Here's the lineup for the final game in Colorado, as the Yankees try to avoid a sweep. Johnny Damon is playing center field. One interesting thing about his injuries that Joe Torre and others noted is that he is very open about what he is feeling. One person termed it "communicative." In other words, if Damon is hurting and someone asks him, he will tell that person so.
On the opposite end of the spectrum is Derek Jeter. He hates to admit anything is wrong. Even after he was removed from a game in Tampa Bay after being hit with a ball, he acted as if the question was crazy when someone wanted to know if he was OK. It's hard to gauge how much pain another person is feeling, and Damon has certainly had some problems this season, but their outward attitude is something to consider.
Anyway, lineups:
Yankees
Damon CF
Jeter SS
Abreu RF
Rodriguez 3B
Posada C
Matsui LF
Cano 2B
Cairo 1B
Clemens P
Rockies
Taveras CF
Kaz Matsui 2B
Holliday LF
Helton 1B
Atkins 3B
Hawpe RF
Tulowitzki SS
Torrealba C
Rodrigo Lopez P
Comments (5)
Hey Kat, I was wondering if you could dig up the stats on how the Yankees perform with Damon vs. Without him. Wins and runs scored specifically.
There are a few posters who want Damon shipped out and I think they would be shocked by how important his presence in the lineup actually is.
The only things I don't like about Damon are all his injuries and how deep down I believe he still wishes he was with Boston.
When Damon is in our lineup, it gives the whole offense a different look, I think. He's still a good player when he's out there and helps make the offense go.
It might not be a coincidence the offense didn't do anything when Damon didn't start teh first two games.
Jeff
He grinds through the injuries though - and I think deep down he just wants to be a champion again - most of the guys he was close to in Boston aren't there anymore anyway.
Chip, I may be able to put together those stats, but not today. Too many stories to write, and a flight to San Francisco tonight.
Why do we think Damon has some phantom loyalty to Boston?
They shortchanged him and he went to the Bronx.
Does Damon strike you as a loyal guy?
He wanted out of Kansas City.
He walked from Oakland.
He walked from Boston.
He cheated on his wife.
Why is he now a paragon of loyalty?