Yanks get more bullpen help

by Jaime R on Dec 16, 2005 5:54 PM EST in New York Yankees News

The Florida Marlins fire sale continued as the Yankees pick up lefty Ron Villone in exchange for minor leaguer Ben Julianel. He doesn't have overpowering stuff, but the journeyman will make a seasoned long and middle reliever. I think he's a definite step up from Al Leiter as lefty specialist.

Newly acquired Mike Myers (the pitcher not the comedian) is actively campaigning his former Red Sox buddy Johnny Damon to join the Yankees. He definitely feels strongly. Is he the Superman Scott Boras is selling him as? No way. But I believe is a tough player in the mold of Paul O'Neill. Any help Myers can give in bringing him here is greatly appreciated.

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Villone, Myers and company

Okay, so according to Today's NY Times our bullpen consists of the following: Villone, Myers, Sturtze, Small, Farnsworth and Mo. Myers will be great pitching to one or two batters and Mo is a genius. As for the rest, is anyone comfortable with the pen now? Villone was effective for Seattle and sucked for the Marlins. Sturtze is a favorite of Joe's because he's a "warrior," but he was shaky down the stretch. Small was terrific as a starter last season but who knows how he'll do as a regular reliever? Farnworth may or not just be an expensive upgrade over Proctor. Call me crazy, but I was hoping we'd really strengthen the bullpen not just make substitutions. We lost a lot of ballgames because our pen couldn't hold a lead or keep us in games. It's still early so maybe we'll make another trade or two. Or one of the odd men out in the starting rotation will end up in the pen.

Seems Nomar is headed to the Dodgers and we're taking Cairo.....

by Yankee Fanne on Dec 17, 2005 11:17 AM EST reply actions

Bean

Free Colter Bean!!!!!!

Seriously, this guy has done nothing but dominate at AAA and he hasn't gotten a chance.

His last three years in AAA: 222 IP, 261 K's, 89 BB's, 2.72 ERA.

Meanwhile Torre remains Remains in love with Sturtze and his career 5.18 ERA

by nycfan @ Pinstripe Alley on Dec 17, 2005 1:38 PM EST reply actions

Right on!

I definitely agree about Bean; Torre needs to be more flexible with who he trusts out of the bullpen. Most middle bullpen holes can be filled from within, and Bean could definitely help the Yanks this year and beyond, if he's given a chance. He's pretty much guaranteed to be better than Scott Proctor.

by screechpowers on Dec 17, 2005 6:23 PM EST reply actions