No Weekly Radio Spot for Joba

Chamberlain was going to have a weekly appearance on the Michael Kay Show on 1050 ESPN radio, like Eli Manning and Billy Wagner, but Brian Cashman killed the idea.

"It's a policy I've had in place for a long time now," he said before Monday's mist-out. "We should speak with one voice, whether it is the manager or general manager. They can speak postgame or pregame or in their normal interview process but not have a regular schedule."

(Asked about being denied a place on Kay's show, Chamberlain said he was not aware of any such deal. Strange. Maybe his agent worked on it without telling him.)

Cashman said the Yankees also prohibit players from writing diaries or columns for newspapers come playoff time.

"We've had that shut down for years now," he said. "These guys are paid to play baseball; they're not paid to be columnists or talk show hosts. They can do that when their playing careers are over."

In the late 1990s, Yankees were allowed to write guest columns -- until 1999, when Darryl Strawberry broke news about the lineup in his. That was the end of that.

Nice Start for Torre

Joe Torre made his Dodgers managerial debut today and it turned out very well for the former Yankee. Torre's Dodgers defeated Barry Zito and the San Francisco Giants 5-0 at Chavez Ravine.

Torre first Dodger called out of the pen, you guess it, Scott Proctor. Proctor went .1 of an inning and walked one - just like old times.

Even though it's wrong for any Yankee fan to root for the Dodgers I hope they do well under Torre. Regardless of what the haters say - I still have no idea how any Yankees fan could hate him like some do - Torre was a great Yankee manager, and a class-act. I will always root for Torre... well, as long as he's not playing against the Yankees.

New Stadium Photos Opening Day Edition

Here are some shots taken today.

(Baseball-Fever member spm1976)

(From Flickr member TheGoodDoc)(from Flickr member Adelaide_35)(I took these on the way to the train after the rain out)(this was emailed to me by Chris Cicero - it shows a huge
Jeter banner hanging on the inside of the new stadium)
for the main updates page go here

They Could Have Played Today

I entered The Stadium at around 12:30, it was drizzling, and the tarp was on the field. It continued to drizzle until about 1:45, when it stopped raining completely. And there was still no sign of a game. At around 2:15 they announced that the game had been postponed. Meanwhile it didn't start raining again until 5:15 and that was also a drizzle. This game could have started on time and been over by now (its 5:51 as I'm typing this). It didn't rain hard all day. The morons who ran the show today really screwed up, and the only people who suffered were the fans, and it's a shame.

Opening Day was ruined by the idiots who allowed this game to first be delayed, and then canceled.

As we were all waiting for the game to start, I overheard a cop telling some fans that they were only keeping us around "to buy stuff," which if true, just makes things even worse.

Also, could somebody please answer me this; when baseball players became such freakin' babies that they can't play in a light drizzle?

What a joke.

The Polls are Closed and the Results are in

The fans have spoken:

For the bullpen, the winners were Ross Ohlendorf with 22% of the vote, Billy Traber with 21% of the vote, and a tie between Scott Patterson and Brian Bruney with 14% of the vote each.

For the bench, the winners were Wilson Betemit with 35% of the vote and Morgan Ensberg with 33% of the vote. Brett Gardner finished 3rd with 17% of the vote.

Thanks to everyone for voting, and make sure you vote in the next poll: "How many games will the Yankees win this season?"

Yanks Opening Day Quotes

Here are several quotes from some pf the 2008 Yankees about the new season and Opening Day

"Every time I come in here I still get goose bumps. This is my very first opening day so it's going to be special, but to know it's the last one in this Stadium and knowing what's gone into this building, that's really special. To have your name called here on opening day will be amazing."

- Joba Chamberlain

"To be the Opening Day starter is the best birthday gift I could have."

- Chien-Ming Wang

"This is a great experience to be part of. So many wonderful things have happened in this ballpark. At the same time, you look across the street and it lessens the sadness about this because that place is going to be more old school than this with all the amenities. I'm more excited about that opening than sad about the closing of this place. It's going to have all the tradition and it's up to us to make sure the winning tradition continues."

"We're hoping to rock the house for one more season before it's done, or someone's going to rock my house."

- Brian Cashman

"It's an honor for everyone on this team to be here for the last one. It's going to be a special day. I really can't believe it's here. People ask about the new stadium, but I still can't picture us going over there."

"It's going to be a special year. . . . There's always optimism going into a new season. Obviously this year some things are different, but everyone here is excited."

"I say it every year that the only goal is to win the World Series, but it would be special to do it this season with the Stadium closing. I think we're all aware of that and what it would mean."

- Derek Jeter

"It's very cool to be part of this, to have that experience to look back on some day. I feel fortunate that after all these years it's been here, I'm starting my career at a time where I get to see it one last time."

- Phil Hughes

"As corny as this sounds, this is one of those times you don't appreciate now or in the moment because you're so focused on the present, but it's something down the road that you know you'll look back on and remember forever."

- Shelley Duncan

"I'm excited about this club. I like the character of this club and I like the heart of this club. They showed me that in spring training and I was very proud of them . . . their work ethic.

"Whenever you have a change, there are going to be things that are done a little bit different. They embraced it and did it with open arms, and for that I'm thankful."

"I'm sure there will be butterflies. I'm sure I'll be nervous and very excited. I've looked forward to this date for a long time."

- Joe Girardi

"I think the way this team has come together during the spring, and the way Girardi wants us to play, I think this whole year is going to be pretty emotional. Putting the pinstripes on, and in front of these fans, and what the Yankees mean . . . hopefully we can close out this season and the Stadium with a very positive feeling."

- Johnny Damon

"They won it the first year the Stadium was opened. We should do the same thing for the last season."

- Derek Jeter

MLB Roundup: Opening Day Edition

DOUBLEPLAY TV produces videos about baseball. Check out their most recent edition of MLB Roundup.

Description from DOUBLEPLAY TV: The regular season is underway. MLB Roundup takes a look at the Major League games you should check out for the state-side opener. Tim Dierkes of MLBTradeRumors.com examines a few off-season trades that may have slipped under the radar. Plus, Jeff Ma of ProTrade.com enters the elite fantasy baseball league, Tout Wars.

Big Guy's Minor League Notes

SWB Yankees(AAA) Preview

The Yankees AAA team at Scranton/Wilkes-Barre opens its season Thursday night at home against the Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Phillies). A lot of new faces are on this year’s team and they have a very good pitching staff that should help them defend their Division Championship from last year. Here's a brief preview of some of the players:

STARTING PITCHERS
This is the team’s strongpoint. The pitching here at SWB could be better than some ML teams.

Steven White: White's a holdover from last year’s rotation. White had a very good ERA in 07 --3.34. He throws hard and worked out of the pen in the fall league. He's going to start the year in the rotation but he's perfect material for the long-man, spot starter role and could be moved to the pen easily at some point.

Kei Igawa: He did not have a good camp this spring, giving up 7 runs in 11 innings. My suggestion, keep him at extended spring training in Tampa and let Nardi Contreras fix him once and for all or trade him. He's blocking a rotation spot for a younger guy. Will they do that? I doubt it.

Darrel Rasner: He's competing for the long-man role in NY but still hasn't gotten back his sharpness after his injury from last year. He could use some time at SWB and will be in the rotation.If he pitches well the first few weeks he'll probably be called up to NY.

Alan Horne: Last years Eastern League Pitcher of the Year certainly deserved this promotion. He'll be the one starter everybody will be watching this year. He's really come on his last 3 games at minor league camp, throwing 9 IP, and allowing no runs and 4 hits, while striking out 11. We could see him in NY this season.

Jeff Marquez and Chase Wright are vying for the last spot. One of them, probably Wright, will be back at AA for at least the start of the year.

RELIEF PITCHERS

Scott Patterson: The 28 year old was very impressive at ST. He opened up a lot of eyes and was the last pitcher cut. He'll certainly see action in NY at some point. He had a great spring: 7.2 IP, no runs, 1 hit, 7 K's and no walks.

Jose Veras: He was my biggest disappointment of ST. He throws hard and has good stuff but did not pitch well this spring, in 6 IP; he allowed 6 runs on 6 hits, and a walk. He did strike out 5 along the way, though.

Edwar Ramirez: Edwar picked up a cutter this offseason and really needs to perfect that pitch to go with his deadly changeup, if he's ever going to be consistent at the ML level. Look for him to improve with that pitch as the season goes on.

Chris Britton: Britton had a very good year in 07 at SWB. He pitched pretty well this spring at camp going 5 IP, 2 runs, 3 hits, 3 K's--0 walks.

Heath Phillips: Phillips was in the mix for the lefty reliever role in NY but really did not pitch well this spring (6.1 IP, 5 runs, 11 hits, 7 K's--3 walks).

POSITION PLAYERS

Brett Gardner: My favorite player at SWB. He really impressed everybody this spring. The speedster hit .324 with 6 stolen bases. He could have made the team, but the Yankees want him to get regular AAA at bats to improve on his .260 AAA average of last year. If anything happens to Melky, he'll surely be called up. Expect to see him at some point later in the year.

Eric Duncan: Former 1st round draft pick has to pick it up this year with the bat. He hasn't hit over .250 in the last 3 seasons, and was left unprotected in the Rule 5 Draft. He just turned 23 a few months ago, but this is a crucial year for him. He's had a very good minor league camp. in 11 games, .325, 9 rbi, 2 homers.

Juan Miranda: The power hitting lefty from Cuba will share 1st base duties with Duncan. He has good power to all fields, but has to hit lefties much better than he did last year. He also needs work on his defense at 1st base. He's no ballerina out there. Started off very slow in minor league camp but drew a lot of walks. In 10 games he hit .200, with 3 doubles, but has picked it up the last couple games.

Alberto Gonzalez: Holdover slick fielding shortstop has to improve with the bat in 08. He only hit .247 at AAA last year. He's had a very good minor league camp hitting .391, 5 rbi, 1 homer.

Cody Ransom: Ransom opened up some eyes at spring training. He hit .282 at ST Camp. He'll start at 3rd base for SWB. Last year was his best power year with 28 homers and he has a career minor league average of .240.

Justin Christian: Good defense, very good speed, he'll be one of the outfielders this year. Christian had a very nice minor league camp in 6 games hitting .333, 1 homer, 4 rbi.

Jason Lane: Lane was in the mix for the final position player on the NY roster. He'll be a good insurance policy if any of the NY corner outfielders have an injury.

Greg Porter: He'll be in the mix with Lane for a corner spot in the SWB outfield.

This is the complete SWB roster from Chad Jennings.

Steven White RHP	Chad Moeller, C
Alan Horne RHP	Jason Brown, C
Jeff Marquez RHP	Eric Duncan, 1B
Darrell Rasner RHP	Juan Miranda, 1B
Kei Igawa LHP	Bernie Castro, 2B
Chris Britton RHP	Nick Green, INF
Scott Strickland RHP	Cody Ransom, 3B
Dan Giese RHP	Alberto Gonzalez, SS
Heath Phillips LHP	Brett Gardner, OF
Edwar Ramirez RHP	Jason Lane, OF
Jose Veras RHP	Greg Porter, OF
Scott Patterson RHP	Justin Christian, OF

-- Thanks to Chad Jennings for his Spring Training AAA game reports, and list of where players were assigned.

(as always I'd like to thank Big Guy for his great contributions)

3/30 New Stadium Photo Update

These shots was just emailed to me. It shows the eagle medallions and glass windows fully installed on the main entrance.
One of this blog's readers, Dan Snow emailed me the first four great shots of the interior.

(These are from Flickr member topkidnum1)

These two were also emailed to me by one of this blog's readers, thanks Patrick D. These are newer photos than the rest. As you can see, more of the steel above the facade is painted white.

(Baseball-Fever member Rob R)

And finally, this is from Baseball-Fever.com member baseballman1243. This is actually a picture taken of a TV, showing the a report on the news about the installation of these eagle medallions on the main entrance.

for the main updates page go here

The Opening Day Lineup

Here's the Opening Day lineup from Peter Abraham:

J. Damon LF, L
D. Jeter SS, R
B. Abreu RF, L
A. Rodriguez 3B, R
J. Giambi 1B, L
R. Cano 2B, L
J. Posada C, S
H. Matsui DH, L
M. Cabrera CF, S

I'm a little surprised at how high he's batting Cano, but I think it's a good. Wow, a guy who had 25 HR and 103 RBI batting 8th, 1000 runs anyone?

Pettitte Very Good in Minor League Start

Pettitte was very impressive and looks like he'll be ready to go this Saturday.

Here's Pettitte's line: 6 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 6 K

"I threw 77 pitches, and that's what I needed," Pettitte said. "It's exactly what I wanted to do."

"I feel great," Pettitte said. "Everything felt good today. Got a lot of work in. Did I have to get to 77 pitches today because I'm a little short and behind everybody? Yeah. I'm ready for my start and just looking forward to continuing to build my strength up."

Ian Kennedy also pitched, here's his line: 5 IP, 4 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 5 K.

"Everything felt real good after the first couple pitches in the first inning," Kennedy said.

This Week in Yankees History

March 30th- April 5th

March 30th

1931 - Former Yankees P Richard Woodson (1974) was born. Rich went 1-2 in 8 games with the Yankees in 1974 after being obtained from the Twins.

1955 - The Yankees sell veteran P Ewell "The Whip" Blackwell to the Athletics. Blackwell, who was injured in 1954, will pitch in only 2 games for the Athletics in 1955 before retiring from MLB, along with Blackwell the A’s received P Tom Gorman and 1B Richard Kryhoski for $50,000.

1965 - Yankees sell P Stan Williams (1963-1964) to the Indians for cash. Stan went 10-13 in 50 games for Yankees after being obtained from the Dodgers for 1B Bill “Moose” Skowron in 1962. He never was the successful starter for the Yankees like he was with the Dodgers. Stan would be converted to a relief pitcher and be successful with the Twins. He would later become a pitching coach for the Yankees.


March 31st

1971 - The Yankees released veteran INF Pete Ward (1970). Pete was a slugging 3rd baseman with the Chicago White Sox in the 1960’s, by the time he reached the Yankees, he was playing with a bad back at 1st base.

1972 - The Yankees re-purchased OF/1st baseman Frank Tepedino (1967, 69-71, 1972) from the Brewers for cash. Frank originally was signed the Orioles, later drafted by the Yankees. He saw limited action with the Yankees in 44 games. Frank was traded twice by Yankees, once to the Brewers for OF Danny Walton (1971) and then to the Braves P Pat Dobson in 1973.

1980 - Current Yankees starter Chien-Ming Wang was born.

1992 - Former Yankees C and minor league manager Ken “Hawk” Silvestri passed away (1916-1992). Ken was a catcher for the Yankees 1941, 1946-1947. In 1948, he was drafted by the Phillies in the Rule 5 player draft. Ken was a longtime Yankees minor league manager.


April 1st

1934 - Former Yankees farmhand INF Rod “Hot Rod“ Kanehl was born (1934-2004). Rod was originally signed by the Yankees in 1954. He played in their farm system until the fall of 1961, when he was drafted by the Mets on advice from new Mets Manager Casey Stengel. Rod never saw MLB action with the Yankees, but Stengel remember him from a Yankee spring camp training session, where he jumped on a bike to run down a fly ball. The Yankees wanted to give him a shot at 3rd base job in 1967, but the Mets refused to release him from his lifetime reserve clause in his MLB player contract. He would have been a better choice than Charlie Smith.

1939 - Former Yankees P Phil Niekro (1984-85) is born in Blaine, Belmont County, Ohio. "Knucksie" will make his MLB debut in 1964 with the Braves. He will win 318 games over a 24-year career and will gain election to the HOF in 1997. Phil went 32-20 in 53 games as a Yankee pitcher during the 1984-85 seasons.

1955 - Former Yankees OF Larry Murray (1974-1976) was born. Larry was part of a trade that brought P Mike Torrez to the Yankees from A’s in April, 1977. He appeared in 20 games as a back up OF with the Yankees from 1974-76.


April 2nd

1918 - The Yankees purchased 1B "Tioga" George Burns from the Tigers and immediately trade him to the Athletics for OF Ping Bodie (1918-1921).

1931 - At Engel Stadium, Miss Jackie Mitchell strikes out Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig in an exhibition game held in Chattanooga, TN. The 17-year-old girl, a member of the Chattanooga Lookouts roster, also walks Tony Lazzeri in Chattanooga's 14-4 loss to the Yankees. In 1933, Mitchell will pitch for the House of David team.

1945 - Former Yankees P Mike Kekich (1969-1973) was born. Mike is known more for off the field actions as a Yankee than as a player. Fritz Peterson and Mike swapped wives and families one year, causing a quite a media stir. Mike came over from the Dodgers in the Andy Kosco trade. He went 31-24 as a Yankee before being exiled to the Indians after the wife/family swap.

1955 - Former Yankees OF Bill Sample (1985) was born. On February 27, 1985, Bill was traded by the Rangers along with a player to be named later to the Yankees for INF Toby Harrah. The Rangers sent Eric Dersin to the Yankees to complete the trade. Billy hit .288 in 59 games for the Yankees before being traded on December 6, 1985, to the Braves for Miguel Sosa (minors).

1964 - Former Yankees DH Pete Incaviglia (1997) was born. Pete was with the Yankees for 21 days appearing in 5 games with a BA .250, before being released.

1970 - Former Yankees P Jon Lieber (2003-4) was born. He was signed as free agent in 2003; Jon went 14-8 with the Yankees in 2004 before leaving the team as a free agent to sign with the Phillies.

2001 - On Opening Day, Yankees starter Roger Clemens becomes all-time AL career strike out leader passing Hall Of Fame Pitcher Walter Johnson.

2003 - Orioles shortstop Mike Bordick's record streak for games played and total chances without an error by a shortstop ends as Yankees OF Bubba Trammell's 3rd innings grounder tips off his glove.

2003 - Todd Zeile hits a HR in his 1st at-bat for the Yankees, becoming the only MLB player to hit a HR for 10 different teams. In addition to homering with the Yankees, Zeile had also gone deep for the Cardinals, Cubs, Phillies, Orioles, Dodgers, Marlins, Rangers, Mets, and Rockies.


April 3rd

1919 - One of the most bizarre off-the-field spring training incidents in Yankees history takes place in Jacksonville, Florida. Yankees OF Ping Bodie competes against an ostrich named "Percy" in a spaghetti-eating contest! Bodie wins the competition, when Percy passes out after his 11th plate of pasta.

1929 - Former Yankees P Art Ditmar (1957-1961) was born. Art was originally signed by the Philadelphia A’s in 1948. On February 19, 1957, Art was traded by the A’s along with players to be named later, Wayne Belardi, Jack McMahan, and P Bobby Shantz to the Yankees for a player to be named later, OF Irv Noren, INF Milt Graff, Pitchers Mickey McDermott, Tom Morgan and Rip Coleman, and INF Billy Hunter. The Yankees would send P Jack Urban to the A’s to complete the trade. The A’s would send Curt Roberts and INF Clete Boyer to the Yankees to complete the trade. Art would go 13-9 in 1959 and 15-9 in 1960 for the Yankees. He failed to win both of his two 1960 World Series starts against the Pirates. He appeared in 3 World Series with the Yankees in 1957-58 against the Braves, and in 1960 against the Pirates. In 1961, suffering from arm problems, he went 2-3 in 12 games, before being traded back to the A’s along with OF/INF Deron Johnson for veteran P Bud Daley. His overall Yankees pitching record was 47-32 in 168 games with 12 saves.

1952 - Former Yankees P Rick Earle (1976) was born. Rick never pitched for the Yankees at the MLB level.

1961 - Yankees reacquired P Duke Maas (1958-1960) from Angels for shortstop Fritz Brickell (1958-1959). Duke Maas injured his pitching arm, after appearing in 1 game and never pitched again in MLB. His best season as a Yankee was in 1959 when he won 14 games. He was drafted by the Angels in 1960 AL Expansion draft. His Yankee career pitching record was 26-12 before the arm injury finished his MLB career. Both players passed away at young ages, Brickell at 30 in 1965 and Duke Maas at 45 in 1976.

1967 - Yankees obtained INF John Kennedy from the Dodgers for OF John Miller, P Jack Cullen and the temporary transfer of OF Roy White to the Dodgers Spokane AAA farm club in PCL. The Yankees had the Dodgers work with White on his infield play, but in the end, he stayed an outfielder.

1972 - Yankees released veteran pitchers Jim Hardin (1971) and Gary Waslewski (1970-1971). Both were washed up as MLB pitchers.

1979 - Former Yankees OF Harry “Suitcase” Simpson (1957-1958) passed away.(1925-1979) Harry appeared in 99 games for the Yankees, before being traded back to the A’s.

1984 - After rain washes out yesterday's opener at Royals Stadium in Kansas City, actor Yul Brynner tosses out the 1st ball and Royals opens with a 4-2 win over the Yankees. The threat of snow holds the crowd to just 10,006. Starter Bud Black, with relief help from Dan Quisenberry, tops Ron Guidry, still winless in Openers. Onix Concepción hits Guidry's 1st pitch of the game for a HR, while Dave Winfield has a 2-run HR for the Yankees.

2005 - In his 1st outing for the Yankees, All Star starter Randy Johnson allows a run and 5 hits in 6 innings as New York open the 2005 MLB season with a 9-2 triumph over the 2004 World Champion Red Sox at Yankee Stadium. Johnson will win 17 games for the Yankees in the 2005 season.


April 4th

1971 - Former Yankees P Carl “Sub” Mays (1919-1923) passed away at the age of 79 (1891-1971). Carl went 26-11 (1920) and 27-9 (1921). As a Yankee he was 79-39 for the team from 1919-1923. After being sold to the Reds for $85,000, in 1924, he went 20-9 for the Reds. He never got along with Yankee Manager Miller Huggins, which included a fist-fight on the sidewalks of New York City. His trade was considered to be one of the worst in early Yankees team history. He went 56-36 after he joined the Reds. Carl Mays was the Yankee pitcher, who hit Indians batter Ray Chapman with a pitch, which later resulted in his death during the 1920 AL season game.

1972 - Yankees released veteran INF Ron Hansen (1970-71). By the time Ron reached the Yankees, he was playing with a bad back and with limited range.

1982 - Former Yankees P Mel Queen Sr. (1942, 1944, 1946-47) passed away (1918-1982). Mel was the father of former MLB player and manager Mel Queen Jr. Mel was signed by the Yankees in 1938, he went 8-4 in 33 games for the Yankees before being sold to the Pirates during the 1947 season.

1984 - On Opening Day, Yankees veteran starting P Tommy John ties a MLB record by playing in 26 seasons. John beats the Twins, 4-2, for his 287th win putting him 19th overall in MLB pitching career wins.

1994 - In New York City, a total of 56,706 fans attend Opening Day making it the largest crowd ever at the remodeled Yankee Stadium. Yankee starter Jimmy Key is winner with bullpen help from Bob Wickman and Xavier Hernandez picking up the save. The Yankees hitting attack was led by Wade Boggs, who went 4 for 5 with a run driven in.


April 5th

1913 - In an exhibition game at Brooklyn, the Dodgers play their 1st game at their new ballpark, Ebbets Field. Brooklyn beats the Yankees, 3-2, with the Dodgers OF Casey Stengel hitting the park's 1st HR, an in the park HR.

1921 - Former Yankees P Robert Hogue (1951-52) was born. Bob went 4-5 in 33 games with the Yankees before being sent to the Browns in 1952.

1925 - In spring training, the Yankees whip the Dodgers, by a score of 16-9, but the headlines are about Babe Ruth. The Bambino collapses in the railroad station in Asheville, NC, and winds up in a New York City hospital. Ruth will undergo an operation for an ulcer on April 17th and will be in bed until May 26th. The press calls the incident “Babe Ruth’s Bellyache.” The Yankees would fall to 7th place in the AL.

1934 - Babe Ruth, sponsored by Quaker Oats, agrees to do three 15-minute broadcasts a week over NBC radio. The total of $39,000 for 13 weeks is $4,000 more than his New York Yankees contract. Of equal way, WSAL hires Red Barber to broadcast Cincinnati Reds games.

1938 - Former Yankees INF Ron Hansen (1970-71) was born. By the time, Ron reached the Yankees he was playing with a bad back with limited range.

1973 - Yankees obtain INF Tom Matchick from the Orioles for shortstop Frank “No Home Run“ Baker. Baker was a terrible infielder with the Yankees, while in the Orioles farm system; he became a better fielder and a good bench player for the Birds. Matchick never played for the Yanks at MLB level.

1977 - The Yankees acquired shortstop Bucky Dent from the White Sox for OF Oscar Gamble, Pitchers La Marr Hoyt and Bob Polinsky and an estimated $200,000. Dent will solidify Yankees middle infield and help the Yankees reach the World Series in 1977 and '78. Gamble will have a fine season in Chicago. While La Marr Hoyt will blossom into the ace of the White Sox staff in the early 1980's.

1979 - At Yankee Stadium, 52,719 fans see Milwaukee jump on Ron Guidry for 4 runs in the 6th inning, beating Yankees 5-1. It's the most runs the 1978 AL Cy Young Award winner has allowed since the 1977 AL season. New York get singles from their 1st 3 hitters, but manage to score just 1 run in the 1st inning off of Brewers starter Mike Caldwell.

1995 - The Yankees acquired closer John Wetteland (1995-96) from the Expos for minor league 1B Fernando Segugnol and cash. Wetteland will help the Yankees to the World Championship in 1996. He will go 3-8 in 122 games with 74 saves as a Yankee closer before leaving the team for free agency. John will win the 1996 World Series MVP and Rolaids Relief Award.

2002 - Former Yankees minor league manager William “Sheriff” Robinson passed away (1921-2002). He managed the Amarillo Gold Sox (AA) in 1961, which featured future Yankees P Jim Bouton, INF Phil Linz and 1B Joe Pepitione, aka “The Amarillo Gang”. In 1962 he managed the Yankees AAA club, the Richmond Virginians (IL), before leaving the Yankees to join the Mets organization in 1963.

previous week

(As always I'd like to thank Clipper51 for his great contribution.)

Jeter's Bruised Finger is Fine

Jeter bruised his right pinky finger before Saturday's game attempting to field a grounder. Then, after bobbling a ball in the second inning, he was taken out of the game.

In the clubhouse after the game he had his pinky wrapped, but said he was fine.

a reporter asked Jeter if he was OK, and he said, "Yes, sir."

Yet Jeter clearly didn't want to address the issue again. As Jeter was leaving the clubhouse, another reporter asked him if the finger felt OK, and he replied, "Yep." The reporter thanked him, and Jeter said, "I didn't even hear what you were saying."

Joe Girardi also said Jeter was fine, "You know how conservative I am," Girardi said. "So if it was something, he wouldn't have played."

"That ball just got by him," Girardi said, "but it didn't crack the nail."

I think it's safe to say Jeter won't miss any time.

Yanks Win Final Spring Training Game 4-2

Finally Spring Training is over!

The Yankees closed out the spring in style tonight with a 4-2 comeback win over the Florida Marlins. The Yanks finished spring with a 14-11 record, but that doesn't matter.

Phil Hughes got the start and pitched very well. Huhghes pitched five innings, allowed two runs (one earned) on just three hits and one walk, while striking out four. ... Billy Traber retired two of the three batters he faced, allowing the third hitter to hit a double. ... Mariano Rivera retired the only batter he faced. ... Kyle Farnsworth and Brian Bruney both struck out the two batters they faced. ... Joba Chamberlain also retired the only two batters he faced, striking out one of them. ... Ross Ohlendorf then came in and allowed the leadoff man to reach on a double, but then retired the next three he faced, two on strike outs, to close out the game. The Yankees pitchers struck out eleven for the game.

	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	HR	ERA
Hughes	5.0	3	2	1	1	4	0	5.82
Traber	0.2	1	0	0	0	0	0	1.00
Rivera	0.1	0	0	0	0	0	0	1.42
Farnsworth	0.2	0	0	0	0	2	0	2.08
Bruney	0.2	0	0	0	0	2	0	1.86
Chamberlain (W, 2-0)	0.2	0	0	0	0	1	0	4.66
Ohlendorf (S, 1)	1.0	1	0	0	0	2	0	1.69

MARLINS PITCHING

Besides two singles by Jason Giambi (2-for-3), and a Melky Cabrera (2-for-3, HR, RBI) 5th inning home run the Yankee offense was held in check until the top of the 9th. With the Yankees down 2-1 and one out, Greg Porter walked and Cody Ransom singled. Chad Moeller was then up and on a 1-0 pitched hit one into the alley which turned into an inside-the-park home run.

AB R H RBI BB SO LOB AVG Damon, LF 2 0 1 0 1 0 3 .255 Molina, C 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 .325 Jeter, SS 2 0 0 0 0 1 1 .269 Betemit, SS 2 0 1 0 0 1 1 .167 Abreu, RF 2 0 0 0 1 0 1 .333 Lane, RF 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 .217 Rodriguez, A, 3B 3 0 0 0 0 1 3 .422 Ensberg, 3B 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 .229 Giambi, 1B 3 0 2 0 0 0 0 .413 1-Duncan, PR-1B 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 .354 Posada, C 3 0 0 0 0 0 2 .227 Porter, LF 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 .250 Cano, 2B 3 0 1 0 0 0 0 .446 Ransom, 2B 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 .300 Matsui, DH 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 .324 a-Moeller, PH-DH 1 1 1 3 0 0 0 .192 Cabrera, CF 3 1 2 1 0 0 0 .322 Castro, B, CF 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 .238 Totals 33 4 9 4 4 6 12 a-Homered for Matsui in the 9th. 1-Ran for Giambi in the 6th. BATTING 2B: Damon (8, Volstad). HR: Cabrera (2, 5th inning off Pinto, 0 on, 1 out), Moeller (2, 9th inning off Gregg, 2 on, 1 out). TB: Damon 2; Betemit; Giambi 2; Cano; Ransom; Moeller 4; Cabrera 5. RBI: Cabrera (7), Moeller 3 (4). Runners left in scoring position, 2 out: Rodriguez, A 2; Damon 2. GIDP: Posada 2. Team LOB: 6. BASERUNNING CS: Betemit (1, 2nd base by Taylor/Hoover).

MARLINS HITTING

Next up for the Yankees is Opening Day against the Blue Jays at The Stadium on Monday. Chien-Ming Wang gets the start for the Bombers, with Roy Halladay pitching for the Jays. The game's first pitch is at 1:05 p.m., and can be seen on YES and ESPN.

Yankees at Marlins Game Thread

Spring Training Game 29
Yankees at. Marlins
Dolphin Stadium - Miami, FL
Game Time: 6:10 p.m.
TV/radio: WCBS 880

Here are the lineups:

YANKEES
Damon LF
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
Giambi 1B
Posada C
Cano 2B
Matsui DH
Cabrera CF

Pitching: Hughes

MARLINS
Ramirez SS
Uggla 2B
Jacobs 1B
Willingham LF
Gonzalez RF
Cantu 3B
Wood 1B
Hoover C
De Aza CF

Pitching: Volstad

NOTES:
- Andy Pettitte says he feels fine today following his 25-pitch bullpen session yesterday. Pettitte will start a minor league game tomorrow. "I'm good to go. I feel good," Pettitte said.

Marlins Catcher Defends Girardi

Says Girardi Didn't Abuse Young Pitchers.

From Joel Sherman (hat tip to David Pinto):

Two years ago, under Girardi, [the Marlins] probably felt they were building toward something. They felt at least as good about their young rotation — maybe better — than the Yankees do today. But after that season, none of the youngsters have been the same, as they have coped with injury or a serious plummet in their effectiveness.

In many ways, this is the only serious matter that remains between Loria and Girardi. At times, Loria has sniped that Girardi was most responsible for the ramifications for Florida's pitchers. Girardi has never publicly rebutted any direct salvo hurled from the Marlins front office, but he has defended his handling of that young staff, saying he took great care not to abuse the neophyte arms.

Loria yesterday dismissed speculation of more antipathy between the two.

"I am not going to talk about that," he said.

But it is a subject that has not died easily. Matt Treanor, Marlins current backup catcher for Girardi and now, said, "You know I am going to get into trouble even talking about this stuff." The implication was the front office would not like it.

However, Treanor, first baseman Mike Jacobs and second baseman Dan Uggla all praised Girardi's season managing the Marlins, describing him as passionate for the game, caring for the players and — yes — protective of the young pitchers.

"I don't think it was cause and effect," Treanor said. "I never saw anything that anyone was abused on the mound. Joe is not that type of guy."

This is a major concern of mine in regards to Girardi. With the future of the franchise riding on players like Hughes, Chamberlain and Kennedy, the last thing the Yankees need is for Girardi to destroy their arms. Hopefully if he did make any mistakes handling the young Marlins pitchers he learned from it.

Hawkins Snatches Up No. 21

From Tyler Kepner:

When Ensberg learned he would make the team last week, he decided he could not continue wearing No. 21, which was last worn by Paul O’Neill. But reliever LaTroy Hawkins grabbed 21, and he said he would wear it to honor Roberto Clemente, who died 10 days after Hawkins was born in 1972.

I commend Ensberg for realizing how important no. 21 is to the Yankees and especially their fans, it's a shame Hawkins doesn't get this. When you wear 21 on Yankee Pinstripes, you're wearing Paul O'Neill's number, not Roberto Clemente's.

And please don't misunderstand me; Clemente was great, on and off the field, I'm not trying to take any of that away from him, and if MLB wants to retire his number throughout the league, as some have suggested, go ahead. But there are better ways to honor Clemente than putting his number on the back of a pitcher with a career ERA of 4.68 ERA.

Murcer To Miss Opening Day

One Yankee that will not be in the Bronx on Monday is broadcaster and fan favorite, Bobby Murcer. Murcer has been fighting brain cancer and says he's too weak to resume his duties because of the chemotherapy he's been ungergoing.

"You have no idea how disappointing it is for me not to be able to be there for Opening Day, especially this particular Opening Day," Murcer told the Daily News yesterday by phone. "But right now, I just don't have the strength I had last year."

Murcer also said that he was "making slow improvement, but it's been a rough few weeks. Tell all my friends I'm going to really miss them next week, but in between the plane ride and all the activities, it would just be a little too much for me right now. It's for the best I stay home here and get my rest." He also didn't know when he would be able to return to the booth. Hopefully it will be sometime very soon - Get well soon Bobby.

Final Cuts Made, Yanks Roster Set

Peter Abraham is reporting that the Yankees have reassigned these players:

INF Nick Green
RHP Scott Patterson
RHP Jose Veras
LHP Kei Igawa
RHP Edwar Ramirez
RHP Jose Veras

LHP Andy Pettitte was retroactively placed on the 15-day DL. He is eligible to come off on Saturday.

Darrell Rasner, Brett Gardner, Cody Ransom, Jason Lane, Jason Brown, Greg Porter and Bernie Castro were also reassigned earlier in the day.

OPENING DAY ROSTER

Lineup: Damon LF, Jeter SS, Abreu RF, Rodriguez 3B, Giambi 1B, Posada C, Matsui DH, Cano 2B, Cabrera CF

Bench: Duncan 1B/OF, Betemit INF, Ensberg 1B/3B, Molina C

Starting Staff: Wang, Mussina, Hughes, Kennedy, Pettitte (DL will be added Saturday)

Bullpen: Rivera, Chamberlain, Farnsworth, Hawkins, Ohlendorf, Bruney, Traber, Albaladejo

As Peter points out, once Pettitte is activated one of the relievers will be sent to AAA, I'm guessing it'll be Albaladejo.

I would have given Patterson a shot, he only gave up one hit all spring (7.2IP, 1H, 0R, 0BB, 7K), and retired 23 out of 24 batters. I know, I know, he doesn't have any MLB experience, but as Joe Girardi said earlier in the week, "I'm not a big believer that you have to have big league experience to be successful." I'm sure he'll be called up at some point this year.

I am glad they didn't take a long man, because at this point I don't think they need one. Maybe down the road, but not now.

The bench could have used some speed instead of two guys who are basically the same hitter (Duncan and Ensberg), but besides that this roster overall looks solid. As long as they stay healthy this could be a very good team.

Yanks Lose 5-3

The Yankees lost their fourth straight tonight, dropping them to 13-12 this spring.

Mike Mussina got the start for the Yanks, and did not pitch well. Moose gave up five runs on five hits and one walk in 5.1 IP. Mussina also gave up two home runs to Mike Jacobs. Not the best way to end the spring for Mike Mussina, hopefully it's not a sign of things to come. ... Latroy Hawkins continued his very good spring, throwing .2 of a inning and only allowing one hit. ... Johnathan Albaladejo pitched a scoreless inning, he allowed one hit and struck out one. He will start the season in Scranton ... Edwar Ramirez, who will also start the year in AAA, also threw a scoreless inning.

	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	HR	ERA
Mussina (L, 0-1)	5.1	5	5	5	1	2	2	6.00
Hawkins	0.2	1	0	0	0	0	0	0.00
Albaladejo	1.0	1	0	0	0	1	0	3.86
Ramirez	1.0	1	0	0	0	1	0	4.32

MARLINS PITCHING

Offensively the Yanks were led by Alex Rodriguez who went 2-for-3 with a HR, a double, and two RBI. Derek Jeter (2-for-4, RBI, R), Johnny Damon (2-for-3, R) and Jason Giambi (2-for-4) also had two hits each. Shelley Duncan (1-for-3) and Jorge Posada (1-for-3) also had singles.

	AB	R	H	RBI	BB	SO	LOB	AVG
Damon, LF	3	1	2	0	0	1	0	.245
Matsui, LF	2	0	0	0	0	0	1	.343
Jeter, SS	4	1	2	1	0	0	2	.280
Betemit, 1B	1	0	0	0	0	1	1	.154
Abreu, RF	4	0	0	0	0	3	2	.349
Ransom, SS	2	0	0	0	0	0	0	.282
Rodriguez, A, 3B	3	1	2	2	1	1	1	.452
1-Green, PR-3B	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	.185
Giambi, 1B	4	0	2	0	0	1	1	.395
2-Porter, PR-RF	1	0	0	0	0	1	0	.259
Posada, C	3	0	1	0	0	1	2	.244
Molina, C	1	0	0	0	0	0	2	.342
Cano, 2B	2	0	0	0	2	0	2	.452
Castro, B, 2B	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.250
Duncan, DH	3	0	1	0	0	0	4	.362
a-Ensberg, PH-DH	0	0	0	0	1	0	0	.234
Cabrera, CF	4	0	0	0	0	1	4	.304
Lane, CF	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.222
Totals	37	3	10	3	4	10	22
a-Walked for Duncan in the 8th. 1-Ran for Rodriguez, A in the 7th. 2-Ran for Giambi in the 7th.
BATTING 2B: Damon 2 (7, Miller, A, Miller, A), Jeter (5, Miller, A), Rodriguez, A (5, Miller, A). HR: Rodriguez, A (4, 5th inning off Miller, A, 0 on, 1 out). TB: Damon 4; Jeter 3; Rodriguez, A 6; Giambi 2; Posada; Duncan. RBI: Jeter (2), Rodriguez, A 2 (10). Runners left in scoring position, 2 out: Cabrera; Posada; Jeter 2; Duncan; Cano; Betemit. Team LOB: 11.

MARLINS HITTING

Next up for the Yanks is the final game of the spring training schedule, another matchup tomorrow against the Marlins at Dolphin Stadium in Miami. Phil Hughes gets the start for the Yanks, and will go up against Marlins prospect Chris Volstad. First pitch is set for 6:10 p.m. and the game can be seen on MLB.TV

Yanks at Marlins Game Thread

Spring Training Game 28
Yankees at. Marlins
Dolphin Stadium - Miami, FL
Game Time: 7:10 p.m.
TV/radio: WCBS 880

Here are the lineups:

YANKEES
Damon CF
Jeter SS
Abreau RF
Rodriguez 3B
Giambi 1B
Posada C
Cano 2B
Duncan DH
Cabrera CF

Pitching: Mussina

MARLINS
Ramirez SS
Uggla 2B
Jacobs 1B
Willingham LF
Gonzalez RF
Cantu 3B
Wood DH
Treanor C
De Aza CF

Pitching: Miller

NOTES:
- The Yankees reassigned Brett Gardner, Cody Ransom, Jason Lane, Jason Brown, Greg Porter and Bernie Castro to Minor League camp.

- Jeff Karstens will be out at least a month with a right groin injury.

Pettitte Feels Great During Bullpen Session

From the AP, via MSG.com:

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -Yankees left-hander Andy Pettitte threw 25 pitches off a bullpen mound Friday and remained scheduled to pitch in a minor league game Sunday.

Originally slated to start the Yankees' second game of the regular season, Pettitte has been slowed by back spasms. He could make his first start Friday or Saturday.

"As far as during my bullpen and stuff like that, I feel great," Pettitte said. "It loosened up good. Do I still feel it walking around? Yeah. Sunday is a good day. I need to get some good work in. That's all I'm looking for now."

Pettitte will most likely make his first start of the season next Friday or Saturday against the Rays at The Stadium.

The Yankees Are Not For Sale

From Mark Feinsand:

TAMPA - Despite rumors to the contrary, Hal Steinbrenner reiterated his stance that he and his brother, Hank, won't be looking to sell the Yankees any time soon.

"That's the plan," Hal Steinbrenner said. "There are no plans to sell, though I know there's been speculation. This has been in our family a long time - longer than we've been in Tampa, even. That's not going to change."

Good, I hope it stays in the family for a long time, changing ownership will only hurt the organization.

Why hasn't A-Rod denied it?

Am I the only person wondering why A-Rod hasn't denied the allegations that Jose Canseco introduced him to a steroid dealer? If I were accused of doing something that I did not do I would say “I didn’t do it,” not, "I really have absolutely no reaction." No reaction? You have no reaction to a someone saying they introduced you to a steroid dealer? Really?!? To me, that’s a very strange way to respond.

Wednesday, Rodriguez told reporters "It's over as far as I'm concerned, no further comment on the matter. I'm just excited to be playing baseball," again, no denials.

On last night's “Nightline,” Canseco said, "Let's see how Alex reacts. Let's see if they all call me a liar again. How's that for you? Let's see if all of a sudden they're going to call me a liar again."

Well everyone is calling Canseco a liar, everyone besides Alex Rodriguez.

Reggie Jackson to Throw Out First Pitch on Opening Day

Here is some of the official press release from the Yankees:

The New York Yankees will open the 2008 Championship Season-the 106th in franchise history and the 84th and final season at the current Yankee Stadium-on Monday, March 31 vs. the Toronto Blue Jays at 1:05 p.m.

Hall of Famer Reggie Jackson will throw out the game's ceremonial first pitch in a season that marks the 30th anniversary of the Yankees' 1978 World Championship campaign. Public address announcer Bob Sheppard will not attend the game as he continues to recuperate from illness. His longtime backup, Jim Hall, will serve in his place.

In addition to the presentation of colors by the West Point Cadet Color Guard, a giant American flag will be unfurled in the outfield by 40 West Point cadets. The national anthem will then be sung by the United States Military Academy at West Point Cadet Glee Club. At the conclusion of the anthem, two U.S. Navy F-18 Hornets piloted by the Strike Fighter Squadron 106 (the Gladiators) will fly over the Stadium.

Pre-game ceremonies will begin at approximately 12:40 p.m. Gates will open at 11:00 a.m.

No offense to Mr. October, but the Yankees should have more than just Jackson throwing out the first pitch. This is the last opening day at The Stadium; it should be Ford, Berra, O'Neill, Tino, Bernie, Mattingly, and Jackson - it should be something special, something extraordinary. Reggie Jackson by himself is not extraordinary.

A couple questions for you

How do you like the addition of the third column?

Is my banner aligned to one side or is it centered?

Thanks in advance for your feedback.

TBS Sunday Baseball Schedule

I already posted the MLB on Fox schedule and the ESPN Sunday Night Baseball schedule about a month ago, and now here is the TBS Sunday Baseball schedule:

DATE	TIME	TEAMS
4/6/2008	1:00 PM	Boston Red Sox vs. Toronto Blue Jays
4/13/2008	1:30 PM	Chicago Cubs vs. Philadelphia Phillies
4/20/2008	1:30 PM	Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Atlanta Braves
4/27/2008	1:00 PM	New York Yankees vs. Cleveland Indians
5/4/2008	4:00 PM	New York Mets vs. Arizona Diamondbacks
5/11/2008	1:00 PM	New York Yankees vs. Detroit Tigers
5/18/2008	1:30 PM	Milwaukee Brewers vs. Boston Red Sox
5/25/2008	1:00 PM	Seattle Mariners vs. New York Yankees

Yanks Lose 5-2

The Yankees fell to 13-11 on the spring today with a 5-2 loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Kei Igawa got the start for the Yanks, and didn't pitch too well. He lasted just 3.1 innings and gave up four runs on five hits and three walks. If Igawa had pitched well he probably would have made the 25-man roster as a long man, but as of now that's still up in the air. ... Jeff Karstens pitched 1.1 innings, and gave up no runs on one hit, but left the game with what appeared to be a hamstring injury. ... Scott Patterson continues to dominate. He pitched a perfect 1.1 innings. ... Ross Ohlendorf and Brian Bruney both pitched scoreless innings.

NOTES: (Thank you Derek for bringing this to my attention.)

Igawa with shades, 7.1IP 13H 10ER 6Ks 7BB 1HBP
Igawa without shades 9.0IP 7H 0ER 12K 4BB

[During the game] they showed Arod's walkoff against B-more last year, Igawa started that game, gave up 5 runs in 3 innings.. shades on.

That game against Boston when he came in and shut it down? No shades.

NY Yankees	IP	H	R	ER	BB	SO	HR	ERA
Igawa (L, 1-1)	3.1	5	4	4	3	2	0	5.56
Karstens	1.1	1	0	0	0	2	0	8.44
Patterson	1.1	0	0	0	0	1	0	0.00
Ohlendorf	1.0	1	0	0	0	0	0	1.86
Bruney	1.0	1	0	0	0	2	0	2.00
Schmidt	1.0	2	1	1	0	1	1	9.00

PIRATES PITCHING

The Yankee offense took the day off today, only being able to rack up two runs on five hits. Derek Jeter went 1-for-2 with a HR and a walk. Nick Green (1-for-2, HR) also homered. That was pretty much it for the Yankee offense today. Alex Rodriguez (1-for-2), Jose Molina (1-for-2, 2B), and Cody Ransom (1-for-1) also had hits.

	AB	R	H	RBI	BB	SO	LOB	AVG
Damon, DH	3	0	0	0	0	0	0	.217
a-Brown, PH-DH	1	0	0	0	0	1	1	.200
Jeter, SS	2	1	1	1	1	0	0	.261
1-Gonzalez, PR-SS	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	.208
Duncan, RF	3	0	0	0	0	1	1	.364
Tabata, J, RF	1	0	0	0	0	0	0	.100
Rodriguez, A, 3B	2	0	1	0	0	1	0	.436
Green, 3B	2	1	1	1	0	0	0	.185
Posada, C	2	0	0	0	0	0	1	.237
Molina, C	2	0	1	0	0	0	0	.351
Matsui, LF	1	0	0	0	1	0	0	.364
Porter, LF	2	0	0	0	0	2	1	.259
Ensberg, 1B	2	0	0	0	0	0	1	.234
Ransom, 1B	1	0	1	0	0	0	0	.289
Betemit, 2B	3	0	0	0	0	1	1	.157
Castro, B, 2B	0	0	0	0	0	0	0	.250
Cabrera, CF	2	0	0	0	0	0	0	.327
Lane, CF	1	0	0	0	0	0	1	.222
Totals	31	2	5	2	2	6	7
a-Struck out for Damon in the 8th. 1-Ran for Jeter in the 6th.
BATTING 2B: Molina (4, Grabow). HR: Jeter (1, 1st inning off Gorzelanny, 0 on, 1 out), Green (2, 9th inning off Grabow, 0 on, 2 out). TB: Jeter 4; Rodriguez, A; Green 4; Molina 2; Ransom. RBI: Jeter (1), Green (5). 2-out RBI: Green. Runners left in scoring position, 2 out: Porter. GIDP: Ensberg. Team LOB: 4.

PIRATES HITTING

The Bombers next game is tomorrow vs. the Florida Marlins at Dolphin Stadium in Miami. Mike Mussina makes the start for the Yankees and will go up against Marlins left-hander Andrew Miller. First pitch is set for 7:10 p.m. The game can be seen on MLB.TV, and heard on WCBS 880.