Hi! My Name is: Joba Chamberlain

Each day, "Piss and Wynegar" will present Yankees "player previews" for the coming 2008 season. In what can only be referred to as a "revelatory" strategy, we will use statistics, as well as opinion, to further our analysis.

“And there were in the same country shepherds, abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them! And they were sore afraid ... And the angel said unto them, "Fear not! For, behold, I bring you tidings of great joy, which shall be to all my people. For unto you is born this day in the city of Lincoln a Savior, which is Joba."

Well, let’s be honest…that’s what we’re expecting of this poor bastard.

Joba will be awesome this year. Bullpen, starter…doesn’t matter (though, it’s probably going to be bullpen). [EDIT: It is.] He will be awesome. But, I’m talking realistic awesome. Reliable 8th inning guy awesome. ERA between 2.50 and 3.00 awesome. If you’re looking for anything close to last year you’re asking too much. Not saying it’s not possible…it’s just not likely.

As long as Joba brings the same confidence and fire he brought last year he’ll be…y’know…awesome (the 98 mph fastball and sick breaking balls don’t hurt either). Now, if only he could pitch the 6th, 7th, and 8th of every game.

To read earlier "Hi! My Name Is" entries, click here.