Didn't See That Coming
LoHud is reporting that the Yankees are parting ways with Dave Eiland.
I am somewhat stunned by that move for a number of reasons. Start with the fact that it seemed like Eiland and Girardi got along and worked well together. Is this a Steinbrenneresque shot across the manager's bow?
And, Eiland is widely spoke of as the only person who can communicate with AJ Burnett. Granted, it didn't work very well, but the Yankees still owe the guy $50 million and they are removing one of his big security blankets.
But, there are certainly some reasons not to bring him back. Joba Chamberlain has regressed under his watch. Phil Hughes started strong, but faded in 2010. Javier Vazquez completely imploded- though I am not sure we can blame that on Eiland. And, as I mentioned above, Eiland hasn't handled AJ very well.
So the Yankees now get to add pitching coach to their "to do" list.
One last thing. There are a lot of ugly rumors out there about Eiland and where he was when he took his leave of absence in June. Brian Cashman didn't do Eiland any favors by saying that the reason for the dismissal isn't for performance but for "private" reasons. That will only stoke the rumor mill. I hope people remember that it is a private matter and let Eiland just focus on himself now.
Comments
Sorry to hear about Eiland. Hard to say that he was the problem.
Re pitching, I think Lee is going to cost 20-25 million per year, and may stay in Texas anyway given their success and the State's tax advantages.
I'd like to see them take that money and acquire Rafael Soriano and Crawford from Tampa Bay. I like the idea of having four top quality outfielders, with each taking turns at DH. Let the kids (Nunez, Pena, and Cervelli) sub for A-Rod, Jeter, and Posada when they rest. And give them a true rest -- they don't need to be DH most of the time that they rest. There is a way to juggle things, and with injuries everyone will get enough at bats.
As for starters, they'll just have to make do with what they have. Hopefully Nova is ready to be the number 5 starter and Pettite can be re-signed. One long shot move would be to sign Bedard. He's still young and has one heck of a curve ball -- and is a lefty. I believe he's a free agent.
Posted by: Corey | October 25, 2010 02:03 PM |
Peter, the reports that I'm reading indicate that letting Eiland go was Cashman's decision and had nothing to do with how well Eiland and Girardi worked together, Cashman was even asked about this and responded tersely that the decision was completely out of Girardi's hands. Yep, it's private and will hopefully stay that way - even if someone writes a book with Verducci :-).
Posted by: Mitchell![[TypeKey Profile Page]](http://yankeesredsox.com/nav-commenters.gif)
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October 25, 2010 04:22 PM
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About pitching? My view is that we'll need at least two pitchers.
Having just read that Andy was hurting during the ALDS and had to be pushed back, I think he hangs it up this time. I honestly thought that last year was a golden opportunity for him to go out on top - but now it seems like he's struggling to stay healthy. I'd like to be wrong and see him come back next year to win 16 but, hey, we'll have to wait and see what he chooses to do.
Posted by: Mitchell![[TypeKey Profile Page]](http://yankeesredsox.com/nav-commenters.gif)
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October 25, 2010 05:30 PM
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