State of the Yanks : Someone Disagree?

2 WEEKS since the last post?  Can't give up on a guy.  Long stints on the west coast, rainy games, late nights, it's been an interesting go in Yankee Land.  I was so displeased with Bronx Baseball I needed a break.  Since my last post, Yankee baseball has been better, but that may only be because they couldn't play any worse.  The Orioles are finally playing like the Orioles and the Yankees are actually tied for the wild card.  A pivotal couple games with Tampa and I guess this thing is technically completely turned around?

We'll see.  But here's what I'm seeing:

Phil Hughes and Hiroki Kuroda are bipolar pitchers.  Legit Jekyl and Hyde performances night after night.  It's frustrating.

This starting rotation will not get it done.  Not in October, and not for 162 games.  There needs to be a move here.

Andy Pettitte NEEDS to be good ALL summer for this team to have a real shot.

Rafael Soriano has been quietly solid in the closer role.

Curtis Granderson could strike out 200 times.  While hitting 40 HRs.  This is not good.

The HR reliance needs to stop.  It's alarming that Brett Gardner and Derek Jeter are truly the only small ball players on this team.

Russ Martin could strike out in a tee ball game.

That's it for now.  Let's see how I react after this TB series.

1 Game Out - Of Last

Throughout April, Derek Jeter was nearly able to single handedly carry the Yankees on his 38 year old shoulders while the pitching staff found their way, Nick Swisher and Brett Gardner got hurt, and Arod and Teixeira completely forgot how to hit in the clutch all together.  We just lost 2 of 3 to the Cincinnati Reds.  Are you kidding me?

This is not the Yankees we are accustomed to.  Speed and a 'win at all cost mindset' is not part of this Yankees team.  Players have 'coughs' and are rotated in and out of the DH spot to prevent their bodies from falling apart.  Mariano Rivera is gone, and teams now play the same number of innings as the Yankees.  Jorge Posada is watching the Price is Right and cruising around Miami in his mini-yacht with his wife and family.  39 year old Andy Pettitte is doing everything he can to hold this together, pitching a solid two outtings, but not getting Ws.  No, this really isn't a good Yankees team right now.  Not at all.

We're watching a mediocre management team, a mediocre coach, and a group of overplayed, aging premadonnas trying to milk the final years of their contracts.  George Steinbrenner would be furious.  There would be newspaper covers with his qoutes, calling out players and returning a better result for the fans.  These sons of his are clearly not him.  Endless amounts of poor mistakes by Joe Girardi and poor decisions by Brian Cashman mixed with a little unlucky streak have the Yankees 1 game out of last place for the first time in 20 + years.

This is a tough time to be a fan.  It is painful to watch.  Wins are dull and losses are brutal.  Something must change, and luck alone wont do it.  This team needs to be pressured to perform or it should be known there will be change.  It HAS to happen or it's going to be a very long summer.

'Don't Stop Relievin' Review

This thing got off to a real slow start, then I heard 'Dont Stop Relievin - ACL's Healin'.  I laughed.  Really the only thing that's made me laugh about the Yankees in days.  At first I thought this had no promise.  None.  I went to a school where the original song might as well be the theme song. Heard it 2 million times too many.  Somehow, however, this goofy guy managed to make me laugh by working in 'meniscus tear' to the tune of Steve Perry.  The power of Mo I guess.  Well done sir well done.

The Yankees better win this series with the O's.  Or I'm going to start thinking 'Our Pets Heads Are Falling Off'.  Nuff said.

Grading Pettitte : Positive First Outting

Andy Pettitte lasted till into the 7th today.  Showing some signs of rust, but generally doing what he always has.  His pitch count was low late and despite a few mistakes, I'd view this as a positive outing.  It's absolutely reassuring to see him pitch well, and I thought he deserved the ovation he got.  It's not easy to sit on the couch for 18 months and then come back out and pitch in the Majors. If I took my eyes off the internet for that long and tried to bring my A-Game back, I wouldn't even know where to begin.  This game could have been an absolute dud for Andy, but he held his own, and we can only hope he continues to fine tune things and builds on this performance.  Overall useless letter grade: B

What is awful is the Yankees 2-3-4-5 hitter going a combined 1-13 against 37 year old Kevin Millwood.  Mark Teixeira, who I've attacked previously for everything from being a softy, to thinking I was drunk when I read his .212 BA, needs to be dropped in the lineup at this point and ARod should be put in the 5 hole.  I mentioned something to the tune of this earlier in the week, and the Yankees just aren't seeing the output needed from them.  Russel Martin's anemic .182 BA also cannot be overlooked at this point.  ARod has gotten by, but Tex and Martin are now massive holes in the lineup.

This is a problem.  Again, if this team believed their spots in the batting order were in doubt, they might play better, but that just doesn't seem to be the case with Girardi.  He's willing to give players endless amounts of time to come around and it has more than often come back to hurt the team.  If Big George (RIP) was still around, I guarantee there would be some action here.

All in, Welcome Back Andy.  One more World Series run and people are going to struggle to not vote you into the Hall.  Happy Mothers Day.

CC is a BOSS

CC Sabathia is an absolute BOSS.  Watching him fist pump get me fired up.  Need a pick me up in my cubicle?  Just rewatch a CC Fist Bump video and I'm instantly a little bit happier about my existence and lack of a window view. 

The big fella is truly worth every penny the Yankees pay him.  He consistently steps up to the plate when the Yankees absolutely need him the most.  Yes, the playoffs are a different story.  However, when he locks in, you know what you're going to get: 8+ innings, 9-12Ks, and a day of rest for the bullpen.  Personally, I think if he wins another championship in pin stripes he starts to enter the Hall of Fame discussions.

Also, it's nice to see Robbie Cano get rolling.   I did think I was still drunk this morning when I saw Teixera's .212 BA.  I understand his defensive value but this guy needs to pick it up.  He absolutely needs to learn to take the ball the other way to avoid the shift.  At this point, as I tweeted about, it may be time to drop him in the order to take some pressure off.

Beckett on Course - To Pound Beers Playing 18 (Probably)

ESPN
Been a while since I ripped the Red Sox.  Started to feel bad for them being in last place, still claiming sell outs with the seats half full, and generally being terrible. Also,  felt bad they had to play for Bobby V.  I've  also learned that since it's the regular season, players just don't have the time to do stupid things that I can blog about.

 Today we learn that my personal most hated Red Sox, Josh Beckett, decided to take a day off and play some golf when he was supposed to be resting a sore shoulder after skipping a start.  Talk about a blogger layup.  Last year's Beer and Chicken ring leader, the chubby Beckett (see above) continues to make excellent decisions in his sole mission to send this 2012 Boston team further sinking into oblivion.  Now, I personally pound a good 4-6 beers on 18 holes.  More if I'm not driving.  Josh here no doubt took down a least a 12 pack.  As if almost personally tanking 2011 wasn't enough, I'm betting this move is going to go over great in the clubhouse.  As always, keep up the good work in Boston!

Ol Ironsides Andy Pettitte Comin Back

4 more days boys...

See that?  You complain in a blog that the Yankees need a spark and then your wish is granted - Andy Pettitte is coming back to pitch on Sunday.  Just four more nights without ol' Andy and the Yankees might get what they need.  Sure he's pushing 40.  Sure he could be the top MLB Candidate for the next Just for Men commercial.  But he can win.  I hope.  I really hope.  Look I'm pretty beat thus far about the performance of this team.  I went on and on and on last night about something missing.  I was about to become the guy from the bleachers in Major League and borderline give up.  I just don't see 90 wins right now, and that's what its going to take.  Especially with that stupid one game wild card play in.  You really want the Yankees to pitch CC in that game and be left with what they got? H to the Ell No.

Here's something that hit me today when I was sitting in my cubicle contemplating nirvana.  Do people actually still fear Alex Rodriguez and Mark Teixeira?  At one point do pitchers actually just know these guys love to make soft outs in difficult situations.  Psychological advantage 101 right there.  I want to know what people think.  But I know no one will leave a comment.  Because no one actually reads this anyway.

This is What I Come Back To?

5 Days on the left coast and this is what I return to?  A 2-2 split with the Kansas City Royals?  Billy Butler hitting the ball like he's Matt Kemp?  Players admitting they are happy with the split?  A paltry +12 run differential, with Alex Rodriguez and Robinson Cano generating the same amount of HRs and RBI as the hobbled Nick Swisher on the season?

Not happy.  The starting rotation is still searching for an identity like a lost college student studying abroad in Europe.  Phil Hughes, despite an average outing, is definitely lost in Amsterdam somewhere.  And obviously there's the 900 lb gorilla in the room in losing Mariano Rivera.

In all honesty, I thought the man had died or someone had assassinated him.   Yes, he is a living legend.  No, this is not what anyone wants to see happen.  As we've now learned, Greatness refuses to go out like this.  What's left to say here?  Nothing, because every writer in existence already penned Mo's obituary.  You're not going to get that from me. ARod's Oh My God face was the biggest girly man move I've come across when dealing with a teammates injury.  DJ had to set the record straight, as he continues to carry the team both on and off the field.  The show must go on.  David Robertson is a more than adequate replacement.  He absolutely doesn't carry the same aura, but he sure as hell gets people out. Did you even know his ERA is 0.00?  Mo's ERA ever been that low after 12 appearances in a season?

The Yankees need a spark.  They need a youthful thirst.  That feeling that this could be their last day playing baseball.  If anything, Mariano's unfortunate circumstances should provide that.  The Bar needs to be higher.  Where are the Steinbrenners? Big George would hang someone after losing 2 of 3 to the Orioles and splitting with KC.  The Yankees NEED wins against these teams with the strength of the AL East.  Teams like KC and Baltimore need to be buried in April and early May.  That's just the way it is.

Finally - how the hell do the Yankees have the same record as the Mets?  The same Mets who are broke, can't put people in the seats, and have a single recognizable player?  Their GM mailed it in during the preseason yet they are on pace with the Yankees?  That is UNACCEPTABLE.

Damn Straight you will be!

QB2 Carboard Cutout Taken to Prom

YardBarker
Nice try toots.  No way this girl didn't see the $1 million bounty on QB2's virginity.  This has to be, to date, the best effort to get the attention of the backup QB.  Obviously, since Ashley Madison has ruined QB2's chances of ever having a normal relationship with the bounty on lil QB2, we're going to see quite a few stunts like this one.  Personally, I think the cardboard version is much better.  No religion talk, not trying to convert me into a born again, no sermons, no prayers before crappy prom food.  Sounds like a real winner.  No Way QB2 is a good dancer either.  If I had to choose, I'm going cardboard QB2 any day of the week.  No brainer.

Gotta feel bad for the dude who got turned down by this girl for her little cardboard cutout stunt.  She'd rather take a cardboard virgin over an actual normal HS virgin.  That kid is messed up for life.

Also, somewhere, teenager hookup king and pathetic playboy Mark Sanchez is definitely pissed about this - in the most twisted, deranged way possible.

Last Night's L and Bryce Harper

...That one went far

Last night’s game was a total dud.  Phil Hughes did show some slight improvement, but he still manages to give up bombs when he misses just slightly.  For some reason, I recall his fastball having more ‘life’ to it when he was off to such a good start two years ago.  While some of his velocity seems to have returned, he’s still missing some late movement that seems to be causing him to get smoked when he misses out over the plate.

Derek Jeter continues his hit parade, with 3 last night, pushing him back over .400.  Unfortunately, no one else decided to show up, with maybe the exception of Curtis Granderson, who is now leading the AL in HRs.  I feel like every 5 days the Yankees bats just go to sleep.  Having Swisher and Gardner out while batting Stewart and DHing the slumping Martin is a hit to the lineup, but the rest of the Yankees seem to either be hitting doubles or making soft outs.  This team should be eating up the Orioles rotation and padding their stats while pissing off Buck Showalter.  Is it the cold weather in NYC?  Who knows.  Hopefully the Honey Badger Ivan Nova gets them back on track tonight.

And I can’t help myself but to comment on Bryce Harper.  I don’t know Bryce Harper, and us cubicle monkey bloggers are forced to read what’s available on the internet.  However, when a scout calls your skills potentially the greatest of all time for your age, but mentions your personality may be the polar opposite, that’s probably the worst comment you could ever hear.  Speaking about yourself in the 3^rd person and wearing goofy hair cuts and blowing kisses to pitchers needs to stop yesterday for this kid.  Imagine getting your first MLB hit, and having the video tainted by someone in the background mooning the camera.  People are going to pick up on your antics quickly, and they will not be well received.  I truly hope this kid doesn’t become the Randy Moss of MLB.

Giants Draft Wrap Up and Osi

Overall, the Giants did what they had to do and continued to draft athletic players.  Have you seen the above video?  JPP's backflips somehow translated directly into mashing QBs into the ground so hopefully David Wilson can compliment terminator toes Ahmad Bradshaw and maybe return some kicks, something the Giants have been terrible at for years.

I like the remaining picks as well.  Scooping up a very good WR who fell later than expected, a CB who has been on sports science, and a TE who is apparently a freak of nature.  I would have maybe have liked to have seen some work on the OL earlier than round IV but I can't complain.

It's time for these young Giants to step in and learn how to get ALL IN.  Maybe watch some tape on STOMPIN People Out.  One thing they should NOT do is hang out with Osi Umenyiora.  The man continues to shoot himself in the foot and lower his own trade value every time he opens his mouth.  Time for him to go. 

DJ's Got a New Hottie? Ya Don't Say?

NY Post 

File this one under ‘Obviously’.  Derek Jeter hanging out with some hottie?  Ya don’t say?  Is the sky blue?  Does the sun rise in the east?  Is anyone really happy working in a cubicle?  This is really a no brainer and it’s a big shout out to the NY Post for coming up with this gem of an article.  Really though, Not giving a name of the girl and not having a picture is truly disappointing.  I have higher hopes for the NY post and they should be coming through here.  This is probably an even that happens 7-11 times a week with Derek and this is all the Post got?  If this is the reason he set his career high for hits in April I hope we get to see more of this one.  That said, ‘Tall and Attractive with wavy brown hair’?  Sounds like the duchess.  Good thing I know she was laying low while I was out of town abusing my body with the Fraternity brothers.

NYCC's Finest and Thoughts on Freddy's Demotion

Taking 2 of 3 from Detroit is a good sign coming off the tough road trip.  CC delivered exactly what the Yankees and the bullpen needed in shutting down another offensive juggernaut in the Detroit Tigers.  After coming off a strong start against the Rangers, CC Carried the momentum into the Tiger's game, showing a nasty slider and a revitalized fastball.  Basically, he was CC. 

And on the other side of things, Freddy Garcia is being demoted.  Gotta feel for this guy a bit, as he's obviously pressing a bit and something is missing.  You get the feeling that he knows it too, as many of his interview soundbites have been a bit hectic.  Fortunately, he is a team player, and will do what he can out of the long relief role. 

You have to think this next start for David Phelps will be the biggest of his career.  With only maybe one shot to impress coaches before Andy Pettitte is ready to return, Phelps needs to be dialed in and prove himself very quickly.  Let's hope he gets it right.

And finally we're back in business after a long weekend.  If I could even tell you what went down you'd probably be surprised I'm still alive.  Long live ShotGuns, Boats, Kegs, and Fraternity.  If you want more details save it for 140 characters or less on Twitter and hit me up.

Also, not sure what this is supposed to be but it's not very funny.  I guess Cashman wanted to sit behind home plate but he didn't want to be the only person that could be seen on TV in the Wealth Moat.  Nice wig?

Derek Jeter Should be AL Player of the Month

Derek Jeter is on a war path this month and as of last night, shows no signs of slowing down.  He should absolutely be in the top 3 for AL player of the Month and I personally think he should win the award.  Here's why.

DJ has hit a staggering .420 through 4/25 with 34 hits, 10 for extra bases, all out of the lead off spot.  He has come through early and often, and he has come through late.  His 13 RBI are second on the team to Nick Swisher's league leading 21.  Again, coming out of the leadoff spot.  It is understandable that other hitters may have more HR's or Extra Base hits, but those individuals are generally hitting in lineups where everyone is hitting.  Derek has proven that he can hit against pitchers having stellar outings (see Darvish outing) and against both Lefties and Righties.  He's timing fastballs, and driving off speed pitches.  No one has figured out how to get him out consistently.  Right now, he looks like the 1999 version of Derek in which he hit .349.  His 34 hits are the highest in the league right now by 3.  The April he is putting together should not be forgotten and should be rewarded.

The above are the tangible reasons why Derek Jeter should be the AL player of the month, and I could write forever on the intangibles.  He's the Clubhouse leader, wise man, Captain, and primary reason the Yankees have 10 wins in the first month against a very tough schedule.  The man has been an absolute force and it is truly enjoyable to watch him hit.  His confidence at the plate is staggering, and young hitters who aren't bombing HR's should take notice.  At this point, anyone not thinking about Derek Jeter for AL Player of the Month should be seriously considering getting their heads checked.  He's been that good, and every moment of his resurgence at 37 should be enjoyed by all fans.

Osi There's the Door

ESPN NY
Been talking up the Giants team unity all week.  Dedicated players putting in time in the weight room and guys like Victor Cruz not holding out.  Appears we do have a bit of a situation with the biggest flip flopping Defensive End anyone has ever seen.  Loves the Giants - hates the contract.  Angry all year - wants to leave.  Wins Super Bowl - wants to stay.  Now its contract time - wants to leave.  I've heard this story before.  I touched on all this in my draft preview, but it might be time to pull the trigger on Osi Umenyiora.  For a guy who has essentially been a back up, he's been complaining about his contract situation for way to long.  Bottom line, he got hurt, JPP has stepped up big time, and the Giants are very good at developing athletic pass rushers.  I'm just surprised he keeps on talking about it like someone kicked his dog.

It really pains me to talk about Osi like this.  He's done so many good things, and of course you want to see him in Blue next season.  Watching him strip the ball from QBs is a thing of art.  Clearly he's got game.  Unfortunately, he just doesn't see that he's just a part of a larger QB sacking machine that is the Giants Front four.  Even as a starter elsewhere, I doubt he gets as many QB rushes, strips, or sacks as he does with the Giants.  I think he's just taken this contract talk public one too many times.  What happens now is just part of the business.

This is where the Giants should Sell High and convince some other team to take on the aging star.  At the end of the day, I hope they do trade him and get something of value.  I for one don't want to see any more articles written about his comments or contract situation.  It's a distraction and it's simply time for the Giants to reload at DE after Osi and Tollefson are gone.

GIANTS Draft Preview - Sorta

ESPN NY

Well there you have it folks, right there in this ESPN article.  Jerry Reese will draft based on talent and not on position.   The Giants have done the same thing for years and it seems to be bringing home the hardware, so why change?  Mel Kiper and Todd McShay are both going to have a heart attack with this one as they will finally have one spot in the draft that they can't drag out and blab about for days at a time.

Everyone knows the needs at RB, TE, ILB and maybe OL.  Osi really needs to take care of business or get off the pot with respect to his current contract situation and just come back to the team. Guy's been back and forth for months on where he wants to be and the whole dog and pony show is getting old.  What do we know?  He is going to get paid at some point and he obviously likes winning.  He's too smart to just take the money to go to some mediocre team where he'll get double teamed every game and barely break 5 sacks.  He's part of a successful system, and if he can't realize that, then, well, it's time to go Osi.  Saying you're bigger than the team is NOT in the Giants blueprint.  It's been real, you're really good, the Giants staff made you something special, but please don't let the door hit you on the way out.  

Glad I got that out of the way.  I was going to go on for days about players the Giants could draft, but then I'd just be wasting your time like the guys at ESPN struggling to fill daytime SportsCenter clips. I will, however, give my cubicle monkey two cents of the Giants draft when all is said and done.  Probably will give a meaningless A/B/C grade like every other media outlet out there too so get excited...

Eli Killin the Jokes

NJ.com
Eli Manning just killing the jokes these days.  Completely deadpanning the crowd about being the third most talked about QB in his own city despite winning 2 SBs.  Good prep for SNL, and overall, I'm hoping this just fuels the fire.

They say behind every joke is a sliver of truth.  And in this case, Eli is 100% right and I could not be any happier.  Not one bit.  2 Super Bowl trophies.  2 Super Bowl MVPs and still dealing with 'little bro' syndrome.  Fear not Eli Manning, the real sports fans in this town have your back 100%.  We are, however, greedy and want you to win a 3rd.  Let the Jets burn down the house with their silly out-dated wild cat offense.  Let them bring in a preacherboy backup QB and relegate him to special teams while the QB2 virginity tracker ticks away.  Let the rest of the cancers and hold outs drag the team down to a sub .500 level.

All I know is all the Giants are tweeting up a storm about being back together. Victor Cruz isn't holding out like some other CB I know.  Linemen are tweeting pictures of empty weight rooms while they're getting their reps in and, thank God (pun intended) no one is off writing sermons.  Not that that's not a bad thing, but it's certainly not a football thing.

So I hope you kill it on SNL.  I hope your DirecTV commercial with Deion is hysterical.  You will get your comeuppance at the White House next Month when THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES slips that Tiffany's Championship ring on your second ring finger, and when you're introduced in Canton someday as a 3x Super Bowl Champ.

Jorge Loves the Price is Right

So Laura Posada sent a tweet out about a special someone enjoying the Price is Right.  Obviously, this had to be the ultra-competitive Jorge.  Really though, everyone, and I mean everyone loves the Price is Right.  It's the perfect mix of sheer dumb luck (see Plinko) and a true understanding of the value of certain goods.  Capitalism in a 60 minute bit that only retirees, cubicle ridden bloggers, and All Star Catchers really get the benefit of enjoying.  Don't know what the Price is Right is you say?  Well you're probably working to hard...

Anyways, Mrs. Posada's reply got me thinking.  How about a Jorge Posada Price is Right Charity Auction to benefit the Jorge Posada Foundation?  Get a bunch of Miami and NYC's finest together and create a classed up version of the Price is Right.  The grand prize?  A chance to go toe to toe with Jorge himself in the Showcase Showdown.  We get the booze flowing, the laughs going, and someone gets to go home with a new jet ski or boat to add to their already massive collection.  We auction off some autographed Yankees gear, invite Derek, Andy and the whole crew, and bingo, bango, bongo we got ourselves a grand ol time and a million bucks for a good cause.  If this isn't the event of the season, I don't know what is.  Sign me up!

PS - Thanks to Laura for responding to my tweet.  Jorge is and always be an idol of mine.  Hardwork and 100% fire to win.  Hope all is well down South!

Oh and would you look at that?

$1 Million to Get It On With QB2??

CNBC
Some girl is going to get $1 MILLION dollars to prove that she stole QB2's V-Card. You heard that right.  Now, roughly every single psychotic girl in NYC will be chasing QB2 around trying to score. On the road, girls will literally be hanging on this guy no matter where he goes.  Even if he's off preaching somewhere in remote Africa, women will be throwing themselves at him to get a piece of that $1Million pie. This should really do wonders for him on the field now that every girl is secretly trying to prove his off the field performance.  Seriously though, how does a girl prove this?  At the end of the day, there's pretty much no chance this guy is going to ever be able to find a sane girlfriend.  He's brought this all on himself and there's now a $1 million bounty on the most private aspect of his life.  Keep up the good work in Jetland.

PS - Somewhere, Antonio Cromartie is just like 'Damn....'

CC in Command and Jeter Rolling in Win

CC Sabathia is definitely a warm weather pitcher.  He brought his A game tonight and shut down a very powerful Texas offense.  All around, a very commanding performance and a solid victory for the Yankees.  Also, Derek Jeter continues his torrid start.  Just to illustrate how good he's been, he could go 0 for his next 28 and still be hitting .300.  The man is on a warpath.  I've been tweeting about it a lot and with a couple more solid games, he should be in the running for AL player of the month.  He's been that good and it's great to see him doing what he is.  Overall a great win by the Yanks.  Not many downsides in this game.

Not Our Problem : Brandon Jacobs Involved in 'Death Race'

Wait Driving 110MPH isn't Allowed?

NBCSports
Brandon Jacobs did something stupid?  No way.  Apparently Brandon thought it'd be a good idea to speed down the Garden State Parkway with 30 friends in exotic sports cars in a late night jaunt to Atlantic City.  Sounds like they had a police escort with them too.  While that's a whole different story for a whole different audience, Ol' Brandon has found himself square in the middle of an investigation.  Just Brandon being Brandon really.  Putting his clearly backwards thought process before anyone or anything else.  Used to only be a threat to opposing DBs, Safeties, and fans within throwing distance of his helmet.  Now he's tearing down the GSP with a police escort in his Lambo putting innocent old folk at risk in a stunt being dubbed the 'Death Race'.  Not a good look for anyone heading into San Fran.  At the end of the day, a good exotic car race with his buddies will soon be a thing of the past for Brandon, as I don't think there are any corrupt cop escorts available for hybrid racing in SF.

3 Game Set a True Texas Test

What Nolan Ryan has done in Texas is truly impressive.  He's taken his fire throwing Hall of Fame career and infused his mindset into a quality ball club.  The Rangers can flat out rake.  Guys like Hamilton, Young, and Napoli are offensive juggernauts. Currently, they have 6 position players hitting over .300 and are sporting a healthy 13-3 record. 

The Yanks will put out their 'alleged' top 3 in CC, Kuroda, and Hughes.  CC will have to be 5th inning CC very early or this team will punish him.  He needs to establish his fastball and deliver a performance to set the tone for the series.  Hiroki Kuroda goes Tuesday against fellow countryman Yu Darvish, which will be a Japanese media frenzy.  The experienced hurler versus the up and comer could be a good matchup if he pitches as well as he did at the home opener.  Finally, Phil Hughes will close out the set.  This is scary.  He needs to miss more bats and bring it to stay in the rotation.  Another battering could be psychologically difficult on him, and the Rangers do not need any additional confidence against the AL East Yankees. 

No doubt the Yankees bats will need to stay hot down in Texas to come away with a series victory.  These games could be high scoring and the Yanks will need to do whatever possible to get their pitchers settled in with some run support and early.  All in, it should be a good display of two teams playing very well.  Taking 2 out of 3 in Texas would be a great early season accomplishment.  Let's hope the Yanks  get a couple Ws.

Rain Out and Some Thoughts on Beer and Chicken

Well the rain is coming down, and the Yankees will get to leave Boston on the early side as tonight's game has been postponed.  Pretty amusing because it gives the Red Sox no chance to even salvage their dignity in the 3rd game.  Apparently even Mother Nature is against Bobby V. and the Sox.

The above picture has been floating around quite a bit, and it's hysterical.  However, it's really not even a question.  Chicken is delicious.  Especially fried chicken.  If I didn't have chicken I'd probably starve to death.  Beer?  Beer is probably one of the greatest things man has ever invented.  The world could literally be falling apart around me and if I had a beer in my hand, I'd probably just shrug it off.  Beer is definitely what got me through yesterday's first 5 innings before the magic happened.  So, apologies to Bobby V.  I'm going with beer and chicken every day of the week.  No need for a burned out loud mouth coach in my daily life. 

The whole beer and chicken thing is, on a whole, really funny.  Think about it.  People have gone ballistic over a couple of guys drinking beer and eating chicken.  90% of guys do that every single day of the week.  If I eat a meal, there's a high probability there's some chicken involved.  The odds are  similar that my drink of choice is an ice cold brewsky.  If a pitcher wants a cold one after throwing 100+ pitches and working his tail off, that's no problem at all.  Even a good nutritionist will probably tell their clients they can have a 'cheat' meal on a weekly basis.  It's really not a big deal but clearly it has entered the sports news stratosphere and won't be coming down for some time.  Fortunately for NYers, it just happened to go down in Boston.

Swishers 6 and 15 Unanswered Rings...I mean Runs

6 RBI for Swish  20 on Season.  Photo Credit: ESPN

I spent the entire afternoon mocking Joe Buck and Tim McCarver, who continue to prove that they absolutely hate the Yankees with every game they cover.  I had my first pint at 2:30, after believing it was a 3PM start.  Fortunately that mistake worked out as the Yankees fell behind 9-0 and Freddy Garcia clearly forgot how to pitch.  

Then something happened.  FOX cut to Philip 'Humber Games' perfect game.  27 up 27 down, giving me a good feeling inside after seeing an ump call a questionable strike 3.  Or maybe the good feeling was just from being away from Buck/McCarver for 10 minutes?  Who knows.  What I do know is, when they cut back I saw a 5 on the scoreboard.  Nick Swisher had hit a Grand Slam.  Then, Mark Teixeira hit an opposite field HR for the first time in 2 years, his second HR of the game, and just like that it was 9-8.  At that point, it became batting practice.  Swisher tacked on 2 more RBI, and Russ Martin crushed a double to center.  It all ended with the Yankees scoring 15 runs.  

In typical Boston fan fashion, Bobby Valentine got booed when removing his own pitcher.  I said yesterday I almost felt bad for this guy, and at some point that might be the case.  Right now, however, is not that time and karma is a bitch.  He's been running his mouth for weeks making poor decisions and Red Sox fans like to throw gasoline on the fire.  For some reason, people in Boston are consistently off on when and who they chose to boo.  Maybe it's the long winters?  Anyway, Bobby V. is going to take this square on the chin after his media circus began in spring training, and deservedly so.

All in, the Yanks are in first, and the Red Sox are the worst.  Freddy Garcia avoids being the goat today, and the starting pitching needs to pick it up.  Other than that,  all is well in Yankee Land.

NY Post Sports Cover and Pineda Scratch

When I first saw the NY Post Sports cover, I was a bit skeptical.  Something along the lines of 'Party Crashing' or something more clever would have probably been better.  It does, however, get the point across and gives me a lead in to Michael Pineda, who couldn't even manage 15 pitches today without getting scratched.  This young man needs to grow up fast.  The reason the NY Post can get away with something like the above image is because the Yankees are held to a different standard, they know it, and they have historically delivered.  27 Titles in just under one century speaks for itself.  George Steinbrenner would have already publicly shredded him and banished him to AAA for the whole season.  He's probably looking down from the bar with Mickey Mantle shaking his head in disbelief about the mental and physical softness of Michael Pineda. 

"Its what you do when no one is looking" should quickly become Pineda's motto.  This is not the Pacific Northwest.  This is New York City.  Arguably the center of the universe.  Frank Sinatra doesn't talk about making it in Seattle.  Not to knock the pacific northwest, but greatness comes out of NYC, while coffee and grunge music comes out of Seattle. There is a difference.  It's been frustrating since the get go with this young hurler who the Yanks gave up a potential all-star for.  There have been awkward media quotes, interviews near tears, and third person references.  He needs to buy into to the Work Hard, Play Harder, then Work Harder than Ever mindset New Yorkers have or he should be shipped to a smaller market club where he won't be mentioned in blogs like this.

And back to what's going on on the field, we have a 4PM start in Boston.  Should be perfect weather for baseball at the start and I'll be muting Joe Buck and Tim McGarver as they are officially the worst tandem of Yankee hating, consistently incorrect sports coverage in the business.  They're probably the only duo who could make a funeral more depressing.  Is this really the best FOX has to offer?  All that said, its a perfect day for the Yankees to put a second consecutive hurting on the Red Sox.  Time for another W...

Fenway Party Spoiler : Nova W

Nova Gets 15th Straight Win

Last night seemed seemed like a great win with Granderson's 3 HRs, but seeing a game like today's was really excellent.  Watching the Red Sox legends take the field and receive ovations was a great experience.  What was even better was Ivan Nova spoiling their party and pitching very well on the 100th anniversary of Fenway Park.  Nova continues to come up in big situations when the baseball is in his hands.  The Yankees, in 1912 Highlander attire, hit 5 HR's against Clay Bucholz en route to victory.  Bravo Yankees - a very well played game.

Can't say enough about Nova's performance.  In front of so many great baseball players and Red Sox ownership he took over the game and they never really had a chance.  This guy is the Honey Badger for a reason.  Hearing him talk about being the best is a good thing.  He walked into Fenway and shutdown the Red Sox.  Props to Eric Chavez as well, going deep twice.  He was always a good hitter in Oakland.  As is becoming the norm, David Robertson and Mariano Rivera closed out the game. The Yankees looked good today on the road on low rest, clearly playing better baseball against a Red Sox team that seems to have lost it's edge.

On the uniform front, the Red Sox white hat look was terrible, overall not bad.  The Yanks old logo is pretty legit and I would expect to see some more of it.

Overall what a great Friday.  Sun out in NYC and the Yankees are up north spoiling the Red Sox celebration.  Excellent baseball to be played in the next two days.  Let's get a couple more W's.  Have a great Friday.

3 HRs and Rivalry Weekend

What a day, what a day.  Curtis Granderson went 5-5 last night with 3, yes 3 HRs.  On what should have been just another normal Yankees over Twins victory, the Grandyman came up big, becoming the first Yankee since ARod to go deep 3 times in  game.  To add to it, he picked up 2 additional hits in pacing the Yankees to the win.  Big Joe said it best in the postgame, as a pull hitter, Curtis is built for Yankee stadium.  He's a tremendous asset to the Yankees and a true gamer.  He's electric both at the plate and in the field and it's great having him in center.  In case you missed it - Mark Texeira went yard (good), Eduardo Nunez made a costly error (bad), Phil Hughes managed to battle for the W (ok), and Mo looked like the assassin of the 9^th that he always has been (normal).  All of these things mean all is well in Yankee Land. 

Today we get the 100^th anniversary of Fenway and the Yankees/Sox in throwback 1912 uniforms and a weekend of rivalry baseball.  The Honey Badger, Ivan Nova, gets the ball.  Another big time game for this guy.  I guarantee he don’t care.  The media circus/soap opera going on in Boston is out of control at this point and is really just covering up a mediocre baseball team.  Hopefully the Yankee bats, which have been getting hotter and hotter, will pound the Red Sox deeper down the rankings and get Bobby V booed a little bit more.  If he were ever to keep his mouth shut, I’d probably feel bad for him.  Fortunately I know that will never happen.   

In the end, there’s really no better way to muzzle the Red Sox then putting a hurting on them on the 100^th anniversary of their ballpark.  I’m thinking this will be a special Friday for the Yanks, and getting home in time to have a beer(s) and catch the later innings of what will no doubt be a 4 hour plus game already has me in weekend mode.  Just need to sit here and pretend to do work for the next 7 hours…

Giants Schedule Reaction

Now that the dust has settled and everyone is done explaining the incredible difficulty factor of the Giants schedule, here's my take.  At the end of the day, if you want to win Super Bowls, you need to beat the best and the hottest teams in late December and January.  Period.  We know the Giants are going to play in division rivals twice.  That means a double dose of Vick, Romo, and what looks like RG3.  Thats a given, and there's no changing that.  Can't beat them?  You don't go to the playoffs.  As for the other games, getting a sophomore season of Cam Newton, a rematch with the Niners, Big Ben, Joe Flacco, Andy Dalton, Drew Brees, Mr. Discount Double Check, and Matty Ryan is going to be difficult.  But why not play these guys in the regular season?  Every single one of them was in the playoffs last year, except Newton, who is going to be a playmaker for years to come.  These are the guys you want to play and get film against.  If you lose?  That's fine.  It's much more difficult to beat a team twice in the same season.  Especially in a playoff game against a team like the Giants.  Will this season be difficult?  Absolutely.  Will the Giants win 10 games?  It will be a tough road.  As we all know, this team just needs to get to the playoffs.  They did go a mediocre 9-7 last season, and every fan, myself included, was borderline ready to mail it in at the end of November.  Bottom line is, they have a core group of guys now that can go into any stadium confidently and win on the road.  When all is said and done, these difficult games will only make the Giants a better team.  The most important thing will be having a succesful draft and fighting the injury bug. 

And in conclusion, watching Tom Brady destroy the Jets on Thanksgiving this year will make a day of heavy drinking and stuffing my face only that much more enjoyable.  Sorry QB2, it's not a religious holiday and there won't be any upset in that game. 

Note: This is probably the only time I won't be rooting for a NY team, but the offseason shenanigans with the Jets has pushed me over the top.

Yankee Win and Throwback Uniforms

ESPN NY
To C or not to C Sabathia got roughed up at the start but settled in for a nice start covering 7-1/3 and letting up 3 runs.  A couple of different Yanks contributed to the win and Jeter continues to do good things.  Where is he in AL Player of the month voting?

Also, above are the uni's the Yankees will wear when they visit Boston for the 100th anniversary of Fenway.  At first, I was skeptical.  It was never George Steinbrenner's thing to change the uniforms or go to throw backs.  People have looked terrible in camo and other bizarre alt jerseys elsewhere.  But I'm actually a big fan of this.  One of the guys will probably go old school and rock the super baggy look and that will be a good thing.  Would love to get my hands on a #2 jersey and I'm sure that's what the Yanks are thinking.

Cromartie Kiddy Count : 12

Everyone's favorite multi-baby daddy got some crazy news today.  After having his 10th kid just a few days ago, one of Antonio Cromartie's ladies/wives/gf's whatevers is now expecting TWINS.  This is good for ol Cro, who at the ripe old age of 28 now will have 12 offspring wandering this planet.  This is, however, not good for one of his kids, as they will now have to be the sub whenever Team Cro is old enough to take the field.  Imagine how much that sucks?  You got your super athletic daddy, with 8 different baby mama's and you're the kid who has has to come off the brother and sister bench.  Proof is in the pudding that you were just a slow swimmer who got lucky.  Usually it's better to realize something like that in your 20's when you're stuck in a cubicle and haven't seen the sun in days.

Seriously though - 12 is impressive.  Smoking Octomom and catching up to Duggar status.  At $3500 a pop per month for child support you'd think ol' Cro would wrap it up or consider some other drastic measure like a vasectomy (gasp!) to prevent this from getting out of hand.  However, me thinks he's probably a few cans short of a sixer.  Me?  I'll laugh this one to the bank.  Poor Cro has no idea the world of hurt all 12 of these little (and someday big) suckers is going to put him through for the rest of his life.

It's only fitting he's on the Jets, and as always, in conclusion, keep up the Good Work in Jet Land!

Youkilis Feels the Wrath of SideShow Bobby

Kevin Youkilis - I feel for you bud.  You're the biggest teddy bear I've ever seen but god damnit you are also a Yankee Killer, and therefore I respect you.  First, you're team starts sucking. Then your favorite coach left and probably never thought he was the friend you thought he was.  Then this new Sideshow Bobby Valentine gets hired.  Next thing you know, you cant drink Miller Lite in the club house, you don't have your own personal KFC delivery man, and you're getting tossed under the bus for allegedly not caring.  I'm a Yankees fan, and you're the last person on the Red Sox that I would call out for not caring.  Literally - you're last.  There's no one behind you that I would question the effort of less.

This Bobby V. show is 9 games old and I'm sick of it.  I also cant think anyone in Boston is thrilled either.  People who think any of this is 'fire stoking' is good for the clubhouse are dead wrong.  No team, no matter how much spring cleaning you do, is going to snap back after last falls collapse and no one man is going to be responsible for it.  And therein lies the problem with Bobby Valentine.  Red Sox not playing well?  Blame the 2x ring holder and warrior.  Red Sox playing well?  Obviously great decision making by Bobby Valentine.

What people should be talking about was his terrible decision to leave his converted closer in after 7 solid inning.  Which only led to a 4 pitch walk with the bases loaded to Evan Longoria and a 1-0 loss.

As always, Keep Up the Good Work in Boston!

Also - I have no idea why I said Miller Lite.  Just seems like a beer someone like Youkilis would enjoy.

Nova Wins 14th Straight : Yanks Paced by Captain

Ivan Nova pitched well enough tonight to win his 14th consecutive start in pinstripes dating back to June of last year.  Given all of the rotation talk, the fact that he got sent to the minors, was then called on to be the #2 starter in the playoffs, and then didn't even have a spot until the last week of spring training, I'm about ready to dub him the Honey Badger.  This guy don't care what anybody thinks.  Stone cold facial expression no matter what.  Winning - no smile.  Demoted - no smile.  Battling cold and flue like symptoms on Sunday Night National TV?  Honey Badger Dont Care.  Just flat out performing. Yes, yes, I know having your offense average 6 runs a game in your starts helps, but he's been consistently good in important games and that goes a long way.  Tonight he was hit hard, but he also had 8 Ks.

As for Jeter, our fearless leader is looking sprightly - knocking the ball around the park and going deep for the second time this year.  El Capitan must have found himself a new lady friend because he's looking like 29 year old Derek.  It's great to see him proving everyone wrong about his age and declining skills.

One concern tonight was the outfielders.  A lot of balls were hit hard out there way and they looked like the kid in little league that gets to play 2 innings, gets 1 at bat, and everyone prays no one hits the ball their way.  Defensively, they gave up a couple extra bases by not playing the ball well off the wall or hitting cut off men.

And finally, Jets QB2 was booed when sitting next to Dwayne Wade and getting jumbotron time.  Your favorite blogger right here is lovin it.

Producer Wants ARod to Play Drag Queen : Come Again?

NY Post
File this under 'Only ARod'.  Looks like a movie producer has given a legitimate offer to the ARod Camp to play a flamboyant Cross Dressing assistant to Salvidore Dali in an upcoming film.  Really can't make this stuff up.  In all seriousness, this is what you get after dating Madonna, kissing yourself in the mirror, getting fed popcorn by Cameron Diaz at the super bowl, sunning in Central Park like a nancy boy, and having a Centaur image of yours truly above your own bed.  He's no doubt secretly honored to be considered for the job of 'stunning, leggy drag queen' but I'm going to go out on a limb here and say he turns it down to focus on winning a Championship.  I mean really, at this point, ARod cant take a walk without something taking offense to it or coming up with some outrageous claim.   I can only stick up for him for so much.  Just can't see any other athlete getting a look like this other than Alex.  On a good note though, I'm pretty sure he's A-OK with all of this.  He just knows his role, wants to pass Mays this year after hitting #630, and keeps on kickin while the press and apparently movie producers keep on lickin.

PS - Whoever made the Centaur image above really nailed it. Even got the batting gloves in there. Hysterical.  You'll probably see more of this one.

Eli Hosting SNL and a 100k to hang with a Backup QB

NY Post
Eli Manning hosting SNL with Rihanna as a guest star?  This should be a hit.  Eli's always played second fiddle to his big brother when it comes to comedy.  This will give him a shot to prove he's got a sense of humor and for SNL writer's to prove that they can make even the most down to earth person funny.  I did see Football Cops when it came out, and I was a fan.  Slightly overdone but overall pretty funny, so I definitely think Eli can pull of SNL.

In other news from JetLand, someone actually paid 100K to hang out with the worlds favorite backup quarterback. ONE HUNDRED THOUSAND.  If I could make a list of all the better things to do with that kinda cashola I'd be writing for the rest of my life.  Even if I wasn't selfish and keeping all the money for myself, the list of other people or charities I would rather help would be endless.  Seriously, this is the last guy I want to spend an evening with.  QB2 probably doesn't even drink and would just try to convert me into a born again.  Not exactly my idea of a good time or even time well spent.  We get it, God is good to you.  Your V-Card, girl crushes, and oddball behavior are all over the news, and you know what, eventually no one is going to care.  Maybe these people are going to mess with him and booze and smoke and preach atheism.  Probably not going to happen, but would be hysterical.  Honestly, I just don't get what rich people or the 15,000 people who showed up in Texas are thinking these days.

That said, I'm glad QB2 is focusing on writing sermons and hanging with delusional rich people instead of studying the playbook and working on his terrible mechanics.  Sounds like he's shipping it in as a legit QB.  Probably not the best idea.  Keep up the good work in JetLand!

Welcome to the Bronx Kuroda

Hiroki Kuroda - Welcome to the Bronx.  This guy threw an absolute gem in front of the sellout home opener crowd and I'm lovin it.  8 innings of flawless ball against a very good team?  Made Albert Pujols want to head back to the NL.  This is the AL version of Hiroki Kuroda right here.  Guy was basically lights out.  Working different pitches, keeping people guessing, and generally being dominant.  This guy took a ton of heat all week from people saying he wasn't worth 10 Mil.  Couldnt pitch in the AL, didn't have the stuff the for East Coast, and on and on and on.  Pretty sure everyone's going to be praising him all weekend after he turned in the best pitching performance for the Yanks so this year.  Well done sir.  Hope your having a couple extra Sapporo tonight.

Also - this guy needs a nickname.  A couple more starts like this and I may start calling him the Ninja.  Or maybe Super Kuroda?

Finally - I'd just like to point out that local Boston business's are clearly doing everything possible to help the team forget about last year's whole Beer and Chicken thing.  Priceless fat kid with #1 finger in front of fried chicken joint right here.  Keep up the good work in Boston!

Bronx Baseball at Last

At last, the home opener.  A 1:05 game in the Bronx finally signals the start of spring in my book.  The bars under the subway will no doubt be rocking by 11AM.  The smell of hotdogs and street meat will take over by noon.  Foul language, and a sea of Navy Blue and White will take over by 12:30, and as an added bonus, we'll get to see Jorge throw out the first pitch.  Today, is the day the real season begins.  If only David Wells were in the bleachers with Bald Vinny leading the roll call and a couple HIP HIP JORGE chants.

I was fortunate enough to get to 6 or 7 consecutive opening day games growing up.  Thought I was the man for getting yanked from school to go see the Yanks.  Was all like 'Sorry guys, have fun writing cursive letters 1000 times, I'm gonna go get Derek Jeter's autograph and watch this dynasty kick off another season.'  Total second grade boss status.  I'm also  pretty sure they started bolting down the red, white and blue buntings around the stadium because my parents have about 3 of them in the basement back home.  I'll never forget seeing Andy Pettite pitch in the snow.  The stadium is rocking the whole time.  You hardly ever sit down, and the electricity in the air is intense. 

So, fellow cubicle monkeys, working drones, and slaves of Manhattan.  Fire up your back-up internet browser, make sure ESPN GameCast is accessible, and turn your trading floor TVs to the Yankees.  Nobody cares what the market does on Friday from 1-4 anyway.  The Red Sox are 1-5, the sun is shining, the weekend is looming, and there's Yankee Baseball in the Bronx.  All is good in the world.

Swisher Bomb and a Day of Rest : Home Opener Finally

Nick Swisher put a Ruthian charge into a 3-2 pitch last night to give the Yankees the lead for good en route to sweeping the Orioles on the road.  Curtis Granderson hit the ball well and also went deep.  Derek Jeter looks to be in 2009 form,  and just like that, the Yankees are back to 3-3 for the year.

No complaints here.  They grinded out three wins and definitely made Buck Showalter's frown and little more pronounced.  Now they get a much needed day off.  The bullpen gets some much deserved rest after two long nights with extra innings in which they performed miracles.  Hopefully returning to Yankee Stadium wakes up ARod and Texeira a little bit, and the Yanks get a very good opponent in Albert Pujols and the Angels in the home opener, which has finally arrived.

And finally, we're just under 30 hours till baseball in the Bronx.  It's not officially spring in my mind till the bars are open, Billys is pumping house music, and you can't even move in Stans.  The bleacher creatures are probably cracking open their first beer as I write this, and the first rollcall will officially get the home season underway.  As an added bonus, Jorge Posada will be hanging out and throwing the first pitch.  Not like the crowd won't go nuts as soon as he dips out of the dugout.  Hip Hip....Jorge!

Welcome Keith Rivers, Antwaun Molden, Sean Locklear

The Giants made three moves on Wednesday, and all three appear to be smart plays.  The key here is Rivers, the former first rounder.  The Giants gave up a 5th round #32 pick for him.  Don't forget they already have two fourth round picks in the upcoming draft.  This guy can play.  He has had some unfortunate injuries, but I wouldn't give him the 'injury' bug designation just yet.  Overall this could be a great value play and if he can make the transition to the inside, this will be seen as a great move.

The other two come from the Seahawks and Pats.  Locklear will press the Offensive Line for a spot and could see significant time at tackle.  Same situation for Molden, he'll press the starting corners for playing time and could help out on special teams.

The Giants truly believe in every position being a competition.  If you consistently outhustle and outplay your counterpart - you will get playing time.  This is the reason for their success in recent years.  No position should ever be guaranteed.  Complacency amongst starters, whether they are good or bad, breeds .500 seasons, first round playoff exits, and poor draft picks.  All bad things.

So Welcome On Board Keith Rivers, Antwaun Molden, and Sean Locklear - Let's see what you've got.

First Edition : Who Gets Beaned Tonight?

You want to know what sucks in baseball?  Getting hit by a pitch.  Hurts like hell, and you flail around while some pitcher turns around and tries to keep himself from laughing while getting a thumbs up from his shortstop.  Whats worse than all of this?  Being the guy that always gets hit by a pitch.  And thats why Mark Texeira and Alex Rodriguez are up in my first ever Who Gets Hit Beaned Tonight post. 

After Russ Martin accused lowly Baltimore Oriole Robert Andino of stealing signs from second base last night, there were some choice words between the two.  Since Buck Showalter knows he has no chance of maintaining a grip on first place beyond the third week in April, he wants to stay relevant.  That said, my money is on someone getting drilled tonight, and I'm going with Tex, Arod, and Martin as my three main targets.  For some reason, I get the feeling that the first two are prime targets for opposing pitchers.  Big guys who hit a lot of home runs, but are probably not going to charge the mound and are definitely going to dance around a bit and make you laugh.  Martin - well he just stirred the pot, so maybe he gets one in the leg.

Now this may not happen.  I could be completely wrong.  If I am, these two picks carry on to the next time there's some heat between teams.  Only time will tell.

For the record, I was taught how to steal signs in Little League.  Left arm to the bag - offspeed is coming.  Right arm - Expect the heat.  Pretty sure that's universal.  Maybe a little more complex at the big league level, but it DEFINITELY is going on.