Suddenly A Door Opens
The word out of Tampa is that Francisco Cervelli has a fractured foot and will be in a walking boot for the next four weeks. That obviously creates a need for the Yankees in terms of backup catcher and there are a number of ways they could go.
They could let Jorge Posada assume the role of backup, but I would guess they won't.
They could give the job to Jesus Montero.
They could try and get another veteran or let Gustavo Molina take the role.
1997 probably provides a good guide of what will happen. That was the year the Yankees made Jorge Posada Joe Girardi's backup and let him start 52 games behind the plate. They viewed it as a chance for Girardi to mentor Posada. Well now it's Posada's turn to be the mentor and with Girardi and Pena also in the dugout, Montero will have plenty of people who can advise him.
You have to feel for Cervelli, there is a good chance he just got Wally Pipped.
Comments
My guess is that he's at least 6 weeks before he can throw out a runner after squatting. Considering the glut of catching talent on the team, Cervelli will probably be used to bring in some high-level prospects or as part of a larger package for a mid-season arm if one is still needed.
In other words, Cervelli might have just inadvertently provided some clarity. I too feel for the guy: he's a gamer, has played hard for us and called some good games.
Posted by: Mitchell![[TypeKey Profile Page]](http://yankeesredsox.com/nav-commenters.gif)
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March 5, 2011 10:18 AM
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Posada is perfectly capable of catching 30 to 50 games. He's a great resource, so why not use him? What wears him down is catching every day.
Montero would primarily be a DH and pinch hitter, though he could also fill in at catcher.
Turning Posada into a full time DH is a self inflicted wound. Another example of Girardi thinking himself into a corner.
Posted by: corey | March 7, 2011 08:29 AM |
Corey - my guess is that Posada doesn't start another game as catcher unless there is a glut of injuries on the club. And I think that it's Cashman that has put Posada out to pasture in the DH slot, not Girardi.
Posted by: Mitchell![[TypeKey Profile Page]](http://yankeesredsox.com/nav-commenters.gif)
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March 7, 2011 12:05 PM
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