September 7, 2016

Florida State League 2016
North Division Championship Series
Florida Auto Exchange Stadium
Dunedin, Florida

By Raquel Julich/Tampa Yankees

While the Wild Card hunting New York Yankees (72W-65L) and Toronto Blue Jays (77W-61L) played at Yankee Stadium in The Bronx on Tuesday, September 6th, the Tampa Yankees were playing in the best-of-three semifinals vs. the Dunedin Blue Jays.

If it was a thriller in The Bronx, it was an even bigger 13 innings thrill in Dunedin for the Tampa Yankees.

The Tampa Yankees (41W-25L) clinched the Florida State League First-Half North Division season on June 17th, with a marathan win vs. the Lakeland Flying Tigers (33W-32) at Historic Henley Field. The game was an 18 innings, 3-2 game-win by an RBI single of Abiatal Avelino.

Infielder Abiatal Avelino native of the Dominican Republic started the second half of the season showcasing his talent at Eastern League Yankees Double AA Trenton Thunder. While benefiting from player development advancement within the Minor Leagues, Abiatal Avelino will not play in the Tampa Yankees playoff series.

Hurricane Hermine resulted in four game cancellations and one postponement in Tampa, after the storn, the Lakeland Flying Tigers took revenge by sweeping Tampa in a doubleheader to close the Regular Season.

Yet, the Tampa Yankees were prepared to raise to the occasion with the playoff berth, the first since 2010 when they defeated the Charlotte Stone Crabs, to win the FSL Championship three games to one.

Bring on the tough Dunedin Blue Jays.

Class A Advanced Tampa Yankees Manager Patrick Osborn had several tough decisions to make when filling out his lineup care on Tuesday for the first game of the North Division series.

Adding to Tampa Yankees challenge, with renovations underway at Steinbrenner Field, the three game series will be played in Dunedin.

On the mound during first game Tampa Yankees, native of the Dominican Republic, RHP Yefrey Ramirez (3W-7L, 2.84 ERA). Yefrey Ramirez, twice FSL pitcher of the week (8/22-28 and 6/27-7/3).

The Dunedin Blue Jays started, 25-year old from the Dominican Republic, Luis Santos (4W-1L, 3.40 ERA).

Tampa Yankees starter Yefrey Ramirez pitched 7.0 innings and was credited with the five hits by Dunedin. The one run by Dunedin was also charged to Ramirez. Tampa used five pitchers in the game. Dillon McNamara earned Save #1 during the playoff game.. He notched 14 Saves during the regular season.

Dunedin starter Luis Santos pitched 8.0 innings, gave up four hits. He struck out 10 Tampa batters and he was charged with one earned run. The loss went to Dunedin third pitcher of the game Chris Rowley.

There was a pivotal play in the game for Dunedin. In the bottom of the 7th inning Ryan McBroom walked. With the next batter Max Pentecost at the plate McBroom attempted to steal second and got caught stealing. Pentecost then connected with a double, which would have scored McBroom and perhaps the game winning run. During the game, it was the third unsuccessful attempt to steal by Dunedin against Tampa catcher Wes Wilson.

The Yankees’ second-ranked prospect Venezuelan, SS Gleyber Torres doubled in the first inning and finished his at bats with a double in the 13th inning. The double moved the batter Thairo Estrada from first base to third to eventually score the winning run. Tampa 2 – Blue Jays 1.

Tampa Yankees win the first of three games in the FSL North Division Championship Series.

“They really, really competed. That was a difficult game,” Osborn said. “There were moments where we thought we were going to do it and ended in heartbreak and they kept rolling out there every inning. To be able to stay focused for 13 innings and complete and keep your composure. I think it says a lot about the guys in the clubhouse. There’s a lot of heart, a lot of character.”

Osborn said of Torres, “He’s something else. He’s just a really, really talented kid. “You look at the box score, he’s 2-for-5 with two doubles, but he made some plays tonight in the field that kept the game tied. He’s got a chance to be one special player and I’m glad he’s on our side.”

After spending his first 2-1/2 seasons in the Cubs system, Torres was traded to the Yankees in July as part of the deal for Cuban pitcher, Aroldis Chapman. In 31 games Torres batted .254 with 10 extra-base hits and 19 RBIs.

“It’s been great. Anytime you get to watch a 19-year old kid that’s that talented, it’s a lot of fun. Osborn continued. He’s a joy to have around. He likes to have a good time, he enjoys playing the game. He hasn’t missed a beat since he came over.”

A happy Manager makes for a happy winning team. In completion of the regular season, Tampa Yankees Pat Osborn was named 2016 Florida State League Manager of the Year.

Stay tuned.

This story was not subject to the approval of he National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

April 2, 2016

New York Yankees vs. Miami Marlins
Marlins Park
Miami, Florida

NYY SPRING TRAINING 2016 – IT’S OVER

By: Rocky Julich

As Yogi Berra would say “it ain’t over ’til it’s over”.

Spring Training. The New York Yankees 114^th season in franchise history began their 33 total spring schedule with first game on Wednesday, March 2^nd vs. the Detroit Tigers at George M. Steinbrenner Field.

The 2016 Spring Training season began with a camp roster of 69 players: Pitchers 33 – Catchers 9 – Infielders 15 – Outfielders 11 – DH 1 (Alex “A-Rod” Rodriguez).

After an April 1^st and April 2^nd two game schedule vs. Miami Marlins, 2016 Spring Training is over. The first game was a Yankees win (3-2). The final game of spring was played under a domed Marlin Park Stadium, Yankees lose (2-1).

The Yankees 2016 Spring Training record: 14 Wins – 17 Losses – 2 Tied Games

The New York Yankees will officially open their 2016 Major League Baseball season at Yankee Stadium in The Bronx at 1:05 P.M. on Monday, April 4^th vs. the Houston Astros. It is a rematch of the October, 2015 American League Wild Card game with starters Dallas Keutchel vs. Masahiro Tanaka for the Yankees.

It will be the 114^th Yankees Home Opener. The 2009 World Series MVP Hideki Matsui will throw out the ceremonial first pitch. Following the game, Matsui will be honored with the “Pride Of The Yankees Award” at the Annual Home Coming Dinner. The Japanese outfielder played during seven seasons and two World Series for the New York Yankees.

Twenty-five players will start the 2016 season in The Bronx.

THE STARTING LINE-UP:
#22 – CF Jacoby Ellsbury (L-L)
#11 – LF Brett Gardner (L-L)
#13 – DH Alex Rodriguez (R-R)
#25 – 1B Mark Teixeira (S-R)
#34 – C Brian McCann (L-R)
#36 – RF Carlos Beltran (S-R)
#12 – 3B Chase Headley (S-R)
#14 – 2B Starlin Castro (R-R)
#18 – SS Didi Gregorious (L-R)

ON THE BENCH:
#43 – C Austin Romine (R-R)
#74 – INF Ronald Torreyes (R-R)
#29 – OF Dustin Ackley (L-R)
#31 – OF Aaron Hicks (S-R)
#66 – OF Mason Williams (L-R)

STARTING ROTATION
#19 – Masahiro Tanaka (RHP)
#35 – Michael Pineda (RHP)
#30 – Nathan Eovaldi (RHP)
#40 – Luis Severino (RHP)
#52 – C.C. Sabathia (LHP)

BULLPEN:
#68 – Dellin Betances (RHP)
#45 – Chasen Shreve (LHP)
#48 – Andrew Miller – Closer (LHP)
#47 – Ivan Nova (RHP)
#39 – Kirby Yates (L/RP)
#83 – Johnny Barbato (RHP)

YANKEES FINAL SPRING TRAINING NOTES:
Yankees starter Masahiro Tanaka will open the season following off-season elbow surgery.
Masahiro Tanaka 2016 goal is 200 innings pitched.
Astros starter Dallas Keuchel will open the season with a twenty-eight scoreless streak vs. the Yankees.
Yankees 5^th starter C.C. Sabathia will start the season continuing an alcohol rehabilitation program.
Yankees newest pitcher from Cuba, Aroldis Chapman under suspension until May for domestic abuse.
Yankees right-hand pitcher Bryan Mitchell will start the season on DL with a fractured toe. Out three months.
Yankees outfielder Mason Williams did not play during Spring Training.
Yankees Manager Joe Girardi quote “The key to 2016 season is Jacoby Ellsbury and Brett Gardner staying healthy”.
*RHP Johnny Barbato was the recipient of the 2016 James P. Dawson Award given annually to the Yankees outstanding Rookie in Spring Training.

SPRING TRAINING ENDED WITH 2016 TOPICS FOR MLB COMMISSIONER ROB MANFRED:
Kids presence in the Clubhouse
Follow-up of Tampa Bay Rays – Cuba game
Smokeless Tobacco Policy enforcement
New Domestic Abuse Policy
Tanking
“PLAY BALL”

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This story was not subject to the approval of Major League baseball or its clubs.

March 19, 2016

Atlanta Braves vs. New York Yankees
George M. Steinbrenner Field
Tampa, Florida

By: Rocky Julich

The Atlanta Braves are 5-14-2 during Spring Training games of the Grapefruit League. To date, the Braves 14 losses are the most within the Cactus League of Arizona and the Florida Grapefruit League.

Of the fifteen Major League Clubs training in Florida, since 2015 Spring Training, the Atlanta Braves in 2016 have the largest turnover of Spring Training players. In 2016 the Braves lead the teams with a list of players gone-26, new Braves-11 and non-roster invitees-29. The team began spring with 70 players in camp.

The Braves have 12 new players from outside the organization on the 40-man roster this season, including five that were acquired by trade; INF Erick Aybar, OF Ender Inciarte, RHP Casey Kelly, LHP Ian Krol and RHP Jose Ramirez. Six were free agent signings; INF Gordon Beckham, C Tyler Flowers, RHP Jim Johnson, INF/OF Kelly Johnson and RHP Bud Norris. LHP Evan Rutckyj was selected during the Rule 5 Draft in December. On March 18^th the Yankees re-acquired Rutckyj from Atlanta as Rule 5 return and assigned him to Triple-A Scranton Wilkes-Barre.

The Atlanta Braves are among the Major League Baseball clubs experiencing a rebuilding process during the 2016 season. The Braves reorganized over the off-season and are set for a promising future with a wealth of prospects. For many of the 30 Major League Baseball teams, the future appears to be about the Minor Leagues and all about youth.

This week the teams commenced assigning from Spring Training a select number of their non-roster players, their prospects, to their respective Minor League Baseball teams. Considering, this too will allow more playing time for the MLB teams 25 man rosters.

The Braves sent five top prospects to the minors. INFs Dansby Swanson, Ozzie Albies, RHP Aaron Blair, RHP Lucas Sims, OF Mallex Smith.

Atlanta Manager Fredi Gonzalez said “These guys, when they come up, they’re going to be long-time Major League Baseball players.” “They have the intangibles, the work ethic and great character. I feel comfortable that if we need somebody, any of them can help the team”.

Atlanta vs. New York.

After thunder and rain, after an hour and seven minutes of delay, the tarp was removed off Steinbrenner Field and the game between the Braves and Yankees delivered its’ first pitch, to the satisfaction of a packed stadium sold-out with 10,972 fans.

Atlanta’s starting line-up featured three players with 10+ seasons of Major League experience; 1B Nick Swisher, 2B Kelly Johnson and RF Michael Bourn. Included in the line-up 3B Adonis Garcia (Ciego De Avila, Cuba) LF Hector Olivera (Havana, Cuba) second in the majors with 17 hits this spring and CF Ender Inciarte (Maracaibo, Venezuela).

On the mound pitching for the Braves, his second game of spring, RHP Julio Teheran is scheduled to be Atlanta’s Opening Day starter. The twenty-five year old native of Cartagena, Colombia was 11W-8L pitching thirty-three games during 2015.

Teheran gave up six hits over 4-1/3 innings, walked one and struck out two. At the bottom of the fifth inning, coming in on OF Jacoby Ellsbury with a 90 MPH pitch, he struck Ellsbury on his right wrist. To the relief of the New York Yankees, the X-Rays and CT scan were negative of injury.

The Yankees sent their charismatic starter RHP Michael Pineda to the mound. Pineda limited Atlanta to a run on four hits over four innings, as he completed his third appearance and second start. The right-hander struck out four of the 14 batters he faced, throwing 41 of 62 pitches for strikes.

Atlanta’s top of first inning saw Braves CF Ender Incarte connect a triple off Pineda. The second batter in the line-up RF Michael Bourn followed with a single to Yankees LF Chris Denorfia, who on a strong throw cut down Incarte at home plate. In that same inning, Jacoby Ellsbury made a terrific diving catch on the warning track in right-center field, to steal what would have been an extra-base hit for former Yankee Nick Swisher. Swisher, ever laughing, took off his batting helmet in recognition.

The Yankees got the fans started in the first inning when Denorfia threw out Incarte at the plate and Ellsbury made a diving catch against Nick Swisher.

Michael Pineda comments to the media; “I’m happy. I got into a little trouble in the game and I competed” “It was a good outing. I’m doing my work that I am suppose to be doing. I’m good.”

Yankees Notes:

PLAYERS IN CAMP ROSTER (52) Pitchers: 25 Catchers: 5 Infielders: 12 Outfielders: 9 DH: 1

Yankees to Minor Leagues:

RHPs Domingo German, Chad Green, Kyle Haynes, James Kaprielian, Brady Lail, Tyler Cloyd, Mark Montgomery, Vinnie Pestano

LHPs Jacob Lindgren, Tyler Webb, Richard Bleier

Cs Francisco Diaz, Kyle Higashioka, Santiago Nessy, Sebastian Valle

INFs Jorge Mateo, Deibinson Romero, Tyler Wade, Jonathan Diaz and Donovan Solano

OFs Lane Adams, Dustin Fowler, Aaron Judge, Ben Gamel

The Yankees are proud to announce the return of H.O.P.E. Week (Helping Others to Persevere & Excel) in 2016 for the eighth consecutive season. With the kick-off March 19^th in Tampa, the initiative will run in New York June 6- June 10.

In the game: Yankees 24 players, including 6 pitchers. Braves 20 players, including pitchers

FINAL:

Yankees 3 Braves 2

WP: Michael Pineda (1-0)

LP: Julio Teheran (1-1)

Save: Kirby Yates (2)

Time 2:26

Rain Delay: 1:07

Attendance: 10,972

RTFR Radio – Stay Tuned

Rain Delay

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its Clubs.

March 11, 2016

Baltimore Orioles vs. New York Yankees

George M. Steinbrenner Field

Tampa , Florida

Yankees RHP Masahiro Tanaka WINS vs. Orioles

By: Rocky Julich

The fans who were lucky enough to watch the Orioles seasons with the Ripkins, Cal Sr., Manager, Cal Jr., and Billy Ripkin, remember glory days of the team of Baltimore. During the 1980s and 1990s, every game was special, especially with the run that Cal Ripkin, Jr. had on Lou Gehrig’s 2,130 consecutive game playing record. Those baseball seasons were awesome as Cal Ripkin challenged to became the new “Iron Man”. On September 6, 1995 he surpassed the record with 2,131 consecutive games played. Ripkin continued playing to establish a record of 2,632 consecutive games. A record that now will never be broken. The Hall of Fame shortstop retired from Baltimore in 2001.

Spring Training is another story for the Baltimore Orioles. It seems the team has experienced difficulty deciding where to call home. In 1954, they started training in Arizona, moved to Daytona, Florida in 1955 then back to Arizona in 1956. During 1959 they returned to Florida to train in Miami. Then during 1989 they started training in Sarasota; while moving to different locations in 1991, 1992. The team trained during 1995 St. Petersburg. In 1996, the Orioles moved into Ft. Lauderdale Stadium, which the New York Yankees vacated when they move to Tampa. During 2010 the Baltimore Orioles moved their Major League operations to the newly renovated Ed Smith Stadium and Buck O’Neil Baseball Complex in Sarasota. They have never had a Spring Training camp built for their organization.

In a recent article, I wrote that during early Spring Training games the starting pitcher rarely gets a win. The reason, because the starter is limited to 2-3 innings and an under 50 pitch count.

Then came the visiting Baltimore Orioles to face the Yankees starting pitcher RHP Masahiro Tanaka.

The O’s posting a record of 0 wins – 9 losses – 2 ties. During Spring, in last place in the American League East. The Yankees spring record at 2 – 6 – 2.

Masahiro Tanaka limited the Orioles to an infield single with 3 Ks and a hit batsman with 30 of 40 pitches for strikes. It was Player Development at the Major League level as the Orioles were held scoreless for seven innings, until the Yankees third pitcher in relief RHP Vicente Campos gave up a hit to RF Nolan Reimbold who then scored a run with a sacrifice fly to left by 1B Christian Walker. It proved to be the only run by the Orioles.

Masahiro Tanana pitched 3 innings, gave up a hit, struck out 3 of the 11 Orioles he faced and received the rare early Spring Training win and remained at 0.00 ERA.

After the game, Tanaka said through his interpreter “I feel that I am exactly where I need to be at”. The most encouraging sign about Tanaka is that the Yankees can hardly tell there was ever an issue at all with his surgically-repaired right elbow. Tanaka expressed some hesitation upon reporting to camp last month about his starting on opening day. As of this date, He continues to be on track to start the Yankees 2016 season opener.

Pitching in his third spring start, Baltimore RHP Mike Wright in 2-2/3 innings was charged with 5 hits – 2 BB – 5 runs. The right-hander struck out six Yankees, including DH Alex Rodriguez and 1B Mark Teixeira. Yankees shortstop Didi Gregorious got 3 hits, 2 runs scored and an RBI. C Brian McCann got a hit, a walk, scored a run and two RBIs. The defeat dropped the O’s to 0-10-2 this spring. After the loss, Mike Wright was quoted “that’s the game of baseball”.

Game Notes:

Orioles used 22 players – 5 pitchers

Orioles scored 1 run – 3 hits – left 2 men on base

Yankees used 23 players – 5 pitchers

Yankees scored 7 runs – 11 hits – 2 errors – left 8 men on baseball

Final:

Yankees 7 – Orioles 1

WP: Masahiro Tanaka (1-0, 0.00 ERA)

LP: Mike Wright (0-1, 945 ERA)

Time: 2:27

Attendance: 9,743

RTFR Radio – Stay Tuned

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

March 10, 2016
Toronto Blue Jays vs. New York Yankees

George M. Steinbrenner Field
Tampa, Florida

Cuban Pitcher Aroldis Chapman Pitches to the Birds

By: Rocky Julich

The 2016 Spring Training is Toronto’s 40^th in Dunedin. They have trained at their Grapefruit League camp since their first season in 1977. Of the 30 Clubs in the Major Leagues, only three teams have been in their current spring training city longer than the Blue Jays (Detroit Tigers, Lakeland – Philadelphia Phillies, Clearwater – Pittsburgh Pirates, Bradenton).

The Toronto Blue Jays have outgrown their playing fields in Dunedin and as each spsring season ends there is talk of the team constructing and moving to a modern, luxurious stadium to satisfy their Major League team, also, provide spacious surroundings to accommodate their Minor League Player Development organization. Yet, the fact remains that Dunedin is the winter home to a large Canadian fan base and the Toronto Blue Jays are Canada’s team.

Last season, the Blue Jays led the majors in just about every offensive category to reach the American League Championship Series for the first time in 22 seasons. Toronto is serious about staying in contention during 2016, with a team intact for another October run with a clubhouse of veterans; key players with five-plus seasons of Major League experience: LHP Brett Cecil, RHP Jose Chavez, RHP R.A. Dickey, RHP Marco Estrada, LHP J.A. Happ, (Toronto native) C Russell Martin, 1B Justin Smoak, (new to Toronto) SS Troy Tulowitzki, 3B Edwin Encarnacion, OF Jose Bautista (10+ MLB seasons).

To note, ten year veteran RHP Roberto Hernandez of the American League Cleveland Indians is in camp with Toronto, trying out to secure a relievers role in the Blue Jays bullpen.

Toronto Blue Jays projected 2016 line-up:

CF Kevin Pillar

3B Josh Donaldson

RF Jose Bautista

DH Edwin Encarnacion

SS Troy Tulowitzki

1B Chris Colabello

C Russell Martin

LF Michael Saunders

2B Ryan Goins

Toronto’s bullpen is developing home grown talent; RHP Steve Delabar, RHP Drew Hutchinson, LHP Aaron Loup, RHP Roberto Osuna and their non-roster invitees from their Triple A team; RHP Aaron Sanchez, RHP Marcus Stroman, prospects #1-3B Andy Burns, OF Dalton Pompey, OF Kevin Pillar and RH/LH pitcher Pat Venditte. While on the mound, Venditte is the only pitcher who can switch pitching from right hand to left hand, depending on the batter he faces. A feat to behold.

The Game:

Yankees starter, RHP Nathan Eovaldi made his spring debut and was pitch perfect during two innings. He recorded a no-decision. It’s too early during training for a starting pitcher to record a win as the team starters are permitted 2- 3 innings (approximately 40 pitches) per game.

The Yankees future relief trio, LHP Andrew Miller, RHP Dellin Betances and LHP Aroldis Chapman took the mound in succession for the first time. Chapman who is expected to be the next Yankees Closer was wild, as he made his first Spring Training appearance, pitching 2/3 of an inning, 2BB, 1K, 1 earned run and hitting 2 batters, including Toronto star OF Jose Bautista. Chapman faced 6 batters, threw 26 pitches/9 for strikes earning a 13.50 ERA.

At the top of the fifth inning, Non-Roster invitee RHP Diego Moreno relieved Chapman and recorded the last out of the inning. Moreno pitched the sixth inning and picked up the loss in relief. In 1-1/3 innings, allowed 5 runs/4 earned (3H, 1BB, 2K).

It was a game of hits (13) and runs(11) as the Blue Jays were dominant over the Yankees bullpen.

Game Notes:

Toronto 3B Andy Burns hit a HR and a double for four RBIs.

Yankees 2B Johathan Diaz hit a HR for 2 RBIs.

Toronto used 24 players, including 6 pitchers.

Yankees used 26 players, including 8 pitchers.

Final: Toronto 11 – Yankees 4

WP: Jose Chavez (1-1) 3.66 ERA

LP: Diego Moreno (0-1) 13.50 ERA

Time: 2:51

Attendance: 8,706

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This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its’ clubs.

March 7, 2016

Houston Astros vs. New York Yankees

George M. Steinbrenner field

Tampa, Florida

Yankees shut-out by Astros

By:  Rocky Julich

The Houston Astros traveled from Kissimmee down the I-4 corridor, the interstate that connects to Tampa, to arrive at the New York Yankees George M. Steinbrenner Field.  It’s approximately 130 miles, 1-1/2 hours of travel.  A long ride for some players by today’s standards.

The 2016 season will be the Astros final Spring Training at the Osceola County Complex in Kissimmee.  At the start of the 2017 season, the club is scheduled to move to their new complex in West Palm Beach.  Situated along the I-75 corridor The Ballpark of the Palm Beaches, state-of-the-art ballpark will be shared by Houston and the Washington Nationals who will be vacating their Space Coast Stadium in Viera.  The Astros and Nationals will then play nearer to the New York Mets (Tradition Field, Port St. Lucie), St. Louis Cardinals and Miami Marlins (Roger Dean Stadium, Jupiter).

The moves are an attempt by the clubs to cut down on travel time for their Major League teams while playing during Spring Training and providing better Player Development complexes for their Minor League clubs.

The Houston Astros inaugurated the 2013 season as an American League club, after spending their first 51 seasons (1962-2012) in the National League.  The Astros are the first team in Major League Baseball history to move from the National League to the American League.

The Astros spent 139 days of the 2015 season in first place in the AL West before clinching the Wild Card position on the final day of the regular MLB 162 game season.  They defeated New York Yankees 3-0 in the AL Wild Card game.  #19-RHP Masahiro Tanaka was the Yankees game losing pitcher.

The meeting of the two teams marks the first time they play each other since the 2015 Wild Card game.  It is the only time the teams will meet during their Spring Training schedule.

During Spring Training games, the Houston Astros are 5 – 1.  The New York Yankees are 2 – 4.

While the Astros 2015 team remains intact, this game included just two players who were on the Wild Card roster; #6-CF Jake Marisnick. #18-2B Luis Valbuena.

The Yankees #35-RHP Michael Pineda (Yaguate, D.R) took the mound as starting pitcher.  It was Pineda’s first outing during Spring Training;  2 innings, 2 hits, 3 strikeouts.  He received a no-decision.

The Astros went scoreless until the top of the 7^th inning.   The Yankees brought in their third reliever to the mound.  #68-RHP Dellin Betances.  Betances struck out the first batter he faced.  The Astros catcher #12 Max Stassi followed with a hit into the left centerfield gap which Lane Adams who replaced CF-Jacoby Ellsbury in the 7^th inning, failed to make the catch.  It turned into a double for Stassi.  The next batter #77-RF Andrew Aplin doubled to right to score Stassi from 2^nd base.  It was the only run of the game.

Game Notes:

Both Astros and Yankees connected 7 hits.

Both Astros and Yankees pitchers walked one batter

Both Astros and Yankees pitchers hit one batter

Both Astros and Yankees left 7 men on base.

Non-roster invitee #98-OF Lane Adams got two hits, twice stole 2^nd and twice was left on base.

Marks the 2^nd shut-out game for the Yankees (March 4^th – 3-0 vs. Detroit)

The Astros used 22 players, including 5 pitchers.

The Yankees used 25 players, including 6 pitchers.

Final:  Astros 1 – Yankees 0

WP:     Cesar Valdez (1-0)

LP:      Dellin Betances (0-1)

SV:      Juan Minaya (2)

Time:  2:32

Attendance:  8,041

Official Scorer:  Nicholas Flammia

RTFR Radio – Stay Tuned

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its’ clubs.

March 5, 2016

Boston Red Sox vs. New York Yankees

George M. Steinbrenner Field

Tampa, Florida

When Boston Comes To Town

By:  Rocky Julich

It’s a different mood.  No matter if it’s Yankee Stadium in The Bronx or GMS Field on North Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa.  When Red Sox come to play, the atmosphere is festive as the fans arrive early and the autograph seekers line three around the seats of the visiters dugout.  The fans are everywhere.

2016 – A Yankees first look at the Boston Red Sox traveling team: #50-RF Mookie Betts, #12-2B Brock Holt, #47-3B Travis Shaw, #5-1B Allen Craig, #25-CF Jackie Bradley, Jr., #64-DH Bryce Brentz, #31-LF Brennan Boesch, #16-SS Deven Marrero, #3-C Sandy Leon.  #35-RHP Steven Wright.

The traveling Red Sox Roster is a line-up of non-roster players, rookies and three players with one-plus seasons of Major League service.

#34 David Ortiz did not travel with the team.  This marks his 20^th and final Spring training.  The Boston Red Sox will not play the Yankees in Tampa again this season.  A trip around-the-Grapefruit League during the final spring of David Ortiz career would have been welcomed by the fans.  Many fans in the ballpark will never step foot inside Yankee Stadium or visit Fenway Park’s Green Monster.  Why did Ortiz not make the trip?

The Major League Baseball players have evolved.  Where have you gone Joe DiMaggio?

On a sunny afternoon at Steinbrenner Field, the Manager Joe Girardi listed on the Yankees line vs. Boston.  #22-CF Jacoby Ellsbury, #36-RF Carlos Beltran, #13-DH Alex Rodriguez, #25-1B Mark Teixeira, #34-C Brian McCann, #12-3B Chase Headley, #29-2B Dustin Ackley, #82-LF Ben Gamel, #93-SS Jorge Mateo.

Jorge Mateo (Santo Domingo Oeste, D.R.) is the Yankees No. 1 prospect and it’s exciting to watch his blazing speed on the field.  The infielder is 6’0”-188 lbs. and at 20 years of age, the youngest  player in camp.

Manager Joe Girardi lost no time in game strategy.  He simply let the Yankees play their game and he managed challenging Boston and entertaining fans by showcasing 9 pitchers, during 9 innings.

#81-RHP Tyler Cloyd (non-roster) faced 4 batters

#45-LHP Chasen Shreve – faced 3 batters

#50-RHP Nick Rumbelow – faced 3 batters

#75-RLP Tyler Olson – faced 4 batters

#83-RHP Johnny Barbato – faced 3 batters

#84-LHP Richard Blier (non-roster) faced 3 batters

#63-RHP Kyle Haynes (non-roster) faced 3 batters

#62-Mark Montgomery (non-roster) faced 6 batters

#73-RHP Nick Goody – faced 3 batters

None of the Yankees pitchers gave up a walked to a Boston player and only 5 hits were connected by the Red Sox  (2 homeruns against pitcher Montgomery).

Yankees Game Notes:

Jacoby Ellsbury – double, run scored

Carlos Beltran – single, run scored

Alex Rodriguez – 2 hits, BB (in two games 5 for 6 – one home run – 2 RBI)

Mark Teixeira – batted righthanded and lefthanded, one hit

Jorge Mateo – sprinted around the bases, lost his cap, connected first home run of spring.

Aaron Judge – 6’7” 255 lbs. (non-roster) Pinch hitter displayed his homerun trot in the 7^th inning.

Rob Refsnyder – Pinch hitter connects first hit, run.

Final:  Yankees 6 – 10 hits    Red Sox 4 – 5 hits

WP:     Nick Rumbelow (1-0)

LP:      Steven Wright (0-1)

SV:      Nick Goody (1)

Time:  2:18

Attendance:  10,991 (As expected the game was a sell-out)

RTFR Radio – Stay Tuned

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

March 3, 2016

Philadelphia Phillies vs. New York Yankees

George M. Steinbrenner Field

Tampa, Florida

By:  Rocky Julich

The A-Rod Home Run

The Philadelphia Phillies left their Bright House Field in Clearwater and crossed the Courtney Campbell Causeway to Tampa to play the New York Yankees second game of during Spring Training.

While the Phillies have been getting lots of media attention regarding rebuilding, at Steinbrenner Field, there was no real mention regarding the issue, “tanking”.

As expected from the visiting team, the Phillies put on the field and pitched a line-up of Rookies and non-roster players.  No matter, it was a 15 hits, 13 runs scored by Phillies game vs. the Yankees 6 hits, 4 runs scored.

During the first inning, the Phillies starter, Rookie LHP Adam Morgan faced his challenge with the Yankees starting line-up which included rightfielder Carlos Beltran, DH Alex Rodriguez and first baseman Mark Teixiera.  Morgan threw Beltran a good pitch to hit to get on base with a single.  The next batter was a Rookie pitcher’s dream come true, to pitch to Alex Rodriguez.  The first pitch was a ball.  The second pitch was simply in the right place for A-Rod to use his signature swing to send the ball flying near the 318” left field wall.

“It certainly was surprising” A-Rod said.  “That was the last thing I was expecting.  I haven’t taken a swing in live pitching, that was my first one.  It caught me by surprise.”

Rodriguez allowed himself a few extra moments to watch the homer clear the wall in left before beginning his homerun trot.  After coming out of the game and speaking to the media in the Clubhouse in front of his locker he said that he “enjoyed the trip around the bases”.

RHP Ivan Nova made is first start of Spring Training.  In his second year back from Tommy John Surgery, the 6’5” 235 lb. pitcher from Palenque, D.R., in his seventh season with the Yankees, is competing with CC Sabathia as the Yankees No. 5 starter.

It was the first opportunity for Gary Sanchez as catcher for Ivan Nova.  After the game Nova praised his catcher.  “He was good, I like the way he catch”.  “His return was real nice”.   “I told him “don’t be afraid to call the pitches that you want me to throw”.  “He was great”.

It was a typical early Spring Training game.  Philadelphia used 17 players, including five pitchers.  RHP Alec Asher, RHP Mark Appel, LHP Daniel Stumpf, RHP Edwar Mujica.

The most recognizable, non-roster invitee RHP Mark Appel.  The No. 1 selection by the Houston Astros from the 2013 Major League Baseball Draft enters his 4^th professional season as a non-roster invitee to Spring Training, this season showing with Philadelphia.

The Yankees used 26 players, including eight pitchers.  RHP Diego Moreno, LHP Jacob Lindgren, RHP Anthony Swarzak, LHP James Pazos, RHP Branden Pinder, LHP Tyler Webb, RHP Brady Lail.

Jacob Lindgren was the loosing pitcher (0-1).

The most notable change in the line-up, DH Alex Rodriguez.  The Yankees have no plans to play the 40-year-old in the field and A-Rod has accepted his new assignment as a full-time designated hitter.  Rodriguez explained after his first game of Spring that he has modified his training so as to avoid wearing down late in the season.  He added, “the biggest thing is, I don’t have any distractions and understand my purpose on the team.”

It was a Spring Training game of Player Development at the Major League Baseball level.

Final:  Phillies 13 – Yankees 4

WP:     Alec Asher (1-0)

LP:      Jacob Lindgren  (0-1)

Time:  3:14

Attendance:    7,897

RTFR Radio – Stay Tuned

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues  or its clubs.

January 30, 2016

2015 Prospect Watch – 30 International Prospects

By: Rocky Julich

RANK
NAME                             POS/BATS/THROW COUNTRY                AGE/DOB            HT/WT
1          Alvarez, Yadier              RHP    R            R         Matanzas, Cuba       19 – 3/7/96          6’3”/ 175 lb.
Signed: 7/2/15 – $16M – Los Angeles Dodgers
Scouting Grades: Fastball 70 / Slider 60 / Change 55 / Control 50

2         Gutierrez, Vladimir      RHP    R             R        Pinar del Rio, Cuba  20 – 9/18/95       6’3”/ 173 lb.
2014-2015 Serie Nacional Rookie of the Year
Defected Pinar del Rio team February 2015 during Caribbean Series in Puerto Rico
Eligible to sign 2015/2016 International signing period began 7/2.
Scouting Grades: Fastball 65 / Curveball 60 / Changeup 50 / Control 55

3         Diaz, Yusniel                  OF       R            R        Havana, Cuba            19 – 10/7/96        6’1”/ 195 lb.
Defected 4/2015 team Havana Industriales (candidate Serie Nacional Rookie of the Year)
Signed: 11/2015 $15.5M – L.A. Dodgers
Scouting Grades: Hit 60 / Power 55 / Run 70 / Arm 60 / Field 60

4         Rodriguez, Alfredo       SS       R             R         Havana, Cuba           21 – 6/17/94         6’0”/ 185 lb.
Signed: 1/11/15 – $6M – Cincinnati Reds
Scouting Grades: Hit 40 / Power 40 / Run 60 / Arm 50 / Field 60

5         Martinez, Eddie            OF       R             R        Las Tunas, Cuba       21 – 1/18/95       6’2”/ 195 lb.
Signed 10/2015 – $3M – Chicago Cubs
Scouting Grades: Hit 60 / Power 60 / Run 70 / Arm 60 / Field 60

6         Fox, Lucius                     SS       R            R         Nassau, Bahamas     18 – 7/2/97         6’2”/ 170 lb.
Signed: 7/2/15 – $6M – San Francisco Giants (5 tool player)
Scouting Grades: Hit 50 / Power 45 / Run 60 / Arm 55 / Field 60

7          Guerrero,Vladimir, Jr. OF     R            R         Nizao, D.R.                 16 – 3/16/99       6’0”/ 220 lb.
Signed: 7/2/99 – $3.9M – Toronto Blue Jays (Son Vladimir Guerrero)
Scouting Grades: Hit 55 / Power 65 / Run 35 / Arm 45 / Field 45

8          Armenteros, Lazaro     OF      R            R        Havana, Cuba            16 – 5/22/99       6’2”/ 205 lb.
Signed: ? (great hands – muscular college-football-player body)
Scouting Grades: Hit 55 / Power 60 / Run 65 / Arm 60 / Field 60

9          Heredia, Starling          OF      R            R         Sto. Domingo, D.R.  16 – 2/6/99         6’0”/ 215 lb.
Signed: 7/2/15 – $2.6M – Los Angeles Dodgers
Scouting Grades: Hit 55 / Power 60 / Run 50 /Arm 60 / Field 50

10        Ortiz, Jhailyn                OF      R            R          Sto. Domingo, D.R.  17 – 11/18/98     6’2”/ 260 lb.
Signed 7/9/15 – $4M Philadelphia Phillies
Scouting Grades: Hit 50 / Power 65 / Run 35 / Arm 55 / Field 50

11         Celestino, Gilberto       OF      R            L          Sto. Domingo, D.R   16 – 2/13/99      5’11”/ 165 lb.
Signed: 7/2/15 – $2.5M – Houston Astros
Scouting Grades: Hit 50 / Power 40 / Run 50 / Arm 50 / Field 60

12        Javier Wander               SS      R             R          San Cristobal, D.R.  17 – 12/29/98    6’0”/ 165 lb.
Signed: 7/2/15 – $4M – Minnesota Twins
Scouting Grades: Hit 50 / Power 50 / Run 50 / Arm 60 / Field 60

13        Matias, Seuly                 OF     R             R           La Vega, D.R.           17 – 9/4/98        6’2”/ 190 lb.
Signed: 7/2/15 – $2.25M – Kansas City Royals
Scouting Grades: Hit 50 – Power 55 – Run 50 – Arm 60 – Field 50

14        Pache, Cristian              OF      R           R            Boca Chica, D.R.      17 – 11/19/98    6’1”/ 180 lb.
Signed: 7/3/15 – $1.4M – Atlanta Braves
Scouting Grades: Hit 50 / Power 50 / Run 50 / Arm 60 / Field 50

15        Selijas, Alvaro                RHP   R           R           Maracay, VZ              17 – 10/10/98   6’1”/ 175 lb.
Signed: 7/2/15 – $762,500. – St. Louis Cardinals
Scouting Grades: Fastball 60 / Curveball 60 / Changeup 50 / Control 55 – Overall 55

16        Montano, Daniel           OF      L           R            Maracay, VZ              16 – 3/31/99     6’1”/ 178 lb.
Signed: 7/2/15 – $2M – Colorado Rockies
Scouting Grades: Hit 55 / Power 50 / Run 50 / Arm 50 / Field 60

17        Perlaza, Yonathan         SS       S           R            Maracaibo, VZ           17 – 10/11/88   5’8”/ 175 lb.
Signed: 7/2/15 – $1.3M – Chicago Cubs
Scouting Grades: Hit 60 – Power 50 – Run 50 – Arm 60 – Field 50

18        Gualmaro, Albert          OF      R           R           Puerto La Cruz, VZ    17 – 1/17/99     5’11”/ 188 lb.
Signed: 7/2/15 – $300,000 – Boston Red Sox
Scouting Grades: Hit 40 / Power / 50 / Run 50 / Arm 60 / Field 50

19        Gimenez, Andres           INF    L           R           Barquisimeto, VZ       17 – 9/4/98      5’11”/ 158 lb.
Signed: 7/2/15 – $1.2M – New York Mets
Scouting Grades: Hit 55 / Power 35 / Run 60 / Arm 60 / Field 50

20       Estiwal Sierra, Yonathan OF  L           L           San Cristobal, D.R.     17 – 10/17/98   6’3”/ 205 lb.
Signed: 7/2/15 – $2.5M – Chicago Cubs (Compared to Darryl Strawberry)
Scouting Grades: Hit 50 / Power 50 / Run 40 / Arm 45 / Field 45

21        Guerrero, Gregory         SS     R           R            Nizao, D.R.                   17 – 1/20/99     6’1”/ 170 lb.
Signed: 7/2/15 – $1.5M – New York Mets (Vladimir Guerrero nephew)
Scouting Grades: Hit 50 / Power 55 / Run 40 / Arm 60 / Field 50

22       Taveras, Leodys               OF    S          R            Tenares, D.R.               17 – 9/8/98       6’1”/ 165 lb.
Signed: 7/2/15 – $2.1M – Texas Rangers
Scouting Grades: Hit 50 / Power 40 / Run 50 / Arm 50 / Field 60

23       Adelman, Aramis             SS    L           R           Sto. Domingo, D.R.     17 – 9/13/98     5’10”/ 150 lb.
Signed: 7/2/15 – Chicago Cubs
Scouting Grades: Hit 55 / Power 35 / Run 50 / Arm 50 / Field 60

24       Brito, Ronny                      SS    L          R            San Francisco              16 – 3/22/99     6’2”/ 170 lb.
Signed: 7/2/15 – $2M – Los Angeles, Dodgers de Macoris, D.R.
Scouting Grades: Hit 45 / Power 35 / Run 50 / Arm 60 / Field 55

25        Soto, Juan                         OF   L          L             Sto. Domingo, D.R.    17 – 10/25/98   6’1”/ 175 lb.
Signed: 7/2/15 – $1.5M – Washington Nationals
Scouting Grades: Hit 50 / Power 50 / Run 40 / Arm 60 / Field 50 / Overall 50

26        Olivo, Cristian                  OF   L          L             Boca Chica, D.R.         17 – 9/30/98    6’2”/ 210 lb.
Signed: 7/2/15 – $1M – Cincinnati Reds
Scouting Grades: Hit 40 / Power 50 / Run 60 / Arm 50 / Field 50

27        Cruz, Derian                     SS    S           R             Sto. Domingo, D.R.    17 – 10/3/98    6’0”/ 170 lb.
Signed: 7/2/15 – $2M – Atlanta Braves
Scouting Grades: Hit 50 / Power 30 / Run 70 / Arm 40 / Field 50

28        Amaya, Miguel                C      L           R              Los Santos, Panama  16 – 3/9/99      6’0”/ 160 lb.
Signed: 7/2/15 – $2.25M – Chicago Cubs
Scouting Grades: Hit 40 / Power 40 / Run 20 / Arm 60 / Field 60

29        Vargas,Carlos                  SS     R          R              San Cristobal, D.R.    16 – 3/18/99     6’3”/ 180 lb.
Signed: 7/2/15 – $1.7M – Seattle Mariners
Scouting Grades: Hit 50 / Power 50 / Run 30 / Arm 60 / Field 50

30        Tatis, Fernando, Jr.       SS     R          R    San Pedro De Macoris, D.R.  17 – 1/2/99    6’1”/ 175 lb.

Signed: 7/2/15 – $700,000. – Chicago White Sox (Fernando Tatis son)
Scouting Grades: Hit 50 / Power 40 / Run 50 / Arm 60 / Field 50
RTFR Radio – Stay Tuned!

This story was not subject to the approval of the National Association of Professional Baseball Leagues or its clubs.

NYY Wait until next year

To end the 2015 Major League Baseball Season the New York Yankees were eliminated from the AL Wild Card one game playoff by the Houston Astros 0-3.   A rare shutout during playoffs for the New York Yankees.

PLAYER DEVELOPMENT IN PROGRESS the New York Yankees wait until next year.