Frankie Montas or Bust...

 

Frankie Montas / Photo Credit: Chris Carlson, AP

Prized Target Castillo heads to the Upper Northwest…

Time will tell if Luis Castillo is sleepless in Seattle, but the Mariners added firepower to their playoff chances with the acquisition of the pitcher from the Cincinnati Reds. Most Yankee fans had wanted to see Castillo in Pinstripes, and there were times where we felt it might happen but as it usually goes, we never get the top pitching target. Too many of us have been through the days of Greg Maddux, Cliff Lee, and Gerrit Cole (when he was a Pirate), to name a few.

The fans have immediately turned their attention to Frankie Montas of the Oakland A’s who many have rated as second only to Castillo among available pitchers. That is probably debatable, but there is no doubt Brian Cashman, and his herd of analysts have their sights set on certain pitchers (including names that have not made the headlines). We know they have liked Montas in the past, and there are rumors they tried to acquire him during the Spring. GM Brian Cashman will never make the obvious move. The recent Andrew Benintendi is a rare exception. A player long rumored connected to the Yankees who actually ends up there. More than likely, Cash is working on potential pitchers who might surprise us in addition to rekindling his talks with the A’s Billy Beane. I wanted Castillo but I tried to temper my expectations for this exact scenario. I would be pleased to acquire Montas, Pablo Lopez of the Miami Marlins, or, with trust in the front office, any pitcher they deem to be a solid number two to slot in behind Gerrit Cole.

The Mariners paid a high price for their new ace. Four prospects which included three of their top five according to MLB.com. For the Yankees, that would be sending three of Anthony Volpe, Oswald Peraza, Jasson Dominguez, Austin Wells, and Ken Waldichuk. I recognize that the value of a team’s top five varies from team to team and the Yankees were said to have made an offer to the Red that nearly rivaled the Mariners in quality. It would have been wonderful to get Castillo, but it did not happen, and we move on. One starting pitcher is not going to be the reason the Yankees do not win the World Series. There is something special about the 2022 Yankees (despite the lackluster July results) and if they can get quality reinforcements elsewhere, I like the team’s chances in October.

Like Castillo, the Yankees have been long connected to Montas. By Tuesday, we will either have a new starting pitcher or we will not. It is not the end of the world. I have no desire to see Domingo German pitch again even if he was better last time out. I would rather see JP Sears or Ken Waldichuk given a shot before rolling German out there again. Waldichuk, a 24-year-old lefty, is 6-3 in sixteen starts for the Somerset Patriots and Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders this season with combined 2.60 ERA and 110 strikeouts in 72 2/3 innings pitched. He absolutely dominated Double-A after six games which forced his promotion to Triple-A. Waldichuk is a better pitcher than former Yankees prospect Janson Junk who shut out the Kansas City Royals for six innings earlier this week to win his Major League debut with the Los Angeles (Anaheim) Angels. Waldichuk is nearing his time if he is not traded for Montas or another starter.

Ken Waldichuk / Photo Credit: NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

I remember when fans did not want young prospect Andy Pettitte starting for the Yankees. Everybody must start some time. It is not like you make your Major League debut as a seasoned Major League veteran. Not that I think Waldichuk will be as good as Pettitte, but he deserves a chance to prove who he is or who he can be. I am not trying to go down the path of let’s start Waldichuk over an acquisition of a top starting pitcher, but the point is, have faith in GM Brian Cashman. Regardless of what happens, the Yankees will be okay, and we WILL be playing in October.

Welcome to the Yankees, Andrew Benintendi. I know many fans wanted outfielder Ian Happ of the Chicago Cubs. It would have been nice to pair Happ with his former World Series brother Anthony Rizzo, but since he is not a true rental like Benny, the cost would have been higher than the three pitching prospects who went to Kansas City. I like Benny. It is frustrating to watch Yankee fans who are already turning on him after a couple of games. He needs more time to show who he is. I would never hold the Royals series as the standard for whether he can make it in New York. Players are human and there are emotions involved. He is suddenly thrust into playing against the guys he has gone to war with the last couple of years. He flew on the Royals team plane to New York on Wednesday night thinking he would be playing against the Yankees, not for them. There is pressure to perform well. So many variables that create challenges to a hot start. As he settles in, he will perform, this I am certain.

Andrew Benintendi / Photo Credit: Jason Szenes, NY Post

After five years in Boston, Benny was traded to the Royals in February 2021. He has not faced the Red Sox since the trade. The Yankees head to Boston in a couple of weeks so it will be interesting to see what kind of reception he receives from the Red Sox Nation sporting the Yankees’ gray away uniform. Boston manager Alex Cora had interesting words to say when he was asked about Benny the Yank. “Good for him,” Cora responded when asked about the trade. “He worked hard the last two years to make adjustments and get back to the hitter everybody envisioned in the past: .300 hitter who will get on base and is a good base runner. Defensively, he’s been amazing in Kansas City.” The words within the words read like: ‘He sucked in Boston.’ Cora added, “For the person, I’m very happy. For the player, we’ll leave it at that.” I do not know the reasons that led Boston to trade Benintendi. I was surprised at the time for no other reason than Benny had been a thorn when playing against the Yankees. It is obvious that he has worked hard, making the necessary adjustments to become a better player. The recent All-Star selection is confirmation. Benny does not need to hit homers (he only has three this season), although I would expect him to run into more than three with the short porch in right. If he is getting on base and moving runners, all is good. I am glad that the future of the 2022 Yankees left fielder is not an automatic out at the plate like it has been.

I am happy Benny is a Yankee. I wanted him even if Alex Cora did not. I saw the benefit of Ian Happ, but I like the retention of top prospects for a possible acquisition of a top starting pitcher. I was hoping those prospects could be used for Castillo as stated earlier, but there are other options that might not have existed if the Yankees had moved top prospects for Happ. Also, while I do not expect the Yankees to acquire Juan Soto, you can never say never until Ken Rosenthal, Jack Curry or Jeff Passan are reporting that he has been traded elsewhere. My take all along has been get a top starting pitcher and a lesser outfielder (than Soto). We have the outfielder, now we need the pitcher. If we get Soto too, great. I will run out to buy my new Soto Yankees jersey. If we do not, I am sorry, but we move on as we always have.

If Benintendi performs well in Pinstripes, I would like to see the Yankees try to bring him back this off-season when he hits free agency. The Yankees will be focused on re-signing Aaron Judge (as they should, as they must) and there are times it seems like the Yankees can only focus on one thing at a time so time will tell if Benny’s Yankee career can be measured in years or only in months. I wish him well and hope he succeeds as a New York Yankee.

Rotating relief pitchers. Ryan Weber has had an interesting Yankees career. Signed to a minor league contract, added to the Major League roster, designated for assignment, refusal of outright assignment, and re-signed to a new minor league contract. Rinse and repeat. He has now done this about three or four times. Shane Greene just completed his first cycle and is back with the RailRiders, along with Weber, on his second minor league contract. They await the next call, so does former Pittsburgh Pirates/Atlanta Braves reliever Richard Rodriguez.

Richard Rodriguez / Photo Credit: SI.com

It will be a surprise if the Yankees do not acquire a strong reliever between now and Tuesday. David Robertson seems to be the reliever most discussed which, of course, means it probably will not happen. It does seem like there is a better chance D-Rob winds up in Queens. Losing Michael King hurt, although I think Clarke Schmidt can step up and has already. Aroldis Chapman is pitching better, and I continue to have faith in an improved Jonathan Loaisiga. The Yankees need to quit rolling at Wandy Peralta at the end of games. It worked out last night but with a six-run lead, it was not exactly a pressurized moment. Wandy is better in the middle innings. Keep him there.

Aaron Judge, MVP. I seriously hope we are not watching the end of Aaron Judge’s Yankee career. It is bittersweet with every home run that this could be it for his time in New York. He is New York. He should be a Yankee for life, and he should be Captain of the New York Yankees. It would be beautiful to see the Yankees re-sign him to a long, mutually beneficial contract, with Hall of Famer and former Captain Derek Jeter performing a ceremony at home plate to anoint Judge as the team’s next Captain.

Aaron Judge w/Meredith Marakovits / Photo Credit: MLB.com

When Judge hits the free agent market, if the San Francisco Giants were to offer Judge the same dollars and years as the Yankees, would he stay with his loyalty to the team or would he head home to the West Coast to play for the team he cheered as a child. The Yankee players who were fans as children always get attention. It would be tough seeing Giants fans capturing one of their own. I want Judge to stay. It will be devastating to watch him leave. Like anything, we would survive but it would be painful. I think if another team steals Judge away from the Yankees (and there are plenty of crazy owners who could do it), it would make an apparent inability to acquire Juan Soto that much more hurtful. While I get not giving up the players it would take to acquire Soto, the Yankees must keep Judge. Hal, please hear our words and loosen your death grip on your wallet.

Lastly, be kind to Joey Gallo. I am tired of the harsh words about Gallo. Lindsey Adler wrote a beautiful piece about Gallo in The Athletic this week, and I agree with her thoughts. Joey Gallo has worked hard to become a better player, but it has not worked out in New York. The team recognizes it, or they would not have acquired Andrew Benintendi. It is probable when the sun rises on Wednesday morning, Gallo is no longer a Yankee. I liked the guy and I genuinely wanted it to work. It did not work but you can never say it was not for the lack of trying. He wanted to succeed. Gallo is a good man, a great clubhouse influence, and a wonderful teammate. I am convinced he will thrive in a market without the heavy expectations of New York.

Joey Gallo / Photo Credit: @TheAthleticMLB on Twitter

I thank Joey for trying and wish him the best wherever he lands in the coming days.

As always, Go Yankees!

A King-Sized Loss for Yanks...

  

Michael King / Photo Credit: AP

Breakout Reliever may be lost for season…

The Yankees held on to beat the suddenly high-flying Baltimore Orioles, but the price was heavy. Yankees extremely dependable setup artist Michael King exited last night’s win in the bottom of the eighth inning due to elbow pain. Preliminary diagnosis is an elbow fracture which would cost King the remainder of his season.

Some fans on social media were immediately blaming the ineffective Aroldis Chapman who had given up a three-run homer in the preceding inning which made it a one-run game. King had entered the game after Anthony Santander’s crushing blow off Chapman and needed just seven pitches to record two outs to get the Yankees out of the inning. Injuries happen and it is unfair to place the blame on Chapman. As bad as Chapman was (and he really was), King’s injury is not his fault. As for Chapman, he seems so lost, and it gives doubt if he can ever be the elite reliever he once was or at least be like he was early this season. With King gone, the Yankees need Chapman and Jonathan Loaisiga to step up. They cannot continue to, for the lack of a better word, suck. Wandy Peralta, good in his present role, is not a strong late inning option. Here we are, back to ‘Next Man Up’ after a mostly healthy first half (with no intended disrespect to Chad Green).

In thirty-four games, King’s ERA is 2.29 and he has a strikeout rate of 33.2% (11.65 K/9). His 1.7 fWAR is tied for second best among relievers with New York Mets closer Edwin Diaz, and just 0.1% behind the leader, St Louis Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley. King accumulated the second most innings among relievers with 51.0 innings, 2 1/3 innings behind leader Keegan Akin of Baltimore. King’s production will be missed and will be difficult to replace.

As for the game, the Yankees held on to win 7-6. Aaron Judge added two more home runs to his Major League leading total which now stands at 36. 

Aaron Judge / Photo Credit: AP

The unlikely homer was a solo shot to center in the top of the seventh inning by ‘typically an out’ Joey Gallo. The insurance run put the Yankees up, 7-3, and proved to be the difference-maker. Congrats to Gallo, but nothing has changed, his days in Pinstripes are numbered. Hopefully, the homer reminded a few teams that he might prosper away from New York.

The three Yankee pitchers that gave up runs in the game are three of the most troubling on the pitching staff. Not specifically isolated to last night’s game…just the continuation of ongoing ineffectiveness. Jameson Taillon started but was pulled in the third inning, with the bases loaded, after sixty-seven pitches. He allowed two runs and for a pitcher known for his control, he walked three batters. Jonathan Loaisiga was touched for a run for his one inning of work in the sixth, and of course, there was the continued struggles of Aroldis Chapman. He was only able to record one out in the seventh, giving up a single and a walk before Santander’s blast. He also had two wild pitches among the twenty throws. It is challenging to trust any of these guys. We desperately need 2021 Jonathan Loaisiga. He is probably the one I feel can and will get better. Chapman appears to be a lost cause, and Taillon continues his inconsistency. The Yankees needed a top starter without any consideration for Taillon, but he makes you wonder if they need two new starters. I would like to see Clarke Schmidt get his chance so if the Yankees are successful in acquiring either Luis Castillo or Frankie Montas, Schmidt can be the other guy unless you feel he is the first man up to help replace King. The next ten days should prove to be interesting. The talk had been centered on a starter and an outfielder, but suddenly the bullpen is an urgent need. Ian Happ and David Robertson would be a good start.

Ron Marinaccio is expected back this weekend so pardon the pun; he will be welcome relief.

Where’s Tom Brady when you need him? It was funny to see the Boston Red Sox pummeled by the Toronto Blue Jays in convincing fashion, a 28-5 rout at Fenway Park in front of the RSN faithful. They needed a few touchdowns to catch up. It is unfortunate for them that Tom Brady moved to Tampa. The first Jays run made no sense. Red Sox starter Nathan Eovaldi scooped an infield hit and went directly to first base, ignoring the runner on third base, Vladimir Guerrero, Jr, with only one out. Vlad Jr scored easily but would have been out if Eovaldi had thrown to the plate. It kind of set the tone for the rest of the game, which saw another Sox outfielder, Jarren Duran, lose sight of a fly ball which led to an inside-the-park grand slam. The memes of Duran and Alex Verdugo will be around for a while.

Jarren Duran / Source: Twitter

I was really hoping the Jays would score thirty runs. It was the worst Red Sox defeat since they lost to the Cleveland Indians, 27-3, in 1923. Former Yankee pitchers allowed seventeen of the twenty-eight runs. Eovaldi gave up nine runs in 2 2/3 innings, and former Yankees prospect Kaleb Ort gave up eight runs in just 2/3rds of an inning. Makes me wonder why the Yankees could not score a run when they had the bases loaded in two successive late innings during that Friday night loss to the Red Sox a week ago.

As fun as it was to see the Red Sox tarred and feathered, there is an uneasy feeling watching the Jays as juggernauts. Hopefully, this is just an aberration and not a continued trend in the second half.

The Red Sox are 48-46, 16 ½ games behind the Yankees.

The ESPN documentary, “The Captain,” has been quite enjoyable. Two episodes in, I have enjoyed the interviews and videos, and the chance to see Derek Jeter as we never saw him before. The images and audio only reinforce how great he was on and off the field. I liked his quote which I will paraphrase…I remember what you said, I remember when you said it, and I remember what you were wearing when you said it. It is unfortunate that he had a contentious relationship with the Yankees’ Front Office at times. This is probably what Aaron Judge is feeling today. I guess that is why the second episode was entitled, “Loyalty one way is stupidity.”

We all knew that Derek’s focus was winning championships. Maybe I underestimated how strong his preference was toward winning over personal statistics. You always think, sure, everyone wants to win, and some say it more than others. But Derek lived it, breathed it, and played like it. Impressive then, but even more so today when you reflect on it. Growing up, I remember thinking how tremendous it must have been to see Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, and Joe DiMaggio play. We were gifted to see Derek Jeter play.

Congratulations to Giancarlo Stanton, All-Star MVP. It was terrific to see Giancarlo Stanton win the MVP Award for this year’s All-Star Game in Los Angeles. I recognize that a case can made that either Byron Buxton of the Minnesota Twins or Toronto’s Alek Manoah were equally deserving of winning the award, but it was fun to see Stanton recognized on his home turf in Los Angeles. He grew up in the area, and his success brought recognition to his nearby high school, Notre Dame High School, in Sherman Oaks. As important as it was for Dodgers great Clayton Kershaw to start the game, LA-native Stanton winning MVP was on the same level.

The only negative? I felt sorry for the baseball that Giancarlo crushed. R.I.P.

Giancarlo Stanton, MVP

Trade rumors picking up. I think Juan Soto, 23, is a generational talent. He would be a tremendous Yankee. It is not often you can acquire an elite player at such an early age, with his best years yet to come. Yet, I have mixed feelings. The cost for Soto will be high, both in terms of players, prospects, and capital (if you intend to re-sign him). The player and prospects it would take would seemingly take the Yankees out of the market for a top starting pitcher.

Home Run Derby Champion Juan Soto / Photo Credit: Getty Images

So, what is better? Juan Soto to join elite outfielders Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, or potentially an elite starter to pair with Gerrit Cole with presumably enough to grab an outfield upgrade over Joey Gallo? I must side with the latter as much as I would love all. In the playoffs, great pitching beats great hitting. Luis Severino has pitched more than he has in the last few years and is presently on the Injured List, and I am a little concerned that the league is catching up to Nasty Nestor Cortes. Throw in Taillon’s struggles, and there is an urgent need for a top starter. Meanwhile, getting a lesser outfielder (whether it is Ian Happ, Andrew Benintendi, or David Peralta) improves the lineup. If Brian Cashman somehow manages to capture Soto and a top starter, God Bless him. I just do not see how he can do it. But then again, that is why they pay him to make those decisions and not me.

Time to go start watching the transactions wire…

As always, Go Yankees!

 

Fasten Your Seatbelts for Turbulent Weather...

  

Ex-Yankee-to-be Joey Gallo / Photo Credit: Charles Wenzelberg, NY Post

High-flying Yankees run into first extended slump of the season…

It was inevitable the Yankees would hit a rough patch over the course of the long season. The frustration is it happening when the Yankees are playing several series against the hated Boston Red Sox. Since they won the first two games of the four-game set in Boston last weekend, they dropped the subsequent two games, then lost two of three to the Cincinnati Reds at home, and blew a winnable game last night at Yankee Stadium against the Red Sox. For a team that has found so many ways to win games this season, they are briefly finding new ways to lose.

Wild Pitch Lover Xander Bogaerts / Photo Credit: Elsa, Getty Images

The Yankees still have the best record in MLB; however, the gap is closing. The Yankees are 62-28, twelve games ahead of the Tampa Bay Rays in the tough AL East. Meanwhile, the Houston Astros have picked up a couple games on the Yankees over the last ten games. They are 58-31 and lead their division by ten games. Based on ease of schedule, it seems more probable the Astros will finish with the best record in the AL and home-field advantage throughout the American League playoffs. Seattle, at 49-42, is the only AL West team with a winning record. Meanwhile, in the AL East, every team is .500 or better.

The Los Angeles Dodgers, who were previously in their own little mini funk, have won three consecutive games and nine of ten. They are 59-30 and certainly in range to overtake the Yankees for best record in Major League Baseball if the Yankees cannot snap out of this run of subpar play.

If GM Brian Cashman has any thoughts of standing pat at the Trading Deadline, he should think otherwise. Given his aggressiveness at the trading deadline last year when the Yankees were battling to get an opportunity to play a one-and-done Wild Card berth, you would think his aggressiveness would be on steroids this year with so much more at stake. It was exciting to watch Luis Castillo pitch at Yankee Stadium this week and think of what could be. I keep trying to temper my expectations to avoid disappointment. The fear is somebody will overpay. If Cashman can get Castillo at his price, it would be a beautiful thing, but the odds are against us. The Dodgers loom as a threat, particularly with a farm system ripe with attractive prospects. Tony Gonsolin, the Cat Man, has been a pleasant surprise for the Dodgers, but Walker Buehler is on the shelf, and the great Clayton Kershaw is a year older with a history of injuries in recent years. I fully expect the Dodgers to go hard after starting pitching over the next several weeks. For Castillo, if his hair is so valued to him, the Dodgers are more attractive if he wants his hair and a championship too.

Yankee-to-be? Luis Castillo / Photo Credit: Getty Images

It is a given that we are witnessing the final days of Joey Gallo’s pinstriped career. The boos last night typify the words you hear from fans, but even the professionals who follow the Yankees are voicing change. The sad part is the Yankees will not recoup what they lost in trading for Gallo last year, but at this point, that is a secondary concern. The Yankees need an outfielder who can make contact and help set the table for Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, Anthony Rizzo, and others. I keep saying that I like Joey Gallo, I do, but enough is enough, I would like him on another team. I am not in favor of simply designating him for assignment and subsequent release. There is value in the player, and I would like to see the Yankees recapture something for him, even if a lower-level prospect with promise.

Fans were laughing when Isiah Kiner-Falefa started off the season strong, and the big three free agents from last off-season started slowly. But it was only a matter of time until the proven superstars would surpass IKF. It seems like every time IKF makes an error, there is a highlight reel of Oswald Peraza going yard for the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre RailRiders. Peraza is reaching the point of not much more to prove at the Triple A level. It is becoming a matter of either trade him for an elite player like Luis Castillo or call him up to play shortstop. At worst, he will be as good as IKF, with the potential for so much more. I get the roster implications. To promote Peraza, another infielder must go. Matt Carpenter and Marwin Gonzalez are not going anywhere. Carpenter’s rejuvenated bat and Marwin’s versatility are too valuable. The weakest link is Josh Donaldson. DJ LeMahieu can be your everyday third baseman. IKF would move into the utility infielder role, and both Carpenter and Gonzalez can back up first base when necessary. The Yankees are stuck with paying Donaldson, but they should not let that deter them from moving him if necessary. To me, a left side of the infield with LeMahieu and Peraza is better than Donaldson and IKF. The Atlanta Braves are the defending World Series champions and making a strong run at the New York Mets in the NL East. It is due to injuries, yes, but they have a rookie in the outfield making significant contributions to their latest division charge (Michael Harris II), and their young catcher, Willson Contreras’ little bro, William, made the NL All-Star Team. I would not let Peraza’s inexperience prevent me from promoting him to a championship-caliber team. So, Cash, your call, play him or trade him.

Tyler Wade is back. It was funny how excited some fans got when they saw the Yankees had reacquired infielder Tyler Wade. Wade had recently been designated by the Los Angeles Angels, and when he cleared waivers (not claimed by any of the MLB teams), he was sent outright to Triple A. So, for the Yankees, it is just a minor-league depth move. It does not affect the Major League Roster. Injuries could bring him back, but he is not going to replace IKF. My first reaction to the Wade acquisition was ‘why?’ but I get the depth reasons. If Peraza is traded, help is needed at Triple A until Anthony Volpe gets there. If Wade gets the call to come back to the Bronx, it will mean something went horribly wrong (someone got hurt).

Shohei Ohtani & Ladies Man Tyler Wade / Photo Credit: USA Today

The truth is Wade is not better than any of the players on the current active roster. Nice problem to have. Here come the ‘Wade is better than Gallo’ comments. An apple to an orange comparison. I would not want Wade as my every day left fielder. Gallo, despite his offensive struggles, is fine defensively. You can make an argument that Miguel Andújar is better than Gallo and we see what that has gotten him. An extended stay in eastern Pennsylvania. But let’s not pick on Gallo. These are his final days. Welcome back to the organization, Tyler. Trying to recruit Aaron Judge to join the Orange County Losers next season did not quite work out for ya. Karma is a bitch.

Speaking of Miguel Andújar, it raised eyebrows when he was pulled from the RailRiders lineup yesterday. Turns out it was only a stiff neck, but everybody on social media seems to go on high trade alert when a player is removed from the starting lineup. The RailRiders, as it turns out, did not need Andújar. They cruised to a 9-0 win over the Louisville Bats behind a strong rehab performance by Domingo Germán. He went six innings, surrendering only three hits and one walk in the shutout win. 50 of 65 pitches were thrown for strikes, and according to Connor Foley, his fastball was 92-93 mph. I may not personally care for Germán, but the truth is he will be in the Yankees bullpen soon. With Luis Severino on the Injured List, he may see an occasional start.

Back to Andújar, he is like Peraza but for varied reasons. Play him or trade him. I get why you do not cut Joey Gallo now, but if the Yankees are unable to move him by the trading deadline, it would be time to cut bait. There is no reason that Andújar should not be on a Major League roster come August 2^nd. He may not be the defensive outfielder that Gallo is, but at least he would give you at-bats to cheer for rather than the current automatic outs we routinely see from left field (or right) when Gallo is starting. I am hoping for better than Andújar but either way, he needs to be playing in the Major Leagues, here or elsewhere.

Miguel Andújar & Aaron Boone

The Yankees have enjoyed good health this season, and it has been a strong reason for their great start. But alas, all good things must end. Luis Severino’s placement on the Injured List felt inevitable. Given how few innings he pitched from 2019 to 2021, it seemed like this year’s load would be too much. When he was removed from a game with shoulder tightness this week, there was cause for concern. Fortunately, it turned out to be minor (a low grade lat strain which requires two-to-three-week recovery). To look at this positively, rest for Severino is a blessing. The Yankees need him in October so he should be managed with care. It also reinforces why the Yankees need to grab another frontline starter.

Luis Severino & Teammates / Photo Credit: Frank Franklin II, AP

Miguel Castro also appears to be headed to the Injured List. He had an MRI on his right shoulder yesterday, and it is likely he will be placed on the IL this weekend. It could be the door opening for Domingo Germán. I keep forgetting the RailRiders have Shane Greene. It is possible the former Detroit Tigers closer could make his return to the Yankees roster over Germán if the Yankees can open a roster spot. Hard to believe that Greene is 33 years old. He was a young Yankees pitcher involved in the 2014 three-way trade with the Tigers and Arizona Diamondbacks that brought Didi Gregorius to the Bronx.

Josh Donaldson has a split nail on his right index finger. I am not a doctor, but I think he will survive.

Lastly, I am glad to see the return of Old Timer’s Day to Yankee Stadium even if the white-haired legends and former Yankees will not play a game. I have always enjoyed the legendary roll call more than the actual game itself. I probably have not enjoyed the games since Bobby Murcer passed. I loved listening to him when he was mic’d up for the YES Network while playing in the outfield. July 12^th was the fourteenth anniversary of Murcer’s death. Hard to believe he has been gone that long. His last Old Timer’s Day was 2007. I am happy to see his widow, Kay, has been invited to this year’s festivities.

The late Great Bobby Murcer / Photo Credit: KEIVOM/NY Daily News

The current scheduled list of attendees (subject to change) features: Jesse Barfield, Ron Blomberg, Aaron Boone, Homer Bush, Rick Cerone, Chris Chambliss, David Cone, Bucky Dent, Brian Doyle, John Flaherty, Joan Ford (wife of Whitey Ford), Ron Guidry, Charlie Hayes, Jill Martin (wife of Billy Martin), Tino Martinez, Hensley Meulens, Gene Monahan, Diana Munson (wife of Thurman Munson), Kay Murcer (wife of Bobby Murcer), Jeff Nelson, Lou Piniella, Willie Randolph, Mariano Rivera, Mickey Rivers, Luis Sojo, Shane Spencer, Roy White and Bernie Williams.

It will be fantastic to see all these people at Yankee Stadium (even if Boone and Meulens must be there anyway). No doubt Mariano Rivera should close the ceremonies.

As always, Go Yankees!

Yankees Tai One On...

Photo Credit: Gene J Puskar, AP

Welcome to New York, Jameson Taillon…

While we continue to wait for the Yankees to make room on the active roster for D.J. LeMahieu and Corey Kluber, former Pittsburgh Pirates starter Jameson Taillon nudged his way to the first spot that opened, thanks to the trade of four prospects, including two cardholders for the 40-man roster, to the Pirates. 

My first reaction was disappointment. I am not trying to be negative about Taillon. I agree he is a very talented pitcher and I’ve admired him for a few years, but he’s had his share of setbacks which includes two Tommy John surgeries. I admire his courage and perseverance through surgery for testicular cancer so that’s certainly not viewed as a negative from my perspective. My hesitation about Taillon is only the risk, the injury risk. Yet, as the trade sank in, I think Cashman made a good trade to pick up a starting pitcher with high upside without giving up any top ten prospects. RHP Miguel Yajure, ranked at 15, was the highest rated prospect. Yajure is talented and many fans liked him but he’s replaceable. The other prospects were RHP Roansy Contreras, infielder Maikol Escotto and outfielder Canaan Smith.

I’ve heard fans say Cashman fleeced the Pirates. I don’t know that I would go that far. I think there is strong potential with a few of the prospects the Yankees gave up and it could very well be the trade works out more in the favor of the Pirates. But for a win-now team, it is a good trade for the Yankees. If the Yankees win a World Series with Taillon’s help, the trade will have been worth it regardless of how the quartet of former Yankees prospects do in the Steel City. I’ve seen some prospect-huggers lament the loss of Yajure and Contreras, but it takes quality to get quality. The Yankees weren’t the only team knocking at the door of Pirates GM Ben Cherington and they had to put together a package to entice the former Red Sox GM to make a deal over others. 

I think my disappointment was higher expectations. I wanted a very strong number two starting pitcher to slot in behind Gerrit Cole. Corey Kluber and Jameson Taillon both have the potential to be strong numbers two’s and so does Luis Severino when he returns later this summer, but it’s the dreaded injury label attached to each pitcher. I get it, there are no certainties and a player who has been completely healthy over the course of his career is not guaranteed of future health. I think reading some of Gerrit Cole’s comments about Taillon and his resiliency to overcome challenges strikes a chord. Taillon has the attitude and the talent to succeed in New York. He has emerged from each setback with greater fire and determination. 

Photo Credit: Gene J Puskar, AP

My desire for the Yankees to sign free agent pitcher Trevor Bauer, the best available starter on the open market, was flawed. There was no chance the Yankees were going to make the financial commitment it would take to sign Bauer for the obvious luxury cap implications. I was hopeful the Yankees would bring back one of Masahiro Tanaka and James Paxton despite their respective injury concerns. For Tanaka, it’s always been a matter of that little tear in his elbow. For Paxton, he’s just a talented guy who can’t stay healthy. I think both Tanaka and Paxton loved their time in Pinstripes and that does matter. I respect guys who see it as more than just a paycheck.  I suppose the additions of Kluber, and Taillon officially close the book on the Yankee careers of the two free agent pitchers. I thought Tanaka was a good Yankee. There were times of frustrations but when isn’t that true about any player. We’re passionate fans who care about the team and its success.  If this is the end for Tanaka, I do wish him the very best, whether it is a continued career in MLB or if he heads back to Japan to play. I enjoyed his time as a Yankee. Until he’s officially gone, I will hold out hope for a return, but the glimmer of possibility seems to be fading.

Another way to look at the Taillon trade is the Yankees remain stocked with strong upper-level prospects, meaning they have the trade chips to tweak the team in July. Luis Castillo, anyone?

It saddens me but I think another soon to be ex-Yankee is Adam Ottavino. The reason is obviously money. Heading into the final year of the three-year deal he signed with the Yankees, he counts $9 million toward the luxury cap. Eliminating the salary and going with younger cost-controlled pitchers certainly helps the Yankees stay at or below the luxury cap threshold.

In contradiction to some fans, I don’t think it’s a matter of being “luxury tax champions” for the Yankees. At the end of the day, Major League Baseball is a business, and the owners want to make money like anyone else. We love it when owners go all in for a championship but trying to be objective, it is not a sound financial strategy. I come down on Hal from time to time, but he has to be concerned with the future of the brand and the financial stability for his family. I can’t imagine the pressure associated with owning the most storied franchise in baseball history and its high expectations. I think fans, which includes me, are getting impatient to win a championship, but you can’t draw a direct correlation to amount of money spent versus the increased likelihood of success. You have to make the right personnel decisions and sometimes it involves the ‘low cost, high upside’ approach. It is simply not possible to put All-Stars, tried and true elite players, at every position. So, I’ll back off and let Team Cashman continue their roster adjustments as the Yankees prepare for the 2021 season. The proof is in the pudding. If the Yankees have a successful year (meaning championship), Cashman and Company deserve the accolades. If they fail, then we’ll cross the bridge at that time. Every year without a championship increases my desire for front office change. But until then, I hope, I pray, Cashman can field a team capable of being the last team standing in October.

The wildcard with a rotation featuring Gerrit Cole, Corey Kluber, Jameson Taillon, Luis Severino (when he returns), and Jordan Montgomery, Deivi Garcia, Domingo German among others, is Clarke Schmidt. If he has a breakout year in 2021 and the rest of the guys can stay healthy, the Yankees do have a championship caliber rotation.  Ifs and buts…I know…but I do believe in Schmidt’s talent and the day of “arrival” is coming soon. 

For as often as former Yankee catchers end up in Pittsburgh, I am sure there were more than a few fans hoping Gary Sanchez would become a Pirate today. I am glad he didn’t. I remain hopeful that he’ll fulfill the promise he showed us several seasons ago. Austin Wells will be ready within a few years, so I am going to be patient with Sanchez. It’s hard for me to criticize a player on the 2020 season simply because 2020 was such a nightmare of a year all the way around. I continue to believe Sanchez will continue to mature and evolve into the catcher we hope he can be.  Until Wells is ready, it’s not like we really have any other options at the moment. Kyle Higashioka is not the answer. I am hopeful and optimistic for a better year in 2021 for Sanchez. I do believe if he continues to struggle, the Yankees and Sanchez might be on track for a change of scenery, but I’ll hold out hope it does not happen. 

I was sorry to see the passing of baseball legend Henry “Hank” Aaron. I can remember when he was an active player, but it was at the very end and I don’t think I was able to fully understand or comprehend, at my then-young age, the magnitude of his contributions to the game of baseball and to the game of life. Some players are great…elite…above all others, yet they are even better human beings. Derek Jeter is one, so is the late Kobe Bryant who passed a year ago this month.  I am sorry that I was never able to see Hank Aaron play. I always thought it was cool that the baseball announcer who made the iconic call for Aaron’s history making home run was the late Milo Hamilton “Here’s the pitch by Downing. Swinging. There’s a drive into left-center field. That ball is going to be out of here! IT’S GONE! IT’S 715! There’s a new home run champion of all-time! And it’s Henry Aaron!” Hamilton was born and raised in my hometown, Fairfield, Iowa, a small farming community in southeastern Iowa. Although I never met Hamilton, he was a bit of a local celebrity. Hank Aaron, we are glad you were here. We will carry the memories of your greatness always and we’ll remember the lessons you taught us about life forevermore.   

Photo Credit: AP

As always, Go Yankees!

The Men of No Emotion...

Photo Credit: Getty Images, Corey Sipkin (via NY Post)

Yankees sign LeMahieu and Kluber… 

Hey, Cashman woke me up from my nap. C’mon, man… 

After months of crickets, last Friday turned out to be a very productive day in the Yankees Universe. Getting out of bed on Friday morning, I saw the reports the Yankees and D.J. LeMahieu were nearing a deal. A pleasant way to wake up.  Sure enough, it came to fruition in the form of a 6-year, $90 million deal. Some fans were freaked out about the length of the contract, but there’s no doubt the Yankees are looking at this as a four-year deal and the extra two only served to lower the average annual value. As much as I love LeMahieu and as happy as I am he’s back, there is no way LeMahieu is still a Yankee by Year Six. Well, unless he keeps on hitting like a machine. I think the Yankees probably feel anything they get in the last two years is gravy. If not, they’ll just cut bait and move on.    

I had hoped the Yankees and LeMahieu could find common ground because it certainly seemed like both sides like each other. I did have my fears he’d take his trade across town to join Francisco Lindor and the New York Mets or even head north of the border to play for the looming beast of a team that is beginning to take shape in Toronto. The Los Angeles Dodgers also loomed as a threat and I am sure D.J. entertained thoughts about what it would be like to play in Colorado every year wearing enemy gear. 

The news later in the day that the Yankees had reached agreement on a one-year, $11 million contract with Corey Kluber was hardly a surprise. Given how much the Yankees have coveted Kluber in the past, despite his recent run of injury problems, it seemed like they always had a leg up on everybody else if for no other reason than pitching coach Matt Blake (from their time together in Cleveland) and his long-time history of working with Yankees’ director of player health and performance, Eric Cressey. There are reports Kluber had offers for more money but he chose the Yankees. 

Regardless of how he got here, I am glad Kluber is a Yankee. But it does come at a cost, there are now reports the Yankees are unlikely to re-sign Masahiro Tanaka. That makes me sad. He’s been a good Yankee. Sure, he can be frustrating at times and it was evident in the playoffs last year the Yankees didn’t trust him at that point. Yet, I would have gladly accepted his return to be a third or fourth starter.  It kind of sucks to think he’ll most likely be pulling on a different uniform this year. I only hope that he does not sign with an AL East rival. I’d probably feel better if Kluber was a sure thing but he’s not. The Texas Rangers made the investment in Kluber and got almost nothing to show for it other than a few pics of Kluber wearing different versions of Rangers jerseys. I know Tanaka is always a bad pitch away from Tommy John surgery, but he does seem like a healthier option than Kluber at the moment. This of course could change if Kluber shows he is still Klubot.  

After word of Kluber’s signing circulated (hasn’t been officially announced yet), Yankee fans almost immediately began clamoring for Cincinnati’s Luis Castillo. Yes, I’d love to have Castillo in the rotation with Gerrit Cole and Kluber (and eventually Luis Severino), but I’ve learned whenever there is this much noise about a player and the Yankees, it almost never comes to fruition.  Brian Cashman just doesn’t work that way. He strikes quickly and quietly as we know so well. So, the more people talk about a possible Castillo trade, the less likely I see it really happening. 

I do think The Greedy Pinstripes’ Daniel Burch is onto something with his campaign to bring Trevor Bauer to the Bronx. Unlike Kluber, you can count on Bauer to give you innings. He’ll also be one of the better pitchers in the league which positions him nicely to be the #2 rather than Kluber. I doubt the Yankees spend the money, but they need more than one superstar, a roll of the dice with a former Cy Young Award winner and a bunch of kids.  Sorry, Monty, I know you’re not a kid but…we need more. Which is EXACTLY why we need Kluber's former (future?) teammate.

Photo Credit: AP

It was so fun having certainty in one rotation spot last year. I know, Cole is going to lose from time to time and yes, he’ll give up the dingers like anybody else, but when he was on the mound, you felt confident about the Yankees’ chances. It’s been a very long time since I had that feeling. It would be nice to have the same feeling about two spots in the rotation. So, Hal, please sign Trevor Bauer. It’s only money and you’ll earn it back with the next championship.  Get Greedy! 

I suppose that if it is unlikely Tanaka will be back, there’s a snow ball’s chance in hell that we’ll see James Paxton again. SNY reported earlier today that Tanaka is seeking a one-year deal in the range of $15 to $20 million. If he does sign for that level of money, then it is probably best the Yankees decided to part ways. I personally don’t think he’ll get it, not in this depressed market…I just don’t want to see him sign for an unusually low amount that the Yankees could have easily matched.  

I think the Yankees are not done yet, even if I don’t believe there’s any traction for a Luis Castillo trade. I think Cashman recognizes the team has holes, and there are other teams that have gotten substantially better. I don’t exactly remember how the quote goes, but it’s akin to being unrealistic if you expect a different result when you do keep doing the same thing over and over. The Yankees proved they couldn’t win last October and they do need to do something different to change the outcome. Betting on Corey Kluber is not the smart play. Hence, my belief that Cashman is getting ready to pull his magic act again.  

I’ve seen a few articles predicting a major breakout this year by Clarke Schmidt. While I recognize it could happen, I remain in the ‘I’ll have to see it to believe it’ category. Not trying to diss Schmidt and I certainly feel he can be a dominant pitcher, but he hasn’t done it yet. Until he does, I will carry some skepticism (or maybe realism). I’d love to see him explode in 2021 like nothing we’ve seen since the Summer of ’78. He’ll certainly have his opportunities this year and I truly hope he makes the most of them. 

As always, Go Yankees!

Looking for Mr Cashman...

 

Photo Credit: Mike Stobe, Getty Images

Yankees remain silent this off-season…

 'Twas the night before Christmas…

That’s it, sorry.

There is your recap of the Yankees Universe since the team cleared out their lockers in October. Alright, there has been some activity but nothing of the variety that gives bloggers something to talk (write) about. I didn’t expect any activity in November but I was certain there would be some movement in December. Well, for other teams maybe but not the beloved Pinstripers.

The Yankees did bring back a couple of familiar names this month. Reliever Adam Warren, making his fourth return to the team, is back and ready to resume his career after a Tommy John sabbatical. He’s not glamorous but Warren has always been a trooper when called upon. Historically, he’s done better with the Yankees than some of his other teams, but whatever works. I like him and I’m glad he has an opportunity for another run with his original team. The other comebacker is Nestor Cortes Jr., who was sleepless in Seattle last season. Depending upon how things shake out, there’s potentially a role for either guy. Worst case, they represent depth although I doubt either wants to see the bright lights of Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, PA. It will be fun to see and hear their thoughts on camera when the guys assemble in Tampa in a couple of months.

Photo Credit: Kelley L Cox, USA TODAY Sports

I have to say I was disappointed to see Tommy Kahnle leave. It was inevitable when the Yankees attempted to send him outright to Scranton at the end of October and he elected free agency. He won’t pitch again until 2022, thanks to Tommy John surgery, but I still hated to see him leave. I liked him when he was a Yankees prospect, hated it when he got plucked away by the Colorado Rockies, was happy when he returned, and although I was disappointed with his 2018 season, I was still glad the huge Eagles fan was a Yankee. He’s always just been one of those players I like through thick and thin. I guess all things considered, I was happy to see him land with the Los Angeles Dodgers if he was going to leave the Yankees. The LA Angels would have been fine too as I can walk to Angels Stadium but Dodger Stadium is a quick ride up I-5 (I can lane split, legal in CA, with my motorcycle). I am on record as saying the Dodgers are my favorite NL team and they have been ever since Donnie Baseball was their manager (not sure why I didn’t fully embrace them when Joe Torre was their manager). Tough for a Yankees fan to say, but I probably own more Dodgers caps (to go with my Mookie Betts jersey and other Dodgers paraphernalia).  You have to understand that while I love the Yankees, I love Los Angeles. I don’t mean specifically the Dodgers…I just love the city. I was away for four years in Colorado but I’ve been back in the greater Los Angeles area since March and I am thankful for every day back home despite the pandemic. I kind of wish the cost of living were less and that not so many other people loved it here, but that’s okay, I find my happiness here. So, welcome to Los Angeles, Tommy! I know the Dodger fans will appreciate your enthusiasm for the game and the talent you possess in your arm. 

I know the Yankees inactivity is based largely on the ongoing negotiations with DJ LeMahieu. I get it, but it always strikes me as odd that a team which employs so many people in the front office, they simply cannot multi-task.  When GM Brian Cashman said that Gleyber Torres was a better second baseman than shortstop (not those exact words but the meaning was there), I did wonder if he was setting the stage for LeMahieu’s departure and to express his desire to bring in a shortstop over an encore performance by Le Machine. What shortstop? I don’t know. I don’t really expect a Francisco Lindor trade, and although I recognize Andrelton Simmons as a premier glove, he just doesn’t excite me.  I’d probably rather see the return of Didi Gregorius, even if he isn’t the defender Simmons is. Didi has the “it” quality. He brings so many intangibles to a team and he’s very cohesive in the clubhouse. Team chemistry is so important and Didi is certainly a glue.  He can also bring it with the bat when necessary. I know he’s getting older but he is also distancing himself from Tommy John surgery and I think he can be a solid contributor for a World Series champion…if LeMahieu leaves. The Yankees can’t let DJ leave for Toronto or the Mets, can they? That would be heartbreaking either way.

While I think Brian Cashman will bring a formidable starting rotation to camp, the present assignment of Gerrit Cole (great), Jordan Montgomery (good) and the bevy of Deivi Garcia, Clarke Schmidt, Michael King, Jonathan Loaisiga and Domingo German (nice potential) just doesn’t strike me as a rotation that can compete with the best of the best. The Yankees clearly need a solid #2. Luis Severino can be THAT guy but he won’t be ready until mid-season at the earliest and you always have to recognize the early return after TJ surgery can be a bumpy road. In my mind, Sevy is not the Sevy of old until 2022 at the earliest. In other words, if I am trying to determine the guys I need to make a championship run in 2021, Sevy is just not one of the chess pieces I’d count on. Anything we get from Sevy should be considered gravy. Hopefully, he’ll be a beast in 2022 but that doesn’t help this season.

Now that the Pittsburgh Pirates have traded first baseman Josh Bell to the Washington Nationals, it will hopefully end some of the Luke Voit trade talk. I’ve already seen the ‘let’s trade Ford to Pittsburgh because they need a first baseman’ tweets. Not that I’d be opposed to trading Mike Ford or trying to acquire Pirates starter Joe Musgrove, but I recognize if we are thinking about it now, Brian Cashman has thought about it and has moved on to other ideas.  The one thing we’ll never see in our lifetimes is Brian Cashman looking at Twitter and saying, “Oh geesh, I should have thought about that!”. 

Put me in the category of those who say do whatever it takes to make Luis Castillo a Yankee. I don’t think it will happen but, man, a front two of Gerrit Cole and Luis Castillo would be sweet.

Photo Credit: Getty Images

I haven’t formed my thoughts on the 2021 season yet, but I don’t think, today, the Yankees have the roster to make 2021 the first championship year since 2009. I think they have the team, with pending enhancements and modifications, to be the last team standing. But it is a matter of when (if?) the Yankees make the necessary moves to bring the championship back to the Bronx.  I do expect some movement in January but ultimately who knows. This is a weird year, unlike any we’ve ever experienced. I look forward to a day when the COVID-19 vaccines are readily available for all of us and we can return to some sense of normalcy. Bumping elbows at a baseball game has been missed. Pour your beer on me when we return to stadiums…it’s all good. I’ll take the bad with the good because baseball, and baseball live and in person, is better. I look forward to it.

It is Christmas and I wish a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you and yours. We’ve suffered a great deal this year. Many of us have lost friends and loved ones and we’ll certainly never forget them. I am glad you are here and I want you…and your family…to be happy and safe. Setting the Yankees aside, the most important aspect of this blog is you, your health and the health of those around you. There are challenging times ahead before it gets better but together we are strong and together we’ll get through this. Much love to all of you...

Merry Christmas, my friends.

As always, Go Yankees!

Game Thread: New York Yankees vs. Cincinnati Reds 7/25

The New York Yankees and the Cincinnati Reds are just about ready to kick off their quick two-game series here in the Bronx before the Yankees welcome the Tampa Bay Rays to town for a huge weekend series inside Yankee Stadium. In the first game of this quick interleague set the Yankees will send Jordan Montgomery to the mound to square off with the Reds starter Luis Castillo. The game will be played at 7:05 pm ET inside Yankee Stadium in the Bronx and can be seen on WPIX Channel 11 and MLB TV. You can also follow along in your cars and on the radio by tuning into the WFAN broadcast with John Sterling and Suzyn Waldman.

Follow us on Twitter as we begin our march toward 6K Twitter followers by giving @GreedyStripes a follow and enjoy the game tonight. Go Yankees!