Yankees Score PR Points - Announce Lower Postseason Prices

After a season full of bad publicity surrounding the new Yankee Stadium, the Yankees have chosen the perfect time to stem the tide. When it comes to Yankee baseball, all that matters is October and in this roundabout release, the Yankees have announced very fair pricing for potential postseason games. This should go a long way toward repairing some bad feelings that have arisen between the team and its fans.

As Darren Rodell hinted at earlier today, the Yankees have held prices firm for the first round of the playoffs for all season ticket holders, and have minimally increased prices for the subsequent rounds. They have even lowered prices for some of the especially overpriced seats.

Our seat in section 428 of the Grandstand will cost $60 ($20 per game) for all 3 potential ALDS games. The last time the Yankees made the playoffs in 2007, a seat in a similar section (Tier Reserved section 19-36) would have cost $144. That is a pretty significant savings. For the ALCS, 4 potential games will cost $160 ($40 per game) in 2009. In 2007, those same 4 games would have cost $384 ($96 per ticket). Finally, all 4 World Series games will cost $360 ($90 per). In '07, a similar seat would have gone for $624, a whopping $156 per ticket. All told, a postseason "strip" (all 11 potential games) of tickets in section 428 will cost $580. The 2007 price of tickets in a similar location would have been $1,152. Essentially, the Yankees slashed postseason prices in half for 2009, before even considering how much higher those prices would have been in 2008 if the Yankees had qualified for the playoffs. The Yankees seem like a special team on the field this year, and it appears that the Yankee front office wants the diehard fans to be able to attend the games.

Take a look at last year's proposed postseason pricing (which obviously never happened), compared to this year's prices, after the jump:


2009 New York Yankees Postseason Ticket Pricing:

ALDS
Season ticket licensees/public sale
Field Level (Rows 12-30: 115 - 125) $275/$375
Field Level (Rows 12-14: 114a-114b, 126-127a) $225/$300
Field Level (Rows 15-30: 114a-114b, 126-127a) $175/$250
Field Level (Rows 12-14: 112-113, 127b-128) $150/$225
Field Level (Rows 15-30: 112-113, 127b-128) $100/$125
Field Level (Rows 1-14: 103-111, 129-136) $100/$125
Field Level (Row 27: 114a, 127a)* $100/$125
Field Level (Rows 15-30: 103-111, 129-136) $75/$90
Main Level (Rows 1-22: 215-217, 223-225) $100/$125
Main Level (Rows 1-22: 213-214b, 226-227b) $75/&90
Main Level (Rows 1-22: 210-212, 228-230) $60/$75
Main Level (Rows 1-22: 205-209, 231-234) $45/$55
Terrace Level (Rows 1-10: 315-316, 324-325) $65/$80
Terrace Level (Rows 1-8: 313-314, 326-327) $55/$70
Terrace Level (Rows 1-10: 305-312, 328-334) $40/$48
Terrace Level (Row 8: 315, 325)* $25/$29
Terrace Level (Row 8: 305-314, 326-334)* $20/$22
Grandstand Level (Rows 1-14: 415-425) $25/$29
Grandstand Level (Rows 1-14: 405-414, 426-434b) $20/$22
Bleachers (Rows 1-24: 201-204, 235-239) $12/$14
Bleachers (Rows 1-24: 201/239 Obstructed View) $5/$5

ALCS
Season ticket licensees/public sale
Field Level (Rows 12-30: 115 - 125) $350/$400
Field Level (Rows 12-14: 114a-114b, 126-127a) $300/$350
Field Level (Rows 15-30: 114a-114b, 126-127a) $250/$300
Field Level (Rows 12-14: 112-113, 127b-128) $225/$275
Field Level (Rows 15-30: 112-113, 127b-128) $175/$190
Field Level (Rows 1-14: 103-111, 129-136) $$175/$190
Field Level (Row 27: 114a, 127a)* $175/$190
Field Level (Rows 15-30: 103-111, 129-136) $125/$140
Main Level (Rows 1-22: 215-217, 223-225) $175/$190
Main Level (Rows 1-22: 213-214b, 226-227b) $125/$140
Main Level (Rows 1-22: 210-212, 228-230) $110/$125
Main Level (Rows 1-22: 205-209, 231-234) $90/$110
Terrace Level (Rows 1-10: 315-316, 324-325) $115/$130
Terrace Level (Rows 1-8: 313-314, 326-327) $105/$120
Terrace Level (Rows 1-10: 305-312, 328-334) $80/$95
Terrace Level (Row 8: 315, 325)* $50/$60
Terrace Level (Row 8: 305-314, 326-334)* $40/$25
Grandstand Level (Rows 1-14: 415-425) $50/$60
Grandstand Level (Rows 1-14: 405-414, 426-434b) $40/$45
Bleachers (Rows 1-24: 201-204, 235-239) $25/$30
Bleachers (Rows 1-24: 201/239 Obstructed View) $10/$10

World Series
All tickets
Field Level (Rows 12-30: 115 - 125) $425
Field Level (Rows 12-14: 114a-114b, 126-127a) $375
Field Level (Rows 15-30: 114a-114b, 126-127a) $325
Field Level (Rows 12-14: 112-113, 127b-128) $300
Field Level (Rows 15-30: 112-113, 127b-128) $200
Field Level (Rows 1-14: 103-111, 129-136) $200
Field Level (Row 27: 114a, 127a)* $200
Field Level (Rows 15-30: 103-111, 129-136) $175
Main Level (Rows 1-22: 215-217, 223-225) $200
Main Level (Rows 1-22: 213-214b, 226-227b) $175
Main Level (Rows 1-22: 210-212, 228-230) $150
Main Level (Rows 1-22: 205-209, 231-234) $150
Terrace Level (Rows 1-10: 315-316, 324-325) $150
Terrace Level (Rows 1-8: 313-314, 326-327) $150
Terrace Level (Rows 1-10: 305-312, 328-334) $125
Terrace Level (Row 8: 315, 325)* $100
Terrace Level (Row 8: 305-314, 326-334)* $90
Grandstand Level (Rows 1-14: 415-425) $100
Grandstand Level (Rows 1-14: 405-414, 426-434b) $90
Bleachers (Rows 1-24: 201-204, 235-239) $65
Bleachers (Rows 1-24: 201/239 Obstructed View) $50

2007 Pricing (FOR COMPARISON)

Read the full post, after the jump

Why I Hate The Joba Rules 2009 v 2.0

This morning, I woke up to find that my buddy Joe Pawlikowski had called me out on something I said regarding the new Joba rules. An excerpt from his post on River Avenue Blues:

Ross of New Stadium Insider commented that “the Joba rules keep on getting lamer and lamer” on his. Plenty more fans chimed in with similar comments. Apparently the Yankees decision to limit the workload of their prized young pitcher isn’t going over well with the fan base.

Many of these same people criticized the Yankees when the plan was to spread out Joba’s starts over the remainder of the season. This brings to the fore an apt question: what, then, are they supposed to do? If the Yankees aren’t going to shorten Joba’s starts or spread them out, then what options do they have?

1) Pitch Joba as normal and shut him down when he reaches his prescribed workload
2) Pitch him normally without regard to prior workload

I'll admit that I had that reaction, spur of the moment, while I was at the game, and I relayed the message via Twitter. When you are in attendance and Joba is on the bump, you want to see him go more than three innings! I hadn't realized that the Yankees were planning on cutting his starts that short under these new and improved (?) Joba rules, and it was frustrating. However, it wasn't all just emotional reaction - I have good reason for my disdain of the new plan.

My major issue with Joba Rules 2009 v2.0 is that they are not helping him develop into a better starting pitcher. As Joe pointed out a couple of weeks ago, the Yankees have a history of putting Joba's development on the back burner to better suit the team's needs. This iteration of the Joba rules are no different. If Joba knows he will be pulled after a predetermined number of innings, he is likely going to crank it up in that last inning of work - something he never would do as a starter. I don't have PitchFX data to back this up, but Joba's only strikeout came on the third out of his final inning of work on Sunday. I Would love to see if "reliever Joba" made an appearance in that frame. If he's going to throw three innings per outing for the rest of the season, why not just put him in the bullpen as a middle reliever ? Either way, Joba isn't going to develop his pitching style as a starter.

I am definitely a proponent of limiting Joba's workload in order to make sure that he doesn't have arm troubles down the road. He already has a shaky injury history and the Yankees are counting on 30 or more starts from him in 2010 and beyond. Therefore, my choice would be Joba Rules 2009 v 1.0 - that is, skip some starts in order to limit his innings. While Joba apparently voiced some concern over the long layoffs following a couple of bad starts, he certainly wasn't complaining about extra rest after his All-Star Break hiatus and subsequent run of excellent starts. Starting pitchers are known to be creatures of habit, loving to pitch on their regular rest. It was understandable for a grumpy veteran like Mike Mussina to be stubborn about not pitching on regular, but Joba is still young, and needs to learn how to deal with his body when it has extra rest.

More than likely, Joba isn't going to be needed as a starting pitcher in the first round of a playoff series in 2009. However, if the Yankees advance to the League Championship Series and beyond, they will probably utilize his services as a starter. Wouldn't these long layoffs during regular season starts be perfect training for what Joba might deal with in the postseason?

These 3 inning starts are doing nothing for the Yankees, and they are doing nothing for Joba's development. In short, these Joba rules keep on getting lamer and lamer. Read the full post, after the jump

Yankees Fans Rejoice - You Can Now Bring A Bag Into Yankee Stadium

One of the Yankees most asinine security regulations of the past decade has been their strict "no-bags allowed" policy. Unless you were a woman with a purse or something deemed as a "diaper bag," you would be forced to check your bag at a nearby bowling alley, which gladly capitalized on this antiquated policy from the days immediately following the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Thankfully this ridiculousness is finally being put to rest, according to LeoKitty on Twitter, also the proprietor of the blog "The Girl Who Loved Andy Pettitte" (h/t to Proctor's Arm and Sliding Into Home for also picking up the story).

Hey look! There's even an authentic camera phone blurry shot to prove it:

It seems like they tried to adopt an airport-style testing bin, illustrating the size that a bag is allowed to be, but then they laid out the exact specifications on the sign (16x16x8). For those of you who need something more official than a photo, the Yankees have updated their handy A-Z guide on Yankees.com:

Diaper bags, small backpacks, small purses and bags are permitted. However, in accordance with Major League Baseball security regulations, bags larger than 16 x 16 x 8 inches will not be allowed into the Stadium. Briefcases, large backpacks, large purses and bags, coolers and hard-sided bags and containers are also not permitted. All bags must be thoroughly inspected before they are permitted into the Stadium. Box templates shall be used at inspection points, and bags and their contents must fit without assistance, modification or adjustment. The Yankees reserve the right to inspect any bags, clothing or other articles prior to entry into Yankee Stadium and prohibit entry or require removal of any items the Yankees deem inappropriate or potentially injurious to Yankee Stadium, other patrons or field personnel.

While the bowling alleys must be sad to lose a steady flow of cash driven by countless checked bags, Yankees fans should rejoice. Not having to check your bag at a bowling alley in the South Bronx is one more reason to head up and check out the new stadium if you haven't done so yet. Read the full post, after the jump

UPDATED: NSI Game Day Weather - Yankees vs. White Sox 8/28/09 - Rainout Possible Saturday

UPDATE (Saturday morning 8/29 9:00 AM Update): The Yankees dodged a bullet last night. Lets hope they can do the same today! Here is what Steve has to say:

The remnants of Tropical Storm Danny will move to the southeast of the Bronx with periods of heavy rain through the early afternoon. Rain will taper off to scattered showers as the afternoon progresses. Winds will be from the east around 10 to 20 mph at the start of the game and back to the northwest as the afternoon progresses. Temperatures will range from the upper 70’s to lower 80’s through the game.

Game Delay Potential: High: With waves of heavy rain, a delay in the game is significantly possible. As the afternoon wares on, the potential for drier conditions will increase, especially towards the evening.

Game Postponement: Moderate: The Yankees may have dodged the rain on Friday night, but may not be so lucky today. Periods of heavy rain may prevent the start of the game and may force a postponement to the game.

Rest Of The Series: On Sunday, showers will linger through the afternoon with a threat for a delay in the game as a strong cold front moves through the Bonx. Temperatures will range cool, in the mid to upper 70’s through Saturday’s game and upper 70’s to lower 80’s for Sunday’s game.

Wind Direction This Afternoon

UPDATE (6:00 PM): Steve just checked in with the following bad news

Very heavy rain is moving north from central New Jersey and will only intensify as the evening progresses. In short, those going to the stadium tonight will end up wet and likely with

UPDATE (3:00 PM): The following comes from Steve:

Expect steady light rain to continue on and off through the early evening. The heavier rain expected after 8PM is developing over southern Pennsylvania and southern New Jersey and will continue to move north. I think there is a high threat for at least a lengthy delay and a moderate chance for a postponement.

A lot of moisture is heading this way from the disturbance over the Southeast and from Danny now through Sunday morning.

We have changed the color codes below in response.

We return from our hiatus to issue the following forecast:

But seriously, the White Sox last trip to the Bronx for the '09 season is going to be quite wet, so we have Steve from NYNJPAWeather.com on board to guide us through the raindrops:

A warm front will move north towards the Bronx this evening with broken to overcast cloud cover and scattered showers through the game. The rainfall will increase in coverage and intensity through the evening. Winds will be from the east around 5 to 15 mph. Temperatures will range from the upper 60’s to lower 70’s through the game.

Game Delay Potential: Moderate: While I expect the game to start on time, waves of showers will likely cause a delay in the game towards the later innings. The heaviest showers will remain to the south of the Bronx through much of the evening, but will move northwards towards the end of the evening. HIGH (see 3:00 PM update above)

Game Postponement:Low: The threat of a game postponement is low given how light the precipitation is expected to be. The conditions will not warrant a suspension in play, however conditions will not be comfortable. Moderate: (see above 3:00 PM update). A postponement in the game is possible if the warm front stalls just south of the Bronx, over parts of New York and Queens County, which will produce a constant training of showers over the Bronx.

Rest Of The Series: On Saturday, heavy rain can be expected as the remnants of Danny moves to the east of the Bronx. A postponement of this game is highly likely given the potential for widespread heavy rain and windy conditions. On Sunday, showers will linger through the afternoon with a threat for a delay in the game as a strong cold front moves through the Bonx. Temperatures will range cool, in the mid to upper 70’s through Saturday’s game and upper 70’s to lower 80’s for Sunday’s game.

Wind Direction Tonight

According to Steve, tonight's game should be played, as the rain will be more showery in nature during the evening hours. Lets hope.

Looking ahead, a rain out on Saturday would leave the Yankees in an interesting quandary. It would be in their best interests to play a doubleheader on Sunday to avoid late-season travel issues. However, ESPN has the exclusive broadcast rights after 7 PM on Sundays, so they would have to consider the rare single-admission doubleheader. Back in June, we wondered what it would take for the Yankees to schedule a single-admission doubleheader. This could be the perfect storm of circumstances (no pun intended). If the Yankees do opt for a single-admission doubleheader on Sunday, tickets for that game would likely be valid, and people holding tickets for Saturday's game would be offered refunds. It would be rather unpleasant for our friends in the Yankees ticket office, and for people holding Saturday's tickets.

The Yankees and White Sox do have common off days on September 10 and September 24, but both cause issues. For September 10, the White Sox would be forced to travel from Chicago to Los Angeles via New York City - never an enjoyable experience. On September 24, the Yankees would have to play on the off day after a west coast trip, and the White Sox would have to travel to New York for one game in the middle of a home stand.

The overriding theme here is that the Yankees are going to be forced to do all they can to get this weekend's games in. If raindrops are falling from the sky and are in the forecast, don't assume the games are going to be canceled - it is more likely that there are going to be lengthy delays.

Read the full post, after the jump

Yankees On Pace For Lowest Total Attendance Since 2003

This may seem hard to believe, but the Yankees are 75% done with their home schedule for the 2009 season. Only 22 home games remain and it is a certainty that the Yankees won't reach the 4 million fan mark for the first time since 2004. A smaller home stadium, combined with overpriced tickets and rainy weather have resulted in the Yankees being on pace to draw "only" 3.6 fans to the "new house."

As of today, the Yankees have a total attendance of 2,650,398, according to our attendance tracker. (note, some of our attendance numbers differ from the numbers on baseball-reference.com, but according to mlb.com, our numbers are correct). Being generous, we will assume that with the heat of a pennant race and numerous games against team that are over .500 (including the Red Sox), the Yankees will average 47,000 fans for the rest of the schedule. This may be a leap of faith considering they have only seen crowds swell to that size on nine occasions in 2009, but in this scenario, the total attendance would be 3,684,398.

Taking a look at the Yankees' encyclopedia on baseball-reference, you will find that the Yankees haven't drawn less than 4 million fans since 2004, and are on pace to have their lowest attendance since drawing 3,465,600 in the pre-A-Rodian year of 2003. Yankees brass knew this was coming when they announced plans for a stadium that held 4,000-6,000 fewer fans than the previous iteration of Yankee Stadium, but planned on the Legends suites to subsidize those lower totals. With a good portion of those seats being given away earlier this season as part of a price cut, we are left wondering if the Yankees are concerned about these lower attendance totals.

The Yankees are the best team in baseball and are playing in front of a packed house every night, so there is little cause for concern. However, when you step back and realize that the Yankees drew nearly 4.3 million fans for the past few years, you wonder who is being shut out of the fancy new stadium.

As it stands right now, there will be 700,000 - 800,000 less fans who have the privelege of walking through the gates of Yankee Stadium in 2009. Who are the people that helped the Yankees reach previously unattainable attendance marks, but are nowhere to be found in the new place? Are they out of towners who planned trips to NYC the past few years to catch one final (or first) glimpse of the cathedral? Are they the Wall Street suits who had reality set in once the financial crisis hit and are now unable to afford the luxury of baseball games? Are they hard-working middle class families who realized that the $12 bleacher seats and $20 upper deck seats were sold out within days of the public on-sale and can't afford any of the other seats?

We have really learned to enjoy the new stadium. The amenities are nice, the standing room spots behind home plate allow us to watch games from directly behind $375 seats without paying a dime over $20, and the atmosphere during the recent Red Sox series proved that worries about the new stadium being more quiet were unfounded. We just can't help but wonder who is being shut out of the new place. Read the full post, after the jump

Yankee Stadium Security Redux

Bumping this to the top of the page since I am sick of weather posts being all that is up here.

Here is something you would never expect to read on New Stadium Insider: Yankee Stadium security is a well-oiled machine that takes supervisor directives to heart.

Last night, we were on hand for the renewal of the Yankees/Red Sox rivalry in the Bronx and the friendly security staffers were on edge from the start. According to members of the staff, security was informed that with the Red Sox in town, they needed to be at the top of their game. There were to be no warnings - any fan deemed to be unruly by that particular security guard was to be thrown out, no questions asked. Little did we know that we would nearly be victims of this ill-advised policy.

When we decided to vacate our season seats in the nosebleeds sometime in the 4th inning, to get a better view, we were embarking on a journey that would leave us feeling like bottom of the totem pole scum. At the bottom of a steep stairwell, which leads fans from the upper deck down to the rear section of the field-level food court, we encountered trouble. You see, this was one of the spots that we had deemed a "rapey" upon our first visit to the new stadium - a place that would allow someone seedy to get away with something illicit. In this particular trip through the "rape zone" we decided to act out exactly how someone could get away with smoking - cigarette or otherwise - in this isolated corridor.

Much to our surprise, seconds after going through the exaggerated (read: obviously not REAL) motions of someone lighting something up to smoke, while the other was a "lookout," a security guard was descending on us from an overhang above, summoning us to his post. Keep in mind, we don't actually smoke - as nerdy "Stadium Insiders" we were having an animated discussion about the pitfalls of some of the back staircases at the new stadium. Long story short, this security guard accused us of smoking and "let us off" with a ripped ticket stub - a warning that indicated one strike against us - any more "unruly" behavior and we were out of there. No amount of explaining this blog, or our past experiences with that stairwell were enough for this blowhard security guard to admit that he was mistaken. At the end of the day, we understood that the guy was doing exactly was he was told to do - defend his "post" from low-life fans, without hearing any excuses. One day, maybe that guy will understand that we aren't his target demographic. Hank Steinbrenner is.

We enjoyed the game without any more run-ins with overzealous security until the 8th inning. While watching the game from our favorite standing room only spot behind section 120a, a couple of guys left the expensive seats and offered us their tickets so we could enjoy the rest of the game from the cushy comfort of field level seats. While obviously against the "rules," we figured the security in this particular section would look the other way since we have become friendly with them. One of the security guards in the vicinity even went to high school with fellow blog author, Nick. Unfortunately for us, this was not the night to sneak down to the expensive seats, even with a ticket stub. The smug teenager guarding the section shook his head when we presented him with the tickets and promptly confiscated them. We didn't put up much of a fight - that low-wage worker would probably be the one on the hook if we were the type of scum that runs onto the field in a drunken stupor to get his 15 seconds of fame. It just served as a reminder that as much as you can have friendly conversations with the same Yankee Stadium security guards night in and night out, they are not your friends

This is not your father's Yankee Stadium. When big games arrive, "ushers" are not there to ensure that everyone finds their seat, has fun and returns home safely. "Yankee Stadium Security" is there to rigidly follow supervisor directives out of fear for their jobs. This often leads to misunderstandings between fans and security that escalate to ugly levels. We'll readily admit that in both of the situations described above, security was doing their job, but the black and white way in which they went about it was all wrong. We are the most passionate of fans, trying to enjoy all parts of the new Yankee Stadium. They would prefer if we just stay in our cheap seats, where we belong. Read the full post, after the jump

NSI Game Day Weather Forecast - 8/12/09 - Yankees vs. Toronto - Rain Will Impact The Game

Looks like rain will be a factor in today's home stand finale. Here is what Steve from NYNJPAWeather.com has to say:

An upper level disturbance and a stationary front will support the development of scattered showers over the Bronx throughout the afternoon hours. Otherwise, broken to overcast cloud cover can be expected with winds from the east around 5 to 15 mph. Temperatures through the game will range from 79 to 81 degrees.

Game Delay Potential: High Widespread showers will move over the Bronx throughout the afternoon, which will produce rather wet conditions and a very good chance for a lengthy delay of game.

Game Postponement: Moderate There is a change that a postponement may happen due to the rainfall. Showers will continue to increase in coverage as the afternoon wares on, which may force the Yankee’s hand to postpone the game.

Wind Direction

Update will be provided as necessary Read the full post, after the jump

UPDATED: NSI Game Day Weather Forecast - 8/9/09 - Yankees vs. Red Sox - Rain Should Clear The Area

Update (5:20 PM): Steve has a bit of a bummer of a forecast update. Looks like there MIGHT be a delay.

An area of strong to severe thunderstorms is diving to the southeast from central New York towards the Hudson Valley and the New York City metropolitan area. These thunderstorms are moving quickly and will impact the forecast area later this evening. The thunderstorms are expected to be southeast of the Bronx by 8 PM, however rain will linger for a short time. These thunderstorms will be capable of wind gusts over 50 mph, frequent lightning, small hail, and heavy downpours. Flash flooding and wind damage will be a concern along with rapidly reduced visibility. Use caution if you are driving to the game this evening. The potential for a delay at the start of the game has been increased to moderate.

Be careful out there.

It almost seems like Yankees fans responded to our guest post over at River Ave. Blues by bringing the noise level up the past couple of days/nights. Yankee Stadium has been rocking, and the Yankees have responded by building a 5.5 game lead in the AL East. Tonight is the finale of this epic four-game series and unfortunately the weather isn't as nice as it has been the past couple of days. Steve from NYNJPAWeather.com has the forecast for this evening's 8:05 start, as well as for the rest of the home stand:

A warm front will move through the Bronx this afternoon with showers lingering into the evening. Clearing can be expected after 8 PM. Winds will veer to the southwest around 5 mph. Temperatures will range from the 78 to 76 degrees through the game.

UPDATED Game Delay Potential: Moderate An area of thunderstorms will move through the Bronx this evening and may cause a delay to the start of the game. The thunderstorms will exit the region by 9 PM.

Game Delay Potential: Low Showers at the start of the game may cause a delay, however by the start of the game these showers will be weakening and the game will likely be played through these showers.

Game Postponement: Low No postponement is expected.

Winds Today

Rest of the Homestand:

The threat of showers and thunderstorms will remain through the rest of the home stand for the start of next week. A stationary front will focus a series of disturbances over the region that will lead to periods of showers and thunderstorms. The stationary front will waver over the Bronx, but for the most part is expected to be north of the region. As a result, south to southwesterly winds can be expected for the most part along with temperatures ranging from the lower 90’s at the start of the games, falling into the 80’s through the rest of the evening. The hottest days through the home stand will be on Monday and Tuesday.

Even if you look out this window this afternoon and see rain, don't panic. Everything should be clear of the area for an on time start. If you are heading out to the game, BE LOUD! Read the full post, after the jump

Quick Hit: Stadium Insider Guest Post On River Ave. Blues

For the three of you who read NSI, but not River Ave. Blues (perhaps there aren't even three of you), here is a link to the post I wrote for them today. Ben (one of the RAB guys) is out of town, so they reached out to me to write a post or two.

As you can tell from the lack of updates on this blog, I don't have much free time on my hands. However, last night's game against Boston inspired a blog post, so I decided to help out our friends over at River Ave. Blues.

Please head over there to read it. Read the full post, after the jump

UPDATED: NSI Game Day Weather - Yankees vs. Red Sox vs. Rain - Delay Potential Discussed

Update (1:30 PM): Steve has checked in with a weather update. Looks like the rain has stayed away for the most part, and he is dropping the delay potential to moderate:

The heaviest rain will remain to the south and east of the Bronx through the rest of the evening hours. There will remain a risk of scattered showers through 8 PM, but a delay is not expected now. The rest of the forecast is unchanged.

It appears that all systems are go! We'll see you at the game tonight!

We don't usually get caught up in the Yankees/Red Sox rivalry hype, but this is the series we have all been waiting for. The Yankees are flying high, returning home in first place, 2.5 games up on the hated Red Sox - even while losing all 8 head-to-head battles thus far in '09. The calendar is fast approaching the time of year that Yankees fans live for - October. These games have the potential to be the most exciting that the "new house" has ever seen.

Of course, it is Summer '09, so it means that rain is in the forecast - the only thing that can put a damper on the excitement. Luckily, we have Steve DiMartino of NYNJPAWeather.com on hand to prepare us for the uncontrollable atmospheric conditions. Since the last home stand, Steve has been hard at work on a new forecast format for these NSI game day weather reports. At the bottom of his update, you will find a "delay potential" section and a "postponement potential" section. We have introduced this to help fans who travel long distances in making their decision about if/when they are going to leave for the game. Here is what Steve has to say today:

Well, anyone who loves baseball knows all about the wars that the Yankees and Red Sox have had over the years, decades, even centuries. Yes, centuries! Anyway, just because the Yankees and Red Sox will be battling for first place doesn’t mean the rain is not going to stay away.

An area of low pressure will continue to slide to the east of the Bronx this evening with showers lingering through the start of the game. The rain will end from from northwest to southeast through the evening with clearing conditions likely after 8 PM. Winds will back from the east to northeast around 5 mph, which will have little impact on the game conditions. However, winds will be blowing in from right field with a slight influence in the outfield. Temperatures will range from 70 to 75 through the game tonight.

Game Delay Potential: High The initial start of the game may be delayed until at least 8 PM, but game conditions will improve as the evening progresses

Game Delay Potential: Moderate The initial start of the game may be delayed until at least 8 PM, but game conditions will improve as the evening progresses

Game Postponement: Low (conditions will drastically improve after 8 PM, and the bulk of the rain will remain to the south )

Wind Direction This Evening

Rest of the Series:

The Yankees host the Red Sox through the weekend and the threat of rain will linger right through the series. Generally dry conditions can be expected on Friday night, however an isolated shower is still possible in the early evening. I don’t expect much of any impact through. Winds will be light and variable with temperatures in the lower to mid 70’s.

On Saturday, the Yankees will play at 4:05 PM. Got to love Fox Sports right? Anyway, clouds will increase through the day as a low pressure system approaches. The threat of rain will increase towards the later innings as an area of showers and thunderstorms approaches from northern Pennsylvania. Winds will be from the south around 5 to 15 mph. Temperatures will range from the mid to upper 70’s for highs.

ESPN takes over on Sunday with a game at 8 PM. The forecast is a bit tricky here as a warm front will move through in the afternoon with showers and thunderstorms followed by a cold front overnight. Between the two frontal boundary, an area of dry conditions is expected. Currently, the timing of this dry period run through the evening hours, giving the chance for the game to be played. Winds will be from the southwest around 10 to 20 mph and temperatures in the mid to upper 70’s.

Rest of the Series:

The threat of showers and thunderstorms will remain through the rest of the home stand for the start of next week. A stationary front will focus a series of disturbances over the region that will lead to periods of showers and thunderstorms. The stationary front will waver over the Bronx, but for the most part is expected to be north of the region. As a result, south to southwesterly winds can be expected for the most part along with temperatures ranging from the lower 90’s at the start of the games, falling into the 80’s through the rest of the evening.

Once again, we'd like to thank Steve for the updates he provides regarding Yankee Stadium weather. These posts are invaluable for fans traveling to games that are impacted by weather, as shown by the Google-referred traffic that they generate. We may not be able to control the weather, but if affects our plans, so it helps to be armed with the most accurate information.

While you're here, be sure to follow both New Stadium Insider and NYNJPAWeather.com on Twitter:

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Read the full post, after the jump

The NSI Minor League Report: Pedro Martinez Parties Like Its 1999 Against The Trenton Thunder

Wednesday August 5

Pedero Martinez, in a conditioning game, fanned 11 Trenton Thunder batters. The Tampa Yanks had 19 hits, while Charleston had 3 hits. Jairo Herredia kept Charleston in the game, with a 2 hit, no walk game, but the opposition scored a walk off run to win 1-0. Neal Medchill seems to be getting into another hot streak, clubbing his 10th homer and legging out a triple.

Scranton Scheduled Day Off

Trenton losses to Reading 8-4
Austin Krum 0-4. 3 K
Reegie Corona 1-3, R, BB, 2 K
Eduardo Nunez 2-4, 2 R, HR, 2 RBI, K
Chris Malec 1-4, K
Jeramy Bleich 5 IP, 11 H, 7 R, 5 ER, 1 BB, 6 K
Kanoka Texeira 2 IP, 1 H, 1 ER, 2 BB & K’s

Tampa defeats Lakeland 11-6 (19 hits)
Dan Brewer 3-6, R
Matt Cusick 3-5, 3 R, RBI
Austin Romine 2-4, 3 R, 2 RBI, 2 BB, SB (10)
Brandon Laird 2-5, R, 2 RBI
Kevin Smith 3-5, 2B, RBI
David Adams 6.2 IP, 5 H,4 ER, 1 BB, 4 K

Charleston losses to Augusta 1-0 (3 hits)
Jose Pirela 1-4, 2B, K
Abraham Almonte 0-3, BB
Corban Joseph 0-4, 2 K
Jairo Herredia 5.2 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 7 K

Staten Island def Williamsport 11-8
Francisco Santana 3-4, 3 R, RBI, BB
Zolio Almonte 2-5, R, 3 K
Neal Medchill 3-5, 3B, HR (10), 4 RBI, K
DeAngelo Mack 2-4, R, 2B, BB
Kelvin Castro 3-5, 3 R, 2 2B, RBI, K
Kelvin Perez 4 IP, 5 H, 4 R, 1 ER, 3 BB, 4 K
Rony Marte 2 IP, 7 H, 3 ER, 0 BB, 2 K – WP

GCL Yanks ppd Read the full post, after the jump

The NSI Minor League Report: De La Rosa Pitches a 1 hIitter

Tuesday August 4

Wilkins De La Rosa was perfect through 5 and gave up an infield single in the 7th inning, to spoil his no hit bid. Staten Island lost by a football like score of 20-4 (two safeties).

Scranton losses to Pawtucket 6-4
Ramiro Pena 0-5, K
Colin Curtis 1-5, 2 K
Austin Jackson 1-4, R, K, SB (20)
Shelley Duncan 0-2, 2 R, 2 BB
John Rodriguez 4-4, 2B, 3B, 3 RBI
Ivan Nova 5 IP, 5 H, 3 ER, 3 BB, 0 K
Kevin Whelan .2 IP, 0 H, 1 R, 3 BB, 0 K

Trenton def Reading 10-0
Austin Krum 2-5, R, K
Chris Malec 2-4, R, 2B, 2 RBI, BB
PJ Pillitere 2-4, R, 2 RBI, BB
James Cooper 2-5, R, K
Marcos Veccionachi 2-5, R, 2B, 2 RBI, K
Wilkins De La Rosa 7 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 7 K - was perfect through 5
Grant Duff 2 IP, 0's

Tampa def Lakeland 4-0
Dan Brewer 2-3, HR, 2 RBI, K
Austin Romine 0-4, K
Damon Sublett 1-3, R, BB, K
Brandon Laird 2-4, K
Kevin Smith 1-4, 2 RBI, K
David Adams 0-4
David Phelps 6 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 8 K
Pat Venditte 1 IP, 0's, 3 K

Charleston losses to Augusta 10-6
Jose Pirela 1-5, R, K
Abraham Almonte 1-4, R, BB, SB (24)
Corban Joseph 2-4, SB (6)
Melky Mesa 1-3, R, RBI, BB, K
Brandon Braboy 4 IP, 8 H, 8 ER, 3 BB & K's
Andrew Brackman 2 IP, 3 H, 2 ER, 1 BB, 6 K, 3 WP's

Staten Island losses to Williamsport 20-4
Zolio Almonte 1-4, R, BB, K
Luke Murton 2-4, R, 2 2B, RBI
Matt Richardson 2.2 IP, 8 H, 9 R, 8 ER, 2 BB, 3 K
Michael Solbach 1.1 IP, 11 H, 10 R, 5 ER, 1 BB, 2 K, 2 HB, 0-2 GB/FB

GCL Yanks def GCL Blue Jays 5-4
Kelvin DeLeon 2-4, R, RBI
Jose Mojica 1-4, BB
Chris Smith 1-4, BB, K
Judd Golson 2-5, R, K
Jose Ramirez 4 IP, 4 H, 2 ER, 2 BB, 7 K Read the full post, after the jump

The NSI Minor League Report: Horne Pitches Another Gem

Monday August 3

Alan Horne, in a rehab game in GCL, pitched a 5 inning shutout, giving up 1 hit. It's good to see him on track again, after struggling to come back from his shoulder injury. If Horne wasn't injured, he would be in The Yanks rotation, rather than Mitre.

Josh Towers was named pitcher of the week in the International League, while David Adams was named Hitter of the Week (FSL) and Adam Warren, Pitcher of the Week in the NYS Penn League.

Scranton def to Pawtucket 2-1
Ramiro Pena 1-2, 2B, 2 BB, 1 K, CS
Austin Jackson 0-4, K
Shelley Duncan 2-3, R, BB
Juan Miranda 1-4, HR (16), 2 BB, K
Frankie Cervelli 0-2, BB
Zach Kroenke 5 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 3 K
Michael Dunn 1.1 IP 2 H, 0 R, BB, 3 K
Edwar Ramirez 1.2 IP, 0's, 2 K
Jonathan Albaladejo 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 1 K - SV

Trenton Scheduled Day Off

Tampa Scheduled Day Off

Charleston losses to Lexington 3-1 (game 1)
Melky Mesa & Abraham Almonte, both 0-3, K
Corban Joseph 1-3
Garrison Lassiter 1-3
Manny Banuelos 3.2 IP, 6 H, 3 ER, 2 BB, 4 K
Dan Kapala 2.1 IP, 1 H, 0's 1 K

Charleston def Lexington 6-3 (game 2)
Jose Pirela 1-4, R, RBI
Abraham Almonte 2-4, SB
Corban Joseph 1-4, 2 RBI
Taylor Grote 2-2, R, RBI
Cory Arbiso 6 IP, 5 H, 5 R, 4 ER, 1 BB, 1 K
Jonathan Ortiz 1 IP, 1 H, 0 R. 0 BB, 1 K - SV

Staten Island losses to Aberdeen 1-0 (10 innings)
Zolio Almonte 1-5
Neal Medchill 1-3, BB, K
Francisco Rondon 5.1 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 3 BB, 4 K
Rony Marte .2 IP, 1 H, 1 R, 2 BB, 0 K

GCL Yanks def GCl Phils 8-7
Jose Toussen 2-4, R, 2B, 3B, RBI
Ramon Flores 1-5, R, 2 RBI, 2 K
Jose DeLeon 0-4, R, RBI, BB, K
Kevin Mahoney 1-5, HR, 4 RBI, 2 K - Grand Slam
Jose Mojica 3-5, R, K
Alan Horne 5 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 3 BB, 3 K Read the full post, after the jump

Moldy Monday At The Old Yankee Stadium

photos courtesy of WCBS880.com

We have posted about this before, but Turner Construction really does need to speed up the deconstruction of the old Yankee Stadium. Tom Kaminski of WCBS 880 was up in his chopper this morning and noticed that "The House That Ruth Built" is becoming a house of mold, weeds and grass.

An unseasonably wet summer combined with delays caused by the city and the team haggling about memorabilia sales has led to this eyesore:


photos courtesy of WCBS880.com

Before important games in the Bronx, Guns N' Roses' "Welcome To The Jungle" often blares from the sound system. Never has that been more appropriate.

Read the full post, after the jump

The NSI Minor League Report: Montero Out For The Year

Sunday August 2

Jesus Montero was put on the disabled list and will be out for the year with a fractured finger, while catching. This is an injury that shouldn't hurt Montero's development.

Scranton def Pawtucket 3-0
Eric Duncan 2-3 - came in for Ramiro Pena who was ejected for arguing a called strike
Colin Curtis 1-4, R, 2B
Austin Jackson 2-4, R, 2 RBI, SB, CS
Shelley Duncan 0-3, BB & K
Frankie Cervelli 0-3, K
Josh Towers 7 IP, 5 H, 0 R, 3 BB, 2 K
Damasco Marte .2 IP, 0 H, 0 R, BB & K

Trenton losses to Altoona 7-5
Austin Krum 2-5, R, 2B, 3 K
Eduardo Nunez 3-4, 2 R, 2B, HR (7), 2 RBI, E (23)
Robbie Robnett 3-5, 2B, RBI
Ryan Pope 4 IP, 8 H, 6 R, 3 ER, 3 BB, 3 K
Kanoka Texeira 3 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 2 K

Tampa lost to Jupiter 8-7
Dan Brewer 2-4, 3B
Matt Cusick 2-5, R, 2B, RBI
David Adams 2-5, R, 2B, RBI, K
Hector Noesi 5 IP, 4 H, 3 ER, 1 BB, 5 K
Noel Castillo 3 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 4 K
Philip Barteski 0 IP, 4 H, 5 ER, BB

Charleston ppd

Staten Island def Aberdeen 11-4
Zolio Almonte 2-5, R, 2B, RBI
Neil Medchill 1-3, 3 R, 2 BB & K's
Kyle Higashoika 3-5, 3 R, HR, 4 RBI
DeAngelo Mack 2-5, R, 2 RBI
Luke Murton 2-5, R, 2B, HR, RBI, K
Arodis Vizciano 5 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 2 BB, 6 K Read the full post, after the jump

The NSI Minor League Report: Montero Hurt

Saturday August 1

Jesus Montero was taken out of a game when he was crossed up on a pitch, while catching. The ball hit him in the hand area. No word on how serious it is. Scranton and Staten Island both swept doubleheaders. In Staten Island, Adam Warren threw 6 scoreless innings, to extend his streak to 31 innings. Jason Hirsh made his debut for Scranton and threw 5 scoreless innings, with 5 hits and no walks. Hirsh, who was recently picked up for nothing, was highly touted before falling out with some injuries.

Scranton def Pawtucket 8-1 (Game 1)
Ramiro Pena 0-2, 2 R, 2 BB
Chad Curtis 2-4, R, 2B, 2 RBI
Austin Jackson 1-3, R, 3B, 2 RBI, K
Juan Miranda 2-4, R, 2B, RBI
Yuerendell de Caster 2-4, R
John Rodriguez 2-3, 2B, RBI, K
Frankie Cervelli 1-3, R, RBI
Kei Igawa 5.2 IP, 6 H, 1 ER, 1 BB, 4 K
Kevin Whelan 1 IP, 0 H, 1 ER, 4 BB, 2 K

Scranton def Pawtucket 4-0 (game 2)
Ramiro Pena 0-3, 2 R, BB, 2 K
Colin Curtis 1-2, 2B, BB
Austin Jackson 1-3, R
Juan Miranda 2-2, 2 RBI
Jason Hirsh 5 IP, 5 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 7 K - Nice debut, this is why he was so highly touted
Edwar Ramirez 2 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 3 K

Trenton lost to Altoona 8-4
Austin Krum 1-4, R, 2B, RBI, BB
Reegie Corona 1-5, BB, 3 K
Eduardo Nunez 1-4, R, RBI, K
Jesus Montero 1-1, RBI - taken out after being crossed up by his own pitcher
Robbie Robnett 2-4, K
Marcos Vechionacci 2-4, R
Lance Pendelton 4.2 IP, 6 H, 6 ER, 3 BB & K's

Tampa def Jupiter 4-3
Matt Cusick 1-4, 2B
Austin Romine 1-3, R, BB
David Adams 2-4, R, 2 2B, 3 RBI
Craig Heyer 5 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 3 K
Pat Venditte 2 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 0 ER, 2 BB & K's

Charleston lost to Lexington 7-1
Jose Pirela 3-3, R, BB, SB - .314
Abraham Almonte 1-4
Corban Joseph 1-4, K, E
Trenton Lare 5 IP, 9 H, 4 ER, 3 BB, 4 K

Staten Island def Brooklyn 5-0 (Game 1)
Zolio Almonte 1-2, R, BB
Kyle Higashoika & Neal Medchill both 0-3 (Medchill K'd twice)
DeAngelo Mack 1-3, R, 2B
Lyle Murton 3-3, 2 R, 2B, HR, 2 RBI
Robert Lylerly 1-3, R, 2B, RBI, BB
Camen Angelini 0-3 - .156, like a train wreck
Adam Warren 6 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 4 K - 31 consecutive scoreless innings

Staten Island def Brooklyn 3-1 (Game 2)
Francisco Santana 1-3, R, HR
DeAngelo Mack 0-3, BB, K
Luke Murton 0-3, 2 K
Justin Milo 1-2, HR, 2 RBI - Hockey Player/Baseball Player
Sean Black 5 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 0 BB, 5 K

GCL Yanks lose to GCL Phils 3-0
Eduardo Sosa 0-4, K
Francisco Arcia 2-4, 2B
Kelvin DeLeon 0-4, K
Brett Gerrites 2 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 0 K - debut
Dickie Marquez 3 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 0 BB, 1 K Read the full post, after the jump

The NSI Minor League Report: Bleich Dominates

Friday July 31

Jeramy Bleich put up his best game in Trenton, throwing 7 shutout innings with 4 hits and no walks. Jesus Montero helped with the offense, with 3 hits and is on pace to have more extra base hits than strikeouts. Austin Jackson is mired in a 4 for 39 streak.

Scranton losses to Durham 3-1
Ramiro Pena 1-5, 2B, E (1)
Colin Curtis 0-1, 3 BB
Austin Jackson 0-3, RBI, BB & K - 4 for last 30
Juan Miranda 0-4, 2 K
Yurendell de Caster 2-4, K
Anthony Claggett 4.1 IP, 5 H,2 ER, 2 BB, 3 K
Zack Kroenke 2.2 IP, 3 H, 1 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 2 K
Damasco Marte 1 IP, 0's

Trenton def Altoona 5-2
Austin Krum 2-5, R
Reegie Corona 1-4, 2B, RBI
Eduardo Nunez 2-5, 2 R
Jesus Montero 3-5, R, RBI, K - .313
Chris Malec 2-3, R, 2 RBI, BB
Noah Hall 1-4, 2B, 3 RBI
Jeramy Bleich 7 IP, 4 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 5 K
Grant Duff 1.2 IP, 4 H, 2 ER, 0 BB, 2 K

Tampa def Jupiter 5-4 (game 1)
Dan Brewer 1-3, R, 2B, 2 RBI, BB
Austin Romine 1-3, RBI, E (9)
Brandon Laird 1-3, 2B, RBI
Seth Fortenberry 1-3, R. K
DJ Mitchell 3 IP, 7 H, 4 R, 2 ER, 0 BB, 1 K
Adam Olbrychowski 2.1 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 5 BB, 3 K

Tampa def Jupiter 5-3 (game 2)
Dan Brewer 0-1, R, 3 BB, 1 K
Austin Romine 1-3, BB, K
Brandon Laird 0-1, R, RBI, BB
David Adams 2-3, 2 3B, 2 RBI
Ryan Zink 5 IP, 4 H, 3 ER, 2 BB, 6 K
Tim Norton 1 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 2 BB, 2 K
Jonathan Hovis 1 IP, 0's - SV

Charleston losses to Lexington 11-0 (3 hits)
Jose Pirela, Abraham Almonte, Melky Mesa & Taylor Grote, all 0-4, 2 K
Corban Joseph 0-3, K & BB
Raymond Kruml 2-3
Jairo Herredia 3.1 IP, 4 H, 3 ER, 0 BB, 2 K
Andrew Brackman 1 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 1 BB, 0 K - 1st game in relief
Dan Kapala 1 IP, 3 H, 3 R, 2 ER, BB & K

Staten Island PPD

GCL Yanks lose to GCL Tigers 2-1
Kevin Mahoney 1-4
Kelvin DeLeon 0-4, 2 K
Jose Mojica 0-4
Chris Smith 0-2, R, BB & K
Daniel Gil 5 IP, 6 H, 2 ER, 1 BB, 6 K
Mariel CHecho 2 IP, 1 H,0 R, 1 BB, 4 K Read the full post, after the jump