Is Ivan Nova Already a Reason for Worry for the New York Yankees?

Everyone knows the New York sports media has a long-standing tendency to overreact to minor deficiencies.  On any isolated day, the smallest predicament can suddenly swell to the size of major dilemmas worthy of bold back-page ink.

When that impulsive panic is directed at the Yankees, we all know the straits can become dire in a hurry.  So, in the case of Ivan Nova’s early spring training struggles, the Gotham press hasn’t skipped a beat in trying out their best Chicken Little impersonation.

Yet, in Nova’s specific case, is the cause for concern a justified claim?

In two appearances this spring, the numbers have not been pretty.

Through the course of 4.2 innings in March, Nova has an ERA approaching 12 with seven hits and six earned runs sprinkled in.  And with the sky falling, some prognosticators in the business are discussing potential premature decisions.

Legendary Daily News columnist Bill Madden didn’t call for Nova’s head, but when he waxed, “this may be another example of the 'volatility' of youth," it might have been making a mountain out of a molehill.  In other fan forums like www.itsaboutthemoney.net , the query of Nova being the odd man out in the starting rotation was floated out for debate. 

In the words of Susan Powter: Stop the insanity!

After 87 pitches thrown in the 2012 calendar year, no one can rationally judge a player’s success for the upcoming season.  Sure, Nova’s first two games have been extremely disappointing, but should we be running to the nearest ledge and bellowing our grievances for the world to hear?

Dateline: March 13, 2012:  Ivan Nova pitches four shutout innings with only two hits surrendered against the Boston Red Sox.  

The massive collective exhale from Yankee Universe could certainly have blown down every house owned by all the three pigs.  So after fanning three, Nova re-installed trust and pride back to the starting rotation in dropping his ERA almost in half to 6.23.

Sound ridiculous? Well, it is.

One would think after winning 16 games, the 25-year-old would be given a slightly longer leash than most.  Understandably after one year of success, Nova still has to pay his dues to be a permanent fixture in the Bronx.  Flash in the pan successes are not guaranteed roster spots.

Just ask Kevin Maas.

So after a dominant outing against the BoSox, his “rollercoaster” spring continues. 

Just think, there’s still 24 days until Opening day.

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