Game 17: Go For Six

April 18, 2014 by Mike Axisa 476 Comments

The Yankees have won five games in a row (six of their last seven!) and they’ve done it with offense, with pitching, and with defense. One phase of the game is not carrying them, it’s all three. Unlike last April, when the team played well but it felt like we were waiting for the other shoe to drop for certain players (Vernon Wells and Travis Hafner, specifically), this year’s success feels far more sustainable. I can’t be the only who feels like that, right?

Anyway, Carlos Beltran is not in tonight’s lineup after tumbling over the right field wall in foul territory last night. According to the various beat writers on the scene, Beltran had an MRI on both his wrist and shoulder and everything came back clean. He is sore though, and he will skip batting practice today and instead receive treatment. Beltran hopes to play tomorrow but Joe Girardi is fond of giving players that one extra day when they’re banged up. We’ll see. Here is the Rays lineup and here’s the Yankees lineup:

LF Brett Gardner
SS Derek Jeter
CF Jacoby Ellsbury
DH Alfonso Soriano
C Brian McCann
2B Yangervis Solarte
1B Kelly Johnson
3B Scott Sizemore
RF Ichiro Suzuki
RHP Hiroki Kuroda

It is hot, humid, and pouring in St. Pete tonight, but none of that matters because of Tropicana Field. It’ll be a climate-controlled 72 degrees (or thereabouts) for tonight’s game whether you like it or not. First pitch is scheduled for just after 7pm ET and you can watch live on YES and, depending on where you live, MLB Network. Enjoy the game.

forensic

You’re here playing hurt, even doing a chat, and yet Beltran needs a day because he’s ‘sore’. What a baby.
- jim p
  
  And Mike is probably paid only half of what Beltran gets.
  - Dalek Jeter
    
    And Mike is probably paid in a month half of what Beltran gets in an hour.
    
    FIFY
- Yolo Fo Solo (Alkaline)
  
  You know what John and Suzy say. He’s a ballblogger. He does a little bit of everything. Professional ballblogger at its finest.
  - forensic
    
    “Every day he does something to help the RAB team learn.”
    - Dalek Jeter
      
      “Even when he forgets the Game Thread, he does something.” ;)
Chip Rodriguez

Can the power of Jordan Brink lead us?
- Havok9120
  
  We invoke both the mighty Jordan Brink and The Great Elector.
  
  At some point, I’ll make a photoshop picture of Jordan Brink on the Prussian flag in place of the eagle.
Cheval Anonyme

Yangervis Solarte anagram of the day:

“Tyro savages liner.”
- Axis of Mike
  
  Like it! May I add: Gravy is near stole?
  - Cheval Anonyme
    
    You may. But there are many, many more…
Yolo Fo Solo (Alkaline)

For Mother Prussia!
- Dalek Jeter
  
  Alkaline is on #teamPreußen!
- Havok9120
  
  Für das Vaterland!
Dalek Jeter

Keeping it simple tonight: für Preußen. All wins are für Preußen.
- Havok9120
  
  If Jordan Brink were Prussian, he might be able to match The Sizemore in ability.
Wheels

Pretty good lineup, even without Beltran.
- Havok9120
  
  I certainly like it better than I did the lineup in the second doubleheader game.
  
  That gave me flashbacks of last season.
- forensic
  
  Personally, I’d prefer to see Roberts in there instead of Sizemore, but it is what it is.
  
  It’s kind of funny that Girardi is basically saying it’s a bad thing that Roberts hit so much last night, because he actually had to run. It’s like he’d prefer it if he went 0-4 since he wouldn’t run much and could play two straight days.
  - nycsportzfan
    
    I know we see differently on this scenario, but I just think Joe’s very comfortable with all on this team, and dosen’t mind giving guys days off, as of right now, everyones chipping in and no one looks like they dont belong. Shoot, Sizemore has 3of are RBI tonight. Solarte and Anna have held there own(anna mostly with glove), and Kelly Johnson has done his part, and Cappys hitting..etc You can afford to rest guys.
Preston

These next six games are going to be awesome. Let’s put our biggest division rivals in the rear view and cruise to an AL East title.
- Havok9120
  
  Yup. 16-6 by next week.
- forensic
  
  So basically go for the full season version of a perfect afternoon at Yankee Stadium:
  
  ‘It’s when the Yankees score eight runs in the first inning,’ Ruppert said, ‘and then slowly pull away.'”
Dalek Jeter

Ike Davis to The Pirates for minor leaguer Zack Thronton.
- forensic
  
  That’s a good deal for Davis. Anything to get him away from the Mets dysfunction and their inability to make a decision about 1B.
- TheRealGreg
  
  And apparently the infamous PTBNL
- Macho Man “Randy Levine”
  
  I suppose it kinda helps the Pirates, in the sense that they need someone to play first. Maybe he gets a fresh start with change of scenery.
  
  For the Mets, it means they made a decision about something. That’s progress for them.
- Preston
  
  The rumor is that the PTBNL is the more substantial part of the deal (but can’t be traded yet because he’s a 2013 draftee).
TheRealGreg

Worried a bit about Kuroda. Bad numbers career wise against the Rays, but we will see.
- Macho Man “Randy Levine”
  
  You’re always worried about something.
  - TheRealGreg
    
    I know. Pessimistic nature
    - Macho Man “Randy Levine”
      
      Greg, you’re something a bit more than a pessimist. I’m a pessimist, and you’re consistently worse than me.
      - TheRealGreg
        
        Well to be fair, worried is a bit much. I’m not “life or death” concerned.
        
        Before I looked at the stats, I thought this game was a slam dunk, but now I’m a little on the fence
  - Dalek Jeter
    
    Guys, the weather report said the sun was supposed to come out at 6:57 and it’s 6:56 and there’s no sign it’s coming up. I’m concerned.
    - Macho Man “Randy Levine”
      
      Ur n idito.
      - Dalek Jeter
        
        What’s that Macho Man?? I couldn’t hear you over the sound of I JUST BEAT 2048 AGAIN!!!
        
        Macho Man “Randy Levine”
        
        ?? ? ?????.
        
        Macho Man “Randy Levine”
        
        Huh. Apparently RAB doesn’t recognize Cyrillic.
        
        forensic
        
        I love the timestamp issues RAB is having. You replied to yourself a minute before you wrote the original comment.
        
        That’s some skill.
        
        Macho Man “Randy Levine”
        
        That is the very definition of “Macho.”
        
        Dalek Jeter
        
        That is amazing.
        
        Preston
        
        But have you ever gotten 4096?
        
        Havok9120
        
        Don’t get him started. Him, Macho, and Jorge Steinbrenner are obsessed.
        
        Preston
        
        It’s mind numbing but hard to stop. My best is a 4096 and an additional 2048.
        
        Dalek Jeter
        
        I have not, my best is two 2048’s on the same board. I couldn’t get them together…I still play it to kill times occasionally, but I don’t have the same ambition to keep going now that I’ve gotten the 2048.
        
        Macho Man “Randy Levine”
        
        You horrid liar! I broke away weeks ago!
- Wheels
  
  Hell yeah Jeter.
  - Wheels
    
    wrong spot. But relax Greg, have a cream soda.
- forensic
  
  Four of his five starts against them have been in September the last two years. Hopefully it’s more a function of when he faced them rather than just them being them.
  
  CC’s been terrible against them too and got by yesterday, at least.
  - TheRealGreg
    
    Very good point. I wondered about that.
Mike HC

If Jeter has a big year, there is no way he is going to want to retire.
Macho Man “Randy Levine”

By the way, if you’re playing the home version of “Spot the Looney,” the answer is “He’s playing first base for Tampa Bay.”
Yangeddard Solarte

You aren’t going to put anyone in the rearview mirror in April. And the Rays aren’t our biggest rival, the Sox are. Sox are defending champions. Os have a good young nucleus as well and just took 2/3 from us in our park. It’s going to be a dogfight all season.
No 2013 again

Horrible breaking ball, Ellsbury has to punish that.
TheRealGreg

Looks like Bedard’s getting a high strike
The Guns of Navarone

David DeJesus… respect his game

http://movies.dosthana.com/sites/default/files/image-gallery/Kim-DeJesus-Hot-Stills.jpg
- Macho Man “Randy Levine”
  
  Those are nice.
- Dalek Jeter
  
  Jeez. I wish I was a baseball player.
- http://www.penuel-law.com/ Cuso
  
  I like her teeth
- Mr. Roth
  
  Too wristy.
http://www.penuel-law.com/ Cuso

Petition to save Scotty Sizzle from the roster crunch. Please leave your mark:
- Dalek Jeter
  
  I will be honored to sign such a petition.
  - Macho Man “Randy Levine”
    
    We would be honored if you would join us.
    - http://www.penuel-law.com/ Cuso
      
      He just grabbed you in a force choke
- Mr. Roth
  
  [x] I support Scott Sizemore
  [_] I do not support Scott Sizemore
- Havok9120
  
  Indeed.
Prussian General Jordan Brink

Sorry I’m late.

FOR PRUSSIA!
- Dalek Jeter
  
  Hey man, what was your most recent handle before this, I’m just curious.
http://www.penuel-law.com/ Cuso

Shiftaliscious!
- TheRealGreg
  
  Ironically against the team who I think started this craze.
  - http://www.penuel-law.com/ Cuso
    
    I believe you are right.
    
    Take that, Mad Scientist!
Wheels

McCann.
No 2013 again

McCann heating up! I like it.
No 2013 again

What I think is most impressive about Solarte is his batting eye. I thought he was hacker..
- Dalek Jeter
  
  He looked like a hacker in ST and early in the season, but he has looked a lot better the last week or so.
  - No 2013 again
    
    It’s not that he’s walking a lot, but he just gets himself in good counts
    - Dalek Jeter
      
      For a guy like him, that’s almost as important as actually taking walks.
Yangeddard Solarte

Robinson who? This Solarte kid does everything that Cano did and more. And he’s one thing Robbie never was, a True Yankee. I think he’s the next Yankee Captain.
Dalek Jeter

John gets SO EXCITED for Solarte hits, it’s wonderful.
- The Guns of Navarone
  
  Never nervous Yangervis!! Solaaaaaaarte, Solaaaaaarte!
TheRealGreg

Work into fastball counts and rake.
http://www.penuel-law.com/ Cuso

Keep it going, Man-of-a-thousand-handles!
TheRealGreg

Should have taken the out at first
No 2013 again

Great stop but a stupid decision by Loney
Leg-End

Punish him.
Yangeddard Solarte

Even as a baserunner Soley makes the heads up move and gets in the way of the ball! This is our next Captain!
Dalek Jeter

THE LEGEND CONTINUES!
forensic

Boy do I hate these official scoring rules. There should either be a hit or an error. None of this in between shit.
Chip Rodriguez

Team Sizemore for the lead!
The Guns of Navarone

FUCK

and

YES
forensic

Sizemore!

Forget what I said before about preferring Roberts for tonight…
http://www.penuel-law.com/ Cuso

Clean living right now. Clean living.
Dalek Jeter

The weirdness continues. Was that ball hit as hard as John is making it sound?
- http://www.penuel-law.com/ Cuso
  
  Yep. It was smacked. loney made a great back hand scoop, but the effort planted him on his butt.
- Chip Rodriguez
  
  Yes. Knocked Loney off his feet. Johnson can hit.
  - Dalek Jeter
    
    I have no doubt Johnson can hit, he’s slugging in like the .530s I’m pretty sure. I was just curious on this particular play.
- TheRealGreg
  
  I think so.
Jorge Steinbrenner

SIIIIIIIIZEMOOOOOOOOOORE!
Dalek Jeter

Ugh. Bunts. We just hit a 3 run double…so here take a free out.
Dan

That’s what happens when you put the ball in play. Put pressure on the fielders and make things happen.
No 2013 again

gotta challenge that… he was safe.
Wheels

So great.
Axis of Mike

This lineup is downright OFFENSIVE!
Macho Man “Randy Levine”

Not sure if this is worth challenging, frankly.
- forensic
  
  Studies from before/early in the season said that almost any play that is close is worth challenging, especially if it contributes to a potentially big inning like this.
  
  There aren’t nearly as many missed calls as people seem to think in the course of a typical game (especially over just the first 6 innings).
Havok9120

Scott Sizemore shall deliver us.
Wheels

safe.
TheRealGreg

CLEAR THE BASES
http://www.penuel-law.com/ Cuso

SIZZLE!
No 2013 again

Sizemore!!!! This guy can’t go down when Tex returns
Yangeddard Solarte

BASES CLEARING TRIPLE FOR SIZEMORE!
Leg-End

We just went up one size more.
The Guns of Navarone

Challenge dat sheeeet
- lightSABR
  
  He was totally safe. I mean, it was close, but I’m pretty sure the ump got it wrong.
lightSABR

Scott Sizemore: Professional baseball player.
- Mr. Roth
  
  Facts don’t get any more factual than that.
BrianMcCannon

Someone sign me up for Team Sizemore.
Yangeddard Solarte

How did Ichiro not beat that out? That bunt was a beauty.
- Leg-End
  
  He did, its challenge time.
  - Darren
    
    Ugh. He should have been called safe but that should not have been overturned. Horrible, horrible. Replay is a joke so far.
    - The Guns of Navarone
      
      What??? Pretty conclusive on the replay if you ask me.
    - The Guns of Navarone
      
      I mean, that’s why they put replay in the game… for bang, bang plays just like that.
    - Dalek Jeter
      
      “He should have been called safe.” Which is what the replay showed, and therefore the call was overturned.
      
      “But that shouldn’t have been overturned.” If the replay showed he was safe, why shouldn’t the out be changed?
      
      “Replay is a joke so far.” So because they challenged a call and changed a wrong call to a right call it’s a joke?
      
      Can you please elaborate?
      - forensic
        
        This is almost FJM worthy.
      - Darren
        
        He looked safe with the naked eye, but the replays were from from conclusive.
        The ball does not need to hit the back of the glove for the runner to be out, it merely needs to enter the glove.
        There wasn’t one single replay that showed his foot on the bag before the ball entered the glove.
Dan

Obviously you don’t want to count your chickens before they hatch, but I really think the team is better with Solarte and Anna on the team, and no Ryan. A lot can change between now and the 2-4 weeks it takes Ryan to come back (maybe someone gets hurt, or Solarte turns into a pumpkin, or Roberts doesn’t heat up). But I really hope they consider not handing him his spot back.
- Axis of Mike
  
  I really like Anna. Makes it tough to know what to do w Ryan but he is one helluva SS.
- forensic
  
  So, they’re just going to release Ryan suddenly after signing him to an (albeit absurd) two-year contract in the offseason?
  - Dalek Jeter
    
    Does Ryan still have options? I have no idea how that works.
    - forensic
      
      His options don’t matter. He has over 5 years of MLB service, so he can refuse any assignment to the majors, meaning the Yankees have to either release him or keep him on the 25-man.
      - forensic
        
        *assignment to the MINORS
        
        Dalek Jeter
        
        Well, we’re still at least 3 weeks away from them needing to make that decision. These things tend to work themselves out.
  - Dan
    
    No, obviously you can’t just release him. He’d have trade value–cheap, awesome on defense, and under contract. I’m just saying I’d explore the options.
    - forensic
      
      I disagree that he has any trade value. A player of his offensive skill on a two-year deal (with a 3rd year option!) is not something teams are looking for. His defense took a step back last season (though it’s yet to be seen if that’s a trend or a one-year thing). Plus, he’s coming off a back injury that has sidelined him for basically two months by the time he possibly gets back.
Axis of Mike

Bedard might just get an out some day if he bears down.
Yangeddard Solarte

He was safe by a mile. Who’s at 1st, Bob Davidson? Girardi will win yet another challenge.
- The Guns of Navarone
  
  Seriously, Girardi’s been on point with his challenges.
Dalek Jeter

42 pitches have gotten him 1 out in the 2nd Loving it.
Chip Rodriguez

Bedard up to 42 pitches already.

It’ll be great if they force him out of the game by the fifth inning, and again beat up on the pen.
Axis of Mike

Tampa Bay been berry berry good to us.
Dela G

love sizemore
Wheels

Nice, that works.
No 2013 again

To me it looked like Escobar didnt even touch second base
- lightSABR
  
  He didn’t. It’s called the neighborhood play, and they do it to be less vulnerable to takeout slides. It’s not reviewable, probably for safety reasons.
Macho Man “Randy Levine”

Girardi should have challenged again.
- TheRealGreg
  
  Neighborhood play. Not reviewable.
  - Macho Man “Randy Levine”
    
    Even when he was nowhere near the neighborhood?
Ethan

Second baseman never touched the base. Is that a challengable play?
- forensic
  
  Nope, they said they won’t review the neighborhood play at 2B (though I kind of disagree with them).
- The Guns of Navarone
  
  C’mon… need to tack on
RkyMtnYank

Awesome that Gardner didn’t slide into first and was safe, hope that continues!
Leg-End

Bedard looks really hittable to the point that I would fancy my chances.
- Axis of Mike
  
  I’m a little concerned that Kuroda also looks hittable tonight, so they should pile on runs if they can.
  - Axis of Mike
    
    Case in point: Longoria’s hit. High pitch, a meatball.
    - Preston
      
      Hiro is fine. Case in point, the double play he induced to erase Longoria’s single.
Yangeddard Solarte

Anna’s been a solid player for what he’s asked to do but when you’ve got the hot hands of Solarte and Sizemore you need to stick with them. Anna’s gotta go when Teix is back. Ryan might have lost his job as well.
Wheels

Nicely turned double play. wow
Tom

Was Ichiro not running 3-2? (or did I miss that?)

Gardner not running? At least send him 3-1 and trust Jeter won’t chase out of the zone.

With the exception of Ellsbury the Yankees have been conservative on the bases in terms of stealing/starting runners. Especially with a lead, they should be keeping the pressure on.
- Rolling Doughnut
  
  Seems so obvious. I wonder if they have some sabermetric reason for not doing it.
Chip Rodriguez

nicely done, captain
Axis of Mike

Damn! Solarte kills at every friggin position!
Yangeddard Solarte

Solarte is even turning Robbie Cano DPs now. People wondered how they would replace Robbie, how will the Mariners compete when the power goes they’re just left with a powerless overpaid, slow middle infielder.
- Axis of Mike
  
  Solarte’s OBP right now is a frightening .577, easily the best on the team.
  - forensic
    
    His SLG is .577, not OBP.
    
    And Beltran is at .614.
Axis of Mike

I’m starting to feel like I just mounted a powerful motorcycle and took off. I’d love to see this team keep this up, what fun that’d be!
Axis of Mike

Last year I really thought the lack of a top-notch defensive catcher cost us dearly. This year it’s early but McCann seems to be making a clear impact.
Preston

It’s almost like Eric Bedard shouldn’t be starting MLB games anymore…
- lightSABR
  
  Of course, they did this to David Price last night, too…
  
  I love having an actual offense.
lightSABR

The Rays look like they just called the bullpen. 51 pitches to get 7 outs, and Bedard’s probably not stretched out all the way. If we keep this up, I can’t wait to see what their bullpen looks like tomorrow and Sunday.
Wheels

Solarte is impressive.
TheRealGreg

Kuroda has not pitched well so far.
- Dalek Jeter
  
  Pitched well enough so far.
  - TheRealGreg
    
    He has gotten away with it, but his location has not been crisp.
    - TheRealGreg
      
      That was a nice pitch though. Maybe he’s starting to find it.
    - Dalek Jeter
      
      Hopefully he can do what Pineda did against the Cubs (I know Rays>>>>Cubs), grind through 6 or 7 even if he doesn’t have his best stuff. “Grind it out” as Pettitte and Clemens used to say.
      - TheRealGreg
        
        Yep.
      - forensic
        
        (I know Rays>>>>Cubs),
        
        The Rays and Cubs have actually scored the same number of runs this season (and it took the Rays two extra games to get there) and their team OPS’s are probably extremely close when you account for the P/DH different.
- TheRealGreg
  
  but he has gotten away with it.
- Rolling Doughnut
  
  He looks pretty good so far to me. 30 pitches in 3 innings. Not bad.
mustang

I SEE

Team Sizemore
jjyank
Cuso
Jim Is A (Bored) Peckerhead
JGYank
Dalek Jeter
mustang
I’m One
Jorge Steinbrenner
Chip Rodriguez
Yankee$
Jersey Joe
Cool Lester Smooth
Mr. Roth
Vicki
24: LIVE ANOTHER DAY!!!!!

IS HAVING FUN TODAY

Hit the theme song:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t6nuKOMDkV0
- mustang
  
  Open membership as always
  
  :)
- Macho Man “Randy Levine”
  
  I was going to get offended at not being included, but I just remembered I never swore allegiance to Team Sizemore.
  - lightSABR
    
    I’m feeling kind of left out, too, but I was too wishy-washy about His Sizeness, so I deserve it.
    
    Anybody know why Axisa thinks he’s just a Nix who can’t play shortstop?
  - mustang
    
    Welcome!
    
    Sizemoreism is open to anyone who is willing to accept it and dares to dream of the upside.
    - Dietrich Enns justifies the means
      
      Can I accept Sizemorism even though I’m a Sizemoron?
Tom

Good to see Mr Awesome O’Clock (John Lackey) getting lit up a bit again. O’s up 4-0 early on Boston.
Macho Man “Randy Levine”

Orioles knocking around Lackey so far.
- Dalek Jeter
  
  Excellent. It’s very hard for me to root for Buck and/or Adam Jones (his pompousness bothers me) but if there’s one guy I can be on their side against it’s Awesome O’clock.
Wheels

That 0-1 pitch to Jeter was not a strike.
- lightSABR
  
  And not particularly close, either. I guess their catcher frames well?
  - forensic
    
    Gameday had it as a strike, for what it’s worth.
    - lightSABR
      
      Huh. Okay. It didn’t look like it to me or the PITCHf/x window on MLB.tv, but I guess it must have caught a corner.
      - forensic
        
        Gameday had it right on the edge, I believe, and all the strike zone windows are a little different, so who knows. It’s hard to believe any of them too exactly. It was also a cutter (again according to Gameday) so it could look inside and then just barely break at the end and catch the inside corner.
        
        Wheels
        
        Maybe. It really looked inside though, and Jeter’s reaction to the strike call was incredulous.
forensic

Suzyn Waldman is way too excited that Boxberger’s nickname from Maddon is Boxy.
Chip Rodriguez

Time to start wearing down the pen!
Yangeddard Solarte

They need to tee off on Brad Boxberger. Blow this one open.
Wheels

What a catch!
mustang

Nice DDDDDD!!!
- lightSABR
  
  I don’t care if Mike’s right about the Ellsbury contract. I’ve loved watching him play for the good guys.
  - mustang
    
    It’s rare to see a guy sign a big contract with Yankees and be this productive right from the start.
Yangeddard Solarte

Wow, nice catch by Ells. The defense has been a pleasant surprise this season.
- Winter
  
  I mean, we all knew the OF defense would be strong and the IF defense would be shaky, which is how it’s turned out.
  - nycsportzfan
    
    The IF defense has been pretty good. Jeter made a few slick plays last night, and they’ve made alot of slick DPs this yr, and last night, a Triple play. I don’t know the stats, but i’d say are IF defense is ranked in the top half at this point.
Dalek Jeter

Sizemore givith, Sizemore taketh.
Macho Man “Randy Levine”

That sequence sucked.
Wheels

Damn.
forensic

Yuck.
nycsportzfan

Come on Kuroda, buck up!
TheRealGreg

Kuroda’s been asking for that.
- Macho Man “Randy Levine”
  
  Translation: “I told you so.”
Yangeddard Solarte

They never blew the game open and now it’s a ballgame again.
Winter

Two out walks are never good.
forensic

So, sounds like two bad defensive plays by Sizemore in the last 3 batters. No bueno…
- lightSABR
  
  It was a great throw to get the third out, though.
nycsportzfan

Of course, I was just about to say, Yankees pitching has given up 1ER in the last 31innings, but Kuroda couldent finish the 4th with that staying true.
No 2013 again

Kuroda is definitely not sharp today, but Jeter and Sizemore’s shitty defense cost him this inning
nycsportzfan

Oh well, now we tack on!
alittleblackegg

Kuroda does’t seem to have a strike-out pitch today. He’s throwing stuff just off the plate but Tampa’s not taking. We’re pretty lucky to be up 4 – 2. Hopefully he can gut it out.
- lightSABR
  
  Yeah. He gets to 2 strikes fine, but then he can’t finish.
Dalek Jeter

Runz plz
Yangeddard Solarte

You can either pay $20 million/year for 10 more years to keep Robbie Cano or you can have Yangervis Solarte for peanuts on the dollar. I’ll take Solarte every day of the week and twice on Saturdays.
lightSABR

Such a hilarious feeling. “We’re sure to score! That no-name minor-league free agent is up again!”
- lightSABR
  
  Blast. Even Solarte couldn’t save us.
TheRealGreg

Swings at the first pitch…..
No 2013 again

So many wasted opportunities… With the way Kuroda is pitching we’ll need a lot more than 4 runs
- Preston
  
  I’d bet a lot of internet dollars that 4 runs is enough.
- mustang
  
  You were saying something about Kuroda pitching
TheRealGreg

He got through that one, but Hanigan had a good swing at that ball.

Ball has been up all game.
- Preston
  
  DOOM!!! Doom and Gloom!
Steinbrenner’s Ghost

HA! Lackey getting lit up 6-2 O’s in the 5th
- Preston
  
  Couldn’t have happened to a nicer guy.
Yangeddard Solarte

Hiroki only needs to get through one more and then they can set up the lock down trio of Phelps-Warren-Kelley.
forensic

lol, two straight days Robin Ventura has intentionally walked Prince Fielder to get to Kevin Kouzmanoff and has gotten burned by it.

I wonder if eventually Ventura will look at Fielder’s numbers and realize how terrible he’s been (and how great Kouz has been, in a SSS).
Tom

Big half inning here – heart of the Rays order.

They’ll bat once more, but if they can get through this inning the Yankees are in good shape.
Kosmo

Zobrist-Joyce-Longoria vs. Kuroda over the last 5 years a combined 16 for 45 with 6 HRs
TheRealGreg

Get the pen up
Wheels

Ugh.
The Guns of Navarone

Goodness it’s painful watching Jeter play shortstop
No 2013 again

Enough of Kuroda, he has nothing.
Winter

So Harang has 7 no-hit innings against the Mets, but his pitch count is already at 120.
- Tom
  
  It’s Harang… I think you let him try to have his moment in the sun.
  
  Set the cap at about 170.
forensic

7 no-hit innings for Aaron Harang against the Mets. But, he’s walked 6, struck out 5, and thrown 121 pitches already (it’s also just a 1-0 game). Wonder if they risk leaving him in.
Yangeddard Solarte

Hiroki needs the old reliable sinker here to induce the pitcher’s best friend.
No 2013 again

Bad Girardi, it’s clear Kuroda has nothing.
Eric Young

Free pizza if Harang pulls it off: http://mlb.mlb.com/sponsors/dominos/dominono/index.jsp
- Winter
  
  Here’s the question: does a combined no-hitter count?
TheRealGreg

4 runs should be/have been enough for your number 2.
- Winter
  
  It still might be…
  
  …triple play time!
Winter

When did Larry Rothschild start wearing glasses? Has he always and I’ve just never noticed?
Wheels

Nice, one more Hirok.
Macho Man “Randy Levine”

This feels like a Sux game.
No 2013 again

YES guys have a point, why is Kuroda not using the splitter? It’s been all sinkers and sliders..
TheRealGreg

And Kuroda’s bad numbers against the Rays continues.
- nycsportzfan
  
  Still in line for the Win.. He battled tonight, and did enough to keep us in the game. Again, i’ll take this from Kuroda, if its gonna be one of our bad starts from a starter. Could be alot worse.
TheRealGreg

I think he knows that he doesn’t have his splitter. That’s why, as mentioned earlier, he has not been able to put hitters away.
teddy

when will giradri learn the shift against the righthander don’t work. another run because of giradri
Chip Rodriguez

boy, Kuroda’s pitching as if it’s late August.
TheRealGreg

Kuroda FAILED
- Revan
  
  Girardi failed harder.
  - TheRealGreg
    
    I don’t think so. Girardi wanted Kuroda to get through the 6th.
Darren

I’d love someone to ask Jeter, once he’s retired, why he won’t dive for balls. This is not an issue of range declining with age. It’s been like that for at least 10 years and feels like it’s always been that way. I gotta feel he made a conscious decision that it’s not worth the wear and tear on his body, or something. Such a weird hole in his game.
- cr1
  
  How quickly we forget!
  
  Wonder if anyone would like to count the hundreds of times that the tired cliché ‘pastadiving Jeter’ passed for wit on this very board?
  - Darren
    
    Sorry, I don’t understand your comment.
Yangeddard Solarte

And it’ll be up to BGDP to bail us out again.
- Preston
  
  Of the 12 pitchers on the big league roster David Phelps is the worst…
No 2013 again

good job by Phelps!
mustang

Nice job Dave
nycsportzfan

This is exactly why its smart to keep Dellin Betances on the big league roster. There is gonna be games, are starters don’t go the amount of Inn’s we hoped, and your gonna need more then a couple studs in the pen. Being able to use Dellin to close the door last night, instead of Phelps or Warren, is gonna be huge tonight.
- mustang
  
  THIS!!!
- Dan
  
  The thing that’s frustrating about Betances is that he may have the best pure stuff on the staff, but he just can’t control it. It’s great having him. But say Ramirez or Montgomery tears up AAA this year, if Betances doesn’t find control he could be on the way out.
  - nycsportzfan
    
    He only walked guys in 2of his outings. Phelps has 3outings, hes walked at least one guy. It happens. Betances on the other hand, has probably the best ability on the team to strike guys out, including Tanaka and every other starter. He gets a bad wrap when he walks a guy, but so what, as long as he puts up zeros, and keeps striking guys out, and not allowing hits?
    - Dan
      
      But it’s not like he just randomly walks a batter. He goes through stretches where he can’t throw a strike. It happened yesterday, and fortunately he settled down. Walks happen, but if he keeps playing with fire where he can’t throw a strike he’ll eventually get in trouble.
      - nycsportzfan
        
        Well, every reliever gets in trouble. Every reliever gives up runs once in awhile. With Betances, chances are hes gonna get outta his james and do more good then bad, because of his ability to get swings and misses, with a devestating heater and power curve.
        
        Phelps is always in trouble. Instead of walking guys when hes deep in counts, guys get hits off em. Whats the difference?
        
        nycsportzfan
        
        To be honest, i’d rather have Betances in right now, then Phelps or Warren. I just think Betances is better, and as the season goes on, Betances will be used more and more, and work his way up the ladder more and more. Hes just in the midst of earning Joes trust, as Warren and Phelps all ready have is all..
- RkyMtnYank
  
  fuckin amazing
  - RkyMtnYank
    
    reply fail
Dan

Considering all of the Rays pitching woes, I’d honestly be surprised if the winner of the AL East won more than 92-93 games. This race is totally wide open.
Yangeddard Solarte

I don’t think it’s fair to say a pitcher failed when the club gets through 6 with a 4-3 lead. Kuroda didn’t have his best stuff today but he didn’t let the game get away from him either.
- Kosmo
  
  I totally agree.
nycsportzfan

End result is, Kuroda did just enough to possibly earn himself a victory. I’m glad these kinda games are considered bad for Yanks starters these days. Alot of teams would be stoked to have this paticular start be one of these bad ones from a starter.
- mustang
  
  and THIS!!!!
  
  Keep speaking the good word Bro
  - nycsportzfan
    
    Yes sir.
    
    Ells and Sori combine for a tack on run!
The Guns of Navarone

This offense has gone SILENT!!! Shhhhhhh
- The Guns of Navarone
  
  And then… bingo bango
Tom

Well at least one guy on this team with speed runs.

And great job by Soriano picking him up… he’s been really good after that slow start!
mustang

Ellsbury is amazing!!!
- Preston
  
  Honestly, I couldn’t have done a bigger 180 on this guy. I knew he was a good player. But I didn’t think I was going to love watching him play so much.
  - mustang
    
    Fucking machine defensively and offensively.
    
    To think that I question the signing……STUUUUPID!!!!
Yangeddard Solarte

That’s how you use the speed to your advantage.
Wheels

Ells batting .373
No 2013 again

Fonzy!!
TheRealGreg

The legs of Ellsbury created that run
- No 2013 again
  
  How about Soriano’s bat?
  - TheRealGreg
    
    You had to like your chances with Sori against a hard throwing left hander.
    
    But Ells got into scoring position with his legs.
- mustang
  
  Yes Sir
  
  Thank you
  Boston
  - nycsportzfan
    
    And with Ells, another good thing is, he dosen’t have a ton of tread on his tires, as hes had his injury problems in the past, which kinda works both ways, as sure, it sucks you hurt a part of your body, but your also getting tons of time off, and keeping the wear and tear down on your body.
    
    I got a feeling Ells is gonna be a beast for a good chunk of his contract.
Winter

Aaaaaaaaand Harang is out.
mustang

They don’t even have Tex or Robertson just scary exciting!
Steinbrenner’s Ghost

Ells 8 stolen bags in 17 games.

!
- Winter
  
  Obviously he won’t keep it up, but at that rate he’d steal 76 bases!
  - Steinbrenner’s Ghost
    
    I just looked up his stats – he had 70 in 2009. Wow!
    - Winter
      
      He definitely has that kind of upside, but I’ve got to think he’ll slow down a bit as the season drags on and he wears down some.
Tom

Solarte’s going to crank one here…
No 2013 again

Joe West has a very generous K zone for Rays’ pitchers
- TheRealGreg
  
  What else would you expect from Mr. “Yankees games take too long”?
RkyMtnYank

oh damn, that was a hard hit on the shin
Steinbrenner’s Ghost

Ells >>>>>> Cano
- Winter
  
  Nah
Eric Young

Gameday says injury delay…what happened?
- TheRealGreg
  
  Solarte hit a ball off his shin.
- Winter
  
  Solarte fouled a ball off his shin.
  - RkyMtnYank
    
    for the ball to go that far off the shin was just crazy
mustang

Solar is hurt.

Damn
- mustang
  
  I doubt he will play tomorrow he use a day off anyway.
WAJohn

Anyone else sick of watching Gardner (when he does get on) sit at 1st base with no intent to run whatsoever?
- ALZ
  
  get used to it.
No 2013 again

Those last 3 innings are going to be painful
http://www.penuel-law.com/ Cuso

Damn you, Albino Aceves
pat

This camera angle fucking sucks.
WAJohn

I know he’s been decent, but I just don’t trust Phelps in these situations
mustang

Like the way McCann works with his pitchers.
Dr Van Nostrand

This Joe West strikezone is a joke
- nycsportzfan
  
  agreed.
TheRealGreg

FUCK YOU JOE WEST
No 2013 again

Joe West is pathetic. The strike zone is huge for Rays pitchers but now he’s squeezing Phelps. How’s this guy allowed to ump Yankees games still?
TheRealGreg

Rich Eisen ?@richeisen 2m

Country Joe West, once again the industry leader of exasperating managers. Perfect combination of incompetence and nonchalance.
Wheels

Did they take out Phelps because he got hit with the liner? Or because they just wanted to go with Thornton here?
- TheRealGreg
  
  I think a bit of both
WAJohn

Would love to see umpires graded using PitchFx. Joe West would be on the unemployment line
- ALZ
  
  Honestly I’m fine with strikezones varying to a point, but that is as long as it’s consistent for everyone throughout the game.
  - WAJohn
    
    Exactly. But this has been pretty one sided tonight.
Yangeddard Solarte

The only thing that can knock BGDP out of ballgames these days are line drives that hit him in the arm. Hasn’t given up one single run since Toronto.
Chip Rodriguez

TOOTBLAN!
No 2013 again

Very nice by Jeter, awful job by Escobar
No 2013 again

Girardi is doing an awful job tonight, left Kuroda too long and now had Thornton face 2 righties.
WAJohn

Really trusting Warren here. C’mon Adam you got this
pat

Thornton still has the gas.
No 2013 again

Regardless if it works or not, it’s a terrible strategy to have Thornton pitch against 2 righties.
- Winter
  
  Zobrist is a switch hitter.
  - Winter
    
    And he had to pitch to Rodriguez since he was the first batter he faced.
  - No 2013 again
    
    I’d rather Warren faces Zobrist batting as lefty than Thornton.
    - ALZ
      
      But you also want to be able to have Warren pitch the whole 8th.
      - No 2013 again
        
        Not if you lose the game in the 7th
Yangeddard Solarte

Still have what we want here. 2 run lead with Warren-Kelley to close. They will lock this one down.
TheRealGreg

Should have gone with the fastball
Yangeddard Solarte

Where was that first pitch from Warren? West has been giving that high strike to Tampa.
http://www.penuel-law.com/ Cuso

Ah shit
WAJohn

If this 1-2 is close we are wrong
Chip Rodriguez

I do not like the way this is going.
mustang

WOOOOW!!!!

YOU HAVE TO BE KIDDING ME!!!
No 2013 again

Joe West is a joke. He robbed the Yankees on that pitch.
Wheels

Shit.
No 2013 again

Now where’s Thronton to face Loney with the bases loaded?
- nycsportzfan
  
  Not to mention, whats up with Cabral? You got 2 lefties finally, why not use the guy? Its not like Cabral has given reason to believe he can’t get out lefties. It would of been perfect situation to use Cabral.
The Guns of Navarone

The mighty Rays have woken from their slumber
RkyMtnYank

eh, keeping everything down there they were just staying away from him, otherwise the pitch calling should have been different.
WAJohn

Fuck you joe west
mustang

Damn!!
Chip Rodriguez

Joe West, are you fucking kidding me?
Yangeddard Solarte

Girardi needs to get himself run. Give West an earful and fire up the club in the process.
The Guns of Navarone

Fucking Warren had two strikes on all three batters
- Chip Rodriguez
  
  he had three on Longoria.
  - The Guns of Navarone
    
    Not trying to be contrarian but that pitch to Longo was low.
    - No 2013 again
      
      No. Also, Strikezone has been huge for Rays’ pitchers all game long and the same is not true for the Yankees pitchers.
      - The Guns of Navarone
        
        Well it must be true if you say so.
- nycsportzfan
  
  Betances would of K’d one of em, at least, I guarantee.
- No 2013 again
  
  Actually had strike three against Longoria, but Joe West will not allow the Yankees to win.
Wheels

Dammit
TheRealGreg

I told you I was worried about this game.

Too good to be true
- WhittakerWalt
  
  Ugh, I forgot about your obnoxious “I told you sos.”
- Wheels
  
  not necessary
- mustang
  
  the game over I though it was 9 innings
No 2013 again

Joe West is a fucking joke. Lost the game on that strike..
- Winter
  
  Our pitching lost us the lead, not an umpire. The game’s not over, though.
  - No 2013 again
    
    The pitcher made the pitch. Unfortunately MLB insists on having a biased ump work Yankees games. That was very clearly strike three, end of the inning and Yankees lead.
    - Winter
      
      And then instead of making another good pitch, Warren threw one down the pipe. You’re like the Cubs fans who blame Bartman instead of the Cubs pitchers who let up 8 runs.
mustang

Finally
Winter

Dammit.
mustang

They are still winning this game
- Chip Rodriguez
  
  this is one thing I love about the offense this year – it’s capable of coming back late, no matter who’s at bat.
  
  I believe.
TheRealGreg

And now we have to worry about losing 3 of 4.
- Preston
  
  Dude stop stepping on everybody’s dick. Even if we lose this game, how does that mean we’re going to lose the next two?
  - mustang
    
    DAMN!!!!
    LOL
    
    WELL SAID
    
    LMAO!!!
- Chip Rodriguez
  
  Absolutely. And we have another 140 or so games after these 4 that you can worry about losing too!
  - mustang
    
    Also they are on like a 5 game win streak
    - Chip Rodriguez
      
      but there were moments when each of those 5 games could have been lost! The horror! The humanity!
WAJohn

Joe West sucks. That being said Warren threw some bad pitches with 2 strikes. Phelps didnt help.
OldYanksFan

Why throw a Fastball on a 1-2 count?
- TheRealGreg
  
  He couldn’t get his slider over.
- The Guns of Navarone
  
  Why not?
  
  If it were better located and not down the heart of the plate the outcome may have been different.
Winter

Any chance Beltran is available to PH? If the Yankees get out of this with the score still close it’d be nice to have his bat off the bench.
- Preston
  
  Should be, one runner on means the go ahead is at the plate.
Zach

Let’s be blunt, our pitching lost us this game.
Having said that… Longo was out on strike three, period.
Winter

Oh, so that’s a strike.
Dan in Athens

Just a horrid performance by the pen, but regression to the mean sucks.
No 2013 again

It would be nice if Roberts could get on base here
JGYank

Still in this. Pen was bound to give up a run at some point with Drob out. Would of have considered going to Cabral to face Loney there.
Winter

B-Rob pinch hitting? Does this mean Beltran is more banged up than we thought?
- JGYank
  
  Girardi probably wants him to get a full day off. I would save him for a higher leverage spot anyway with runners on.
- Mr. Roth
  
  Joe pretty much said he was going to stay away from him as a pinch hitter.
nycsportzfan

Ichiros gonna do something big, I can feel it.
- nycsportzfan
  
  nevermind
  - nycsportzfan
    
    Wait a second, could that amazing catch by Ichiro be the something big, I felt coming?? Wow!
mustang

I hate when Yankees Fans act like Mets fans.
- mustang
  
  See below
TheRealGreg

I would feel better if it weren’t Nova and Nuno next. Nova has a high ERA and Nuno hasn’t started in awhile.

Losing 3 of 4 to a division rival is not good.
- JGYank
  
  We kind of haven’t even got to those games yet nevermind finished this one… One game at a time.
- nycsportzfan
  
  And Sunday, they got a converted reliever Ceaser Ramos pitching. Whats your point? Nova is coming off a studly start his last time out as well.
  - nycsportzfan
    
    Not to mention, if Warren can hold them, we got the top of the order coming up against Balfour in the 9th. Were not outta this one yet.
- mustang
  
  Tiring.
  
  I forgot what losing game thread can be like.
  
  Again
  
  Tiring.
- Wheels
  
  Another day at the office for Ichiro.
  - Wheels
    
    reply fail.
WAJohn

Ellsbury hits a dinger in the 9th. Im calling it now.
Dan in Athens

That sucked and the 3 win scenario is likely gone despite such a great set up (barring a rally), but shouldn’t the odds be one for two in the last games?
mustang

WOOOW!!!!

NASTY
Chip Rodriguez

Gut feeling:

Grant Balfour is gonna fill up his swear jar pretty soon.
Wheels

Top of the order due up.
Yangeddard Solarte

I like how some have declared that losing this game by 1 run means the team automatically loses the next two games as well. Can we finish this game first? And it’s not like the Yanks are 10 games out of first, they’re in first.
WAJohn

Any chance we see Beltran hit for Brett “I dont use my best asset anyway” Gardner? Would love to see it
No 2013 again

Terrible pitching, it’s hard to win when you pitch like this. Time to regroup and try again tomorrow.
BigBlueAL

This bullpen was due to blow a game so tonight to me is not that big a deal.

If anything its kinda good because it reminds us and the front office that this bullpen will still need outside reinforcements before the season is over.
WAJohn

Oh Warren, why?
Wheels

Bleh.
mustang

Well before the GOOOM and DOOOM starts and depress me further have a good night guys.

GET THEM TOMORROW
Rolling Doughnut

Well, the Rays finally showed up. The pen has been great lately. Hats off to ’em and come back tomorrow.
WhittakerWalt

Man.
nycsportzfan

Dellin Betances will leap Phelps and Warren on the depth chart, I can all but guarantee it.
- Yangeddard Solarte
  
  Phelps hasn’t given up a run since Toronto. He’s done nothing wrong. Dellin should be given some chances in bigger spots and he’ll need to prove himself.
  - nycsportzfan
    
    He lets guys on base all the time, though. Its the same thing as walking a guy, if your getting in deep counts and giving up knocks. Your gonna be sitting here saying the same thing about Phelps soon, i’ll bet. The one whos got true out stuff, to get outta trouble more often then not, is Dellin.
Steinbrenner’s Ghost

crap. all these runs are coming on 2 out hits.
nycsportzfan

Get well Drob.
Yangeddard Solarte

Warren was just awful today. Better start pitching better or BGDP is gonna take his job.
- nycsportzfan
  
  Phelps hasen’t exactly been lights out. I’d say they both better watch out for Dellin.
nycsportzfan

Cabral, you fucking suck.
mustang

Wow this guy sucks!!!!
mustang

Oh!!

Come on you know there going to be payback.
mustang

Come on joe save US!!!!
The Guns of Navarone

Enjoy Scranton Senor Cabral
mustang

How does he swing at that?

LOL
forensic

Well, things could be much worse. We could be watching the Astros or White Sox pitching tonight.
- forensic
  
  Now this is sadly getting closer to them…
  - Chip Rodriguez
    
    The Toronto bullpen last night had a nightmare inning with 8 walks. The first hit of the inning scored the sixth run that inning.
    - forensic
      
      Yeah, my fantasy team felt some of that pain.
Chip Rodriguez

three!

dammit, if Cabral’s gonna keep hitting batters… can he start against the Sox on Tuesday?
- Reggie C.
  
  This made me laugh
- mustang
  
  Good point
BigBlueAL

So who is getting called up tomorrow when Cabral gets sent down??
- mustang
  
  Well at least he is already in Tampa.
- Tom
  
  It will likely be Tuesday – Robertson comes off the DL.
  - BigBlueAL
    
    With Nuno starting on Sunday they will need another arm just in case for the next 2 days.
- forensic
  
  I don’t think he’ll be sent down until Tuesday when Robertson is back, but if they did choose to do it, the only real option is Claiborne (unless they wanted to push it with Bryan Mitchell).
- Chip Rodriguez
  
  Aceves?
mustang

He is going to really hurt someone.
- nycsportzfan
  
  I’ve seen Wade Boggs pitch, among other position players, and even they could find the plate, to a degree. Thats unacceptable. He also Balked his last time out before this.
Tom

How does West toss him?

How he can he possibly determine intent given the way this inning has gone?
- forensic
  
  It has nothing to do with intent, per se. At some point, West does have to try to protect the batters.
  - mustang
    
    THIS!!!!!
- mustang
  
  Maybe he just did it for everyone safety.
  
  I’m sorry but that was scary .
Chip Rodriguez

two straight HBPs? Yikes.
Reggie C.

Did the home plate ump warn the Rays?
nycsportzfan

That was one of the most humiliating things i’d ever seen from a ML player. I’d flat out release Cabral at this point. He should never see a ML mound again. What a complete joke.
- The Guns of Navarone
  
  It will probably only take a mechanical adjustment to fix him up.
  - nycsportzfan
    
    I’ve been watching ball since 1990, and never seen anything like that. He balked his last time out as well. I don’t know if i’d give the dude another chance. Hes dangerous, and hasen’t done enough to be given another shot. To many other guys deserving, to give a dude another shot after that.
    - mustang
      
      Young Randy Johnson.
      
      NO LIE!
      - mustang
        
        And throwing in the mid 90’s
WAJohn

Well I assume the bus to Scranton is waiting for cabral outside the trop as we type
- WAJohn
  
  Err..or take a cab to the Tampa complex.
The Guns of Navarone

Making the case FOR pine tar
Reggie C.

Should nick Swisher warm up just in case?
Daniel

Anyone see Gardner’s throw back into the infield after myers’s hit in the 8th? He like 6 hopped it to 2nd base- it’s not the first time he has done that either. Yet he seems to get credit for being an excellent defender by advanced metrics.
- forensic
  
  He’s not an excellent defender based on his arm strength. There’s a ton more to it than that.
- BigBlueAL
  
  Arm strength has nothing to do with range.
mustang

Well that sucked
- forensic
  
  Yes, yes it did.
Axis of Mike

Jeez that went from great to the most awful game I’ve seen in ages. Combined w last night, a wild roller coaster two nights of baseball.