Time to Right the Ship

Luckily for Joe Torre, there is no mutiny on his bounty, or something like that. Derek Jeter was the most prominent of players to come to Torre's defense after the Yankees lost to the Red Sox for the 5th time in 6 games. Jeter emphasized that Torre isn't the one out there pitching, hitting, or fielding. One has to wonder how Jeter would react if Torre was fired. He's the only manager that Jeter has ever played for in the bigs. Jason Giambi also pointed out that a lot of players come to the Yankees because they want to play for Torre.

So what can be done to get things moving in the right direction? Here are some things that couldn't hurt.

1. Change the Batting Order

There's nothing like a team slump to occur when the pitching stinks. It really emphasizes just how badly you need pitching.

Bobby Abreu is completely lost at the plate right now. Twice in the Sox series he tried to bunt (on his own) with 2 runners on and none out. Abreu is the #3 hitter, he's not there to be Miguel Cairo. Drop him down to 7th in the order until he gets his swing back.

Move Jason Giambi up to the 3 spot. He'll clog the bases some, but he'll still get on base and provide more RBI opps for A-Rod.

Move Jorge Posada and Hideki Matsui up to the 5 and 6 spots. Posada had a great April and as long as he stays hot, he'll be good protection behind A-Rod.

2. Kick Doug Mientkiewicz to the Curb

The guy is putrid. I take no pride in saying I told you so, but I told you so. I knew this was a giant mistake before Cashman officially signed him. There's no question that he's got a slick glove, no one is debating that. But he is simply over matched at the plate. Robinson Cano is in a bad slump right now and part of the reason is because Mientkiewicz bats behind him. As long as he does, Cano won't see good pitches.

Not that I am at all convinced that Josh Phelps is the answer, but for now he needs to get significant playing time no matter who is pitching.

3. Get Clemens Here

I don't like the self serving SOB, but there's no question that the Yankees need him. I don't care if they need to cater to his whims to get him here. Putting Clemens in the rotation will have a huge impact, especially if he can impart some wisdom on Phil Hughes.

If no Clemens, then you have to seriously pursue Carlos Zambrano. Zambrano looked like he was close to signing a long term deal with the Cubs, but then The Trib decided to sell the team. All contracts and possible trades are off limits for the time being. The Yankees have to pounce if the new owners decide to let him go.

4. Use Kyle Farnsworth or Trade Him

It's understandable that Joe Torre has to have trust in a guy to use him, but it can't be at the expense of the rest of the arms in the bullpen. You're only making a short bullpen even shorter. Either use this headcase or ship him out. I can't take looking at Scott Proctor every single day of the season.

5. Get Another Bat

You heard that correctly. Everyone talks about how great the lineup is. It really showed against the Tigers in last year's playoffs didn't it? The reason for another bat is simple, this is an aging beat up offense. Johnny Damon is having serious back issues. Jason Giambi is good for a debilitating injury every year. I'm not talking a guy who is going to hit .350. What the Yankees need is a Jeff Conine type. A guy who can play the outfield and 1st Base and contribute offensively.

Now get it done before I have to release a statement through Howard Rubenstein.

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