Let the bidding begin

Mark, what do you think the Yankees could get for Sheff and what kind of money could Matsuzaka cost?

I honestly have no idea what they can get for Sheff, but I think they'll be able to get a big-leaguer or a decent prospect. Maybe a middle reliever. I've floated the idea of a Sheffield-for-Lidge deal before, but I don't know if Houston would do that.

As for Matsuzaka, I think it will cost between $25-30 million for the rights, then another $40-50 million for his contract.

I hope the Yankees get some good arm for Sheffield. I have alternate feelings about him, but I have felt that he needed to go a while back. One positive memory about his time in pinstripes was in a game in Baltimore during the 2005 season. The team was playing horribly and in this game he grounds out and the play was "sort of close at first. he's called out and then slams his helmet down and argues the call. I think the Yanks came back and won the game and then went on to win a bunch more. I credited Gary with putting alittle fire in their collective belly. I think if A-Rod did those types of things (instill passion) then he could bat .270 and people would be fine with it.

Good article on the Baby Bombers in the Winter Leagues on the Yankees.com front page. I didn't know so many of our prospects were competing!

"I think if A-Rod did those types of things (instill passion) then he could bat .270 and people would be fine with it."

Probably not.

I was thinking the same thing angel. That if A-Rod did those things that would give some fans/media even more to complain about.

Alex is one of the few people in MLB that is expected to play the left side of the infield with few errors, bat .300+ , hit 40+ HRs, have 120+ RBIs and probably steal 20+ all in one season and in EVERY season. Anything less is not good enough.

Honestly, if A-Rod hit .250 with 20 homeruns and 70 RBI's but had 20 walkoff hits, people wouldn't question him.

His numbers can be legendary, but people will compare him to Ortiz, and Ortiz has a lot of walk offs.

I agree on the Matsuzaka deal-sounds good for the Yanks-the more good young pitching, the better. As for Sheff, it might be better to wait, but it could be dangerous-Sheff needs to go, he represents all of what's been wrong with the Yankees for the past 3 years. Whiners never win.

I think this is a great move for the Yankees, who can match him up with Chien-Ming Wang and eventually Philip Hughes to form a very impressive young trio....from Mark.

Mark, I've been advocating that for months. :-)

Matsuzaka and Wang...it would be like the Aisian Invasion.

Anybody know when the MVP will be announced?

I also think A-Rod could hit .100, but if he had 20 walk-off hits, people would love him like they do Ortiz. I'd take A-Rod over Ortiz, or most other major-leaguers, any day.

Then take him. Please.

Send back a terrific starting pitcher, a middle reliever, and a flawless infielder who will hit 75 RBI and bat .300

And if we throw in Randy Johnson send back a 23 yr old backup catcher who hits .295, has a great arm, strong legs, and can play 40 games off the bench.

And if we throw in Sheffield and Giambi, send us Mark Teixeira to play 1B and LH set up relief pitcher.

Wow, that was easy. Being General Manager is fun. Where is the buffet?

Wow Paul, relax, you're gonna give away the whole team.

Here is the awards schedule:

Nov. 13: AL & NL Rookie of the Year

Nov. 14: NL Cy Young

Nov. 15: AL & NL Manager of the Year

Nov. 16: AL Cy Young

Nov. 20: NL MVP

Nov. 21: AL MVP

Falejandro, I traded away 4 players, total. Also hoping to sign Matsuzaka and Mussina. I would also try to sign Lilly.

My rotation would be

Wang

Matsuzaka

Mussina

Lilly

Karstens and/or Rasner

That does not look so bad on paper.

Johnson and Wright are gone. So are other problems.

Re-sign Miguel Cairo as utility. Sign Bernie as DH for 1 more year, hitting righthanded against all pitchers. DH position filled with Bernie, Matsui, Damon mostly. Teixeira regular 1B.

I like that team.

Paul, where is our beloved Carl Pavano in your team? LOL

Yeah Paul or how about our beloved Nick Green?

Paul, I respect you and I really enjoy reading your posts. They are very well written and insightful.

But, I disagree with you on A-Rod. I'll let his stats speak for him. On having Teixeira at 1B, I would love that.

I think our Nick may be headed for Greener pastures...

as well as long walks on the beach.

BHahn, you are too kind, thank you.

Understanding your point, I feel almost anyone would have great stats in ARod's position in the batting order. I read that he had more players on base in front of him than any other player in baseball.

There is no question about his prior offensive abilities and once great defensive ability. However, I think those skills are in decline for some reason.

Understand that ARod can also walk away from his contract after the 2007 if he is not automatically paid $1 million more than the highest paid player in baseball. At that point the Yankees get nothing.

I think this is their last and best chance to get anything of value for him.

I dunno Paul, I would say his skills were in decline if 2005 didn't happen. He 'struggled' a little in 2004 but most chalked that up to a new team and position. He had a great 2005 season (sans October) and in 2006 his numbers were closer to 2004. Who knows (besides the booing and constant criticism) what he was going through that may have affected his stats. If 2007 is more like 2006 then I would start mentioning decline.

As for Alex walking away from his contract....I don't see that happening, he doesn't appear to be the type that gives up quickly. It sounds like he really wants to win in NYC. I only see that happening if the Yanks really make him angry and with Alex that almost seems like an impossible task (making him angry LOL).

Also it wouldn't be that bad for the Yanks... they would only have to give Alex a $1 mil raise, since he's still the highest paid player (unless something crazy happens this winter) and Alex wouldn't have that option, just his no trade clause which would put the Yanks right where they are now.

Also different note I got a chuckle out of the 20 walk off home runs would stop the booing...how often does the avg player get a chance for a walk off in a season?

There is no way they(the rangers) are giving him up mark Texiera

okay that was written a little mixed up sorry.

Paul ... there is absolutely zero chance of Alex walking away from the final three years -- and $75 MILLION -- of his contract. Zero. Nil. Zilch.

If that's your concern, then you have nothing to worry about.

And since there won't be any players making $24 million in any of those years, that's not an issue, either.

they don't need to bother with all those award... we all know nick green will win all of them (except AL MVP of course)

Mark, according to Cot's Contract site ARod makes $27 million in 2007.

http://mlbcontracts.blogspot.com/2005/01/new-york-yankees_111398168678860040.html

This is a key line in the contract explanation:

may opt out after 2007 unless he gets an $8M/year raise or $1M more than MLB’s highest-paid player

_______

However, it does not clarify upon what the $8 million dollar raise is based. Is it on the initial salary of $21 million? That would put the 2008 salary at minimum $29 million.

Hey all.

In one of the more recent articles on yankees.com, it mentions the Yankees are considering trading Sheffield to Cleveland. Who does Cleveland have that the Yankees are interested in and can actually get something out of? I'd guess Sabathia's off-limits, and most of their other starters regressed a bit this year, I think. I did not follow them well enough to know such things for sure.

Just as long as it isn't Fausto Carmona. We know ALL about him.

The chance of Sheffield being around next year, however remote, scares me. I think they should forget the option and let him go.

I have to wait 3 more weeks to find out who the MVP is? Ugh, why do they have to drag it out so much?

The big news here in MN is that Liriano is probably gone for 07 with surgery. Amazing how young pitchers get rushed along as "the next _____" and end up killing themselves. Too bad, unless, of course, you're an AL batter.

A-Rod is way too stubborn to ever consider leaving NY and will probably stay even if he knows it is going to hurt him, just to prove himself. That's the way he comes across to me, at least. He'll either be gone in a trade or end his contract in pinstripes.

Karl, Cleveland has a few good young players. The one I want the most is Jeremy Sowers.

http://cleveland.indians.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/team/player.jsp?player_id=460265

He is 23, LHP, 3.57 ERA, 7-4 in 14 starts, 88.1 innings, 85 hits, 10 HR, 20 BB, 35 SO, rookie. And he is said to enjoy long walks on the beach...

I live about 30 miles from Cleveland, and although the rumors have the Indians wanting Sheffield, both main radio sportstations are expressing they don't want Sheff at all. Also, Indians will not give up Sowers for Sheff. He is a great young prospect and had a good year last year. Indians already have two right fielders in Cho (sp) and Casey Blake. If Indians did get Sheff, won't be for someone like Sowers. Indians have a good rotation w/Sowers, CC, Lee, Westbrook right now..........

http://sports.excite.com/news/11032006/v5881.html

http://sports.excite.com/news/11032006/v5439.html

The first article is about Liriano's pending Tommy John surgery. The second is about the investigation into the cause of Lidle's crash. Two different types of bad news.

I remember getting Shin-Soo Choo as a backup on my fantasy team last season after he was traded to Cleveland...let me tell you, they got away with murder in that trade. Choo was such a force during August and parts of September...he was driving in runs every other day!
Recall that he was PLAYING every other day, too......

Cleveland has right field secured for a while now, barring a horrible collapse by Choo AND Casey Blake. And we don't even need to mention the DH.

Besides Suppan, I'm reading that the Yanks might have interest in Jason Schmidt. I'm not sold on that at all. Schmidt won a total of 23 games in the last two years and will be 34 next year. Take away two years of his career (2003 and 2004) and he has been a 10-13 game winner. His 162 g. average is 13-9, 3.91. That is ok, but not quite good enough...

Then there is that NL to AL thing.

I'm not sold on Schmidt.

That news on Liriano is not good news for the 2007 Twins. Ouch.

There are some seriously pissed off Twins fans around here about that Liriano news. I can't say I blame them that much.

Paul .. regardless of the details, he isn't bailing on this contract. There is just no chance of it. The best free agents out there are getting $15 mil a year. He's not going to leave money on the table AND admit his own failure in NY. It just won't happen.

Mark, it is a showdown on Sunday between your Skins and my Cowboys....Come on Cowboys!!! Give them some love!!!

I hate the 'skins. I hate the cowboys even more. Go 'skins.

BTW, nothing made me laugh more than that Monday night game last week were TO dropped the pass...after yelling at his quarterback and everybody else. Typical TO. Talks the talk and then doesn't walk the walk.

Russ ... I'll be at the game, cheering on my Skins. Of course, they're 2-5 and have already caused me to pretty much give up on the season, but nothing would make me happier than witnessing a win over Dallas.

I am not a TO fan at all. Was disappointed the Cowboys signed him. However, can't stand the Skins or Joe Gibbs. I dislike them as much as I do the Red Sox. Cowboys are an 8-8 team this year, but if we sweep the Skins, it is worth it.

I see that Moss isn't playing? That is a blow to the Skins.....we shall see how Romo does in his 2nd game...I like that move over statue Bledsoe...however, I would love to be at the game on Sunday. When I was little, visiting Washington DC, I had my Cowboys hat on and they almost didn't let me in the Capitol Building because I was a Cowboy fan.....Course...I dislike the Giants and Eagles as much LOL

Skins and 'Boys always play tough games no matter what the records are...

ah The giants shall go 11-5, win the divisiona and this time win their wildcard home game as the three seed.

http://www.northjersey.com/page.php?qstr=eXJpcnk3ZjczN2Y3dnFlZUVFeXkxMTMmZmdiZWw3Zjd2cWVlRUV5eTcwMTQzODYmeXJpcnk3ZjcxN2Y3dnFlZUVFeXk2

Sorry if my last post seemed to be cut short a bit; I had to leave for a minor emergency. My dad and I had to take our cat to a veterinary hospital as it has been sick for about a week and started (apparently) vomiting blood. What a weird way to spend a Friday night. The cat's on some pills now and we'll see if further testing is necessary.

And the CAVS beat the Spurs in San Antonio....King James!!! (and those poor Celtics lost again...must be injuries).........

Anyway, back to what I was going to say...

The following message has not been approved by any candidates.

In a time of difficulty for our team, fans must look to new leadership and look for a change from "baseball as usual" in New York. We need an innovated new player, and Melky Cabrera is the answer to our problems. A Cabrera administration would increase defense and speed funding while repealing failed power programs while helping balance the team's budget.

When injuries struck New York last year, Melky Cabrera was there for the fans. Where was Gary Sheffield? Sitting at home. And when he did return, his rash attempt to play first base hurt the citizens of Yankeeland.

Support Yankee values. Vote Melky Cabrera for a starting job next year. Haven't we had enough of overpriced, old free agents?

*Paid for by the Minnesotans for Melky Action Committee*

Ouch. I am a Yankee fan...

....but also a Celtic fan (grew up loving Cowens/Havlicek...then Bird/McHale)....

Hmm, must be election season, and I must live in a very divided state.

I would like to request that, whatever happens next Tuesday, we keep our politics off this blog. Such arguments are unncessary in a location in which the focus is baseball, something which can unite all of us.

I don't like any Boston teams. It should be illeagal to be a Yankee and Celtic fan..LOL..I dislike the Celtics as much as the Red Sox, Giants, Eagles, and Skins LOL.....

love John Kerry stuck his foot in his mouth....classic Kerry...can you imagine him as a President? Gees......sorry, I am done w/political statements....

I think the Celtics and Red Sox move to Montreal....that is a very nice city...

I'm probably the only one in the world who is (LOL) ...

but hey, I admire excellence, and that has been the Yankees in baseball

and, when I was growing up, the Celtics in basketball (hasn't been that way there in quite some time).

Just wasn't a Bird or McHale fan at all, although they were great, can't deny that

Adios!

Bet you Lola will be going nuts next week with that Louisville/Rutgers game coming up.

At the risk of repeating myself, I do not think politics belongs on this site. This is a baseball blog, not a political site.

However one particular blogger continues to snipe sans provocation at one of the particular parties.

I could say that we should consider the source and day no more. Anyone who has read this blog for the months of the season will realize this poster has zero credibility and is perhaps the most annoying blogger around who did not originate from the Red Sox blog.

Yet in terms of fairness and balance, terms I am sure are foreign to this poster, I will answer the comment.

Yes, I can imagine him as president and hope and wish that he or anyone else would be in that office at this moment as opposed to the one who is there now, quite possibly the most corrupt and incompetent to ever hold office in the history of humankind.

Now stop with the political sniping and discuss baseball or other sports.

I read on WasWatching bblog that Mike Mussina said in the Baltimore Sun that the Mets are a viable option if he could not come to terms with the Yanks.

I hope the Yanks can resign him. Despite his advanced years he still is one of the best pitchers in baseball and despite any anticipated decline will remain one of the best.

Good pitching is hard to come by. We can't let this one get away.

The same blog also has an interesting comment on PJ Pilittiere, catching prospect.

http://www.waswatching.com/archives/2006/11/pj_pilittere.html#comments

I have not heard about him but I also know very little about the minor league players coming up. He played last year at Tampa. Anyone know anything about him? Mike?

Here are his stats from the Baseball Cube.

http://www.thebaseballcube.com/players/P/P.J.-Pilittere.shtml

Sorry, Paul. I hate both Senators from MA. That's all I'll say.

I see that PJ Pilittere is playing in the Arizona Fall League, hitting .333.

http://newyork.yankees.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/news/article.jsp?ymd=20061102&content_id=1729688&vkey=news_nyy&fext=.jsp&c_id=nyy

If he joins the Yanks in 2008 it could take me that long to learn to spell his name properly.

Pilittere (spelling is hard) was clearly the best catching prospect the Yanks had in the system last year. At the age of 25 next year, he will most likely be in Trenton. The age and level do seem to work against him. He seemed (along with 1b Cody Ehlers) to be along with Gardner before Gardner's callup one of Tampa's best players. Jesus Montero at 17 is projected to be the catcher of the future, but Pilittere could turn into a backup for Jorge in 2008/2009 and maybe an interim starting catcher until Montero is ready.

Somehow, I'm thinking Jake Gibbs here. Gibbs had that arm (QB for Ole Miss) but Gibbs couldn't hit. Hopefully P.J. hits better. But those of us who remember the late '60s and Gibbs remember him as the stopgap between Ellie Howard and Thurman Munson.

Hopefully Montero will continue a great run of Yankee catchers--perhaps the best in baseball history.

Dickey-Berra-Howard-Munson-Posada. There were some breakpoints in between (Gibbs, Nokes, Cerone, Wynegar, Slaught, etc.) but what a good top five catchers in Yankee history.

Looking at P.J.'s career, he had Tommy John as a manager in 2004 at Staten Island. That is a nice piece of news. All that experience working with different catchers...a good guy to groom a young catcher on how to handle a staff.

Got to go for now. Things to do, and I do want to watch my alma mater (PSU) take on Wisconsin in 70 minutes. Later!

Why is anybody so surprised?

No matter how many times he's told to shut up and giving that stupid troll reasons to come here, he still continues to snipe.

Why would it be any different with political ****?

Consider the source, and ignore it.

The scary thing is someone so childish and immature, apparently has a child he is responsible for raising to be a productive member of society. Good luck with that.

It is ok, Mike, as I hate both the ones from PA, but you would not have known that unless you brought up the MA ones.

We all have political opinions. And it is ok to disagree. But this is not the forum.

Anyhow, I do not recall Jake Gibbs at all. I recall Nokes, Cerone, Wynegar, Slaught, Hermann, but not Gibbs at all.

My concern about Montero is his size. I wonder how long he can catch without ruining his knees and breaking down.

I hate one of my own as well. (LOL). But

back to baseball!

I see Gibbs played 1962-1971 for the Yanks, his only team.

http://www.baseball-reference.com/g/gibbsja01.shtml

He was a career .233 hitter with a max of 29 RBI in a season when he had 423 AB.

Numbers like that would not cut it today for a starting catcher.

I can't vote.... you know I never thought I'd be really happy about that fact, lol.

Jerry Dean Gibbs (Jake) #41 BL TR; born 1938
QB for Ole Miss in late 1950s.

1962 2 games, no abs

1963 4 games, 2 for 8

1964 3 games 1 for 6

1965 .221-2-7 in 68 ab

1966 .258-3-20 in 182 ab

1967 .233-4-25 in 374 ab (Ellie was traded to Boston on 8/3/67)

1968 .213-3-29 in 423 ab

1969 .224-0-18 219 ab (Munson made his MLB debut in August 1969 and took over in 1970, winning the ROY)

1970 .301-8-26 in 153 ab

1971 .218-5-21 in 206 ab

career .233 hitter.

Now I REALLY got to go...but one parting piece of info.

The 1968 Yankees only hit .214 as a team (the Year of the Pitcher). So Gibbs' 1968 was "average" for that team that year.

Mantle hit .237-18-54 that year, then retired. His 18 HR led the team.

I always took voting seriously and have never missed an election since I became eligible to vote at 18. It was instilled in me at an early age that it was a civic responsibility and a privilege.

It helped that an ancestor was a US president and we have a member of the US Congress in the family, of whom I may have suggested at a family gathering was a bit of a dope, but that is another story. Fortunately I was spared invitations to subsequent gatherings after that outburst.

Angel, not sure what the rules are, but you are married to a US citizen I presume. If you become a permanent resident does citizenship soon follow?

Thanks for the info, Mike. Not sure why, but college football never appealed to me. But I am an NFL addict.

The Giants were my team growing up and then I also adopted the Patriots as a kid as an AFL team, soon to become the AFC as part of the NFL. The Giants and I had a messy divorce when Ray Handley ("Sweater Boy") took over and Dave Brown was declared starting QB.

I have mellowed and look in on the Giants on occasion and really followed them in their last Super Bowl appearance only to be gravely disappointed once again.

Kool Aid Paul...and some of us think you have some credibility....(some)....go back to talking your Yankee baseball wishing half our team would be gone next year...

LOL a LOT of politicians are dopes, it must have felt good to actually be able to say that.

I have to be a US citizen, Paul, and then I can vote. So that's why I can't because I'm not yet. I am eligible for it, but just have not gotten around the the paperwork (and inevitable) money that costs yet.

Voting is compulsory in Australia, so voting is something I have been raised with - and I am usually very vigilant about it. I think its really important.

In the last month though, I imagine the three words I have honestly been able to say at the door (I can't vote) have saved me about 3 hours of time, lol.

LOL, that works, Angel if they intrude on your life.

I had a similar problem with people going door to door for a particular religious organization. It seemed they came by weekly so I was so fed up I invited them in the house and proceeded to try and convert them to my religion. I think I used my best college debate tactics to inflict my opinion on them while I had their audience.

After that incident they never seemed to come back again. One of them even left his notebook and I called them up to retrieve it and they never came back.

Being a Penn State Grad, I HAVE to love college football. Not only that, but back in 1968 & 1969, when PSU was undefeated in both of those years, Denny Onkotz from my hometown was an All-American Linebacker. He is in the College Football HOF.

From today's Post (I have a great deal of respect for Joel Sherman) ... Yanks intend to sign Moose to a 2 year deal and trade Sheff. Sooner rather than later on both moves, to initiate an offseason plan in which they will emphasize upgrading the pitching, catching and if possible, the farm system.

Apparently the Orioles offered Kris Benson (no word on Anna...LOL) and a reliever for Sheff, but were rejected by the Yanks. The Astros, Padres, Rangers, Indians and Tigers have shown the most interest.

My notes...I've seen rumors of a 3-way deal with Cle. and S.D. I also saw a rumor of Sheff for Bonderman and I think we all would make that deal in a heartbeat. Let's remember rumors are just that. Rumors. It looks like Moose could be back at 2 years, say 25?? Mil. He wants more than Pavano (and deserves it) but the Yanks won't go $17, so I am guessing $12.5. As for Moose, Arn Tellum, Moose's agent, is easier for the Yanks to get along with than say, Bora$$.

Back to Sherman...among those who could interest the Yanks are relievers Ledezma & Linebrink & catcher Gerald Laird.

Mussina has taken on a mentoring role in the last few years so he is like a "quasi pitching coach" as well. You may think of him and Mo as Gator's "assistants".

The Yanks will bid for D-Mat (as Boras calls him). I would expect the major competition to come from the Mets...esp. after Pedro's "retirement" comments of yesterday. (If he can't regain his level after the operation, then he'd think of quitting.)

Sherman also states that if the Yanks fail to land Matsuzaka, they would turn to a secondary list headed by Pettitte, Meche and Lilly. No word here on Zito, and I don't think the Yanks have interest in Zito.

The Dodgers declined their option on Gange making hima free angent...why not take a shot on him if he's available?

Gagne*

LOL.. a particular religious organization just stuffed something about "the end of false religion being near" in my door this morning. Im just happy they didnt ring the door bell - although your stategy once they're talking looks pretty foolproof.

hey alex if he could get healthy i would say sure try him i just dont want another pavano.

Alex, I am not a fan of Gagne. I think he was a flash in the pan with a good run for a season, but I doubt he will be anything near what he was before his injuries. Although, signing him to a minor league contract would be low risk and would look like a steal if he was able to pitch well again.

Angel, did that particular region "awaken" you, or were you already awake?

I've always found that I like people more when they aren't trying to ram their political or religious views down my throat, and I'm sure most of you feel the same way. That being said, let's get back to baseball...

Under normal circumstances, I'd agree with the Sheffield for Benson and a reliever (Hawkins?) deal, but is Anna really that much baggage to deal with? She's been fine in Baltimore, and I feel like her presence might actually distract the New York press from A-Rod for once.

OK, I'm being facetious, but you know what I mean! :-P

Swolansky, would Anna come with him to NY? Last I heard they were getting divorced. I say, no Anna? No deal.

Is there anyway we could just get Anna?

As long as she never gets into a car with Pavano.

I hope we get bonderman over Benson...and anything involving hawkins is a loss. I would do bonderman for sheffield straight up

btw Mike you must be upset, not even is Penn State losing with another lackluster offensive performance, but JO-PA looks like he really got ****** up with that helmet to knee to extending knee backwards in an inhumanlike fashion collision.

even=only

why would the tigers give up bonderman?

Something tells me you wouldn't do that trade if you were the Detroit GM, Vince... :-P

Maybe that'll finally force Joe to retire.
Don't get me wrong, I love all JoePa has done for the University, but I hate it when coaches (and not just Joe) become bigger than the school that employs them. Coaches work for the University, not the other way around.

Going into the year, I figured 9-3 or 8-4. I figured on the losses to ND, Ohio ST. and Mich. I wasn't sure if PSU could pull one out in Wisconsin or not. They couldn't. So basically they won the ones I thought they would, and lost the ones I thought they would. No surprises, but the offense has been much worse than expected.

I wouldn't do the Bonderman for Sheff if I were Det. ....but remember rumors are rumors until the deal is actually done. Leyland loves Sheff (97 Marlins) but the Tiger GM doesn't. It does look like the Yanks are going to sign him to deal him.

I should add, that many of the assistants JoePa has have been there forever too. I am all for stability, but in some cases it's been ridiculous. They could use some fresh blood (and I don't mean Joe's son Jay--who is an asst. coach).
PSU has been known for its linebackers and running backs, but over the past decade or so, a school that turned out good OFFENSIVE linemen (Hartings, Munchak, Farrell, Dorney) hasn't turned out too many. Kareem McKenzie is about it. Ouch.

Ybrenner, almost as sad as spending $120 million for 3rd place and winning 1 title in 86 years......

I think we all ought to pitch in and by Terry Frankenstien a nice Red Sox jersey...he looks homeless wearing that pajama red shirt w/that stupid little "B" on the collar sitting on a paint can during home games....

Not to mention Boston came in 3rd behind Toronto...Boston's pitching was great this year, outstanding.......did the Flops actually hit 1 million fans this year?

26 TO 7, Brenner's favorite numbers.....which happens more often, Flops win a title or Haley's Commet comes along?

2005 AL Division Series Chicago White Sox Lost 0-3

2004 World Series St. Louis Won 4-0

AL Championship Series New York Won 4-3

AL Division Series Anaheim Won 3-0

2003 AL Championship Series New York Yankees Lost 3-4

AL Division Series Oakland Won 3-2

1999 AL Championship Series New York Yankees Lost 1-4

AL Division Series Cleveland Won 3-2

1998 AL Division Series Cleveland Lost 1-3

1995 AL Division Series Cleveland Lost 0-3

1990 AL Championship Series Oakland Lost 0-4

1988 AL Championship Series Oakland Lost 0-4

1986 World Series New York Mets Lost 3-4

AL Championship Series California Won 4-3

1975 World Series Cincinnati Lost 3-4

1967 World Series St. Louis Lost 3-4

1946 World Series St. Louis Lost 3-4

1918 World Series Chicago Cubs Won 4-2

1916 World Series Brooklyn Robins Won 4-1

1915 World Series Philadelphia Won 4-1

1912 World Series New York Giants Won 4-3-1

1903 World Series Pittsburgh Won 5-3

Let's all take 3 seconds to look at the Flops Postseason history...talk about pathetic.......

26 to 7 Fagan (YBRENNER)...blog us when Red Sox catch up to us....or, even better, when they win another title in 84 years........3rd place!! Nice coaching Frankenstien...nice going Henry...120 million and can't beat Toronto.....PRICELESS

Red Sox should go to Montreal, they can start up the NL Northeast Division....maybe someone would care...they have a nice stadium there...the Sox could actually come in 1st place in that division since the only other team would be Pawstinkit....

Boston, 1 Title in 86 years...Yanks have 4 times as many in the past 12 years....go figure........Nice Fagan, the Flops were favored to win that series...they should have won and BARELY did....26 to 7...count w/me Fagan.....

Here's good reading Fagan.....26-7...now do the math, Red Flops 19 behind the best team EVER in MLB since 1900....3rd place, $120 million...talk about worst choke job in history...26-7.....not to mention, Yanks have about a 250 more wins head to head over the Flops...

For every 26 World Titles the Yankees have...the poor Flops have 7....AMAZING Fagan....

Russ, please...don't even address him.

sORRY bTIDE.....I am done w/him, her, or it......

Is it April yet?

STOP ENCOURAGING IT!!!

You can't possibly be as ignorant as you appear to be.

Can I be part of the Yankee family?
I'm a long time reader and I've been wanting to join for the longest time.

*Oh and you guys don't worry I'm not another fagan. And I mean that.

yeah really russ why are you encouraging him.we welcome anybody that wont encourage his posts.

Sorry, I am done Fagan...I apologize.....

Are you people ignoring me or do you people believe that I am another Fagan?

I am not DJ, what is up?

Not ignoring you dj2, just not a lot of action here on a Saturday night in the off-season. Welcome. Name? Part of the country?

Some of the people here have become a bit wary of new posters because many are not who or what they claim to be. And that's too bad, because if a new poster turns out to be just another alias all we have to do is stop responding to them.

Just be truthful and courteous and root for the Yankees and all will be well!

Oh, and if you're female it doesn't hurt to flirt with Jorge!

Does anyone else find this slightly disturbing?

Fair enough...keep in mind I'm not the one arguing with my alternate personalities(probably because I don't have any).

::blinks rapidly::

...how about no?

hahhahaa no, sorry Fagan, you're the one who pretends to be me, rememeber? Trust me, there is no way on earth I would ever want to immitate any of your personalities.

You're just too insignificant in my life to ever want to act like you.....how are you alex? and swo

Not bad Vince just chillin basically...how's school goin?

You had to be inoffensive when you were trying to be me because I am inoffensive to human beings you incompetant idiot.

School is fine I've been in NY but I'm headed back to QU tomorrow for my show and dodgeball haha

I have a trick move in dodgeball that my brother claims he taught me but I pretty much came up with it on my own...It's got to be the best gym class game.

Fagan, you are a disgrace to mankind, and anyone who carries the Fagan name.

It had to be a full moon last night.

Just wanna make sure everyone knows that btide21@AIN.com is not me, my address is btide21@AIM.com

Nice try fagan multiple personality

Big Mistake!!!!!!

Sheff should stay with the Yank's! But I understand he is or was, making it difficult. I think he would play firstbase, except, I don't know if he CAN play first base.

I dunno, I always liked the fire in Sheff, I hate to see him go.

Giambi, I like Jason, but the guy is a disaster! Personally, I would choose Sheff over Giambi anyday, but oh well... this team needs some YOUNG BLOOD that is for sure. maybe Matsui can DH and Melky can play left, he is 1000 times better defense of player than Matsui.

Did anyone else see MAtsui holding his glove hand funny when he came back, it was like limp or something, he was scared... Ugh, I hope he get's over nursing his left hand.

Not sure how credible this source is but this site features the 2007 Top 100 Major League Baseball Prospects.

http://www.topprospectalert.com/top100baseballprospects.htm

It lists Philip Hughes as #3 and Jose Tabata as #20.

Two of the top four are already in the bigs, Young of Tampa and Garza of Minnesota, so not sure how they are still prospects.

Here is the link for their list of the Top 10 Yankee Prospects.

http://www.topprospectalert.com/2007newyorkyankeesprospects.htm

It is torture to have to wait for tonight for the highly hyped AFC game between the Pats and Colts.

It is not 1:00 yet. Have the Dolphins, Cardinals, and Lions lost yet?

The most interesting thing I read this morning about football is that 30% of the games this year have been decided by a field goal or less. That means games are tighter than ever before in NFL history.

Is that parity or mediocrity? Hard to discern which. But I also read that so far all home games this year for all teams have been sold out. For all teams. That is amazing.

It is unlike baseball wherein some teams, like Atlanta and Oakland, did not even sell out playoff games.

Thanks for the link, Paul! I also noticed Tyler Clippard is ranked #87 in the Top 100 list, which is always a good thing. Having a no-hitter and breaking the team record for Ks in a season will usually turn some heads. :-D

I think the reason Garza and Young are still considered "prospects" is because they haven't compiled enough AB or IP to have had an official "rookie" season yet, similar to Jonathan Papelbon or Melky Cabrera with their 2005 stints but still being rookies in 2006.

I can agree with those Top 10 Yankee prospects, too. Good to see the top 5 is almost all pitchers. Also good to see people haven't entirely given up on Eric Duncan yet...mark my words, he will be good if he can just stay healthy!!

Hi, All:

I feel the need to apologize. I was tired of Fagan's multiple personalities, so I decided to mock him last night with the studlysenior screen name. We're tired of him on the BoSox blog, and I'm sure you are tired of him here as well. I stooped to his level, which was wrong. Just wanted to say that. Unfortunately, there is nothing to prevent him from continuing to appear on the Sox blog, and this blog. But I do recognize it is better to show restraint, which I didn't on these blogs last night. I'm just fed up with Fagan, but I will just respond from this point forward with restraint.

Paul, I printed out those lists for myself to refer to throughout 2007 and sent the links to our show's co-hosts. Very good.

Looking at the Yanks' top 10, the two top draft picks of last year are 4 and 5, and remember how I mentioned Betances last year? He's already listed at #8.

Jeff: Ignore the thing. It's what drives him nuts the most.

Basil Fawlty would keep the riff raff out.

If only Lola were here. She would hurl some frozen turkeys at the problem.

What did we do to deserve this blight on the blog we post on? I've never once posted on that blog. Ugh.

I expect that out of you, Fagan, just as the rest of us do. I admit. I am guilty. I acted out of character and stooped to you level. I work from a home office, and do writing work seven days a week, so this blog is a hobby for me when I need down time. From this point forward, I am not even going to respond to anything you have to say. I encourage everyone else on the BoSox blog and the Yankees blog to do the same.

The truth is, when you're not around, both blogs are peaceful. When you are around, you antagonize others. I am not the only one who has acted out of character responding to your rants and raves. But that does not excuse my behavior, and I have apologized to this blog. So, as I have with the exception of my temporary slip up, I will return to talking just about baseball, and not mocking you. I imagine that you will continue your rants, raves and insults since that is what you demonstrate on a daily basis. My hope is that everyone on the Yankees blog and the BoSox blog ignores you. I know I will from this point on.

I have never posted on the Red Sox blog either. I see no need to.

But I do see a need for a bigass electric fence and a moat to keep them over there.

Looking at Pete's blog, it looks like the Yanks and Mussina will agree to a 2-year deal this week. Hopefully the Yanks can get Matsuzaka and go Matsuzaka-Wang-Mussina-Randy-Your choice (Rasner/Karstens/UGH (you know who)...with maybe Hughes coming up and taking Randy's spot in 2008 and Clippard taking over for Mussina in 2009. Who knows? Nice that 7 of the top 10 prospects on that link are pitchers.

I got both college games right yesterday and am winning on Dallas right now. But the Falcons (took them, gave the points) are killing me. Ouch. 4 games/$5/at 10 to 1.

I think even though Hughes is the better talent, Clippard might be closer to the bigs, Mike.

Paterno fractured leg bone during sideline collision

The story is on ESPN.com

Could be, Alex. Could be.

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/news/story?id=2650560

JoePa also sustained ligament damage.

I wonder if Chamberlain and Kennedy who both played ball in college might be up sooner than Clippard and Hughes?

The just-fired Bill Masse, Hughes' manager at Trenton last year, thought Hughes was ready now.

I remember when coach Dan Devine suffered a broken leg in his first game as coach of the Packers. I forget the year, but it was in the early 1970s.

Chamberlain seems like a really dedicated kid. He lost 50 pounds to get himself into shape and has kept it off, is the new father of a baby. He seems like a real good prospect.

I was looking at Street & Smith's top 10 prospect list going into this year. I was especially interested in the teams rumored to be after Sheff. The Astros had some nice pitchers. RHP Fernando Nieve was ranked # 1, and he went 3-3 4.20 for the Astros this year. Another was Jason Hirsh (RHP) who went 3-4, 6.04 this year. He was ranked # 4. 2 and 3 were also pitchers. Troy Patton (LHP) and Jimmy Barthmaier (RHP). Nieve and Hirsh are both 24. I don't know about Patton, and Barthmaier will be 23 in January. Hirsh is 6'8" 250! I'd have to check out what they did in the minors. But just a FYI that there is a team that might have young pitching for Sheff (not to mention you deal him out of the league). I haven't read whether the option was officially picked up today. It is expected to be picked up so that they can deal him.

Hirsh is ranked #27 out of the 100 on that list. His record w/the Astros wasn't hot, but he was 13-2, 2.10 in AAA.

Patton is ranked 55 on the list. 7-7, 2.93 in A, but just 2-5, 4.37 in AA. Expect him to start 2007 in AA.

Another one that I didn't mention is at #88 Matt Albers. 0-2, 6.00 at Houston after going 12-3 in the minors (AA/AAA).

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2650078

According to that story, last paragraph, the expectectation is still there that Shef's option will be picked up. Still no official word, though, as far as I know. My guess is that they will try and already have a deal done when they pick up the option.

Oh, and the main part of the article is about Moose renegotiating his contract.

Wow, almost time for "The Vince & Beavis Show™"

Forget about winning on the ticket this week.

Vince was having a John Rocker moment on the subway?

The numbers I gave on Astro pitchers are from that 2007 prospect list link that Paul gave.

haha yea minus the racism

Troy, NY....a garden spot. Known as the armpit of Albany. And that description I got from a friend who was in Troy.

Mike, it sounds like interest in Sheff is stronger than anticipated, so the bar may be even higher.

Paul, I'm sure you are very excited about the recent ending to the Cowtoys/Redskins game.

(grin)

What a crazy ending to the Dallas/Wash. game. Dallas tried a last second FG and it was blocked. In running the block back, the Redskin player was face-masked, which moved the ball even further up. The game can't end on the penalty, so with the clock at 0:00, the Skins got a play and then THEY kicked the winning FG. Wow.

It is not 1:00 yet. Have the Dolphins, Cardinals, and Lions lost yet?

Posted by: paul1040@aol.com | November 5, 2006 12:59 PM

____________________________

It is good I am not a bookie. Since the Dolphins and Lions are both WINNING and the Cardinals are on an off week.

Interest is high, but I don't know what the return will be on a 38 year old coming off an injury-marred year. It'll get interesting, and I'm sure Cashman is mulling over some offers right now.

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=gallo/061103

Some of this is pretty funny.

Some of it is, well, eh....

22-19 Washington was the final.

Not really, Rob. I always hated the Cowgirls, but I like Parcells. I am ambivalent on the Redskins, but I like Joe Gibbs.

We know.

Vince is always on the Yankee blog.

Oops, sorry Paul.

I mixed you up with another blogger who is the Cowtoys fan. Extremely sorry.

Vanderjagt's blocked attempt was 35 yards. Novak's winning FG for the Skins was 47 yards (you can see how the face mask penalty hurt).

Yikes Rob. You mixed me up with a drooling moronic oaf who likes the Cowgirls?

I gotta go, and then help prepare for our show. I might catch the end of Vince's but...be back later!

Rob, my team is the Patriots.

Well, I'll listen to their teams...

"Gary Sheffield reportedly has put both Chicago teams on the list of clubs to which he would accept a trade without a fight. …"

http://chicagosports.chicagotribune.com/sports/columnists/cs-061104rogers,1,630308.column?coll=cs-cubs-headlines

Interesting. So which Chicago players would the Yankees want? Obviously, the White Sox have several pitchers that might be desirable. But what do the sCrUBS have?

"The just-fired Bill Masse, Hughes' manager at Trenton last year, thought Hughes was ready now."

Not just that, but everyone agrees that he has the best stuff in the entire Yankees system. Once he builds up the endurance, he's going to be unstoppable. I can't wait until 2008.

Is this list based only on CURRENT players?

Rob, Sheff for Garland. I would pull that trigger.

Cubs? Outside of Zambrano? Not much.

Pujols...no surprise. Konerko is good, but maybe Howard deserves to be over Konerko.

yes paul, only current players.

Paul, obviously Vince is reading the blog. Otherwise, why the clarification? hahaha

What about Rich Hill? I remember him being the only good pitcher on that team other than Zambrano toward the end of the season.

All-time Yankee team? Interesting. How far back are you going?? Back to the stone age like I do? LOL

Make it Hill AND Sean Marshall.

the 1920's, mike cause you can guess at least two guys who will be on the team from that time period

Not that Marshall did that great, but I'd need two youngsters for Sheff.

him and Reyes?

English, man, English!

I caught it in my head paul, just didn't feel like correcting it haha

It's official. The Yanks picked up the option.

http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2650693

Two youngsters for a one-year loaner? Might be pushing it a bit, don't you think? As it is I'd be surprised if they gave up Rich Hill, seeing as they have so many question marks on their pitching staff.

Thanks for the info, Swo.

For the record, Sheff would not go to the White Sox. Their RF is Jermaine Dye and their DH is Jim Thome. Need I say more?

It is not just luxury tax, also revenue sharing and the greedy owners POCKET it.

Yadier Molina's postseason:

2006 NLDS 4 for 13 0 hr, 1 rbi .308

NLCS (MVP) 8 for 23 .348

2 hr 6 rbi

WS 7 for 17 0 hr 1 rbi .412

Swo, Sheff played LF in LA.

Ahhhhhhhhh, now it makes sense! Thanks Paul

If we are paying the one=year loaner's deal, I want more than just Hill. It depends on how much of the salary the other team is willing to pay. I don't think Sheff goes to Chicago. I think it's going to be Detroit or Houston, even though I know Cleve. and S.D. are supposedly interested.

Paul, I don't know about you, but I can't wait to see the Pats D absolutley befuddle Peyton. I hate when people say he's better than Brady...whenever people say that I ask how many rings Peyton has which basically wins the argument everytime.

Rivera has had 7 years of an ERA under 2.00. No other closer has had more than 4 of those seasons.

Ah, I see. I'm making the assumption that the Yankees pick up 4.5 million, the portion of the option that is deferred (not 100% sure what that means, but that's what I assume). Like you said, it depends on how much of the salary the other team is willing to pay. If the Yanks do indeed pay all of it, I agree with you.

No, the other team is getting a one year--Sheff has one yr left on the contract.

However, I am sure before he steps on the field he will negotiate an extention.

Mariano postseason ERAs
ALDS 0.42

ALCS 0.93

WS 1.16

Total Postseason ERA 0.80

Alex, Manning is so overrated and the Pats D will crush him.

However, the Pats have not played well at home this year for some strange reason.

I especially dislike Manning after last years playoffs when he blamed his teammates for the loss and pointed out how good he was.

If I were a lineman I would get out of the way each time Rodney Harrison heads toward Manning. Maybe even put a target on his back.

Haha yeah...true dat about the performances at home but last week was definetly very encouraging.

Vince, I'm working on your show like I do for our own with the stats (LOL)...doing 2 shows today! (LOL!)

After the high of the Super Bowl, I'm having a bad year with my Steelers. Losing again. Sigh.

Got to run...errands to do before our show in one hour.

hahah yeah thank you very much mike

Vince is losing it.....baritone?

I wamted to see Pittsburgh beat Denver 2nd week in a row....they were tough on the Pats.

Go Sabres! :-D

Go Islanders!

Are they still considered professional hockey?

Isles aren't playing tonight. Nassau Mausoleum will be empty for yet another night.

From Pete's blog:

For sale: 38-year-old OF. Good hitter, indifferent fielder. Prone to line drives and temper tantrums. Call Yankee Stadium, ask for Brian

I love that name Swo, Nassau Mausoleum.

I used to go there a lot for Islanders and Nets games. Surprised it has not collapsed on the fans yet.

The Islanders first year was 1972. That may also have been the first year for the Mausoleum.

By the way, good show, Vince, until the end when you channelled ARod and declared yourself better looking and smarter than everyone.

We need a new nickname for you.

AClod.

The AClod & Beavis Show™

I had trouble getting Mike's show the last time it was on. Did anyone else have trouble?

Fagan, it's like anything else. The Pats are my fav. team and the Colts are my least fav. team so I just dont like Peyton. Also Peyton is way too overrated.

They didn't do the show last week or the week before.

...I have to admit though Peyton's commercials are pretty funny.

Yes, I know, Mike. But the last time there was a show I had trouble.

I would not recognize Manning on the street. He looks best on the turf with a Patriot on top of him.

Show is on tonight. Hope it's better this time.

Mike, I will do a complete reboot before I try to connect.

For what it's worth, I'm connected through Winamp. I'll try to comment during show, but I'll be on at one point tonight, so... and I'll be IMing them also, so...

Hey Paul, Mike, Alex

Paul- the show is working fine for me.

Hiya, Andrew. It is working fine now. Last time it would be fine in 3 minute chunks then cut out.

But I just rebooted and this week I cleared 9 gig of junk off my hard drive.

Vince and Beavis had a good show today, Andrew if you missed it. Vince seems to have vanished. Is he in your trunk?

Hi my friends. How are you? I've just read we picked up Sheffield's options. I think many of us were expecting this to happen

No I just got here Paul so I don't think he's in there.

Hi, Jorge. Yes, purely to trade him everyone is sure.

How is your mom doing, Jorge?

Also press here in Yucatán is saying today that Yankees have reached a pre-agreement with Moose for two more years. The deal would be for about 20-25 millions. Have you heard something about that?

Mike, they could point out how in Sping Training Sheff was agitating that Cash pick up the option.

And now he is angry they will do what he wanted.

Hi, Paul. Agree that this is purely to trade him.
I've just visited my mom. I'm returning from my sister's home, where she is staying for now. She is quite well. Thanks for asking

Yes, Jorge, Mussina's agent has reported that negotiations are going well. But nothing is final yet.

And what are your feelings about it? I think Mussina can still be a good number 3 or 4 starter

Today is Johnny Damon's 33rd birthday.

My feelings are this Jorge, Muss and Randy have to drop a notch in the rotation to 3 and 4. The Yanks then have to get a 1 or 2 (Wang being a 1 or 2). We will see if Matsuzaka is that 1 or 2.

Paul, I did credit you on the Sheff thing...they just said me and not you.

I think a 15 game winner for a number 3 spot would be just fine.

Johnny's birthday? I'll send him some enchiladas with guacamole. And 3 or 4 cold Coronas

Personally I think they need to keep Mussina. He is still one of the best pitchers in baseball. Not a #1, maybe not a #2, but he has been solid.

While he is a bit of a personality issue, especially with the press. But he seems to be good with young pitchers and helpful to the whole staff. And he had the 4th best ERA in the AL. That is significant.

No problem, Mike I don't need credit. Send food.

Mike, I think it's time to throw in a Carl Pavano joke.

LOL, Andrew.

Carl Pavano makes Hideki Irabu look like a hard worker.

Hi, Mike and Andrew. A pleasure to talk with you again.
Absolutelly agree with both of you. And I believe this. Since no team had a better record than us in all MLB last season, then we just have to make some few adjustments. Not a garage sell out. So if we can trade Sheff and a non-top prospect for a good pitcher and if we sign Matsuzaka, then we'll just need a good backup catcher and another good arm. Maybe trading Giambi to get that arm

As I wrote in my column, if Matsuzaka's 17-5, 2.13 translates to 15-10, 3.70, would you take that?

The question is, WILL it translate to that?

Japanese ballparks are smaller parks I thought.

One think about the Japanese players is their devotion to fundamentals. Generally speaking.

Uh-roy-oh....it does NOT rhyme with yoyo.

I read over here that many analists think Matsuzaka will make it in the Majors. I hope he can have better numbers than those, Mike. I don't think he'll have that ERA. It will be a better one

I would hope for better than 15-10, unless he goes to the Red Sox or Mets. Then I would hope for 1-19 7.88 ERA.

I recall hearing that Matsuzaka had a terrible workload in Japan. I hope that doesn't affect him too much.

Any of you knows which one is Jose Tabata's winter team? I read he is making it very well in Venezuela

I was just being VERY conservative and adding a run and a half onto this year's. Even if you add a full run to his career ERA of 2.95....3.95 would have been better than any starter last year except for Muss and Wang.

Is Matsuzaka in the Japanese roster for the Series against MLB now?

No they left him off the roster to keep his value high.

Don't know what team he is on. At age 18, as listed above, already ranked #20 for top 100 MLB 2007 prospects. Hughes is # 3, Jorge.

That's what I was thinking, Andrew. One of my nephews told me yesterday that he was in the roster, ang I repplied him that it would make no sense, since he could lose some of his value

I'm sure I'm missing something but I never found out why Jose Tabata is such a highly valued prospect. I mean, we do have 4 outfielders.

YOU DON'T KNOW, STATOMATIC?????????????
I can't believe this.... :-)

Yeah, Andrew. But Tabata is still 18. The time of his arriving to the Majors, we won't have Abreu, and maybe someone else

I'm so ashamed, Jorge....LOL

Andrew the starting outfield is all 32 and 33.

I was reading that matsuzaka's japanese numbers should relate to oswalt's major league numbers. Something along the lines of 168 k, 200 innings, and a 2.91 era.....Still ace numbers by most team's standards...according to SI.

Paul I'm here I've been unwinding, now I have dodgeball until 8 so I'll be back by then, I'm pullng for the colts today, I love the manning brothers (Giants fan) and to call eli bad s ridiculous, double digit games with a td pass, a 6-2 team, he's coming into his own, and peyton's number's speak for themself. I like brady too, michigan alum. bbl, Mike, I'll try to catch your show

At the age of 18, Tabata has been the youngest player in his respective league, and one of the best. Everything I've read & heard about him is that his upside is tremendous. He didn't turn 18 until August, and still hit .298 at low level A.

YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jorge, I got this from the following, http://www.baseballthinkfactory.org/files/minor_key/discussion/winter_league_baseball/

Jose Tabata is also playing in the Venezuelan league on the Caribes de Anzoategui.

The colts have the better QB.

Vince I was not picking on Eli Manning. He might actually be a good QB and leader. His brother is not.

Don Mattingly has said a few times he wanted to manage.

Al Pacino is on the air.

Al Pacino spit on me repeatedly.

How many rings does the Colts QB have kaylee?

(It was in an off-Broadway play and I was in the first row.)

I have no clue alex.

not many.

The reason the Yanks are "babying" Hughes is so that he CAN pitch lots of innings and not need Tommy John surgery in his 1st year like Liriano.

Mike, it is the same place they sent Karstens to. Not sure if it is concurrent with Pavano.

No question Mo has 3 years left. Even if he does not close the final year, he could set up and mentor the furute closer, whether it is Cox or Proctor or someone else.

Mo is amazing. It is great to have seen and lived at the same time as the greatest ever.

I would sign Lilly before Pettitte, as much as Andy was one of my favorites.

Lilly will be cheaper and similar in numbers I think.

catching up on recent posts. Couldn't read/post and be interviewed at the same time.

Good turn on the show, Mike. You should be on each show in the studio.

Thanks, Paul.

Seriously, Mike, you add a lot more knowledge, more than just stats.

Insight is more important than stats.

Insight = ideas that agree with me or are ones that I have suggested.

Bone headed comments = all others.

heh heh

Sunday is sports day with Vince's show then Mike...and now the beloved Patriots!

Game time....anyone else watching the Patriots?

Nah, too busy celebrating the NHL's best team celebrating yet another victory :-D

Carolina won again, Swo?

Kaylee, the answer about how many rings Peyton has would be zero...Which is why Brady is the better QB.
And I never said I hate Peyton i just dislike him...there's a difference

I just read that Big Ben of Pittsburgh threw for 433 yards, 1 TD, but 3 picks. WOW!

That is a mess of yards.

I don't think I said I hate him, Alex. I said I dislike him and he is overrated.

Dagnabbit, an interception, Brady's 5th this season.

I don't know why they even did that...they should have stuck with the run.

A lost year for this Steeler fan. Right now only one team has a worse record. From Feb. to now...ouch. I'm already wondering who will be available in the draft and what need will be addressed.

I called my niece up as a joke. I got a SB 40 Terrible Towel and gave her my old one. I told her she must have washed it and washed the wins out and that I want it back. Ever since I gave her the old one... LOL...

Long day. Take care.

lol I don't think you were the one to insult eli, paul. It is tough to compare peyton to brady, it's like comparing jeter to a rod. A rod has all the numbers and Jeter has all the rings, but is also very very good at what he does and where he does it. Then you can also say well the yankees had more talent than the mariners and rangers, so Jeter had a better supporting cast, it's a tough debate. I think Brady is better at what he has to do in that system, but raw talentwise Peyton is by far the better QB.

Brady is more "clutch" and a better "leader" and "winner" if you need cliche phrases to support the Brady argument.

Agreed, Alex. I read the Colts have the worst defense against the run.

Kaylee, the answer about how many rings Peyton has would be zero...Which is why Brady is the better QB.

And I never said I hate Peyton i just dislike him...there's a difference

Posted by: btide21@aim.com | November 5, 2006 08:15 PM

Ben Rothelisberger (sp?) has a ring. Does that make him a better quarterback than P. Manning? Or Dan Marino?

Rings do not equal better. They equal playing for better teams. And sometimes better, but not always.

Lol Trent Dilfer has a ring. As does Rob Johnson.

No way Vince. That is like saying Dan Marino was a better QB than Joe Montana.

He wasn't.

Hard to say how Brady will finish as he has only been around for I think 6-7 years, so he is still young. but time will tell that he is one of the best ever.

Doesn't Drew Bledsoe have a ring?

Of course, his came as Brady's backup....

Wow, great play!

Gutsy of Bellichick to go for it on 4th and 3.

He had to go for it, Alex, a punt would no question have gone for a touchback to at least at the 20, so it was an easy decision.

And of course, the running score was great.

Wow the pass defense is terrible tonight.

It is inexplicable, but the Pats at home are a different team.

"Carolina won again, Swo?"

Paul, seriously, that's just wrong on so many levels.

LOL, Swo, I know you are a Sabers (or Sabres) fan.

I also have a problem calling the Ducks Mighty even though they lead the NHL in points.

I thought this game was supposed to have 2 good quarterbacks, and all we get is this "defensive" battle?

Ugh. The "mighty" *ucks.

Pats defense is on vacation this week?

I wouldn't doubt it...wrong time to take a bye though.

Paul, they heard about the Colts D's favorite Caribbean hang out and decided to go check it out.

These refs are ridiculous.

Yeah, you're right Alex. That should have been interference, not "illegal contact." lol.

He barely touched him.

By the way, the Yanks have until next Sunday to decide on Jaret Wright's option (Nov. 12) and Nov. 15 on Mussina's.

It costs them $4 million NOT to have him pitch. Who made that deal? And $7 million to pitch.

There is not a no trade option. Does he have a value?

Wow, Viniatieri is good. Why don't we ever get players like that?

I heard that the Las Vegas 51s (Dodgers AAA team) are willing to offer a couple of showgirls and tickets to the "Blueman Group" in exchange for Wright.

BTW, The "mighty" ducks officially dropped the word "mighty" from their mascot at the beginning of the season so you have no reason to call them that. The argument about the best doesn't apply one way or the other offically on either side hence why the argument is difficult. Montana won and put up numbers. Both are hall of famers just like this modern day case but like I said if you are looking at raw talent, manning is the better qb, if you are looking at who is better in terms of results, brady is the clear favorite. No matter how much you hate the mannings and love brady you can't tell me in terms of talent, he is better than manning, it doesn't make sense. The patrots have always had a solid running game, a solid defense, a great coach, and no clubhouse cancers since Brady came over. You can't say the same for Manning. Brady is a winner, Manning has more raw talent, pick which one you consider "better". I would pick Brady.

I never saw the show Rob, but I hear the show is good.

And to save everyone time I will interview the showgirls.

Let it be known just because Brady has been apart of championship teams that does not make him better though.

Glad you agree with me, Vince. Good insight.

heh heh

The show is actually really good.

Unfortunately Paul, they are only offering showgirls that, like Sheffield, are near the end of their careers.

And a **** booth review...it's pretty obvious they're gonna take the ball away from the Pats.

Brady did NOT pick up the 1st down.

But is there enough evidence to overturn the call?

Finally a good call by the refs.

Nice challenge.

Ben Watson is really amazing.

3rd and 6....I would try a run.

Troy Brown!

Call Time out!

Wait, we only have 1 left? Somebody, quick! Fake an injury!

Talk about having the ball fall into your arms....

cripes

Go Patriots.. lol.

I think Brady just joined the defense on vacation

Oh look, TO dropped another big catch today.

Maybe he should stop thinking ahead to his celebrations and focus on actually catching the ball first.

I just gotta say..

Mark, you are quite welcome to get very excited and have a little victory gloat about the Skins win today, it was especially nice to see them beat the Cowboys today, lol.

I think you said you were going to be at the game so I'm glad they gave you what turned out to be an exciting game to watch.

Haha Rob, the man truly is an OAF. He can't help it.

Uh, that was interesting. 3 Pats in the area, and not one of them seemed to want to tackle Harrison.

Im going to put get some dingo fence and put it around this blog to keep the riff raff out, lol

Hey, I've got to wear my SF tee-shirt more often. THEY ACTUALLY WON TODAY!!!!!

Harrison is a great WR..class act..future HOF...loved going to the Dome watching him for 4 yrs in college

Harrison = best route runner ever.

think adam forgot what team is paying him?

I do find it interesting how New England fans treat former players.

Vinateri - gets booed.

Damon - gets booed.

Although Ray Borque was still loved in Boston even after he went to Colorado. But he got traded. Is that the difference?

I would assume so Rob. Don't forget that new england fans get mad because players go to teams that actually offer them their market value so they have the right to boo them.....But what do we know, we root for the evil empire, the team that is "bad for baseball" by giving most of the millions and millions of dollars to small market teams that then decide not to spend any of it

**** Harrison ..what a catch..regardless if good or not

DIRTY CATCH

reading over some of your comments on the Patriots...yankeevmm...except for 04'..Patriots running game hasnt been solid..its been below avg..looking at the stats since Brady took over

Individually yes, you are right shawn, they don't put up huge numbers. You also have Belichek who throws two sometimes three running backs into the mix who then produce a formidible running game, mix that with the best kicker ever, and a solid defense and the patriots play a short game offense.

Wow. That kick was, uh, horrible doesn't even come close to describing it.

that was some vanderjagt ending the season kicking.

Thanks, Angel. I'll post an entry on Monday about the game. I'm still catching my breath.

Russ, any thoughts? :-)

Crazy ending. Another Vinateri miss, then another pick. Ouch.

Texas hired Ron Washington to be their new manager.

Yes Mark, I watched the game on TV, I have some thoughts, but can't say there here on the blog!! Dallas deserved to lose, especially with all their penalties, 11 for 153 yards, the 3rd most in team history. Too many mistakes, TO's touchdown drop that would have made it 26-12. Dallas' decision to not kick an extra point would have made it 20-19 at the end and they could have run out the clock. Wasn't Vanderget's (sp) fault on the missed FG, was the offensive line that didn't block. The last touchdown that Cooley scored that wasn't tipped away. Too many mistakes, that is what a 8-8 average football team does. Game was very disappointing if you were a Dallas fan. I sat there in disbelief too and stunned. Other than what I mentioned, Dallas played a pretty good football game. Nice comments Paul, just show's your still an as***hole that you always were. "Moronic oaf"...love to meet you some day. Anyway, congrats to the Redskins on winning.

It's a wonder sometimes Paul how Mark doesn't delete your comments. Your almost as bad as Fagan w/your insults, especailly on me. Please, just keep the comments to yourself and we will both be better off. I have done nothing to you, ever. I have apologized in the past for comments I have made and even tried to get on your good side. You always have to add your two cents in about me which really isn't funny anymore. I will apologize again if I have said something to offened you in the past, and hopefully we can talk normal to each other on this blog. But if you can't, please, I'd appreicate you keep your comments to yourself about me. I am hardly a "moronic oaf", and I don't understand why you keep making fun of me. Again, I apologize, and hope we can start on the right foot for the upcoming hot stove season and 2007 Yankee season.

All I know is that Paul is still on my hit list for that Carolina comment last night......you just don't know what it means to be a Buffalo fan, do you?

Sam, great to be in your alternate reality world where you have done nothing and everyone else is picking on you. You have joined with your fagan pal to jump on me several times, the last time being when you called me unethical among other lies and smears. Sort of the pack mentality.

However, given your above comments, I will be willing to start fresh, effective immediately.

LOL, Swo, I have been to Buffalo.

By the way, there is a new blog.

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Oh, and the Anchor Bar in Buffalo, where Buffalo wings were invented, really does not make them well at all. Unless I was there on a bad night, I was disappointed.

Just for the record, I'm being sardonic in my last comment, so don't take it too seriously. It's just sports banter.

I appreicate it, thank you Paul. I still am in mourning from yesterday's loss, like losing in the bottom of the 9th to the Red Sox!! UGH

Happy the Yanks picked up Sheff's option. But how do you trade a quality player who will hit 300 or above average, 30 + homers and 100+ RBI. I would take Sheff over Abreu any day. Keep Sheff let him DH and switch with Abreu in the outfield.There is no one on the market that can match Sheff in numbers. What are the Yankees brass thinking. This is a no brainer.

"My gut feeling is that the Yankees will win the bidding, as the opportunity to acquire a 26-year-old potential ace with nasty stuff doesn't come along every day."

I partially agree with you Mark, but haven't we seen this before? And how does it usually pan out? Hideki Irabu anyone?

Matsuzaka will be an ace, but it will be three years from now on whatever team he gets traded to from the Yankees.

good trade, sheff for some young hurlers. next one that should go for young players is Giambi. never proved out. if you really look at his stats. he is way worst then A-Rod