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#21061 From: VegasJeterFan@...
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 10:52 pm
Subject: Re: Happy BDAY Brenda!
tonytroopr
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HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRENDA!

Denise

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry


From: "Sara G." <ALEMRO13@...>
Date: Tue, 10 Nov 2009 17:45:07 -0500
To: <YankeesMVP1@yahoogroups.com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Happy BDAY Brenda!

 

Happy Birthday Brenda!! I didn't know you were a Scorp like me!

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 4:47 PM, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter@inbox.com> wrote:
 

Is today Brenda's birthday???
 
Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Congratulations Yankees! Championship #27!
Scott


-----Original Message-----
From: unctarheelgal@yahoo.com
Sent: Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:46:18 -0000
To: yankeesmvp1@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [YankeesMVP1] Happy BDAY Brenda!

 

Have a great Birthday Brenda! Jules



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Imagine Peace


#21060 From: "Sara G." <ALEMRO13@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 10:44 pm
Subject: Re: Fwd: Jeter, Tex honored for excellent defense
sarasspart
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Both so well deserved. Jeter was amazing this year and Tex saved so many extra base hits with that D of his.

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 5:25 PM, redbug <redbug51@...> wrote:
 

Great news!  They both really deserved it.  Having Tex is almost the same as when Matiingling was there.  And, it's really great the Captain's work was recognized!


--- On Tue, 11/10/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Subject: [YankeesMVP1] Fwd: Jeter, Tex honored for excellent defense
To: "Yankeesmvp1Group" <Yankeesmvp1@yahoogroups.com>
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009, 5:22 PM


 


---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: yankees.com <feedback@mail. mlblists. com>
Date: Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 5:11 PM
Subject: Jeter, Tex honored for excellent defense
To: scott.coulter2@ gmail.com


Having trouble reading this email? View this email as plain text »  |  Visit yankees.com » 
Forward to a friend »
Mark Teixeira and Derek Jeter earned their first Gold Glove Awards since 2006.
Mark Teixeira and Derek Jeter earned their first Gold Glove Awards since 2006.
JETER, TEIXEIRA WIN GOLD GLOVE AWARDS
First rings, now this. Nearly a week after leading the Yanks to their 27th title, Derek Jeter and Mark Teixeira won their fourth and third Gold Glove Awards, respectively, on Tuesday.

MORE FROM YANKEES.COM »

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NEW YORK YANKEES INFORMATION:
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--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
Imagine Peace

#21059 From: "Sara G." <ALEMRO13@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 10:45 pm
Subject: Re: Happy BDAY Brenda!
sarasspart
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Happy Birthday Brenda!! I didn't know you were a Scorp like me!

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 4:47 PM, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter@...> wrote:
 

Is today Brenda's birthday???
 
Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Congratulations Yankees! Championship #27!
Scott


-----Original Message-----
From: unctarheelgal@...
Sent: Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:46:18 -0000
To: yankeesmvp1@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [YankeesMVP1] Happy BDAY Brenda!

 

Have a great Birthday Brenda! Jules


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Imagine Peace

#21058 From: redbug <redbug51@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 10:25 pm
Subject: Re: Fwd: Jeter, Tex honored for excellent defense
redbug51
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Great news!  They both really deserved it.  Having Tex is almost the same as when Matiingling was there.  And, it's really great the Captain's work was recognized!


--- On Tue, 11/10/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Subject: [YankeesMVP1] Fwd: Jeter, Tex honored for excellent defense
To: "Yankeesmvp1Group" <Yankeesmvp1@yahoogroups.com>
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009, 5:22 PM

 


---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: yankees.com <feedback@mail. mlblists. com>
Date: Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 5:11 PM
Subject: Jeter, Tex honored for excellent defense
To: scott.coulter2@ gmail.com


Having trouble reading this email? View this email as plain text »  |  Visit yankees.com » 
Forward to a friend »
Mark Teixeira and Derek Jeter earned their first Gold Glove Awards since 2006.
Mark Teixeira and Derek Jeter earned their first Gold Glove Awards since 2006.
JETER, TEIXEIRA WIN GOLD GLOVE AWARDS
First rings, now this. Nearly a week after leading the Yanks to their 27th title, Derek Jeter and Mark Teixeira won their fourth and third Gold Glove Awards, respectively, on Tuesday.

MORE FROM YANKEES.COM »

BUY GEAR NOW »
NEW YORK YANKEES INFORMATION:
NEWS   |   YANKEES GEAR
Gift Finder - New items added! Find the perfect gift for your biggest fan. Browse by recipient, price, category and more. Shop now!
© 2009 MLB Advanced Media, L.P. All rights reserved.
All Major League Baseball trademarks and service marks used herein are the property of the applicable MLB entity.
All other marks used herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

Please review our Privacy Policy »

You received this message because you registered to receive commercial e-mail messages from yankees.com.
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--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter


#21057 From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 10:22 pm
Subject: Fwd: Jeter, Tex honored for excellent defense
yankeesmvp1
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---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: yankees.com <feedback@...>
Date: Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 5:11 PM
Subject: Jeter, Tex honored for excellent defense
To: scott.coulter2@...


Having trouble reading this email? View this email as plain text »  |  Visit yankees.com » 
Forward to a friend »
Mark Teixeira and Derek Jeter earned their first Gold Glove Awards since 2006.
Mark Teixeira and Derek Jeter earned their first Gold Glove Awards since 2006.
JETER, TEIXEIRA WIN GOLD GLOVE AWARDS
First rings, now this. Nearly a week after leading the Yanks to their 27th title, Derek Jeter and Mark Teixeira won their fourth and third Gold Glove Awards, respectively, on Tuesday.

MORE FROM YANKEES.COM »

BUY GEAR NOW »
NEW YORK YANKEES INFORMATION:
NEWS   |   YANKEES GEAR
Gift Finder - New items added! Find the perfect gift for your biggest fan. Browse by recipient, price, category and more. Shop now!
© 2009 MLB Advanced Media, L.P. All rights reserved.
All Major League Baseball trademarks and service marks used herein are the property of the applicable MLB entity.
All other marks used herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

Please review our Privacy Policy »

You received this message because you registered to receive commercial e-mail messages from yankees.com.
If you no longer wish to receive commercial e-mail messages from yankees.com, please click here to unsubscribe »

Postal Address: yankees.com, c/o MLB Advanced Media, L.P., 75 Ninth Avenue, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10011.



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter

#21054 From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 9:47 pm
Subject: RE: Happy BDAY Brenda!
scott.coulter@...
Send Email Send Email
 
Is today Brenda's birthday???
 
Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Congratulations Yankees! Championship #27!
Scott


-----Original Message-----
From: unctarheelgal@...
Sent: Tue, 10 Nov 2009 16:46:18 -0000
To: yankeesmvp1@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [YankeesMVP1] Happy BDAY Brenda!

 

Have a great Birthday Brenda! Jules


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#21052 From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 9:38 pm
Subject: Posturing
yankeesmvp1
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I alluded earlier to some posturing going on.  It seems the teams, while not in "collusion" are presenting somewhat of a united front.  What they are doing is saying they are only interested in signing their own free agents.  What this tactic is intended to do is take away one of super agent Scott Boras's biggest tools, playing teams against each other.  So Boston, Yankees, Mets, Cubs, Dodgers, big money teams are saying something like this:  At this time we are only interested in re-signing our own free agents.  Thanks for asking.
 
Interesting ploy to keep Boras from running up the bucks, since he has already said he thinks Jason Bay and Matt Holliday are worth, "Texieira dollars."  This posturing should make our fan lives a little confusing to say the least since we now do not know who to believe about what.  Could be an interesting, or dull, hot stove if everyone sticks to their plan.
 
The Yankees rumor is that they want to sign Damon and Matsui and Andy ASAP to 1 year deals and move on from there.  They are evidencing little interest in Lackey because of his injury history.

--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter

#21051 From: "Sara G." <ALEMRO13@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 7:43 pm
Subject: Re: Figgins?
sarasspart
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I didn't hear that! That's good news!

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 1:54 PM, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...> wrote:
 

Hate to say it Red, but he has already said he does not want to negotiate, he wants to try free agency and he has said out loud to a reporter that he wants to go somewhere where he has the chance to win multiple times.  Sounds like Yankees to me.



On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 11:48 AM, redbug <redbug51@...> wrote:
 

I'm not saying Cervelli is mauer.  But, you never know what'll happen w/ Mauer.  He could get hurt.  He's a hometown boy who probably wants to stay w/ Mn and will give them a discount. 

--- On Tue, 11/10/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@yahoogroups.com
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009, 10:37 AM


 
hate to say it, but Cervelli is a good kid but he is not Joe Mauer.

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 10:30 AM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
Why not give Cervelli a shot while waiting to see if they want to take a shot at mauer?


--- On Tue, 11/10/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009, 6:57 AM

 
I just posted an article from the NYDN that makes this kind of speculation a moot point.  It details how weak this year's FA class is and how strong the one is for next year.  I think the Yankees might be best served to go with Johnny and Hideki for one more year, Jose as well, because there are guys the year after that where we will need to spend money.  Lackey might be the splash for this year because he is younger than Halladay next year we would have a shot at Joe Mauer plus a few other really good players.  I would even say fill the OF spot from within and suffer with Austin Jackson learning at the big league level if money is really an issue.  There are some good players coming up a year later.

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 6:15 AM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I know he played 3rd but I can't remember his arm.  He hasn't played much outfield in recent yr's. Probably because they neeeded him at 3rd.


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 9:38 PM

 
I'm speaking strictly to his arm, nothing else.  He played 3rd base all season, probably one of the most demanding throwing positions on the field along with RF.


On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 5:33 PM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I'm about 5 emails behind you guys on Figgins but had one question...How's his arm?  Because it's hard to beat Johnny offensively and on the basepaths (I think his double steal was the Series).  Johnny's arm is his only majoe weakness.  If Figgins isn't a huge upgrade over Johnny in the field, why replace him?


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:

From: mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 10:46 AM

 
Scott,
You're right on both broadcasters.  Joe Morgan's 30+ years of defending his precious Reds as one of the best of all time is boring, misleading and incorrect.  Yes, they won back to back WS all those years ago, big deal.  In the ensuing time the Yanks have won er...let's see here I think the number is 7 WS titles, including 3 in a row and 4/5...but they'll never ever, ever be as good as the Reds.  Gimme a break.  I read somewhere that he is kind of hard to get along with in the prep and in the booth, I'm not surprised.
 
The Yanks have been preaching 'in house answers' since Cash got the promised control a few years ago.  I'd really like to see them give Pena a legit shot.  I had been eyeing JJ Hardy for a couple of years as a viable replacement for Jeter but he's off the market again.  I also like Tulo in Denver but I think he's signed long term.  I just really like the Pena option.  I'd like to see him get a real chance next year to win the job for himself.
 
I also like your assessment of Matsui and the comparison to Ruben Sierra.  Plus, Matsui really, really wants to come back to the Bronx.  I really like him as the DH for the next couple of years.
 
Mike


-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 10:30 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
McCarver is a problem and so is Joe Morgan.  I wonder if it is because they were players and played against the Yankees for all those years?
 
I agree that Andy might take his glove and go home a winner, and he was one this year, that's for sure.
 
I'd like to see the Pena kid given a chance, I agee that as a SH he might do well for us in the 2 hole.  SH are very valuable, and I didn't notice that he had a weaker side.  He played a little OF towards the end of the season in Scranton, and that might not be a bad way to get up here.  I remember a young man named Mattingly who did it that way.  He turned out pretty good!

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 10:10 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
Yeah, I'd take Andy in a heartbeart over Randy.  I know Andy's family means a whole lot to him and missing his son's games is a tough one for him.  I am not at all sure he's coming back, in fact at this point, I think I'd be surprised a little bit if he does.  He wanted to pitch in the new stadium and help to bring another title here.  He accomplished what he wanted and would be leaving on an extremely high note.  I want him to come back, make no mistake about that.  I am convinced he has at least one more good season left in his arm and he could still be a terrific mentor for some of the young guys.
 
I like Pena at short and I can't help but wonder how he'd do in the 2 hole.  It would be a huge jump but he handles the bat well and he's a switch hitter.  I don't think we could expect much power but we have 6 other guys who supply that.  But for right now, Derek is the man at short.  Maybe he'll prove all the naysayers wrong two years running.  In the lineup, I wouldn't put him back at the 2 hole for the reason you mention...too many GIDP.
 
Kennedy is not flashing too bright on my radar but I do beleive he has the stuff to make at the ML level, a good #3 guy especially if you could slot him in between a couple of hard throwers.
 
Maybe I am being a little unkind to McCarver but there seems to be an anti-Yankee bias in a lot of commentators, not just him.  It also seems like his age is catching up with him.
 
It's nice to discuss this stuff from a point of winning instead of a point of desperation.  From my point of view, I'd really rather have our issues than say, the Sawx, who cannot keep a  decent SS since they let Garciaparra go and whose outfield looks a little suspect and a lot overpaid in right...plus Big Papi...now, there's a question mark if there ever was one.
 
Mike



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 8:36 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
I agree on letting Damon go.  And I think the reason they clicked, was that it simply got
Derek out of the 2 hole.  He hits into too many DPs from there.  I think Johnny is replaceable.  Hideki reminds me more and more of Ruben Sierra, the mature Ruben.  A very dangerous hitter, and he has proven he can pinch hit.  So he doesn't have to play every day and that's great!
 
Right now I think you might be right.  We just don't have a ML catcher ready to go so it needs to be Molina for a year.  I like Cervelli's spirit, but it may have been his best year!
 
Hughes to the rotation and Joba to the pen, and don't forget CMW!  He may be available by early season, around May.  I'm not as high as you are on IPK.  Kennedy would have to do a great deal to earn a spot on my team, but if he can, so much the better.  I'd at least have him in spring training and give him the shot.
 
Andy/Randy?  I'd rather Andy, and I think he will come back for one more, and then I'm sure he's done.
 
Derek is not done until the end of the season and I've read where he would be willing to wait.  Pena can hit, so I think that is a no brainer.  He should be playiing somewhere in our infield, soon.  But one more year at short and then hopefully the OF for Derek.  I was kind of hoping that a win in the WS this year would make the transition palatable for Derek next season, but looking at it now, probably not.  Who knows?
 
Love your thoughts about McCarver, but I'd make sure he never got above AA ball....

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 8:13 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
I agree 100%, plus during the playoffs he did not seem to have his head in the game at crucial times.  I also hate the way he spells his name, for what that's worth, LOL.
 
Here's my thinking on the upgrade issues:
 
1-Let Damon go.  There are enough good outfielders in market that you could even get a good cf and put him in left.  The big thing that concerns me about letting Damon go is his place in the lineup.  His hitting behind Jeter in the 2 hole was a terrific combination that clicked right off the bat.  This is really what we need by way of replacement, I believe.
 
2-Re-sign Matsui as the DH.  The guy is such a professional hitter and a clutch situational hitter...he would be very hard to replace.
 
3-Stick with the Posada/Molina duo for another year until a minor leaguer is ready to take over.  I really like Cervelli, to be honest with you but I wonder at this point if he will develop the pop in his bat.  Otherwise, I love the guy.
 
4-Put Hughes in the rotation and Joba in the pen.  The striking difference in Joba as a starter vs. reliever makes the decision almost a no-brainer.  The only blemish on him was leaving a ball inside to guy who kills that kind of pitch.  Hughes began to trust his stuff and that made all the difference in the world for him.  His trouble in the post-season was that he began to be concerned about the strengths and weaknesses of the hitter instead of pitching to his own strengths.  He has the moxy to be a good #3 or #4 guy right now and will with time move to a #2 or possibly #1 on the right team.
 
5-Sign Andy to a one year deal, if he wants to come back.  If he does want one more year, we're looking at CC, AJ, Andy, Phil and someone from the mix of Gaudin, Mitre, or Kennedy.  All 3 of the later options had their issues but I also believe they are all on target to correct the flaws.  I was especially impressed with Gaudin after he had worked out some kinks with the coaching staff.  Mitre has the kind of sinker that doesn't necessarily need 90+ to make a difference, he just has to be used regularly to keep his arm loose enough/tired enough to make the sinker work.  I also think Ian Kennedy has had enough humbling events to make him a valuable guy.  When he came up a couple years ago with a chip on his shoulder, it was a misplaced chip...his stuff did not back up his confidence.  I just think he's a different guy now from the inside out.
 
6-If Andy doesn't sign, I like Randy Wolf as cheap option.  I'd actually love us to sign John Lackey but I just can't see that happening, unless it looks as though the Sox might land him, LOL.
 
7-You gotta sign Derek for another 3 years at least.  Whether he can play SS for that time is another matter.  But here's another scenario:  Re-sign Derek but move him to left and either use Pena at short or go out and get a FA SS who can also bat at in the 2 hole.  Pena has the defense and showed signs of offensive capability so personally, I'd be okay with him at short.
 
8-We have the makings of a long term, absolutely terrific bullpen.  Roberston, Coke, Marte, Bruney (yes, Bruney), Aceves, and Mo.  I'll take that group right now against any other team in the world.  And this equation does not even contain Melancon, who I believe will be a very valuable piece as time moves forward.
 
9-Sign Tim McCarver to an exclusive YES network contract and then have him be the minor league broadcaster, as that seems where his talents seem most fitting.
 
Mike in Upstate NY, where we'll have temps in upper 60's with lots of sunshine today, the last hurrah before the long night of winter sets in...on the upside, I saw a nice 4 point buck on the way to church last night.



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter@ inbox.com>
To: Yankeesmvp1 Group <yankeesmvp1@ yahoogroups. com>
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 7:18 am
Subject: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
There seems to be one thread running through a lot of the articles I'm reading, and it has the Yankees picking up Figgins and putting him in LF.  Surely we have someone on the minor league staff somewhere as good or better than him?  He is a Yankees killer,, but he doesn't play that well against the other teams.  Plus I hate the way he spells his first name.  Just can't stand it.


Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Congratulations Yankees! Championship #27!
Scott



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter

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--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter



--
Imagine Peace

#21050 From: redbug <redbug51@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 7:34 pm
Subject: Re: Figgins?
redbug51
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Send Email Send Email
 
Oh, ok.  I thought I heard the opposite during the playoffs.  The timing would be good because Jorge's cintract enda after 2010.


--- On Tue, 11/10/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@yahoogroups.com
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009, 1:54 PM

 
Hate to say it Red, but he has already said he does not want to negotiate, he wants to try free agency and he has said out loud to a reporter that he wants to go somewhere where he has the chance to win multiple times.  Sounds like Yankees to me.

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 11:48 AM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I'm not saying Cervelli is mauer.  But, you never know what'll happen w/ Mauer.  He could get hurt.  He's a hometown boy who probably wants to stay w/ Mn and will give them a discount. 

--- On Tue, 11/10/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009, 10:37 AM


 
hate to say it, but Cervelli is a good kid but he is not Joe Mauer.

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 10:30 AM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
Why not give Cervelli a shot while waiting to see if they want to take a shot at mauer?


--- On Tue, 11/10/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009, 6:57 AM

 
I just posted an article from the NYDN that makes this kind of speculation a moot point.  It details how weak this year's FA class is and how strong the one is for next year.  I think the Yankees might be best served to go with Johnny and Hideki for one more year, Jose as well, because there are guys the year after that where we will need to spend money.  Lackey might be the splash for this year because he is younger than Halladay next year we would have a shot at Joe Mauer plus a few other really good players.  I would even say fill the OF spot from within and suffer with Austin Jackson learning at the big league level if money is really an issue.  There are some good players coming up a year later.

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 6:15 AM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I know he played 3rd but I can't remember his arm.  He hasn't played much outfield in recent yr's. Probably because they neeeded him at 3rd.


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 9:38 PM

 
I'm speaking strictly to his arm, nothing else.  He played 3rd base all season, probably one of the most demanding throwing positions on the field along with RF.


On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 5:33 PM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I'm about 5 emails behind you guys on Figgins but had one question...How's his arm?  Because it's hard to beat Johnny offensively and on the basepaths (I think his double steal was the Series).  Johnny's arm is his only majoe weakness.  If Figgins isn't a huge upgrade over Johnny in the field, why replace him?


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:

From: mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 10:46 AM

 
Scott,
You're right on both broadcasters.  Joe Morgan's 30+ years of defending his precious Reds as one of the best of all time is boring, misleading and incorrect.  Yes, they won back to back WS all those years ago, big deal.  In the ensuing time the Yanks have won er...let's see here I think the number is 7 WS titles, including 3 in a row and 4/5...but they'll never ever, ever be as good as the Reds.  Gimme a break.  I read somewhere that he is kind of hard to get along with in the prep and in the booth, I'm not surprised.
 
The Yanks have been preaching 'in house answers' since Cash got the promised control a few years ago.  I'd really like to see them give Pena a legit shot.  I had been eyeing JJ Hardy for a couple of years as a viable replacement for Jeter but he's off the market again.  I also like Tulo in Denver but I think he's signed long term.  I just really like the Pena option.  I'd like to see him get a real chance next year to win the job for himself.
 
I also like your assessment of Matsui and the comparison to Ruben Sierra.  Plus, Matsui really, really wants to come back to the Bronx.  I really like him as the DH for the next couple of years.
 
Mike


-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 10:30 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
McCarver is a problem and so is Joe Morgan.  I wonder if it is because they were players and played against the Yankees for all those years?
 
I agree that Andy might take his glove and go home a winner, and he was one this year, that's for sure.
 
I'd like to see the Pena kid given a chance, I agee that as a SH he might do well for us in the 2 hole.  SH are very valuable, and I didn't notice that he had a weaker side.  He played a little OF towards the end of the season in Scranton, and that might not be a bad way to get up here.  I remember a young man named Mattingly who did it that way.  He turned out pretty good!

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 10:10 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
Yeah, I'd take Andy in a heartbeart over Randy.  I know Andy's family means a whole lot to him and missing his son's games is a tough one for him.  I am not at all sure he's coming back, in fact at this point, I think I'd be surprised a little bit if he does.  He wanted to pitch in the new stadium and help to bring another title here.  He accomplished what he wanted and would be leaving on an extremely high note.  I want him to come back, make no mistake about that.  I am convinced he has at least one more good season left in his arm and he could still be a terrific mentor for some of the young guys.
 
I like Pena at short and I can't help but wonder how he'd do in the 2 hole.  It would be a huge jump but he handles the bat well and he's a switch hitter.  I don't think we could expect much power but we have 6 other guys who supply that.  But for right now, Derek is the man at short.  Maybe he'll prove all the naysayers wrong two years running.  In the lineup, I wouldn't put him back at the 2 hole for the reason you mention...too many GIDP.
 
Kennedy is not flashing too bright on my radar but I do beleive he has the stuff to make at the ML level, a good #3 guy especially if you could slot him in between a couple of hard throwers.
 
Maybe I am being a little unkind to McCarver but there seems to be an anti-Yankee bias in a lot of commentators, not just him.  It also seems like his age is catching up with him.
 
It's nice to discuss this stuff from a point of winning instead of a point of desperation.  From my point of view, I'd really rather have our issues than say, the Sawx, who cannot keep a  decent SS since they let Garciaparra go and whose outfield looks a little suspect and a lot overpaid in right...plus Big Papi...now, there's a question mark if there ever was one.
 
Mike



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 8:36 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
I agree on letting Damon go.  And I think the reason they clicked, was that it simply got
Derek out of the 2 hole.  He hits into too many DPs from there.  I think Johnny is replaceable.  Hideki reminds me more and more of Ruben Sierra, the mature Ruben.  A very dangerous hitter, and he has proven he can pinch hit.  So he doesn't have to play every day and that's great!
 
Right now I think you might be right.  We just don't have a ML catcher ready to go so it needs to be Molina for a year.  I like Cervelli's spirit, but it may have been his best year!
 
Hughes to the rotation and Joba to the pen, and don't forget CMW!  He may be available by early season, around May.  I'm not as high as you are on IPK.  Kennedy would have to do a great deal to earn a spot on my team, but if he can, so much the better.  I'd at least have him in spring training and give him the shot.
 
Andy/Randy?  I'd rather Andy, and I think he will come back for one more, and then I'm sure he's done.
 
Derek is not done until the end of the season and I've read where he would be willing to wait.  Pena can hit, so I think that is a no brainer.  He should be playiing somewhere in our infield, soon.  But one more year at short and then hopefully the OF for Derek.  I was kind of hoping that a win in the WS this year would make the transition palatable for Derek next season, but looking at it now, probably not.  Who knows?
 
Love your thoughts about McCarver, but I'd make sure he never got above AA ball....

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 8:13 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
I agree 100%, plus during the playoffs he did not seem to have his head in the game at crucial times.  I also hate the way he spells his name, for what that's worth, LOL.
 
Here's my thinking on the upgrade issues:
 
1-Let Damon go.  There are enough good outfielders in market that you could even get a good cf and put him in left.  The big thing that concerns me about letting Damon go is his place in the lineup.  His hitting behind Jeter in the 2 hole was a terrific combination that clicked right off the bat.  This is really what we need by way of replacement, I believe.
 
2-Re-sign Matsui as the DH.  The guy is such a professional hitter and a clutch situational hitter...he would be very hard to replace.
 
3-Stick with the Posada/Molina duo for another year until a minor leaguer is ready to take over.  I really like Cervelli, to be honest with you but I wonder at this point if he will develop the pop in his bat.  Otherwise, I love the guy.
 
4-Put Hughes in the rotation and Joba in the pen.  The striking difference in Joba as a starter vs. reliever makes the decision almost a no-brainer.  The only blemish on him was leaving a ball inside to guy who kills that kind of pitch.  Hughes began to trust his stuff and that made all the difference in the world for him.  His trouble in the post-season was that he began to be concerned about the strengths and weaknesses of the hitter instead of pitching to his own strengths.  He has the moxy to be a good #3 or #4 guy right now and will with time move to a #2 or possibly #1 on the right team.
 
5-Sign Andy to a one year deal, if he wants to come back.  If he does want one more year, we're looking at CC, AJ, Andy, Phil and someone from the mix of Gaudin, Mitre, or Kennedy.  All 3 of the later options had their issues but I also believe they are all on target to correct the flaws.  I was especially impressed with Gaudin after he had worked out some kinks with the coaching staff.  Mitre has the kind of sinker that doesn't necessarily need 90+ to make a difference, he just has to be used regularly to keep his arm loose enough/tired enough to make the sinker work.  I also think Ian Kennedy has had enough humbling events to make him a valuable guy.  When he came up a couple years ago with a chip on his shoulder, it was a misplaced chip...his stuff did not back up his confidence.  I just think he's a different guy now from the inside out.
 
6-If Andy doesn't sign, I like Randy Wolf as cheap option.  I'd actually love us to sign John Lackey but I just can't see that happening, unless it looks as though the Sox might land him, LOL.
 
7-You gotta sign Derek for another 3 years at least.  Whether he can play SS for that time is another matter.  But here's another scenario:  Re-sign Derek but move him to left and either use Pena at short or go out and get a FA SS who can also bat at in the 2 hole.  Pena has the defense and showed signs of offensive capability so personally, I'd be okay with him at short.
 
8-We have the makings of a long term, absolutely terrific bullpen.  Roberston, Coke, Marte, Bruney (yes, Bruney), Aceves, and Mo.  I'll take that group right now against any other team in the world.  And this equation does not even contain Melancon, who I believe will be a very valuable piece as time moves forward.
 
9-Sign Tim McCarver to an exclusive YES network contract and then have him be the minor league broadcaster, as that seems where his talents seem most fitting.
 
Mike in Upstate NY, where we'll have temps in upper 60's with lots of sunshine today, the last hurrah before the long night of winter sets in...on the upside, I saw a nice 4 point buck on the way to church last night.



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter@ inbox.com>
To: Yankeesmvp1 Group <yankeesmvp1@ yahoogroups. com>
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 7:18 am
Subject: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
There seems to be one thread running through a lot of the articles I'm reading, and it has the Yankees picking up Figgins and putting him in LF.  Surely we have someone on the minor league staff somewhere as good or better than him?  He is a Yankees killer,, but he doesn't play that well against the other teams.  Plus I hate the way he spells his first name.  Just can't stand it.


Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Congratulations Yankees! Championship #27!
Scott



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter

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Scott Coulter




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"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter


#21049 From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 6:54 pm
Subject: Re: Figgins?
yankeesmvp1
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Send Email Send Email
 
Hate to say it Red, but he has already said he does not want to negotiate, he wants to try free agency and he has said out loud to a reporter that he wants to go somewhere where he has the chance to win multiple times.  Sounds like Yankees to me.

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 11:48 AM, redbug <redbug51@...> wrote:
 

I'm not saying Cervelli is mauer.  But, you never know what'll happen w/ Mauer.  He could get hurt.  He's a hometown boy who probably wants to stay w/ Mn and will give them a discount. 

--- On Tue, 11/10/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@yahoogroups.com
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009, 10:37 AM


 
hate to say it, but Cervelli is a good kid but he is not Joe Mauer.

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 10:30 AM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
Why not give Cervelli a shot while waiting to see if they want to take a shot at mauer?


--- On Tue, 11/10/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009, 6:57 AM

 
I just posted an article from the NYDN that makes this kind of speculation a moot point.  It details how weak this year's FA class is and how strong the one is for next year.  I think the Yankees might be best served to go with Johnny and Hideki for one more year, Jose as well, because there are guys the year after that where we will need to spend money.  Lackey might be the splash for this year because he is younger than Halladay next year we would have a shot at Joe Mauer plus a few other really good players.  I would even say fill the OF spot from within and suffer with Austin Jackson learning at the big league level if money is really an issue.  There are some good players coming up a year later.

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 6:15 AM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I know he played 3rd but I can't remember his arm.  He hasn't played much outfield in recent yr's. Probably because they neeeded him at 3rd.


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 9:38 PM

 
I'm speaking strictly to his arm, nothing else.  He played 3rd base all season, probably one of the most demanding throwing positions on the field along with RF.


On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 5:33 PM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I'm about 5 emails behind you guys on Figgins but had one question...How's his arm?  Because it's hard to beat Johnny offensively and on the basepaths (I think his double steal was the Series).  Johnny's arm is his only majoe weakness.  If Figgins isn't a huge upgrade over Johnny in the field, why replace him?


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:

From: mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 10:46 AM

 
Scott,
You're right on both broadcasters.  Joe Morgan's 30+ years of defending his precious Reds as one of the best of all time is boring, misleading and incorrect.  Yes, they won back to back WS all those years ago, big deal.  In the ensuing time the Yanks have won er...let's see here I think the number is 7 WS titles, including 3 in a row and 4/5...but they'll never ever, ever be as good as the Reds.  Gimme a break.  I read somewhere that he is kind of hard to get along with in the prep and in the booth, I'm not surprised.
 
The Yanks have been preaching 'in house answers' since Cash got the promised control a few years ago.  I'd really like to see them give Pena a legit shot.  I had been eyeing JJ Hardy for a couple of years as a viable replacement for Jeter but he's off the market again.  I also like Tulo in Denver but I think he's signed long term.  I just really like the Pena option.  I'd like to see him get a real chance next year to win the job for himself.
 
I also like your assessment of Matsui and the comparison to Ruben Sierra.  Plus, Matsui really, really wants to come back to the Bronx.  I really like him as the DH for the next couple of years.
 
Mike


-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 10:30 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
McCarver is a problem and so is Joe Morgan.  I wonder if it is because they were players and played against the Yankees for all those years?
 
I agree that Andy might take his glove and go home a winner, and he was one this year, that's for sure.
 
I'd like to see the Pena kid given a chance, I agee that as a SH he might do well for us in the 2 hole.  SH are very valuable, and I didn't notice that he had a weaker side.  He played a little OF towards the end of the season in Scranton, and that might not be a bad way to get up here.  I remember a young man named Mattingly who did it that way.  He turned out pretty good!

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 10:10 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
Yeah, I'd take Andy in a heartbeart over Randy.  I know Andy's family means a whole lot to him and missing his son's games is a tough one for him.  I am not at all sure he's coming back, in fact at this point, I think I'd be surprised a little bit if he does.  He wanted to pitch in the new stadium and help to bring another title here.  He accomplished what he wanted and would be leaving on an extremely high note.  I want him to come back, make no mistake about that.  I am convinced he has at least one more good season left in his arm and he could still be a terrific mentor for some of the young guys.
 
I like Pena at short and I can't help but wonder how he'd do in the 2 hole.  It would be a huge jump but he handles the bat well and he's a switch hitter.  I don't think we could expect much power but we have 6 other guys who supply that.  But for right now, Derek is the man at short.  Maybe he'll prove all the naysayers wrong two years running.  In the lineup, I wouldn't put him back at the 2 hole for the reason you mention...too many GIDP.
 
Kennedy is not flashing too bright on my radar but I do beleive he has the stuff to make at the ML level, a good #3 guy especially if you could slot him in between a couple of hard throwers.
 
Maybe I am being a little unkind to McCarver but there seems to be an anti-Yankee bias in a lot of commentators, not just him.  It also seems like his age is catching up with him.
 
It's nice to discuss this stuff from a point of winning instead of a point of desperation.  From my point of view, I'd really rather have our issues than say, the Sawx, who cannot keep a  decent SS since they let Garciaparra go and whose outfield looks a little suspect and a lot overpaid in right...plus Big Papi...now, there's a question mark if there ever was one.
 
Mike



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 8:36 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
I agree on letting Damon go.  And I think the reason they clicked, was that it simply got
Derek out of the 2 hole.  He hits into too many DPs from there.  I think Johnny is replaceable.  Hideki reminds me more and more of Ruben Sierra, the mature Ruben.  A very dangerous hitter, and he has proven he can pinch hit.  So he doesn't have to play every day and that's great!
 
Right now I think you might be right.  We just don't have a ML catcher ready to go so it needs to be Molina for a year.  I like Cervelli's spirit, but it may have been his best year!
 
Hughes to the rotation and Joba to the pen, and don't forget CMW!  He may be available by early season, around May.  I'm not as high as you are on IPK.  Kennedy would have to do a great deal to earn a spot on my team, but if he can, so much the better.  I'd at least have him in spring training and give him the shot.
 
Andy/Randy?  I'd rather Andy, and I think he will come back for one more, and then I'm sure he's done.
 
Derek is not done until the end of the season and I've read where he would be willing to wait.  Pena can hit, so I think that is a no brainer.  He should be playiing somewhere in our infield, soon.  But one more year at short and then hopefully the OF for Derek.  I was kind of hoping that a win in the WS this year would make the transition palatable for Derek next season, but looking at it now, probably not.  Who knows?
 
Love your thoughts about McCarver, but I'd make sure he never got above AA ball....

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 8:13 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
I agree 100%, plus during the playoffs he did not seem to have his head in the game at crucial times.  I also hate the way he spells his name, for what that's worth, LOL.
 
Here's my thinking on the upgrade issues:
 
1-Let Damon go.  There are enough good outfielders in market that you could even get a good cf and put him in left.  The big thing that concerns me about letting Damon go is his place in the lineup.  His hitting behind Jeter in the 2 hole was a terrific combination that clicked right off the bat.  This is really what we need by way of replacement, I believe.
 
2-Re-sign Matsui as the DH.  The guy is such a professional hitter and a clutch situational hitter...he would be very hard to replace.
 
3-Stick with the Posada/Molina duo for another year until a minor leaguer is ready to take over.  I really like Cervelli, to be honest with you but I wonder at this point if he will develop the pop in his bat.  Otherwise, I love the guy.
 
4-Put Hughes in the rotation and Joba in the pen.  The striking difference in Joba as a starter vs. reliever makes the decision almost a no-brainer.  The only blemish on him was leaving a ball inside to guy who kills that kind of pitch.  Hughes began to trust his stuff and that made all the difference in the world for him.  His trouble in the post-season was that he began to be concerned about the strengths and weaknesses of the hitter instead of pitching to his own strengths.  He has the moxy to be a good #3 or #4 guy right now and will with time move to a #2 or possibly #1 on the right team.
 
5-Sign Andy to a one year deal, if he wants to come back.  If he does want one more year, we're looking at CC, AJ, Andy, Phil and someone from the mix of Gaudin, Mitre, or Kennedy.  All 3 of the later options had their issues but I also believe they are all on target to correct the flaws.  I was especially impressed with Gaudin after he had worked out some kinks with the coaching staff.  Mitre has the kind of sinker that doesn't necessarily need 90+ to make a difference, he just has to be used regularly to keep his arm loose enough/tired enough to make the sinker work.  I also think Ian Kennedy has had enough humbling events to make him a valuable guy.  When he came up a couple years ago with a chip on his shoulder, it was a misplaced chip...his stuff did not back up his confidence.  I just think he's a different guy now from the inside out.
 
6-If Andy doesn't sign, I like Randy Wolf as cheap option.  I'd actually love us to sign John Lackey but I just can't see that happening, unless it looks as though the Sox might land him, LOL.
 
7-You gotta sign Derek for another 3 years at least.  Whether he can play SS for that time is another matter.  But here's another scenario:  Re-sign Derek but move him to left and either use Pena at short or go out and get a FA SS who can also bat at in the 2 hole.  Pena has the defense and showed signs of offensive capability so personally, I'd be okay with him at short.
 
8-We have the makings of a long term, absolutely terrific bullpen.  Roberston, Coke, Marte, Bruney (yes, Bruney), Aceves, and Mo.  I'll take that group right now against any other team in the world.  And this equation does not even contain Melancon, who I believe will be a very valuable piece as time moves forward.
 
9-Sign Tim McCarver to an exclusive YES network contract and then have him be the minor league broadcaster, as that seems where his talents seem most fitting.
 
Mike in Upstate NY, where we'll have temps in upper 60's with lots of sunshine today, the last hurrah before the long night of winter sets in...on the upside, I saw a nice 4 point buck on the way to church last night.



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter@ inbox.com>
To: Yankeesmvp1 Group <yankeesmvp1@ yahoogroups. com>
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 7:18 am
Subject: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
There seems to be one thread running through a lot of the articles I'm reading, and it has the Yankees picking up Figgins and putting him in LF.  Surely we have someone on the minor league staff somewhere as good or better than him?  He is a Yankees killer,, but he doesn't play that well against the other teams.  Plus I hate the way he spells his first name.  Just can't stand it.


Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Congratulations Yankees! Championship #27!
Scott



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter

____________ _________ _________ _________ _________ __
Do You Yahoo!?
Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around
http://mail. yahoo.com



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter

#21048 From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 6:52 pm
Subject: Re: Figgins?
yankeesmvp1
Offline Offline
Send Email Send Email
 
Okay, he's not available now.  It would take us 2 years to get to that point.  Sort of like the year that Santana was available and the Yankees wouldn't go for him.  We all went nuts but Cashman was waiting for CC and AJ.
 
Mauer is not available this year, so do you put a lot of money into LF?  Or, do you do it on the cheap saving some of the money knowing that at the end of 2010  Mauer is available?  If we skip LF this year by keeping Damon and Matsui for 1 year each, back up Posada w/Molina or Cervelli, with the money we save we could add Mauer to our lineup after 2010.  It's long range planning on a bigger scale than most baseball fans are used to doing.  Just as we said that Cervelli is no Joe Mauer, neither are Jason Bay or Chone Figgins.  We might even have several LF candidates inthe farm that would be good enough.  This is where I'm going with it, long range plannig.  I'm also going to put out a post aboutthe meetings, just heard some news.

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 10:41 AM, Sara G. <ALEMRO13@...> wrote:
 

No catcher is Joe Mauer...Just wondering what they will do this one year before he is a FA. Remember though, he was born and raised in Minnesota and LOVEs it there from all reports. He may not want to leave, not even for the Yankees.



On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 10:37 AM, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...> wrote:
 

hate to say it, but Cervelli is a good kid but he is not Joe Mauer.



On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 10:30 AM, redbug <redbug51@...> wrote:
 

Why not give Cervelli a shot while waiting to see if they want to take a shot at mauer?


--- On Tue, 11/10/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@yahoogroups.com
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009, 6:57 AM

 
I just posted an article from the NYDN that makes this kind of speculation a moot point.  It details how weak this year's FA class is and how strong the one is for next year.  I think the Yankees might be best served to go with Johnny and Hideki for one more year, Jose as well, because there are guys the year after that where we will need to spend money.  Lackey might be the splash for this year because he is younger than Halladay next year we would have a shot at Joe Mauer plus a few other really good players.  I would even say fill the OF spot from within and suffer with Austin Jackson learning at the big league level if money is really an issue.  There are some good players coming up a year later.

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 6:15 AM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I know he played 3rd but I can't remember his arm.  He hasn't played much outfield in recent yr's. Probably because they neeeded him at 3rd.


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 9:38 PM

 
I'm speaking strictly to his arm, nothing else.  He played 3rd base all season, probably one of the most demanding throwing positions on the field along with RF.


On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 5:33 PM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I'm about 5 emails behind you guys on Figgins but had one question...How's his arm?  Because it's hard to beat Johnny offensively and on the basepaths (I think his double steal was the Series).  Johnny's arm is his only majoe weakness.  If Figgins isn't a huge upgrade over Johnny in the field, why replace him?


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:

From: mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 10:46 AM

 
Scott,
You're right on both broadcasters.  Joe Morgan's 30+ years of defending his precious Reds as one of the best of all time is boring, misleading and incorrect.  Yes, they won back to back WS all those years ago, big deal.  In the ensuing time the Yanks have won er...let's see here I think the number is 7 WS titles, including 3 in a row and 4/5...but they'll never ever, ever be as good as the Reds.  Gimme a break.  I read somewhere that he is kind of hard to get along with in the prep and in the booth, I'm not surprised.
 
The Yanks have been preaching 'in house answers' since Cash got the promised control a few years ago.  I'd really like to see them give Pena a legit shot.  I had been eyeing JJ Hardy for a couple of years as a viable replacement for Jeter but he's off the market again.  I also like Tulo in Denver but I think he's signed long term.  I just really like the Pena option.  I'd like to see him get a real chance next year to win the job for himself.
 
I also like your assessment of Matsui and the comparison to Ruben Sierra.  Plus, Matsui really, really wants to come back to the Bronx.  I really like him as the DH for the next couple of years.
 
Mike


-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 10:30 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
McCarver is a problem and so is Joe Morgan.  I wonder if it is because they were players and played against the Yankees for all those years?
 
I agree that Andy might take his glove and go home a winner, and he was one this year, that's for sure.
 
I'd like to see the Pena kid given a chance, I agee that as a SH he might do well for us in the 2 hole.  SH are very valuable, and I didn't notice that he had a weaker side.  He played a little OF towards the end of the season in Scranton, and that might not be a bad way to get up here.  I remember a young man named Mattingly who did it that way.  He turned out pretty good!

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 10:10 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
Yeah, I'd take Andy in a heartbeart over Randy.  I know Andy's family means a whole lot to him and missing his son's games is a tough one for him.  I am not at all sure he's coming back, in fact at this point, I think I'd be surprised a little bit if he does.  He wanted to pitch in the new stadium and help to bring another title here.  He accomplished what he wanted and would be leaving on an extremely high note.  I want him to come back, make no mistake about that.  I am convinced he has at least one more good season left in his arm and he could still be a terrific mentor for some of the young guys.
 
I like Pena at short and I can't help but wonder how he'd do in the 2 hole.  It would be a huge jump but he handles the bat well and he's a switch hitter.  I don't think we could expect much power but we have 6 other guys who supply that.  But for right now, Derek is the man at short.  Maybe he'll prove all the naysayers wrong two years running.  In the lineup, I wouldn't put him back at the 2 hole for the reason you mention...too many GIDP.
 
Kennedy is not flashing too bright on my radar but I do beleive he has the stuff to make at the ML level, a good #3 guy especially if you could slot him in between a couple of hard throwers.
 
Maybe I am being a little unkind to McCarver but there seems to be an anti-Yankee bias in a lot of commentators, not just him.  It also seems like his age is catching up with him.
 
It's nice to discuss this stuff from a point of winning instead of a point of desperation.  From my point of view, I'd really rather have our issues than say, the Sawx, who cannot keep a  decent SS since they let Garciaparra go and whose outfield looks a little suspect and a lot overpaid in right...plus Big Papi...now, there's a question mark if there ever was one.
 
Mike



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 8:36 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
I agree on letting Damon go.  And I think the reason they clicked, was that it simply got
Derek out of the 2 hole.  He hits into too many DPs from there.  I think Johnny is replaceable.  Hideki reminds me more and more of Ruben Sierra, the mature Ruben.  A very dangerous hitter, and he has proven he can pinch hit.  So he doesn't have to play every day and that's great!
 
Right now I think you might be right.  We just don't have a ML catcher ready to go so it needs to be Molina for a year.  I like Cervelli's spirit, but it may have been his best year!
 
Hughes to the rotation and Joba to the pen, and don't forget CMW!  He may be available by early season, around May.  I'm not as high as you are on IPK.  Kennedy would have to do a great deal to earn a spot on my team, but if he can, so much the better.  I'd at least have him in spring training and give him the shot.
 
Andy/Randy?  I'd rather Andy, and I think he will come back for one more, and then I'm sure he's done.
 
Derek is not done until the end of the season and I've read where he would be willing to wait.  Pena can hit, so I think that is a no brainer.  He should be playiing somewhere in our infield, soon.  But one more year at short and then hopefully the OF for Derek.  I was kind of hoping that a win in the WS this year would make the transition palatable for Derek next season, but looking at it now, probably not.  Who knows?
 
Love your thoughts about McCarver, but I'd make sure he never got above AA ball....

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 8:13 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
I agree 100%, plus during the playoffs he did not seem to have his head in the game at crucial times.  I also hate the way he spells his name, for what that's worth, LOL.
 
Here's my thinking on the upgrade issues:
 
1-Let Damon go.  There are enough good outfielders in market that you could even get a good cf and put him in left.  The big thing that concerns me about letting Damon go is his place in the lineup.  His hitting behind Jeter in the 2 hole was a terrific combination that clicked right off the bat.  This is really what we need by way of replacement, I believe.
 
2-Re-sign Matsui as the DH.  The guy is such a professional hitter and a clutch situational hitter...he would be very hard to replace.
 
3-Stick with the Posada/Molina duo for another year until a minor leaguer is ready to take over.  I really like Cervelli, to be honest with you but I wonder at this point if he will develop the pop in his bat.  Otherwise, I love the guy.
 
4-Put Hughes in the rotation and Joba in the pen.  The striking difference in Joba as a starter vs. reliever makes the decision almost a no-brainer.  The only blemish on him was leaving a ball inside to guy who kills that kind of pitch.  Hughes began to trust his stuff and that made all the difference in the world for him.  His trouble in the post-season was that he began to be concerned about the strengths and weaknesses of the hitter instead of pitching to his own strengths.  He has the moxy to be a good #3 or #4 guy right now and will with time move to a #2 or possibly #1 on the right team.
 
5-Sign Andy to a one year deal, if he wants to come back.  If he does want one more year, we're looking at CC, AJ, Andy, Phil and someone from the mix of Gaudin, Mitre, or Kennedy.  All 3 of the later options had their issues but I also believe they are all on target to correct the flaws.  I was especially impressed with Gaudin after he had worked out some kinks with the coaching staff.  Mitre has the kind of sinker that doesn't necessarily need 90+ to make a difference, he just has to be used regularly to keep his arm loose enough/tired enough to make the sinker work.  I also think Ian Kennedy has had enough humbling events to make him a valuable guy.  When he came up a couple years ago with a chip on his shoulder, it was a misplaced chip...his stuff did not back up his confidence.  I just think he's a different guy now from the inside out.
 
6-If Andy doesn't sign, I like Randy Wolf as cheap option.  I'd actually love us to sign John Lackey but I just can't see that happening, unless it looks as though the Sox might land him, LOL.
 
7-You gotta sign Derek for another 3 years at least.  Whether he can play SS for that time is another matter.  But here's another scenario:  Re-sign Derek but move him to left and either use Pena at short or go out and get a FA SS who can also bat at in the 2 hole.  Pena has the defense and showed signs of offensive capability so personally, I'd be okay with him at short.
 
8-We have the makings of a long term, absolutely terrific bullpen.  Roberston, Coke, Marte, Bruney (yes, Bruney), Aceves, and Mo.  I'll take that group right now against any other team in the world.  And this equation does not even contain Melancon, who I believe will be a very valuable piece as time moves forward.
 
9-Sign Tim McCarver to an exclusive YES network contract and then have him be the minor league broadcaster, as that seems where his talents seem most fitting.
 
Mike in Upstate NY, where we'll have temps in upper 60's with lots of sunshine today, the last hurrah before the long night of winter sets in...on the upside, I saw a nice 4 point buck on the way to church last night.



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter@ inbox.com>
To: Yankeesmvp1 Group <yankeesmvp1@ yahoogroups. com>
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 7:18 am
Subject: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
There seems to be one thread running through a lot of the articles I'm reading, and it has the Yankees picking up Figgins and putting him in LF.  Surely we have someone on the minor league staff somewhere as good or better than him?  He is a Yankees killer,, but he doesn't play that well against the other teams.  Plus I hate the way he spells his first name.  Just can't stand it.


Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Congratulations Yankees! Championship #27!
Scott



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter

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Scott Coulter




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"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter



--
Imagine Peace




--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter

#21047 From: "Jules" <unctarheelgal@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 6:13 pm
Subject: basketball game/wonder if arod will attend?
unctarheelgal
Online Now Online Now
Send Email Send Email
 
nov. 19th the tarheels play in madison square garden. I wonder if Arod and Kate
will watch the tarheels play and Coach Williams get to meet his favorite
baseball player?

#21046 From: redbug <redbug51@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 4:48 pm
Subject: Re: Figgins?
redbug51
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Send Email Send Email
 
I'm not saying Cervelli is mauer.  But, you never know what'll happen w/ Mauer.  He could get hurt.  He's a hometown boy who probably wants to stay w/ Mn and will give them a discount. 

--- On Tue, 11/10/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@yahoogroups.com
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009, 10:37 AM

 
hate to say it, but Cervelli is a good kid but he is not Joe Mauer.

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 10:30 AM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
Why not give Cervelli a shot while waiting to see if they want to take a shot at mauer?


--- On Tue, 11/10/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009, 6:57 AM

 
I just posted an article from the NYDN that makes this kind of speculation a moot point.  It details how weak this year's FA class is and how strong the one is for next year.  I think the Yankees might be best served to go with Johnny and Hideki for one more year, Jose as well, because there are guys the year after that where we will need to spend money.  Lackey might be the splash for this year because he is younger than Halladay next year we would have a shot at Joe Mauer plus a few other really good players.  I would even say fill the OF spot from within and suffer with Austin Jackson learning at the big league level if money is really an issue.  There are some good players coming up a year later.

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 6:15 AM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I know he played 3rd but I can't remember his arm.  He hasn't played much outfield in recent yr's. Probably because they neeeded him at 3rd.


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 9:38 PM

 
I'm speaking strictly to his arm, nothing else.  He played 3rd base all season, probably one of the most demanding throwing positions on the field along with RF.


On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 5:33 PM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I'm about 5 emails behind you guys on Figgins but had one question...How's his arm?  Because it's hard to beat Johnny offensively and on the basepaths (I think his double steal was the Series).  Johnny's arm is his only majoe weakness.  If Figgins isn't a huge upgrade over Johnny in the field, why replace him?


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:

From: mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 10:46 AM

 
Scott,
You're right on both broadcasters.  Joe Morgan's 30+ years of defending his precious Reds as one of the best of all time is boring, misleading and incorrect.  Yes, they won back to back WS all those years ago, big deal.  In the ensuing time the Yanks have won er...let's see here I think the number is 7 WS titles, including 3 in a row and 4/5...but they'll never ever, ever be as good as the Reds.  Gimme a break.  I read somewhere that he is kind of hard to get along with in the prep and in the booth, I'm not surprised.
 
The Yanks have been preaching 'in house answers' since Cash got the promised control a few years ago.  I'd really like to see them give Pena a legit shot.  I had been eyeing JJ Hardy for a couple of years as a viable replacement for Jeter but he's off the market again.  I also like Tulo in Denver but I think he's signed long term.  I just really like the Pena option.  I'd like to see him get a real chance next year to win the job for himself.
 
I also like your assessment of Matsui and the comparison to Ruben Sierra.  Plus, Matsui really, really wants to come back to the Bronx.  I really like him as the DH for the next couple of years.
 
Mike


-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 10:30 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
McCarver is a problem and so is Joe Morgan.  I wonder if it is because they were players and played against the Yankees for all those years?
 
I agree that Andy might take his glove and go home a winner, and he was one this year, that's for sure.
 
I'd like to see the Pena kid given a chance, I agee that as a SH he might do well for us in the 2 hole.  SH are very valuable, and I didn't notice that he had a weaker side.  He played a little OF towards the end of the season in Scranton, and that might not be a bad way to get up here.  I remember a young man named Mattingly who did it that way.  He turned out pretty good!

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 10:10 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
Yeah, I'd take Andy in a heartbeart over Randy.  I know Andy's family means a whole lot to him and missing his son's games is a tough one for him.  I am not at all sure he's coming back, in fact at this point, I think I'd be surprised a little bit if he does.  He wanted to pitch in the new stadium and help to bring another title here.  He accomplished what he wanted and would be leaving on an extremely high note.  I want him to come back, make no mistake about that.  I am convinced he has at least one more good season left in his arm and he could still be a terrific mentor for some of the young guys.
 
I like Pena at short and I can't help but wonder how he'd do in the 2 hole.  It would be a huge jump but he handles the bat well and he's a switch hitter.  I don't think we could expect much power but we have 6 other guys who supply that.  But for right now, Derek is the man at short.  Maybe he'll prove all the naysayers wrong two years running.  In the lineup, I wouldn't put him back at the 2 hole for the reason you mention...too many GIDP.
 
Kennedy is not flashing too bright on my radar but I do beleive he has the stuff to make at the ML level, a good #3 guy especially if you could slot him in between a couple of hard throwers.
 
Maybe I am being a little unkind to McCarver but there seems to be an anti-Yankee bias in a lot of commentators, not just him.  It also seems like his age is catching up with him.
 
It's nice to discuss this stuff from a point of winning instead of a point of desperation.  From my point of view, I'd really rather have our issues than say, the Sawx, who cannot keep a  decent SS since they let Garciaparra go and whose outfield looks a little suspect and a lot overpaid in right...plus Big Papi...now, there's a question mark if there ever was one.
 
Mike



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 8:36 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
I agree on letting Damon go.  And I think the reason they clicked, was that it simply got
Derek out of the 2 hole.  He hits into too many DPs from there.  I think Johnny is replaceable.  Hideki reminds me more and more of Ruben Sierra, the mature Ruben.  A very dangerous hitter, and he has proven he can pinch hit.  So he doesn't have to play every day and that's great!
 
Right now I think you might be right.  We just don't have a ML catcher ready to go so it needs to be Molina for a year.  I like Cervelli's spirit, but it may have been his best year!
 
Hughes to the rotation and Joba to the pen, and don't forget CMW!  He may be available by early season, around May.  I'm not as high as you are on IPK.  Kennedy would have to do a great deal to earn a spot on my team, but if he can, so much the better.  I'd at least have him in spring training and give him the shot.
 
Andy/Randy?  I'd rather Andy, and I think he will come back for one more, and then I'm sure he's done.
 
Derek is not done until the end of the season and I've read where he would be willing to wait.  Pena can hit, so I think that is a no brainer.  He should be playiing somewhere in our infield, soon.  But one more year at short and then hopefully the OF for Derek.  I was kind of hoping that a win in the WS this year would make the transition palatable for Derek next season, but looking at it now, probably not.  Who knows?
 
Love your thoughts about McCarver, but I'd make sure he never got above AA ball....

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 8:13 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
I agree 100%, plus during the playoffs he did not seem to have his head in the game at crucial times.  I also hate the way he spells his name, for what that's worth, LOL.
 
Here's my thinking on the upgrade issues:
 
1-Let Damon go.  There are enough good outfielders in market that you could even get a good cf and put him in left.  The big thing that concerns me about letting Damon go is his place in the lineup.  His hitting behind Jeter in the 2 hole was a terrific combination that clicked right off the bat.  This is really what we need by way of replacement, I believe.
 
2-Re-sign Matsui as the DH.  The guy is such a professional hitter and a clutch situational hitter...he would be very hard to replace.
 
3-Stick with the Posada/Molina duo for another year until a minor leaguer is ready to take over.  I really like Cervelli, to be honest with you but I wonder at this point if he will develop the pop in his bat.  Otherwise, I love the guy.
 
4-Put Hughes in the rotation and Joba in the pen.  The striking difference in Joba as a starter vs. reliever makes the decision almost a no-brainer.  The only blemish on him was leaving a ball inside to guy who kills that kind of pitch.  Hughes began to trust his stuff and that made all the difference in the world for him.  His trouble in the post-season was that he began to be concerned about the strengths and weaknesses of the hitter instead of pitching to his own strengths.  He has the moxy to be a good #3 or #4 guy right now and will with time move to a #2 or possibly #1 on the right team.
 
5-Sign Andy to a one year deal, if he wants to come back.  If he does want one more year, we're looking at CC, AJ, Andy, Phil and someone from the mix of Gaudin, Mitre, or Kennedy.  All 3 of the later options had their issues but I also believe they are all on target to correct the flaws.  I was especially impressed with Gaudin after he had worked out some kinks with the coaching staff.  Mitre has the kind of sinker that doesn't necessarily need 90+ to make a difference, he just has to be used regularly to keep his arm loose enough/tired enough to make the sinker work.  I also think Ian Kennedy has had enough humbling events to make him a valuable guy.  When he came up a couple years ago with a chip on his shoulder, it was a misplaced chip...his stuff did not back up his confidence.  I just think he's a different guy now from the inside out.
 
6-If Andy doesn't sign, I like Randy Wolf as cheap option.  I'd actually love us to sign John Lackey but I just can't see that happening, unless it looks as though the Sox might land him, LOL.
 
7-You gotta sign Derek for another 3 years at least.  Whether he can play SS for that time is another matter.  But here's another scenario:  Re-sign Derek but move him to left and either use Pena at short or go out and get a FA SS who can also bat at in the 2 hole.  Pena has the defense and showed signs of offensive capability so personally, I'd be okay with him at short.
 
8-We have the makings of a long term, absolutely terrific bullpen.  Roberston, Coke, Marte, Bruney (yes, Bruney), Aceves, and Mo.  I'll take that group right now against any other team in the world.  And this equation does not even contain Melancon, who I believe will be a very valuable piece as time moves forward.
 
9-Sign Tim McCarver to an exclusive YES network contract and then have him be the minor league broadcaster, as that seems where his talents seem most fitting.
 
Mike in Upstate NY, where we'll have temps in upper 60's with lots of sunshine today, the last hurrah before the long night of winter sets in...on the upside, I saw a nice 4 point buck on the way to church last night.



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter@ inbox.com>
To: Yankeesmvp1 Group <yankeesmvp1@ yahoogroups. com>
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 7:18 am
Subject: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
There seems to be one thread running through a lot of the articles I'm reading, and it has the Yankees picking up Figgins and putting him in LF.  Surely we have someone on the minor league staff somewhere as good or better than him?  He is a Yankees killer,, but he doesn't play that well against the other teams.  Plus I hate the way he spells his first name.  Just can't stand it.


Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Congratulations Yankees! Championship #27!
Scott



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter

____________ _________ _________ _________ _________ __
Do You Yahoo!?
Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around
http://mail. yahoo.com



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter


#21045 From: "Jules" <unctarheelgal@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 4:46 pm
Subject: Happy BDAY Brenda!
unctarheelgal
Online Now Online Now
Send Email Send Email
 
Have a great Birthday Brenda! Jules

#21044 From: "Sara G." <ALEMRO13@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 3:41 pm
Subject: Re: Figgins?
sarasspart
Offline Offline
Send Email Send Email
 
No catcher is Joe Mauer...Just wondering what they will do this one year before he is a FA. Remember though, he was born and raised in Minnesota and LOVEs it there from all reports. He may not want to leave, not even for the Yankees.

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 10:37 AM, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...> wrote:
 

hate to say it, but Cervelli is a good kid but he is not Joe Mauer.



On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 10:30 AM, redbug <redbug51@...> wrote:
 

Why not give Cervelli a shot while waiting to see if they want to take a shot at mauer?


--- On Tue, 11/10/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@yahoogroups.com
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009, 6:57 AM

 
I just posted an article from the NYDN that makes this kind of speculation a moot point.  It details how weak this year's FA class is and how strong the one is for next year.  I think the Yankees might be best served to go with Johnny and Hideki for one more year, Jose as well, because there are guys the year after that where we will need to spend money.  Lackey might be the splash for this year because he is younger than Halladay next year we would have a shot at Joe Mauer plus a few other really good players.  I would even say fill the OF spot from within and suffer with Austin Jackson learning at the big league level if money is really an issue.  There are some good players coming up a year later.

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 6:15 AM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I know he played 3rd but I can't remember his arm.  He hasn't played much outfield in recent yr's. Probably because they neeeded him at 3rd.


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 9:38 PM

 
I'm speaking strictly to his arm, nothing else.  He played 3rd base all season, probably one of the most demanding throwing positions on the field along with RF.


On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 5:33 PM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I'm about 5 emails behind you guys on Figgins but had one question...How's his arm?  Because it's hard to beat Johnny offensively and on the basepaths (I think his double steal was the Series).  Johnny's arm is his only majoe weakness.  If Figgins isn't a huge upgrade over Johnny in the field, why replace him?


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:

From: mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 10:46 AM

 
Scott,
You're right on both broadcasters.  Joe Morgan's 30+ years of defending his precious Reds as one of the best of all time is boring, misleading and incorrect.  Yes, they won back to back WS all those years ago, big deal.  In the ensuing time the Yanks have won er...let's see here I think the number is 7 WS titles, including 3 in a row and 4/5...but they'll never ever, ever be as good as the Reds.  Gimme a break.  I read somewhere that he is kind of hard to get along with in the prep and in the booth, I'm not surprised.
 
The Yanks have been preaching 'in house answers' since Cash got the promised control a few years ago.  I'd really like to see them give Pena a legit shot.  I had been eyeing JJ Hardy for a couple of years as a viable replacement for Jeter but he's off the market again.  I also like Tulo in Denver but I think he's signed long term.  I just really like the Pena option.  I'd like to see him get a real chance next year to win the job for himself.
 
I also like your assessment of Matsui and the comparison to Ruben Sierra.  Plus, Matsui really, really wants to come back to the Bronx.  I really like him as the DH for the next couple of years.
 
Mike


-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 10:30 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
McCarver is a problem and so is Joe Morgan.  I wonder if it is because they were players and played against the Yankees for all those years?
 
I agree that Andy might take his glove and go home a winner, and he was one this year, that's for sure.
 
I'd like to see the Pena kid given a chance, I agee that as a SH he might do well for us in the 2 hole.  SH are very valuable, and I didn't notice that he had a weaker side.  He played a little OF towards the end of the season in Scranton, and that might not be a bad way to get up here.  I remember a young man named Mattingly who did it that way.  He turned out pretty good!

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 10:10 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
Yeah, I'd take Andy in a heartbeart over Randy.  I know Andy's family means a whole lot to him and missing his son's games is a tough one for him.  I am not at all sure he's coming back, in fact at this point, I think I'd be surprised a little bit if he does.  He wanted to pitch in the new stadium and help to bring another title here.  He accomplished what he wanted and would be leaving on an extremely high note.  I want him to come back, make no mistake about that.  I am convinced he has at least one more good season left in his arm and he could still be a terrific mentor for some of the young guys.
 
I like Pena at short and I can't help but wonder how he'd do in the 2 hole.  It would be a huge jump but he handles the bat well and he's a switch hitter.  I don't think we could expect much power but we have 6 other guys who supply that.  But for right now, Derek is the man at short.  Maybe he'll prove all the naysayers wrong two years running.  In the lineup, I wouldn't put him back at the 2 hole for the reason you mention...too many GIDP.
 
Kennedy is not flashing too bright on my radar but I do beleive he has the stuff to make at the ML level, a good #3 guy especially if you could slot him in between a couple of hard throwers.
 
Maybe I am being a little unkind to McCarver but there seems to be an anti-Yankee bias in a lot of commentators, not just him.  It also seems like his age is catching up with him.
 
It's nice to discuss this stuff from a point of winning instead of a point of desperation.  From my point of view, I'd really rather have our issues than say, the Sawx, who cannot keep a  decent SS since they let Garciaparra go and whose outfield looks a little suspect and a lot overpaid in right...plus Big Papi...now, there's a question mark if there ever was one.
 
Mike



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 8:36 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
I agree on letting Damon go.  And I think the reason they clicked, was that it simply got
Derek out of the 2 hole.  He hits into too many DPs from there.  I think Johnny is replaceable.  Hideki reminds me more and more of Ruben Sierra, the mature Ruben.  A very dangerous hitter, and he has proven he can pinch hit.  So he doesn't have to play every day and that's great!
 
Right now I think you might be right.  We just don't have a ML catcher ready to go so it needs to be Molina for a year.  I like Cervelli's spirit, but it may have been his best year!
 
Hughes to the rotation and Joba to the pen, and don't forget CMW!  He may be available by early season, around May.  I'm not as high as you are on IPK.  Kennedy would have to do a great deal to earn a spot on my team, but if he can, so much the better.  I'd at least have him in spring training and give him the shot.
 
Andy/Randy?  I'd rather Andy, and I think he will come back for one more, and then I'm sure he's done.
 
Derek is not done until the end of the season and I've read where he would be willing to wait.  Pena can hit, so I think that is a no brainer.  He should be playiing somewhere in our infield, soon.  But one more year at short and then hopefully the OF for Derek.  I was kind of hoping that a win in the WS this year would make the transition palatable for Derek next season, but looking at it now, probably not.  Who knows?
 
Love your thoughts about McCarver, but I'd make sure he never got above AA ball....

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 8:13 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
I agree 100%, plus during the playoffs he did not seem to have his head in the game at crucial times.  I also hate the way he spells his name, for what that's worth, LOL.
 
Here's my thinking on the upgrade issues:
 
1-Let Damon go.  There are enough good outfielders in market that you could even get a good cf and put him in left.  The big thing that concerns me about letting Damon go is his place in the lineup.  His hitting behind Jeter in the 2 hole was a terrific combination that clicked right off the bat.  This is really what we need by way of replacement, I believe.
 
2-Re-sign Matsui as the DH.  The guy is such a professional hitter and a clutch situational hitter...he would be very hard to replace.
 
3-Stick with the Posada/Molina duo for another year until a minor leaguer is ready to take over.  I really like Cervelli, to be honest with you but I wonder at this point if he will develop the pop in his bat.  Otherwise, I love the guy.
 
4-Put Hughes in the rotation and Joba in the pen.  The striking difference in Joba as a starter vs. reliever makes the decision almost a no-brainer.  The only blemish on him was leaving a ball inside to guy who kills that kind of pitch.  Hughes began to trust his stuff and that made all the difference in the world for him.  His trouble in the post-season was that he began to be concerned about the strengths and weaknesses of the hitter instead of pitching to his own strengths.  He has the moxy to be a good #3 or #4 guy right now and will with time move to a #2 or possibly #1 on the right team.
 
5-Sign Andy to a one year deal, if he wants to come back.  If he does want one more year, we're looking at CC, AJ, Andy, Phil and someone from the mix of Gaudin, Mitre, or Kennedy.  All 3 of the later options had their issues but I also believe they are all on target to correct the flaws.  I was especially impressed with Gaudin after he had worked out some kinks with the coaching staff.  Mitre has the kind of sinker that doesn't necessarily need 90+ to make a difference, he just has to be used regularly to keep his arm loose enough/tired enough to make the sinker work.  I also think Ian Kennedy has had enough humbling events to make him a valuable guy.  When he came up a couple years ago with a chip on his shoulder, it was a misplaced chip...his stuff did not back up his confidence.  I just think he's a different guy now from the inside out.
 
6-If Andy doesn't sign, I like Randy Wolf as cheap option.  I'd actually love us to sign John Lackey but I just can't see that happening, unless it looks as though the Sox might land him, LOL.
 
7-You gotta sign Derek for another 3 years at least.  Whether he can play SS for that time is another matter.  But here's another scenario:  Re-sign Derek but move him to left and either use Pena at short or go out and get a FA SS who can also bat at in the 2 hole.  Pena has the defense and showed signs of offensive capability so personally, I'd be okay with him at short.
 
8-We have the makings of a long term, absolutely terrific bullpen.  Roberston, Coke, Marte, Bruney (yes, Bruney), Aceves, and Mo.  I'll take that group right now against any other team in the world.  And this equation does not even contain Melancon, who I believe will be a very valuable piece as time moves forward.
 
9-Sign Tim McCarver to an exclusive YES network contract and then have him be the minor league broadcaster, as that seems where his talents seem most fitting.
 
Mike in Upstate NY, where we'll have temps in upper 60's with lots of sunshine today, the last hurrah before the long night of winter sets in...on the upside, I saw a nice 4 point buck on the way to church last night.



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter@ inbox.com>
To: Yankeesmvp1 Group <yankeesmvp1@ yahoogroups. com>
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 7:18 am
Subject: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
There seems to be one thread running through a lot of the articles I'm reading, and it has the Yankees picking up Figgins and putting him in LF.  Surely we have someone on the minor league staff somewhere as good or better than him?  He is a Yankees killer,, but he doesn't play that well against the other teams.  Plus I hate the way he spells his first name.  Just can't stand it.


Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Congratulations Yankees! Championship #27!
Scott



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter

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Scott Coulter




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"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter



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Imagine Peace

#21043 From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 3:37 pm
Subject: Re: Figgins?
yankeesmvp1
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Send Email Send Email
 
hate to say it, but Cervelli is a good kid but he is not Joe Mauer.

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 10:30 AM, redbug <redbug51@...> wrote:
 

Why not give Cervelli a shot while waiting to see if they want to take a shot at mauer?


--- On Tue, 11/10/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@yahoogroups.com
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009, 6:57 AM

 
I just posted an article from the NYDN that makes this kind of speculation a moot point.  It details how weak this year's FA class is and how strong the one is for next year.  I think the Yankees might be best served to go with Johnny and Hideki for one more year, Jose as well, because there are guys the year after that where we will need to spend money.  Lackey might be the splash for this year because he is younger than Halladay next year we would have a shot at Joe Mauer plus a few other really good players.  I would even say fill the OF spot from within and suffer with Austin Jackson learning at the big league level if money is really an issue.  There are some good players coming up a year later.

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 6:15 AM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I know he played 3rd but I can't remember his arm.  He hasn't played much outfield in recent yr's. Probably because they neeeded him at 3rd.


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 9:38 PM

 
I'm speaking strictly to his arm, nothing else.  He played 3rd base all season, probably one of the most demanding throwing positions on the field along with RF.


On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 5:33 PM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I'm about 5 emails behind you guys on Figgins but had one question...How's his arm?  Because it's hard to beat Johnny offensively and on the basepaths (I think his double steal was the Series).  Johnny's arm is his only majoe weakness.  If Figgins isn't a huge upgrade over Johnny in the field, why replace him?


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:

From: mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 10:46 AM

 
Scott,
You're right on both broadcasters.  Joe Morgan's 30+ years of defending his precious Reds as one of the best of all time is boring, misleading and incorrect.  Yes, they won back to back WS all those years ago, big deal.  In the ensuing time the Yanks have won er...let's see here I think the number is 7 WS titles, including 3 in a row and 4/5...but they'll never ever, ever be as good as the Reds.  Gimme a break.  I read somewhere that he is kind of hard to get along with in the prep and in the booth, I'm not surprised.
 
The Yanks have been preaching 'in house answers' since Cash got the promised control a few years ago.  I'd really like to see them give Pena a legit shot.  I had been eyeing JJ Hardy for a couple of years as a viable replacement for Jeter but he's off the market again.  I also like Tulo in Denver but I think he's signed long term.  I just really like the Pena option.  I'd like to see him get a real chance next year to win the job for himself.
 
I also like your assessment of Matsui and the comparison to Ruben Sierra.  Plus, Matsui really, really wants to come back to the Bronx.  I really like him as the DH for the next couple of years.
 
Mike


-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 10:30 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
McCarver is a problem and so is Joe Morgan.  I wonder if it is because they were players and played against the Yankees for all those years?
 
I agree that Andy might take his glove and go home a winner, and he was one this year, that's for sure.
 
I'd like to see the Pena kid given a chance, I agee that as a SH he might do well for us in the 2 hole.  SH are very valuable, and I didn't notice that he had a weaker side.  He played a little OF towards the end of the season in Scranton, and that might not be a bad way to get up here.  I remember a young man named Mattingly who did it that way.  He turned out pretty good!

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 10:10 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
Yeah, I'd take Andy in a heartbeart over Randy.  I know Andy's family means a whole lot to him and missing his son's games is a tough one for him.  I am not at all sure he's coming back, in fact at this point, I think I'd be surprised a little bit if he does.  He wanted to pitch in the new stadium and help to bring another title here.  He accomplished what he wanted and would be leaving on an extremely high note.  I want him to come back, make no mistake about that.  I am convinced he has at least one more good season left in his arm and he could still be a terrific mentor for some of the young guys.
 
I like Pena at short and I can't help but wonder how he'd do in the 2 hole.  It would be a huge jump but he handles the bat well and he's a switch hitter.  I don't think we could expect much power but we have 6 other guys who supply that.  But for right now, Derek is the man at short.  Maybe he'll prove all the naysayers wrong two years running.  In the lineup, I wouldn't put him back at the 2 hole for the reason you mention...too many GIDP.
 
Kennedy is not flashing too bright on my radar but I do beleive he has the stuff to make at the ML level, a good #3 guy especially if you could slot him in between a couple of hard throwers.
 
Maybe I am being a little unkind to McCarver but there seems to be an anti-Yankee bias in a lot of commentators, not just him.  It also seems like his age is catching up with him.
 
It's nice to discuss this stuff from a point of winning instead of a point of desperation.  From my point of view, I'd really rather have our issues than say, the Sawx, who cannot keep a  decent SS since they let Garciaparra go and whose outfield looks a little suspect and a lot overpaid in right...plus Big Papi...now, there's a question mark if there ever was one.
 
Mike



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 8:36 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
I agree on letting Damon go.  And I think the reason they clicked, was that it simply got
Derek out of the 2 hole.  He hits into too many DPs from there.  I think Johnny is replaceable.  Hideki reminds me more and more of Ruben Sierra, the mature Ruben.  A very dangerous hitter, and he has proven he can pinch hit.  So he doesn't have to play every day and that's great!
 
Right now I think you might be right.  We just don't have a ML catcher ready to go so it needs to be Molina for a year.  I like Cervelli's spirit, but it may have been his best year!
 
Hughes to the rotation and Joba to the pen, and don't forget CMW!  He may be available by early season, around May.  I'm not as high as you are on IPK.  Kennedy would have to do a great deal to earn a spot on my team, but if he can, so much the better.  I'd at least have him in spring training and give him the shot.
 
Andy/Randy?  I'd rather Andy, and I think he will come back for one more, and then I'm sure he's done.
 
Derek is not done until the end of the season and I've read where he would be willing to wait.  Pena can hit, so I think that is a no brainer.  He should be playiing somewhere in our infield, soon.  But one more year at short and then hopefully the OF for Derek.  I was kind of hoping that a win in the WS this year would make the transition palatable for Derek next season, but looking at it now, probably not.  Who knows?
 
Love your thoughts about McCarver, but I'd make sure he never got above AA ball....

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 8:13 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
I agree 100%, plus during the playoffs he did not seem to have his head in the game at crucial times.  I also hate the way he spells his name, for what that's worth, LOL.
 
Here's my thinking on the upgrade issues:
 
1-Let Damon go.  There are enough good outfielders in market that you could even get a good cf and put him in left.  The big thing that concerns me about letting Damon go is his place in the lineup.  His hitting behind Jeter in the 2 hole was a terrific combination that clicked right off the bat.  This is really what we need by way of replacement, I believe.
 
2-Re-sign Matsui as the DH.  The guy is such a professional hitter and a clutch situational hitter...he would be very hard to replace.
 
3-Stick with the Posada/Molina duo for another year until a minor leaguer is ready to take over.  I really like Cervelli, to be honest with you but I wonder at this point if he will develop the pop in his bat.  Otherwise, I love the guy.
 
4-Put Hughes in the rotation and Joba in the pen.  The striking difference in Joba as a starter vs. reliever makes the decision almost a no-brainer.  The only blemish on him was leaving a ball inside to guy who kills that kind of pitch.  Hughes began to trust his stuff and that made all the difference in the world for him.  His trouble in the post-season was that he began to be concerned about the strengths and weaknesses of the hitter instead of pitching to his own strengths.  He has the moxy to be a good #3 or #4 guy right now and will with time move to a #2 or possibly #1 on the right team.
 
5-Sign Andy to a one year deal, if he wants to come back.  If he does want one more year, we're looking at CC, AJ, Andy, Phil and someone from the mix of Gaudin, Mitre, or Kennedy.  All 3 of the later options had their issues but I also believe they are all on target to correct the flaws.  I was especially impressed with Gaudin after he had worked out some kinks with the coaching staff.  Mitre has the kind of sinker that doesn't necessarily need 90+ to make a difference, he just has to be used regularly to keep his arm loose enough/tired enough to make the sinker work.  I also think Ian Kennedy has had enough humbling events to make him a valuable guy.  When he came up a couple years ago with a chip on his shoulder, it was a misplaced chip...his stuff did not back up his confidence.  I just think he's a different guy now from the inside out.
 
6-If Andy doesn't sign, I like Randy Wolf as cheap option.  I'd actually love us to sign John Lackey but I just can't see that happening, unless it looks as though the Sox might land him, LOL.
 
7-You gotta sign Derek for another 3 years at least.  Whether he can play SS for that time is another matter.  But here's another scenario:  Re-sign Derek but move him to left and either use Pena at short or go out and get a FA SS who can also bat at in the 2 hole.  Pena has the defense and showed signs of offensive capability so personally, I'd be okay with him at short.
 
8-We have the makings of a long term, absolutely terrific bullpen.  Roberston, Coke, Marte, Bruney (yes, Bruney), Aceves, and Mo.  I'll take that group right now against any other team in the world.  And this equation does not even contain Melancon, who I believe will be a very valuable piece as time moves forward.
 
9-Sign Tim McCarver to an exclusive YES network contract and then have him be the minor league broadcaster, as that seems where his talents seem most fitting.
 
Mike in Upstate NY, where we'll have temps in upper 60's with lots of sunshine today, the last hurrah before the long night of winter sets in...on the upside, I saw a nice 4 point buck on the way to church last night.



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter@ inbox.com>
To: Yankeesmvp1 Group <yankeesmvp1@ yahoogroups. com>
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 7:18 am
Subject: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
There seems to be one thread running through a lot of the articles I'm reading, and it has the Yankees picking up Figgins and putting him in LF.  Surely we have someone on the minor league staff somewhere as good or better than him?  He is a Yankees killer,, but he doesn't play that well against the other teams.  Plus I hate the way he spells his first name.  Just can't stand it.


Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Congratulations Yankees! Championship #27!
Scott



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter

____________ _________ _________ _________ _________ __
Do You Yahoo!?
Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around
http://mail. yahoo.com



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter

#21042 From: "Sara G." <ALEMRO13@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 3:33 pm
Subject: Re: Figgins?
sarasspart
Offline Offline
Send Email Send Email
 
I agree..I think the real question is will they do that and let Molina go or will they re-sign Molina? Will AJ have an impact on that?

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 10:30 AM, redbug <redbug51@...> wrote:
 

Why not give Cervelli a shot while waiting to see if they want to take a shot at mauer?


--- On Tue, 11/10/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@yahoogroups.com
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009, 6:57 AM


 
I just posted an article from the NYDN that makes this kind of speculation a moot point.  It details how weak this year's FA class is and how strong the one is for next year.  I think the Yankees might be best served to go with Johnny and Hideki for one more year, Jose as well, because there are guys the year after that where we will need to spend money.  Lackey might be the splash for this year because he is younger than Halladay next year we would have a shot at Joe Mauer plus a few other really good players.  I would even say fill the OF spot from within and suffer with Austin Jackson learning at the big league level if money is really an issue.  There are some good players coming up a year later.

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 6:15 AM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I know he played 3rd but I can't remember his arm.  He hasn't played much outfield in recent yr's. Probably because they neeeded him at 3rd.


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 9:38 PM

 
I'm speaking strictly to his arm, nothing else.  He played 3rd base all season, probably one of the most demanding throwing positions on the field along with RF.

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 5:33 PM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I'm about 5 emails behind you guys on Figgins but had one question...How's his arm?  Because it's hard to beat Johnny offensively and on the basepaths (I think his double steal was the Series).  Johnny's arm is his only majoe weakness.  If Figgins isn't a huge upgrade over Johnny in the field, why replace him?


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:

From: mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 10:46 AM

 
Scott,
You're right on both broadcasters.  Joe Morgan's 30+ years of defending his precious Reds as one of the best of all time is boring, misleading and incorrect.  Yes, they won back to back WS all those years ago, big deal.  In the ensuing time the Yanks have won er...let's see here I think the number is 7 WS titles, including 3 in a row and 4/5...but they'll never ever, ever be as good as the Reds.  Gimme a break.  I read somewhere that he is kind of hard to get along with in the prep and in the booth, I'm not surprised.
 
The Yanks have been preaching 'in house answers' since Cash got the promised control a few years ago.  I'd really like to see them give Pena a legit shot.  I had been eyeing JJ Hardy for a couple of years as a viable replacement for Jeter but he's off the market again.  I also like Tulo in Denver but I think he's signed long term.  I just really like the Pena option.  I'd like to see him get a real chance next year to win the job for himself.
 
I also like your assessment of Matsui and the comparison to Ruben Sierra.  Plus, Matsui really, really wants to come back to the Bronx.  I really like him as the DH for the next couple of years.
 
Mike


-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 10:30 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
McCarver is a problem and so is Joe Morgan.  I wonder if it is because they were players and played against the Yankees for all those years?
 
I agree that Andy might take his glove and go home a winner, and he was one this year, that's for sure.
 
I'd like to see the Pena kid given a chance, I agee that as a SH he might do well for us in the 2 hole.  SH are very valuable, and I didn't notice that he had a weaker side.  He played a little OF towards the end of the season in Scranton, and that might not be a bad way to get up here.  I remember a young man named Mattingly who did it that way.  He turned out pretty good!

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 10:10 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
Yeah, I'd take Andy in a heartbeart over Randy.  I know Andy's family means a whole lot to him and missing his son's games is a tough one for him.  I am not at all sure he's coming back, in fact at this point, I think I'd be surprised a little bit if he does.  He wanted to pitch in the new stadium and help to bring another title here.  He accomplished what he wanted and would be leaving on an extremely high note.  I want him to come back, make no mistake about that.  I am convinced he has at least one more good season left in his arm and he could still be a terrific mentor for some of the young guys.
 
I like Pena at short and I can't help but wonder how he'd do in the 2 hole.  It would be a huge jump but he handles the bat well and he's a switch hitter.  I don't think we could expect much power but we have 6 other guys who supply that.  But for right now, Derek is the man at short.  Maybe he'll prove all the naysayers wrong two years running.  In the lineup, I wouldn't put him back at the 2 hole for the reason you mention...too many GIDP.
 
Kennedy is not flashing too bright on my radar but I do beleive he has the stuff to make at the ML level, a good #3 guy especially if you could slot him in between a couple of hard throwers.
 
Maybe I am being a little unkind to McCarver but there seems to be an anti-Yankee bias in a lot of commentators, not just him.  It also seems like his age is catching up with him.
 
It's nice to discuss this stuff from a point of winning instead of a point of desperation.  From my point of view, I'd really rather have our issues than say, the Sawx, who cannot keep a  decent SS since they let Garciaparra go and whose outfield looks a little suspect and a lot overpaid in right...plus Big Papi...now, there's a question mark if there ever was one.
 
Mike



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 8:36 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
I agree on letting Damon go.  And I think the reason they clicked, was that it simply got
Derek out of the 2 hole.  He hits into too many DPs from there.  I think Johnny is replaceable.  Hideki reminds me more and more of Ruben Sierra, the mature Ruben.  A very dangerous hitter, and he has proven he can pinch hit.  So he doesn't have to play every day and that's great!
 
Right now I think you might be right.  We just don't have a ML catcher ready to go so it needs to be Molina for a year.  I like Cervelli's spirit, but it may have been his best year!
 
Hughes to the rotation and Joba to the pen, and don't forget CMW!  He may be available by early season, around May.  I'm not as high as you are on IPK.  Kennedy would have to do a great deal to earn a spot on my team, but if he can, so much the better.  I'd at least have him in spring training and give him the shot.
 
Andy/Randy?  I'd rather Andy, and I think he will come back for one more, and then I'm sure he's done.
 
Derek is not done until the end of the season and I've read where he would be willing to wait.  Pena can hit, so I think that is a no brainer.  He should be playiing somewhere in our infield, soon.  But one more year at short and then hopefully the OF for Derek.  I was kind of hoping that a win in the WS this year would make the transition palatable for Derek next season, but looking at it now, probably not.  Who knows?
 
Love your thoughts about McCarver, but I'd make sure he never got above AA ball....

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 8:13 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
I agree 100%, plus during the playoffs he did not seem to have his head in the game at crucial times.  I also hate the way he spells his name, for what that's worth, LOL.
 
Here's my thinking on the upgrade issues:
 
1-Let Damon go.  There are enough good outfielders in market that you could even get a good cf and put him in left.  The big thing that concerns me about letting Damon go is his place in the lineup.  His hitting behind Jeter in the 2 hole was a terrific combination that clicked right off the bat.  This is really what we need by way of replacement, I believe.
 
2-Re-sign Matsui as the DH.  The guy is such a professional hitter and a clutch situational hitter...he would be very hard to replace.
 
3-Stick with the Posada/Molina duo for another year until a minor leaguer is ready to take over.  I really like Cervelli, to be honest with you but I wonder at this point if he will develop the pop in his bat.  Otherwise, I love the guy.
 
4-Put Hughes in the rotation and Joba in the pen.  The striking difference in Joba as a starter vs. reliever makes the decision almost a no-brainer.  The only blemish on him was leaving a ball inside to guy who kills that kind of pitch.  Hughes began to trust his stuff and that made all the difference in the world for him.  His trouble in the post-season was that he began to be concerned about the strengths and weaknesses of the hitter instead of pitching to his own strengths.  He has the moxy to be a good #3 or #4 guy right now and will with time move to a #2 or possibly #1 on the right team.
 
5-Sign Andy to a one year deal, if he wants to come back.  If he does want one more year, we're looking at CC, AJ, Andy, Phil and someone from the mix of Gaudin, Mitre, or Kennedy.  All 3 of the later options had their issues but I also believe they are all on target to correct the flaws.  I was especially impressed with Gaudin after he had worked out some kinks with the coaching staff.  Mitre has the kind of sinker that doesn't necessarily need 90+ to make a difference, he just has to be used regularly to keep his arm loose enough/tired enough to make the sinker work.  I also think Ian Kennedy has had enough humbling events to make him a valuable guy.  When he came up a couple years ago with a chip on his shoulder, it was a misplaced chip...his stuff did not back up his confidence.  I just think he's a different guy now from the inside out.
 
6-If Andy doesn't sign, I like Randy Wolf as cheap option.  I'd actually love us to sign John Lackey but I just can't see that happening, unless it looks as though the Sox might land him, LOL.
 
7-You gotta sign Derek for another 3 years at least.  Whether he can play SS for that time is another matter.  But here's another scenario:  Re-sign Derek but move him to left and either use Pena at short or go out and get a FA SS who can also bat at in the 2 hole.  Pena has the defense and showed signs of offensive capability so personally, I'd be okay with him at short.
 
8-We have the makings of a long term, absolutely terrific bullpen.  Roberston, Coke, Marte, Bruney (yes, Bruney), Aceves, and Mo.  I'll take that group right now against any other team in the world.  And this equation does not even contain Melancon, who I believe will be a very valuable piece as time moves forward.
 
9-Sign Tim McCarver to an exclusive YES network contract and then have him be the minor league broadcaster, as that seems where his talents seem most fitting.
 
Mike in Upstate NY, where we'll have temps in upper 60's with lots of sunshine today, the last hurrah before the long night of winter sets in...on the upside, I saw a nice 4 point buck on the way to church last night.



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter@ inbox.com>
To: Yankeesmvp1 Group <yankeesmvp1@ yahoogroups. com>
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 7:18 am
Subject: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
There seems to be one thread running through a lot of the articles I'm reading, and it has the Yankees picking up Figgins and putting him in LF.  Surely we have someone on the minor league staff somewhere as good or better than him?  He is a Yankees killer,, but he doesn't play that well against the other teams.  Plus I hate the way he spells his first name.  Just can't stand it.


Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Congratulations Yankees! Championship #27!
Scott



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter

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Imagine Peace

#21041 From: redbug <redbug51@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 3:30 pm
Subject: Re: Figgins?
redbug51
Offline Offline
Send Email Send Email
 
Why not give Cervelli a shot while waiting to see if they want to take a shot at mauer?


--- On Tue, 11/10/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@yahoogroups.com
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009, 6:57 AM

 
I just posted an article from the NYDN that makes this kind of speculation a moot point.  It details how weak this year's FA class is and how strong the one is for next year.  I think the Yankees might be best served to go with Johnny and Hideki for one more year, Jose as well, because there are guys the year after that where we will need to spend money.  Lackey might be the splash for this year because he is younger than Halladay next year we would have a shot at Joe Mauer plus a few other really good players.  I would even say fill the OF spot from within and suffer with Austin Jackson learning at the big league level if money is really an issue.  There are some good players coming up a year later.

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 6:15 AM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I know he played 3rd but I can't remember his arm.  He hasn't played much outfield in recent yr's. Probably because they neeeded him at 3rd.


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 9:38 PM

 
I'm speaking strictly to his arm, nothing else.  He played 3rd base all season, probably one of the most demanding throwing positions on the field along with RF.

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 5:33 PM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I'm about 5 emails behind you guys on Figgins but had one question...How's his arm?  Because it's hard to beat Johnny offensively and on the basepaths (I think his double steal was the Series).  Johnny's arm is his only majoe weakness.  If Figgins isn't a huge upgrade over Johnny in the field, why replace him?


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:

From: mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 10:46 AM

 
Scott,
You're right on both broadcasters.  Joe Morgan's 30+ years of defending his precious Reds as one of the best of all time is boring, misleading and incorrect.  Yes, they won back to back WS all those years ago, big deal.  In the ensuing time the Yanks have won er...let's see here I think the number is 7 WS titles, including 3 in a row and 4/5...but they'll never ever, ever be as good as the Reds.  Gimme a break.  I read somewhere that he is kind of hard to get along with in the prep and in the booth, I'm not surprised.
 
The Yanks have been preaching 'in house answers' since Cash got the promised control a few years ago.  I'd really like to see them give Pena a legit shot.  I had been eyeing JJ Hardy for a couple of years as a viable replacement for Jeter but he's off the market again.  I also like Tulo in Denver but I think he's signed long term.  I just really like the Pena option.  I'd like to see him get a real chance next year to win the job for himself.
 
I also like your assessment of Matsui and the comparison to Ruben Sierra.  Plus, Matsui really, really wants to come back to the Bronx.  I really like him as the DH for the next couple of years.
 
Mike


-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 10:30 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
McCarver is a problem and so is Joe Morgan.  I wonder if it is because they were players and played against the Yankees for all those years?
 
I agree that Andy might take his glove and go home a winner, and he was one this year, that's for sure.
 
I'd like to see the Pena kid given a chance, I agee that as a SH he might do well for us in the 2 hole.  SH are very valuable, and I didn't notice that he had a weaker side.  He played a little OF towards the end of the season in Scranton, and that might not be a bad way to get up here.  I remember a young man named Mattingly who did it that way.  He turned out pretty good!

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 10:10 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
Yeah, I'd take Andy in a heartbeart over Randy.  I know Andy's family means a whole lot to him and missing his son's games is a tough one for him.  I am not at all sure he's coming back, in fact at this point, I think I'd be surprised a little bit if he does.  He wanted to pitch in the new stadium and help to bring another title here.  He accomplished what he wanted and would be leaving on an extremely high note.  I want him to come back, make no mistake about that.  I am convinced he has at least one more good season left in his arm and he could still be a terrific mentor for some of the young guys.
 
I like Pena at short and I can't help but wonder how he'd do in the 2 hole.  It would be a huge jump but he handles the bat well and he's a switch hitter.  I don't think we could expect much power but we have 6 other guys who supply that.  But for right now, Derek is the man at short.  Maybe he'll prove all the naysayers wrong two years running.  In the lineup, I wouldn't put him back at the 2 hole for the reason you mention...too many GIDP.
 
Kennedy is not flashing too bright on my radar but I do beleive he has the stuff to make at the ML level, a good #3 guy especially if you could slot him in between a couple of hard throwers.
 
Maybe I am being a little unkind to McCarver but there seems to be an anti-Yankee bias in a lot of commentators, not just him.  It also seems like his age is catching up with him.
 
It's nice to discuss this stuff from a point of winning instead of a point of desperation.  From my point of view, I'd really rather have our issues than say, the Sawx, who cannot keep a  decent SS since they let Garciaparra go and whose outfield looks a little suspect and a lot overpaid in right...plus Big Papi...now, there's a question mark if there ever was one.
 
Mike



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 8:36 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
I agree on letting Damon go.  And I think the reason they clicked, was that it simply got
Derek out of the 2 hole.  He hits into too many DPs from there.  I think Johnny is replaceable.  Hideki reminds me more and more of Ruben Sierra, the mature Ruben.  A very dangerous hitter, and he has proven he can pinch hit.  So he doesn't have to play every day and that's great!
 
Right now I think you might be right.  We just don't have a ML catcher ready to go so it needs to be Molina for a year.  I like Cervelli's spirit, but it may have been his best year!
 
Hughes to the rotation and Joba to the pen, and don't forget CMW!  He may be available by early season, around May.  I'm not as high as you are on IPK.  Kennedy would have to do a great deal to earn a spot on my team, but if he can, so much the better.  I'd at least have him in spring training and give him the shot.
 
Andy/Randy?  I'd rather Andy, and I think he will come back for one more, and then I'm sure he's done.
 
Derek is not done until the end of the season and I've read where he would be willing to wait.  Pena can hit, so I think that is a no brainer.  He should be playiing somewhere in our infield, soon.  But one more year at short and then hopefully the OF for Derek.  I was kind of hoping that a win in the WS this year would make the transition palatable for Derek next season, but looking at it now, probably not.  Who knows?
 
Love your thoughts about McCarver, but I'd make sure he never got above AA ball....

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 8:13 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
I agree 100%, plus during the playoffs he did not seem to have his head in the game at crucial times.  I also hate the way he spells his name, for what that's worth, LOL.
 
Here's my thinking on the upgrade issues:
 
1-Let Damon go.  There are enough good outfielders in market that you could even get a good cf and put him in left.  The big thing that concerns me about letting Damon go is his place in the lineup.  His hitting behind Jeter in the 2 hole was a terrific combination that clicked right off the bat.  This is really what we need by way of replacement, I believe.
 
2-Re-sign Matsui as the DH.  The guy is such a professional hitter and a clutch situational hitter...he would be very hard to replace.
 
3-Stick with the Posada/Molina duo for another year until a minor leaguer is ready to take over.  I really like Cervelli, to be honest with you but I wonder at this point if he will develop the pop in his bat.  Otherwise, I love the guy.
 
4-Put Hughes in the rotation and Joba in the pen.  The striking difference in Joba as a starter vs. reliever makes the decision almost a no-brainer.  The only blemish on him was leaving a ball inside to guy who kills that kind of pitch.  Hughes began to trust his stuff and that made all the difference in the world for him.  His trouble in the post-season was that he began to be concerned about the strengths and weaknesses of the hitter instead of pitching to his own strengths.  He has the moxy to be a good #3 or #4 guy right now and will with time move to a #2 or possibly #1 on the right team.
 
5-Sign Andy to a one year deal, if he wants to come back.  If he does want one more year, we're looking at CC, AJ, Andy, Phil and someone from the mix of Gaudin, Mitre, or Kennedy.  All 3 of the later options had their issues but I also believe they are all on target to correct the flaws.  I was especially impressed with Gaudin after he had worked out some kinks with the coaching staff.  Mitre has the kind of sinker that doesn't necessarily need 90+ to make a difference, he just has to be used regularly to keep his arm loose enough/tired enough to make the sinker work.  I also think Ian Kennedy has had enough humbling events to make him a valuable guy.  When he came up a couple years ago with a chip on his shoulder, it was a misplaced chip...his stuff did not back up his confidence.  I just think he's a different guy now from the inside out.
 
6-If Andy doesn't sign, I like Randy Wolf as cheap option.  I'd actually love us to sign John Lackey but I just can't see that happening, unless it looks as though the Sox might land him, LOL.
 
7-You gotta sign Derek for another 3 years at least.  Whether he can play SS for that time is another matter.  But here's another scenario:  Re-sign Derek but move him to left and either use Pena at short or go out and get a FA SS who can also bat at in the 2 hole.  Pena has the defense and showed signs of offensive capability so personally, I'd be okay with him at short.
 
8-We have the makings of a long term, absolutely terrific bullpen.  Roberston, Coke, Marte, Bruney (yes, Bruney), Aceves, and Mo.  I'll take that group right now against any other team in the world.  And this equation does not even contain Melancon, who I believe will be a very valuable piece as time moves forward.
 
9-Sign Tim McCarver to an exclusive YES network contract and then have him be the minor league broadcaster, as that seems where his talents seem most fitting.
 
Mike in Upstate NY, where we'll have temps in upper 60's with lots of sunshine today, the last hurrah before the long night of winter sets in...on the upside, I saw a nice 4 point buck on the way to church last night.



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter@ inbox.com>
To: Yankeesmvp1 Group <yankeesmvp1@ yahoogroups. com>
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 7:18 am
Subject: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
There seems to be one thread running through a lot of the articles I'm reading, and it has the Yankees picking up Figgins and putting him in LF.  Surely we have someone on the minor league staff somewhere as good or better than him?  He is a Yankees killer,, but he doesn't play that well against the other teams.  Plus I hate the way he spells his first name.  Just can't stand it.


Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Congratulations Yankees! Championship #27!
Scott



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter

____________ _________ _________ _________ _________ __
Do You Yahoo!?
Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around
http://mail. yahoo.com



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter


#21040 From: redbug <redbug51@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 3:28 pm
Subject: Re: Figgins?
redbug51
Offline Offline
Send Email Send Email
 

Melky got hurt, too.  It can happen to anyone.  Johnny's played at least 140  games every yr since he came up.  he's been very durable

 
 
--- On Tue, 11/10/09, Sara G. <ALEMRO13@...> wrote:

From: Sara G. <ALEMRO13@...>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@yahoogroups.com
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009, 7:42 AM

 
I completely forgot about Johnny's injury in game 6. Good points, Scott.

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 10:05 PM, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter@ inbox.com> wrote:
 
I don't think anyone is trading Cano.
 
As for Johhny in LF, I don't think Figgins is really the answer, it was just a thread that was developing in the rumor mill.
 
However, I'm not sure Johnny is either.  Johnny next year will probably be a part-time player if he stays with the Yankees.  His legs are starting to go.  Remember that he was done half way through game 6 of the WS.  If there was a game 7 he would not have been able to play.  Once the legs start to go a player is pretty much done.  Johnny hung on and won one with us.  That may be it.  I would foresee him as more of a liability next year.  I see Hideki as less but I really do wish he was a switch hitter.  I wish one of them was, that would make the choice easier.
 
There are other options for LF and quite frankly this year is a particularly weak free agent class, and that is why Figgins is even getting any play at all.  The best solution may very well be from within!  If we got a chance at Jason Bay I would do that pretty quickly, but other than that, no thanks.  That Holliday guy came over to the AL and couldn't hit worth a lick and then went back to the NL and was good again for the Cards.  They may be his best option.  We'll see.
 
 
Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Congratulations Yankees! Championship #27!
Scott


-----Original Message-----
From: alemro13@gmail. com
Sent: Mon, 9 Nov 2009 17:41:20 -0500
To: yankeesmvp1@ yahoogroups. com
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
You know Red, I have been saying for 2 seasons that we need someone in LF with a better arm...but now all of a sudden, I want Johnny to stay. I don't know why. I mean his arm is pretty weak, but he hasn't seemed to be a liability at all....I think he'd be fine another year, and I love him in the 2 spot. I think we need 1 more decent starter, and they could win it again with the guys they have. (Two more if Andy decides to retire.) And Joba needs to be in the pen. I mean, come on. I haven't heard anything said about that yet, but before he went to the pen this past season, they were adamant in saying he IS a starter. There was mention over on LoHud about trading Cano. My response? Oh HELL no!!!

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 5:33 PM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I'm about 5 emails behind you guys on Figgins but had one question...How's his arm?  Because it's hard to beat Johnny offensively and on the basepaths (I think his double steal was the Series).  Johnny's arm is his only majoe weakness.  If Figgins isn't a huge upgrade over Johnny in the field, why replace him?


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:

From: mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 10:46 AM


 
Scott,
You're right on both broadcasters.  Joe Morgan's 30+ years of defending his precious Reds as one of the best of all time is boring, misleading and incorrect.  Yes, they won back to back WS all those years ago, big deal.  In the ensuing time the Yanks have won er...let's see here I think the number is 7 WS titles, including 3 in a row and 4/5...but they'll never ever, ever be as good as the Reds.  Gimme a break.  I read somewhere that he is kind of hard to get along with in the prep and in the booth, I'm not surprised.
 
The Yanks have been preaching 'in house answers' since Cash got the promised control a few years ago.  I'd really like to see them give Pena a legit shot.  I had been eyeing JJ Hardy for a couple of years as a viable replacement for Jeter but he's off the market again.  I also like Tulo in Denver but I think he's signed long term.  I just really like the Pena option.  I'd like to see him get a real chance next year to win the job for himself.
 
I also like your assessment of Matsui and the comparison to Ruben Sierra.  Plus, Matsui really, really wants to come back to the Bronx.  I really like him as the DH for the next couple of years.
 
Mike


-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 10:30 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
McCarver is a problem and so is Joe Morgan.  I wonder if it is because they were players and played against the Yankees for all those years?
 
I agree that Andy might take his glove and go home a winner, and he was one this year, that's for sure.
 
I'd like to see the Pena kid given a chance, I agee that as a SH he might do well for us in the 2 hole.  SH are very valuable, and I didn't notice that he had a weaker side.  He played a little OF towards the end of the season in Scranton, and that might not be a bad way to get up here.  I remember a young man named Mattingly who did it that way.  He turned out pretty good!

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 10:10 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
Yeah, I'd take Andy in a heartbeart over Randy.  I know Andy's family means a whole lot to him and missing his son's games is a tough one for him.  I am not at all sure he's coming back, in fact at this point, I think I'd be surprised a little bit if he does.  He wanted to pitch in the new stadium and help to bring another title here.  He accomplished what he wanted and would be leaving on an extremely high note.  I want him to come back, make no mistake about that.  I am convinced he has at least one more good season left in his arm and he could still be a terrific mentor for some of the young guys.
 
I like Pena at short and I can't help but wonder how he'd do in the 2 hole.  It would be a huge jump but he handles the bat well and he's a switch hitter.  I don't think we could expect much power but we have 6 other guys who supply that.  But for right now, Derek is the man at short.  Maybe he'll prove all the naysayers wrong two years running.  In the lineup, I wouldn't put him back at the 2 hole for the reason you mention...too many GIDP.
 
Kennedy is not flashing too bright on my radar but I do beleive he has the stuff to make at the ML level, a good #3 guy especially if you could slot him in between a couple of hard throwers.
 
Maybe I am being a little unkind to McCarver but there seems to be an anti-Yankee bias in a lot of commentators, not just him.  It also seems like his age is catching up with him.
 
It's nice to discuss this stuff from a point of winning instead of a point of desperation.  From my point of view, I'd really rather have our issues than say, the Sawx, who cannot keep a  decent SS since they let Garciaparra go and whose outfield looks a little suspect and a lot overpaid in right...plus Big Papi...now, there's a question mark if there ever was one.
 
Mike



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 8:36 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
I agree on letting Damon go.  And I think the reason they clicked, was that it simply got
Derek out of the 2 hole.  He hits into too many DPs from there.  I think Johnny is replaceable.  Hideki reminds me more and more of Ruben Sierra, the mature Ruben.  A very dangerous hitter, and he has proven he can pinch hit.  So he doesn't have to play every day and that's great!
 
Right now I think you might be right.  We just don't have a ML catcher ready to go so it needs to be Molina for a year.  I like Cervelli's spirit, but it may have been his best year!
 
Hughes to the rotation and Joba to the pen, and don't forget CMW!  He may be available by early season, around May.  I'm not as high as you are on IPK.  Kennedy would have to do a great deal to earn a spot on my team, but if he can, so much the better.  I'd at least have him in spring training and give him the shot.
 
Andy/Randy?  I'd rather Andy, and I think he will come back for one more, and then I'm sure he's done.
 
Derek is not done until the end of the season and I've read where he would be willing to wait.  Pena can hit, so I think that is a no brainer.  He should be playiing somewhere in our infield, soon.  But one more year at short and then hopefully the OF for Derek.  I was kind of hoping that a win in the WS this year would make the transition palatable for Derek next season, but looking at it now, probably not.  Who knows?
 
Love your thoughts about McCarver, but I'd make sure he never got above AA ball....

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 8:13 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
I agree 100%, plus during the playoffs he did not seem to have his head in the game at crucial times.  I also hate the way he spells his name, for what that's worth, LOL.
 
Here's my thinking on the upgrade issues:
 
1-Let Damon go.  There are enough good outfielders in market that you could even get a good cf and put him in left.  The big thing that concerns me about letting Damon go is his place in the lineup.  His hitting behind Jeter in the 2 hole was a terrific combination that clicked right off the bat.  This is really what we need by way of replacement, I believe.
 
2-Re-sign Matsui as the DH.  The guy is such a professional hitter and a clutch situational hitter...he would be very hard to replace.
 
3-Stick with the Posada/Molina duo for another year until a minor leaguer is ready to take over.  I really like Cervelli, to be honest with you but I wonder at this point if he will develop the pop in his bat.  Otherwise, I love the guy.
 
4-Put Hughes in the rotation and Joba in the pen.  The striking difference in Joba as a starter vs. reliever makes the decision almost a no-brainer.  The only blemish on him was leaving a ball inside to guy who kills that kind of pitch.  Hughes began to trust his stuff and that made all the difference in the world for him.  His trouble in the post-season was that he began to be concerned about the strengths and weaknesses of the hitter instead of pitching to his own strengths.  He has the moxy to be a good #3 or #4 guy right now and will with time move to a #2 or possibly #1 on the right team.
 
5-Sign Andy to a one year deal, if he wants to come back.  If he does want one more year, we're looking at CC, AJ, Andy, Phil and someone from the mix of Gaudin, Mitre, or Kennedy.  All 3 of the later options had their issues but I also believe they are all on target to correct the flaws.  I was especially impressed with Gaudin after he had worked out some kinks with the coaching staff.  Mitre has the kind of sinker that doesn't necessarily need 90+ to make a difference, he just has to be used regularly to keep his arm loose enough/tired enough to make the sinker work.  I also think Ian Kennedy has had enough humbling events to make him a valuable guy.  When he came up a couple years ago with a chip on his shoulder, it was a misplaced chip...his stuff did not back up his confidence.  I just think he's a different guy now from the inside out.
 
6-If Andy doesn't sign, I like Randy Wolf as cheap option.  I'd actually love us to sign John Lackey but I just can't see that happening, unless it looks as though the Sox might land him, LOL.
 
7-You gotta sign Derek for another 3 years at least.  Whether he can play SS for that time is another matter.  But here's another scenario:  Re-sign Derek but move him to left and either use Pena at short or go out and get a FA SS who can also bat at in the 2 hole.  Pena has the defense and showed signs of offensive capability so personally, I'd be okay with him at short.
 
8-We have the makings of a long term, absolutely terrific bullpen.  Roberston, Coke, Marte, Bruney (yes, Bruney), Aceves, and Mo.  I'll take that group right now against any other team in the world.  And this equation does not even contain Melancon, who I believe will be a very valuable piece as time moves forward.
 
9-Sign Tim McCarver to an exclusive YES network contract and then have him be the minor league broadcaster, as that seems where his talents seem most fitting.
 
Mike in Upstate NY, where we'll have temps in upper 60's with lots of sunshine today, the last hurrah before the long night of winter sets in...on the upside, I saw a nice 4 point buck on the way to church last night.



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter@ inbox.com>
To: Yankeesmvp1 Group <yankeesmvp1@ yahoogroups. com>
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 7:18 am
Subject: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
There seems to be one thread running through a lot of the articles I'm reading, and it has the Yankees picking up Figgins and putting him in LF.  Surely we have someone on the minor league staff somewhere as good or better than him?  He is a Yankees killer,, but he doesn't play that well against the other teams.  Plus I hate the way he spells his first name.  Just can't stand it.


Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Congratulations Yankees! Championship #27!
Scott



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
Imagine Peace



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Imagine Peace


#21038 From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 1:49 pm
Subject: Fwd: MLB Trade Rumors
yankeesmvp1
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Varitek has already activated his option, so they are a bit behind on that.  He will be backup to the kid from the Indians whose name escapes me at the moment because I don't think much of his skills.
 
As I posted earlier I like the idea of getting Lackey as maybe our only "new" guys this year setting up a really good pitching rotation.  Then sign inexpensive 1 year contracts with Damon and Matsui, or at least less expensive than $13mil a piece, and if they are not interested work from within.  Save the big money for Mauer and Jeter for next year.  That's a pretty good plan!

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: MLB Rumors - MLBTradeRumors.com <dierkes@...>
Date: Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 8:15 AM
Subject: MLB Trade Rumors
To: scott.coulter2@...


MLB Trade Rumors


Discussion: Phillies And Roy Halladay

Posted: 09 Nov 2009 08:02 PM PST

Despite Philadelphia GM Ruben Amaro, Jr. describing his needs this winter as "Third base, bullpen, bench," many people within baseball think the Phillies will make a run at Roy Halladay, reports Jim Salisbury of the Philadelphia Inquirer.

Salisbury quotes a rival front office member as saying, "Philadelphia is into winning now, and Halladay fits that." 

Toronto's asking price this past July - pitchers Kyle Drabek and J.A. Happ and outfielders Dominic Brown and Anthony Gose - was too high for Philadelphia. But with Halladay moving closer to free agency, will that price come down?

If you are the Phillies, do you trade a significant package to bring Halladay in? If you are the Blue Jays, what do you need to get this done?


Odds & Ends: Dodgers, Phillies, Nationals

Posted: 09 Nov 2009 09:07 PM PST

As the immortal Pete Abraham of the Boston Globe puts it, "Standing around an airport hotel lobby at night just in case Scott Boras walks by was not covered in journalism school." Meanwhile, you get to keep up with the latest rumors in the comfort of your own home!


Varitek Expected To Exercise Player Option

Posted: 09 Nov 2009 07:45 PM PST

9:43pm: Pete Abraham of the Boston Globe writes on his Twitter feed, "Contrary to a report, Theo Epstein just said that Jason Varitek has not yet picked up his option. That could come tomorrow, however."

9:28pm: Or has he? Ken Rosenthal at Foxsports.com acknowledges the NESN report, but adds "one source said that Varitek has yet to make a final decision."

7:23pm: Jason Varitek has exercised his $3MM player option, according to Adam Hirshfield of NESN.com, and will return to the Red Sox in 2010, shortly after Boston had declined Varitek's $5MM team option.

The decision comes after the Red Sox made it clear that they plan on using Victor Martinez as their everday catcher in 2010, and speaks also to the expected difficulties many players may have getting a bigger payday.

For Varitek, more importantly, the days where he is an asset as a starting catcher may be gone. He posted a .703 OPS in 2009, and really wore down after a strong start. His first-half OPS was .826, while his second-half OPS was .489, or 161 points lower than the career mark of Mike Hampton.

1:36pm: According to WEEI.com's Rob Bradford, the Red Sox will not pick up Jason Varitek's $5MM option for 2010. Varitek now has five days to decide on the $3MM player option portion of the contract. He could also earn another $2MM in incentives based on games started next season.

The 37-year-old team captain hit just .209/.313/.390 in 425 plate appearances in 2009, losing his starting catcher's job to Victor Martinez late in the season and in the playoffs.


Braves Discussing Extension for Vazquez

Posted: 09 Nov 2009 07:17 PM PST

David O'Brien of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution is reporting that "Someone here at the meetings who would probably know, told me the Braves have at least discussed trying to sign [Javier] Vazquez to a contract extension."

Vazquez was quietly an elite pitcher for Atlanta in 2009, posting a 2.87 ERA in 219 1/3 innings, striking out 238 and walking just 44. He's signed to an $11.5MM deal for 2010, after which he will be a free agent.

There has been speculation that Atlanta will deal Vazquez, since with the return of Tim Hudson, they appear to have six starting pitchers for five spots. Meanwhile, a deal for the underachieving Derek Lowe, who was far worse than Vazquez and has $45MM left on his contract, would presumably yield far less than Vazquez.


Bradley Being Discussed In Three-Way Deal

Posted: 09 Nov 2009 07:05 PM PST

9:01pm: The Chicago Tribune's Paul Sullivan is reporting that Toronto "wants no part of Milton Bradley." Meanwhile, Cubs GM Jim Hendry said that Chicago hasn't given up on Bradley, according to MLB.com's Scott Merkin. Of course, Hendry has to say that until the moment Bradley is traded.

5:55pm: A very interesting idea is being reported by Ken Rosenthal: a three-way deal, with Milton Bradley going to the Blue Jays, Luis Castillo to the Cubs, and Lyle Overbay to the Mets. Rosenthal said "The teams indeed have discussed the framework of such a deal, though not in direct fashion, according to major-league sources."

Breaking it down, the trade makes the most sense for the Mets, who would clear second base for long-coveted Orlando Hudson, a free agent. Overbay has also mashed righties for his entire career - .847 OPS career, .905 in 2009 - and could be paired with Daniel Murphy or Nick Evans for a high-reward platoon.

Castillo does block the movement of Ryan Theriot to second base when Starlin Castro arrives, but adding Castillo's on-base percentage would be a boon to the top of Chicago's lineup.

As for the Blue Jays, the deal would open up first base for Adam Lind, with Bradley slotting in as designated hitter. The question is: Overbay slugged .466 in 2009, while Bradley slugged just .397 - so is this an upgrade?


Figgins Too Expensive For White Sox; Podsednik Talks Heat Up

Posted: 09 Nov 2009 07:00 PM PST

Chris De Luca of the Chicago Sun-Times is reporting that White Sox GM Kenny Williams flatly denied that Chicago would have enough money to spend on free agent leadoff hitter Chone Figgins.

''We don't have that kind of money," Williams said. "Sometimes the minor [free-agent deals] are the major ones, in my mind. How many Novembers have you heard that line?"

De Luca does report, however, that "talks between the Sox and incumbent leadoff hitter Scott Podsednik have heated up in recent days." Podsednik obviously wouldn't command the kind of money Figgins will be seeking.


New York Roundup: Mets Sour, Yankees Sweet On Lackey

Posted: 09 Nov 2009 06:44 PM PST

It wouldn't be the hot stove season without the two New York teams:

  • Jon Heyman of SI.com is reporting that the Mets are "concerned about" John Lackey's past injury problems to the point that they won't pursue him. The Yankees, however, are "definitely interested."
  • Newsday's Ken Davidoff believes the Mets will "check in on Jason Bay, Matt Holliday, John Lackey; they have to engage, for public relations' sake."
  • Barry Bloom of MLB.com reports that Yankees GM Brian Cashman doesn't plan to sign any of his own free agents during his period of exclusive bargaining rights.


Rockies Rumors: Hawpe, Betancourt, Torrealba

Posted: 09 Nov 2009 06:52 PM PST

8:34pm: SI.com's Jon Heyman is reporting that Torrealba declined a Colorado offer of two years, $4.5MM.

357pm: Joel Sherman of The NY Post has a slew of Rockies' rumors from the GM meetings, so let's recap...

  • The Rockies are willing to listen to trade offers for outfielder Brad Hawpe. Just last month, GM Dan O'Dowd said "We have no desire to move [Hawpe] at all." 
  • The team's top priority at the moment is to retain reliever Rafael Betancourt, who they've already approached about a multi-year deal.
  • Yorvit Torrealba turned down an offer to return to the team after they declined his option. They'll look elsewhere for a backup catcher.
  • The Rockies do not plan to tender Garrett Atkins a contract, and intend to use Ian Stewart at third base.
  • They'd like to add a righty bat to be a reserve outfielder or first baseman.
  • The team has received "glowing reports" about Jeff Francis, who is battling back from shoulder surgery and missed all of 2009.


Red Sox, Wakefield Finalize Two-Year Contract

Posted: 09 Nov 2009 06:37 PM PST

6:23pm: Full details of Wakefield's contract are here, courtesy of Alex Speier of WEEI.com.

4:29pm: The team has confirmed the signing, according to FoxSports.com's Ken Rosenthal and Jon Paul Morosi. Bradford, meanwhile, has some quotes from Wakefield, who admitted to being a little disappointed that they wanted to cut his guarantee, "but in the long run they’re at least guaranteeing me another year.”

1:48pm: Bradford confirmed in an email that the deal has been finalized.

1:28pm: WEEI.com's Rob Bradford says the new deal will guarantee Wakefield $5MM ($3.5MM in 2010, $1.5MM in 2011), with incentives that could push the total value of the deal up to $7MM.

1:26pm: The Red Sox have held (and exercised) a perpetual $4MM option for knuckleballer Tim Wakefield since 2005, but now Tony Massarotti of The Boston Globe reports that the two sides are renegotiating the deal after Wakefield had surgery to remove disc fragments from his back.

Massarotti says the two sides are close to an agreement on a two-year deal with a lower base salary, but incentives that will give Wakefield the chance to earn the same money if he stays healthy. The 43-year-old has made 20+ starts for the Sox for the last seven years, and he's just 17 wins behind Roger Clemens and Cy Young for the franchise record of 192 wins.


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Scott Coulter

#21037 From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 1:43 pm
Subject: Re: Figgins?
yankeesmvp1
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After reading some this morning I'm a little more favorable towards Johnny, but he would still be part time, we would need Hairston or someone from the minors to spell him, a lot.  Again, this might be a spot for Pena, some part time infield, part time OF, or Gardner could learn to play something other than CF.  That bugged me just a teensie bit that he always plays CF, never LF.  I could see an OF of Gardner in LF, Melky in CF and Swish in RF.  That wouldn't be half bad.

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 7:42 AM, Sara G. <ALEMRO13@...> wrote:
 

I completely forgot about Johnny's injury in game 6. Good points, Scott.

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 10:05 PM, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter@...> wrote:
 

I don't think anyone is trading Cano.
 
As for Johhny in LF, I don't think Figgins is really the answer, it was just a thread that was developing in the rumor mill.
 
However, I'm not sure Johnny is either.  Johnny next year will probably be a part-time player if he stays with the Yankees.  His legs are starting to go.  Remember that he was done half way through game 6 of the WS.  If there was a game 7 he would not have been able to play.  Once the legs start to go a player is pretty much done.  Johnny hung on and won one with us.  That may be it.  I would foresee him as more of a liability next year.  I see Hideki as less but I really do wish he was a switch hitter.  I wish one of them was, that would make the choice easier.
 
There are other options for LF and quite frankly this year is a particularly weak free agent class, and that is why Figgins is even getting any play at all.  The best solution may very well be from within!  If we got a chance at Jason Bay I would do that pretty quickly, but other than that, no thanks.  That Holliday guy came over to the AL and couldn't hit worth a lick and then went back to the NL and was good again for the Cards.  They may be his best option.  We'll see.
 
 
Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Congratulations Yankees! Championship #27!
Scott


-----Original Message-----
From: alemro13@...
Sent: Mon, 9 Nov 2009 17:41:20 -0500
To: yankeesmvp1@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 

You know Red, I have been saying for 2 seasons that we need someone in LF with a better arm...but now all of a sudden, I want Johnny to stay. I don't know why. I mean his arm is pretty weak, but he hasn't seemed to be a liability at all....I think he'd be fine another year, and I love him in the 2 spot. I think we need 1 more decent starter, and they could win it again with the guys they have. (Two more if Andy decides to retire.) And Joba needs to be in the pen. I mean, come on. I haven't heard anything said about that yet, but before he went to the pen this past season, they were adamant in saying he IS a starter. There was mention over on LoHud about trading Cano. My response? Oh HELL no!!!

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 5:33 PM, redbug <redbug51@...> wrote:
 

I'm about 5 emails behind you guys on Figgins but had one question...How's his arm?  Because it's hard to beat Johnny offensively and on the basepaths (I think his double steal was the Series).  Johnny's arm is his only majoe weakness.  If Figgins isn't a huge upgrade over Johnny in the field, why replace him?


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, mikeman341@... <mikeman341@...> wrote:

From: mikeman341@... <mikeman341@...>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@yahoogroups.com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 10:46 AM


 
Scott,
You're right on both broadcasters.  Joe Morgan's 30+ years of defending his precious Reds as one of the best of all time is boring, misleading and incorrect.  Yes, they won back to back WS all those years ago, big deal.  In the ensuing time the Yanks have won er...let's see here I think the number is 7 WS titles, including 3 in a row and 4/5...but they'll never ever, ever be as good as the Reds.  Gimme a break.  I read somewhere that he is kind of hard to get along with in the prep and in the booth, I'm not surprised.
 
The Yanks have been preaching 'in house answers' since Cash got the promised control a few years ago.  I'd really like to see them give Pena a legit shot.  I had been eyeing JJ Hardy for a couple of years as a viable replacement for Jeter but he's off the market again.  I also like Tulo in Denver but I think he's signed long term.  I just really like the Pena option.  I'd like to see him get a real chance next year to win the job for himself.
 
I also like your assessment of Matsui and the comparison to Ruben Sierra.  Plus, Matsui really, really wants to come back to the Bronx.  I really like him as the DH for the next couple of years.
 
Mike


-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 10:30 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
McCarver is a problem and so is Joe Morgan.  I wonder if it is because they were players and played against the Yankees for all those years?
 
I agree that Andy might take his glove and go home a winner, and he was one this year, that's for sure.
 
I'd like to see the Pena kid given a chance, I agee that as a SH he might do well for us in the 2 hole.  SH are very valuable, and I didn't notice that he had a weaker side.  He played a little OF towards the end of the season in Scranton, and that might not be a bad way to get up here.  I remember a young man named Mattingly who did it that way.  He turned out pretty good!

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 10:10 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
Yeah, I'd take Andy in a heartbeart over Randy.  I know Andy's family means a whole lot to him and missing his son's games is a tough one for him.  I am not at all sure he's coming back, in fact at this point, I think I'd be surprised a little bit if he does.  He wanted to pitch in the new stadium and help to bring another title here.  He accomplished what he wanted and would be leaving on an extremely high note.  I want him to come back, make no mistake about that.  I am convinced he has at least one more good season left in his arm and he could still be a terrific mentor for some of the young guys.
 
I like Pena at short and I can't help but wonder how he'd do in the 2 hole.  It would be a huge jump but he handles the bat well and he's a switch hitter.  I don't think we could expect much power but we have 6 other guys who supply that.  But for right now, Derek is the man at short.  Maybe he'll prove all the naysayers wrong two years running.  In the lineup, I wouldn't put him back at the 2 hole for the reason you mention...too many GIDP.
 
Kennedy is not flashing too bright on my radar but I do beleive he has the stuff to make at the ML level, a good #3 guy especially if you could slot him in between a couple of hard throwers.
 
Maybe I am being a little unkind to McCarver but there seems to be an anti-Yankee bias in a lot of commentators, not just him.  It also seems like his age is catching up with him.
 
It's nice to discuss this stuff from a point of winning instead of a point of desperation.  From my point of view, I'd really rather have our issues than say, the Sawx, who cannot keep a  decent SS since they let Garciaparra go and whose outfield looks a little suspect and a lot overpaid in right...plus Big Papi...now, there's a question mark if there ever was one.
 
Mike



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 8:36 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
I agree on letting Damon go.  And I think the reason they clicked, was that it simply got
Derek out of the 2 hole.  He hits into too many DPs from there.  I think Johnny is replaceable.  Hideki reminds me more and more of Ruben Sierra, the mature Ruben.  A very dangerous hitter, and he has proven he can pinch hit.  So he doesn't have to play every day and that's great!
 
Right now I think you might be right.  We just don't have a ML catcher ready to go so it needs to be Molina for a year.  I like Cervelli's spirit, but it may have been his best year!
 
Hughes to the rotation and Joba to the pen, and don't forget CMW!  He may be available by early season, around May.  I'm not as high as you are on IPK.  Kennedy would have to do a great deal to earn a spot on my team, but if he can, so much the better.  I'd at least have him in spring training and give him the shot.
 
Andy/Randy?  I'd rather Andy, and I think he will come back for one more, and then I'm sure he's done.
 
Derek is not done until the end of the season and I've read where he would be willing to wait.  Pena can hit, so I think that is a no brainer.  He should be playiing somewhere in our infield, soon.  But one more year at short and then hopefully the OF for Derek.  I was kind of hoping that a win in the WS this year would make the transition palatable for Derek next season, but looking at it now, probably not.  Who knows?
 
Love your thoughts about McCarver, but I'd make sure he never got above AA ball....

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 8:13 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
I agree 100%, plus during the playoffs he did not seem to have his head in the game at crucial times.  I also hate the way he spells his name, for what that's worth, LOL.
 
Here's my thinking on the upgrade issues:
 
1-Let Damon go.  There are enough good outfielders in market that you could even get a good cf and put him in left.  The big thing that concerns me about letting Damon go is his place in the lineup.  His hitting behind Jeter in the 2 hole was a terrific combination that clicked right off the bat.  This is really what we need by way of replacement, I believe.
 
2-Re-sign Matsui as the DH.  The guy is such a professional hitter and a clutch situational hitter...he would be very hard to replace.
 
3-Stick with the Posada/Molina duo for another year until a minor leaguer is ready to take over.  I really like Cervelli, to be honest with you but I wonder at this point if he will develop the pop in his bat.  Otherwise, I love the guy.
 
4-Put Hughes in the rotation and Joba in the pen.  The striking difference in Joba as a starter vs. reliever makes the decision almost a no-brainer.  The only blemish on him was leaving a ball inside to guy who kills that kind of pitch.  Hughes began to trust his stuff and that made all the difference in the world for him.  His trouble in the post-season was that he began to be concerned about the strengths and weaknesses of the hitter instead of pitching to his own strengths.  He has the moxy to be a good #3 or #4 guy right now and will with time move to a #2 or possibly #1 on the right team.
 
5-Sign Andy to a one year deal, if he wants to come back.  If he does want one more year, we're looking at CC, AJ, Andy, Phil and someone from the mix of Gaudin, Mitre, or Kennedy.  All 3 of the later options had their issues but I also believe they are all on target to correct the flaws.  I was especially impressed with Gaudin after he had worked out some kinks with the coaching staff.  Mitre has the kind of sinker that doesn't necessarily need 90+ to make a difference, he just has to be used regularly to keep his arm loose enough/tired enough to make the sinker work.  I also think Ian Kennedy has had enough humbling events to make him a valuable guy.  When he came up a couple years ago with a chip on his shoulder, it was a misplaced chip...his stuff did not back up his confidence.  I just think he's a different guy now from the inside out.
 
6-If Andy doesn't sign, I like Randy Wolf as cheap option.  I'd actually love us to sign John Lackey but I just can't see that happening, unless it looks as though the Sox might land him, LOL.
 
7-You gotta sign Derek for another 3 years at least.  Whether he can play SS for that time is another matter.  But here's another scenario:  Re-sign Derek but move him to left and either use Pena at short or go out and get a FA SS who can also bat at in the 2 hole.  Pena has the defense and showed signs of offensive capability so personally, I'd be okay with him at short.
 
8-We have the makings of a long term, absolutely terrific bullpen.  Roberston, Coke, Marte, Bruney (yes, Bruney), Aceves, and Mo.  I'll take that group right now against any other team in the world.  And this equation does not even contain Melancon, who I believe will be a very valuable piece as time moves forward.
 
9-Sign Tim McCarver to an exclusive YES network contract and then have him be the minor league broadcaster, as that seems where his talents seem most fitting.
 
Mike in Upstate NY, where we'll have temps in upper 60's with lots of sunshine today, the last hurrah before the long night of winter sets in...on the upside, I saw a nice 4 point buck on the way to church last night.



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter@ inbox.com>
To: Yankeesmvp1 Group <yankeesmvp1@ yahoogroups. com>
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 7:18 am
Subject: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
There seems to be one thread running through a lot of the articles I'm reading, and it has the Yankees picking up Figgins and putting him in LF.  Surely we have someone on the minor league staff somewhere as good or better than him?  He is a Yankees killer,, but he doesn't play that well against the other teams.  Plus I hate the way he spells his first name.  Just can't stand it.


Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Congratulations Yankees! Championship #27!
Scott



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
Imagine Peace




--
Imagine Peace




--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter

#21036 From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 1:39 pm
Subject: Good Article, Ditto
yankeesmvp1
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All that I said about the link still holds true, and as Sara so kindly pointed out, here is the link!!  LOL!!
 
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/columns/story?columnist=crasnick_jerry&id=4637105

--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter

#21035 From: "Sara G." <ALEMRO13@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 12:42 pm
Subject: Re: Figgins?
sarasspart
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I completely forgot about Johnny's injury in game 6. Good points, Scott.

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 10:05 PM, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter@...> wrote:
 

I don't think anyone is trading Cano.
 
As for Johhny in LF, I don't think Figgins is really the answer, it was just a thread that was developing in the rumor mill.
 
However, I'm not sure Johnny is either.  Johnny next year will probably be a part-time player if he stays with the Yankees.  His legs are starting to go.  Remember that he was done half way through game 6 of the WS.  If there was a game 7 he would not have been able to play.  Once the legs start to go a player is pretty much done.  Johnny hung on and won one with us.  That may be it.  I would foresee him as more of a liability next year.  I see Hideki as less but I really do wish he was a switch hitter.  I wish one of them was, that would make the choice easier.
 
There are other options for LF and quite frankly this year is a particularly weak free agent class, and that is why Figgins is even getting any play at all.  The best solution may very well be from within!  If we got a chance at Jason Bay I would do that pretty quickly, but other than that, no thanks.  That Holliday guy came over to the AL and couldn't hit worth a lick and then went back to the NL and was good again for the Cards.  They may be his best option.  We'll see.
 
 
Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Congratulations Yankees! Championship #27!
Scott


-----Original Message-----
From: alemro13@...
Sent: Mon, 9 Nov 2009 17:41:20 -0500
To: yankeesmvp1@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 

You know Red, I have been saying for 2 seasons that we need someone in LF with a better arm...but now all of a sudden, I want Johnny to stay. I don't know why. I mean his arm is pretty weak, but he hasn't seemed to be a liability at all....I think he'd be fine another year, and I love him in the 2 spot. I think we need 1 more decent starter, and they could win it again with the guys they have. (Two more if Andy decides to retire.) And Joba needs to be in the pen. I mean, come on. I haven't heard anything said about that yet, but before he went to the pen this past season, they were adamant in saying he IS a starter. There was mention over on LoHud about trading Cano. My response? Oh HELL no!!!

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 5:33 PM, redbug <redbug51@...> wrote:
 

I'm about 5 emails behind you guys on Figgins but had one question...How's his arm?  Because it's hard to beat Johnny offensively and on the basepaths (I think his double steal was the Series).  Johnny's arm is his only majoe weakness.  If Figgins isn't a huge upgrade over Johnny in the field, why replace him?


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, mikeman341@... <mikeman341@...> wrote:

From: mikeman341@... <mikeman341@...>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@yahoogroups.com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 10:46 AM


 
Scott,
You're right on both broadcasters.  Joe Morgan's 30+ years of defending his precious Reds as one of the best of all time is boring, misleading and incorrect.  Yes, they won back to back WS all those years ago, big deal.  In the ensuing time the Yanks have won er...let's see here I think the number is 7 WS titles, including 3 in a row and 4/5...but they'll never ever, ever be as good as the Reds.  Gimme a break.  I read somewhere that he is kind of hard to get along with in the prep and in the booth, I'm not surprised.
 
The Yanks have been preaching 'in house answers' since Cash got the promised control a few years ago.  I'd really like to see them give Pena a legit shot.  I had been eyeing JJ Hardy for a couple of years as a viable replacement for Jeter but he's off the market again.  I also like Tulo in Denver but I think he's signed long term.  I just really like the Pena option.  I'd like to see him get a real chance next year to win the job for himself.
 
I also like your assessment of Matsui and the comparison to Ruben Sierra.  Plus, Matsui really, really wants to come back to the Bronx.  I really like him as the DH for the next couple of years.
 
Mike


-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 10:30 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
McCarver is a problem and so is Joe Morgan.  I wonder if it is because they were players and played against the Yankees for all those years?
 
I agree that Andy might take his glove and go home a winner, and he was one this year, that's for sure.
 
I'd like to see the Pena kid given a chance, I agee that as a SH he might do well for us in the 2 hole.  SH are very valuable, and I didn't notice that he had a weaker side.  He played a little OF towards the end of the season in Scranton, and that might not be a bad way to get up here.  I remember a young man named Mattingly who did it that way.  He turned out pretty good!

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 10:10 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
Yeah, I'd take Andy in a heartbeart over Randy.  I know Andy's family means a whole lot to him and missing his son's games is a tough one for him.  I am not at all sure he's coming back, in fact at this point, I think I'd be surprised a little bit if he does.  He wanted to pitch in the new stadium and help to bring another title here.  He accomplished what he wanted and would be leaving on an extremely high note.  I want him to come back, make no mistake about that.  I am convinced he has at least one more good season left in his arm and he could still be a terrific mentor for some of the young guys.
 
I like Pena at short and I can't help but wonder how he'd do in the 2 hole.  It would be a huge jump but he handles the bat well and he's a switch hitter.  I don't think we could expect much power but we have 6 other guys who supply that.  But for right now, Derek is the man at short.  Maybe he'll prove all the naysayers wrong two years running.  In the lineup, I wouldn't put him back at the 2 hole for the reason you mention...too many GIDP.
 
Kennedy is not flashing too bright on my radar but I do beleive he has the stuff to make at the ML level, a good #3 guy especially if you could slot him in between a couple of hard throwers.
 
Maybe I am being a little unkind to McCarver but there seems to be an anti-Yankee bias in a lot of commentators, not just him.  It also seems like his age is catching up with him.
 
It's nice to discuss this stuff from a point of winning instead of a point of desperation.  From my point of view, I'd really rather have our issues than say, the Sawx, who cannot keep a  decent SS since they let Garciaparra go and whose outfield looks a little suspect and a lot overpaid in right...plus Big Papi...now, there's a question mark if there ever was one.
 
Mike



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 8:36 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
I agree on letting Damon go.  And I think the reason they clicked, was that it simply got
Derek out of the 2 hole.  He hits into too many DPs from there.  I think Johnny is replaceable.  Hideki reminds me more and more of Ruben Sierra, the mature Ruben.  A very dangerous hitter, and he has proven he can pinch hit.  So he doesn't have to play every day and that's great!
 
Right now I think you might be right.  We just don't have a ML catcher ready to go so it needs to be Molina for a year.  I like Cervelli's spirit, but it may have been his best year!
 
Hughes to the rotation and Joba to the pen, and don't forget CMW!  He may be available by early season, around May.  I'm not as high as you are on IPK.  Kennedy would have to do a great deal to earn a spot on my team, but if he can, so much the better.  I'd at least have him in spring training and give him the shot.
 
Andy/Randy?  I'd rather Andy, and I think he will come back for one more, and then I'm sure he's done.
 
Derek is not done until the end of the season and I've read where he would be willing to wait.  Pena can hit, so I think that is a no brainer.  He should be playiing somewhere in our infield, soon.  But one more year at short and then hopefully the OF for Derek.  I was kind of hoping that a win in the WS this year would make the transition palatable for Derek next season, but looking at it now, probably not.  Who knows?
 
Love your thoughts about McCarver, but I'd make sure he never got above AA ball....

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 8:13 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
I agree 100%, plus during the playoffs he did not seem to have his head in the game at crucial times.  I also hate the way he spells his name, for what that's worth, LOL.
 
Here's my thinking on the upgrade issues:
 
1-Let Damon go.  There are enough good outfielders in market that you could even get a good cf and put him in left.  The big thing that concerns me about letting Damon go is his place in the lineup.  His hitting behind Jeter in the 2 hole was a terrific combination that clicked right off the bat.  This is really what we need by way of replacement, I believe.
 
2-Re-sign Matsui as the DH.  The guy is such a professional hitter and a clutch situational hitter...he would be very hard to replace.
 
3-Stick with the Posada/Molina duo for another year until a minor leaguer is ready to take over.  I really like Cervelli, to be honest with you but I wonder at this point if he will develop the pop in his bat.  Otherwise, I love the guy.
 
4-Put Hughes in the rotation and Joba in the pen.  The striking difference in Joba as a starter vs. reliever makes the decision almost a no-brainer.  The only blemish on him was leaving a ball inside to guy who kills that kind of pitch.  Hughes began to trust his stuff and that made all the difference in the world for him.  His trouble in the post-season was that he began to be concerned about the strengths and weaknesses of the hitter instead of pitching to his own strengths.  He has the moxy to be a good #3 or #4 guy right now and will with time move to a #2 or possibly #1 on the right team.
 
5-Sign Andy to a one year deal, if he wants to come back.  If he does want one more year, we're looking at CC, AJ, Andy, Phil and someone from the mix of Gaudin, Mitre, or Kennedy.  All 3 of the later options had their issues but I also believe they are all on target to correct the flaws.  I was especially impressed with Gaudin after he had worked out some kinks with the coaching staff.  Mitre has the kind of sinker that doesn't necessarily need 90+ to make a difference, he just has to be used regularly to keep his arm loose enough/tired enough to make the sinker work.  I also think Ian Kennedy has had enough humbling events to make him a valuable guy.  When he came up a couple years ago with a chip on his shoulder, it was a misplaced chip...his stuff did not back up his confidence.  I just think he's a different guy now from the inside out.
 
6-If Andy doesn't sign, I like Randy Wolf as cheap option.  I'd actually love us to sign John Lackey but I just can't see that happening, unless it looks as though the Sox might land him, LOL.
 
7-You gotta sign Derek for another 3 years at least.  Whether he can play SS for that time is another matter.  But here's another scenario:  Re-sign Derek but move him to left and either use Pena at short or go out and get a FA SS who can also bat at in the 2 hole.  Pena has the defense and showed signs of offensive capability so personally, I'd be okay with him at short.
 
8-We have the makings of a long term, absolutely terrific bullpen.  Roberston, Coke, Marte, Bruney (yes, Bruney), Aceves, and Mo.  I'll take that group right now against any other team in the world.  And this equation does not even contain Melancon, who I believe will be a very valuable piece as time moves forward.
 
9-Sign Tim McCarver to an exclusive YES network contract and then have him be the minor league broadcaster, as that seems where his talents seem most fitting.
 
Mike in Upstate NY, where we'll have temps in upper 60's with lots of sunshine today, the last hurrah before the long night of winter sets in...on the upside, I saw a nice 4 point buck on the way to church last night.



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter@ inbox.com>
To: Yankeesmvp1 Group <yankeesmvp1@ yahoogroups. com>
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 7:18 am
Subject: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
There seems to be one thread running through a lot of the articles I'm reading, and it has the Yankees picking up Figgins and putting him in LF.  Surely we have someone on the minor league staff somewhere as good or better than him?  He is a Yankees killer,, but he doesn't play that well against the other teams.  Plus I hate the way he spells his first name.  Just can't stand it.


Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Congratulations Yankees! Championship #27!
Scott



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
Imagine Peace




--
Imagine Peace

#21034 From: "Sara G." <ALEMRO13@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 12:43 pm
Subject: Re: Good article
sarasspart
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You forgot the link. : )

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 7:38 AM, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...> wrote:
 

Here is a link to a lengthy but really good article.  I know most of you like the aritcle, but this link is the best I could do.  I highly reccommend this read, it will help us understand what the odds are of certain things happening.  Like, signing Lackey, arbitration for Damon, and moving forward from there.  Good strategy.  I think, anyway.

--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
Imagine Peace

#21033 From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 12:38 pm
Subject: Good article
yankeesmvp1
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Here is a link to a lengthy but really good article.  I know most of you like the aritcle, but this link is the best I could do.  I highly reccommend this read, it will help us understand what the odds are of certain things happening.  Like, signing Lackey, arbitration for Damon, and moving forward from there.  Good strategy.  I think, anyway.

--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter

#21032 From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 11:57 am
Subject: Re: Figgins?
yankeesmvp1
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I just posted an article from the NYDN that makes this kind of speculation a moot point.  It details how weak this year's FA class is and how strong the one is for next year.  I think the Yankees might be best served to go with Johnny and Hideki for one more year, Jose as well, because there are guys the year after that where we will need to spend money.  Lackey might be the splash for this year because he is younger than Halladay next year we would have a shot at Joe Mauer plus a few other really good players.  I would even say fill the OF spot from within and suffer with Austin Jackson learning at the big league level if money is really an issue.  There are some good players coming up a year later.

On Tue, Nov 10, 2009 at 6:15 AM, redbug <redbug51@...> wrote:
 

I know he played 3rd but I can't remember his arm.  He hasn't played much outfield in recent yr's. Probably because they neeeded him at 3rd.


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@yahoogroups.com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 9:38 PM

 
I'm speaking strictly to his arm, nothing else.  He played 3rd base all season, probably one of the most demanding throwing positions on the field along with RF.

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 5:33 PM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I'm about 5 emails behind you guys on Figgins but had one question...How's his arm?  Because it's hard to beat Johnny offensively and on the basepaths (I think his double steal was the Series).  Johnny's arm is his only majoe weakness.  If Figgins isn't a huge upgrade over Johnny in the field, why replace him?


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:

From: mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 10:46 AM

 
Scott,
You're right on both broadcasters.  Joe Morgan's 30+ years of defending his precious Reds as one of the best of all time is boring, misleading and incorrect.  Yes, they won back to back WS all those years ago, big deal.  In the ensuing time the Yanks have won er...let's see here I think the number is 7 WS titles, including 3 in a row and 4/5...but they'll never ever, ever be as good as the Reds.  Gimme a break.  I read somewhere that he is kind of hard to get along with in the prep and in the booth, I'm not surprised.
 
The Yanks have been preaching 'in house answers' since Cash got the promised control a few years ago.  I'd really like to see them give Pena a legit shot.  I had been eyeing JJ Hardy for a couple of years as a viable replacement for Jeter but he's off the market again.  I also like Tulo in Denver but I think he's signed long term.  I just really like the Pena option.  I'd like to see him get a real chance next year to win the job for himself.
 
I also like your assessment of Matsui and the comparison to Ruben Sierra.  Plus, Matsui really, really wants to come back to the Bronx.  I really like him as the DH for the next couple of years.
 
Mike


-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 10:30 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
McCarver is a problem and so is Joe Morgan.  I wonder if it is because they were players and played against the Yankees for all those years?
 
I agree that Andy might take his glove and go home a winner, and he was one this year, that's for sure.
 
I'd like to see the Pena kid given a chance, I agee that as a SH he might do well for us in the 2 hole.  SH are very valuable, and I didn't notice that he had a weaker side.  He played a little OF towards the end of the season in Scranton, and that might not be a bad way to get up here.  I remember a young man named Mattingly who did it that way.  He turned out pretty good!

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 10:10 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
Yeah, I'd take Andy in a heartbeart over Randy.  I know Andy's family means a whole lot to him and missing his son's games is a tough one for him.  I am not at all sure he's coming back, in fact at this point, I think I'd be surprised a little bit if he does.  He wanted to pitch in the new stadium and help to bring another title here.  He accomplished what he wanted and would be leaving on an extremely high note.  I want him to come back, make no mistake about that.  I am convinced he has at least one more good season left in his arm and he could still be a terrific mentor for some of the young guys.
 
I like Pena at short and I can't help but wonder how he'd do in the 2 hole.  It would be a huge jump but he handles the bat well and he's a switch hitter.  I don't think we could expect much power but we have 6 other guys who supply that.  But for right now, Derek is the man at short.  Maybe he'll prove all the naysayers wrong two years running.  In the lineup, I wouldn't put him back at the 2 hole for the reason you mention...too many GIDP.
 
Kennedy is not flashing too bright on my radar but I do beleive he has the stuff to make at the ML level, a good #3 guy especially if you could slot him in between a couple of hard throwers.
 
Maybe I am being a little unkind to McCarver but there seems to be an anti-Yankee bias in a lot of commentators, not just him.  It also seems like his age is catching up with him.
 
It's nice to discuss this stuff from a point of winning instead of a point of desperation.  From my point of view, I'd really rather have our issues than say, the Sawx, who cannot keep a  decent SS since they let Garciaparra go and whose outfield looks a little suspect and a lot overpaid in right...plus Big Papi...now, there's a question mark if there ever was one.
 
Mike



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 8:36 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
I agree on letting Damon go.  And I think the reason they clicked, was that it simply got
Derek out of the 2 hole.  He hits into too many DPs from there.  I think Johnny is replaceable.  Hideki reminds me more and more of Ruben Sierra, the mature Ruben.  A very dangerous hitter, and he has proven he can pinch hit.  So he doesn't have to play every day and that's great!
 
Right now I think you might be right.  We just don't have a ML catcher ready to go so it needs to be Molina for a year.  I like Cervelli's spirit, but it may have been his best year!
 
Hughes to the rotation and Joba to the pen, and don't forget CMW!  He may be available by early season, around May.  I'm not as high as you are on IPK.  Kennedy would have to do a great deal to earn a spot on my team, but if he can, so much the better.  I'd at least have him in spring training and give him the shot.
 
Andy/Randy?  I'd rather Andy, and I think he will come back for one more, and then I'm sure he's done.
 
Derek is not done until the end of the season and I've read where he would be willing to wait.  Pena can hit, so I think that is a no brainer.  He should be playiing somewhere in our infield, soon.  But one more year at short and then hopefully the OF for Derek.  I was kind of hoping that a win in the WS this year would make the transition palatable for Derek next season, but looking at it now, probably not.  Who knows?
 
Love your thoughts about McCarver, but I'd make sure he never got above AA ball....

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 8:13 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
I agree 100%, plus during the playoffs he did not seem to have his head in the game at crucial times.  I also hate the way he spells his name, for what that's worth, LOL.
 
Here's my thinking on the upgrade issues:
 
1-Let Damon go.  There are enough good outfielders in market that you could even get a good cf and put him in left.  The big thing that concerns me about letting Damon go is his place in the lineup.  His hitting behind Jeter in the 2 hole was a terrific combination that clicked right off the bat.  This is really what we need by way of replacement, I believe.
 
2-Re-sign Matsui as the DH.  The guy is such a professional hitter and a clutch situational hitter...he would be very hard to replace.
 
3-Stick with the Posada/Molina duo for another year until a minor leaguer is ready to take over.  I really like Cervelli, to be honest with you but I wonder at this point if he will develop the pop in his bat.  Otherwise, I love the guy.
 
4-Put Hughes in the rotation and Joba in the pen.  The striking difference in Joba as a starter vs. reliever makes the decision almost a no-brainer.  The only blemish on him was leaving a ball inside to guy who kills that kind of pitch.  Hughes began to trust his stuff and that made all the difference in the world for him.  His trouble in the post-season was that he began to be concerned about the strengths and weaknesses of the hitter instead of pitching to his own strengths.  He has the moxy to be a good #3 or #4 guy right now and will with time move to a #2 or possibly #1 on the right team.
 
5-Sign Andy to a one year deal, if he wants to come back.  If he does want one more year, we're looking at CC, AJ, Andy, Phil and someone from the mix of Gaudin, Mitre, or Kennedy.  All 3 of the later options had their issues but I also believe they are all on target to correct the flaws.  I was especially impressed with Gaudin after he had worked out some kinks with the coaching staff.  Mitre has the kind of sinker that doesn't necessarily need 90+ to make a difference, he just has to be used regularly to keep his arm loose enough/tired enough to make the sinker work.  I also think Ian Kennedy has had enough humbling events to make him a valuable guy.  When he came up a couple years ago with a chip on his shoulder, it was a misplaced chip...his stuff did not back up his confidence.  I just think he's a different guy now from the inside out.
 
6-If Andy doesn't sign, I like Randy Wolf as cheap option.  I'd actually love us to sign John Lackey but I just can't see that happening, unless it looks as though the Sox might land him, LOL.
 
7-You gotta sign Derek for another 3 years at least.  Whether he can play SS for that time is another matter.  But here's another scenario:  Re-sign Derek but move him to left and either use Pena at short or go out and get a FA SS who can also bat at in the 2 hole.  Pena has the defense and showed signs of offensive capability so personally, I'd be okay with him at short.
 
8-We have the makings of a long term, absolutely terrific bullpen.  Roberston, Coke, Marte, Bruney (yes, Bruney), Aceves, and Mo.  I'll take that group right now against any other team in the world.  And this equation does not even contain Melancon, who I believe will be a very valuable piece as time moves forward.
 
9-Sign Tim McCarver to an exclusive YES network contract and then have him be the minor league broadcaster, as that seems where his talents seem most fitting.
 
Mike in Upstate NY, where we'll have temps in upper 60's with lots of sunshine today, the last hurrah before the long night of winter sets in...on the upside, I saw a nice 4 point buck on the way to church last night.



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter@ inbox.com>
To: Yankeesmvp1 Group <yankeesmvp1@ yahoogroups. com>
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 7:18 am
Subject: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
There seems to be one thread running through a lot of the articles I'm reading, and it has the Yankees picking up Figgins and putting him in LF.  Surely we have someone on the minor league staff somewhere as good or better than him?  He is a Yankees killer,, but he doesn't play that well against the other teams.  Plus I hate the way he spells his first name.  Just can't stand it.


Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Congratulations Yankees! Championship #27!
Scott



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter

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Scott Coulter

#21031 From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 11:52 am
Subject: Look at the list for next year!!!
yankeesmvp1
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New York Yankees GM Brian Cashman begins planning for 2010, could eye Angels' John Lackey

Tuesday, November 10th 2009, 4:00 AM

 
Angels pitcher John Lackey could be of interest to Yankees GM Brian Cashman for 2010.

 

CHICAGO - The Yankees may still be celebrating their World Series title, but for Brian Cashman, the time to rejoice is over.

Cashman went back to work Monday, arriving at the general manager meetings to begin assembling a roster that will try to repeat as champions in 2010. After he broke the bank last winter to sign CC Sabathia, A.J. Burnett and Mark Teixeira, will the Yankees' World Series title ease the pressure on Cashman to make another big splash in the coming weeks?

"I don't think it changes anything," Cashman said of the championship. "It's over. This is all about 2010 now."

One focus for 2010 could be John Lackey. The righthander is the one player the Yankees are intrigued by, according to a source, making him a potential target. With questions surrounding the futures of Phil Hughes and Joba Chamberlain, Lackey would fill a spot in the rotation, and assuming Andy Pettitte returns, would allow the two youngsters to compete for the fifth spot, with one returning to the bullpen.

While most other GMs have spent the past few weeks putting together their offseason plans, Cashman said he is still in "information-gathering mode," so his only goal at these meetings is to assess the potential trade market, something he began during the World Series. The Yankees' title run postponed his ability to put together an offseason plan, as the front office won't even hold its organizational meetings until these meetings are over.

"There's no doubt that we're in catch-up mode right now, but I'm glad we are," Cashman said. "There's a reason that we had to wait, and I'll take that trade-off. Some teams have had a month head start on us, which is significant. But I'm thankful that we have a team where a lot of the important pieces are in place. The rest of it, we'll figure it out."

The first decisions will involve the Yankees' three big free agents: Pettitte, Johnny Damon and Hideki Matsui. Pettitte figures to return on another one-year deal with a raise from the $5.5 million base salary he earned this season, but there are many questions surrounding the futures of Damon and Matsui, the World Series MVP.

With a lackluster free-agent market headlined by Lackey, Matt Holliday and Jason Bay, Cashman might choose to pass and look ahead to next year, when players such as Cliff Lee, Roy Halladay, Joe Mauer and Carl Crawford could hit the free-agent market.

The move wouldn't be unprecedented, as Cashman passed on a chance to trade for Johan Santana two years ago, knowing he would target Sabathia as a free agent last winter. After spending $243.5 million on Sabathia and Burnett, Cashman doled out another $180 million for Teixeira last December, believing it would be his best chance to add a big bat until 2010 since this year's free-agent market is hurting for impact hitters.



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter


#21030 From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 11:46 am
Subject: Yankees' Hideki Matsui, Johnny Damon are free agents, but aren't gone just yet
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Yankees' Hideki Matsui, Johnny Damon are free agents, but aren't gone just yet

Tuesday, November 10th 2009, 4:00 AM

 
 
Yankees' Hideki Matsui and Johnny Damon both filed for free agency on Monday, but sources say Bombers could bring back the duo on one-year contracts.
CHICAGO - Johnny Damon and Hideki Matsui were among the five Yankees to file for free agency Monday, and while the general consensus is that the Bombers won't bring back both players in 2010, that may not be the case.

A baseball source believes the Yankees would be willing to bring back both players on one-year deals - Damon could also receive a vesting option for 2011 - as the free-agent options to replace them are less than desirable once you get past Matt Holliday and Jason Bay, both of whom will command enormous deals this winter.

Damon is a Type A free agent, meaning the Yankees can collect a pair of draft picks if they offer him arbitration and he signs with another club. The rankings are based on the past two seasons, which explains why Matsui - who missed nearly half of 2008 because of his bad knee - won't bring a compensatory draft pick if he signs elsewhere.

Does the prospect of receiving two draft picks for Damon affect Cashman's view on bringing him back? The GM wasn't saying.

"Those rankings are important," Cashman said. "How they'll reflect on our decision-making, I can't tell you."

Other Yankees to file for free agency yesterday were Eric Hinske, Jose Molina and Xavier Nady. Andy Pettitte and Jerry Hairston Jr. are the only prospective free agents who have not yet filed.




--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter

#21029 From: redbug <redbug51@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 11:15 am
Subject: Re: Figgins?
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I know he played 3rd but I can't remember his arm.  He hasn't played much outfield in recent yr's. Probably because they neeeded him at 3rd.


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...> wrote:

From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@...>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@yahoogroups.com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 9:38 PM

 
I'm speaking strictly to his arm, nothing else.  He played 3rd base all season, probably one of the most demanding throwing positions on the field along with RF.

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 5:33 PM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I'm about 5 emails behind you guys on Figgins but had one question...How's his arm?  Because it's hard to beat Johnny offensively and on the basepaths (I think his double steal was the Series).  Johnny's arm is his only majoe weakness.  If Figgins isn't a huge upgrade over Johnny in the field, why replace him?


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:

From: mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 10:46 AM

 
Scott,
You're right on both broadcasters.  Joe Morgan's 30+ years of defending his precious Reds as one of the best of all time is boring, misleading and incorrect.  Yes, they won back to back WS all those years ago, big deal.  In the ensuing time the Yanks have won er...let's see here I think the number is 7 WS titles, including 3 in a row and 4/5...but they'll never ever, ever be as good as the Reds.  Gimme a break.  I read somewhere that he is kind of hard to get along with in the prep and in the booth, I'm not surprised.
 
The Yanks have been preaching 'in house answers' since Cash got the promised control a few years ago.  I'd really like to see them give Pena a legit shot.  I had been eyeing JJ Hardy for a couple of years as a viable replacement for Jeter but he's off the market again.  I also like Tulo in Denver but I think he's signed long term.  I just really like the Pena option.  I'd like to see him get a real chance next year to win the job for himself.
 
I also like your assessment of Matsui and the comparison to Ruben Sierra.  Plus, Matsui really, really wants to come back to the Bronx.  I really like him as the DH for the next couple of years.
 
Mike


-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 10:30 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
McCarver is a problem and so is Joe Morgan.  I wonder if it is because they were players and played against the Yankees for all those years?
 
I agree that Andy might take his glove and go home a winner, and he was one this year, that's for sure.
 
I'd like to see the Pena kid given a chance, I agee that as a SH he might do well for us in the 2 hole.  SH are very valuable, and I didn't notice that he had a weaker side.  He played a little OF towards the end of the season in Scranton, and that might not be a bad way to get up here.  I remember a young man named Mattingly who did it that way.  He turned out pretty good!

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 10:10 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
Yeah, I'd take Andy in a heartbeart over Randy.  I know Andy's family means a whole lot to him and missing his son's games is a tough one for him.  I am not at all sure he's coming back, in fact at this point, I think I'd be surprised a little bit if he does.  He wanted to pitch in the new stadium and help to bring another title here.  He accomplished what he wanted and would be leaving on an extremely high note.  I want him to come back, make no mistake about that.  I am convinced he has at least one more good season left in his arm and he could still be a terrific mentor for some of the young guys.
 
I like Pena at short and I can't help but wonder how he'd do in the 2 hole.  It would be a huge jump but he handles the bat well and he's a switch hitter.  I don't think we could expect much power but we have 6 other guys who supply that.  But for right now, Derek is the man at short.  Maybe he'll prove all the naysayers wrong two years running.  In the lineup, I wouldn't put him back at the 2 hole for the reason you mention...too many GIDP.
 
Kennedy is not flashing too bright on my radar but I do beleive he has the stuff to make at the ML level, a good #3 guy especially if you could slot him in between a couple of hard throwers.
 
Maybe I am being a little unkind to McCarver but there seems to be an anti-Yankee bias in a lot of commentators, not just him.  It also seems like his age is catching up with him.
 
It's nice to discuss this stuff from a point of winning instead of a point of desperation.  From my point of view, I'd really rather have our issues than say, the Sawx, who cannot keep a  decent SS since they let Garciaparra go and whose outfield looks a little suspect and a lot overpaid in right...plus Big Papi...now, there's a question mark if there ever was one.
 
Mike



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 8:36 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
I agree on letting Damon go.  And I think the reason they clicked, was that it simply got
Derek out of the 2 hole.  He hits into too many DPs from there.  I think Johnny is replaceable.  Hideki reminds me more and more of Ruben Sierra, the mature Ruben.  A very dangerous hitter, and he has proven he can pinch hit.  So he doesn't have to play every day and that's great!
 
Right now I think you might be right.  We just don't have a ML catcher ready to go so it needs to be Molina for a year.  I like Cervelli's spirit, but it may have been his best year!
 
Hughes to the rotation and Joba to the pen, and don't forget CMW!  He may be available by early season, around May.  I'm not as high as you are on IPK.  Kennedy would have to do a great deal to earn a spot on my team, but if he can, so much the better.  I'd at least have him in spring training and give him the shot.
 
Andy/Randy?  I'd rather Andy, and I think he will come back for one more, and then I'm sure he's done.
 
Derek is not done until the end of the season and I've read where he would be willing to wait.  Pena can hit, so I think that is a no brainer.  He should be playiing somewhere in our infield, soon.  But one more year at short and then hopefully the OF for Derek.  I was kind of hoping that a win in the WS this year would make the transition palatable for Derek next season, but looking at it now, probably not.  Who knows?
 
Love your thoughts about McCarver, but I'd make sure he never got above AA ball....

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 8:13 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
I agree 100%, plus during the playoffs he did not seem to have his head in the game at crucial times.  I also hate the way he spells his name, for what that's worth, LOL.
 
Here's my thinking on the upgrade issues:
 
1-Let Damon go.  There are enough good outfielders in market that you could even get a good cf and put him in left.  The big thing that concerns me about letting Damon go is his place in the lineup.  His hitting behind Jeter in the 2 hole was a terrific combination that clicked right off the bat.  This is really what we need by way of replacement, I believe.
 
2-Re-sign Matsui as the DH.  The guy is such a professional hitter and a clutch situational hitter...he would be very hard to replace.
 
3-Stick with the Posada/Molina duo for another year until a minor leaguer is ready to take over.  I really like Cervelli, to be honest with you but I wonder at this point if he will develop the pop in his bat.  Otherwise, I love the guy.
 
4-Put Hughes in the rotation and Joba in the pen.  The striking difference in Joba as a starter vs. reliever makes the decision almost a no-brainer.  The only blemish on him was leaving a ball inside to guy who kills that kind of pitch.  Hughes began to trust his stuff and that made all the difference in the world for him.  His trouble in the post-season was that he began to be concerned about the strengths and weaknesses of the hitter instead of pitching to his own strengths.  He has the moxy to be a good #3 or #4 guy right now and will with time move to a #2 or possibly #1 on the right team.
 
5-Sign Andy to a one year deal, if he wants to come back.  If he does want one more year, we're looking at CC, AJ, Andy, Phil and someone from the mix of Gaudin, Mitre, or Kennedy.  All 3 of the later options had their issues but I also believe they are all on target to correct the flaws.  I was especially impressed with Gaudin after he had worked out some kinks with the coaching staff.  Mitre has the kind of sinker that doesn't necessarily need 90+ to make a difference, he just has to be used regularly to keep his arm loose enough/tired enough to make the sinker work.  I also think Ian Kennedy has had enough humbling events to make him a valuable guy.  When he came up a couple years ago with a chip on his shoulder, it was a misplaced chip...his stuff did not back up his confidence.  I just think he's a different guy now from the inside out.
 
6-If Andy doesn't sign, I like Randy Wolf as cheap option.  I'd actually love us to sign John Lackey but I just can't see that happening, unless it looks as though the Sox might land him, LOL.
 
7-You gotta sign Derek for another 3 years at least.  Whether he can play SS for that time is another matter.  But here's another scenario:  Re-sign Derek but move him to left and either use Pena at short or go out and get a FA SS who can also bat at in the 2 hole.  Pena has the defense and showed signs of offensive capability so personally, I'd be okay with him at short.
 
8-We have the makings of a long term, absolutely terrific bullpen.  Roberston, Coke, Marte, Bruney (yes, Bruney), Aceves, and Mo.  I'll take that group right now against any other team in the world.  And this equation does not even contain Melancon, who I believe will be a very valuable piece as time moves forward.
 
9-Sign Tim McCarver to an exclusive YES network contract and then have him be the minor league broadcaster, as that seems where his talents seem most fitting.
 
Mike in Upstate NY, where we'll have temps in upper 60's with lots of sunshine today, the last hurrah before the long night of winter sets in...on the upside, I saw a nice 4 point buck on the way to church last night.



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter@ inbox.com>
To: Yankeesmvp1 Group <yankeesmvp1@ yahoogroups. com>
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 7:18 am
Subject: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
There seems to be one thread running through a lot of the articles I'm reading, and it has the Yankees picking up Figgins and putting him in LF.  Surely we have someone on the minor league staff somewhere as good or better than him?  He is a Yankees killer,, but he doesn't play that well against the other teams.  Plus I hate the way he spells his first name.  Just can't stand it.


Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Congratulations Yankees! Championship #27!
Scott



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter

__________________________________________________
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#21028 From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter@...>
Date: Tue Nov 10, 2009 3:06 am
Subject: Re: Figgins?
scott.coulter@...
Send Email Send Email
 
Don't forget Gaudin.  I think he has some real possibilities as 4th or 5th man.
 
 
Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Congratulations Yankees! Championship #27!
Scott


-----Original Message-----
From: redbug51@...
Sent: Mon, 9 Nov 2009 14:51:34 -0800 (PST)
To: yankeesmvp1@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 

I agree, Sara.  And, I'd try to re-sign Matsui for another year.  H e had a monster yr as DH.
 
I hope Andy and the Yanks agree to another yr, too.  He won 14 games and a terriffic postseason. 
 
Agree to put Joba back in the pen and hope he matures.  His ego was way ahead of his ability as a starter.  I'm not confident in Hughes as a starter yet.
 
So, they'd have cc, AJ, ? for 3rd starter, Andy, and maybe Wang or Hughes for 5th.


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, Sara G. <ALEMRO13@Gmail.com> wrote:

From: Sara G. <ALEMRO13@Gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@yahoogroups.com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 5:41 PM

 
You know Red, I have been saying for 2 seasons that we need someone in LF with a better arm...but now all of a sudden, I want Johnny to stay. I don't know why. I mean his arm is pretty weak, but he hasn't seemed to be a liability at all....I think he'd be fine another year, and I love him in the 2 spot. I think we need 1 more decent starter, and they could win it again with the guys they have. (Two more if Andy decides to retire.) And Joba needs to be in the pen. I mean, come on. I haven't heard anything said about that yet, but before he went to the pen this past season, they were adamant in saying he IS a starter. There was mention over on LoHud about trading Cano. My response? Oh HELL no!!!

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 5:33 PM, redbug <redbug51@yahoo. com> wrote:
 
I'm about 5 emails behind you guys on Figgins but had one question...How's his arm?  Because it's hard to beat Johnny offensively and on the basepaths (I think his double steal was the Series).  Johnny's arm is his only majoe weakness.  If Figgins isn't a huge upgrade over Johnny in the field, why replace him?


--- On Mon, 11/9/09, mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:

From: mikeman341@writeme. com <mikeman341@writeme. com>
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009, 10:46 AM


 
Scott,
You're right on both broadcasters.  Joe Morgan's 30+ years of defending his precious Reds as one of the best of all time is boring, misleading and incorrect.  Yes, they won back to back WS all those years ago, big deal.  In the ensuing time the Yanks have won er...let's see here I think the number is 7 WS titles, including 3 in a row and 4/5...but they'll never ever, ever be as good as the Reds.  Gimme a break.  I read somewhere that he is kind of hard to get along with in the prep and in the booth, I'm not surprised.
 
The Yanks have been preaching 'in house answers' since Cash got the promised control a few years ago.  I'd really like to see them give Pena a legit shot.  I had been eyeing JJ Hardy for a couple of years as a viable replacement for Jeter but he's off the market again.  I also like Tulo in Denver but I think he's signed long term.  I just really like the Pena option.  I'd like to see him get a real chance next year to win the job for himself.
 
I also like your assessment of Matsui and the comparison to Ruben Sierra.  Plus, Matsui really, really wants to come back to the Bronx.  I really like him as the DH for the next couple of years.
 
Mike


-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 10:30 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
McCarver is a problem and so is Joe Morgan.  I wonder if it is because they were players and played against the Yankees for all those years?
 
I agree that Andy might take his glove and go home a winner, and he was one this year, that's for sure.
 
I'd like to see the Pena kid given a chance, I agee that as a SH he might do well for us in the 2 hole.  SH are very valuable, and I didn't notice that he had a weaker side.  He played a little OF towards the end of the season in Scranton, and that might not be a bad way to get up here.  I remember a young man named Mattingly who did it that way.  He turned out pretty good!

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 10:10 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
Yeah, I'd take Andy in a heartbeart over Randy.  I know Andy's family means a whole lot to him and missing his son's games is a tough one for him.  I am not at all sure he's coming back, in fact at this point, I think I'd be surprised a little bit if he does.  He wanted to pitch in the new stadium and help to bring another title here.  He accomplished what he wanted and would be leaving on an extremely high note.  I want him to come back, make no mistake about that.  I am convinced he has at least one more good season left in his arm and he could still be a terrific mentor for some of the young guys.
 
I like Pena at short and I can't help but wonder how he'd do in the 2 hole.  It would be a huge jump but he handles the bat well and he's a switch hitter.  I don't think we could expect much power but we have 6 other guys who supply that.  But for right now, Derek is the man at short.  Maybe he'll prove all the naysayers wrong two years running.  In the lineup, I wouldn't put him back at the 2 hole for the reason you mention...too many GIDP.
 
Kennedy is not flashing too bright on my radar but I do beleive he has the stuff to make at the ML level, a good #3 guy especially if you could slot him in between a couple of hard throwers.
 
Maybe I am being a little unkind to McCarver but there seems to be an anti-Yankee bias in a lot of commentators, not just him.  It also seems like his age is catching up with him.
 
It's nice to discuss this stuff from a point of winning instead of a point of desperation.  From my point of view, I'd really rather have our issues than say, the Sawx, who cannot keep a  decent SS since they let Garciaparra go and whose outfield looks a little suspect and a lot overpaid in right...plus Big Papi...now, there's a question mark if there ever was one.
 
Mike



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter2@ gmail.com>
To: YankeesMVP1@ yahoogroups. com
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 8:36 am
Subject: Re: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
I agree on letting Damon go.  And I think the reason they clicked, was that it simply got
Derek out of the 2 hole.  He hits into too many DPs from there.  I think Johnny is replaceable.  Hideki reminds me more and more of Ruben Sierra, the mature Ruben.  A very dangerous hitter, and he has proven he can pinch hit.  So he doesn't have to play every day and that's great!
 
Right now I think you might be right.  We just don't have a ML catcher ready to go so it needs to be Molina for a year.  I like Cervelli's spirit, but it may have been his best year!
 
Hughes to the rotation and Joba to the pen, and don't forget CMW!  He may be available by early season, around May.  I'm not as high as you are on IPK.  Kennedy would have to do a great deal to earn a spot on my team, but if he can, so much the better.  I'd at least have him in spring training and give him the shot.
 
Andy/Randy?  I'd rather Andy, and I think he will come back for one more, and then I'm sure he's done.
 
Derek is not done until the end of the season and I've read where he would be willing to wait.  Pena can hit, so I think that is a no brainer.  He should be playiing somewhere in our infield, soon.  But one more year at short and then hopefully the OF for Derek.  I was kind of hoping that a win in the WS this year would make the transition palatable for Derek next season, but looking at it now, probably not.  Who knows?
 
Love your thoughts about McCarver, but I'd make sure he never got above AA ball....

On Mon, Nov 9, 2009 at 8:13 AM, <mikeman341@writeme. com> wrote:
 
Scott,
I agree 100%, plus during the playoffs he did not seem to have his head in the game at crucial times.  I also hate the way he spells his name, for what that's worth, LOL.
 
Here's my thinking on the upgrade issues:
 
1-Let Damon go.  There are enough good outfielders in market that you could even get a good cf and put him in left.  The big thing that concerns me about letting Damon go is his place in the lineup.  His hitting behind Jeter in the 2 hole was a terrific combination that clicked right off the bat.  This is really what we need by way of replacement, I believe.
 
2-Re-sign Matsui as the DH.  The guy is such a professional hitter and a clutch situational hitter...he would be very hard to replace.
 
3-Stick with the Posada/Molina duo for another year until a minor leaguer is ready to take over.  I really like Cervelli, to be honest with you but I wonder at this point if he will develop the pop in his bat.  Otherwise, I love the guy.
 
4-Put Hughes in the rotation and Joba in the pen.  The striking difference in Joba as a starter vs. reliever makes the decision almost a no-brainer.  The only blemish on him was leaving a ball inside to guy who kills that kind of pitch.  Hughes began to trust his stuff and that made all the difference in the world for him.  His trouble in the post-season was that he began to be concerned about the strengths and weaknesses of the hitter instead of pitching to his own strengths.  He has the moxy to be a good #3 or #4 guy right now and will with time move to a #2 or possibly #1 on the right team.
 
5-Sign Andy to a one year deal, if he wants to come back.  If he does want one more year, we're looking at CC, AJ, Andy, Phil and someone from the mix of Gaudin, Mitre, or Kennedy.  All 3 of the later options had their issues but I also believe they are all on target to correct the flaws.  I was especially impressed with Gaudin after he had worked out some kinks with the coaching staff.  Mitre has the kind of sinker that doesn't necessarily need 90+ to make a difference, he just has to be used regularly to keep his arm loose enough/tired enough to make the sinker work.  I also think Ian Kennedy has had enough humbling events to make him a valuable guy.  When he came up a couple years ago with a chip on his shoulder, it was a misplaced chip...his stuff did not back up his confidence.  I just think he's a different guy now from the inside out.
 
6-If Andy doesn't sign, I like Randy Wolf as cheap option.  I'd actually love us to sign John Lackey but I just can't see that happening, unless it looks as though the Sox might land him, LOL.
 
7-You gotta sign Derek for another 3 years at least.  Whether he can play SS for that time is another matter.  But here's another scenario:  Re-sign Derek but move him to left and either use Pena at short or go out and get a FA SS who can also bat at in the 2 hole.  Pena has the defense and showed signs of offensive capability so personally, I'd be okay with him at short.
 
8-We have the makings of a long term, absolutely terrific bullpen.  Roberston, Coke, Marte, Bruney (yes, Bruney), Aceves, and Mo.  I'll take that group right now against any other team in the world.  And this equation does not even contain Melancon, who I believe will be a very valuable piece as time moves forward.
 
9-Sign Tim McCarver to an exclusive YES network contract and then have him be the minor league broadcaster, as that seems where his talents seem most fitting.
 
Mike in Upstate NY, where we'll have temps in upper 60's with lots of sunshine today, the last hurrah before the long night of winter sets in...on the upside, I saw a nice 4 point buck on the way to church last night.



-----Original Message-----
From: Scott Coulter <scott.coulter@ inbox.com>
To: Yankeesmvp1 Group <yankeesmvp1@ yahoogroups. com>
Sent: Mon, Nov 9, 2009 7:18 am
Subject: [YankeesMVP1] Figgins?

 
There seems to be one thread running through a lot of the articles I'm reading, and it has the Yankees picking up Figgins and putting him in LF.  Surely we have someone on the minor league staff somewhere as good or better than him?  He is a Yankees killer,, but he doesn't play that well against the other teams.  Plus I hate the way he spells his first name.  Just can't stand it.


Light travels faster than sound. That is why some people appear bright until you hear them speak.

Congratulations Yankees! Championship #27!
Scott



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter



--
"You don't realize how easy this game is until you get up in that broadcasting booth." -- Mickey Mantle


Scott Coulter




--
Imagine Peace


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