I am watching the Yankees' broadcast on NY9, with Ken Singleton, Michael Kay and Al Leiter. Now, like virtually every other local broadcaster in virtually every sport, these three are homers. But Singleton is the most analytical. A former big-time hitter with the Orioles, Singleton's analysis is accurate, sometimes biting, and fair. I like him because he does criticize the Yankees, too. But in the eighth inning tonight, with the Tigers comfortably ahead, Leiter, another former big-leaguer, was dissecting the Tigers poor start to the season. He talked about players out of position, especially Cabrera and Guillen, and he talked about some Tigers getting older, including Magglio Ordonez. Now, Magglio turned 34 in January, and in a previous era he might be considered old. But based on last season and his ability to play the field, I was laughing at Leiter's analysis. Anyone who has watched Ordonez over the last two-plus seasons must marvel at his efficiency in the field. He makes all the plays, unlike the fine-feathered Bobby Abreu, the Yankees' right-fielder.
I was a little miffed that neither of the other two broadcasters chastised Leiter for his take on Ordonez, especially Singleton, who played right field and designated hitter with the Orioles. He should know better.
It's crazy for Leiter to even suggest Magglio is ordinary in the field, because Abreu is the most challenged right-fielder in the majors. Last week, against the Indians, he botched a few plays on balls hit to the fence, and he did the same in the series vs. Detroit in Yankee Stadium.
He can hit, but he never faces the music about his "tentative" play in the outfield. He approaches the fence with all the courage of Barney Fife in a holdup.
UPDATE: Duncan lines out to center to end it, with Abreu on second as the tying run. Tigers 6, Yankees 5.
Friday, May 9, 2008
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