yankees' most valuable pitcher.
• Ramirez takes over and a graphic shows his 8.14 ERA from last season, John Flaherty comments,"that it isn't great." The late Howard "tell it like it is" Cosell roles over in his grave.
• Shelley Duncan talks with Kevin Long while diagramming something in the dirt. I'm reading George Will's, Men at Work, which documents Shelley's Dad Dave participating in behind the scenes strategy sessions while with the Oakland A's. Fair to say Shelley has been talking baseball strategy his whole life.
• The pitching dominates again as the Yankees win 6-1, if this holds up it's going to be a fun year.

Photo/MLB Blogs

Yankees Cashman Saga

Yankees G.M. Brian Cashman is a lightening rod. He sparks polarized debate among the organization's ardent followers. The faith-based, "In Cash we trust" group write glowingly and are effusive in their praise of his accomplishments, when confronted with the missteps the standard response is that anyone who knows anything about the Yanks knows Brian was working for the Boss from Hell and was just following orders. Once set free from the tyrant's shackles "Cash" was to the youth movement what Al Gore was to the Internet (hyperbole alert.)



A different viewpoint comes from the fact-based mob (yours truly is a lifetime member.) We suggest that Cashman has done some noteworthy things: A) Rebuilt the decimated farm using the financial clout that Yankees specialize in. B) Allowed Damon Oppenheimer to use his draft acumen to deliver Chamberlain and Kennedy. C) Hired Girardi over the people's champion and less qualified Donnie Baseball. This side of the debate has difficulty explaining away the many issues of the first seven years.



Brian Cashman grew up in the Yankees organization. In his words, "I kept getting promoted when everyone around me was getting fired." It takes a special skill set to thrive in this environment. He accepted the G.M. position fully aware of the political baggage that went with appeasing a tyrant. He inherited a championship nucleus and had more financial support than any executive in the history of sport.



We still flinch at the memory of the hyped pitchers that were purchased (directly or indirectly) at exorbitant prices: Contreras, Weaver, Brown, Johnson,Wright, Pavano, Farnsworth, Igawa, there are more, but you get the point. When these moves didn't work out it was implied that the coaching staff should have reinvented their mechanics or communicated more. We are incredulous that 28 different players wore a first baseman's glove the last three years, Carlos Pena was signed and cut and we are back to another list. How can a 218 million-dollar roster not have a legit backup catcher till mid-season? If you are going to let Posada and Rivera twist in the wind all year, shouldn't there be a contingency plan? Actually, there is an answer to this one--MO Money. The Marty Miller debacle has been well chronicled and reinvented. If Cashman is not responsible for any this, how much credit should he receive for the perpetual playoff appearances? Joe Torre and a list of coaches took the fall for the 4-13 postseason mark the last few years, does any of this reflect upward?



The Yankees Republic published an article titled, "GM Pride & Prejudice:Four More Years" it documents Cashman's tenure in a comprehensive, highly literate fashion that is truly unique. The Cashman debate is not ending any time soon but both sides would be well served to take the time to read Matthew Schweber's article, it paints a complete picture.

Farnsworth exposed

The notion that Joe Torre is the root of all failure in pinstripes has gotten a lot of mileage this spring. It's easy to pile on excuses when someone is gone. We've read that the Yanks weren't in shape because Joe ran a lax ship. Didn't read that last spring, when it allegedly happened. Last year we read that Brian Cashman created the office of "Performance Enhancement" and hired Marty Miller from outside of baseball to orchestrate the Bombers conditioning. There were plenty of complaints from the players that the new fitness regime was different. It didn't take long to see the repercussions as a rash of hamstring injuries decimated the Yank's rotation. At first it was dismissed as coincidence, as the DL grew Cashman had to acknowledge a problem and his new hire was fired in May. This spring you don't read Cashman's name attached to the debacle, that honor goes to the departed Mr. Torre.



The excuse parade has marched to the bullpen and been given the ultimate credibility test. It appears that Joe Torre was the reason that Kyle Farnsworth has failed in pinstripes. Don't believe it? Just ask Kyle. SNY has video of Daily News Live that quotes Farnsworth, "What they said last year about I couldn't go back-to-back days, which was news to me. I said 'What are you guys talking about?" The show than documents that in 7 back-to-back appearances, poor misunderstood Kyle had an ERA of 7+ and opponents batted at a .321 clip. (It has been a common thread on TV and Radio broadcasts that Farnsworth's velocity drops significantly when he isn't given a day off after a grueling 1 inning appearance.)

The panel discussion that follows Farnworth's lame excuse includes comments that he was signed to a 3 year 17-million dollar deal and "Someone in the organization is a poor judge of pitching." This brought back memories from earlier this spring when we were told Igawa's problems were related to communication--a year after signing a gaudy contract he still doesn't speak English.

Joe Torre has flaws, there has been appropriate criticism for over using a reliable reliever when he lost faith in other options. (Sturtze and Proctor RIP) At some point, responsibility has to be handed out in an even handed fashion. The players are responsible for staying in shape and producing results. The front office is responsible for providing viable options. When they don't do the job, it's not all Joe Torre's fault.

Yankees and Red Sox deal with expectations

The good old days in Yankees history when the Bombers would destroy the dreams of the Red Sox faithful are a distant memory. Things have changed in the AL East and so have the expectations that come with success. Boston will now have to cope with the unrealistic hopes that come with inordinate success. Dan Shaughnessy, of the Boston Globe, warns the zealous fans of New England that this crew isn't the 27 Yankees. He takes a realistic approach to evaluating the World Champs: "The Sox are good. But they are not a dynasty. Not yet. Not even close." Common sense and down-to-earth logic, good luck with that.

The Red Sox aren't alone in having to cope with hype. Despite the Yank's new tradition of early postseason flops, much of the fan base and local media are foaming at the mouth with over-the- top analysis of a promising crew of young players. The experts across the aisle have a different view. Bill James, interviewed in Time, says of the Yankees: "Young pitching will break your heart. I think when teams go into a pennant race depending on young pitching, it very often takes a year or two for that young pitching to meet expectations. It's going to be interesting to see how many of the young pitchers live up to the expectations." Unfortunately, he's right and not alone. Peter Gammons reporting for a ESPN, Cold Hard Facts segment was asked which Joe--Torre or Girardi--would have a better season. He believes Torre will do better because of pitching and lesser competition. He spoke highly of Girardi but says it will take a year.

Lee Jenkins, of Sports Illustrated, recently wrote this about the Mets, "Right now, everything about the Mets looks polished and shiny. No on can imagine starting this season the way they finished the last one. That is the seductive power of spring training...." There are 3 weeks left to bask in the "seductive power" of spring training, than our expectations collide with reality.

Yankees' Farnsworth reinvented

Spring training is a time for optimism. There is a difference between optimism and delusion, which brings us to Kyle Farnsworth. The Yankees are not publicly facing facts regarding their beleaguered reliever. They are putting a happy face on a train wreck. No excuse is left unturned-- GM Brian Cashman, "...adjusting to New York isn't the easiest thing for our players."

Peter Abraham wrote an article today titled,"Girardi has faith in Farnsworth" he notes that Girardi is a believer in Farnsworth. Here's what he wrote in December,2007:
" Girardi also seems to have a bad case of Kyle Farnsworth. He said the set-up was “dominant” when he caught him with the Cubs and that he understands his personality.Dominant? Farnsworth and Girardi were teammates from 2000-02. Farnsworth was 2-8 with a 5.16 ERA during that stretch. He allowed 208 hits and 109 walks in 205.2 innings. He did strike out 227, however.Farnsworth may be smarter than we all think. He clearly has all these guys hypnotized."

Farnsworth has been in pinstripes for two seasons. His stats.: ERA 4.40 WHIP 1.40 could be worse, he is a one inning guy who pitches every other day because he's not as "good" when used more. One of the common threads this spring is the clear implication that Joe Torre is the root of failure. Here's more from poor Kyle: "it's tough when you lose the faith of your manager, to prepare yourself when you have no clue about anything." Torre lost faith in Kyle Farnsworth because the pitcher failed for 2 Yrs. How much rope do you get? Apparently too much, more from GM Cashman, "He's an integral part of our team."

The Farnsworth saga provides Yankees' fans with a trip down memory lane, here's another worn out theme, "Farnsworth is trying to remake himself." How many times have we heard this the last several seasons while Mel Stottlemyre, Gator Guidry and now Dave Eiland try to pull a rabbit out of a hat? Magician must be part of the job description for Yankees pitching coach. Here's a dose of reality, "I don't change anything mentally."--Farnsworth,2007 that was before he was being reinvented.

Yankees' surgically repaired prospects

The rejuvenated Yankees' farm system is reviewed at MLB.com in an article titled, "Yankees back to building farm from within." The top 10 Bomber prospects are chronicled in addition to a recap of the 2007 draft. The future looks bright, but it's never easy. A central theme down on the farm is the significant number of prospects recovering from Tommy John surgery. The impressive list includes: 1) Andrew Brackman (#1 pick from the 2007 draft) 2) Humberto Sanchez (compensation for Gary Sheffield) 3)Mark Melancon ("could be the next Joba" according to an anonymous Yankees official--hype is so easy) 4) J.B. Cox. There were also rumors that Dellin Betances was next to go under the knife--Sr. V.P. Mark Newman says it won't be necessary.

Tommy John surgery has become routine and when the subject comes up it is assumed that the pitcher will be as good as new. GM Brian Cashman clearly believes this as he was willing to pay Brackman 4+ million, trade away Sheffield, and pay Lieber guaranteed money for 2 yrs to rehab.

He has said that he would rather have a high-ceiling prospect with injury issues than a healthy less talented player.

An article published in USA Today (July 2003) quotes Dr. James Andrews as saying that the success rate is about 85%. "The surgery requires a full year of rehabilitation and typically another year of pitching before returning to pre-injury form." Dr. Lewis Yocum, another expert in the field says, " Everybody expects it to be 100%. Sorry, guys go into the operation looking for a cure. We are able to help the vast majority of them but it's not 100%)

Former Yankees pitcher Tom Gordon passes on some advice, "The key is not to push yourself. Just stay on the program. You're not rehabbing for one year. You're rehabbing to come back and make a career out of this thing." The long-term looks bright for the next wave of farm prospects, it will require patience in the short term to get there.

Photo/NY Post

Yankees Game Day

Notes from today's Yankees/Twins exhibition game from Tampa:

• It's eerie watching Mussina clone Ian Kennedy pitch. He mentiones that he patterned his game after Moose. What are the odds that a young pitcher would do that and end up on the same staff? Kennedy showed good command of his fastball, an effective change up and an erratic curve in 2 innings of work.
• Giambi's physical makeover is impressive. He's put himself in position to maximize his remaining skills. It would have been nice if he had demonstrated that commitment the last several seasons. It's interesting what happens when the guaranteed contract expires.
• Joba Chamberlain takes the mound in the 4TH. He uses the exhibition game to work on his starter's menu featuring a variety of pitches. We were so spoiled watching a dominant Joba last year, it's odd seeing his lackluster workout--that's what spring training's for folks.
• Quote book--"I would try to hit .300 in the spring to get used to it for the regular season."--Ken Singleton (Huh?)
• Melky guns out a runner at 3RD in the 6TH flashing the form that garnered 16 assists last season.
• Interview from Hell--Chris "Boomer" Berman will be interviewed by Michael Kay on Yes--just say No.
• Stats. of the day--Girardi's Marlin roster had 22 rookies and he became the 3RD manager in history to win Manager of the Year in his rookie year--Michael Kay
• A butchered double play in the 8Th--Woodward to Green to Duncan--reminds us the regulars are done for the day.
• Shelley Duncan goes deep with two outs in the 9TH--"Duncan is a home run waiting to happen"--Ken Singleton
• The Yankees used 7 pitchers in today's 7-5 loss. Frequent pitching changes will be the norm this year, might as well get used to it.

Photo/NY Daily News

Yankees' Backup Plan

Expectations are perpetually over the top around the New York Yankees. This season we are hoping a group of promising, but unproven kids can carry the Yanks back to glory. It would be a great story, but is highly unlikely. It takes time and patience to build with rookies. Should the vaunted youth movement fall short of the hype (a virtual guarantee,) the organization has a potential backup plan that wouldn't be feasible anywhere else.

The highest payroll in history drops 81 million after this season. The curtain goes up next year on the new stadium which will spew money. There are two stars waiting in the wings that would fill gaping holes in the Yanks' roster. C.C. Sabathia and Mark Teixeira seem destined for pinstripes and epic contracts.

John Heyman of SI.com profiles the big (actually huge) lefty. A #1 starter capable of eating up innings would be a big step towards ring #27, unfortunately, that's not all C.C. eats up--commenting on his 6'8 300lb frame he said: "My genes are terrible. I have to work my ass off to look like this." That's the type of comment routinely heard at a weight watchers meeting. Heyman figures the Yankees are the favorite in acquiring the big guys services.

Mark Teixeira is another prime time player looking for a huge contract that would fill a perpetual void. The switch-hitting first baseman is represented by Scott Boras who could resume an interesting negotiation history with the new Yankees' boss--Hank, care to comment?

The price for these two will eat up about half of the 81 million drop in payroll, it's nice to have options.

The Yankees don't want to know

William Rhoden of the New York Times asks a question, Yankees' fans don't want to hear. In an article titled, "Executives must answer for steroids" Rhoden asks, "Who knew what, when?"

Rhoden writes: "he(Selig) should look at the 2000 and 2001 Yankees as well. The team was filled with players suspected to have used performance-enhancing drugs before, during or after that season: Clemens, Denny Neagle, Jason Grimsley, Andy Pettitte, Chuck Knoblauch, Mike Stanton and David Justice. How much did the Steinbrenners know? How much did Brian Cashman know? How much did Joe Torre know?"

We don't want to hear it because we are worn out. We don't want to hear that the Godfather of steroids, Jose Canseco, was signed for the 2000 stretch drive. We don't want to know why Giambi was signed to a 100+ million-dollar contract when any investigation would have indicated he was a PED abuser.

Is it fair that the players are bearing the brunt of the consequences? Commissioner Bud Selig stepped over crumbled legends to snatch a raise. The owners and team executives were complicit in the biggest scandal in baseball history. The consequences--they made more money. The whole thing can be summed up by the infamous Brian McNamee, "It is what it is." Enough is enough, let's play ball.

Baseball Musings leads the league

Baseball Musings is holding its annual fund drive, for those of you not familiar with the site, click here and enjoy. Being an old-school baseball observer, I rely on my eyes and experience to make judgements. Reading Baseball Musings is part of my daily routine and is a great way to keep up on baseball and gain insight at the same time. These days it's not enough to trust your eyes, quantitative analysis is helpful. I developed a statistical model called QAS (quality reporting, analysis and statistics) David Pinto's site finished on top. Numbers don't tell the whole story. Last spring I launched Baseball Hot Corner, it had an Igawaesque impact on the blogosphere. Being a green rookie I sent a few e-mails to the top baseball sites asking that they put me on their blog roll. I had no idea that requests of this nature are generally swatted at, like Joba treated those gnats in Cleveland. Lets see an anonymous, Internet nobody with no traffic asks a favor. The exception was David Pinto who responded in a timely, professional and affirmative (go figure) manner. Stats. and intangibles Baseball Musings leads the league and gives us cellar dwellers something to emulate.

Yankees most valuable pitcher

While Joba Chamberlain, Phil Hughes and Ian Kennedy get all the attention, the Yankees most valuable pitcher works on his game. Chien-Ming Wang will start opening day, he will be expected to soak up innings and match up with the elite pitchers of the league. Joe Girardi's experience in Florida provides a glimpse of what we can expect--he leaned on young ace Dontrelle Willis in an effort to lighten the load on his young staff. We know the "Holy Trinity" will be protected and obsessed over. A distracted Pettitte with a cranky elbow and a faded "Moose" also figure in the mix. The dubious bullpen will be up early and often. Wang's start figures to be the closest thing to a day off they'll get.

Peter Abraham, in an article titled, "Wang works on refining changeup," offers some sobering statistics: "Wang had a 5.23 ERA in his starts against teams in the AL East. He had a 2.58 ERA in his other 16 starts." New Yankees' pitching coach Dave Eiland says, "You have to change speeds" and mentions that's "the main objective" as Wang refines his game.

This time last year, Wang was projected as the #1 starter by default. He was a young pitcher coming off a 19 win season and was being rushed by an organization that had no other options (case in point, when Wang got hurt, the infamous Carl Pavano was the opening day starter.) A year later and another 19 win season under his belt the time to fill the top of the rotation is now. He's come a long way in a short time. The team's annual playoff appearance will be in jeopardy if Chien-Ming Wang can't do the job. No pressure.

Photo/Google Images/Allposters.com

Yankees Steinbrenner legacy gets new chapter

Hank Steinbrenner is making headlines again. The New York Times' Play Magazine profiles the Steinbrenner clan's transition from the evil despot's dictatorship to family affair. Hank's mouth, as usual, is front and center.Remarks about the Red Sox nation: "What a bunch of expletive that is..." have ESPN's talking heads foaming at the mouth and the headline writers working overtime.

The bluster makes news, but let's look at some encouraging signs. Here's a quote from former head of scouting and player development Woody Woodward: "I would say he has a natural feel for baseball, and I've been with plenty of owners over the years where that's not the case." The article mentions that Woodward took Hank on scouting trips and educated him on the subtleties of the game. While Hank may look and sound like his impulsive father, there is another distinction, conservative brother Hal controls the organizations purse strings. Hal played a significant role in the Yanks dropping out of the Santana sweepstakes.

I've suggested before that we judge Hank by his actions and not his words. Since his emergence, the vaunted farm is intact, Rivera and Posada were overpaid to comeback--a vital move considering the dearth of replacements, the best player in the game will be in pinstripes for life. Not a bad start. A year from now, the payroll, bloated by years of bad acquisitions, will drop significantly, as the new stadium money machine kicks off. Everything considered, the Yankees and the Steinbrenner legacy are in a good place--just ask Hank.