Here's my latest for
Mike
senior staff writer/Rising Apple
Showing posts with label Bartolo Colon. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Bartolo Colon. Show all posts
Monday, August 15, 2016
Sunday, July 10, 2016
N.Y. Mets: Bartolo Colon Never More Important to Amazin's Than Now
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
Bartolo Colon's next appearance will be in the 2016 All-Star Game.
But if FIP stands for Fading Ineffective Pitcher, the Mets are in trouble.
NEW YORK METS: Was Big Sexy's latest regular season start an omen of things to come?
Prior to his arrival in Flushing, Bartolo Colon hadn't pitched 200 innings in a season since 2005 for the Los Angeles Angels.
Despite turning 40 years old in 2013, he parlayed 30 starts and 190.1 innings pitched for the Oakland A's into a two-year pact with the Mets.
For a number of Mets fans, myself included, Bartolo Colon's price, age, and conditioning, were all immediate points of contention upon his signing here.
Colon went on to make 31 starts in 2014, and clock 202.1 innings pitched for the first time in nine years. Last year's 33 appearances were likewise his most since the 2005 season.
Signing another one year contract this past off-season ensured his ongoing swan song would continue playing out in Flushing.
He owns a 7-4 record so far this season, but was taken off the hook with a no decision after experiencing his worst start to date on July 7, in which he allowed the Washington Nationals six earned runs on ten hits (three home runs) in just 4.2 innings pitched. That game caused his 2.87 ERA to spike to 3.28, which is still well below his combined 4.12 ERA during his first two seasons here.
Since 2014, Colon is 29-26 with a 3.96 ERA over 81 overall appearances and 495.2 innings pitched for the Mets.
Despite having his own professional and personal skeletons to speak of, in two and a half seasons he not only managed to flip naysayers like me, but actually became an endearing figure beyond being a consistently professional pitcher to behold.
The seemingly indefatigable Big Sexy turned 43 years old this season, and in short time will make the 500th appearance of his 19 year career. He's presently sitting on 493 career appearances, and fast becoming the most important stud in the Mets stable.
Would the Mets be wise in regulating him to every sixth day for sake of maximizing any enduring effectiveness he has left? I'm sure most would argue in favor of continuing along business as usual.
In truth, Bartolo has so far made eight starts on five days rest, and eight starts on six days rest, and indeed nothing about his splits indicate a change is even warranted.
So why do I feel Terry Collins would get a fresher, sharper Bartolo Colon, versus just some serviceable performer bridging games till the starting rotation circles back to Jacob deGrom and Noah Syndergaard again - that pulling back just a little, will enable him to continue being a more effective work horse over a longer haul?
The Mets are in a bind with increasingly less margin for error ... or injury.
ICYMI:
For three seasons now, many fans have feared realizing Bartolo Colon's inevitable law of diminished returns. So how much longer can this time bandit go? Being a cult favorite is one matter ... continuing to defy conventional thinking is another.
He hasn't deviated much away from his career numbers. There's one statistic, however, that has my attention. After averaging a 3.65 FIP from 2011 through 2015, Colon's present 4.12 FIP is sitting at a six year high. And after posting a +0.52 ERA/FIP differential in 2014, and a +0.32 differential last season, Colon has plummeted to a -0.84 this season, similarly a six year low.
That's all I got. Quite obviously, there exist a great many more matters regarding what to do about the Mets suddenly plagued starting pitching than broached within this page.
Colon's next appearance will likely occur during his fourth ever All-Star game (in place of Madison Bumgarner) this upcoming Tuesday in San Diego.
After which, the season takes on much greater meaning, while play itself increases in intensity.
I once learned about the seven P's, that proper prior planning prevents piss poor performance.
As it pertains to Bartolo Colon and the Mets, that phrase never rang more true.
Monday, October 05, 2015
N.Y. Mets: Podcast #119 - Calm Before the Storm
Here's our latest podcast at
The four most senior writers at Rising Apple put a ribbon on the season that was,
and turned (our) attention towards the post-season ahead.
We left no topic unspoken..
Our full NLDS Preview Show will most likely take place Thursday evening.
Mike
senior staff writer/Rising Apple
Friday, August 14, 2015
The Friday Recap: Bobby Parnell blows wind into Pirates sails; Mets lose 3-2 in 10th
Here's my Friday (un-Happy) Recap for
(63-53)
Forty-six games left in season.
ICYMI:
Forty-six games left in season.
ICYMI:
With regards to Bobby Parnell, Mike Silve was right,
and I was wrong. Take a listen.
Join me every week for
The Friday Recap.
Mike
senior staff writer/Rising Apple
Friday, June 12, 2015
The Friday Recap: Colon Wins 9th, and Flores Hits 10th in 5-3 Win Over Braves
Here's my Friday Recap for
Friday Night Final:
Braves 3
METS 5
Check in every week for my
Friday Night Recap
Mike
senior staff writer/Rising Apple
Friday, May 15, 2015
The Friday Recap: Bartolo Colon thumped; Mets whitewashed 7-0 by Brewers
Here's tonight's Mets Game Recap
for RisingApple.com
Mets lose 5th in a row...
a/o Thursday, May 14
Check in every week for my
Friday Night Recap
Mike
senior staff writer/Rising Apple
Friday, April 17, 2015
N.Y. Mets: Beasts of the East
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
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NEW YORK METS: Overcome injuries, suspensions, and comedy of errors, to post 7-3 record in first 10 games.
Despite several key injuries, the Mets have posted a 7-3 record over their first 10 games of the season. The last five of those victories came consecutively over the Braves, a sweep of the Phillies, and by taking the series opener Thursday night over the Marlins.
And, of course, they took the opening series of the season from the Nationals.
All that has the Mets in first place of the N.L. East.
The atmosphere was electric as Matt Harvey returned to the mound at Citi Field for the first time since 2013, then earned his second victory of the season over the Phillies. In 6 innings of work he fanned 8 batters, and exacted a measure of revenge against the Phillies after two Mets batters were hit by pitches, when he plunked Chase Utley and glared at him on his way to first. Just for the record, Utley homered twice in the game, once against Harvey in the opening frame.
Bartolo Colon, who makes his third start of the season Friday night, is so far 2-0 with a 2.77 ERA. In 13 innings pitched, he has 13 strikeouts, and a 0.77 WHiP.
In the early going, Jacob deGrom has also demonstrated the effectiveness that earned him Rookie of the Year last season.
My eyes will be focused on Jon Niese this season, as to whether he is indeed recovered from shoulder issues that hindered his performance over the previous two seasons. He has so far allowed 16 hits and 4 walks in 11.1 innings pitched.
With Bobby Parnell and Vic Black yet to return to duty, and Jenrry Mejia incurring an 80-game suspension for his recent positive PED/steriod test result, the Mets bullpen has nevertheless remained solid.
A late Spring Training trade acquisition, Jerry Blevins has performed very well in 5 appearances. In 3.1 innings he fanned 4 batters, walked none, and has earned a victory and 3 holds thus far.
Jeurys Familia has earned 4 saves as the team's de facto closer.
At the plate, Lucas Duda is out to prove last year's break-out season was no fluke. He leads the team with 38 at-bats, and is slashing .395/.439/.632, with 6 doubles, 6 runs scored, and 8 RBI, which accounts for a full 1/3 of all the Mets runs (41) scored so far.
Travis d'Arnaud is batting .297, and is tied with Duda with a team leading 8 RBI.
With 11 walks, a .390 OBP, and a team leading 7 runs scored in 30 at-bats, it can be argued Curtis Granderson is serving the lead-off spot well. However, he is batting a mere .167 with no extra base hits.
* * *
What's old is new... Jenrry Mejia went old-school in his choice of steroid.
!Que Bruto!
* * *
Injuries continue to test the Mets' mettle: Zack Wheeler; Josh Edgin; Bobby Parnell; Vic Black; and now David Wright.
* * *
Red Alert! All 7 of the Mets errors this season have come up the middle - Wilmer Flores 3; Daniel Murphy 2; Ruben Tejada and Travis d'Arnaud one each.
Mike
Wednesday, April 08, 2015
N.Y. Mets: First Strange Decision of the Season
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
New York Mets: First Game Of Season Produces First Questionable Decision.
One game into the season and we have our first controversy - Lineup Gate - that Monday's lineup was largely influenced by Sandy Alderson and was an exercise in Money Ball philosophy.
C. Granderson
D. Wright
L. Duda
M. Cuddyer
D. Murphy
J. Lagares
W. Flores
T. d'Arnaud
Why have a manager then.., to make sure they don't bat out of order? Or, as I've heard, to get the best hitters the most at-bats?
*sigh*
Did the Mets need to create a controversy so early?
Curtis Granderson was signed to provide power, not bat lead-off. And after gearing-up Juan Lagares to bat lead-off all Spring, they bat him fifth?
Brought to you by your resident over thinkers...
What I took away from game #1:
Bartolo Colon and the Meta were able to wait-out Max Scherzer until the Nat's became the first team to blink.
Lucas Duda and Travis d'Anaud coming through with a pair of big, late, clutch hits, making the Nationals pay for their defensive miscues.
Wilmer Flores made a solid play ranging to his right, and making a long throw to first base ending the game.
Down Goes Mejia:
The man already has one Tommy John surgery on his resume. Mejia has now been placed on the DL with (inflammation) pain in his elbow. An MRI showed no ligament or structural damage.
This might only be a short term setback, but this nevertheless makes the 3rd compromised pitcher for the Mets after Zack Wheeler and Josh Edgin. Even then, the Mets newly established depth still seems able to absorb this loss as well.
Mike
New York Mets: First Game Of Season Produces First Questionable Decision.
One game into the season and we have our first controversy - Lineup Gate - that Monday's lineup was largely influenced by Sandy Alderson and was an exercise in Money Ball philosophy.
C. Granderson
D. Wright
L. Duda
M. Cuddyer
D. Murphy
J. Lagares
W. Flores
T. d'Arnaud
Why have a manager then.., to make sure they don't bat out of order? Or, as I've heard, to get the best hitters the most at-bats?
*sigh*
Did the Mets need to create a controversy so early?
Curtis Granderson was signed to provide power, not bat lead-off. And after gearing-up Juan Lagares to bat lead-off all Spring, they bat him fifth?
Brought to you by your resident over thinkers...
What I took away from game #1:
Bartolo Colon and the Meta were able to wait-out Max Scherzer until the Nat's became the first team to blink.
Lucas Duda and Travis d'Anaud coming through with a pair of big, late, clutch hits, making the Nationals pay for their defensive miscues.
Wilmer Flores made a solid play ranging to his right, and making a long throw to first base ending the game.
Down Goes Mejia:
The man already has one Tommy John surgery on his resume. Mejia has now been placed on the DL with (inflammation) pain in his elbow. An MRI showed no ligament or structural damage.
This might only be a short term setback, but this nevertheless makes the 3rd compromised pitcher for the Mets after Zack Wheeler and Josh Edgin. Even then, the Mets newly established depth still seems able to absorb this loss as well.
Mike
Saturday, June 14, 2014
Today For Rising Apple: Friday Recap - Old Guys Lead Mets In 6-2 Victory Over Padres
Here's the latest for
Join me every week for the Friday recap.
Mike.BTB
Senior Staff Writer/Rising Apple
Saturday, December 14, 2013
N.Y. Mets: Tabulating Sandy Alderson's Dollar On The Muscle
From the desk of: HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET
NEW YORK METS: Cost Effective Risk Management Was Something Lost On The Previous Regime.
Considering the Mets only really needed to rent a quality starter for one season, at $20 million for two years, Sandy Alderson may have signed the best pitcher available for the dollar. Pending a physical, the terms of the agreement call for less years and less money, than it potentially would have taken to secure Bronson Arroyo, who was last rumored to be seeking $14 million over four seasons.
Comparatively, Hiroki Kuroda re-signed with the Yankees for one year at $16 million. Scott Kazmir received $22 million for two years. Tim Husdon signed for $23 million over two years. Phil Hughes signed for three years at $24 million, and Ricky Nolaso signed a four year $49 million dollar pact. So, it appears to me, the Mets did well to only spend $10 million a season on a much needed free agent starting pitcher.
Bartolo Colon will be 41 years old next May, which has already caused anxiety in some, and is considered out of shape. But to whom? He has worn his weight well over the years. If it works for him, then it works for me. As for as his age, Bartolo Colon is the type who constantly pounds the strike zone with fast balls - a quality I appreciate. He missed all of the 2010 regular season, and between 2006 and 2009 only managed 48 appearances. So, he's not exactly worn like a 41 year old might, and his arm now seems sound.
He pitched the last two seasons for the Oakland A's, compiling a 28-15 record with a 2.99 ERA, in 342.2 innings pitched. Last year, he made 30 starts, and posted an 18-6 record, with a 2.65 ERA. In 190.1 innings pitched, he surrendered 193 hits, walked only 29, for a 1.166 WHiP, and struck out 117 batters.
Of course, there's an obvious dark side to this. Colon tested positive for testosterone in 2012, and served 45 games, of a 50-game suspension. In 2013, he served the final five games before rejoining the Oakland A's. To naysayers, winning 18 games as an overweight 40-year old puts him squarely under the suspicion of PED usage again. All I can say is have faith in the testing procedure, and carry on. Should he come up hot on a test, he's done - banned for 100 games, and effectively out of baseball. The Mets will escape with no money lost, and relatively no harm done. After all, he was signed to be a fourth starter, and the Mets have talented pitchers on the way.
Sandy Alderson's first free agent signing this off-season was outfielder Chris Young, whom he signed to a one year, $7.25 million dollar contract. When you consider the ridiculous amounts of money being tossed around like confetti, the initial shock of Chris Young's price tag quickly dissipates.
Among the more ludicrous deals consummated this off-season, were those underwritten by the Yankees, who gave Jacoby Ellsbury $153 million over 7 years, and Carlos Beltran $45 million for 3 years. Here on Earth, Marlon Byrd received $16 million for 2 years, David DeJesus signed for 2 years at $10.5 million, David Murphy signed for $12 million over 2 years, and Rajai Davis will earn $10 million over 2 years. Alderson's one year, $7.25 million investment into Chris Young almost seems below market now, as the potential return on Young seems moderate to surprisingly good.
A former Arizona Diamondback, Chris Young spent last year with Oakland where he only batted .200 in 335 at-bats. Unfortunately, that's only 35-points off his career .235 average, so, the initial groans heard in rapid response to his signing were justified.
But the potential for power is there - slugging average, not so much. In his first full MLB season in 2007, he hit 32 home runs in 569 at-bats. He then hit 22 home runs as a sophomore, and dropped to 11 home runs the following season. Young rebounded with 27 home runs in 2010, and hit 20 home runs in 2011, before being reduced to a part time player over the last two seasons. And therein lies where Alderson believes the cause of Chris Young's troubles exists. The general manager promised Young the opportunity of getting 500 at-bats again, albeit, playing in any of the three outfield positions.
Price aside, Sandy Alderson is taking a big risk. His best season came in 2010, when Chris Young batted .257, hit 27 home runs, 33 doubles, had 91 RBI, and even stole 28 bases. He is not a notorious slugger though. His highest mark came back in 2007, when he slugged .467 for the season. Since then, he only slugged above .450 one other time, and only owns a career .431 mark.
Therefore, Chris Young is a player that needs to be kept within context. If you look at him out of context, Young easily strikes many as a fool hardy signing. At $7.25 million, he was signed as a one year, stopgap, supplementary outfielder. He does not project as a third slot batter, clean-up hitter, or a fifth hitter in the Mets line-up. He seems destined to bat sixth, behind Wright, Granderson, and very likely, Lucas Duda. If Chris Young can merely hit to his career averages next season - 24 home runs, 73 RBI, .235 average, .315 OBP, and .431 slugging, the deal will prove price worthy. But, easier said than done. Generally speaking, players love hitting in Arizona's park - Citi Field, not so much.
In between those two previous signings came the sandwich meat, the protein portion of the Mets off-season meal - Curtis Granderson. At $15 million a season over four years, is Curtis Granderson a savvy signing? Again, the answer is yes, but for many applied reasons.
Granderson is Sandy Alderson's most lucrative signing to date. The deal is relatively short term, and straight forward. Curtis addressed very specific needs without having to enter the realm of ultra-mega, and prohibitive contracts.
Last year, and even the previous two years, the Mets were widely ridiculed as needing an entire outfield. That issue has now been extinguished with two purchases, and a clutch of in-house options that should give the Mets five capable outfielders to work with.
With the outfield's shortcomings, and the need for increased power at the plate addressed, the same can be said of the starting rotation. The Mets needed someone to keep Matt Harvey's spot in the rotation warm until his return. The acquisition of Bartolo Colon potentially satisfies that.
Sandy Alderson's total bill on these three players will amount to $32.25 million next season, then Chris Young comes off the books. After 2015, Colon comes off the books, which keeps the Mets obligated to just $30 million over two years for Granderson. Three smartly staggered contracts will serve the Mets payroll flexibility very well. On top of that, the GM has satisfied two of the club's major needs, and will enter the season with a payroll near $90 million dollars, which, for 2014, should not be regarded as being New York cheap, but instead should be viewed as smart spending. Isn't that what we accused the Omar Minaya regime of doing - spending wrongly?
Solving a dilemma at shortstop, clarifying the situation at first base, and addressing the bullpen are what remain before Spring Training, but the bulk of the work for 2014 is done.
We know Sandy Alderson is cryptic, and leaves room to read between the lines. There are two things in particular he said that I am clinging to like velcro. One is, the GM said he is having fun at his job. The second item he intimated about was to be on the look-out for surprises.
He is likely done signing free agents this off-season, but maybe there's still room to buy a relief pitcher. Otherwise, it's trading season now. As a Mets executive, that is what Alderson has done best.
Mike.BTB
Are there any more dollars on the money tree?
NEW YORK METS: Cost Effective Risk Management Was Something Lost On The Previous Regime.
Considering the Mets only really needed to rent a quality starter for one season, at $20 million for two years, Sandy Alderson may have signed the best pitcher available for the dollar. Pending a physical, the terms of the agreement call for less years and less money, than it potentially would have taken to secure Bronson Arroyo, who was last rumored to be seeking $14 million over four seasons.
Comparatively, Hiroki Kuroda re-signed with the Yankees for one year at $16 million. Scott Kazmir received $22 million for two years. Tim Husdon signed for $23 million over two years. Phil Hughes signed for three years at $24 million, and Ricky Nolaso signed a four year $49 million dollar pact. So, it appears to me, the Mets did well to only spend $10 million a season on a much needed free agent starting pitcher.
Bartolo Colon will be 41 years old next May, which has already caused anxiety in some, and is considered out of shape. But to whom? He has worn his weight well over the years. If it works for him, then it works for me. As for as his age, Bartolo Colon is the type who constantly pounds the strike zone with fast balls - a quality I appreciate. He missed all of the 2010 regular season, and between 2006 and 2009 only managed 48 appearances. So, he's not exactly worn like a 41 year old might, and his arm now seems sound.
He pitched the last two seasons for the Oakland A's, compiling a 28-15 record with a 2.99 ERA, in 342.2 innings pitched. Last year, he made 30 starts, and posted an 18-6 record, with a 2.65 ERA. In 190.1 innings pitched, he surrendered 193 hits, walked only 29, for a 1.166 WHiP, and struck out 117 batters.
Of course, there's an obvious dark side to this. Colon tested positive for testosterone in 2012, and served 45 games, of a 50-game suspension. In 2013, he served the final five games before rejoining the Oakland A's. To naysayers, winning 18 games as an overweight 40-year old puts him squarely under the suspicion of PED usage again. All I can say is have faith in the testing procedure, and carry on. Should he come up hot on a test, he's done - banned for 100 games, and effectively out of baseball. The Mets will escape with no money lost, and relatively no harm done. After all, he was signed to be a fourth starter, and the Mets have talented pitchers on the way.
Sandy Alderson's first free agent signing this off-season was outfielder Chris Young, whom he signed to a one year, $7.25 million dollar contract. When you consider the ridiculous amounts of money being tossed around like confetti, the initial shock of Chris Young's price tag quickly dissipates.
Among the more ludicrous deals consummated this off-season, were those underwritten by the Yankees, who gave Jacoby Ellsbury $153 million over 7 years, and Carlos Beltran $45 million for 3 years. Here on Earth, Marlon Byrd received $16 million for 2 years, David DeJesus signed for 2 years at $10.5 million, David Murphy signed for $12 million over 2 years, and Rajai Davis will earn $10 million over 2 years. Alderson's one year, $7.25 million investment into Chris Young almost seems below market now, as the potential return on Young seems moderate to surprisingly good.
A former Arizona Diamondback, Chris Young spent last year with Oakland where he only batted .200 in 335 at-bats. Unfortunately, that's only 35-points off his career .235 average, so, the initial groans heard in rapid response to his signing were justified.
But the potential for power is there - slugging average, not so much. In his first full MLB season in 2007, he hit 32 home runs in 569 at-bats. He then hit 22 home runs as a sophomore, and dropped to 11 home runs the following season. Young rebounded with 27 home runs in 2010, and hit 20 home runs in 2011, before being reduced to a part time player over the last two seasons. And therein lies where Alderson believes the cause of Chris Young's troubles exists. The general manager promised Young the opportunity of getting 500 at-bats again, albeit, playing in any of the three outfield positions.
Price aside, Sandy Alderson is taking a big risk. His best season came in 2010, when Chris Young batted .257, hit 27 home runs, 33 doubles, had 91 RBI, and even stole 28 bases. He is not a notorious slugger though. His highest mark came back in 2007, when he slugged .467 for the season. Since then, he only slugged above .450 one other time, and only owns a career .431 mark.
Therefore, Chris Young is a player that needs to be kept within context. If you look at him out of context, Young easily strikes many as a fool hardy signing. At $7.25 million, he was signed as a one year, stopgap, supplementary outfielder. He does not project as a third slot batter, clean-up hitter, or a fifth hitter in the Mets line-up. He seems destined to bat sixth, behind Wright, Granderson, and very likely, Lucas Duda. If Chris Young can merely hit to his career averages next season - 24 home runs, 73 RBI, .235 average, .315 OBP, and .431 slugging, the deal will prove price worthy. But, easier said than done. Generally speaking, players love hitting in Arizona's park - Citi Field, not so much.
In between those two previous signings came the sandwich meat, the protein portion of the Mets off-season meal - Curtis Granderson. At $15 million a season over four years, is Curtis Granderson a savvy signing? Again, the answer is yes, but for many applied reasons.
Granderson is Sandy Alderson's most lucrative signing to date. The deal is relatively short term, and straight forward. Curtis addressed very specific needs without having to enter the realm of ultra-mega, and prohibitive contracts.
Last year, and even the previous two years, the Mets were widely ridiculed as needing an entire outfield. That issue has now been extinguished with two purchases, and a clutch of in-house options that should give the Mets five capable outfielders to work with.
With the outfield's shortcomings, and the need for increased power at the plate addressed, the same can be said of the starting rotation. The Mets needed someone to keep Matt Harvey's spot in the rotation warm until his return. The acquisition of Bartolo Colon potentially satisfies that.
Sandy Alderson's total bill on these three players will amount to $32.25 million next season, then Chris Young comes off the books. After 2015, Colon comes off the books, which keeps the Mets obligated to just $30 million over two years for Granderson. Three smartly staggered contracts will serve the Mets payroll flexibility very well. On top of that, the GM has satisfied two of the club's major needs, and will enter the season with a payroll near $90 million dollars, which, for 2014, should not be regarded as being New York cheap, but instead should be viewed as smart spending. Isn't that what we accused the Omar Minaya regime of doing - spending wrongly?
Solving a dilemma at shortstop, clarifying the situation at first base, and addressing the bullpen are what remain before Spring Training, but the bulk of the work for 2014 is done.
We know Sandy Alderson is cryptic, and leaves room to read between the lines. There are two things in particular he said that I am clinging to like velcro. One is, the GM said he is having fun at his job. The second item he intimated about was to be on the look-out for surprises.
He is likely done signing free agents this off-season, but maybe there's still room to buy a relief pitcher. Otherwise, it's trading season now. As a Mets executive, that is what Alderson has done best.
Mike.BTB
Sunday, August 07, 2011
N.Y. Yankees ~ Red Sox Strike Back in Game Two
From the desk of: BLAME CARLOS MAY
THE SHOWDOWN ON LANSDOWNE STREET
As you know, keeping the American League's number one offense under three runs a game is a monumental task; - Just ask C.C. But let's be real on this one. After all he's done, doesn't C.C. deserve a pass regarding Saturday afternoon's thumping? Arguing your Staff Ace let the team down against your arch rival is your prerogative should you chose to go that way. I'm not a fan, remember?
But, in my thinking, this series was never about C.C. and I'd be willing to deal with his little dip on Pitch-O-Meter; especially after a seven game winning streak. This weekend is still about Bartolo Colon and Freddie Garcia, and how they were going to respond when the Yankees needed wins on demand; like if it was the playoffs. This series was and is a great test to see how they would respond in a short series. Because even Yankee fans have to admit, you have limited TRUST in the two pitchers. Before playoff rosters are set and players can no longer be passed through waivers, you need more assurances don't you?
Freddie Garcia is next. He'll throw his junk at the Sawx, opposing Josh Beckett Sunday night.
This isn't about winning two of three games this series. This isn't really about occupying first place on August 8th. This series is really meaningless in the grand scheme of things. The Wild Card watered down races like this; look there for reasons why this series is meaningless. That's why I wouldn't be too preoccupied with C.C.'s stinker against Boston Saturday. Instead this now becomes about Freddie Garcia and can he dial up a game that takes the onus off the offense and places it squarely on his right arm's ability to stymie the Red Sox regardless of how well or how badly Josh Beckett handles his business. Garcia is going to HAVE to do it eventually. So like I said, this is a test.
Bartolo Colon passed his.
THE SHOWDOWN ON LANSDOWNE STREET
New York Yankees (1-1)
vs.
BOSTON RED SOX (1-1)
GAME THREE
SUNDAY NIGHT
new york YANKEES: Two Pitchers Are Still Trying to Win Trust As Well As Games. Bartolo Colon Represented Well Friday. Now Freddie Needs To Master Sunday Night.
In my last NYY posting prior to the series start, I said a Hard Luck Loss; ...not a pounding loss, would still serve a Yankee pitcher's confidence well. Sabathia's day isn't exactly what I had in mind.
In the series that means nothing, I thought the Yankees' starting pitching was in need of dialing-up three rock solid performances on demand against the Red Sox. If for no other reason, I felt they needed to do it just so they know they can. After all, the Yankees haven't fared very well against Boston this season. As the season enters it's final third, the Yankees still have a rotation to figure out with numerous bodies and limited jobs. It's not a bad problem to have.
With two or three of them, it boils down to a matter of trust. And two of them for sure; Colon and Garcia; to a large extent, got the Yanks in this position atop the division. But did/do you trust them? Now that Friday's game is out of the way, did Bartolo Colon's 94 pitch/4.2 innings pitched effort provide you with any more confidence he will still be effective through the remaining Dog Days of Summer and into October?
I'm not a Yankee fan as you know, but I'd feel good coming off Friday's win. His performance is what you needed and it's what you got. It was a shorter outing than you would have liked, but your bullpen is a strength and they picked him up superbly Friday night. The point is, Bartolo dialed it up, and chipped in to keep the Red Sox under three runs for the game just when the Yanks needed him to; in game one of a series with both teams tied for first.
In the series that means nothing, I thought the Yankees' starting pitching was in need of dialing-up three rock solid performances on demand against the Red Sox. If for no other reason, I felt they needed to do it just so they know they can. After all, the Yankees haven't fared very well against Boston this season. As the season enters it's final third, the Yankees still have a rotation to figure out with numerous bodies and limited jobs. It's not a bad problem to have.
With two or three of them, it boils down to a matter of trust. And two of them for sure; Colon and Garcia; to a large extent, got the Yanks in this position atop the division. But did/do you trust them? Now that Friday's game is out of the way, did Bartolo Colon's 94 pitch/4.2 innings pitched effort provide you with any more confidence he will still be effective through the remaining Dog Days of Summer and into October?
I'm not a Yankee fan as you know, but I'd feel good coming off Friday's win. His performance is what you needed and it's what you got. It was a shorter outing than you would have liked, but your bullpen is a strength and they picked him up superbly Friday night. The point is, Bartolo dialed it up, and chipped in to keep the Red Sox under three runs for the game just when the Yanks needed him to; in game one of a series with both teams tied for first.
As you know, keeping the American League's number one offense under three runs a game is a monumental task; - Just ask C.C. But let's be real on this one. After all he's done, doesn't C.C. deserve a pass regarding Saturday afternoon's thumping? Arguing your Staff Ace let the team down against your arch rival is your prerogative should you chose to go that way. I'm not a fan, remember?
But, in my thinking, this series was never about C.C. and I'd be willing to deal with his little dip on Pitch-O-Meter; especially after a seven game winning streak. This weekend is still about Bartolo Colon and Freddie Garcia, and how they were going to respond when the Yankees needed wins on demand; like if it was the playoffs. This series was and is a great test to see how they would respond in a short series. Because even Yankee fans have to admit, you have limited TRUST in the two pitchers. Before playoff rosters are set and players can no longer be passed through waivers, you need more assurances don't you?
Freddie Garcia is next. He'll throw his junk at the Sawx, opposing Josh Beckett Sunday night.
This isn't about winning two of three games this series. This isn't really about occupying first place on August 8th. This series is really meaningless in the grand scheme of things. The Wild Card watered down races like this; look there for reasons why this series is meaningless. That's why I wouldn't be too preoccupied with C.C.'s stinker against Boston Saturday. Instead this now becomes about Freddie Garcia and can he dial up a game that takes the onus off the offense and places it squarely on his right arm's ability to stymie the Red Sox regardless of how well or how badly Josh Beckett handles his business. Garcia is going to HAVE to do it eventually. So like I said, this is a test.
Bartolo Colon passed his.
Mike.BTB
Friday, August 05, 2011
N.Y. YANKEES ~ Beantown Showdown
From the desk of: BLAME CARLOS MAY
NEW YORK YANKEES vs. BOSTON RED SOX
From FENWAY PARK
The Battle for the American League East starts now!
Both teams are tied for first place; go figure.
BOSTON RED SOX.............68-42 *
NEW YORK YANKEES......68-42 *
new york YANKEES: A matter of trust.
I gotta be honest with you; I don't know how the hell Bartolo Colon and Freddie Garcia have gotten the Bombers this far. I really don't. I've watched. But I don't get it. I don't trust them as far as I can throw them. But I'm not trying to understand either. When the post-season kicks in, I'd be terrified going into a short series with this consortium of hurlers. But then again, I'm not a Yankee fan; am I (?). However, to my dismay, even the Yankees are capable of capturing lightning in a bottle too.
C.C. is a horse. No worries for Bomber fans there. Now that Ivan Nova is back in the fold, he's your number two guy whether you like it or not. Winning his 10th game of the season against the ChiSox Thursday night kinda seals the deal; no? Then you got Phil of the future Hughes; Bartolo Colon; and steady Freddie Garcia. Maybe you guys aren't that bad off after all....? Oh..., that's right....; I forgot A.J.
Bwahahaha!
OK; but seriously. The Yankee staff has options and depth. It's a matter of trust that I'd be struggling with if I was indeed a Yankee fan. More so for the Yankees than the Red Sox, this series will provide three very telling appearances for these starters. It's a very timely test during the Dog Days of Summer.
Can the Yankee starting pitchers make this series more about them, and their ability to contain the BoSox line-up, rather than leaving it up to the Yankee line-up to out-hit Boston's line-up and/or outlasting their starters? Can they dial up shut-down performances on command? That's what I'd be looking for on August 5th because that's what it will take later in the year. Can they be the lead in this series? I'd like to know if they can pitch three shut-down performances over the weekend. Even a hard-luck loser would suffice. But, if nothing else than to gain mounds of confidence, go out and stymie Boston's bats this weekend regardless what the offense provides.
Losing two out of three this series isn't something that should concern either team. But for the Yankees, just as a matter of test, wouldn't you like to see them dominate the Sawx just so you know you can?
Alex Rodriguez: MIAMI VICE Gets His Cover Blown.
I don't care if A-Rod, or if any grown man or woman, plays poker for money. I'm just not interested in something like that, much less jumping all over A-Rod for it. And believe me, you know I don't need much of a reason to besmirch him.
But time and again, the player formerly known as Alex Rodriguez, is the perpetrator of his own device; chasing after his never ending quest for Vice; Miami style. Nothing more; nothing less. He gets himself involved in these situations where there's no victims in a manner of speaking; only satisfying his passions are involved. You know the word for someone like that.
Poker? C'mon. I get why Commissioner Selig would want to police something like that and I'm all for it. But I personally, just can't get on him for poker. I'll wait till he does something stupid again (he's like clockwork), and let him have it then.
Let's Go Red Sox!
Mike.BTB
Friday, July 01, 2011
SUBWAY SERIES II ~ Citi Field Showdown
From the desks of:
HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET and BLAME CARLOS MAY
The Battle For Bragging Rites
Fourth of July Weekend
SUBWAY SERIES
Bronx vs. Queens
New York Mets: Stand Or Fall..
It's time for the Mets to play better at home. The Flushing Fighters are back from a good road trip; an outstanding road trip. And it's time for them to control their House. This series has aligned itself nicely for the Mets to start tonight against the Yankees of all teams.
July is upon us. That means hard, cold decisions will have to be made before the month expires. The Mets have avoided being broken up for at least two weeks now. The clock is still ticking though. In the mean time, they've seemingly done everything they can to convince the minds of those in the Front Office that this team is worth keeping together; if only for another three months.
So, Here's To Living In The Moment:
OK; - So we lost the last game to Detroit... I promise you, this isn't me speaking in hind-sight; but Mike Pelfrey's style versus the Tiger line-up is a really bad match-up for the Mets. I believe his start could have been worse.
But the Mets have done well to get to this point. After a loss, now we have to start the next two to three game burst of wins. That's the way it needs to be done. It's the way they've been getting it done. They may have lost Thursday, but it was the Mets' third series win in a row against good teams. Win two; lose one - that's manageable in the short term. When you project that, it's fun to think of the possibilities.
From a Met point of view, the starting rotation couldn't have been set-up any better for this weekend's Subway Series against the Yankees. Mike Pelfrey won't be facing the Yankees, which, for Met Fans, is a good thing. And C.C. Sabathia will also miss the series as both pitchers threw on Thursday. For Met Fans, not facing C.C. is also a good thing.
The Mets will have their three most consistent pitchers throwing against the Yankees. Jon Niese; Dillon Gee; and R.A. Dickey will all take their turns at the visiting cross town rivals. Those three must carry the Mets if they are to be carried at all.
I do think the Mets will rough up the Yankee pitchers they'll be starting against us this series. Nova; Garcia; and Colon? Bring it! I'll take my chances against them any day. But it all goes back to the pitching. The Mets starters, helped along the way with some timely hitting, must carry the club.
And Subway Series specific, it would be nice to jump out early against the Yankees' starters. It's their bullpen I'm more concerned with. I don't want to have to play catch-up against their reliever corps. And YES! - I do have a realistic expectation for the Mets winning this series.
At the mid-point of the 2011 season, I think there's a distinct possibility the Mets recent surge in hitting is more indicative of the Mets being a well-adjusted bunch that has finally meshed, than just being a freakish and transient phenomenon and a team that will not be able to over-come the loss of Wright; Ike; (and Johan). I stated the other day, there is something to be said for entering mid-season form. Maybe the Mets are hitting their own personal stride, with the line-up they are working with. This line-up has now been a relative constant for much of May and June. That's a huge positive and maybe that's why they are hitting so well together lately. Additionally, Terry Collins should be commended for his juggling act in handling catcher; third base; and first base.
Last season, the return of Carlos Beltran turned out to be more disruptive than the Mets bargained for. Many of the call-ups and some of the remaining regulars found a zone together and rose as high as eleven games over .500 in July. But I still believe as I did when he returned to the line-up last season, Carlos Beltran did more harm to the offensive chemistry than good. In truth, it had nothing to do with Beltran. The matter rested more as to what the line-up became in his absence and how they played once they were left for a time to gel.
With respect to Carlos Beltran this year, he's been busting it since Opening Day. There is no issue with him today. He's a 2011 constant. My point merely was to point out, with the lengthy absence of Ike and Wright this season, the line-up has grown on one-another over that time. They've adapted and have over-come the setbacks and the results are being displayed on the field and with their bats. That's my feel.
The fact is the Mets have proven their ability to string together hits, and manufacture runs in the absence of the long ball. They still had ten hits in their last loss to Detroit; seven against Verlander. Detroit aside, they aren't dinking and dunking their way towards wins. They're hitting the ball solidly and running the bases smartly. They also have shown they can score late in games and mount comebacks.
This is shaping up to be one hell of series. Both teams have an awful lot to play for. For the Mets, they need to stay above .500; - not at, or falling below that level. The Yankees are not without their problems, and no matter what they do, they'll never be able to shake the Red Sox. Therefore, look forward to a tightly contested series.
I'm breaking out for the weekend, and this was my post for the series.
Let's Go Mets!!!
TONIGHT
THE N.Y.C. SUBWAY SERIES RESUMES
"Old School"
THE N.Y.C. SUBWAY SERIES RESUMES
The Bronx Bombers
New York Yankees
vs.
The Flushing Fighters
NEW YORK METS
From the Willets Point Stop on the 7 Train
FLUSHING, NYC
HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA!!
Have a safe and happy holiday everyone!
Mike.BTB
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