Balance Sheets

For the past few weeks, I’ve heard murmurs about the Yankees warming up to oft-injured free-agent pitcher Ben Sheets because oft-injured free-agent pitcher A.J. Burnett is looking for a 5-year contract.

I never really gave the rumor much thought, but it just won’t go away.

Initially, I thought this was a terrible idea for the Yankees, especially after the Pavano fiasco. After reading this exhaustive comparison by the guys at RAB, though, I’m starting to think signing Sheets to a 3-year deal might be worth the risk and, truth be told, in the Yankees' best interests. 

Here's a nice little nugget about the two pitchers' health-related problems, which helps put into perspective Sheets' recent rash of injuries. 

So comparing the two pitchers side-by-side, Sheets’ injuries appear to be more isolated that Burnett’s. The shoulder problems occurred so far apart that it would be hard to believe they’re related, while the torn lat and finger issues are behind him. Burnett’s shoulder problem looks very much like an isolated incident, however his elbow has been a persistent problem, giving him trouble in four different seasons, however it hasn’t bothered him in over two years. Burnett just completed his first healthy season since 2005, while Sheets was about to do the same (I just can’t accept an ear infection as evidence of him being injury prone) until his late season muscle tear. And that is why you’re hearing much less about Sheets this winter, because he’s injured right now.

I'm still not fully sold on Sheets, but RAB's Mike A. does score some persuasive points.  

(UPDATE: Fixed after a note from GHS.) 

It Tastes Like Burning

The uber fans at River Avenue Blues smack down the wildly inaccurate and irresponsible news reports coming out of baseball's Hot Stove League. 

Everyone’s a fan of a good rumor. It makes the hot stove interesting. However, I’d rather not hear anything than hear something not true. Unfortunately, with everyone gunning for the big scoop, we’re probably going to see a few more false starts this off-season. Which is a shame. When we read a player is signed, he better damn well be signed. Can you imagine if this happened with CC Sabathia and the Yanks?

Their advice? Caveat lector.