In an article that suggests the Yankees would use Joba Chamberlain to close if Mariano Rivera was unable to pitch (can they ever just leave this issue alone?), Joel Sherman has some telling quotes from Brian Bruney:
That is unless Bruney makes people forget about Chamberlain in the eighth inning, thus earning the right to try the ninth, if need be.
“I don’t give a [spit] about that,” Bruney said of proving the Yanks don’t need Chamberlain in the pen. “I am here to help the team win a World Series. I am not Joba, so I am not worried about Joba. Anyone who thinks Joba should be in the eighth, that is their business. The team is counting on me in the eighth inning.”
“Without sounding like Terrell Owens here, I know I have good stuff,” Bruney said. “I have an upper-90s fastball, upper-80s breaking ball and a good changeup. People wish they had my stuff. But I have to attack the strike zone. The count has to be 1-2, not 2-1. If that means throwing 93 [mph], not 97, I have to do that.”
“My ideal situation is to be a closer,” Bruney said. “I want that pressure situation. I want the toughest job. It not only pays better, but I like being out there with stuff on the line. I am not saying I want to take Mariano’s job. I just see myself as a closer one day. That is why this [year] is such a big step for later in my career.”
Wow. Bruney looked like a back of the bullpen type following 2007, as his poor control and often erratic command would continually bite him at inopportune moments. However, he rededicated himself to the game and has lost 40 pounds since that time. He looked very strong when healthy in 2008, and he should be a suitable member of a late game rotation with Damaso Marte. Ultimately, he will never be a closer due to his control issues. However, it is good to see that he has the mentality necessary to pitch in big spots.
What kind of season do you expect from Brian Bruney?
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Whta about Melancon I find it interssting how Sherman states that Yankees are not sure about Coke or Melancon. were the red sox sure about Papelbon. I think you groom Melancon as the heir apparent and use Bruney in that role util he shows he cannot do it.
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Moshe Mandel Reply:
March 18th, 2009 at 12:56 pm
Totally agree- the Yankees are stocked with bullpen prospects, they should not make a rash need based decision.
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mryankee Reply:
March 18th, 2009 at 1:02 pm
I think the only concernin the futurewould be ss and what to do with Montero if he cannot catch I saw him and I wonder if he would be able to handle left field? or right field? would it not make sense if he had to play in the outfield toplay right Yankees stadiums right field seems similar to Bostons leftf field in that its an easier spot?
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I anticipate Bruney being slightly above mediocre. He’s been somewhat of a career AAAA pitcher. He had a good second half in 2008… so what? He has very good stuff with so-so command, that is the downfall of many pitchers.
Why do think the Yankees never mention him, as a relief pitcher/closer, in the same breath as Joba? I don’t have the confidence that he can put it all together to be an outstanding pitcher… hope I’m wrong.
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mryankee Reply:
March 18th, 2009 at 1:07 pm
I dont think he is the long term answer more likeely Melancon who as far as we know has the proper commcand. My point is the Yankees are strong in relief options Coke-Melncon so why move Joba to the pen? Hopefully MO will be healthy and play enough to Melancon takes over the role.
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Moshe Mandel Reply:
March 18th, 2009 at 1:15 pm
He has an ERA of 3.00 as a Yankee. If he replicates that, I would be totally cool with it.
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