Friday, May 18, 2007

A (Farns)Worthy Teammate?

Yankees set-up man Kyle Farnsworth thinks Roger Clemens should be with the team all the time, even though his contract says he doesn't have to be there if he's not pitching. He's not the first person to criticize that part of the Clemens deal either. I was having this discussion the other night and I really couldn't think of another sport where the notion of "show up sometimes" would be acceptable. But then again, in no other sport can someone participate in 20% of his team's games (35 starts in 162 games) and be considered an invaluable part of his organization (I also realize Clemens won't make anywhere close to 35 starts, it will be more like 20-25, or 12-15% of Yankee games in 2007).

My opinion from the start has always been, if the Yankees will let him do it, why would he say no? The Yanks (9.5 games back with 123 to go) need him a lot more than he needs them. But I wonder how it plays out in the New York media if The Rocket is average, and still doesn't go on road trips if he's not pitching? He's earning a million bucks a start. Fans don't want 3 earned over 6 and a no-decision. Let's not forget, Clemens was God in Houston. The home-town boy could do no wrong. But I guess if he leaves with a lead and Farnsworth blows it, Yankee fans will be able to blame somebody else.

Also, apologies for recent lack of posts. Please enjoy this photo of Jessica Alba as compensation.

6 comments:

Brian said...

also i sometimes get annoyed when people blame clemens. this is how (i imagine) negotiations go:

GM: hey Roger, you are money and we need pitching. do you want to play for us?

RC: i dont know, i might just retire. i dont really feel like being on the road, and i want to see my family.

GM: we will pay you whatever you want. we really could use you.

RC: maybe, but if i was going to play i would want to check with BOS and HOU to see what they offer.

GM: well we would pay you more than them, and also you wouldnt have to travel. would you play then?

Its not like Roger Clemens is demanding that he play somewhere this year. The teams desire his service and as a result he is in a great spot. He is free to negotiate anything he wants. Otherwise he can relax (clearly he has enough money) and do what he wants. He doesnt owe anything on the field to anyone. It would be different if he were the one begging MLB teams to offer him a contract.

Anonymous said...

I can't help but notice you didn't call him buy his name....OMFQ.

Anonymous said...

was this post/blog even about anything?

nice pic

Eric said...

Jessica Alba really can right any wrong can't she

David said...

What was this blog about?

Anonymous said...

I was wondering why there was a picture of JA after I read the title and then I thought, "Wait, who cares?"