Where’d Baseball Go?

The baseball world appears to be grinding to a complete halt. Lately, there hasn’t been much activity to report at all. In fact, it’s been so slow people are actually making things up. Yikes.

Hal’s Presence Being Felt

The other day, Joel Sherman informed us (well, reminded us) that, despite what Hank Steinbrenner may want to do, his brother Hal, is still steering the financial operations for the Yankees. Hal apparently does not want to spend money on Johan Santana and, although he’s typically hidden in the background, this aspect of a potential Santana trade is ultimately dictated by Hal Steinbrenner (which Cashman probably loves).

Today, in another news report, this time by John Harper of the Daily News, Harper talks about Scott Boras’ bruised ego (after A-Rod’s 60 Minutes interview) and provides us with yet another glimpse of Hal’s behind the scenes demeanor.

“And Boras didn’t seem comfortable dealing with the Yankees about A-Rod once George Steinbrenner was out of the picture,” the person said. “He had a relationship with George, who always said that Boras was a tough but fair negotiator. But Hank and Hal (Steinbrenner) didn’t play up to him. Hal, especially, was tough with him. Boras didn’t like dealing with Hal.”

We see here that Hal Steinbrenner is a tough man to bargain with (even if it is Scott Boras). Although we’ve all forgotten about Hal, he’s clearly involved in key decisions within the organization, and he’s definitely not taking a backseat. He’s going to have his say in regards to the club’s financial direction and, therefore, he will continue to play a big part in any future Santana talks that may develop.

Let’s keep him in mind the next time Hank Steinbrenner starts jabbering on about anything at all, related to the team. Hank is merely the man in front of the curtain (a curtain which was bargained down in price by Hal Steinbrenner).

Invading PA’s Lohud Blog

As most of you know, I’m a big fan of Peter Abraham’s Lohud Yankees Blog and I consider it to be a very valuable resource for information and commentary regarding the NY Yankees. The other day, due to the extremely slow news period, PA actually requested some guest bloggers for the month of January. I e-mailed him and I’ll actually be one of the guest bloggers on his site (there’s a small group of us).

It’s a pretty cool thing, I must say. I’ve enjoyed writing for all of you guys and I appreciate the support the blog has gotten from readers, writers, fans and other bloggers. One of PA’s requirements was that the guest bloggers have an “established” blog and you guys have definitely helped me in that department. So, I’d like to take this time to thank all of you for checking in and reading whatever it is that I write (and listening to each other’s comments).

I’ll be sure to have a plenty of 08 giveaways to return the favor!