Ivan Nova No Hits (kinda) Orioles

What do you say to a guy who is battling for a spot in the rotation when he throws a no hitter over 6 innings and you have to take him out just so other guys can get some work in during the game? 

You say, “Do you want your apartment on Central Park West or are you going to buy a place out in Jersey by CC?”

Tim Wakefield to be Traded?

Can the Red Sox actually trade Tim Wakefield?!

Gordon Edes at ESPN Boston has a piece today about players the Sox have on the trading block and one of them is Tim Wakefield. 

Minnesota Twins vs St. Louis Cardinals Spring Training 3-12-11

If only Albert Pujols could take every at bat during this game that would make it watchable to anyone but the die hardest Cardinals fan.  The lineups are a mix of regulars and guys trying to make the team so the real question today come with Carl Pavano and Jake Westbrook establishing themselves on their teams. 

Pavano signed a new deal with the Twins in the off season but his time as a Yankee still hangs a bit over his head.  He’s pitched effectively since joining Minnesota but he must want to throw lights out every game to hush all of his critics. 

For the Cards everything this year is about Albert Pujols and their pitchers.  He can carry them only so far as they can keep the games close.  Albert is looking at this as a contract year so expect mega star numbers from him. 

Philadelphia Phillies vs Pittsburgh Pirates Spring Training 3-12-11

The Pirates are letting the pitcher bat today while the Phils use the DH and trot out what amounts to a minor league lineup (other than Ryan Howard) in this split squad game.

New York Yankees vs. Washington Nationals 3-12-11 Spring Training

As always the main story today will be how AJ Burnett pitches. He’s under a New York media microscope this spring. I believe in his ability, I mean who doesn’t, so let’s hope he can avoid those small breakdowns that lead to big innings.


Brett Gardner gets his first start in Centerfield this Spring today. He’s been shagging fly balls and hasn’t needed any extra work in the field so Girardi was able to give some other guys a chance to show what they can do with the glove. But as March 31 gets closer it’s time for everyone to start playing in their regular spots.