The NSI Minor League Report: Ajax, Romine & Montero Sizzling

Saturday 5/29

The Yanks top 3 position players continue to shine. Austin Jackson went 2 for 3, with 3 runs and 2 stolen bases in a Scranton win. Ajax has his average up to .353. Shelley Duncan chipped in with two homers and five RBI's.

In Tampa, Jesus Montero went 3 for 4 with a homer. Montero has his average up to .351. Austin Romine had two hits and a homer, to go along with 3 RBI's.

Christian Garcia pitched another gem for Trenton, going 5 2/3 innings with 2 hits. His ERA is .60. If Garcia can stay healthy and get some innings on his arm this year, he has an ace like ceiling.

Scranton def Louisville 9-1
Reegie Corona 1-4, R, SB
Austin Jackson 2-3, 3 R, RBI, 2 SB (11) - .353
Todd Linden 1-3, 2R, HR, BB, 2 K
Shelley Duncan 2-4, 2 R 2 HR (18), 5 RBI - leagues lead in homers
John Rodriguez 1-4, R, HR (10), RBI
Rumulo Sanchez 1.2 IP, 3 H, 1ER, 2 BB, 2 K - no starters were available
Zach Kroenke 1.2 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 3 BB, 2 K
Anthony Claggett 3 IP, 0's, 2 BB, 1 K

Trenton def Altoona 5-3
Justin Snyder 2-4, HR, 3 RBI, BB, K
Colin Curtis 0-2, R, 2 BB
Jorge Vazquez 0-4, 2 K
Edwar Gonzalez 2-4, 2B
Noah Hall 1-4, 2B, 2 RBI
Christian Garcia 5.2 IP, 2 H, 2 R, 1 ER, 3 BB, 6 K - .60 ERA
Kevin Whelan 2 IP, 1 H, 0's, 1 K

Tampa losses to Charlotte 8-5
Jesus Montero 3-4, 2 R, HR (8), RBI - .351, 5 SB's/5 attempts
Austin Romine 2-4, HR (5), 3 RBI - .284
Brandon Laird 0-4, 3 K
Wady Ruffino 2-4, R, 2B, K
Sergio Mitre 3.2 IP, 7 H, 5 R, 2 ER, 2 BB, 2 K - 1st game back from PED suspension

Charleston losses to Greenville 3-1
Abraham Almonte 1-4, 2 SB (11)
Dan Brewer 1-4, K
David Adams 0-3. BB, K
Corban Joseph 1-3, RBI, BB, K
Melky Mesa 1-3, R, SB (5)
David Phelps 6 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 2 BB, 5 K
Cory Arbiso 2 IP, 5 H, 2 ER, 0 BB, 2 K Read the full post, after the jump

The NSI Minor League Report: Montero's The Minors Hottest Hitter

Friday 5/29

Jesus Montero continued his hot hitting with a 2 for 4 day, in a Tampa loss. He was named by Baseball America as the hottest player in the minor leagues.

The rest of the minor league teams won their games, and Charleston won both ends of their doubleheader completion.

Scranton def Louisville 4-1
Reegie Corona 1-4, 2 K
Austin Jackson 0-4, K - .348
Todd Linden 1-4, R
Shelley Duncan 2-4, R
Juan Miranda 1-4, HR (8), 3 RBI, K - homered off a lefty
John Rodriguez 2-4
Eric Duncan 2-3
Kei Igawa 7 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 3 BB, 5 K
Mark Melancon 2 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 2 K

Trenton def Altoona 10-5
Eduardo Nunez 1-3
Colin Curtis 2-5, 2 RBI, BB, K
Chris Malec 1-5, 2B, RBI
Jorge Vazquez 2-3, R, 2 BB, E
Kyle Anson 3-3, 3 R, 2 BB, 3 RBI, 2 BB
Justin Snyder 2-5, R, 2B, RBI, K
James Cooper 2-4, 2 R, 3 RBI
Wilkins De La Rosa 5.2 IP, 5 H, 4 R, 1 ER, 3 BB, 4 K, 3 HR's
Michael Dunn 1.2 IP, 1 H, 1 ER, 3 BB, 3 K
Amaury Sanit 1.2 IP, 0 BB, 0 R, 1 BB, 2 K

Tampa lost to Ft. Meyers 3-0
Jesus Montero 2-4, 2B - .341, 1 SB/1 attempt
Austin Romine 1-4, 2B
Brandon Laird 0-4, K - .236
Damon Sublett 1-3 - .197
Ryan Zink 6 IP, 6 H, 3 ER, 2 BB, 1 K

Charleston def Greenville 2-0 (completion of suspended game)
Abraham Almonte & Dan Brewer 0-4 (Brewer K'd 3 times)
David Adams 1-4
Melky Mesa 1-4, HR (12), RBI
Dan Joseph 1-4, R, K, SB
Brett Marshal 6 IP, 5 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 9 K
Brandon Braboy 3 IP, 0's, 2 K

Charleston def Greenville 5-4
Abrham Almonte 0-4, R, BB & K
Dan Brewer 1-2, 2 R, 3 BB, K, 3 SB (7)
David Adams 1-5, R, 2B, RBI, 2 K
Melky Mesa 1-4, R, 2B, 2 RBI, BB & K
Dan Joseph 1-3, RBI, 2 BB & K's
Hector Noesi 6.2 IP, 7 H, 4 ER, 2 BB, 3 K
Pat Venditte 1 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 K - SV (14)
Read the full post, after the jump

Melky Cabrera Was Distracted in 2008

Finally, we have gotten to the bottom of the Melkman's struggles in 2008. Apparently, he was spending his spare time getting cozied up with porn star Marey Carey (not to be confused with Harry Caray, or Derek Jeter's ex-squeeze, Mariah Carey).

The best line from Melky in what appears to be a drunken, (possibly post-sex) interview conducted by the XXX starlet is at the 1:15 mark:

"I'm no gay. I like-a the woman"

Well said, Melky. Now lets try to step it up from porn stars to at least the hot stripper waiting for her big break.



Hat tip for finding the video goes to a blog that is attempting to be the Perez Hilton of sports blogs, TerezOwens.com and hat tip to Melky for the most gangster farmer's tan north of the Mason Dixon line. Read the full post, after the jump

The NSI Minor League Report: Montero Mashing

Thursday 5/28

Jesus Montero went deep twice yesterday, in a 3 for 4 night, with 4 RBI's. His average now stands at .338. Scranton lost as Edwar Ramirez took the loss. Charleston's game was suspended with a 2-0 lead in the 7th. Brett Marshall was pitching a gem, throwing 6 shutout innings, with 1 walk and 9 strikeouts.

Scranton lost to Syracuse 5-4
Reegie Corona 1-5
Austin Jackson 1-5, RBI, K - .356
Todd Linden 2-4, R, 2B, 2 K
Shelley Duncan 2-4, BB, K
Juan Miranda 1-5, 2B, RBI, 2 K
John Rodriguez 1-3, R, 2 BB, K
Chris Stewart 2-5, R, K
Eric Duncan 2-5, R, 2B, RBI
Casey Fossum 4.1 IP, 5 H, 3 ER, 3 BB & K
Edwar Ramirez 1.2 IP, 3 H, 2 ER, 1 BB & K - LP
Jonathan Albaladejo 2 IP, 1 H, 0's

Trenton losses to New Britain 7-2
Justin Snyder 1-4, RBI
Colin Curtis 1-4, R, 2B, RBI
Chris Malec 2-3, 2B
Edwar Gonzalez 0-4, K
Marcos Vechionacci 0-3 - .196
Ryan Pope 1 IP, 5 H, 6 R, 3 ER, 1 BB, 1 K
Josh Schmidt 3 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 5 K
Kanoke Texeira 2 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 2 BB, 2 K

Tampa def Ft Meyers 8-3
Austin Krum 1-5, R, 2B, BB, K
Jesus Montero 3-4, 3 R, 2 HR (7), 4 RBI - .338
Austin Romine 1-5, R, SB (5) - 1 SB/1 attempt
Brandon Laird 2-4, R, BB, 2 K
Matt Cusick 2-3, R, RBI, 2 BB
DJ Mitchell 6 IP, 3 H, 2 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 8 K
Tim Norton 2 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 0 BB, 1 K

Charleston leading Greenville 2-0 (7th inning, rain suspension)
Read the full post, after the jump

The NSI Minor League Report: Bleich Bleak, Kontos, Nova and Banuelos Yes

Wednesday 5/27

Scranton split a doubleheader while Austin Jackson continues to hit. Ajax went a combined 3 for 7, with a triple and two stolen bases. George Kontos pitched a gem in the first game, giving up 1 run in 6 innings.

Ivan Nova paced Trenton's win with 1 run in 8 innings. Tampa was the only loser as Jeramy Bleich gave up a 6 spot in the first inning, and 11 hits in 4 innings of work. Manny Banuelos paced Charleston's win with two hits over 5 innings. The youngster is pitching well, but needs to learn how to be more efficient and get into the later innings.

Scranton def Syracuse 4-1 (game 1)
Reegie Corona 1-4
Austin Jackson 2-4, 3B, SB (8)
Todd Linden 1-3, BB & K
Shelley Duncan 1-4, R, HR (16), 2 RBI
Juan Miranda 1-4, R
George Kontos 6 IP, 6 H, 1 ER, 2 BB, 6 K
Mark Melancon 1 IP, 1 H, 0's

Scranton lost 4-2 (game 2)
Austin Jackson 1-3, R, K, SB (9) - .361
Todd Linden 1-2, RBI
John Rodriguez 1-3, R
Eric Duncan 1-2
Josh Towers 5 IP, 5 H, 4 ER, 0 BB, 5 K
Anthony Claggett 1 IP, 0's

Trenton def New Britain 5-1
Eduardo Nunez 2-3, 2B, RBI, K - removed from the game with an injury
Justin Snyder 1-2, HR(1), 2 RBI
Colin Curtis 0-4
Chris Malec 2-5, HR, RBI, 2 K
Jorge Vazquez 0-5, 2 K
Ivan Nova 8 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 2 BB, 6 K

Tampa losses to Fort Meyers 8-0 (5 hits)
Austin Krum 0-4, K
Eric Fryer 2-4, K
Jesus Montero 1-4, 2B
Austin Romine 0-3
Brandon Laird 1-3
Jeramy Bleich 4 IP, 11 H, 7 ER, 0 BB, 3 K

Charleston def Bowling Green 7-2
Abraham Almonte 2-5, R
Dan Brewer 2-5, R, 3B, 2 RBI
David Adams 1-4, R
Corban Joseph 0-3, BB, K
Jose Pirela 2-4, R, RBI
Neall French 2-4, R, 2B
Mitch Albeita 2-4, 2 R, 2B, HR, 3 RBI
Manny Banuelos 5 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 2 BB, 4 K
Dan Kapala 2.1 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 2 K
Read the full post, after the jump

The NSI Minor League Report: One Step Backwards for Brackman

Tuesday 5/26

Andrew Brackman, who's pitching has shown signs of being an ace lately, had a disaster of a game, going 3.1 innings with 10 walks and 5 wild pitches. When the 6'11" pitcher's mechanics are off those are the results. Charleston still won, and Brackman actually limited the damage, as he only gave up 1 hit and 3 runs.

Scranton was rained out and will play a doubleheader today. Zach McAllister, got the win for Trenton, and looks like the polished pitcher that Brackman is not. Mac scattered 4 hits in 7 shutout innings. He has not given up more than 2 earned runs in his 8 starts. The Trenton offense, had a season high 20 hits and 11 runs. Eduardo Nunez went 4 for 4, and Colin Curtis topped that with a 5 for 5 night.

Scranton ppd

Trenton def New Britain 11-0
Eduardo Nunez 4-4, 2 R, HR (3), 2 RBI
Colin Curtis 5-5, 3 R, RBI
Chris Malec 2-4, R, 2 BB
Jorge Vazquez 2-5, 3 RBI
Edwar Gonzalez 1-5, 2B, 3 RBI, BB, 2 RBI - outfield assist
Kyle Anson 2-3, 2 R, 2B, RBI, 2 BB
Zach McAllister 7 IP, 4 H, 0 R, 2 BB, 5 K
Kevin Whelan 2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 K

Tampa def Ft. Meyers 3-1 (rain shortened 7 Innings)
Austin Krum 1-4, K
Jesus Montero 2-4 - .329
Austin Romine 1-4, R, 2B, K - 1 Stolen base/1 attempt against
Brandon Laird 1-4
Brian Baisley 2-3, RBI
Wady Ruffino 2-3, R, RBI - threw a runner out at home
Lance Pendelton 6.1 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 0 ER, 2 BB, 5 K

Charleston def Bowling Green 9-4
Abraham Almonte 2-5, R, 3B, RBI, 2 K
Dan Brewer 1-5, 2 R, 2B, RBI, 3 K - 2 SB
David Adams 2-3, R, 2B, RBI, 2 BB - 2 SB (6)
Melky Mesa 2-4, R, 2B, RBI, BB & K
Addison Maruszak (SS) 2-3, 2 R, 2B, BB
Andrew Brackman 3.1 IP, 1 H, 3 ER, 10 BB, 1 K, 5 WP's
Casey Erickson 2.2 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 5 K Read the full post, after the jump

Protest Bud Selig By Voting Manny As A 2009 All-Star

Jason from It Is About The Money, Stupid has started a great blog with the intent of getting Manny Ramirez voted as a 2009 NL All-Star Game starter.

Why would he come up with such an idea? Here's why:

To highlight the silliness that are the MLB rules towards PED users as well as their "head in the sand" approach to this situation. Rather than confront it head-on, MLB is choosing to do nothing and simply hope there are three higher vote getters in the NL OF.

We're on board for the same reason we root for every All-Star game to end in a tie - just to see Bud Selig squirm.

So, why not help to stuff the ballot box and move Manny from 4th place to 3rd place? While you're there, vote for Johnny Damon in the AL - it would be great if he could get an All-Star start in his last year in Pintripes after being one of the best free agent signings Brian Cashman has ever made. Read the full post, after the jump

The NSI Minor League Report: Garcia Pitches A Gem

Monday 5/25

In his second game back from the Pavano List, Christian Garcia, pitched 5 shutout innings while giving up only 2 hits for Trenton. Scranton had to patch a game with their bullpen, as they lacked a starter (with Wang and Hughes being in the Bronx). JB Cox started and gave up 6 runs in 2 1/3 innings. Austin Jackson continues his season long hot streak, as he went 2 for 4.

Scranton losses to Syracuse 7-3
Austin Jackson 2-4, 2 K - .358
Shelley Duncan 1-3, BB, 2 K
Juan Miranda 1-4, R, 2B, K
John Rodriguez 1-4, HR (9), RBI, K
JB Cox 2.1 IP, 6 H, 6 R, 5 ER, 2 BB, 0 K
Zach Kroenke 2.2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 4 K
Juan Valdez 3 IP, 4 H, 2 ER, 1 BB, 3 K

Trenton def New Hampshire 7-0
Eduardo Nunez 1-5, R
Colin Curtis 2-4, R, 2B, RBI, BB, K
Chris Malec 1-5, R, 2B, RBI
Edwar Gonzalez 2-4, R, RBI
Noah Hall 3-5, 2 R
James Cooper 2-3, 2 RBI, 1 BB
Jorge Vazquez 1-5, R, 2B, RBI, 2 K, E (1)
Christian Garcia 5 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 3 BB, 4 K
Michael Dunn 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 1 K

Tampa scheduled day off

Charleston def Bowling Green 4-1
Abraham Almonte 0-4, R, BB, K, SB (9)
Corban Joseph 0-3, BB, K
David Adams 0-4, K
Dan Brewer 1-4, R, 2B, RBI, 2 K
Melky Mesa 1-3, HR (11), 2 RBI, BB, K, SB (4)
Taylor Grote 1-3, HR (3), RBI, BB, K, SB
Chase Weems 1-2, BB, K - threw out two runners trying to steal (and his last 4)
David Phelps 6 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 3 BB, 3 K
Cory Arbiso 2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K
Pat Venditte 1 IP, 0's, 3 K - .90 ERA Read the full post, after the jump

The NSI Minor League Report: Ajax, Montero and Romine

Sunday 5/24

Austin Jackson went 4 for 5 in a Scranton rout, while Jesus Montero had two doubles and 3 RBI's and Austin Romine had two doubles, a homer and 5 RBI's for Tampa.

Scranton def Pawtucket 10-4
Austin Jackson 4-5, RBI - .354
Shelley Duncan 1-4, 2 R, HR (15), 3 RBI, BB - leads league in homers
Juan Miranda 1-4, 2 R, 2B, BB & K
Justin Leone 2-5, R, 2B, HR, 2 RBI, K
Chris Stewart 4-5
Kei Igawa 6 IP, 6 H, 3 ER, 2 BB, 5 K
Edwar Ramirez 2.1 IP, 1 H, 1 ER, 4 BB, 2 K - not the way to punch your ticket back to NY
Jonathan Albaladejo .2 IP, 0's

Trenton lost to New Hampshire 10-4
Eduardo Nunez 1-5, 2 K, E (11)
Colin Curtis 0-4, 2 K
Jorge Vazquez 1-4, R
Noah Hall 1-3, R, 3B, 2 RBI - outfield assist
Wilkins De La Rosa 4 IP, 8 H, 6 ER, 3 BB, 1 K

Tampa def Clearwater 11-7
Austin Krum 3-4, 2 R, 2B, BB, K
Jesus Montero 2-4, 2 R, 2 2B, 3 RBI
Austin Romine 3-5, R, 2 2B, HR (4), 5 RBI, K - 4 SB's/6 SB attempts
Brandon Laird 2-4, RBI, 2 K
Ryan Zink 3 IP, 7 H, 6 ER, 2 BB, 3 K
Craig Heyer 3 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K

Charleston lost to Bowling Green 3-2
Abraham Almonte 0-4, K
Corbin Joseph 0-3, BB, 2 K
David Adams 2-4, K, 2 E - playing out of position at 3rd
Dan Brewer 2-4, K - .359
Neall French 2-3, R, 2B, BB
Hector Noesi 9 IP, 7 H, 3 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 8 K - complete game Read the full post, after the jump

Time Magazine Shows You How To Get The Most Out Of The Legends Seats

Since we did something similar with the Audi Yankees Club last month, we thought we'd pass along Time Magazine's attempt to get their money's worth out of a Yankee Stadium premium ticket offering.

The article was written by an un-funny Yankee hater, but it is worth reading to fantasize about being afforded the luxury of being a glutton in the Legends Suite for a day:

The Yankees were up 2 to 1, but obviously I had other concerns. A waiter came by with a bag of peanuts ($5) for me to down while I considered the menu. To start, I went with a box of chicken fingers with spicy buffalo sauce ($10), a lobster roll ($15), a hot dog ($5) and two large unsweetened iced teas ($7). And another giant bag of peanut M&Ms ($5). The waiter looked at me suspiciously.

Minutes later the food arrived. The lobster roll was an exaggerated pink paste on white bread. The hot dog was a hot dog. But the chicken fingers and buffalo sauce were a revelation. So I ordered another box ($10). I also remembered that I had brought a friend with me, so we talked a little between bites. But I needed to say focused. When a waitress came by with a tray of pasta plates — remember, this is technically a baseball stadium — I asked if the pasta was any good. Turns out no one had tried any: "Everybody just looks at me like I'm crazy." So: pasta ($15)! And while it was terrible pasta, I felt very good eating it.

We're wondering if the "say focused" typo made it into the magazine as well, or if that is an online-only article. Anyway, back to the "review." It isn't surprising that the food for the Legends Suite is terrible - Legends Hospitality Management runs the place and sources the food. They are a newbie of a company, bound to deal with some growing pains.

Meanwhile, Lobel's supplies the food for the Audi Yankees Club, making it the clear choice if you want to enjoy top notch food while attending a game at the new Yankee Stadium. Read the full post, after the jump

Home Stand Finale Weather - Lets Hope It is Another Quick Game

UPDATE (3:12 PM): Courtesy of Steve:

Strong thunderstorms are forming over northwestern New Jersey this afternoon and will continue to slowly move southeastward towards the Bronx by later this afternoon. These thunderstorms will be capable of frequent lightning, small hail, wind gusts exceeding 50 mph, and very heavy downpours. Visibility will fall to near zero at times. Thunderstorms will impact the Bronx between the hours of 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM.

Strong thunderstorms are forming over northwestern New Jersey this afternoon and will continue to slowly move southeastward towards the Bronx by later this afternoon. These thunderstorms will be capable of frequent lightning, small hail, wind gusts exceeding 50 mph, and very heavy downpours. Visibility will fall to near zero at times. Thunderstorms will impact the Bronx between the hours of 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM.

It looks like the Yankees are finally over their Saturday doldrums, as for a second straight week, they won in dramatic fashion on the first day of the weekend. Today is the finale of the longest home stand of the season, and there may be some strong thunderstorms for the Yankees and their fans to contend with. As always, we defer to Steve from NYNJPAWeather.com:

A strong cold front will be approaching the Bronx this afternoon, however the brunt of the showers and thunderstorms will hold off until after 4 PM. As such, I expect partly cloudy conditions through much of the game. A few isolated showers will develop ahead of the cold front and move southwest to northeast, which may clip the Bronx this afternoon. I'll keep an eye on that with updates. Winds will be from the southwest around 5 to 15 mph increasing to 10 to 20 mph in the later innings. This wind blows out at Yankee stadium, especially for left field. Temperatures will range from 78 to 82 degrees.

Use caution driving home after the game as I expect some rather nasty thunderstorms dropping south through the Hudson Valley and right over the NYC metro. These thunderstorms will be capable of frequent lightning, small hail, strong wind gusts over 50 mph, and very heavy downpours. Visibility will drop quickly, so I advise NOT to drive through these storms.

Have a great day!

The lefty aces are on the mound, but they'll have to keep the ball down, as there will be a significant wind out to left field. Five straight games on this home stand have been under three hours in length, and there is no reason to think this game will be an exception. If Sabathia and Hamels pitch like they usually do, this game should be over in plenty of time for people to escape the potentially dangerous thunderstorms. If the pace of the game slows, be aware of the possibility of getting wet.

The girlfriend will be in tow today, but come and visit us in section 428, row 10 if you are at the game! Read the full post, after the jump

The NSI Minor League Report: Shelley Homers Twice

Saturday 5/23

The Yankee's minor league system swept, for the second time this season. Scranton's offense erupted for 9 runs, on 10 XBH's. Shelley Duncan went yard twice, while John Rodriguez hit a 3 run homer. Trenton scored on an unearned run in the 7th to win 6-5. Tampa was no hit through 5 innings, but scored 4 runs in the 6th inning to win 4-2. Jesus Montero drove in 2, with a single and Damon Sublett scored two on a triple.

Scranton def Pawtucket 9-2
Reegie Corona 1-5, 2B, RBI
Austin Jackson 1-4, RBI, 2 K, HPB - .338
Todd Linden 0-5, K
Shelley Duncan 3-4, 4 R, 2B, 2 HR (16), 2 RBI, BB
Juan Miranda 2-4, R, 2 2B, RBI, BB, K
John Rodriguez 2-5, R, HR (7), 3 RBI, K
Justin Leone 2-5, 2 R, 2 2B, 2 K
Eric Duncan 2-5, 2 R, 2B, RBI, 2K
Casey Fossum 6 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 4 K
Anthony Clagget 1 IP, 0's, 1 K
Zach Kroenke 1 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 0 BB & K
David Robertson 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 3 K

Trenton def New Hampshire 6-5
Eduardo Nunez 2-4, 2B, RBI, BB
Colin Curtis 2-4, R, RBI, BB & K
Jorge Vazquez 1-5, R, 2B, RBI, 2 K
Edwar Gonzalez 2-5, 2B, K
Marcos Vechionacci 1-3, BB & K - .194
Ryan Pope 5 IP, 10 H, 4 ER, 1 BB, 3 K
Kanokoa Texeira 3 IP, 0 H, 1 ER, 2 BB, 0 K

Tampa def Clearwater 4-3
Austin Krum 1-4, R, K
Jesus Montero 1-4, R, 2 RBI, BB
Austin Romine 0-4, K - 3 SB's/ 3 SB attempts
Brandon Laird 0-4, 2 K
Damon Sublett 1-3, 2 R, 3B, 2 RBI, K
DJ Mitchell 5 IP, 4 H, 2 ER, 3 BB, 6 K
Noel Castillo 2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 2 BB, 4 K
Jon Hovis 1 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 0 BB, 1 K

Charleston def Lexington 4-3
Abraham Almonte 2-4, 2B - .286, 13 for last 39 (.333) in 10 games
Corbin Joseph 2-4, 2 R, 2B
David Adams 0-4
Dan Brewer 1-4, RBI
Melky Mesa 1-4, R, 2B, 3 K - outfield assist
Chase Weems 1-3 - picked a runner off 2nd
Brett Marshall 6.2 IP, 8 H, 3 R, 2 ER, 2 BB, 4 K
Pat Venditte 1 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 K
Read the full post, after the jump

Largest Crowd Since Opening Day Saw Today's Walk-Off Classic

The walk-off warriors struck again this afternoon, and the largest crowd since opening day was there to witness it.

If you take a peek at our Yankee Stadium attendance tracker, you will notice that today's attendance of 46,889 beat out the attendance for the Red Sox game on 5-5-09 for second place in 2009. Of course, the Yankees haven't come close to the 48,271 from 4-16-09. At the time, it seemed like that was a disappointing number, but it is likely going to take a playoff game to top it. Perhaps the stadium holds a few less people than they thought it would? Read the full post, after the jump

A Sea Of Red In The Bronx, As Phillies Fans Take Over Yankee Stadium

Apparently, all of the rich Yankees fans are out in the Hamptons for the first summer weekend, as Phillies fans have taken over at the new Yankee Stadium. Nick exaggerated and said 50% of the fans were rooting for the bad guys on Friday night. Here is a photo on TwitPic illustrating all of the red in the bleachers. The person taking the photo estimated 35% Phillies fans.

Regardless of the exact percentage, it is pretty embarrassing that it takes a well-traveling fan base to fill the seats at the "new house." Yankee fans have some explaining to do, and it better not be that they sold their tickets because it is a holiday weekend. Read the full post, after the jump

Are The Yankees Silently Slashing Bleacher Cafe (Batter's Eye) Prices To Unheard Of Levels?

A tipster has written in to tell us about a great deal he scored for Sunday's Yankees vs. Phillies game. While we have spread the word about the Yankees "$40 off E-Savers" for the 'Batter's Eye' seats in the past, we have yet to see prices this low.


(click for full size)

What you see above is what happens when the Yankees listen to us, and price the 'Batter's Eye' seats appropriately at $50 per seat- they get sold. We have said all along that somewhere in the $50 range is where prices for these unique seats belong. In reality, they are slightly better than the bleacher seats, but because of the novelty, we understand them being priced considerably higher.

This is far from a permanent mark-down. These tickets were purchased on Friday afternoon for Sunday's game, and they are now sold out. Prices in the "Bleacher Cafe" (as they are listed on Ticketmaster.com) still carry a $125 face value for all other games. It looks like the Yankees are going to promote "E-Savers" for the less-attended games against opponents like the Orioles, and are going to keep prices higher for most other games. When these seats remain unsold for games against premium opponents (such as the Phillies), it appears they are going to mark them down until they can sell them. Essentially the Yankees are holding a stealth dutch auction. Or this could just be a price mistake.

If this wasn't a one time price mistake, the only criticism we have is that the Yankees are doing this in a sneaky way, to hide their errant pricing. It is similar to seating all of the sailors and other servicemen in the unsold Legends Seats - a nice gesture, but it is obviously just to cover up boneheaded pricing schemes. Why not just come out and announce bargain-basement pricing? Fans will certainly appreciate it, and the seats will get sold, all without these secretive blowout sales. Once again, the Yankees do something smart, but still manage to be stupid about it. Read the full post, after the jump

Things That Grind Our (And Your) Gears: Yankees-Steiner Cold Calls

Predictably, the most popular posts on weblogs are the negative ones. Along that line of thinking, we are going to start a new series of posts called: "Things That Grind Our (And Your) Gears." The rules are simple: any time something regarding the operational side of the New York Yankees frustrates one of our readers enough to email us, and that issue has bothered us as well, we will make a post about it.

Today we come to you with a complaint from "DaraGardensApartment" regarding Yankees-Steiner sales techniques:

Hey Ross.

I use this email address for NOTHING other than my Yankees account and other personal stuff..

I started getting emails rom Steiner Sports about buying my old seats and NOW Steiner (with permission from the Yanks or without) decided that they can start soliciting business from me

Thanks Mr. Trost!!!

Below the complaint was a forwarded Steiner Sports marketing email for Final Four merchandise. The Yankees had lent this person's email address to Steiner for marketing purposes. We feel for this person, as we too have received annoying marketing emails from Steiner, albeit only ones regarding the Yankees memorabilia sale. Apparently, being Yankees season ticket holders saddles us with the responsibility of having to opt-out of marketing emails from other companies. What an honor.

Sadly, spam in our email inbox is something we have grown accustomed to. However, what REALLY grinds our gears are the cold calls from these greedy bastards. Twice this week, some dude with a Long Island accent (something else that grinds our gears), called while we were at work and left messages ON OUR CELL PHONE. This salesman was calling from the Steiner Collectibles store in the Roosevelt Field Mall and didn't want to let us miss the amazing opportunity of buying our EXACT season seats from the old Yankee Stadium. That's right, for the low cost of $1999, we would have the once in a lifetime opportunity of purchasing the upper deck seats that we had enjoyed Yankees playoff failures in since way back in the Torre-era, 2005. Memories such as the the time we arrived to find those very seats soiled with bird feces would obviously be included, but we had to act fast because the offer expired on Friday, May 22.

Needless to say, we did not call Steiner back to jump on this amazing offer, although our first instinct was to call back and let them know how we felt about their cold-calling tactics. Then, we realized that New Stadium Insider is the perfect sounding board for this type of beef. Why call and yell at some minimum wage worker, when we could make a post like this and call out the idiots who decided this type of marketing was a good idea?

We were able to deal with John Sterling giving us an automated call on the day that the seats went on sale - its always good to hear from automated John. After all, we understand that every Yankee season ticket holder is not an obsessive Yankees news reader like we are, and might have missed the news about seats going on sale. What we can't understand is "opt-out" marketing phone calls and emails from Steiner. The Yankees simply gave Steiner carte blanche to email us or call us whenever they wanted, requiring us to "opt-out" if we wanted to stop them. Typically, reputable companies employ "opt-in" marketing procedures. Some people may have enjoyed Steiner calling them and pestering them to buy overpriced relics from the old Yankee Stadium, and those people could have easily asked for such calls via a portal in their Yankees Account.

We can't be the only ones who were really annoyed by these sales tactics. Let us hear your cold calling anecdotes in the comments. Read the full post, after the jump

Yankees vs. Phillies Memorial Day Weekend Weather Update: Sunday Wetter Than Saturday

It has been great not having to create posts like this, updating Yankee Stadium weather conditions. Unfortunately, after a beautiful week of weather, rain is back in the forecast, and that means Steve from NYNJPAWeather.com is here to let us know how it will affect this weekend's Yankee games. You may have also noticed that Steve has started to include some interesting opinions on how the winds will affect the play on the field. Lets keep an eye on what he has to say, since talk of the supposed wind-tunnel at the new house is all the rage. Here is what Steve has to say:

The good news is that I do not expect a wash out at all today nor tomorrow, however a persistent threat for showers and very strong to possibly severe thunderstorms will remain.

For today, expect partly cloudy conditions for the most part. Showers and thunderstorms will develop this afternoon, but will be widely scattered. The thunderstorms that do develop will have the potential to be very strong to possibly severe with heavy downpours, frequent lightning, small hail, and damaging wind gusts over 60 mph. The cold front is now south of the Bronx, which will mean a persistent northeast to easterly wind can be expected around 5 to 10 mph. This wind is blowing in and will have an inhibiting factor on fly balls, especially over left and center fields. A micro low level jet along the right field line may be of interest to watch as winds circulate around the stadium. As the cold front rebounds as a warm front this afternoon, the winds will shift to the south towards the end of the game. It is when this front rebounds that the thunderstorms will become a threat and will approach from the southwest. Temperatures through the game will be 69 to 75 through the game.

Tomorrow will be a bit wetter. Another cold front from the Great Lakes will approach with a better threat for showers and thunderstorms. The game, which is expected to start at 1 PM, will have dry conditions through at least the first three innings. From the fourth inning on, the cold front will approach with a threat of scattered showers and strong thunderstorms. There is potential for a lengthy delay in the middle innings of this game, however conditions will clear starting after 3PM to 4 PM to allow the game to resume. Expect winds to veer from the southwest to northwest around 5 to 15 mph. This means that winds will blow out at all directs at the start of the game. However, once the storms pass, winds will blow out from the left and center field but will blow to the right to left over right field. Temperatures will range from 72 to 78 degrees through the game.

Steve also let us know that if any nasty thunderstorms were approaching, he would update us via Twitter. For those of you who use Twitter on your cell phones while at the games, we would encourage you to add @NYNJPAWeather to your friends list, and even set up a text message alert of Steve's updates for the weekend. Wouldn't it be great to know when that heavy thunderstorm is going to hit and get a head start to the Carl's Philly Cheesesteak stand?

We'll be at the game on Sunday in section 428, Row 10, so come and say hello if you are in the vicinity. Hopefully the rain holds off until the game is over, but if not, we'll take solace in the fact that our seats are covered. After all, it is one of the few benefits of our unfortunate seat relocation. Read the full post, after the jump

The NSI Minor League Report: Bleich Settling In

Friday 5/21

Jeramy Bleich, our #1 supplemental pick in 2008 from Stanford, seems to be getting in a groove at Tampa. The southpaw gave up 1 run in 6 innings of work. That's his second consecutive 1 run game. Austin Romine and Brandon Laird supplied most of the hitting for Tampa, with 3 an 2 hits respectively, and having 5 RBI's between them.

Scranton lost to Pawtucket 2-1
Reegie Corona 0-4
Austin Jackson 1-3, R, K, HPB - .341
Todd Linden 2-4, K
Shelley Duncan 0-3, RBI, K, BB
Juan Miranda 0-3, BB
Josh Towers 7 IP, 7 H, 2 ER, 1 BB, 0 K
Mark Melancon 1 IP, 0's, 1 K

Trenton def New Hampshire 5-3
Eduardo Nunez 1-4, R, 2B
Chris Malec 3-4, R
Kyle Anson 1-3, HR, 2 RBI - No attempted stolen bases against
Ivan Nova 6 IP, 8 H, 2 ER, 1 BB, 6 K
Kevin Whelan 2 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 0 K

Tampa def Clearwater 6-1
Austin Krum 2-4, R
Eric Fryer 1-4, HR, 3 RBI, 2 K
Jesus Montero 1-3, R, BB - 3 SB's/3 SB attempts against
Austin Romine 3-4, 2 R, 2B, K, SB (4)
Brandon Laird 2-4, R, 2 RBI, K
Walter Iberra 2-4, R, SB
Jeramy Bleich 6 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 4 K
Tim Norton 2 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 K

Charleston lost to Lexington 8-2
Abraham Almonte 1-5
Corbin Joseph 2-5 - 11 game hitting streak
David Adams 0-4, R, BB
Dan Brewer 2-4, R, 2B, RBI - Outfield assist
Melky Mesa 1-3, 2B, RBI, K
Chase Weems 1-4, 2 K - 1 SB/2 SB attempts against
Manny Banuelos 5.2 IP, 5 H, 3 ER, 1 BB, 3 KRead the full post, after the jump

Out Of Town Fans Unable to Watch The Visiting Team Take Batting Practice From The Field Level At The New Yankee Stadium

We thought this debate ended last week, when the Yankees announced revised batting practice policies, allowing fans close to the field during batting practice. Unfortunately, according to reports from the stadium, security guards have been instructed to kick fans out of the field level sections at 5:45 - Nearly an hour and a half before the game begins.

The policy is stated as follows according to the official fan guide:

Those fans who take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy batting practice and infield workouts from the Field Level and/or the Bleachers may remain until the players leave the field following the conclusion of the Yankees batting practice or 1 hour and 45 minutes after the Gates open. At that time, all fans will be asked to return their respective seats.

It is unbelievable that we didn't notice this when the new policy was announced last week. Allowing Yankees fans to see Yankees batting practice from the field level sections should have been a given, but it was still appreciated when the Yankees saw the error in their ways and changed the fan guide. However, we didn't even think about the fact that some people, unable to afford expensive seats, might want to see the visiting team take batting practice as well. Yes, even Yankees fans.

Nick is at the game right now and would love the opportunity to snag a batting practice home run hit by Ryan Howard or Chase Utley, or even just see superstars of that caliber up close. Unfortunately, 5:45 PM arrived and security swept the field level sections, rounding up people who belonged in the cheap seats and rudely telling them to leave.

It is a shame, because during the last few games we attended at the stadium, we really started feeling at home. Security guards seemed to be in better spirits, the overall flow of the building had improved, and of course the Yankees were winning.

It makes absolutely no sense that the Yankees would risk more bad PR and not just let fans stay in the field level sections until the conclusion of batting practice. At the old stadium, once batting practice was over, everyone knew that was the time to leave those sections and headed to their own seats. There was no need for overzealous security guards - everyone acted like mature adults and acted on their own volition. There was always plenty of time left before first pitch for those who belonged in the field level sections to get comfortable in their surroundings.

Once again, the people making the policies at the new Yankee Stadium can't get out of their own way. Is anyone surprised? Read the full post, after the jump

The NSI Minor League Report: Trenton Has A Perfect Game Against Them

Thursday 5/21

Trenton had a perfect game thrown against them, by a pitcher that wasn't considered The Indians top 25 prospects. Scranton won big, 14-1, behind some thunder by Juan Miranda (double & homer) and Shelley Duncan (homer).

Tampa lost a doubleheader, while Charleston won with a dominating effort by Andrew Brackman. Brackman seems to be putting things together with his 3rd strong game in a row. Andrew went 8 innings and gave up one run, with a walk and 6 six strikeouts.

Scranton def Pawtucket 14-1
Reegie Corona 1-5, RBI, SB
Austin Jackson 1-4, 2B, 3 RBI, 2 BB, 1 K
Todd Linden 2-6, R, 2 2B, 2 RBI, 2 K
Shelley Duncan 1-4, 2 R, HR (12), 2 RBI, BB & K
Juan Miranda 2-3, 4 R. 2B, HR (7) 3 RBI, 2BB
Eric Duncan 1-3, 2 R, RBI, 2 BB, K
George Kontos 6 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 2 BB, 1 K
Rumilios Sanchez 1 IP, 1 H, 1 ER, 0 BB, 1 K
Edwar Ramirez 2 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K

Trenton lost to Akron 3-0 (perfect game)
Team 0-3, 0 BB, 7 K
Zach McAllister 6 IP, 6 H, 2 R, 1 ER, 1 BB, 5 K
Michael Dunn 3 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 1 BB & K

Tampa lost to Lakeland 5-2 (game 1)
Jesus Montero 1-2 - 4 SB's/4 SB attempts
Brandon Laird 0-3
Austin Romine 1-2, BB & K
Damon Sublett & Brian Baisley 0-3
Delin Betances 2 IP, 2 H, 4 ER, 4 BB, 1 K

Tampa lost to Lakeland 6-0 (game 2)
Matt Cusick 2-3
Jesus Montero 1-3
Austin Romine 0-3, E (3) - 1 SB/2 SB attempts
Brandon Laird 1-3
Mitch Hilligoss 1-3, K
Lance Pendelton 4.1IP, 4 H, 6 R, 3 ER, 3 BB, 4 K
Jon Ortiz 1.2 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1K

Charleston def Lexington 9-1
Abraham Almonte 2-5, R, 2B, RBI, SB (8)
Corbin Joseph 1-5, R, 3B, 2 RBI, K
David Adams 1-3, BB
Dan Brewer 1-5, 2 RBI
Melky Mesa 2-4, 2 R, 3B, HR (10), 2 RBI
Mitch Albeita 2-3, 2R, 2B, RBI, BB & K
Andrew Brackman 8 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 1BB, 6 K - In last 3 starts, 5 Er's, 4 BB's and 17 K's Read the full post, after the jump

Q&A with Jeff Fox, Author of Yankee Stadium: The Final Game

I recently talked to Yankees fan Jeff Fox, who is also the Technology Editor of Consumer Reports magazine, a photographer, and author of Yankee Stadium: The Final Game. Jeff poured a lot of his own money into this project as he worked on it while holding down his job at Consumer Reports.

The book centers around Jeff's experience over 11 hours last September 21, spent outside, inside and around the old Yankee Stadium as he captured some great shots from seemingly every inch of the place as he said goodbye one last time. The book is on sale now.

Jeff's book is about looking back. We asked him to look forward to the new stadium, about what he thinks of it so far, and whether it will eventually have what it takes to shed the "new" and just become Yankee Stadium. Here's what he had to say:

For a fan, is this a good place to watch a ball game?

I have mixed feelings about this. On the field level, while the game is in play, it’s actually better than the old Stadium for roaming around to view or photograph the game from different angles. No longer do you get virtually accosted by one of those yellow-jacketed security guards just for stopping momentarily to take a photo. I now have field-level seats in the outfield and it was nice to be able to walk back to the infield (where my seats used to be in the old Stadium) to take photos. On the other hand, I’m quite angry that the Yankees forced me out of my infield seats during the relocation because they required I purchase all 81 home games to stay there. That would have cost me $16,000 per year for two seats similar to the ones I’d had since 1997.

I don’t love the way the seats in the upper stands have been spread further out from the playing field. I think it removes some of the intensity we all (and opposing players) felt in the steeper old Stadium grandstand, as if we were all bearing down on them. In the old Stadium, even in the upper deck, you had the feeling an opposing player could hear you if you yelled loudly enough. Ironically, friends who have just been to Citi Field tell me that the Mets have taken the opposite approach and moved their upstairs fans closer to the field than they were in Shea.

I’ve been to four games at the new Stadium. When I wasn’t sitting in my own seat, I often felt like the game was a backdrop, rather than the main event. It felt like I was at some combination theme-park shopping mall, with a baseball game going on in the background. Maybe they made the place too comfortable.

I feel especially sorry for fans with obstructed views. In fact, even my $85 seats in section 134 are slightly obstructed. There’s a spot in center field that I can’t see because it’s blocked by the bleachers. There is simply no excuse, other than insensitivity toward the fans, for obstructed views in a 21st century stadium.

I love the two new scoreboards on the field level in the outfield. It takes me back to Yankee Stadium as it was pre-1974.

Another beef: The so-called free wi-fi wireless Internet is, so far, not available to most fans. I was able to access the signal with my iPod Touch, but couldn’t sign in to actually use it. Twice the Yankee Guest Services staff have told me that it was restricted to “premium accounts.” The Yankees should change that. Don’t tease 30,000 people by giving them a signal and then not letting them use it.

[Editor's Note: As of now, the wi-fi is for Yankee Stadium employees/personnel only. It will be rolled out for certain fan devices in the future, but the Yankees have never promised free wi-fi for fans to use on devices such as IPhones. This is especially annoying for us, as when you have a Windows Mobile device that defaults to wi-fi, you need to remember to turn off wi-fi before entering the stadium. Otherwise, when you try to access the internet/email, it defaults to the Yankee Stadium wi-fi login page in your browser (because it is an open network). Very frustrating, and the Yankees should make it a closed network so this doesn't happen to fans.]

If you were a kid growing up going to the new Yankee Stadium instead of the old one, would you have the same fond memories?

I do think today’s kids can have the same kind of fond memories of this Stadium as I had of the old one. You can have fond memories of anyplace. I still have very fond memories of an empty lot in Queens where I played ball with friends as a kid.

It isn’t about the place itself, it’s about your experiences there. Memories of a great time with your family can stay with you for life. Part of why I love the old Stadium is because my dad first took me there when I was 11. But equally important is witnessing great events. Right now, the new Stadium lacks soul because nothing important has happened there yet.

It will take many, many years, for the new Stadium to gain even a part of the aura the old Stadium acquired over 85 years. To sanctify the new Stadium, to coax Babe Ruth’s ghost to come across 161st Street once and for all, the Yankees must win world championships there. They must crush the Red Sox there. Yankee players must break important records, throw no-hitters, make spectacular plays, and win games with impossible comebacks in the late innings. You don’t love a place just because it’s comfortable; you love a place because you experienced thrills there. None of that has happened yet, so right now the new Stadium is just a pleasant park to take the kids to on a Saturday afternoon…. If you can afford the prices.

I also think that the Steinbrenners and their staff need to stop being so totally obsessed with money and get back in touch with the average fan. If they continue to try to milk people for every last cent, they are going to experience the same kind of fall that General Motors, AIG, and Citigroup recently had. The Yankees are even selling the men’s room sign from the old stadium! There’s nothing wrong with making money, but total greed is toxic.

For more from Jeff, including his opinions on the Steiner selloff, check out his blog.
Read the full post, after the jump

Yankee Stadium Wedding Registry - If Trost and Levine steal this idea, remember where you heard it first!

This post was inspired by friend and sometimes NSI commenter BPalm, who half-jokingly suggested to his fiancee that at their upcoming wedding, they hire Mr. Met to show up at cocktail hour and pal around with their guests. She wasn't having it.

But then it got me thinking. The last wedding I attended was my college roommate's. I did some of my best underage drinking with this guy. And what was my present to him? The $80 red toaster that was on his and his fiancee's registry. Seriously.

So what can you do to properly send off a hardcore Yankee fan into a life of bed and breakfasts in Vermont, trimming the lawn on Saturday mornings, and "just takin' it easy" every weekend? The Yankee Stadium Wedding Registry.

I realize this doesn't exist (yet), and seems impractical and frankly kind of stupid at first glance. But hear me out. The groom gets to choose a few different scenarios up front. Depending on how many of his wedding guests decide to contribute to the registry, and how much, that's the package he'll get. It would, in theory of course, include:

Tickets - If it's a small wedding or lots of cheap relatives, then we're looking at bleacher tickets for two. But for a couple hundred bucks, we're already at field level. I mean come on, someone has to sit in those seats, right? (Parking included.)

Dinner - As Ross mentioned in a previous post, the Audi Club is one of the bright spots at the new Stadium. The package would include a nice dinner with a great view of the field, and a little Champagne to celebrate.

Merch - For guys, something random from the gift shop they'd never buy on their own. I'm looking right in your direction, Yankees Jenga. And how about a pink hat and pink Jeter shirt for the ladies? Of course this would work a hundred times better at Alyssa Milano's Touch women's clothing boutique at Citi Field.

Scoreboard - Look, we know the scoreboard greetings are lame. No one cares about cub scout troops or kids' birthdays. And most women I know claim they'd say no if their boyfriend proposed on the big screen (though I still think they're full of crap). But if you're out at the ballpark taking in a game and see yours and your new wife's names followed by, "The Yankees congratulate you on your wedding!", you'd be psyched. Just sayin'.

So send your buddy off the right way with The Yankee Stadium Wedding Registry (patent pending). Because to you, his wedding may be about tipsy bridesmaids. But to him, it's the "happiest" day of his life. So make it count. Read the full post, after the jump

The NSI Minor League Report: Angelini Demoted

Wednesday 5/20

Carmen Angelini was demoted to Extended Spring Training and Jose Pirela was put on Charleston's roster to play shortstop. Angelini was abysmal in the field, racking up 18 errors and was hitting under The Mendoza Line. Hopefully he'll get it together in the next few weeks.

Scranton was off, as was the entire International League. Trenton won, with Christian Garcia finally getting off The Pavano List and having a decent first outing. He didn't allow a run in 4.1 innings, but walked 3 and Garcia's velocity topped out at 91.

Tampa got rained out again, while Charleston won.

Scranton day off

Trenton def Akron 5-1
Eduardo Nunez 2-4, R, 2B, K
Seth Fortenberry 1-3, 3B, BB, K
Colin Curtis 0-4, K
Jorge Vazquez 2-3, 2 R, HR (7), 2 RBI - .337, time for a promotion
Kevin Smith 2-3, R, 2B, HR, 3 RBI
Christian Garcia 4.1 IP, 4 H, 0 R, 3 BB, 4 K - Season debut. Now stay healthy.
Kanekoa Texeira 2.2 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 1 BB &K

Tampa ppd

Charleston def Lexington 8-7
Abraham Almonte 1-4, R, RBI, BB - outfield assist
Corbin Joseph 1-5, 2 K
David Adams 1-3, R, 2 BB, K, E
Melky Mesa 1-3, 2 R, HR (9), RBI, BB & K
Jose Pirela 2-4, 2 R, 2 RBI, K, E
Matt Lyon 3-3, R, RBI, BB
Chase Weems 2-4, 2 RBI, K - threw out two runners trying to steal
David Phelps 5.1 IP, 10 H, 6 R, 5 ER, 0 BB, 5 K
Brandon Braboy 1.2 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 3 K
Pat Venditte 1 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 K - SV (11)
Read the full post, after the jump

The NSI Minor League Report: Bats Have Gone Cold

Tuesday 5/19

Scranton and Trenton both lost, as their bats have gone cold. Both teams had solid starting pitching (Kei Igawa and Wilkins De La Rosa) and good bullpen help, but the hitters didn't do their job. Austin Jackson did go 2 for 4 with a double to raise his average to .344. He still hasn't hit a homer, but the power will come later.

Tampa had a doubleheader rained out, while Charleston was off.

Scranton lost to Columbus 4-1
Reegie Corona 0-4, K
Austin Jackson 2-4, R, 2B - .344
Todd Linden 3-4, 2B, RBI
Eric & Shelley Duncan both 0-4
Chris Malec 0-2
Kei Igawa 4 IP, 7 H, 2 ER, 0 BB, 1 K
JB Cox 3 IP,1 H, 1 ER, 0 BB, 2 K
Jose Valdez 2 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 2 BB, 1 K

Trenton lost to Akron 3-1
Eduardo Nunez 1-4, 2 K
Seth Fortenberry 2-4, 2B, RBI, K
Jorge Vazquez 1-4, K - .325
Marcos Vechionacci 1-4, K
Edwar Gonzalez 1-4, K
Justin Snyder 1-2, R, BB
Wilkins De La Rosa 6.2 IP, 4 H,2 ER, 3 BB, 4 K
Kevin Whelan 2.1 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 2 K

Tampa ppd (doubleheader)

Charleston Scheduled day off
Read the full post, after the jump

The impact of an outspoken fan base -- The Yankees are listening.

“There are a lot of things wrong with this building we’re trying to fix. With the help of the fans and the media, we’re looking into everything.” - Yankees Senior Adviser Felix Lopez on WCBS (via Sam Borden - LoHud)

The security seems much more relaxed. Movable concession stands have been relocated to more convenient, accessible areas. Silly policies have been changed, and some ticket prices have been dropped. Last night, I attended my first regular season game of the season. I had a much better time than I had at either of the exhibition games I went to, noticing several changes since I last visited in early April.

It has been well documented here at NSI that we aren't completely satisfied with the new stadium. In fact, Ross went as far as hinting he may have enjoyed Citi Field more than Yankee Stadium. But it's time to commend the Yankees for quickly responding to some complaints from fans, and addressing some of the issues at the new stadium.

Have all of the issues been addressed? Of course not. Monument park is still a joke, there are still entire sections of seats going unsold, and the ball continues to fly out of the park at an historic pace. BUT, if the first 6 weeks of the season are an indicator, the Yankees will come up with logical solutions in due time, and it is up to fans and the media to continue to hold the Yankees accountable.

We have to understand that this is a process. Not every stadium opens as the "perfect park". Hell, this one may never come anywhere near perfection. As fans, we should continue to be vocal, because it seems that the Yankees are willing listen.

Sometimes we may not enjoy every detail of this new stadium. But if there are major issues that need to be addressed, we all want to know. At New Stadium Insider, we love to speak up, and we hope our readers do as well. Stay aware of the fact that if there are issues with the new stadium, the Yankee front office deserves to know, as do fellow fans who might not have gotten an opportunity to visit yet. Who knows what difference it could eventually make? Read the full post, after the jump

The NSI Minor League Report: Robertson and Melancon Pull a Veras

Monday 5/18

Scranton lost an 11 inning game on off nights by both Mark Melancon and David Robertson. Melancon didn't have his best control, and was done in by a chop single, and a bunt, on his way to giving up 3 runs. David Robertson was the eventual loser in the 11th, giving up the go ahead run on a double by Andy Cannizaro.

Trenton was off, while Tampa's game was cancelled due to wet grounds. They will try to play a doubleheader today, but the forecast is for continued rain.

Charleston lost as Hector Noesi, who pitched a 7 inning no hitter last game, gave up 10 hits and 5 earned runs in 5 innings. The earned runs were Noesi's first of the season as he went 28 innings without giving up any ER's.

Scranton lost to Columbus 5-4 (11 innings)
Reegie Corona 1-3, HR, RBI, BB & K
Austin Jackson 1-4, 2B, 3 K
Todd Linden 0-5, 3 K
Shelley Duncan 0-5, K - threw a runner out at home from RF
Eric Duncan 2-5, R
Casey Fossom 6 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 3 BB, 7 K
Mark Melancon 1 IP, 3 H, 3 ER, 1 BB, 0 K
Rumulo Sanchez 1 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 K - Debut after trade, hit 95 MPH
David Robertson 2 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 2 K

Trenton day off

Tampa ppd

Charleston lost to Bowling Green 6-5
Dan Brewer 2-3, 2B, RBI, 2 BB, 1 K, CS
Carmen Angelini 1-5
David Adams 0-5, 2 K
Corbin Joseph 1-5, R
Melky Mesa 3-4, 2 R, 2B, BB
Abraham Almonte 2-4, HR (1), 2 RBI, BB - threw a runner out at 3rd, from CF
Raymond Kruml 2-4, R, 2B, RBI, 2 K, SB (10)
Hector Noesi 5 IP, 10 H, 6 R, 5 ER, 1 BB, 0 K
Cory Arbiso 2.2 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 3 K
Read the full post, after the jump

The Yankees Are Trying To Move Seats - Old And New (Demolition & Ticket Pricing Updates)

A couple of quick notes on a busy Monday afternoon - before we head out to the stadium.


(photo courtesy of WCBS880.com)

The pace of demolition is accelerating at the old Yankee stadium, as seats are being being pulled throughout. Sales are brisk for the insanely overpriced seats, so the Yankees likely want to get those orders fulfilled before the inevitable buyer's remorse sets in and people try to get a refunds.


(screen grab courtesy of Yankees.com)

The Yankees are trying to sell seats at the new Yankee Stadium as well. In this case, they are trying to get fans to come to the seats, instead of the seats coming to them. According to a marketing email sent by the Yankees this morning, fans can "Save $40 on Batter's Eye seats May 18-21." The Yankees conveniently withhold the price of these seats throughout Yankees.com, so fans can't see the completely overpriced $125 face value. Even at $85 ($40 off) "catch[ing] the game perched atop the Batter's Eye and enjoy[ing] one of the most unique views in the Stadium" is not worth it. Buyer beware, and wait until they drop the prices to a more reasonable level of $45 - $50.

Enjoy the rest of your day, and if you are at the Yankees game tonight, come and visit us in section 428, row 10. Nick is making his new Yankee Stadium (regular season) debut, and shenanigans are sure to ensue. We'd love to meet our loyal readers (if such people exist). Come and say hello. Read the full post, after the jump

The NSI Minor League Report: Wang Rounding Into Shape

Sunday 5/17

Chien Ming Wang continued his scoreless streak in Scranton, throwing 7 shutout innings without a walk. His velocity was down a tick (92 vs 93 last game), but the results were there. Here's what Cash had to say on Wang's performance (from Chad Jennings' SWB).

In the second game of the doubleheader, in Scranton, Brian Bruney pitched one inning and wasn't as effective. Scranton lost in extra innings.

Trenton lost a doubleheader, despite Jorge Vazquez going 5 for 8, with 4 doubles and a homer. He should be promoted to Scranton soon. Tampa lost a 1-0 game, while Charleston won.

Scranton def Columbus 3-0 (game 1)
Reegie Corona 0-3
Austin Jackson 0-2, BB
Todd Linden 2-3, 2 R, HR (5), RBI
Shelley Duncan 1-3, HR (11), 2 RBI, K
Chien Ming Wang 7 IP, 4 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 K

Scranton lost to Columbus 2-1 (8 innings)
Reegie Corona 0-4
Austin Jackson 1-3, BB & K
Doug Linden 1-4
Shelley Duncan 0-4, K
Eric Duncan 1-2, HR (1), RBI, BB
PJ Pilittere 2-3, 2B
Brian Bruney 1 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 0 BB, 1 K - hit 94 MPH
Josh Towers 6 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 1 K
Anthony Claggett 1 IP, 1 H, 1 ER, 2 BB, 0 K

Trenton lost to Binghamton 2-1 (game 1, 4 hits)
Jorge Vazquez 2-3, 2 2B
Marcos Vechionacci 1-3, RBI, BB, K
Colin Curtis 0-3, 2 K
Edwar Gonzalez 0-3, 2 K
Ivan Nova 4 IP, 5 H, 2 R, 1 ER, 2 BB, 2 K
Kanekoa Texeira 2 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 1 K

Trenton lost to Binghamton 4-3 (game 2)
Colin Curtis 2-4, 2 R
Jorge Vazquez 2-4, R, 2 2B, HR (6), 3 RBI - .319, 26 RBI's in 21 games
Jason Stephens 5 IP, 1 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 4 K
Michael Dunn 2 IP, 3 H, 2 ER, 3 BB, 4 K
Josh Schmidt 0 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 0 BB & K's

Tampa lost to Brevard County 1-0 (4 hits)
Austin Krum 1-3, 2 K
Mitch Hilligos 0-4, K
Jesus Montero 0-3, BB & K - 4 SB's against/4 attempts
Brandon Laird 0-4, K
Austin Romine 1-4
Jeramy Bleich 7 IP, 6 H, 1 ER, 2 BB, 5 K

Charleston lost to Bowling Green 5-3
Dan Brewer 2-5, 2 K - error in the 9th scored the winning run
Carmen Angelini 1-5, K
David Adams 1-5, K
Taylor Grote 2-4, 2 R, 2 2B, BB & K
Corbin Joseph 2-4, BB & K
Abraham Almonte 1-5, 2 K, SB (7)
Brett Marshall 5 IP, 2 H, 3 ER, 4 BB, 3 K
Casey Erickson 2 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 2 BB, 0 K
Brandon Braboy 1 IP, 1 H, 2 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 1 K
Read the full post, after the jump

Mystique & Aura Have Finally Made The Move Over To The New Yankee Stadium

With three walk off wins in three days, it is time for New Stadium Insider to take a [not so] serious look at the circumstances surrounding this sudden return to glory at Yankee Stadium.

• The Yankees relaxed their batting practice policies, and real fans are now able to give the players some encouragement before the games. Mystique and Aura approve.

Devil's advocate says: For all three of these walk off wins, there was no batting practice, due to bad weather.

• The Yankees have played three games at home this season with A-Rod in the lineup. They have won all three games in walk off style. Coincidence? We think not.

Devil's advocate says: He only won Saturday's game. With his salary, he should hit a walk off home run every single game.

• We weren't at the games. We are clearly bad luck for the Yankees.

Devil's advocate says: We actually were at the first second walk off win in Yankee Stadium history against the Angels, so we are no strangers to late-inning heroics.

Jokes aside, the Yankees have received stellar bullpen work this weekend, along with timely hits. Sprinkle in quality starting pitching and suddenly the new Yankee Stadium is a haven for magic moments. Let's hope the Yankees can make it four walk off wins in a row tomorrow night when the recent college graduate Nick makes his long-awaited new Yankee Stadium, regular season debut. Read the full post, after the jump

Weather Update for May 17, Yankees vs. Twins - Showery Beginning

We're about to start out trek back to the city from the lovely town of Oneonta, NY. While we're driving and enjoying the lovely baritone voice of John Sterling, here is the game day weather forecast, courtesy of Steve from NYNJPAWeather.com:

The cold front is just off the coast this morning and will continue to slowly press eastward through the day. Showers will linger over the Bronx through at least the start of the game, however the heaviest rain is now over. There may be a delay, but this game will be played. Strong high pressure from the Great Lakes will build in through the rest of the afternoon with clearing conditions. Winds will be from the northwest around 10 to 20 mph with gusts to 35 mph. This wind will blow fly balls out towards center and left field. Temperatures through the game will range from 64 to 66 degrees.

Can we make it 3 thrillers in a row? For everyone heading out to the game. we hope so! Read the full post, after the jump

The NSI Minor League Report: Ortiz Blows Another Lead

Saturday 5/16

Scranton and Trenton (doubleheader) were both rained out, and will both play doubleheaders today. Chien Ming Wang will pitch the first game, and Brian Bruney will either relieve Wang, or start the second game, if doesn't hit his pitch count (minor league doubleheaders are usually 7 inning games).

Three of The Yanks top minor league pitchers started, in the lower levels, and all pitched well. Dellin Betances gave up 1 ER in 6 innings for Tampa. Jonathan Ortiz imploded in the 9th, giving up 3 runs (2 earned) to give the game back. Andrew Brackman seems to be harnessing his pitches in Charleston. While his line of 5 hits, 2 ER's and 2 walks in 5 IP's is not overly impressive, it's much better than it was earlier, which had lots of WP's and hit batters. The strikeout total of 2, for a pitcher that hits the upper 90's is not impressive, but the goal is to get innings for Brackman. The 2nd game of the double header, had southpaw Manny Banuelos pitch. Manny had one walk and six strikeouts in 4 innings of work.

Scranton ppd

Trenton ppd (doubleheader)

Tampa lost to Dunedin 5-3
Jack Rye 1-3, RBI, BB & K
Jesus Montero 2-5, 2B, K
Brandon Laird 1-5, K
Austin Romine 1-4, 2B, BB, 2 K- Nailed both runners trying to steal
Damon Sublett 1-4, K - .192
Brian Baisley 1-2, 2 BB
Dellin Betances 5 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 3 BB, 5 K
Rony Marte 1 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 2 BB, 1 K
Tim Norton 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 2 K
Jon Ortiz 1 IP, 3 H, 3 R, 2 ER, 1 BB, 0 K - BS & L

Charleston def Bowling Green 6-2 (game 1)
Dan Brewer 1-2, R, 2B, RBI, 2 BB
Raymond Kruml 2-4, 2R, 2B, RBI, K
David Adams 2-4, R, 2B, RBI, K
Corbin Joseph 1-3, 2B, R, RBI, BB, K
Neil French 3-4, RBI
Andrew Brackman 5 IP, 5 H, 2 ER, 2 BB, 2 K - picked off a runner
Brad Rulon 1.2 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 0 K
Pat Venditte .1 IP, 0's - SV (10)

Charleston lost to Bowling Green 5-4
Carmen Angelini 2-3, R, 2B, BB & K, SB (5)
David Adams 2-4, 2B, RBI, K
Melky Mesa 1-3, R, RBI, BB, K
Abraham Almonte 2-3, R, 3B, RBI, BB
Chase Weems 1-3 - 5 SB's against
Manny Banuelos 4 IP, 3 H, 5 R, 2 ER, 1 BB, 6 K - 2 WP's
Dan Kapala 2 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 1 K Read the full post, after the jump

Weather Update for May 16, Yankees vs. Twins - Expect a Mixed Bag

We're out of town this weekend for Nick's graduation, but for those of you attending the game today, here is an update on the weather conditions, provided by Steve DiMartino of NYNJPAWeather.com:

Here is an update for this afternoon's game.

Those going to the game today will see a mix of all the weather conditions a late spring day can bring. The fog will lift well before the game starts, however partly cloudy to overcast conditions can be expected for the start of the game. The atmosphere is becoming increasingly unstable, which means a few isolated to widely scattered showers and thunderstorms will threaten baseball conditions towards the later innings. Winds will veer towards the southwest and increase to 10 to 20 mph, especially towards the later innings. This is a wind that will blow out and slightly to the left and will have an influence on fly balls. Game time temperatures will range from 66 to 70 degrees.

Have a great afternoon!

Hopefully the weather will hold up, and the game will be as exciting as last night's thriller. Enjoy the game everyone! Read the full post, after the jump

The NSI Minor League Report: Two Doubleheader Sweeps

Friday 5/15

Scranton and Tampa both swept their doubleheaders. Scranton shutout their opponents in both games. Austin Jackson was put into the 2nd slot in the lineup and scored the only run in a 1-0 game.

Tampa also used solid pitching, while the offense, in game 1, was provided by Austin Romine. Romine drove in all 3 runs with a homer and double. Trenton won, behind a solid pitching performance by Zach McAllister. Charleston was rained out.

Scranton def Charlotte 1-0 (game 1)
Reegie Corona 0-3, 2 K - 1st AAA game
Austin Jackson 0-2, R, BB, K - inserted into 2 slot
Shelley Duncan 1-3, 2B, RBI, 2 K
John Rodriguez 1-2
George Kontos 5.1 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 3 BB, 6 K
Mark Melancon 1.2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K

Scranton def Scranton 3-0 (game 2)
Reegie Corona 1-3, R
Austin Jackson 0-2, R, BB, K, SB (7)
Todd Linden 2-3, R, 3B, 2 RBI, SB (3_
John Rodriguez 1-3, 2B, RBI
Kei Igawa 5.2 IP, 5 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 6 K - 1 ER in last 20 IP's

Trenton def Binghamton 4-2
Eduardo Nunez 1-5, R, 2 K
Seth Fortenberry 1-5, 2B, 2 K
Colin Curtis 1-3, 2B, RBI, BB, SB (5)
Jorge Vazquez 2-4, R, 2B, RBI, K - 23 RBI's in 19 games
Zach McAllister 7 IP, 6 H, 2 R, 1 ER, 1 BB, 2 K - 2.38
Kevin Whelan 2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K

Tampa def Dunedin 3-2 (game 1)
Austin Krum 0-3, K
Eric Fryer 1-3, R
Jesus Montero 0-3
Brandon Laird 1-2, R, RBI
Austin Romine 2-3, R, 2B, HR (3), 3 RBI - nailed the only attempted runner stealing
Ryan Zink 6 IP, 8 H, 2 ER, 1 BB, 7 K

Tampa def Dunedin 5-4 (game 2)
Austin Krum 1-3, R, RBI, K
Matt Cusik 1-2, R, 2B, BB, K
Jesus Montero 0-2, RBI, BB, K - 2 SB's /2 attempted SB's
Brandon Laird 0-3
Austin Romine 0-3, K
Tom Baldridge 2-3, R, SB
Lance Pendelton 4.1 IP, 8 H, 4 ER, 1 BB, 5 K
Jon Ortiz 1 IP, 0's, 1 K

Charleston ppd
Read the full post, after the jump

Housekeeping Note: Commenting System Issues

No, we are not deleting anyone's comments. Once a certain number of comments are made on a post, Intense Debate, our commenting system is failing to show the comment on the page. I have no idea why this is happening, or when they will fix it, but you can read more about the issue here:

http://getsatisfaction.com/intensedebate/topics/comment_is_in_the_id_system_but_not_on_my_blog_post

Blogger's commenting system is so antiquated that I would hate to revert back to that. We'll have to monitor the situation closely.

I will copy/paste EVERY SINGLE COMMENT on the Trost post, after the jump (newest at the top, oldest at the botton. Enjoy...

Comment history for New Stadium Insider

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• stadiumcritic

Ross, Trost and levine were able to flawlessly pull this thing off because a lot of smart people fell for their BS. Sure, the odds are very good that both gentleman will be gone by year's end, but we all know the overhang of the right field upperdeck won't. Why not blame the Steinbrenner family? As far as I'm concerned George Steinbrenner's lasting legacy will be the demolition of a historical landmark.

• 2 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• StadiumInsider
• Rep: 43What's this?

Moshe.. I am reading this comment.. Is it not on the site?

• 4 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• StadiumInsider
• Rep: 43What's this?

No negative connotation was implied. Sorry for the misunderstanding.

• 4 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• Moshe Mandel

I never defended either guy's way of going about things or said they deserve their jobs. i objected to people being happy that they may lose their jobs, and to the general perception that the Stadium is a disaster with a perk or two rather than a success with a few flaws.

• 5 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• Moshe Mandel

I never defended either guy's way of going about things, nor did I say that they deserve to keep their jobs. I just said that it was a little bit mean to be happy that they might lose their jobs, and that the Stadium is not as bad as some are making it out to be, not by a long shot.

• 5 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• JB413

First off I'd like to say IT'S ABOUT FRIGGIN TIME! Fire these two bums get it over with it. Save some face.

This guy defending Trost must be his nephew or son or something....complete insanity to defend this jackass.

• 5 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• 9nine9

Moshe: My big problem with Trost is that one of the facets of his job is dealing with the media and, with some of the garbage that comes out of his mouth, he clearly has no clue how to do so. Is dealing with the media easy? No, but that's why he gets the big bucks. His attitude has constantly come across as, "Any fans complaining should be lucky we let them in the ballpark in the first place. We can sell every seat for $2,500." And even with that clearly not being the case, he still manages to remain smug. Notice there were no quotes from Trost in the announcement of the new batting-practice policy. I wonder why.

• 6 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• tony

Marchand wasnt that off - delgado may out for the year

• 6 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• mtrico
• Rep: 1What's this?

Referring to people who pay $95 a seat as "rich" really irks me too, as does using "rich" as negative connotation. I don't begrudge anyone for having money (if they act like a prick about it, that's another story.) If you boughta 41 game plan in $95 seats (2 tickets), it would cost you $7,790 for the tickets. Is that more than the average fan would be willing to pay for tickets? Sure. However, many people who live in New York, who are not "rich" by new York standards can afford to pay that amount. Plus, as you bring in more people to share in a plan as many do, the price goes down. Are the prices too high? Absolutely, but the argument that you have to be "rich" to sit in these seats is to me, not a credible one.

• 6 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• woodisgood

:D Yeah, dunno why that annoyed me so! Probably because I loathe the word "old"! There were probably a few minor things here and there too, nothing worth me getting riled up about really. Anyway, I still come here twice a day, so I guess I'm hooked, regardless. Keep it up! Your outlook and effort is greatly appreciated.

• 6 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• StadiumInsider
• Rep: 43What's this?

Great points.

By the way, the only time I recall you "not being my biggest fan" is when I referred to Phill Tozzi as a weird old guy! lol

• 6 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• Moshe Mandel

That's fair. The thing about the exhaust fans though, that's not benefitting anybody. I'm pretty sure that they can alter them to blow in a different direction, but its not something they expected and is something they will try to fix. Also, I think a distinction needs to be made between "the rich" and "those willing to pay," Because I think those two are not necessarily synonymous. They tried to maximize revenue, hop[ing that people would be willing to pay. in some places they were right, in others they were not and need to make changes.

• 7 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• woodisgood

1. The biggest number of empty seats are RIGHT NEXT TO THE FIELD. Horrible. You can blame the ridiculous pricing for that. And if you think this isn't a big deal, then you're no fan of going to see your favorite baseball team in the flesh.

2. The grandstand is PUSHED AWAY from the action—and seriously detracts from the intimidation factor + sound compared to the old stadium.

3. The food options (especially compared to Citi Field) are serverely disappointing. This is THE YANKEES fer cryin' out loud.

4. That insanely ridiculously large screen in centerfield is akin to the egos of the upper management of this team—it's TOO MUCH.

5. Anyone who buys into the "we knew ahead of time there'd be architectural shadows because of the sports bar" claptrap is in serious need of a brain colonic. Who believes that shit???

This belief that "Baseball is a business, get over it" is specious at best. Just because "it's a money-making business" doesn't mean they shouldn't take ALL fans into consideration, and it doesn't mean they should talk down to the fans.

I'm a lifelong Yankees fans. I've had a plan of some sort there since 1995. There are certainly things they did right at the stadium—but the things they did wrong, they did BIG-TIME wrong. And, sorry Ross, but I've not been your biggest fan. But one thing we both agree on is Lonn and Levine are slowly killing the aura of the Yankees.

• 7 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• YankeeRhody
• Rep: 0What's this?

Moshe,

I think that many fans feel that the Yankees had a blank slate to create an awesome experience for all fans, not constrained by the old building, and therefore a lot of these problems should not have occurred. For instance, couldn't they have created something so that the exhaust fans did not make noise in the upper deck? It's not like they were restricted in what they could do. And at every step they chose catering to the rich instead of regular fans. This BP thing was just the latest manefestation of this attitude. No one is saying that EVERYTHING is wrong with the new place, just that there are a lot of things that should not have occurred in the first place.

• 7 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• New York Sports Jerk

It's cool to hate the new Stadium right now. People were prepared to be disappointed, and have spent MONTHS dissecting every last thing about it.

How can anybody remain even remotely objective on the Stadium as a whole when they've been tracking every last detail since the ground was broken?

That's how I went into the Stadium the first time, after having read blog after blog. My 2nd time, I enjoyed it much more, and think the 300 level is a great place to watch the game.

I'll be in 400 level tonight, and 200 level on Sunday. It's a beautiful stadium, people just aren't used to change and yes, there are some things that are wrong about it. Doesn't mean it has to consume you every time you walk in there.

It's different, the old Stadium is never coming back, the sooner we all accept that the better off we'll all be.

• 7 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• Moshe Mandel

I'll tell you this. I'm willing to bet that 5 years down the line, when most of the controversies about the new Stadium have died down and it just becomes a place to watch a game, people will have a much more positive perspective on the park. Now, when everyone is shouting about every little thing, it just magnifies any flaws that there are.

• 8 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• StadiumInsider
• Rep: 43What's this?

I consider the seats in the outfield that are $95 per ticket for the rich.

I'm not talking about real or fake fans. I'm talking about catering a
stadium to the passers by instead of the lifeblood of the place. I was
always all about the added amenities, and I still enjoy some of them. That
being said, when you drill it down to which stadium offered a better
perspective for watching a game, it was the old Yankee Stadium, hands down.

As for the exhaust, the "open concourse" in the upper deck seems to cause
this problem. The concessions seem to be right under the grandstand seats
and instead of them blowing the smells away from the stadium, the loud fans
push the smells directly up, right into the grandstand seats above them.

Original Message:
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• 8 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• Moshe Mandel

Where were the exhaust fans in the old stadium? And also, are you insinuating that those of us that cant afford season tickets are not real fans? If I go to 6-8 games a season, or even one, that makes me not a real fan? I dont get it, this idea that "the real fans" are effected but not anybody else. And how many seats are we talking about when we say "the rich?" How many Legends seats are there?

• 8 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• Bobby

If the Moshe-Mickey beef was a rap battle, then Mickey would have just dropped the mike and walked off the stage triumphantly.

• 8 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• StadiumInsider
• Rep: 43What's this?

Moshe -

I went in there more excited than anyone about the new stadium. I had been
championing the efforts to build it for years. THAT is when I was naive.
Once I got into the place, it just felt WRONG to me, and it still does,
after 6 more trips to the place. Yes, there are kinks that need to be
worked out, but it will never be anything other than a generic HOC stadium.
Each trip back I actually find something else that I dislike, but I haven't
posted them since I know people like you will call me out as overly
negative. For example, I love that the upper deck is now mostly covered by
the frieze, but the aluminum "roof" is ugly, and it traps the crowd noise.
I often think the stadium is really rocking, but that aluminum "roof"
doesn't allow the noise to travel to the rest of the stadium. It is really
misleading, and it makes for things to almost get obnoxiously loud right
around you, even if the whole stadium isn't really rocking.

Further, I have finally noticed the exhaust fans that are seemingly
positioned right below/behind my seats in section 428, row 10. All game
long, I smell different foods cooking, and I hear the exhaust fan. I am not
as dramatic as others, claiming I can't hear the game, but it definitely is
background noise that I can do without.

Anyway, these are DESIGN flaws that aren't going to be fixed any time soon,
if ever, and they are the types of things that only the season ticket
holders will notice, because they are there every night. The place was
made for rich people, tourists, and other "gawkers," not the real fans.

• 8 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• Moshe Mandel

Of course things were done for money. Quite frankly, you are naive if you think anything, in any stadium, is done for anything but the bottom line. That being said, most of the people I have spoken to have greatly enjoyed their time in the new Stadium. Most of the initial reviews in the media were positive, from a group that loves to kill the Yankees. Are there flaws? Certainly, the place is not perfect. But this idea that it is some sort of giant failure is silly in my eyes.

• 8 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• Mickey B

"The point is that all of my friends and people I know sit in the upper deck and bleachers, and every single one has said that their Stadium experience has been enhanced."

Either you don't know many people or I am about to pee in your corn flakes.

I sit in the Upper Deck, and I hate the new seats. And, as people know here, I'm in the first row in the Jim Beam Suite. I am about 45 feet further back from my old seats (also first row) and feel incredibly detached from the experience. And I was a HUGE proponent of a new Stadium.

You are flat-out naive if you think things were not done because of money.

Do me a favor. Name ONE thing where they sacrificed long or short-term financial gain for an enhanced customer experience. Even the scoreboard in centerfield, the most beautiful thing I've ever seen on video, is SO jammed with advertisements all around it that I can't even look at it without getting a headache.

Go ahead, I'll wait for your answer.

• 8 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• StadiumInsider
• Rep: 43What's this?

By the way, here is an interesting article from today's Wall Street
Journal:

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB12423403089082120...

• 9 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• StadiumInsider
• Rep: 43What's this?

I guess we run in different circles. I agree that the bleachers are a HUGE
improvement, but I don't know anyone who thinks the recessed upper deck is
an improvement, aside from people who were scared of the steep
incline/height of the old upper deck.

While I agree that I am critical, I am hardly one-sided. New Stadium
Insider is one of the few Yankees blogs that has had successful contact
with the Yankees media relations office/ spokespeople, and we are always
trying to get both sides of the story. When it comes to Lonn Trost, there
are two sides, but both of them are incompetent.

That being said, I love to hear the feedback regarding my coverage of
Yankee Stadium. I am usually pretty optimistic when it comes to the team
on the field, but I guess that isn't the case when it comes to the people
running the operations side of things.

• 9 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• Moshe Mandel

Oh please. this just shows how one-sided your coverage is here. Ross, I love the blog, but you see things from one side. Anything positive in the new Stadium was apparently just an accidental result of money grabs. The point is that all of my friends and people I know sit in the upper deck and bleachers, and every single one has said that their Stadium experience has been enhanced.

• 9 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• StadiumInsider
• Rep: 43What's this?

By the way, opening up the bleachers to the rest of the stadium was as much
a money grab as it was anything else. There are different, high-priced
concessions spread throughout the stadium - why not let the peons spend
their cash if they are willing to take a walk?

• 9 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• StadiumInsider
• Rep: 43What's this?

A Lonn Trost apologist?!? Didn't know such a thing existed. Lonn Trost has
proven time and again that he is at best uninformed and at worst, a liar.
He is ill-equiped to run the greatest sports franchise in the world. Don't
cry for him - if he is fired, he will end up just fine.

Original Message:
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• 9 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• Moshe Mandel

I'm just going to reiterate how much this whole thing makes me sick. Happy that someone is losing their job? Because they made a Stadium with some expensive seats? C'mon. Also, I had a thought this morning that I posted over at theyankeeuniverse.com if you want to read the whole thing, but the old park also had a section that was separated from the rest of the Stadium, with its own bathrooms, concessions, and entrance. It was called the bleachers. I much prefer this set up, where the rich pay more to be separate rather than the less advantaged "riff-raff" being separated to keep the rest of the customers happy.

• 10 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• Leonora

I really really hope that this happens.

• 10 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• StadiumInsider
• Rep: 43What's this?

Bill Madden saved us all! To think, I was giving him credit for that great
piece, and now the fucker is taking all of the credit!

• 10 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• Mickey B

My guess is that, now the the funding has been secured and the new Stadium was built, Trost and Levine have outlived their usefulness. They were basically brought on to do this one thing and perhaps it's time the Steinbrenners showed them the door.

Thank God for heroes like Bill Madden (insert snicker here) or NONE of this would have ever come to light!

• 11 hours ago

• Delete this comment

• New Stadium Insider
• » Could Lonn Trost (and ...

• New York Sports Jerk

Take it with a grain of salt, earlier this week Marchand reported with absolutely no sourcing whatsover that Carlos Delgado would miss 2 months.

Still, would be nice if he got this one right. Trost and Levine are clowns.
Read the full post, after the jump