Big Papi, David Ortiz, issued a stark warning to Joba Chamberlain to watch his step, reported the New York Post.
Chamberlain seems to have an issue with Kevin Youkilis, having thrown the ball at or near his head four times in the last two years — which is a rather striking number. The 2007 incidents earned him a suspension while one of the 2008 pitches almost sparked a brawl.
“None of that, man — just play the game the way it’s supposed to
be, and that’s about it. This is a guy, as good as he is, the next step for him will be to
earn respect from everybody in the league. He’s not a bad guy, but when
things like that happen, people get the wrong idea.”
Seems like Ortiz may be expecting some aggressiveness from Chamberlain and the Yankees in general as the series starts. With the Yankees having rehauled their roster and looking to reclaim their manhood, it comes as no surprise Ortiz feels that there may be some dicey moments.
One thing is for sure: Should Chamberlain flick a ball in the vicinity of Youkilis’ head this time, he will get more than he bargained for.
Chris Carter, who made the team out of spring training, went 0-5 with four strikeouts and is being demoted to Triple-A. Jeff Bailey, whom he beat out for a spot, had earned a start over Carter last night so the writing was on the wall.
Taking Carter’s place will be Jonathan Van Every, hitting .333/1.333/1.000 in six at-bats at Pawtucket. Van Every gives the Sox a bench option to play center, one they did not have. Tough to see Carter get so few at-bats and be bypassed so quickly, but he’ll be back, I’m sure.
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