New York Yankees: Manic Monday Leads To Seven New Issues

Fresh off an unacceptable loss to the Kansas City Royals on Sunday afternoon, the New York Yankees arrived back home to face the Detroit Tigers for a four-game set.

Instead of keeping the Tampa Bay Rays at bay, the Yankees lost to the Tigers 3-0, but that is just the icing on the cake.

Manic Monday’ is an understatement because it brought on a whole slew of new issues. The Bombers timing for drama could not be worse, as this is the most crucial part of the season. Let’s take a look:

1. The Yankees split a series with the crappy Kansas City Royals and just lost the first of four games against a non-contending Tigers team. Guess the Bombers don’t want any breathing room, considering 25 of 41 regular seasons games left are against AL East teams. 
2. I am in complete denial that A-rod and Swisher made early exits in Monday’s loss to the Tigers. The reasons for both sluggers were ‘tightness’ and according to Joe Girardi are listed day-to-day. This is supposed to be the Yankees ‘Hope Week’, so let’s stick to that plan please. 
3. Starting pitcher Andy Pettitte’s rehab has a setback, causing a delay in his return. Expect to see the Southpaw in about two weeks, which feels like eternity.
4. FORMULA: Tampa Bay Rays winning + New York Yankees slumping = tie for first place atop the AL East, with both teams posting a 72-46 record.
5. The AL East is still a three-team race. I don’t feel like getting taught another lesson by the Boston Red Sox. The Red Sox’s get all-star Dustin Pedroia back in 24 hours, around the same time the Phillies will happily remove Chase Utley off the DL.
6. Back to the basics for the Bombers, who need a reminder that hitting is essential for runs to score. Yankees starting pitching has not been perfect, but getting the job done. Giving the team ample opportunity to win is pointless when bats go dead.
7. Finally, the Yankees came to their senses about keeping Phil Hughes in the starting rotation. NOT. When push comes to shove and winning is what’s at stake the innings limit gets eliminated. Joe Girardi preaches about overusing young pitching arms and that innings limit are an essential part of long-term success. It’s about time Girardi broke some damn rules.