Today’s New York Times is running a story about Joba Chamberlain, where Joe Girardi is talking about being his friend, not his manager, and Joba’s dad says that his son is ready to be a starter.

This is turning into a soap opera. I know Chamberlain is a very good young pitcher. I know that he has a special bond with his father and calls him his inspiration. But haven’t we heard enough already?

According to the New York Times, Girardi told Chamberlain, “I’m not your manager, I’m your friend. Is this what you want to do?” I’m sorry. I didn’t know that players were able to choose if they wanted to be a starter or reliever. I thought that was up to the manager and the front office staff; putting a pitcher in a role that will help the team. Sure, Chamberlain has great numbers at the minor league level as a starter, but are they good enough for the big leagues? As a reliever, no question about it. But, as a starter? Sounds like we will see soon enough.

Chamberlain’s dad was quoted as saying, “Joba likes challenges, and if he didn’t feel he could do it, he would tell you.

“It’s just another step toward his dream — to be a starting pitcher on the biggest stage in major league baseball, and that’s for the New York Yankees. He’s ready to take the next step.”

That’s the seal of approval… his dad said he’s ready, so Girardi, you better put him in to start… now! I’m glad that Girardi and Chamberlain’s dad are on the same page, however, some of the players on the New York Yankees roster are not.

After hearing about the news from a reporter, Derek Jeter said the following: “You could have the best starting pitching in the world, but if the bullpen doesn’t do the job, you waste the start. But if you have the best bullpen in the world and the starters don’t do the job, how does that help?”

Johnny Damon and Jason Giambi also had thoughts on the matter, with Damon telling reporters, “We’ll just have to see how it pans out.”

Well, surprise! Not everyone is happy in the Bronx. Well, except for Chamberlain and his dad. I’ll be watching Chamberlain as Girardi takes his time easing the young right-hander into a starting role. Maybe this will be the right button to push to make the Yankees go in the other direction and climb out of the American League East cellar. Then again, it could always backfire and Chamberlain could become the next young flamethrower to turn into a one-year wonder or a no-name pitcher (see Rick Ankiel, Mark Prior and Scott Erickson).

Photo: Newscom

Post from: EveryJoe

Joba’s dad says his son is ready to start