South Mexican Dirt-Field League Covets Pineda

Good morning all,

I just returned from a quick trip south of the border.

As you know, the south mexican dirt field league has served both as a re-hab center and point of origin for failing Yankee players.

Excessive weight and lack of skills are coveted qualities, for we are there to enjoy the game and the personalities of the game.  There are no wild card slots to strive for in the playoffs of this league.

"That Pineda kid looks perfect for us next season," mumbled our erstwhile manager, Salan Ramirez.

" I've been looking for a first baseman, and he will draw a crowd.  Can you imagine the bobble-head Pineda?"

As many of you have read my musings on this subject, I offer you now some logic:

Pineda's career as a pitcher is finished.

The surgery will end it without argument, though we will have to live through about 2 seasons of wishful thinking; soft-tossing, finally throwing off a mound, intense work to develop a change-up, more arm barkings, pitch counts, radar guns recording fastballs in the low 80's, an 0-3 record and 9.90 ERA in A ball and, finally, a farewell party for an over weight monster who eyes reflect a lost and dismal career.

When the Yanks give up on him ( and they will, though Cashman will be gone ), the south mexican dirt field league will welcome him.  He can even bring his old Yankee uniform.  He will even get a chance to swing the bat.

We have tequila, cervesa, great, endless summer days, fine tacos, enchiladas and barmaids. And that is the pre-game meal here.

The pay is $49.95 per game plus comestibles and bus travel.

I have a job here for Cashman, too.  We don't hold grudges for failure.