FOR BANUELOS & PINEDA, CONFIDENCE IS KING

Manny Banuelos wants it bad!

Reading Pete Caldera of the Bergen Record over the weekend, I could tell, Banuelos and his confidence will guide him this season. Caldera has a good piece HERE, but here are some of Manny's quotes:

"When I got hurt, I thought my career was over... This is my year... I can't wait for that. (Two years ago)“I thought I had a big chance, I feel I have a chance now, and I want to work hard for it – to make the team here.” 

There's been talk of Banuelos starting in the bullpen if he makes the club.  I have no problem with that, but the kid is destined to be a starter and a dominant one at that.  I still believe in this kid even after Tommy John surgery.  I also believe that if he gives the Yankees what they need this Spring, and has a clean bill of health, Manny is right, we need to bring him up. 

Couple him with another guy, Michael Pineda and there are 2 young studs ready for action for the New York Yankees. If this doesn't bring positive energy to you as a fan, I don't know what does.

Joe Girardi said of Pineda this spring, "I thought the ball was coming out of his hand easier... I know he’s had some time to clean up some things, mechanically, in this two-year span. It just looked like it came out free and easy to me. It didn’t look like he was putting a ton of effort into it in a sense, or that he was overthrowing."

Michael Pineda spoke of his journey and his commitment these days:

“I’m feeling so strong... I’m feeling good power. I’m throwing the same (as before the surgery). Mechanics are the same. Everything is the same. All pitches are the same. I’m the same Michael Pineda.”.

One big contradiction... Girardi says Pineda cleaned up his mechanics a bit, yet Pineda says he has the same mechanics... which is it? We'll have to wait and see.  You can read the full piece on Pineda HERE.

Well, for now, it's game on... both Banuelos and Pineda have spoken. Now put your money where your mouth is.

Go Yanks!

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