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Wednesday, June 5, 2013

Yanks Nip Indians, 4-3


Teixeira Homers in Second Straight Game

By Howard Goldin

BRONX, NEW YORK, JUNE 5- The Yanks rebounded after losing their last two series, Mets and Red Sox, by capturing the first two games of a three game set with the Cleveland Indians on Tuesday night.

The pitchers on each team put zeros on the scoreboard in every inning but one. The impressive performance of David Phelps was a far cry from his last start six days ago against the Mets when he gave up five runs in 0.1IP. Of that prior start Phelps told reporters, “I tried to forget about that start as much as I could.”

Phelps blanked the Indians for six innings. The only hit he allowed was an infield single by Drew Stubbs in the third. His control was less effective as he issued four bases on balls. After the contest, he commented, “I was all over the place. I was fortunate to get the pitches when I needed them.” He gave credit to his experienced batterymate, Chris Stewart for his successful outing.

With the exception of his brief debacle against the Mets, Phelps has gone 3-1 and pitched at least six frames in his last five starts.

Three Cleveland runs came in the seventh inning off reliever Joba Chamberlain. Chamberlain walked Carlos Santana, the first batter he faced. After the next two batters were retired, Mike Aviles singled and Stubbs homerd to drive in three.

The four runs the Yanks scored in the third off Cleveland starter Scott Kazmir were sufficient to ensure the victory. The first five Yankee batters hit safely. Lyle Overbay led off with a double. Stewart followed by a single but was caught in a rundown between first and second, yet Overbay could not score. A single to left by Ichiro Suzuki knocked in Overbay. Jayson Nix followed with a single and Mark Teixeira blasted a three run homer into the seats in left. The home run was his second in the last two games.

Yankees skipper Joe Girardi remarked regarding his returned first baseman, “He’s an RBI machine. It’s great to see him productive from both sides.” Teixeira explained his batting strategy since his return, “Being aggressive, committing to my swing, getting good pitches to hit.”

The Yankee win was saved by legendary closer Mariano Rivera, who retired all three opposing batters in the ninth. Rivera now has 21 saves in 2013 and 629 career saves. The save was his 38th straight at Yankee Stadium and his 19th straight against Cleveland.

On Tuesday afternoon, the Yankees are sending C.C. Sabathia (5-4) to the mound to hopefully achieve the win. Cleveland will counter with righty Corey Kluber (3-3).

Tuesday, June 4, 2013

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Big 10 to Join Pinstripe Bowl in Bronx

Bronx News (Bxnews.net): Big 10 to Join Pinstripe Bowl in Bronx: By Howard Goldin BRONX, NEW YORK, JUNE 4-Two weeks ago, the New York Yankees announced a partnership with Manchester City FC to form the N...

Bronx News Sports: Big 10 to Join Pinstripe Bowl in Bronx

Bronx News Sports: Big 10 to Join Pinstripe Bowl in Bronx: By Howard Goldin BRONX, NEW YORK, JUNE 4-Two weeks ago, the New York Yankees announced a partnership with Manchester City FC to form the N...

Highbridge News: Big 10 to Join Pinstripe Bowl in Bronx

Highbridge News: Big 10 to Join Pinstripe Bowl in Bronx: Big 10 to Join Pinstripe Bowl in Bronx By Howard Goldin BRONX, NEW YORK, JUNE 4-Two weeks ago, the New York Yankees announced a partners...

Big 10 to Join Pinstripe Bowl in Bronx

Big 10 to Join Pinstripe Bowl in Bronx

By Howard Goldin

BRONX, NEW YORK, JUNE 4-Two weeks ago, the New York Yankees announced a partnership with Manchester City FC to form the NY FC, the only NYC entry in the MLS (Major League Soccer), beginning in 2015. The Yankees organization, under the ownership of the Steinbrenners, never rests on its past achievements. Thus, another press conference was held at Yankee Stadium on Monday afternoon to detail the partnership agreement with the Big 10 Conference.

Starting in late December of 2014, the Big 10 will replace the Big 12 as one of the two participants in the New Era Pinstripe Bowl, played annually several days after Christmas at Yankee Stadium. The partnership will last for eight years, through 2021.

General managing partner of the Yankees Hal Steinbrenner spoke of his father’s love for college football and his connection to the Big 10, “The Big Ten Conference playing college football at Yankee Stadium is something I know my father would be proud to see come to fruition. He had a great passion for college football and spoke glowingly of his involvement with several of the conference’s programs.”

Big 10 Commissioner James E. Delaney expressed his desire to make the college football powerhouse conference truly become a national entity and play in New York City, “Once we saw the success of the New Era Pinstripe Bowl, it became obvious that being in the media capital of the world at one of sports’ most renowned venues was a natural pairing.”
Delaney did not state which team in the conference standing would participate in each year’s bowl game but did promise, “We’re going to try to get a minimum of six and a maximum of eight teams. We expect to provide a number of iconic Big 10 brands here.”

At the conference, a question was raised, because of the connection between the Steinbrenner family and UNC (University of North Carolina) as to whether the ACC (Atlantic Coast Conference) would replace the Big East once its contract with the Pinstripe Bowl ends. Yankees president Randy Levine responded, “That’s for another day.” It appears fairly clear that in the future the Pinstripe Bowl will feature the big 10 against the ACC.

During its three years of existence, the New Era Pinstripe Bowl has grown in attendance and in TV ratings. The interest in the bowl game in the Bronx can only increase with the yearly presence of a Big 10 team.

Tex Strikes Back

Yankees get to Masterson and Indians despite no-decision for Pettitte

By Rich Mancuso

BRONX, NEW YORK, JUNE 4- The last time Justin Masterson of the Cleveland Indians pitched against the New York Yankees he was almost perfect. He threw a complete game shutout in a 1-0 Indians win in the first game of a doubleheader May 13th at Progressive Field in Cleveland.

Monday night in the Bronx, with the Yankees Andy Pettitte on the mound, returning from the disabled list, Masterson could not duplicate what he did in Cleveland. Mark Teixeira touched the Indians right hander for a grand slam home run in the third inning and the Yankees never looked back taking the first of a three-game series 7-4.

The game also saw the return of former Yankee Nick Swisher to the Stadium. In three at bats, he walked, scored and drove in a run for the Indians and received a huge ovation from the Yankee Stadium crowd.

Teixeira returned from the 60-day disabled list Friday night against the Boston Red Sox and was 1-for-9 including a run and walk prior to hitting his eighth career grand slam. It was also the first grand slam hit by the Yankees this season.

“Tex is an RBI machine,” commented Yankees manager Joe Girardi. Indeed, the Yankees are hoping this is one of many home runs to come as they have missed his offense in the middle of their lineup.

Masterson allowed seven runs in 6.1 innings. Two of his 9-hits went for home runs. Travis Hafner also connected in the seventh inning. He hit a solo home run to right with one out, his 9th of the season that gave New York their 7th and final run.

He had not allowed a home run to the Yankees in his career prior to his start Monday night.

“Three hanging pitches on the home runs,” commented Masterson, “And one up and away to Hafner. I wasn’t able to make one when I needed to,” he said about his pitch selection.

Indians manager Terry Francona said about Masterson, “I actually think he had good stuff the whole night. He made some mistakes when he got ahead of the count to the bottom of the order. Then he made a real good pitch to Cano (Robinson) and we had a chance to get out of it, but he left a first pitch fastball and let Teixeira get his arms extended.”

“First home run of the year is always good,” said Teixeira. He said it was a big home run as Masterson is one of the elite pitchers in the American League. “I know it will take me a few weeks to get back in the rhythm of playing every day and seeing big league pitching but like I said this is a good first step.”

Pettitte making his 500th career start allowed 4-runs and seven hits in 4.2 innings. “It’s disappointing,” he said about leaving the game early and feeling a little tired. “I am not happy with the results but it was a good win for us, we needed that.”

Mariano Rivera tossed a scoreless ninth inning and recorded his 20th save.

NOTES: Before the game, the Yankees made room for Pettitte on the roster and optioned outfielder Brennan Boesch to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes Barre. The club also released outfielder Ben Francisco from the roster….

Robinson Cano, 1-for-5 has hit safely in 15 of his last 16 games….Lyle Overbay, 1-for-3, started in right field, It was his first career Major League appearance at a defensive position other than first base…

Yankees principal owner Hal Steinbrenner before the game met with the media after a press conference to announce the agreement with the Big-10 college football conference and the Pinstripe Bowl that the Yankees host. But the attention and questions centered on injured third baseman Alex Rodriguez who may return sometime in late July or August.

“There have been no doubt been times that we’ve been disappointed in him and we’ve conveyed that to him,” he said. He understands that.” The reference was referring to the huge contract and Rodriguez not living up to expectations with injuries and the constant cloud of steroid allegations around him…

David Phelps (3-3, 4.65 ERA) gets the start for New York Tuesday night opposing left hander Scott Kazmir (3-2.)

Comment Rich Mancuso: Ring786@aol.com

Monday, June 3, 2013

Highbridge News: Puerto Rican Day Parade

Highbridge News: Puerto Rican Day Parade: The Grand Concourse was a sea of red, white and blue as the borough's Puerto Rican heritage was on display during the annual Bronx Pu...

Puerto Rican Day Parade

The Grand Concourse was a sea of red, white and blue as the borough's Puerto Rican heritage was on display during the annual Bronx Puerto Rican Day Parade.
Photos by Gary Quintal and Seitu Oronde

Monday, May 20, 2013

Highbridge News: Grand Jury Indicts Drug Gang

Highbridge News: Grand Jury Indicts Drug Gang: BRONX, NEW YORK, MAY 20- District Attorney Robert T. Johnson announced that a grand jury has indicted 37 alleged drug dealers from rival c...

Grand Jury Indicts Drug Gang


BRONX, NEW YORK, MAY 20- District Attorney Robert T. Johnson announced that a grand jury has indicted 37 alleged drug dealers from rival crews in the Highbridge section of the Bronx following an 11-month long investigation.
The grand jury returned a 124-count indictment charging the defendants with conspiracy to sell narcotics, criminal sale and possession of narcotics, attempted murder, assault, criminal possession of a weapon, criminal sale and possession of marijuana, and possession of ammunition. According to the indictment, the alleged conspiracy occurred between May 10, 2008 and May 10, 2013.
It is alleged that the defendants, belonged to either the ‘Woodycrime’ crew or ‘165th and Nelson’ crew, and “acted-in-concert” in engaging in more than 100 drug transactions of varying quantities, with undercover detectives during the course of the investigation.
The overwhelming majority of the illegal drug sales occurred on a one block stretch of 165th Street between Woodcrest and Nelson Avenues, where all of the defendants resided.
Luis “Lou” Pacheco, 21, was charged in connection with two separate shootings. In one incident, which occurred on November 9, 2011, Pacheco allegedly shot Nicholas Barbour in the back with a .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol. Barbour was struck when Pacheco allegedly fired several shots at a moving minivan on West 165th Street and Woodycrest Avenue. The gunfire is believed to be tied to an unknown issue arising from an attempt to purchase marijuana. 
Pacheco was indicted for attempted murder in the second degree, assault in the first and second degrees, and criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree. He is facing a maximum sentence of up to 25 years imprisonment if convicted of the most serious offense, attempted murder. The other shooting for which Pacheco was indicted occurred on January 16, 2011 when he allegedly fired in the direction of a crowd of people striking Marvin Fortuna in the hand. That shooting occurred on East 161st Street and Gerard Avenue during an altercation outside a coffee shop. Pacheco was charged with assault in the third degree, criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree, and Reckless Endangerment in the first degree. The most serious offense, criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree is punishable by a maximum sentence of up to fifteen years imprisonment if convicted.
Pacheco, an alleged principal player in the ‘Woodycrime’ crew, was arraigned before Acting State Supreme Court Justice Steven Barrett and was ordered held without bail. Another alleged leader of the ‘Woodcrime’ crew Christian Caban, 27, was also remanded while bail for a third alleged principal player, Marvin Gamoneda, 27, was set at $350,000 bond or $250,000 cash.
Of the 37 defendants named in the indictment, 25 have been taken into custody. More arrests are expected and additional charges are expected to be filed in this continuing investigation as a result of the seizure of illegal weapons and narcotics when investigators executed arrest and search warrants pursuant to this indictment. The most serious conspiracy charge against the defendants, conspiracy in the third degree, is punishable by a maximum sentence of up to seven years imprisonment if convicted. The most serious drug charge, criminal sale of a controlled substance in the third degree, is punishable by a maximum sentence of up to nine years imprisonment on each count, if convicted, depending on their prior criminal records.
The charges in the indictment are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
District Attorney Johnson acknowledged the following for their efforts in building this case: the NYPD Bronx Narcotics Division’s Operation Good Neighbor; the 44th Precinct Detective Squad; and the 44th Precinct Anti-Crime Patrol Unit.
Assistant District Attorney Terry Gensler, of the Gangs / Major Case Bureau is prosecuting the case under the supervision of Assistant District Attorney Edward Talty, Chief of the Gangs / Major Case Bureau.

Highbridge News: Ellen Barkin Joins Bronx Walk of Fame

Highbridge News: Ellen Barkin Joins Bronx Walk of Fame: Ellen Barkin Joins Bronx Walk of Fame By Howard Goldin BRONX, NEW YORK, MAY 20- Although the rain on Sunday afternoon postponed the b...

Ellen Barkin Joins Bronx Walk of Fame

Ellen Barkin Joins Bronx Walk of Fame
By Howard Goldin
BRONX, NEW YORK, MAY 20- Although the rain on Sunday afternoon postponed the baseball game between the Yankees and Blue Jays at Yankee Stadium, it did not dampen enthusiasm nor cancel the festivities several blocks east on the Grand Concourse, where the annual Bronx Walk of Fame ceremony was held. Three new Bronx idols were honored by having their names added to street signs posted along the Grand Concourse in the 161st Street area.
Each of the three follows other notable sons and daughters of the Bronx whose lives and careers added prestige to the borough. Miguel Angel Amadeo, a distinguished Latino musician and composer, is the senior of the three at 79 years of age. Amadeo was born in Puerto Rico, but has lived in the Bronx since 1948.
His record shop plus, Casa Amadeo, located at 786 Prospect Avenue, is a historical landmark. Originally opened by Victoria Hernandez, sister of the legendary Puerto Rican composer Rafael Hernandez, the store was the first record shop owned by a Puerto Rican in New York.
Amadeo was the composer of many musical numbers during his lengthy musical career. To the audience at the ceremony, he said, “What brought me here today was “Give it to Me When I’m Alive” by El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico. He sang the popular tune and was joined by many in the audience.
The composer spoke happily of the future, “I’m 79 years old and I don’t intend to retire. I’ve been in the music business 61 years. I hope in the future I will be doing what I’m doing now.”
Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. also introduced one of his predecessors, Robert Abrams. The long-time and respected public official was the Bronx BP from 1970-9. Prior to holding the borough-wide office, Abrams represented a Bronx district in the New York State Assembly from 1966-9.
After his decade as Bronx BP, Abrams was elected to the statewide office of New York State Attorney General in 1979. He retained that office until retiring in 1993. Governor David Patterson named the Justice Building in Albany in honor of Abrams in 2009. After his retirement from elective office, he joined the law firm of Strook, Strook and Lavan.
The only female and the youngest of the trio is famed actress Ellen Barkin. She was born to a working class couple in the mid-1950’s. Aware of her future career early in life, Barkin graduated from the High School of Performing Arts. She majored in history and drama at Hunter College. She went the rounds of auditions after attending Actor’s Studio.
Her acting ability was recognized on stage and screen. She earned a Tony Award for her first Broadway appearance, “The Normal Heart” in 2011. She was a nominee and award winner for motion pictures and TV shows on numerous occasions.
Diaz introduced her as a world famous ambassador for the Bronx, “What’s special for me is when you look at her Twitter page [followed by nearly 150,000] it says Bronx girl. Everywhere she goes in the world she has Bronx on her lips.”
Speaking in the Bronx Supreme Court, where the introductory section of the ceremony was held, the experienced actress drew a big laugh when she said, “The last time I was in this building was when I bailed my grandmother out after she was arrested for running an illegal poker game.” She closed with heart-felt words regarding her place of birth, “I will be a Bronx girl until the day I die.”
Everyone then went outside in the rain to watch the three honorees unveil their street signs. All three appeared excited, extremely happy and in very good humor to be recognized in the Bronx.

Friday, May 17, 2013

Another Yankee Down?

More Yankee Injuries? Andy Pettitte, Chris Stewart

By Howard Goldin

BRONX, NEW YORK, MAY 17- It took 3 hours and 26 minutes for the Yankees to lose the rubber game of the three-game series with Seattle. Although the Thursday night loss was disappointing, the Yanks are still in first place in the American League East. The biggest worry for Yankees executives and fans is the seriousness of the physical condition of Andy Pettitte and Chris Stewart.

The Yankees veteran left-hander Andy Pettitte seems snake-bit when pitching against the Seattle Mariners. Seattle is the only American League franchise that has a winning record over Pettitte. The Mariners have handed him 13 losses in the 25 games he has pitched against them. He has 5-10 in his last 15 decisions.

On Thursday night, Pettitte failed to record his 250th win in the majors as he was removed from the contest after pitching only 4.2 innings. At the start of the fifth, the starting pitcher told manager Joe Girardi he had a little spasm, but wanted to remain in the game once two were out. Girardi recalled, “When I saw the drop in velocity, I had some concern. To me, his trap had a knot in it.” The manager does not know if the lefty will miss a turn or even be out of action longer.

Pettitte gave up two runs, four hits, three walks, and threw a wild pitch during his time on the mound. He left with the Yankees trailing, 2-1.

Interestingly, Seattle’s starter, Hector Noesi, threw the same number of pitches as Pettitte, 79, but he was not involved in the decision as he left the game after only 4.1 innings.

The Yankees scored their first tally in the second with two out. Curtis Granderson beat out an infield hit in only his third career start as designated hitter. He advanced to second on an error by the first baseman on the same play and crossed the plate after a double by David Adams. Adams, who began his in the majors on the previous night, recorded his first extra-base hit and first run batted in.

The Mariners scored an insurance run in the sixth, which proved to be needed, when outfielder Michael Morse led off the inning with his 10th four bagger. The home run was the hot hitting outfielder’s 9th hit in his previous 14 at bats.

The Yanks cut the deficit to a single run in the seventh as they pushed one run over the plate on an infield single by Robinson Cano.

Seattle closer Tom Wilhelmsen recorded his 11th save of the season in 11 save opportunities by holding the Yankees to an infield single in the ninth.

Catcher Chris Stewart was replaced by Austin Romine in the eighth. Girardi said Stewart complained of pain in his left groin. After the game, the manager said, “Let’s see what the MRI says.” When asked if he would bring up another catcher from the minors, he responded, “We’ll just have to see.”

The Yankees will begin a three game series with the visiting Toronto Blue Jays on Friday night. Hiroki Kuroda (5-2) will start for New York against Mark Buerhle (1-2) for Toronto.

Thursday, May 2, 2013

Highbridge News: Yanks Edge Astros, 5-4

Highbridge News: Yanks Edge Astros, 5-4: By Howard Goldin BRONX, NEW YORK, May 2- Astute base running by Lyle Overbay in the sixth inning led to a 5-4 victory by the Yankees o...

Yanks Edge Astros, 5-4

By Howard Goldin
BRONX, NEW YORK, May 2- Astute base running by Lyle Overbay in the sixth inning led to a 5-4 victory by the Yankees on Wednesday night. The win gave the Yankees the three-game series win over the new American League entry, the Houston Astros. The victory was the sixth for the New Yorkers in their last seven contests.
Both starting pitchers, David Phelps of the Yanks and Eric Bedard gave up four earned runs in their relatively brief stints on the mound. Neither pitcher was involved in the decision.
The Astros were held scoreless in eight of the nine frames. They erupted for four tallies in the fourth inning. Four hits and two hit batsmen accounted for Houston’s run output.
The Yanks scored their runs in four separate installments. Ichiro Suzuki led off the first with a triple. He scored the first run of the contest after Jayson Nix singled to left.
In the second, three bases on balls followed by a sacrifice fly by catcher Chris Stewart scored the second Yankees run.
Two four baggers by the Yankees in the third gave New York a 4-0 advantage. Robinson Cano led off the inning with a solo homer to right. The long ball was his 185th, tying him with Paul O’Neill for 17th place on the Yankees. The run batted in was his 733rd as a Yankee, giving him 20th place in the history of the club.
With two out in the same inning, Ben Francisco’s home run was his first homer and first run batted in as a Yankee. Manager Joe Girardi said, “A walk and a home run. I hope that sets him off.”
The deciding run of the game came in the bottom of the sixth. With one out and men on first and second, Ichiro hit an infield ground ball. Although it resulted in a double play, Eduardo Nunez scored thanks to wise base running by Lyle Overbay. His intelligence in delaying the rundown allowed the winning run to score.
After the contest concluded, Girardi commented on Overbay’s performance, “It takes a heads-up player, very smart. I give Lyle a lot of credit.”
Yankee relievers Boone Logan, David Robertson and Mariano Rivera pitched 3.1 scoreless innings. Rivera earned his 11th save of the season in 11 opportunities. His raised his MLB career mark to 619 saves.
Infielder Chris Nelson was acquired by the Yanks from Colorado in exchange for cash or a player to be named later.
On Friday, Oakland will come to the Bronx for a three game weekend series. CC Sabathia (4-2) will start for the Yanks on Friday versus A.J.Griffin (2-2) for Oakland.

Wednesday, May 1, 2013

Highbridge News: Yuke Down

Highbridge News: Yuke Down: Yankees put Youkilis on disabled list and beat Astros By Rich Mancuso BRONX, NEW YORK, May 1- Earlier in the day, Kevin Youkilis becam...

Yuke Down

Yankees put Youkilis on disabled list and beat Astros
By Rich Mancuso
BRONX, NEW YORK, May 1- Earlier in the day, Kevin Youkilis became the latest casualty to be placed on a never ending New York Yankees disabled list. The injury toll grows, but the wins keep coming, the latest Tuesday night in the Bronx as New York defeated the Houston Astros 7-4.
Youkilis, signed to a one-year contract, filling a void at third base for the disabled Alex Rodriguez, was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a lumbar spine strain. He has been experiencing lower back pain the past week and sat out the weekend four-game Yankees series sweep over Toronto.
After banging out 17-hits against Yankees pitching in their opening series game win Monday night at Yankee Stadium, Houston had opportunities against starter Hiroki Kuroda (4-1). But, the young Astros struck out 12-times and left numerous runners on base.
Despite struggling early, Kuroda won his team-high fourth game of the season. The slider and off speed pitch were on target after throwing 67 pitches and putting a runner on in the first three innings, recording shutout ball for seven innings and eight of the strikeouts.
“You have to be pretty good to stick around to make it through those first three innings and then be good enough to give your team seven innings,” said manager Joe Girardi about his starter  
The Yankees, after a 1-4 start, finished the month of April, 16-10. Girardi is more than pleased, especially with the veteran players that have stepped up to the plate.
“The offense has been spread around,” commented Girardi. “I am pleased the way these guys have been playing. They have done a very good job for us. It hasn’t always been pretty but our guys have come up with clutch hits when we needed them,”
One in particular is Travis Hafner. He stepped up big again in the cleanup spot, 3-for-4, and has driven in at least one run in eight of the Yankees’ nine series this season. Hafner drove in the final run in a three-run eighth.
Girardi said about Hafner, “You just see that his approach is good. He’s been great in that four-hole for us. With all the people we have out, he’s done a really good job in our lineup.”
And Lyle Overbay, getting the regular start at first, got the lone Yankees home run of the game. His fourth opened the eighth inning scoring.  David Robertson and Shawn Kelley came out of the pen and Houston combined to score four runs in the last two innings. The big blow was a two run homer from Chris Carter off Robertson in the eighth.
The sparse crowd remaining from the 34,301, chanted “We want Mo,” and Mariano Rivera got the final out and recorded his 10th save in as many chances.   
The Astros, a young team in their inaugural year in the American League, and with the lowest payroll in the game, saw starter and loser Philip Humber (0-6) allow four runs in six innings. He entered the game having given up 18 hits and 15 runs over his last two starts.
“I’m a little bit frustrated but it’s a part of the game,” said Humber who was removed after trailing 4-0, giving up nine hits and walking two.     
However, with the exception of injuries there is no reason for Girardi and his Yankees to be frustrated. They ended April better than expected, second to the Boston Red Sox in the American League East, and hope to begin the month of May taking another series with a win over the Astros Wednesday evening.
E-mail Rich Mancuso: Ring786@aol.com

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Highbridge News: Bronx Stands with Boston

Highbridge News: Bronx Stands with Boston: Yankees Pay homage Boston (Photos by Gary Quintal) By Rich Mancuso BRONX, NEW YORK, April 17- So many ways Tuesday night at Ya...

Bronx Stands with Boston


Yankees Pay homage Boston
(Photos by Gary Quintal)

By Rich Mancuso
BRONX, NEW YORK, April 17- So many ways Tuesday night at Yankee Stadium there were reminders of how sports and baseball play a role to heal wounds. This time, a day after the Boston Marathon bombing that took three lives and injured over 180, there were the Arizona Diamondbacks, Jackie Robinson and number 42, plus a Fenway Park tradition, “Sweet Caroline.”
Yes, a tune that has been an eighth inning ritual of Red Sox nation came to the Bronx. Boston was in Cleveland and the Red Sox heard what the Yankees were doing to unite two cities who have shared in pain.
“It was such a tragic day,” said Kevin Youkilis, the former Red Sox player who now wears Yankees pinstripes. He would play in the Patriots league game at Fenway over the years, and venture off to the finish line viewing another conclusion of the annual Boston Marathon.
On a day off in New York City Monday, Youkilis spent numerous hours on the phone to see if friends and family were okay that make it a ritual on Patriots Day and attend the marathon. His wife and sisters have run in the event over the years.
Monday it was friends and a city, Boston, the only baseball organization Youkilis knew prior to wearing pinstripes. The Yankee Stadium electronic board outside displayed, “United We Stand” with Yankees and Red Sox logos and a ribbon on the big scoreboard inside displayed insignias of the teams and a message, “New York stands with Boston….Pray for Boston.”
“It gave me chills and was emotional to me to hear that,” commented Youkilis about the playing of “Sweet Caroline” after the third inning. “Because the fans were into it and it was cool.  Thought it was very special and a very great tribute to an organization that is a rivalry.”
A rivalry, New York and Boston that has diminished over the past few years, but when fans at Yankee Stadium are wearing Boston caps and jerseys near the pinstripes, there is a meaning of unity and emotion. It happened in the Bronx Tuesday night.
As was the meaning of wearing number 42 on Jackie Robinson Night as players, the managers, coaches and umpires did. Major League Baseball once again paid tribute to Jackie Robinson. And a player named “Robinson” Cano had the big three-run home run. The final score was 4-2, as in “42” and the lone remaining player who wears the number, Mariano Rivera saved a game for the last time on Robinson’s day.
Yes, it was an emotional and special night in the Bronx. The Diamondbacks made their first trip to the new Yankee Stadium.  They were 1-5 at the old ballpark across the street, and Rivera was the pitcher on the mound in that emotional World Series won by Arizona in Game 7 at Bank One Ballpark in Phoenix back in 2001.
That World Series ended in early November because the baseball schedule was pushed back with the events of September 11. It was a series that helped mend the wounds of a nation still mourning the effects of a devastating terrorist attack.
“We’re all behind the people of Boston,” said Yankees manager Joe Girardi prior to the start of the game Tuesday night. And for a night Yankee fans united with Red Sox fans.
Because baseball and sports, the world of fun and games has a way of bringing that message of unity in a time of tragedy.
e-mail Rich Mancuso: Ring786@aol.com

Highbridge News: Cano, Yanks Honor Jackie Robinson with Win

Highbridge News: Cano, Yanks Honor Jackie Robinson with Win: (Photo by Gary Quintal) By Howard Goldin BRONX, NEW YORK, April 17- The statistics registered during the game played between the ...

Cano, Yanks Honor Jackie Robinson with Win

(Photo by Gary Quintal)
By Howard Goldin
BRONX, NEW YORK, April 17- The statistics registered during the game played between the Yankees and Diamondbacks at Yankee Stadium on April 16 were extremely appropriate for a Jackie Robinson Day contest. The enduring legacy of Robinson’s achievement in integrating the national pastime has been celebrated at every ballpark in the majors on April 15 or the date of the next home game since 1997, the 50th anniversary of Robinson’s first game in the majors.
On Tuesday night, April 16, every player, coach, manager and umpire on the field at Yankee Stadium wore Robinson’s #42. In a short ceremony held before the game began, two of the 1,400 scholarship recipients from the Jackie Robinson Foundation were recognized.
Arizona reached the scoreboard first, scoring two runs in the top of the third. Two singles and a walk loaded the bases. A fly ball to center by catcher Miguel Montero was the first out of the inning, but also drove in the first run of the contest. The next batter, Cody Ross, singled to knock in the second run.
After leaving the bases loaded in each of the first two innings, the Yankees took the lead in the fourth. The first two batters, Lyle Overbay and Chris Stewart, singled to left. Robinson Cano, named in honor of Jackie Robinson, homered to right to score three runs, which were sufficient to ensure the Yankee victory.
Not only does Cano’s given name honor Robinson, but he wears #24, the reverse of Jackie’s #42, now retired on all clubs by Major League Baseball, to represent the debt he feels he owes to the Brooklyn Dodger legend,
Cano, batting a healthy .326 in his 12 games this season is currently on a tear. He is batting .500 (13 for 26) in his most recent six games. Seven of his 12 hits were for extra bases, four doubles and four home runs. He has driven in 11 runs in that span. That the Yankees have won five of those six contests was noted by reporters and Yankees manager Joe Girardi, who after the game commented, “When he got hot, we got going. He doesn’t take it for granted that he’s a good player. Robbie works very hard.”
After loading the bases in the bottom of the seventh, a fly ball by Eduardo Nuñez drove in the final run of the game, making the score an appropriate 4-2.
Mariano Rivera, the only major league player currently wearing #42, entered the game in the ninth frame. As expected Rivera retired all three batters he faced to earn his third save of 2013 and the record setting #611 in his renowned career. Girardi quipped to reporters, “It’s kind of funny seeing #42 facing three #42’s.”
Yankees ace CC Sabathia (2-1) will face undefeated Wade Miley (2-0) in game two of the series on Wednesday night.

Sunday, April 14, 2013

Boo Hughes

Hughes allows three home runs in Orioles win over Yankees

By Rich Mancuso

BRONX, NEW YORK, April 14- Phil Hughes did not have command of his fastball and the Baltimore Orioles took advantage. Hughes allowed three solo home runs in the second, third and fourth innings and never looked back as the Orioles defeated New York 5-3.

Baltimore took the middle game of three that concludes in the Bronx Sunday night after dropping game one of the series Friday evening.

When Hughes has problems with command of the fastball, the results have been consistent, especially when pitching at home. The right hander allowed 9 hits and five earned runs in 3-1/3 innings, and has allowed one home run in 31 of his last 42 starts at Yankee Stadium.

“One of those days and that’s what happens when you put balls over the plate,” said Hughes about the home runs balls allowed to Ryan Flaherty, Nick Markakis and Nolan Reimold. It was his second straight loss to open the season, and very reminiscent of his slow start of last year.

Yankees manager Joe Girardi saw similar command issues from Hughes last April. However with a revamped Yankees lineup that is hindered with injuries, the starters are expected to go some innings. New York is 1-5 this early season when their opponent scores first.

“He’ll get back at it and we’ll get him back on track,” said Girardi about his right hander.

The Orioles stopped a New York four-game winning streak after a late inning opening game loss of the series Friday night. Manager Buck Showwalter saw a struggling Flaherty, 1-for-18, before the home run, get the offense going with the long ball in the second inning.

“They don’t dwell on past things,” good or bad,” said Showalter about the resiliency of his club. “That’s one of the characteristics of our club.” Jason Hammel (2-1), 6.0 innings, 8 hits and three runs earned his second win of the season and Jim Johnson picked up his fifth save retiring all three Yankees at bat.

“He got a big out with Gardner (Brett), with Cano (Robinson) coming up,” commented Showalter. “To close out games on the road in the AL East is a tough, tough, thing to do. Jimmy has been impressive.”

David Phelps, Joba Chamberlain and David Robertson pitched six innings of scoreless ball and gave up two hits and combined to strike out seven.

Said Phelps about getting the first strike with his curve ball, a pitch that was ineffective, last week in a relief outing at Detroit, "My curve ball was best since spring training. Getting strike one was something I could not do in my first two outings and that got me ahead real well.”

Cano recorded his fourth straight multi-hit game, 2-for-5, and was inserted at shortstop in the ninth inning, his first position other than second base in his career and he was not surprised

“We were ready to do that in Detroit last week,” said Cano about making some plays at short, a position usually occupied by the injured Derek Jeter. “I was ready.” Cano, who played a limited time at short in the minors, also had the opportunity with Eduardo Nunez day-to-day after getting hit by a pitch to his right wrist Friday night.

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Saturday, April 13, 2013

Yanks Beat Orioles

The Hits Keep Coming

By Howard Goldin

BRONX, NEW YORK, April 13-,The Yanks gained their fourth straight victory with a 5-2 win over the Baltimore Orioles to tie the Red Sox for first place in the American League East. The two teams most commentators thought would finish the season at the bottom of the standings are currently on top.

Two strange and rare plays were most responsible for the outcome of the contest. With the score tied at two in the seventh, Francisco Cervelli, Kevin Youkilis, and Travis Hafner reached base via walks. The bases were loaded and two men were out when Vernon Wells stepped to the plate. He connected and drove the ball deep to center where Adam Jones misjudged the ball and it dropped from his glove. The three runners crossed the plate to give the Yanks a 5-2 advantage.

The Orioles began the next frame, Sabathia’s final inning, with singles by Steve Pearce and Alexi Casilla To the surprise of everyone in attendance, the line drive by the game’s lead-off batter, Nick.Markakis, ended in a 4-6-5-6-5-3-4 triple play. Two of the Yankees infielders involved spoke humorously of the play.

Third baseman Kevin Youkils said, “That was a lot of fun. You’re not going to see another triple play turned like that. It was special.” First baseman Lyle Overbay joked, “We practiced that in Spring Training last week.”

The recipient of that fielding gem, Yanks starter CC Sabathia expressed his feelings, “Anytime you get a triple play, it fires you up. It was a great play. That’s [the play] that bailed me out.”

Interestingly, Sabathia was on the mound when the Yankee infielders achieved their most recent triple play, April 22, 2010. The Yanks previous triple play before that one occurred on June 3, 1968.

With or without that play, the Yankees starter pitched outstandingly. In eight innings on the mound, he gave up only two runs, one earned and struck out nine batters without surrendering a walk.

Youkilis led the Bombers with three hits, a run batted in and a run scored, He has hit safely in all his nine games since joining the club. The last Yankee to better that feat was Joe Buzas with 10 in 1945.

Andy Pettitte’s bad back has altered the Yankees rotation for the next two games against Baltimore. Phil Hughes will start on Saturday against Jason Hammel for the Orioles.

Thursday, April 4, 2013

Highbridge News: Highbridge News-Tourism

Highbridge News: Highbridge News-Tourism: South Bronx to be featured as a tourist destination BRONX, NEW YORK, April 4 - NYC & Company, New York City’s official marketing, ...

Highbridge News-Tourism


South Bronx to be featured as a tourist destination

BRONX, NEW YORK, April 4- NYC & Company, New York City’s official marketing, tourism and partnership organization, announced the South Bronx as the next destination to be featured in Neighborhood x Neighborhood, a new program designed to increase visitation, support local businesses and encourage exploration in areas outside traditional tourist locations across the five boroughs. 

Located in the southern section of the Bronx, the neighborhoods of Concourse, Melrose and Mott Haven are home to unique Art Deco architecture, the world-famous New York Yankees and a variety of cultural institutions and restaurants. The South Bronx is easily accessible via the B, D and 4 trains, making it a convenient destination for New Yorkers and visitors to spend an afternoon surrounded by rich culture and history.

“The Grand Concourse in the Bronx is one of the City’s busiest thoroughfares, always bustling with events and excitement,” said CEO of NYC & Company George Fertitta. “Located a short subway ride from Midtown Manhattan, the South Bronx is a lively destination where visitors have the opportunity to visit a world-famous ballpark, dine at some of New York City’s best restaurants and experience authentic Bronx culture, all in one visit.”

“Culture is integral to every neighborhood across the five boroughs and the South Bronx is no exception,” said Cultural Affairs Commissioner Kate D. Levin. “Whether it's taking a ride on the Culture Trolley or catching a performance at Pregones, this community is home to an extraordinary group of cultural organizations that engage visitors from around the globe.”

Concourse:

Yankee Stadium is an iconic city landmark and plays host to Major League Baseball games as well as year-round tours and an extensive baseball museum. During game days, fans can enjoy high-quality steaks at NYY Steak, an upscale restaurant inside the stadium. To commemorate the Yankees’ 27 World Championships, NYY Steak offers 27 varieties of wine by the glass.
Baseball fans without tickets to the game can grab a drink and watch the action at the nearby Yankee Tavern, a beloved Bronx establishment known for its New York Yankees memorabilia and friendly staff.
Located at the site of the old Yankee Stadium, Heritage Field is a 10.8-acre ballpark where visitors can start their own ball games, watch local high schools compete and see artifacts from the original stadium. Heritage Field features a section of the old Yankee Stadium frieze, the original diamond and outfield and paving stones etched with dates commemorating historic Yankee moments.
The Bronx Culture Trolley offers visitors a free trip along the South Bronx Cultural Corridor. On the first Wednesday of every month, visitors have the opportunity to tour the cultural loop in a 20th-century trolley-car replica, making stops at cultural attractions, restaurants and entertainment venues.
Bronx Central Post Office also serves as a gallery with 13 murals painted in 1938–39 by Social Realist artist Ben Shahn and his wife, Bernarda. Covering the lobby walls of the post office, the murals depict the American working class of the '30s.
A lunchtime favorite, Court Deli is known for its pastrami sandwiches and all-day breakfast. Here visitors can have a true New York City deli experience, complete with traditional New York City pickles.
For visitors looking for authentic Caribbean dining, Feeding Tree is a neighborhood establishment with big flavors. The laid-back and affordable restaurant, boasts food that is simple yet full of spices, straight from the Caribbean Islands.
Family-owned Molino Rojo offers diners well-priced Latin American food. Favorite dishes of regulars include rice and beans and plantains with pernil.
Visitors looking to sample Italian cuisine can head to G Bar and Lounge. This classic bar is perfect for cocktails with friends or family-friendly Italian dining. G Bar and Lounge presents live music on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights and karaoke on Mondays and Saturdays.

Melrose & Mott Haven:

In Melrose, the Bronx Documentary Center is an establishment devoted entirely to the art of photojournalism. The center hosts events, screenings and classes on documentary projects from around the world. Through April 19, visitors can see Invasion: Diaries and Memories of War in Iraq, a powerful exhibit featuring the war diaries, texts and photographs from three Marines.
Located in Mott Haven, the Gordon A. Parks Gallery hosts art exhibits, lectures and musical events for visitors to enjoy.
An artist-run collaborative project, Bronx Art Space features visual art and experimental film as well as dance performances and concerts.
The Pregones Theater offers an ever-changing lineup of performances, programs and shows with a focus on Puerto Rican and Latino artists and themes.
For fresh New American cuisine and innovative cocktails, visitors can dine at The Clock Cafe and Martini Bar. This neighborhood joint, complete with vintage chandeliers and exposed-brick walls, offers classic American favorites paired with fine wines and expertly crafted cocktails.
Open for over 40 years, Casa Amadeo is the oldest Latin music store in the South Bronx. Visitors can peruse their favorite CDs and vinyl records and tap into owner Mike Amadeo’s wealth of knowledge of the Latin music industry.

For more information about the South Bronx, visit nycgo.com/neighborhoods. To read the monthly Neighborhood x Neighborhood press releases and to view B-roll and photos of the neighborhood highlights, visit nycgo.com/pressphotos. Follow @nycgo_press on Twitter for the latest information about New York City travel and tourism.

Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Highbridge News: Yanks Will Honor Sandy Hook Victims

Highbridge News: Yanks Will Honor Sandy Hook Victims: BRONX, NEW YORK, March 20 - The New York Yankees announced that they will honor the community of Newtown and the memory of those l...

Yanks Will Honor Sandy Hook Victims

BRONX, NEW YORK, March 20- The New York Yankees announced that they will honor the community of Newtown and the memory of those lost in the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School.
On Opening Day at Yankee Stadium on April 1, the Yankees and their opponents, the Boston Red Sox, will stand together in dedicating the game to the victims of the Sandy Hook school shooting, their families and the greater community of Newtown. Pregame ceremonies will feature joint honor guards of Newtown police and firefighters, along with a moment of silence, during which a list of the Sandy Hook victims’ names will be recognized on the center-field video board.
The Yankees and Red Sox will wear a special ribbon on their uniforms for Opening Day to honor those lost and those affected by the tragedy. This ribbon will also be prominently painted on the field in front of both dugouts. To show Major League Baseball’s solidarity in remembering the victims, their families and the greater community of Newtown, Commissioner Bud Selig has asked the 28 other teams to follow suit in wearing the ribbon during their respective Opening Day games.
On Sunday, July 7, approximately 3,000 children, families and members of the Newtown community will be invited to celebrate summer recess by attending the Yankees’ 1:05 p.m. game vs. Baltimore. The Yankees have proclaimed the date “Newtown Day at Yankee Stadium” and look forward to hosting members of the community at a time of year after the school calendar is complete that allows for the most children and families to be able to attend.
“On Opening Day, we will reflect upon more important things and play the game to honor the community of Newtown,” said Yankees Managing General Partner Hal Steinbrenner. “Since the day of the tragedy, our hearts and thoughts have been with those who were affected. We hope that bringing the families of Newtown together at Yankee Stadium later in the summer will give the community an opportunity to create new memories and aid in the difficult process of moving forward.”
“Months have passed, yet we are still trying to come to grips with this incomprehensible tragedy,” said Red Sox Principal Owner John W. Henry. “As our teams look to face each other on Opening Day, we will stand united in support of the families affected as we remember and honor those who were lost.”
“The Yankees organization has supported our community in several ways since the tragic events of December 14,” said Pat Llodra, First Selectman, Town of Newtown. “Their generosity and compassion during this difficult time means a lot to all of us. We also would like to thank Commissioner Selig, the Red Sox and Major League Baseball for this meaningful tribute to our community.”

Friday, February 1, 2013

Highbridge News: Bronx Hails Koch

Highbridge News: Bronx Hails Koch: -->   Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. issued the following statement on the passing of Mayor Ed Koch: BRONX, NEW YORK...

Highbridge News: Bronx Hails Koch

Highbridge News: Bronx Hails Koch: -->   Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. issued the following statement on the passing of Mayor Ed Koch: BRONX, NEW YORK...

Bronx Hails Koch

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Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr. issued the following statement on the passing of Mayor Ed Koch:
BRONX, NEW YORK, February 1- “Today the Bronx is mourning the death of a son and one of the city’s greatest and most charismatic public leaders. Mayor Ed Koch was a man of wit and wisdom, a leader who helped lift our city out of the brink of bankruptcy, raising our spirits along the way and securing New York’s place as the capital of the world.
“Mayor Koch was always proud of his Bronx roots. During his administration he helped rebuild the South Bronx, creating a task force that helped restore burned-out buildings while creating new, thriving communities—work that still resonates to this day. He was a man of deep devotion, who after leaving office continued to inspire New Yorkers through his activism and his commitment to a city he fiercely loved.
“While we mourn his loss we honor his legacy, commitment to civil rights and his civic leadership, which will forever live in our hearts and in the millions of lives he touched. On behalf of the 1.4 million residents of the Bronx, I would like to extend our most heartfelt condolences to his family and friends during this very difficult time,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.

Thursday, January 10, 2013

Highbridge News: Political Field's Starting to Get Crowded in 2013

Highbridge News: Political Field's Starting to Get Crowded in 2013: --> 100 PERCENT By Robert Press BRONX, NEW YORK, January 10- With many elected positions becoming vacant finally due to term...

Political Field's Starting to Get Crowded in 2013

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100 PERCENT
By Robert Press
BRONX, NEW YORK, January 10- With many elected positions becoming vacant finally due to term limits at the end of this year, the field of candidates to replace most those term limited officials is growing. 
Starting with the mayor’s race on the Democratic side City Comptroller John Liu, Public Advocate Bill deBlasio, City Council Speaker Christine Quinn, and Former City Comptroller Bill Thompson have been joined by another Democrat (and also past mayoral candidate) former Brooklyn Councilman Sal Albanese. Albanese could take away some of the Quinn vote with his noted support on the issue of Gay Rights, and his pro-stance on the issue of term limits while in the city council. Speaker Quinn was leading in the early polls for mayor on the Democratic side, but now as some of the other potential candidates for mayor have dropped out Quinn is now in second place to undecided by several percentage points. She still has has hefty lead over the other democratic candidates.
On the Republican side, former Bronx BP Adolfo Carrion has been joined by several higher profile candidates with former MTA head Joe Lhota being the latest to jump in. Other high profile candidates include George McDonald (founder of the Doe Fund, and good friend of current mayor Michael Bloomberg), supermarket magnate John Catsimatidis (who like Bloomberg has deep pockets of money), and others like Manhattan media CEO Tom Allon, and former Democratic State Senate Leader Malcolm Smith have also made overtures to the tune of possible Republican runs for mayor.
While the race for Bronx Borough President should be a solo race as current Bronx BP Ruben Diaz Jr. has two terms still as Bronx BP, it is not the same in term limited Brooklyn, Queens, and Manhattan (but who cares in those boroughs). Turning to Bronx city council races in the 11th to replace term limited Councilman G. Oliver Koppell currently there are two announced candidates, with a few other potential but not probable names. The 12th should be a contest again this year for Andy King who was just elected in November to replace former Councilman Larry Seabrook who should have a new residence in Chez Federal Pen. King has not been able to get his feet wet in the district, and will be running against several candidates again. Jimmy Vacca 13th and Annabel Palma 18th should get a free ride in their last terms, while Fernando Cabrera 14th could see a major challenge if Assemblyman Jose Rivera is true to his words of wanting to finish out his political career as a city councilman. The 15th to replace term limited Councilman Joel Rivera is the big race this year with as many as ten people possibly going for this seat, with the name of Bronx Democratic County Committee Executive Director Ischia Bravo now being mentioned. I asked Ms. Bravo about her running in the 15th recently, and she said that there is a good possibility of it happening. In the16th where Councilwoman Foster will be term limited out, the rumor is that Assemblywoman Vanessa Gibson should be seeking that seat, and a host of others that should drop out if Gibson does enter that race. In the 17th (Arroyo who still has one term) and 8th (which has a small part of the Bronx) no one knows what those districts will look like, as the redistricting commission has been asked to redraw the lines again. I caught up with Councilwoman Viverito (8th) at an event and asked her if her current Manhattan district was to be made a Bronx district for Bronx Democratic County Leader Carl Heastie's support of Speaker Quinn's campaign for mayor. Councilwoman Viverito was very candid in saying that yes indeed that there was politics involved in the redrawing of her district lines.
In other political news this month, newly elected Assemblymen Luis Sepulveda (87th A.D.) will have his swearing in at St. Raymond’s School auditorium (Tremont and Purdy Ave.) on Saturday January 12th starting at 12 p.m. Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj (80th A.D.) will have his swearing in at Columbus High School (925 Astor Avenue) on Sunday January 13th at 2 p.m. 
Don't forget to check my blog at www.100percentbronx.blogspot.com for the story on and many photos of the Annual Three Kings Celebration by Senator Ruben Diaz Sr., Assemblyman Marcos Crespo, Assemblyman Luis Sepulveda, and the New york Hispanic Clergy Organization. The Three Kings, Santa Claus, and several elected officials or candidates for office were in attendance, and some may have been wondering where their present from Santa or the Three Kings was. Also on the blog are other interesting items such as a link to mayoral candidate Adolfo Carrion's first campaign expenditure disclosure, how much has been spent in less than two short months, and which family member is on the Carrion for Mayor payroll.
If you have any comments about this column or would like to have an event listed or covered in this column or on my blog you can e-mail us at 100percentbronxnews@gmail.com or call 718-644-4199 Mr. Robert Press.
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