Now that the first half of the season is over, it's time to reflect on some of the issues still plaguing the Yankees. When the Rays went into the seven game losing streak, the Yankees had a great chance to make up a lot of ground but they failed miserably because the offense decided to break for the All-Star Game early. If there was ever an opportunity, that was probably it.
I am surprised that hitting coach Kevin Long hasn't taken more heat over the team's inability to hit consistently. The Yankees batting rank is okay and the stats look respectable but the team just doesn't deliver consistently. Now the Yankees want to consider bringing in Sexson or even Bonds at this point in the season? There is a reason why Bonds wasn't signed earlier and it should be the same reason they shouldn't sign him now. As for Sexson, what exactly is he going to bring other than a huge strikeout total and low OBP? I agree the Yankees could use a bat what good can come from bringing these guys in when your current players aren't delivering.
Whether Kevin Long survives the season or they bring in someone else to help him out, the Yankees need to get Cano, Melky and some others into a groove. It doesn't look good for Matsui and Damon lately so these other "all-stars" in the lineup need to step it up. The pitching has held up relatively well since Wang went down and the Yankees have found another useful arm in Robertson. With Bruney back on the mound in the minors, he might be back by early August. Joba, Mussina and Pettitte have done well enough but they need the hitting to help them out.