View Full Version : Question: How To Replace Matsui And What About Nady?
bluecountry
09-17-09, 03:59 PM
The Yanks have an interesting situation next season.
Johnny Damon, the LF, has had a great season and is a free agent.
Matsui, the DH, has had had a great season and is a free agent.
Most seem to think the Yanks really do need to bring Damon back because his swing is made for Yankee Stadium and he is so valuable in the clubhouse.
His LF defense leaves some to be desired, but he can play the OF and rotate at DH.
Matsui is likely to be gone because he can only play DH and the Yanks need flexibility there for veterans like Posasa/Arod/Jeter/Texiera/Damon if he comes back.
However, if the Yanks let Matsui go, as witnessed last night, that would be a major blow.
He has been excellent at number 5 this year...and I don't think Cano (with his inconsistancy with RISP) or Swisher (strike outs) or Posada (age and DP) are as good at the 5 hole.
Even so, losing Matsui takes away a clutch batter.
So my question, if we keep Damon and let Matsui go (which does seem to make the most sense), then how do we replace Matsui's production, because that bat WOULD be a big loss?
Rotating the DHs will not suffice, and to count on Damon/Swisher/Melky/Gardner to repeat this year WITHOUT Matsui to protect would be foolish.
Expacting AJAX to make an impact is also foolish.
I was wondering, do we have any options on an OF who could be a short term replacement for Matsui?
One that comes to mind is Nady.
Nobody talks about him, but he is a FA who has been hurt most of the year.
Now the question is, will he be healthy next year?
If so, I say yes because he is a good RF and he can bat 5 and help ease the loss of Matsui.
I say give Damon and Nady arbitraion or 1 year deals with a buyout.
It is better to overpay them short term than sign Bay.
The Yanks can not have too many more long term commitments as it could lead to an aging team in the future...PLUS they need LF open long term for Jeter/Arod.
My question to you
1) What do you think? What makes sense?
-Bring back Damon over Matsui...even if it means overpaying for 1 year so you save the LF spot long term?
2) Replacing Matsui?
-Have Nady do it and if not what FA is there?
JeffWeaverFan
09-17-09, 04:03 PM
Nady isn't nearly good enough of a hitter to be a starter on this team, and he won't be ready next year.
I think Damon will be brought back and Matsui will not so that there is more flexibility in the DH spot. But we better think of a way to replace Matsui's production.
THEBOSS84
09-17-09, 04:08 PM
I don't want Nady anywhere near this team next year.
b_joseph
09-17-09, 04:32 PM
An old Catcher..Damon who breaks down every week..Jeter will be 36...Alex will be closer to 35.
I dont think we can afford having an everyday DH. Leave it open and just have a different guy hit there every game.
bluecountry
09-17-09, 04:43 PM
Nady has a good bat and good d....he could be a good plug for a year.
CallOfTheCrow
09-17-09, 04:46 PM
Isn't Nady missing most of the year due to his TJ? I don't know how the rehab process goes or the recovery time for a position player.
Yankee Tripper
09-17-09, 04:47 PM
Nady see ya.
Matsui would be option number 3 or 4 if other FA plans fall though but I'd be very surprised to see him back. If he is it means the Yanks didn't get a FA OF and they didn't resign Damon.
walesave
09-17-09, 04:52 PM
1) I think Damon comes back and, though I hate to see it, Matsui leaves.
2) The Yankees may go after a younger (healthier) bat in the free agent market. Nady isn't the answer. They'll be lucky if he returns to form so he can be traded.
roblyo33
09-17-09, 04:57 PM
Isn't Nady a FA after this year??
Yankee Tripper
09-17-09, 05:00 PM
Ideally Matt Holliday (5 year $90M) is signed to play LF and Damon (1-year $12M) is resigned to DH.
Then one of Andy Pettitte (1-year similar to 09 contract), Ben Sheet (1 year incentive only) or Rich Harden (2 years with a 3rd year option that vests) is signed to fill the vacant veteran hole in the rotation.
I'd be thrilled to death with that offseason.
walesave
09-17-09, 05:02 PM
Isn't Nady a FA after this year??
Yes, true. Nady is FA in 2010 so he's a goner.
nyyfanatic85
09-17-09, 05:34 PM
This is such an interesting question and I'm completely torn. I want both of them back.
I don't want Holliday for 90 over 5.
And Damon shouldn't get anything close to 12 million.
Ideally Matt Holliday (5 year $90M) is signed to play LF and Damon (1-year $12M) is resigned to DH.
Then one of Andy Pettitte (1-year similar to 09 contract), Ben Sheet (1 year incentive only) or Rich Harden (2 years with a 3rd year option that vests) is signed to fill the vacant veteran hole in the rotation.
I'd be thrilled to death with that offseason.
I like the idea of Holliday in LF & Damon at DH though I'm pretty sure the Yanks aren't going to pay him $12 mil. Would you consider Lackey?
I think both Matsui and Damon will be let go. I'd love to have Holliday in LF, but I think he'll stay with the Cardinals. So I think we're going to see time split with Melky, Gardner, and A-Jax with Swish in either corner. Nady is gone, likely to miss most of next year anyway.
As for Lackey, I'd be willing to bring him in, but I think he's going to cost more than he's worth. Still, if the Yanks are willing to spend, I'll never fault them for spending on more pitching.
Yankee Tripper
09-17-09, 06:41 PM
I like the idea of Holliday in LF & Damon at DH though I'm pretty sure the Yanks aren't going to pay him $12 mil. Would you consider Lackey?
IDk I was just throwing out numbers they may be high on both Hallady/Damon they may not. I really don't know what the market will look like.
I like Lackey for sure but he's going to get at least Burnett money and years so I'd be inclined to pass. I'd prefer either a 1 year deal on a known vet who will give you 200 league average innings or a short term high upside deal on a potential injury risk but if healthy could have #1 stuff.
nnysiny
09-17-09, 06:45 PM
-Nady isnt particularly good at anything. hes as good as gone.
-i would see what Holliday is looking for. if its too much (well over $100 mil), see if Damon wants to come back for one year, with a team option if necessary. if both fall through, sign Matsui for one year (if possible)
Spiker101
09-17-09, 06:52 PM
Just once I'd like to see a GM get rid of an aging player when the time is right. It's right for both Damon and Matsui. Holliday would be a good replacement but as someone said once they go to St. Louis they tend to stay there. Also given the weak free agent market I expect a hot and heavy trade market and it's too early to say what might be available via trade.
bronxburner
09-17-09, 06:57 PM
I want them both back for next year. Give Damon a 2 year deal for something like 16 million. Give Godzilla 1 year at Abreu type money.
I refuse to believe that we have to eat up the entire DH spot giving time there to Jeter, Posada, ARod, Damon etc. Jorge should be able to catch 100 games next year, then a handfull at first and DH. I'll believe Jeter is going to play less next year at short when I see it. Not after the year hes had defensively in '09. Eventually sure, not next year though. Damon seems to need full days off, so while i can see him playing less, I think hes still looking at only 10 games at most at DH. If ARod can't play the field, thats a major problem but how do you make your off season decisions assuming he won't. I think its a low probability.
If this was a huge dollar contract for multiple years I can see avoiding this. But considering the likelyhood that he can probably be had for one year and about 6 million, how do you not do that, even if you only give him 400 ABs? The guy is still putting up good numbers and will not decline that drastically in one year, hes as clutch as they come and hits both righties and lefties.
We're dropping over 30 million in payroll from Nady, Damon and Matsui. Spend half that on bringing both Damon and Matsui back. And put the rest towards pitching. The Yankees are the best team in baseball this year. Theres no reason to change the offense next year particularly if they win the World Series.
Bringing him back for 1 year makes sense. I've yet to have anyone convince me otherwise.
I have zero interest in Holliday. We don't neeed another big bat especially at the price.
sweet_lou_14
09-17-09, 08:42 PM
Replace Damon and Matsui with Damon and Matsui.
YankeeFaninATL
09-17-09, 09:54 PM
Do not go after Matt Holliday. He is a national league player and Carl Crawford is going to be a free agent after next year.
I want them both back for next year. Give Damon a 2 year deal for something like 16 million. Give Godzilla 1 year at Abreu type money.
I refuse to believe that we have to eat up the entire DH spot giving time there to Jeter, Posada, ARod, Damon etc. Jorge should be able to catch 100 games next year, then a handfull at first and DH. I'll believe Jeter is going to play less next year at short when I see it. Not after the year hes had defensively in '09. Eventually sure, not next year though. Damon seems to need full days off, so while i can see him playing less, I think hes still looking at only 10 games at most at DH. If ARod can't play the field, thats a major problem but how do you make your off season decisions assuming he won't. I think its a low probability.
If this was a huge dollar contract for multiple years I can see avoiding this. But considering the likelyhood that he can probably be had for one year and about 6 million, how do you not do that, even if you only give him 400 ABs? The guy is still putting up good numbers and will not decline that drastically in one year, hes as clutch as they come and hits both righties and lefties.
We're dropping over 30 million in payroll from Nady, Damon and Matsui. Spend half that on bringing both Damon and Matsui back. And put the rest towards pitching. The Yankees are the best team in baseball this year. Theres no reason to change the offense next year particularly if they win the World Series.
Bringing him back for 1 year makes sense. I've yet to have anyone convince me otherwise.
I have zero interest in Holliday. We don't neeed another big bat especially at the price.
I'm convinced but I think a lot of this depends on Matsui and what he's looking for. If the Yankees win this year, he may just go back home. It surely has been painful to play all year on those knees. On the other hand, maybe he's willing to play that role and take fewer ABs, just so he can keep playing baseball. And then there's the $ and what he'd play for. Hard to say.
azzurribaggio
09-17-09, 10:59 PM
Grady Sizemore bro....
azzurribaggio
09-17-09, 11:01 PM
Ideally Matt Holliday (5 year $90M) is signed to play LF and Damon (1-year $12M) is resigned to DH.
Then one of Andy Pettitte (1-year similar to 09 contract), Ben Sheet (1 year incentive only) or Rich Harden (2 years with a 3rd year option that vests) is signed to fill the vacant veteran hole in the rotation.
I'd be thrilled to death with that offseason.
You guys beeeeatch about Damon breaking down every other week??
JohnnyDamonfan
09-17-09, 11:28 PM
What about Holliday? I know this guy's bat dropped down quite a bit. But, this guy still has power. I think we maybe should give him a look. A Jax will be good but to think he will step up when he probably won't be called up until Sept 2010 is kinda foolish.
I would go for Lackey but only if Wang is DONE and Andy isn't coming back. The 2007 Wang was like a 19 game winner. If we could get the old Wang back we don't need Lackey. And if Pettitte comes back we also don't really need Lackey.
siddiqi
09-17-09, 11:38 PM
Replace Damon and Matsui with Damon and Matsui.
Probably the best COA, with Damon and Matsui signed to short term contracts, we can let guys like A-Jax and Montero develop at their own pace to replace them at LF and DH. It also seems like the Yanks will try to sign Chone Figgins and put him in the OF, I guess that's good in the sense that the yanks won't have to deal with him hitting .900 off our pitchers.
JohnnyDamonfan
09-17-09, 11:43 PM
Probably the best COA, with Damon and Matsui signed to short term contracts, we can let guys like A-Jax and Montero develop at their own pace to replace them at LF and DH. It also seems like the Yanks will try to sign Chone Figgins and put him in the OF, I guess that's good in the sense that the yanks won't have to deal with him hitting .900 off our pitchers.
I just hope we can sign him for a reasonable price. I say 2 years with an option for a third. He'd be 31 next year so I want to be able to unload him when he's 33 or 34 . That gives Montero and A-Jax enough time to develop and plus we get a really fast player who can help the team.
flymick24
09-18-09, 12:16 AM
trade for adam dunn
bluecountry
09-18-09, 12:16 AM
Ideally Matt Holliday (5 year $90M) is signed to play LF and Damon (1-year $12M) is resigned to DH.
Then one of Andy Pettitte (1-year similar to 09 contract), Ben Sheet (1 year incentive only) or Rich Harden (2 years with a 3rd year option that vests) is signed to fill the vacant veteran hole in the rotation.
I'd be thrilled to death with that offseason.
NO NO NO.
The Yanks can NOT add another big contract...or they risk having an aging, inflexible roster down the road.
They also need LF open long term for Jeter/Arod.
They must bring Andy back...he is proven in NY and Sheets/Harden are MAJORLY worse.
bluecountry
09-18-09, 12:16 AM
I don't want Holliday for 90 over 5.
And Damon shouldn't get anything close to 12 million.
Damon at 12 for a year is fine.
I would rather overpay for one year than get locked into a long term deal that hamstrings the roster....or be caught a bat short next season.
bluecountry
09-18-09, 12:18 AM
I think both Matsui and Damon will be let go. I'd love to have Holliday in LF, but I think he'll stay with the Cardinals. So I think we're going to see time split with Melky, Gardner, and A-Jax with Swish in either corner. Nady is gone, likely to miss most of next year anyway.
As for Lackey, I'd be willing to bring him in, but I think he's going to cost more than he's worth. Still, if the Yanks are willing to spend, I'll never fault them for spending on more pitching.
If you let Damon and Matsui go and have Melky/Gardner/AJAX/Swish you are a fool.
You have just removed your number 2 and number 5 batter.
Jeter and Damon 1-2 with Tex and Arod behind are a MAJOR force.
Damon brings much to the clubhouse to...give him 1-2 years and DO NOT let him go.
You can't lose those bats and expect Melky/Gardner (two platoon players) and AJAX (unproven) to make up that slack.
Stupid.
Yankeesfan811
09-18-09, 12:52 AM
I really think we should seriously consider resigning both.
I think Damon will accept a 2 year deal, and Matsui could except a 1 year deal worth about 7 mil. he won't get that anywhere else.
DEADSOX
09-18-09, 01:10 AM
Sign Jason Holliday
Spiker101
09-18-09, 04:18 AM
If you let Damon and Matsui go and have Melky/Gardner/AJAX/Swish you are a fool.
You have just removed your number 2 and number 5 batter.
Jeter and Damon 1-2 with Tex and Arod behind are a MAJOR force.
Damon brings much to the clubhouse to...give him 1-2 years and DO NOT let him go.
You can't lose those bats and expect Melky/Gardner (two platoon players) and AJAX (unproven) to make up that slack.
Stupid.
What's foolish and stupid is calling someone else's opinion foolish and stupid. There are legitimate reasons not to re-sign Matsui and Damon, especially Matsui. Much as I like what he's given the Yanks over the years, his knees are so bad that he's a real risk to go out one night and never return. Then Cashman is forced into the trade market with virtually no leverage. Damon is a somewhat more difficult case but he's getting up there and will require three years in all liklihood and I personally don't trust numbers put up in walk years. Also much of his performance this year may be due to the new Stadium and if they plan on "fixing" it this offseason, his numbers could plunge. In any case, Swisher would be a perfectly adequate replacement in the two hole. Matsui isn't actually that good a number five hitter and that's the real ongoing offensive need the Yanks have. Other than Holliday there's no one on the free agent market that fits the bill, which is why I think Cashman may be exploring trades this offseason. If that damn Cano would correct his mental block about RISP he'd be perfect.
I Heart Jeter
09-18-09, 06:23 AM
Keep Matsui. Sure there'll be times Damon/Posada need to DH but at those times simply rest Matsui. No need to get rid of him.
I Heart Jeter
09-18-09, 06:28 AM
. Matsui isn't actually that good a number five hitter and that's the real ongoing offensive need the Yanks have. Other than Holliday there's no one on the free agent market that fits the bill, which is why I think Cashman may be exploring trades this offseason. If that damn Cano would correct his mental block about RISP he'd be perfect.
I think he compares quite favorably to most #5 hitters in the league
Damon will come back. I think Matsui's future will depend upon the recommendation of the medical staff. If they think he can repeat 2009 again if (big if) he doesn't hurt the knees then he should be re-signed for another year. I don't know if there's anything Matsui can do in the offseason other than strengthen the muscles in his legs.
Sign Holliday, depends on the years and cost.
Resign Nady to a minor league contract. (Insurance policy)
Majors outfield
Holiday, Melky, Gardner, Swisher
AAA outfield
Nady, AJ
primetime714
09-18-09, 08:21 AM
First off we won't really be able to replace Matsui's production unless we sign someone like Holliday or Bay. However the plan will be to use the DH to keep other guys healthy and fresh and also to improve our defense (DH the weaker defenders).
However I think the Yankees would at least offer Matsui an Abreu type deal (1 yr 5M) with the idea that he will see less playing time as the DH role will also be used to give other guys rest.
Another option is just to sign a better Utility guy than Hairston, so someone like DeRosa or Figgins. Personally though I'd rather have Hairston at a lower salary.
Nady is not a real option. 1) he won't be back until midseason 2) Even without Matsui (but with Damon) he'd only be the 8th best hitter on the team 3) His defense is average at best.
Also in terms of internal DH options Miranda and Vazquez could potentially be solid part-time players for us. Not as good as Matsui, but both have developed bats and a decent amount of power.
primetime714
09-18-09, 08:31 AM
What's foolish and stupid is calling someone else's opinion foolish and stupid. There are legitimate reasons not to re-sign Matsui and Damon, especially Matsui. Much as I like what he's given the Yanks over the years, his knees are so bad that he's a real risk to go out one night and never return. Then Cashman is forced into the trade market with virtually no leverage. Damon is a somewhat more difficult case but he's getting up there and will require three years in all liklihood and I personally don't trust numbers put up in walk years. Also much of his performance this year may be due to the new Stadium and if they plan on "fixing" it this offseason, his numbers could plunge. In any case, Swisher would be a perfectly adequate replacement in the two hole. Matsui isn't actually that good a number five hitter and that's the real ongoing offensive need the Yanks have. Other than Holliday there's no one on the free agent market that fits the bill, which is why I think Cashman may be exploring trades this offseason. If that damn Cano would correct his mental block about RISP he'd be perfect.
Do you really want an OF of Gardner, Melky, and Swisher? We'd really be banking on Gardner and Melky to have solid years and Swisher to continue to produce like he did this year. Damon is not going to get 3 years, who would give him 3 years? He'll get some 2 year offers, but honestly I think we could sign him for a 1+1 type of deal so a 2 year deal with a buyout of the 2nd year. If Damon is fielding 2 year guaranteed deals at considerable money perhaps we consider not bringing him back and going to other options, but I think he can be had for a reasonable price. Swisher would be an adequate #2 hitter however that takes away from the back-end of our lineup. That puts Posada at 5, Cano at 6, and a 7-8-9 of Melky, Gardner, and Jackson/Hairston? That's when healthy and with Posada starting. Cervelli will start every 5th game or so and there will be injuries. We certainly can't let Damon and Matsui go and try to replace them internally that IMO would be very foolish.
ymike673
09-18-09, 08:38 AM
Isen't Jason Bay also a free agent. I like Damon but if the Yankees could sign Bay to replace him that would not be so bad.
JL25and3
09-18-09, 08:42 AM
I like the idea of Holliday in LF & Damon at DH though I'm pretty sure the Yanks aren't going to pay him $12 mil. Would you consider Lackey?Lackey's got a career line of .033/.033/.033, and he's never played the outfield. Pass.
JL25and3
09-18-09, 08:56 AM
What's foolish and stupid is calling someone else's opinion foolish and stupid. There are legitimate reasons not to re-sign Matsui and Damon, especially Matsui. Much as I like what he's given the Yanks over the years, his knees are so bad that he's a real risk to go out one night and never return. Then Cashman is forced into the trade market with virtually no leverage. Damon is a somewhat more difficult case but he's getting up there and will require three years in all liklihood and I personally don't trust numbers put up in walk years. Also much of his performance this year may be due to the new Stadium and if they plan on "fixing" it this offseason, his numbers could plunge. In any case, Swisher would be a perfectly adequate replacement in the two hole. Matsui isn't actually that good a number five hitter and that's the real ongoing offensive need the Yanks have. Other than Holliday there's no one on the free agent market that fits the bill, which is why I think Cashman may be exploring trades this offseason. If that damn Cano would correct his mental block about RISP he'd be perfect.I love Matsui, but I'd rather not lock up a guy who's limited to DH only.
As for Damon, it's not so much that I don't trust numbers put up in a walk season; I just don't trust career years in general. We know what kind of player Damon is, and he didn't suddenly become a different player at age 35. He's having a terrific year, but it should be taken to mean any more than that, and no one should expect him to do the same next year.
JavyVazquezIsSick
09-18-09, 09:12 AM
I don't think Damon needs to repeat this season next year to be a good player for us.
JL25and3
09-18-09, 09:17 AM
I don't think Damon needs to repeat this season next year to be a good player for us.I agree, and I'm OK with re-signing Damon. It's not ideal, but it's OK.
Lackey's got a career line of .033/.033/.033, and he's never played the outfield. Pass.
http://d.yimg.com/a/p/ap/20090917/capt.adc5826d4d764c1181827c8e575ab104.athletics_red_sox_baseball_maea108.jpg
DaSh 1s
09-18-09, 09:42 AM
Trade for Adam Dunn is right..
DEADSOX
09-18-09, 09:45 AM
I wonder how Chone Figgins would play out as an outfielder.
I wonder how Chone Figgins would play out as an outfielder.
Figgins hasn't played CF for several years and I don't think he would be that much of an upgrade, if any, over the combo of Melky & Gardner. His three most recent years in CF have been pretty bad defensively per UZR/150.
groovitude
09-18-09, 10:06 AM
I think he compares quite favorably to most #5 hitters in the leagueMatsui: .280 / .370 / .516 / .886.
Average AL #5 hitter: .275 / .344 / .464 / .808.
Average AL DH: .253 / .335 / .444 / .780.
JohnnyDamonfan
09-18-09, 10:09 AM
Figgins hasn't played CF for several years and I don't think he would be that much of an upgrade, if any, over the combo of Melky & Gardner. His three most recent years in CF have been pretty bad defensively per UZR/150.
How good is he as a Left Fielder or Right Fielder though? Has he never played LF or RF?
Matsui: .280 / .370 / .516 / .886.
Average AL #5 hitter: .275 / .344 / .464 / .808.
Average AL DH: .253 / .335 / .444 / .780.
IMO Matsui's numbers are more sustainable than Damon's.
groovitude
09-18-09, 10:15 AM
IMO Matsui's numbers are more sustainable than Damon's.Ability-wise or health-wise? I'm inclined to agree with only one of those.
b_joseph
09-18-09, 10:19 AM
How good is he as a Left Fielder or Right Fielder though? Has he never played LF or RF?
SSS alert but very poor in LF and RF
THEBOSS84
09-18-09, 10:20 AM
I do not want Figgins anywhere near this team next year.
Trade for Adam Dunn is right..
Why? He's just as inflexible as Matsui and would cost more (prospects and a larger contract). Sure, he's a beast offensively, but that doesn't resolve the issue of flexibility.
It really would be great if Vazquez/Miranda/Montero (2 out of 3) were ready to contribute now. That's a 2.5 inhouse DHs with a backup 3rd catcher at cheap $.
flymick24
09-18-09, 10:22 AM
vazquez's K rates and lack of BB's in the minors scare me
miranda is intriguing, but if you're gonna make an issue out of inflexibility on the roster, then he does nothing to help that
and if montero hits, they'll make room for him somehow, someway (and it'll be a welcomed sight anyhow, with posada being almost 40 next year, he'll need considerable more time off, so montero's position at C will def play into his role on the roster)
Ability-wise or health-wise? I'm inclined to agree with only one of those.
Ability wise. Matsui's knees are shot, but I don't know they're going to get worse.
One issue with Damon is a multi-year deal when Posada is almost sure to be a PT DH in 2011. I don't think he'll take 1 year. After all he did leave Boston for more $$$ with the Yanks.
How good is he as a Left Fielder or Right Fielder though? Has he never played LF or RF?
He's pretty bad in all OF positions. I can't forsee this team or any contender using him in a corner OF position.
JohnnyDamonfan
09-18-09, 10:25 AM
I do not want Figgins anywhere near this team next year.
I just want him off the Angels so we never have to face him again. The guy is a monster against us. But, I wouldn't mind Figgins he could really help the team at least speed wise.
b_joseph
09-18-09, 10:27 AM
I do not want Figgins anywhere near this team next year.Play him as the every day 3rd baseman and use Alex as the everyday DH.
THEBOSS84
09-18-09, 10:28 AM
Play him as the every day 3rd baseman and use Alex as the everyday DH.
You play Alex as the everyday DH in year 3 of his 10 year deal, and you're asking for big, BIG trouble.
Play him as the every day 3rd baseman and use Alex as the everyday DH.
sorry, joe, but that's a horrible idea. :)
BronxYanks45
09-18-09, 10:31 AM
will everyone please STOP saying Jeter/ARod will play OF in the coming seasons. thats just no way true. Jeter is yankee royalty and he will play SS til he retires, he might have more DH time as he gets older but hes not moving to the OF. Same for ARod, he'll still be the 3B but will require more DH time as he gets older
Nady is coming off his second, yes you read that right, his SECOND TJ surgery. Quite frankly you have to wonder how his arm will rehab and if he would be any good playing OF if needed. Can he hit the cutoff man? Can he throw to home. If not then you might as well resign Matsui.
Damon hits well in the new stadium and they'll resign him, no question, the only question is what kind of deal he gets 1yr? 2yr?
We need Matsui's bat he's a damn good DH but not being able to play in the OF lowers his value, and seeing how the Yankees have others that can rotate as DH namely Posada and Damon you have to wonder if they'll keep him
AJax is not ready for the majors yet, he needs another season of AAA. Hes ready for the 40 man roster and to be called up incase of injury but not as an everyday player atleast not yet.
If you really want to go on the cheap and save $$ you could have Shelley Duncan as primary DH. He swings a big bat, can play OF and 1B.
problem is hes never had a shot at showing how he hits in the new stadium.
but then again Cashman can surprise us all and resign both Damon and Matsui, but if they resign Matsui dont expect anything long term more like 1 yr deal
JL25and3
09-18-09, 10:37 AM
Why? He's just as inflexible as Matsui and would cost more (prospects and a larger contract). Sure, he's a beast offensively, but that doesn't resolve the issue of flexibility.
It really would be great if Vazquez/Miranda/Montero (2 out of 3) were ready to contribute now. That's a 2.5 inhouse DHs with a backup 3rd catcher at cheap $.Dunn is as inflexible as Matsui? Dunn may be a bad fielder, but you can play him at three different positions if you want to. Matsui can DH, period.
However, Dunn's not coming cheap. He's having a monster year, and Washington's going to want some real talent in exchange.
JavyVazquezIsSick
09-18-09, 10:41 AM
I agree, and I'm OK with re-signing Damon. It's not ideal, but it's OK.
What's ideal? Huge contract to Holliday?
sorry, joe, but that's a horrible idea. :)
Actually, I'm not sure it's that bad an idea. Figgins is an excellent defensive 3B so that would be an upgrade over ARod. If there is a trade off it's on the offensive side, especially in power #'s. However swapping a DH bat like Damon or Matsui for Figgins' OBP & speed may not be that much of an overall downgrade.
heyabbott
09-18-09, 10:43 AM
Just once I'd like to see a GM get rid of an aging player when the time is right. It's right for both Damon and Matsui. Holliday would be a good replacement but as someone said once they go to St. Louis they tend to stay there. Also given the weak free agent market I expect a hot and heavy trade market and it's too early to say what might be available via trade.
Cashman got rid of Sheffield in a timely manner.:D
Actually, I'm not sure it's that bad an idea. Figgins is an excellent defensive 3B so that would be an upgrade over ARod. If there is a trade off it's on the offensive side, especially in power #'s. However swapping a DH bat like Damon or Matsui for Figgins' OBP & speed may not be that much of an overall downgrade.
You're forgetting the psycho-social effect of making A-Rod the DH. Come on now. How you think he'd take that?
Also, from a sabre point of view, given that A-Rod can play a servicable 3rd (or a solid one if his hip gets better), it's a waste to make him a DH.
You're forgetting the psycho-social effect of making A-Rod the DH. Come on now. How you think he'd take that?
Also, from a sabre point of view, given that A-Rod can play a servicable 3rd (or a solid one if his hip gets better), it's a waste to make him a DH.
I haven't considered that factor in regards ARod, but have for Posada who has been horrible as a DH his entire career.
Spiker101
09-18-09, 02:01 PM
I think he compares quite favorably to most #5 hitters in the league
Comparing quite favorably to most No. 5 hitters doesn't quite cut it when you got a $200 million payroll. The Yanks are 13th in baseball in OPS from the No. 5 slot. Angels lead with .962 and the next five teams are clustered together from .883 to .855. Hideki's at .860 which puts him in that class, except he's only got 200 ABs or about a third of the ABs you need from that position. I really think the team's No. 1 offensive need going forward is a youngish, everyday RBI type in the fifth slot. Financing such a creature could well require some salary savings elsewere.
Spiker101
09-18-09, 02:13 PM
Do you really want an OF of Gardner, Melky, and Swisher? We'd really be banking on Gardner and Melky to have solid years and Swisher to continue to produce like he did this year. Damon is not going to get 3 years, who would give him 3 years? He'll get some 2 year offers, but honestly I think we could sign him for a 1+1 type of deal so a 2 year deal with a buyout of the 2nd year. If Damon is fielding 2 year guaranteed deals at considerable money perhaps we consider not bringing him back and going to other options, but I think he can be had for a reasonable price. Swisher would be an adequate #2 hitter however that takes away from the back-end of our lineup. That puts Posada at 5, Cano at 6, and a 7-8-9 of Melky, Gardner, and Jackson/Hairston? That's when healthy and with Posada starting. Cervelli will start every 5th game or so and there will be injuries. We certainly can't let Damon and Matsui go and try to replace them internally that IMO would be very foolish.
No, I really don't. I tihnk you can count on Swisher to give the team at least what he has this year, but Melky/Gardner were born to hit ninth. That's why I think the Yanks need to make a deal or sign a free agent to hit fifth.
As for Damon, I think you might be underestimating his attractiveness as a free agent. How about the Angels, who've got Vlad and Abreu in walk years? They have money andi it's a weak free agent market for outfielders after you get past Holliday and Bay.
I really think the team's No. 1 offensive need going forward is a youngish, everyday RBI type in the fifth slot. Financing such a creature could well require some salary savings elsewere.
Montero. :D
I wonder if the Yanks would consider moving Montero to LF or RF. Offensively he is not that far away, however defensively as a C he has a lot of work to do.
cupcollector99
09-18-09, 02:33 PM
Although Matsui is one of my all time favs, it's time to go and he knows it. Not sure about Nady, depends on his recovery timeline. As for Damon, he will have to be the regular DH and an emergency OFer getting rest a few days a week for ARod, Po and whomever to rotate through.
The team NEEDS one, competent, fulltime outfielder. Not a converted guy, not an old guy with a huge contract (Vernon Wells) but a younger guy that can hit for ocassional power and field the position. as it is right now, they have three 4th outfielders and a DH playing the field everyday.
I fully expect the starters to be better than this season and for Cash to dedicate some of the salary to shoring up the pen and getting a guy that can start in one of the corner spots while MelkyGardner keeps another spot warm for Ajax.
nnysiny
09-18-09, 03:09 PM
I wonder if the Yanks would consider moving Montero to LF or RF. Offensively he is not that far away, however defensively as a C he has a lot of work to do.
he doesnt seem to have the tools to play OF, especially LF
teknetic
09-18-09, 03:13 PM
Do not go after Matt Holliday. He is a national league player and Carl Crawford is going to be a free agent after next year.
He isn't Edgar Renteria. Playing in a stacked lineup in a hitter's park would do his numbers well. Two-way players of his caliber are worth the cost (obviously nothing too obscene)
JavyVazquezIsSick
09-18-09, 03:27 PM
Montero would be adequate in RF. Either a bad C or a bad RF, I'll choose the RF especially in YS.
Yankee Tripper
09-18-09, 04:10 PM
Do not go after Matt Holliday. He is a national league player and Carl Crawford is going to be a free agent after next year.
While Holiday did not put up obsene numbers for Oakland he did manage a 125 OPS+ in the worst hitters park in the AL in a lineup with no protection and he's a plus defender. Only +2.1 this year but coming off +10.9 (2008) and +14.7 (2007).
I think he resigns with St L but I still make inquires.
Montero would be adequate in RF. Either a bad C or a bad RF, I'll choose the RF especially in YS.
Yup, plus he won't have the wear and tear of catching.
JohnnyDamonfan
09-18-09, 05:25 PM
Yup, plus he won't have the wear and tear of catching.
I don't really want Montero as a Right Fielder. I'd prefer him as a catcher. But maybe that's just because we don't have a good every day catcher aside from Posada. If Cervelli or Romine could come up and be a stud at the catching role then we see about Montero playing the Outfield.
What about DH though? I think Montero would make an awesome DH. Or would that just be wasting his talent to put him in the DH role?
I rather see Jeter play for the Red Sox than see him play SS for 6 more years.
the_coach
09-18-09, 08:29 PM
will everyone please STOP saying Jeter/ARod will play OF in the coming seasons. thats just no way true. Jeter is yankee royalty and he will play SS til he retires, he might have more DH time as he gets older but hes not moving to the OF. Same for ARod, he'll still be the 3B but will require more DH time as he gets older
Mantle and Berra were royalty and they moved...but I agree.
Nady is coming off his second, yes you read that right, his SECOND TJ surgery. Quite frankly you have to wonder how his arm will rehab and if he would be any good playing OF if needed. Can he hit the cutoff man? Can he throw to home. If not then you might as well resign Matsui.
Forget Nady...he's done...(turned out to be a bad trade...who wouldn't rather have Ohlendorf now as the 5th starter?)
Damon hits well in the new stadium and they'll resign him, no question, the only question is what kind of deal he gets 1yr? 2yr?
One year please.
We need Matsui's bat he's a damn good DH but not being able to play in the OF lowers his value, and seeing how the Yankees have others that can rotate as DH namely Posada and Damon you have to wonder if they'll keep him
Matsui is gone...loved this signing though.
AJax is not ready for the majors yet, he needs another season of AAA. Hes ready for the 40 man roster and to be called up incase of injury but not as an everyday player atleast not yet.
I think he is a bit overrated...trade bait.
If you really want to go on the cheap and save $$ you could have Shelley Duncan as primary DH. He swings a big bat, can play OF and 1B.
problem is hes never had a shot at showing how he hits in the new stadium.
OMG no...three curve balls and Shelly is out no matter what stadium he's in.
but then again Cashman can surprise us all and resign both Damon and Matsui, but if they resign Matsui dont expect anything long term more like 1 yr deal
They both might be gone.
b_joseph
09-18-09, 08:41 PM
I rather see Jeter play for the Red Sox than see him play SS for 6 more years.Thats very absolute. It will depend on how he is in the field.
If he maintains this season, he will continue to play there for as long as he likes.
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