
It was going to be impossible for Joba Chamberlain to fulfill expectations Tuesday night, making his first start for the Yankees.
Limited to 65 pitches as he transitions from set-up man to full-time starter, Joba labored through two innings, throwing a beastly 38 first innings pitches. Chamberlain was pulled after one out in the third inning, allowing two runs, walking four and striking out three.
Here's where Hank Steinbrenner's comedy tour comes into play. After the game, he blamed the media for making too much of this first start:
"Tonight was a creation of the media. If this had been a first start for any other pitcher on any other team, it wouldn't have been such a big deal."HA. That's good stuff. I'm guessing Hank forgot about this whole ordeal.
Granted, the media did play a role in the overhyping, but what else is new in New York. No need to make any rash judgments about one limited outing from a 22-year-old pitcher. The knee-jerk "send him back the pen" is simply stupid. He'll be fine, and like all young arms, it's just a matter of time.
It's not like Joba had much of a chance to beat Roy Halladay, anyway. Jays 9, Yankees 3
The World Stopped Spinning BREAKING NEWS: Jay Bruce and Chase Utley did not homer. I repeat, Jay Bruce and Chase Utley DID NOT hit home runs. Without the aid of their valiant leader, how could the Reds be expected to win. Phillies 3, Reds 2
Pedro's Bat > Pedro's Arm Let's hope you took Pedro Martinez in the New York overhyped starting pitcher duel last night. Pedro's arm looked great - 6 IP, 7 H, 3 ER (109 pitches) - but his bat proved to be even more valuable. Yes, his bat, but don't be too surprised. It was against Barry Zito. Mets 9, Giants 6
Chipper Nears Milestone We'll obviously be paying close to attention to Chipper Jones batting average (.409), but tonight he'll go for home run number 400 after cranking his 399th last night. The Marlins Dan Uggla seems intent on getting 400 in one season, belting two more and giving Chase Utley a good run for breaking all second baseman records. Braves 5, Marlins 4






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