Yankees Are Finalists For Joel Hanrahan

The New York Yankees are said to be one of the finalists for free agent relief pitcher and Tommy John victim Joel Hanrahan according to Jon Heyman. A couple weeks back Hanrahan threw a showcase for teams and was reportedly very impressive just twelve months removed from the surgery. The teams that are speculated to be finalists for Hanrahan include the Yankees, Tigers, Rangers, Red Sox, and Rockies.

At his showcase Hanrahan was hitting 92 and 93 MPH on the radar gun, which is down from his average of 95 MPH but not enough to be discouraged this far removed from Tommy John surgery, and showed up in excellent shape physically.

The Yankees bullpen, assuming Hanrahan is healthy and available right away, would be pretty stacked with the addition of Hanrahan with Adam Warren, David Robertson, Shawn Kelley, and Dellin Betances. Hanrahan is expected to sign a major league deal and likely a one year deal to showcase his stuff and his health before going back out on the market for 2015.

Sign him up Cashman.

Michael Pineda Appeals To Major League Baseball

David Phelps will be taking the mound in place of Michael Pineda tonight against the Seattle Mariners. Pineda tried to appeal his suspension to Major League Baseball and maybe get his suspension thrown out or lowered but to no avail. At least he tried though, right?

Preview: New York Yankees vs. Seattle Mariners 4/30

UPDATE: This game has been rained out and will be made up on June 2nd. No double header tomorrow.

The New York Yankees host the Seattle Mariners tonight in the second game of a three game set this week at Yankee Stadium. The Yankees will send David Phelps to the mound to fill in for the suspended, and now injured, Michael Pineda in "Welcome Back Cano" episode II. The Mariners will counter with Roenis Elias, don't ask me who he or half of his teammates are because I have absolutely no idea. The game will be played at 7:05 pm ET and can be seen on the YES Network, MLB TV, and can be heard on the radio with WFAN.

Phelps will be making his first start of the season and 24th start of his career, all for the Yankees of course. Phelps has a career 7-6 win/loss record with a 4.39 ERA to go with it. I can't see how Phelps is very stretched out tonight so expect to see the bullpen early and often in this game.

Elias has made five April starts and pitched well without much run support. The Mariners have score two runs or less just two times and been shut out twice with Elias on the mound this season which is great news for the Yankees.

Be sure to get your tickets to the game through the NY Yankees Ticket Exchange right here on the site.

Go Yankees!!

MLB To Address Use Of Pine Tar For Pitchers

Major League Baseball and commissioner Bud Selig know that there is a problem, they know that it's running rampant around the league, and they know that everyone knows it. Sound familiar? I'm not talking about steroids here this time, I'm talking about the use of pine tar. We all know about Michael Pineda dipping his palm in a can of pine tar three weeks ago against the Red Sox and we all know about the pine tar hickey that got him suspended for 10 games, the longest foreign substance suspension in the history of the game for pitchers, but there may be change on the horizon.

Selig told the Associated Press last week that they would be willing to look at allowing, or continuing to disallow obviously, the use of pine tar for pitchers in the league. Most pitchers, former and current, have admitted to using pine tar for getting a better grip on cold night and most batters admit to have no problem with it. You cannot cut the ball with pine tar, you cannot make it flutter, you can't throw it faster or necessarily better, you just grip the ball better. Batters in the league can use pine tar and batting gloves to grip the bat so I don't personally see a problem with it but maybe it's me. 

Here are the quotes from commissioner Selig to the AP:

"There's a million ways to [use it discreetly]," Selig said. "This one, I can understand why [MLB discipline czar] Joe Torre reacted how he did [with a lengthy suspension]. It was obvious."

"When the year is over, we ought to look at all this."

Tanaka Says Japanese Pitchers Don't Use Pine Tar

Good possibility there is NOT pine tar under the bill of his cap there.

Michael Pineda was supposed to start for the New York Yankees today but is currently serving a 10 game suspension for using pine tar while pitching against the Red Sox for the second time this season. Obviously the talk all over ESPN and the sports media world will be about Pineda and pine tar specifically and unfortunately we will be no different here. Yankees pitcher Masahiro Tanaka was asked by reporters from NJ.com what he thought about pitchers using foreign substances and pine tar and informed us that Japanese pitchers do not use pine tar while pitching, or any foreign substance.

"I obviously don't know every single pitcher," Tanaka said via his translator, Shingo Horie, on Friday. "But what I know is that most of the pitchers don't do anything when they go to the mound."

"And, plus, the thing is, Japanese (baseballs), they're smaller, you get a better grip on those balls than (the ones) out here," Tanaka said. "And the climate in Japan is moist. There's a lot of moisture in the air. So you don't need that."

And now you know, and knowing is half the battle. 

Can't Predict Baseball: Kansas City Protests NYY

On this day in 1999 a group of Kansas City Royals fans, which were frustrated with the economic disparity in Major League Baseball, threw fake dollar bills onto the field in a game against the Yankees. Kansas City fans even turned away from the field each time the Yankees came to bat in the game. They didn't have to do it for long as they all walked out of the game after the fifth inning.

Quick Hit: Ashamed Of Being A Yankee Fan Today

I love this sport of baseball and I love my New York Yankees but last night really upset me and made me ashamed of being a fan when the crowd of 115 people (obviously being sarcastic here but not by much) boo'd Robinson Cano in his first at bat. Where in the hell do Yankee fans get off boo'ing Cano when the other 16 games this season they cheered for Jacoby Ellsbury?

We're doing just fine. We lost one player in his prime to a greedy owner who was willing to way overpay for way too many years and have stolen about 100 of those similar type players this decade alone. Chill Yankees fans, we're gonna be just fine. We got 99 problems but being in fourth place with a AAA lineup ain't one, that's Seattle's problem.

You had your one night, you boo'd the man, it's time to officially move on and give him the hand he deserved.

Michael Pineda Out Three To Four Weeks w/ Injury

Michael Pineda was sent for an MRI on his strained lat muscle and the news is not good for the Yankees. Pineda will be out at least three to four weeks after a strain was found in the teres mjaor muscle in his back, a Grade I strain. This is the same injury that has kept Clayton Kershaw out all month so this is nothing to mess around with. With Michael Pineda and his shoulder history the last couple of seasons I could see the Yankees being a little extra cautious with him on this one.

David Phelps, come on down!

Trenton Thunder Game Recap 4/29

Banuelos, Early Offense Pace 4-2 Thunder Win

MANCHESTER, NH - The Trenton Thunder scored three times in the first four innings and never looked back en route to a 4-2 win Tuesday night over the New Hampshire Fisher Cats.

Trenton starting pitcher was Manny Banuelos, who was making his first appearance with the Thunder since 2011, tossed three shutout innings to begin the ballgame. The lefty had made five starts with High-A Tampa before being transferred to Trenton prior to Tuesday's ballgame. Over 3.0 IP, he allowed two hits, no walks and struck out three-including all three batters he faced in the 1st inning.

The Thunder used a three-hit game from Kyle Roller to pace the offense, and Yeral Sanchez provided a solo homer in the second inning for his first longball of the year.

The scheduled starting pitcher, RHP Joel De La Cruz, entered in the 4th inning in relief of Banuelos and earned the victory. De La Cruz went 4.2 innings while allowing two runs (2 ER) for his third win of the season.

Pat Venditte recorded the final out of the 8th inning before turning it over to Branden Pinder for his second save of the season with a scoreless 9th inning.

Trenton has now won three consecutive ballgames and moves a season-best seven games above .500 at 16-9. The Portland Sea Dogs won as well Tuesday so the Thunder keep pace in the East Division and remains 0.5 games out of first place.

The Thunder continue their four-game series with New Hampshire Wednesday in the third game of the series. First pitch is scheduled for 5:35 p.m. with the Trenton Thunder pre-game show beginning at 5:20 p.m. on 91.3 FM WTSR or online at www.trentonthunder.com.

Being posted with permission from the Trenton Thunder. The original article can be seen HERE. 

Charleston Riverdogs Game Recap 4/29

Lail Hurls Seven Scoreless Against Augusta

Brady Lail takes victory for Charleston after an efficient seven-inning performance

CHARLESTON, SC - A career-high seven shutout innings on 70 pitches from Brady Lail guided the Charleston RiverDogs to an 8-4 victory against the Augusta GreenJackets on Tuesday night in front of 2,510 fans at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park in South Atlantic League action.

The RiverDogs are now 12-12 and the GreenJackets drop to 12-13. Charleston leads this three-game series 1-0.

Lail retired the first eight batters he faced until a Cristian Paulino triple in the third inning. After that hit, Lail set down the next six batters in a row as his offense built a big lead behind him. His seven shutout innings marked the longest outing of his career. Lail also held Augusta to four hits and struck out three while earning he win.

Charleston scored three runs in the bottom of the first inning to take the lead for good. Aaron Judge made it to first base on a double play before Mike Ford walked and Michael O'Neill reached on an error. Miguel Andujar cleared the bases with a double to left field that put the RiverDogs ahead 3-0.

More runs came in for Charleston in the fourth, sixth, and seventh innings. Andujar and Gosuke Katoh came in during the fourth inning for a 5-0 advantage. In the sixth, John Murphy scored from second base after an error on a pickoff to give Charleston a 6-0 lead. Judge hit his second career home run and pushed the RiverDogs lead to 7-0 in the seventh.

The GreenJackets answered with four runs in the eighth inning against the RiverDogs bullpen. Paulino, Ryder Jones, and Tyler Horan each drove in runs with base hits that cut the gap to 7-4. Charleston responded with a run of its own when Tyler Wade singled in Andujar and provided the RiverDogs with their 8-4 margin of victory.

Lail's record is 3-1 as he becomes the first RiverDogs pitcher to claim his third victory this season. Chase Johnson suffered the loss for Augusta, dropping to 1-2 with his second loss against Charleston in 2014.

BALLPARK FUN: Ten-year old Kayla Helferich of Summerville was "Batgirl" on Super Hero Night as she trained under Charlie T. RiverDog, Charleston's lovable "Caped Canine." The highlight of the night was how Batgirl and Charlie apprehended The Joker after he kidnapped Chelsea. Couples enjoyed another Harris Teeter 2-for-$20 Date Night Tuesday with two tickets, two tacos, two fountain drinks, and one nacho tray for only $20.

COMING UP: Game two of this three-game series and seven-game homestand is a Wednesday morning contest at 11:05 am. Wednesday's game will be a "southpaw showdown" as Charleston LHP Caleb Smith (2-1, 0.89 ERA) squares off against LHP Luis Ysla (2-0, 3.05 ERA). The early first pitch time allows children and schools throughout the Lowcountry to visit The Joe on Education Day. Seniors Eat Free as all senior citizens (age 65 & older) that arrive at the game before 11 am will receive a voucher for a free hot dog, chips, and a fountain drink, courtesy of Health South. Tickets may be purchased at the Riley Park Box Office, (843) 577-DOGS (3647) or on-line atwww.riverdogs.com. If fans cannot make it to the ballpark, they are encouraged to tune in to all the action this year both home and away worldwide on www.riverdogs.com and locally on 1250 WTMA, the new radio home for RiverDogs baseball.

Box Score: http://atmilb.com/1mYVvAt

Being posted with permission from the Charleston Riverdogs. The original post can be seen HERE. 

This Day In New York Yankees History 4/30

On this day in 1903 the New York Highlanders, which 10 years later would be renamed the New York Yankees, would play the first game ever played at Hilltop Park. The Highlanders would beat the Washington Senators 6-2. The Highlanders would finish in fourth place but would have a 41-26 home record in their first season which is very impressive.

On this day in 1939 Lou Gehrig's iron man streak comes to an end at Yankee Stadium. Gehrig's final game would be an 0-4 against the Washington Senators and the streak would come to an end at 2,130 consecutive games played. Gehrig finishes with a career .340 batting average and 490 home runs in 17 seasons, all with the Yankees.

On this day in 1988 Dave Winfield ties the major league RBI record for April with 29 RBI's. Winfield was on base for every single game that April and tied the Dodgers Ron Cey in 1977 and Dale Murphy for the Braves in 1985.

On this day in 1989 the Toronto Blue Jays traded outfielder Jesse Barfield to the Yankees for pitcher Al Leiter. Barfield led the American League with 40 home runs in 1986 but would only bat .231 with 62 home runs in four seasons in the Bronx. Leiter would finish 26-24 in seven years in Toronto.

On this day in 2010 Mariano Rivera ties Eric Gagne's major league mark when he saved his 51st straight game at home in as row in a 6-4 Yankees win over Chicago.Rivera also struck out two batters to move ahead of Roger Clemens for 10th place on the Yankees all time list with 1,015 K's.

CC falls apart in 6-3 loss to Mariners

CC Sabathia gave up 4 earned runs in 5 innings of work and Dellin Betances followed him by surrendering another two tonight as the Yankees frustratingly lost this series' opener to the Mariners, 6-3. Through 4 frames in this one, CC was absolutely dealing, giving up no runs and just three hits, but then in the top of the fifth he had his big inning, as the M's circled the bases 4 times on 5 hits to turn the game's tides. 

Anyway, the Yanks offense, which, come to realize, hasn't really done anything for about a week now, struggled mightily this evening against Seattle Starter Chris Young, scoring just 1 earned run in 5.2 at-bats when Mark Teixeira hit his second solo home run in as many games in the bottom of the second. Besides that, the Bombers also pushed across individual runs in the third and ninth, when Brian Roberts scored from third on a throwing error and Brett Gardner singled in Ichiro.

Besides those guys, as you all already know, Robinson Cano also made some news in this contest, going 1-for-5 with an RBI in his first game in the Bronx since signing with the Mariners this offseason.

Jacoby Ellsbury & Michael Pineda Are Injured, Great

Before we get down to business all I can think about is the movie Friday with Chris Tucker and Ice Cube and the comment that Tucker's character makes about how dumb you have to be to get fired on your day off. Michael Pineda is currently serving a suspension for the use of an illegal substance, pine tar specifically, and is in jeopardy of being added to the disabled list... what? Jacoby Ellsbury is also nursing a nagging injury that the Yankees are surely going to overreact with.

Ellsbury is out of the lineup tonight with a sore hand that has been bothering him for a few days now. Tests were done on the hand and everything came back clean and negative which is encouraging but the Yankees are sitting Ellsbury tonight. Pineda was throwing a simulated game down in Tampa and pulled himself after just one inning with a tight lat muscle. Pineda will go for an MRI on the lat and his next start next Monday is now obviously in jeopardy.

My question is, and I have not found this so maybe one of the readers can help me here, can we back date a DL trip while the player is suspended? I doubt it but I don't know that for sure.

Game Thread: Yankees vs. Cano 4/29

The New York Yankees and the Seattle Mariners will play the first of a three game set tonight at Yankee Stadium in a game that marks the return of long time Yankee second basemen Robinson Cano to the Bronx. This will be the first time that Cano comes back to Yankee Stadium since leaving this winter for 10 years, $240 million, an even more offensively anemic team than he was on in 2013, and a whole lot of rain. The pitching matchup is CC Sabathia for the Yankees and Chris Young for the Mariners and the game will be played at 7:05 pm ET. The game can be seen on the YES Network, MLB Network, MLB TV, and can be heard on the radio with WFAN.

There should be plenty to talk about tonight on Twitter so give us a follow by following @GreedyStripes as we agree with the Cano supporters and those who appreciate what he has done and bash the people who boo Cano. We're always up for a healthy Yankee discussion so give us a follow and if that's not your thing then leave us a comment in the comments section of this post and we will answer back.

Enjoy the game Yankees family and enjoy the rest of your evening.

Think Robinson Cano Is Regretting Seattle Yet?... Meme

So who thinks that Robinson Cano is regretting signing with the Seattle Mariners yet? Better yet, who thinks Curtis Granderson regrets signing with the New York Mets yet? Especially when the Yankees are enjoying first place in the American League East, the Mariners offense might be a little better than the 2013 Yankees offense, and the Mets suck. You made your beds now line it with $100 bills and lay in it gentlemen.

Preview: New York Yankees vs. Seattle Cano's 4/29

The New York Yankees will host the Seattle Mariners tonight in the first of a three game set in the Bronx. This obviously marks the first time that Robinson Cano has made his way back to the Bronx and to Yankee Stadium since teaming up with Jay Z and shocking the baseball world by signing a 10 year and $240 million contract with the Mariners over the winter. The Yankees will send CC Sabathia to the mound to face off with the M's Chris Young among all the boo birds in the Bronx. The game will be played at 7:05 and can be seen on the YES Network, MLB Network, on your computer with MLB TV, and can be heard on the radio with WFAN.

Sabathia has won two straight starts and seems to be back to more of the CC Sabathia of old and less of the inconsistent 2013 version. To be honest CC was helped out a lot by the Yankees offense that scores 24 runs in his last two starts against the Tampa Bay Rays and the Boston Red Sox but CC did more than his fair share giving up only one earned run in seven innings against Tampa and only gave up two runs in six innings against the Red Sox. For the Yankees sake let's hope we will see more of the same from Sabathia tonight.

Young is coming off a start in which he gave up three runs on four hits with five walks in a seven inning no decision against the Houston Astros last time out. Young did not pitch in the Major Leagues last season because of shoulder problems but is still a intimidating force standing at 6'10" on the mound. Let's hope the Yankees can jump on his rust and score early and often to spoil Cano's return to the Bronx.

Go Yankees!!

Cano I Will Applaud Tonight, Jay Z Not So Much...

Okay so a couple of hours ago I praised, appreciated, and basically thanked Robinson Cano for his tenure in the Bronx as a Yankee but that doesn't mean I need to do the same for Jay Z. Just listen to the song, it tells my thoughts on the matter perfectly.

Robinson Cano: The Yankees Highlights Tribute

Yes I wen't there, sorry not sorry. I am in the part of the Yankees camp that actually appreciates everything that Robinson Cano did for the Yankees. I also understand that baseball is a business and Cano left. We steal other teams free agents all the time, hard to be mad when the shoe is on the other foot. Don't hate, let's appreciate Cano and everything he did in a Yankee uniform. 

Can't Predict Baseball: Perfect Game Star Turns Yankee

On this day in 1924 future New York Yankees starter Bump Hadley throws a perfect game against the Hadley-Lynn team of Massachusetts. The Mercersburg Academy standout strikes out 26 of the 27 batters he faced. Career pitching line with the Yankees you ask? 49-31 record, 4.28 ERA, 1.531 WHIP, and a 5.3 WAR in five seasons.

On this day in 1933 Washington Senators catcher Luke Sewell tagged out two New York Yankees runners trying to score on the same play. Lou Gehrig and Dixie Walker are the victims of this unusual play at home plate.

You really can't predict baseball.

Injury Update For Brett Gardner & Yangervis Solarte

The New York Yankees will host the Seattle Mariners tonight and will need all hands on deck and got some good news yesterday on both Brett Gardner and Yangervis Solarte. Both players were held out of Sunday's finale against the Angels simply to give each two days of rest for their nagging injuries and both are expected to be back in the lineup tonight in the Bronx.

Gardner fouled a ball off his foot and had an X-ray that came back negative. Gardner was very optimistic about the foot and said it felt better Sunday than he expected it to. It is likely that Gardner could have played Sunday if need be but the Yankees seem to be cautious, which is never a bad thing.

Solarte was held out of the game due to a sore shoulder after a diving play over the weekend. Solarte had tests on the shoulder and everything came back clean and negative. Another cautious move by Girardi it looks like. Solarte is expected to be in the lineup or available off the bench tonight.

Now that we are closer to 100% let's beat those Seattle Cano's.

Quick Hit: I'm Selfish & I Hate The 10 Day Roster Rule

I know this is going to sound somewhat bitter, and I am not bitter whether you believe that or not, but I truly hate the rule that states a player has to wait 10 days after being sent down to the minor leagues before being called back up. The New York Yankees sent down Scott Sizemore on Easter Sunday, April 20, and would not be eligible to come back to the major until at least tomorrow. Why this is significant is because it would be nice to call up Sizemore and let him start at second base tonight.

It would be nice to have #24 back in pinstripes playing at second base tonight and #22 in center field, both of Cano's old uniform numbers, while Robinson Cano comes back to the Bronx for the first time since darting for Seattle.

Trenton Thunder Game Recap 4/28

9th Inning Triple is Game-Winner for Thunder

MANCHESTER, NH - Taylor Dugas laced a triple up the right-centerfield gap in the top of the 9th to score Yeral Sanchez from first base in the Trenton Thunder's 2-1 series-opening win against the New Hampshire Fisher Cats.

The Thunder and Fisher Cats traded scoreless innings until the top of the 7th inning when Yeral Sanchez singled with one out off newly-inserted reliever Richard Bleier. Sanchez advanced to second base on a wild pitch and then moved to third base with two outs when Dugas grounded to second base. The next batter was Ali Castillo who struck out, but the pitch got away from New Hampshire catcher A.J. Jimenez for a wild pitch and allowed Sanchez to score for a 1-0 lead.

After the Fisher Cats tied it on an unearned run in the bottom of the 8th inning, Trenton called upon Dugas to provide the game-winning hit. With one out and the bases empty, Sanchez ripped a single at the first baseman Mike McDade, who knocked down the baseball but couldn't make the play to allow Sanchez to reach with an infield single. That set the table for Dugas' winning hit which moved the Thunder to a season-best six games over .500.

Thunder starting pitcher Zach Nuding got the no-decision, despite throwing 5.2 shutout innings with only four hits surrendered. He turned the ball over to reliever Taylor Garrison who didn't allow a hit in 3.0 IP and allowed just one unearned run in his first Double-A victory.

Cole Kimball entered in relief of Garrison with two outs in the ninth innings and after issuing a walk, was able to induce a game-ending fielder's choice to end the ballgame and secure his first save of the season.

Trenton continues their four-game series with New Hampshire Tuesday in the second game of the series. First pitch is scheduled for 6:35 p.m. with the Trenton Thunder pre-game show beginning at 6:20 p.m. on 91.3 FM WTSR or online at www.trentonthunder.com.

Being posted with permission from the Trenton Thunder. The original post can be seen HERE. 

This Day In New York Yankees History 4/29

On this day in 1939 Lou Gehrig came up to plate at Yankee Stadium in the fourth inning and laced a single off of Washington Senators pitcher Ken Chase for his 2,721st and last hit of his Major League career. Gehrig would finish with the Yankees franchise record for most in history, recently passed by Derek Jeter. The Iron Horse and the Yankee captain's record would stand for 70 seasons until another 35 year old captain passes him in 2009.

On this day in 2006 the Yankees rout the Toronto Blue Jays 17-4 to become the sixth American League team to score in all eight innings that the team came to bat. The only other time a New York Yankees team scored in every inning of a full game was in July of 1939 when they beat the Browns 14-1 in Yankee Stadium.

Yankees Interested In FA Daniel Carbonell

The New York Yankees are said to be interested in the latest Cuban defector Daniel Carbonell after establishing residency in Mexico and officially becoming a free agent. Carbonell is 6'3" and 23 years old and is now searching for a spot with a major league team. Carbonell put up a .287/.359/.398 in his career in Cuba and has shown an ability to hit for power, to get on base, to run the bases and showcase his speed while on the base paths, and a ton of athleticism.

Carbonell is likely to be the last international free agent of his kind due to Major League Baseball tinkering with the international spending limits and inching towards an amateur draft. Currently if a player has played three years or more professionally and is at least 23 years old the player does not count against the international spending cap. The new rules which will go into effect in July for the 2014-2015 season makes players have five seasons of professional ball under his belt before being ineligible to count against the cap.

The Yankees should go ahead and snatch this guy up, why the hell not right?

Kyle Roller Named EL Player of the Week

Thunder first baseman Kyle Roller has been selected as the Eastern League Player of the Week for the period of April 21st-April 27th.

The 26-year old hit .526 (10-for-19) with two doubles, four home runs, eight RBI, six runs scored, four walks and a 1.263 slugging percentage in five games for the Thunder last week. The Rockingham, North Carolina native, reached base multiple times in all five games he played in last week and had multiple hits in four of those games, including going 2-for-2 with a pair of homers, three RBI, three runs scored and two walks in Trenton's 14-10 win at Portland on Friday night.

In the three-game series over the weekend in Portland, Roller was 6-for-11 (.545 AVG), with four walks, a hit-by-pitch (.688 OBP), five RBI, four runs and a pair of homers.

The 6'1", 250 lb. slugger led all Eastern League players in batting average (.526), on-base percentage (.625), slugging percentage (1.263), OPS (1.888) and total bases (24) last week while also tying for first in extra-base hits (6) and home runs (4).

Roller, who is batting .400 in 12 games for the Thunder this season and currently leads the Eastern League with seven home runs, earns his second career E.L. Player of the Week Award after being given the award a year ago for the week ending April 22, 2013.

He was originally selected by the New York Yankees in the eighth round of the 2010 draft after hitting .324 with 17 doubles, 12 homers, 54 runs scored and 48 RBI during his senior season at East Carolina University.

Tyler Wilson, a RHP for the Bowie Baysox, was selected as the Eastern League Pitcher of the Week for the period.

Roller is the second Trenton Thunder player to win an E.L. weekly award in 2014, with RHP Bryan Mitchell taking home the Pitcher of the Week last week for the period ending April 21.

Being posted with permission from the Trenton Thunder. The original article can be seen HERE. 

Charleston's Caleb Smith Named SAL Pitcher of the Week

Becomes First RiverDog in 2014 to Take Home League's Pitcher of the Week Award

CHARLESTON, SC - Charleston RiverDogs pitcher Caleb Smith received the South Atlantic League Pitcher of the Week Award on Monday for games played April 21-27. Smith made one start on April 24 at the Delmarva Shorebirds and struck out a career-high 13 batters over six shutout innings en route to a victory.

The 13 batters Smith fanned are the most by a RiverDog since the ballclub became a Yankees affiliate in 2005. The lefty allowed only three hits and walked one batter without allowing a run in his best outing since being drafted last June by the Yankees. The six innings is also the most Smith has pitched as a professional.

A native of Houston, Texas, the 22-year-old pitcher was drafted out of Sam Houston State University in the 14th round of the 2013 MLB Amateur draft by the New York Yankees. A 6'2", 175 lb. left-handed pitcher, Smith is now 2-1 with a sparkling 0.89 ERA in four starts as a RiverDog.

The RiverDogs are home starting at 7:05pm on Tuesday, April 29, at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park for a seven game home stand against the Augusta GreenJackets and Delmarva Shorebirds. For tickets and more information visit www.riverdogs.com, call 843-723-7241, or stop by the Riley Park box office.

Being posted with permission from the Charleston Riverdogs. The original article can be seen HERE. 

New York Yankees Off Day Music Recommendation

I thought it was interesting that this season Major League Baseball created a rule that directly impacted a players walk up music. MLB announced that a player would only be allowed 15 seconds of walk up music, who would have thought this would even be a pressing issue. Oh well, I decided to take advantage of the off day and our music recommendations by posting our lead off hitters walk up music since this is our first of hopefully many walk up music posts for off days. Jacoby Ellbury walks up to N****'s in Paris by Jay Z and Kanye West so that is what is above. This is obviously not safe for work or children so listen with discretion.

Off Day Baseball Movie Recommendation

It's time for that 2:00 feeling again and it's time to watch a full baseball movie classic without leaving the site. Today we watch the 1996 television classic Soul of the Game. This movie covers baseball in the Negro Leagues and has Jackie Robinson, Josh Gibson, Satchel Paige, and Roy Campanella as the main characters. It really is a great and underrated baseball movie so enjoy it and enjoy the rest of your off day Yankees family.

A Look At The Yankees Leaders Through A Month

The Yankees are off today so no better time to look at the Yankees leaders in stats through almost a month of baseball. Jacoby Ellsbury and Carlos Beltran are still plastered all over the leader board while Masahiro Tanaka is living up to all the hype. Without further delay let's get to the stats:



Games Played:

25 games for Jacoby Ellsbury making him the only player to get into every single Yankees game this season. 

At Bats:

93 at bats for Jacoby Ellsbury and Alfonso Soriano

Runs Scored:

Carlos Beltran has 14 to lead the team.

Hits:

Jacoby Ellsbury  leads the way with 29 hits 

Doubles:

Carlos Beltran leads the team with nine doubles

Home Runs:

Carlos Beltran has five home runs to lead the Bronx Bombers

RBI's:

Carlos Beltran and Yangervis Solarte each have lucky number 13 in  RBI's

AVG:

Ichiro Suzuki leads the team with a .333 batting average, which is encouraging, but the Yankee regular leading the way in average is Jacoby Ellsbury with a .312 average. 

Wins:

Masahiro Tanaka and CC Sabathia both have three wins a piece to lead the pitching staff. 

Losses:

CC Sabathia, Michael Pineda, Hiroki Kuroda, and recently injured Ivan Nova all have two losses for the Yanks. 

ERA:

Not counting Matt Daley and Cesar Cabral's 27.00 ERA's or Dean Anna's 18.00 ERA, or Bruce Billings 9.00 ERA, or injured Ivan Nova's 8.97 ERA brings us to the man that replaced Nova in Vidal Nuno's 6.59 ERA. The lowest Yankee ERA is David Robertson's 0.00 ERA. Dellin Betances has a 0.77 ERA and the lowest Yankee starters ERA is Michael Pineda's 1.83 ERA. 

K's:

Masahrio Tanaka has a staggering 46 K's to start his major league career

Can't Predict Baseball: Scranton Gets No Hit

Over the weekend the Scranton Wilkes Barre RailRiders, the Triple-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, got no hit by the Durham Bulls. The Bulls are a Tampa Bay Rays affiliate and Mike Montgomery, no relation to the Yankees Mark Montgomery that I am aware of, was on the mound with Rays GM Andrew Friedman was watching from the stands. Looks like we have a new Yankee killer on the way.

I just thought it was interesting because 10 months earlier Montgomery had a no hitter going only to give way to the bullpen and lost his shot at history. Not only did the bullpen lose the no hitter but they also lost a five run lead and the game. This time Montgomery pitched 8.1 IP of no hit ball and had to watch as the Bulls bullpen had to close out the no hit bid again.

This time Brad Boxberger did the job having Antoan Richardson ground out and striking out Jose Pirela in a 5-0 Bulls victory. You can't predict baseball.

Quick Hit: Robby Cano, Don't Ya Know?

Robinson Cano comes back to the Bronx for the first time since leaving the New York Yankees via free agency to the Seattle Mariners for 10 years and $240 million. I am sure this is all anyone will be talking about for the next four days and if you can't beat them join them. Over/under Cano breaking out of his power outage and early season slump and hitting three home runs this series against the Yankees? I'm going over, way over. What say you?

Charleston Riverdogs Game Recap 4/27

RiverDogs Blanked to End Road Trip

Delmarva completes suspended game with game-winning home run before taking series finale

SALISBURY, MD - After losing the resumption of a suspended game, the Charleston RiverDogs lost their road trip finale 5-0 to the Delmarva Shorebirds on Sunday at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in South Atlantic League action. Delmarva earned a 5-3 walk-off win in eight innings to complete a suspended game from Saturday's doubleheader before winning the finale.

Charleston has an 11-12 record this season as Delmarva improves to 12-11. The RiverDogs finished 3-4 in a seven-game road trip that included a series victory at Lakewood.

Sunday's action began with extra innings and a quick finish to a game that started on Saturday before being suspended due to weather. After the RiverDogs were scoreless in the top of the eighth, Delmarva extended the inning with Drew Dosch's two-out single followed by a walk-off home run from Conor Bierfeldt. Charleston pitchers had combined to retire 15 straight Shorebirds until the late pair of hits led to a 5-3 Delmarva victory.

Dylan Rheault was the winner of the contest. Rheault is a perfect 5-0 with Delmarva following a scoreless eighth inning. Stefan Lopez is now 1-1 after being charged with the loss for Charleston.

Delmarva made big plays in each half of the third inning while taking an early 1-0 lead in the series finale. Center fielder Josh Hart robbed Mikeson Oliberto of a possible go-ahead hit with a diving catch in the top of the third. In the home half of the inning, Gregory Lorenzo brought in Mike Yastrzemski on a single to put the Shorebirds in front.

The Shorebirds doubled the lead to 2-0 in the fourth. Charleston's Giovanny Gallegos had two outs and led the count against Hart when catcher's interference put Hart on first base and moved Bierfeldt to second. Bierfeldt scored after a Federico Castagnini single.

Delmarva added three more runs in the seventh inning. Castagnini gave the Shorebirds a 3-0 advantage when he scored on a single by Dosch. Kemp followed with a double that moved Lorenzo home for a four-run lead. Dosch came in on a wild pitch and brought the lead to 5-0.

Austin Urban held the RiverDogs scoreless over five innings as the Delmarva starter. His successor, Dennis Torres, allowed two runners to get into scoring position in the seventh, but he coaxed a fly out and kept the Shorebirds lead intact. David Richardson got out of a bases-loaded jam in the eighth. Bennett Perry closed the shutout after pitching in the ninth inning.

Urban claimed the win and is now 1-2 this season. Gallegos fell to 0-3 as he took the loss.

COMING UP: After a league-wide off day on Monday, the Charleston RiverDogs will open a seven-game homestand against the Augusta GreenJackets at 7:05pm on Tuesday evening. RiverDogs RHP Brady Lail (2-1, 5.49 ERA) is scheduled to pitch against GreenJackets RHP Chase Johnson (1-1, 2.08 ERA). Harris Teeter 2-for-$20 Date Night Tuesday, presented by Nash FM 96.9, offers a great deal with two tickets, two tacos, two fountain drinks, and one nacho tray for just $20 for couples that show their VIC Card at the box office. Tickets may be purchased at the Riley Park Box Office, (843) 577-DOGS (3647) or on-line at www.riverdogs.com. If fans cannot make it to the ballpark, they are encouraged to tune in to all the action this year both home and away worldwide onwww.riverdogs.com and locally on 1250 WTMA, the new radio home for RiverDogs baseball.

Box Score - Suspended Game from April 26: http://atmilb.com/1rxv2vY

Box Score - Regularly-Scheduled Game for April 27: http://atmilb.com/1k90rQK

Being posted with permission from the Charleston Riverdogs. The original post can be seen HERE. 

Trenton Thunder Game Recap 4/27

Thunder Win Final Game in Portland, 6-5

PORTLAND, ME - The Trenton Thunder earned a 6-5 win Sunday over the Portland Sea Dogs behind early offense from top prospect, catcher, Gary Sanchez.

The Thunder had a 6-1 lead over the Sea Dogs by the top of the 4th inning and the Thunder bullpen held off Portland from completing a second consecutive come-from-behind victory.

Trenton faced Portland lefty Henry Owens who shut down Trenton for 6.2 shutout innings in his second start of the season. This time around the Thunder jumped on Owens for six runs in 5.0 innings on nine hits and three walks.

Sanchez' first-inning double began the scoring for Trenton in the first inning and scored Ben Gamel for a 1-0 lead while advancing Rob Segedin to third base. The next batter, Kyle Roller, stroked a single to right field to plate a pair of runs and give the Thunder a 3-0 lead.

Two innings later, the Thunder used a leadoff walk to Segedin to set the stage for Sanchez' second homerun of the season. Sanchez finished the day 2-for-4 with a double, homer two runs and three RBI.  

Trenton starting pitcher Graham Stoneburner made in through 3.2 innings while being charged with four runs (all earned) and did not factor in the decision. Jairo Heredia, Manny Barreda and Branden Pinder combined out of the bullpen to allow one run in 5.1 innings down the stretch to give Trenton the win.

The victory earns the rubber-game from Portland, moves the Thunder to 14-9 and 0.5 games within first place in the East Division. With the series win, the Thunder improve to 4-0-3 in their seven series this season.

Trenton hits the road to New Hampshire following Sunday's game and the team returns to action Monday against the Fisher Cats in the first game of a four-game series. First pitch is scheduled for 6:35 p.m. with the Trenton Thunder pre-game show beginning at 6:20 p.m. on 91.3 FM WTSR or online at www.trentonthunder.com.

Being posted with permission from the Trenton Thunder. The original post can be seen HERE. 

This Day In New York Yankees History 4/28

On this day in 1985 Yogi Berra was fired as manager of the New York Yankees after starting the season 6-10. Billy Martin is hired to replace Berra who would be managing the Yankees for his fourth time. Berra vows to never return to Yankee Stadium for as long as George Steinbrenner is the owner of the team and he didn't for 14 years. Eventually Berra and Steinbrenner reconciled and Berra is now a mainstay at Yankee Stadium and in spring training camps.

Tanaka's 11 strikeouts, Teixeira's home run lead Yankees to 3-2 win over Angels

Masahiro Tanaka struck out 11 in a 6.1 inning, two-run performance and the bullpen duo of Adam Warren and David Robertson combined to finish the job tonight as the Yankees won the rubber game of this three-game set over the Angels, 3-2. After Tanaka left this one, the right-handed sophomore Warren came in and really did a great job, striking out two in a scoreless 1.2 frames to set new-Closer Robertson up for his second save in as many days.

Anyway, the Bombers offense really struggled this evening against young Angels starter Garrett Richards, collecting just 2 runs and 3 hits threw 7 at-bats, but in the end, they still found a way to win thanks to a productive RBI Groundout from fourth-outfielder Ichiro Suzuki (his first of the season), a solo home run from Mark Teixeira, and a wild pitch in the bottom of the eighth. That groundout from #31, interestingly, came immediately after a double from 2B Brian Roberts, which helped get the eventually scored runner over to third. 

Besides those plays, a passed ball from LA Catcher Chris Ianetta also helped the Pinstripes win this game, as it set up the later go-ahead wild pitch. 

Korea's Jeong Choi Wants To Play In MLB In 2015

Korea's top third base product Jeong Choi reportedly wants to take the big jump from Korea to the United States to play in MLB next season. Choi is the top third basemen in Korea and is a former Korean Series MVP. Choi is now 27 years old and considered to be a five tool player after having a breakout 2013 season in Korea.

Choi has hit over .300 and posted at least a .900 OPS in four consecutive seasons in Korea and has averaged a little more than 23 home runs. Obviously you would expect those numbers to drop a little if he comes to the states but .275 and 18-20 home runs will probably be leaps and bounds better than anything the Yankees can expect Alex Rodriguez to give them in 2015.

Choi is coming off a .316/.429/.551 with 28 home runs and 24 stolen bases for the SK Wyverns. Choi would make the third base market look a little better as right now it only contains Chase Headley, Pablo Sandoval, and Aramis Ramirez.

Teams said to be interested in Choi this early would be the San Diego Padres, San Francisco Giants, Milwaukee Brewers, and the New York Yankees. Expect that to change, it's April 2014.

Game Thread: Yankees @ Angels 4/27

The New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim will play their finale this weekend at Yankee Stadium as a part of ESPN's Sunday Night Baseball. Mashairo Tanaka will go to the mound for the Yankees to face off with Garrett Richards for the Angels at 8:10 pm ET on ESPN. The game can also be seen on your computer with MLB TV or heard on the radio with WFAN.

We try and live tweet every single Yankees game so follow us on twitter by following @GreedyStripes and come chat with us. If Twitter isn't your thing you can always shoot us a line in the comments section of our site, there is always a discussion going on in there as well.

Enjoy the game Yankees family and enjoy the rest of your night because tomorrow is going to suck, it's Monday.

Still Never Heard Of Masahiro Tanaka?

Sure you haven't Lester. This is funny though, I can laugh at Yankees related meme's and hate when they are funny. I'm not above it. Enjoy the game Yankees family.

Preview: New York Yankees vs. Los Angeles Angels 4/27

The New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim will finish their three game set tonight at Yankee Stadium as a part of ESPN's Sunday Night Baseball. With the off day for the Yankees tomorrow I expect all hands on deck tonight, especially in the bullpen. Hopefully the Yankees will not need the bullpen much as Masahiro Tanaka will be on the mound facing off with Garrett Richards for the Angels. The game will be played at 8:10 pm ET and can be seen on ESPN's Sunday Night Baseball. It can also be seen on your computer with MLB TV or heard on the radio with WFAN.

Tanaka has been worth every penny thus far in 2014 and has lived up to the hype and more. Tanaka held the Red Sox to just two runs last time out in 7.1 IP and got his third victory of the season. Tanaka took Fenway and a repeat of the 24-0 season is still alive.

Richards has surprisingly been the best Angels pitcher this season, which is saying something in a rotation with Jered Weaver and CJ Wilson, and is one of the more exciting pitchers in all of baseball that you may not have heard of. Richards has only allowed seven runs in 25 innings pitched this season while striking out 24 batters and only walking 14.

Go Yankees!!

Bruce Billings To DL, Preston Claiborne Recalled

How about that?

A few hours after I post something regarding the number of transactions and injuries for the Yankees another one happens.

This time it involves Bruce Billings, who was placed on the 15-Day DL with a right forearm strain. In his place the Yankees have recalled Preston Claiborne.

Keeping Up With Roster Changes

While updating the Roster page today, for what seems like the 800th time, I decided to take a look at all of the Yankees transactions. It was getting tiresome editing it nearly every day, so I wanted to see if I had a legit gripe or if I was just being a whiny brat. Here's the list...

• April 1- Placed INF Brendan Ryan on the 15-day DL, retroactive to March 22. Selected the contract of INF Yangervis Solarte from Scranton-Wilkes-Barre (IL). Designated INF Eduardo Nunez for assignment.
• April 5 - Placed 1B Mark Teixeira on the 15-day DL. Recalled C Austin Romine from Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (IL).
• April 7 - Traded INF Eduardo Nunez to Minnesota for LHP Miguel Sulbaran.
• April 8 - Placed RHP David Robertson on the 15-day DL, retroactive to Monday. Recalled LHP Cesar Cabral from Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (IL).
• April 9 - Optioned C Austin Romine to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (IL). Recalled RHP Shane Greene from Scranton/Wilkes-Barre
• April 14 - Optioned RHP Shane Greene to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (IL).
• April 15 - Placed C Francisco Cervelli on the 60-day DL, retroactive to Sunday. Recalled C John Ryan Murphy from Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (IL). Selected the contract of INF Scott Sizemore from Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
• April 16 - Recalled RHP Shane Greene from Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (IL) and will option him back to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre following the April 16 night game.
• April 18 - Optioned RHP Shane Greene to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (IL).
• April 19 - Designated LHP Cesar Cabral for assignment. Selected the contract of RHP Matt Daley from Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (IL).
• April 20 - Placed RHP Ivan Nova on the 15-day DL. Optioned INF Scott Sizemore from Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (IL). Designated RHP Matt Daley for assignment. Reinstated 1B Mark Teixeira from the 15-day DL. Recalled RHPs Preston Claiborne from Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and Bryan Mitchell from Trenton (EL).
• April 21 - Optioned RHP Bryan Mitchell to Trenton (EL).
• April 22 - Reinstated RHP David Robertson from the 15-day DL. Sent LHP Cesar Cabral outright to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (IL).
• April 24 - Optioned INF Dean Anna and RHP Preston Claiborne to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (IL). Transferred RHP Ivan Nova to the 60-day DL. Agreed to terms with RHP Bruce Billings on a one-year contract. Recalled RHP Shane Greene from Scranton/Wilkes-Barre.
• April 26 - Signed RHP Chris Leroux and selected him from Scranton/Wilkes-Barre (IL). Optioned RHP Shane Greene to Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. Released LHP Nik Turley.

When it comes to making player moves, the Yankees have been the busiest in the month of April (tied with the Texas Rangers). They have already placed five of the original 25 members of the Active Roster on the disabled list (two of them to the 60-day).

But don't let the number of player moves fool you into thinking they've been hit the hardest by injuries. There are actually seven teams in MLB that have had it worse when it comes to injuries. Five teams have placed six players on the DL (Braves, Orioles, White Sox, Angels, and Nationals), while the Padres have had to DL seven guys, and the beat up Rangers have put 11 guys on the disabled list.

That's not to say the Yankees have had it easy, but things could be worse.

So am I innocent or guilty when it comes to being a whiny brat? Well, I think I have a bit of a gripe, but I'm just happy this isn't a Texas Rangers blog (although the Rangers...and A's... do have the best record in the American League).

Charleston Riverdogs Game Recap 4/26

Shorebirds Win Opener Before Nightcap Suspended by Weather

5-4 Delmarva victory followed by suspended game that will resume on Sunday afternoon

SALISBURY, MD – The Charleston RiverDogs lost game one of a doubleheader 5-4 against the Delmarva Shorebirds before game two was suspended due to lightning with the game tied at 3-3 after seven innings on Saturday at Arthur W. Perdue Stadium in South Atlantic League action.

The suspended game will resume at 2:05pm on Sunday afternoon with Sunday’s regularly-scheduled game to begin 30 minutes after the suspended contest’s completion. Charleston has an 11-10 record while Delmarva sits at 10-11 entering the final day of this series.

The nightcap began with two runs from both the RiverDogs and the Shorebirds. Michael O’Neill singled to score Abiatal Avelino and Tyler Wade for a 2-0 Charleston lead in the first inning. In the bottom of the frame, a dropped pop-up and a dropped fly ball helped Gregory Lorenzo and Trey Mancini score as Delmarva drew even.

Charleston reclaimed the advantage in the top of the third before Delmarva tied the game again. Wade hit a leadoff double and scored the go-ahead run after O’Neill collected a one-out single. Drew Dosch scored in the bottom of the third, coming in from second base on a Josh Hart single to tie the contest at 3-3.

The game remained tied heading into extra innings, but a lightning bolt paused the contest before the eighth inning could start. After a 33-minute delay, the game was officially suspended.

In the opener, Charleston took a 2-0 lead in the second inning. Back-to-back errors set up Jose Rosario, who drove in both O’Neill and Miguel Andujar with a single. The Shorebirds cut their deficit to 2-1 in their half of the frame when Austin Wynns scored on a Mike Yastrzemski single.

The Shorebirds surged ahead after a fifth-inning rally. Delmarva had two runners on base against Rookie Davis with two outs when a pair of fly balls managed to land in center field for run-scoring singles. The first scored Justin Viele and tied the contest. The second brought Lorenzo and Jeff Kemp home, pushing Delmarva in front 4-2. In the sixth, Viele grounded into a force out and scored Wynns for a 5-2 advantage.

Sebastian Vader went for a complete game in the seventh, but Gosuke Katoh knocked Vader out of the game with a one-out triple that scored Andujar. Jimmy Yacabonis relieved Vader and allowed Katoh to score on a sacrifice fly by Eduardo de Oleo. However, a groundout ended the game as Delmarva survived and took a 5-4 win.

Vader improved to 2-1 while Davis was tagged with the loss and is now 2-1 as well. Yacabonis took his league-leading sixth save.

COMING UP: Saturday’s suspended game will resume with a 3-3 score in the top of the eighth inning at 2:05pm on Sunday afternoon. The series finale between the RiverDogs and the Shorebirds will follow the completion of the suspended contest with Charleston RHP Giovanny Gallegos (0-2, 5.31 ERA) squaring off against Delmarva RHP Austin Urban (0-2, 10.13 ERA). Starting on Tuesday, April 29, the RiverDogs will host a seven-game homestand at Joseph P. Riley, Jr. Park. Harris Teeter 2-for-$20 DateNight Tuesday, presented by Nash FM 96.9, offers a great deal with two tickets, two tacos, two fountain drinks, and one nacho tray for just $20 for couples that show their VIC Card at the box office. Tickets may be purchased at the Riley Park Box Office, (843) 577-DOGS (3647) or on-line at www.riverdogs.com. If fans cannot make it to the ballpark, they are encouraged to tune in to all the action this year both home and away worldwide on www.riverdogs.comand locally on 1250 WTMA, the new radio home for RiverDogs baseball.

Box Score – Game One (Final):http://atmilb.com/1kgseQY

Box Score – Game Two (Suspended after 7): http://atmilb.com/1rxv2vY

Being posted with permission from the Charleston Riverdogs.