I keep hearing dialogue about the Yankees acquiring a starting pitcher, or 1-A to team with CC Sabathia. For me, it should be about what lefty the Yankees can acquire. That’s because I think they have their #2 or 1-A in Bartolo Colon.

Colon is throwing in the mid-nineties, keeps the ball down, and has the historical track record of performance. Yes, his recent history is one full of injuries, but the hamstring injury could have happened to anyone. His arm is healthy so there is no reason to believe this can’t continue for the rest of the year. Right now, according to ERA+, Colon is having a better season than CC Sabathia.

If the Yankees are going to get an ace I believe the closest one available may be Francisco Liriano. Would I trade Jesus Montero for Liriano? It’s a risk, for sure, with his injury history. But considering the depth at the catching position, I do a deal for Liriano as long as the Killer B’s are not in the discussion. Why not Montero and a pitcher like D.J. Mitchell for Liriano? It sounds like the Yankees are not interested in Liriano, so it’s a moot point.

In the end, I might be comfortable going to war against the Red Sox with a “Big Three” of Sabathia, Colon, and Burnett. They could acquire someone like Kerry Wood and a LOOGY to beef up the bullpen. This would allow them to hold on to their prospects in case a better deal becomes available in the future.

A veteran #3 could be the perfect insurance for Colon. Bring in a Wandy Rodriguez or Ted Lilly… as long as the price is reasonable.

Or, maybe, play the kids at some point.

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I am still laughing about Keith Hernandez’s “where is the purse” comment from Friday night when Alex Rodriguez didn’t collide with Ruben Tejada at second base. Gary Cohen took his shot at Alex the Great as well by saying “At least he didn’t slap at it, “referring to this silliness from the 2004 ALCS.

Apparently, this duo forgot about making controversial remarks in the broadcast booth. Remember the game against San Diego in 2006?

SportsNet N.Y.’s (SNY) Keith Hernandez apologized on-air yesterday for comments he made during Saturday’s Mets-Padres broadcast about Padres massage therapist Kelly Calabrese, according to Bob Raissman of the N.Y. DAILY NEWS. After play-by-play announcer Gary Cohen noted Calabrese’s presence in the Padres’ dugout, Hernandez said, “I won’t say women belong in the kitchen. But they don’t belong in the dugout.” Cohen “warned there could be ‘trouble brewing’ after that commentary.” Hernandez then said, “I’m only teasing. I love you gals out there. I always have.” Later in the broadcast, Hernandez said, “I stand by those statements. I think this is a man’s game and I feel very strongly about it. And if anybody thinks when I made that comment about women being in the kitchen, and takes it seriously, well, get a sense of humor.” Sources said that Hernandez was “reprimanded after the game” by SNY Exec Producer Curt Gowdy Jr., which led to Hernandez’ apology. After apologizing, Hernandez referenced MLB rules, which he indicated state that “besides the manager, players and five coaches, only the ‘head’ and ‘assistant’ trainers are allowed in the dugout.” Raissman notes Hernandez “likely faces no further consequences at SNY.” SNY Dir of Communications Andrew Fegyveresi: “We addressed the issue with Keith and he apologized for his inappropriate comments. Now, we move on” (N.Y. DAILY NEWS, 4/24). Calabrese said of Hernandez’ remarks, “Hopefully, if anything, we can turn what is obviously a negative into a positive. If I can be a role model for young girls who aspire to hold positions not typically held by women, I’m happy to be that person” (SAN DIEGO UNION-TRIBUNE, 4/24).

I think it’s hilarious, and never understood why people got so crazy about Mex’s comments back then. I do remember cringing about it when it was done live, but Keith has a dry sense of humor that may not be understood if you don’t listen to him daily. He apologized, and probably should have known better, but I never took it as malicious.

***

You know what is ridiculous? When Michael Kay (who is so biased he really shouldn’t have an all sports radio show in New York), says that Mariano Rivera has been the best player in New York this season.

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

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Tags: Bartolo Colon, Chicago Cubs, ESPN 1050 Radio, Francisco Liriano, Gary Cohen, Houston Astros, Keith Hernandez, Kerry Wood, Los Angeles Dodgers, Mariano Rivera, Michael Kay, Minnesota Twins, New York Mets, New York Yankees, San Diego Padres, SNY, Ted Lilly, Wandy Rodriguez