Let me just get that out of the way. He was good for awhile during his first stint with the Yankees and he wasn’t responsible entirely for the loss in Game 2 of today’s doubleheader against the Pirates, but there was a reason he was cut loose by the Red Sox. I don’t think we need him at this point.
As for the series this weekend, there were lots of high points. The offense in yesterday’s game was super fun; I’ve always loved homers so it was my kind of game. Phelps was so-so, but the bullpen blew me away yesterday and today, D-Rob in particular. He’s throwing strikes now – no more Houdini act – and giving us four-out saves the way Mo used to. I’m liking this newer, more mature version of him. A lot. And kudos to Warren and Betances, who formed a terrific bridge to Robertson.
As the Yanks take tomorrow off before the series at Wrigley, the big issue facing them isn’t the offense (although the Beltran thing is worrisome) or the relief pitching but the rotation. How in the world are we supposed to compete for real without CC (I hate to say it, but I honestly don’t think he’ll be back this year) and Nova? Pineda should be OK at some point and Phelps has his moments, but Nuno doesn’t inspire confidence. Get some arms, Cashman. Somehow.
