Staten Island Yankee starter Shaeffer Hall prepares to deliver pitch.
STATEN ISLAND, NY-It took a while but things are finally coming together for the Baby Bombers (4-6), who posted a third straight win by taking care of the Ironbirds 5-2 in front of a packed house (7,171) at Richmond County Bank Ball Park in St. George.
“It’s been a great couple of days,” said third baseman Rob Lyerly in the winner’s dugout following a three hit night. “We just gotta keep rolling here.”
One of those hits (leadoff double) started a two-run third that put the Bombers ahead to stay. He scored the go-ahead run on Kelvin Castro’s RBI single. With 1-2 punch Jim Paredes and Castro in scoring position, center fielder Zolio Almonte tagged one to the right field track but Aberdeen’s Jason Rook perfectly timed it taking away a home run. Instead, each runner got back to the bases tagging up with Paredes easily scoring to make it 3-1.
“I was fortunate. I had to struggle a little bit. So hopefully, I get rolling,” Lyerly modestly noted while heaping praise on the Staten Island pitchers, who nursed a one-run lead until first baseman Lyle Murton delivered two huge insurance runs when he crushed a two out eighth inning two-run home run to deep left that wound up as the final margin.
Staten Island got a solid outing from Shaeffer Hall, who worked the first four and two thirds splitting a pair of runs while striking out seven. Most impressive was the southpaw’s command tossing 52 of 70 pitches for strikes.
“I just went out there and I felt really good. Just being able to throw in front of the home crowd, it was really nice,” he said.
“Overall, I felt good. All my pitches were working. Tried to mix in a few more change ups than I did last outing. Just trying to build every start. I wanted to be better than my first outing. … Overall, I felt really good. Got some run support and we played very well.“
Hall also got help from a trio of relievers including winning pitcher Gavin Brooks (1-0), who came in with the tying run at second and got Booker to fly out to end the threat. He tossed one and a third scoreless K-ing two before giving way to Ben Watkins (2 IP, 2 H, 2 K’s) and Ryan Flannery, who closed it for his first save.
“The pitchers pitched great once again. They’ve been dealing. … We had only a one-run lead but they kept getting people out inning after inning after inning,” Lyerly pointed out.
“They did a great job. They did what they were supposed to do out there. They threw strikes. I know I had a couple of errors. Should have made a couple of plays that I didn’t make. But they did a great job throwing the ball there,” added Murton.
Still nursing a 3-2 lead, the Bombers blew a chance to pad it leaving the bases loaded in the seventh. However, they finally got the key insurance when Murton went yard with a runner on the next inning.
“It felt really good. Obviously, it was my first professional home run which was nice to get it out of the way. … It was good to come up in the eighth inning with two outs and able to get a couple of insurance runs.”
Following Murton’s second miscue of the night, Flannery picked his teammate up by getting the final out with the first baseman appropriately enough, atoning with an unassisted putout.
“I think the other night made us feel a little bit better. Last night was just a great win,” Murton assessed of Staten Island’s five-run comeback in a wild 8-7 walkoff that saw them score six in the final two innings.
“The pitchers have been pitching great all year. And to pick them up yesterday. To comeback and win the game, it gave our team a lot of confidence. It gave our pitchers confidence that they’re gonna get the job done cause we’d struggled. And we know that they’re gonna get the job done for us if we struggle.”
“Come out. Take advantage of another good hitting performance and another good pitching performance. And come out with a win.”
Notes: Staten Island wraps up the six-game homestand later tonight when they aim for the sweep versus Aberdeen with first pitch at 7 PM. They’ll then kickoff a rare home-and-home by traveling to archrival Lowell for three before the Spinners visit the Ferry Terminal for three beginning on the Fourth of July with plenty of fireworks to follow. … S.I. Yanks have soldout four of the first five games. They had 16 sellouts last season.
… Of Paredes and Castro who wreaked havoc at the top of the order combining to go 4-for-6 with two runs along with two walks and a stolen base (Paredes 5th), Murton stated:
“Those guys are awesome. Once they get on base, they wreak havoc. Like tonight, Jimmy stole the first pitch. Foul ball. Next pitch, he goes and steals again. They’ve done a great job for us. They’ve been awesome.”
Posted by Derek Felix under Video of Day Comments Off
It’s way early here and I’m about to sleep. But in my head played an old Third Eye Blind song. No. Not one of the poppy ones like “Semi Charmed Life” or “How’s It Gonna Be.”
But instead a song called “I Want You” which also was on that album and is played differently from most of their stuff and has meaningful words. This to me is their best song.
I’ve seen the suckers loose themselves in the games they love to play,
Children love to sing but then their voices slowly fade away.
People always take a step away from what is true,
That’s why I like you around,
I want you.
Oh you do
You do
You do
You do
You do
You do
You do
You do
You make me want you.
An open invitation to the dance,
Happenstance set the vibe that we are in,
No apology because my urge is genuine,
And the mystery of your rhythm is so feminine.
Here I am and I want to take a hit
Of your scent ’cause it gets so deep into my soul
Ooh I want you
Yeah you do
You do
You do
You do
You do
You do
You do
You do
You make me want you.
Oh you do
You do
You do
You do
You do
You do
You do
You do
I want you.
(Send me all your vampires)
And I can’t get enough, you you you you
Oh I can’t get enough
Oh I can’t get enough Oh oh, I (you) I (you) I (you)
The village churchyard is filled with bones weeping in the grave,
The silver lining of clouds shines on people Jesus couldn’t save
You want to know how deeply my soul goes
Deeper than bones
Deeper than bones
And I can’t get enough. I I I I
Oh I can’t get enough, you you you you
Oh I can’t get enough
After we did it by the windowsill,
Smoke rings drifted through the midnight sky,
Presently in the quilt that your mother made,
A bare candle burns to fight off the gloom,
You said to live this way is not for the meek, (Send me all your vampires)
And like a jazz DJ you talk me into sleep,
I said there will be no regrets when the worms come, (Send me all your vampires)
And they shall surely come.
Oh You do
You do
You do
You do
You do
You do
You do
You do
Make me want you
(Send me all your vampires) (That’s right)
Yeah I do
I do
I do
You do
You do
You do
You do
You do
A make a me want you
(Send me all your vampires)
I want you
(Send me all your vampires)
I want you
(Send me all your vampires)
Yankee closer Mariano Rivera and teammates had plenty to smile about while Met skipper Jerry Manuel and his team didn't this weekend.
It’s been an interesting week here. So let’s get to it. Shall we?
1.Is Jerry Manuel really wrong about his battered team? I mean they do have to basically be perfect just to win games. Against the Cards, they were and took three of four. But this weekend that wasn’t the case with too many mental mistakes leading to Yankee runs as their crosstown rivals came into Citi Field and swept them. So, they fell short. What does Manuel’s sarcasm in a postgame have to do with that his players aren’t that talented right now? Zilch. He is begging Omar Minaya to wake up from the doldrums and do something. Maybe if the Phillies were eight up, there’d be more urgency…
2.The two games off seems to have done the trick for one Alex Rodriguez and that couldn’t come at a better time for the Yanks.
3.When does Robby Cano, who statistically speaking is having a solid season finally deliver a big hit?
4.Daniel Murphy can’t be the best the Mets can do at first. What happened to Fernando Tatis?
5.Phil Hughes is pretty automatic these days out of that Yankee pen.
6.So wanted to see Team USA hang on over Brazil yesterday but there’s a reason they’re so skilled and unfortunately, it showed in that second half of the Confed Cup championship. Clint Dempsey, Landon Donovan and especially Tim Howard have nothing to be ashamed of. Tell ya one thing. That Kaka is some player. What a soccer name!
7.Looking forward to seeing how Roger Federer fares in the French Final rematch later today in the same Round of 16 situation Robin Soderling slayed the dragon on clay in Rafa Nadal. Wimbledon did Roger no favors with either big serving Ivo Karlovic/Fernando Verdasco waiting in the quarters and Novak Djokovic on pace for a semi clash, assuming the five-time All England Club champ gets through.
8.Really want to see that Andy vs Andy semi between Murray and Roddick on the other side. Might Lleyton Hewitt have something to say about it? Yes. He’s playing well. We’ll see.
9.It sure looks like Venus will cruise past Ana Ivanovic and through her section to another final. Can she three-peat? Bigger question is will younger sis Serena make it with a potential tough quarter against emerging power house Victoria Azarenka? Have to figure Serena will take care of looker Daniela Hantuchova today to help set it up.
10.Only Knick fans could boo the first round pick of Jordan Hill which was really a no-brainer once Stephen Curry went to Golden State. Way to be. Speaking of the Draft, loved the Nets’ pick of Terrence Williams. Not just cause we called it either but because he’ll be a good pro. Great move too getting rid of Vince Carter. Now, Orlando can deal with that headache and relive his cousin Tracy McGrady.
11.So much for all that suspense regarding the Islanders’ first overall selection. John Tavares and Isles’ fans breathed a huge sigh of relief. Still found it amusing how they celebrated like they won a Cup.
12.Is trading for Darko Milicic really the best Donnie Walsh can do? Let’s see Mike Lupica defend that one.
13.How the heck does Tim Wakefield have 10 wins? Remarkable.
14.Imagine if the Mets played in the AL East.
15.At least Mark De Rosa was traded for a top 100 prospect.
16.It doesn’t get more bizarre than Francisco Rodriguez walking Mariano Rivera with the bases loaded. Just listening to Howie Rose told ya all you needed to know. Wonder what Brian Bruney thought at that moment? You know. The invaluable setup guy who couldn’t get three outs against Buffalo before Mo bailed him out by getting Omir Santos looking en route to his 500th career save.
17.Does Lori Rubinson realize how bitter she comes off when she asks Yankee fans if they should really be happy that they swept a bad team? The same scrappy bunch that took three of four against the game’s best hitter that’s tied for the NL Central. Word to the wise. You don’t get style points. Like Bill Parcells used to say, beat who’s on your schedule.
18.Okay. I get that Citi Field isn’t a hitter’s paradise but how come the Yanks had no problem hitting a few out including lightweight Brett Gardner?
Besides, doesn’t this fact baffle some?
David Ortiz: 8 HR
David Wright: 4 HR
It doesn’t mean the Met All-Star third baseman’s having a bad season. He’s still hitting for a great average (.342) with 39 RBI’s, 47 runs and 20 steals. But at some point, he has to start going deep. With how battered his team is, they need him to.
19.Fernando Nieve or Oli Perez?
20.Given all the weird injuries and even odder end results, any truth to the rumor Dr. Seuss is employed in Queens?
21.Finally, this just in. The local JCC is run better than the T-wolves. That’s not a ringing endorsement.
The King Of Pop might have been taken from us but Michael Jackson shall never be forgotten.
“I’ve been in the entertainment industry since I was six-years-old… As Charles Dickens says, “It’s been the best of times, the worst of times.” But I would not change my career… While some have made deliberate attempts to hurt me, I take it in stride because I have a loving family, a strong faith and wonderful friends and fans who have, and continue, to support me.“-Michael Jackson
As someone who grew up in the 80′s, it’s hard to put into words how much Michael Jacksonmeant. The tragic news that the King of Pop suffered a fatal heart attack, dying at the age of only 50 Thursday was tough to take.
Unfortunately, it was sadly predictable for one of music’s true legends who during the latter stage of a brilliant career chalk full of hits became a frequent target due to much maligned rumors that he abused children. We’ll never really know the truth. Though public perception was that he was guilty and once you are, you become an easy target even if it was never proven.
As we all know unless you were living in a cave the past couple of decades, Michael’s career took a hit following an emotional interview with Oprah in which he revealed that he was sexually abused as a kid. Almost immediately, he was accused of sexually abusing 13 year-old Jordan Chandler. Though never proven with Jackson even having to endure a full strip search, he reached a settlement with Chandler’s father, Evan.
A decade would pass before he was acquitted in a highly publicized case four years ago. Combine that with a rough upbringing, the unfortunate incident during a Pepsi ad that led to second degree burns along with the rare skin disease vitiligo which morphed into a fascination with his skin (surgeries/procedures) and it’s not all that surprising that the all-time great’s heart finally gave out, breaking millions of hearts.
Perhaps it was like one of Jackson’s hits “Heal The World.” A tragic conclusion which just couldn’t be prevented due to heavy reliance on plenty of drugs/painkillers including the dangerous Demerol which might’ve been the final straw early Friday at his Neverland home.
When you have a larger than life superstar who comes under heavy and sometimes unfair criticism, it’s no wonder he turned to drugs which did more harm than good. Jackson also frequently starved himself following the negative publicity in 1993. How long can the body take that kind of pain? It’s not just physical but undoubtedly psychological which as this writer knows can cause the physical, leading to panic attacks and other symptoms.
Unless you’ve experienced severe anxiety/depression, you don’t really know how tough it can get. The mental battle can be physically exhausting. One can only imagine how much pressure Michael was under. That kind of expensive lifestyle can be detrimental, especially when you’re in a depressed state battling daily pains along with emotional demons as he endured. It led to many people he aligned himself with giving him poor advice that only sabotaged his health further.
In reading all the drugs/medications Jackson took, it’s amazing he lasted this long. From our vantage point, the everpopular musician/entertainer who turned the world upside down with his amazing singing voice and moon walk was dead a long time ago. The past 15 years took a toll as he slowly killed himself.
When one looks at all the factors, it’s not too hard to understand why. No human being can take that kind of abuse. Say what you want about Jackson’s odd behavior but it’s impossible to ignore what kind of special person he was. Sometimes, people can be cruel saying so and so had it coming. Oh really? Would they feel the same way if it were someone they were close to?
The reality is we all make mistakes and live with regret. It doesn’t matter how much money or fame you have. If you’re not happy, it’s worthless. Does it change all the good this man did donating millions to countless charities including taking part in one of the most memorable songs along with other musicians, who put their egos aside to sing, “We Are The World,” which he and Lionel Richie co-wrote, raising awareness for Africa? That kind of generosity cannot be ignored.
As someone who loved the magical Thriller album featuring timeless hits “Beat It,” “Billie Jean” along with the selftitled epic “Thriller” video- which is more like a minimovie that may as well be shown every Friday The 13th or Halloween in complete darkness- I prefer to remember how special Michael Jackson really was. Someone who made great music even as a little kid with his older brothers- every bit the part of The Jackson Five.
Even I can recall “I Want You Back” and “I’ll Be There” because they rank as some of my favorite childhood TV memories. It’s really amazing to think what he accomplished at such a tender age. Think of all the pressure and expectations. Yet he flourished like no one ever before producing 13 No.1 singles while selling more than 750 million records worldwide while even being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice. No wonder he took home 13 Grammy’s. Guess the No.13 was pretty lucky for Michael.
His 1987 Bad album was memorable too featuring fave “Smooth Criminal,” “Dirty Diana,” “The Way You Make Me Feel,” “I Just Can’t Stop Loving You” along with selftitled “Bad.” Liberian Girl was sexy. Though I have more fond memories as an adoloscent of Naomi Campbell looking ridiculous in “In The Closet” on 1991 album Dangerous.
Of course, I’d be remiss if I didn’t include 1979 Off The Wall which featured two more classics “Rock With You” and “Don’t Stop Till You Get Enough.” It truly was a different time. One which sometimes, I wonder what happened to. But then, we can also ponder the same with Michael, who now is in a better place hopefully at peace.
Of course, I wish he’d been able to do his final 50 concerts that were scheduled for next month in London on July 13, 2009. Instead, we’re left with too many lingering questions as to why. The wall to wall TV coverage makes me sad.
We lost a great person. Let’s remember him the appropriate way.
Baby Bomber starter Arodis Vizcaino delivers a pitch in the second inning to a Renegade.
STATEN ISLAND, NY- Finally, they got going at the Ferry Terminal. There would be no rain this time.
However, that didn’t prevent the Renegades from spoiling the fun putting a damper on the Baby Bombers’ 2009 home opener- outpitching Staten Island (1-5) 3-1 before a disappointed packed house (7,171) at Richmond County Bank Ballpark in St. George Thursday night.
“It was nice. The fans did a good job of supporting us. It was nice to finally get a game at home but…would like to have had a different outcome but it’s early in the year,” Baby Bomber DH Luke Murton said.
The night began alright for losing starter Arodys Vizcaino, who retired the first six including an impressive five in a row by strikeout. However, the righty lost composure in a three-run (all unearned) Hudson Valley third. Given a one-run lead thanks to a wind aided two out second inning run scoring double by right fielder Zoilo Almonte, Vizcaino couldn’t handle prosperity committing a pair of costly errors that led to the only runs the Renegades scored.
Following a leadoff walk to Dustin Biell, a botched pickoff immediately put him in scoring position. Center fielder Chris Murrill followed up with an RBI single to left, tying it on Hudson Valley’s first hit of the night. A little disjointed in an otherwise sparkling debut, Vizcaino failed to field a sacrifice bunt and then loaded the bases with another walk. With nobody warming up, he got the next batter to pop out to short right and fanned Tyler Bortnick for the second out. But just one away from limiting the damage, he allowed a two-run base hit to Eli Sonoqui putting Staten Island behind for good.
That’s cause the Bombers had their hands full with Renegade starter Albert Suarez, whose only hiccup in four-plus came in the second. After Almonte’s RBI double, he retired the last nine batters before departing with two out in the fifth due to a leg injury which prevented him from getting the win. But Kyle Ayers came in and did a solid job tossing two and a third scoreless to pickup his first win.
“[Suarez] pitched well. He had good stuff. He threw a lot of his pitches for strikes. He did a good job but there were some times where maybe we could’ve done a better job swinging the bat as a team. But you gotta give their pitchers credit,” Murton added.
While their hitting shoes weren’t on held to a run on five hits, Staten Island certainly got inspired pitching from Vizcaino and a trio of relievers in Mike Solbach (2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 3 K’s), Gavin Brooks (1 IP, 0 HR, 0 R, BB, 2 K’s) and Ryan Flannery (2 IP, 2 K’s) with each giving them every opportunity for a comeback.
“I felt good today,” Solbach assessed while referencing a rough outing the day prior in a loss. “It was good to get back out there and throw the ball well.”
“The bullpen did a good job tonight keeping it at 3-1 like we’re supposed to do, trying to give the hitters a chance to come around. We’ll get it all figured out.”
While there weren’t a ton of chances, Staten Island twice brought the tying run to the plate in the seventh and eighth but couldn’t capitalize.
“We gotta stop stretching ourselves,” pointed out first baseman Rob Lyerly, who paced the home club with a pair of singles including a lead off hit to start the seventh before the next three went in order. “We’re still getting acclimated to everything around here. Especially to the curveball. So it’s a little bit of an adjustment here.
“We got a great team here. We just gotta start playing better.”
The Baby Bombers had one more chance after left fielder DeAngelo Mack’s double to start the eighth. But after being sacrificed to third by second baseman Hector Rabago, he was stranded there. Renegade closer Rich De Los Santos buckled down getting center fielder Francisco Santana to chase and shortstop Carmen Angelini to bounce into a 5-3 putout.
De Los Santos tossed a 1-2-3 ninth getting catcher Kyle Higashioka to bounce out to third, notching his third save.
New skipper Josh Paul emphasized how it’s the organization’s job to guide these kids along with many first-year players new to pro ball. The former veteran backstop has been around the block and understands what his pupils are going through.
“Exactly. That’s a perfect point,” he remarked to our insight about how pro ball gives players the chance to bounce back the next day. Something that’s not as prevalent in college. “Teams are gonna say, ‘Okay. That one’s over. Let’s move on.’ … The guys that succeed move on. So we got something to teach them.”
Notes: Vizcaino took the loss falling to 0-2 with all three unearned on three hits, walking a pair and fanning seven. In nine innings, Baby Bomber pitchers struckout 14 Renegades. … The start of the game was delayed nine minutes due to opening ceremonies. It took a manageable two hours and 27 minutes still finishing 15 minutes before 10. For one night at least despite hazy conditions, the rain held off.
… Following the game, traditional fireworks were set off lighting up the sky. They’ll also be on display later tonight when the same two teams get together. Cory Arbiso will get the start out of the pen and is on a 55 pitch count. … On this six-game opening homestand, the Bombers will host the Renegades twice more including Saturday before Aberdeen comes in for three starting Sunday afternoon at 4.
It was all a game She was using me Driving me mad insane Teased into a state of misery
Just couldn’t get past that smile Hypnotized by her precious charms Like Jimi Hendrix waxing Voodoo Child Thinking it would do no harm
Little did I know what it was all about Just an endless game I could never win Lost in a maze without any clout Leaving Flex drunk off tonic and gin
Every time our eyes met you lit up the sky Teasing and flirting the whole damn time And all I was tripping damn you so fly You could inspire any dude to rhyme
If I could just have you I’d go insane Tension rising heart racing melting like ice I’d wait all night in the pouring rain Hoping to be together and watch the sunlight rise
Ya had that magic sparkle in your eyes Always twinkling a little extra for me When I stared deep down they could never lie Just like that you were my fantasy
The one and only who’d make sweet dreams come true Bumping, grinding as I feel your skin so smooth like white Hershey’s We’d be as high as the puffy whites in the sky that magically flew Finally, you’d be my perfect squeeze as I dropped to my knees
It was all planned out in my head Without knowing you’d vanish into thin air By the time I’d discovered my heart broke instead Couldn’t go on searching and searching every where
But it didn’t matter where I looked Could never seem to find your pretty face Aware deep down I was forever shook With time suddenly unimportant as I was lost in space
It was a game you played so well Hinting that I’d finally win Until that ringing of the alarm bell Now I don’t even know where I’ve been
Thought once one Halloween I caught a glimpse of you But only stalled before thinking no way And all these days later I believe it’s true No wonder I remain off track today
Praying and hoping one day we meet again When it’s about as realistic as hitting the lotto With my wings ready if it somehow happened And if it did you’d punch my winning ticket
With a subpar showing, it was another rough weekend for Mike Pelfrey and the Mets.
-It was another tough weekend for the Mets, who after a good Friday night opening win backed by surprising Fernando Nieve couldn’t follow suit- dropping the final two to the defending AL champion Rays at Citi Field. That included a 3-1 loss the previous day with Johan Santana bouncing back from last week’s dreadful showing against the Yanks. However, he only got one run and allowed a go-ahead solo homer to Carlos Pena in a rain delayed 3-1 defeat. Sunday wasn’t much kinder to Amazin fans, who again had to endure more rain with it swirling around causing another delay in a seesaw game which saw the Met pen unable to protect a 5-4 lead on Brian Schneider’s second dinger of the series. Instead, the Rays teed off on struggling youngster Bobby Parnell, who didn’t retire a batter giving up four straight hits including B.J. Upton’s go-ahead two-run blast into the second deck in left. By the time he was done, he’d been charged with four earned with the Rays going ahead 8-5.
Even when the Mets crept within two on Gary Sheffield’s RBI ground out, they stranded the tying runs in the home seventh with Ryan Church going down swinging on a payoff pitch from one-time Yankee Randy Choate. Jerry Manuel went to resurgent righty Sean Green but for a second consecutive day, he couldn’t stop the bleeding loading the bases before Tampa pushed across a pair of insurance runs against lefty Pedro Feliciano to pad their margin.
And so, Manuel’s club settled for one win this weekend- good enough to actually gain ground on the slumping Phillies, who continued their bewildering play at Citizen’s Bank Park by losing 2-1 to the Orioles, getting swept. Yes. That means they’ve lost their last six and eight of nine on a disastrous homestand to Boston, Toronto and Baltimore. Yikes. That even included first base slugger coming off the hospital bed to hit a go-ahead pinchhit three-run home run putting the Phils up 5-3 in the seventh. But Ryan Madson’s struggled lately since taking over for injured Brad Lidge in the closer role. He couldn’t hold it allowing a tying and go-ahead two-run dinger in a crushing 6-5 loss Saturday. Ace Cole Hamels pitched well going eight while fanning 10 but the Birds were able to push two runs across which was enough because Jeremy Guthrie and two relievers combined to shutdown the Philly offense posting a 2-1 win.
So, the Mets despite dropping yet another series are still just two out of first. They’re a game over (34-33) but very much alive entering two more big series in Queens with first Albert Pujols and the Cards coming in for four before the Yankees pay a visit to Queens next weekend. It won’t get any easier.
-Amazingly enough, with the Phils and Mets scuffling, the Marlins with their 6-5 win over the Yankees pulled within three games- just one behind the Amazin’s. Florida took advantage of C.C. Sabathia departing early with tightness in his left biceps. Though afterwards, the Yankee ace indicated it wasn’t that bad. We’ll have to wait and see.
The Marlins cashed in against the shaky Yankee middle relief with superstar Hanley Ramirez (2-run shot) and Cody Ross (s0lo) going yard off Brett Tomko to go ahead 4-3. Earlier, the Yanks scored three on a Mark Teixeira RBI double and Alex Rodriguez two-run base hit. But things quickly changed with Florida’s Jorge Cantu driving in a pair in the home seventh making it 6-3.
The Yanks mounted a late rally against first-year closer Matt Lindstrom putting together three straight two out hits including rookie Brett Gardner’s two-run three-bagger that cut it to 6-5. But with the tying run 90 feet away following a Johnny Damon walk, Derek Jeter failed to deliver in the clutch a second day in a row grounding into a fielder’s choice. The Captain also couldn’t get down a bunt the day prior eventually killing a rally with a 4-4-3 twin killing in a 2-1 loss. Damon’s outfield misplay turned out to be the difference.
So, it was another banner weekend for Joe Girardi, whose club has only won one series in the last four. And they were handed it. The good news is they still lead the wildcard by a game over the Angels and Blue Jays with the Rays now within two. The bad news is they’re now four behind Boston, who squeaked past the Braves 6-5 on immortal Nick Green’s walkoff blast taking two of three up at Fenway.
Will the panic button be pushed? Why should it? They can still get it righted this week headed to Atlanta for three beginning tomorrow and then across town for three more. Besides. It’s not like the new regime will do anything drastic. They hardly even show a pulse which kind of reminds ya of what the new Golden Palace sounds like.
-So what else is going on? Well, the Cubs finally are showing signs after sweeping Cleveland by scoring off former pitcher Kerry Wood twice to continue their great comebacks that started Thursday over the White Sox. Derrek Lee, who we blasted is proving us wrong swinging a hot bat with four homers and nine RBI’s during a four-game win streak that has them back to three over (34-31) just two and a half behind the Cards and one in back of Milwaukee. The veteran first baseman has hit in 18 straight. Heck. Even Alfonso Soriano got a big hit winning a game with a walkoff. Perhaps things are finally turning at Wrigley.
-The surprising Giants just swept the first place Rangers winning by two runs, a run and a run against good competition at Pac Bell. A day following a wacky conclusion that saw the winning run come in via a wild pitch, San Fran got a great effort from Barry Zito. Yes. The lefty actually took a no-hitter into the seventh before veteran Andruw Jones broke it up with a two-run homer that tied it. However, the pesky Giants cameback with a runscoring single off the bat of veteran right fielder Randy Winn to get Baked Zito his third ‘W’ in the last four outings. Zito went seven fanning eight while walking four to lower his ERA to 4.54. Not bad. At least, they’re finally getting a return on the once failed $126 million investment. Bob Howry worked a scoreless eighth and closer Brian Wilson tossed a 1-2-3 ninth including Brandon Boggs swinging to end it for his 19th save.
Give credit to veteran skipper Bruce Bochy, who despite no big bats has his club playing very well. Yes. The Giants at 37-31 lead the wildcard. Of course, it’s still early with a slew of teams including the Brewers, Cubs, sizzling Rockies who are invoking 2007 memories, Reds, Mets and Marlins all closeby. But you have to tip your cap to the former San Diego manager. His best bats are his catcher Bengie Molina, who hits cleanup, leadoff center fielder Aaron Rowand and heavy third baseman Pablo Sandoval, who swings a good stick. While all have proved to be solid players, none are what you’d deem scary. The Giants are getting zilch from free agent shortstop Edgar Renteria. Yet somehow, with a bunch of no-names and the majors’ deepest staff, they’re finding ways to win. It doesn’t matter how. They all count.
Will the Giants hang around long enough for maybe GM Brian Sabean to do something like perhaps add a bat? It sure would be nice to see.
-As for the Rockies, what can you say. They’ve now won five straight following a weekend sweep of the Pirates. And that’s 16 of 17 suddenly making them wildcard players at 36-33. They’re 16-4 in the month of June and show no signs of letting up. Why the improvement under vet skipper Jim Tracy? Because they’re hitting better with Clint Barmes now their everyday second baseman and former first round pick Ian Stewart showing some pop at the hot corner in place of slumping Garrett Atkins, who for one day cameback and contributed with an RBI playing first to give vet Todd Helton a day off.
They come up with big hits and also are pitching better with Tracy allowing his starters to go deeper into games. Josh Fogg and Joel Peralta have been steady bullpen influences getting the ball to closer Huston Street, who has saved eight in a row following a slow start.
Colorado will get a good test over the next week on a nine-game road trip with stops at the Halo’s, A’s and Dodgers. They’ll have three solid starters in a pair of six-game winners Aaron Cook and Ubaldo Jimenez. Plus nine-game winner Jason Marquis. Yep. That same Marquis who became the odd man out of the Windy City. Remarkable stuff. As a native Staten Islander who grew up in the same village as him we’re awfully proud.
-Ain’t it kinda sad that Andruw Jones has as many homers (8) as Met co-leader Carlos Beltran (8)?
-And how does one explain David Wright pacing the senior circuit with a .344 average but striking out 69 times in 252 at bats? And he only has four long balls. Insane.
-Best wishes to ex-Met left fielder Endy Chavez, who accidentally collided with Seattle teammate shortstop Yuniesky Betancourt and had to be carted off the field after tearing his ACL and MCL. The former Game Seven 2006 NLCS near Amazin hero is done for the rest of the season and could miss part of next Spring. Hope he makes it back.
Rafael Nadal won't be able to defend Wimbledon. We'll sure miss him but will Roger Federer as he goes for history?
It’s early Saturday morning and the start of another unpredictable New York weekend. Here’s a few things floating around our sleepy head:
1.The Mets must never want the Phillies to hit the road given how brutal they’ve performed. The losing streak’s up to four allowing Fernando Nieve and the Amazin’s to gain more ground, pulling within two games of first thanks to a 5-3 home win over the Rays. Meanwhile, the Phils were routed by the Orioles de-proving to 1-6 versus AL East visitors. Yikes.
2.The Yanks did just fine without Alex Rodriguez, who gets the first two games back in Florida off. Apparently, the Marlins were the right elixir for Andy Pettite, who allowed just a run fanning seven for his seventh win. And hey. A-Rod’s replacement Angel Berroa chipped in with an RBI hit. It added up to a 5-1 win, gaining a game on the Red Sox, who fell to Atlanta 8-2.
3.The Yanks and Mets are both two out of first. Weird.
4.I really am bummed about Rafael Nadal pulling out of Wimbledon due to a chronic knee. The exciting 23 year-old Spaniard won’t be able to defend his crown. So, there will be no Nadal-Roger Federer rematch. He made the right call after dropping consecutive exhibitions the past two days to Lleyton Hewitt and Stanislas Wawrinka. That wouldn’t have boded well the next two weeks trying to win seven competitive best three of five matches.
5.The door is now open for Federer to reclaim the grass with a sixth Wimbledon and pass Pete Sampras. The toughest competition should come from No.3 Scot Andy Murray, who has a decent draw. Perhaps this major could be his breakthrough as he tries to become the first English player to win Wimbledon since Fred Perry (1936). Other possible men’s contenders should come from No.4 Novak Djokovic and sixth seeded American Andy Roddick, who has a great draw with possible competition coming from Nikolay Davydenko and Juan Martin Del Potro. The best a tennis fan can hope for is a Roddick-Murray semi with Federer taking on Djokovic. A Federer-Murray final would at least help make up for no Rafa.
6.If the Knicks are smart, they’ll go for Ty Lawson over Stephen Curry. While I do believe Curry will be an excellent pro, he’s not what the Knicks need. Lawson is super fast and a true point guard, who guided the Tar Heels to the NCAA title. Forget his lack of size. He can get to the basket but is pass first and can finish when needed. Try telling that to Mike Lupica and the rest of the so-called experts in this city.
7.If the Nets really are serious about trading Devin Harris for a first round pick, they’re even dumber than first thought.
8.I’m so glad Shaq and Kobe are on good terms again.
9.Sidney Crosby winning the Stanley Cup is great for the NHL but he still should have showed up for the Awards in Vegas the other night. Speaking of which, will Sid The Kid, Evgeni Malkin and the Pens be making an appearance on Letterman? Or will NBC try to get them for Conan? You’d think they would considering the kind of ratings that Game 7 generated.
10.Gotta love two-time Hart/Pearson winner Alex Ovechkin making wise cracks about fellow Russian Malkin’s lack of English.
11.Phil Mickelson. Not Tiger would be the better story this weekend. That’s if they can actually get some holes in before the rain.
12.Dante Stallworth getting 30 days for killing a bystander while being impaired has to be some sorta bad joke. So what if he settled with the suffering family. That’s hardly enough punishment. Drinking irresponsibly costs lives. When will the double standards with star athletes finally end? How does Mike Vick serve 18 months for dog fighting losing everything and Stallworth doesn’t even get half that?
13.He deserves to serve serious time for what he did because it was disgusting but 45 years seems like a lot for Mel Hall.
14.When it does get going Monday, I”ll miss those rain delays at the All England Club.
15.Can a woman other than a Williams sister win the crown? I hope Maria Sharapova takes out Serena. What will be her excuse this time? She needs to be more like older sis Venus. Lose gracefully.
16.Five NBA Draft sleepers this Thursday who likely won’t get scooped up till the second round:
1.SG Wesley Matthews, Marquette
2.PF Dante Cunningham, Villanova
3.SF Danny Green, North Carolina
4.PG Darren Collison, UCLA
5.SG Dionte Christmas, Temple
17.As a huge hockey fan, I really hope the Islanders make the right choice with the No.1 overall pick next Friday in Montreal.
18.Don’t the Devils need to find a coach before July 1?
19.Every Ranger fan is praying Glen Sather doesn’t screw up yet again.
20.Every now and then, America needs an old classic to appreciate like The Animal’s “House Of The Rising Sun” seen here:
21.That’s for you Dad. You’ve always supported both me and my brother no matter what. I can’t say enough in this space to make it up to you. You’re the best father anyone could ever ask for. Here’s hoping one day soon, we all get to celebrate something special with our Rangers at our second home. So it’s a day early. Happy Father’s Day!
So, who suffered a worse loss last night? The 200-plus million Yankees, who somehow scored two runs the last two days against one of the worst teams in baseball history- even getting shutout 3-0 by the Nats at the Golden Palace after a six hour rain delay. Meaning yes Mike Francesa, who proclaimed the Yanks wouldn’t lose last night. Joe Girardi’s ballclub really lost a series at home to a 16-win team.
Or is it the Mets, who showed their usual grit rallying from two down versus n0-name Birds’ rookie starter Jason Berken to build a 4-2 lead before the wheels came off late with normally dependable Francisco Rodriguez blowing the save in a horrible 5-4 loss at Camden Yards? Meaning they also dropped two of three to the last place O’s, who entered the series with 27 wins as one of the AL’s worst.
Not a good June April day to be a New York baseball fan. Of course, WFAN has been flooded with rain with plenty of calls from upset locals over this crisis. So, what’s worse? Come on. It’s definitely Girardi’s high priced Yanks dropping two in a row to beleaguered Manny Acta and the Nats with Jim Riggleman rumored to be taking over any day now. How can Girardi explain how poorly his team performed? If you can’t score runs, you can’t win. Understood. But against the Washington Generals- to borrow a line from our fave FAN talkie Steve Somers?!?!?!?!?! Like one of our favorite Weezer songs from the blue album, “Say It Ain’t So.”
Thanks to a rain shortened Marlins’ 2-1 win at Fenway over the Red Sox, the Yanks remain three out. Hardly a bad place to be considering that they’ve stunk it up the last week. Let’s face it. Had it not been for a Luis Castillo drop, that would’ve been three straight series defeats and a dreadful 2-7 record. Still, 3-6 ain’t exactly lighting the world on fire. So, you think if the old Boss was still ticking, Girardi would have a job? Until proven otherwise, the man can’t manage in a big spot.
Judging from their impressive sweep in Philly, the Jays aren’t going away and you have to believe the Rays have a run in them. Loose Translation: It will once again be tooth and nail for the Yanks to reach October. Could they conceivably miss a second consecutive year? Never say never.
As for the Amazin’s, they can send postcards to Boston and Toronto for keeping them within striking distance of first. Because they’re now 5-10 this month. But hey. The Phils continue to have problems winning at Citizen’s Bank Park dropping to preposterous 13-19. The Orioles now come in for three while the Mets return to Citi Field to host Tampa Bay. So, it will be a good test for Jerry Manuel’s club. Oddly enough, both teams are two over looking to get untracked.
The Mets won’s see Matt Garza or DL’d former top prospect Scott Kazmir. The match-ups favor the Queens club with surprising Fernando Nieve facing Andy Sonnanstine in the opener. Shields opposes slumping Johan Santana tomorrow and Sunday pits Jeff Niemann versus Mike Pelfrey. If they get the starting pitching, it’s likely the Mets can bounce back and take two of three. But the Rays’ lineup is much more potent containing MVP candidate Evan Longoria along with first base slugger Carlos Pena, plus speedsters Carl Crawford and B.J. Upton. Even secondary players like Ben Zobrist and Jason Bartlett are threats offsetting Pat Burrell’s dismal showing (1 HR, 18 RBI’s).
As for the Bronx Bombers, they’ll take their show to Florida for three versus the Marlins. Florida is a weird team that’s hanging around two below .500 despite talented superstar Hanley Ramirez (.325-8-34). The supporting cast has streaky power hitters like 2008 All-Star Dan Uggla along with Jorge Cantu, Cody Ross and Jeremy Hermida. Speedster Emilio Bonifacio has struggled since a hot start. Rookie Chris Coghlan is also seeing playing time.
The match-ups for the series pit veteran Andy Pettite against rookie Sean West, who goes for a third straight victory. Florida ace Josh Johnson takes on former 2003 World Champ A.J. Burnett tomorrow and then it’s talented Chris Volstad versus Yankee lefty ace C.C. Sabathia. By no means, do the match-ups favor the Yanks as all three of the younger Florida guys can all pitch. But can they match New York’s savvy experience this weekend? That’s if there’s no rain. Perhaps they’re lucky it’s down south for a change.
Give the edge to the Yankee lineup which is due to explode off such a weak showing the past three days. Maybe this is the weekend Alex Rodriguez (28 for 132, .212-9-26) finally gets going. He’ll be home. Aside from him, there’s Mark Teixeira continuing to mash and Robby Cano heating up with Johnny Damon having a great year. How many games does Jorge Posada get behind the plate? Does Derek Jeter return to the lineup?
With three at Atlanta following an off day and then another Subway Series at the Mets, this becomes a key nine-game road swing (really six) for the Yanks, who don’t return home until June 30 to host Seattle.
We’ll see where they stand. Ditto for their crosstown rival.
Despite losing last night, things aren't looking so bad for the Mets.
-The reality is the Mets have dropped three of five since losing a home series to the division leading Phillies. If you factor in that they lost the last two in that series, that’s a 2-5 record. They’re three over .500 or the same record as the Giants after getting swept by the red hot Halo’s. The big difference is the Amazin’s only are three out despite no Jose Reyes or Carlos Delgado while the Giants trail the first place Dodgers by eight and a half. So, it has more to do with how Philly’s played since losing four of five to Boston and Toronto so far. That’s why now a year on the job, Jerry Manuel should feel alright about his team’s chances.
-Hard to believe it’s been a year since the Mets unceremoniously dumped easy target Willie Randolph with the news not coming in until 3 AM here with WFAN’s Tony Paige getting the news with them on a West Coast trip. Of course, it was embarrassing to say the least. But a year has come and gone and now Willie is a bench coach with the first place Brewers. So, can you really feel bad for him these days? Exactly.
-In listening to Mike Francesa go on and on about his ‘centerfielder’ Nate McLouth, you’d think the Braves would be on a tear. Oh. What’s this? They lost yet again 4-3 to the Reds making it four straight losses, dropping them four under. Wake us up when McLouth makes a big impact in the NL East.
-Speaking of which, Andrew McCutchen went yard for his first major league dinger in a Pittsburgh 8-2 win over Minnesota. With a pair of hits, RBI’s and a run scored in the leadoff spot, the 22 year-old centerfield phenom continues to excel. In other words, the Pirates aren’t missing McLouth that much. Tell ya something else. With the improved run production from third baseman Andy LaRoche, who came over from L.A. in the Manny Ramirez/Jason Bay trade, suddenly Pitt’s getting a decent return. Especially with Delwyn Young also contributing. You start to look at that Pirate lineup and suddenly, given some of the kids in it including speedster Nyier Morgan along with a bounceback year for Adam LaRoche, it’s not bad. When they get back starting backstop Ryan Doumit, that should only help. Proven middle infielders like Freddy Sanchez and Jack Wilson aren’t bad either. Both could be available next month.
The Pirates (31-34) have also gotten good pitching from ace Zach Duke. They possess some strong arms including Ian Snell, who pitched better last night going six frames of two-run ball for only his second win. Paul Maholm ain’t bad either and former Yankee Ross Ohlendorf has given them some solid innings winning half a dozen. John Grabow has been a solid setup man and closer Matt Capps has saved 16 of 18. It’s true that Pittsburgh will likely sell at the trade deadline. However, if they play their cards right and continue developing players, eventually we might see them compete in that NL Central.
-If the Mets are looking for a more affordable first base option, try Seattle where bargain basement vet Russ Branyan is having a great year hitting over .300 with 15 homers, which would easily pace the Queens club. It’s worth exploring instead of overpaying for injury prone Nick Johnson or defenseless Aubrey Huff. Besides, it’s highly unlikely the Padres would give away Adrian Gonzalez. Another possible solution could be proven vet Kevin Millar (Mill-ah) if the Blue Jays fall out of the race. Who wouldn’t want a professional bat like his?
-Kudos to Long Beach, NY native John Lannan on baffling the Yankees- pitching into the ninth allowing just two earned on four hits walking one and fanning four for his fourth victory on the lowly Nats. How do you lose to a team that’s 30 under in your own launching pad? Was it any surprise Robinson Cano didn’t deliver in a big spot, instead bouncing into a 6-4-3 twin killing against retread Mike MacDougal with the tying run 90 feet away? The second baseman’s got good numbers but he’s hardly dependable. A-Rod ain’t the only Yankee that leaves fans scratching their heads.
-How did Joe Girardi’s continued faith in Chien-Ming Wang work out?
5 IP, 3 ER, 6 H, 2 BB, 4 K, 91 pitches
And he took the loss falling to 0-5 with a 12.65 ERA. In the same game, Phil Hughes continued to make a strong case tossing two scoreless while fanning a pair. When does Girardi wake up?
-With a homer and his 28th stolen base, Boston’s Jacoby Ellsbury continues to improve daily. How about a top of the order of rating AL MVP Dustin Pedroia and Ellsbury before big boppers Kevin Youkilis, Bay and Mike Lowell? And that’s with Papi hitting sixth finally showing signs.
-MVP caliber:
2B Ian Kinsler .271-17-47, 47 Runs, 13 SB
All while batting leadoff for the surprising first place Rangers.
-So Sammy Sosa becomes the latest former slugger to test positive for steroids. And this is news?
-The NY-Penn League kicks off tomorrow night in Coney Island with one of the best rivalries reuniting when the Staten Island Yankees visit the Brooklyn Cyclones. The Baby Bombers will be hosting Media Day later today and will have their home opener at the ballpark by the Ferry terminal Saturday night versus the ‘Clones. Looking forward to a great summer!
