It won’t be remembered as a classic, but last night’s ball game was probably the last of John Smoltz’s stellar career and the first time the Yankees beat the Red Sox in 2009. New York’s Joba Chamberlain was not the lights out pitcher he’s been since the All-Star break, but he was effective enough to plow through the pesky Sox at the plate.
All the emotion leading up to the game created the perfect atmosphere for another heated horde of hyped-up players. Two edge-of-your-seat innings were followed by a third inning Dustin Pedroia homerun to right field off Chamberlain. Victor Martinez and Kevin Youkilis drew back-to-back passes from the Yankees hurler. Chamberlain doubled up “Big Papi” David Ortiz on a ground ball to second base and induced J.D. Drew into flying out to centerfield to escape the jam. Boston was on board first, but the Yankees would counter in the bottom half of the frame. Johnny Damon planted a 2-1 Smoltz pitch just over the right field fence to even the score at one.
In an eventful fourth inning, Boston added two more runs. Casey Kotchman provided the goods in his first start for Boston. He smothered the third long ball of the game, a two-run shot to right. The hits just kept coming in the bottom of the fourth. Jorge Posada led off the inning with a double, somewhat making up for a missed slide in the first inning. (Jorge would later completely make up for that gaff) Robinson Cano singled to center, scoring Posada, on the next play. Nick Swisher followed Cano with a walk on four pitches. Then, Melky Cabrera belted a bomb into the second deck on a 1-2 count to give the Bombers a 5-3 lead. A Damon base hit and Mark Teixeira double preceded an intentional walk to Alex Rodriguez. The Yankees padded the lead with the bases juiced and Billy Traber pitching. Jorge Posada’s second plate appearance signaled the Yankees batting around in the inning. Posada, hitting from the right side, connected courageously by clipping the ball into the stands for a 9-3 Yankees advantage.
Martinez crossed the plate for the visiting Red Sox in the top of the fifth after reaching base on his second walk of the night. The Yankees collected two of their own runs in the bottom of the fifth. Hideki Matsui slapped a double to score the speedy Damon and Rodriguez and clear the bases. Matsui made it to third base on a Nick Green error but Posada was fanned to end the threat. Jerry Hairston, Jr. was driven in on a Derek Jeter RBI single in the sixth to give New York an eight run cushion. The Yankees weren’t done scoring just yet. The final notch came in the seventh on Teixeira’s 28th dinger of the season.
Thursday’s opening game of the four game set was not without controversy. Yankees reliever, Mark Melancon, lost control of two pitches to Pedroia. He was accused of intentionally tossing at the former MVP. Posada walked Pedroia down the line as Boston manager, Terry Francona came out to talk to the home plate umpire. The game resumed and the Red Sox would have to endure some of the suffering New York has experienced in this version of the rivalry.
Smoltz was lit up by the Yankees’ offense and was designated for assignment by the Sox this afternoon. It is likely the last we will see of the future Hall-of-Fame pitcher. Boston left 15 men on base last night and were unable to capitalize on 12 walks by New York hurlers. Chamberlain allowed seven of the 12 passes and went just five frames but has not lost since June 18 against the Nationals. He still did a better job than his opposition. Smoltz gave up eight earned runs, nine hits and two homeruns in just over three innings on the hill. His batterymate Martinez was walked three times in his first glimpse of the Yankees-Red Sox rivalry. But the second baseman, Pedroia, had the best evening of any Red Sox player. He seems to own Yankee pitching this year and added another three hit affair Thursday night. The bottom of New York’s order was extremely productive, in racking up 11 of the 18 Bomber hits.
A sweep might not be realistic but it is possible the Yankees take three of four this series.
Parting points: Sad news about John Hughes passing away. He directed some of my favorite 80’s movies. I can never watch “National Lampoon’s Vacation”, “Planes, trains and automobiles”, “The Breakfast Club”, and “Ferris Buhler’s Day Off” enough.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Smoltz Starts Sox Series Showdown
As the date indicates, it is time for the Yankees to “86” the outcome of the head-to-head meetings with the Boston Red Sox. Redemption time is here and the Bombers are about to settle the score. New York and Boston have plenty on the line as they collide in a classic AL East battle tonight in the bandbox Bronx ballpark. This late season four game series could determine which team wins the division. Tempers are sure to flare whenever the greatest rivalry in baseball occurs. It should be interesting to see if the Yankees can come out of this series on the winning end.
A stabilized Joba Chamberlain is the starting pitcher for the home team in Game 1 tonight. The Bombers’ hurler is 3-0 with a .83 ERA since the All-star break. The right-hander hasn’t been very successful against the division rival Red Sox, however. He will face a young and deep Red Sox lineup, which has defeated the Bombers eight times already this year. New York has yet to beat the pesky Red Sox in 2009 and will have another opportunity against their old tomahawk foe, John Smoltz. Smoltz is not the same fastball pitcher he once was and the Yankees have not seen him in a while. Most of the 2009 men in pinstripes have not faced Smoltz often. Boston skipper, Terry Francona, is integrating Casey Kotchman and Victor Martinez into the order tonight. Kotchman will handle first base for the visitors, and Martinez will be the backstop. The switch-hitting former Cleveland Indian Martinez adds a vicious bat and flexibility to the lineup. Victor will be without some protection in the first two games. Jason Bay is expected to sit those out for Boston. How the Red Sox and Yankees respond to the importance of this series tonight will be indicative of how the four games will play out. No matter what they players say, this series is huge.
The Yankees are 14-5 since the All-Star break and aren’t the only team with resourceful sluggers. New York has some versatility and usefulness in Eric Hinske and Jerry Hairston, Jr. Hairston is a patient hitter with pop. He has eight homeruns this year. Johnny Damon and Mark Teixeira are red hot and surging as of late. The bullpen has done a great job and the starters have been eating up innings. The team is clicking on all cylinders and is assertive in making the small plays that don’t show up in the box score. The Yankees finished a two game sweep of the Toronto Bluejays and are riding a three game winning streak to boost their confidence heading into the Boston series.
Chamberlain and the Yankees begin the series as the better team. Boston has the upper hand in the season series, but the Bombers hold the division’s best record and can only gain more ground by adding wins this weekend. It is time to “86” the Sox. Boston has scored first in six of the eight games this season against New York. The Bombers have committed ten errors to Boston’s three. The Yankees have their best chance to win the series this time around because their bullpen is much stronger than it was earlier in the year. And, the Red Sox have more question marks in their starting rotation. Here’s to a terrific performance by the Yankees on Thursday night and an outstanding homestand.
Parting points: Good decision by Lou Holtz not to run for Congress. I like Lou and all, but anyone with a lisp should not be in politics.
A stabilized Joba Chamberlain is the starting pitcher for the home team in Game 1 tonight. The Bombers’ hurler is 3-0 with a .83 ERA since the All-star break. The right-hander hasn’t been very successful against the division rival Red Sox, however. He will face a young and deep Red Sox lineup, which has defeated the Bombers eight times already this year. New York has yet to beat the pesky Red Sox in 2009 and will have another opportunity against their old tomahawk foe, John Smoltz. Smoltz is not the same fastball pitcher he once was and the Yankees have not seen him in a while. Most of the 2009 men in pinstripes have not faced Smoltz often. Boston skipper, Terry Francona, is integrating Casey Kotchman and Victor Martinez into the order tonight. Kotchman will handle first base for the visitors, and Martinez will be the backstop. The switch-hitting former Cleveland Indian Martinez adds a vicious bat and flexibility to the lineup. Victor will be without some protection in the first two games. Jason Bay is expected to sit those out for Boston. How the Red Sox and Yankees respond to the importance of this series tonight will be indicative of how the four games will play out. No matter what they players say, this series is huge.
The Yankees are 14-5 since the All-Star break and aren’t the only team with resourceful sluggers. New York has some versatility and usefulness in Eric Hinske and Jerry Hairston, Jr. Hairston is a patient hitter with pop. He has eight homeruns this year. Johnny Damon and Mark Teixeira are red hot and surging as of late. The bullpen has done a great job and the starters have been eating up innings. The team is clicking on all cylinders and is assertive in making the small plays that don’t show up in the box score. The Yankees finished a two game sweep of the Toronto Bluejays and are riding a three game winning streak to boost their confidence heading into the Boston series.
Chamberlain and the Yankees begin the series as the better team. Boston has the upper hand in the season series, but the Bombers hold the division’s best record and can only gain more ground by adding wins this weekend. It is time to “86” the Sox. Boston has scored first in six of the eight games this season against New York. The Bombers have committed ten errors to Boston’s three. The Yankees have their best chance to win the series this time around because their bullpen is much stronger than it was earlier in the year. And, the Red Sox have more question marks in their starting rotation. Here’s to a terrific performance by the Yankees on Thursday night and an outstanding homestand.
Parting points: Good decision by Lou Holtz not to run for Congress. I like Lou and all, but anyone with a lisp should not be in politics.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Figueroa Fine in Flushing
Nelson Figueroa lifted the measly Mets over the St. Louis Cardinals in the second contest of a two game series at Citi Field this afternoon. The New York pitcher earned his first win since last September after contributing 4 1/3 innings of four hit ball in relief of the injured scheduled starter, Jonathan Niese. Niese went down in the first inning of the game with a right leg ailment. Figueroa fanned five and did not issue a walk against a potent lineup featuring the most captive Cardinal, Albert Pujols. The Mets won the game and completed a 5-5 homestand on a positive note. St. Louis loaded the bases in the fifth inning with Figueroa on the hill. The hurler worked out of trouble, striking out newly-acquired Cardinal outfielder, Matt Holliday, to end the inning. The threat was the closest the visiting team would come to scratching a run across the plate to notch a digit on the scoreboard.
The Mets shutout St. Louis 9-0 backed solid relief pitching and sturdy and steady slugging. Angel Pagan and David Wright each smacked two run homeruns and collected three hits by the end of the nine innings. Wright stroked an opposite field long ball, going deep off Kyle Lohse in the bottom of the first. The tater was just the eighth for the All-Star third baseman this season, and fifth at spacious Citi Field. Figueroa helped his own cause at the plate in the second when he brought home two more Mets runs on a triple. Rick Ankiel, the Cardinals’ centerfielder, was charged with an error in the second frame on a Pagan fly ball, resulting in another New York tally. Pagan came through again in the sixth with an RBI triple and Alex Cora creamed an offering for a hit, pushing the lead to 7-0 Mets. In the eighth, Pagan pounded a pitch off Trevor Miller into the seats for the game’s final blow. Pagan had four RBIs total and clubbed his second homerun in four games.
Bobby Parnell kept St. Louis hitless after taking over for Figueroa in the sixth. Parnell picked up his first save of the season. Bobby also bashfully banged his first major league hit with an eighth inning single. It seems like the pitchers are producing at the plate more than the position players. New York needed this one bi g time, especially after Tuesday night’s devastating extra inning affair in which Pujols stole the stage at Citi. The offense looked alive on their way to a 15 hit day. It was just the second win in seven games for the Amazins. Figueroa filled in nicely but the bad thing is the Mets suffered yet another injury to a key player. Niese was inserted into Jerry Manuel’s rotation because of an injury to Fernando Nieve. Figueroa and Parnell combined to allow just six St. Louis hits. That feat is phenomenal when you think of the circumstances of the spot start and tattered, shattered Mets’ bullpen. Then again, Mets pitching has allowed the fewest homeruns in the NL all year, and they held together this afternoon. Pujols did manage to strike two doubles In his first two at-bats, but otherwise, the Cardinals were held in check with the wood.
Parting points: That was some finish last night in Tampa.
Congrats to Eli Manning on his reported $97 million deal.
The Mets shutout St. Louis 9-0 backed solid relief pitching and sturdy and steady slugging. Angel Pagan and David Wright each smacked two run homeruns and collected three hits by the end of the nine innings. Wright stroked an opposite field long ball, going deep off Kyle Lohse in the bottom of the first. The tater was just the eighth for the All-Star third baseman this season, and fifth at spacious Citi Field. Figueroa helped his own cause at the plate in the second when he brought home two more Mets runs on a triple. Rick Ankiel, the Cardinals’ centerfielder, was charged with an error in the second frame on a Pagan fly ball, resulting in another New York tally. Pagan came through again in the sixth with an RBI triple and Alex Cora creamed an offering for a hit, pushing the lead to 7-0 Mets. In the eighth, Pagan pounded a pitch off Trevor Miller into the seats for the game’s final blow. Pagan had four RBIs total and clubbed his second homerun in four games.
Bobby Parnell kept St. Louis hitless after taking over for Figueroa in the sixth. Parnell picked up his first save of the season. Bobby also bashfully banged his first major league hit with an eighth inning single. It seems like the pitchers are producing at the plate more than the position players. New York needed this one bi g time, especially after Tuesday night’s devastating extra inning affair in which Pujols stole the stage at Citi. The offense looked alive on their way to a 15 hit day. It was just the second win in seven games for the Amazins. Figueroa filled in nicely but the bad thing is the Mets suffered yet another injury to a key player. Niese was inserted into Jerry Manuel’s rotation because of an injury to Fernando Nieve. Figueroa and Parnell combined to allow just six St. Louis hits. That feat is phenomenal when you think of the circumstances of the spot start and tattered, shattered Mets’ bullpen. Then again, Mets pitching has allowed the fewest homeruns in the NL all year, and they held together this afternoon. Pujols did manage to strike two doubles In his first two at-bats, but otherwise, the Cardinals were held in check with the wood.
Parting points: That was some finish last night in Tampa.
Congrats to Eli Manning on his reported $97 million deal.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Prisoner Plaxico
Former Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Giants wide receiver, Plaxico Burress, won’t be doing any touchdown celebrations for a while. The Superbowl hero for New York two years ago was indicted on weapons charges for shooting himself in the thigh at a night club last November 29th. A NYC grand jury charged the 31 year old athlete with two counts of criminal possession of a weapon and one count of reckless endangerment. Burress faces a minimum jail sentence of three and a half years if convicted. The receiver could also face disciplinary action by NFL commissioner, Roger Goodell. If Burress’ attorney and prosecutors don’t work out a plea bargain, number 17 will stand trial on September 23rd.
In my opinion, Plaxico’s possible prison punishment is a product of his own imprecision and stupidity. He carried a loaded and unlicensed gun into a club and accidentally shot himself. Plaxico must have known his weapon’s license was only valid in the state of Florida. He also must have been aware his license was five months expired when he checked into the Latin Quarter club. I understand the reckless receiver did not intend to commit a crime with his .4 caliber semi-automatic. He was only carrying a weapon in the waistband of his pants to protect himself in self-defense. How silly it sure seems that he needed reassurance in the form of a weapon to enjoy a night out. The circumstances are still questionable as to why he was even at a club with teammates that November night. Burress should be able to lead a normal live outside football but he obviously had reserves about the type of environment he chose to endeavor. Athletes realize risky daily decisions can hurt not only their career but their teammates. As it turns out, Plaxico was the only one injured by his own carless and negligent actions. He deserves time in the cell for putting other civilians in unnecessary and harmful danger. I was satisfied with the jury’s decision to disregard his fame and status as an NFL star and followed the law of the state. Burress is protected under the Second Amendment right to bear arms. But he won’t be able to wiggle himself out of a jail sentence the way he can wiggle the ball out of a defender’s hands for a touchdown.
Parting points: Check out the new Modest Mouse album hitting stores today. It sounds like another great collection of Indie rock.
In my opinion, Plaxico’s possible prison punishment is a product of his own imprecision and stupidity. He carried a loaded and unlicensed gun into a club and accidentally shot himself. Plaxico must have known his weapon’s license was only valid in the state of Florida. He also must have been aware his license was five months expired when he checked into the Latin Quarter club. I understand the reckless receiver did not intend to commit a crime with his .4 caliber semi-automatic. He was only carrying a weapon in the waistband of his pants to protect himself in self-defense. How silly it sure seems that he needed reassurance in the form of a weapon to enjoy a night out. The circumstances are still questionable as to why he was even at a club with teammates that November night. Burress should be able to lead a normal live outside football but he obviously had reserves about the type of environment he chose to endeavor. Athletes realize risky daily decisions can hurt not only their career but their teammates. As it turns out, Plaxico was the only one injured by his own carless and negligent actions. He deserves time in the cell for putting other civilians in unnecessary and harmful danger. I was satisfied with the jury’s decision to disregard his fame and status as an NFL star and followed the law of the state. Burress is protected under the Second Amendment right to bear arms. But he won’t be able to wiggle himself out of a jail sentence the way he can wiggle the ball out of a defender’s hands for a touchdown.
Parting points: Check out the new Modest Mouse album hitting stores today. It sounds like another great collection of Indie rock.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Cabrera Cycle
Melky Cabrera because the first Yankee since Tony Fernandez in 1995 to hit for the cycle. New York’s accomplished outfielder drove in four of the team’s eight runs on his way finishing the feat with a triple in the ninth off Chicago reliever, Scott Linebrink. Melky barely made it safely sliding into third base ahead of the throw. Mariano Rivera closed out the game in the bottom half with a scoreless frame.
Cabrera began his milestone night with a second inning three run rocket into the deck at U.S. Cellular One. The homerun provided New York a three run lead. Melky legged out a double and added a single to help the Bombers avoid a four game sweep against the hometown Chicago Whitesox. The Whitesox scored four runs off Yankees starter, C.C. Sabathia, in the third. Three of the runs came off back to back blasts by Jermaine Dye and Jim Thome. The Bomber bats bested the perfect game hurler, Mark Buehrle, knocking out 15 hits Sunday. Buehrle was chased in the fifth after allowing Cabrera’s single and third hit of the evening. The switch hitter helped his team avert the sweep on a night when Sabathia pitched just well enough to deserve the win. Cabrera has carried this team throughout the season and with Brett Gardner out, has been pressed hard in centerfield. Hitting for the cycle is always fun and Melky’s is the 15th in franchise history. They say the triple is the hardest of the four. Melky’s slow slap skidded slightly over Dye’s head to give the stocky baserunner a chance at history. His aggressiveness paid off in more ways than one. The team won the game and Cabrera completed the challenging cycle.
Parting points: One of my favorite former Mets, Kevin Elster, is celebrating a birthday today.
I guess the Cardinals are thrilled they acquired Matt Holliday. He’s been on fire since joining the team.
Cabrera began his milestone night with a second inning three run rocket into the deck at U.S. Cellular One. The homerun provided New York a three run lead. Melky legged out a double and added a single to help the Bombers avoid a four game sweep against the hometown Chicago Whitesox. The Whitesox scored four runs off Yankees starter, C.C. Sabathia, in the third. Three of the runs came off back to back blasts by Jermaine Dye and Jim Thome. The Bomber bats bested the perfect game hurler, Mark Buehrle, knocking out 15 hits Sunday. Buehrle was chased in the fifth after allowing Cabrera’s single and third hit of the evening. The switch hitter helped his team avert the sweep on a night when Sabathia pitched just well enough to deserve the win. Cabrera has carried this team throughout the season and with Brett Gardner out, has been pressed hard in centerfield. Hitting for the cycle is always fun and Melky’s is the 15th in franchise history. They say the triple is the hardest of the four. Melky’s slow slap skidded slightly over Dye’s head to give the stocky baserunner a chance at history. His aggressiveness paid off in more ways than one. The team won the game and Cabrera completed the challenging cycle.
Parting points: One of my favorite former Mets, Kevin Elster, is celebrating a birthday today.
I guess the Cardinals are thrilled they acquired Matt Holliday. He’s been on fire since joining the team.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Well(s) Wisher
If there is one running back you can bank on, it’s Beanie. Chris “Beanie” Wells inked a five year deal with the Arizona Cardinals yesterday. The former Ohio State running back arrived in Arizona anticipating a starting job. Now he will head to the bank to cash in on a new contract. The slimmed down Beanie expected to be taken seriously after the Cardinals drafted him as their number one pick this April. Wells was the 31st overall selection and yesterday struck an $11.8 million deal with the team enamored with the back. He left college following his junior year to pursue a professional career in the NFL. Saturday, Beanie was handsomely rewarded for his decision.
Beanie probably boasts the most endearing name in the NFL now. Even more engaging is Wells’ athletic attributes and physical prowess as a runner. He was often injured as a Buckeye under Jim Tressel but Beanie was in the running for the Heisman Trophy early last year. In typical Beanie fashion, the star was injured during his first drills with the team in camp. He didn’t quite make it through the practice after colliding with a teammate and rolling his ankle. If you know anything about Ohio State football, you know a stellar running game is warranted. Chris created a colossal, commanding and crippling climate as a college player. The bruising back was quite often bruised himself, but still one of the most feared running explosions. Wells made many standout scoring plays, including his hurdle over an Illinois defender, as Ohio State’s featured back. The hurdle has become somewhat of a signature Beanie move. Arizona fans hope Wells will be able to not only stay on the turf this Fall, but be a touchdown titan for the already offensively-minded Cardinals. The Cardinals released tight end, Alex Shor, to make room for their top draft pick.
The rookie runner will compete with Tim Hightower for the Cardinals’ number one tailback. The lighter weight may mean more playing time for the quicker Wells. But Hightower is no slouch. He scored 10 rushing touchdowns last season and made two key plays in the NFC championship game against Philadelphia. Jason Wright could also figure into the equation behind the quarterback. Even if Wells doesn’t win the position, the pair will make Arizona one of the league’s toughest backfields to defend. The 21 year old also has the ability to break big runs and return kicks. The Cardinals released Edgerrin James this offseason and Wells is the replacement with big shoes to fill immediately. Arizona had one of the worst running games in the NFL during the regular season. Any contributions from Wells’ speedy legs are a boost to Ken Whisenhunt’s defending NFC championship team. Here’s wishing Wells good luck in his first professional season.
Parting points: How many more Saturdays until the college football season?
Album of the day- “Mellow Gold” by Beck
Beanie probably boasts the most endearing name in the NFL now. Even more engaging is Wells’ athletic attributes and physical prowess as a runner. He was often injured as a Buckeye under Jim Tressel but Beanie was in the running for the Heisman Trophy early last year. In typical Beanie fashion, the star was injured during his first drills with the team in camp. He didn’t quite make it through the practice after colliding with a teammate and rolling his ankle. If you know anything about Ohio State football, you know a stellar running game is warranted. Chris created a colossal, commanding and crippling climate as a college player. The bruising back was quite often bruised himself, but still one of the most feared running explosions. Wells made many standout scoring plays, including his hurdle over an Illinois defender, as Ohio State’s featured back. The hurdle has become somewhat of a signature Beanie move. Arizona fans hope Wells will be able to not only stay on the turf this Fall, but be a touchdown titan for the already offensively-minded Cardinals. The Cardinals released tight end, Alex Shor, to make room for their top draft pick.
The rookie runner will compete with Tim Hightower for the Cardinals’ number one tailback. The lighter weight may mean more playing time for the quicker Wells. But Hightower is no slouch. He scored 10 rushing touchdowns last season and made two key plays in the NFC championship game against Philadelphia. Jason Wright could also figure into the equation behind the quarterback. Even if Wells doesn’t win the position, the pair will make Arizona one of the league’s toughest backfields to defend. The 21 year old also has the ability to break big runs and return kicks. The Cardinals released Edgerrin James this offseason and Wells is the replacement with big shoes to fill immediately. Arizona had one of the worst running games in the NFL during the regular season. Any contributions from Wells’ speedy legs are a boost to Ken Whisenhunt’s defending NFC championship team. Here’s wishing Wells good luck in his first professional season.
Parting points: How many more Saturdays until the college football season?
Album of the day- “Mellow Gold” by Beck
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Deadline Deals
There’s nothing like waiting until the last minute to make a decision. I sometimes find those decisions to be the best. Front office executives and personnel around Major League Baseball are hoping their July 31st trade deadline deals turn out wonderfully well. Here are some of the largest splashes from yesterday’s dealing GM’s.
The non-waiver deadline doesn’t mean teams still can’t covet potential players promising a post-season impact. The Boston Red Sox didn’t hesitate to address the pressing need of adding a big bat to Terry Francona’s lineup. Switch-hitting All-Star, Victor Martinez has 67 RBIs, 15 long balls and a .284 average. The former Cleveland Indian should be a producer at Fenway Park down the stretch, and the Sox still have their booming baby Boston farm system intact. Martinez will receive at bats at the expense of some of Boston veteran players, but the lineup will thrive because of the addition. A trio of semi-polished pitchers parted in the Martinez agreement. Right-hander, Justin Masterson, and Single-A prospects, Nick Hagadone and Bryan Price, were shipped to Cleveland in the impactful exchange. The 24 year old Masterson is the only one with major league experience. He has a solid sinker but it is unknown whether Masterson will develop into a top notch starter or reliable reliever. Masterson was brilliant for Boston in the 2008 post-season, setting a club record with nine appearances. Hagadone is a southpaw drafted by the organization in 2007 and Price throws right-handed but missed a year because he had Tommy John surgery.
The lifetime Cleveland Indian is a valuable middle of the order hitter. Theo Epstein made a magnificent move in signing Martinez. Victor’s versatility add fuel to an already fiery team with plenty of heart. He compliments the Boston lineup and will see time as captain, Jason Varitek’s backup at the catcher position or at first base. Martinez will be a steady slugger for the
slumping Sox. Martinez fits well at Fenway because he gets on base often. He is 16th in the league in walks with 51.
Boston also upgraded their defense by acquiring Casey Kotchman from Atlanta. Kotchman hasn’t committed an error in two seasons with the Braves at first base. The Red Sox swapped first baseman with Atlanta, sending Adam LaRoche to the Braves. LaRoche was picked up from the Pittsburgh Pirates just nine days ago.
Even Scott Rolen’s reputable Gold Glove won’t help the Cincinnati Reds. I did not expect the Reds to be buyers at the deadline, but it turns out, they were. The club completed a deal for Rolen before the 4pm deadline. The Toronto Bluejays did end up dealing on Friday, but the trade didn’t involve coveted hurler, Roy Halladay. Toronto will send Rolen to the Reds in exchange for third baseman, Edwin Encarnacion and pitchers, Josh Roenicke and Zach Stewart. Stewart, last year’s draft pick, is a 22 year old prospect and Roenicke is a 27 year old with promise. Both teams seem to be helped by the trade. The Bluejays are deeper in pitching because of this move and Rolen should benefit from a return to the National League. The serviceable right-handed hitter, Rolen, sports a .320 average in 88 games this season. Rolen is a great player and five time All-Star, but it makes little sense for a team nine games out of first place to deal for a 34 year old. Reds’ GM, Walt Jockety, hopes Rolen will be a part of the team for several seasons. In that regard, the future looks a little more promising for Cincy faithful. The position player is a positive role model and leader on the field. St. Louis fans questioned his commitment, but I always liked Rolen. He is one of my favorite players today, and perhaps one of the greatest defensive third baseman in history.
The Reds also traded utility infielder, Jerry Hairston, Jr. to the New York Yankees. Hairston has appeared at six different positions from Cincinnati. His 27 RBIs should give Joe Girardi plenty of flexibility on the field and at the plate. With speedy outfielder, Brett Gardner, out due to injury, this move shores up the Yankees suddenly depleted bench.
The Detroit Tigers now have one of the league’s best pitching staffs. Detroit added Jarrod Washburn to the rotation on Friday. The Tigers have been a first place team since mid-May but needed to make a move to break free of the threatening and trailing Twins and competitive Chicago White Sox in the AL Central. Washburn is 8-6 this year and a free agent at the end of the season. The pronounced and balanced rotation now features playoff ready starters, Justin Verlander, Edwin Jackson and Washburn. Jarrod is a 12 year veteran starter with extensive playoff experience with the Anaheim Angels. The sinker-balling southpaw arrives from the Seattle Mariners. The only deal the Tigers made Friday sent rookie Luke French and Mauricio
Robles, two lefties, to the M’s for Washburn. It is a great deal for the Tigers because Comerica Park is an idea venue for Washburn. He will make hitters club balls to open part of the field.
Chicago takes the cake for being the biggest procrastinator Friday. The White Sox got the pitcher they hoped to pry from San Diego earlier this year. Jake Peavy agreed to be traded to Chicago off the disabled list. Peavy hasn’t pitched since June 8th because of a damaged tendon in his ankle. When Jake takes the mound, he usually delivers a quality start. Chicago’s sizeable investment in Peavy means the ace must be able to endure the summer’s heated pennant race. The Whitesox gave up their top prospect, Aaron Poreda and $48 million, along with three other pitchers in the last minute exchange to snare the 2007 CY Young winner. Peavy turned down a deal to be a Whitesox in May when the Padres agreed to trade him. The 26 year old is 6-6 with a 3.97 ERA in 13 starts. He joins a rotation featuring perfect game
tosser, Mark Buehrle, Gavin Floyd, Jose Contreras and John Danks. GM Kenny William’s Peavy persuasive persistence just might give the team the edge in the post-season. The potential beastly rotation hinges on how quickly Peavy’s ankle heals. It was a gamble because Jake might not be able to help the Whitesox in 2009. But he is signed through 2012 and is a proven winner.
Parting points: Happy August… It’s National Catfish Month!
Song of the day” “When You Were Young”- The Killers
The non-waiver deadline doesn’t mean teams still can’t covet potential players promising a post-season impact. The Boston Red Sox didn’t hesitate to address the pressing need of adding a big bat to Terry Francona’s lineup. Switch-hitting All-Star, Victor Martinez has 67 RBIs, 15 long balls and a .284 average. The former Cleveland Indian should be a producer at Fenway Park down the stretch, and the Sox still have their booming baby Boston farm system intact. Martinez will receive at bats at the expense of some of Boston veteran players, but the lineup will thrive because of the addition. A trio of semi-polished pitchers parted in the Martinez agreement. Right-hander, Justin Masterson, and Single-A prospects, Nick Hagadone and Bryan Price, were shipped to Cleveland in the impactful exchange. The 24 year old Masterson is the only one with major league experience. He has a solid sinker but it is unknown whether Masterson will develop into a top notch starter or reliable reliever. Masterson was brilliant for Boston in the 2008 post-season, setting a club record with nine appearances. Hagadone is a southpaw drafted by the organization in 2007 and Price throws right-handed but missed a year because he had Tommy John surgery.
The lifetime Cleveland Indian is a valuable middle of the order hitter. Theo Epstein made a magnificent move in signing Martinez. Victor’s versatility add fuel to an already fiery team with plenty of heart. He compliments the Boston lineup and will see time as captain, Jason Varitek’s backup at the catcher position or at first base. Martinez will be a steady slugger for the
slumping Sox. Martinez fits well at Fenway because he gets on base often. He is 16th in the league in walks with 51.
Boston also upgraded their defense by acquiring Casey Kotchman from Atlanta. Kotchman hasn’t committed an error in two seasons with the Braves at first base. The Red Sox swapped first baseman with Atlanta, sending Adam LaRoche to the Braves. LaRoche was picked up from the Pittsburgh Pirates just nine days ago.
Even Scott Rolen’s reputable Gold Glove won’t help the Cincinnati Reds. I did not expect the Reds to be buyers at the deadline, but it turns out, they were. The club completed a deal for Rolen before the 4pm deadline. The Toronto Bluejays did end up dealing on Friday, but the trade didn’t involve coveted hurler, Roy Halladay. Toronto will send Rolen to the Reds in exchange for third baseman, Edwin Encarnacion and pitchers, Josh Roenicke and Zach Stewart. Stewart, last year’s draft pick, is a 22 year old prospect and Roenicke is a 27 year old with promise. Both teams seem to be helped by the trade. The Bluejays are deeper in pitching because of this move and Rolen should benefit from a return to the National League. The serviceable right-handed hitter, Rolen, sports a .320 average in 88 games this season. Rolen is a great player and five time All-Star, but it makes little sense for a team nine games out of first place to deal for a 34 year old. Reds’ GM, Walt Jockety, hopes Rolen will be a part of the team for several seasons. In that regard, the future looks a little more promising for Cincy faithful. The position player is a positive role model and leader on the field. St. Louis fans questioned his commitment, but I always liked Rolen. He is one of my favorite players today, and perhaps one of the greatest defensive third baseman in history.
The Reds also traded utility infielder, Jerry Hairston, Jr. to the New York Yankees. Hairston has appeared at six different positions from Cincinnati. His 27 RBIs should give Joe Girardi plenty of flexibility on the field and at the plate. With speedy outfielder, Brett Gardner, out due to injury, this move shores up the Yankees suddenly depleted bench.
The Detroit Tigers now have one of the league’s best pitching staffs. Detroit added Jarrod Washburn to the rotation on Friday. The Tigers have been a first place team since mid-May but needed to make a move to break free of the threatening and trailing Twins and competitive Chicago White Sox in the AL Central. Washburn is 8-6 this year and a free agent at the end of the season. The pronounced and balanced rotation now features playoff ready starters, Justin Verlander, Edwin Jackson and Washburn. Jarrod is a 12 year veteran starter with extensive playoff experience with the Anaheim Angels. The sinker-balling southpaw arrives from the Seattle Mariners. The only deal the Tigers made Friday sent rookie Luke French and Mauricio
Robles, two lefties, to the M’s for Washburn. It is a great deal for the Tigers because Comerica Park is an idea venue for Washburn. He will make hitters club balls to open part of the field.
Chicago takes the cake for being the biggest procrastinator Friday. The White Sox got the pitcher they hoped to pry from San Diego earlier this year. Jake Peavy agreed to be traded to Chicago off the disabled list. Peavy hasn’t pitched since June 8th because of a damaged tendon in his ankle. When Jake takes the mound, he usually delivers a quality start. Chicago’s sizeable investment in Peavy means the ace must be able to endure the summer’s heated pennant race. The Whitesox gave up their top prospect, Aaron Poreda and $48 million, along with three other pitchers in the last minute exchange to snare the 2007 CY Young winner. Peavy turned down a deal to be a Whitesox in May when the Padres agreed to trade him. The 26 year old is 6-6 with a 3.97 ERA in 13 starts. He joins a rotation featuring perfect game
tosser, Mark Buehrle, Gavin Floyd, Jose Contreras and John Danks. GM Kenny William’s Peavy persuasive persistence just might give the team the edge in the post-season. The potential beastly rotation hinges on how quickly Peavy’s ankle heals. It was a gamble because Jake might not be able to help the Whitesox in 2009. But he is signed through 2012 and is a proven winner.
Parting points: Happy August… It’s National Catfish Month!
Song of the day” “When You Were Young”- The Killers
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