Yankees hitting coach Kevin Long to blame for Yanks hitting woes?

Question

They went from the best offense a year ago to a mediocre one this year. They can't get runs with RISP at all this year.

Answer 1

THEY CAN"T PLAY FOR THEM ????? DUH ITS ALL THE HITTERS FAULT!

Answer 2

its the batters fault they need to start producing they get good pitches just not good results after they hit it

Answer 3

Yeah he is. What numbers did this guy put up in the majors? None!! How can a guy who didn't make it in the big show expect guys that do to listen to him?! And if they do how much can he possibly teach them having not experienced major league pitching on a daily basis himself? Answer that question and you have the answer to your question.

Answer 4

No, I just think our lineup isn't clicking, and it's not that they aren't capable of producing, they just aren't hitting right now. That, and our pitching problems, plus what I consider to be a poorly managed stretch of games have all contributed to the recent slump IMO. I don't think Long is to blame for this. Do I think he can be a bigger help than he has been? I'm not even sure about that...from what I've heard some of the players say, he's helped them quite a bit.

Answer 5

Most of these guys are proven great hitters. A change in hitting coach should not make that much of a difference. Most of them probably dont listen to him anyway..

Answer 6

I don't think the hitting coach is to blame. Take a look at how long most of the starting Yanks have been in the league. These guys are veteran hitters who put up consistent numbers almost every year. The fact is...many of these guys are getting older and it's harder for them year after year. Arod is hitting the ball just fine. Kevin Long doesn't swing the bat for them or tell them what pitch is coming next. These guys know how to hit...they're just not getting it done.  

Answer 7

He will end up taking the blame if they do not make the post season, but let us be honest, this lineup is loaded with all-star veteran talent with two first ballot hall of famers that have underachieved. (Jeter and A-Rod.)

The problem I notice is that they are not as patient as they used to be. They are swinging at first pitches and get incredibly impatient when there are runners on base. In all honesty, Damon is the only offensive player having a great year and Giambi is having a solid year.

GREAT OFFENSIVE YEAR

Damon

Giambi

Matsui (Out for Season)

Nady

GOOD OFFENSIVE YEAR

Abreu - power numbers are down

A-Rod - average is great but power numbers are down

Posada - Having a good year until he got hurt. (Out for Season)

POOR OFFENSIVE YEAR

Cano - From batting race in previous years to .240. Horrible!

Jeter - Disappointing unless he can get it up to his usual .300.

Sexon - Carry over of weak offense from Seattle

Betemit - Exposed when playing everyday.

Molina - Weak offense.

Pudge - Huge drop-off from where he once was

Christian - Good speed average bat.

Cabrera - He probably lost his CF job next year for poor offense.

Moeller - no comment