Jun 18 2009
MANAGING MISTAKE ENSURES LOSS
So in game 1 of this series, we were given a gift in the 7th inning, and late came back to win the game. Last night, we were given a gift AGAIN, but this time the manager’s lack of common sense prevented any comeback. Here’s the scenario - Teixeira gets a big hit, then Gardner pin-runs for him, then proceeds to steal 2nd and 3rd (loved that). Next, A-Rod walks, so you have a man on 1st and 3rd with only 1 out. Cano comes to the plate, and he’s been swinging a pretty hot bat - now wouldn’t you think Girardi would send A-Rod to 2nd, knowing that Gardner is on 3rd with 1 out and he could score if the Nats threw down to 2nd?! Common sense would tell you that he would, but the fact remains, he didn’t send him. Instead, Cano grounds into a game-ending double-play (after a great at-bat). Extremely frustrating to watch.
Let’s talk about the other part of this game, which was Wang’s performance. Even though he ended up surrendering 3 runs in 5 innings, there were some good signs from the Taiwanese hurler. After getting a little loose out there, Wang was definitely getting the ball down consistently, and he was producing nothing but ground-balls - very good sign. The velocity was kind of ranging from 91-94, which isn’t bad, and the slider was looking good too. I think he may finally be realizing that he needs to mix up his pitches, instead of constantly forcing the sinker in there. To me, he earned his next start in Atlanta, but he needs to continue to build his confidence to the level that you won’t have to be concerned anymore when he takes the mound. If you can get him pitching well with C.C., Burnett, get Andy straightened out, make Hughes a permanent starter, and throw Joba back in the pen where he belongs….then we’re really gonna be cookin’ with gas.
Today the Yanks are “supposedly” playing the final game of the series, but the rain may throw that idea right in the toilet. It is supposed to be Joba against Stammen, but we’ll see what happens in a few. Either way, we’re taking on the Marlins next, a team that we owe a lifetime-beating from the 03′ World Series (even though they’re a completely different team now).
P.S. Keep Cervelli catching, trade Matsui, and DH Posada!
