View Full Version : Piazza now
BombersBlvd
12-24-05, 12:41 AM
I don't know what it would take to get him, but obviously the guy has, at worst, no less pop and hitting capabilities than Bernie right now - let's get him.
What? Why? Let's get a real hitter like Durazo. Or better yet trade for Michaels and make Sheff the permanant DH.
4 words: I want Travis Hafner
ryanthe13th
12-24-05, 12:49 AM
No thanks. He'll cost too much and from what the Met fans in my family tell me, he isn't a very good defensive catcher. Piazza isn't going to take the fat check he'll get just to sit on the bench and DH. He will definitely be catching some games for a team.
ZYanksRule
12-24-05, 01:27 AM
I was listening to Max Kellerman on 1050 a couple nights ago before the Rangers game, that's who he wanted.
He's nuts.
But he's a Yankees fan, so he really isn't all that bad.
MR STEINBRENNER 27
12-24-05, 01:46 AM
im as star crazy as the next guy but even i gotta pass on Piazza.
Yanks Lifer
12-24-05, 07:40 AM
4 words: I want Travis Hafner
4 more words: Good luck getting him. ;)
drjeckyl
12-24-05, 07:49 AM
I don't know what it would take to get him, but obviously the guy has, at worst, no less pop and hitting capabilities than Bernie right now - let's get him.
All things being equal, I'd rather have Bernie for the sentimental value.
All things being equal, I'd rather have Bernie for the sentimental value.
Right!! I think it is great that the Yanks are giving Bernie another shot in a reduced role given what he has done for them. But Piazza has been a lousy Met. The Yanks owe him nothing. Let him go spend his last days elsewhere. The guy is not my favorite human being anyway.
njdhockey
12-24-05, 09:52 AM
With Cashman running the team Piazza is not coming here.
Cape Cod Yankee
12-24-05, 10:03 AM
4 words: I want Travis Hafner
I want Willie Mays
I want Ted Williams
I want Hank Aarron
I want Jimmie Foxx
I want Ty Cobb
I want Wee Willie Keeler
Travis Hafner will be harder to get than any of those guys.
btmyank
12-24-05, 10:15 AM
I want Willie Mays
I want Ted Williams
I want Hank Aarron
I want Jimmie Foxx
I want Ty Cobb
I want Wee Willie Keeler
Travis Hafner will be harder to get than any of those guys.
Why would you want any of those guys, they're all dead or just to old to play. I can see wanting Hafner he's young and he's a good hitter. The rest of those guys aren't a good fit for the Yankees, especially the dead ones.
Cape Cod Yankee
12-24-05, 10:25 AM
Why would you want any of those guys, they're all dead or just to old to play. I can see wanting Hafner he's young and he's a good hitter. The rest of those guys aren't a good fit for the Yankees, especially the dead ones.
Yeah - but Ted Williams head is frozen - maybe we can re-animate him
RhodeyYankee2638
12-24-05, 10:26 AM
And Frank Thomas too!!
JeffWeaverFan
12-24-05, 12:59 PM
I want the DH we get be a guy that is versatile enough to play 1B and the corner outfield positions.
Dr. Gonzo
12-24-05, 01:40 PM
why don't you kick me in the balls and call it even.
brosiusbuddy
12-24-05, 01:48 PM
hey, i bet cecil fielder would be a lot cheaper. maybe bo jackson would even consider comin back
piazza? are you serious? yeah, lets add another guy who's good years are behind him. yes thats good years, not best years, meaning he has no more good years. BOOOO to this thread
MisterNovember
12-24-05, 02:55 PM
4 words: I want Travis Hafner
Umm, good luck with that.
As far as Piazza goes, what's the point? PASS.
DontHateOnNumber2
12-25-05, 12:27 AM
Mike Piazza? You so craaaaaaazay.
Jersey Yankee
12-25-05, 12:34 AM
If we get Pizzaboy, should we give him a press conference? Or has he already had one too many?
I know, let's also get Clemens. Would be an interesting battery, and someone being battered may not be a surprise. I don't expect one certain Texan, who had no problem looking to take out Manny, to get the worst of the suffering.
No thanks. Him and his "we won't forget" thing over one stupid HBP and throwing of a bat, just makes me wanna puke. Let Winfield and Karsay wear #31. I'm not interested.
bleachersown
12-25-05, 12:36 AM
I want the DH we get be a guy that is versatile enough to play 1B and the corner outfield positions.
And I want the world ;)
buntsalot2
12-25-05, 12:56 AM
i'd still love to approach Larry Walker, but his retirement must mean he's had enough... damn good situational hitter! my vote for DH is still Sheff. All we need is a decent replacement platoon of Crosby and whomever and this team is ready to suit up until ST. maybe a trade of one of the SPs is in the cards for this mystery fielder. somebody with the arm of Barfield and the hitting of Paulie. Let's see... Wright/Pavano or Henn for... "Gotham calling Ichiro..." :D
I would like to have Piazza on the team if he didn't cost much, and as long as he's signed for DH/1B and not for catching. That way, we get a 3rd catcher on the team and Posada can get extra rest in blowout games as a result. Who's the backup catcher right now?
NewEraYanks2527
12-25-05, 08:56 AM
Since we have Piazza I say no thank you. I'd like to have Durazo at DH but I would much rather have Sheff and Giambi DH most of the time and find a solid corner outfielder. I think picking up Eric Byrnes would be great for right field and you can sit him against lefties and have Giambi play the field and Sheff DH, that would rest Sheff more if you have him DH mostly as the majority of the league is right handed pitchers, this then allows for great defense in the outfield as well as a healthy Sheff.
Soriambi
12-25-05, 09:07 AM
Sign Clemens and Piazza and make Piazza Clemens' personal catcher. :D
Seriously, I think that Durazo is a much better option than Piazza is, and if we're going to sign an older guy who was a superstar, I'd prefer Frank Thomas to Piazza. I think that Thomas can still hit if he manages to stay healthy, while Piazza has clearly been slowing down in the past few years. All things considered, I think that Durazo is the best option by far. He fits extremely well. Durazo is coming off of an injury, which will likely make him cheaper, and he has a career line of .281/.381/.487/.868, with a career OPS+ of 125. He's a lefty, as well, and he is capable of backing up at first base in an emergency. I think that Durazo would be a very good, relatively inexpensive option who would be a great addition to the lineup.
Soriambi
12-25-05, 09:09 AM
Who's the backup catcher right now?
Kelly Stinnett. :)
allstarcano22
12-26-05, 01:42 AM
maybe we should get in on troy glaus.. idont think hes signbed yet but i know the redsox and pone other team were goign after him.
JeffWeaverFan
12-26-05, 01:51 AM
maybe we should get in on troy glaus.. idont think hes signbed yet but i know the redsox and pone other team were goign after him.
We would need to trade for him and he has practically only played 3B in his career. He has in between $32 and $36 million and 3 years left on his contract. He's a good hitter but we have no place for him and he's got a lot of money left on that contract.
The Comic Book Guy
12-26-05, 05:04 AM
I want the DH we get be a guy that is versatile enough to play 1B and the corner outfield positions.
With Chris Young and Carlos Quentin, The D-Backs might be willing to move Shawn Green... Probably not for anything we have though, which is a shame. I've always liked him, and he certainly fits your description.
Eddie160
12-26-05, 06:11 AM
the Yankees have Giambi/Bernie/Posada/Sheff who are all capable of being DH so there is no need for Piazza I think the Yankees will bring up some of the youth to play on the field when the vets are DHing if the Yankees get anyone else it will be a utility player and I think that would happen during the season after they give the youth a shot.
NewEraYanks2527
12-26-05, 08:45 AM
maybe we should get in on troy glaus.. idont think hes signbed yet but i know the redsox and pone other team were goign after him.
Come on guys, do we need another name for the DH? We need role players and better defense, not an aging Piazza or a Glaus that will cost us players since we would have to trade for him, you think those negotiations would not start with the names Cano and Wang?
surge511
12-26-05, 09:28 AM
The Yankees do not want or need Mike Piazza, Frank Thomas, or any other aging hulk who can't play the field. That goes against the versatility Cashman is trying to create on the team. Those guys don't fit into the current plan.
Sixty one
12-26-05, 09:38 AM
Piazza's role next year would be that of a dh and the only place I see him would be in Baltimore where he would be hitting many homers with that short left field and maybe occasionally catching. The Yankees are not in the market for his services with their current catchers and dh situation well taken care of!
yanksconstantino24
12-26-05, 06:33 PM
I'd rather have someone who can play a minimum of one defensive position. Piazza doesn't fit that qualification.
keithf1
12-26-05, 07:34 PM
We need a RF, not a DH. Sheff needs to be alternate DH with Giambi.
yanksconstantino24
12-27-05, 10:07 AM
We need a RF, not a DH. Sheff needs to be alternate DH with Giambi.
Eduardo Perez would be a good fit because he can play both first base and right field. That would give the Yankees alot of flexibility with both Sheffield and Giambi.
Mr. Mxylsplk
12-27-05, 10:41 AM
Eduardo Perez would be a good fit because he can play both first base and right field. That would give the Yankees alot of flexibility with both Sheffield and Giambi.
It's been awhile since Perez has seen any time in the outfield. Is he really a competent fielder to put in right for a meaningful number of games?
Nuke LaLoosh
12-27-05, 11:40 AM
I can only assume this was some kind of goof. While Bernie will provide little pop in the DH, at least he can switch hit and play a little defense.
If we can pick up a bat that won't cost a fortune and possibly play the field a little, great. Piazza is none of that except he can probably still hit a little.
Yankyfan
12-27-05, 12:28 PM
Sounds nuts but I did hear Joe say he misses having 3 catchers on the roster.
yanksconstantino24
12-27-05, 12:55 PM
It's been awhile since Perez has seen any time in the outfield. Is he really a competent fielder to put in right for a meaningful number of games?
I believe he played some right field at the beginning of the 2004 season when he was with Tampa, before missing the rest of the season due to injury.
Mr. Mxylsplk
12-27-05, 01:55 PM
I believe he played some right field at the beginning of the 2004 season when he was with Tampa, before missing the rest of the season due to injury.
1 game. (2 in left). He did play in right a fair bit in 2003, but a season lost to injury and 2 years of age later makes me wonder how realistically he can play out there now.
keithf1
12-27-05, 04:14 PM
Sounds nuts but I did hear Joe say he misses having 3 catchers on the roster.
Did he really say that? What purpose does 3 catchers serve honestly? Waste of a roster spot IMO...
longtimeyankeefan
12-27-05, 05:54 PM
Did he really say that? What purpose does 3 catchers serve honestly? Waste of a roster spot IMO...
Having a third catcher on the roster allows Joe to DH Posada on his days off, not sit him completely. If he wants to PH for the backup catcher (be it Flaherty or, now, Stinnett), then he has that ability.
If not, then Posada is sitting on that day off.
Not saying that I agree with the idea of carrying a 3rd catcher - just explaining what the purpose might be.
Yankyfan
12-27-05, 10:01 PM
Joe was doing an inteview and had mentioned about how teams used to carry 3 catchers. I guess in years past you didn't carry 10 or more pitcher on a staff.With that said i doubt the Yanks will sign Mike. Just a thought.
Joe was doing an inteview and had mentioned about how teams used to carry 3 catchers. I guess in years past you didn't carry 10 or more pitcher on a staff.With that said i doubt the Yanks will sign Mike. Just a thought.
I doubt we will carry 3 catchers. But if we did, it should be Bengie Molina, not Piazza. I don't like Bengie, but at least he can catch and give me a hope to void Posada's 2007 option. Piazza can't catch anymore.
Joe was doing an inteview and had mentioned about how teams used to carry 3 catchers. I guess in years past you didn't carry 10 or more pitcher on a staff.With that said i doubt the Yanks will sign Mike. Just a thought.
The problem is that Piazza is no longer a catcher.
The FUTURE
12-28-05, 12:28 AM
Let me think about this one.....NO
MisterNovember
12-28-05, 12:34 AM
The problem is that Piazza is no longer a catcher.
Piazza is barely a BASEBALL PLAYER at this point.
Jersey Yankee
01-01-06, 09:18 PM
Piazza is barely a BASEBALL PLAYER at this point.
Bingo!!!
Like I remember from some Bugs Bunny 'toon:
A has-been. Nothing but a has-been.
With all the hi-profile moves that Omar Minaya has done this winter, don't you think that if he were of any further value, he would've gotten arbitration, or we'd hear that he was going to be re-signed?
I don't know of any Mets fans unhappy with trading away Mookie's son for him, but he's fulfilled his needs already, and to me, for baseball in general. He gave it his all, and I don't see why he should be rewarded handsomely for numbers he put up cross town, which he isn't expected to duplicate in 2006 or later.
Stupid Flanders
01-01-06, 09:40 PM
I think Piazza could still be a productive DH if he doesn't have to catch
The Yankees don't need a DH though
BombersBlvd
01-01-06, 10:40 PM
I think Piazza could still be a productive DH if he doesn't have to catch
The Yankees don't need a DH though
Right, who needs a DH when your bench consists of the lethal Bubba Crosby/Bernie Williams tandem.
Yankees1962
01-01-06, 10:42 PM
Right, who needs a DH when your bench consists of the lethal Bubba Crosby/Bernie Williams tandem.
Who needs a DH that can't play the field in positions in which you're short like outfield and first base?
Mr. Mxylsplk
01-02-06, 09:57 AM
Right, who needs a DH when your bench consists of the lethal Bubba Crosby/Bernie Williams tandem.
Uh, if you think Bernie and Bubba have anything to do with not needing a DH, you haven't paying attention.
GrouchoNYY
01-02-06, 10:32 AM
There are several reasons why Piazza would be a good signing.
Let's go with several givens.
1. DH is a relative Yankee weakness.
2. Bernie and Bubba give little power potential.
3. A third catcher can be a positive.
If you sign Piazza
1. You can pich hit for Stinett earlier in the game when he catches without fear of using last catcher.
2. You can make more use of Posada as a dh without fear of losing dh if another catcher is available
3. You get legitimate righthanded power
4. you get a player used to NY pressure
5. you get injury insurance
Jersey Yankee
01-07-06, 05:55 PM
There are several reasons why Piazza would be a good signing.
Let's go with several givens.
1. DH is a relative Yankee weakness.
2. Bernie and Bubba give little power potential.
3. A third catcher can be a positive.
If you sign Piazza
1. You can pich hit for Stinett earlier in the game when he catches without fear of using last catcher.
2. You can make more use of Posada as a dh without fear of losing dh if another catcher is available
3. You get legitimate righthanded power
4. you get a player used to NY pressure
5. you get injury insurance
You may actually wish to look at the active roster before saying that we have a DH problem. Between Sheffield and Giambi, I believe that the DH is covered. I'm not sure how many games Sheffield will play in the field, so he remains a strong possibility there.
I'll acknowledge that Bernie and Bubba don't have much power, but a .251 BA isn't too good, but Mike's .778 OPS last season was pretty good.
If he's going to pinch-hit, that's one thing, but w/him and this whole "We won't forget about a HBP and a thrown bat seems crazy. We're talking a hurt player here, not some collosal moment in which hundreds of lives were lost.
I don't see Posada being used as a DH. Perhaps a PHer, but I can't see a starting catcher being a DH. If he's called into the game to catch, then we lose the DH.
Legit RH power = Gary Sheffield.
Used to NY pressure? I'll give you that, if you consider whining about being moved to 1B as succeeding under pressure.
Injury insurance? What about the pitchers? We get 25 men, just like everyone else. We've got more pitchers than we know what to do with. Once Piazza goes on the 25-man, then one more pitcher will be either sent back down, or won't be called up.
Between what he brings, including excess baggage that I haven't been too crazy about defending against, I'll pass.
Mr. Mxylsplk
01-07-06, 06:38 PM
You may actually wish to look at the active roster before saying that we have a DH problem. Between Sheffield and Giambi, I believe that the DH is covered. I'm not sure how many games Sheffield will play in the field, so he remains a strong possibility there.
I'm not sure how you can say the active roster doesn't have a DH problem. With no credible replacement for Sheff in RF (unless you think the yanks are comfortable enough with Crosby's bat to let him start semi-regularly, which I certainly do not), and a very big question in Phillips as a replacement for Giambi at 1B, our active roster definitely does not allow us to have confidence in playing Giambi and Sheff enough to "cover" DH. I don't think Piazza makes any sense for the yanks, but I do think, unless one has confidence in Bernie starting at DH a lot, the team needs to add someone to help fill the DH role.
Question.
Does my memory serve me correct that Cairo was the emergency catcher in '04?
Jersey Yankee
01-07-06, 07:16 PM
I'm not sure how you can say the active roster doesn't have a DH problem. With no credible replacement for Sheff in RF (unless you think the yanks are comfortable enough with Crosby's bat to let him start semi-regularly, which I certainly do not), and a very big question in Phillips as a replacement for Giambi at 1B, our active roster definitely does not allow us to have confidence in playing Giambi and Sheff enough to "cover" DH. I don't think Piazza makes any sense for the yanks, but I do think, unless one has confidence in Bernie starting at DH a lot, the team needs to add someone to help fill the DH role.
Well, if we do need a DH, then I would promptly remove Mike Piazza's name from the list. I do not want him anywhere near Yankee Stadium unless in the visiting dugout.
As to Crosby's bat, do we need 3 runs from RF every game? I don't know of any team that has superstars at every spot, and we certainly would've done better than this if we had. If Bubba plays 30-40 games in RF, I'm fine. If not him, then who else plays RF as a backup?
As to "cover DH", are you saying that the backups aren't strong enough so that Giambi and Sheffield can be the DHs?
I'll agree now after having read your post that we may need a DH. Something tells me that Damon may spend some time on the DH also, given his knack for running into walls.
Sign Piazza. Let him catch 30, 40 games a year. Work out a relay play with the catcher (Piazza), pitchers & middle infielders to try to cut down would be base stealers.
hellonewman
01-07-06, 07:33 PM
Interesting how Piazza can't seem to find a taker. He probably could have enhanced his value to somebody if he'd shown a little more stick-to-it-iveness on that 1st base thing a few years back.
Jersey Yankee
01-07-06, 07:43 PM
Interesting how Piazza can't seem to find a taker. He probably could have enhanced his value to somebody if he'd shown a little more stick-to-it-iveness on that 1st base thing a few years back.
If he'd have shut his trap acting like some diva about how that big Texas bully hit him with a pitch, and raking that for all its worth, all so Mets fans could go to more games, he may actually have had a following.
I've never seen such a diva. Guillermo Mota hits him, so Piazza chases him into the showers by the locker room of all places. Steve Phillips or Bobby V wants him at 1B, he whines to the press that this wasn't explained to him properly, all so he could get his HR record while catching (and throwing out nobody).
I will turn my eyes away if I ever see him in a Yankee uniform. Let him be the batboy, if he needs a job.
Mr. Mxylsplk
01-07-06, 08:01 PM
As to Crosby's bat, do we need 3 runs from RF every game? I don't know of any team that has superstars at every spot, and we certainly would've done better than this if we had.
What does not needing a superstar have to do with playing Crosby? There are those who think he's capable of being a good hitter, but thus far in his career he is pretty much a disaster offensively. We certainly don't need a guy who hits as well as Sheffield, but if the best we can put out there is Crosby, that's well below league average, and I think the team will be unwilling to play Sheff at DH very often if Crosby is our only sub. And yeah, that's what I meant about our backups not being good enough for Sheff to cover DH. If we add someone better as a backup OF, I'd agree with you. But at the moment, I think the roster needs either a better backup OF or a better DH. Which I realize you don't disagree with anymore, anyway. That was easy. ;)
Kulish29
01-07-06, 08:14 PM
Didnt the Marlins retire his jersey? He had such a great career with that team.
ryanthe13th
01-08-06, 10:52 AM
1. DH is a relative Yankee weakness.
Not really. Crosby can play RF and allow Sheffield to DH a few games. Is Bubba's bat worse than Bernie's at this point? I'd like to see the Yankees give Bubba a shot to play RF while Sheffield DH's for the first few weeks. If that isn't working out, throw Bernie into DH and have Sheffield split time with Bubba. With Matsui, Giambi, Sheffield, and Bernie on the team, there is no shortage of DH's.
2. Bernie and Bubba give little power potential.
That's not really a big concern given that we have A-Rod, Giambi, Matsui, and Sheffield on our team. Jeter and Posada also have the ability to crank out 20 HR's, and Damon is usually good for 10. Power definitely isn't an issue for our line up.
3. A third catcher can be a positive.
If we're going to have a third catcher, than I don't want Piazza, get Bengie Molina. His defense is about the same as Posada's and his bat is better. Molina would probably cost just a bit more than what Mike would and would give us better results. I'm not in favor of having a 3rd catcher because our roster is already packed, but if we have to have one, that should be the game plan.
If you sign Piazza
1. You can pich hit for Stinett earlier in the game when he catches without fear of using last catcher.
True.
2. You can make more use of Posada as a dh without fear of losing dh if another catcher is available
Posada isn't a good enough hitter to be a DH though. He kills rallies and grounds into DP's way too much. Him DHing is soley so the Yankees don't have to automatically pick up his option, but we can do this without having Mike Piazza on the team.
3. You get legitimate righthanded power
Not powerful enough to justify his pricetag. He hit 20, 11, and 19 HR's over the past 3 years. That's not enough to make me want Cashman to empty the wallet on him.
4. you get a player used to NY pressure
True.
5. you get injury insurance
This is assuming that Mike Piazza himself doesn't get injured. He has a ton of nagging injuries plaguging him and isn't servicable in the field anymore. Even at 1B his is awful. I guess if Bernie pulls a hammy swinging for the fences, Piazza would come into play?
yanksconstantino24
01-08-06, 10:54 AM
Question.
Does my memory serve me correct that Cairo was the emergency catcher in '04?
I believe he was. I'd feel much more comfortable with him behind the plate than I would Piazza.
jonnyc39
01-08-06, 11:41 AM
I believe he was. I'd feel much more comfortable with him behind the plate than I would Piazza.
You, sir, are nuts. :)
DandyAndy46
01-12-06, 09:31 PM
Check it out...seems the illustrious Mr. Goldman and his Pinstripe Blog agree with some of the posters here...
http://www.yesnetwork.com/yankees/pinstripedblog.asp
He makes some decent points....
Check it out...seems the illustrious Mr. Goldman and his Pinstripe Blog agree with some of the posters here...
http://www.yesnetwork.com/yankees/pinstripedblog.asp
He makes some decent points....
If this is the thinking of the Yankee FO, I would rather sign Molina than Piazza.
Hitman23
01-13-06, 11:28 AM
Piazza wouldn't be a terrible pickup if the price was right. He's got pop and could fill the full-time DH role. Could also back up Posada on days he needs off. I know he's not the best catcher and can't throw runners out for sh*t, but as a backup you could do worse.
But there's no room.
unless we decide to carry 3 catchers this really makes no sense.
DandyAndy46
01-13-06, 12:25 PM
unless we decide to carry 3 catchers this really makes no sense.
Come on, this is the Yankees we're talking about....they could just release Stinett and eat his contract, although that would be a lot of money to eat for one contract
DandyAndy46
01-13-06, 12:27 PM
If this is the thinking of the Yankee FO, I would rather sign Molina than Piazza.
Well of course you would rather have Molina but Molina probably would not come here to be a back-up and DH....I'm not saying I think Piazza should come to the Yanks....but he can still hit and he's certainly a better hitter than Kelly Stinett
JavyVazquezIsSick
01-13-06, 12:46 PM
He's been significantly better the last 3 years when being the catcher than when the 1st baseman or DH. Since he is a horrible 1st baseman and catcher as well as no longer being the hitter he once was, this signing would be truly horrible, especially considering his price tag...
silverdsl
01-13-06, 12:56 PM
If Piazza was willing to take a massive paycut and accept a part-time role in which he didn't play regularly he might be an asset to some team. But I don't think it would be this team.
-Deborah
AROD0003
01-13-06, 01:07 PM
I've never really posted on here before but I am ready to get my head chewed off. I like the idea of Michaels...But, what does everyone think about maybe Bobby Higginson for a 4th OF? I know he hurt his elbow last year so there is not much to go with as far as that, and not getting offered arbitration from the Tigers is never great, BUT, he has potential and he can play Right. Decent Speed. Average Power. Just a suggestion.......
Come on, this is the Yankees we're talking about....they could just release Stinett and eat his contract, although that would be a lot of money to eat for one contract
let's just continue to burn money...
Mr. Mxylsplk
01-13-06, 01:24 PM
I've never really posted on here before but I am ready to get my head chewed off. I like the idea of Michaels...But, what does everyone think about maybe Bobby Higginson for a 4th OF? I know he hurt his elbow last year so there is not much to go with as far as that, and not getting offered arbitration from the Tigers is never great, BUT, he has potential and he can play Right. Decent Speed. Average Power. Just a suggestion.......
At 35 I think he's past the "potential" stage, and his last two full seasons were awfully bad, and that's before he got hurt. 4 or 5 years ago, sure, but looking at the past few years, I don't see how he has any value.
AROD0003
01-13-06, 01:30 PM
At 35 I think he's past the "potential" stage, and his last two full seasons were awfully bad, and that's before he got hurt. 4 or 5 years ago, sure, but looking at the past few years, I don't see how he has any value.
Yeah I know what you mean about the age... Potential was a bad use of words, because I didn't mean like a Cano, young guy, I meant more like potential to be a contributor...
Mr. Mxylsplk
01-13-06, 02:14 PM
Yeah I know what you mean about the age... Potential was a bad use of words, because I didn't mean like a Cano, young guy, I meant more like potential to be a contributor...
If he could get back to the level he was at a few years ago, he could definitely contribute. But two disappointing seasons followed by an injury don't breed confidence.
Question.
Does my memory serve me correct that Cairo was the emergency catcher in '04?
I believe it was Enrique Wilson. But he obviously didnt get any time back behind the plate. Has no catchign experience at all.
I wouldnt mind Piazza, as I happen to like him a lot. But I definately wouldnt go out and get him if I was Brian Cashman. His lack of versatility is not very helpful, and while yes, his bat is lethal and could be a very big asset for us off the bench, the fact that 1B is the only other position he can play is not very comforting. And besides, we already have a bunch of guys in front of him on the "first base depth chart". Giambi, Phillips, Cairo, Posada, Bernie, Stinnett, Sheffield, Piazza.
Like I said, I wouldnt be too upset if we got him, but I wouldnt encourage it.
if stinnet was never signed and piazza came at 2 mil for 1 year, i'd take it.
3M'sBoys
01-14-06, 08:30 AM
It's amazing how it seems like yesterday when the Mets got Piazza from the Marlins. It was such a HUGE story in New York on par with the Yanks getting A-Rod. Now he's an afterthought. Such is baseball, though. :) That said, it's interesting to think if he can fit with the Yanks.
PoughVirginiaYankee
01-15-06, 01:38 PM
It's amazing how it seems like yesterday when the Mets got Piazza from the Marlins. It was such a HUGE story in New York on par with the Yanks getting A-Rod. Now he's an afterthought. Such is baseball, though. :) That said, it's interesting to think if he can fit with the Yanks.
I think we should sign Piazza, it'd be a great idea. In fact, let's make a real push to sign Clemens too though. It'd be great, Piazza could be Clemen's personal catcher. From what I hear, they're best buds. ;) :doh:
Wow...these are really the doldrums of winter in Yankeeland....I have to amuse myself with this...
DandyAndy46
01-16-06, 01:22 PM
I think we should sign Piazza, it'd be a great idea. In fact, let's make a real push to sign Clemens too though. It'd be great, Piazza could be Clemen's personal catcher. From what I hear, they're best buds. ;) :doh:
Wow...these are really the doldrums of winter in Yankeeland....I have to amuse myself with this...
I disagree....these are the doldrums of winter in Yankeeland
http://forums.nyyfans.com/showthread.php?p=2998545#post2998545
freebubba
01-18-06, 09:45 AM
NO, NO, NO, NO. Let me think about it: um, NONONONONONONO!
The Yankees have some interest in Piazza and will consider whether to offer the Cooperstown-bound catcher a contract, American League sources told Newsday yesterday.
Piazza's agent, Dan Lozano, has called Yankees general manager Brian Cashman regarding the free agent's interest in playing for the Yankees, and Cashman did not dismiss the offer.
On the contrary, it is expected that the Yankees soon will consider the merits of signing Piazza -- primarily as a designated hitter -- if they haven't already.
Reached yesterday by phone, Cashman, back from a rare Caribbean vacation, indicated that organizational higher-ups hadn't yet weighed the pros and cons of the Piazza possibility. But he didn't close the door at all.
"We're fairly set. Our designated hitter spot is taken by Bernie Williams and Andy Phillips. But I'll keep an open mind," Cashman said. "I'm always open to consider any possibility that may help the ballclub."
http://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/yankees/ny-spyanks0124,0,4252091.story?coll=ny-sports-headlines
Yankees1962
01-24-06, 04:32 AM
http://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/yankees/ny-spyanks0124,0,4252091.story?coll=ny-sports-headlines
According to Bill Madden, the Yankees don't have any interest in him.
Mike Piazza remains one of the marquee free agents still on the market, and yesterday, according to baseball sources, his agents contacted the Yankees about moving across town as a designated hitter and backup catcher.
The Yankees' response was that there was no room at the inn. According to sources, Piazza, who hit .251 with 19 homers and 62 RBI with the Mets last year, has minimal offers from the Padres, Phillies and Indians to play a reserve role, but none of them are anywhere near his believed asking price of $7 million-$8 million a year. It is the Yankees' feeling that Piazza could not offer as much in a DH capacity as what they expect to get out of Bernie Williams and they are satisfied with Kelly Stinnett as their backup catcher.
http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/story/385341p-327017c.html
hardrain
01-24-06, 06:55 AM
Hopefully, Cashman and the Yanks are just doing Piazza a favor by pretending to be interested, thus driving his worth up a bit more in the eyes of still interested teams.
There is no room for him. Between Giambi, Bernie and some Sheff, and even Andy, I think DH is covered.
Hopefully, Cashman and the Yanks are just doing Piazza a favor by pretending to be interested, thus driving his worth up a bit more in the eyes of still interested teams.
There is no room for him. Between Giambi, Bernie and some Sheff, and even Andy, I think DH is covered.
AS of right now, Bernie will get the lion shares of DH ab's- not optimal
Giambi hits better when he plays the field. Phillips? THis team isn't set up to let a player learn on the job unless necessary- see Cano.
A DH who could also play the outfield to give MAtsui , Sheff and Posada to take regular days off or DH would be optimal
hardrain
01-24-06, 07:26 AM
AS of right now, Bernie will get the lion shares of DH ab's- not optimal
Giambi hits better when he plays the field. Phillips? THis team isn't set up to let a player learn on the job unless necessary- see Cano.
A DH who could also play the outfield to give MAtsui , Sheff and Posada to take regular days off or DH would be optimal
Giambi does hit better when he is playing 1st base. But is going to have to get over it. As he ages, and his defensive skills erode even further, he will have to buck up and make the transition to being a productive DH.
I'd rather see Phillips get a chance to play some than go with over-the-hill Mike, that's just me.
I agree Bernie will get a lot of DH. At least that keeps him out of the OF.
Yankees1962
01-24-06, 07:30 AM
If the Yankee starting pitchers have a good, healthy spring then I would expect a trade sometime in March to address adding another bat that can DH and play the outfield, preferably all three positions.
I have mixed feelings about signing Piazza. Currently I'm not trilled about Bernie and Phillips DHing. Piazza would easily out hit them. But Piazza is a one dimensional player. I guess he could play first some games, but he is horrible. He could catch, but we already have Stinnett and Torre will favor defense in place of offensive in the catcher position when Posada isn't playing. I also I would like to use some type of rotation system for Giambi, Matsui and Sheffield at DH to keep them fresh. I guess the best thing would be to wait to see if an outfielder who can hit becomes available who would add a lot more flexibility to the roster.
NewEraYanks2527
01-24-06, 07:48 AM
If the Yankee starting pitchers have a good, healthy spring then I would expect a trade sometime in March to address adding another bat that can DH and play the outfield, preferably all three positions. The thing is who would you trade if they are all healthy(I'd love to see Wright go) and how long does anyone really think this pitching staff can stay healthy. I suspect that at least, RJ, Moose, Pavano and if we kepp him, Wright will all see time on the DL so really to me it seems foolish to trade any SP in Spring Training considering almost everyone on the staff is a walking risk.
jimmyclark
01-24-06, 07:55 AM
I think it is a reasonably decent idea. One problem this team has had the last few years is little bench. No good backup catcher since girardi left and Stinnett isn't much either. Despite Piazza's arm inadequacies, his teams have ususally had a lower ERA with him catching than with the back up. He knows NEW York City and doesn't seem to have any media enemies except for Phil Mushnick. I always thought his personality lended itself better to a secondary player (ie Bernie Williams) than a team captain (ie Paul O'Neill, Derek Jeter).
I kind of doubt Molina would come plus I do wonder about this "let's void Posada's option by signing Molina" that Madden and Heyman have been pushing. Molina ain't that good or that young.
Williams can be a decent DH but he is always injured. I am worried about Piazza's defense at first..it was atrocious with the Mets 2 years ago. Of course nitwits like Art Howe played him 15 innings at first in spring and then moved him after he broke the HR record.
I thin Piazza will end up going elsewhere to play more but it doesn't hurt to offer an option to a legendary player on the way out.
Yankees1962
01-24-06, 08:05 AM
The thing is who would you trade if they are all healthy(I'd love to see Wright go) and how long does anyone really think this pitching staff can stay healthy. I suspect that at least, RJ, Moose, Pavano and if we kepp him, Wright will all see time on the DL so really to me it seems foolish to trade any SP in Spring Training considering almost everyone on the staff is a walking risk.
You have three candidates who's last name isn't Johnson, Mussina, Chacon or Wang.
Quangormo
01-24-06, 08:13 AM
No thanks. He'll cost too much and from what the Met fans in my family tell me, he isn't a very good defensive catcher. Piazza isn't going to take the fat check he'll get just to sit on the bench and DH. He will definitely be catching some games for a team.
He catches once or twice a week, plays 1B about twice a week, DHs about twice a week. Bernie, Jorge, Jason all get a little rest. One's always available late in a ballgame to pinch-hit, and if defense is a problem, we can replace him (after his last AB) with Stinnett or Phillips.
But why do we need him? If we want another hitter, both Erubiel Durazo and Frank Thomas are better choices.
However, I think Bernie's going out with a bang.
If we signed Piazza, I feel Torre would be compelled to use him a lot as DH. I'm also in the camp that would like to see the DH spot used to rotate Sheff/Matsui/Giambi around with the rare spell of A-Rod or Derek when they need a break from the field. Further clogging the DH spot seems contrary to the Yanks immediate needs. Assuming we don't trade away a SP (which I don't think we should considering the potential for injuries to our injury prone staff), then our biggest need continues to be a defensive corner OF with an average bat.
Or, as others have simply expressed, if you're feel we really need another bat, then at least get someone who can play an IF or OF position. We already have a backup catcher.
silverdsl
01-24-06, 08:51 AM
I'm really surprised that no teams seem interested in Piazza at all. While he's no where near the player he once was I think he could still be useful in a limited role. But I still don't see how he would fit for the Yankees.
-Deborah
BRNXBMRS
01-24-06, 08:56 AM
No teams are interested in Piazza, his agent is using the Yanks to drum up some interest.
Mr. Mxylsplk
01-24-06, 09:05 AM
You have three candidates who's last name isn't Johnson, Mussina, Chacon or Wang.
If we want to add a player of value, how exactly are these 3 candidates you refer to going to accomplish that?
Jim Roche
01-24-06, 09:10 AM
Re: Piazza now
I have no problem at all signing Piazza for the Yanks. My thinking on the DH subject of Bernie is that he (Bernie) has had chronic shoulder problems the last few years and has been reluctant to do any off season work that would address his problem. ( I know that there had been stories during the Winter Meetings of him showing up and telling all who would listen that he was working out with a personal trainer.) The other factors that I am concerned about are that as a DH, some players never adjust to it after playing in the field for the majority of their careers. I really don't think Bernie will adjust. I have serious reservations regarding Phillips ( I have seen him at AAA and unless you play him to the point where he gets 15 to 20 AB's a week, he will not help.) Piazza may fall into the same category of problems that I think Bernie and Phillips would encounter with the DH, but I am all for signing him to find out...
Ghost of Dan Pasqua
01-24-06, 09:12 AM
I'm really surprised that no teams seem interested in Piazza at all. While he's no where near the player he once was I think he could still be useful in a limited role. But I still don't see how he would fit for the Yankees.
-Deborah
Big picture, the only place Piazza makes sense is if he replaces Phillips or Stinnett on the roster. Piazza becomes a backup first baseman, part time righty DH, backup catcher, and bench player. I think the Yankees are going to go with 12 pitchers (unless they trade someone from the Small/Wright/Pavano group) and therefore if you are the Yankees and you are seriously considering this, the question is, is Piazza a better player in the role of Phillips or in the role of Stinnett? If I had to guess, if this would come to pass, Stinnett would be the one to go. Piazza offers more flexibility than Stinnett, who in the most literal of senses only offers you a backup catcher. He's not a strong bat off the bench and he's not a guy to DH. The buzzword of Cashman this offseason has been about getting guys who are versitale. That is why they flirted with Nomar for a bit. Piazza offers nothing in the outfield, but he could DH and catch for the Yankees, he has been a good hitter in the clutch in the past. If it's for a 1 year deal at a lower salary with the price really being swapping Stinnett off the roster, and gives Torre another legit bat to keep from overusing Bernie at DH. It might make more sense than people will realize. Plus, George is always an old softie to bring a former Met great back and see if he can have a resurgance just like Gooden, Strawberry, Cone, and hell even Jose Vizciano.
whalers
01-24-06, 09:12 AM
Giambi hits better when he plays the field.
I know the stats prove this theory as well but doesnt Giambi DH most often when he is injured. I dont have the stats but I am pretty sure he hits better as a healthy DH than injured.
JeterRodriguezSheff
01-24-06, 09:13 AM
nvm...
Mr. Mxylsplk
01-24-06, 09:17 AM
I know the stats prove this theory as well but doesnt Giambi DH most often when he is injured.
Maybe the past season or two, but throughout his career he's had considerably worse stats as a DH than a 1B, even when he was healthy.
I dont have the stats but I am pretty sure he hits better as a healthy DH than injured.
I'm sure pretty much every player hits better when healthy than hurt. I don't know what that has to do with whether or not he hits better as a 1B than a DH.
Ghost of Dan Pasqua
01-24-06, 09:18 AM
I like this idea as a low risk high reward
He was better than Bernie last year numbers wise(same average, same obp but considerably higher slugging) and he would be moving from Shea to Yankee Stadium when he is a lefty and in a very stacked line up. It is by no means a sure thing but it is worth the risk. Worst case scenario he is only slightly better than Bernie and the Yankees are out a few million. He had a .778 OPS last year and in Yankee stadium in the projected best line up in baseball it wouldnt be insane to think he could reach or come close to a .800 OPS.
Piazza is a righty, but he's a righty power hitter who hits to the opposite field, so he would take advantage of the short right field porch the same way that Jeter and ARod have.
JeterRodriguezSheff
01-24-06, 09:26 AM
Piazza is a righty, but he's a righty power hitter who hits to the opposite field, so he would take advantage of the short right field porch the same way that Jeter and ARod have.
yeah i realized that right after I posted, I dont know why I thought he was a lefty. Either way its worth taking a risk on imo when the risk is only a few million.
I definately wouldnt mind Piazza, but his versatility hurts the defensive depth of our bench. The fact that he is a catcher is very good, but if he could play more positions other than 1B then it would be an ideal signing.
I would be fine with whatever deciscion is made.
Ghost of Dan Pasqua
01-24-06, 09:43 AM
I definately wouldnt mind Piazza, but his versatility hurts the defensive depth of our bench. The fact that he is a catcher is very good, but if he could play more positions other than 1B then it would be an ideal signing.
I would be fine with whatever deciscion is made.
If it kicks Stinnett off the roster than it adds flexibility because Stinnett is only a backup catcher, he's not a pinch hitter, or a DH.
nyg02005
01-24-06, 09:52 AM
assuming bernie is the dh and giambi at first. Our bench would consist of cairo, stinett, phillips, crosby. Unless I am missing somebody, we still need one player and if they can not find an average hitter OF or Infileder then why not piazza.
JeterRodriguezSheff
01-24-06, 09:54 AM
assuming bernie is the dh and giambi at first. Our bench would consist of cairo, stinett, phillips, crosby. Unless I am missing somebody, we still need one player and if they can not find an average hitter OF or Infileder then why not piazza.
Exactly and have Piazza DH and Bernie on the bench. You solve two problems with one move(get Bernie out of the line up nad fill that last spot with a low risk high reward type guy)
NewEraYanks2527
01-24-06, 10:52 AM
You have three candidates who's last name isn't Johnson, Mussina, Chacon or Wang. I understand that, but those are three candidates that only arise if the staff stays healthy, which it won't. You kind of avoided that part of my post that was saying that we can't really trade any pitchers because of the injury risks and we will need someone to fill in.
JeffWeaverFan
01-24-06, 11:35 AM
It's not a terrible idea, but I really think the last roster spot should be filled with a guy that can play RF and can hit an allright amount.
By the way, if the Yankees did sign Piazza, I think Stinnett becomes pretty much useless.
SI Baseballman
01-24-06, 11:47 AM
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Ok, now that I got that out of my system, I really hope that the Yankees steer clear away from Piazza and vice versa.
Mikey is starting to get a little desparate. The problem is that he thinks he's worth 6 mil a year and a starting catching position, but in reality he isn't. I'd love for him to be unemployed come May 1st, so that way he can rejoin the Mets as a backup catcher.
HouseThatRingsBuild
01-24-06, 11:53 AM
I think it would be good move, if the price is right. He wants like 7 million.
JfromJersey
01-24-06, 12:09 PM
I think it would be good move, if the price is right. He wants like 7 million.
The price would never be right, both from Mike's and the Yankees' perspectives.
whalers
01-24-06, 02:12 PM
I'm sure pretty much every player hits better when healthy than hurt. I don't know what that has to do with whether or not he hits better as a 1B than a DH.
I meant his stats as a healthy DH vs 1b in order to see if the discrepancy in production is truly a result of injuries.
As a Yankee, when Giambi has DH'd it's because of some injury. One year it was his eye infection.. sometimes his knees.. sometimes it's general fatigue.. Giambi does not often DH when he's feeling great physically. If he's feeling great, he plays 1B. No strange coincidence that when he's feeling great, he hits better. So there is one way to explain why he hits better when playing 1B.
Evil Empire
01-24-06, 02:59 PM
I wonder how his signing(should it happen) would affect the pursuit of Clemens.
There may be a mass suicide of the hardcore Yankee hating Mets fans if this comes to fruition
From another perspective, having watched quite a few Mets games last season, Piazza didn't look like a guy that could help us. His bat speed has declined - noticeably - and he went from being *very* difficult to strike out to someone you could make pitches to. Bernie looks like he has a quicker bat. From strictly a DH perspective, I think Bernie will outperform Piazza next season.
27IsNext
01-24-06, 03:15 PM
Giambi is going to have to get used to being the full-time DH with an occasion day at first sooner rather than later. As he ages, and as his bad legs deteroirate even further, it will be tougher to play the field every day.
That being said, Piazza is not the answer. I would've considered him MAYBE as a backup catcher for cheap dollars, but we already have Stinnett.
Snap731
01-24-06, 03:31 PM
Sigh... Piazza now?
Do we really need another one who can't play a single position?
Sure 20 homeruns would be nice, but that's like all we'd get.
Mr. Mxylsplk
01-24-06, 03:51 PM
I meant his stats as a healthy DH vs 1b in order to see if the discrepancy in production is truly a result of injuries.
Prior to the past few seasons, he was a generally healthy guy who played DH for the occasional day off, not because he was hurting. And his stats there were considerably worse than when he was at first. Health doesn't explain the dramatic difference.
Mr. Mxylsplk
01-24-06, 03:53 PM
As a Yankee, when Giambi has DH'd it's because of some injury. One year it was his eye infection.. sometimes his knees.. sometimes it's general fatigue.. Giambi does not often DH when he's feeling great physically. If he's feeling great, he plays 1B. No strange coincidence that when he's feeling great, he hits better. So there is one way to explain why he hits better when playing 1B.
That's only in recent seasons. He's played plenty of DH when healthy in the past, and he's always hit much worse than when he played first. Hanging it on his health isn't supported by the facts.
Hmm, I am not sure. It will seem strange. But we do have Damon now LOL
http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/8366/piazza5jg.jpg
YankeePride1967
01-24-06, 04:10 PM
If the Yankee starting pitchers have a good, healthy spring then I would expect a trade sometime in March to address adding another bat that can DH and play the outfield, preferably all three positions.
This is the way to go rather than likely overpay for another guy who can still hit some but can't field like Piazza.
hellonewman
01-24-06, 04:11 PM
If this is the only way to add a legitimate bat to the bench, I'd do it, but I'd rather look elsewhere because Piazza isn't really a viable first baseman and certainly can't play outfield. The Mets practically had to drag him kicking and screaming to play 1B and he sure didn't fight it too hard when they aborted the experiment. Phillips at least looks like he's willing to contribute the sweat equity toward being a good first baseman.
That's only in recent seasons. He's played plenty of DH when healthy in the past, and he's always hit much worse than when he played first. Hanging it on his health isn't supported by the facts.
If you could supply the numbers that support the "fact", it would be greatly appreciated. I'm asking you seriously, as a fan, because I've tried and failed to find numbers that show when Giambi DH'd because of health/fatigue -vs- when he DH'd when healthy.
Mr. Mxylsplk
01-24-06, 05:29 PM
If you could supply the numbers that support the "fact", it would be greatly appreciated. I'm asking you seriously, as a fan, because I've tried and failed to find numbers that show when Giambi DH'd because of health/fatigue -vs- when he DH'd when healthy.
Well, it's only in recent seasons that he's had health issues, so prior to that he was DH'ing simply because occasionally they gave him a day at DH, not because he was hurt. And his splits from any of those seasons are easy to find.
ComeBackShane47
01-24-06, 06:58 PM
I dont know if anyone posted this yet, but Buster Olney on the Michael Kay show said that it is a really long shot for the Yankees to sign Piazza, and that the Padres are making a strong push for him.
Well, it's only in recent seasons that he's had health issues, so prior to that he was DH'ing simply because occasionally they gave him a day at DH, not because he was hurt. And his splits from any of those seasons are easy to find.
Could you supply some? I didn't have much luck finding his DH splits older than 3 years ago. (And showing whether or not he was injured while DH'ing - that's another issue, but equally important.)
Otherwise we both don't have facts to support our opinions.
Ghost of Dan Pasqua
01-24-06, 07:06 PM
I dont know if anyone posted this yet, but Buster Olney on the Michael Kay show said that it is a really long shot for the Yankees to sign Piazza, and that the Padres are making a strong push for him.
I think it's becoming a bit clearer that this is Piazza's agent who is strumming this story up to try to get some activity around his client. He's using the Yankees lukewarm (at best) interest to try to push forward with someone else, perhaps San Diego or Philly.
Mr. Mxylsplk
01-24-06, 08:07 PM
Could you supply some? I didn't have much luck finding his DH splits older than 3 years ago. (And showing whether or not he was injured while DH'ing - that's another issue, but equally important.)
yahoo provides plenty. Although if you're looking for a flag marking any game in which he was hurt, you probably won't find it. Considering people were talking about how poorly he hit as a DH at the time we signed him, it's more than a little surprising that someone would think it's because of his health.
guidry36
01-24-06, 08:14 PM
I think it's becoming a bit clearer that this is Piazza's agent who is strumming this story up to try to get some activity around his client. He's using the Yankees lukewarm (at best) interest to try to push forward with someone else, perhaps San Diego or Philly.
Good luck to him back in the NL if that is the case;) . Any kind of bidding war would kill the minimal interest I would have in this move. At $2 mil......maybe. Not a penny higher, though...... and Piazza likely will get more....even if the difference is incentive $$.
keithf1
01-24-06, 09:08 PM
Getting Piazza = No Clemens
dabomb2045
01-24-06, 09:09 PM
keep Piazza away please....thank you
NewEraYanks2527
01-24-06, 10:32 PM
Getting Piazza = No Clemens Or we could get them both and shoot for one of those "worst chemistry teams ever" like in the thread that was started awhile ago.
Panamaniac42
01-24-06, 10:36 PM
Or we could get them both and shoot for one of those "worst chemistry teams ever" like in the thread that was started awhile ago.
As fellow hair dye aficionados, I think they, along with ARod, could make sweet music together if they simply let bygones be bygones.
Ghost of Dan Pasqua
01-24-06, 10:55 PM
"Yankees general manager Brian Cashman was busy yesterday polling the club's top-level scouts and decision makers as to whether to offer a contract to free agent Mike Piazza, and people familiar with the situation indicated it's probably "50-50" as to whether they will.
Cashman is expected to have his recommendation ready by today or tomorrow as to whether the Yankees pursue the Cooperstown-bound catcher for a designated-hitter job. Cashman also was trying to reach out to manager Joe Torre before making his final call. Torre's believed to be in Hawaii."
http://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/yankees/ny-sppiazza0125,0,7419695.story?coll=ny-sports-headlines
This might get resolved one way or another very soon.
NYDCYankee
01-25-06, 12:20 AM
I totally see this happening.
ryanthe13th
01-25-06, 12:59 AM
Getting Piazza = No Clemens
We don't have a shot at Clemens anyway. I really hope that they don't sign Piazza. If they absolutley have to, it better be a 1 year dear not worth a lot.
NYDCYankee
01-25-06, 01:21 AM
http://www.nypost.com/sports/yankees/60936.htm
Sherman article on Piazza, he says the Yankees should pass but:
However, the Yanks' interest is piqued, at least mildly. Not because of the big name, but the tiny salary request (no more than $2 million) and the removal of any demand to be a full-time catcher. Cashman has solicited opinion within the organization.
looks like he ain't asking for much.
MisterNovember
01-25-06, 01:37 AM
keep Piazza away please....thank you
I don't want Clemens anyway, despite the fact that I'm a huge fan of his. My feeling is that age has caught up with him, and he's simply not worth the money. If he pitches in the WBC and kicks butt, then I reserve the option to change my mind, but as of now I think a return to the AL East would be disastrous for Raaajaah.
I was against signing Piazza at first, but if he comes cheap, then why the hell not? He could split time with Jorge at catcher (negating that horrible option in JoPo's contract), and could also spend time at 1B/DH. This team needs a full-time DH that isn't named Bernie Williams, if the Yanks think Piazza can still be somewhat productive, then I say go for it.
That being said, I would much prefer the Yankees to acquire a decent 1B and/or OF to spell Giambi and Sheffield and give them time at DH. If this isn't a possibility, then acquiring Piazza for this role isn't terrible.
NYDCYankee
01-25-06, 03:19 AM
http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/story/385645p-327263c.html
Mike Piazza told friends from the Shea Stadium clubhouse that he was nearing a deal with a team in the American League, but as the Daily News reported yesterday, it almost certainly won't be the Yankees.
Mets center fielder Carlos Beltran yesterday said Piazza had communicated this in a conversation with equipment manager Charlie Samuels, with whom he is very close.
"I asked (Samuels) about Piazza," Beltran said. "He told me he was close to signing with a team in the American League."
The Blue Jays, Orioles and Yankees are AL teams confirmed to have spoken with Piazza's agent, Dan Lozano.
PuffNettles9
01-25-06, 09:30 AM
First Team Italy now possibly Pinstripes!
We dont want him on the Red white and blue squad and we certainly dont want him in pinstripes.
Without really addressing the horrific re-sign of Bernie, Piazza on the current team doesn't make much sense.
Would I prefer Piazza to Bernie? Absolutely, in a second. He's still a much more productive hitter, and neither can do ANYTHING but hit at this point in their careers. But the Yanks signed Bernie out of respect, and that one mistake made this discussion sort of moot.
27IsNext
01-25-06, 12:46 PM
"Cashman also was trying to reach out to manager Joe Torre before making his final call. Torre's believed to be in Hawaii."
I can just imagine a grumpy old Torre's face if Cashman were to call him while vacationing in Hawaii. :lol:
JfromJersey
01-25-06, 01:14 PM
http://www.nypost.com/sports/yankees/60936.htm
Sherman article on Piazza, he says the Yankees should pass but:
looks like he ain't asking for much.
If Sherman is against it, then I'm for it.
Mr. Mxylsplk
01-25-06, 01:18 PM
Would I prefer Piazza to Bernie? Absolutely, in a second. He's still a much more productive hitter, and neither can do ANYTHING but hit at this point in their careers. But the Yanks signed Bernie out of respect, and that one mistake made this discussion sort of moot.
That's how I see it. Same thing with a guy like Durazo. Without Bernie, either might make sense. But when we've already got Bernie, carrying a second guy who doesn't contribute in the field doesn't make sense. (Assuming they wouldn't drop Stinnett and make Piazza the backup C).
ryanthe13th
01-25-06, 02:58 PM
How much is Piazaa's price tag reported to be? Theoretically, it can't be very high. Everyone has passed on him pretty much, so he has to have come down from his initial expectations.
4degrees
01-25-06, 03:24 PM
Jorge's option kicks in if he plays 330 games at catcher between 2004-2006. He has a 267 games, so he only needs 63. The changes are extremely slim that he won't make that, even with Piazza on the team.
Yanksagain
01-25-06, 03:25 PM
How much is Piazaa's price tag reported to be? Theoretically, it can't be very high. Everyone has passed on him pretty much, so he has to have come down from his initial expectations.
Piazza's agent Dan Lozano informed Cashman that Piazza could be had for just $2-3MM which got the Yankees thinking.
If the choice is between Piazza and Replacement-Level Reliever, I take Piazza without thinking. With the obvious deficencies at DH, the Yanks need another bat more than they need another pitcher to shag flies during BP and be ignored by Torre.
JavyVazquezIsSick
01-25-06, 03:41 PM
For that price he would be worth it, especially since he would make Bernie's role on this team to purely a situational pinch hitter...
Kulish29
01-25-06, 03:57 PM
http://rotoworld.com/content/playerpages/player_main.asp?sport=MLB&id=4928
Free agent Mike Piazza told friends from the Shea Stadium clubhouse that he was nearing a deal with a team in the American League.
The Daily News doesn't think the Yankees are an option right now, so the Blue Jays would seem to be the best guess. Jan. 25 - 1:59 pm et
AMYanks
01-25-06, 04:16 PM
For $2M? Sign me up.
Again, I like the idea of a cheap Piazza in pinstripes. But then you really hamstring yourself on the bench. You already have a poor defense, and with Bernie and Piazza two of the bench players, they are essentially zero's with the glove. Giambi then has no competent replacement (which he sorely needs due to recent injury history and less than solid D). Bernie is the reason this can't realistically happen.
The A's signed Frank Thomas pretty cheap. $500K with incentives. Can't imagine that helps Piazza find the multi-million dollar deal he wants.
alversonk
01-25-06, 05:25 PM
Again, I like the idea of a cheap Piazza in pinstripes. But then you really hamstring yourself on the bench. You already have a poor defense, and with Bernie and Piazza two of the bench players, they are essentially zero's with the glove. Giambi then has no competent replacement (which he sorely needs due to recent injury history and less than solid D). Bernie is the reason this can't realistically happen.
I completely agree. Our current bench doesn't allow us to sign Piazza. We know that Giambi will have to DH some of the time requiring us to carry at least an adequate backup.
Another problem using a roster spot for Piazza is that we only would have one backup infielder. At least if we used Phillips he could play 2nd or 3rd in a pinch.
I don't really like this idea, but consider it an alternative. How about Posada at 1st part time, and then sliding Stinnett or Piazza into the catching role on those days when Giambi has the day off or is at DH.
If we thought Bernie could handle being the 4th OFer then the Yanks could do this.
Matsui55
01-25-06, 06:05 PM
I completely agree. Our current bench doesn't allow us to sign Piazza. We know that Giambi will have to DH some of the time requiring us to carry at least an adequate backup.
Another problem using a roster spot for Piazza is that we only would have one backup infielder. At least if we used Phillips he could play 2nd or 3rd in a pinch.
I don't really like this idea, but consider it an alternative. How about Posada at 1st part time, and then sliding Stinnett or Piazza into the catching role on those days when Giambi has the day off or is at DH.
If we thought Bernie could handle being the 4th OFer then the Yanks could do this.
Several incorrect assumptions here.
One- Phillips is NOT a good enough defensive player to be a 2B or 3B- there is a reason he was finally shuffled off to 1B- its the only position where he's ML average defensively at.
Two- Posada CANNOT play 1B- remember they already tried that experiment 2 or 3 years ago- and dropped it in a week. He was awful there.
Three- signing Piazza eliminates the backup INF. Not true. There are 5 bench positions (Assuming the Yanks use a 11 man rotation- which is a good assumption). Right now, Bernie is penciled in as the DH, so he is technically one of the starting 9- does NOT count as a bench slot.
Right now, Stinnett is the C. Cairo is the backup INF (2B, SS 3B, maybe 1B). For now, Crosby is the extra OF, but I don't buy that he will last to April. I think he gets dropped for a more versatile OF, one who can run and be a late inning specialist.
If we assume that someone, whether Crosby or another guy will be the 4th OF, that means that 3 bench spots are filled.
Phillips is the only contender for the backup 1B role at the moment, but I doubt that lasts. I think the Yanks will make a really minor trade to get a backup 1B (someone overpriced on a bad team). Regardless of WHO fills the spot, that is the 4th bench spot- leaving one open.
The 5th spot is an open one- it could be a designated PR without a position. It could be another backup INF. It could be Piazza (who is really just a DH/PH now).
Let's play out this scenario-
Lets assume that Piazza is signed and becomes the semi regular DH (lets say 110 games there). The rest of the time he either sits, or plays 10 games at C just for kicks.
Bernie then becomes Ruben Sierra- a switch-hitting threat as a PH off the bench, and an experienced player who can be plugged into the OF in a pinch (for one game or in an injury emergency, until a better replacement can be acquired). That's a plus.
He's the first off the bench.
Cairo won't play much to begin with- Jeter, ARod and Cano will likely log 150-155 games each, barring injury. You might carry an extra INF for injury, but it seems a waste.
That's 2 spots.
Get a defensive 1B instead- Phillips, or whoever- so long as they can play a solid D from the 7th inning one, and can hit enough not to waste the 1AB or so a night they will get on a semi-regular basis as a defensive replacement for Giambi.
Now we are at 3 bench spots filled.
Stinnett is the 2nd C. We know from experience that Joe will play Posada 130-135 games a year at C, so Stinnett's time might be limited to caddying for RJ. Still, you NEED a 2nd C. With Piazza, you are also covered for super emergencies where both go down (rare, but it COULD happen).
So now we are at 4 bench spots.
All that's needed is a late inning D oF, who can also PR, and give the big 3 about 10-15 days off each over the season (so, lets say this guy gets 15-20 starts, because we KNOW Joe will give Bernie some games in the OF- he will- just watch).
It can be Crosby, but it isn't set in stone.
That's 5.
Personally, I would be against Piazza because it makes the team a little inflexible- I'd prefer having a guy on the bench whose entire job is to be a PR/PH (pinch-bunter?)
That said, its not the end of the world to bring on Piazza IF (BIG IF) the Yanks feel he can deliver a .280 20 90 season (he's not going to have those MVP seasons anymore). I think that's more than Bernie will provide- so its a guessing game.
alversonk
01-25-06, 06:24 PM
I wasn't trying to imply I thought Phillips was good enough defensively to play at 2b or 3b, but in a pinch he could finish a game there for the Yanks.
Who is the odd man out on the pitching staff?
1. Unit
2. Moose
3. Wang
4. Chacon
5. Pavano
6. Wright
7. Mo
8. Farnsworth
9. Meyers
10. Villone
11. Sturtze
12. Small
Small to the minors?
This is already assuming Leiter doesn't make the team in the bullpen.
If there is 12 on the pitching staff that leaves room for 4 bench guys
1. Stinnett
2. Cairo
3. Bubba
4. ??????
If the 4th spot was filled by Piazza, that would leave Cairo as the only bench player capable of playing ANY infield position other than catcher. If Phillips is there he could in a pinch play 3B or 2B if an injury were to occur.
I do remember Posada playing a little 1B a few years ago and that is why I brought it up. I didn't recall why he hasn't played there since.
MisterNovember
01-25-06, 08:10 PM
If the 4th spot was filled by Piazza, that would leave Cairo as the only bench player capable of playing ANY infield position other than catcher. If Phillips is there he could in a pinch play 3B or 2B if an injury were to occur.
I do remember Posada playing a little 1B a few years ago and that is why I brought it up. I didn't recall why he hasn't played there since.
Piazza can play 1B just as well as Giambi.
DandyAndy46
01-25-06, 08:16 PM
Piazza can play 1B just as well as Giambi.
Stop It!! No he cannot...listen, Jason is by no means a great 1B. However, he is far from the worst fielding 1B of all time...Piazza is a catcher, he most likely never wanted to play 1B but the Mets sort-of made him do it...please cut Jason some slack...
I keep seeing this Thread & I read it as Pizza now & I'm thinking like yeah, I want some delicious pizza now, wow, I'm hungry and pizza would be awesome.
Then I open the Thread to see what everyone has to say about the Pizza and I realize that I was seeing things and that the Thread is about Piazza and then I'm all like - oh no, I don't want that guy now.
Damn.
I should heed The Who's advice about getting fooled again.
BombersBlvd
01-25-06, 08:24 PM
Piazza can play 1B just as well as Giambi.
Giambi isn't Keith Hernandez, but for a basher he is adequate and occaisionally even surprising.
Back to Piazza, I hope we get him, but I don't think it's going to happen.
jimmyclark
01-25-06, 08:25 PM
How much is Piazaa's price tag reported to be? Theoretically, it can't be very high. Everyone has passed on him pretty much, so he has to have come down from his initial expectations.
Stop It!! No he cannot...listen, Jason is by no means a great 1B. However, he is far from the worst fielding 1B of all time...Piazza is a catcher, he most likely never wanted to play 1B but the Mets sort-of made him do it...please cut Jason some slack...
Joel Sherman says $2 million, Bob Klapsich says $3 million. I think if the Yankees sign him (which doesn't seem they will) they will ask him to make $1.495 so it won't "disrespect" Bernie Williams.
Piazza was terrible at first in 2004 with the Mets. But he actually was a first baseman in high school and college (I have no idea how good). It was Tommy LaSorda who had him switch to catcher so the Dodgers would use a 62nd round draft pick as a favor to a family friend.
I wonder if Piazza's agent began to leak this story to get the Blue Jays or another team to make a final offer, cut bait and fish so to speak. Also Bengie Molina is looking for a job and if he signs Piazza's options (his agents fee" will be even more reduced.
I say sign Piazza and use him as backup catcher/DH/300ABs.
Mr. Mxylsplk
01-25-06, 08:50 PM
Piazza can play 1B just as well as Giambi.
That's an awfully silly thing to say.
27IsNext
01-25-06, 09:07 PM
I'm against signing any one-dimensional players with Bernie under contract, but would he even be a good option as a starter? His OBP last year was under .330.
NewEraYanks2527
01-25-06, 09:07 PM
Piazza can play 1B just as well as Giambi.
Are you kidding me?
Why not just get rid of Stinnett?(note:not that I'm lobbying for him to be a Yankee)
If Piazza's signed, I'd say it's a sign that Wright and/or Pavano are traded. If it's one or the other, it'll be for prospects. If it's both, it'll be for someone that can be plugged into the rotation.
Why not just get rid of Stinnett?
RJs head would explode if his choices were Posada & Piazza.
Dooley Womack
01-25-06, 09:58 PM
At first I thought the idea of Piazza on the Yanks was laughable. But the more I think about it, I'm not sure if I'd rather have Bernie in the DH spot. If......big IF...Piazza can come on the real cheap, it might be worth giving him a shot and having Bernie come of the bench or spell some of the OF's, much like Sierra did in the past.
Piazza isn't a 35/125/.400 player anymore, but given some AB's he could be a 20-25/80/.350 hitter in this lineup. Yeah, similar to what Bernie might give IF he had a good year, but they'd both be protection for one another depending on who's declining most.
Again, he'd have to come real cheap with lots of incentives- cheap enough that if the Yanks need to cut him there will be no damage done.
And yes, he can be a 3rd catcher...a sh*tty one, but a 3rd catcher nonetheless.
161 and River Ave.
01-25-06, 10:33 PM
It would be completely foolish for the Yankees to sign Mike Piazza. What, then we're gonna carry 3 catchers? That most likely means either no Andy Phillips or Miguel Cairo. Who plays first if Giambi gets hurt? Who plays 2nd, SS, or 3rd if one of those guys gets hurt? Signing Piazza would also be a dis to BW b/c he was brought back to be the DH.
Ok, so say we get rid of Stinnet. Mike Piazza as a back-up catcher? The guy was a mess behind the plate when he was in his prime. The Yankees already have enough star-power in the line-up. The performance of BW isn't going to make or break this team. IMO this would be a foolish signing.
161 and River Ave.
01-25-06, 10:36 PM
Piazza can play 1B just as well as Giambi.
Comments like that give Yankee fans a bad rap. The guy has played only 70 games at 1B in his career. Do you pay attention to baseball outside of the Yankees?
Dooley Womack
01-25-06, 10:47 PM
It would be completely foolish for the Yankees to sign Mike Piazza. What, then we're gonna carry 3 catchers? That most likely means either no Andy Phillips or Miguel Cairo. Who plays first if Giambi gets hurt? Who plays 2nd, SS, or 3rd if one of those guys gets hurt? Signing Piazza would also be a dis to BW b/c he was brought back to be the DH.
Ok, so say we get rid of Stinnet. Mike Piazza as a back-up catcher? The guy was a mess behind the plate when he was in his prime. The Yankees already have enough star-power in the line-up. The performance of BW isn't going to make or break this team. IMO this would be a foolish signing.
Piazza would be the DH. Carrying 3 players who can catch isn't anything unusual.
27IsNext
01-25-06, 10:55 PM
Piazza would be the DH. Carrying 3 players who can catch isn't anything unusual.
His OBP was under .330 last year. Piazza would be another Bernie on a roster that has one Bernie too many already. No thanks.
Matsui55
01-25-06, 10:57 PM
I wasn't trying to imply I thought Phillips was good enough defensively to play at 2b or 3b, but in a pinch he could finish a game there for the Yanks.
Who is the odd man out on the pitching staff?
1. Unit
2. Moose
3. Wang
4. Chacon
5. Pavano
6. Wright
7. Mo
8. Farnsworth
9. Meyers
10. Villone
11. Sturtze
12. Small
Small to the minors?
This is already assuming Leiter doesn't make the team in the bullpen.
If there is 12 on the pitching staff that leaves room for 4 bench guys
1. Stinnett
2. Cairo
3. Bubba
4. ??????
If the 4th spot was filled by Piazza, that would leave Cairo as the only bench player capable of playing ANY infield position other than catcher. If Phillips is there he could in a pinch play 3B or 2B if an injury were to occur.
I do remember Posada playing a little 1B a few years ago and that is why I brought it up. I didn't recall why he hasn't played there since.
They will go with 11- Joe prefers it. He went with 12 last year because they knew that Brown's back was bad and that the bullpen was full of holes. While the starters are still not locks, the bullpen is MUCH better. That allows you to go with 6 guys in the pen.
Sturtze is no lock to make the team- he's the cheapest guy (about $1.1M) and can likely be traded for a missing part (backup 1B) at the end of spring. He also has no role. If Wright is truly in the pen, count on him taking Sturtze's role, as more of a rotational 7th with Villone and the 8th with Farnsworth (with Myers for the situational lefty).
Small would be the other option, but he is more likely to be kept in the off-chance some starter goes down. Besides, the long man is really the last guy out of the pen, unless the starter is blown out in the first 4 innings. Small would likely be the 2nd choice to start (I'd asume Wright would ge the nod first), but with the health and other issues from last year unresolved- Is Wang's arm really healthy? Is Mussina's elbow ok? Is RJ at the end? Which is the real Chacon- the 1-7 guy with Colorado, or the guy who finished strong in NY- or even somewhere in between?- we may need two extra starters before auditioning minor leaguers.
161 and River Ave.
01-25-06, 11:00 PM
Piazza would be the DH. Carrying 3 players who can catch isn't anything unusual.
3 catchers, but what happens to Phillips and Cairo?
Dooley Womack
01-25-06, 11:06 PM
His OBP was under .330 last year. Piazza would be another Bernie on a roster that has one Bernie too many already. No thanks.
I wouldn't lose sleep if we didn't get Piazza, but as I said, they can act as protection for one another, and only if he comes on the cheap with lots of incentives.
I still think Piazza can can climb to .350. In 2005 he had his lowest OBP ever, but he's typically in the .370-.400 range and .350 or higher isn't out of the question. Yes, Bernie can put up similar numbers, but it's anybody's guess who is in a steeper decline. This offers protection, and again, only if he comes real cheap. I can't see the Yanks doing it anyway, but if it won't hurt them financially if they eventually cut him, it might be worth a look.
If he becomes revitalized - a new team and league - and starts smacking the ball around to some degree as he did in the past, it would be a steal.
Dooley Womack
01-25-06, 11:10 PM
3 catchers, but what happens to Phillips and Cairo?
Personally, I don't care much for Phillips, who is no youngster. It was a fairly small sample size last year, but he didn't come close to hitting a breaking ball. In fact he looked terrible.
Cairo can offer relief at first (he's played a handful of games there). Also, it depends on how many pitchers the Yanks are going to carry. It's possible that all 3 can be on the roster, just like Bernie and Sierra were last year when the Yanks also carried Phillips, Giambi and Tino.
Just a thought...
SI Baseballman
01-25-06, 11:18 PM
It would be completely foolish for the Yankees to sign Mike Piazza. What, then we're gonna carry 3 catchers? That most likely means either no Andy Phillips or Miguel Cairo. Who plays first if Giambi gets hurt? Who plays 2nd, SS, or 3rd if one of those guys gets hurt? Signing Piazza would also be a dis to BW b/c he was brought back to be the DH.
Ok, so say we get rid of Stinnet. Mike Piazza as a back-up catcher? The guy was a mess behind the plate when he was in his prime. The Yankees already have enough star-power in the line-up. The performance of BW isn't going to make or break this team. IMO this would be a foolish signing.
Well I'm sure Piazza won't be quite as allergic to a first baseman's mitt as he was in past years ;)
161 and River Ave.
01-25-06, 11:23 PM
Personally, I don't care much for Phillips, who is no youngster. It was a fairly small sample size last year, but he didn't come close to hitting a breaking ball. In fact he looked terrible.
Cairo can offer relief at first (he's played a handful of games there). Also, it depends on how many pitchers the Yanks are going to carry. It's possible that all 3 can be on the roster, just like Bernie and Sierra were last year when the Yanks also carried Phillips, Giambi and Tino.
Just a thought...
Phillips was called up last year b/c Sierra got hurt. Giambi was moved to DH and Tino was playing 1B. This was during that hot streak Tino had in May. Womack was now the back-up infielder, and Phillips was the back-up 1B. All 5 of them were never activated together at the same time.
I could live without Villone or Sturtze. Flip a coin. You certainly do not need 12 pitchers in the AL.
161 and River Ave.
01-25-06, 11:33 PM
I could live without Villone or Sturtze. Flip a coin. You certainly do not need 12 pitchers in the AL.
With the current Yankee bullpen, 12 might be necessary. Do you honestly trust anyone out there besides MO. Mike Myers? I was happy when the Red Sox brought this guy in. How reliable is Farnsworth? As bad as Gordon was in the post-season the past two years, he was one of the best, if not the best, set-up men in the game. Farnsworth has always been shaky in his career, and I can just see the "I can't handle NY blah blah crap.."Proctor showed flashes of something decent. Sturtze started good but declined because he was over-worked.
On paper, the Yankees have what could be the best line-up ever assembled. Would adding Piazza and dropping a pitcher make that big of a difference?
hellonewman
01-26-06, 12:00 AM
I still think Piazza can can climb to .350. In 2005 he had his lowest OBP ever, but he's typically in the .370-.400 range and .350 or higher isn't out of the question. Yes, Bernie can put up similar numbers, but it's anybody's guess who is in a steeper decline.Bernie is:
OPS+, 2003-05
Piazza
'03: 124
'04: 108
'05: 103
Bernie
'03: 109
'04: 110
'05: 81
I'm lukewarm at best about signing Piazza, but as a bench bat I think he beats Williams. Bernie's "Lifetime Achievement Contract" for 2006 makes less and less sense every day. :(
Dooley Womack
01-26-06, 12:13 AM
Phillips was called up last year b/c Sierra got hurt. Giambi was moved to DH and Tino was playing 1B. This was during that hot streak Tino had in May. Womack was now the back-up infielder, and Phillips was the back-up 1B. All 5 of them were never activated together at the same time.
In 2006, I'm not expecting all 25 to remain healthy all year either.
Dooley Womack
01-26-06, 12:15 AM
Bernie is:
OPS+, 2003-05
Piazza
'03: 124
'04: 108
'05: 103
Bernie
'03: 109
'04: 110
'05: 81
I'm lukewarm at best about signing Piazza, but as a bench bat I think he beats Williams. Bernie's "Lifetime Achievement Contract" for 2006 makes less and less sense every day. :(
Very interesting. I'm lukewarm about the prospect of Piazza in pinstripes as well, but I won't jump off of a bridge if he's signed to an incentive-laden contract. If he hits any better than he did last year (and I don't see why he can't) he can be a steal and he looks to be an upgrade over Bernie off the bench and as a DH.
ShaneTravis
01-26-06, 04:34 AM
The Yankees probably will pass on Mike Piazza, a major-league official told The Post yesterday. Although sources said GM Brian Cashman hadn't made a final decision, the former Met isn't a great fit for the club.
Cashman canvassed team executives this week after Piazza's agent, Dan Lozano, offered his client to the Yanks for $2 million. Apparently, Cashman received negative feedback from his internal straw poll.
http://www.nypost.com/sports/yankees/62304.htm
jimmyclark
01-26-06, 04:46 AM
There is a column in Thursdays Newsday by Jon Heyman saying the Yankees most likely will not sign Piazza. It says Gene Michael has regained his influence (YES!!!) and is against it. Stick prefers giving Phillips the playing time. I have been in favor of signing Piazza but if Stick is against it, then I will change my mind and vote no. Why have smart baseball people on your payroll and ignore their advice?
ShaneTravis
01-26-06, 04:50 AM
There is a column in Thursdays Newsday by Jon Heyman saying the Yankees most likely will not sign Piazza. It says Gene Michael has regained his influence (YES!!!) and is against it. Stick prefers giving Phillips the playing time. I have been in favor of signing Piazza but if Stick is against it, then I will change my mind and vote no. Why have smart baseball people on your payroll and ignore their advice?
Looking at the roster I don't see how there is any room for Mike anyway. Unless they let Stinnet go.
SoCal Pinstriper
01-26-06, 06:23 AM
This sounds against all logic, but, posted yesterday in Bob Nightengale's "Buzz"(red box in right column):
The Padres are close to signing free agent catcher Mike Piazza, according to a source with knowledge of the negotiations. Piazza would compete for the Padres' starting catcher's job
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/bbw/columnist/nightengale/2006-01-25-majors_x.htm
ring403
01-26-06, 06:52 AM
http://www.newsday.com/sports/printedition/ny-sppiazza264601776jan26,0,6029451.story?coll=ny-sports-print
When the Yankees learned several days ago that they could sign Piazza for cheap, they were intrigued about the possibility of adding a Hall of Fame bat at a bargain rate. But after days to survey the club's top-tier scouts, general manager Brian Cashman is leaning heavily toward passing on Piazza.
Reached last night, Cashman said only that he had yet to convey his decision to Dan Lozano, Piazza's agent. However, others indicated Cashman was said to be concerned about how Piazza's presence might clog the designated-hitter spot on a team filled with older players who may need to DH, and Cashman was apparently preparing to say no to Piazza.
Cashman's poll of club decision makers was described as "mixed," with some finding Piazza's power and presence intriguing while others warning his lack of athleticism could hinder roster flexibility. A few even mentioned reduced bat speed, and still others, including longtime scout Gene Michael, stumped for a chance for youngster Andy Phillips.
Michael has regained the power he lost now that Cashman has solidified his stature at the top of the club's hierarchy (well, just below Steinbrenner, anyway).
SoCal Pinstriper
01-26-06, 07:00 AM
http://www.newsday.com/sports/printedition/ny-sppiazza264601776jan26,0,6029451.story?coll=ny-sports-printNothing but good news there. :)
MisterNovember
01-26-06, 07:06 AM
Comments like that give Yankee fans a bad rap. The guy has played only 70 games at 1B in his career. Do you pay attention to baseball outside of the Yankees?
Comments like this give Yankee fans a bad rap. Was it really necessary to be such a prick? I figured I'd get some heat for saying Piazza = Giambi at 1B, but this comment seems unnecessary.
In 2003, Piazza played 68 games at 1B and committed 8 errors. Last season, Giambi played 78 games at 1B and committed 7 errors. Piazza had a ZR of .740, Giambi had a ZR of .758. It's not entirely out of the realm of possibility that Piazza can play 1B just as competently (or incompetently, depending on how you look at it) as Giambi.
aeromac76
01-26-06, 07:47 AM
In 2003, Piazza played 68 games at 1B and committed 8 errors. Last season, Giambi played 78 games at 1B and committed 7 errors. Piazza had a ZR of .740, Giambi had a ZR of .758. It's not entirely out of the real of possibility that Piazza can play 1B just as competently (or incompetently, depending on how you look at it) as Giambi.
I agree, and we are not asking him to play it on a regular basis at all, just be able to spell Jason for a day or so. Not to mention, one thing the Mets never gave him was a heads up and spring training to learn it better. He'd have that here, a full spring training to learn a little bit. We don't need a gold glover, we need bat who can spell Jason once a week or so. Late innings, we can still go to Andy Phillips for defense..
NewEraYanks2527
01-26-06, 09:03 AM
Looking at the roster I don't see how there is any room for Mike anyway. Unless they let Stinnet go. As it has been said before the only place for Piazza was in Bernie's spot and unfortunatley Bernie is on the team. Unless Bernie retires before the season starts there is no place for Piazza on this team.
JeffWeaverFan
01-26-06, 09:49 AM
In 2003, Piazza played 68 games at 1B and committed 8 errors. Last season, Giambi played 78 games at 1B and committed 7 errors. Piazza had a ZR of .740, Giambi had a ZR of .758. It's not entirely out of the realm of possibility that Piazza can play 1B just as competently (or incompetently, depending on how you look at it) as Giambi.
I completely disagree with you. The huge difference between Giambi and Piazza at 1B, and something those stats do not tell, is their ability to pick up bad throws. Giambi, although not a good defensive first baseman, is very good at scooping up balls on the hop. Piazza was horrendous at that. And that will not go against their errors or ZR, it will go against the other guys errors.
It's something that people often times forget about Giambi and his defensive skills. Although he has little to no range and can't throw, he's one of the best at picking up those bad throws in the dirt. Piazza was unbelievably bad at that.
JeffWeaverFan
01-26-06, 09:53 AM
http://www.nypost.com/sports/yankees/62304.htm
Honestly though, for $2 million he's really not a bad option.
NewEraYanks2527
01-26-06, 10:24 AM
Honestly though, for $2 million he's really not a bad option. And if Bernie wasn't on the team the Yankees should pull the trigger.
I would rather spend $2 million on Russell Branyan and Richard Hidalgo.
Great defense in right, above-average defense at first and some actual power off the bench.
bradhamilton
01-26-06, 10:36 AM
-For $2 million I think you have to do it.
-And he is probably better option than Bernie at the DH (although I think the DH should rotate with Sheff getting 2/3's of the time there and some other outfielder, not Bubba in Right)
-It would make for an odd roster lineup
-But this would be for opening day. We can still add that Of'er in July and give Sheff plenty of rest. Piazza could help in this categorie as someone the Yankees would actually be able to trade off their ML roster, which always seems to bite them in the ass.
-If Jorge got hurt Piazza could catch and the offense would not suffer nearly as much as having Stinnet play almost everyday.
-If another team's catcher goes down, the Yankees are now in a position to deal for some prospects, or get that Of'er.
So for a couple of million you can have an odd bench for a few months, see how the season plays out, straighten out your bench in July, and kick ass the rest of the year. Piazza can help in this way.
And if Bernie wasn't on the team the Yankees should pull the trigger.
Bernie isn't necessarily the obstacle here. It's the 12 man pitching staff. If you go with a more traditional 11 man staff and the 8 starting field positions, that leaves:
Piazza = DH/3rd C
Bubba = 4thOF/PR
Bernie = PH/5thOF/occasional DH against righties (basically Ruben's role)
Cairo = Utility IF
Stinnett = Backup C
Phillips = PH/Defensive 1B replacement
It's also rare that you have an opportunity to acquire a player who is NY proven - for cheap. I know he's way past his prime.. and his bat has slowed.. but if he can really be had for $1M-$2M plus incentives, I'm tempted to do it.
DontHateOnNumber2
01-26-06, 10:59 AM
Nah, not now. I had cheese pizza yesterday with my girlfriend. I had leftovers for breakfast too.
DontHateOnNumber2
01-26-06, 11:03 AM
I would rather spend $2 million on Russell Branyan and Richard Hidalgo.
Great defense in right, above-average defense at first and some actual power off the bench.
With someone like Hidalgo you get power off the bench only when he makes contact with the ball. He has his moments though when he knocks the ball out of the park, but also has his stretches of using his power to make huge divots throughout the infield dirt.
With someone like Hidalgo you get power off the bench only when he makes contact with the ball. He has his moments though when he knocks the ball out of the park, but also has his stretches of using his power to make huge divots throughout the infield dirt.
His defense is his selling point. If we only give him 150 ABs, I would be happy with .250-10-25 and a lousy OBP as long as he gives Sheff plenty of time at DH and scares the hell out of baserunners.
Bomberfanfor57years
01-26-06, 11:25 AM
At 2 million, I believe it's a no brainer. The first month of the season you don't need 12 pitchers. Sign him and see how it shakes out. If Phillips can't cut it or if Bernie is indeed through or if Stennet is not the answer, you have insurance. Then when you do need the 12th pitcher, a decision can be made.
Jersey Yankee
01-26-06, 11:31 AM
I remember someone saying that Piazza was asking for $7-8m a year. Anybody have a link as to his salary demands?
Thx. :)
donniesrecordholdsup
01-26-06, 12:13 PM
we shouldve never signed bernie and then we couldve gotten piazza. i would personally still sign piazza if he really only wants 2 million. andy philips is never going to hit. i like gene micheal but that doesnt mean hes god. hes not always right. you dont get piazza because of stinett and philips ?? thats idiotic. but of course since bernie is the sentimental favorite and piazza is a former met, thats blaspehmy right. you dont run a team with sentiment.
we shouldve never signed bernie and then we couldve gotten piazza. i would personally still sign piazza if he really only wants 2 million. andy philips is never going to hit. i like gene micheal but that doesnt mean hes god. hes not always right. you dont get piazza because of stinett and philips ?? thats idiotic. but of course since bernie is the sentimental favorite and piazza is a former met, thats blaspehmy right. you dont run a team with sentiment.
No, Piazza would be a waste of a roster spot. He has nothing to offer to the Yankees.
MTYankee23
01-26-06, 02:01 PM
Bernie isn't necessarily the obstacle here. It's the 12 man pitching staff. If you go with a more traditional 11 man staff and the 8 starting field positions, that leaves:
Piazza = DH/3rd C
Bubba = 4thOF/PR
Bernie = PH/5thOF/occasional DH against righties (basically Ruben's role)
Cairo = Utility IF
Stinnett = Backup C
Phillips = PH/Defensive 1B replacement
The bottom 3 on that list....ugh. This has gotten to be a bigger and bigger problem, we have 3 OF's in their 30's a catcher in his 30's, a 1B who has recently had injury problems in his 30's. The bench isn't something we should be trying to save money on, or getting sentimental with.
Hitman23
01-26-06, 02:08 PM
Honestly though, for $2 million he's really not a bad option.I agree. And the upside could be tremendous.
Why is everyone hell-bent on Sheffield Dhing? eff that. He's our RFer. And Bernie is not an everyday DH. He's a part timer and pinch hitter. Piazza would be the full time DH.
Again, I'm not saying it's something the Yanks should actively set out to do with any priority, but if it can happen, I am definately for it.
The bench isn't something we should be trying to save money on, or getting sentimental with.
It is if you don't want to have a $200 million dollar payroll every year. No team is going to weep for the poor Yankees because they can't afford to have allstars backing up their allstars.
Why is everyone hell-bent on Sheffield Dhing? eff that. He's our RFer.
But he's way below average and having him DH will take a less of a toll on his aging body.
It is if you don't want to have a $200 million dollar payroll every year. No team is going to weep for the poor Yankees because they can't afford to have allstars backing up their allstars.
We don't want All-Stars on our bench. We want guys with decent ML talent. There is a big difference between Andy Phillips and Mike Piazza.
Hitman23
01-26-06, 02:23 PM
But he's way below average and having him DH will take a less of a toll on his aging body.I just can't look at Gary Sheffield playing RF for the Yankees and say "gee, we need an improvement". We have other holes to fill. Yes, I agree he should take days off and be a part-time DH. But if you have the chance to get a player for very cheap who can smack the sh*t out of the ball, why not take it? I don't want to pass up a player simply because of worrying about resting another. We need to focus on the players that play, and not worry about somebody having to sit.
I just can't look at Gary Sheffield playing RF for the Yankees and say "gee, we need an improvement". We have other holes to fill. Yes, I agree he should take days off and be a part-time DH. But if you have the chance to get a player for very cheap who can smack the sh*t out of the ball, why not take it? I don't want to pass up a player simply because of worrying about resting another. We need to focus on the players that play, and not worry about somebody having to sit.
Sheff is gonna cost us games playing RF with his defense. And Piazza is barely an above average hitter now.
Hitman23
01-26-06, 02:30 PM
It is if you don't want to have a $200 million dollar payroll every year. No team is going to weep for the poor Yankees because they can't afford to have allstars backing up their allstars.No one is asking anyone to weep for the Yankees. And this payroll arguement is getting annoying. We need to worry how it's spent, not how much.
Hitman23
01-26-06, 02:33 PM
Sheff is gonna cost us games playing RF with his defense. And Piazza is barely an above average hitter now.And he'll win them with his bat. You have to suffer through negatives. The Sox aren't strong in LF, but I'll take their LFer over pretty much any other in baseball.
man are we spoiled. :lol:
No one has any clue how Piazza will react not having to play the field. or worrying about moving to 1st base. Or being the star who's supposed to carry a sh*tty team into the playoffs. Put him on a contending team with his only job is to hit in a lineup full of players who can pound the ball, and see how he reacts then. I'm willing to take that risk.
I just can't look at Gary Sheffield playing RF for the Yankees and say "gee, we need an improvement". We have other holes to fill. Yes, I agree he should take days off and be a part-time DH. But if you have the chance to get a player for very cheap who can smack the sh*t out of the ball, why not take it? I don't want to pass up a player simply because of worrying about resting another. We need to focus on the players that play, and not worry about somebody having to sit.
This answer is simple. In American League baseball, only one player is given the luxury of getting to hit without worrying about fielding. The Yankees currently have 1 guy who can barely field his position (Bernie) and two guys who do it quite poorly (Giambi and Sheffield). They are all in their mid-to-late 30s and aren't going to improve defensively. We need a bench that gives us flexibility and youth. Piazza can't field any position particularly well, he is old, slow and devoid of AL experience.
We need either someone who has a good glove at 1st base and an average bat or a player who can play the outfield and won't be a major offensive blackhole.
We are allowed 13-14 offensive players on the team at any given moment. It simply does not make sense for a third of that number to be defensive liabilities.
And he'll win them with his bat. You have to suffer through negatives. The Sox aren't strong in LF, but I'll take their LFer over pretty much any other in baseball.
man are we spoiled. :lol:
No one has any clue how Piazza will react not having to play the field. or worrying about moving to 1st base. Or being the star who's supposed to carry a sh*tty team into the playoffs. Put him on a contending team with his only job is to hit in a lineup full of players who can pound the ball, and see how he reacts then. I'm willing to take that risk.
Sheff DH + Average RF>Sheff RF + Piazza DH.
Evil Empire
01-26-06, 02:39 PM
I think we need a rule of no more DH's, defensive liability types.
Hitman23
01-26-06, 02:39 PM
I don't deny the Yanks need defensive improvement. But this is a bargain, and it's one worth pursuing.
The bottom 3 on that list....ugh. This has gotten to be a bigger and bigger problem, we have 3 OF's in their 30's a catcher in his 30's, a 1B who has recently had injury problems in his 30's. The bench isn't something we should be trying to save money on, or getting sentimental with.
True, but at this point there are no real alternatives in the minors. Signing Piazza lengthens the bench (aside from increasing the average age...)
For the record, I'm not necessarily for signing Piazza. I'm saying that if it's done, the staff needs to be shortened to 11. Otherwise the bench will be a real problem.
I don't deny the Yanks need defensive improvement. But this is a bargain, and it's one worth pursuing.
It would be a bargain if we were looking for a DH. But we're not(we already have 3). We're looking for a MLB calibur OF.
Hitman23
01-26-06, 02:45 PM
Sheff DH + Average RF>Sheff RF + Piazza DH.I disagree with that. But we both have our opinion and neither one of us is employed by George. I've shared my opinion, we'll see what happens. Either way I don't really care. There are more important issues then the dh spot.
161 and River Ave.
01-26-06, 02:51 PM
It would be a bargain if we were looking for a DH. But we're not(we already have 3). We're looking for a MLB calibur OF.
Thank you!!! :clap: Enough with this Piazza talk. Why do we need to add another member of the 90's All Star team when we need a 4th outfielder?
There are more important issues then the dh spot.
Agreed Steve.
161 and River Ave.
01-26-06, 03:32 PM
The fact that some people are so opposed to having BW is absurd. It's as if DH is this gaping whole in this line-up. "Oh my gosh Bernie is the DH, this line-up is disgusting. Let's sign another aging former all-star." The performance of the DH in this line-up is not going to make or break this season, b/c no matter who it is, they will be batting either 7,8, or 9. The White Sox won the World Series last year with Carl Everett.
The fact that some people are so opposed to having BW is absurd. It's as if DH is this gaping whole in this line-up. "Oh my gosh Bernie is the DH, this line-up is disgusting. Let's sign another aging former all-star." The performance of the DH in this line-up is not going to make or break this season, b/c no matter who it is, they will be batting either 7,8, or 9. The White Sox won the World Series last year with Carl Everett.
But the sox had great pitching to overcome poor hitting. They had Podsednik leading off for cryin out loud. We do need a good hitting DH. But since we already have that in Sheff we need a capable 4th OF.
hellonewman
01-26-06, 04:04 PM
The fact that some people are so opposed to having BW is absurd. It's as if DH is this gaping whole in this line-up. "Oh my gosh Bernie is the DH, this line-up is disgusting. Let's sign another aging former all-star." The performance of the DH in this line-up is not going to make or break this season, b/c no matter who it is, they will be batting either 7,8, or 9. The White Sox won the World Series last year with Carl Everett. Way to misrepresent. No one is saying "this lineup is disgusting," only that it's foolish to employ a bad hitter (which, sorry, is what Williams has become, no matter how many wonderful things he did 4 or more years ago) when better alternatives are available at reasonable prices. And it seems most of those who are even fairly friendly to a Piazza signing have been pretty careful to point out that they'd rather see a different solution, that they're pro-Piazza only if the alternative is to do nothing. I'm not seeing the "Oh god, we've got to have Piazza" sentiment you seem to be seeing.
BTW, Carl Everett was a better hitter than Bernie last season.
Jersey Yankee
01-26-06, 04:09 PM
Sheff DH + Average RF>Sheff RF + Piazza DH.
So who's that "Average RF" guy you're talking about? Bubba?
Jersey Yankee
01-26-06, 04:13 PM
3 catchers, but what happens to Phillips and Cairo?
Phillips was mostly brought in as a defensive replacement, right? I'd have to see how well he does, since I've never followed his defense. He wasn't as good defensively as Nicky Johnson or Tony Clark, was he? If his sole duty is to spell Giambi from having to play more than 7 innings, I'd say he's somewhat expendable. Perhaps Miggy Cairo can do that also.
So who's that "Average RF" guy you're talking about? Bubba?
There aren't any I can think of who are on the market right now. I was just trying to explain to Steve why we can't have Piazza on the team.
IMO, Piazza>Stinnett as a backup catcher -- give him 30-40 games there, another 30-40 games as a DH, and you'll get good productivity without cutting into anybody's ABs. Besides, don't you want to limit Posada's and Bernie's ABs to around 400? Maybe they'll have quicker bats come playoff time.
Piazza would also be a good PH when a big hit is needed...The Yanks should just eat Stinnett's $650K and release him if Piazza could be had for $2 million
27IsNext
01-26-06, 05:03 PM
I wouldn't lose sleep if we didn't get Piazza, but as I said, they can act as protection for one another, and only if he comes on the cheap with lots of incentives.
I still think Piazza can can climb to .350. In 2005 he had his lowest OBP ever, but he's typically in the .370-.400 range and .350 or higher isn't out of the question. Yes, Bernie can put up similar numbers, but it's anybody's guess who is in a steeper decline. This offers protection, and again, only if he comes real cheap. I can't see the Yanks doing it anyway, but if it won't hurt them financially if they eventually cut him, it might be worth a look.
If he becomes revitalized - a new team and league - and starts smacking the ball around to some degree as he did in the past, it would be a steal.
I would consider it if we didn't already have Bernie--but we do. I don't see either one doing much more than filling the Ruben Sierra role, and having two Ruben Sierras would just clog the roster.
On the bright side, your boy Gene Michael appears to be high on former University of Alabama great Andy Phillips. At this time, I consider him to be the starting 1B/DH along with Jason. In the even Phillips doesn't pan out, we can just trade for a DH/1B/OFer by the deadline. I strongly question Cashman's ability to put together a useful bench (although I like the Stinnett and Cairo signings), but this is the right direction to take at this time, IMO.
Mr. Mxylsplk
01-26-06, 05:07 PM
The fact that some people are so opposed to having BW is absurd. It's as if DH is this gaping whole in this line-up. "Oh my gosh Bernie is the DH, this line-up is disgusting. Let's sign another aging former all-star." The performance of the DH in this line-up is not going to make or break this season, b/c no matter who it is, they will be batting either 7,8, or 9. The White Sox won the World Series last year with Carl Everett.
It's fun when people are funny.
27IsNext
01-26-06, 05:22 PM
161 and River Ave.,
He's not a good player anymore. He can neither hit nor field. It sucks how such a wonderful player (and more importantly, person) could decline so much in just a year, but he really needs to do himself a favor and retire. I hope I'm wrong!
161 and River Ave.
01-26-06, 07:04 PM
161 and River Ave.,
He's not a good player anymore. He can neither hit nor field. It sucks how such a wonderful player (and more importantly, person) could decline so much in just a year, but he really needs to do himself a favor and retire. I hope I'm wrong!
The same can't be said for Piazza?! That is why I am arguing this Piazza signing. Why sign an aging vet to be DH, when we already have one. And how productive is Piazza going to be with Death Valley in left center?
IMO, Piazza>Stinnett as a backup catcher -- give him 30-40 games there, another 30-40 games as a DH, and you'll get good productivity without cutting into anybody's ABs. Besides, don't you want to limit Posada's and Bernie's ABs to around 400? Maybe they'll have quicker bats come playoff time.
Piazza would also be a good PH when a big hit is needed...The Yanks should just eat Stinnett's $650K and release him if Piazza could be had for $2 million
except he is a terrible catcher, cant throw, and he cant hit anymore.
Yankees1962
01-26-06, 09:11 PM
Yankees told Piazza's agent they're not interested in signing him.
The Yankees are officially out of the Mike Piazza chase, a certain disappointment to the former Mets catcher. But the San Diego Padres, whose locale appeals to the 37-year-old, remain very interested.
According to a major-league official, Yankees general manager Brian Cashman notified Piazza's agent Dan Lozano on Thursday that the team would pass on the future Hall of Famer.
http://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/yankees/ny-sppiazza0127,0,7550769.story?coll=ny-sports-headlines
IMO, Piazza>Stinnett as a backup catcher -- give him 30-40 games there, another 30-40 games as a DH, and you'll get good productivity without cutting into anybody's ABs. Besides, don't you want to limit Posada's and Bernie's ABs to around 400? Maybe they'll have quicker bats come playoff time.
Piazza would also be a good PH when a big hit is needed...The Yanks should just eat Stinnett's $650K and release him if Piazza could be had for $2 million
I ditto that opinion. It's not like Posada is a youngster either. In case of injury, I would much rather have Piazza than Stinnett or most anyone else we would have. And again, carrying 12 pitchers in the AL is beyond ridiculous.
27IsNext
01-27-06, 12:02 AM
The same can't be said for Piazza?! That is why I am arguing this Piazza signing. Why sign an aging vet to be DH, when we already have one. And how productive is Piazza going to be with Death Valley in left center?
I was against signing Piazza. As Brent says, he's a terrible catcher, can't throw, and can't hit anymore.
NYDCYankee
01-27-06, 03:33 AM
http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/story/386245p-327732c.html
Not comin' here
161 and River Ave.
01-27-06, 11:24 AM
http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/story/386245p-327732c.html
Not comin' here
:clap: :clap: :clapping: :cheer: :rockin: :gulp:
BobbyMurcerFan
01-27-06, 05:04 PM
except he is a terrible catcher, cant throw, and he cant hit anymore.I think it's at least possible he could hit well if he DH's.
CoyoteYankee
01-27-06, 06:39 PM
http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/story/386245p-327732c.html
Not comin' here
Honestly, I spent so much time making fun of him to my friends who are Mets fans that I'm not sure I could handle him being a Yankee.
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