Defeat the Empire

We all know moving from the NL to the AL is challenging. But in Randy Johnson's case, it's changed him from a dominating, top-5 caliber pitcher to a middle-of-the-road starter in just a matter of months. Never were Johnson's struggles more apparent than in today's fourth inning in Chicago.

After Johnson cruised through the first three frames, he was burned for 4 dingers in the 4th, including back-to-back-to-back shots by Tadahito Iguchi, Aaron Rowand, and Paul Konerko. For good measure, former Yankee and retread backup catcher Chris Widger added a 3-run shot that sailed over the left field wall.

So, what's wrong with Randy? The three factors most likely are the switch in leagues, his nagging groin and back injuries, and age. This is not good news for the Yankees, who made a $57 million financial commitment to Johnson when they acquired him from Arizona in January. He's still under contract for 2 more seasons, at $16 million per year, and all indications are that the guy who was supposed to be the Yankees' ace in now just a hall-of-famer in decline.

AL Roundup

The Yanks lost ground on Boston with the loss today, as Boston scored five in the eighth to beat the Angels 5-1. Manny Ramirez and Edgar Renteria each had home runs. With the win, Boston moves to 4 games up on the Yankees in the AL East.

Oakland, the primary team the Yanks are chasing in the wild-card race, lost a second straight game to Kansas City. The losses by both teams keep a 1/2 game of separation between the two teams, while they are even in the loss column. Cleveland is also 1/2 games back, but trails by one game in the loss column.