JASSON DOMINGUEZ PLAYED LIKE A TRUE THROWBACK

Maybe this is the old man in me talking, but baseball today feels a little… moisturized. Everybody’s worried about “load management,” preserving bodies, launch angles, recovery days, sleep metrics, hydration charts, and whether a guy’s heart rate got too high jogging to first base. Somewhere along the way, baseball stopped looking like a game played by maniacs and started looking like an HR department seminar.

I grew up watching players who treated the warning track like it was optional and basic human safety like a rumor.

Pete Rose didn’t slide into bases — he tried to assassinate them. The man played baseball like he had unpaid parking tickets waiting at every bag. Headfirst dives, dirt in his teeth, jersey permanently stained brown. Nobody ever accused Pete Rose of “taking a smarter angle.” The only angle he knew was full speed.

Then you had Ken Griffey Sr. and Dave Winfield scaling outfield walls in Yankee Stadium like rent was due at midnight. Those guys didn’t jog toward fly balls calculating risk assessment percentages. They went after baseballs with the kind of recklessness normally associated with action movies and bad financial decisions.

And don’t even get me started on Derek Jeter launching himself face-first into the stands against Boston. The man basically became an airborne folding chair just to record an out. Bloody face, bruised shoulder and Yankee fans still replay that clip like it’s the Zapruder film. THAT was baseball.

And honestly, that’s why I’m rolling my eyes at everyone ripping Jasson Domínguez for smashing into the wall making that catch against Texas. People are calling it stupid. I’m calling it beautiful.

The kid ran 81 feet tracking a rocket off the bat, went full speed into the chain-link part of the wall, got absolutely detonated on impact, lost his sunglasses, lost his hat, probably briefly lost contact with several ancestors — and STILL held onto the baseball.

That’s not stupidity. That’s baseball DNA. That is why you play the game. That is why Sportscenter invented the 10 ten plays!

That’s “the run doesn’t score because I’m catching this ball no matter what happens afterward.”

And yes, he got hurt. Shoulder sprain. Concussion protocol. He’ll miss a few weeks. But since when did effort become something we criticize? Since when did “he played too hard” become an insult?

Baseball was built on lunatics doing unreasonable things for outs. Why? Because it's the greatest game ever made.

You know who else played like this? Aaron Rowand. That man once smashed face-first into the center-field wall in Philadelphia so hard it looked like he got hit by a city bus, then walked away bleeding because he caught the ball anyway. ESPN literally dubbed players like him part of the “All-Run-Through-A-Wall Team.” Aaron Rowand played center field like every fly ball had personally insulted his family.

And then there was Jim Edmonds — a human highlight. The guy treated diving catches like performance art. Half the time he’d leave his feet so dramatically you’d think he got launched out of a cannon.  Jim Edmonds basically created baseball pornography for SportsCenter. Before every phone became a television studio, people waited all night to see the SportsCenter Top 10 because some lunatic center fielder sacrificed his skeletal structure robbing a double in July.

That stuff MATTERED.

Now everybody immediately turns into a risk-management consultant.
“He should’ve protected himself.”
“He needs to think long-term.”
“He’s too valuable.”
“He shouldn’t risk injury in May.”

Man… what happened to us?

 

You play to WIN THE GAME. You play to steal outs. You play to make the pitcher walk back to the dugout screaming into his glove because you just erased a guaranteed extra-base hit.

And what makes Domínguez’s play even better is this: the kid easily could’ve coasted. He JUST came back from an elbow bruise. Nobody would’ve crushed him for pulling up a step early. Most modern players probably make the “business decision” there, let the ball bounce off the wall, and jog after it while pretending they almost had it.

Not Domínguez. He went full-send. And that’s why I respect it.

That’s also why I’ll always love guys like Harrison Bader. Sure, the guy gets hurt a lot. But every inning looks like his mortgage depends on making the next catch. There’s something refreshing about players who still play with chaos in them. Because baseball is supposed to have some chaos.

It’s supposed to have dirt-stained uniforms, guys crashing into walls, catchers blocking the plate, infielders diving into the hole, and outfielders running like their cleats are on fire. Not everything needs to be optimized by a sports scientist with an iPad and a protein shake.

Of course players should be smart. Nobody’s saying careers should end for one catch in May. But there’s a massive difference between being smart and being soft. And lately, the line between those two keeps getting blurrier.

So no, I’m not criticizing Jasson Domínguez. I’m applauding him. Because for one play, baseball looked dangerous again.

It looked emotional again.
It looked gritty again.
It looked like the game I grew up loving.

And honestly?
We need more of that.

--Alvin Izzo
BYB Yankee History Contributor

RICKEY HENDERSON HAS DIED

I am in utter shock.

I can’t believe it. I just can’t. Rickey Henderson is gone. My heart is shattered. This feels unreal—like some terrible mistake. Rickey was more than a legend to me; he was everything. As a kid in Little League, he was my hero. I worshiped the way he played the game—the speed, the daring, the way he could steal a base like it was nothing. I’d step onto the diamond, pretending I was Rickey, stealing bases like my life depended on it. By the end of most seasons, I’d usually lead my league in stolen bases, and it was all because of him.

Now he’s gone. How can that even be possible? Rickey, the man who could do the impossible on a baseball field. The man who stole 1,406 bases and scored more runs than anyone in the history of the game. He made baseball come alive. His debut with the A’s at 20, his record-setting 130 steals in 1982, the countless electrifying moments—it all feels like yesterday.

When I heard he was coming to the Yankees, I was over the moon. I remember buying my first-ever 8x10 photo of Rickey in that iconic green and yellow A’s uniform just a few years before he come to the Bronx, but seeing him in pinstripes? That was pure magic. My hero, playing for my team. Every game he played felt like a gift.

Now he’s gone. Dave Winfield said, “I still cannot believe I’ve lost one of my favorite teammates and great friend Rickey Henderson.” I feel that disbelief in my bones. How can someone larger than life be gone?

Rickey’s legacy is staggering. Over 3,000 hits, nearly 300 home runs, and those untouchable Major League records: 2,295 runs scored and 1,406 stolen bases. A 10-time All-Star, the 1990 MVP, and a two-time World Series champion. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2009, first ballot, as he absolutely should have been.

But Rickey was more than the stats. He was Rickey. He made you love the game, made you believe anything was possible. I still can’t process this. Rest in peace, Rickey. You were my hero then, and you always will be. Baseball will never be the same without you.

You were the greatest.  I cannot believe this happened. 65 years old. So young!

THE WINFIELD CHOKE OUT

On May 27, 1983, Yankee Stadium witnessed a confrontation that drew as much attention as the Yankees' eventual victory over the Oakland A's. The game ended with a 4-2 win, thanks to a three-run home run by Graig Nettles off Oakland pitcher Mike Norris in the seventh inning. But before the crowd could celebrate Nettles’ heroics, a fiery altercation between Yankees outfielder Dave Winfield and A's catcher Mike Heath escalated tensions in the first inning. This incident became a memorable flashpoint in a game that was already charged with competitive energy.

In the first inning, the altercation was sparked when Norris threw a high, inside fastball to Winfield. The pitch, perceived as a knockdown pitch aimed at intimidating or possibly injuring the star outfielder, was not taken lightly. Winfield, known for his competitive spirit, immediately objected to what he viewed as a dangerous pitch. According to reports, Winfield reacted strongly, and his frustration quickly turned into action. He moved toward the mound, where Norris was standing, but Mike Heath, the A’s catcher, stepped in to block his path, preventing a direct confrontation with Norris. What ensued was a chaotic scene in front of the mound, as Winfield grabbed Heath by the throat, igniting a bench-clearing brawl.

Home-plate umpire Derryl Cousins, witnessing the incident unfold, wasted no time in making a decision. He ejected Winfield from the game, citing him as the instigator of the fight. According to Cousins, Winfield's aggressive response to the pitch and his actions toward Heath were the catalysts for the bench-clearing altercation. While the physical confrontation was quickly broken up, the tension lingered for the remainder of the game, and the fallout extended far beyond the final out.

In typical fashion, Yankees owner George Steinbrenner, never one to shy away from controversy, inserted himself into the conversation despite not being at the game. Shortly after the incident, Steinbrenner issued a scathing statement criticizing the umpires' handling of the situation, particularly Cousins' decision to eject Winfield. Steinbrenner was outraged that his star player had been tossed from the game, especially when he believed that Norris' pitch was intentionally provocative and dangerous.

Steinbrenner’s criticism drew a swift and pointed response from Lee MacPhail, then the president of the American League. MacPhail issued his own statement, condemning Steinbrenner’s remarks and promising disciplinary action against the outspoken owner. MacPhail described Steinbrenner's comments as "intemperate" and emphasized that such public criticism of umpires would not be tolerated. MacPhail's statement made it clear that a careful review of the events would lead to consequences for Steinbrenner, whose tendency to speak out about league matters had landed him in hot water before.

Not one to back down, Steinbrenner doubled down on his comments later that evening, issuing a second statement in which he denied that his remarks had been excessive. He maintained that his criticism of the umpires was based on "what I believe to be fact." Despite the threat of disciplinary action, Steinbrenner stood firm in his defense of Winfield and his belief that the umpires had mishandled the situation. This back-and-forth between Steinbrenner and MacPhail added an extra layer of drama to an already tumultuous evening at Yankee Stadium.

The Aftermath

While Winfield's early exit from the game dominated headlines, the Yankees managed to refocus and secure a crucial win. Graig Nettles, known for his clutch hitting, delivered the decisive blow with a three-run homer off Norris in the seventh inning, putting the Yankees ahead for good. Nettles' home run shifted the narrative back to the on-field action, but the tension from the first inning lingered throughout the game.

The incident also brought attention to the growing tensions between the Yankees and their opponents, as well as between Steinbrenner and Major League Baseball officials. Steinbrenner’s reputation for speaking out against umpires and league officials had long been a contentious issue, and this episode only added fuel to the fire.

For Dave Winfield, the incident on May 27, 1983, was a rare blemish on an otherwise stellar career. Known for his professionalism and immense talent, Winfield's actions that day were a testament to his fiery competitiveness. Though he was ejected, many fans and analysts sympathized with his reaction to the dangerous pitch. Norris’ inside fastball had crossed an unspoken line, and Winfield’s response, while aggressive, was seen by some as a defense of his own safety. The confrontation between Winfield and Heath remains one of the more memorable moments from the 1983 season. It highlighted the fine line between competitive intensity and outright conflict, as well as the ongoing debate over the role of "brushback" pitches and player safety. The fight also underscored the volatile relationship between George Steinbrenner and MLB officials, a relationship that would continue to generate headlines throughout Steinbrenner’s tenure as Yankees owner.

Lee MacPhail’s stern rebuke of Steinbrenner reflected the league’s desire to maintain control and discipline over its teams, even when powerful owners like Steinbrenner challenged its authority. Ultimately, the May 27 game was not just about a fight on the field—it was a microcosm of the larger battles being waged off the field between the Yankees and Major League Baseball.

The May 27, 1983, clash between Dave Winfield and Mike Heath, set against the backdrop of George Steinbrenner's outspoken criticism and Lee MacPhail's measured response, serves as a reminder of the high stakes and intense emotions that often accompany professional baseball. The incident remains a significant moment in Yankees history, a blend of athletic confrontation, ownership drama, and league politics that defined an era for the Bronx Bombers.

--Alvin Izzo
BYB Yankee History Contributor

BRONX ZOO 90: A MUST SEE!

Dysfunction in Pinstripes. That defines the 1990 Yankees. While I was a huge fan back then, I really must have been blinded by being a fan and didn't get wrapped up into the other BS, because I have to tell you, Peacock's Bronx Zoo 90 is a wicked web of awesome. Wow!

In the annals of baseball history, the New York Yankees stand as a beacon of success, with a glittering array of championships and legendary players. However, even the most storied franchises have their dark chapters, and the 1990s proved to be a tumultuous period for the Bronx Bombers.

From off-field scandals to on-field disappointments, the Yankees of the 1990s were plagued by dysfunction at every turn. Let's delve into the myriad issues that plagued the team during this turbulent era.

The Perez Predicament: Pasqual Perez's Troubled Stint

The woes of the Yankees in the 1990s can be traced back to the tumultuous start of the decade when the signing of pitcher Pasqual Perez turned into a nightmare. Perez, known for his erratic behavior and off-field troubles, failed to live up to expectations on the mound. His tenure with the Yankees was marred by injuries, inconsistency, and controversy, symbolizing the team's struggles during this era.

Mel Hall: A Dark Cloud Over Yankee Stadium

Another stain on the Yankees' reputation in the 1990s was outfielder Mel Hall. Despite showing flashes of talent on the field, Hall's career was overshadowed by allegations of sexual misconduct involving a minor. The scandal rocked the organization and tarnished the image of the once-proud franchise.

Defensive Woes and Managerial Missteps

On the field, the Yankees' woes extended beyond individual players to the team's overall performance. Mike Blowers, in particular, struggled defensively, contributing to the team's lackluster showing in the field. Additionally, managerial decisions under the helm of Stump Merrill often left fans scratching their heads, as the team floundered under his leadership.

The Steinbrenner-Winfield Feud: A Saga of Egos

Behind the scenes, tensions simmered between owner George Steinbrenner and outfielder Dave Winfield. The feud between the two larger-than-life personalities reached its peak in the 1990s, with Steinbrenner's relentless criticism of Winfield creating a toxic atmosphere within the organization. The bitter feud cast a shadow over the team and distracted from its on-field performance.

Deion Sanders and Kevin Maas: Flashy Signings, Disappointing Results

Amidst the turmoil, the Yankees made splashy signings in the form of Deion Sanders and Kevin Maas. Sanders brought star power and flair to the team, while Maas was heralded as a potential superstar. However, both players failed to live up to expectations, with Sanders juggling baseball and football commitments and Maas unable to sustain his early success, leaving the Yankees with more headlines than wins. 

When it comes to Maas, Kevin Maas was a highly touted prospect who burst onto the scene with the New York Yankees in 1990. He hit 10 home runs in his first 77 at-bats, sparking a frenzy of "Maas hysteria" among fans and media alike. However, he struggled to maintain that level of performance over the long term. There are a few reasons for his difficulties:

Adjustments by pitchers: Pitchers quickly adjusted to Maas's hitting style and weaknesses, exploiting them effectively. They began throwing him a steady diet of breaking balls and off-speed pitches, which he struggled to hit consistently.

Injuries: Maas battled injuries during his career, which hampered his ability to perform at his best. These injuries may have affected his swing mechanics and timing, making it harder for him to produce at the plate.

Pressure and Expectations: The sudden burst of success and attention may have placed undue pressure on Maas. Expectations were sky-high after his impressive debut, and the weight of those expectations may have affected his confidence and performance.

Swing Mechanics: Some analysts pointed to flaws in Maas's swing mechanics that made him vulnerable to certain types of pitches. Despite his initial success, he may have had deficiencies in his approach that became more apparent as pitchers adjusted to him.

Limited Skill Set: While Maas had power, he lacked other essential skills such as plate discipline and the ability to hit for average. Pitchers exploited these weaknesses, making it difficult for him to sustain success over the long term.

Overall, a combination of factors, including adjustments by opposing pitchers, injuries, pressure, swing mechanics, and a limited skill set, contributed to Kevin Maas's struggles with the Yankees. Despite his initial promise, he was unable to replicate his early success consistently throughout his career.

The New York Yankees of the 1990s were a far cry from the dominant force they had been in years past. Dysfunction, controversy, and underperformance plagued the team, tarnishing its once-illustrious reputation. While the decade may have been a dark period in Yankees history, it also serves as a reminder that even the most iconic franchises are not immune to turmoil and upheaval.

This Documentary is perfect for anyone that wants to be truly entertained about one of the worst Yankee teams ever. I could not stop watching!

--Alvin Izzo

BYB Yankee History Contributor

IF IT'S ABOUT DEREK JETER'S LIFE, MAKE IT THAT

I have had my beef with Derek Jeter over the years. Not with his playing ability. For that I always considered him one of the greatest.  It had to do with his demeanor off the field and how he treated my kid at an event that once really ticked me off. I'm not gonna rehash, but you can read about it in SOMETIMES YOU GOTTA SMILE AND DEAL WITH IT, DEREK!

But Derek Jeter is forgiven, because as my kid reaches his 20th birthday and Jeter has been removed from the game, he's also gone from the Marlins, and now on social media. Derek Jeter is showing off his personality (finally). Dare I say, I really like this guy and his personality more than I ever thought I would.

Last night after the Home Run Derby, The Captain Episode 1 ran on ESPN.  It was great to see how this guy evolved with the Yankees through out the set backs of the team back then as well as his errors and sometimes doubt to make it in pinstripes.

One thing bothered me about Episode 1. The long, drawn out explanation of the feud between George Steinbrenner and Dave Winfield.  Now, as an adult, I remember that feud and the newspapers well.  It was a mess between George and Dave. But in the world of Derek Jeter, that 5 minute, off-track side story just didn't belong. It was just enough to almost lose me entirely. In short, it's not what I wanted to see.

For Randy Wilkins the director, it could have simply been a moment where he could have written a few sentences about how Jeter's idol was Winfield, how George and Dave butted heads, and that's what lead to George being forced out for a bit. Instead? It went to news packages, soundbites and for what I thought was a while, it wasn't even a Jeter documentary... it was a Steinbrenner doc... totally off track.

I tweeted that and this guy, clearly thought I was 16. This is what I wrote July 19, 2022 on Twitter: The Winfield/Steinbrenner Segway smack in the middle of this Jeter doc is truly bizarre. Almost lost me. #TheCaptain

You know the deal. It allowed Stick to build the farm and not trade them like George did in the 80s….hence 1995-1996….

— Lee W (@lee_w18) July 19, 2022

He’s 21. pic.twitter.com/HXylWYcDQo

— Lee W (@lee_w18) July 19, 2022

But it is - it’s how that team was built. George would have traded some of the young guys like posada Williams Mo and maybe even Derek. They don’t have the dynasty If Stick isn’t running things

— Lee W (@lee_w18) July 19, 2022

Or they could simply written something like:

"Dave Winfield and George Steinbrenner did not see eye to eye, to the point where George Steinbrenner did his own snooping around Winfield, hiring gambler Howard Spira to dig up dirt on him. The plot would backfire on George however. On July 30, 1990, Steinbrenner was banned permanently from day-to-day management, but not ownership of the Yankees by Commissioner Fay Vincent after George's plot was revealed and invesigated by the MLB.  But this would be a blessing for the Yankees, who would turn the Gene Michael, who believed in young talent, and patience."

There's your bridge. No bells, not whistles, facts without going off the reservation. The other way? It was disjointed... awkward.

Now in the end, I guess it's subjective, right? It's Wilkins doc... he could do it any way he wants, but Jeter's doc needed to be Jeter. Those moments before the segway were riveting. His upbringing, his dream. Hearing Steinbrenner getting booted for his ridiculous antics with Winfield, while newsworthy back then, we're pretty insignificant when I watched last night. Sure, it's a bridge to seeing Stick build the Yankees farm system, but it's a mention and move on like my script above... keeping Jeter and the Cour Four (plus Bernie) in the spotlight more.

Hey, my opinion. Ultimately, I'm loving this documentary so far. That one moment, it's one word... Subjective.

I hope you all get to watch it. Its very good. 

EMBARRASSING BASEBALL CONTINUES IN THE BRONX

Source: Associated Press

Sigh. I remember years ago when my father-in-law told me that he got suspended from school because his homework assignment was incomplete. He wrote about baseball and his essay simply said, "Game called on account of rain." That was the entirety his essay. Embarrassing, maybe. Unacceptable, definitely. In the case of the Yankees it is a little bit of both. And it is certainly not funny or something we would want to share across generations. There is something wrong with the Yankees and they better figure it out before fans put the team on suspension.

Ken Davidoff reported the brightside after Saturday's disappointing game,"Their fourth straight loss, 6-3 to the rival Rays in The Bronx, included no pinstriped errors, and Montgomery indeed made it into the seventh before petering out after one batter. Those were improvements on the 8-2 fiasco Friday night that prompted Aaron Boone to call a team meeting." 

So what were the goals of that team meeting? What were the call to actions? All Boone said was,“That’s for in there,” reported NJ.com. Really? Well that means my money stays in the bank and not at the ballpark this season since Boone doesn't think it is appropriate to share what the goals and outcomes of his team meeting was after the absolutely pitiful baseball his team has been playing. Ridiculous, just ridiculous.

Randy Miller of NJ.com reminds us that, "If you are desperate for some hope, well, the Yanks also began the 2019 season with a 5-8 record, then they went on to win 103 games. But that won’t help them turn this mess around, and it is a mess." 

I wish I had a true glimmer of hope but I don't. I can say I have enjoyed watching the San Diego Padres, the New York Mets and even the Philadelphia Phillies this season. But the Yankees are embarrassing and they are making me revert back to those early days when the Yankees didn't win despite having a talented team made up of guys like Dave Winfield and Don Mattingly. Those Yankee teams are forgettable. I barely remember who played during those grueling years post the 1978 championship. And I feel like this current bunch is just as forgettable particularly if this is the kind of season we have in store.

So Boone, you better have a plan and if you don't want to share it with the media or fans, then we better see it on the field. Because right now, the 2021 Yankees are an embarrassment to baseball and to the Yankee legacy. They are forgettable.

--Suzie Pinstripe
BYB Managing Editor
Twitter: @suzieprof

THE YANKEES CRUSH THE TWINS - BRING ON THE ASTROS!

By now you know that the Yankees cleared the first hurdle in the journey to their 28th World Series championship. They swept the Twins in 3 games and now are waiting for the winner of the Houston / Tampa Bay series. If you watched the games you saw the Yankees completely dominate each game. That domination had some key elements that are going to be critical in the next two series.

First, I cannot say enough how excited I am at Luis Severino’s success in his Game 3 start. It allows the Yankees to lead with a starting rotation of three dominant aces. Masahiro Tanaka and James Paxton have been excellent, but the Yankees needed that third ace. No one could have predicted Domingo German’s suspension, and without Severino, we would have been debating between starting Game 3 with J.A. Happ, CC Sabathia, or an opener from the bullpen. While I love those guys, none of them could have given us that ace start that Severino can. Having Severino at his current performance level allows us to go toe to toe with Justin Verlander, Gerrit Cole, and Zack Greinke. Luis Severino’s return took the Yankees to the next level.

Photo Credit: Associated Press

The lineup has been absolutely phenomenal. There is absolutely no weak point anywhere, from one to nine. You have to give special recognition to Gleyber Torres, who slashed .417/.462/.917 with an OPS of 1.379, and to Didi Gregorius, who slashed .400/.500/.700 and had an OPS of 1.200. With runners in scoring position the Yankees batted .313 in the division series.

Photo Credit: Ike Dimitriadis

Then there is the defense. I do not remember the last time I saw Aaron Judge making diving catches, jumping catches in the run, and running down balls in a way that reminded me of how Dave Winfield used to do it. Gleyber Torres’ slide and throw to end the 5th inning. Didi Gregorius’ diving catch that helped preserve the lead in the ninth. It’s like we have Graig Nettles at every position.

All this put together was more than just a division series win. It was a demonstration of dominance and hunger for a championship. Of course I assume that Houston will get past the Rays and meet us in the ALCS. The Houston Astros are a very good team. I feel nothing but confidence that we will beat them. We are playing like champions.

--Ike Dimitriadis
BYB Contributor
Twitter: @KingAgamemnon 

WHAT IS MACHADO'S SIGNING IMPACT ON BASEBALL?

Source: CBS Sports

The text messages raced into my inbox on Tuesday afternoon as we learned the fate of the late great short stop who played the first six years in his MLB career with the Baltimore Orioles.  Manny Machado got his 10-year $300 million dollar contact but he had to go to baseball's lost land to retrieve it.

Source: NY Daily News

"It took 113 days of free agency to play out, but Manny Machado is headed to San Diego on the largest deal ever handed out to a free agent," reported ESPN.  Is this considered a good signing? ESPN elicited its experts to unpack the impact of the deal for the Padres and the rest of baseball.

Source: USA Today

"Machado becomes the face of the franchise and by midseason will likely be teaming with rookie Fernando Tatis Jr. to give the Padres one of the best left sides of the infield in the majors. For a franchise that hasn't had a winning season since 2010 or made the playoffs since 2006, they finally are moving in the right direction," said ESPN's David Schoenfield.

Source: San Diego Tribune

I hadn't ever placed the words good and San Diego in the same sentence before.  Isn't that where the Yankees shipped Phil Hughes, Bryan Mitchell and eventually sent back Chase Headley? Yep, that's the same team.  But the ESPN baseball analysts seemingly are on to something.

"The Padres probably won't be very good this year, but with the best current farm system in baseball they probably will be quite good in many of the next half-dozen years, and players like Manny Machado aren't just freely available to pick up when a team decides to flip the switch and compete. They just got an MVP candidate for the middle of the lineup and all it cost them was money," said ESPN's Sam Miller.

Source: NESN.com

As far as Machado's impact on the rest of baseball? Well, he's out of the American League and the American League East, so that's good for the Yankees.  Cleveland is jumping for joy because the White Sox didn't win the free agent over despite inviting a bunch of Machado's family to the payroll. Byrce Harper is a winner here too because likely he will get what he wants too.

Source: USA Today

Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred stated in a press conference on Tuesday that this signing is good for baseball.  "I think it’s good in baseball to have big stars present in some of our smaller markets and see those markets really being out there willing to compete for the best talent.” 

Source: The Athletic

As far as the impact on the White Sox, in a word, they feel "defeated."  “I’m still in a bit of disbelief. (Chairman Jerry Reinsdorf) really, really stepped up. If the acceptance of the offer that I’m seeing is true, then actually our offer had the opportunity for Manny to surpass that. But in the end we went after the guy and we didn’t get him," said Executive vice president Ken Williams as reported by the Chicago Tribune.  And he added that the similarity of the two teams is clearly evident.  "You’ve got to give it to them. They are in a similar trajectory as we are. And for the same reasons we were after him, they were after him. Their ownership group did a great job in trumping everyone else.”

Source: Camden Chat

So, Manny Machado rides into the sunset presumably with his top down on his convertible.  Hey, the weather is great out there, Manny, not like Chicago or Northeast weather, which starts cold and ends up steaming hot in the summer months.  He goes to a small market team with very little post season visits but recall that Dave Winfield was Padre before heading to the Yankees, so maybe he will do well being a big fish in a small pond.  At least he's out of the Yankees mind and they can get down to the business of winning...something Manny won't see for sometime.

--Suzie Pinstripe
BYB Managing Editor
Twitter: @suzieprof

YANKEE FANS VS. YANKEE BRATS

Source: Jim McIsaac/Getty Images North America

Everyone has that family member you wish wasn't a family member. That mouthy uncle, the pretentious aunt or the brother-in-law you wish you could put on waivers. As Yankee fans we are also a family in a way...and I WISH WE COULD TRADE THE BRATS THAT BOOED STANTON TO THE METS 2 DAYS AGO!!! You know, when Stanton had a lousy game and you hated him.

Photo: Getty Images

Because 2 days ago was April 3rd.  And yesterday was April 4th and Stanton homered. So Shut up.

The Yankees are off to a good start.  Oh, they're not 5-0? Oh, you wanted Machado and Harper instead of the current NL MVP?! Quit your whining you lousy brats! Better yet, the next time you decide to boo a guy like Giancarlo...HIT THE DEEGAN! Seriously, just beat it early.

Photo: Getty Images

Stanton had a lousy day at the plate that day he struck out 5 times. And guess what, Didi had a HISTORIC day. But don't forget... Stanton won game 1 for us. HE FLAT OUT WON IT...and now you boo him? If you do, you're NOT Yankee fan...you are a Yankee brat. You are why the Yankee fan gets a league-wide bad rap. You want every free agent. You freak out over a 3-game slide. You hated Joe Girardi. You'll end up hating Aaron F'n Boone too. You think you know the right move that wasn't made no matter what...and you're most always WRONG! I'm tired of these type of "fans".

You know what I want to do? I want to apologize to Stanton on behalf of the Yankee die-hards that remember Jeter's epic slump. Those of us who remember when Moose was sent to the bullpen.

The guys and gals that saw big Dave Winfield's swing had a 6'7" hole in it.

Bad days, slumps and scuffles happen. BYB preaches this because BYB gets it and that's why I'm damn proud to speak my mind here.  Stanton had an 0-5, 5 strikeout bad day the other day.  Now yesterday he homers and you love him again.  I see how this works.

Photo: Getty Images

But here's what matters about that bad day. Like a true MVP he called himself out and gave Didi his well-deserved pat on the back. The next one Giancarlo hit knocked the international space station out of orbit...and you same clowns probably rushed to Modell's and buy REPLICA jerseys with the name STANTON glued into the fabric...because you suck.

Photo: Not actually O'Hara

And so, the next time you boo this guy for a bad day, I will be the guy in my living room LOUDLY booing you! Why? because it's actually less ridiculous to do than to boo Stanton. I say we "lose" your invites to the next family reunion in the Bronx. I'm done. Go Yanks!

Mr. Leary sums these folks up better than I can....tell'em, Dennis.

--Mike O'Hara
BYB Writer
Twitter: @mikeyoh21