The Yankees won both ends of their split squad contests today, defeating the Astros 3-1 and the Pirates 13-10. If you like following the minor leagues, the Pittsburgh game was right for you. Here are the notable performances from the day:
1) Phil Hughes had his first rough outing of the spring, allowing 5 baserunners and 2 HR’s in 3 innings. After the game, he said:
“My command wasn’t perfect and I was behind in the count a lot, nibbling with my fastball. The home run to Morgan was a decent pitch and the other, I was behind in the count,” he said. “I was trying to get my change-up some work and mix in some cutters. I feel strong. I feel good.”
(Lohud)
Although you hate to see him struggle, it is important to note that he was working on some secondary pitches. He really needs those to make his two primary pitches less predictable. This bad outing should quiet the “Joba to the bullpen Phil to the rotation” people for a bit. I hope.
2) Mark Melancon got bombed, allowing 5 runs in 2/3 of an inning. He probably needed a perfect spring to make the club, so you can cross him off of your short list for the last bullpen slot.
3) Ian Kennedy was much improved, going 3 innings, allowing 1 unearned run, and striking out 5.
4) The Yankees two top hitting prospects, Jesus Montero and Austin Jackson, both homered, with Montero’s being a grand slam. Jackson seems to be getting more and more comfortable at the plate each day, and Montero is hitting .667 for the spring. It should be fun to watch them develop.
5) In the Houston game, AJ Burnett went 4 perfect innings, striking out 3. He has been awesome thus far, and I will restate my huge expectations for him. He is going to have an excellent season.
6) Finally, Edwar Ramirez hurled his first inning of the spring, allowing one hit and striking out one batter. The events of the last few days have me feeling that Edwar and Brett Tomko will nab the last two bullpen slots, with Rivera, Bruney, Veras, Marte, and Coke filling out the league’s most quietly efficient group of relievers.
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6 Responses to Hughes & Melancon Struggle, A-Jax & Montero Homer
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TIQ IQ
Can Montero hit in the big leagues now?
I would guess that he has ML power right now, but that his hitting technique is still a bit raw for that- he would run into a few, but he still needs seasoning.
You really think they would put Tomko on the 40 man, instead of taking either Roberts or Albaladejo north? I don’t see it…we have always said; “don’t fall in love with the Spring training or the late call-ups”! Why would you now?
Agreed, Tommy is very impressive, so far but, can he do it for another month? Why not let him work his way up after one of the others become a big fat BUST. We all know one of the guys will fall because it always happens, someone get an injury or a tiered arm etc.
I like the take you have on Jackson and Montero, couldn’t agree more. The big boys would really eat Montero for lunch at this stage, more time won’t hurt him a bit…he still has a few holes that need to be covered. Damn, he can jack-um when he gets his pitch though.
I dont know, I just get the vibe that Tomko came into camp with a chance to win a job, and they have to like what they are seeing. If they want a long man, he is the choice right now, given how bad Giese and Aceves have been.
I am sure that you guys are right but what is the difference between this kid and others who make it at a young age. He is hitting over .600, admittedly against late inning pitchers, but that is more than can be said about several others who will make the team.
Spring stats do not mean much, but I would guess that his defense is what will make him take some time before he gets to the majors.