The Final Football Column: The Nightmare Is Over

Happy New Year everyone. I decided to take a month off from writing, and instead I went on to eat, sleep and repeat during the holidays. That was my gift to you (What can I say, I'm stingy).

It has definitely been a huge month of sports news; there's been football, baseball's winter meetings, more football and some crappy college football games. Put all of the happy times aside, because right now the NFL season is over for the Giants, and there's only one word I can think of to describe the year: disappointing. 

The Giants started off the season losing six straight games. But that's a story you guys know, and to be honest, I don't think anyone wants to hear what I've got to say. If I had to talk about the Giants season on television, I'd be granted the hours between three and four in the morning on your local paid programming channel. 

But hey, didn't they give us a sliver of hope? They finished 7-9. They won four in a row in November and were a game out of first place at one point. Yes, I know they didn't get the job done, but I'm still proud of the boys. I'm very proud of how Tom Coughlin rallied up the players, and how there was a never say never attitude in the clubhouse. After all, they did play spoiler last weekend against the Lions. The result: no playoffs in Detroit and Jim Schwartz was fired. That's success in my eyes. 

7-9 isn't that bad a year, especially after the hell the team put us through. There's going to be some changes this offseason, and praise god that there will be. Look Eli had a bad year, so what? He's allowed to. He had 25 picks in 2010. Do you know what happened to him the next year? A Super Bowl MVP award. Lay off the guy; he's got no offensive line help and he's got an offensive coordinator in Kevin Gilbride that looks like he's reading off the plays on his sheet in some odd Russian dialect. Tom Coughlin is King Arthur, and the king needs some new knights around his frickin' round table. Change personnel. 

Who else needs the boot? Justin Tuck. What kind of captain is he? He thinks he's allowed to show up thirteen games into the season and expect to get re-signed this winter? Justin, I'm gonna miss ya, but I'm sure there's a place in Arizona or St. Louis that would love to waste a boatload of money on you for the next five years. Thank you for your service. The cornerbacks, where do I begin. You know what? I won't even start. I think I need some Tylenol. 

Any whozer, the season is behind us and we can finally look forward to a solid draft year. The Giants have the 12th pick, and hopefully Jerry Reese and the gang will make some wise investments. I'm crossing my fingers, Reese. You've got a really short leash right now. 

Well it's almost January which means playoff football. It's a shame that there won't be a New York team playing in Metlife this February, but if any game lives up to the spectacle that the Packers and Bears provided, we're gonna be in for a fun ride. 

Now, my Super Bowl picks. 

When the preseason began, I took the Packers to beat the Broncos. A month ago I would've sounded like a knucklehead, but that discount-double check guy is back for the Cheese Heads, so I'm going to ride their bandwagon. The whole NFC is a crapshoot. Go Pack Go. 

When it comes down to the AFC, it gets a little more interesting. Each team in the AFC has an identity; how they wanna play is up to them. Right about now I bet you think I'm going to pick the Broncos to win the conference. Surprise! I'm not! There is only one team out of the whole bunch that have more playoff experience over the last two decades and have one of the greatest coaches of all-time  I'm taking the New England Patriots in the AFC. 

Yes, I know, the road goes through Denver, but if there's any coaching staff that can pick out the strengths and weaknesses of each team, it's the Patriots. I know we would all like to see a Broncos/Seahawks Super Bowl, but how many times have the favorites gone into the playoffs and won the Lombardi trophy? Not many. The Super Bowl champion will be the one team that is playing the hottest football as of now. I just couldn't see myself betting against New England again. They screw with your mind.

Alright, well that's all I've got to say about the football season. The whole year has been a huge question mark, so be prepared for some whacky games this January. Put this Giants season behind you. Burn a jersey, cry in your room and lock the door, do whatever it takes to make you forget about this year. It's behind us now. Good riddance. 

So Cano's Gone. What's Next?

I woke up this morning knowing that Jay-Z and Robinson Cano were traveling to Seattle to talk money with the Mariners. What sources said was that Seattle offered Cano a nine-year contract worth $225M, but then Jay-Z rose up the value to ten years worth $240M. At that point, I figured Seattle was out of the race for the second baseman, but this afternoon, the Mariners ended up signing the free agent to the ten year deal. Today was a compilation of terrible reporting and bad news. 

Earlier this week, the Yanks signed OF Jacoby Ellsbury to a seven year deal worth a little over $150M. Now look, I love the guy's work ethic, but there is not one valid excuse in the universe that explains why the Yankees gave him that much cash.  Of course Ellsbury will be a huge contributor to this upcoming season, but the money invested just might backfire in the long run. 

Cano's absence now leaves a huge hole in the Yankees lineup. Kelly Johnson and Brendan Ryan are nice utility players, but Joe Girardi will certainly miss the security and talent that Robbie provided. In difficult times like these, I always try to search for a silver lining. 

The Bombers best player's gone, but here's that silver lining:

1. Brian McCann and Jacoby Ellsbury:  These two left handed sluggers may have cost over $230 million, but the short left field porch will a play to their advantage, and I have no doubts that they will impact the lineup positively. The Yanks needed a catcher, and what did they do? they got one of the best hitting catchers in the game. Ellsbury brings speed, and stolen bases are a threat to any opponent. I know it's a lot of money, but you can't blame the Yankees for going all in on these huge signings; they really had no other options available. 




2. No A-rod? No problem: If Alex Rodriguez' suspension remains upheld by Major League Baseball, the Yankees would receive about $86 million in return. With A-Rod out of the picture, the Yanks are left with a golden opportunity to invest in other valuable players. Some people have said that A-Rod won't ever put the pinstripes on again, and pray to god that Rodriguez won't. 

3. More Money= Brighter Future:  If Robinson Cano accepted the Yankees $225 million contract, Brian Cashman would've been placed in a difficult position to add more depth to the roster. Cano in Seattle saves the Yanks so much money that they can now go after all stars such as OF Shin-Soo-Choo, or valuable pitchers in the free agent market. Also, this now gives the Yankees a chance to trade for IF Omar Infante to fill the second base slot. He would be much cheaper to keep, and he's only a year older than Cano. 

Am I disappointed with Cano's decision, yes. But I do respect his decision. The guy's a business man, and this game is all about the big bucks. I know business is business, so I wish Cano the best of luck on whatever he "expects" to gain playing for one of the worst franchises in baseball. Thank you for a great seven years in pinstripes. You will be missed around here. 

It's not so bad Yankee fans. Keep the faith. 

NY Giants Breakdown: Week 11

After beginning the year 0-6 for the first time since the 1976 season, the Giants have miraculously won four straight games and have forced the critics and analysts to begin small talk of the Giants playoff chances. The Giants dominated Minnesota on Monday Night Football, stole a victory in Philadelphia, won a nail-biter against Oakland, and crushed Green Bay last night. Now, I can't blame any fans that started scouting college players half way through the season, but c'mon now, where's the heart? 

I took the 0-6 start as just another speed bump in their journey. Go back and look at the Giants records over the last six or seven years. You'll see that through the first eight weeks of the season, they started strong and wound up with a 6-2 or 5-3 record. From there, they began to have the midway slump, and dropped three or four games, which made the playoff spots very tight and made Week 17 define the future. I think of this season as "opposite day", as the Giants instead had a weak beginning rather than weak finish. Could it be destiny, I don't know. The only thing I know is that the team has found their swagger, and most importantly, has found their confidence. 

WHAT THIS WINS MEANS:
The 27-13 win over Green Bay puts the Giants in 3rd place in the NFC East. Because of a Redskins loss to the Eagles, Washington has now dropped to 3-7 on the season, and Philadelphia has now full possession of 1st place. The Giants (4-6) trail the Eagles (6-5) by 1.5 games in the division. With that being said, the G-Men also have an opportunity to shake the playoff picture even more, as they host the Dallas Cowboys this Sunday afternoon. A win against Dallas would place the Giants in second place, and also a potential 6th seed wild card spot in the postseason. It's very early to bring out the playoff machine and list all of the scenarios that can occur, but with a little bit of luck and hard work, the Giants have a better chance to be the first team to ever make the postseason after an 0-6 start in the history of football. Here's the Giants remaining schedule:

Week 12 (11/24)   vs Dallas Cowboys (5-5)
Week 13 (12/1)     at Washington Redskins (3-7)
Week 14 (12/8)     at San Diego Chargers (4-6)
Week 15 (12/15)   vs Seattle Seahawks (10-1)
Week 16 (12/22)   at Detroit Lions (6-4)
Week 17 (12/29)   vs Washington Redskins (3-7) 


THIS WEEK'S IMPORTANT GAMES:

Dallas Cowboys at NY Giants
San Francisco 49ers at Washington Redskins 
EAGLES BYE WEEK

My 2014 Yankees Lineup: Who Comes and Goes?

After a difficult year of injuries, the health and age of the Yankees roster is definitely the major concern of the franchise. The durability and overall talent of this season's lineup was barely adequate, and the front office has to acknowledge these problems between the players and coaching staff. If that's the number one issue, then what's number two?  It's Robinson Cano. Cano has played such a substantial role in the Yanks success over the past five years, but there's a price to everyone. Of course Cano wants to set the bar high seeking a $300 million deal, but if I was Brain Cashman, I would offer Cano half of what he's looking for. We don't know for sure if Cano wants city to settle in or a place that throws the most money at him; I think it's a little bit of both. Robbie, my offer is six years worth $160 million. Take it or leave it.
So maybe he leaves it. Maybe he goes to Detroit to build a stronger championship team, or maybe Theo Epstein calls him up and he plays for the Cubbies at Wrigley to bring more fans to the games. Robinson Cano leaving the Bronx would be a bitter-sweet moment, but it would leave the Yanks in a great position financially. As a team that is looking to stay under the salary cap at $189 million, the front office would be saving millions, millions of dollars that can be invested in younger talent that is not worth nine figures that can still produce in the limelight of New York City.

In my mind, there are a few number of players the Yanks need to release before Spring Training in February: Curtis Granderson, Phil Hughes, Joba Chamberlain, Hiroki Kuroda, and John Sterling (I can dream right?). The Grandy Man has done squat for the Bombers, as he resembles an injury prone outfielder who can't hit for average. Hughes and Chamberlain are cancers that should have been traded years ago during the Cliff Lee rumors. And Kuroda is a 39 year-old veteran who finished the season in an unattractive way on mound. Cutting these has-been's would also save the Yanks in roughly another $100 million. In a perfect world, with A-Rod's contact disputes, the Yanks can enter the winter meetings with a boat load of cash in their pocket. Money should be spent, but spent wisely. Here are some guys I want to see in pinstripes come springtime.

Carlos Beltran (STL, OF)
Beltran has been nothing but money for St. Louis this season, as he passed Babe Ruth for the highest slugging percentage of all time in the postseason against the Dodgers. Beltran struggled in his final months with the Mets, but he has always remained consistent at the plate and in the field. There's good news and bad news. The bad news is that he's never won a championship, and right now he has the opportunity to win a ring against Boston. The good news is that if Red Sox come out victorious, he will leave St. Louis seeking revenge, and what other team is better than joining Boston's bitter rival? With Ichiro on the decline, I can picture Beltran strarting in right field, putting up a solid .295 average, along with 25 homers and 90 RBI. Not to mention, he's a switch hitter. The Yanks had only one switch hitter the whole year in Lyle Overbay.

Brian McCann (ATL, C)
I have loved McCann since he flourished for the Braves in 2006. Injuries are the only concern, but he is a great team player and contributes with stellar defense and a pop on the bat that the Yanks have been missing since Jorge Posada retired. Christ Stewart and Francisco Cervelli can not be the solution behind the plate next year, so why not take a stab at an all-star catcher who won the 2008 All-Star Game at Yankee Stadium with a leading single in extra innings?

Masahiro Tanaka (Japan, SP)
Let's face it. The Yanks love the Japanese prospects. Hideki Matsui brought home the 27th title in his seven year MLB career, and Kei Igawa well, I'm not sure what he did. Oh that's right he folded under the pressure. The Yankees have missed out on some really talented pitching over the least few years, and with a shaky starting rotation, Tanaka could potentially provide a stellar arm behind CC Sabathia and Ivan Nova. The scouts claim Tanka's better than Yu Darvish, so why not take the gamble?

Ubaldo Jiminez (CLE, SP)
I know, I know, he hasn't been anything he's supposed to be since his days in Colorado, but Jiminez would be a perfect fourth or fifth starter in the rotation. Just because his stuff in Cleveland has been lousy, doesn't mean he's through. This guy is still young, in shape, and has a good amount of potential left to perform at the best of his abilities. Jiminez will most likely want a lot of money from the Indians, and I don't think a deal with take place.

The only difficulty will be finding a second baseman to replace Cano is he does not resign. Michael Young and Jaun Uribe stand out as potential third basemen the Yanks can go after, which would move Eduardo Nunez to second instead. There are many scenarios to play out, but I trust in the Yankee front office to make the best decisions for the future of the franchise. The future is more important than the present.

NY Sports Fans: We've Had It Pretty Good.

            A wise man once said that everyone pays their dues. Through life, there will be times of success and failure, rewards and obstacles in our way. Now, I don’t believe that man was talking about sports, but he sure was talking about competition. For the New York-metro area, we’ve been nothing but spoiled. Right now, the New York Giants, my favorite football club, is winless through six weeks of games. Through these six weeks, I have become frustrated, concerned, and mainly pessimistic. Yet, just because my team is in the dumps, doesn’t mean I won’t be in front of the TV the next Sunday watching them compete. I have too much pride and I care so much that it seems absurd to others.

Sports shape my entire life; my mood, my actions, my normal style of living. I guess when failure occurs in a repetitive fashion, we point out the rights and wrongs of our teams. We all point the finger to that one guy who’s letting you down and we start up the blame game that everybody knows so well. We have been so spoiled that we seldom consider the teams we have and the games they perform in. In the limelight of New York, athletes sign with our teams to aspire as superstars, to become world champions.

Since the development of professional sports back as early as the late nineteenth century, New York has brought home fifty-five titles, the most of any city in the country. Since 1923, the Yankees have won twenty-seven rings, the Mets and Knicks have brought two. The Rangers, Devils, and Islanders have won eleven combined, and finally, the Giants and Jets consist of five championships between each other. History doesn’t lie; we don’t know anything else but winning. But when our expectations are high every year and our teams don’t perform or exceed to the best of their ability, we treat them like trash and throw them out on the street to rot. A fanatic is one who is marked by excessive enthusiasm and intense devotion. What makes us give up on our teams? Why are we so convinced that our teams can never have a bad year? There’s nothing in the rule books against playing a lousy season; it must be allowed! Our superstar quarterbacks and pitchers are human, even when they seem heavenly like.

The greatest thing about sports is the bond between a fan and the team; the passion for winning is like no other. Just like in our personal lives with family or friends, we want to be by their side through the good times and bad. Sports are another family, a family you can never lose faith in, a family that will never let you down, and a family that puts their best product out on the field day in and day out. The most loyal fans I know are the season ticket holders who continue to go watch their team play, even when the predictions of their success are low. I’m talking to you Mets fans. You’ve had it rough. I don’t know what rough is, but every team has gone through it.  Every city, every player, and every fan has dealt with defeat.

With my teams on the older side and wrong side of thirty, young talent stands alone for the future, and through these transitions bring ups and downs like a rollercoaster, winning franchises go through a cycle. The same team can’t win every single year. If that was the case, what’s the point of playing? The point I’m getting at is don’t ever give up. There’s always another opportunity to win, and that’s the beauty of sports. So when I look at the records of all the football teams and see the Giants in dead last, or see an embarrassing and injured Yankee team miss out on the playoffs, I take a moment and realize how great I’ve had it. I have gone to three championship parades in Manhattan since 2007, and not many people can say they’ve done the same. I may have been born into a spoiled environment, but it’s all I know. I may expect success, but I also respect failure, and the lessons learned that can come from it in the future. I love my teams too much.

Not to mention, we’ve had it pretty good.  

NFL Week 1 Picks

Football is finally back! Super Bowl MVP Joe Flacco and his Ravens travel back to Mile High Stadium in Denver to face Peyton Manning and the Broncos. Not only are the Broncos out for revenge, but Denver will bring a stronger team in all three phases of the game. The rest of the league plays Sunday and Monday, and it'll be a delight to watch the boys throw the pigskin again. Here are my picks for the key games each week. 

2013 NFL PREDICTIONS

Before the blink of an eye, the NFL is only a matter of weeks away. For us baseball fans, I know it's hard to wrap our heads around the pigskin, considering that many teams are still competing for an October playoff spot. As much as we don't want to see the boys of summer end, the gridiron gang of fall is right around the corner. There's a great deal to look forward to in the NFL, such as the defending champ Ravens squad rebuilding or the Denver Broncos preparing for a chance at the Lombardi Trophy. Russell Wilson and Colin Kaepernick are two QB names that stand out in the NFC, as both the Seahawks and 49ers will fight for a division title. I've only mentioned four of thirty-two teams, and trust me, many other teams have an opportunity to make some noise this season. Here are my 2013 Bold Predictions, and even though it's August, are you ready for some football? Weekly NY Giants posts will be on the Giants tab on the homepage.

A-Rodmageddon

As the world knows, Alex Rodriguez has been suspended by Major League Baseball for 211 games, extending throughout the 2014 regular season. After listening to the press conference, both manager Joe Girardi and A-Rod's answers were black and white. The reporters attempted to press A-Rod's buttons with questions, but did not receive adequate responses. Rodriguez plans to appeal the suspension, a process that can last up to a maximum twenty-five days, as then it can be brought to an arbitrator which also last twenty-five days at the most. As of right now, Rodriguez can theoretically be active playing third base for the Yanks for fifty days.

Now, I don't feel like getting into the gorey details of this debacle, because to be blunt, I don't care. If you don't know the details by now from television, newspapers, or the radio, well you must live under a rock. Between the interviews and press conferences, Rodriguez has left our minds puzzled, which evidently suspects us to believe a banned substance was once is his body. According to Rodriguez, "There will be a time and place for this discussion", which questions my opinion on what information he can publicly address. The man is innocent to proven guilty, and regardless to the animosity and speculation, the guy has never physically failed a drug test. There is still no hard evidence that he is a cheater. Period.

Not only are the Yankees dealing with their own "wild card" wearing number thirteen in uniform, but the team remains only 4.5 games out of the second AL Wild Card position.  Rodriguez is in the lineup batting clean-up tonight in Chicago for the very first time since Game 4 of the 2012 American League Championship Series against Detroit. With the Yanks having the worst batting average, slugging percentage, and on-base percentage at the hot corner in the entire league this season, it is only an upgrade to bring back Alex. Who knows what is in store for him this week. Nevertheless, an A-Rod hitting .240 with a few homers and a dozen RBI is a greater trade off than placing David Adams or Brent Lillibridge at third base.

As Yankee fans, we all love the attention that the media reports on the club. Popularity sells the product, but at this moment, I have hated the reports because of negative perspectives from analysts and fans. The days of Barry Bonds and Mark McGwire as the face of steroids have faded away, as A-Rod has taken the helm as the king. No player in the history of the game has been suspended for this length in regards to non-gambling misconduct. At this point, it's a win-win for the Yankees office. A-Rod either:  A.) plays the remainder of the 2013 season or  B.) will be denied the appeal. If the appeal is not granted, nearly twenty-seven million dollars will be returned to the Yankees next season, as that is the annual salary for Rodriguez in the upcoming season. Hopefully that money is not spent on attempting to keep Robbie Cano next year (I think it's best to let him test the market).

A-Rod is the "Reggie Jackson of the 2000s". Mr. October may not have taken steroids, but he was the ringleader of the Bronx Zoo, and it took nearly thirty-five years for A-Rod to bring the havoc back to the zoo once again. Bronx Zoo, meet "A-Rodmageddon".

The Second Half: The Bronx Zoo Is Back

Derek Jeter. Curtis Granderson. Mark Teixeira. Kevin Youkilis. Alex Rodriguez.

These are the names of the Yankees core lineup who are currently injured or out for the season.

Lyle Overbay, Vernon Wells, Travis Hafner, and Chris Stewart.

These are names of the few whom remain in pinstripes.

The Yankees traveled to Tampa this March hoping for stronger offense, defense, and chemistry. The injuries piled up instantly within a few weeks, and overwhelming reactions spiraled out of control. Havoc knocked on Brian Cashman's door in early spring, a knock that the Yanks general manager was not anticipating.

Cashman did the best he could with the stars available on the market, and by late April, the fate of the 2013 Yankees seemed rather optimistic with cheap free agent signings who showed glimmers of hope. By the beginning of summer, the slump began, as the Yankees played abysmally. The lack of scoring runs haunted Joe Girardi's club, and a change was necessary to continue to campaign for a chance at another title run.

The Bombers ended the first half of the season on a higher note, but many questions still remain in the eyes of the fans and media. Will Yankee fans ever see Alex Rodriguez play third base again? Will Mariano Rivera still decide to retire after recording thirty saves before the All-Star break? What are the chances of Derek Jeter returning healthy off the DL?

Everyone has questions that need to be answered, and frankly, it's hard for anyone to find an accurate response.

All I can say is this: don't worry.

As an avid "bleed blue" Yankee fan who only started watching the game of baseball by the time a rookie named Jeter was called up to play shortstop in the mid-90s, I am man enough to say that I've been spoiled by greatness. The generations who witnessed Ruth, DiMaggio, Mantle, and Munson were all spoiled at one point in their lifetime with success and championships. In my lifetime, there has only been one season in which the Yankee missed out on the playoffs, which was the final season at the original Stadium in 2008.

I remember mixed emotions running through my brain, realizing that the season was abruptly over and the rich history on that field was at an end. Strangely enough, the season was not a heartbreak for me, as most of the Yankee fans already accepted the fate come that September.

What I'm trying to say is that you're allowed to be disappointed. You're allowed to be in withdrawal for a day or so and let out all the suffering your body withheld through the hardship of a season. The most important part is to understand is that there is always another day, another week, another season, and it's always fine to turn the page and look forward to the future.

Since 1996, we have witnessed five World Series championships, hall of fame worthy players, and the true passion of Yankee fans through the good times and bad. Where will the second half of the season take us? I don't know. What does the future hold in store? I don't know that one either. Stop worrying about the future and live in the now. We have a limited amount of days left with the players we grew up loving, as Jeter and Mo will soon be gone and management will have to start from scratch.

We must look at the history of the franchise and expect an optimistic future, because the Yankees will never quit on us, and we will never quit on them. Every year, nine guys dress up to play a game of baseball for 162 games, and win or lose, you can never lose the love for the team and the game. If a decade of rebuilding means championship contenders, I am willing to wait.

The Yanks are in a pickle to start the second half of the season, but the AL East remains fickle, and history only shows how any possible scenario can occur. Keep the faith, and don't give up before the last pitch is thrown.

Report From July 1, Never Posted

JUNE REPORT: 12-16 (43-39 Overall)

After two months of optimism and exceeding expectations, the Yankees abruptly dropped down from their second place lead in the division to hanging by a thread in third and fourth. In the month of June, the Yanks were ranked dead last in the league in batting average, on-base percentage,  slugging, and total runs. Not only do the Yanks have no run support, but they also have not scored double digits in a game since May 10th against Kansas City. Of course it's difficult for Robinson Cano to maintain a high batting average when no one bats in front or behind him, but the team needs to at least boost their OBP, take more pitches, and hopefully that will result in runs.  The Yanks had their only west coast trip of the season, and were swept in Oakland and lost two of three in Anaheim. By the end of the month, the Yanks had an opportunity to gain some ground in Baltimore, but were silenced by the big orange birds in all three games. The All-Star break is around the corner, and this Yankee squad needs help. Hope Week starts on July 8th; I think that's a great time to start a winning streak. Keep the faith; they need all the advice they can get. 

TOP PERFORMER:  Brett Gardner

Brett started off the season on a tear, considering that we never see the guy hit more than five homers a year. Gardner hit .330 in June, along with two homers and ten RBIs. The kid doesn't put the ball in the stands, but he hits for average, gets on base, and scores runs. Strangely enough, the stolen base count for Brett has been down this year. I don't think there should ever be a time where he shouldn't have a chance at snatching a base. I would rather attempt and fail than never attempt at all. Anyway, forget the negatives. He's dynamite in center field with his speed and takes control of the outfield with his leadership. I always look upon Brett the Hit-Man as trade bait, but at this point, he's essential at the lead-off spot in the lineup. Keep up the good work.

WORST PERFORMER: Joba Chamberlain

I know, I know, Joba's a reliever and doesn't get enough innings to prove himself. Honestly,  I'm basically through with this guy. June was not friendly to him, as he ended with a 9.35 ERA with 14 hits and 9 earned runs in only 8.2 IP. His velocity has been consistently high but his bag of tricks aren't fooling batters anymore. Injuries have unfortunately shaped his career, and I'm also very skeptical about his health. I know he was out all of last year with TJ Surgery, but Joba gained a ton of weight. David Wells and CC Sabathia are the only big guys who have excelled in double extra-large pinstripe uniforms, and the only option of not trading Joba is to designate him for assignment and call up fresh, new blood. (By the way, Joba wears one hat size too small; all of the blood is rushing to his head!)

EVERYBODY BOARD THE ZOIIIILOOO TRAIN!!!

The 2013 Yankees squad has offered many rookies appearances in the big show, including 3B David Adams, C Austin Romine, and SS Alberto Gonzalez. But out of all the rookies being displayed in the Bronx, one stands out as the top player: Zoilo Almonte. The 24-year old was called up during the LA Dodgers series on the 19th, and in his twelve games in June, he hit .303 with an OBP of .351. Now, this kid isn't a slugger, but his outfield glove looks top-notch. His speed and strong arm provides Joe Girardi with an option to replace slumping Vernon Wells in the field and at the plate. Zoilo only has a dozen games under his belt in the pros, but I have high hopes for this kid. After all, he's named after the 1965 American League MVP Zoilo Versalles of the Minnesota Twins. Almonte's name brings royalty, so expect big things from this rook. 

W2W4

We stand only two weeks away from the Mid-Summer Classic at Citi Field, and there is a lot of ground to cover with fourteen straight days of baseball. Luckily, the Yanks end the first half of the season with a four game set against the Twins in the Twin City, and a ten game home stand between the Orioles, Royals, and Twins. With the Yanks back at home, I anticipate a great end to the first half. Once the ASG is complete, the Yanks travel to Fenway to renew a rivalry between the Sox. If the Yanks can win two of three in Boston, that could lead to a greater level of motivation in the clubhouse. The Sox pitching staff is shaky and the lineup isn't as strong. So isn't it time that they're due a slump? Traveling to Texas for a four game series against the Rags will be challenging, but will show the true grit and passion of the Bombers. July ends in Los Angeles for a two game set between the overrated Dodgers. Those two games I want simply for bragging rights. This month does not strike me as challenging, and with a greater number of home games against weaker competition, I expect a division race by the trade deadline. Prediction: 17-9 (60-48 2nd AL East)

Little Skid? No Problem.

Okay, the Yanks have only scored 10 runs during their four game losing streak between Oakland and Los Angeles. Going seventeen straight innings without a run can be hard to swallow for die hard fans, but I tend to stay optimistic. I mean doesn't this always happen on the west coast trips? The Yanks always split in Seattle, and then lose two of three to the Athletics and Halos. Out of the five late night starts this week, I've only watched Friday's game. For Yankee fans on the east coast, it feels as if these games don't count. Our minds are ready for bed by first pitch at 10:15pm and we can care less what happens while we're all asleep. These games count for the record, but it's all about the division match ups. The wins and losses even out and the winning record will remain constant throughout the year. There's nothing to worry about; the history shows that we have nothing to fear. Besides, this is the only west coast trip of the season (Thank you Houston for the re-alignment). Relax, the Yanks are only a game and a half behind Baltimore for 2nd, and three games behind Boston for the division. We all need to remember where we thought this team would stand after Granderson, Jeter, and Teixiera went down. Hell, by June 1, I would've been excited if the Yanks were a few games over .500! Let's not worry about the Angels or the A's; the next time we'll see them it will be in the Bronx. The bats will come together and the pitching staff will get back in focus. Keep the faith and don't check out. It's only mid-June.

MAY REPORT:  15-13 (31-23 Overall)

For nearly the whole month of May, the Yankees were recognized as one of the hottest teams in baseball. Unfortunately, the Subway Series between the Mets altered expert's opinions of the Yanks, as the Mets swept the Bombers in a four-game series for the first time in history. These four games showed a lack of offense, defense, timely hitting, and overall performance. Mariano Rivera blew his first save of the year at Citi Field as the Yanks were three outs away from a much needed victory. This leads us to wonder if the Yanks we expected to see during Spring Training have finally shown up. Teixeira and Youkilis are back from their time on the DL, and Granderson will be back in a matter of weeks, but will this pitching staff and rotation hold up? The AL East is tight, and the Yankees can easily choose their own fate of "first or worst" by winning ball games that are essential for a playoff run. Don't worry fans. It's only June. 

TOP PERFORMERS: Robinson Cano & Lyle Overbay

Cano's average dropped under .300 during the last week of the month, but he lead the team in home runs (7), and RBI (19) in the month of May. Cano is essential for the Yankees to maintain a competitive edge against powerful opponents within the division and league. Remember way back in March when Brian Cashman signed a free agent who was released early in Spring Training by the Red Sox? Anyone? Does Lyle Overbay ring a bell? The fist basemen wrecked the baseball this month, hitting nine doubles and trailing Cano by only two RBI for the team lead in May. So far, Overbay has become the best free agent signing of the year for the Yanks, and although the Sox saw no talent left in this player, the Yanks took a chance, and so far, Overbay has payed off. 

WORST PERFORMER: Vernon Wells

Timely hitting is key to winning baseball games. This month, Vernon Wells showed the exact opposite. Wells was traded for in March, and during the fist few weeks of the season, he played like the "Wells of old" who slugged 30+ homers with Toronto in his prime. The man is hitting .221 with only four homers. His RBI count was low and his strikeouts were high (16). Wells defines a hot and cold hitter, and in order for him to maintain a spot in the lineup, Vernon must find his bat and return to reaching base safely. April was a pleasant surprise, but May was a major disappointment.  

ROOKIES & CO.

The injuries of all the Yankee all stars and some other key players lead to many youngsters called up from the minors. Catcher Austin Romine was called up after injuries from Francisco Cervelli and Chris Stewart, and Romine showed that his pitch calling and defense behind the plate is impressive, but his bat needs work. Once Youkilis was placed on the DL with a bad back, 3B David Adams was promoted to the hot corner. His defense is top notch, but his bat shows little power. I'm impressed with how both have managed to perform exceptionally well in their first year in the big show. The year is young, and we'll be seeing much of them during this year and hopefully many more seasons to come. They keep me optimistic of the future. Pitchers Vidal Nuno and David Phelps also represent the future pitching staff with low ERAs and WHIPs. We have no choice but to stay optimistic. Keep the faith.

W2W4

The all stars are soon return, but the Yankees must maintain ground with what the have been dealt with. Hafner and Wells will eventually self destruct, but Brett Gardner and Ichiro must show consistency in the outfield. Hiroki Kuroda has been been impressive, but the rotation has no choice but to put up effective stats to keep the offense in ball games. The four game sweep from the Mets damaged our spirits and confidence, but the month of June brings about opportunity to succeed. The Yanks take their only west coast trip of the season for ten games between the Mariners, A's, and Angels. The Yanks then come home to face the LA Dodgers in the Bronx for the first time in history during the regular season for a quick two game series. The Yankees have more home games this month then away games, so I expect more victories than losses with the faithful fans supporting them on. The Bombers finished 15-13 in May (I predicted 16-12), and sit a game behind first place in the AL East. The month shows a great deal of competition and it will be a sure test whether or not the Yanks mean business this season. Prediction: 14-12 (45-35, 2nd AL East)

4 vs. 7: Subway Series 2013

The most wonderful time of the baseball season is back in action this evening on Memorial Day in Flushing, Queens, as the Yankees will travel down to play the Mets at Citi Field for a two game away and home series in the next four days. Now, nothing compares to the Yanks/Sawx rivalry, but the Subway Series represents bragging rights. The Yanks have been the better team for a few decades, but the performance from the players are enhanced to a more professional skill. These two boroughs of the Queens and Bronx resemble the only remaining New York rivalry in baseball. It has been nearly sixty years since the Brooklyn Dodgers fought against Manhattan's New York Giants, and with the Bronx Bombers as well. We all remember the World Series match-ups between the three teams in numerous scenarios. These three teams were not only a few miles apart; they were the dominant clubs of the league. What makes a rivalry so special is the rich history between the loyal fans and teams. The Mets replaced the Dodgers in the nineteen-sixties, and the Mets have brought new generations of fans into their fan base to this day. Since the World Series title won in 1986, it seems as if the Mets have been cursed with failure and defeat. In 1999, they were inches away from returning to the Fall Classic, and in 2000, the Subway Series was renewed with a Yankee victory in five games. Yankees and Mets fan hate each other, but also show respect towards one another. Luckily, the Mets have not been able to brag because of the lack of talent, and personally, I've grown tired of making fun of the Mets. They're a lousy club and I have nothing left to say about them. All I can say is that if you love your team, you will stay true to them through hardship. New York Met's fans are as loyal as a baseball fan can be. Their time will come soon, you just need to keep the faith.

It's never a bad time to play the Mets, but with Hughes and Phelps pitching
two of the four games, I can't help but to be a little skeptical. The Yanks get to see rookie phenom Matt Harvey this week, and I'm excited  to see this kid's bag of tricks on the rubber. Hopefully there will be no more injuries (knock on wood), and that these games will be high scoring for some nice Memorial Day fun for the fans. Go Yanks! Muck the Fets!

A salute to all the veterans who have served for our country to protect our freedoms. God Bless America. Thank you.

APRIL REPORT: 16-10

With the injuries to Jeter, Teixeira, Granderson, and A-Rod (to name a few), the Yankees have done a tremendous and admirable job battling through adversity. With a lineup of Lyle Overbay and Brennan Boesch, the Bombers looked weak. Luckily, to our surprise, players have stepped up, as the rotation continues its dominance and the lineup hits safely consistently. With many of the Yanks' superstars returning by mid-May, it's important to give credit where credit is due. Here's a quick rundown of April.

TOP PERFORMER: Travis Hafner

In a million years, I would have never expected a player signed by the Yanks with a veteran salary to contribute so much to a ball club. Pronk is tied for third in homers (6), along with a batting average of .318 with 17 RBI. The man's a fan favorite so far, but we must be practical; the guy is injury prone, even if he is only swinging a bat and running bases. Hey Cashman? Great Success!

WORST PERFORMER: Phil Hughes

This guy simply can't catch a break. Hughes is only 0-2, but has a 4.67 ERA in five starts, and loves to give up the long ball (Hughes gave up 3 home runs to Orioles batters on 4/13). It's early, I know. He's returning from a back injury, yada-yada-yada I've heard it all. Long story short, there never comes a time, even against the worst team in the league, that I feel comfortable with Hughes on the rubber. Don't judge, I know that I'm right on this one. 

DID MO EVER LEAVE?

Rivera is back to his normal ways; he has ten saves this month with an ERA under one. Mo set a personal best record for the most saves in the first month of this season. No one wants to recollect Rivera falling on the warning track in Kansas City, but this man is immortal. Mo has returned as if he never left the game. His velocity remains in the low nineties, and performs consistently like he always has. Well done #42, you prove your HOF worthiness every pitch. We will miss you so badly next year. 

W2W4

With the key players returning in a few weeks, expect the platoon players to "up their skills" in the field and at the plate. These guys were signed for a brief period of time, so expect them to be playing for a job in the pros. Interleague play begins this month, as the Yanks renew once again the Subway Series against their bitter rival across the borough, the New York Mets. Four games during the last week of May (starting Memorial Day) will be split into a two game home-and-home series for both clubs. The Yanks invite Oakland and Seattle to the Stadium for the only time this season, and also face Colorado, Kansas City, and Baltimore. I expect a solid thirty days out of the Yanks, considering that the schedule is far less intimidating than what we expected last month. Prediction: 16-12 (33-22, 2nd East)

My Worst Yankees Lineup of the 2000s

In order for me to stay well grounded this baseball season, I needed to strongly think about how this year's Yankee squad could be a lot worse, and that the sight of a playoff spot can possibly not even be a consideration. The lineup of Lyle Overbay, Travis Hafner, and Brennan Boesch is not very intimidating or talented, but I am pleased to have professionals in the lineup to contend for a title. Now although Granderson, Jeter, and Teixeira will be back in a month in change, can't the Yanks be a lot worse than 4-4? Why can't this team be 0-8? The answer is simple. There is too much talent on the table to be wasted. Let's be grateful for who we have on the roster. Remember: keep the faith. 

Now let's jump back into the past for a bit; let's say five or ten years. Who remembers utility outfielders Rondell White and Raul Mondesi, or infielders Tony Womack or Miguel Cairo? What if these knuckleheads were taking the roles of Jason Giambi or Bernie Williams a decade ago? The tides would have changed rather quickly, and we don't know any better but to assume the Yankees would not be the "evil empire" any longer if the scrubs took over the Bronx.  

Okay, I've been spoiled by witnessing talented Yankee teams my whole entire lifetime. To those die-hard fans that struggled through the 80's and early 90's watching some horrendous baseball, well we solute you for commitment and loyalty. For those fans, it's probably not quite challenging to assemble their own "Worst Yankees Lineup". So here's what I'm going to do: I found eleven guys who played for the Yanks from 2003 until 2009 who I strongly consider as my "Worst Yankees Lineup of the 2000s". Some of these guys only played a few years in pinstripes, but I still felt they were recognized enough to be thought upon as the worst of the worst. This was a fun experiment, and it's fine to disagree with my decisions, but we can all agree at least that these players were the worst investments Brian Cashman ever made this past decade. Sadly enough, most of the worst Yankee players tend to show up at Old Timer's Day...some celebration that is. 

WORST YANKEES LINEUP (2000-2009)
***All statistics given are with the Yankees


C- Sal Fasano (.143 AVG, .222 OBP, 28 G)
Alright, maybe I'm being a little unfair to this guy. He only played for the Yanks for a year, and only had 49 ABs, but who remembers this guy's ugly mustache? Fasano played in pinstripes in 2006 behind Jorge Posada and Kelly Stinnett (props to whom remember him), which resulted in less playing time. But there were not many catchers behind Posada who I recognized as more "fitting" than Sal here. Fasano went on to play another two years in the majors, but never made it big with any club. Why Cashman offered him money I don't know, but Sal Fasano is the worst catcher I could find. 

1B- Tony Clark (.221 AVG,  92 SO, 106 G)
Who remembers Tony Clark? You mean the same Tony Clark who was an all-star with the Tigers in the 90s? Correctamundo. Cashman booked him for one year in 2004 to play as a utility first basemen behind Giambi. I remember watching this guy, looking at the TV screen wondering how old he was, considering that his hair was gone and his beard was grey (just as Jeter is now). Clark played an acceptable amount of games that year, but his numbers were lousy, hitting only 16 homers in 253 ABs. In 2005, the Yanks let him go to play for Arizona, and somehow, Clark hit 59 HR with 178 RBI during his five year run with the D-Backs until his retirement in '09. Clark seemed to be finished and worn out in pinstripes, but I guess the city life wasn't his cup of tea.


2B- Homer Bush (.348 AVG, 21 SO, 64 G)
Now, you all may be wondering why Bush is my worst second basemen when he put up a +. 300 average as a Yankee. Here's why: Bush had only 89 AB in his three years in the Bronx ('97-'98, '04) and only put up 31 hits. The guy never played! What I believe is more an embarrassment is that he shows up to Old Timer's Day every year for contributing to jack! Michael Kay announces this guy to the crowd that he had a .348 average in pinstripes, but who actually knows Bush had a measly 97 plate appearances? Homer Bush was worthless. The greatest thing Bush ever did was give away his #22 to rookie Robbie Cano in '05. The rest is history. 

3B- Robin Ventura (.249 AVG, 163 SO, 230 G)
If I could describe Ventura in one sentence, it would simply be this: This man had no heart. Ventura was considerably at the end of his career when he joined the Yanks in '02 and '03, but this guy showed sloppy play and couldn't hit if his life was on the line. His commitment was non-existent, and I assume he was just in the Bronx for the paycheck. 
I was so disgusted with him that I longed for him to leave, and the wish was granted when Cashman traded for A-Rod in '04 (now forget about A-Rod, he did bring us a ring). Now as a manager for the Chi Sox, Ventura belongs again with the team he wants to remembered for playing on. Robin Ventura defined trash as a third baseman during his brief time in New York. 


SS- Enrique Wilson (.216 AVG, 70 SO, 264 G)
Wilson was Jeter's backup for four years ('01-'04), and not once did he contribute in any efficient way. Wilson played 60 games in 2002, due to Jeter's injury, and put up abysmal numbers (.181 AVG, 2 HR, 11 RBI). Now, I don't honestly remember if Wilson has shown up for Old Timer's Day, but he sure as hell doesn't qualify. If you look up the word "scrub" in the dictionary, you will see Enrique's face. 

LF- Ruben Sierra (.254 AVG, 208 SO, 383 G)
Sierra played in pinstripes for 5 seasons, as he barely contributed in the lineup. By trade, he was an outfielder, but Ruben was placed in the DH spot by skipper Joe Torre from '03-'05.  Sierra at the plate was "hit or miss", as he regularly struck out or juiced one over the fence. In over 1,200 ABs as a Yankee, he struck out 208 times and hit safely in only 311 ABs. Ruben Sierra was a liability in the Bronx, and happened to be long past his prime for Cashman to give him the big bucks. Sierra was an ugly fellow, who at times seemed intimidating, but we all know his potential was low when he joined the Bombers at age 38. He had nothing to offer. 

CF- Kenny Lofton (.275 AVG, 18 RBI, 83 G)

After spending 13 years in the majors before joining the Yanks for a single season in 2004, Kenny Lofton seemed to be at the end of his career. Lofton contributed for only 76 hits in 276 ABs. His season totals were a disappointment, clubbing only 3 homers and 18 RBIs. This guy had over 450 stolen bases with Cleveland in 10 years, but only stole 7 bags in the Bronx. Since Bernie played centerfield for the majority of the decade, its hard to find a worse outfielder near the end of his career than Lofton. 

RF- Karim Garcia (.301 AVG, 33 SO, 156 AB)
Yes, this is the same Garcia who stirred up the huge Yanks/Sawx brawl during the 2003 ALCS. Honestly, I think this story is the only reason why people remember his playing days; I know this specific incident is the only explanation why he's in the discussion. The man was a head case; he climbed over the Fenway Park wall into the bullpen to stir up a fistfight, and is held responsible for the fight between Pedro Martinez. Don't let his batting average as a Yankee fool you (Garcia is the same as Homer Bush), as Garcia only had 6 homers in 54 games. Alright, maybe he isn't the worst rightfielder, but I find it slightly embarrassing that he played on the Mexican WBC club this winter. Ouch.

SP- Carl Pavano (W/L 9-8, 5.00 ERA, 26 G)

At no point in my life have I seen a better example of a talented pitcher who had bad luck. The Yankees offered Carl Pavano over $150M for 4 years to play in the Bronx, which goes down as one of the worst Yankee signings of all-time. Injuries after injuries struck Pavano, as he only received a total of 17 decisions in his 26 appearances. He gave up 182 hits in 145.2 IP, and also gave up a total of 23 homers to his opponents. I personally witnessed Carl pitch Opening Day in 2007 against Tampa, which resulted as a no decision (though a Yankee win).  He went on to only win a single game that season, as he rejoined the DL once again. Carl Pavano is a name you can chuckle to, since the only damage he committed was to his body rather than opponents. This man has to be the worst Yankee pitcher of all-time. On the plus side, he ended with a winning record...awkward.

RP- Kei Igawa (W/L 2-4, 6.66 ERA, 16 G)

Igawa entered New York as possibly one of the best Japanese prospects in baseball, but he only pitched 16 games as a Yank, with a 6.66 ERA. Igawa simply fell apart, as injuries struck his talent and potential. With only 71.2 IP under his belt, Igawa gave up 89 hits, 15 homers, and walked 37. It's rather difficult to judge this guy since we only witnessed so much of his talent. I'm not quite sure where he is at this moment, but I'm aware that he is somewhere in the minors rotting. All in all, Kei Igawa was an outstanding bust. 

New York Yankees 2013 Preview

Happy Easter everyone! The baseball season begins this evening in Texas between the Rangers and the new American League Houston Astros. March dragged on so slowly, that I couldn't bare to watch any more Spring Training games because I figured I'd lose my mind. Thankfully, March has come to a close, and Opening Day is one ceremonial first pitch away.

As tomorrow marks the 110th Opening Day for the New York Yankees, it is time to recognize the positives (if there are any), and the negatives (there's too many) of this ball club. March was a very difficult month for the Bronx Bombers, as injuries drastically weakened the lineup and pitching rotation. The debacle began with Curtis Granderson being hit by a fastball on the forearm, which lead to an x-ray confirming a fracture. He's out until May. Days went by, and right before team USA left to play in the World Baseball Classic, information was leaked that Mark Teixeira severely strained his wrist during batting practice. After bad news from doctors, he's also out until May. In the matter of ten days, the Yanks were in a hole.

The injuries that belonged to the Bronx superstars began to spread to other players, as Phil Hughes was placed on the DL with a bad back, and the captain Derek Jeter was told he would start the season on the DL with concerns remaining in his surgically repaired ankle. I made myself believe that injuries to Grandy and Tex would not damage the team, but after Jeter's setback, I realized that Eduardo Nunez, Brennan Boesch, and Lyle Overbay to name a few, will not impact this team in one way or another. I don't feel I have to mention A-Rod's situation; I know no one gives a damn.

The key to keeping your sanity is to understand that no one wins a championship in the first few months of the season. The road is long with incidents, a roller-coaster of scenarios. I remember a few years back that the Diamondbacks started off April and May as the hottest team in the league, and failed to make the playoffs that same year as they fell apart in the closing weeks. The Yankees may start off weak against their opponents with the talent left on the field, but they still are the Yankees. The Yankees that have more than $150 million on the DL, the Yankees who invested in Kevin Youkilis and Vernon Wells, whom I believe will have resurgences and exceed critic's expectations. I believe in the pitching staff, that our ace CC Sabathia will begin his race sprinting and finish the same way. I believe in the veteran leadership of Andy Pettitte and Ichiro, who will impact the performances of Brett Gardner and Francisco Cervelli, who unfortunately have huge shoes to fill this season to prove they're capable of wearing the pinstripes. I believe in the Yanks' core player named Robinson Cano (who had himself an incredible spring with superb statistics) will bat himself into another MVP race and All-Star Game appearance. Most importantly, I believe in the manager Joe Girardi, who has has dealt with incidents in the past, and has coped with these problems in the most responsible manner. The rumors of Joe being placed on the hot seat are beyond ridiculous, as I know he will make the most out of the players he has in the lineup whom are healthy and ready to contribute.

This season has started with a great amount of doubt, and I believe that these first two months will be slightly shaky, but nothing the New York Yankees can not handle. A team can battle through adversity, and strive for success through confidence and trust with one another. A team can never lose hope, as that will lead to defeat and depression. By this summer, the rotation will be in tact with the appearance of the long-awaited Michael Pineda, and Granderson, Jeter, and Teixeira will be back in the lineup to continue their campaign for a 28th world championship. The key to success is to keep the faith, and as die-hard Yankee fans, that is what we must do. We must keep the faith. Let's hope for a wonderful baseball season full of memories that will last a lifetime, and a World Series champion that well deserves its title. Go Yankees. Wow I almost forgot; Red Sox suck.

PREDICTION: 86-76, 3rd AL EAST

2013 MLB Picks and Predictions

For the past week, I have found myself inundated with work, so I have not posted the rest of my team previews for the MLB season. Here, are my predictions for each team, and the winner and loser of the World Series.

March 17-18: Minnesota Twins and NY Mets

March 15-16: Miami Marlins and Milwaukee Brewers

Battle of Los Angeles: LA Angels and LA Dodgers

March 11-12: Houston Astros and Kansas City Royals

March 9-10: Colorado Rockies and Detroit Tigers

March 7-8: Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Indians

Sorry for the delay in team reports....computer problems. Finally up to date.

The Sudden Rise and Fall of the Yankee Empire

In a matter of only three weeks, a blink of an eye, Curtis Granderson and Mark Teixeira are out for two months with arm injuries. These injuries add onto A-Rod's wrist injury, who will not be back until after the All-Star Break, and Michael Pineda, who returns from Tommy John surgery in June. This means, if all goes according to plans, that Jeter will be ready for Opening Day and Robbie Cano will be in the cleanup spot without any injuries to himself. Not only has the youth diminished from the Bronx; the talent is slipping away.

Now I'm not writing to call the season quits on March 6 with three weeks before the games begin. I am simply clarifying that April and May will sure as hell be a lot more important than the last month of September. By mid-season, we will all have a clear recognition of which direction the Yankees will be going this year and possibly the next few. The Yankees caught the Red Sox injury bug that was spread all over Boston last season, which resulted in the Sox tanking in last place with only sixty-nine wins. Can this Yankee squad perform and excel without most of the talent and big market players rehabilitating? This Spring Training has now become the most important month of the Bombers 2013 campaign, as we will see which prospects have the capability and potential to start in the show this Spring. Future stars Melky Mesa and Zolio Almonte will need to step up and make a statement to Joe Girardi and the coaches, as their play will be evaluated greatly in the remaining weeks.

It seems likely that GM Brian Cashman, who also is rehabbing a stupid broken foot from Monday (what an idiot) will make some calls and look for a man to temporarily replace those holes in the outfield and infield. Kevin Youkilis was going to be used as a third basemen and designated hitter, but now it seems practical to move him over to first, and give Travis Hafner a lock in the DH spot. And if all goes well with the Captain, Eduardo Nunez would then move over to third, filling up the vacant position. There were many rumors involving ex-Yankee Alfonso Soriano that he may possibly make a return to pinstripes, but no word of an offer has been released. It is definitely possible the Bo-Sox will be playing the Trenton Thunder on April 1st.

Alright, it might sound like I'm throwing in the towel, but I'm not. If it were August with these injuries, than I would certainly be prepping for football season. It hurts to see the millionaire's injuries, but this only gives the future of the Yankees playing time to see what our farm system really has to offer. Who knows what this season has in store for us. I am still ready and excited for baseball, and  I will always be true to the Yanks (even though this was not what I had in mind). It's time to deal adversity and stay optimistic. Critical decisions will be made in a matter of weeks, so buckle up and get ready for a bumpy ride this season; it's going to be a long and dreary one.