It always is interesting how, when information provided by this site is criticized, but later found accurate, there aren’t many mea culpa sent our way. I wasn’t expecting an apology from St. Petersburg Times columnist Joe Smith, but the news via Nick Cafardo of the Boston Globe about Carl Crawford was good enough. Apparently Mr. Crawford, along with Carlos Pena, might have to be traded this season because of Tampa’s financial situation. Since I don’t think the Rays will be able to compete with New York and Boston, this day might come sooner, rather than later.

Enough about NYBD vindication, this is more about how it impacts the local teams. I am sure the Mets would love Crawford, but with Jason Bay locked up for four years, and Carlos Beltran owed $37 million the next two, Crawford doesn’t have a spot, unless Beltran’s health necessitates a move to a corner. More likely, the Crawford news makes possible that he ends up in pinstripes no later than next season.

I spoke to Frank Russo recently who said the Yankees “absolutely love” Crawford. The feeling from some in the organization is that his pending free agency explains why they stayed away from the big left field free agents, and aren’t clamoring for a Johnny Damon return. As much as I love Brett Gardner, an outfield of Granderson, Crawford, and Swisher would certainly provide multiple dimensions on offense and defense.

Numerous times I have said that, even during the dynasty years, the Yankees haven’t had a speedy, top of the order, type hitter since Rickey Henderson. Crawford gives you the added bonus of outstanding defense. Between him and Granderson you might see over 30 triples, and 100 stolen bases. Essentially, Crawford can give the Yankees the same type of “spark” leading off that Jose Reyes has been for the Mets.

If the Yankees need some offense could they acquire Crawford at the deadline? They have the prospects, but why deal with Tampa when Cashman can just sign him after the season. This, of course, is assuming he doesn’t go to a team, like Boston or Anaheim, who could extend him before he hits free agency.

In any event, the news about Carl Crawford should be music to the ears of the Yankees. It doesn’t surprise them, I’m sure, and it shouldn’t surprise the readers of NYBD. Do you think Joe Smith will send the site flowers the day after the deal? I won’t hold my breath.

Mike Silva is a freelance writer and radio host since March of 2007. This website is his own personal "digest" of New York Baseball He's also hosts NYBD Radio on Blog Talk Radio and 1240 AM WGBB. Check out his sports media commentary at www.sportsmediawatchdog.com. Check out his official website, www.mikesilvamedia.com

Mike Silva

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Tags: Boston Globe, Brett Gardner, Carl Crawford, Carlos Pena, Curtis Granderson, Joe Smith of the St. Petersburg Times, Johnny Damon, Jose Reyes, New York Mets, New York Yankees, Nick Cafardo, Nick Swisher, Rickey Henderson, Tampa Bay Rays