One idea I had for the blog was to do some small chats. If things go well I can attempt to get some guests to engage in a Q&A style chat this season. You can go ahead and submit your questions in the comment section and I’ll answer a few tomorrow.
The Phil Hughes Weblog
My life in Baseball
The Phil Hughes Weblog 
Phil, hows it all going? I was just wondering about a few things. 1. Whats your relationship with Joe Girardi and Dave Eiland? 2.How many innings can we count on for 2008? and 3. Whats the 1 thing that after you retire you would want to say i did ……….. Best of luck this year and lets go yankees. Your #1 fan Zack. Thanks
Hey Phil! I think it’s really cool that you’ve set up this blog and are interacting with your fans. I have a few questions, but I’ll start with these:
What are your goals for this off season?
What are your goals for the 2008 season?
Thanks!
Brandon
Hey Phil,
Can’t wait to see you mow down the Bo Sox this year, but I was wondering what is your favorite baseball memory either from this past season or any time?
Thanks, Bill
I read that Damon was endorsing Guiliani as a presidential canidate. Is there anyone that you are leaning towards voting for?
hindsight always being 20/20, do you ever regret not having attended college?
In my life i could think of no other dream job than pitching for the yankees, but are their points in your life when you wonder “what if?” you had attended school?
Phil.. whats your favorite kind of chewing gum? I’m just dying to know! Thanks…
and also.. are you excited to play in the new yankee stadium?
If you haven’t seen pics of the construction, you can view them here.
http://www.baseball-fever.com/showthread.php?t=51384&page=59
Phil,
Did it bother you that the Yankees ruled Joba as an “untouchable” in the Johan Santana trade talks but tried to use you as their main bargaining chip?
Harry
Brooklyn, NY
Hi Phil, this may seem like a silly question. You’ve expressed how much you like music, however, are you a bookworm? Is there any particular genre you like to read?
During your mid-season struggles last year, much was made of an apparent loss of velocity on your fastball. Do you feel that was accurate and, if so, what do you attribute that to?
hsep… it sure bothered me..
Hi Phil, 2 things I want to ask you about.
1) What do you think of the nickname Phil Franchise?
2) After the Texas near no-no, did you ever fully recover from the injuries?
Great idea Phil-
My question would be: what’s one thing fans in general don’t understand about being a baseball player? Such as a popular misconception or something interesting that most people wouldn’t know about living a life in baseball.
-Brian
http://riverascutter.wordpress.com
Hey Phil
I want to but your Jersey, You sticking with 65 or are you waiting for another number to be available? I think you’d look pretty sweet in 25 or 45. I know those will be available next season.. Should I wait till then?
Hey Phil,
Love that you have this blog. Please encourage your teammates to interact with the fans like this.
Anyhow, I have a question for you. At the major league level, do you have a pre-planned game plan for each hitter or do you concentrate more on what is working best for you on a given day and simply try to hit your spots? Thanks.
Hey Phil:
How different has your life become since being accepted as a Yankees cornerstone? Do you enjoy the newfound fame and recognition and how have you been able to remain grounded throughout your rise?
Thanks,
Tony @ Bronx Liaison
http://bronx-bomberz.blogspot.com/
Which teamates did you lean on for information about what it was like to play in the big leagues?
Hey Phil-
I have 2 questions for you if you don’t mind:
1)What’s your favorite “ballpark” food?
2)What can I do, if anything, to get added to your links section??
Thanks and best of luck.
J-Boogie
http://www.boogiedownbaseball.mlblogs.com
Phil,
Which of your teammates are you most excited to learn from and work with?
What is it like to know or feel that only after a half a season (more or less) in the bigs that the majority of Yankee fans at least those with an IQ above 90 don’t want to see you traded for a near certain on track Hall of Famer and possibly the best pitcher in baseball?
Just for kicks check out your 1st yr #’s to Joahn’s and just think how much better you’ll get with experience
I hope to watch you for years to come in Pinstripes!
Hi Phil!
I think it’s just great that you take the time to interact with your fans.
I have a couple of questions:
1) How did it feel to hear the crowd chanting your name while you pitched in game 3 of the ALDS? Was this a moment you’d been dreaming about since you were a boy and, if so, was it everything you imagined? I think you were quoted afterwards as saying (when Joe took you out) that this was “so much **** fun!”. I love that quote and the fact that you can have fun out there is a reason why I think you pitched so well.
2) What’s it like to be up in the big leagues with Joba and Kennedy? I would think that you guys could be a support system for each other – it must be fantastic to be going through this with other young pitchers.
Also just a comment – you all looked great in your Wizard of Oz outfits!
Thanks Phil!!
Phil-
What do you think about the whole Johan Santana deal? Are we better off with our young talent in the farm systems or is it better to get a big name in his prime?
Also, do you get annoyed when people ask you to sign ridiculous things such as sneakers, napkins, etc.?
Thanks,
Bucknut7
Hey Phil,
How do you see yourself with all the other guys, particularly pitchers, coming up into the bigs the same time as you? I imagine there is a sort of camaraderie between you and Joba and Kennedy, but what about guys like Bucholtz? Does seeing the rivals with a big pitching prospect motivate you to be better than him?
(Not that I’m saying playing for the Yankees isn’t motivation enough…)
Thanks,
Robert
Phil: this is obviously the first time you have heard trade whispers, and hopefully it will be your last.
We know you stated your preference to stay in NY and I for one am elated to hear it. Do the rumors make you more motivated to mentally/physically prep yourself for the season? Hence, the early check-in to Tampa?
Phil
How badly do you want to make Keith Law eat these words?
“Buchholz. Two knockout secondary pitches. Even at full strength Hughes doesn’t have that.”
http://proxy.espn.go.com/chat/chatESPN?event_id=18078
Nick
trueyankeeblog.org
Three questions
1) What are your expectations for this season?
2) What are your realistic thoughts on the 2008 ball clubs? I know seasons aren’t made on paper, nor are made in January, but just right now, what are your thoughts?
3) Would you just chit chat with fans on AIM if you are on, and aren’t busy?
Thanks
-Brendan
**
2) What are your thoughts on the 2008 Yankee ball club? I know seasons aren’t made on paper, nor are made in January, but just right now, what are your thoughts?
1) What was your “Welcome to the Big Leagues” moment?
2) Are you on Facebook?
3) If you could have dinner with any three former ballplayers, who would it be?
3a) Former Yankees?
4) How superstitious are you? Any pre-game rituals?
What type of pitching coach is a Dave Eiland? Is he innovative and A Hands-on Approach type of coach? Does He talk about pitching mechanics and teach young pitchers a new type of pitch to succeed in the majors ? What did you learn from him since you first met him Phil?
Mr.Keith law of Espn says that you don’t have 2 offspeed pitches compare to Boston prospect Clay Bucholtz that He throws for a strike. Your changeup still work on progress.
What type pitch are you working on upcoming next season and spring training? What did you learn from last year pitching for first time in against quality hitters in Mlb?
How do you pitch to David Ortiz? One of Fear hitters in Baseball.
Other than New York and other than Yankees Stadium, what is your favorite STATE to play in and which BALLPARK do you like the most?
Phil, Were you worried about the drop in velocity you had when you came back from the injury?
Hi Phil,
I see this in internet.
All of these are your collections? O.O
1) There has been some speculation around the internet that in some of your starts back in 06 (AA), you were sitting in the 94-95 mph range with your fastball , is there any truth to this?
2) Your breaking ball (knuckle-curve) seemed a lot tighter/faster when you first got to AA two years ago, but last year it looked a little more loopy/slower than normal, any specific reason behind this change?
3) Your mechanics/delivery seemed to get a lot closer to where it were before the hamstring injury (first 2 starts) upon the arrival of Dave Eiland back in September of last years, do you credit your late season success to this?
4) Patriots or Giants? ;)….
3) Your mechanics/delivery seemed to get a lot closer to where it was before the hamstring injury (first 2 starts) upon the arrival of Dave Eiland back in September of last years, do you credit your late season success to this?
Typo sorry…
Hi Phil! Im really excited to see you play this year and cant wait to watch you win the CY Young Award!! : )
What do you think about the whole Roger Clemens and Steriod issue that is going on right now?
Do you think he will play again next year?
Thanks
Matt
Autograph Question
Since you started your professional career what has been the most unique item you have signed?
Hey Phil,
Echoing others, I think it is great that you’re taking the time to reach out to your friends.
I guess what I’m most eager to hear about is your transition to the big leagues. Being just a few months younger than you, I’d love to hear what it was like to be thrust into a major league locker room at such a young age and with such expectations on your shoulders. One day you’re playing college ball and dreaming of playing in the show and the next you’re just lockers away from first ballot hall of famers Derek Jeter, Mariano Rivera and Roger Clemens. Was it hard to assert yourself as just another professional rather than a wide eyed fan of the game? What was it like the first time you set foot in the club house?
Whether you choose my question or not thanks for taking the time to interact with your fans! We appreciate it!
Steve from Stratford
Phil,
This is basically a question from a baseball stand point. We, as fans, got the pleasure of seeing you develop last year as you got to the majors. Obviously, your curve ball and two seamer play very important roles in complimenting your 4 seam fastball. My question is regarding how you plan to change your pitching style, if at all, in the coming 2008 season. I wondered if you plan on mixing in the change a bit more or if you have developed any pitches in the offseason that you are going to feature more often. I look forward, as does the entire Yankee fan base, to a bright and successful 2008 season.
All the best,
Ben
Hey Phil!
I’ve got a question for you:
Do you play video games, if so which ones do you like?
Thanks,
John
Phil,
What did you learn from Roger Clemens over the 2007 season? I’ve also read that Joba has talked to him over the winter, have you?
Phil,
I am plan on ordering your jersey, are you going to continue to wear 65, or do you have plans to use another?
Hey Phil
Hope you remain a Yankee like Jeter for life….
Can you take us back to that night in Texas, the emotions of pitching a no-hitter and then the injury happening?
Thanks
Spike O
Unionville, CT
PS great site
I’m going to post some random questions. Answer whatever you feel like out of them.
First off have you been informed of any innings limit. What is it if so?
Having meet Clemens Last season, what are your thoughts on his current issues?
Who would you say you are closest with in the club house?
Whats the reasoning, if any, behind picking the number 65?
and some random questions
What’s your favorite TV shows, favorite movies?
Any pets? dog, cat?
Last of all favorite major league player growing up?
Thank You very much and keep the blog going!
Hi there,
I am excited to see you have a blog. One question for you, if you get a chance to answer it at some point.
Do you have any superstitions? Particularly game rituals or mannerisms you prefer? I know lots of pitchers refuse to step on the lines, and various other things.
Thanks and go Yankees!!
Deidra
Phil,
Last year you appeared to be shaky the first few innings of various games, but come the 3rd & 4th innings – you were able to take it to the 6th giving up limited to no hits, & no runs. Do you sometimes get nervous (like all of us would being a rookie) starting a game or does it take some time to get settled into the hitters after a cyle thru the batting order? This happened multiple games when you came back from your injury and I always wanted the honest answer.
take it easy.
-d
Whats up Phil,
First time that I am talking to a professional sports player.
Nevertheless I got two questions
1. Who was your favorite pitcher growing up
2. Do you throw a knuckle Curve like Mussina? I read reports that he taught you how throw the curveball and how to hold and etc a couple of years ago.
Phil,
Do you think you would have been able to finish off your no-hit bid against Texas if you had not gotten injured? I know Joe Torre had the feeling that it was going to happen. I’m sure you’ll have many more opportunities for a no-hitter in your career. Best of luck this year.
-BP
Phil,
Being a big football fan…do you play fantasy football? If so…how’d you do? Favorite Pro and College Football Teams? Figured I’d go a little off topic…a lot of people like to know these things about there favorite ball players.
Whats it like in the clubhouse? Do Cano and Melky chat it up in Spanish or English?
Phi,
Great Blog. I am one of supporters hoping you stay with Yankees. As an International Yankee fan from Taiwan, I am curious about your relationship with Chien-Ming Wang. I had studied in California for two years, Where is your favorite place to go in California? What do you think about you are part of Yankees rotation in 2008 which consists of 80% homegrown Yankees? Do you feel more pressure to perform well if Yankees decide not to trade for Santana because of you.
When you get drafted, did you wish to get drafted by Red Sox because I know you are Red Sox fan since you were kid? Did you feel disappointed at getting drafted by Yankees? Sorry about my poor English. Hopefully, you can understand what I try to ask. Thanks, I am very appreciated at your time and patience.
Yankee fan, Jessica
Whoa- I just realized that I’m asking a real live Yankee a question!!!!! This is wicked cool!!!!!! GOOD LUCK NEXT SEASON!
whats ur favorite food?how excited r u to get back on the baseball field
Hey Phil,
Just wondering what’s the typical catch phrases that you use most often?? To better clarify for ex. When I’m in conversation I usually say “sweet” alot when referring to a question or as an answer of acceptance. What’s the word you catch yourself most often saying?
Dear Phil Hughes,
Who is going to be more beastly this year, you or Joba? When MLB2k8 comes out, is the first thing you’re going to do is start up a Yankee franchise and trade Joba to the twins for Johan? Do you have any opinion on what virtual-Hughes will be rated in any video games? If I were a professional athlete I feel like it would be my #1 priority to be highly rated, or at least cheap like Grienke in MVP05 with that curveball.
Hey Phil,
Everyone else has pretty much covered everything, so:
Do you have or plan on buying any baseball video games? If so, do you or would you play as the Yankees and pitch as yourself?
That’s gotta to be an awesome feeling.
Btw, if this is right http://boards.ign.com/mlb_sony_ce/b5966/157513991/p1 you’re going to have a signature pitching windup in MLB 08 the show this year.
Phil,
Any bad blood with the front office, or has the Johan-marathon not bothered you? For the record, no one wants to see you put on another uniform for the rest of your career.
Hey Franchise (I hope you don’t mind being called that), just wanna say it’s awesome you put this site up.
Couple of questions:
1. Either during your Yankee debut, the May 1st Texas game, or your first post season appearance, did it ever hit you that it was actually happening? Or was it just a surreal blurred moment?
2. In the off season did the Yankees have anything to suggest in terms of staying in shape or working on anything, or were you just left on your own?
3. Would it be awkward if I told you I have a man crush on you? If yes then sorry, if no great because I do.
Hey Phil,
I noticed that when you first came up last year and were “struggling” (as the pundits say), you were getting ahead of hitters 0-2 or 1-2, then you started to nibble a bit and ended up throwing a lot of extra pitches. Later on in September and especially October, when you got ahead of guys you attacked and went right after them, instead of trying to be too fine. Is that something you noticed that you needed to work on, or did one of the coaches or other pitchers on the team help you out with this?
Thanks, and good luck.
Mike A.
River Ave. Blues
http://www.riveraveblues.com
Hey Phil,
First off, let me say that I think this is a great idea.
Secondly, my question is, have you set any personal goals for yourself for this season?
Hey Phil. Let’s get you a REAL NUMBER!
Cmon, 65 is so 2 years ago when you were just a young prospect. You need a new # that someday could be retired by the team. No way the Yanks will retire 65!
How about 19? It served Rags well and still available since Sojo left.
Phil,
I have one question: who do you think would win in a fight between all the Yankees, battle royale style? For arguments sake, using the current 40 man roster.
jimmydonz, my money’s on Farnsworth… the guy’s a beast. Pavano, on the other hand, is first to tap out.
As a Yankees fan I’m incredibly excited for this season to start and cannot wait to see the rest of the country find out exactly why we have such high hopes for you. You’ve helped breathe new life into this organization, and everyone can feel it; needless to say, we’re ready for #27 and we’re ready for you to take us there. But today, I shall take this opportunity to ask you a few random questions to get to “know” you a tiny bit better. So here goes nothing…
1) Word on the street is you’re a fan of The Office. Assuming this is true, who’s your favorite character (and why)?
2) Have you ever seen Arrested Development, and if so, did you like it?
3) I don’t know how much time you’ve had to explore New York, but what’s the coolest thing you’ve seen/coolest place you’ve been so far?
4) Who was your childhood idol?
One of my really good friends is a huge Red Sox fan, and she stubbornly (and expectedly) holds the view that all Yankees players are boring and dull with no sense of humor. I’m trying to prove her wrong. Help me out here. =)
Phil, Other than maybe your parents, who has been the biggest influence in your life and helped you strive & Succeed getting to the Bigs?
What was your 1st thought when picked up by the Yanks? Fear or excitement?
You seem very open to trying new things, such as the George Strait Concert (I told ya it wouldn’t be that bad, LOL) What is something you always wanted to try but haven’t been able to yet?
Outside of NY, do you get recognized a lot in public? When people ask for your autograph (other than eating and private times) do you feel bothered or honored that they want you to sign your name? Do you think it will always be that way?
Thanks for the chance to ask things Phil. Very cool of you. I hope you stay the way you are now with being approachable and grounded. I know Jeter used to be like that in Columbus when he was with the Clippers, but things have changed A LOT since then. It is great to see you appreciate your fans as much as we appreciate you.
God Bless and good luck in 2008
Hey Phil My question for you is this
When you were drafted by the Yankees, did you ever think you would actually pitch for the Yankees knowing in the past they have traded many prospects or did you feel you would be traded before you made it to the majors?
Good luck in 08, and I hope you are a huge part in bringing back the title to the bronx.
Phil, (my questions)
If I finally divorce my wife of 4 months and buy an appt on the bay which just happens to be on the same floor as yours; right across the hall.. would you watch the pats and giants with me if I supplied the turkey?!?
Seriously, my brother was looking in Tampa for a new place and the realtor quietly said, “Hughes the Yankee pitchers lives here!” She is using you as a sales tool! Hah.
Who knows if he does buy there, maybe we can get on the PS3.. I’m picking NY though! Would you let me?
Hey Phil i was just wondering what is different going into this spring training now that you now you are on the major league team, and how might that affect you in a good or bad way?
Phil, what are the expectations for not only yourself, but also the Yankees as a team in 2008?
I heard that you had a very good slider when you were in high school and that you were not allowed to throw it in the minors because it is damaging to the elbow. Is that true? Do you plan on bring it back at some point in the next few years?
Phil,
I read an article that the pitching coaches in New York changed your arm angle on your pitches while you were rehabbing from the injuries. Was that story correct and do you think that may have flattened out your fastball a bit when you did return? I thought you looked a little different from when I had seen you in Trenton. Thanks for the blog and thanks for the song suggestions. I put 4 of them on my ipod.
Floyd
Mr. Hughes-
It is no secret that injuries slowed you down in ’07. Have you, or do you plan to work out any differently this year in order to stay healthy for 2008??? Example- Do you have a new workout routine, things you want to avoid in workouts, etc???
Mark McCray
The Bronx Stop
http://www.TheBronxStop.com
Hey Phil,
Awesome blog, keep up the great work!! Im soo excited for the season to start and I cant wait to see you pitching this year!! My questions are what is it like being in the atmosphere with those awesome guys and is the big leagues like everything you ever dreamed of as a kid??
Keep up the blogging,
Ashley
Hey Phil,
I’m really enjoying your blog so far. Thanks for the Q&A.
Here are my questions:
1.) If you could make one wish, with the absolute guarantee that it would come true, what would you wish for?
2.) You give a lot back to your fans with things like signing autographs, blogging etc. Have you ever received anything cool from fans either in person or TTM? If so, what are some of your favorite things you have received over the years?
3.) What’s one thing that most people would be surprised to learn about you?
Alright Phil I’m gonna get right down to business here,
It’s the bottom of the eighth, two men on three men out . You’re the umpire, Paul Molitor’s pitching to shamu. Shamu hits a liner right to the center of the earth. NOW WHAT ARE YOU GONNA DO?
Here is the all important question that I can’t believe no one has asked yet. Are either of your sisters available?
Phil,
1) What is the biggest difference between pitching in the minors and the majors?
2) Who is the funniest person in the clubhouse that no one knows about?
3) What do you think makes Dave Eiland such a great pitching coach?
Thanks, and go Yanks!
-Evan
Phil,
One more question, People always say It’s difficult for pitchers to get along very well and become good friends with position players. Is this true? Thanks
I like reading books and articles as much as watching baseball, so I wanna ask you about it. 🙂
What is your favorite book(fiction and nonfiction)?
Who is your favorite author?
Who is your favorite sports writer?
I joined wordpress.com because of posting comments on your blog. 😉
All the best!
from Seoul, Rep.of Korea
Sunny.
Phil
(休斯)Your name in Taiwan
Thank you very much
Because you, I have begun to try to spend and read English
Because you, I continue studying English motive force
You are really a boy that show consideration for very much
Would like to exchange some suggestions with the football fan of each other
I wish that has not increased your inconvenience
English of me fine, read only, I spend long time very soon
But I think it very happy, in your clan dose
Like seeing everything about you
I think, you should be without much time can be all answered
If you a little time, may say HI with me?
I am sorry and joking (smile)
But my sincere words (Serious sample )
You there can be a good result, refuel this year in hope
I am very sorry
Above chapter
Have got the wrong number in characters . But does not know how to revise
Feel very sorry
Excuse me
Phil,
Your velocity dipped to 89-91 mph when you came back from the hammy last year. Was the drop caused my the leg of leg strength from the injury, or were you taking it easy to not re-injure yourself? Do you expect to be at your typical velocity (92-95) this season?
Ryan
Phil,
There’s been so much talk everywhere as to “innings limits” and the fear of not adding as many innings to your workload, as well as Joba’s and Ian’s. Is workload and the potential risk of injury something that runs through your heads, or something you all feel there’s nothing you can do about? I can imagine it’s sometimes hard not to worry about what you can’t predict and, in some ways, can’t control.
Hey Phil, You wear 65, Joba wears 62. You guys plan on wearing lower numbers somewhere down the road, or do you wear these because these were the numbers you got in camp?
Hey Phil, You wear 65, Joba wears 62–are you planning on wearing a lower number down the road, or are you keeping it?
Great to see you interact with the fans and good luck in the years to come.
My question is after the 2006 AA playoff game in Portland, 7IP, 13K performance; is this the type of pitcher you expect to be in the majors and what do you feel is best quality as a pitcher (i.e command, curve, velocity)?
Also, regarding video games..see Joel Zumya, I’m sure there are other things to do, like go outside and play catch.
What up Phil
Here is my question: Where do you want Joba to be next year, starting with you or in the pen?
hey Phil,
Scouts say that you throw a tradition 12-6 curve, but I’ve seen pictures and it looks like your actually throwing a knuckle curve, which one do you throw?, also are there any pitches you throw that we haven’t gotten to see yet?
Phil, how is your friendship with A-rod?
edit: I realized I made a typo in my question, so here it is again:
Phil,
Your FB velocity dipped to 89-91 mph when you came back from the hammy last year. Was the drop caused by the lack of leg strength from the injury, or were you taking it easy to not re-injure yourself? Do you expect to be at your typical velocity (92-95) this season?
Ryan
Phil,
When you were pitching to righties last year, and you were trying to plant your fastball on the outside corner, it seemed to have ridiculous movement on it that leaked it high and tight. Was that by design?
Matt
Traveling Question:
Who do you usually room with on road trips, and who would you consider your closest friend on the team?
Thanks Phranchise!
Michael
Did you ever catch Torre asleep during a game last year?
Does anyone talk to Farnsworth in the locker room?
Would you consider going on a date with yankeechic26?
What I’d really like to know, personally, would be from which individual Yankee player or players (not coaching staff) taught you the most last season? Did any of the more experienced players take an interest in helping you make the transition to the big leagues?
Hey Phil –
Saw this shirt online on another blog – figure you or some of the fans here might like it…
It’s called “B is for Bandwagon” and you can guess what the B stands for. 🙂
http://www.cafepress.com/malsdad
Keep up the good work and good luck this season!
Hey Phil,
Are you going to have a batting song when you guys crush NL teams? If so, what song do you want?
Phil, have you been working or do you plan to work on any new pitches this offseason prior to the start of the 2008 season?
Good luck next year!
davepond88,
That shirt website is ridiculous. I love the idea, but never in my life will I ever wear a Boston “B”. I’d rather be castrated…no, honestly.
Are you and all the young guns excited to have Eiland back as your pitching coach this year, nothing against Gator
Ok, so if by chance I get to actually speak to you at spring training, can you teach me how to throw a curve ball?
ok, so in the unlikely event that i actually get to talk to you at spring training, can you teach me how to throw a curve ball?
Did you ever catch Torre asleep during games?
Does anyone talk to Farnsworth in the locker room?
Will you go out on a date with Yankeechic26 feb 15th? She’s totally hot and funny.
Hey Phil, I have a question.
How dull are the bus rides to road games in the minor leagues? What do you guys do for fun to kill time?
Thanks for answering!
Phil, I was wondering what sort of routine, if any, you have before a major league game? It must have been exciting and terrifying when you were called up for your first start last year, I know I wouldn’t have been able to think about anything else or function at all that day. What is a typical day like for you when you have a start that night?
When you returned from injury last season, many people noticed that your velocity was down a few mph. Was that due to lingering affects of the injury, a tentativeness following the injury, a mechanical flaw, getting back into shape, or is around 91 the comfortable threshold that you pitch in ordinarily?
Its great to see that you have a blog and it is going to be great seeing you pitch in pinstripes for years to come.
Phil…What goes on in the Yankees clubhouse before and after games..of course the media is there asking questions..but what do you guys do?
Kevin
Phil, not sure if this was covered before, but I have a 2 parter. What team and players did you follow as a kid? If your favorite team wasnt the Yankees, when did you become aware of them and what was your attitude toward them at the time?
Kind of a loaded question I guess. The reason I ask is that as a Yankee fan I’d imagine it would be strange to follow and like a club all my life, only to then be drafted by a random team and have to be a fan of theirs first and foremost.
Thanks for doing this blog by the way, great idea and lots of fun to read.
Phil: Do you think with the organization’s current pitching depth it will hard for guys in the system to have a meteoric rise like yourself and Joba did?
thx
jay
http://www.thebaseballoutsider.com
Hey Phil,
I was wondering how your performance in last year’s playoffs has influenced you for this coming season. You gave the best performance of any Yankee pitcher (in my estimation). Does that give you more confidence for this coming season? Or does it not change you at all because you always knew you had the talent to do that in a big spot?
Thanks and have a great spring
– Josh
Hi Phl
What type of movies do you like?
What have you seen lately?
What is your favorite video game?
Jacquie
My question is:
-What was your last job before becoming a professional baseball player?
Didn’t on YES they show Hughes and Joba playing GH/Halo 3? Should pick up Rockband, and start a band featuring: Hughes on lead guitar, IPK on drums, and Joba…singing
Hey Phil, I was a member of your website before you changed to this format. It looks like you say a lot more on here. What influenced you to make the switch?
Hi Phil,
What would you rather have? A world series ring, a Cy Young, a perfect game, or a 20-win season?
Also, your thoughts on the Red Sox/Yankees rivalry…and how do you feel about the New Yankee Stadium?
Phil, my co-blogger el duque at It is High suggests this question:
Bases loaded. We’re ahead by one. Two outs. Bottom of the ninth. Full-count. You’re on the mound pitching to Robert Redford.
He has accidentally broken his famous Wonderboy bat. The cherubic bat boy comes out and hands him a special bat, which he hand-carved for just this occasion.
Redford digs in with the prayers of millions – no billions – behind him.
Hit him in the head?
Phil:
I’ve got these questions from México
Since when you felt you could arrive to the Majors? Did you ever feel you wouldn’t get to the big team?
Would you like to pitch in the Olympics?
In your short time as a Yankee, who has developed into your closest friends and/or cofidants (a player or players, coach(s), front office rep(s)?
We’re all just as impatient as you are for 2008 to begin!
Hey Phil. Matt from Toronto.
Where was your favorite road visit when traveling with the Yankees in 2007 and why?
p.s I saw you pitch for the first time on September 11th and you were amazing. The future is bright and I look forward to see you dominating in pinstripes.
Phil, I know you have XBOX Live, do you ever play any of the baseball games?
mlb 2k8 and MLB 08 the show will be the first games to feature a fully digital 3D Phil Hughes.
Do you have any concerns about your arm breaking down this season, or about your ability to complete the season and possibly the postseason with an innings total far greater than the past few years?
Who do you know of in the minor leagues that you have played with and has a great chance of being a star for the Yankees?
Hey Phil,
As a kid, what pitcher’s (or any position) style did you most want to emulate? What did they have (in terms of pitches, style, etc.) that you want or you acquired a long the way?
Thanks,
Andrew
” wastedtalent (14:04:12) :
My question is:
-What was your last job before becoming a professional baseball player? ”
He worked for Baskin Robbins and then he worked at some clothing store at a mall.
Hey Phil are you going to keep the number 65 or will you be switching to a lower more “baseballish” number? My son wants to buy your jersey but I keep holding him off thinking that you will be switching numbers.
hy phil!
i just wanted to ask whats it like being a major league pitcher and how is being a yankee?
thanks man, stay safe for the season we need ya
Hi!
LOVE your blog! I wanted to know if you have ever wanted to stop pitching out of annoyance regarding the rare poor performance of the Yankees.
Hope you and your family are doing well!
God Bless you! 🙂
hey phil,
i wanted to know if you ever had any celebrities in the locker room?
thanks,
hughesfan94
The issue of illegal performance enhancers has been the biggest story in baseball the last few years and it has really put a damper on the game. I consider myself a baseball purist and know the history well and the recent problems have left a sour taste in my mouth…
What is your take on whats been going on with illegal performance enhancers in the game?
P.S. Hope you stay in NY… there is nothing like being able to root for someone through the farm system and throughout their career with one team.
Phil,
Did you know that the Yankees almost traded away Ron Guidry before they gave him a show at the big leagues? Imagine if the Yankees would have traded Bernie Williams before he had a chance to develop into a star!
If I were the owner of the Yankees, I would put you and Ian Kennedy on the “untouchable” list alongside Joba. I don’t care if I could get Cy Young himself, I would refuse to trade you.
Because you guys came up through our farm system, we are rooting for you to succeed in a deeper way than if we got some guy in a trade. In addition to that, all three of you have great poise for such young kids. Actually, I don’t remember, 3 kids coming up at once with your maturity level (I’ve been a fan since the mid 1970s). The closest comparison I know of is Mariano, Petitte and Mondoza, but I thing all 3 of you will be better than Mendoza was. If you stay healthy, the Yankees will be thankful that they never traded you.
The last several years the team has made great strides to improve our farm system. It would be a sin to trade away one or our best prospects because of impatience (the desire to win it all now).
Developing the team from within (not to develop prospects to trade away like cattle) will work out for the best in the long run (we’ll actually have a better chance at winning more consistently). And it will give the fans a much more pure baseball experience. We will be able to identify with the team in a more emotional way.
I am coming again.I think it’s really a good idea-to chat with your fans ! It’s so kind of you to treat your fans like friends. Frankly speaking,I never saw a player like you to upgrade your blog so often.At least,Chien-ming Wang didn’t upgrade his blog for a long~long time.Maybe you can remind Wang of his blog next time.
I have to tell you that you have fans in Taiwan too. I am, indeed.I hope I can see more your pitching.
I have some questions:
Besides baseball,which sports do you like?
When do you start to play baseball?
Chinese New Year is on Feb. 7.I wish you a GREAT 2008!!
sorry,it should be “update”,not “upgrade”.
hey phil. great site you have going on here. well i first of all i would like to tell you that you surpassed my expectations. i remember the fist time i saw your picture on the newspapers and it said that you were going to start a game i don’t remember which one but man i gotta tell you the first thing i said was this guy is going to get lit up lol, but i guess i was wrong man, you really proved me wrong and i really admire you now seriously i think your a very good pitcher, very smooth on the mound and dominant but yeah anyway i also would like to ask you were you a yankees fan before you was drafted by yankees
Who was it that you looked up to most, as a kid, in baseball?
Who is the funniest guy on the yankees? Have you had a chance to introduce your self to Joe Girardi? If yeah then what is he like? Which player helped you the most to adjust to the majors when you first came up? Who do you think will win the Super Bowl?
Thats a lot of questions, pick and choose if you want.
Phil, I’m a huge Yankees fan living in Columbus, Ohio so I got to see all of the prospects, like Mattingly, Bernie, Jeter…play for the Columbus Clippers before the Yanks. Anyway, I’m a huge Ohio State Buckeyes football fan and wondered what your favorite college football team was? I know Steinbrenner is a Buckeye fan and Jeter is a Michigan fan…
Phil,
I’m so happy the Yanks are holding on to you. Great performance against Cleveland in the playoffs, I knew you could do it. I was hoping that Joe was going to give you a start in that series (like Pettite in game 1, you in game 2 and Wang in game 3). Why do you think your numbers were better on the road last year? We fans don’t take any offense by it. I assure you. 🙂
Hey Phil,
I was just wondering what you thought of this nickname that I came up with. If you combine your first name Phil with your last name Hughes, you get Phughes (pronounces like fuse). So you could be called The Phughes. like The Phughes that ignites the Bronx Bombers.
Anyway, i wish you the best of luck, and can’t wait til spring comes so i can see you pitch again. Go Yanks!
hey Phil, I would like to congradulate you on your success so early in your career…why trade you for santana when you could lead this rotation for the next 20 years?!?! but I am writing this to you wondering if you would be interested in a raffle that my team is selling to try and get down to costa rica for the world cup of flag football. if you are you can check out the website at flagmag.com or our league website at cdffl.com (capital district flag football league) thank you for your time..
Hey Phil,
Just thought i could get some help or tips. I’m a pitcher for high school who recently changed some minor flaws in my mechanics and now my curve has gone flat. I’ve mirrored myself after your style and delivery and i’ve gained much more control over 88mph fastball and circle change, but I was wondering if you ever had a flat spell with your curve? If so, how did you break out of it? I also hold it like a knuckle curve but i dont know how to fix it.
P.S. Hope both of us have even more dominant second seasons!!
hey phil, im really hoping you’re still in the bronx for this year and beyond.
listening to the radio call of the no-hitter you had going agaist the ranger’s was definitely my best moment of the season.
i know how good santana is, but i think you, kennedy, and chamberlain together are a lot better than overpaying for yet another star.
good luck you the year
Phil,
What is something that I can say to all of my RedSox fan co-workers who constantly rag on me about being a Yankees fan?
what’s your favorite color?
what’s your favorite food?
what do you guys do during rain delays?
heard you grew up a red sox fan….do you like my screen name?
what teammate doyou hang out with most off the field?
do you have a myspace?
how often are there going to be chats?
if you didn’t play for the yankees what team would you want to play for?
hey phil,
k first thing’s first, thank god your still a yankee, what were hank and hal thinking??? lol…i have a couple questions, would you want to be a yankee for the rest of your career?? and secondly was it nerveracking pitching in the postseason last year?? it didnt seem like you were i mean you pitched a gem, but i was just wondering?
Hey Phil,
Last September the NYPD Baseball Team gave the players a bunch of NYPD Baseball TEE shirts . Did the players actually get them? Check the team out at http://www.nyfinestbaseball.com
Good Luck!
Hello Phil, I am a long time Yankee fan and have been waiting a long time for your rise thru teh minors and arrival at the big club. I am also glad to see that you are not been traded. Santana is good but i think that in the long run you will be better than him. I look forward to this season. i know taht we have young pitchers but all three of you are very talented and have the right coaching staff to go a long way.Looking forward to Spring training and teh coming season.
GOOD LUCK Phil.
Hey Phil, I remember sitting in the living room watching you dominate the Texas Rangers in your 2nd start. I was so disappointed seeing u limp off the field, iv been looking forward to seeing you develop since you were drafted. I know you had to have been disappointed not being able to finish helping the team, but how disappointed were you that you couldnt finish your no-hit bid?
Mr. Hughes:
At 58 years of age, its nice to finally be able to offer one of my demo CDs of original material for your listening pleasure. I realize there may be some old fogeyness ( Stephen Stills, Kenny Loggins, Jim Croce & Eric Clapton influences)
in my music, but I would like to mail you a copy for Spring Training.
Do I just mail it to the Legends Field complex in Tampa ?
Best wishes for a healthy and successful season wearing those pinstripes.
I look forward to seeing you pitch in Kansas City, Chicago, Minnesota and Pittsburgh this season from my home in Wisconsin.
Phil.
With all the hype surrounding the “Young Guns” (You, Joba and Ian), I was wondering. Are the three of you guys close? Do you guys “stick” together and help one another with the, I’m sure difficult, transition to the Bigs? (If this question has already been posted I appologize) Thank You
hello phil
i was wondering what time would be good to go to ledgends field during spring training to watch the drills and get some balls signed for my nepew. he lives in n.y. and sits behind the dugout. he tries to get every ball from the ball boys and foul balls. he was really excited when he got jeter to sign one for him before a game. so i thought i might have a good chance to get some for him in tampa. any sugestions. oh by the way one of yours would sure look good next to my clemens and whitey ford balls. thanks
phil huges
wudupp man, im a huge yankee fan and youre a great pitcher
its cool to have someone go pro who lived so close to me.
Ian kennedy went to USC with my friend John Dunn who went to my highschool to.
just wanted to give u a lil heads up, i graduated from west high school in torrance last year and we beat foothill in winterball =] haha
but have a great season this year man, ill be pullin for you.
get back to me if you can
Just got off line from purchasing tickets for the Yankees vs A’s game out here in Calif. for 6/12/08. I sure hope you are pitching that day. Best of luck this season. Go Yankees
hey Phil. i was just wondering what its like being around the future hall of famers that surround the yankees clubhouse? has anything that roger and andy or even moose said to you have impacted how youve pitched?
Phil Good luck this year. I had seen where you sign autographs through the mail for a $5 donation. Is this correct? I enjoy collecting autographs of some of the up and comming stars and would like to add you to my collection.
Thanks
What’s good Phil?
My question for you is: In light of the fact that baseball is a business how dissappointing is it to find your name on the trade talk circuit by management after the sure success you had throughout the regular season and especially in the playoffs?
Again I realize that it’s a business but personally was it frustrating at all to give your all and for a team and to hear that they are still in search of an ace pitcher?
I personally consider your arm “ace pitcher” material and that’s real, I think trading you will definitely come back to bite us in the bum just as Cashman said in an interview earlier this month.
Phil,
Now that it looks like the Yanks are gonna keep ya around instead of trading you (thank God), are they planning on getting ya a more perminent jersey number? The sixties and seventies are usually reserved for the guys that only have a brief cup of coffee with the big club.
Phil, how are you feeling heading into this season compared to last,better? more prepared?I watched all the games last year, and you have some of the nastiest stuff ive seen in a ny uniform since i can remember, And i noticed on the yankee webiste an article was talking about your 6 2/3 hitless innings in your second start, Isnt that only because after you started 0-2 on the leadoff then you threw four straight balls, otherwise you would have been working on a perfect game.I just have to say it is a pleasure to watch your work and i think all yankees fans cant wait to get this season started.Keep up the hard work! Its appreciated in upstate ny
heyy phil!! im a HUGE Yankees fan, not to mention baseball fan. i was looking on yankees.com today and saw tht you are doing this new blog website and decided to check it out. i think this is really cool of you to do this for fans. It shows that we are really appreciated by players and that our support doesn’t go unoticed. i can not wait for the season to start and really hope that you do well!! i bet you cant wait either.=] GO YANKEES!!
Phil-tell us how the new addition @ Legends Field is looking. Will it be done in time for spring training?
Born in the Bronx and living in Florida!
Phil You what to foothill high school in california i was wording of you play the high school i went to in southern califorina the school is Pennisula In rancho palos verdes
I cannot WAIT for the season to start!!
Phil you are my idol, i went to your first game against the Blue Jays at the stadium and i watched you pitch all summer. When i herd u may get traded, i got so unhappy, i bought your tee shirt over the summer and it’s so much fun to see your energy on the field along with Joba and Ian, you’re my favorite athlete and my role model, i hope you stay in the Bronx for your career
Hey Phil, I’m a huge fan and I can’t wait to see more of you this year, I was wondering what PEEJ was, I noticed it insigned on your glove where most players have their names.
What do you like most about pitching??
I am really looking forward to watching you pitch this year!
Hey Phil, I’m a huge huge huge fan. I’m from New York and am coming to see you play in Spring Training. I hope i can get a hold of you and get an autograph that would be amazing but anyways.
I was just wondering what your first reaction was when you got drafted by the New York Yankees?
hey phil what tips do you give pitchers who have just started thier major league career
Hey Phil,
Do you usually give autograph requests during spring training and what about autograph requests through the mail?
brian
Hey phil
I was wondering what is you favotire monent in the big league so for