Did Sidney Ponson pitch his last game as a Yankee last night? It's very possible. The Yankees have been lucky with Ponson thus far but last night's performance is a reminder of how much of a risk he really is.The winning streak eventually had to come to an end and the Yanks did take 2 of 3 in Boston, but it was still a game the Yanks needed to win. A win last night puts the Yanks into a tie for the Wild Card with Boston and they gain a game on the Rays leaving them 2 out. But Ponson started in a big game spot. I'll excuse him for the fact that he was due to get hit around at some point. He has given the Bombers more than they could've imagined so I'm not upset with him. It does however raise some questions abouit Sir Sidney in big spots. The much rumored-to-be-Yankee Jarrod Washburn pitched 8 innings and gave up one run in his start yesterday. Does this accerlate the talks between the Mariners and Yanks? I don't know but I would rather Washburn in the rotation than Ponson.
The Yankees are willing to pick up the remaining 14 million on Washburn's contract but Seattle wants a top level prospect. I think Seattle is asking for a little too much and they should lower their asking price before Thursday's trade deadline so they can drop some salary and put that money towards other pieces needed for them to compete again.
I wrote yesterday how the Royals and Yanks have discussed a Melky Cabrera for Brian Bannister trade. It looks like the Yanks aren't too serious about that unless the Washburn deal falls through.
It also appears that the Florida Marlins have interest in Kei Igawa (oh my gosh!). They think he could be a dependable 4th or 5th starter in the National League. Good luck with that idea.
Overall, this was a good week for the Yanks. They went 5-1, gained ground both in the divison and the Wild Card races. Let's hope the upcoming 7-game homestand proves to be just as productive.
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