Happy New Year Everyone

Another year gone by. We hope this past year has been a good one for you and your family and friends, and we hope that 2009 will be even better.

We've been so busy lately that we forgot to wish ourselves a Happy 3rd Anniversary for My Pinstripes. As we begin our 4th year, we hope we continue to bring you newsworthy info as well as have some fun too.

We plan on a redesign of the site, which is starting to look a little amateurish after 3 years (actually we are amateurs, but...). This year we branched out Facebook and we will continue for new ways to get info to you.

Happy New Year!

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Top 10 of 2008

These are top 10 Yankees stories for the year MMVIII (it's not just used for Super Bowls ya know). We could have ordered 7-10 differently, but this is what we came up with.

1. Goodbye, old friend
There's no question that the number one story was the final season in the storied Yankee Stadium that we all grew up with. Yes, there have been different manifestations of the current park, but the games were all played on the same hallowed ground.

The Yankees did a pretty great job, (player replicas not withstanding), of commemorating the year with patches on their uniforms, a somewhat cheesy Stadium countdown meter, a spectacular Old Timer's Day, and a great final night ceremony.

As for the final game itself, the Yankees won 7-3. Andy Pettitte picked up what could be his final win in a Yankees uniform. Derek Jeter gave a heartfelt speech to the crowd after the game and the Yankees took a farewell lap around the Stadium.

The new place will be great, but we'll miss the old one too.

2. I'm in Charge Here
With his health not what it once was, George Steinbrenner turned over the day-to-day operations of the ball club to his sons, Hank and Hal. Hank emerged as the mouthpiece, often shooting from the hip without thinking, but as the year progressed, it became obvious that Hal was the son who was really running the show.

3. Show me the money!
This holiday season was, hopefully, highlighted by the gifts that keep on giving. The Yankees played Santa Claus for CC Sabathia, A.J. Burnett, and Mark Teixeira, giving them contracts that will help them to form the nucleus of the ball club for years to come.

4. Seeing Stars
The Yankees hosted their first All-Star game in 31 years on July 15. Mariano Rivera recorded the final outs of the 9th inning, but it took extra innings before the AL won. The big story, though, was Josh Hamilton's incredible display in the prior night's home run derby.

5. A Different Joe
It was a new year all around, as Joe Girardi became the first manager other than Joe Torre to take the helm of the Yankees since 1995. Girardi had his ups and downs. He admittedly made a number of mistakes, particularly in his reporting of team injuries to the press and his lack of rapport with the veterans on the team.

6. A Big Loss
Bigger than any game, was the loss of long-time Yankees player and broadcaster Bobby Murcer to brain cancer. Bobby was our man growing up, and proved to be an even better person off the field than on. His courage during his illness was inspiring.

7. Bernie Comes Home
After being disappointed by not being offered a guaranteed contract for 2007, Bernie Williams disappeared from sight. He still showed up at various fund raisers from time to time, but he was nowhere to be found when it came to anything basebal-l related.

But that all changed on September 22, when as part of the pre-game hoopla for the final Stadium contest, Bernie Williams emerged, in uniform, from the dugout to a raucous reception from the crowd.

8. Big Trouble for American League Hitters
It took Mike Mussina 18 seasons and it came down to the final game of 2008, but Moose finally got his first 20-win season. Defeating the Red Sox in Fenway Park, Moose finished off a renaissance year that turned out to be his last. It took him a while to make the official announcement, but Moose had already decided this season would be his last before the season had even started.

9. CashMoney
Brian Cashman said he wanted to be back. The Steinbrenner boys said they wanted him back. But the Yankees played the entire season with a lame duck GM. Then on the final day of the season, Cashman signed a new 3-year deal that will keep him on as GM through 2011.

10. Voiceless
The final season in Yankee Stadium was not the same, because its longtime voice was not there. Bob Sheppard had taken ill at the end of the 2007 season and was too weak to work any of the Yankees games in 2008. He did make a pre-recorded announcement for the final home game and Derek Jeter used a tape of the "Voice of God" to announce all of his at-bats. Here's hoping Mr. Sheppard returns in 2009.

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Dear Andy

An open letter to Andy Pettitte from someone very close to him.

Dear Andy,

It's been a while since we had a good talk, but I think now is the time for me to step up and remind you of a few things. You're in a quandary right now. You want to play for the Yankees, but you don't want to take a pay cut to come back.

But let me ask you something: How do you want to be remembered, not just by Yankees fans, but by baseball fans and the media, and even your opponents?

As a solid, sometimes spectacular left-hander who helped the Yankees to 4 World Series championships and 2 other World Series appearances?

Or, would you prefer to be thought of as a guy who cheated? No matter how good your intentions might have been, you still cheated. A guy who lied about how many times he used HGH? For all we know you could still be lying about that.

A player who ended his time in Pinstripes because he wouldn't take a pay cut? And let me remind you, it's a pay cut to $10 million, not a-buck-fifty. Yes, CC and A.J. are making big bucks and they never wore the uniform. But they are still in the relatively early stages of their careers, while you're on the other end of the spectrum.

And what about loyalty? You want the Yankees to be loyal to you, but where is some reciprocation? The Steinbrenners have been very good to you. Yes, there was the "not enough love shown" after the 2003 season; we'll give you that. But you did all right over the 9 years prior to that, and in the 2 years since you came back. And you weren't exactly stellar this past season, injuries or not.

Jorge, Mo, Derek...they were all there for you last Spring Training, standing by your side as you 'fessed up. How about showing a little loyalty back? You embarrassed the ball club. If anything, you owe the Yankees something.

Let's face it, you don't need the money. You have more than enough. Remember your good buddy Paul O'Neill? He took $6 million to play his last year in 2001. He could have gone anywhere and made much more money. But he wanted to finish his career as a Yankee. You keep saying you do, but your actions don't match your words.

Am I being tough on you? Maybe. But that's my job.

Sincerely,
Your Conscience

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7 At-Bats

Seven Costanza might have had better luck.

7 at-bats is all it took for Bernie Williams' winter ball comeback to come to an end. Bern Baby Bernie injured a quad muscle while playing for Carolina in the Puerto Rican winter league and may not be able to represent his country in next year's World Baseball Classic (aka a waste of time).

Peter Abraham of the Journal News reports though that Bernie is enrolled in school to further his music education and has a record coming out in 2009.

In the meantime, enjoy Bernie playing with the Allman Bros. back in '07.

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Late Night Hot Stove with Conan O'Brien

No clue why we called it that, but does NBC really think Conan O'Brien can bring in ratings at 11:30? Or even think he's funny?

Not too High for Lowe
Anyway, back to the hot stove. Jack Curry of the NY Times is reporting that the Mets have made an offer to Derek Lowe for $36 million over 3 years. Lowe has reportedly been looking for 5-year deal, in the neighborhood of $90 million. We've never thought much of Lowe, but after seeing what A.J. Burnett got, you can understand him wanting a similar deal.

We doubt that the Mets get Lowe with those years and that annual salary.

Marquis de Mediocre
The Cubs are sending starting pitcher Jason Marquis to the Rockies for former Yankees reliever Luis Vizcaino. That news according to the Denver Post, which stated the deal won't go through until next week. Marquis is one of the poster children for mediocre pitching.

Didn't You Get My Message?
Scott Boras has put in a call to the Dodgers regarding Manny Ramirez. Boras hadn't heard from GM Ned Colletti since December 10. With talks at a standstill, the Dodgers have been reportedly thinking about Bobby Abreu or Adam Dunn as other options.

Oh, Danny Boy
The Nationals have officially inked Daniel Cabrera to a 1 year, $2.6 million contract. Cabrera had been non-tendered by the Orioles.

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Monday Morning Shortstop

Yeah, it's a lame spoof of Monday Morning Quarterback, but we're tired and we don't care.

Penny for Your Thoughts
It's not official yet, but it appears the Red Sox have added Brad Penny to their starting rotation. That would give them a first four of Josh Beckett, Dice-K, Jon Lester, and Penny. Tim Wakefield has the number five spot at the moment, with Clay Buchholz and Justin Masterson as additional options.

Penny was injured for most of 2007, finishing 6-9, 6.27. His performance came on the heels of a 16-win season in 2006. He was also a member of the world champion Marlins in 2003. He's expected to get a 1 year, $5 million deal.

The Red Sox also brought back catcher Josh Bard, whom they dealt in 2006 to get Wakefield's personal catcher, Doug Mirabelli, back from the Padres.

On the Air

The MLB Network kicks off on January 1, including a rebroadcast of Don Larsen's perfect World Series game. Network CEO Tony Pettiti tells us all about the new channel.

These Pirates are in Pittsburgh

Major league sports used to worry about pieces of content (clips, videos...) being ripped off. Now pirating of broadcasts is a full-blown concern.

Have a Nice Day

Bon Jovi is being sued by a guy who claims they ripped him
off their baseball promo song, "I love this town".

The Original Rocket
A new book documents the story of Ron Necciai, who struck 27 batters for the Bristol Twins in a 1952 Class 'D' game.

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Mangini Canned as Heads Begin to Roll

No surprise here, after losing to the Dolphins yesterday, completing a major collapse, the Jets after fired head coach Eric Mangini. Jet fans everywhere will be roaring their approval.

No surprise in Motown either where Rod Marinelli was let go. The Browns dismissed Romeo Crennel and have already contacted Bill Cowher, who told them, "No thanks".

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The Weekend Yankeeland - 12/28

Andy Martino of the Daily News has a lengthy piece on the new responsibilities Joba Chamberlain faces both as a budding star and as an adult.

Holly Sanders of the Post shakes down the money sitch in the Bronx.

The odds of Andy Pettitte returning to the Yankees is getting less and less according to several area writers. Looks like Andy doesn't want to take a pay cut. Yo, Andy, don't damage your rep even more than you did with your HGH admission.

The "lets hope the Yankees fail" nonsense has already started.

David Cone is on the Hall of Fame ballot for the first time. Let the debate begin.

Brian Bruney talks about the holidays and the joy of being a Dad.

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Hump Holiday Hot Stove

The Big Unit has found a new home to call his own. Randy Johnson agreed to a one year, $8 million deal on Friday to join the San Francisco Giants. Perhaps the Giants are hoping he can help Barry Zito suck less.

Willy Taveras has also found a new home. Taveras, who was non-tendered by the Rockies, has a new 2 year deal with the Reds.

Padres GM Kevin Towers says he'll still listen to offers for Jake Peavy, but is no longer shopping him. If so, that means the likelihood of Trevor Hoffman returning to San Diego is even less.

The Orioles have been in contact with Ivan Rodriguez and Greg Zaun as they look for a catcher to pave the way for Matt Wieters. Offers for Pudge and Jason Varitek are few and far between.

If you can believe anything Scott Boras says, the A's are interested in long time Angel Garrett Anderson. The A's have also had some preliminary discussions with former Yankee Bobby Abreu, but aren't close to a deal as of yet.

Roger Clemens' name took another blow, this time at Houston's Memorial Hermann Medical Center. The Roger Clemens Sports Institute for Medicine will no longer have the Rocket's name attached. We understand it, but at the same time Clemens donated $3 million to the hospital's pediatric wing.

UPDATE 9:07 EST

Ken Rosenthal is reporting that the Red Sox are close to signing free agent starter Brad Penny.

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NFL Picks - Week 17

We've reached the regular season end of the line (Mrs. MM is very happy about this). Another mediocre 8-8 week leaves us at 122-113-15 for the season. And this, of course, is the toughest week to decipher. Teams are trying to make the playoffs, others can't get home soon enough. So who knows who cares and who doesn't?

The Giants have nothing to play for on this Sunday, but their opponents, the Vikings, are looking to capture the NFC North or at worst a Wildcard spot. Big Blue will rest plenty of regulars - this is nothing like the regular season finale with the Pats last year. Therefore we have to go with the Vikings despite laying 7 points. Vikings -7 Prediction: Vikings 27 Giants 13

Jets -3 vs. Dolphins
What incredible finale to the regular season - Favre vs. Pennington in a possible do or die match that no one saw coming. We actually think the Jets will bounce back from last week's snowy misery to win it. Of course, being they are the Jets, we could be completely wrong.

Bucs -13 vs. Raiders
The Bucs need a win and some help to make the playoffs. Jon Gruden will make sure the first part happens against his old nemesis.

Packers -11 vs. Lions
Part of us was thinking that the Lions would keep this close...then we had coffee and cleared our heads.

Eagles -1.5 vs. Cowboys
The Cowboys are the better team. The Eagles actually could make the playoffs with a win and a bunch of other teams losing. While the latter isn't likely, we do think they'll spoil the 'boys day, and we would love that.

Bears +3 vs. Texans
We could see the Texans winning this game to finish at .500 and match their best home record (6-2). Somehow we think Da Bears will prevail.

Panthers -2 at Saints
Panthers have a playoff spot locked up, but not the division or a bye in round one. Their defense should be able to contain Drew Brees enough and the Saints won't stop the Panthers running game.

Falcons -14 vs. Rams
Matt Ryan and Co. will do all they can to win the AFC South.

Bengals -2.5 vs Chiefs
No one cares, but Ryan Fitzpatrick and Tyler Thigpen might at least put on a pretty good show.

Jaguars +11 vs Ravens
Jags quit on the season a long time ago, but we think Jack Del Rio will get his team pumped up for this one. Ravens win, but don't cover.

Titans -3 vs. Colts
No clue how this one plays out, because we have no clue how much either side will play their starters.

Steelers -11 vs. Browns
Even if Big Ben and his fellow starters sit most of the day, this should still be a cake walk. Romeo Crennel's nightmare is almost over.

Patriots -5.5 at Bills
Buffalo may be getting all revved up to play spoiler, but it ain't happening.

Seahawks +7 at Cardinals
Cards probably win, but 'hawks are good enough and Cards are bad enough to make this close.

Redskins +3 vs. 49ers
Again, tough to call. We're not sure who'll win, but something like 17-16 sounds pretty good.

Chargers -8 vs. Broncos
At first we though the Broncos would keep it close, but the more we thought about it, the Chargers are going to blow Denver off the field to win the AFC West. Wonder if Ed Hoculi will be watching?

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Around the Horn - 12/26

We hope you all enjoyed your Christmas and stuffed yourself like pigs. All part of tradition, ya know? Had the Yankees decided to have the New Year's Day NHL game, you would have seen the time lapse video at the Stadium. Instead, it's Wrigley getting the hockey treatment.



Kevin Mench, apparently tired of sitting on major league benches, has moved on to Japan. The best part about this is no longer hearing Michael Kay talk about the size of Mench's melon every time his team (Rangers, Blue Jays, Brewers) came to town. Hopefully the Yankees don't play the Hanshin Tigers this year.

A nice feature in the NY Times on Seattle's new skipper, Don Wakamatsu.

Rickey Henderson just turned 50, and since he hasn't made a comeback in the last 5 years, he'll soon be elected to Cooperstown. Hopefully, he doesn't pull out the old "I am the greatest" as part of his enshrinement speech.

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The Christmas Yankeeland

For those of you celebrating Christmas, we hope you got everything you wanted and more and are sharing the day with friends and family.

The Yankees brass certainly got what they wanted this holiday season, but there's more going on than just CC, A.J., and Tex.

The Yankees, believe it or not, did get a bargain this week when they avoided arbitration by re-signing 2-time 19 game winner Chien-Ming Wang to a one year, $5 million contract. Wang matched his career high in wins in 2006 and 2007, and was 8-2 this past season before rupturing his Achilles tendon in an interleague game in Houston on June 15.

As part of his Turn 2 Foundation work, Derek Jeter hosted 500 top academic achievers in Central Park this past week.

The Yankees signed catcher Kevin Cash to a minor league deal as insurance in the event that Jorge Posada isn't ready when the season rolls around. Cash, who spent the past season in Boston as Tim Wakefield's personal knuckleball catcher, hit .225 in 142 at-bats with 3 home runs and 15 RBI.

One spoof site says the Yankees have signed Santa Claus to a long term deal, but no good will come of it. Meanwhile a NC Observer columnist doesn't like the spending spree, but understands the logic behind it. Even better is this Providence Journal article talking about how wonderful the Red Sox are with their money.

The new MLB Network will kick off on New Year's Day with the first TV re-broadcast of Don Larsen's perfect 1956 World Series game.


The humorous Peter Abraham has a funny take on the "Night before Christmas".


Alumni News

A nice article on Donnie Baseball's son Preston and his own battle to make it to the majors.

Dennis Werth was a mediocre ball player for the Yankees ('79 - '82), but his son Jayson was just a member of the World Champion Phillies and his daughter Hannah is one of the top volleyball players in the country.

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Holiday Hot Stove

My Pinstripes would like to wish a Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas, Happy Kwanzaa, and any other holiday greeting we left out, to our loyal readers (and any newbies).

As we mentioned yesterday, we already got a great gift in the signing of Mark Teixeira. But where does that leave the rest of the market right now?

According to several sources, the Mets are deep into talks with Derek Lowe, the best starting pitcher left on the free agent market. Unable to come to an agreement with their own free agent Oliver Perez, the Mets would be wise to sign Lowe even if they have to overpay by a bit. Lowe is a much more consistent pitcher than Oliver Perez has ever been.

The Mets' current rotation consists of stud Johan Santana, John Maine, who showed a lot of wear and tear this past season, and Mike Pelfrey, who was outstanding in the second half. In addition to Lowe, the Mets should be trying to sign Ben Sheets to a 2-year deal as well unless they want to count on youngsters like Jon Niese.

Manny Being Where?
The Mets meanwhile will also not seek to sign Manny Ramirez (perhaps owner Fred Wilpon's losses in the Ponzi scheme are affecting this team more than we know) according to a team source. So where does that leave Manny?

Ramirez certainly won't be returning to Boston though the Red Sox will be looking for another bat. The Dodgers still remain the favorites to keep the "Manny being Manny" show going, but we have to think the Nationals will throw some big money out there as they are in desperate need of a crowd draw. One team we don't hear mentioned when Ramirez's name comes up is the Baltimore Orioles. Peter Angelos has always thrown money around like there's no tomorrow, and usually not in the smartest way. But if he can bring in Manny for say 3 years, it would be a great signing. Ramirez would absolutely destroy Camden Yards. He would also be able to exact vengeance on the Red Sox 19 times a year.

Who'll Don the Sox?
So where do the Red Sox turn now? Perhaps to slugging outfielder Adam Dunn. Though not the player that Teixeira is, Dunn would appeal to the Red Sox philosophy of high on-base percentage guys in the lineup. Dunn has only played 127 of his 1000 games at first base, but he could slide in there with Kevin Youkilis moving to third base. The Red Sox are concerned about Mike Lowell's hip and may try to move him, which they definitely would have done had they signed Teixeira. Youkillis meanwhile will not get a long term deal prior to spring training, according to his agent Joe Bick.

Halo there
The Angels have inserted Kendry Morales as their first baseman, for now. (Remember when Andy Phillips was "supposed" to be the Yankees regular first baseman or when Bubba Crosby was to be their regular center fielder?) We can't imagine the Angels relying on Morales to hit on a regular basis, but stranger things have happened. We also don't expect the Angels to stay out of the Manny Ramirez tug of war, even if they publicly say otherwise.

GM Tony Reagins has decided to "go with the kids" after saying the Angels would not only go after Ramirez, but wouldn't pursue Pat Burrell or Bobby Abreu either. That also means that long time Angel Garrett Anderson will have to find a new home.

Anybody Home?
There are plenty of free agents out on the market that still aren't getting big time offers. Be it the economy, the wait for the bigger names to sign, or something unforeseen, there are plenty of good bats still available to all the teams in baseball.

Abreu, Burrell, Milton Bradley, Orlando Hudson, and Dunn are the top tier bats still out there. At the next two levels you have Rocco Baldelli, who feels a change in diagnosis and meds could make him more durable, Anderson, Jim Edmonds, Jason Giambi, Jeff Kent, and Ken Griffey Jr.

The two top relievers out there are Trevor Hoffman, who we see still somehow returning to the Padres, and left-hander Brian Fuentes. The Cardinals rescinded their offer for Fuentes after feeling that Fuente's reps were jerking them around.

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3rd Night of Hanukkah or Christmas Comes Early

It doesn't matter how you slice it. Whatever holiday you celebrate, you've gotten this season's big ticket items. CC Sabathia, A.J. Burnett, and now you can add your very own Mark Teixeira. Big Tex is coming to town on the wings of an 8 year, $180 million contract. Sticker shock? Nah. Small peanuts for a big cash(ew) team.

The Washington Times had reported earlier today that there was to be a decision today on Teixeira's future. Most thought the Red Sox would be inking him to a new deal despite owner John Henry's claim that the Sox were back away. Teixeira's current team, the Angels, decided a new deal was too rich for their blood and had pulled out of the running. Fringe teams like the Nationals and Orioles were thought to have offered, or were preparing to offer, a mega-deal.

But when it came right down to it, the Yankees played it slowly and wisely (as it turns out). They figured out who the real competition for Teixeira's services were, and how much money would be involved. Then they waited for some of the players to drop out and dropped some more millions on the pile.

The Yankees now have an incredible lineup, one even stronger than the nine they wrote in every day in 2007 when they scored runs (until the playoffs) like there was no tomorrow. Buster Olney was on with ESPN radio's Max Kellerman and the two speculated that Teixeira would bat in front of Alex Rodriguez with Hideki Matsui likely to be in the 5-spot.

Why? Tex should clearly bat cleanup to serve as protection for A-Rod not the other way around. A-Rod needs someone to take the pressure off of him and Matsui, nor anyone else in the lineup, will do that.

What about the outfield and DH? The Yankees now have Johnny Damon, Xavier Nady, Melky Cabrera, Brett Gardner, Hideki Matsui, and Nick Swisher for 3 spots in the outfield and 1 spot in the lineup as DH.

The time has come to trade Hideki Matsui. We love Godzilla, and he's been an effective run producer, but his body and defense have deteriorated as has his power. If you are going to have Swisher, you might as well use him. He's not a good defender, so you can give him the bulk of at-bats at DH, throwing some time to the aging legs of Johnny Damon. We could see the Yankees waiting to deal Matsui until closer to the season opener to be sure that Jorge Posada is healthy and ready to be in the lineup every/almost every day.

Swisher can occasionally player either of three outfield positions to spot players some rest. The season could open with a Gardner/Cabrera platoon in center field. You don't need a mega-watt star at every position. Mike Cameron is definitely NOT needed or necessary. Gardner/Cabrera could battle for time in the 9-hole in the lineup. If both continued to suck, you can look elsewhere, perhaps a veteran who would come cheap via a trade.

The lineup we would put out there:

Damon
Jeter
A-Rod
Teixeira
Nady
Posada
Cano
Swisher
Gardner/Cabrera

Happy Holidays!

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Yankees Get Teixeira

per Jon Heyman...details to follow.

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NFL Picks - Week 16

Wow, we stunk out the joint last week and we're "fortunate" to go 6-9-1. That dropped ups to 114-105-15 . We've gotten off to a 1-0 start with the Colts win over the Jags, but these last weeks of the season are very hard to read. Speaking of hard to read, it's hard to take the temperature of the Giants right now. Big Blue has some key injuries and the Plaxico Burress mess, which has effected the offense more than we thought it would.

From looking like they had the #1 seed wrapped up, the Gints now have a tough game with the Panthers, who are tied with the Giants at 11-3. Brandon Jacobs is questionable, but right now is more probably than out. The Giants need Fred Robbins back as well to stop the Panthers running game, and Dominik Hixon to fill in for Buress. We could see thePanthers winning this, but we have to go with the Giants -3. Prediction Giants 19 Panthers 17

Cowboys -5.5 vs. Ravens
The last regular season game at Texas Stadium and the crowd and Cowboys will fired up. It will be too much for Joe Flacco and the Ravens. Too bad this game is on the NFL Network. You guys suck.

Seahawks +3.5 at Jets
Flip flopped on this one too. We're convinced the Jets will win this game, but it will come down to a field goal. This is Mike Holmgren's last home game coaching the 'hawks and we think Seattle will be amped up.

Steelers -2 at Titans
Wow, what a tough schedule the Steelers have had down the stretch. But they've come out on top and have only gotten stronger. We see them making it a long day for Kerry Collins.

Eagles -4.5 at Redskins
Eagles are on a roll and the Redskins are rolling over.

Dolphins -3.5 at Chiefs
Dolphins have been playing all close ones and they better not look ahead to the finale with the Jets.

Saints -7 at Lions
Should be a Brees.

49ers -5 vs. Rams
zzzzzzz, but Shaun Hill should have a big day.

Patriots -8.5 vs. Cardinals
Tough one. Pats blew out the hapless Raiders last week, but they've had some tough ones, and the Cards are a division leader. But as we have said before, is there a worse 1st place team than the Cardinals?

Bengals +3 at Browns
Remember when this was a good game?

Falcons +3.5 at Vikings
The Vikings are playing really well on the defensive side of the ball and Adrian Peterson is a monster. But the Matt Ryan and the Falcons are finding ways to win.

Texans -7 at Raiders
Wow, the Texans will be over .500 when the game is over. Who'd have thunk it?

Broncos -6.5 vs. Bills
No reason to go with the Bills.

Bucs -3.5 vs. Chargers
Bucs 'D' should make the difference.

Bears -4 vs. Packers
Packers season is done.

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Yankees Going out for Some Tex-Mex?

SI's Jon Heyman is reporting that Scott Boras is now in talks with the Yankees and Angels for free agent first baseman Mark Teixeira. This comes after Red Sox owner John Henry said Boras' contract demands (notice we didn't say Teixeira's demands) were too high - believed to be $184 for 8 years.

The Angels were previously thought to bid $165, but are probably willing to up the ante. The Yankees, meanwhile, were thought to be debating whether to go after Teixeira or Manny Ramirez. (You know where we stand on that topic).

The Yankees may be waiting for the final numbers to fall into place before coming in with a big bid like they did with Johnny Damon prior to the 2006 season. Just keep Mike Cameron out of My Pinstripes.

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RIP Dock Ellis

Former Yankees pitcher Dock Ellis has passed away at the age of 63. Ellis made his mark as a member of the Pittsburgh Pirates and was a member of the 1976 Yankees, helping them return to the post-season for what was the first time since 1964. Ellis had been suffering from liver disease and was in failing health for the past year. He died at the UCLA medical center on Friday.

Dock was one of baseball's most colorful characters. He claimed to have been under the influence of LSD when he pitched an 8-walk, no-hitter for the Pirates at San Diego in 1970. His best season came a year later when he set career marks in wins (19), innings (226.1), and complete games (11). He was a member of the Pirates from 1968-1975, helping to lead Pittsburgh to 4 NL East titles and one World Series championship.

Prior to the 1976 season, he was part of a deal that helped shape the Yankees for years to come, being sent along with Willie Randolph and Ken Brett to the Yankees for Doc Medich. He went 17-8, 3.19 in 32 starts as the Yankees captured the AL East. Ellis picked up one victory over the Royals as the Yankees took the pennant and he was the losing pitcher in game 3 of the World Series.

After just 3 starts the following season, the outspoken, hard-living Ellis was dealt to the A's for Mike Torrez, who would become a World Series hero that season for the Yankees.

In 1986, the Yankees hired Ellis to speak to their minor leaguers about the evils of alcohol and drug addiction. He continued his advocacy work through the rest of life. He is survived by his wife, Hjordis.

RIP Dock.

Source: AP

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Sox: We're not Competing on Tex

Whether he's to be believed or not, Red Sox CEO John Henry said that if it comes down to money, his team will not be able to compete for free agent first baseman Mark Teixeira. After meeting with Teixeira and his agent Scott Boras last night, Henry said, "We met with Mr. Teixeira and were very much impressed with him. After hearing about his other offers, however, it seems clear that we are not going to be a factor."

Of course you can't believe everything you hear/say, especially from a team owner. The Angels, Nationals, and Orioles are all ready to pony up big money, so don't feel too bad for Tex if the Sox don't come through.

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Freezing Our Asses Off Hot Stove

Red Sox Nearing Deal with Big Tex?

The rumors first came from a Boston TV station and now others are chiming in. Boston's front office is in the state of Texas with Mark Teixeira hammering out a deal with agent Scott Boras. That's right the Red Sox are close to signing the free agent first basemen.

What makes this particularly aggravating is that the Yankees never really jumped into the pool. They have never made an offer to Teixeira, despite a huge hole in the Yankees lineup. Perhaps the length of the contract - Teixeira has been receiving 8-year offers - has them spooked. Think Jason Giambi. Maybe they would rather go with a short-term solution like Manny Ramirez, who they think they can get with a 3-year deal.

Teixeira is a premier first baseman, both with the bat and the glove, and could provide long-term protection in the lineup for Alex Rodriguez (Nick Swisher won't do the trick). Mike Cameron certainly isnt' the answer for the Yankees lineup.


There's No Place Like Home

After reports circulated that Rafael Furcal was about to return to the Atlanta Braves, for whom he played shortstop from 2000-2005, Furcal decided to stay put with the LA Dodgers. The shortstop signed with the Dodgers prior to the 2006 season and is expected to ink a new 3-year deal. In response, the Braves have decided to stop doing business with Furcal's agents, The Wasserman Group.


News and Rumors

Trot Nixon has signed a minor league deal with the Milwaukee Brewers.

Jon Heyman feels the Mets and their own free agent Oliver Perez are too far apart on money to come to terms on a new deal.

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The Daily Yankeeland - 12/18

Yankees Set up Initial Meeting

CC Sabathia and A.J. Burnett got their official introduction to Yankeedom this afternoon in a rather brief, boring press conference. As Mike Francesa commented afterwards on the FAN, "this could have been done on a teleconference".

Yanks PR guy Jason Zillo did an intro, followed by another intro from VP/sleaze Randy Levine, Brian Cashman's usual boring words, and some short statements and Q/A with the two guests of honor. Joe Girardi's little girl Serena also presented the two new Yankees wives with a gift.

Both sounded confident and were happy to be part of the "Yankees family". Sabathia said the Yankees were always "part of the mix" and there was no bias against the east coast. He did acknowledge though that had a western team made the offer the Yankees did, he probably would have ended up out there.

For Burnett, being in Pinstripes is "a dream come true". As for his past health problems (even joking to Warner Wolf that he didn't need to recount how many times he was on the DL), Burnett feels like he has turned a corner, and takes much better care of his arm and body than he did when he was younger.

Sabathia will wear his customary number 52 while Burnett will don number 34. Hopefully they'll make a powerful 1-2 punch in the Yankees rotation in '09.


Posada Coming Along

Jorge Posada is now throwing from 60-ft as he continues his rehab from off-season shoulder surgery. Posada threw three sets of 25 throws and felt good afterwards.


Full Time Joba

It's been an odd off-season for Joba Chamberlain. He's stupidly decided to drink and drive which led to an arrest on suspicion of DUI. (His arraignment has been rescheduled to next month.) Tuesday he received an athlete of the year award in Manhattan from...the Police Athletic League ("Isn't it ironic?")


What'chu talking 'bout Willis?

CC Sabathia's first minor league pitching coach has nothing but great things to say about his former pupil. Carl Willis, who was a teammate of Paul O'Neill's in Cincinnati, coached Sabathia in the minors as well as the big league level with the Indians.

Willis’s phrases came quickly from his home in Durham, N.C., touching on the pitcher and the person. He called Sabathia a terrific pitcher,a better teammate, a loyal person, an underrated athlete and a diligent worker. After 10 minutes, Willis apologized for being so effusive. But then Willis kept chatting like a public relations man.

“He cares about the team,” Willis said. “Not just him winning, but the team winning. That smile you see when he’s in the dugout is genuine.”

Miscellaneous

Aaron Boone, the hero of game 7 of the 2003 ALCS (and one of the goats of that year's World Series) signed a one year deal with the Houston Astros.

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NFL Picks - Week 15

UPDATE 8:10 PM - WOW, did we stink out the joint today.

A decent 9-7 record in week 14 put us at 108-96-14 for the year. We're 1-0 this week having taken underdog New Orleans against Chicago in the Thursday night game.

Big doings in Big 'D' tonight as Big Blue go to Dallas for the Sunday night game. And if you've read this blog you know just how much we hate the Giants in prime time. Stressful games, bad games, some wins. Scary. Giants don't have Brandon Jacobs or Plaxigun, but the Cowboys have been in-fighting (and possibly T.O. and Jason Witten literally coming to blows) all week, at least according to Dallas papers. We still like the Giants though, especially as 3 point underdogs. Oh how we hate the 'Boys. Giants +3 Prediction: Giants 27 Cowboys 17

Jets -7.5 vs. Bills
The Jets are coming off back to back disappointing weeks, but the Bills have been pathetic for longer than that. Jet fans jump back on the bandwagon after this one.
The Jets got big time lucky in winning, but that didn't help those who sided with them on the point spread. Loss

Packers -2 vs. Jaguars
The Pack has been struggling, but the Jags quit weeks ago.
The Pack is just not a good team and it showed today. 20-16 Jags. Loss

Colts -17 vs. Lions
We hate huge spreads, but we hate the Lions more.
We certainly didn't expect the Lions to hang in there, but they did in only losing by 10. Loss

Redskins -7 at Bengals
Some (Mike Francesa) would have you believe that the Deadskins season is done. Clinton Portis went after coach Jim Zorn on the radio, the offensive line is banged up, etc.. But the Skins could still save their season and we don't trust Cincy.
We really hate when Francesa is right. Loss

49ers +6.5 at Dolphins
Miami has been getting undeserved good sized spreads. Sure they are 8-5, but for the most part they don't win by much. Same goes for today even if Frank Gore doesn't play.
Pegged this one perfectly. Unfortunately, we didn't do that too often today. Win

Seahawks -2.5 at Rams
ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ
Looks like it was a better game than we expected and we got it right. Win

Titans -3 at Texans
With Houston's improved play this could be an entertaining one.
The Texans are hot, 4 straight wins and hand the Titans their 2nd loss. Loss

Steelers +3 at Ravens
Along with the Giants-Cowboys, the game of the week. Black and blue football sees the Steelers continue to rise to the top of the AFC.
Just as advertised and Steelers with another come from behind win. Win

Broncos +8 at Panthers
Despite their big win over the Bucs, we're not jumping back on the Panthers bandwagon so fast. Their offense has still been erratic and the Broncos big play 'O' can keep this close. Carolina wins though.
Boy did we have the wrong take on this one. Loss

Chargers -5.5 at Chiefs
Norv Turner's time in SD is almost over.
Chargers win, but very unimpressively. Loss

Cardinals -3 vs. Vikings
Tough one. Both teams are inconsistent. Toss of an imaginary coin.
Is there a worse looking first place team than the Cardinals? Loss

Patriots -7 at Raiders
Despite Matt Cassel grieving for the loss of his Dad, this game shouldn't be close for the Pats like last week's squeaker with Seattle.
Blow out city. Nice game for Cassel. Win

Falcons -3 vs. Bucs
We're on the Matt Ryan bandwagon for sure.
The Ryans do it again with a late FG. Push

Eagles -14 vs. Browns
Poor Romeo Crennel.

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The Weekend Yankeeland - 12/14

Shat or Get off the Pot
What's on Andy Pettitte's mind this Sunday morning? He met with Brian Cashman on Thursday, presumably so Cashman could appeal to his sense of "Yankees pride". Translation, "we're not paying you $16 million. Take a pay cut or take a walk. Ben Sheets will be glad to take your place." The ball is now in Pettitte's court.

A Frickin' Winner
Belated congrats to Tony Kubek as this year's Ford Frick Award winner by the Baseball Hall of Fame. Kubek made a name for himself on the NBC weekly telecasts with Joe Garagiola, and his broadcasting work included Yankees game in the 1990s. In 1994, tired of life on the road and dissatisfied with the state of the game, the former Yankees shortstop walked away with 2 years left on his contract.

Kubek's playing career ended pretty much the same way. He retired at age 30 after 9 years in the majors. He also, unfortunately, helped turn around the 1960 World Series for the Pirates, when Bill Virdon's bad hop grounder hit him in the throat, forcing him from the game and keeping a Pittsburgh rally alive.

We were never big fans of Kubek's broadcast work, though he grew on us during his stint with the Yankees. He was never afraid to criticize the home team like some other broadcasters and we respected that.

Kubek will be honored in Cooperstown on July 26 along with former Yankees Joe Gordon, elected to the hall by the veterans committee, and Rickey Henderson, who will enter the hall as a member of the Oakland A's.

Queme a Bebé Bernie
Bernie Williams never officially retired and though he may not want to play in the majors next season, he does want to play for his native Puerto Rico. So the guitar man is headed to Puerto Rico to play winter ball for the Carolina Giants. How long before Mike Francesa says the Yankees should bring him back (about 2 seconds after campaigns AGAIN for Joba to go back to the pen)?

Rich or Poor, It's Good to Have Money
In case you are interested, Richard Sandomir of the NY Times explains how the Yankees can afford players like CC Sabathia and A.J. Burnett.

We laugh at those headlines that say the rich got richer. The rich haven't won anything in 8 years.

Caller, are you there?
Mark Feinsand of the News reports that Johnny Damon and A-Rod made recruiting calls to Burnett. A-Rod promise tickets to a Madonna concert and 2 free Kaballah sessions?

Don't Let the Door Hit Ya...
Midnight Friday or is that Midnight Saturday..no 12:00 AM as it became Saturday..oh never mind. That was the deadline for non-tendering players. Not many players were let go that will have a major effect on any teams, but the Rockies let speedster Willy Taveras go and the Astros parted with infielder Ty Wiggington. The Yankees have displayed an interest in Wiggington in the past and would probably be interested him as a utility player. However, Wiggington could probably get a starting job, or at least a back up job where he would play more, rather than signing with the Bombers.

Play by the Rules
The Yankees got their pockets picked in Friday's Rule V Draft. Reegie Corona (Sea), Zach Kroenke (Fla), Jason Jones (Min), and Ivan Nova (SD) were all taken in the major league phase of the draft.

Andres Santos (Pit) and Josue Selenes (Oak) then went in the Triple-A phase to make it 6 Yankees prospects selected. Amazing that some baseball "experts" claim the Yankees don't have good prospects.

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Winter Meetings- That's a Wrap

The winter meetings finished up in Las Vegas yesterday with the locals coming out the big winners. We give the Mets the top nod for addressing their bullpen needs by acquiring not one, but two closers. The signing of Francisco Rodriguez is, for now at least, the signing of the off-season. Why you ask?

K-Rod is coming off a record breaking season, where he smashed the single season saves mark. The perfect time to become a free agent. Well that is unless the economy is in the tank. Bingo. K-Rod was hoping for a 5 year deal, worth more per season than Mariano Rivera currently receives ($15 million) from the Yankees.

With offers not reaching the level he was looking for, K-Rod "settled" for a 3 year, $37 million contract. A bargain by today's standards. A win-win for the Mets who needed a big time closer after Billy Wagner went down with an elbow injury during the '08 season. The Mets have their closer for the next 3 years, and, keep this in mind, he's just 26 years old.

The Mets set up situation was in shambles last year. In acquiring J.J. Putz, they not only got a reliever who can close if needed, but they dumped ineffective, whiney, Aaron Heilman in the process. They gave up a lot of players, but not all that much quality, at least none that how will have a big impact any time soon.

The Yankees are the number two winners because they nabbed the biggest prize. It took money and a loophole (an escape clause), but the Yankees got the pitcher they wanted in CC Sabathia. Sabathia is not Johan Santana, but my waiting a year the Yankees didn't have to give up any of their chips to get a top notch left-hander. A big plus is that Sabathia is just 28 years old and has shown tremendous durability.

The Yankees didn't get a deal done with free agent A.J. Burnett, but may be very close according to Joel Sherman and George King of the NY Post. An unidentified Yankee player told the pair that Burnett told him they would soon be teammates and that he (Burnett) really wanted to come to New York.

A 5 year contract worth over $80-$90 million can generate a lot of excitement.


During a Hot Stove addition of Baseball Tonight last evening, Karl Ravech remarked that were no losers, per se, at the meetings, since the off-season still has a long way to go and lot of moves can still be made. He was wrong in one respect- there was one loser and his name is Manny.

Manny being Manny again? Perhaps. Ramirez is "threatening" retirement because he's not finding any offers to his liking. So go ahead and retire. Are owners suddenly supposed to feel bad for you? "NO, we can't let this happen, give him all our millions!!!" Be very wary of signing Manny. Big bat, peanut brain.f

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World Champs Reel in Big Fish

Raul Ibanez doesn't get the press that many players do these days, but the free agent has averaged 113 RBI over the last 3 seasons. It's even more impressive considering he's been playing his home games in a pitcher friendly park and hasn't had much protection around him in the lineup.

Ibanez will bring those hitting skills to the National League and the hitter friendly Citizens Bank Ball Park after agreeing to a 3-year, $30 million deal with the reigning world champion Philadelphia Phillies.

The Phillies had a hole to fill in left field after deciding not to retain the services of Pat Burrell. The 36-yr old Ibanez will strengthen the Phils' left-side of the plate and will help out early on with the absence of Chase Utley.

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Hey, We're on Facebook Now

You can join our blog network, by clicking on the Facebook Network Blog icon in the right sidebar. Once we have 15 fans on Facebook, we'll get autofeeds on there. Right now we are at 12 and counting.

See you there!

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The Daily Yankeeland - 12/11

Not so fast with the Mike Cameron to the Yankees deal. The deal is on hold, speculation being it has to do with the $10 million owed Cameron for the '09 season. There is also talk of Bill Hall and Kei Igawa being involved.

Joel Sherman and George King of The Post are reporting that Brian Cashman departed the winter meetings to meet with Andy Pettitte. The Yankees need to figure out if Pettitte is in their plans or not as they weigh how many free agent pitchers to sign.

In case you missed, Derek Jeter will participate in the WBC next spring. Oh, he will be playing for the U.S.. ;)

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Rule V Draft Underway

The major league phase of the Rule V draft is well under way and the Yankees have already lost 3 prospects, infielder Reegie Corona and pitchers Zack Kroenke and Jason Jones.

Major League Phase

Pick	Player	Position	Drafted By	Drafted From	2008 Club
1	Terrell Young	RHP	Washington	Cincinnati	Sarasota
2	Reegie Corona	INF	Seattle	New York (AL)	Trenton
3	Everth Cabrera	SS	San Diego	Colorado	Asheville
4	Donald Veal	LHP	Pittsburgh	Chicago (NL)	Tennessee
5	Lou Palmisano	C	Baltimore	Milwaukee	Brevard County
6	Luis Perdomo	RHP	San Francisco	St. Louis	Springfield
7	David Patton	RHP	Cincinnati	Colorado	Modesto
8	Kyle Bloom	LHP	Detroit	Pittsburgh	Altoona
9	Jose Lugo	LHP	Kansas City	Minnesota	Ft. Myers
10	Benjamin Copeland	CF	Oakland	San Francisco	Fresno
11	James Skelton	C	Arizona	Detroit	Erie
12	Zachary Kroenke	LHP	Florida	New York (AL)	Scranton/Wilkes-Barre
13	Gilbert De La Vara	LHP	Houston	Kansas City	Northwest Arkansas
14	Jason Jones	RHP	Minnesota	New York (AL)	Scranton/Wilkes-Barre
15	Darren O'Day	RHP	New York (NL)	Los Angeles (AL)	Salt Lake
16	Eddie Morlan	RHP	Milwaukee	Tampa Bay	Montgomery
17	Robert Mosebach	RHP	Philadelphia	Los Angeles (AL)	Arkansas
18	Miguel Gonzalez	RHP	Boston	Los Angeles (AL)
19	Derek Rodriguez	RHP	Tampa Bay	Chicago (AL)	Charlotte

20	Ivan Nova	RHP	San Diego	New York (AL)	Tampa
21	Rocky Cherry	RHP	New York (NL)	Baltimore	Norfolk

Triple-A Phase

Pick	Player	Position	Drafted By	Drafted From	2008 Club
1	Ricardo Nanita	OF	Syracuse (WAS)	Chicago (AL)	Birmingham
2	Ryan Patrick	RHP	Tacoma (SEA)	Milwaukee	Huntsville
3	Andres Santos	LHP	Indianapolis (PIT)	New York (AL)	DSL Yankees
4	Robert Valido	SS	Norfolk (BAL)	Chicago (AL)	Charlotte
5	Matt Yourkin	LHP	Fresno (SF)	Florida	Carolina
6	Francisco Lizaragga	SS	Louisville (CIN)	Los Angeles (NL)	Los Vegas
7	Luis Ortega	RHP	Omaha (KC)	Washington	DSL Nationals
8	Yusuf Carter	OF	Sacramento (OAK)	Chicago (NL)	Daytona
9	Elio Sarmiento	C	Oklahoma City (TEX)	San Francisco	San Jose
10	Anthony Hatch	INF	Albuquerque (LAD)	Toronto	New Hamp.
11	Ryan Klosterman	SS	New Orleans (FLA)	Toronto	New Hamp.
12	Russ Haltiwanger	RHP	Memphis (STL)	Kansas City	NW Arkansas
13	Cody Haerther	OF	Las Vegas (TOR)	St. Louis	Memphis
14	Andrew Locke	RF	Round Rock (HOU)	Los Angeles (LA)	Inland Empire
15	Henry Arias	RHP	Rochester (MIN)	Cincinnati	Dayton
16	Carl Loadenthal	OF	Buffalo (NYM)	Atlanta	Richmond
17	Mark Holliman	RHP	Nashville (MIL)	Chicago (NL)	Tennessee
18	Kyle Haines	2B	Lehigh Valley (PHI)	San Francisco	Connecticut
19	Jason Rice	RHP	Pawtucket (BOS)	Chicago (AL)	Kannapolis
20	Rafael Quintero	INF	Indianapolis (PIT)	Cleveland	DSL Indians
21	Josh Perrault	RHP	Norfolk (BAL)	Washington	Harrisburg
22	Richard Suomi	C	Omaha (KC)	Philadelphia	Lehigh Valley
23	Josue Selenes	RHP	Sacramento (OAK)	New York (AL)	Staten Island
24	Guilder Rodriguez	SS	Oklahoma (TEX)	Milwaukee	Huntsville
25	Brett Harker	RHP	Albuquerque (FLA)	Philadelphia	Reading
26	David Shinskie	RHP	Syracuse (TOR)	Minnesota	New Britain
27	John Madden	RHP	New Orleans (NYM)	San Diego	Portland
28	Jonathan Ash	2B	Nashville (MIL)	Houston	Round Rock
29	Javis Diaz	OF	Lehigh Valley (PHI)	San Diego	Lake Elsinore
30	Miguel Marquez	RHP	Pawtucket (BOS)	Seattle	DNP
31	Gerardo Esparza	RHP	Indianapolis (PIT)	Seattle	VSL Mariners
32	Carlos Arias	RHP	Omaha (KC)	Cleveland	Mah. Valley
33	Ronald Hill	RHP	Albuquerque (FLA)	Philadelphia	Reading
34	Shane Justis	SS	Nashville (MIL)	Los Angeles (NL)	Jacksonville
35	Juan Sanchez	SS	Nashville (MIL)	Milwaukee	GCL Twins

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