Yanks Take Notice, Respond To M’S Moves

It may not have been the same domino reaction as when the Los Angeles Dodgers acquired Chad Curtis after the Padres acquired Greg Vaughn, but the New York Yankees definitely made note of Seattle’s acquisition of left-handed pitchers Terry Mulholland and Jamie Moyer - coupled with the expected return soon of left-hander Randy Johnson - when they responded to their 15-16 record against left-handers and acquired the right-handed hitting Cecil Fielder. The Yankees play Seattle six times this month and could be headed for a rematch of last year’s playoff loss to the Mariners.

Polonia blasts Baltimore

Designated for assignment Friday, Luis Polonia sharply criticized the way the Orioles play, saying that while they have the talent to win, they won’t unless they approach the game more unselfishly.

“This team can win, but there are a lot of things going on,” said Polonia. “There are too many players worried about themselves. There are a lot of people criticizing you when you do something wrong, instead of picking you up.

“They can have a hell of a team, I’m sure of that. I played for the New York Yankees in 1994, for Oakland when they were good. I played for the Atlanta Braves last year. This team (the Orioles) can be a great team. But people on (the Orioles) are always worrying about what other people do, criticizing, instead of just going out and playing the game right.”

Polonia mentioned a play from the Minnesota series, when Twins designated hitter Paul Molitor hit a ground ball to first with a runner at second base and nobody out. “You don’t see that here (with the Orioles),” Polonia said. “With these guys, if there’s a runner at second, everybody wants to get that RBI.”

Lefebvre next?

Angels manager Marcell Lachemann continues to receive front-office support, but is the patience fraying? Sources say the club has contacted former Mariners and Chicago Cubs manager Jim Lefebvre to feel out his availability - now or in the future.

Lefebvre, who works for an equipment company and gives clinics throughout the world, denied hearing from the Angels. Sources insist, however, that he and Sparky Anderson are on a list of potential replacements.

Postseason glance

The postseason is scheduled to begin Tuesday, Oct. 1 at the A.L. wild-card, at the A.L. East, and at the N.L. Central.

The World Series will begin Saturday, Oct. 19 in the American League champion’s ballpark.

If the Series lasts seven games, Game 7, also at the A.L., will be played Sunday, Oct. 27.