Andy Pettitte might have a problem with his back, thus causing him to possibly miss his first start of the regular season.

Pettitte has been sidelined since Thursday with what he says is stiffness in his back. He last pitched on March 17th, where he threw 65 pitches in 3 1/3 innings. At the time, Pettitte was dealing with an elbow issue, but reported no pain after his outing. Now, the back spasms he is expirencing has set him back a few days, something that should cause Joe Girardi and the Yanks some concern. Although, Girardi did downplay his concern.

"I don't think it's a big deal," he said.

Andy skipped his start on Saturday because of the spasms. If he can play catch today and have a pain-free bullpen session tomorrow, then he is in line for either a minor league game on Friday in Tampa or pitch against the Marlins in Miami Friday night. That would then have Pettitte on pace to make his regular season debut against Toronto on Wednesday, April 2nd.

"I was really feeling pretty good last night, and feeling good about it, what today was going to bring," Pettitte told reporters at Legends Field. "Then I woke up this morning and it was kind of tight on me again.

"I've already lost two days. I don't want to set it back any. I'm just going to wait until tomorrow and hopefully it's a lot better and I can feel comfortable playing catch."

If he still is unable to go the Yanks will take it on a day to day basis and if necessary, push back his first start of the season to later in the week.

I'm definitely optimistic because I think it's going to clear up," Pettitte said "We've got options," he said. "It's just the first start of the season. I don't want to do that, but I want to make sure that I'm healthy and not go into the season with a bad back."

A healthy Pettitte is what the Yankees need. If they need to sit him out for the time being, then I say do it. He is much too valuable to the team going into this season and they need to be cautious. In any event, the last few weeks of fragility with Andy should raise some concern amonst the Yanks. Any time he misses will put more of a burden on the rest of the rotation, one that will include youngsters Ian Kennedy and Phil Hughes.

Theres $16 million invested in that back, not to mention hopes and dreams of another championship in the Bronx, for Yankee fans, they all better hope Pettitte feels better sooner than later.

(Frank's articles can also be found at OnTheBlockNY)

Read more »

These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

0 Comments

Tags: Andy Pettitte, Baseball, Joe Girardi, Spring Training, Yankees

Over at Peter Abraham's LoHud Yankees Blog) he takes a look at the Yankees bench. With the addition of Ensberg Friday night to the 40-man roster, the bench is pretty much set.

Heres a look at the bench that manager Joe Girardi will have at his disposal:

Jose Molina (C)
Shelley Duncan (RF, 1B)
Wilson Betemit (1B,2B,SS,3B)
Morgan Ensberg (1B,2B,3B)

Not too bad, but Abraham also notes that their isn't much speed or defense on the bench. I agree with Peter on that notion. I believe the bench was set up this season so Girardi has more of a "B" lineup than a bunch of "fill-ins". Sure these guys are not the best guys to have come off the bench but the Yanks' have had worse. With Melky Cabrera, Johnny Damon, and Hideki Matsui sharing the duties in center and left, that would give Girardi another option in both positions if need be. As the season rolls along I'm sure we'll see changes but for now, this is the bench that will start the season. Let's hope the starters stay healthy and the bench all perform up to their potential, otherwise the Yankees might be in trouble.

(Frank's articles can also be found at OnTheBlockNY)

Read more »

These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

0 Comments

Tags: Baseball, Joe Girardi, Melky Cabrera, Morgan Ensberg, Shelly Duncan, Spring Training, Yankees

The Yankees have added Morgan Ensberg to their 40-man roster. Ensberg is out of minor league options which means he will more than likely start the season in the Bronx.

In order to make room on the 40-man roster, Carl Pavano was placed on the 60-day DL for the fourth consecutive year (is that a record?) Ensberg also plans on changed his uniform number. He is currently wearing No. 21, Paul O'Neill's old number. Since O'Neill is a hug fan favorite and since his number has NOT been distributed to anyone since his retirement after the 2001 season, the decision to hand out No. 21 has caused a stir.

"I can't wear Paul O'Neill's number," Ensberg said.

He plans on making an offer to Wilson Betemit for No.14, the nunmber he wore in Houston. It's nice to see the roster rounding out as Opening Day approaches.

(Frank's articles can also be found at HotStoveNewYork andOnTheBlockNY)

Read more »

These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

0 Comments

Tags: Baseball, Morgan Ensberg, Paul O'Neill, Spring Training, Yankees

The Yankees announced Friday that Chien Ming Wang will be their Opening Day starter. The Yankees are entering their final season at the current Yankee Stadium and Wang will be the last Opening Day starter in the historic ballpark.

"I'm very happy," Wang said. "This is my first time on Opening Day. For me, it's big. I'm very excited"....."It shows that the coaches trust me. I still have a lot to learn."

"He's earned it," Joe Girardi said. "He's won 19 games the last couple of years and he's thrown the ball well the last couple of years. I'm comfortable starting him Opening Day."

Wang, the current Yankees ace faces questions concerning being a legit ace. He performed poorly in his two postseason starts last year against Cleveland, but the Yankees don't seemed concerned.

"The two losses make me want to do even better this year," Wang said. "I want to make the coaches trust me even more in the future."

The season starts on March 31st, Wang's 28th birthday. The Yankees rotation has a few questions surrounding them but Wang isn't one of them. He is expected to carry his share of the load. He has won 38 games over the past two seasons, more than any other pitcher in the majors in that span. It's important the Yankees get off to a good start this season after getting off to slow starts the past few seasons. Wang hopes to help the Bombers get off to that good start.

The Yankees open against the Toronto Blue Jays at 1:05 pm on March 31. Mission 27 is about to begin.

(Frank's articles can also be found at HotStoveNewYork andOnTheBlockNY)

Read more »

These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

0 Comments

Tags: Baseball, Chien Ming Wang, Joe Girardi, Spring Training, Yankees

In less than 24 hours the world got to see how different the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox are. The season hasn't started yet and already the comparisons and fire that go along with this rivilary are brought to light.

Yesterday the Yankees played a game against the Virginia Tech Hokies at English Field on their campus thanks to a prmoise made by Yankees owner George Steinbrenner last year. A year after a gunman killed 32 people, wounded 23 others, and then killed himself on Virginia Tech's campus. Steinbrenner donated $1 million to the school and promised that the Yanks would go down and play a spring training game agaist the school's baseball team. The Yankees fulfilled thier promise. Although the Yanks won 11-0, the bigger story was the impact the game had on the school, the staff, the players and everyone else.

"The Yankees - everyone always wants to call them 'Evil Empire' and stuff like that, (but) they're going the extra mile," Va. Tech first baseman Sean O'Brien said. "They don't have to do this. They have a lot of work to do to get ready. It's just amazing that they're doing this."

The Yankees brought most of their "A" team with them. Many, if not all of the Yankee players signed autographs and took photos for people who have not had much to smile about since that fateful day last April. I have to commend the Yankees for this show of support and for extending themselves in this capacity. It shows once again why the Yankees are the most recoginized franchise and set the standards for all the other teams in the league.

On the other half of this rivilary we have the Red Sox. They are slated to open their season in Japan in just a few days but due to a "misunderstanding" between MLB and the MLBPA the Red Sox were about to boycott their final spring training game (which was televised nationally on ESPN) and their season opening series in Tokyo. The reason behind it: apparently the coaching staff was not going to recieve the $40,000 pay that came along with the trip. Are you kidding me? The Yankees and Mets in recent years have made trips to Japan to open their season. There has never been an issue along the lines of what Boston was faced on Wednesday. So the Sox decided they weren't going to play and weren't going to board a plane to Japan unless their coaches got paid. Around 1:30 pm the issue was resolved.

“We felt we had to make a stand, and being on ESPN didn’t hurt,” Red Sox third baseman Mike Lowell said.

He also stated, giving $20,000 payments to the coaches would not have been acceptable because the players were making $40,000.

“The club’s working on stuff and trying to get money where it needs to get,” he said. “It was definitely an experience of a lifetime, and it ended in a good way” said Kevin Youkilis.

This is a clear example of night and day. The Yankees went to a college campus to help people who have been suffering and mourning, while the Red Sox complain about their coaches not getting paid enough. This is a joke and a disgrace to the game of baseball! How dare the Red Sox jepordize the game's integrity by trying to put themselves first. It is a priviledge to be asked to apart of an event such as opening the MLB season in Japan. My friends up north have no class and consideration for the fans of MLB. What if we decide to stay home and not attend YOUR games? Where will YOU get your money from to pay for your players? It's nice to know where your priorities are. You rather get go on strike then play the game of baseball which you love (which you are getting paid for!) Remember, it's stilla job and people are paying to watch YOU play. If you don't like it then leave and let someone else take your roster spot. It's that simple. The Yankees know they are just like everyone else...human. You saw a humbling atmsophere yesterday at English Field on the YES network. What you saw on ESPN today, belongs right along side the trash on MTV.

I want to thank the New York Yankees for showing me what's important in this world, but most importantly, for showing me what's not and what's disgraceful.

(Frank's articles can also be found at HotStoveNewYork andOnTheBlockNY)

Read more »

These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

1 comment

Tags: Baseball, Boston Red Sox, Mets, Spring Training, Yankees

Yesterday at Legends Field, the Yankees and Indians faced off. The starting pitchers were Chien-Ming Wang against C.C. Sabathia respectively, a rematch of Game 1 of last year's Divison Series. Just another Spring Training game to most but to the Yankees and their front office, it was an up close look at a potential ace that could be in pinstripes in 2009 .

It's a subject thats sure to be brought up multiple times over the course of the season. That's because Sabathia is a free agent at year's end and will not have any discussions over a new contract during the season. He has already turned down a four-year $68 million dollar contract extentsion from Cleveland. Sabathia for the time being has his sights set on the upcoming season.

"I'm just thinking about this season right now," Sabathia said after allowing three runs over four innings against the Yankees. "I think we've got a good chance with the team we're bringing back and that's all I'm really focusing on. At the end of the year when everything unfolds, I'll cross that road when I cross it."

At season's end, the Yankees will have around $80 million off their payroll due to expiring contracts (Bobby Abreu, Mike Mussina, Andy Pettitte, Jason Giambi, Kyle Farnsworth, and Carl Pavano to name a few.) Also, Mussina and Pettitte could call it quits leaving the Yanks with some major shoes to fill in the rotation. Sabathia seems like a good fit. He could be the new ace of a staff that heads into a new era as the Yankees move into the new Yankee Stadium in 2009.

Sabathia won the A.L. Cy Young last season compiling a 19-7 record and 3.21 ERA. Although he didn't perform well in the postseason last year, neither did the Yanks current ace Wang. In the event Sabathia does end up in the Bronx next year, it would surely help Wang and the rest of the rotation (Ian Kennedy, Phil Hughes, and supposedly Joba Chamberlain.) That is a strong young rotation that could lead the Yankees to the promise land for years to come, but for now that's only a thought for the imagination. But that dream could become a reality come 2009..lets see how this unfolds throughout the year. I'll be watching.

(Frank's articles can also be found at HotStoveNewYork)

Read more »

These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

0 Comments

Tags: Andy Pettitte, Baseball, CC Sabathia, Chien Ming Wang, Ian Kennedy, j, Joba Chamberlain, Phil Hughes, Spring Training, Yankees

It didn't take Joe Girardi long to put his stamp on the Yankees. A mere three weeks into Spring Training and we already see in a difference in the Bronx Bombers. With the exception of a few players, this is basically the same team that Joe Torre managed in his last game as Yankee manager last October. Yet, we there seems to be a world of a difference this spring.

I'm sure most of you have seen the recent developments between the Yanks and the Tampa Bay Rays. Last weekend saw Tampa Bay's Elliot Johnson run over Yankee catching prospect Francisco Cervelli, thus breaking his right hand. Wednesday the Yanks' Shelly Duncan went into second baseman Aki Iwamura with an aggressive slide, which led to a bench clearing brawl. As a result Duncan along with Melky Cabrera were suspended 3 games each by Major League Baseball for their actions in the brawl. Girardi was fined for the incident. The Rays' Jonny Gomes was also fined and suspended 2 games for his "tackle" of Duncan at second base (he plays right field, so how in the world does he end up at second base within seconds of the play?) That, in my opinion is worthy of at LEAST 5 games. A right fielder has no business at second base in what appeared to be an attempt a full fledged charge at Duncan.

"What Jon did was reaction to what they had done, and we did not start a thing," Tampa manager Jon Maddon said. "They perpetrated the entire situation. And then to have the punishment doled out almost on a similar basis, to me is unjust and it's not right. I'm sure we're going to appeal the situation and see what we can do."

"What's unfortunate is it's a situation that if our catcher didn't go down with a broken arm, I don't think (Duncan) would be suspended," Yankees Captain Derek Jeter said. "Now he's suspended and people talk about the way he plays the game. Shelley plays hard all the time. If I were Shelley, I wouldn't change the way I play. There's no reason."

I think too much was made of this situation, but on the other hand according to Don Zimmer and the rest of the Rays, the collision at home plate was "part of the game." So an aggressive slide into second base was "part of the game" as well. This was Girardi's message to the league...don't mess with the Yankees, because we'll get you back. It's something Torre never liked to do while he was manager, so I think this attitude that Girardi brings to the team is excatly what the Yanks need. They will not be push overs for anyone, especially the Tampa Bay Rays! Good for the Yanks and Girardi! The rest of the league has been put on notice, but for now lets just play baseball and get ready for Opening Day.

Oh by the way, the Yanks and Rays play Saturday at Legends Field, we'll see if this situation continues to esculate. Must see tv for Spring Training? We'll find out.

(Frank's articles can also be found at OnTheBlockNY )

Read more »

These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

0 Comments

Tags: Baseball, Franciso Cervelli, Joe Girardi, Joe Torre, Melky Cabrera, Shelly Duncan, Spring Training, Yankees

Looking around the 'net and watching tv these days, one topic that seems to cause a stir are predictions. Our own J Platt reported on John Kruk's bold prediction of the Mets finishing third. So I thought I'd throw my two cents in as well. Here's how I view the NL East finishing up:

1- Phillies : Still the team to beat. You have to like Rollins and Howard leading a team that steamrolled their way into the postseason down the stretch last year. A year later, more confident and more expirenced.
2- Mets : Too many questions regarding the bullpen and injuries. If they can stay healthy, then the Mets will be very tough to beat, even with an "old" Pedro.
3- Braves : Gotta like the rotation even if it has question marks (Glavine,Hampton). How well those guys perform will tell a alot in terms of what direction the team will be going.
4- Marlins : Good youthful team, but don't expect them to pose a threat to place any higher in the divison.
5- Nationals : Well, let's just say Lastings Milledge will have a lot of time to record in the studio.

I'm sure I'll get debate on my predictions, but isn't that what makes predictions so great?

Apparently Derek Jeter is one of the worst fielding shortstops in the game. That's ok by me, tell me how many other shortstops have four World Series rings? Jeter is the man I would build my team around if I was starting from scratch. He's a team player and his attitude is ALWAYS team first. A mentality that gets lost in today's world. Ex: Red Sox closer Jonathan Palbelbon claimed he's worthy of top dollar beacuse he's a "championship closer" and he's now in the same class as Mariano Rivera. Jeter personifies the way the game should be played...the right way.

The Mets have continued to downplay the string of injuries that have hit the team this spring. How many times are they going to downplay MAJOR issues? They did it last September/October when trying to explain their collapse. Now they're collapsing before the season even starts! What would the Amazin's look like now if they didn't have Johan Santana? Barry Bonds all of a sudden doesn't seem like a bad option. It's New York, we're used to scandals and criminals, so why not sign Bonds? At least he wont be dancing in the dugout or after a homerun.

Jason Kidd faced the Nets for the first time last night since the Feburary 19th trade that sent him to Dallas. The Mavs are 5-5 while the Nets are 3-7 since. A blockbuster trade it was right? Kidd scored all of three points last night, I agree with Mavs' coach Avery Johnson, he needs to shoot the ball more. Last night showed Dallas can afford a three point night from Kidd. The Nets used to be like that...ahh those were the days.

Isiah Thomas and Stephon Marbury should have their own reality show on MTV, they might get better ratings there than they do on the MSG Network.

The Roger Clemens saga seems to have died down for the moment. It's about time. It came to the point that I did believe Clemens was innocent, even after the Congressional hearings but when you listen to Andy Pettitte, you have to believe him over Clemens. The mysterious syringes, gauge and pictures of Roger at Canseco's party didn't do it for me. Pettitte being the man he is told the truth and I don't question his credibility, even if he used HGH. He's human and he makes mistakes just like all of us. He did it to help his teams at the time, I'm not syaing that justifies what he did, but give the guy a break. He admitted he was wrong like a man, he held a news conference and admitted his wrong doings again, like a man. That type of character is something that I hold credible and therefore Pettitte should be forgiven. He was put inbetween a rock and a hard place and still stood tall...can't say the same about Clemens.

A lot of people are counting the Yanks out of the playoffs....didn't this also happen last July? How bout we let the season play out for a few months and come back with the playoff predictions.

(Frank's articles can also be found at OnTheBlockNY and HotStoveNewYork.com)

Read more »

These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

0 Comments

Tags: Andy Pettitte, Baseball, Basketball, Isiah Thomas, Jason Kidd, Knicks, Mariano Rivera, Mets, Nets, QUITE FRANKLY, Roger Clemens, Stephon Marbury, Yankees

In his first action of the spring Mariano Rivera still seemed to have some juice left in his arm. He came into yesterday's spring training game in the 4th inning and dominated, throwing eight pitches, seven for strikes. Not bad for a 38 year old.

Rivera recorded two strikeouts in his inning of work. Of note, he didn't throw his cutter, a pitch that will send him with a first class ticket to the Hall of Fame.

"I didn't need to throw cutters today," Rivera said. "I felt real good out there. I was able to throw the pitches and hit the strike zone."

It's interesting to see that Rivera hasn't missed a beat according to yesterday's outing. He is set for 10 innings this spring and is scheduled to make back to back appearances at the end of spring to prepare himself for the regular season. Rivera is in the first year of the 3 year contract he signed over the winter. Yesterday's appearance was a good sign for Rivera and the Yanks, let's hope the rest of the season goes as effortless and smooth.


(Frank's articles can also be found at OnTheBlockNY and HotStoveNewYork.com)

Read more »

These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

0 Comments

Tags: Baseball, Mariano Rivera, Spring Training, Yankees

I hope yesterday was a preview of things to come this summer for New York baseball. The Mets had their first look at their new ace Johan Santana in game action and he didn't look good. The Yankees had their prized three of Joba Chamberlain, Phil Hughes and Ian Kennedy go in their game against the University of South Florida . The trio combined for five innings only giving up one hit.

"I think it's great for the organization, the scouts, the people who draft and develop," said Joe Girardi. "It's an organization thing that everyone should be proud of."

The world got to see how good these three can be. Ok so they were facing a college team, and it's still early in the spring but you have to be excited about these guys and their seemingly constant successful progression so far this spring. The baseball world, as well as those in New York will be closely watching these guys' every move. That comes along with the territory of playing in the Bronx, but since Yankees GM Brian Cashman was so stern on his stance of not wanting to trade his young talent, the microscope is even bigger on this trio.

Each pitcher seemed to be very attentive of the other's work on the mound as they complimented one another.

"I want Joba's fastball, Ian's change and Joba's slider," Hughes said. "And I'm keeping my curveball." Chamberlain said he'd love to have Kennedy's changeup and Hughes' cool demeanor.
"I'm a very excitable person," Chamberlain said. "Phil can give up a two-run homer or strike out 40 and he's the same. That's something we could all learn from.

Another day has passed and another step has been taken in the right direction. More work has to be done this spring before anyone gets giddy, but for right now it's ok. That's what spring training is all about, and for now, the Yankees are looking alright, which is fine by me.

(Frank's articles can also be found at OnTheBlockNY and HotStoveNewYork.com)

Read more »

These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

0 Comments

Tags: Baseball, Ian Kennedy, Joba Chamberlain, Joe Girardi, Phil Hughes, Spring Training, Yankees

There are few in baseball who are good and genuwine these days. Most will agree one person who fits that bill is Bobby Mercer. The Yankees' broadcaster may have another battle with the brain tumor he encountered last year.

In late December 2006, Mercer was diagnosed with brain cancer after a malignant tumor was found in an MRI. He then underwent six hours of surgery and six weeks of of chemotherapy and radiation to treat the cancer. Now, after a recent MRI, Mercer and his wife were told that there is “area that doctors are concerned about.” Mercer will miss this Sunday's game in which he was scheduled to broadcast for the YES Network. It is possible he will miss more games for treatment.

“I’ve gotta go back to Houston on Monday for more tests, which means I’m going to have to miss the first two spring training games,” Murcer said. “I still hope to be in Tampa in time for the third game (on March 7) and I’m still planning on doing my full schedule of games for the regular season.”

Mercer is a fan favorite and one of mine as well. It's sad to see Bobby have to endure another scare like this, let's hope it's not for the worse. Mercer's play by play and color analysts is still among the best in the game. I, for one enjoy our V.I.P pass for Old Timer's Day that Mercer gives us while playing and interacting with fellow legends. His uncanny knack for knowledge of the game and Yankee history is what makes any Yankee game Bobby does enjoyable. Hopefully this is only a minor setback and Mercer will be back in the booth in a short time. Until then, good luck Bobby.

Frank's articles can also be found at HotStoveNewYork

Read more »

These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

0 Comments

Tags: Baseball, Bobby Mercer, Yankees

A few news and notes from Yankees camp today....

Andy Pettitte threw another BP session while also working on a slidestep. Pettitte who is known for having one of the best pickoff moves in the league is trying to further aggrivate baserunners. He feels as if his pickoff move is good enough for runners on first base but needs a move to combat runners on second base from stealing thrid base. The slidestep should help.

“I have to figure out some way to keep them from doing that,” he said.

In the big news of the day, Phil Hughes also threw BP and looked very impressive. He faced Johnny Damon, Derek Jeter, Bobby Abreu and Francisco Cervelli. His curveball seemed to be in mid-season form. A positive pitching session for the future of the franchise. Not one of the four hitters Hughes faced made good contact. Hughes was bothered by his hamstring injury last season when he returned to the rotation. This was apparent when Hughes pitched and his velocity suffered as a result. He has been working with Pettitte six days a week. No question this should help Hughes avoid future leg problems.

Take today's sessions as a positive step for both men. Spring Training games begin Friday for the Yankees. If today's sessions are a sign of things to come then it's got to put a smile on your face if you're a Yankee fan. Still early in the spring, but baseball's here and that's good news for everyone.

Frank's articles can also be found at HotStoveNewYork.com

Read more »

These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

0 Comments

Tags: Andy Pettitte, Baseball, Phil Hughes, Spring Training, Yankees

Jason Kidd is still a Net and will be in tomorrow night's NBA All-Star Game representing New Jersey. It appears Kidd will be heading back to the Medowlands after the game instead of going to Dallas.

The proposed trade of Kidd, Antoine Wright, and Malik Allen to Dallas for Devin Harris, DeSagana Diop, Jerry Stackhouse, Devean George, D-League guard Maurice Ager, two future first-round draft picks and $3 million is still on hold. The reason is due to George invoking his no-trade clause thus blocking the trade from going through. Both teams are trying to work out an alternative deal in the event George stands his ground.

Via NY Daily News:

"If it doesn't happen, it doesn't happen," Nets president Rod Thorn said yesterday in New Orleans, where he was attending All-Star Game festivities. "Everyone expected to get this done. I don't know what's going to happen here. This is totally unexpected."

"In life when you make decisions you can't make everybody happy," Kidd said yesterday. "That's just the way it goes."

In addition to George holding up the deal, Stackhouse was quoted saying "I get 30 days to rest, then I'll be right back. I ain't going nowhere." That's a big no-no. It hints at an under-the-table agreement between Stackhouse and the Mavs. According to NBA regulations once a player is traded, he must wait at least 30 days to sign with his former team once the team he was traded to buys out his contract. Both sides have until Thursday's 3pm trade deadline to work out a deal. One would think a deal can be worked out by then, if not Kidd returns to Jersey.

I wonder how Kidd would feel if he stays with the Nets through the remainder of the season. You requested a trade, ownership gave it to you and you packed your bags for new surroundings. Surroundings that appeared prime for a run at the NBA championship and now you're back with a sub .500 team. How are the fans going to react? How are the teammates you left behind going to react? Very compelling questions going into All-Star weekend. We will get our answers in the days to come. For now Jason Kidd is a Net...and that's just fine with me.

Frank's articles can be found at OnTheBlockNY and HotStoveNewYork.com

Read more »

These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

0 Comments

Tags: Basketball, Jason Kidd, Nets

The Yankees and Chien-Ming Wang have settled their arbitration case. The Yankees will pay Wang $4 million instead of the $4.6 million he was asking for.

Wang and his side brought up the fact that he won 19 games over the past two seasons and established himself as the staff ace. The Yankees fought back and said that his consistentcy was helped by the hitting and defense. Another key issue that leaned the judge in favor of New York's side was Wang's 19.06 ERA in the two postseason starts against Cleveland last October.

"I think Chien-Ming is too smart for (hard feelings)," Alan Nero, Wang's agentsaid. "He understands it's business."

I'll move on from this," Wang told Taiwanese reporters. "It's a new season. I'm excited about that. Overall, it was a learning experience."

So now that was a hearing worth television time! Let's get to playing baseball shall we? I'm ready for it.


(Frank's articles can also be found at OnTheBlockNY.blogspot.com)

Read more »

These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

0 Comments

Tags: Baseball, Chien Ming Wang, Yankees

Pitchers and catchers are due to report to Tampa on Thursday for the beginning of Spring Training. Yesterday, one Yankee tried to get an early start on the 2008 season , his name...Carl Pavano.

I'm sure most of us forgot he was STILL apart of the team. He is entering the final year of his four-year, $39.95 million contract that he signed back in 2003. Pavano, has been sidelined with injuries for the majority of his Yankees tenure. He last pitched for the Yanks last April in Minnesota and recorded the win. Since then he has been out of the rotation. If you remember Pavano was the opening day starter in 2007. (That's a mind boggling fact.) This latest rehab is stemming from Pavano's Tommy John surgery he underwent on his elbow back in June.

"Sometime this summer, that's the best-case scenario for him to be competitively pitching," GM Brian Cashman said. "Whether that's rehab games or more, we'll see."

Pavano had a 12 minute throwing session in front of Yankees Vice President Billy Connors and new pitching coach Dave Eiland.

"He feels great," Eiland said. "The ball came out of his hand well."

Pavano is 5-6 in 19 starts with the Yankees. He will be a free agent at the end of the year, and logic tells you he will be finding a new home, but as I always say, stranger things have happened. If all goes well for Pavano with his rehab and the progression of his injury, it's very possible that Carl could be helping the Yanks down the strecth and hopefully in October. Before we get ahead of ourselves lets get back to reality...Pavano just played catch for a few mins and we should take it as nothing more. If the Yankees get anything out of him, consider it a miracle.

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

Read more »

These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

0 Comments

Tags: Baseball, Pavano, Spring Training, Yankees

Congratulations to the 2008 World Champions New York Giants

Read more »

These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

0 Comments

Tags: Eli Manning, Football, Giants

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 )

Read more »

These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

0 Comments

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

"It is time for us all to move on."

That was what Jason Kidd told ESPN The Magazine in an interview on Monday. A day earlier it was reported that his agent had asked the Nets to trade his client to a contender. Kidd said he had no knowledge of the situation, but now the truth is out. Jason Kidd and the Nets appear to going in two different directions.

"It used to be if I got a triple-double, that was an automatic win. That's just not the case now. We tried to make this work," he told ESPN The Magazine. "We have found out it doesn't."

The Nets ended their 9-game losing streak Tuesday Night against the Milwaukee Bucks as Kidd had 9 points and 11 assists to help end the worst losing streak in over three years. The hometown fans at the Medowlands still cheered Kidd as he was introduced prior to the game.

Kidd has started 43 games this season, with an average of 11.3 points, 10.4 assists, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.6 steals. He's earning $19.7 million and is set to make $21.2 million next season.

"The reality is we are only looking to make deals that make sense for us," Nets president Rod Thorn said. "If every time someone said, 'I want you to trade me,' you acquiesced, then you put yourself in a very vulnerable position because you have a revolving door."

Should the Nets trade Kidd away, they have second year point guard Marcus Williams of whom they think will make an impact in the league in the years to come. The Nets almost traded Kidd away last season to the Los Angeles Lakers but ultimately the deal never went through.

Kidd leaving the Nets is not a good thing, for the fans, the team or the franchise. He's one of the NBA's elite point guards and is electric on the court, especially when he's on his game. We've seen that when Kidd is on and his supporting cast around him is on, there are endless possibilties for this team. As they've shown before, they can be a threat in the Eastern Conference. They've made it to the NBA Finals twice under Kidd so maybe it's not Kidd who's causing the losing. Could it be the players around him? Rebuilding a team around an aging point guard is alot to ask of a GM, but so is trading away your best player. Maybe Jason Kidd won't go to the All-Star Game representing the Nets, I guess we'll just have to wait and see how this develops...I mean we have seen this before so I won't hold any truth to the matter until I see Kidd in another uniform.


(Frank's articles can also be read at OnTheBlockNY andHotStoveNewYork.com )

Read more »

These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

0 Comments

Tags: Basketball, Jason Kidd, Nets, New Jersey

Life doesn't look good for the Nets these days. After losing last night to the Denver Nuggets 100-85, the Nets have now lost eight straight. It's their longest losing streak in over three years. They are now 0-5 on a six-game road trip.

It was only a few weeks ago where they were at .500 for the season but now find themselves fading. It didn't help that New Jersey started out shooting 5 for 22 and scored only 11 points in the first quarter. At halftime, they trailed 47-31.

"We just didn't have the energy and they did," New Jersey coach Lawrence Frank said. "They were much more aggressive and really attacked us in the paint."

Jason Kidd did what he could to help the struggling Nets by posting his 98th career triple-double and 11th of the season (13 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists.) Richard Jefferson contributed 19 points to lead the Nets scoring but that proved to not be enough. The Nets got within 5 points in the fourth quarter before Denver started to pull away.

The Nuggets (26-16) were playing without All-Star Carmelo Anthony who missed his second straight game with an ankle sprain. Fellow All-Star starter Allen Iverson carried most of the load as he scored 30 points. Former Net Kenyon Martin scored 20 points before he fouled out late in the fourth quarter.

"We need wins and we need them badly," Nets' Josh Boone said. "It would help if we got off to better starts and played better defense."

The Nets (18-25) head to Minnesota to complete their six-game road trip. Yesterday Jason Kidd was named as a starter for the East in the All-Star Game on Feburary 17 in New Orleans. Hopefully by then, the Nets will turn things around and not be so dreadful. Otherwise Kidd participating in the All-Star Game will be one of the only things to cheer about this season for Nets fans.

Frank's articles can also be found at OnTheBlockNY.com and HotStoveNewYork.com

Read more »

These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

0 Comments

Tags: Basketball, Jason Kidd, Nets, New Jersey, Richard Jefferson

Sunday night the Giants face the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Championship game. It's a big game for so many reasons. So many reasons for so many people.

For the Giants, Eli Manning and coach Tom Coughlin it's about proving all the critics wrong. Over at FOX, all of their analysts chose the Cowboys to win last week and the Bucs the week before. So much for in-depth analysts. You will get a few people in the media rooting for the Giants Sunday night but they'll be in the minority. Everyone in New York and New Jersey (the Giants' real hometown) will be rooting for Big Blue. Ask any Giants fan and they would tell you they would love to face the Patriots in the Super Bowl. Their week 17 meeting caused so much attention because the Pat's perfect season was on the line and if they meet again in two weeks in Arizona, it will be again. The Giants came as close as anyone else to beating them this season so what makes you think they can't pull it off when everything is on the line? Ok so I got a little ahead of myself there...they do have to beat Brett Favre and the Packers Sunday in Lambeau Field, the Yankee Stadium of football. They would have to do it in single digit temperatures and freezing conditions. If the G men can win, it makes it all the better.

It's interesting to note that Mike Lupica has said this is the kind of game New York needs. I happen to concur with his notion. New York's last big game was in 2006 when the Mets lost Game 7 to the Cardinals when they were one win away from the World Series. Now, Manning can follow in his brother Peyton's footsteps and win the "big" game. This is as big as it gets for the Giants. The game gets bigger and bigger by the week and the Giants seem to rise to the occasion. Their playoffs started Week 17 against the Patriots and even though they lost, they gained so much. If it wasn't for Eli's interception in the fourth quarter that night, they might've beaten Tom Brady and his crew. That "almost" turned into two consecutive wins and put them into a championship game.

The Giants once again have their backs against the wall and they seem to like it that way. Whenever you have them as the favorite they tend to disappoint. So let them be the underdog, let them be the ones fighting an uphill battle. That's the way they like it and if it results in a win, then so be it. That's the way we like it and that's the way we want it.

(Frank's articles can also be read at www.HotStoveNewYork.com)

Read more »

These icons link to social bookmarking sites where readers can share and discover new web pages.

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

0 Comments

Tags: Eli Manning, Football, Giants, QUITE FRANKLY, Tom Coughlin