Heeeeeeere's Johnny

**min0 lee** · 12-20-2005, 09:59 PM

BY JON HEYMAN AND KEN DAVIDOFF
STAFF WRITERS

December 20, 2005, 10:47 PM EST

In a development that may stun followers of baseball's greatest rivalry, Boston's beloved Johnny Damon agreed Tuesday night to jump ship and join the hated Yankees, Newsday has learned.

Damon and the Yankees were putting the finishing touches on a four-year, $52-million contract, according to multiple sources. The Damon deal is contingent upon him passing a physical, but considering he's never spent a day on the disabled list, there's no concern there.

The signing represents a major coup for the Yankees not only because it finally fills their obvious void in centerfield but because they also weaken their despised rival with this bold stroke.

Top-level Yankees people feared that the buzz that Damon would not leave Boston was correct, but that all changed in recent days when it became apparent to them that something was amiss in the negotiations between Damon and the team he'd spent four mostly glorious years with.

The Yankees have been insistent all along that they would not go beyond four years for the 32-year-old Damon, and they may have surprised themselves by accomplishing their mission without wrecking their plan. Their concession was to pay Damon $13 million annually, which is actually slightly above his original asking price of $12 million. Damon is also to receive a no-trade clause as part of the deal.

Damon is really the perfect acquisition for the Yankees, particularly after it became clear that other centerfield targets Torii Hunter and Vernon Wells were not on the market barring exorbitant pricetags in terms of player compensation. Damon only costs the Yankees money, and even adding his $13 million salary, their payroll should still drop from $205 million.

Damon is an exceptional leadoff hitter who can track flyballs in centerfield with the best of them. His lone weakness is his throwing arm.

Damon hit .316 in 2005 with 10 home runs, 75 RBIs and 18 stolen bases in 19 attempts. He is a .290 career hitter who's hit as many as 20 home runs in a season and stolen as many as 46 bases.

Few thought he would leave Boston, where he became a World Champion, an "Idiot" and a best-selling author. However, he was upset that several of his friends were not re-signed, starting with Pedro Martinez and Derek Lowe last year and continuing with Kevin Millar and Bill Mueller this year.

In an interview two weeks ago with Newsday, Damon, obviously irritated with how his talks with Boston were going, said, "They're just one of the teams in the market right now. They've had all the time the world, and I've given them every chance before last season and during the season.''

He also warned, "They've got to step up … They've dragged their feet long enough.''

Apparently, Boston never did. They reportedly offered $40 million over four years.

While Damon went into the offseason preferring to remain in Boston, a place he loved, he started to become annoyed at their unwillingness to pay close to what he figured the market told him he was worth. Apparently, the Red Sox were unwilling to break the bank for Damon. Perhaps their efforts in recent days to acquire Coco Crisp, a potential replacement, tipped off their belief that they would be unable to retain Damon.

Damon had been hoping to receive a seven-year contract. His agent Scott Boras distributed a book comparing Damon's durability to Cal Ripken Jr. and projecting that Damon would get his 3,000th hit in exactly seven years, the term they sought.

The Yanks could have waited for a better bunch of outfielders next year, no knock on Johnny but he's getting older, he's breakiing down and has no arm strength.....isn't this the reason they want to replace Bernie Williams?

**I Are Baboon** · 12-21-2005, 05:00 AM

Fucking Red Sox.

Fuck Johnny Damon too.

And fuck Larry Lucchino.

**min0 lee** · 12-21-2005, 06:25 AM

Originally Posted by I Are Baboon

Fucking Red Sox.

Fuck Johnny Damon too.

And fuck Larry Lucchino.

I feel for you....the Mets did this after the '88 team getting rid of Lenny Dykstra and getting Juan Samuel in return.

That was the beginning of the end of a a good team.

**cappo5150** · 12-21-2005, 09:17 AM

Is getting a haircut part of Johnny's contract?

**Decker** · 12-21-2005, 09:24 AM

This is the downside of free agency. There was a time when players were identified w/ the team they played for...that created a sense of identity and continuity. That's all but gone now.

**Triple Threat** · 12-21-2005, 10:06 AM

It would have been better if they could have signed him for just 3 years. He's still an upgrade over Bernie.

The talk shows around here are crucifying the Sox now. They're saying the Sox have no first baseman, no center fielder, no shortstop, two third basemen, and two GMs. What's wrong with this picture?

**Triple Threat** · 12-21-2005, 10:07 AM

Originally Posted by cappo5150

Is getting a haircut part of Johnny's contract?

Based on what happened with Giambi, I'd say yes.

**I Are Baboon** · 12-21-2005, 10:21 AM

Originally Posted by Triple Threat

The talk shows around here are crucifying the Sox now. They're saying the Sox have no first baseman, no center fielder, no shortstop, two third basemen, and two GMs. What's wrong with this picture?

And they're right. And there is nobody good on the market to fill those holes. Kevin Youkilis at first? Please.

It's a frustrating time to be a Red Sox fan.

If they don't want to sign Damon to a lucrative contract, that's fine. But god dammit, HAVE A FUCKING CONTINGENCY PLAN IN PLACE. Coco Crisp is NOT the answer to losing Johnny Damon. The only way I'll come out of this happy is if the Sox can somehow pry Torri Hunter away from the Twins.

The Yanks starting rotation is still a huge question mark, but damn is their lineup scary.

Edit: FWIW, I don't blame Damon for bolting to the Yanks. A $12 million difference is a shitload of money and the Sox dragged their feet. That still doesn't mean I have to be happy about it.

**min0 lee** · 12-21-2005, 11:13 AM

Originally Posted by cappo5150

Is getting a haircut part of Johnny's contract?

Yes it is, the boss doesn't like hippies.

**min0 lee** · 12-21-2005, 11:14 AM

Originally Posted by Decker

This is the downside of free agency. There was a time when players were identified w/ the team they played for...that created a sense of identity and continuity. That's all but gone now.

**min0 lee** · 12-21-2005, 03:08 PM

Originally Posted by Triple Threat

It would have been better if they could have signed him for just 3 years. He's still an upgrade over Bernie.

The talk shows around here are crucifying the Sox now. They're saying the Sox have no first baseman, no center fielder, no shortstop, two third basemen, and two GMs. What's wrong with this picture?

Yeah, Bernie can't really chase them down anymore.
It's sad to see him go though, he was a decent outfielder who was a gentleman on and off the field. I will miss him.

Boston is going to miss Johnny leading off which the Yankees will love.

**Triple Threat** · 12-21-2005, 03:25 PM

Athletes need to learn when it's time to go. Will Bernie be another Willie Mays?

Now that the Yankees everyday lineup is set, it's time for the pitchers to step up. Johnson needs to be more than a .500 pitcher, and Pavano needs to prove he's not a one season wonder. Can Small come up big again?

What do they have now, about 8 starters? Johnson, Pavano, Mussina, Chacon, Small, Wang, Wright, Brown? OK, 7, since Brown is probably a goner.

**min0 lee** · 12-21-2005, 03:36 PM

Originally Posted by Triple Threat

Athletes need to learn when it's time to go. Will Bernie be another Willie Mays?

I vaguely remember that....it's sad seeing one of the best go down like that.

Now that the Yankees everyday lineup is set, it's time for the pitchers to step up. Johnson needs to be more than a .500 pitcher, and Pavano needs to prove he's not a one season wonder. Can Small come up big again?

Don't forget about the middle relief which they say in Yankee stadium middle relief is like being a closer in a another team.

What do they have now, about 8 starters? Johnson, Pavano, Mussina, Chacon, Small, Wang, Wright, Brown? OK, 7, since Brown is probably a goner.

I hope Brown does leave.

.

**Flex** · 12-21-2005, 04:04 PM

Good, fuck 'em.

Now Yankees fans can listen to the same "UHHH" girls tennis players make when Damon throws it all his might from center and it short hops to 2nd base.

Anyone Sox fans who are freaking out should just chill out. The NY lineup has been superstacked for the last few years now. Damon isn't going to make that much of a difference.
As for us, sure, he had his career year last year. But you know what? There's a million .300 hitters out there. We'll get one.
On the whole, are the Sox doing well this offseason? No. But I think we are going to pull a blockbuster for Manny which should fill a few holes.

Patience, my young Jedis.

**min0 lee** · 12-21-2005, 06:23 PM

Originally Posted by Flex

Good, fuck 'em.

Now Yankees fans can listen to the same "UHHH" girls tennis players make when Damon throws it all his might from center and it short hops to 2nd base.

I was one to wonder "Why does he throw like a girl?'' baseball fan. Bernie's arm isn't any better anyway.

Anyone Sox fans who are freaking out should just chill out. The NY lineup has been superstacked for the last few years now. Damon isn't going to make that much of a difference.

I beg to differ, he's just what we needed. A contact hitter who can score a bunch of runs. I can see him leading off working the count and then Jeter batting behind him pushing him to third..........nice

As for us, sure, he had his career year last year. But you know what? There's a million .300 hitters out there. We'll get one.
On the whole, are the Sox doing well this offseason? No. But I think we are going to pull a blockbuster for Manny which should fill a few holes.

Bite your tounge, you lose Manny and Ortiz loses his protection. You guys have a great thing there with those 2. Although I do understand Manny is a nut but that bat......the only trade that would be worth it would be a trade that would involve that shortstop from Baltimore.
Patience, my young Jedis.

Ah yes, I forget......"the force"
Well it looks like the Evil Empire has struck again...First it was the Bambino, the Boggs and the Rocket...now we have Johnny....the force is weakening.....Flex , you do not yet realize your importance. You have only begun to discover your power. Join us, and we will complete your training. With our combined strength, we can end this destructive conflict and bring order to the galaxy

.

**min0 lee** · 12-21-2005, 06:29 PM

Flex: I'll never join you.

min0 lee: If you only knew the power of the Pink Side. Obi-Wan never told you what happened to your it.

Flex: He told me enough. He told me you killed it.

min0 lee: No. *I* am your it.

Flex: No. No. It's not true. That's impossible.

min0 lee: Search your feelings. You know it to be true.

Flex: Nooooo. Nooooo.

True story

**Flex** · 12-21-2005, 08:40 PM

Originally Posted by min0 lee

Flex , you do not yet realize your importance. You have only begun to discover your power. Join us, and we will complete your training. With our combined strength, we can end this destructive conflict and bring order to the galaxy

"NOOOOOOOOOOOO....THAT'S IMPOSSIBLE!!!!!
I'LL NEVER JOIN YOUUUUU"

Originally Posted by min0 lee

I beg to differ, he's just what we needed. A contact hitter who can score a bunch of runs. I can see him leading off working the count and then Jeter batting behind him pushing him to third..........nice

Just what you needed? HAHAHAHAHA
Just like every other high priced guy they pick up. That 220 million dollar pay roll did alot for them last year.
Any guy that gets on base for the Yankees is gonna get driven in with those guys in their lineup.

Originally Posted by min0 lee

Bite your tounge, you lose Manny and Ortiz loses his protection. You guys have a great thing there with those 2. Although I do understand Manny is a nut but that bat......the only trade that would be worth it would be a trade that would involve that shortstop from Baltimore.

Absolutely would i freakin love getting Tejada, but most likely it wouldn't happen. That whole "Ortiz loses his protection" is overrated. Great hitters hit no matter what the situation (i.e. see every good hitter on a bad team.)

Originally Posted by min0 lee

Well it looks like the Evil Empire has struck again...First it was the Bambino, the Boggs and the Rocket...now we have Johnny....the force is weakening.....

Wow you have a short memory. Correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't the Sox come back from 0-3 and make the Yankees look like a little league team on their way to sweeping the World Series?
Your "Evil Empire" got destroyed when we won the World Series. All that Babe Ruth, Boggs, Rocket, Yankee bullshit is once and for all SILENCED.

**min0 lee** · 12-21-2005, 09:15 PM

Originally Posted by Flex

"Wow you have a short memory. Correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't the Sox come back from 0-3 and make the Yankees look like a little league team on their way to sweeping the World Series?
Your "Evil Empire" got destroyed when we won the World Series. All that Babe Ruth, Boggs, Rocket, Yankee bullshit is once and for all SILENCED.

I'll never forget.

All kidding aside I think taking apart that team is a mistake.
The one thing that championship team had that the Yankees didn't and don't is chemistry. Johnny was a vital part of that Boston chemistry that can't be replaced.

**BOSOX1980** · 12-22-2005, 12:30 PM

Can you say SELL OUT?

Johnny Damon said to the media last June that no matter what contract he would never be a Yankee. The Johhny Damon that I respected for going against the grain and being different turns out to be just like the average Joe. Throw that wad in front of him and he falls right in line with Gay-rod and "Mr. October". I can't wait to see how retarted he will look in those pin stripes.

I do agree that the Red Sox plain dragged thier feet and did not match the offer. I guess we can't all be like the Tom Brady's of the world who will take a little bit less money to have a winning team in a city that loves you and a organization that respects you.

**dougnukem** · 12-22-2005, 12:34 PM

Don't matter, the White Sox will still beat both teams.

**Flex** · 12-22-2005, 01:49 PM

Originally Posted by BOSOX1980

I guess we can't all be like the Tom Brady's of the world who will take a little bit less money to have a winning team in a city that loves you and a organization that respects you.

Isn't he amazing?

**min0 lee** · 12-22-2005, 07:05 PM

Originally Posted by BOSOX1980

Can you say SELL OUT?

Johnny Damon said to the media last June that no matter what contract he would never be a Yankee. The Johny Damon that I respected for going against the grain and being different turns out to be just like the average Joe. Throw that wad in front of him and he falls right in line with Gay-rod and "Mr. October". I can't wait to see how retarded he will look in those pin stripes.

I do agree that the Red Sox plain dragged their feet and did not match the offer. I guess we can't all be like the Tom Brady's of the world who will take a little bit less money to have a winning team in a city that loves you and a organization that respects you.

What does that mean? Please let's not go there.

And if I recall A-Rod's first option was to go to Boston not New York, it wasn't he fault the deal did not go true. please get your facts straight.

Tom Brady is a special player who definitely deserves more credit than he gets and keep an eye on New England.

**min0 lee** · 12-23-2005, 06:37 AM

**min0 lee** · 12-23-2005, 06:39 AM

Is he an American Indian?

**tucker01** · 12-23-2005, 06:46 AM

Bernie Williams Re-signs with the Yanks 1yr 1.5 mil

**min0 lee** · 12-23-2005, 06:49 AM

I am glad to hear that he could have signed elsewhere but he stood.
A classy guy.

**min0 lee** · 12-23-2005, 07:29 AM

**BOSOX1980** · 12-23-2005, 08:11 AM

Originally Posted by min0 lee

Is he an American Indian?

No, his mom is from somewhere in Asia.

**min0 lee** · 12-23-2005, 08:18 AM

Oh...I See.

**min0 lee** · 12-23-2005, 08:18 AM

Boston fan I presume.

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