Well, he's not really a rookie. Kenshin Kawakami is 34 years old and came over to Atlanta as a free agent after 11 years playing pro-ball in Japan. He's having a commendable campaign, including some great games against AL East opponents: eight shut-out innings vs. Toronto and six innings of two-run ball vs. Boston.
However... Joba Chamberlain is a novelty to the Braves (so we've that going for us, which is nice). He's never faced them, and the only Atlanta batter who ever has is Nate McLouth (0-3, K). He'll try to end a three-game losing streak.
The Yankee offense really needs to break out. Scoring a few runs early could go a very long way toward helping the confidence of the whole team (as well as the fanbase).
- Jose Veras was 'traded' to the Indians for cash. Eh, better than nothing. Put it into IFAs.
- Speaking of amateurs, here's an interview with first-round pick Slade Heathcott.