As for Damon’s throwing arm, while it is very weak, Gardner’s isn’t much stronger.

As for who will play CF, Cashman has stated that Granderson will play CF, according to LoHud (see excerpted blog entry). Because Granderson has played a very good CF in the past and figures to be at least a medium-term part of the team, it makes much more sense to install him in CF and then use a revolving door approach in LF until a permanent solution can be found. Gardner might not even last a season, so I see no reason to subplant Granderson based on limited defensive data.

LoHud – 1/2/10

Frankly, I think they’re both pretty good, but I know there are several who completely disagree. Bottom line is (I think) both can handle the position, but the Yankees have made no secret of their plans to start Granderson in center, leaving Gardner as the current left fielder.

As for UZR, it seems to me that, based on the above, you’re implying or assuming that it is a comprehensive measure of defensive ability in the outfield. It is not. And I’m sure you will correct me if I’m wrong about whether you make that assumption.

As for UZR itself, when a 36-year old player turns in declining UZRs, that tells us more than the fact that he once had a good UZR. I agree that you look at more than one season, but you weigh the decline at a late stage in the career more heavily. At least I do.

And then there is Johnny’s inability to throw to the infield with any speed whatsoever. I watched runner after runner last year take an extra base on Johnny. He was definitely an offensive plus in both the regular and post-season, but there were innumerable plays where Gardner, Granderson, or almost anyone else would have had a shot at the runner trying to score and Damon had none. He should not even bother throwing home. Given our offensive, I’d rather have a guy who can make some outfield assists and who teams think twice about trying to score on.

Finally, I am aware that most people think it will/would be Gardy in left and Grandy in center, but I have not heard any actual Yankee employees say that. If you have, please enlighten me. I would do it the other way around, because of the easier load on Grandy and his larger expected offensive contribution.

If the Yankees can get Damon for their price, there is absolutely no reason to pass him by in favor of Gardner.

1) i am a bit surprised about chapman to the reds – didn’t see that coming

2) i thought diasuke’s problem was his lack of shoulder savings – now it it was a leg injury that led to bad mechanics?

[5] thanks, D!

[2] that was my thought too.

[3] that was a helluva game and an awful way for the packers to lose.

Yes, YSIII inflates his numbers.
But the guy will be 36 next year.
Do you expect 126 again? How about even 115?

Meanwhile, NJ (who is 5 years younger) has a career OPS+ of 125, and has average that over the last 4 years, and better then that over the last 5 and 6.

So… you really expect JD will out OPS+ NJ?

One never knows what will happen, but statistically (and especially considering age), NJ should post much better numbers in 2010.

LOL … well-played!

51-45. Damn, whatagame.