NEW YORK, NY (AP) –
The Houston Astros’ (52-73, 4th in AL West) stable hands unloaded several star-emblazoned covered wagons at Yankee Stadium Monday night, all too aware of the significance of the upcoming series. For many, the trip to New York has been a lifelong dream. After years toiling in the minor leagues, only to be “called up” to the big leagues in, of all places, Houston, a trip to the Big Apple is the modern-world’s equivalent of eating Foie Gras at Betony’s for the first time.
Where will they park their horses? Did they bring their own spittoons? They know spurs aren’t welcome at Eleven Madison, right? Let’s hope they branded one of their saddles with a subway map.
But while our friends from the dusty Old West gather their bearings in the bright lights of The City, a larger question looms: Just how awesome is Derek Jeter?
1996 Rookie of the Year, 2000 World Series MVP, five-time Gold Glove winner and easily the best Yankee shortstop in the past 20 years. 3,436 career hits. Five World Series wins. Celebrity girlfriends. Celebrity poker buddies. A smile that glistens in darkness. Skin as soft and supple as the sand at Wainscott Beach. Eyes that inspire men to act boldly, confidently; as if the weight of the world is but that of a feather. Biceps that bulge bravely beneath pin-striped sleeves. A scent that both attracts and deters West African lions. This is where he resides when the world is awake; otherwise he lives in our dreams.
But do the Astros Re2pect him? Surely they admire him and have watched almost all of his games, but do they really know what they’re getting into this week? This is THE LAST TIME they will EVER play against DEREK JETER at YANKEE STADIUM.
I’m not sure they’re worthy.
Tuesday 8/19/14
Oberholtzer (4-8) vs Capuano (1-3)
First 10,000 fans get the chance to be the first 10,000 paying customers to look at Derek Jeter.
Wednesday, 8/20/14
Feldman (6-9) vs Pineda (2-2)
Hal Newhouser Bobblehead Night
Thursday, 8/21/14
Keuchel (10-8) vs McCarthy (7-12)
First 20,000 get Derek Sings Sinatra compilation album.
Astros Injuries
Nothing new
Yankees Injuries
Tanaka isn’t available.
Follow the action in the GZ!