[NYY #23]

While the Monks finished the month 15-10 and just a game and a half behind the A's I have some concerns with the team, specifically about the bullpen. I really like Burt Mays, except he's 0-2 with an 8.64 ERA. I'm starting to wonder if his 2064 season was a fluke, but he just looks overmatched. I also really like Ben Patrick as well, but his signing hasn't just worked out and he's 0-4 with a 9.14 ERA.

So we looked to the trade market, packing Burt Mays, Ben Patrick, and shortstop prospect Trevor Burke and sending them to the Rays in exchange for Roberto Ramirez. Ramirez is 2-2 with a 3.19 ERA in 36 2/3 innings this year, appearing in 4 games in relief, and making 4 starts. Long term he should be in the rotation, but this year I'm hoping he'll help solidify our pen.

Anibal Guerrero of the Rangers hit the 300th home run of his career this month, as did Anthony Webb of the Dodgers. Fred Henderson of the Twins saved the 300th game of his career.

Then finally, after failing to sign our first round pick the Monks received a compensation pick in next year's draft. Failing to sign a draft pick wasn't ideal, but that led us down the international amateur path and we signed future potential ace Ramiro Luengas to a $6.4 million bonus. Of course at 16 he's a long way away, but at least we were able to add some potential talent to the organization.