Yankees Notes: Javier Vazquez, Mark Teixeira, Jorge Posada

Behind a strong performance from Javier Vazquez (4-5, 6.06) the Yankees beat the Orioles 3-1 thanks to a costly two-run error by Miguel Tejada late in the game.

Here are some notes:

• Vazquez was most impressive getting out of trouble in his final inning. His line: 7 IP, 4 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 1 BB, 7 K, 1 HR.
• Joba Chamberlain pitched a 1-2-3 8th inning with good velocity and good movement.
• Mark Teixeira left the game yesterday in the 3rd inning after he took a foul ball off his foot. X-rays were negative. Expect him to be day-to-day.
• Jorge Posada expected to be activated yesterday and was upset when he wasn’t. Now he’s expected to return as the DH against the Blue Jays this weekend.

Here is how I see the Joba/Vazquez situation right now. If Vazquez is pitching well than there is no situation. If he isn’t and Joba isn’t clearly better in the bullpen than in the rotation, and he hasn’t been, then the Yankees focus should be on his future in the rotation. So right now this situation is moot, the Yankees need Joba in the pen and Vazquez is going OK. If Vazquez were struggling or the Yankees had more bullpen depth I’d hope that he would be in the minors.

That’s not the situation though so for now I’ll drop the Joba talk and deal with his inconsistencies in the pen.

This weekend’s lineup should be a good one if Posada is back. Not if Teixeira doesn’t play though. Look at this lineup though:

Derek Jeter SS
Nick Swisher RF
Mark Teixeira 1B
Alex Rodriguez 3B
Robinson Cano 2B
Jorge Posada DH
Curtis Granderson CF
Francisco Cervelli C
Brett Gardner LF

Easily their best since Curtis Granderson went on the DL.

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