The Yankees - Baseball's trophy wife

[Toro]

Nice to look at and everyone wants to have their talent.

But when it comes down to what really matter, they can't get it done.

 

[justAndy]

....

swing for the fences, a bunch of stars, but who was there to do the "little things"?

 

[MaoTosiFanClub]

swing for the fences, a bunch of stars, but who was there to do the "little things"?

That's what has been missing from the Yankees team of this decade. They abandoned the National League style of baseball that was so successful for them in the late 90s for the current rotisserie lineup. Notice how many WS championships they have won since then.

On another note, with the Yanks completing the biggest chokejob in sports history, maybe the DBacks should hold off on their coaching search. Torre and co. may find themselves looking for jobs in a week or two.

 

[Dback Jon]

On another note, with the Yanks completing the biggest chokejob in sports history, maybe the DBacks should hold off on their coaching search. Torre and co. may find themselves looking for jobs in a week or two.

I don't think Steinbrenner is THAT crazy. But hey, it might be worth the outside chance.

 

[Djaughe]

I guess losing john olerud after game 3 had a bigger impact on the team than most thought....

 

[BC867]

That's what has been missing from the Yankees team of this decade. They abandoned the National League style of baseball that was so successful for them in the late 90s for the current rotisserie lineup. Notice how many WS championships they have won since then.

Great point. National League style managing in the American League reigns. Torre with the Yankees early on. Scoscia last year with the Angels.

But American League style managing in the National League, sooner or later, results in alot of popups.

It's what disappointed me with Bob Brenly after his first year. As the team changed and strategy became more important, it was "everybody swing for the fences".

Very surprising, with his predominantly National League background.

You hit more key homeruns when you don't try to every at-bat. Look how Tony Womack's popups decreased and his batting average and OBP increased when he joined the Cardinals.

 

[Brandon_Webb]

What? Since when are bunts and stealing more important then Homers?

 

[BC867]

What? Since when are bunts and stealing more important then Homers?

More important than homers -- no. Makes it easier to hit the big fly when you bunt and steal and go for the gaps or down the line as well -- absolutely.

A team that can (by philosophy and skill) combine small-ball with the long-ball . . . priceless. The Cards do it well.

Between injuries and slumps, Rolen and Edmunds were not always "there" this season to back up Albert. Filling in with small-ball, when necessary, helped give the Cardinals the best record in the league.