The Bronx – The New York Yankees were certainly active Sunday afternoon.
Not only did the Bronx Bombers score more than two runs for once in their victory over the Minnesota Twins, they scored nine, they also made two interesting roster moves. Due to a need for bullpen depth for the upcoming series against the Cleveland Indians, the Yankees designated outfielder Alfonso Soriano for assignment, in favor of making room for right-handed pitcher Bruce Billings. It was a move that shocked most.
“We designated Soriano, which is extremely difficult because he’s been a great Yankee and been a great player,” Yankees manager Joe Girardi told reporters before Sunday’s game. “We felt we needed some more pitching today, so we called up Billings. Bullpen has been extremely taxed.”
Many felt that Soriano could have a bit of a resurgence after the All-Star break. However, the Yankees needed pitching and a move needed to be made. As for Soriano, the move didn’t come as much of a surprise.
“It was to be expected,” Soriano told ESPNdeportes.com. “I had already talked to my lawyer about the situation I was going through, and how I was being used in the game, and how I didn’t feel comfortable. This decision is a favorable one for both, me and the team.”
Not only did the Yankees DFA Soriano, but they also traded for a veteran starting pitcher in Brandon McCarthy. While McCarthy hasn’t been to sharp this season, owning a 3-10 record and 5.01 ERA, the former Arizona Diamondback has pitched much better of late. Not to mention, the Yankees only had to give up Vidal Nuno.
“McCarthy is an experienced starter, that we expect to pitch well for us,” Girardi said. “I know he’s had his struggles, but he’s seemed to turn it around. He has a good arm. His last few starts have been pretty good.”
Ebs’ Reaction: This four-game series with the Minnesota Twins came at the right time for the Bronx Bombers! Chances are good the Yankees would have swept the Twins if it wasn’t for Francisco Cervelli’s 11th inning error on Saturday, but what’s done is done. Expect New York’s bats to really catch fire now.
As for Soriano… Gotta hate to see a player of his caliber go because chances are good that he’s going to catch fire with some team. It’s tough because no one loses all of their talent that quickly, but with an overfilled outfield and Carlos Beltran as the everyday designated hitter, there wasn’t a spot for Soriano. It’s a shame.
Finally… The Yankees are the clear winner in the Brandon McCarthy-Vidal Nuno trade! Nuno had trouble going deep into games and McCarthy automatically solves that problem. Not to mention, now that McCarthy is out of Arizona, he’ll actually play for something. Brandon McCarthy will fill a nice hole in the Yankees rotation from here on out.
Tune in tomorrow for a fellow futbol fan, Walter “Grinding Ax” Hynes, tomorrow.
