The Curtis Granderson trade is a good move for the Yankees. At least I wasn't so sure, mainly because of his sub .200 average against lefties but the more I think about it, the more I like the move.

With Granderson's arrival, two of the Yankees key 2009 championship contributors are likely not coming back to the Bronx. Hideki Matsui for sure isn't coming back because he signed a one-year $6.5 million deal with the Angels and the other, is Johnny Damon.

Damon and his agent Scott Boras are apparently worlds apart on their contract talks and with the Yankees signing Nick Johnson on Friday, it appears Damon's door to return is just about shut.

It's a shame because Damon was a good player in many ways for the Yanks. His personality fit perfectly in the clubhouse. His "diminished" skills were perfect for the no 2 spot in the lineup in 2009. His subpar arm and shaky fielding skills led the Yankees front office to believe he is the perfect DH for the 2010 Yanks. Damon still believes he's one of the best players in the game. I have to disagree Johnny. I guess Johnny will go where the money is. That's a shame because if he agrees to a pay cut and DH's for the Bombers, he is certain to be in the thick of another 1 or 2 championship runs in the Bronx. Only time will tell.

I still want the Yankees to grab another arm for the rotation. I'm not sold on either Joba Chamberlain or Phil Hughes being a solid starter for a defending World Series Champion. Much talk is around Ben Sheets and taking a risk with him. I like that idea, so I hope GM Brian Cashman makes that signing. You can never have enough pitching.

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Tags: Baseball, Brain Cashman, Curtis Ganderson, Hideki Matsui, Joba Chamberlain, Johnny Damon, Nick Johnson, Phil Hughes, Yankees

Yankees Genreal Manager Brian Cashman doesn't think Alex Rodriguez will be effected by the Joe Torre book. As everyone knows by now, it is said in the book that players called Alex "A-Fraud". People close to Alex say it's a non issue, so does Cashman.

"He's fine," Cashman said. "It's something he's going to have to deal with."

Every spring A-Rod has had to deal with some type of controversy and this year will be no different. He will again be asked about his relationship with Derek Jeter, something Torre also alluded to in his book. Cash said he's spoken to Alex recently about the book and it's topics and he has no issues with it.

"He's already dealt with stuff like this way too many times," Cashman said of the "A-Fraud" fallout. "It's just another thing for him to swat out of the way."

I agree, we're beating a dead bush here. How many times are we going to ask about A-Rod's status in the clubhouse? He's been here for four years, it's time to find something else to talk about with Alex, or how bout leave him alone for once....well the latter may never happen. As long as the media continues to make A-Rod's every footstep a big deal so will we here on the blog.

Players report to camp on Feb. 17th.

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Tags: Alex Rodriguez, Baseball, Brain Cashman, Joe Torre, Yankees

There's a lot to said about the upcoming Joe Torre book, the "Yankee Years". I am looking to obtain a copy of the book hopefully next week and will be able to come up with my own opinion.

I wrote an article for Peter Araham's Yankees blog on Sunday as part of his pinch-hitting series. The article was focusing on Joe Torre's time as Yankees manager. How I thought he did a great job and how we took him for granted while he was here. I had no idea about the upcoming book. The first sounds of the book came around also on Sunday, so it was just a coincidence that my Torre article was posted on the same day the news about Torre's "ant-Yankee" book was released to the public. Now that caused quite a stir on the LoHud Yankees Blog and brought new readers to this site. I thank those that have come and shared their opinions on the matter. I realize that many people became anti-Torre towards the end of his tenure but I think people should read the entire book first before passing judgement on Joe. We have all heard and read different passages from the book, all covering a varitey of topics, David Wells, Kevin Brown, Randy Johnson, Alex Rodriguez, and Brian Cashman.

So far it looks to me Torre just told it the way it was and Tom Verducci wrote it in the book as such. Nothing I've heard has surprised me yet so it'll be interesting to see what else comes to light as a result of this book. I wonder what Torre's response will be when he's interviewed on the matter. Oh man, how quick you can go from hero to goat in this city....only in New York. But please read the book first THEN cast your opinion.


Will you buy the book? Go over to the right and cast your poll on the poll.

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Tags: Alex Rodriguez, Baseball, Brain Cashman, David Wells, Joe Torre, Kevin Brown, Randy Johnson

The Yankees are looking to trade Xavier Nady, a move that most fans are not too supportive of. It's either trade Nady or Nick Swisher.

The Yankees are looking to trade Xavier Nady, a move that most fans are not too supportive of. It's either trade Nady or Nick Swisher.

Going in Swisher's favor is the fact he's a switch hitter and makes $21 million over the next three seasons as opposed to Nady who will be a free agent at the end of the 2009 season. Nady is also represented by Scott Boras which ultimately means he will walk come season's end because the Yankees probably won't give Nady the money he'll be asking for.

Nady was acquired in late July in 2008 and helped proved pop in the lineup. He was a consistent force in the liuneup behind Alex Rodriguez, especially with the Yanks missing Hideki Matsui and Jorge Posada for an extended period of time. The Nationals are the only team that have publicly had interest in both Nady and Swisher. I would take there's more teams in the mix but for right now things are quiet on the trading front.

I personally would like to see the Yanks retain both men and think they should take their chances come next winter with Nady. They do have Matsui and Johnny Damon also coming off the books so they're going to need some outfielders. I trust Brian Cashman so I'm not going to worry. But if we do trade Nady we better get a good pitcher in return.

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Tags: Alex Rodriguez, Baseball, Brain Cashman, Hideki Matsui, Jorge Posada, Nick Swisher, Scott Boras, Xavier Nady, Yankees

On Tuesday the Yankees formally introduced Mark Teixeira to the world. Mark put on the pinstripes for the first time with the No. 25 on his back. That's awesome becuase that now turns my old Jason Giambi jersey into a Teixeira jersey.

According to Tex, the Yankees were in the running the whole time and they were in contact all along, yet the only offer made was on December 23rd, the one Mark accepted.

“Once we got the contract figured out, it was a no-brainer for me,” he said.

I'm sure it's not hard to turn down $180 million. A lot of credit should go to Brian Cashman, the Yankees GM. He made a personal visit to Teixeira's home and convinced Mark and his wife Leigh to sign. Mark said his wife was the one who told him New York would be the best fit and so with the wife's approval Mark went ahead and told Cashman he was in. Much thanks to Leigh for making the right call.

Manager Joe Girardi says he will be thrilled to pencil Tex's name into the lineup everyday. Now the questions is, does he bat in front of or behind Alex Rodriguez. It's a good problem to have if you're Girardi and the Yanks.

“Most lineups will hate facing our pitching and most pitching will hate facing our lineup,” Tex says.

Another big day for the Yankees and they may not be done. When asked if they were done with the big signings for the winter, Cashman, Team President Randy Levine, and part owner Hal Steinbrenner all didn't give an answer, which leads us to believe there could still be more help on the way to the Bronx. We'll have to wait and see, but for now, the Yankees can feel very proud of their recent accomplishments, it will certianly put the Yankees as the team to beat in the American League.

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Tags: Baseball, Brain Cashman, Hal Steinbrenner, Jason Giambi, Mark Teixeira, Yankees

They did it again! The Yankees have once again gotten the premeir player on the free agent market, this time it's Mark Teixeira coming to the Bronx. Oh happy days are here again!

The Yankees have now signed 3 of the 4 top free agents on the market this offseason, CC Sabathia, AJ Burnett, and now Teixeira. Manny Ramirez is the other top free agent left and his still has a shot at playing in pinstripes. This has been an unbelievable winter for the Yankees and their fans. GM Brian Cashman has put together a solid team from top to bottom, one that complements one another quite nicely. The agreement that the Yankees reached with Mark is for eight years and $180 million. That makes $423.5 million dollars that has been invested in 3 players this winter but how could you argue with the moves? The Yankees desperatly needed pitching, the Yankees went and got it, they needed another bat to replace the departing Jason Giambi and Bobby Abreu, so they got Teixeira. It's not like the Yankees spent for the hell of it, they spent wisely and they spent on needs, like I alluded to earlier this offseason. They now have the perfect guy to complement Alex Rodriguez in the lineup and makes the defense a whole lot better. He's a 28 year old switch-hitting first baseman about to reach the prime of his career, good move by the Yanks and thank goodness we didn't get Manny.

With the addition of Teixeira, this unquestionably puts the Yankees as the team to beat in the American League. The Boston Red Sox were on the verge of signing Teixeira until they withdrew their seven-year $170 million offer last Friday. The other possible suitors for Mark were the Washington Nationals, Baltimore Orioles and Los Angeles (Anahiem) Angels but they all didn't meet Teixeira's wants. The latter of the group, the Angles withdrew their offer on Monday to Mark and Tuesday afternoon he became a Yankee. It's really Christmas in the Bronx. I can't believe it, I feel like a little kid in the candy store with full access to everything. This is exciting and I can't wait for the season to begin. Don't tell me the Yankees buy their championships, because they gave the players what they asked for and simply had the money to do it. If other teams had it, they'd do it too.

As for now, welcome to New York Mark!

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Tags: AJ Burnett, Alex Rodriguez, Baseball, Bobby Abreu, Brain Cashman, CC Sabathia, Jason Giambi, Manny Ramirez, Mark Teixeira, Yankees

The Yankees offically introduced CC Sabathia and AJ Burnett on Thursday at the old Yankee Stadium. It was really surreal to see those two men standing next to eachother wearing pinstripes. They were the top of the free agent market and the Yankees were able to get them to commit to the Bronx. It was a good day in Yankeeland.

Brian Cashman deserves a lot of credit for the work he's done. A few notes about the process that Cashman used in getting Sabathia are quite interesting. These notes I found while reading Peter Abraham's Yankees Blog . If you've never visited the site you should, it'll fulfill your every Yankee need and desire.

Cashman had a plan in mind and knew exactly what he was doing all along. In acquiring Santana the Yankees would've had to surrender Phil Hughes and throw an insane amount of money at Johan. Remember when Cashman was hesitant to make the move, everyone thought he was crazy. With Sabathia, he only had to throw the insane amount of money. Turned out to be the right move, as the Yankees kept their most prized pitcher. Here are some other notes in the CC Sabathia Recruiting Process:

• The Damons spent their first two years with the Yanks living in Manhattan, but then moved to the New Jersey suburbs, and Michelle Damon sold Amber Sabathia on the suburban life. “She said you’re going to love it,” Amber said. “The schools are good, the pediatricians are good, the supermarkets are good – it’s like a nice little place to live.”
• At the final meeting Cashman and Sabathia had at Sabathia’s California home, Cashman laid out exactly how long Sabathia had been on the Yankees’ radar. He told Sabathia and his agents how the Yankees had been targeting him for over a year and explained the entire process behind their decision, in hopes it would show how committed the Yankees were to Sabathia. “Ten minutes after he left, I called him to tell him I’m in,” Sabathia said. “That really meant a lot to me.”

In recruiting Burnett, Johnny Damon also played a part in the process by calling the big righty. Derek Jeter also called AJ. I think once Sabathia agreed to come to the Bronx that it would get another big free agent pitcher to come here too. The group of Burnett, Derek Lowe, and Ben Sheets you knew one of them was going to follow CC to the Bronx. There was even a point where some thought, myself included that the Yankees could very well sign all of them (that is still a possibility albeit an unlikely one). The Yankees in my opinion got the two best options and that's quite alright with me.

However you want to look at it, the Yankees did what they set ouot to do this winter, get starting pitching. Whether these guys work out in the end or not, Cashman did his job and filled the biggest needs of the team. If he doesn't get CC or AJ then everyone is calling for his head just like last winter. Good work Brian, I commend the work you've done this offseason. I've said it many times, he's the best GM in the game and that's not because he has an open checkbook to work with, it's because he lays out a plan before it's a thought in most people's minds. He's the right man for the job and he got the right men to fix the Yankees. Now all we need is for Andy Pettitte to re-sign and we're ready to go.

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Tags: AJ Burnett, Andy Pettitte, Baseball, Brain Cashman, CC Sabathia, Derek Jeter, Derek Lowe, Johan Santana, Johnny Damon, Phil Hughes, Yankees

They keep on coming. The Yankees have their second big name free agent this week. It's being reported that AJ Burnett has agreed to a 5 year $82 million contract. He joins CC Sabathia who agreed to a record setting 7 year $161 million contract earlier this week.

The Yankees have made it very clear that they want starting pitching and will do what it takes to get it. It's easy to say the Yanks are being irresponsible with their money and throwing their weight around but honestly, if they have the money to spend, why not do it? I have $1,000 to spend as my budget for christmas shopping, am I going to spend $150 or am I going to try and spend close to, if not all of that $1,000 I'm allowed to? Exactly, if the money's there, spend it. Plus what most people don't realize that if the Yanks' recent slurge brings home a world championship, then that will bring in money that will cover the expenses. So please stop drinking the hatorade.
Brian Cashman is the best GM in the business. It's easy to say "well if other GMs had his resources then they would make it look easy too." Well I got news for you, the other GM's have money to spend but A LOT but they tend to throw the extra cash they get in their back pocket. Oh, no one says anything about that. Please stop hating on the Yankees, you just make yourself look ridiclious. The Yankees make the money to spend and that's the bottom line. If you don't like it, then find something else to do.

So now that Sabathia and Burnett are on their way to the Bronx, who's next? Did Andy Pettitte's meeting with Cashman in Houston the other day go well or have we seen the last of Andy in pinstripes. If that's the case then Ben Sheets come on down! You're the next free agent heading to the Bronx.

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Tags: AJ Burnett, Andy Pettitte, Baseball, Ben Sheets, Brain Cashman, CC Sabathia, Yankees

If I were a betting man, I'd say Andy Pettitte is coming back to the Yankees. It makes sense for both sides and tonight could be the time we could get an answer on what happens with the lefty.

Brian Cashman left the winter meetings early so he could fly to Houston to meet with Andy and discuss a contract for 2009. Knowing Cashman, he probably has an idea already set in his mind and will tell Andy to take it or leave it. As things look now, it's almost certain that the Yanks will bring in another top free agent pitcher to go along with CC Sabathia. Pettitte could very well fit into the Yankees plans as the no. 5 starter. Let's hope this meeting between Andy and Brian work out for the better.

As I've stated before, I really want Andy to come back and pitch for the Yankees. I hated to see him leave a few years ago and go pitch for the Houston Astros. I couldn't stomach it and I was very happy when he came back 2 winters ago. Last year he had us in limbo but ultimately re-signed. Now he's holding out because he doesn't want to take a pay cut? Come on Andy, after a really bad second half and a winter of steroid scandals and things alng those lines, I think you need to accept whatever the Yanks offer. It will probably be in the $10 million range so how could you accept that?

The Yankees are very serious about putting together a solid top of the line rotation for 2009 and are moving aggressively on making sure that happens. Pettitte is the next stop on the Yankee express and if he doesn't decide soon that train will leave the station and the Yankees will move on and someone else will gladly take his spot. If the Yankees get who they want this winter then this will be the best rotation in years. Pettitte needs to be apart of that and I think at 36, he still has alot left to help this team win a world championship. Andy isn't a man of greed so I can't really see money being the issue here. The Yankees want him back, the fans do, his teammates do and Andy himself wants to come back so what's the hold up? Make the right choice Andy, and come back to the Bronx, it's where you belong.

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Tags: Andy Pettitte, Baseball, Brain Cashman, Yankees

This week Mike Mussina called it a career. He was able to go out on his terms. He admitted that he knew this was going to be his last season as he made the decision back before spring training. So now Mussina is offically done after recording the 1st 20 win season of his career, good for him.

"I knew that was going to be my last year since the first day of spring training," Mussina said via conference call. "I just didn't want it to be part of the season. I just wanted baseball to be the season, and (to) go enjoy the game."

Mike has always been a classy guy. A quiet yet firm man. He was never about flash and was always about business, as in taking care of it on the field. Now he walks away following one of the best seasons in his career. Mussina as everyone knows started 2008 with a 1-3 record and an era north of 5.00 and looked washed up. A couple of meetings with Manny Ramirez in April made Moose look like an old 39-year old but he turned things around quick. If it weren't for Mussina this year the Yankees would've been done a lot sooner than they were. He was with no question the Yanks MVP this season. So now the Yankees lose more than just a starting pitcher, they lose a leader and a positive influence in the clubhouse.

"I always said that when I got to this point I wanted to go out on my own terms," Mussina said. "I didn't want to go out with somebody telling me it was time to go. I didn't want to be trying to find a job where I couldn't find a job."

I will remember Game 3 of the 2001 ALDS against the Oakland A's as Mussina best game as a Yankee. With the Yankees down 2 games to none in the series Moose was given the ball and had to win or else the Yanks were going home. This was also the game where Derek Jeter made the infamous "Flip". In that game Mussina pitched 7 shutout innings that night and the Yankees won 1-0. They eventually ended up winning the series and advanced to the ALCS then the World Series. Another memorable game for Mosse was against during Game 7 of the 2003 ALCS, Mussina authored one of the greatest clutch pitching performances of all time. The Yankees were trailing Boston 4–0 Mussina made the first relief appearance of his career. With runners on at the corners and no one out Mussina got out of the jam and kept Boston as bay with 2 more scoreless innnings. The Yankees as everyone knows came back and won the game on Aaron Boone's 11th inning homerun.

Now the talk surrounding Mussina is whether he is deserving of making the Hall-of-Fame. I think he is. His consistency over the years is uncanny and hard to match. I have read the papers and a few websites where this issue has been debated. Many think Moose will get in, if not on the first try, then his second. A good point made in Mike's case is that he pitched in the American League East his whole career, a tough division throughout Moose's career. In the 18 years Mike pitched in the AL East, he pitched to 8 World Series winning teams Blue Jays 1992-93, Yankees ‘96, 1998-2000, Red Sox 2004, ‘07. He also pitched during the steroid era. Mussina is 19th in history in strikeouts. His career record is 270-153 with a ERA. He is also one of 25 players ever to win 270 games. His career winning percentage of .638 is quite impressive in today's game. He and Randy Johnson are the only pitchers since 1900 to own a career record of at least 50 games over .500 with two different teams. He finished 123-72 with a 3.88 ERA as a Yankee. No other American League pitcher had more wins than Moose while he was in pinstripes. He also won 7 gold gloves, 1996-99, 2001, 2003 and 2008. Moose recorded 17 straight seasons of at least 11 wins, now that is impressive because he's the ONLY AL pitcher to ever accomplish that. Amazing.

"I've done as much as I'm capable of doing at the level I want to do it at," Mussina said. "If it creates a good argument than that's all the better."

Brian Cashman was asked if Moose was a Hall-of-Famer in his book, his response:

"There's no question in my mind he's a Hall of Famer"

Jeter had this to say regarding Mussina:

“It was a great pleasure playing against – and even more so with – Mike Mussina since I entered the league in 1995. He was a true professional both on and off the field. Moose’s accomplishments in the game over the last 18 years represent a Hall of Fame player.”

Mussina played 18 seasons, 10 with the Balitmore Orioles and 8 with the Yankees. Mussina didn't get a chance to win a championship here in New York but he lived up to everything he was suppose to be. He was signed with the intentions of solidifying the staff and that's what he did. 2007 was one to forget for Mike but he rebounded by being the ace in 2008 finishing 20-9. I have liked Mussina as a Yankee because of his consistency. In '07 it was hard to see the man struggle the way he did, you knew he was so much better than what you saw. I am very happy for him that he was able to regroup and finish his career on top the way he did. I wish he could've won a championship with the Yanks. Maybe one day he will as a coach. I want to thank Mussina for giving the Yankees everything he had out their on the mound, as a fan I really appreciate when a player gives 100 percent with each performance, A class act is what best describes Mike Mussina, he will be missed in the Bronx.

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Tags: Baseball, Brain Cashman, Derek Jeter, Manny Ramirez, Mike Mussina, Yankees

The Yankees front office, Brian Cashman and Hal Steinbrenner said a few days ago that they were going to be aggressive this offseason and would address all the teams' needs and issues. Over the last 48 hours they have made some moves to help the roster.

Marte Re-signs -----------


On Wednesday they re-signed lefty Damaso Marte to a 3 year contract with a club option for 2012. The Marte signing was bound to happen as there was no way the Yankees were gong to lelt him walk away from the team considering that lefties out of the bullpen are hard to come by these days.

“We looked at him over a broad range of his work. His stuff is there and finding a left-hander has been difficult,” Cashman said. “I can’t say exactly what his role will be, but he can pitch from the fifth inning through to the eighth.”

The Yanks haven't had a good lefty reliever since Mike Stanton back in the dynasty years. His last productive season was in 2002. I knew this deal was going to get done because the Yankees traded away 3 guys toget him. This was the great trade pulled off by Cashman in which he robbed the Pirates of Marte and Xavier Nady. Both men are now under contract for 2009.
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Yanks Get Nick Swisher ---------


The other move the Yankees made was acquiring switch-hitting first baseman/outfielder Nick Swisher and right-handed pitcher Kanekoa Texeira from the Chicago White Sox in exchange for infielder Wilson Betemit and right-handed pitchers Jeff Marquez and Jhonny Nunez. Swisher addresses the need for a 1B for the time being. When asked who would be the starting first baseman if the season started tomorrow Cashman replied "Nick Swisher". Swisher can also play the outfield which adds to his value. I do have to question his overall value to begin with. He has power and can get on base but his average wasn't great last year and he doesn't look like he'll improve. A positive sign with Nick is over the last 4 seasons he has recorded at least 20 doubles and 20 homers, not bad, not to mention he's also a switch hitter. The addition of Swisher gives the Yanks a lot of flexibilty with just one guy. He can be your righty hitting first baseman or your lefty hitting centerfielder, how cool is that? If Nick can just hit around .270 the Yankees are a winner in this move.

“We’re excited with the addition of Nick Swisher,” said Yankees Manager Joe Girardi. “We feel he has a ton of upside. He’s a patient switch-hitter, adds versatility at a number of defensive positions, including first base and the outfield, and will be a positive presence inside the clubhouse.”

The Yankees were so impressed by how the Tampa Bay Rays won on the basis of being young and athletic. Swisher fits the bill on both. Swisher, 27, batted .219 (109-for-497) with 86 runs, 21 doubles, 24 HR and 69 RBI in 153 games with the White Sox in 2008, leading all American League switch-hitters in home runs and ranking 2nd in RBI.
He made 69 starts in center field, 47 starts at first base, 16 starts in left field and 11 starts in right field. The guy can move around.

I didn't expect this move by the Yanks but I like it. It gives them flexibilty at a few different positions and didn't cost them much. It saves the Yanks money by not throwing the checkbook at Mark Texieria (even tho that's still a possibilty). It appears that Cashman and the front office are clearing looking to get younger and athletic. As I mentioned the Rays made it all the way to the World Series on those two things. Sure there were a lot of other factors that got Tampa Bay to the dance but youth and athleticism got them a long way. Many organizations look to follow in those footsteps and now use Tampa's foundation as a model to go by.

The offseason of change has started and with Friday being the first day of free agency ANYTHING is possible. The Yankees and CC Sabathia watch will be on. Is it a matter of time before he's in pinstripes or will it take more than a blank check to lure him to the Bronx? We'll find out.

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Tags: Baseball, Brain Cashman, CC Sabathia, Damaso Marte, Mark Teixeira, Nick Swisher, Tampa Bay Rays, Xavier Nady, Yankees

What do the Yankees do with Andy Pettitte? Do they re-sign him, do they let him walk? It's a tough call if you're Yankee management but given Andy's track record, why not give him another chance?

Pettitte went 2-7 with an ERA north of 6.00 last season in his last 11 starts and he missed his last start of the season because of elbow soreness. So does he really deserve a chance to rebound from that horrid second half? He does, because he's Andy Pettitte. What does that mean? It means that despite Pettitte being on the downside of his career the Yanks should give hima 1-year deal worth around 10 or 11 million because he was their big game pitcher for so many years. Yes I realize those days were a long time ago but a lefty who can win 12-15 games surely deserves a chance in the rotation, a rotation that are full of question marks.

Mike Mussina is almost certain to retire, maybe as early as this week so bringing Andy back won't cause an overflow of starting pitchers in the rotation. I believe Andy still has some juice (no pun intended) in that left arm of his and can help the Bombers make a run into October. He can be penciled in as the 4th starter assuming the Yankees accomplish their offseason wish list of obtaining CC Sabathia and another high end starter to go along with current ace Chien-Ming Wang.

Pettitte filed for free agency today thus for the time being ending his tenure with the Yankees. He has stated on more than one occasiont that he would only return to play for the Yankees and not any other team.

"I let them know a few weeks ago I'd like to come back and play," Pettitte said at Joe Torre's annual Safe At Home Foundation dinner, which honored the 1998 World Champion Yankees. "My agent said he would call me if he had heard anything and he hasn't heard anything."

What are the Yankees waiting for? I think this really is a no brainer unless they are mulling what kind of deal they're going to offer the lefty.

"I don't want a multiyear deal. I only want one year," he said. "I would love to hear if they wanted me back or not. I'm not even thinking money. I think I've made it perfectly clear what my intentions are and where I'd like to play baseball. Other than that I'll have to wait and see what they'd like to do."

Looks like Andy is making this very easy for GM Brian Cashman. He wants to play for the Yankees, 1 year, money isn't an issue, so why the wait? I'm sure a deal will get done, I'll be highly surprised if the Yanks turn the other cheek on this. It's better than throwing the likes of Sidney Ponson and company out there. Maybe with the new stadium opening this year they want to go in a different direction, which could be a possiblity but I think the idea of having Andy in pinstripes is too strong to deny. I want to him back and I'm sure many guys on the team and many fans want to see him back, so I hope this ends well for Pettitte and we see him back in the Bronx for 2009.

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Tags: Andy Pettitte, Baseball, Brain Cashman, QUITE FRANKLY, Yankees

While the World Series is being played out in "Tampa" and Philly, the Yankees are planning out their offseason plans in Tampa. Yea, their offices are actually in Tampa unlike the Rays who don't actually play there, but that's a story for another day. According to Mike Lupica of the Daily News the Yankees are ready to break the bank open to get back to the promise land. With about $80 million coming off the books this winter, it's almost certain that they will add that right back and may even surpass that.

"I'm not saying (the huge spending) won't happen," Brian Cashman said. "I know people expect us to go crazy. Even when we don't go crazy, people still look at whatever we do and say, 'There's the Yankees being the Yankees.' We're the Evil Empire even when we're not."

This is true. The one MUST this winter is getting C.C. Sabathia no matter the cost. We learned that not going after Johan Santana last year didn't help the Yankees in 2008. They certainly don't want an encore performance in '09 of their disappointing '08 so Sabathia is a must. It's just a matter of signing that check to C.C.'s liking. Objective 1 done.

Manny Ramirez in pinstripes? No way. It doesn't matter how Manny played the last few months in L.A., he will be 37 next season and you have to remember the way he sat out his final days in Boston because he didn't feel like playing. Besides, him and A-Rod in the same clubhouse?? OMG, the possibility of things that can happen there can only lead to trouble and backpage headlines, none of which would be good for the Bombers. Another factor in this is that the Yanks don't need hitting, they need desperately to fix their pitching. Manny would just be his own sideshow.

Objective 2, First Base. What's wrong with a guy like Doug Mientkiewicz? He was a solid defender and uhh well "decent" bat. Why do we need an all-star first baseman? Mark Teixiera would be a great bat in the lineup and a good guy to have on the team but if his asking price is too high why bother? Well he is switch-hitting and can put up .300 35 115 easily. Ok, so we give him a run for his money and see where we end up. So is signing Tex a must? That may depend on wheter the Yanks bring back Bobby Abreu, who looks to be on the way out. Figures, the only consistent guy with the bat is on his way out. Good job by the Yanks, you should keep this guy until his arms fall off because you know he will give you production. More production that Jorge Posada might give you the rest of his contract. Smart move by the Yanks...NOT!

Objective 3, another starting pitcher. Get Oliver Perez, while he also might be a little high in his asking price, he might fit into the rotation just fine being the 4th starter behind *Sabathia, Wang, and Joba. Yes this is how the rotation should look coming into opening day next year. If Perez isn't an option I do NOT like AJ Burnett. Reason behind that? He'll be Carl Pavano II, and we sure as hell don't want another one of those. So I don't even consider Burnett, unless he lowers his price dramatically. Derek Lowe? Hey why not? He pitched well down the stretch and is an experienced pitcher with postseason success. Take a gamble with him, he might be that workhouse the rotation needs, especially if the Yanks choose to part ways with Andy Pettitte.

Objective 4, centerfield? I question that because do we really need a CF? The answer is no. Do we want a stud out there? The answer is yes. Melky Cabrera wasn't the answer in '08, we thought he was. Brett Gardner can't hit yet and we don't know if he ever will. Austin Jackson? Ehh, let's not rush him up just yet. He looks to be your guy in center in the future but right now what is the right answer? I say leave Damon out there another year until his contract is up and give Melky and/or Gardner the other starts. Then evaluate this again next winter where more options could open up. But right now it makes sense for the Yanks to keep their trading chips and their money on getting a new CF for '09. Unless you can get a guy like Matt Kemp from the Dodgers, then CF shouldn't be addressed. Damon can still hit and produce, yes he has a weak arm but so did Bernie Williams and we were fine when he was roaming center.

Again, the need this winter is pitching. Worry first and foremost on pitching and upgrading it, not just taking leftovers off the free agent bum list. No more Ponsons, Rasners, or anyone else like that. No more! I don't want to see it. Those guys combined for 35 starts this year, that is NO GOOD. This is your 2009 rotation if things work out right.

1- CC Sabathia
2- Chien-Ming Wang
3- Joba Chamberlain
4- Oliver Perez
5- Phil Hughes/ Andy Pettitte

Not a bad staff there. Gives you a little depth towards the end if Andy comes back. Each guy could give you at least 10 wins with the exception of Hughes who we have no idea what to expect. Mike Mussina is almost a sure lock to retire. Once the World Series is done and over with next week, then the "hot stove" will heat up. If my rotation isn't what the Yankees are looking for then what are they going for?

"We're always trying to push to get better," Cashman said.

They got the money, make it happen. If Hank Steinbrenner has his way, the bank will be shattered and the Yanks will get their wants, but I hope that means they got their needs too.

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Tags: Alex Rodriguez, Andy Pettitte, Baseball, Bobby Abreu, Brain Cashman, Brett Gardner, CC Sabathia, Chien Ming Wang, Joba Chamberlain, Manny Ramirez, Melky Cabrera, Phil Hughes, Sidney Ponson, Yankees

As I've stated before there are many factors that led to this disappointing 2008 season. Offense, defense, pitching, manager, general manager. Today we focus on Joe Girardi.

"I take responsibility for it, that's the only way I know how to do it," Girardi said. "Obviously, my job is to get the most out of everyone."

Well it appears he didn't. Somewhere along the way I believe he lost his players. Melky Cabrera had a good April, then disappeared. Robinson Cano forgot that he was the second coming of Rod Carew in the first half, and even at times in the second half. Those are two players that played well under Joe Torre, oops, I shouldn't have mentioned that name. More on him later. Phil Hughes and Ian Kennedy were absolute busts. Kennedy didn't seem botheres by his last performance in Anahiem where he was rocked again and thought he pitched well. That got him a first class ticket back to the minors. Even through the let downs, Girardi has done well with the hand he was dealt.

Andy Pettitte, Mariano Rivera, Derek Jeter, Mike Mussina and Brian Bruney were asked about Girardi's performance and praised him. Others on the team chose not to comment. Hmm. Not good. That right there shows you how the clubhouse seems divided. That was never the case under Mr Torre. Girardi's biggest mistakes might've been trying to mix and match the lineup too much. Also his always optimistic attitude has come off as a joke. He's told the media his players are fine and then those players magically get hurt within days, if not hours.


That guy in L.A. Joe Torre is sitting pretty at the top of the NL West while Girardi's Yanks sit in fourth place. Had Torre delivered a fourth place team in September he would surely be out the door by now, but since Girardi is handpicked by Brain Cashman and given the ok by the Steinbrenner family, his job is safe.....for now.

"Joe has done a good job, he had to deal with a lot," Cashman said of the Yankees losing Jorge Posada, Hideki Matsui and Chien-Ming Wang for extended stretches. "He never used excuses and has always looked to solve the problem. He has handled our pitchers very well, he and (pitching coach) Dave Eiland have done a good job."

I agree but I also think if Torre was here the Yankees wouldn't be in this position. It's a debate that will linger all winter long because the bottom line is this: Torre got the Yanks to the playoffs every year he was here. Girardi failed in his first try. Can't blame Girardi for it, but it does show how effortless Torre made the job seem. Now that the Dodgers look to be playing in October while the Yanks sit at home, Torre's laughable State Farm commerical about his new life in L.A. isn't so funny. He looks like a genius for walking away from the Yankees. What happens if the Dodgers win the World Series? How will that affect Girardi's job? Time will tell.

I think Girardi did what he could this season and I don't hold him accountable. I wanted him as the manager so I have to accept the fate that came along with it. He showed me some fire this season and I liked it. The night he got thrown out and threw his hat to the ground and put on a Lou Pinella like tantrum I got all fired up. It was what I wanted to see, it's what many fans wanted to see. For that night it worked as the Yankees made a 9th inning comeback. Since then, we've got a toned down Girardi, that I don't like. Let the man do his job the way he sees fit. I think he's trying too much to be a media's manager. Let him scream, curse, shove. Whatever gets the job done. Maybe then, ALL of his players will respect him and then ALL of them will play with some pride. While I can't say poor Joe, I can certainly say shame on those players who gave up on him and the team. The lesson we learned here....Joe Torre is a sure genius!

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Tags: Andy Pettitte, Baseball, Brain Cashman, Derek Jeter, Joe Girardi, Joe Torre, Melky Cabrera, Mike Mussina, Robinson Cano, Yankees

The Yankees are in it to win it this year. All it took was an 8-game winning streak and GM Brian Cashman was ready to make some moves, some serious moves. With Thursday's 4 pm trade deadline looming Cashman seems to be working 24-7. As a result, the Yanks went from being left in the dust to serious heavyweights.

On Wednesday afternoon the Yankees traded reliever Kyle Farnsworth to the Detriot Tigers for Ivan Rodriguez. All I can say is wow. This is an excellent trade and Brian Cashman once again shows why he's one of the smartest men in baseball. This is the second major trade that the Yankees have pulled in less than a week. With less than 24 hours away Cash may have one more trick up his sleeve. Is that going to be Washburn? We'll find out before Thursday's deadline.

It's a great move and came at the right time. It addresses the catching issue that needed to be addressed and it doesn't interfere with Jorge Posada and his surgery. Both I-Rod and Farnsy are in the last year of their contracts and both address needs to their new respective teams. The Tigers need a set-up man with Joel Zumaya injured and Fernando Rodney named the new closer, and the Yanks need a stable catcher because Jose Molina just isn't an everyday player.

Rodriguez will be just as solid as Molina behind the plate but he will give the offense a boost. He batted .295 5 HR 32 RBI this season. An upgrade over Molina's .230 0 HR 11 RBI. Molina is best suited as a back up and his defense is superb so you have to look at this as a win-win situation for the Yanks.

Farnsworth has been on a role of late and became of one Joe Girardi's reliable guys out of the bullpen BUT the main factor in this is....he can't be trusted. In Friday night's 1-0 win in Boston over the Sox, Farnsy came into the game in the 8th, surrendered 2 hits and was immediately taken out for Mariano Rivera. To be fair, Kyle just had a bit of bad luck that night because he wasn't hit hard but Girardi wanted to take no chances of a possible mental breakdown so opted for Rivera to finish off the 8th and eventually the 9th. That move right there should've told you that no matter how good Farnsworth pitches, he can NOT be trusted in big spots. So the move was made, Pudge comes to the Bronx and Farnsy goes to Motown.

Pudge helped the Marlins get to the World Series in 2003 and the Tigers in 2006, both times it was his first season with the team. Let's see if he can bring that success to the Bronx.

With Klye gone from the 'pen, it nows leaves the question of who fills in the late inning roles. The 8th inning set-up job appears to be going to Jose Veras who has become a reliable option in the late innings. Edwar Ramirez will probably be your 7th inning guy. I have to say this is a gutsy move on the Yankees part but I like it. Brian Bruney is rehabbing his injured foot and is slated to rejoin the bullpen in the coming weeks so he could also fill one of the late inning spots if the men in front of him don't perform. With the addition of Demaso Marte last week, the Yankees bullpen is looking good and that will be a key factor down the stretch. The pieces are falling into place now and I like it. With Manny Ramirez apparently on his way to Florida, you got to think that the Yankees have a serious shot at October.

The recent dynastic run of the late '90's was the result of a strong core and a combination of a deep bullpen, good starting pitching, productive offense and a mold of solid all around players. My friends, the Yankees are one trade away from returning to form....a trade that appears to be on it's way tomorrow afternoon. If that doesn't happen, Chien-Ming Wang, Phil Hughes, Ian Kennedy, and Carl Pavano all may make a return before year's end. If you're a Yankees fan, you have to like your chances now....if not, Brian Cashman's got a trick up his sleeve for sure.

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Tags: Baseball, Brain Cashman, Chien Ming Wang, Demaso Marte, Edwar Ramirez, Ian Kennedy, Ivan Rodriguez, Joe Girardi, Jorge Posada, Jose Veras, Kyle Farnsworth, Phil Hughes, Yankees

Yesterday was quite the day for New York baseball. One of those days that rarely happen, which makes it more memorable. Both the Mets and Yankees didn't disappoint as both teams won a game to split the home and home twinbill.

Game 1:

Carlos Delgado was the story. He hit 2 HR's and had a Mets franchise record 9 RBI. The same Carlos Delgado that the NY Post wanted out of town. Make no mistake about it, Delgado still has something left in him, or was it a result of the bad pitching he faced? Whatever the case may be, his 2 HRs were some of the longest HR's you will ever see hit at Yankee Stadium. If you have not seen them, then I'd suggest you make it to business to YouTube it or turn on ESPN. I'm not sure those balls Delgado hit have landed yet.

Dan Giese got the start and pitched poorly. He threw 100 plus pitches in 4 plus innings. He got into trouble in the fifth when he walked Jose Reyes and Luis Castillo. David Wright then followed with a base hit and the bases were loaded. Exit Giese, enter Edwar Ramirez. Two batters later Delgado followed with a 2-run double.

"It was like every time I came up, I had a lot of guys on base," said Delgado, who is hitting .462 (6-for-13) with two homers and 11 RBI in his first three games against the Yankees this season. "I got good pitches to hit and I was able to drive them. It's nice to go out and get a good game."

Boy did Delgado make the Yankees pitching look bad. I mean he got the hits off of Giese, Ross Ohlendorf, and LaTroy Hawkins. Not excatly top of the line pitchers but Carlos got the job done. The end result was a Mets 15-6 victory in Game 1 of the split stadium doubleheader.

"It doesn't matter if it's Yankees-Mets or whoever is playing," Jorge Posada said. "It's all about executing pitches, and today, that wasn't the case."

This game showed how much the Yankees lack pitching depth and if I were Brian Cashman, I'd look at that game and get on the phone quick. There's no way you can keep running these guys out there. Giese got released by the Giants, Ohlendof wouldn't be in the majors if the Yanks didn't lack depth, and Hawkins....well I don't know why he has a job. Enough said.

Nothing you can take positive out of this game if you're a Yankee fan. Maybe Alex Rodriguez' 3 for 4 day, with a HR and 2 RBI. The Yanks were 4 for 14 with runners in the scoring position by the 4th inning! You can't win games with stats like that. Just a bad overall performance by the Yanks and a good game for the Mets.

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Tags: Alex Rodriguez, Baseball, Brain Cashman, Dan Giese, Edwar Ramirez, Jorge Posada, Mets, Ross Ohlendorf, Yankees

Johan Santana is coming to New York. That's exciting - even if you're a Yankee fan. No he's not coming to the Bronx, but he isn't going to Boston either, and for the Yankees, that's the best part.

Of course the Bronx would've welcomed Santana with open arms but at the expense of phenom Phil Hughes and fan favorite Melky Cabrera, there might've been some negative backlash. The Yankees could've gotten Johan months ago, but Yanks GM Brian Cashman was against the idea because the Twins wanted the Yanks to part with their top young pitchers (a combination of Hughes, Ian Kennedy, and Joba Chamberlian.) The Twins asking price was just too high for Brian's liking and so Santana ends up taking the 7 train to Queens instead of the 4 train to the Bronx.

The Red Sox were also on the verge of acuiring Santana, it was all set, just needed the trigger to be pulled and it would've been offical. But something happened....both the Yankees and the Red Sox realized the Twins were using them in a game of cat and mouse and wanted each team to up the anty with prospects and prospects and more prospects. Both teams decided to stand their ground, with each proposing their "best offer" to Minnesota. The Twins decided not to take them. Bad move on their part. They overplayed their hand big-time and for them being greedy they end up losing.

I have to commend Cashman on sticking to his guns and putting up a fight to keep his young prized pitchers. He has developed an abundance of young talent over the last few years and has finally realized that over paying for All-Stars doesn't result in a championship. The equation for success is to build a nucleus of talent and let them grow and develop together. That worked for the latest Yankee dynasty, let's just hope Cashman is right about the young 3 and it ends with the same result.

It was a great trade for the Mets, I mean they pratically stole Santana and now it's puts them as the elite team in the National League again. That's great and all, I'm really happy for them. I'm just glad he didn't end up in Boston. Could you imagine the 1-2 punch of Josh Beckett and Johan Santana? The thought scared me so much it made me question the Yankees' stance on the issue and question the franchise. They had a chance to acquire the best pitcher in baseball and if they didn't, they'd risk Johan going up to Fenway. Cashman and the Yankees held firm as they refused to be suckered into the Twins' evil scheme. Boston GM Theo Epstien was right along with Cashman on the same path. He didn't give in either. It turns out both parties win. Not only did Santana not end up in Boston or the Bronx, but he's out of the American League. I'd say thats a victory for both teams.

Now with this Santana business behind them, it's time to focus on Spring Training, which is only two weeks away. It's time to see if Cashman's idea to hold on to his youth was pure genius or pure stupidity. Only time will tell, but Brian's a smart man, and the Yankees entrust him with making the big decisions. If his word is good enough for the Yanks, then it's good enough for me. While Johan makes a splash at Shea, the Yanks will continue their winning ways with the Young 3, so we hope...right Brian?

(Frank's articles can also be read at OnTheBlockNY ) and HotStoveNewYork )

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Tags: Baseball, Brain Cashman, Johan Santana, Mets, Phil Hughes, QUITE FRANKLY, Yankees

As the old expression goes "those who laugh last, laugh best". In the case of Alex Rodriguez, his agent Scott Boras, and the New York Yankees, who exactly is laughing last? One thing is for sure, they'll all be laughing their way to the bank. Yesterday Rodriguez and the Yankees agreed to the outline of a 10 year $275 million contract. It will be the richest contract in sports history.

There are many questions you can ask yourselves on this situation:

- Did Boras overplay his hand by convincing himself and Alex that there was $350 million out there on the open market?
- Was there ever $350 million out there?
- Did A-Rod come back to the Yankees to salvage his reputation or because he really wanted to be a Yankee?
- Did Rodriguez really decide it upon himself to reach out to the Yankees or was it a trick up Boras' sleeve?
- The Yankees said they would NOT talk to A-Rod or Boras if he opted out, didn't they?

The answer to all those questions is simple, 10 years $275 million. Money talks and in this case, there was a lot. The greatest player of our time (no, not Barry Bonds) will now finish his career with the greatest franchise in sports. Whether you love Rodriguez or hate him, he's now a Yankee again. We all have our opinions, our reasons and our facts on why we love or hate A-Rod but any way you look at it, this is a win-win situation for everyone involved. Take a look at it...

The Yankees:
They get the best option to play third base. They get back the best player in the game. A-Rod's production from the right side of the plate can not be matched. His presence in the lineup keeps them with a true cleanup hitter and leaves Derek Jeter in the second spot and Robinson Cano in the lower third of the lineup. With Alex staying in pinstripes it now gives him and the Yanks endless possibilities for marketing. They will have their mega-star for their network and for their new stadium in 2009. It also adds to the legacy of the Yankees franchise. Once A-Rod goes into the Hall of Fame, he will go in as a Yankee. The best players of all-time have been Yankees, Alex Rodriguez will now be one of them.


Alex Rodriguez:
Is known around baseball as the best player in the game, possibly all-time. This now personifies him as a New York Yankee and not as a rent-a-player. Years down the road he will be remembered for reaching milestones and accomplishments wearing the Yankee pinstripes, something that very much matters to Alex. If he can produce the way A-Rod can, then the burden of the fans will be lifted and they will shower him support and love. The Yankees are built to win a championship every year so it's logical to think that sometime over the next 10 years he WILL produce and help the Yankees win a World Series. He likes the attention and he likes drama...no better place for that then New York City. Oh by the way...he got a $275 million contract and can make up to $314 million if he breaks the all-time Homerun record, so how bad can that be?

Agent Scott Boras:
Super agent or not, he got his most profile client the richest contract in sports history..AGAIN. His payday for this contract will be around $14 million. Whether his bluff was called or not, his job was done and was done in a very public fashion. Say what you want about him and his tactics, but he still is leaving this situation a happy man. His toe to toe battle with MLB, the Yankees, and the media will no doubt draw him interest from other avenues (players,teams, companies), thanks in part for his aggressiveness and fearless approach.

The Fans:
You either love or hate the guy, but now that he's back it's time to support him for the better of the team. He is going to do some amazing things within the next 10 years, things we will only get to see a few times in a lifetime, so sit back n enjoy. You don't see any of the young pitchers dealt away in a deal to get someone to try and replace Rodriguez. He will now be very much apart of the Yankee legacy and tradition. He is baseball's best player and he will come through in October, he will. If he didn't come back then realistically, who would be playing third base on Opening Day next year? Whoever it would've been, couldn't compare to Alex. You will be able to say in the future that you saw the greatest player of all-time play for your favorite team. Also, the way in which the Yankees have run under the new Steinbrenner sons’ regime has to get you excited. Their decisions have been based on baseball needs, not wants. They turned a franchise that was in shambles just a few weeks ago and turned it back into the top organization, all while being on the job for about 20 minutes.

A-Rod is staying in pinstripes and that should put fear in a lot of teams around the league. Maybe it was the best thing for everyone involved for it to be this way. How miserable would everyone be if it hadn't ended like this? So many things could’ve gone wrong if Alex would've left the Bronx, but in the end he did the right thing and stayed. It was the right thing for him, his legacy, the Yankees, the Yankees legacy, the fans, and his agent. Now, all he has to do is win a championship and life will be complete for Alex Rodriguez.

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Tags: Alex Rodriguez, Baseball, Brain Cashman, QUITE FRANKLY, Yankees

It appears Joe Girardi IS going to be named the next manager of the Yankees. The announcement can come as early as today or tomorrow according to a report by the NY Daily News.

Gerenal Manager Brian Cashman holds the recommendation on who he thinks will best suit the Yankees managerial opening, and he will present that idea to the Steinbrenner family. One indication that Girardi is the favorite is that one source told the Daily News last night, that "in no way would politics enter into Brian's decision" , an indication Cashman is not making his decision based on popularity.

Also what seems to be interesting about this developing situation is that Cashman has talked to many of the Yankee players, even the free agents to be. They all have given their support and have no issue with any of the 3 candidates. That seems to be a big step in naming the new manager. For now, we'll all have to wait and see...what else is new...

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Tags: Baseball, Brain Cashman, Joe Girardi, Yankees

The first half of the 2007 season has come and gone. With all the stories of the first half, one story can not be overlooked - the disappointment of the New York Yankees. After 85 games, the Bronx Bombers boast a baffling 42-43 mark and sit 10 games out of first place going into the break. How stunning is it? This is the first time since 1995 that they are under .500 before the All Star Break. The greatest closer of all-time, Mariano Rivera, only has 11 saves. They are 6-15 in 1-run games. They threw a pro-rated 28 million dollars at a 44 year old (he’ll be 45 next month) in mid May. They were swept by the Colorado Rockies. They became the first team in MLB history to use 10 different starting pitchers in its first 30 games. They spent 46 million on Kei Igawa, and he’s spent most of the last 2 months in the minors. The list can go on and on, but hey, let’s lay off them for now. It is only the All-Star break.

They did have some bright spots. Alex Rodriguez is having the season of a lifetime. He leads the Majors in almost every offensive category. Jorge Posada is quietly having one of the best years of his career, and Derek Jeter has been nothing but stellar both on the field and at the plate. Young phenom Phil (Don’t call me Philip) Hughes showed signs of brilliance in his last start when he took a perfect game into the 7th inning before he hurt his hamstring and landed on the DL. Andy Pettitte gave a quality start just about every time he took the mound. After that, not much to cheer about these days in the Bronx.

In early June, Yankees owner George Steinbrenner told General Manager Brian Cashman he was on a “big hook.” The Yankees then went on a winning streak and all was forgotten. A 14.5 game lead by the Red Sox became 7.5 in 10 days. Roger Clemens was on his way to save the season and the bats were starting to heat up and A-Rod continued launching balls out of every ballpark. Then they returned to their early season form, inconsistent hitting, pitching, and “lack of effort” according to Pettitte and Posada. The talent is there, but apparently it doesn’t show up to the ballpark everyday. Certainly, a cause for concern in Yankeeland. We all want to see hustle, determination, concentration, quality at-bats, moving guys over, driving in runs in big spots, the Yankees of old. Are they there? Or are we beating a dead bush?

Whatever the case may be, the Yankees have 77 games to make or break the 2007 season. They have an upcoming schedule that favors them and looks to put them in a position to make a serious run at the postseason. Games against Tampa Bay, Baltimore, Kansas City, Toronto, and Chicago should give the Yanks a shot, if they can win these series. Now is the time for Yankee fans to look at their team and realistically sense a possibility of a no show in October. The Yanks must win every series for the rest of the year to reach 95 wins, a mark that usually gets a team into the wild card. Or hope for a Boston collapse in the second half, just like 1978 when they came back on the Red Sox after they were down 14.5 games on July 14th. History is on their side. It’s time to rise to the occasion, time to reclaim their throne atop the A.L. East, time to quiet all the critics, but most importantly, its time to win!

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Tags: Alex Rodriguez, Andy Pettitte, Baseball, Brain Cashman, Derek Jeter, Joe Torre, Jorge Posada, Kei Igawa, Mariano Rivera, Phil Hughes, Roger Clemens, Yankees