THE PASQUA-PAGLIARULO ERA

Once upon a time, in the bustling world of Major League Baseball, a young slugger named Danny Pasqua found himself the center of attention in the Bronx. But let’s not kid ourselves—Pasqua’s journey to the New York Yankees was as much about fortuitous timing and the Yankees’ desperate need for some left-handed power as it was about his own undeniable talent.

Born in Yonkers, New York, and drafted by the Yankees in the third round of the 1982 MLB Draft, Danny Pasqua was destined to be a hometown hero. By 1985, the Yankees were salivating over the prospect of Pasqua's mighty swing. In a league where home runs were the currency of cool, Pasqua’s power at the plate was like finding a vintage Corvette at a garage sale. His promotion to the big leagues was seen as the Yankees’ next great hope to revive their storied, yet recently stumbling, franchise.

Pasqua’s impact was immediate. Despite a somewhat pedestrian batting average, his knack for hitting timely home runs quickly earned him a place in the hearts of Yankee fans. His ability to launch balls into the stratosphere, especially in the cavernous confines of Yankee Stadium, was a sight to behold. It wasn’t long before he became a fan favorite, not just for his power but for his blue-collar work ethic and humble demeanor—a refreshing contrast to the often prima donna nature of MLB stars.

But what truly solidified Pasqua’s place in the Yankee lore was his partnership with fellow slugger Mike Pagliarulo. Pags, as he was affectionately known, was another homegrown talent, coming up through the Yankees' farm system around the same time as Pasqua. Together, they formed a lefty-righty power duo that could send shivers down the spines of opposing pitchers.

While Pasqua provided the raw power, Pagliarulo added a touch of flair and consistency. Pags wasn’t just a home run hitter; he was also a slick-fielding third baseman who could make the tough plays look easy. With his distinctive batting stance and clutch hitting, Pagliarulo complemented Pasqua perfectly, and their combined ability to hit homers made them an exciting, must-watch tandem.

The Pasqua-Pagliarulo duo gave Yankees fans something to cheer about during a period that was otherwise marked by turmoil and underperformance. The 1980s were not kind to the Bronx Bombers; they were often overshadowed by rivals and plagued by internal chaos. Yet, Pasqua and Pagliarulo offered a glimmer of hope and excitement, a reminder of the raw, untamed power that could one day return the Yankees to their former glory.

Their popularity wasn’t just about the long balls, although that was a big part of it. It was also about their personas—both players were seen as gritty, hard-working, and relatable. They weren’t superstars with egos the size of Manhattan; they were guys you could imagine having a beer with after the game. This relatability endeared them to fans, who saw in Pasqua and Pagliarulo not just talented athletes, but reflections of their own love for the game.

So, while Danny Pasqua’s journey to the Yankees might have started with a combination of luck and need, his legacy was built on the sheer joy he brought to fans every time he stepped up to the plate. And when he teamed up with Mike Pagliarulo, it was a one-two punch that reminded everyone why baseball is called America’s pastime—because sometimes, it’s just about the pure, unadulterated thrill of watching the ball fly over the fence.

--Alvin Izzo
BYB Yankee History Contributor

THE NEW YANKEE FAVORITE THAT CAN'T BE TRADED!

Sometimes you read something, and you just yell obscenities out loud because they don't make any sense! That's what I did yesterday. I am really curious to see what moves the Yankees will make at the trade deadline because they have been on fire. Literally anything is possible.... seriously, but one idea I read I'd file under EXTREMELY unlikely. 

So, something interesting caught my eye when I was reading The Athletic. They are also pondering what moves the Yankees will make. I think the Yankees have some opportunities in the infield specifically and the Athletic seems to agree also but they also included a possibility of moving Alex Verdugo! Yes, really.... you can check it out HERE.

I get that the Yankees signed him for one year and he's supposedly a stop gap until Jasson Dominguez is ready for a starting role but why the hell would you trade Verdugo? There are more upsides to keeping him on the team then there are to trade him!

The Yankees are on a good roll. They are doing better than I expected SO if they are really going for #28 this year WHY would you trade him? He's gritty and is thriving in New York! He's a solid lefty bat, plays phenomenal defense and fits in so well in that clubhouse. Seriously, this guy is a gamer and is afraid of nothing. We haven't had this kind of grit and determination in the outfield since Brett Gardner ruled the outfield and then would bang his bat on the dugout roof. Verdugo isn't intimidated by anything happening in the Bronx.

The Yankees have had a revolving door of mediocrity in the outfield since Gardner left and that's downplaying it when you consider Aaron Hicks and Joey Gallo overstayed their welcome out there. The Yankees were tied for LAST place last year in defensive runs saved and the Yankees are now at the top all thanks to Verdugo. He's robbing hitters out there consistently and he's a difference maker. Why would the Yankees want to mess with team chemistry? If it ain't broke, don't fix it.

I want the guy that says "I want to f***ing take everybody's hits" manning that outfield every game. He fits in with this team and he has earned his spot. The Yankees are buyers this summer not sellers. Why would they sell a difference maker?

Verdugo wants to f***ing take everyone's hit (and I love it) and I want to tell The Athletic that they are f***ing nuts!

--Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa

BYB Senior Managing Editor

Twitter: @nyprincessj

JORDAN MONTGOMERY SUDDENLY SUCKS

I'm a big Gumby fan.  I didn't want to see Jordan Montgomery leave New York.  It was great when he just dominated after that.  I can't stand Brian Cashman so I wanted him to just take it up the ass.  Then Monty won with the Rangers and It was perfect.  Now however, Monty is struggling a bit.

Burn City Sports Burn City Sports writes:

"Jordan Montgomery’s home ERA has ballooned to an alarming 9.00 this season after allowing six earned runs in just two innings against the San Francisco Giants on Wednesday.

Montgomery faced boos as he left the mound at Chase Field following a disastrous 3rd inning that included a leadoff single, a two-run home run, a single, a walk, another single, and finally, a grand slam, making it a 6-1 game with no outs recorded."

Maybe it's the same thing that Blake Snell is going through.  Snell revealed last week how important Spring Training is and that this year he didn't have it holding out for big money and it really bit him in the ass.  Could be similar as Snell can't light a candle these days, he's so horrible.

Whatever the case, I really want to see Monty do well for the Diamondbacks.  I wish him well.  

THE COPACABANA INCIDENT

May 16, 1957. 

One of the most well-documented and reported stories about Mickey Mantle's antics off the field involves the infamous "Copacabana incident" of 1957. This event encapsulates the wild side of Mantle's life, involving drinking, rowdy behavior, and his notorious teammates. That night at the Copa was the Mick, Whitey Ford, Billy Martin, Hank Bauer, Yogi Berra and Johnny Kucks. Sammy Davis Jr. was the headliner.

The Yankees had just played a game against the Kansas City Athletics earlier that day. In celebration of Billy Martin's birthday, several Yankees players and their wives decided to go out for a night on the town, choosing the Copacabana, a popular nightclub, as their destination. The night took a wild turn as the players consumed copious amounts of alcohol.

As the evening progressed, the group found themselves embroiled in a brawl with some patrons from a nearby table. These patrons were reportedly members of a bowling team who had been heckling singer Sammy Davis Jr., who was performing that night. The Yankees players took offense to the derogatory remarks and a physical altercation ensued.

So, what happened? Some consequences. The incident garnered significant media attention and became a public relations nightmare for the Yankees. 

Yankees’ management, led by General Manager George Weiss, was furious. Billy Martin, who was considered a troublemaker, was traded to the Kansas City Athletics shortly after the incident. Other players faced fines, but the exact amounts and internal disciplinary actions were not always publicly disclosed. The New York newspapers had a field day with the story, which dominated the sports pages for weeks.

Mickey Mantle's image as a hard-drinking, fun-loving player was cemented. Despite the incident, Mantle continued to be a fan favorite and a highly productive player on the field. The incident highlighted the wild and rebellious culture within the Yankees clubhouse during that era, particularly among Mantle, Ford, Martin, and other players known for their nightlife escapades.

This story remains one of the most colorful and frequently recounted episodes in the history of Mickey Mantle and the New York Yankees, encapsulating the intersection of sports, celebrity, and scandal during the 1950s.

--Alvin Izzo
BYB Yankee History Contributor

GERRIT COLE DOESN'T DISAPPOINT IN SOMERSET!

It was a nice night for Gerrit Cole in Somerset. Cole was on the mound and working his way back to the big team. For now, his rehab start is in the books as being a successful one and that's a great thing. No doubt the Yankees pitchers are holding down the fort nicely, but it would be good to have Cole back for some extra stability.  At any rate, Cole did good, check this out... it's from the New York Post. New York Post.

"...the reigning American League Cy Young winner saw his first game action of 2024 when he tossed 45 pitches (34 strikes) over 3 ¹/₃ scoreless innings — while topping out at 97 mph — to start a rehab assignment for Double-A Somerset against Hartford.

Cole allowed two singles, walked none and struck out five before leaving to a standing ovation at TD Bank Ballpark with one out in the fourth. " I’d say [I’m] definitely close. I’m not sure how many more we’ll need, but definitely closer rather than farther away. It should be right around the corner now.”

My honest opinion? It won't be long.  We will see Cole in the Bronx soon... and I can't wait.

THE TRUTH ABOUT BABE RUTH'S WATERLOGGED PIANO

The story of Babe Ruth's piano is a fascinating blend of legend and local folklore centered around his time in Sudbury, Massachusetts. If you've never heard the story, you're going to love this.

According to various accounts and we are sourcing the New England Historical Society, the tale began when Babe Ruth rented a cottage near Willis Pond during his tenure with the Boston Red Sox in 1917 and 1918. One winter day, Ruth and some friends supposedly pushed a piano onto the frozen pond during a party, and as the ice melted, the piano sank to the bottom of the pond​.

The story persisted through the decades, with many local residents and enthusiasts attempting to locate the piano. In the 1950s, 60s, and 70s, various groups of boys claimed to have seen the piano in the pond. More serious searches were conducted in the early 2000s, using advanced equipment like sonar and magnetometers, but these efforts also failed to yield conclusive results​.

In an intriguing twist, a local named Charlie Barry came forward in 2010, recounting how he and his brother had discovered an old piano in the woods near Willis Pond in 1964. They used parts of it for a clubhouse and eventually threw what remained of the piano into the pond. In subsequent searches, divers did recover some pieces of wood and a piano leg, which were believed to be from the legendary piano and are now held by the Sudbury Historical Society​.  

These artifacts are kept in storage and serve as a tangible connection to the legend of Babe Ruth's piano​. There is no indication that any other museums, libraries, or private collectors own parts of the piano, making the Sudbury Historical Society the primary custodian of these historical remnants.

The story remains a captivating piece of local lore and a testament to Babe Ruth's larger-than-life persona.

Many wonder why Babe Ruth did it. Why put a piano on a frozen pond? The reason is largely tied to a festive and celebratory atmosphere rather than any specific purpose. A combination of enthusiasm, revelry, and perhaps some alcohol many believe. Whatever the case... it is interesting, and furthermore, the story appears to be true.  Crazy.

--Alvin Izzo

BYB Yankee History Contributor

THE DATE IS SET! COLE'S RETURN IS ALMOST HERE

I've been anxiously awaiting two important moments to happen. One of them is about to happen, and it's been a long time coming. We've all been waiting for the announcement that Gerrit Cole will start a rehab assignment and it's finally here.... tomorrow. The first of two important events is finally here.

Cole's rehab begins tomorrow with Double-A Somerset with a potential return to big league action by the end of June. Aaron Boone says Cole will pitch in "at least a couple" rehab games and I would expect the Yankees to exercise caution and use most of that 30-day rehab clock just to make sure Cole is stretched back out and ready for big league action. You can read more HERE and start to rejoice.

I can be a pretty impatient person, but I think the Yankees have made all the right moves with Cole's rehab so far. I also think that Cole getting closer to a return is a good thing for the rotation since Clarke Schmidt has a lat strain and will likely be out until at least August BUT that shouldn't make them try to speed through his rehab assignment. The Yankees have exceeded expectations without Cole, and the starters have been a strength for this team so there's no need to make hasty decisions.

If Cody Poteet had a disastrous outing, they may feel some pressure to find another solution fast, but for now, there is no reason to believe Poteet can't hold down the last roster spot until Cole returns to the lineup. The Yankees have the ability right now to let Cole slowly ramp up while giving Schmidt the time to rest, which he definitely needs.

A sense of normalcy is on the horizon, and I can't wait. We are all happy with what we have seen so far from the Yankees. I'm happy to see the Yankees competing with the Baltimore Orioles. I really didn't expect to have a three-game lead against them at this point while the rest of the AL East is in the basement but I will take it. It's definitely felt strange to not have our ace throwing meaningful games, and we are finally getting closer to the norm.

I'm ready to see Cole back on that mound pitching in Yankee stadium. We are almost there.... but as long as we get there without setbacks, I will be a happy camper. Tomorrow is step one, but step two is coming soon, and it will be worth the wait.

--Jeana Bellezza-Ochoa

BYB Senior Managing Editor

Twitter: @nyprincessj

WHY HAS GRAIG NETTLES RECENTLY BEEN OVERLOOKED FOR OLD TIMER'S DAY?

Graig Nettles, an iconic figure in New York Yankees history, has been noticeably absent from the team's Old Timers' Day since around 2017. This absence has puzzled many fans, especially given Nettles' significant contributions to the team during his tenure. In 2022, Nettles himself expressed his confusion, stating, "They stopped inviting me about five years ago and I don’t know why, really. I don't know if somebody – whoever is in charge, doesn't like me. I don't know."

This statement opens the door to speculation about why one of the Yankees' most celebrated players has not been welcomed back for this cherished tradition. Here are some potential reasons for his exclusion:

Nettles hinted at the possibility that someone in the Yankees' organization might hold a personal grudge against him. During his career and even afterward, Nettles was known for his outspoken personality and candid comments. Is it possible that his forthrightness may have rubbed some people the wrong way, leading to lingering personal conflicts? If an influential figure within the organization harbors negative feelings towards Nettles, it could explain his omission from the event. But is that it?

The leadership of sports franchises often changes, and with new management come new policies and preferences. But Hal's been around for a long time. The Yankees have seen various changes in their front office over the years, and it's conceivable that new decision-makers might not prioritize or even remember Nettles' contributions as previous leaders did. This could result in a simple oversight or a deliberate decision to focus on different aspects of the team's history.

Of course, there could also be personal reasons on Nettles' side that contribute to his absence. While Nettles himself has expressed a desire to attend, there might be underlying health or family issues that make his participation less feasible. However, given his public statements, this seems less likely compared to the other reasons. After all, the Yankees have invited plenty of former players that have been ill or much older and slower due to age.  I can't imagine this is it either.

Old Timers' Day is a celebration that evolves over time, often reflecting the changing demographics and interests of the fan base. The Yankees might be shifting their focus to more recent retirees who are more familiar to younger fans. This shift might inadvertently sideline older legends like Nettles, whose prime years were several decades ago.

The true reason for Graig Nettles' absence from Old Timers' Day remains unclear, and it could be a combination of the factors mentioned above. His contributions to the Yankees are undeniable, and his confusion and disappointment over the lack of an invitation are understandable. Whatever the reason, it's a reminder that the bonds between sports legends and their former teams can be complex and subject to the changing dynamics of personalities, leadership, and time.

Reinviting Nettles to Old Timers' Day would not only honor his legacy but also bridge any existing gaps, ensuring that the history and tradition of the Yankees are preserved and celebrated in their entirety. In short, the fans would love it.

--Alvin Izzo
BYB Yankee History Contributor

DOMINGUEZ IS MORE THAN READY

The Yankee universe is already happy with the Yankees and all they are doing this season. Behind Aaron Judge and Juan Soto, the team has been quite remarkable.  In essence... we don't need anyone else.  And so having a few other good guys to come up could potentially be a problem. A good problem, but a problem none the less.

Jasson Dominguez is in his rehab games right now in the minor leagues and he is tearing it up. Empire Sports Media writes:

"At 21 years old, Dominguez is demonstrating that youth can be a significant advantage when recovering from severe injuries. Displaying his inherent power, Dominguez has already hit three home runs in just eight games for Double-A Somerset this season, a feat particularly notable as power usually takes the longest to return post-surgery.

Dominguez began his rehabilitation with Single-A Tampa, where he played four games and boasted a batting average of .385 and an on-base percentage of .529 over 17 plate appearances. His performance continued to impress at Somerset with a .333/.358/.606 slash line, including three home runs, seven RBIs, and a weighted runs created plus (wRC+) of 167 over 34 plate appearances. "

And so, the big question is what are the Yankees going to do when the kid's ready? He doesn't and shouldn't be in the minors too long, and the Yankees would be fools to get rid of him in a trade and so, does he ride the bench, and potentially rotate with Alex Verdugo in the outfield and Giancarlo Stanton at DH?  Again, a good problem to have, we just have to see what happens.

The bottom line? I'm looking forward to seeing the Martian back in the Bronx! So exciting to watch.

THE WORST TRADE IN YANKEE HISTORY

In the storied history of the New York Yankees, a franchise synonymous with greatness and championships, there exists a blemish so egregious, it makes even the most ardent fans wince in collective disbelief. Enter the trade of Jay Buhner for Ken Phelps. Yes, you read that right. The Yankees traded away a future star for... well, Ken Phelps. Buckle up, because this tale of woe and incompetence is as snark-inducing as it gets.

Before donning the pinstripes, Ken Phelps was, let's say, an "acquired taste." With a swing that could charitably be described as "awkward" and a batting stance reminiscent of a man trying to avoid stepping on a tack, Phelps was not exactly setting the world on fire. Sure, he had some power, but his career up until joining the Yankees was a testament to mediocrity.

Ken Phelps' pre-MLB days are often glossed over, but they're worth noting. Phelps was always rumored to be a standout softball player, known for his prodigious power and keen eye at the plate. His powerful swing and ability to crush pitches into the stands were well documented in local leagues and drew significant attention.

However, being a great softball player and succeeding in Major League Baseball are two entirely different challenges. The transition from softball to professional baseball, especially at the highest level, is a monumental leap. While Phelps managed to parlay his softball success into a professional baseball career, his journey to MLB prominence was anything but straightforward.

Phelps spent his best years in relative obscurity with the Seattle Mariners, where his stats were modest at best. He hit for power sporadically, clubbing 51 homers in his three full seasons with the Mariners, but his batting average hovered around the .240 mark. He struck out with alarming frequency and wasn't exactly a Gold Glove candidate at first base. To be fair, Phelps did have a decent on-base percentage, but let’s face it: you don't trade a promising young outfielder for a "decent on-base percentage."

And then there's Jay Buhner. Oh, Jay Buhner. The man who would go on to haunt the Yankees for over a decade. After the trade in July 1988, Buhner took his talents to the Pacific Northwest, where he blossomed into one of the most feared sluggers of the 1990s. He became a cornerstone of the Mariners' lineup, teaming up with Ken Griffey Jr. to form a dynamic duo that terrorized American League pitchers.

Let's talk numbers, shall we? From 1989 to 1997, Buhner averaged 27 home runs and 82 RBIs per season, peaking in 1996 with 44 homers and 138 RBIs. He earned three consecutive Gold Gloves (1993-1995) and was an All-Star in 1996. In short, Buhner became everything the Yankees needed and more, but alas, he was smashing dingers and robbing homers for Seattle instead.

The fallout from this trade was as epic as you’d expect. George Steinbrenner, the mercurial owner of the Yankees, was livid. The trade would go on to make Steinbrenner's blood boil like a teapot left on high heat. As the seasons passed and Buhner's legend grew, Steinbrenner's regret became palpable.

In a legendary moment immortalized by the TV show Seinfeld, the trade was mocked when Frank Costanza berated George Steinbrenner for trading away Jay Buhner, saying, "How could you have traded Buhner for Ken Phelps?! He had 30 home runs, over 100 RBIs last year! He's got a rocket for an arm... you don't know what the hell you're doing!"

Steinbrenner, for all his bluster, likely shared Frank Costanza’s sentiment. The trade epitomized the shortsightedness and mismanagement that occasionally plagued the Yankees during Steinbrenner’s tenure. It was a stark reminder that not every move the franchise made was golden, and that even the mighty Yankees were not immune to catastrophic blunders.

The Jay Buhner for Ken Phelps trade remains a cautionary tale in the annals of baseball history. It's a prime example of why patience and long-term vision are crucial in building a successful team. Buhner's departure left a void in the Yankees' lineup that was felt for years, while Phelps' tenure in New York was a forgettable blip on the radar.

So, next time you hear about a trade that sounds too ridiculous to be true, just remember: the Yankees once traded Jay Buhner for Ken Phelps. And somewhere, George Steinbrenner is still shaking his head.

--Alvin Izzo
BYB Yankee History Contributor

THE GAME OF TELEPHONE & JUAN SOTO

It's a story that pretty much means nothing until we see what happens at the end of this year.  It's gossip... it's a game of telephone, but it's fun anyway.  Will Juan Soto go to the Mets after this season as I believe he will? Well, this nugget just popped up and it comes from Yardbarker.  A friend of Soto talked to the great Bob Klapisch... and that's a good story for any paper.

Yardbarker writes:

"Somebody allegedly close with Juan Soto recently spoke with Bob Klapisch of NJ Advance Media about the New York Mets' possible pursuit of New York Yankees outfielder Juan Soto this coming offseason.

"Juan is not going to play for a joke of a team," Soto's friend said about the Mets. "Period."

But does that mean he's going to stay with the Yankees for a big pay day?  I don't know about that. Remember what Steinbrenner said the other day. The Yankees payroll is not sustainable.  

Soto is no doubt a franchise player. The Yankees clearly need him. He's a superfreak.  But it's just too early to say.  I really hope he stays in the Bronx. But it's June 1st... a long way to go. Alot of rumors ahead but remember... we won't know till it's done.

And we wait.

AARON JUDGE IS RED HOT. CAN HE CRUSH 62 AGAIN?

In the annals of baseball history, few moments are as electrifying as the crack of the bat that sends a ball soaring over the outfield wall. It’s a sound that reverberates through the stands, a melody that fans of America’s pastime know all too well. And in the grand symphony of baseball, Aaron Judge composed an unforgettable opus when he shattered Roger Maris's longstanding single-season home run record.

The year was 2022, and Aaron Judge was a man on a mission. Standing at a colossal 6’7”, Judge is an imposing figure, but it's his swing that commands the most attention. Each at-bat was a spectacle, and with every home run, the buzz grew louder. When he finally hit his 62nd home run, surpassing Maris's 61 set in 1961, the baseball world erupted. It was more than just a record; it was a statement. Judge had not only dethroned a legend but also cemented his place among the game's greats.

Judge’s feat was remarkable, not just for the number but for the pressure and scrutiny that accompanied each swing. With every game, every pitch, the eyes of the world were upon him, waiting to see if he could do what so many had attempted but failed. And Judge, with a calm demeanor and an undeniable talent, delivered in spectacular fashion.

What makes Aaron Judge’s swing so potent? It’s a blend of raw power, keen eye coordination, and an almost uncanny ability to read pitches. His approach at the plate is both methodical and explosive. The sheer force he generates is enough to send shivers down a pitcher’s spine, but it’s his precision that makes him truly dangerous.

Moreover, Judge's athleticism belies his size. He’s not just a home run hitter but an all-around player, contributing with stellar defense and a surprising agility for someone of his stature. It’s this complete package that makes him a constant threat, a player who can change the course of a game with a single swing.

As we turn our attention to 2024, the question on everyone’s mind is: Can Aaron Judge do it again? Can he once more rise to the occasion and surpass the lofty heights of his 2022 season?

The short answer is: why not? Judge has shown time and again that he thrives under pressure. His work ethic is legendary, and his physical conditioning is second to none. If anyone can replicate such an extraordinary feat, it’s Aaron Judge.

However, repeating history is no small task. Opposing teams will undoubtedly be more prepared, pitchers will be more cautious, and the expectations will be sky-high. But Judge has never shied away from a challenge. He’s the kind of player who embraces the spotlight, who feeds off the energy of the fans and the gravity of the moment.

Moreover, the Yankees have bolstered their lineup, providing Judge with even more protection and opportunities to see quality pitches. With a strong supporting cast, Judge can focus on what he does best: hitting home runs and leading his team.

So, will Aaron Judge break his own record in 2024? It’s a tantalizing prospect. While the road will be tough, and the odds steep, Judge has the talent, the drive, and the experience to make another historic run. If he stays healthy and continues to refine his craft, we might just witness yet another chapter in the legend of Aaron Judge.

In the unpredictable theater of baseball, where legends are born and records are shattered, Aaron Judge stands as a towering figure—both literally and figuratively. Whether he breaks the record again or not, one thing is certain: every time Aaron Judge steps up to the plate, history is in the making. And as fans, we’re all lucky to witness the magic unfold.

--Alvin Izzo
BYB Yankee History Contributor