yankeechick

Due to my competitive nature, I find it necessary to appeal to the masses.  On the Yankee message board, there is a battle going on between myself and another Yankee fan for the honor of supreme fan.  He is a worthy opponent who has been battle tested through many votes starting with probably 48 regular posters, then down to 24, 16, 8, etc. etc., similar to the NCAA tournament.  I was winning by such a large margin that he found it necessary to ask for votes from other boards.  I didn't even realize that was an option, but now that I do, I'm here asking for your vote.  Please go to the Yankee board, look for the thread entitled, "NYY Fan - The Final Two," and vote for me.  I am a true fan who's stuck by them through thick and thin and would talk about them for 24 hours a day if I didn't have a job I needed to keep. 

This of course is all in fun, but like I said, my competitive nature forces me to want to win anything and everything.  Thank you in advance for your support.  Go Yankees! 

During the course of this week, I had the displeasure of dealing with a less than well adjusted member who insisted on calling me, my posts and my femininity into question. Now, I’ve had a few run-ins with members before. Once, I actually got into it with 2 members who said some rather distasteful things to me. I realized how stupid it was on my part to bother arguing with ignorant people. It only got me aggravated and frustrated, so I vowed to ignore anyone who ever gave me trouble again. I’m not a member of a sports related site to get into disputes with anyone over anything other than sports.  This past week, it all started with a post I made about honor in the game of baseball. This was written as a response on the public board. 

It's too bad your not a chick for real, cuz your statement of honor is humorous like one.What's left in this or any other sport, not to be tarnished. Something as simple as stealing signs has and always will be a part of the game. OMG. Gotta be a 16 yr. old girl makin that statement. Let me teach you something on the premise you've never actually been outside before. Sports, like in life , has people who are interested in making money. This money motivates them do do whatever it takes to gain an advantage. Steroids, B. Belichick. Any of this sound familiar? Collusion. Good business. A little sneaky perhaps. Not in our law abiding society! Women really are in love with 50 yr. old ex-rockers on reality TV. Short, ugly, black-toothless dudes have always been successful with the Babes! Anyway,if you are a girl, you should probably have "The Talk", with your parents before coming back on here.If you are a girl, the ladies room is to your left on the Bosux site. That's where they spew honor untilYankees swoop in and take away X-Mas present named Teixeira. We come on here to escape the women's perspective, so you should go back to sewing.

A couple of regular posters on the Yankee board defended me which I thanked them for, but ignored the poster himself. He then proceeded to start a thread asking for proof that I was a woman, etc. Several regulars on the Yankee board again defended me. I posted one response to this sexist stating I was a woman, and I wasn’t going to let him get to me. I chose not to say anything defamatory to him because I wasn’t going to stoop to his level. I also chose not to thank my defenders on the board because I just didn’t want to get into too much about the whole thing and give the dude the satisfaction of getting the attention he desired. Let me thank the kind folk who stuck up for me now. Anyway, the guy has made some other distasteful posts directed at me and has even started in on another Yankee poster who defended me.   Here's an example.

Yes, I do feel like a man sitting here at my computer, since I am one. Thanx for confirming my point as well chargingrhino. Yankeechik must feel like she wants to be a man sitting at hers. Do you follow? I think there are way more of the Middle-Men in here than you'd expect from a YANKEE MENS BOARD!!!! We've given women everything else, why give them our sanctuary. It's freightening how many would support this. I am also aware the vast majority stay uninvolved and keep opinions on such matters to themselves. It's our PC thing we have to suffer through. So I'll assume most in here are on board with me. Yankchik I would'nt ask u a direct question because u don't really exist. As far as the get a life bullshit- Who comes on sports sites and pretends to be another gender? Gimme a small break? Rhino- I'll just assume your someones Bitch Too!! Still don't know what I'm referring to. This can't be a girl, no matter the Crap Support!!!

I don’t care if he continues, his problem, not mine.  I chose to do a blog item on this partly as a chance to say thank you to my fellow Yankee fans who are regular posters on the Yankee board. I appreciate that the majority of you don’t subscribe to this person’s beliefs and subsequent tactics. The other reason I chose to write this was to set the record straight. Contrary to this idiot’s opinion, I am a woman and proud of it. I’m actually a pretty feminine woman at that. I like to look my best when I go to work or out. I like to wear skirts and makeup. I also happen to like sports, baseball specifically. Because I’m a fairly intelligent person, I tend to speak intelligently about anything I know well, fancy that. I could use a picture of myself as an avatar to prove myself, but why should I have to.  While I respect other female posters on here in their choice to have their pictures as avatars, I chose not to do that because I’m here to talk sports, and I feel a picture of myself would distract from me being able to do that. Yeah, I’m fairly attractive, and judging from some of the incidents I’ve heard about on here, I’m guessing a picture of myself might be taken as an invitation.   It surprises me when men can’t understand why women bother with sports. We’re actually the more competitive of the 2 genders, so why is it so hard to believe? Let us be please. We’re entitled to talk about whatever we want just like men.   

I’ve come out of hibernation to write a blog item that presents 2 dilemmas that I’m sure are common in the world today. One is a woman working in a man’s world, and the other is coping with interest in a man you can’t have who you also happen to see everyday on the job. My friend, who I’ll call Jill, is presented with both these dilemmas, and as it turns out, the man she can’t have is part of the problem in the man’s world too.

Jill works for a large company at a relatively high level position. She got hired about 2 years ago based on an impressive resume with years of experience and also favorable recommendations. After a short period of time, Jill’s talent was evident to her new employers, and when a higher level position became available, it was almost immediately offered to her.

I need to mention that Jill is an extremely determined person. I mention this because when she started with this particular company, she was somewhat overweight, but due to that determination of hers’, she gradually lost it all. With her new found figure, she had to buy a new wardrobe, and while she is conservative and tasteful when it comes to choosing clothes for work, she also prefers to be feminine. Nothing wrong with that, in my opinion. I personally don’t think a woman should have to sacrifice being a woman in a male dominated workplace. Anyway, she’s turning a few heads in the skirts she chooses to wear, plus, she’s an attractive woman. I’m comfortable enough with my feminity to say that, lol. She’s not complaining, mind you, because she takes the looks as compliments.

One of the heads she’s turning is a man who’s in a higher position than her. She had some dealings with him at her former position, but now their offices are not only in the same building, but on the same floor. Because he pays her this extra attention, he’s handsome, and he’s just an all-around nice guy, Jill has developed a bit of a crush on him. She’ll never do anything about it because he’s married, but she feels very awkward around him which effects their interactions. So, how does a woman or a man for that matter, handle feelings for a person they can’t have when they have dealings with them almost everyday? I’m sure it happens all the time. On a side note, he doesn’t wear his wedding ring, and I’m curious as to why some men do that. Is it because they don’t want other women to know they’re married? Is it because they don’t like being married? I just don’t get it, but I’m sure there are men on this site who can answer the question.

Now, here’s the other part of the problem with this particular man. If Jill didn’t have this crush on him, she might conclude his looks were a bit lecherous. He purposely walks a little bit behind her to see the view from back there. He’s removed himself from behind someone to watch her walk up stairs. She’s felt a presence directly behind her, and when she turned around, it was him giving her the once over. She basically ignores it because she feels uncomfortable acknowledging it in any way.

As a professional woman myself, I’m always flattered by the looks I get from men I work with or whoever. I’ve also always been of the mind that flirting is fun, and what’s the harm in stroking a man’s ego a little. In fact, because I know my talent speaks for itself, I’m not afraid to help my cause with a little bit of that harmless flirting. There are women, and men too, whose talent is limited and use their charm and looks to get ahead though, so it’s a slippery slope. Should a woman like Jill not wear becoming clothes at work, so everyone will only focus on her talent? Should she be afraid to acknowledge the attention due to the appearance of impropriety? Hopefully, I haven’t lost my readership, and this blog item will evoke some thoughtful discussion.

I've been on this site's message boards for awhile now, and it never ceases to amaze me how ignorant some people are about their chosen teams.  Now, I don't mean any offense here, and there are some extremely knowledgeable fans on this site, some of which I've learned a thing or 2 from.  You see, I'm not claiming to know everything about the Yankees, my chosen team, and I'll be the first to admit when I've made a statistical/factual mistake.  Where my opinion is concerned though, well, I'm pretty stubborn.  I just think some people could learn something about being a real fan.  I'm not saying the ignorant people aren't fans, just not fan enough. 

Some ignorant behavior is proposing trades which make absolutely no sense.  Then, there are the posts where the info is just completely wrong.  A fan should know the players on their team, and if they don't, look them up.  I realize everyone has other things to do in their lives, but if you want to be taken seriously as a fan, take your fandom seriously.  It's also frustrating when some fans completely ignore the facts, and you can't have an intelligent conversation with them. 

Ok, I've vented enough.  Here's my opinion of a real fan.   A real fan roots for their team and its' players through thick and thin.  He or she understands how the game is played and its' little nuances.  He or she knows the players' strengths and weaknesses, so will understand why certain decisions might've been made.  He or she will not get into arguments with other fans of their team, but have an intelligent conversation instead because you might actually learn something.  A real fan is open to learning about their team.  He or she will show class and not rag on other teams, especially their rivals.  As a fan, you're representing your team in a way and should act accordingly.  The cat fights on this site are ridiculous sometimes.  Yeah, I call them cat fights because you're fighting on a computer screen where there are no repercussions for your nastiness. 

So, what constitutes a real fan to you?  Please post your comments.  You can also feel free to use this blog item to vent comments about behavior you find irritating. 

Since my relationship blog items seem to draw the most interest, here's another one for you.  This one is regarding the games people play in relationships and the signals the opposite sex send out.  Both genders are confusing to the point of utter frustration.  Don't you just want to shake the person you're interested in and/or involved with and say, what do you want??????????

Let's start from the beginning.  You see someone you find attractive across the room of a bar or wherever.  You can't tell whether or not you'll be shot down if you approach them, so you don't because rejection is a bitch especially when other people are watching.  The deal is if you want to be approached, you have to act like it.  Now, there are times when a person just doesn't feel like meeting someone because they've had a bad day or something, so don't take it personally.  I myself am very cut and dry.  If you're checking me out and I like what I see, I'm going to smile at you.  If I don't, I'm going to act like you don't exist.  Too cruel?  Maybe, but I'm of the mind you don't lead anyone on and waste their time. 

So, you've made initial contact with the person of interest.  You're making small talk and getting a feel for each other.  All of a sudden, oops, would you look at the time, I gotta go.  Why?  Something unappealing has been said or done.  Everyone's different, so again, don't take it personally.  What you said or did could be your future spouse's favorite thing about you, this person just hated it.  Thing is, if the flirting is abruptly stopped at 10 PM,  there's usually a reason for it, and you shouldn't bother asking for a phone number.  You're just leading yourself down a road of more rejection. 

Let's say you do get a number.  Yeah, if you don't want to appear too eager, you should wait a couple of days before you use it.  Eager = desperate in some people's minds, and desperate = unattractive.  Women and men alike look for confidence in a mate, someone strong and assertive that they don't have to worry about.  Nobody wants someone constantly bringing them down with clinginess.  Ok, back to using the number.  Personally, I can't stand the wait 3 days rule.  If you took my number, you want to call me, so do it, and I'm not going to perceive it as desperation.  I'm going to take it as a compliment.  That's just me though.  Now, if you get voicemail, and your intended doesn't call you back within a week, give it up.  There is a slight possibility the person's phone is messed up, so trying one more time isn't terrible, but no more than that.  Save your dignity.  Again, it's nothing personal.  Your crush just probably realized you weren't for them. 

The first date sucks.  You can't really judge someone on it alone, so if they're not a total loon, give them a second date.  The best thing to do is have a drink before you meet the person to relax yourself.  You obviously don't want to be drunk, but you want to be yourself and alcohol helps that cause, it really does.  You want your date to like you for you.  A first date is best approached like an interview, a gathering of information about each other.  It's also best approached on a friendship level which takes the pressure off.  The more laid back you are, the more comfortable your date's going to be which will bring out their true self.  That's the person you want to see, so you can determine whether or not they're right for you romantically.  Too many times I've seen people pretend to be someone they're not to please a member of the opposite sex.  I've also seen people be dishonest because they thought the person wouldn't like the truthful answer.  Then, you constantly have to remember the lie(s) you told, and it's bound to bite you in the butt.  Why people don't want to be with someone who appreciates them for them is beyond me.  Why put that much stress on yourself? 

So, the first date comes to an end.  You think a goodnight kiss is in order, but it doesn't happen.  Don't think it's because the other person didn't have a good time too.  Everyone expects the guy to make the first move, but maybe the guy isn't sure you want him to.  Nothing wrong with the girl giving the guy a kiss, even if it's on the cheek.  Again, if you're interested, you have to let each other know. 

Where letting each other know is concerned though, there is sharing TOO much information.  After you survive the first date and get into a full blown relationship, it's best for both parties to just go with the flow.  This is especially hard for women because they generally need things defined.  I'm guilty of it too.  Talking about EVERYTHING just complicates things which makes your relationship less enjoyable.  It'll drive someone away because who wants to do something they don't enjoy if they don't have to.  Thing is, if you enjoy being together, that's all you really need to know.  You also should be sensitive to the fact that everyone needs positive reinforcement, I don't care who you are.  You just can't take each other for granted, and you have to throw compliments around from time to time to let the person know you definitely find them attractive, you enjoy being with them, you like the way things are going.  Now, obviously, if you stay together long enough to think about a future, there are certain things you're just going to have to talk about, and guys have to realize this and suck it up. 

 

I remember hearing that said for the very first time on an episode of Sex and the City.  Carrie was introducing her new boyfriend, Jack Berger, to Miranda, Samantha and Charlotte for the first time.  The girls are discussing their love lives at some bar while Jack listens.  Miranda tells about a recent date where she invited the guy upstairs, but he declined saying he had to be up really early.  He kissed her twice and said he'd call her.  Jack bluntly utters his opinion, "he's just not that into you."  The girls argue with him about push/pull, guys are afraid of rejection too, yadda, yadda, yadda.  Jack reveals the secret to men is that there is no secret.  If they're interested, they say so by going upstairs and booking the next date. 

I'm all for Jack's assessment of a guy's behavior on a date, but what about 10 or however many dates down the road when the guy loses interest?  How about when they end a full blown relationship that's lasted months or maybe even years?  Why is it that one day "he's into you" and the next day, "he's not that into you?"  Now, I've been through my share of breakups, and I'll admit that after the initial shock wore off, I could objectively look back on most of them and see that there were warning signs.  I just didn't want to see them.  I'm sure there are many other women who've been through the same thing.  All of a sudden, he's really busy and preoccupied.  He's moody.  He cancels dates you have planned.  You just think your relationship is on such solid ground it's impossible it could be anything more than what he's saying.  But it is.  So, why, if it's so simple with guys, don't they just come out and say it?  Yes, it's going to hurt the girl, and yes, she may cry, but you're a man aren't you?  So be one. 

I have also been through breakups where after that initial shock wore off, I could objectively say there was no forewarning.  These are the really perplexing guys and situations.  You're going along, talking all the time, getting closer and closer which leads you to believe he really likes you and then boom, nothing.   I've always thought it was because the guy got scared.  He's not ready for anything more serious with her or anyone, and he wakes up one day with the realization he's been getting close to a girl.  Well, that just can't happen.  So, what would be so terrible about telling the girl you like her, but you feel things are getting too serious, and it's not the right time for you?  My, honesty, what a novel thought.  It beats playing the games both genders play.  Hmmmm.....how many days should I wait to call?  How about as many as you want instead of as many as is necessary to throw her or him off.  Why can't everyone just say and do what they want?

It is true that men are from Mars and women are from Venus.  The most notable difference to me is how women like to talk things out, and men can't be bothered.  I'm not criticizing men for that because I envy their ability to let things go.  A lot of the time, women just can't.  We need some sort of explanation for why things happened, some sort of that annoying word, closure.  As we mature, we realize it's just not worth the agita to chase down a reason, but doesn't mean we don't wonder from time to time.  Men letting things go makes them adverse to facing the girl of the moment when they want to end things.  Hey, both sexes know each other to a certain extent, and all a guy can think of is how he doesn't want to deal with a crying chick.   Isn't that why they ease their way out hoping she'll either figure it out herself or break up with him?  I think so.  Why can't we all be reasonable and accept our differences by meeting each other halfway.  Hey, I promise not to freak out if you promise not to be a chicken. 

Several weeks ago, I hopped a flight to Rochester, NY for the 6th year in a row to participate in the ultimate fantasy baseball experience; an auction draft.   I had dabbled with a league on Yahoo for a couple of years before that, so my brother coerced me into joining this league he'd been a part of for about 10 years.  The league itself has probably been in existence for about 15.  I had no idea what I was in for, how challenging and competitive it would be, and how addicted I'd become. 

It's necessary to give a little background regarding the rules.  It's 13 teams, NL only, 5X5 roto, 7 keepers allowed with a $260 salary cap.  The roster spots include 2 catchers, 1B, 2B, 3B, SS, MI, CI, 5 OF, U and 9 pitchers.  The only reserve spots you get are for the injured or sent down players.  You can replace said players on a weekly basis based on the standings.  The last place team gets all their first choices first and so on and so forth with the first place team being last.  You are allowed to make 7 dumps per season, the first 5 costing $5 each, and the remaining 2 costing $7 each.  Dumps come after replacing injured and minored players.  When a player is activated off the disabled list or called up, you can choose to keep his replacement and drop someone else, but that counts as a dump.  You have 2 Mondays to activate a player or else you lose them.  As for salaries, any player you pick up during the year is automatically $10, and if they come over from the AL, they're $25.  Salaries remain the same for year 2, but then go up in increments of $5 every year afterwards.  The top 4 teams are winners.  First place gets a significant piece of the pie, and 4th place basically gets their expenses for the league covered.  I actually was able to come in 4th 2 years out of 5. 

Now, I ask you to imagine a table in the basement of someone's house with 12 + men and myself sitting around it for 8 hours minimum.  I say 12 + because some teams have 2 proxies.  In the middle of the table are assorted candies, cookies, chips and pain killers.  Around the periphery of the table are several coolers with assorted beverages and beer.  The commissioner starts off the process with bringing up any rules that were haggled over during the previous season.  Sometimes, they're brought to a vote as to whether or not to change them.  After that business is squared away, he also presents the first player with an opening bid.  Clockwise around the table we go with each manager either upping the bid or passing on the player completely by turning over the plastic cup we all have in front of us.  It eventually gets down to one team who wins that player.  Again clockwise, each team presents one player at a time.  The objective in the beginning is to get people to spend as much money as possible, so the elite players are always thrown out first. 

My objective has always been to allow every other team to spend enough, so that I have the most money before I even buy my first player.  This allows me to pace myself which always nets me the most money left towards the end of the draft as well.  This is where you get your bargain gems.  Unfortunately, there is another team who does the same thing.  I've managed to wait him out half the time and not the other half.  I'm not going to miss out on a player I want by being inflexible.  He's actually waited so long sometimes that the crabby managers have become restless and started mumbling.  I've always managed to have more money than him at the end though which is really the most important thing.  My other objective is to always throw out players for bid that I don't need or want.  Each year, I got to know the NL players better and better until the pinnacle of my success last season when my team produced enough keepers to make it very difficult to make decisions.  James Loney I happened to pick up in a dump which cost me $10.  I did not succeed in winning any of the top 4 spots last season because it was essentially my rebuilding year, and that was just fine with me.  At the point where I knew there was no hope of me finishing in the money, I started trying to make trades for keepers which netted me Corey Hart at $8 and Jonathan Broxton at $6.

After much deliberation, I settled on keeping Corey Hart at $8, James Loney at $10, Adrian Gonzalez at $14, Kelly Johnson at $7, Russell Martin at $15, Rafael Soriano at $2 and Brandon Lyon at $10.  Armed with a solid core on offense and 2 closers, my focus was on starting pitching.  My first year in the league, my starters all fell to injury at some point.  After it happened again the next season, I decided to load up on starters the next 3 years.  I changed that philosophy this year and took a couple of middle relievers on good teams that I knew would net me some wins and keep my ERA and WHIP down.  My other focus was to get Dan Haren and one other "stud" which wound up being Ben Sheets.  I usually try to stay away from injury risks, but the price on him was too good to pass up, and I figured my luck was bound to change some time.  Where buying was concerned, I did manage to wait out everyone before making my first buy, but unfortunately, I got backed into a corner on some offensive positions because there was nobody left who would be worthwhile.  I wound up overpaying for these players.  I never take part-time players, so when I say worthwhile, I mean starters.  Because of this, I didn't wind up with more money than anyone else at the end, but in a year where my team is built to win, it really wasn't necessary.  I was disappointed that I missed out on a couple of people I especially coveted, but such is life. 

At some point during the draft, we always break for a meal of deli.  Otherwise, if you have to go to the bathroom, you better run.  The later it gets, the less tylenol and sugary items are left on the table.  The later it gets, the more ornery everyone becomes.  The barbs in jest throughout the day become less funny.  The amount of time people take to make a decision on whether to bid or not becomes less amusing.  One manager had the Jeopardy theme ready to go on his laptop whenever anyone took an inordinate amount of time. 

There are different characters in my league.  There is the one know-it-all who has something to say about everything.  There are the silent managers who never have anything to say about anything.  There are the technical managers who are on their laptops the entire time analyzing.  There are the overconfident managers who you want to beat more than anyone else.  There are some incredibly excellent drafters and some not so much.  There are the managers you look at dumbfounded when they throw out particular players for bid because you can't believe they actually want them.  These are the same managers whose teams you look at and secretly laugh to yourself.  Those teams inevitably wind up at the rear every season, but hey, they're having fun. 

All in all, I felt confident with my draft, and in the 4th week of the season, I'm in 3rd place with only 2 injuries.  Yes, Sheets is going to miss his next start, but he's still not on the DL.  If he does wind up there, I'll stay afloat with a replacement for the time being.  And there you have it. 

After about a week of baseball, here are my first impressions of the 2008 NY Yankees. 

Pitching:  After Chien Ming Wang and Phil Hughes, the starters have been beatable, especially Ian Kennedy.  Mike Mussina's start wasn't as horrible as people seem to think.  Besides the homerun he gave up to Vernon Wells, he was actually ok.  He just doesn't have the ability to get people out as easily as he used to, so he requires more pitches.  This is going to force the bullpen in early during his starts which won't be a problem if the other starters give them length.  My concern with Moose is the effort he's expending coupled with his age may cut his season short.  This also may not be a problem if Alan Horne's ready after the all-star break. 

I'm also not too concerned about Andy Pettitte since he was injured, and he's still getting his legs back under him.  He really only got roughed up for that one inning, and I think he'll be fine.  Of greater concern is Ian Kennedy.  It is only 1 start though, so let's wait and see. 

Chien Ming Wang looked good in his first start, and great in his second start.  It seems the new pitches he's worked into his repertoire are quite effective as is evident in the uncharacteristic 6 strikeouts.  Phil Hughes' successful first start was of no surprise to this Yankee fan. 

As I suspected, the bullpen hasn't been worrisome like people expected.  LaTroy Hawkins is the only reliever that's caused any problems.  Brian Bruney has been outstanding so far and seems pumped up with something to prove.  I really like the attitude I see from him.  Ross Ohlendorf and Billy Traber have also been getting the job done.  Even Kyle Farnsworth has been pulling his weight.  Even better is the unbeatable team of Joba Chamberlain and Mariano Rivera.  I've been a huge proponent of getting Joba into the rotation, but I don't know how they're going to mess with that combination.  It's formidable.  I thought Mo's slight decline would continue this year, but he's looked better than ever.  He seems to be ageless. 

Defense:  There have been some great, good, awkward and not so good plays.  I think the biggest defensive concern for everyone going into the season was Jason Giambi, of course.  He actually looked limber in his first game snagging that line drive.  I was in shock.  Then, he reverted to true form by taking out that cameraman in the next game.  He actually probably should've caught that popup foul ball, but it was a tough play.   The fact is, Giambi will never be graceful out there and will always look awkward.   He's never going to come up with a ball hit to him smoothly like Robinson Cano.  What he has been doing well is knocking that ball down, staying with it and making the out.  He's also saved a couple of errant throws while still staying on the bag.  I believe Girardi's show of confidence in him by not taking him out for a defensive replacement has gone a long way.  Also, after Shelley Duncan's disastrous play, there really isn't any question in my mind that he isn't the best option there. 

Everyone else has been fine on defense except for the few errant throws by the infield.  They all need to make sure they're set.  Melky made a few great catches, but he needs to work on consistently tracking the ball better. 

Offense:  Once again they're off to a slow start.  It should be noted that they faced some of the better starters during this week.  Roy Halladay, AJ Burnett, Dustin McGowan and James Shields are no pushovers.  There's no cause for worry quite yet.  We haven't entered May with the slumping bats like last year.  It doesn't even appear as if anyone is in trouble of continuing into a prolonged slump.  Everyone's taking good at bats with good swings.  I like the team's approach.

Coaching:  If there was any wonder about this season, it was the transition from Joe Torre to Joe Girardi.  It has been made immediately obvious how different they are.  I have the utmost respect for Joe Torre, but I am loving Joe Girardi, especially the confidence he shows in his players.  They are professional athletes and grown men who should be treated as such by allowing them a say in their own destinies.  Most notable is his handling of the pitching staff.  Game 1, he went out to the mound to talk to Wang instead of automatically pulling him when he got into a little trouble.  He was rewarded with a strikeout and avoiding the bullpen.  Based on what I've seen so far, I see the bullpen performing much better in August and September than previous years.  This is hugely important. 

All in all, I like the look of the team and am excited to see the rest of the season.  I predict an AL East title back in the Bronx. 

First, let me express that my last item was directed at employees who just don't seem to get it.  They wonder why they can't get anywhere or aren't given more hours, etc.  Well, it's because they don't seem to have good work ethic as defined in my list.  If you want to move up at your job or be recognized, those are things employers look for. 

When it comes to hiring, there are also things employers look for.  The first step is the resume.  It should be on 1 page and easy to read.  When I say easy to read, I mean your potential employer should be able to pick out each job, and everything should be aligned.  Different fonts and bullet points will accomplish this.  For instance, I have each of my jobs in italics with my responbilities individualized with bullet points.  This way, anyone looking at it will be able to tell where one job ends and another begins.  Your responsibilites should also be concise.  Assume your interviewer is very busy, and you need to get your point across before they say to hell with it.  Nobody wants to read too much.  Whatever you do, do not put anything on your resume you haven't actually done.  It's ok to exaggerate a little, but you have to be prepared for someone to ask you questions about everything on your resume.  On that note, leave room for questions.  Put in things that will peak someone's interest.  For instance, instead of saying you increased sales by such and such percent by doing such and such, only say you increased the sales without telling how you did it.  This will probably prompt the interviewer to ask you how you did it giving you the opportunity to sell yourself.  Along with the resume comes the cover letter.  This actually isn't necessary unless asked for in an ad.  If it is, make sure you only include things that aren't in your resume.  No point in being redundant, and even better, you get to mention all the other stuff you've accomplished.  You also want to state why you want to work for them, and why you'd be an asset. 

Interviews are tough, no doubt.  The most important thing is to be yourself.  Try to look at it as a conversation between 2 people rather than an interrogation.  Start off with a firm handshake, a smile and eye contact.  Smiling and eye contact is important throughout the interview.  Be honest about everything.  You'll wind up tripping yourself up if you aren't, believe me.  Be prepared to answer why you left every job on your resume.  Also, be prepared to answer why you're looking for work at that point.  If you got terminated, tell them that.  They're going to find out somehow anyway.  It's true, it's illegal for your ex employer to say anything more than you worked there from when to when, but people have ways of finding out.  Besides, the right employer will appreciate your honesty, and that's someone you'd prefer to work for anyway.  The best answer you can give if you were terminated is you made a mistake.  The best answer you can give if you want to leave your current job is that there's no room to grow.  Do not tell anyone you're having a problem with management unless it's really legitimate.  Saying you don't get along doesn't inspire confidence that you have a respect for authority. 

You will inspire confidence if you've researched the company you're applying to.  How better to show how much you want the job than by being able to talk about it.  It shows genuine interest, and it also shows you went out of your way to prepare yourself.  Asking questions also shows your interest.  Now, one thing you don't want to do is take over the interview.  Yes, the idea is for an employer to find out about you, but they don't need your life story, and like I said, it's supposed to be a conversation between 2 people, not yourself.  The whole idea of an interview is to sell yourself as someone who is more competent than anyone else they've interviewed, more motivated and more likely to fit in.  Exude confidence.

As a finishing touch, make sure you get your interviewer's card.  Use it to send a thank you note or email saying you appreciated the time they gave you and how much you enjoyed meeting them.  Bring up specific points you spoke of in the interview to show you listened, and remind them specifically of you since they probably spoke with many others.  Let them know how sincerely interested you are in the job and look forward to hearing from them.  If it's a job you especially want, it's really ok to follow up with a call.  Sometimes, employers get sidetracked, so when you call, you're reminding them of you, a person they might really want, but haven't had a chance to call.  If they tell you they haven't made a decision, take the hint and move on.  They might tell you they hired someone else, so at least you'll know.  Whatever the case, one call doesn't hurt, and might in fact help.  Assertiveness and aggressiveness, to a certain degree, are qualities an employer will appreciate. 

Lastly, understand that the hiring process can usually take up to 2 months in companies.   A lot of places put you through online personality tests as well.  Do not let those stress you out.  Just answer the questions honestly.  Don't second guess yourself wondering what answers they want.  There aren't any.  Those tests are really just to determine that you're not antisocial and/or a sociopath.  If there's a job you especially want that's taking too long, call them up with a fib.  Tell them you've gotten another offer, but you're really interested in them, and you want to make sure you have all your options before you make a decision.  It works, trust me. 

Good luck!

 

As a manager of people, I have developed a definition of work ethic. Honestly, I use me as a baseline because I've always believed in putting my maximum effort forward to earn my money. That's the way of my generation. The generation younger than me has no clue, not all, but most. You know who you are.

  1. Don't call out unless you have a death in the family, a legit emergency, or you're so sick you can't move. Don't use the death in the family and legit emergency excuses once a month.
  2. Accept the fact that you work for someone else and have to do what they say. If you don't want to follow someone else's rules, go work for yourself.
  3. Work. You're not getting paid to be lazy and screw around.
  4. Arrive at work on time. Be ready to work at that minute.
  5. Respect your co-workers and management. If you have nothing to do, offer them your help.
  6. If you hate your job, you're not forced to be there. Don't bitch and moan. Nobody wants to hear your negativity all the time. It brings everyone else down.
  7. Do your job to the best of your ability, and strive to be better. Status quo won't get you anywhere and going through the motions sucks.
  8. Revenge is not sweet. If your boss pisses you off, have the guts to approach them like an adult. Don't bitch about them behind their back, and threaten to do things like keying their car.
  9. Don't mouth off to your boss and co-workers. You can't expect them to speak to you with respect if you don't do likewise.
10. Gossip is bullshit in the workplace. Wtf is wrong with everyone making an effort to get along?! You're not going to like everyone, let alone be friends, but at least be professional for God's sake.
11. Admit you made a mistake. Don't point the finger at other people. Don't make excuses.
12. Go in at the last minute to help out if you're able.
13. Don't blow smoke up your bosses' ass. They can spot a phony a mile away, believe me. Just makes you come off as a liar, and it'll be difficult for them to trust you.

In order to accomplish the above you need maturity.

Maturity
  1. Don't be a coward. Have the guts to approach your problems and the people who may be involved with them.
  2. Choose your battles. Don't be petty. Yes, you should stand up for yourself and what you believe in, but know when enough's enough.
  3. Have some respect for someone other than yourself.
  4. Be willing to admit you were wrong. Don't deflect blame onto others. Don't make excuses.
  5. Learn from your mistakes. Don't repeat them.
  6. Align yourself with other mature people. Don't succumb to peer pressure.
  7. Know when you're too angry to have a productive conversation with someone. Nothing ever gets solved based on emotion. You can't get your point across. Know when you need to cool off first.
  8. Be logical and rational. Don't expect what just isn't possible.
  9. Accept people as they are. They're not going to behave like you, deal with it. See them for their good qualities.Accept that good qualities don't only apply to you. Change your outlook, not them.
10. Accept yourself as you are, faults and all. Be proud of all of you.
11. Go with the flow. Be flexible.
12. Move on. Don't hold a grudge forever. Forgive.
13. Be generous. Be good to others. Have empathy.
14. See the good in people and situations.
15. Be able to laugh at yourself.
16. Allow yourself to be yourself. Don't pretend to be something you're not to please others.
17. Be true to yourself and your beliefs. Nobody can ever take that away from you.
18. Follow your heart and you'll have no regrets.
19. Be able to see the big picture.

This is inspired by Mom's blog item about scents that remind you of people, places and situations.  Honestly, scents have never really done it for me.  I'm not saying I want anyone to smell bad and I certainly remember certain ones, but my memories are triggered more by specific songs.  I also equate certain times in my life with certain songs.  For instance, when I was younger and didn't know what the hell I wanted to do with my life it was Joe Jackson's, "You Can't Get What You Want 'Til You Know What You Want."  Then, when I did finally start following a path which seemed right, I still wasn't satisfied, so it was The Rolling Stones', "You Can't Always Get What You Want," "but if you try sometimes, you get what you need".....you all know the rest.  When I did finally get settled in my place in life, it was Desiree's, "You Gotta Be."

As for certain situations that occurred, well, I of course broke up with someone when Sinead O'Connor's, "Nothing Compares 2 U" came out.  I'll never forget sitting at my job before we opened watching the video on TV, goddamn her.  I think every woman will admit to feeling as though they could beat any breakup by listening to Gloria Gaynor's, "I Will Survive."  Then, there are the love songs I link to specific men who've been in my life like Bryan Adams', "Still Feels Like the First Time," and I designated Matchbox 20's, "When You're Gone" to a crush I once had.  Mostly, it was what was playing on the radio while I thought about whoever as I drove.  As for the perfect sex song, to me it's, "Damn, I Wish I Was Your Lover."  I have no idea who sings it, but does it really matter?  No.  The perfect wedding song?  None other than Etta James', "At Last."  Runner up goes to Gladys Knight's, "You're the Best Thing that Ever Happened to Me." 

So, I put it out there to all of you.  What might you call your theme song presently and in the past?  What songs remind you of your first time, your first date, your first love, etc?  Do they inspire happiness or enough pain to make you want to hurl something at the radio?  I've never done that and never will because every memory and experience makes you who you are and need to be held onto. 

For the first time in 10 years, the Yankees enter the season as the underdog in the AL East. Yes, Boston won the World Series in '04, but NY still won the division that year. It isn't a bad thing to be the underdog as it provides more motivation, in my opinion. This hasn't been the case in the last 7 years during which time the Yankees have failed to bring a championship home to NY. They've been beaten in the World Series twice, lost the ALCS once and gone down in the first round for 4 years including the last 3 in a row.   In the last 4 years, the humiliation has increased starting with probably the greatest collapse in the history of sports in '04. I won't say anymore because I know all Yankee fans either tear up, become nauseated or both at the mere mention of it.

I believe the team as a whole will be more motivated this year because of it's makeup of players. On one end of the spectrum, you have the new members who are primed to prove they belong in the big leagues. On the other end, you have the veterans, some of which only have one more chance in this year to prove they still have the skills left to get it done. On an individual basis, it's been a long time since there were actual competitions for more than one spot in the Bronx. For all of Joe Torre's strengths as a manager, he favored his veterans because of their previous production even if it didn't exist anymore. He also favored what produced results including specific relief pitchers and lineups even after they no longer inspired that confidence. It seems as if this is not the case with Joe Girardi who is giving everyone the chance to prove themselves in Spring training. Why not? If someone is assured of a job, human nature dictates they won't strive harder to keep it. This specifically effects Jason Giambi, Mike Mussina and Kyle Farnworth who may be assured of that job, but not a starting one. All in contract years, they have everything to lose and plenty to gain. Imagine the team with the likes of a healthy, 2002 like productive Giambi, a flame throwing, pinpoint control setup guy in Farnsworth and a crafty, 2006 like Mike Mussina. It certainly creates a more potent team.

The offense of the Yankees sparks fear in the minds of opposing pitching as it will score runs upon runs from top to bottom like last year. They all have the ability to hit homeruns, some more than others, but Girardi’s game is small ball. He won’t wait for that homerun, he’ll manufacture runs, and subsequently, the homers will take care of themselves. The order I see with unobvious positions noted is Damon in left, Jeter, Abreu, Arod, Giambi at first, Posada, Matsui at DH, Cano and Melky in center. Damon may not be the player he once was, but he still makes a good tablesetter and is certainly the most viable option of the alternatives. A major key to this lineup is the protection of Arod in the hopes he will duplicate or surpass the incredible season he had last year. Abreu proved to be more than competent in that role in front of him last year. The 5 hole couldn't be filled properly for the length of the season. Giambi started out there before he got hurt, and then it was predominantly Matsui who was too streaky. Posada was tried at one point which seemed to work, but it's doubtful he has the same kind of season he did last year. Plus, it's preferable to split up your lefties and righties in a lineup, and batting him there would leave 3 lefties in a row. Giambi belongs in the 5 hole, at least until he proves otherwise, because he's primed to have a big year. He has stated more than once that he wants to keep playing next year, and he’s not not going to have many offers after another subpar season. I know Shelley Duncan is a fan favorite and has great energy, but I find it hard to believe he won’t revert to his minor league ways of being a power threat only. I could be wrong, but his defense is lacking anyway. I think his talents best serve the team off the bench, but he should start one day a week to keep him fresh. Wilson Betemit should be for defensive purposes only as his bat lacks any specialty different from anyone else’s. With Matsui and Duncan being able to play the outfield, I don’t think you need more than them, Betemit and Molina on the bench. I think the roster spot # 25 should go to another relief pitcher.

That’s been an exciting race this Spring. It appears as if Billy Traber has won the lefty spot in the bullpen since he was added to the roster. I realize he’s been impressive, but I’m not so sure about that choice since he doesn’t have a good track record to back it up. I know he’s had injuries, but that makes him even more worrisome. The beauty of having so many arms vying for a spot is you can always replace him with a callup though. Everyone seems to think the bullpen is a subject for concern, but I disagree. If someone isn’t cutting it, there are options in the minors like never before, and not just let’s cross our fingers options. At this point, after Mo, Joba, Farnsworth and Hawkins, I see Ohlendorf and Albalajedo making the team along with Traber. I had originally thought Karstens for the longman, but Ohlendorf’s having a better Spring, and he really has the better stuff out of the two. If the Yankees choose to go with an 8 relievers rather than a position player, I’d have to go with Britton as the last choice. I know there’s a lot of money invested in Igawa, and he has pitched well this Spring, but he doesn’t offer anything special to set him apart from the others.

The concern to me is the rotation because it’s highly improbable that 3 rookies all have good to great seasons. That’s what the team is going to need in order to make it to the playoffs this year. It’s not impossible, just improbable. I truly feel that Hughes and Kennedy will rise to the occasion, and the innings limit on Hughes doesn’t really worry me. My thought is they’ll move him into the bullpen once they move Joba to the rotation after the all-star break. He did just fine there in the playoffs. I’m also not worried about Moose who’s talent and pride won’t allow him to not prove himself still worthy of a spot in the rotation. To me, Wang and Pettitte are givens, so that leaves Joba. He concerns me because I can’t imagine him having enough gas to last 6 innings a game after pitching in the bullpen for a year. I like the plan to send him to the minors for a few weeks in order to stretch out his arm before he’s placed in the rotation. Hopefully, it works. Of no concern to me is replacing him as the setup man in the bullpen. There’s plenty of talent available who are capable of getting that job done, and one of them will. The most important thing is making it clear to all pitchers, starters and reliever alike, but especially relievers, what the plans are for them and what their roles will be. I don’t think it’s beneficial to a pitcher’s mindset for him to not know when and where he’s going to pitch. Leave Spring training with a plan. Choose a pitcher for innings 6, 7 & 8 each and stick to that plan until you’re sure it doesn’t work, if it doesn’t work. If it doesn’t, change the plan, don’t wait for it to change. Keep trying until you get it right. Then, if it’s gone right for awhile, but then suddenly goes wrong, don’t wait until it gets so bad your pitchers are ready to jump off a bridge. Come up with new ideas making sure to communicate your new plan.

This is something I feel Girardi will excel at. He will explain his thinking to his players. He won’t wait for his bullpen and lineup to implode before he makes changes. He’s also shown he leads by example where workouts are concerned and will keep his team in excellent shape. He’s in no way complacent about the job he’s taken or the talented team he has. He’ll get the most out of his players in a way that exudes energy and creativity, characteristics that’ll serve them all well. It’s an exciting time in the Bronx, one full of change and uncertainty. It’s time to embrace it.

1. You play Taps on November 1st.

2. You keep a chest full of all the fantasy baseball publications you've ever bought under lock and key.

3. You have all your fantasy team rosters laminated and bound into a book.

4. You run to the nearest newsstand at least twice a day starting January 2nd until the first fantasy magazine comes out.

5. You check injury reports on-line every hour.

6. You have technical support for your fantasy website on speed dial.

7. You have your fantasy website saved as a favorite.

8. You keep work related material minimized on your computer screen, so that when your boss walks in you can cover up the fact you've been checking your stats.

9. You yell at your computer screen when you see those stats.

10. You recite the career stats of Alex Rodriguez in a financial meeting at work.

11. In an interview, you read off who you want to draft when asked about your career goals.

12. If a competitor's team is doing better, you seek out their best player and pull a Tonya Harding. 

13. You're able to make an argument that Johan Santana is a fair trade for Eric Milton because you have their stats memorized for every single year they've played. 

14. You daydream about your closer at work and doodle his name. 

15. You call out your #1 starter's name during sex, and then scream strike when you awaken from a nightmare. 

 

I have foolishly committed myself to 4 leagues including 1 where I'm the commish this year when I've never done more than 2.  You can't tell an addict he/she doesn't have enough time to smoke crack.  I used to be able to tell people it was time I otherwise wouldn't have spent with my brother.  He's not in all 4 leagues, so I can't use that excuse anymore.  I could say it makes me feel closer to the game I love so much.  Don't think that one's going to fly either.  So, I'll just tell the truth.  I love the competition against guys who think a girl has no place there.  I love when I come out ahead of those cocky guys, and they have to insert their feet in their mouths.  I love the history and stats of the game that you need to know to succeed in fantasy baseball.  Hi, I'm a fantasy baseball junkie, and I refuse to join a support group.   

No, this is not the title of a poem.  There's no poetry in driving a sportscar in the snow and ice. 

A couple of years ago I was in the market to buy a car.  I found several cars I was interested in, and then did my due diligence and researched their pros and cons.  After narrowing it down, I wrestled with myself over practicality vs. want.  Most of my life, well, at least my adult life, I've done the responsible and practical thing which translated into conservative.  With my annual bonus burning a hole in my pocket, I said I'll be damned if I go the sensible route now!  Enough of that, and I freed myself! 

I bought a Nissan 350Z.  You're probably thinking that was the end of my venture into the other side, and I got it in black or silver, a traditional color.  Nope.  Ever hear of the color, lemans sunset?  Yeah, it's a copperish orange, and I got it with burnt orange seats.  I have never been a fan of orange, but this color was hot.  Did I realize I was going to call the police's attention to me?  Yeah, and I didn't care. 

I admit I've done impulse buying before, but never a purchase as big as this.   I've been in clothing stores deciding between several outfits, one being substantially more money than the others, and I've bought it.    Or, I've gone into the store with a set goal of buying 2 outfits, and that's it, and walked out with 5.  I would stand there in the dressing room looking at all the clothes I wanted while calculating how much they were going to cost me in total, and comparing that amount to what I could afford.  Yeah, I still bought what I wanted.  I've purchased bigger tvs than I needed and electronic equipment I didn't need at all.  These are the extents of my walks on the wildside of impulse buying. 

You might say the car wasn't an impulse buy because I did my research beforehand.  Nah.  I did that research for a good month, and I was tired of it.  I got on the phone with a Nissan dealership specifically looking for the 350Z touring model.  As I spent about an hour on the phone with the salesman as he looked for what nearby dealers had in stock, it became increasingly clear to me that I wanted the car right then and there.  Maybe it was because I knew it was then or never, and I'd chicken out.  I had the salesman look for the conventional color, but he couldn't find one that met my needs that he could get quickly.  He did find the lemans sunset one which he could have for me in a week.  I tortured the poor guy while I looked at the color on the internet and kept asking if he could find anything else.  He did wind up finding one in silver, but again, I tortured the poor guy while I clicked back and forth on both colors on the internet.  You know what happened.  We made the deal over the phone.  I faxed him my info, and he got a loan approved.  A week later I drove out of the dealership with my brand new car.  I was beaming. 

Two weeks ago, we had a pretty bad snowstorm in the Northeast.  I checked the weather forecast before I went to work in Manhattan, and they said no more than an inch accummulation, so I drove in.  They lied.  As I watched the snow come down while I was at work, I started to panic.  I couldn't leave because I had a meeting to attend.  At around 5 PM when it was over, it had stopped snowing, and the roads didn't look too bad.  I made a run for it.  Almost as soon as I started driving, the snow started coming down again, and these were no flurries.  We're talking flakes that impaired visibility.  The roads still weren't that bad because Manhattan is a heavily traveled area.  Even when I got out of the Lincoln Tunnel, the traffic was so slow, I still didn't have a problem.  It wasn't until I got off the highway when I hit unplowed, unmelted territory.  My car was sliding all over the place even at the speed of 10 mph.  I got about a half a mile and pulled into a parking lot.  I called a cab, yeah, I laugh at myself for that now.  How could I think anyone was coming to get me?  I looked for the bus, but we're talking NJ Transit here.  If you don't know it, feel lucky.  I started walking home.  Hey, it was only 2 miles, how bad could it be?  At a subfreezing temp, trudging through about 6 inches of snow in shoes that were never made for that, bad. 

Not that I'm complaining though because to do so would mean admitting I might've made the wrong choice in cars, and how could I do that when I loved my car so much.  So, I reminisced about making it to Rochester, NY in 4 hours at 100 mph and not getting pulled over.  Ah, the memories.  Then, I'm going to have the memory of today.  On days like this when I have to work late, it's necessary for me to drive in.  Not happening today when it hasn't stopped snowing since last night.  Since it's nearly impossible to get a cab home late at night in weather like this, I'm staying in the city.  As I looked around my hotel room when I checked in before work, I said, damn car. 

Thing is, nothing is ever going to be perfect in life.  There are times when you just have to do what makes you happy despite all the negatives.  Having always had a practical car before, it didn't occur to me that this one couldn't survive snowy roads.  I just didn't think about it because I wanted that car.  If I could go back knowing what I know now, I'd still have made this impulse buy.  Sometimes, you just gotta do, what you gotta do. 

I thought it was time I did a sports related post.  I realize this is old news, but now that the dust has completely settled, my thoughts have too.

The "big 3." That's the nickname for Joba Chamberlain, Phil Hughes and Ian Kennedy. The last time I heard that nickname used it was for Tim Hudson, Barry Zito and Mark Mulder when they were all on the A's. Let's see......what happened to them? Hudson's doing pretty well and he's pretty consistent. I wouldn't use the word "big" when describing his talents anymore though. I'd use the word, medium. Mark Mulder has barely pitched in the last 2 years because of injuries. And, well, Barry Zito signed the big money contract with SF, and sucked in his first season with them.

Would all of this have happened if they weren't broken up? One might say no if they believed Samson lost all his strength when his hair was cut off. I personally don't believe that myth, well, I believe it, but I don't believe it was his hair that did it. I think his hair was an excuse/metaphor for his self-confidence. Do I think the old "big 3" had more confidence together rather than apart? Probably. There's something to be said about knowing your fellow starters can also get the job done and pick you up the next game if you had a bad outing. While I say probably, I still think their careers would've taken the same course. Zito did fine with the A's once the other 2 left, fine enough to earn that big money contract. The thing is, he was already in a decline, so people should've anticipated his below average season. Now, I do think he'll bounce back and do better in '08, but he'll never be the pitcher he was years ago. The types of injuries Mulder's had would've happened no matter what, and Hudson was never a power pitcher.

With that said, I turn to the talks of trading 1 of the pitchers who you might call the future of the Yankees  that took place during the offseason.  Like I said, breaking up the established, older "big 3" didn't alter their careers, and I don't believe it would've happened here either. They haven't come close to spending enough time in a starting rotation together to get comfortable. Doesn't mean they shouldn't get that opportunity though. 

Much back and forth went on between the Twins and teams competing for the services of arguably the best pitcher in baseball, Johan Santana.  The Twins understandably wanted to get the best package of players for him.  The Twins also held out hope they could strike a deal with Santana themselves.  Their offer even went as high as 5 years for $100 million.  He wanted 7 years.  The Mets wound up getting Santana for 4 prospects thought to be beneath the offers the Twins got from the Yankees and Red Sox.  Ok, fine.  The Mets needed him more than anyone anyway, he's now out of the AL, and most importantly he's not a Red Sox. 

While the Yanks are now the 2nd place team in the AL East chasing the Red Sox,  I truly believe they made the right decision.  I myself waffled between salivating over Santana and wanting to keep the homegrown youth who had already been cultivated to understand the NY/Yankee way from conception in the minors.  You can't put a price on that.  New York is the hardest market to play in, I don't care what anybody says.  Now, if Santana was about to be traded to Boston, the Yanks should've done whatever they had to, to prevent that from happening.  A rotation with Santana and Beckett at the top of it for years to come is formidable.  I still shudder at the thought. 

I also shudder at the thought of signing a pitcher to a 7 year contract that includes a no-trade clause.  I know some will disagree with me, but I don't think any team can justify that.  I understand the Mets did, but they were pretty much backed into a corner considering the other starters on their team.  So, they threw the money and years at him, gave him whatever he wanted.  At what cost?  While Santana has proven extremely durable, it's unlikely he never spends any time on the DL for his entire career.  I know, that could be said of any player, but what about skills.  A pitcher's skills are more likely to decline with age than a position player's.  That coupled with higher probability of injury makes a pitcher a more risky investment than a position player.  Ok, that's common knowledge, but I'm saying this in the context of 7 years.  History has shown that pitchers given such a lengthy contract have not lived up to it.  Even pitchers given less years haven't lived up to it. 

The Yankees had a choice to make; either trade youth which is the direction they've been trying to move toward, or keep them, and go in a different direction than they've gone for the past 7 or so years.  Those 7 or so years proved to be failures in Yankeeland with no World Series rings.  When one method doesn't work, it's time to try another.  The other part of this choice was either signing an ace for 7 years at $140 million who probably wouldn't live up to all 7 years, or keeping 2 potential aces and a #3-4 starter for less money than that combined.  I'm sorry, the business end of baseball has to be considered in all transactions.  It would be nice if it didn't,  but that's reality.  To me, the choice became easy after weighing all the odds, prices and talent. 

I can't wait to see these kids perform for a whole season.  Go Yankees!