Hello from north of the Canadian border. Let me say, it's been one heck of a wild ride getting this post up. I'll spare you the ugly details, but let's just say my laptop has been attacked by a virus, and right now the virus is winning. It's going to be a very interesting few days here until I get to bring it to the Newsday doctors on Thursday's off day. Don't let anyone know, but I plan to smuggle a Cuban cigar to give to the Newsday tech for extra motivation.
Anyway, onto your Yankees. Funny scene last night after the day-night doubleheader ended. As they do every year, the Yankees replaced the rookies' travel clothes with something new, and this year's theme had all to do with their boss, The Boss. The seven rookies were given blue blazers, white turtlenecks, large sunglasses and wigs so they would resemble, oh yes, none other than George M. Steinbrenner III.
As for today, Gary Sheffield spent time on the field before the game working out at first base, with the help of just about the entire coaching staff. Rob Thomson stood around shortstop hitting grounders at Sheffield, essentially pretending as if they were hard throws in the dirt that Sheffield would have to scoop. Larry Bowa, Don Mattingly and Joe Torre stood behind Sheffield giving him advice. Should be interesting to see Sheffield play first in a game. It's not too often you see a player with as productive a career as he has enjoyed make a drastic position change this close to the playoffs.
Comments (4)
How about smuggling some cigars to Villone and Dotel to motivate them to pitch half-decently?
Yo, David Y: Here's my fearless prediction about the rookies in Steinbrenner garb: Despite the fact that Torre loves experienced players that he "trusts", Bruney, Rasner and Karstens will be on the playoff roster and Villone, Dotel and Lidle will be on the outside looking in.
I not a big fan of GS but when he's healthy and happy. He can flat out hit. I would play Giambi and Sheffield at first with Phillips as the right side replacement at first and second. I would have Cairo at number 1 backup at 3rd, SS and second. if, Sheffield cannot be had for a reasonable price and a year to year contract then let him walk. This setup would work in the playoffs if Sheffield is ready to go. Unfortunately, Bernie might be odd man out. Aaron Guile gives brings more to the field than Bernie. I know this will be disputed but its just my opinion which is best for the club. Wilson looks like odd man out also.
Jim - any way you can get a pic to post of the rookies wearing traditional Boss attire? That must be hysterical.