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The Yankees really need to think about revamping this bullpen. I would strongly think about sending down Coke, Albaladejo, and even Veras, especially after today's meltdown. Mark Melancon struck out the first ten batters he faced at Scranton this year; how long before he is called up?

I also find myself scratching my head at Damaso Marte. He was a solid reliever for several years with the White Sox and Pirates, but it seems as if he just lost it as soon as he donned a Yankees uniform.

Tyler

Wouldn't it be ironic if the worst contract the Yankees gave this offseason was to Marte? I could see that happening.

As for the pen, I am all for trying out Melancon and I imagine the Yankees will revamp the pen if this keeps up. Luckily, they have a number of options in the minors.

Up periscope -

Joba to the pen to help solidify the bridge to Mo. Hughes to the number 5 spot. Melancon replaces Veras, who gets sent down. Marte becomes LOOGY (with emphasis on first O in LOOGY).

Yikes, I really did type all of the above !

- Down periscope.

IMO, Joba to the pen would also be an enormous waste of talent and a real sign of incompetence from the front office. If the Yankees feel they really need another power right hander for one inning at a time, Cash could easily make a trade for one in a few months if hes willing to give up a prospect. He cant trade for a 23 year old power right hander with 4 quality pitches that can dominate for 100+ pitches however, no matter what he wants to give away.

Lets give the team 2-3 weeks to show its true colors before the panic button is pushed. In the long run I think the bullpen will be adequate, its the bench that needs a serious upgrade especially with Nady gone. Fortunately there are some bats still unsigned, like Geoff Jenkins for example.

Bruney and Coke actually look pretty good. But Veras, Ablie, and Marte look awful. It seems inevitable that the solution will be Rivera for 2 inning saves; Joba & Bruney as the bridge. Every year the Yanks put tremendous effort into shoring up their bullpen, but it never seems to work out.

Thats so true Corey, the bullpen just never seem to be a stength no matter how good it looks on paper.

Joba is dominant as a reliever/setup guy - not the case - so far at least - as a starter.

We'll see how this shakes out, but I just call 'em like I see 'em.

I don't know guys, I think the combo of Bruney and Rivera is about as good as there is in the league. I think we will probably see Melancon (14 K's in 7 IP) pretty soon. I think the bigger problems for this team right now are on offense.

I agree with you, Peter. As bad as the 'pen has been on occasion, I'm more concerned with the health issues of the position players. Tex's wrist, Matsui's knee, Nady's elbowand of course A-Rod's hip. It's adding up quickly. That's a lot of firepower to be losing.