Yankees News: Martin doesn’t catch, Cano picking up ground and Clemens reactions

For whatever reason, New York Yankees manager Joe Girardi does not want to admit the obvious; Chris Stewart is CC Sabathia‘s personal catcher.

Russell Martin found himself placated by Girardi with a spot in the lineup as the DH one day after receiving rest following Saturday’s 14-inning marathon with the Washington Nationals. Stewart has caught Sabathia in each start since April 17.

Girardi used Nick Swisher‘s absence in the lineup as the reason for needing Martin at DH. Wouldn’t it be better if Girardi just came out and said Stewart will catch Sabathia on a permanent basis and be done with it?

Cano inching up on Kinsler

Robinson Cano is getting closer to Texas Rangers second baseman Ian Kinsler in the American League All-Star voting. He sits just over 15,000 votes behind Kinsler which was announced during yesterday’s update from MLB. Derek Jeter and Curtis Granderson maintain starting positions for the AL squad.

Yanks reaction to Clemens’ verdict

The big news of the day off the field was Roger Clemens being found not guilty of six felony counts of perjury. The former Yankee has a few teammates held over from his years with the team. Jeter expressed that he was happy for Clemens and noted that it was good for baseball that the saga was finally over. Andy Pettitte who was a star witness and key element to Clemens’ victory said he did not care to discuss the verdict. Girardi said that he expects the conclusion of the trial to allow baseball to move forward and focus on what’s happening on the field.

Noteworthy

• Alex Rodriguez moved into 11th place on the all-time runs list ahead of Mel Ott with 1,860.
• Swisher’s bruised thigh is feeling better and he may be on the field soon.
• Brett Gardner is hoping to be back in action after the All-Star break.

Later today on Yanks Go Yard

The staff at Yanks Go Yard will provide their reactions to the Clemens verdict in a round-table piece. Benjamin Orr will discuss why he thinks the Yankees bullpen is the most consistent in years.