The free agency dance begins

I realize that the Yankees had a bit of a deadline with their potential free agents, but Monday seems to have been heavily laden with news for its public. Well, not really complete news, more like the beginning of news.

When looking at potential free agents coming off their roster, a club can make “qualifying offers” to agents they don’t want to let go. It’s usually seen as a sign that says “we’re still interested in you and retaining you even if we’re only offering a year contract to you”. Most players don’t take it and opt to go for bigger, longer contracts (even if it’s with the same club), and by doing so, they actually gift the club with a prime draft pick for the next draft (next July). Last year, Nick Swisher and Rafael Soriano were offered qualifying offers, both opted free agency, and both were signed pretty quickly elsewhere (Cleveland and Washington, respectively).

This year, they made offers to Robinson Cano, Curtis Granderson, and Hiroki Kuroda. There is a lot of speculation already as to what they’re each going to do, and I’ve been doing my own private speculating. But since I don’t speculate here, you’ll know if I’m right after the player deadline of November 11 to respond to the offer — they will either take it and sign for a year with the Yankees or refuse it and try for a better offer elsewhere. And honestly, I think we’ll be looking at three very different results for these guys.

Now, there were some people who didn’t get qualifying offers from the Yankees — Brendan Ryan, Kevin Youkilis, Mark Reynolds, Travis Hafner, Lyle Overbay, Phil Hughes, Joba Chamberlain, and Boone Logan. This means that all of these guys are now officially free agents, and their agents are probably busy exploring all options available to their clients. It will be interesting to see where everyone lands, and honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised if the Yankees picked up a couple of these guys at least for a year or two.

Almost on the other spectrum of things, the National Baseball Hall of Fame has released its latest ballot and is to be voted on next month by the Veterans’ Committee. There are 12 men on that list that have had a major impact on baseball history, including Joe Torre, Billy Martin, and George Steinbrenner. I think in all Yankee fans’ minds all three should get at least the required 75% votes to walk into Cooperstown next year. The annual players ballot will be released later this month and will include the five players who didn’t make the it last year but had enough vote to carry over for this coming year and a whole slew of really amazing newcomers including former Yankees pitcher Mike Mussina.

Like I said, it’s really just a “beginning of news” kind of day. At first, it sounds like there’s news, but really it’s just  something that could develop into news someday soon. But when I think about it, baseball is always an evolving story. Even when a team wins the World Series, they have to spend the off-season rebuilding and focusing on developing their dynasty. The 2012 Giants, for example, barely made any changes last off-season and ended up holding up the bottom of the NL West in 2013; they figured “why mess with success?” and it backfired big time on them. So, now they’re working on figuring out what went wrong with their 2013 formula and what went right with 2012 and then how they can make 2014 work better for them.

And (not that I ever want to glorify the Yankees’ arch-rivals) then you have the Red Sox who were easily the worst team in 2012, fired their manager, shuffled their roster, picked up some prime guys from all over free agency, and somehow powered their way to the top of the AL and became World Series Champions just a few weeks ago. But now, the Red Sox are going to spend their entire 2014 season defending their title. This is actually good news for the Yankees because unlike almost every other team in the league only the Yankees know what it’s like to establish and maintain a dynasty. Is anyone else hoping 2014 starts a new dynasty?

Go Yankees!

Game 162: NYY vs. HOU — 14th inning fanfare farewell

Today was the last game of the season, and in true Yankee fashion this year, it was anything but normal.

Yankees started their final game with David Huff on the mound, who really did a pretty stellar job, 71 pitches, 5 innings, just 3 hits, 1 run, and 7 strikeouts. That lone run came as an RBI single back in the 1st inning, and the Astros would never cross the plate again for the entire game. Brett Marshall took his turn in the 6th and 7th innings, keeping Huff’s tight game rolling smoothly. Then in the 9th, the Yankees brought in the young Dellin Betances, who really just found his niche and brought the game to a whole new level.

The Yankees weren’t really doing much as far as offense, even with Travis Hafner’s comeback after his stint on the DL and promptly got on base due to being hit by an errant pitch twice. That is until the 8th inning. Eduardo Nunez doubled and scored on Curtis Granderson’s single to tie up the game. And then that’s all she wrote for 6 more innings. Oh sure, there were plenty of opportunities, like in the 9th when David Adams hit a really beautiful triple (his first career triple). Or in the 13th inning, with two men on base with a single and a really bad fielding error on a fielder’s choice, but again, they came up empty.

Keeping the game tied while the Yankees worked on finding their offense, Betances threw into the 10th and was pulled after the first out, with clear congratulations from Girardi and the entire Yankee team for a job well done. Claiborne finished the rest of the inning, and Phelps took the 11th. Matt Daley took over for the 12th and 13th.

And then the dam broke open in the 14th inning when Mark Reynolds hit a solid solo home run to left-center field. And the score was up to 2-1 Yankees. Two outs later, the Yankees weren’t done yet. Brendan Ryan and Zoilo Almonte single and then score on Eduardo Nunez’s double. Even after a pitching change, JR Murphy singles home Nunez (Murphy’s first career RBI), and the Yankees were leading 5-1.

And to close out the last game of the season, the Yankees got another preview of what it will be like when (hopefully) David Robertson closes out more Yankee wins next year. Robertson gave a solid 1-2-3 14th inning, and the Yankees finished their season with a sweep and a flair.

And while today’s game seemed more like a show of the future, the past looked on from the dugout. Pettitte, Jeter, and Sabathia congregated at one end of the dugout, watching all 14 innings draped over the guard rail. Rivera and Rodriguez chatted up at the other end. And then there was Jayson Nix, still out with his oblique injury, who somehow managed a role usually reserved for veteran or retiring players — manager for the day. That’s right, it was Nix calling the shots for 9 innings, and when the scoreboard rolled over to extra inning, Nix quit and handed the reins back to Girardi. Normally a fun last day job for veterans (last year, the honor went to Jeter, with Rodriguez as his bench coach), this year Rivera and Pettitte declined the honor saying they were “too busy”. From the looks of it, they were having fun being with the guys one last time, which I think is exactly where they wanted to be.

The Astros farewell gift to Rivera

Prior to tonight’s game, the Astros honored Mariano Rivera with a special ceremony. They presented him with a painting of sorts, thirteen different highlights of his career over the number 42, a very creative gesture. Also at the ceremony were Roger Clemens, a former teammate, and Joe Torre, Rivera’s former manager and current MLB executive.

Torre and Clemens both gave wonderful speeches, honoring Rivera contributions to the Yankees, the entire sport of baseball, and to themselves personally. Torre also gave a special shout out to Pettitte and Jeter, who, with Rivera, he credits with making his job all that much easier. Torre is himself a figure of the “good old days” of Yankee history, but he understands the idea of finding and developing new, fresh talent. Torre was fortunate enough to be the Yankees manager when they were in the process of rebuilding, before anyone thought much of the Core Four. But he believed in their potential, combining that with the experience of the veterans in the clubhouse, and built a dynasty.

There is hope for the Yankees, and don’t let anyone tell you different. Look at who played for the Yankees today, and who made the difference in every aspect of the game — the pitching, the catching, the fielding, the hits — it all adds up for a great futures. And while they aren’t going to be playing October baseball, and have to instead say farewell to two more of the Core Four, maybe saying farewell to this entire rollercoaster year is a good thing. Close the door on that chapter and look forward to all the potential of 2014, some of it may already be lurking in the corners of the clubhouse, just waiting for the opportunity to spread their wings and do something Yankee-like. It could be the next dynasty in the making. You just never know.

Go Yankees!

Game 104: TB vs. NYY — A tight loss

I don’t know starter Ivan Nova could have thrown a better game. I’m sure he thinks he didn’t do as great, taking today’s loss against the Rays. But really, the bottom line was the pitching and defense were very good, but mirroring many games recently, the Yankees offense just wasn’t capitalizing on opportunities to score runs. Not that there was much opportunity with the young, hot Tampa pitcher throwing 97 mph into the 7th inning.

Honestly, the Rays are on a huge upswing right now, having just ousted the Red Sox from 1st place in the AL East. That’s something very common in such a long season — some teams are just going to hit a hot streak, while others are going to slump, and then the tables turn and someone else is going to be amazing. It’s just who ends up amazing that matters or even who’s been amazing the longest.

Nova went seven full innings, getting out of tight jams often with the grace of a more experienced pitcher. He gave up 6 hits and a run, walking 3 and striking out 8 batters over his 105 pitches. One run is all you need to win a game, and that one run came in the 6th inning from an RBI single. It was early enough to think there might be hope for the Yankees to hit some as the Rays starter tired. But the Rays pitcher completed the game in just 97 pitches over the 9 innings (that’s about 9-10 pitches per inning).

David Robertson and Shawn Kelley each took an inning to keep the Rays from adding to their shutout lead. But without any runs scored, it doesn’t matter how stellar your pitching or defense is.

And there was some amazing defense. They don’t call it the “hot corner” for nothing, and Brent Lillibridge really had some nice plays early on in the game. That corner’s been a hard spot to fill for the Yankees, trying all sorts of combinations. And it’s been the guys you’d least expect to do the coolest things over there.

Being at a game always gives you a different perspective than watching it at home or online. There were several innings where several pairs of pigeons camped out in the infield dirt, slightly harassing shortstop Eduardo Nunez. In fact, when the infield shifted for a batter, the birds followed Nunez over to 2nd base and then began stalking Robinson Cano. (The things you entertain yourself with during a game…)

Also, there was a special guest seated in the premium area behind home plate. Long time Yankee fan and World War II vet, Gabe celebrated his 90th birthday surrounded by all of his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. One of his sons is a season ticket holder and arranged all of his fraternity brothers (also season ticket holders) to gift the extended family with their tickets to help him celebrate. The catering crew made special dessert trays for him and his family, who proceeded to pass out goodies to nearby non-family fans. Plus, because of his veteran status, Gabe was asked to be honored on the field during the 7th inning when the Yankees honor America and its service men and women. As the crowd cheered with gusto for this strong 90 year old, thanking him for his service and years, tears welled up in his eyes. I don’t think many service men and women, especially those who served in previous military actions (like from last century’s wars), ever got the appreciation and honor that they were due. I think so much has changed and people are now so quick to value their sacrifice, unlike previous generations. I am proud that the Yankees make a habit of doing so, and I was proud to witness such an honor today. A very happy birthday to Gabe! You are so blessed with a great family. (And thanks for the mini-lemon cupcake!)

In other news, it looks like Derek Jeter may be back in the line up for Matsui Day tomorrow. His simulated game nearby at the Staten Island Yankee affiliate went very well, and if he is ready to go in the morning (and how could he not be at this point), he’ll be playing shortstop for the first time since October. If so, he might end up as the 2nd biggest story of tomorrow. (Do I need to repeat it — it’s Matsui Day tomorrow!)

Travis Hafner had his shoulder MRI-ed today, due to some recent stiffness and soreness. It’s probably been inhibiting his range of motion, so maybe some time on the DL, resting and rehabbing properly will allow him to come back in April and May strength again. The Yankees offense needs that Hafner power bat back in its lineup. So if that means rest, then by all means rest and get healthy.

And it looks like Alex Rodriguez and the Yankees are working out their differences. He seems ready for an August 1 rehab assignment to rehab his quad injury. Like Jeter, I’m guessing a little overcompensating from the previous injury certainly didn’t help the attempt to get back in the daily lineup. Wishes for continued health there, and a happy 38th birthday to #13. I do hope it’s been a better day for him in light of some recent set-backs.

Go Yankees!

Game 93: MIN vs. NYY — Kuroda’s shutout despite the rain

Any sport that involved outdoor play will always be subject to inclement weather, but today was a little ridiculous. It was overcast and threatening for most of the evening leading up to the game, but pretty much started drizzling once the first pitch was thrown. By the 3rd inning, it was legitimately raining, to which the umpires waited another inning before the downpour seemed too much to handle and called for a rain delay. This turned into more than an hour break, during which it wasn’t raining that much at all. And once they uncovered the infield, put down the drying agent, prepped the field, and got everyone properly warmed up again, the heavens opened up once again and never stopped. Despite the puddles turning into lakes all over the field, they continued to play and somehow the Yankees squeaked out the win.

Despite the break in the 4th inning, starter Hiroki Kuroda threw his 90 pitches over 5 total innings before Girardi tapped the bullpen with Claiborne, Logan, Robertson and Mariano Rivera (earning his 30th save of the season) who together kept the Twins at successive zeros across the scoreboard. This gave Kuroda a nice shutout win to take home and dry off.

It was the 5th inning that the Yankees earned just enough runs to make the win tonight. (Well, it was the 5th inning that was the most interesting by far, aside from the torrents of rain that kept the majority of the crowd hidden under every concourse.) Cruz singled, advanced on a sacrifice bunt, and scored the first run on Brett Gardner’s single, who ended up at 2nd on the overthrow. A pitching change from the Twins advanced Gardner to 3rd on a ground out. Gardner then proceeded to score the 2nd (and final) run on Robinson Cano’s single. Cano ended up getting picked off for the final out of the inning.

Now, defensively, the better team was definitely Minnesota tonight. I guess that’s what kept the Yankees to just 2 runs scored. Honestly, I have to give credit where credit is due and the Twins were certainly showing off some very nice defensive plays.

Also, the update on Derek Jeter is that he has a grade 1 quad strain. Basically, for anyone who’s ever had an oddly sore ache on their quad, usually from overuse or an awkward pull, that’s what it is. It just needs some rest, but it shouldn’t prevent further basic rehab. In fact, he was still listed on the roster as part of the bench, meaning he could always jump in to pinch hit if they needed him. But management has said that he will sit out through the weekend series with the Twins and rest up/rehab during the break and hopefully rejoin the team in Boston next weekend in full-force. They’re not as worried, but they’re still being cautious, which is good because we don’t need any more major set-backs from trying too hard or something worse.

The Yankees, WWE’s The Big Show,
Kirk & Laura Smalley, and Stand for the Silent
work together to stop bullying
via Yankees

And my favorite week in the Yankee season has now come to a close. And like every HOPE Week, they continue to outdo themselves. Today, they invited kids from local schools to hear a presentation by Kirk and Laura Smalley and an anti-bullying student organization called Stand for the Silent. The Smalleys lost their 11-year-old son when he took his life after being a continued victim of bullying, and a local high school organized this group to speak out against bullying to further prevent bullying-related suicides. With the stage set with pictures of victims, surrounded by players (Andy Pettitte, Joba Chamberlain, Boone Logan, and Travis Hafner), pitching coach Larry Rothschild, GM Brian Cashman, Jennifer Steinbrenner-Swindal, and WWE’s The Big Show (a long-term outspoken advocate against bullying), Kirk spoke to the group about his son and others who have been bullying victims and what everyone, from the littlest kids to the most important grown-up, can do to help stop bullying in their world. The Yankees donated $10,000 to their organization, and Delta, who also helps with various aspects of HOPE Week, also gave a matching donation. Some of the students who founded and run Stand for the Silent were invited to throw out the first pitch at tonight’s game, as the Smalleys had another speaking engagement.

I don’t think there’s anyone who isn’t affected by bullying in some way. And I know it is easier to do nothing and pretend nothing is happening, but ignoring the problem doesn’t change reality. And sometimes, like SFTS says, all anyone needs to know is that are somebody and they are loved. And because you are somebody, you can be a voice. You can make a difference. And perhaps, you can save a life.

Also, all the honorees from the last 5 years of HOPE Week were invited to a reunion prior to tonight’s game, which allowed them to meet each other, get updated on progress, and connect and encourage each other to keep on their giving and generous track. Another successful HOPE Week indeed. And I hope it inspired you as much as it did me.

Go Yankees!

Game 91: KC vs. NYY — SuperNova, SuperCano, SuperOverbay

Can we call tonight’s game the “Men of Steel Game”? Seriously, the team certainly hit its stride early and often tonight against the Kansas City Royals. And having watched the recent Superman reboot (and loving it, by the way), when I talk about SuperNova, I can only reference the others in tonight’s game as super and thus the creation of the Kryptonian reference. But enough geek-speak…

Starter Ivan Nova certainly spun his web of mystery (another franchise, I know, but superhero-like nonetheless) tight enough to keep the Royals from much of anything. In fact, he threw just 105 pitches over 8 full innings, allowing only 5 hits, 2 walks, 6 strikeouts, and a single run (an RBI double in the 8th inning). Even when he got into trouble a couple of times, loading the bases, Nova was able to pitch himself out of a jam and with the help of the defense once again. Just really stellar all around and a well-earned win tonight. Chamberlain pitched the 9th and closed out the game in 19 pitches.

But it was the offensive side that earned a huge amount of praise and got Nova that solid win. In the 1st inning, a really wild pitch allowed Brett Gardner to score easily, and as Ichiro Suzuki attempted to tack on a run of his own in the same play, he was tagged out. But the Yankees were up and running. Then with 2 men on and 2 outs in the 3rd, Robinson Cano steps into the batter’s box and smacks the ball out near Monument Park in center field for a nice 3-run homer. The Yankees were now sitting pretty at 4-0, a good lead for Nova to continue his outing. But with the bases loaded and no outs in the 6th inning, it was Lyle Overbay to give Nova just the cushion he needed for the win with a solid hit deep to left field, (and if you’ve just done the math) for his 4th grand slam of his career. There’s only one thing in baseball that’s better than 3-run homer, and that’s a 4-run homer. So yes, 8-1 was the final score, as the Yankees take this one with flare.

Quick injury update: both Travis Hafner and Brett Gardner left tonight’s game early for the trainer’s room. Hafner has a left foot bruise after fouling off a ball on his foot in the batting cages between innings, and Gardner sustains a bruised right leg from being hit by a pitch. Nothing serious with either one, but a deep bruise will be sore and stiff for a few days. Gardner had some odd at-bats tonight, earning 2 walks and 2 hits by pitch, which means he doesn’t register any at-bats for tonight, even though he scored 2 runs. Other news stirs regarding other players on the DL, but like I’ve said before, when it’s fact, I’ll talk about it. I don’t deal with assumptions or presumptions on here. (I save that for spirited debates with friends.)

Also, today, HOPE Week continued at a small non-profit animal shelter in the Bronx, run by Pedro Rosario called the New Beginning Animal Rescue. Normally, it relies on many local volunteers and whatever donations to survive, so today’s visit from Brett Gardner, Ichiro Suzuki, and Shawn Kelley (also with several from the front office and owner Jenny Steinbrenner-Swindal) was definitely seen as a blessing and a gift. The Yankees, bearing pet food and their time to play with the animals and help out around the shelter, also brought their monetary donation to the shelter and opened up an adoption center in the stadium for the animals during tonight’s game. That’s right, some lucky families walked home with new friends and family additions from tonight’s great game. What a way to remember! (The article is here, and don’t forget to like and check out the Yankees Facebook page for pictures of this week’s HOPE Week activities.)

There are many great shelter in your area that could use a donation as well, often food, toys, time, or even money is always appreciated. And when the time is right to open your heart to a new friend, adopt a shelter pet. As a life-long pet owner, I support such organizations that help rescue and rehabilitate animals to become some of the best friends you’ll ever have.

Also, today was my mom’s birthday, and our family certainly had fun celebrating with her. So I want to give another brief shout-out to her. She is my most consistent reader and the one who’s always encouraged me to do something like this. I converted her to be a Yankees fan, and now, I think she knows more about the team than I do, which certainly makes fact-checking, debates, and conversations all the more interesting. A very happy birthday to her! Next year in the Bronx, right?

Go Yankees! (Thanks for the win for my mom tonight!) #HighSocksForVotes

Game 86: BAL vs. NYY — Wells-done rally & SuperNova

Starter Ivan Nova threw all 9 innings and really proved how outstanding a pitcher he really is. He’s had to fight for his job as a starter since before the season began, even through a stint in the minors, and tonight he showed that he is worth the starter’s position (and not just as a fill-in for Kuroda, who has been cleared to resume throwing activity again). Tonight, back in the Bronx and against the Baltimore Orioles, Nova threw just 102 pitches over those 9 innings, allowing just 3 hits and a walk and striking out a remarkable 11 batters (those are like CC numbers). And the only runs he allowed was a 2-run home run in the 2nd, but nothing else. That’s right, with a single exception, none of the Orioles could figure out Nova’s “supernova-ness”. Tonight was SuperNova.

And honestly, the Yankees played well both offensively and defensively. It was the team in action from the first pitch all the way through the final hit. In the top of the 4th, the Orioles hit what should have been a single but ended up as a 3-4-1 out thanks to great base coverage by Cano and Nova. And Nova’s quick reaction in the 8th inning jumped up to get a really nice out to end the inning.

Now, offensively in the 4th, Wells singled and Overbay walked, which allowed Luis Cruz to single deep into left field and score Wells for the Yankees first run of the evening. They went into the bottom of the 9th inning  down 2-1 to the Orioles, with Nova watching and praying that the offense could turn his outing from the loss it was becoming into a win by some miracle. And then it was a miracle (probably due in part to the 40,000-ish Yankees fans in the stadium).

Vernon Wells, a walk-off hero
via nj.com

The fifth pitcher for the Orioles took the mound and allowed David Adams a nice single. Then Brett Gardner bunts a really soft, sloppy bunt but beats out the throw because the Orioles pitcher can’t seem to hang onto the ball and chase it around the infield grass before making the very late throw to 1st base. Ichiro Suzuki bunts, but this time it’s the Baltimore catcher that is sharp and throws him out at 1st, while Adams and Gardner advance to 3rd and 2nd, respectively. They then intentionally walk Robinson Cano to load the bases. Four pitches later, they walk Travis Hafner, which walks in Adams to tie up the game (and blow whatever save the Orioles thought they had). Oh, and the bases are still loaded with one out. 40,000-ish Yankee fans are on their feet; victory is within reach.

And then it’s Vernon Wells up to bat. On a 2-2 pitch, Wells hits a solid single in the gap between short and 3rd, Gardner scores, and the entire dugout empties to rejoice. 3-2 Yankees final score in a walk-off single. (Another look at the single and celebration here.)

Victory in the Bronx, and that makes 5 games in a row. July is off to a great start.

And in other good news, Derek Jeter was cleared for his rehab assignment, which he will start on Saturday with AAA Scranton. He is currently scheduled for 5 innings at shortstop and have 20 days to complete his rehab assignment. The Yankees have made it clear that Jeter, like many of those on the current DL will need the full 20 days to prove they are fully ready for a daily assignment with the big guys. That 20 days puts him ready for a return at the earliest at the end of this month. This also has Jeter playing with guys he played with in Spring Training, those on the extended roster (some who have already seen Major League playing time), and some outstanding players in the minor league — including Addison Maruszak, Dan Johnson, Melky Mesa, Thomas Neal, Ronnier Mustelier, Corban Joseph, and Walter Ibarra. This kind of rehab certainly gets Jeter ready for the bigs on a higher level of impact and challenge because of the players on the roster. And though the RailRiders aren’t doing so well this season (right now, they are below .500 for their season), they could certainly benefit from a veteran presence, especially one who is known to bond teammates together to improve their teamwork and morale, even in a losing streak or slump.

And one of my favorite times in the Yankee season is coming up next week — HOPE Week. And I’m looking forward to writing about the players’ community outreach and the organizations they will be supporting and partnering with this coming week all around the city. I love the heart of a team that supports in both finances and man-power other people who dedicate their lives to helping people. It’s yet another reason I am proud to be a Yankee fan, and probably my personal favorite reason.

Go Yankees!

Game 85: NYY vs. MIN — Independence Day Sweep

The Bleacher Creatures proudly honoring America every 7th inning; “Never Forget”
via bleachercreatures.tv

A very happy 237th birthday to the United States! I do hope everyone enjoys a safe and wonderful holiday with their family and friends and remembers what cost the Founding Fathers made by signing the Declaration. They fought for the freedoms, not just for themselves and for their families, but for the generations that have yet to be born. Today, we honor their memory and sacrifice, and all those who pledged their lives for the freedoms we enjoy, as much as we celebrate with fireworks and grill-outs.

And on that note, we Yankee fans get to celebrate a victorious sweep of the Minnesota Twins as the Yankees themselves make their way back to New York for a 10 game home stand leading up to the All-Star Break. And no one could be more glad of today’s win than starter David Phelps, who needed a win so desperately after his disastrous last outing. Phelps went 6.1 innings, allowed a solo home run in the 4th inning and then got into some trouble in the 7th inning. Two singles and a fly out, set up an RBI single, and forced Girardi to bring in Chamberlain. He allowed an RBI single and was replaced by Logan. Logan allowed a sacrifice fly and got the final out to end the messy inning. Logan came back into the 8th and allowed a solo home run, a single, and a walk before Kelley came in to get three straight outs to end any potential Twins’ rally. Robertson closed the game in three batters in the 9th, as it was not a save situation to bring in Rivera, but nevertheless was his usual reliable self.

Now, on the Yankees’ batting side, it was very interesting in 3 different innings. In the 1st alone, Ichiro Suzuki hits a lead-off double; Zoilo Almonte singles; then Ichiro scores on Robinson Cano’s sacrifice fly; Travis Hafner doubles; and Vernon Wells singles home Almonte and Hafner (3-0). In the 3rd, Hafner is hit by a pitch and advances to 2nd on a wild pitch; Wells doubles home Hafner; and newly acquired Luis Cruz hits his first Yankee hit and singles and Wells scores. (5-0). Then in the 6th inning, Lyle Overbay walks; Cruz doubles; Alberto Gonzalez singles and scores Overbay; Romine reaches on a fielder’s choice as they get Cruz trying to come home; Ichiro triples as Gonzalez and Romine score; and Almonte grounds out and Ichiro tags home. And the Yankees are up 9-1 at that point.

With some Minnesota batters taking advantage of a tiring Phelps and weak spots in the bullpen, the final score ended up 9-5 Yankees. And Ichiro was a home run short to hit for the cycle today. [A “cycle” means that a batter hits a single, a double, a triple, and a home run in a single game, but not necessarily in that order.] Actually, a lot of the Yankee batters really had a remarkable day today. Ichiro went 3-for-5 with 2 RBIs, Almonte 2-for-5 and an RBI, Hafner 3-for-4, Wells 2-for-4 with 3 RBIs,and Cruz 2-for-4 with an RBI. In fact, the only batter who seemed to have an off day was Cano, and he still had a nice sacrifice fly, thus an RBI credited to his stats. And the defense just seemed to work today, like in a nifty double play in the 3rd that had Cano bare-handing the flip for the transfer.

I take this all as a good omen, if you will, of things to come. Sending the Yankees back to the Bronx on a high note where they will face the Orioles, the Royals, and the Twins again is probably the best way to do so. I think sending the team into the break on another high note would be really great for their morale, so it should be interesting to see how the next 10 games turn out.

Also, news from Tampa, Francisco Cervelli has been shut down for 2 weeks in his rehab work due to a “stress reaction” in his elbow. Cervelli fractured his hand early in the season and has been making progress in recent weeks toward his return. A stress reaction indicated by the MRI basically implies that a stress fracture is on its way short of rest and healing time. This is usually a result of overuse, which doesn’t surprise me in the least as most of the injured athletes in Florida are pushing to get their way back to the Bronx ASAP. And I don’t think the team’s taking any more chances with “stress” anythings after what happened last fall with Jeter. I think a lot of the approach to overuse and borderline injuries has changed because of the recent spike in more serious injuries. Prevention and then rest at an early stage of injury is definitely a better option than something like a shattered ankle or fused spine or torn tendon sheath. A continued get well to Cervelli and all those spending today on the DL.

The Captain with The Boss, early 2000’s
via thegreedypinstripes.com

Have a great 4th of July, baseball fans! Oh, and this would have been George Steinbrenner’s 83rd birthday, so I think a win in his memory is very much in line with today’s game.

And as always… Go Yankees!

Game 82: NYY vs. MIN — Milestones, Cano, & a win

Two milestones happened tonight against the Minnesota Twins. The Yankees gave manager Joe Girardi his 600th career win. And starter Andy Pettitte is now the all-time Yankee Strikeout King, passing legend Whitey Ford to sit at 1,958 Yankee strikeouts. This means any further strikeouts will just add to his total and set the benchmark higher for the next Yankees pitcher to surpass.

Pettitte pitched through 6 innings and into the 7th, getting off to a rough start in the 1st. A walk and a double set the stage for a 2-RBI single by the Twins, all with no outs. Two outs later, a soft ground ball is hit back to Pettitte who overthrew the ball at 1st, earning an error, and easily allowing one base runner to score and the other to advance to 2nd, before finally getting out of the inning. Pettitte’s 102nd pitch of the night (in the 7th inning) was a solo home run, which allowed for a call to the bullpen. Kelley, Chamberlain (who earned the win), Robertson, and Rivera (not a save situation) finished off the game and kept Minnesota scoreless for the rest of the game.

Now, on the offensive side, the Yankees just kind of found themselves. Robinson Cano started things off right with a solo home run in the 1st inning and then tied up the game with his next at bat in the 3rd inning with a 2-run home run (3-3). And things went quiet for a while, until the 8th inning. Cano doubles, Ichiro Suzuki pinch hits a single bunt moving Cano to 3rd, and a throwing error pick-off attempt allows Cano to score and Ichiro to move to 3rd. This ties the game at 4-4. Zoilo Almonte singles home Ichiro (5-4) and brings on a pitching change. This new pitcher proceeds to walk Overbay and move Almonte and Overbay forward on a wild pitch. Chris Stewart then hits a soft sacrifice ground out to score Almonte (6-4).

And then in the 9th inning, the Yankees decided to tack on a few more runs for insurance purposes. Gardner singles, Nix doubles, and the Twins intentionally walk Cano to load the bases. Travis Hafner’s single scores Gardner (7-4) and keeps the bases loaded. Almonte singles, scores Nix (8-4), and keeps the bases loaded. They bring in a new pitcher who proceeds to walk Stewart and walks in Cano to make it 9-4. Then a wild pitch easily scores Hafner to pin the final score at 10-4.

And while there were many fun defensive plays from the Yankees tonight, this running, jump grab from Brett Gardner was really just over the top and further proof why he is seriously an unrecognized All-Star.

And on the injury front, the Yankees have cleared Alex Rodriguez for his rehab assignment. He flew up to Charleston today to work out with the Yankees’ single-A team there, the Charleston RiverDogs, where he is scheduled to play at least 3 innings at 3rd base and bat a handful of times. However, there’s an 80% chance of rain for the Charleston area, so his rehab may be postponed an extra day or so. I take it as a good sign that the injuries are taking a turn for the improved, rather than accumulating (which is what we witnessed through April and May). Perhaps, this is a good omen for all those injured. Reports from Tampa indicate many of the players on rehab are swinging bats, fielding balls, and working on rebounding and rebuilding their strength for a return as soon as their bodies (and the decision makers in the Yankee office) let them.

Like I said yesterday, we need to start off July fresh, with hope for the future and passion for something no other team in the entire history of baseball can earn this year — Championship #28.

Go Yankees!

Game 77: TEX vs. NYY — Just not enough

Starting pitcher Andy Pettitte had a minor slip up of control in the 3rd inning, and it really cost the Yankees the game to the Rangers tonight. A bunt by a Texas batter had both Pettitte and tonight’s 3rd baseman Jayson Nix running for it; Pettitte got to it first but had to throw around Nix and inadvertently hit him — not with the ball, but his arm into Nix’s ribs. Both were okay, but the bases were loaded and there were no outs. Pettitte stuck out the next batter, but then allowed two back-to-back 2-run doubles. This actually would have been fine, as Pettitte also stuck out 6 batters and saw several low-pitch innings over his 6 innings pitched tonight. But off 2 of the 4 pitchers out of the bullpen, the Rangers would still rack up a few more runs to ensure their win. Off Joba Chamberlain in the 7th, there was a solid 2-run home run, and Shawn Kelley in the 9th gave up 2 more runs off an RBI single and sacrifice fly.

This is really disappointing because the Yankees offense was in full-force tonight. Lyle Overbay began the Yankees offense with a solo home run to the Yankees bullpen in the 2nd inning. In the 6th, Gardner singles, Ichiro doubles, Robinson Cano singles and scores Gardner, and Travis Hafner singles and scores Ichiro. And in the 7th inning, Ichiro Suzuki comes through once again with a 2-run home run into the 2nd deck in right field. Now with all that scoring, you might think the Yankees had done well. And they really did, but like we’ve said many times before, if you don’t have pitching, you don’t have anything. And tonight, even though the Rangers’ pitching was sub-par, they still wound up winning 8-5 tonight.

On the injury front, Mark Teixeira is officially out for the rest of the season. The doctors have deemed his wrist in need of surgery. He damaged the tendon sheaf of his right wrist in practice for the World Baseball Classic back in March and, after some time on the DL, came back to play 15 games with the Yankees before re-injuring it during the games they played on the West Coast. With surgery prep, the surgery, and rehab, the next time we’ll see Teixeira in pinstripes will be Spring Training 2014. We will miss him, but I believe Overbay will do a more than adequate job at 1st base in his stead, though there’s already talk of shopping for a new 1st baseman by the trade deadline (July 31). I would guess that a better grab would be for a player who can play at both corners to alternate with the other utility players like Nix, Adams, and Overbay.

There was some confusion and drama regarding Alex Rodriguez’s rehab timeline yesterday, but it looks like he’s getting closer to getting fully cleared for returning to full baseball duty, then rehab games, and then back to the Bronx. Barring any further setback, it looks like Rodriguez may be one of the first ones back off the long-term DL after the All-Star Break.

Speaking of long-term DL stints, a very happy birthday to Derek Jeter, who was greeted going into his rehab at Steinbrenner Field today with balloons, tinsel, cards, and a small gathering of fans celebrating and honoring him, for which he was grateful and appreciative. I can’t imagine he wanted to spend his birthday in recovery, but I’m guessing the appreciation and remembering helped ease the heart-sickness he must have for playing the game he’s loved to play for so long.

So, we’re praying for quick and full recovery for everyone on the DL, continued health for everyone not on the DL, and a happy birthday to the Captain today.

Go Yankees!

Game 76: TEX vs. NYY — Home Run Day

It was home run day in the Bronx as the Yankees hosted the Texas Rangers for the first game of this mid-week series. In total, there were 6 solo home runs by players on both teams and a measly run scored on a bases loaded ground out.

Starter Hiroki Kuroda threw his 99 pitches over 6.2 innings, giving up 5 hits and all three of the Rangers’ runs. Two of those runs were solo home runs by the same guy, who was also the ninth batter in the lineup. (For those of you who aren’t familiar with standard game strategy, the ninth batter is usually the weakest batter on the roster.) And when he came around again in the 7th inning, the Yankees played it safe and sent in a fresh pitcher to get the last out and keep the Rangers scoreless. Logan (for that one out), Robertson, and Rivera (who actually notched the win) successful kept Texas from further damage.

Ichiro Suzuki celebrating his walk-off home run
Photo credit: Kathy Willens/AP

Meanwhile, the Yankees decided to show off their home run skills, which clearly worked better than singles and walks loading the bases and having nothing to show for it. So it would be Travis Hafner in the 4th, Brett Gardner in the 5th, and Jayson Nix in the 6th. Going into the bottom of the 9th inning, the game was tied 3-3. Stewart walked, then got out on a force out by Brett Gardner, who proceeded to get caught stealing 2nd base; it was 2 outs. And the Yankees were looking at going into extra innings, but then Ichiro Suzuki steps up and hits a solid home run into the right field seats for a wonderful walk-off home run. The celebration ensues at home plate as Ichiro rounds the bases, making the final score 4-3 Yankees.

I should note there were some fun plays defensively as well. The first out of the game was a running catch in deep left field by Zoilo Almonte. And in the 3rd inning, Kuroda struck out the batter, and Chris Stewart, seeing the runner from 1st going for 2nd, immediately threw the ball to Nix as the runner dove right into Nix’s waiting glove for the double play. And a fun Stewart-Cano shot from home plate catches a runner at 2nd base in the 8th inning.

I have to admit that I was really worried about this game early on, but those solo homers really add up in the end when you need them. And other than Hafner, the rest of them aren’t really known for their power hitting capabilities. It was pointed out after Gardner’s homer that he just tied his career high for home runs from back in 2011 at 7. I don’t need to remind everyone that it’s still June, so he could really establish himself as something other than quick legs around the bases and stellar outfield defense.

Actually, the whole team played really well tonight. It was nice to see them working together and getting the job done… you know, being the Yankees and playing a great (nail-biting, at times) game that we’ve come to expect from the team. And I guess when I think about Gardner’s development as a sort of “power-hitter”, it really doesn’t surprise me. Well, nothing really “surprises” me anymore with this year’s team, and yet I’m forever enchanted by the surprises being written in this team’s history this year. This was supposed to be the year they tanked from Day 1, but nope, they’re clawing their way back to 1st place in the division. This was supposed to be the mishmash equivalent to the B-squad or even glorified minor leaguers, but nope, they’re playing like the high-class, professional big leaguers they are. I’ve been hearing “supposed to be” in reference to the Yankees a lot lately, and it makes me smile. They never do anything the easy way, and they never cease to surprise the socks off me with how they continue being the Yankees the world knows they are.

Injury updates are coming soon. There’s some mixed messages regarding dates of availability and rehab timelines, and since I don’t like to talk about anything but straight up facts, when I know them, they’ll be a discussion topic. For now, get healthy and stay healthy, gentlemen. They’re playing some great baseball in the Bronx, and I know you’re anxious to be a part of it all as soon as humanly possible.

Go Yankees!