New York Yankees News and Notes

by Frank Campagnola on Sep 28, 2011 7:01 AM EDT in New York Yankees News

This is the last thing I want to see during a meaningless game. Please, Tampa, no more fastballs near A-Rod's neck.

Ah, the last day of the season. It's about time. I'm starting to get bored of the meaningless regular season games. I'm ready for October baseball.

It's a pretty quiet time in Yankee Universe. The Yanks have clinched everything they were in control of clinching, and we still don't know for sure who the Yankees will face in the ALDS. All that's there right now is a "to be determined."

What else can we do? We've rosterbated plenty, as jscape and Brandon can attest to. We've even had a fanpost discussing the postseason rotation. Is there anything we haven't gotten to yet?

Well, I guess there's a thing or two we could touch upon a bit further.

Cano Bats Third, Tex Fifth in Likely ALDS Lineup - Yankees.com

Against right handed starters, Robinson Cano and Mark Teixeira have swapped lineup positions. Texieira has been struggling mightily this season and Cano has been his usual self. Modern lineup enthusiasts will say the switch is meaningless, but who knows. Maybe the drop in the lineup will light a fire under Tex's you-know-what and he'll start hitting like the man who was a career .290/.378/.541 hitter before coming to the Bronx, rather than the .265/.363/.510 hitter he has been since his arrival.

Girardi said the change is something that the Yankees had been talking about, while also saying that the motivation behind the move was based on Cano's red-hot bat.

Thoughts?

Yankees Weigh ALDS Pitching Possbilities - Yankees.com

The Yankees conducted their first official meeting to hammer out the postseason roster yesterday afternoon. Brian Cashman stated that their was "healthy dialogue," but there was still more to go over.

Cashman hinted that the Yankees have already decided who the starter will be in game three of the ALDS, and many consider Freddy Garcia to be the frontrunner.

Joe Girardi also noted that the team will carry at most 11 pitchers on the staff during the ALDS, and may even limit that number to 10.

Apparently, if the Yankees play the Rangers, Raul Valdes' name has been tossed around as a possibility to be the eleventh man, and second lefty, out of the pen. If Valdes does make the ALDS roster, I would be shocked if they only took 10 pitchers, including Valdes.

So if they take Valdes, who gets the shaft? I think it is pretty safe to assume CC, Nova, Garcia, Mo, D-Rob, Soriano, and Logan are all on the roster. If only three of Hughes, A.J., Colon, Wade, and Ayala can make it, who does?

Tweet Comment 53 comments | 0 recs |

Do you like this story?

Comments

Noesi is in the mix, too

I think Wade is the most likely, and most deserving, out of those guys.

by long time listener on Sep 28, 2011 7:45 AM EDT via mobile reply actions

I don't like the lineup move

in the long term its meaningless, but in the short term it means you can bypass Cano to get to A-Rod and Tex instead of the opposite. I don’t want Cano bypassed. Obviously its all moot if Tex can somehow not be a piece of shit.

And LOL at possibly taking Raul Valdes. If the guy was a RHP we’d never know he existed.

Last night, a comedian died in New York. Somebody knows why. Somebody knows

by Rorschach44 on Sep 28, 2011 8:45 AM EDT reply actions

If a manager is going to IBB Cano, they'll do it regardless of who's behind him.

Cano’s been IBB’d multiple times this season to get to Swish. He was IBB’d last night to get to A-Rod. He’ll get IBB’d because he can be that good, but I have no doubt managers will be less inclined to walk him to get A-Rod than they would be to get to Swish.

On another note, how about Tex with that (unintentional) oppo field dribbler last night?! I hope he learned something from it.

Reporter: "Joe, how closely were you following the Red Sox score on the scoreboard throughout the game?"
Girardi: "Well, I mean, it's hard not to see it. Our scoreboard's really big."

"Red Sox Nation? What a bunch of bullshit that is." - Hank Steinbrenner

by Ella Grace on Sep 28, 2011 11:39 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions

well part of that is I'd rather him get IBB'd with Swisher batting behind him

ARDO and Tex are basically decoys at this point.

Last night, a comedian died in New York. Somebody knows why. Somebody knows

by Rorschach44 on Sep 28, 2011 9:20 PM EDT up reply actions

I'd take Wade, Hughes, Colon

Although I do not know how much warmup Colon needs.

"I’m never really surprised, but I am thrilled sometimes." Joe G. 2010

by Cbeck3 on Sep 28, 2011 9:12 AM EDT via mobile reply actions

Meaningless?!!!?

My tail is red listening to the BS spin that Yankee fans & Girardi put on the “meaningless”
last games.
Dont we all agree its better to have a 4 game winning streak rather than losing streak @ end of season.
The lineups & pitching rotation Girardi has put together[whats he do draw straws] are assinine.
CC has had 7 attempts to win his 20th game & Girardi skips his last start, better to get that last victory on high note.
BS to keeping everyone “healthy” , Martin said it best," We’re professionals, every game is important, we want to win them all!",,,,,,,,,Really, ask Girardi.
The Yankees are a bunch of panzies,A-Rod sore thumb?, 0-17 Granderson,Burnett, setting Major League record for wild pitches,didnt have too happen if Girardi got him out of lineup long ago.
Ever heard of mentally prepared, thats what a successful Manager achieves w/ roster.
Girardi flunkes this most important element.
You Yankee fans happy w/ this ending 97 wins. A weak team compared to past Yankee greats that were far less compensated.
Im sorry about this commentary, but I believe we as Americans & fans, have declined to greedy, self-centered , blind pigs,not, working hard sweating some suck it up achievers!

by Hooky Woods on Sep 28, 2011 9:28 AM EDT reply actions

what?

by designatedquitter on Sep 28, 2011 9:29 AM EDT up reply actions

Dont we all agree its better to have a 4 game winning streak rather than losing streak @ end of season.

Nope.

by waw on Sep 28, 2011 9:32 AM EDT up reply actions

Dont we all agree its better to have a 4 game winning streak rather than losing streak @ end of season.

I do agree that it is better to end on a high note.

However, I also think it is more important to have the players rested. The Yankees will have ended the season with a greuling schedule of 14 games in 13 days with one unplanned day off. That’s a pretty tough way to end the season.

by NYYankeeDude on Sep 28, 2011 1:16 PM EDT up reply actions

That's the point, yes

With the postseason assured, ending the season on a 4 game winning streak is not as important as setting up your starters for the first round, and resting the players (ARDO) that need it. If you can do that and still win, that’s just gravy.

by waw on Sep 28, 2011 4:56 PM EDT up reply actions

All I want is a 1 game losing streak tonite.

Roses are red
Violets are kooky as Hooky.

(How’d I do?)

by rosebud on Sep 28, 2011 2:10 PM EDT up reply actions

get over it

They have the second-best record in baseball with a patchwork starting rotation. Momentum means very little in baseball, and they’re going to have a well-rested lineup and pitching staff and home field in both AL playoff series. Getting rested, and spreading a little chaos through the playoffs, is worth more than tacking on a couple of extra wins.

by long time listener on Sep 28, 2011 9:40 AM EDT up reply actions

meaningless?

You should be sorry for being so judgmental and full of yourself

by Jtmc on Sep 28, 2011 9:46 AM EDT up reply actions

What you’ve just said is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever heard. At no point in your rambling, incoherent response were you even close to anything that could be considered a rational thought. Everyone in this room is now dumber for having listened to it. I award you no points, and may God have mercy on your soul.

Home of the Jared Jeffries Shot Tracker

by bluecheese999 on Sep 28, 2011 9:47 AM EDT up reply actions

So 97 wins isn't good enough for you?

But WE’RE greedy? I mean, I know this Yankees team was expected to win over 100 games…oh wait. That was Boston. Well, we’re just as good as all those other 97-win teams this season…oh wait. Only the Phillies have as many/more wins than the Yankees do. If only being first in the AL East AND clinching home-field advantage actually meant something these days…oh wait. It does. It means we were the best team in the American League. Well, I do wish we would have swept the Rays in this final series…oh wait. No, I don’t. I want to say I witnessed one of the most epic collapses in baseball history. I might need tissues if this happens.

Reporter: "Joe, how closely were you following the Red Sox score on the scoreboard throughout the game?"
Girardi: "Well, I mean, it's hard not to see it. Our scoreboard's really big."

"Red Sox Nation? What a bunch of bullshit that is." - Hank Steinbrenner

by Ella Grace on Sep 28, 2011 9:48 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions

Love your last point

And we will all probably be shedding tears (of joy).

"Unpleasant Internet Dude"
formerly known as "Rude Internet Guy"

by david d on Sep 28, 2011 11:21 AM EDT up reply actions

Lol wut?

I know where I come from, and when you always have in mind where you come from the rest will be easy. I think the rest will be easy.

-- M. Rivera

by GMan83201 on Sep 28, 2011 11:14 AM EDT up reply actions

Hmmm

must be a lib.

"Unpleasant Internet Dude"
formerly known as "Rude Internet Guy"

by david d on Sep 28, 2011 11:16 AM EDT up reply actions

That's nice.

Midori yourself, douchebag.

by noonoo on Sep 28, 2011 11:35 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions

lol

"in order that you will write correctly of wat you really see if you dint go around with your eyes shut"
Cricket blog?

by MattF15 on Sep 28, 2011 11:38 AM EDT up reply actions

herpa derp

Last night, a comedian died in New York. Somebody knows why. Somebody knows

by Rorschach44 on Sep 28, 2011 9:20 PM EDT up reply actions

If anyone in the roster meeting thinks Cory Wade shouldn’t make the playoff roster; they should be fired immediately.

Follow me on twitter @nyybrandonc

Writer/Editor for Pinstripe Alley, Blueshirt Banter

"No matter what I talk about, I always get back to baseball."

"Every day is a great day for hockey."

by Brandon C. on Sep 28, 2011 10:07 AM EDT reply actions

+1

Only in a screwed up mind does Wade not make the roster. He’s (consistently) the 3rd best reliever in our BP and (sporadically) the 4th best reliever in our BP, when Soriano is on. I know he not a LHP (looking at you, The Binder), but I DGAF. Our “LOOGYs” are better against righties. This makes me sad.

Reporter: "Joe, how closely were you following the Red Sox score on the scoreboard throughout the game?"
Girardi: "Well, I mean, it's hard not to see it. Our scoreboard's really big."

"Red Sox Nation? What a bunch of bullshit that is." - Hank Steinbrenner

by Ella Grace on Sep 28, 2011 10:25 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions

DGAF

I’m gonna have to use that in the future.

Live every week like it's shark week.

by Sgurd0187 on Sep 28, 2011 10:50 AM EDT up reply actions

that was exactly what i thought

Never under estimate the grittiness and guttiness of Brett Gardner.

by yankees97 on Sep 28, 2011 3:05 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions

Oh, I forgot...

I’m sure he will be on the roster, though, because there was no other reason to pitch him yesterday in a game I’m pretty sure Joe was trying to win, since he planned to use our best relievers to get them work before the playoffs. The fact that he used Wade in a game that he knew Soriano, D-Rob, and Mo would be pitching makes me feel better and think that Joe actually knows how valuable and GOOD Wade is and has been since we picked him up.

Reporter: "Joe, how closely were you following the Red Sox score on the scoreboard throughout the game?"
Girardi: "Well, I mean, it's hard not to see it. Our scoreboard's really big."

"Red Sox Nation? What a bunch of bullshit that is." - Hank Steinbrenner

by Ella Grace on Sep 28, 2011 10:30 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions

Tex should have been dropped in the lineup months ago. I’ve always advocated Cano in the 3 hole and it should be a permanent move. I got my way with Grandy at two, and it worked out pretty well, maybe I’ll get my way with Cano and we’ll get some more positive results.

"Unpleasant Internet Dude"
formerly known as "Rude Internet Guy"

by david d on Sep 28, 2011 11:15 AM EDT reply actions

Agree on Tex

Teixeira is a big-time rally killer in the 3-slot. His power is an asset but should be utilized in the 5-slot. Cano has all the makings of a really effective 3-slot hitter and ….. as you note, this change should be permanent.

by Jeff I on Sep 28, 2011 1:46 PM EDT up reply actions

He’d be a bigger rally killer in the 5th spot

Rec Generating Database
Jedi Master A-Rod is a poster on Pinstripe Alley. He can be reached by clicking the "Reply" button below his comments.

by Jedi Master A-Rod on Sep 28, 2011 1:57 PM EDT up reply actions

I would put AJ on the playoff roster

He can be really nasty for 2-3 innings before his brain locks up and Bad AJ shows up. In the postseason, that can be a very valuable trait, so long as he’s never allowed to stay in the game after putting 2 baserunners on in an inning.

by D1andonlyDman on Sep 28, 2011 1:22 PM EDT reply actions

Betances starting tonight

Rec Generating Database
Jedi Master A-Rod is a poster on Pinstripe Alley. He can be reached by clicking the "Reply" button below his comments.

by Jedi Master A-Rod on Sep 28, 2011 1:37 PM EDT reply actions

YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY!

"WHO WOULD LEAD?! THE CLOWN?!"

by I'mGivingYouARaise on Sep 28, 2011 1:39 PM EDT up reply actions

Hopefully, Proctor backs him up

I’d love to see Proctor relieve Betances as soon as Betances walks two guys in an inning.

by D1andonlyDman on Sep 28, 2011 1:54 PM EDT up reply actions

Rather if Proctor

Was the guy down the line protecting his bullpen mates who are warming up from hard hit foul balls.
In some languages “Proctor” means “human torch”. Perhaps we can get the Webster’s people to look into making it official in English as well.

by Iggy Poptart on Sep 28, 2011 2:56 PM EDT up reply actions

Where did you see that?

by pastor2b on Sep 28, 2011 2:29 PM EDT up reply actions

YESNetwork YES Network
Dellin Betances to start Yanks’ season finale bit.ly/o04iHf

"WHO WOULD LEAD?! THE CLOWN?!"

by I'mGivingYouARaise on Sep 28, 2011 2:32 PM EDT up reply actions

Sweet!

"in order that you will write correctly of wat you really see if you dint go around with your eyes shut"
Cricket blog?

by MattF15 on Sep 28, 2011 3:33 PM EDT up reply actions

Don't think it's safe to assume the front runner for the last rotation spot yet

I think it’s down to Garcia and Burnett at this point and if they go on, both those guys will be in the rotation for each of the next two series. But for this one, which one gets the start? I have no idea and I think Brian Hoch is making an “educated” guess at best by saying Freddy is the front runner.

What do I do? I depends on who they play. If it’s Detroit I go with Garcia, if it’s Texas I go with AJ. But I haven’t heard Girardi or anybody give any inclination one way or another. Cash just hinted that they’d made a decision. Didn’t give a name.

As for the lineup switch, I like it because a) It gets Cano more ABs, and also, if they’re ever inclined to walk Cano, then rather than facing Swisher they get to face Alex Rodriguez, who despite his spotty injury ridden season is still by far the better hitter and offensive option.

Welcome to the Majors, Jesus!

Now PLAY HIM MOAR!!

by nyyrocks29 on Sep 28, 2011 2:49 PM EDT reply actions

Except Garcia has had major success against Texas.

They’re like poster boys for a good fastball-hitting team.

Reporter: "Joe, how closely were you following the Red Sox score on the scoreboard throughout the game?"
Girardi: "Well, I mean, it's hard not to see it. Our scoreboard's really big."

"Red Sox Nation? What a bunch of bullshit that is." - Hank Steinbrenner

by Ella Grace on Sep 28, 2011 3:01 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions

How can you have major success against a team you’ve faced 3 times in 3 years? He faced them once this season (3rd week of the season) with the Rangers missing Hamilton and Napoli from the lineup.

Rec Generating Database
Jedi Master A-Rod is a poster on Pinstripe Alley. He can be reached by clicking the "Reply" button below his comments.

by Jedi Master A-Rod on Sep 28, 2011 3:31 PM EDT up reply actions

This

Just about to say that.

Welcome to the Majors, Jesus!

Now PLAY HIM MOAR!!

by nyyrocks29 on Sep 28, 2011 3:34 PM EDT up reply actions

Just reporting the article, which identified Garcia as the favorite.

Contributing writer for Pinstripe Alley.

I believe in the Church of Baseball.
- Annie Savoy

You go through The Sporting News for the last 100 years, and you will find two things are always true. You never have enough pitching, and nobody ever made money.
- Donald Fehr

by Frank Campagnola on Sep 28, 2011 7:08 PM EDT up reply actions

Man, even I was shocked by the front page article on OTM today

Oh man, it’s just too much.

"WHO WOULD LEAD?! THE CLOWN?!"

by I'mGivingYouARaise on Sep 28, 2011 3:19 PM EDT reply actions

which one?

They all reek of anxiety and desperation. Like my match.com profile. Hi-ooo!

/self-zing

by long time listener on Sep 28, 2011 3:34 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs

The one by lon1 about essentially quitting

Even the fans were upset by that front page post.

"WHO WOULD LEAD?! THE CLOWN?!"

by I'mGivingYouARaise on Sep 28, 2011 4:17 PM EDT up reply actions

that was pretty bad

I can understand feeling down about the way things are going, but I think I’d wait for the patient to die before I start delivering the eulogy. If they miss the playoffs, there’s plenty of time to complain about what went wrong; why not try to muster a little optimism for your last chance, or at least tamp down the pessimism for 48 hours?

by long time listener on Sep 28, 2011 4:26 PM EDT up reply actions