Monthly Archives: July 2013

Orioles’ Chris Davis And Manny Machado Primed For Big Second Half

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Friday, July.05, 2013

Chris Davis is one of the premier sluggers in all of baseball, and is showing everyone that he is a great all-around hitter as well. He is on pace to hit at least 60 HRs this season, and this would put him in some exclusive company.

Chris Davis is one of the premier sluggers in all of baseball, and is showing everyone that he is a great all-around hitter as well. He is on pace to hit at least 60 HRs this season, and this would put him in some exclusive company. The last time a player hit 60, is when Barry Bonds hit 73 in 2001. Crush as the fans in Baltimore like to call him has a chance to not only lead the Orioles to another post season berth, but also a division crown. The last time they won the division was in 1997. He has a WAR of 4.3 that is 3rd in the AL and is 1st in AB per HR with 9.5 this season.

By Chris Lacey (Lead Baseball Columnist/Minority Website Owner)

Baltimore Orioles are proving that their post season appearance last season was no fluke and that they are not a one-hit wonder with their play this season. The Orioles are second in the American League East division and they trail the Boston Red Sox by 3 ½ games.

This is very good considering the division that they play in is the toughest one in baseball, where all but one of the five teams is under .500. Baltimore can attribute some of the success this season to their offense.

Chris Davis 2013 Highlights- So Parental Guidance Is Advised

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Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – July 4, 2013

AP

AP

On Today’s episode of  The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast, I look at Yasiel Puig and I realize there is no reasonable argument to NOT have him on the All Star team.

Plus I compare Manny Ramirez to Don Draper. Trust me, it works.

Andrew McCutchen, Matt Garza, Max Scherzer and Chris Davis all owned baseball on July 3, 2013.

To see the up to date tally of “Who Owns Baseball?,” click HERE

Subscribe on iTunes HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – July 4, 2013

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The Impressive 2013 Orioles Should Be Sending 3 All – Stars to Citi Field

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Thursday, July 4th, 2013

Buck Showalter may finally break the curse of his previous managerial jobs - where his teams become stagnant after a few years of him being the clubs skipper.  Baltimore is 48 - 37 and sit in 2nd Place in the AL East - and would currently be the 2nd Wild Card team in the American League.  Not bad for a team Vegas said was only going to win 78 games this year!

Buck Showalter may finally break the curse of his previous managerial jobs – where his teams become stagnant after a few years of him being the clubs skipper. Baltimore is 48 – 37 on the year – as they sit in 2nd Place for the AL East – and would currently be the 2nd Wild Card team in the American League. Not bad for a team Vegas said was only going to win 78 games this year!

By Ben Kaplan (MLB Reports Baltimore Orioles Correspondent – visit his Battle of The Beltway website here):

For the past season and a half, the Baltimore Orioles have been counted out more times than Gordon Bombay’s Mighty Ducks. But just like everyone’s favorite fictional pee-wee hockey time, the Orioles refuse to go away, and they refuse to listen to the doubters.

The 2013 Baltimore Orioles picked up right where the 2012 Baltimore Orioles left off, defying the odds and winning games that most “experts” don’t feel like they should. You may be asking yourselves, how are they doing it?

The answer is actually very simple, serviceable starting pitching, a shutdown bullpen, and impressive contributions from their lineup, namely Chris Davis, Manny Machado, and Adam Jones.

Chris Davis 2013 Highlights:  Mature Content SO Parental Guidance Is Advised:

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Cliff Lee Is Dealing Right Now – But Will He Be Dealt?

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Thursday, July 4th, 2013

Cliff Lee is 83 - 35 with an under 3.00 ERA since the beginning of the 2008 season (.704).  In 2009 and 2010 Lee was a Trade Deadline acquisition that then proceeded to lead that new team to a World Series Birth.  Both teams ( PHI - 2009) and TEX (2010) lost those World Series.  Maybe a 3rd crack would see him net a title.  The 34 Year Old makes $25 MIL this year, plus $25 MIL for both of 2014 and 2015, he also has a Vesting Option for 2016 worth 2016 with $27.5 MIL - if he can pitch 200 IP in 2015 or a combined mark of 400 IP In 2014 and 2015.  The deal carries for a $12.5 MIL if he reaches these.  That means he could potentially make $62.5 MIL total for 2014 and 2015

Cliff Lee is 83 – 35 -with an under 3.00 ERA since the beginning of the 2008 season (.704). In 2009 and 2010,  Lee was a Trade Deadline acquisition – that then proceeded to lead that new team to a World Series Birth 2 years in a row. Both teams ( PHI – 2009) and TEX (2010) lost those World Series. Maybe a 3rd crack would see him net a title. The 34 Year Old makes $25 MIL this year, plus $25 MIL for both of 2014 and 2015, he also has a Vesting Option for 2016 worth 2016, worth $27.5 MIL – if he can pitch 200 IP in 2015 or a combined mark of 400 IP In 2014 and 2015. The deal carries for a $12.5 MIL Buyout if he reaches these. He could potentially make $62.5 MIL total for 2014 and 2015.

By Chris Creighton (Phillies Correspondent via http://www.warrroomphilly.com – visit the website here

I remember how I could hardly sleep on that Thirteenth night of December 2010. Rumors were abound that something secretive was simmering on the MLB Hot Stove involving Cliff Lee, but the teams involved weren’t 100% clear.

The Rangers, Yankees and Angels were all obvious suitors with suitcases stuffed with sawbucks, but a buzz was a-buzzing. You see, a mystery team was now in the hunt and with a belly full of butterflies, somehow I knew it was the Phillies as my head hit the pillow.

Cliff Lee was about to come home and for the first time since my early childhood, I awoke the next morning at 5:00 am without the help of an alarm to read the news. Cliffmas had, indeed, come early to Philadelphia.

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (July.3rd) – Updated Yearly “WOB” Standings

(AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

(AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Andrew McCutchen reached base five times with a triple, two singles and a pair of walks. He came around to score a pair, leading the first place Pirates to a 6-5 win over Philadelphia.

Matt Garza pitched 8 innings, letting up just 4 hits and a single run, getting the win in a taught 3-1 Cubs win in Oakland.

Max Scherzer improved to 13-0 by pitching into the 7th innings, striking out 8 and walking one as the Tigers beat the Blue Jays 6-2.

And Chris Davis hit his big league leading 32nd homer, then broke an 8th inning tie with a 2 run double. He drove in 3 of the Orioles 4 runs as they beat the White Sox 4-2 and kept pace with first place Boston.

They all owned baseball on July 3rd, 2013.

My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.

At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.

To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast July 3, 2013

OAKLAND-COVER


On Today’s episode of  The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast, I took a journey… from Cisco and San Jose (where the A’s SHOULD be playing) through Fremont (one of the potential homes of the A’s) right to the parking lot of the O.co Coliseum.

Along the way I talk about why it would have been better if the A’s had stayed in Philadelphia and the Phillies had moved and all the potential landing spots of this exciting if troubled franchise.

Yasel Puig, Kendrys Morales, John Lackey and for his second no hitter, Homer Bailey all owned baseball on July 2, 2013.

To see the up to date tally of “Who Owns Baseball?,” click HERE.

Subscribe on iTunes HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – July 3, 2013

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Arizona Diamondbacks’ Targets For The Trade Deadline

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Wednesday, July.03, 2013

Patrick Corbin has been the ace of the Diamondbacks rotation this season, and Arizona is 15-2 in his starts this season.

Patrick Corbin has been the ace of the Diamondbacks rotation this season, and Arizona is 15-2 in his starts this season. Corbin did suffer his first defeat this season, but he received almost no run support in this start and his previous five starts.  Corbin has 2.49 ERA with a WHIP of 1.01 with 89 strikeouts in 115 innings pitched this season. He is holding opposing batters to a .209 average this season, and lefties are only hitting .140 against him this season. Corbin is especially tough when runners are in scoring position, as the opposition is only hitting .194. He is ranked 7th in the NL with a WAR of 3.0 for pitchers.

By Chris Lacey (Lead Baseball Columnist/Minority Website Owner)

The Arizona Diamondbacks are the leaders in the National League West, and normally when a team leads a division they are considered the strongest or the best team in that division.

This is not the case with Arizona; they are one game over.500 at 42-41 and have lost five straight games. They are could be the weakest first place team in baseball.

Paul Goldschmidt Highlights- So Parental Guidance Is Advised

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How the Giants Can Improve Their Roster + Deal With Injuries To Vogelsong + Pagan

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 Wednesday, July.03/2013

Johnny Monell has been a great contributor to the Fresno Grizzlies this season, and deserves consideration for a roster spot

Johnny Monell has been a great contributor to the Fresno Grizzlies this season, and deserves consideration for a roster spot.

By Jon Schifferle ( Giants Correspondent – visit his own personal website here.)  

The Giants did not have a great month of June, but I don’t have to tell you that. In fact, it was the worst winning percentage for the team in a month since July 2008, according to Andrew Baggarly.  

This does not put the Giants out of contention, though, and the team still plans on competing this season.

With that in mind, the club does not have very much depth in their farm system, and likely do not want to give up the little potential that they have their, so the best way to boost the lineup would be through callups.  

More Minnesota Twins Trade Candidates

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 Wednesday July.03 /2013

Kevin Correia is, in my mind, the most likely Twin on the move. Not far behind are Morneau, Willingham, and Burton. Correia isn't the best Starting Pitcher on the market, but he is pitching well and has shown the same ability in the past. He was an All-Star for Pittsburgh in 2011. He has turned out to be a pretty good sign this off-season by the Minnesota.

Kevin Correia is, in my mind, the most likely Twin on the move. Not far behind are Morneau, Willingham, and Burton. Correia isn’t the best Starting Pitcher on the market, but he is pitching well and has shown the same ability in the past. He was an All-Star for Pittsburgh in 2011. He has turned out to be a pretty good sign this off-season by the Minnesota.

By Ryan Dana (MLB Reports Writer and Red Sox Correspondent): 

Our new ‘Lead Baseball Columnist’ Chris Lacey wrote about the Morneau and Willingham Trade Market yesterday here – and it had me thinking who else could be on the block – and my thoughts on those guys?

Much like the last article I wrote on the Chicago Cubs trade candidates, the Minnesota Twins will be in selling mode too as the 2013 trade deadline approaches.

With that being said, the Twins have less selling to do. Twins fans will remember they already did some of that this past offseason.

The Twins have a record of 36-44 just 7.5 Games Back of 1st place. However they are in 4th place only ahead of the Chicago White Sox, and it is my belief that is where they will end the 2013 season.

They won’t upgrade their Major League roster via trade this year, but they may add to the talent in their farm system which is growing to be pretty strong.

The Twins had the 4th ranked farm system at the start of the season according to Baseball Prospectus.

I’m not sure how much to trust the rankings because they have the Yankees ranked above the Red Sox which is laughable in my opinion, but my points stand, they are still in the rebuilding process and are doing well at it.

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday – (July 2nd) – Updated Yearly “WOB” Standings

 

Photo: Al Behrman - AP

Photo: Al Behrman – AP

Homer Bailey threw the first no hitter of the season, holding the Giants to a single run as the Reds won, 3-0. 

John Lackey pitched 8 solid innings, letting up a single run, leading the Red Sox to a 4-1 victory over the Padres at Fenway.

Kendrys Morales helped knock the Rangers out of first place by getting three hits, including a pair of homers, driving in 6 as the Mariners prevailed, 9-2.

Yasiel Puig, the man who SHOULD be an All Star, had another remarkable game. He was a triple shy of the cycle, homering and doubling in the Dodgers 8-0 win against the Rockies.

They all owned baseball on July 2nd, 2013.

My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.

At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.

To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here Read the rest of this entry

The Billy Beane Way Of Contracts + His Trade History Since MoneyBall!

Wednesday July.03, 2013

Updated January.05, 2014

Updated July.05, 2014 for Samardzija deal link

Beane Spins Magic Again In World Series Quest: Picks Up Samardzija + Hammel For Straily + Prospects

Updated July 31, 2014 for Trade Deadline deals.

Beane Acquires Lester + Gomes For Cespedes: Then Acquires Fuld For Millone

Updated Aug 8, 2014 for Hitters Roster Tree

How All Of The A’s Hitters Were Acquired: 2014 Roster Tree Shows Incredible Beane Trading Record

Beane does his transactions throughout the entire year - and very little at the deadline.  He is never finished with re-arranging his franchise.  Perhaps his best Trade Deadline deal was to acquire Jermaine Dye in 2001.  Conversely, he had to pay Dye a big FA contract afterwards.  Between he and Eric Chavez's deal, Beane learned not to be burned on long term deals.  He is a big fan of 1 to 2 Year Deals with Veterans.

Beane does his transactions throughout the entire year – and very little at the deadline. He is never finished with re-arranging his franchise. Perhaps his best Trade Deadline deal was to acquire Jermaine Dye in 2001. Conversely, he had to pay Dye a big FA contract afterwards (3 YRs/$30 MIL). Between he and Eric Chavez’s deal, (6 YR/$66 MIL deal) Beane learned not to be burned on long term contracts. He is a big fan of 1 – 2 Year Deals with Veterans.  A lot of his players have not fared as well when they have left the organization.  Even the guys that have, simply cost too much money for the A’s liking.  The Oakland team received the same kind of production from them for a small percentage of the salary paid out.

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner):

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We have talked a ton about Billy Beane‘s genius way on the website.  The Website founder ‘Jonathan Hacohen’ was one of the first baseball writers to uncover the new Beane strategy last year.

I further studied some of his brilliant work  – by figuring out the current roster tree for all of the current team last November.  I was able to pick up a lot more patterns from his work as a GM.

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Colorado Rockies Have Everything for A NL West Title Run In 2013

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Wednesday July.03/2013

Carlos Gonzalez always puts up far better numbers in the lineup with his running mate Tulowitzki.  CARGO has always tore it up out of the gate - and is worthy of NL MVP consideration thus far.  The Rockies OF leads the NL in Runs Scored (63), and in HRs wih (22).  The Rockies have maintained without Tulowitzki in the lineup (Going 10 - 12) - but will need their slugging SS back to compete for a playoff spot.

Carlos Gonzalez always puts up far better numbers in the lineup with his running mate Tulowitzki. CARGO has always tore it up out of the gate – and is worthy of NL MVP consideration thus far. The Rockies OF leads the NL in Runs Scored (63), and in HRs with (22). The club have maintained without Tulowitzki in the lineup (Going 10 – 12) – but will need their slugging SS back to compete for a playoff spot.  ‘Tulo’ was instrumental in the club going on playoff runs both in 2007 and 2009.

By Lou Hebert (MLB Reports Colorado Rockies Correspondent):

The National League West is a close division race with only three games separating the top and bottom teams.  The Colorado Rockies have been trailing by only a couple of games for most of the 2013 season.

As the All-Star break approaches, Colorado’s pieces to a division win are aligning for what could result in a dominant showing throughout the second half of the season.

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The Most Recent No Hitter For Each Franchise

Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images

Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images

Last season had a flurry of no hitters, ending with Homer Bailey‘s gem that eliminated the Pirates from contention.

This season has been filled with one near miss after another, including close calls from Yu Darvish and Anibal Sanchez. When would the first no hitter of 2013 be thrown?

I guess only Homer Bailey is allowed to throw no-nos now. He threw a gem with only one walk against the punchless Giants and joined the likes of Roy Halladay and Mark Buehrle as a pitcher with multiple no hitters.

Let’s take a look at each franchise’s most recent no hitter:

THE MOST RECENT NO HITTERS
FOR EACH FRANCHISE
CINCINNATI REDS
Homer Bailey – July 2, 2013.
3-0 over San Francisco.
SEATTLE MARINERS
Felix Hernandez – August 15, 2012.
1-0 over Rays. (Perfect Game)
SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS
Matt Cain – June 13, 2012.
10-0 over Houston. (Perfect Game)
NEW YORK METS
Johan Santana – June 1, 2012
8-0 over St. Louis.
LOS ANGELES ANGELS OF ANAHEIM
Jered Weaver – May 2, 2012.
9-0 over Minnesota.
CHICAGO WHITE SOX
Philip Humber – April 21, 2012
4-0 over Seattle. (Perfect Game.)
DETROIT TIGERS
Justin Verlander – May 7, 2011.
9-0 over Toronto.
MINNESOTA TWINS
Francisco Liriano – May 3, 2011
1-0 over Chicago White Sox
PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES
Roy Halladay – October 6, 2010
4-0 over Cincinnati. (Playoff Game)
TAMPA PAY RAYS
Matt Garza – July 26th, 2010
5-0 over Detroit.ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS
Edwin Jackson – June 25, 2010
1-0 over Tampa BayOAKLAND A’S
Dallas Braden – May 9, 2010
4-0 over Tampa Bay. (Perfect Game.)
COLORADO ROCKIES
Ubaldo Jimenez – April 17, 2010
4-0 over Atlanta.CHICAGO CUBS
Carlos Zambrano – September 14, 2008.
5-0 over Houston.
BOSTON RED SOX
Jon Lester – May 19, 2008.
7-0 over Kansas City.
FLORIDA MARLINS
Anibal Sanchez – September 6, 2006.
2-0 over Arizona.
HOUSTON ASTROS
Roy Oswalt, Peter Munro, Kirk Saarloos, Brad Lidge, Octavio Dotel and Billy Wagner
June 11, 2003.
8-0 over New York Yankees.
ST. LOUIS CARDINALS
Bud Smith – September 3, 2001
4-0 over San Diego.
NEW YORK YANKEES
David Cone – July 18, 1999.
6-0 over Montreal. (Perfect Game.)
PITTSBURGH PIRATES
Francisco Cordova and Ricardo Rincon – July 12, 1997.
3-0 over Houston. (10 innings.)
LOS ANGELES DODGERS
Hideo Nomo – September 17, 1996.
9-0 over Colorado.
TEXAS RANGERS
Kenny Rogers – July 28, 1994.
4-0 over California. (Perfect Game.)ATLANTA BRAVES
Kent Mercker – April 8, 1994.
6-0 over Los Angeles.
KANSAS CITY ROYALS
Bret Saberhagen – August 26, 1991
7-0 over Chicago White Sox.WASHINGTON NATIONALS (AS MONTREAL EXPOS)
Dennis Martinez – July 28, 1991.
2-0 over Los Angeles. (Perfect Game.)
BALTIMORE ORIOLES
Bob Milacki, Mike Flanagan, Mark Williamson and Gregg Olson – July 13, 1991.
2-0 over Oakland.TORONTO BLUE JAYS
Dave Stieb – September 2, 1990.
3-0 over Cleveland.
MILWAUKEE BREWERS
Juan Nieves – April 15, 1987.
7-0 over Baltimore.

CLEVELAND INDIANS
Len Barker – May 15, 1981.
3-0 over Toronto. (Perfect Game.)

Bonus

WASHINGTON SENATORS
Bobby Burke – August 8, 1931
5-0 over Boston.

The Padres are still on the clock. And it would be nice to simplify the list with the Nationals having a no hitter instead of including the Expos and Senators.

When will the next no hitter be?

Well, when’s Homer Bailey’s next start?

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Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – July 2, 2013

Library of Congress

Library of Congress

John Adams wrote to his wife Abigail that “the Second Day of July 1776 will be the most memorable Epocha, in the History of America. . . . It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires, and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more.

He was close.

But today on The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast we celebrate July 2nd by remembering Warren Spahn’s duel with Juan Marichal, say happy birthday to Jose Canseco and remember Peanuts Lowrey, a man with an unusual life story.

Todd Frazier, Robinson Cano, R. A. Dickey and Jose Fernandez all owned baseball on July 1, 2013.

To see the up to date tally of “Who Owns Baseball?,” click HERE.
Subscribe on iTunes HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – July 2, 2013

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Twins’ Justin Morneau And Josh Willingham Days Are Numbered In Minnesota

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Tuesday, July.02, 2013

The Minnesota Twins are 36-43 on the season, and they are 6.5 games behind division leaders Cleveland Indians and Detroit Tigers.

The Minnesota Twins are 36-43 on the season, and they are 6.5 games behind division leaders Cleveland Indians and Detroit Tigers. It looks they will have another losing season for the team, but there is still a chance they make a run and contend for a division title this season. They do have players that other teams would love to acquire. The only question is how long will they hold on to these players before pulling the trigger on deal. General Manager Terry Ryan will be busy to determine what he can get in return for the players on his roster.

By Chris Lacey (Lead Baseball Columnist/Minority Owner)

The Minnesota Twins are at midpoint in their season and they will have a decision to make with the Trade Deadline only a month away. They will have to make an assessment on their team and determine if they will be a buyer or seller.

The team is currently 4th in the American League Central division with a 36-43 record. They are 6.5  games behind division leaders Cleveland Indians and Detroit Tigers. They are also 8.5 games out of the Wild Card.

Justin Morneau Highlights- So Parental Guidance Is Advised

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday – (July 1st) – Updated Yearly “WOB” Standings

Photo: Jim Mone/AP

Photo: Jim Mone/AP

Robinson Cano homered twice, went 3-4 with 3 RBI and scored all 4 times he reached base helping the Yankees come from behind against to Twins to win 10-4.

R. A. Dickey held a tough Tigers lineup to 2 runs over 7 innings, getting the 8-3 win for the Toronto Blue Jays.

Jose Fernandez pitched 8 shutout innings, letting up only 2 hits, 1 walk and 10 strikeouts, leading the Marlins to a 4-0 win over the Padres.

Todd Frazier drove in a run and scored, then hit a three run homer in the second as the Reds won a rain shortened 8-1 win over the defending champion Giants.

They all owned baseball on July 1st, 2013.

My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.

At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.

To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – July 1, 2013

Photo: Patrick Smith - Getty Images

Photo: Patrick Smith – Getty Images

It is now July and it is time to take stock on where teams stand at the midway point.

Meanwhile a 10 year old made a comment during the Yankees – Orioles game that makes me ask some hard questions about PEDs today.

That and more on this episode of  The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.
Yasel Puig, Madison Bumgarner, David Lough  and Justin Masterson all owned baseball on June 30, 2013.
To see the up to date tally of “Who Owns Baseball?,” click HERE.

Subscribe on iTunes HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – July 1, 2013

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The Yanks Are In Desperation Mode + Need Cashman To Be A Riverboat Gambler!

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Monday July.01/2013

The Yankees do have some decent prospects coming along the way like Mason Willians, Tyler Austin, Will the club stay true to their word and go under the 189 Million Dollar Luxury Tax Threshold next year?  If yes, the club could struggle for a few years like it hasn't for two decades.  Meanwhile, who cares about 2013's payroll.  The club will stand to receive over $50 MIL in insurance dough for their hurt players.  Why not reinvest the loot - and take some free swinging stabs?

The Yankees do have some decent prospects coming along the way like Mason Willians, Tyler Austin and Gary Sanchez. Will the club stay true to their word and go under the 189 Million Dollar Luxury Tax Threshold next year? If yes, the club could struggle for a few years like it hasn’t for two decades. Meanwhile, who cares about 2013’s payroll. The club will stand to receive over $50 MIL in insurance dough for their hurt players. Why not reinvest the loot – and take some free swinging stabs?  The club begins play today at 42 – 38, 4 games out of playoff spot, but 17 -24 in their last 41 Games Played.  They play 2 series versus the Twins, and also have  other series versus the Indians and Royals before the Break.  Will they make hay, or freefall by then?

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner):

It wasn’t always a rosy picture for the New York Yankee fanbase after the 1982 season.  In 1985, I became a fan of the team and Don Mattingly when I saw them smoke the Toronto Blue Jays like 22 – 0 or something on a  Nationally televised game.

My dad was a huge Thurman Munson fan – and told me the legend of the Yankees when I started being able to hear.  I even caught like his hero in little leaguie.  Sometimes you pick up your love for the team based on your dad.

We still both love them to this day.  I was there for 11 years of struggling from 1985 – 1995.  Even when the club cashed in their 1st World Series in 1996, to me while it was cool, it would have been so much better had ‘Donnie Baseball’ been part of the ride.

The Bronx Bombers ripping off 3 more titles from 1998 – 2000 – and then another in 2009, have made me happy to be a fan.  It is not just the playoffs that I have savored.  This team has averaged 94 – 95 wins for the last 20 seasons.

The Yankees would be lucky to be in the 2013 ALCS like 2012

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MLB Reports Junior Reporter Haley Smilow Interviews Andrew McCutchen!

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Monday July.01, 2013

Andrew McCutchen is a star player at the age of 26.  Last year he hit for a 3 Slash Line of .327/.400/.953 - with a NL leading 194 Hits, 31 HRs and 96 RBI.  He enjoyed his 1st 100 Runs Scored Season (107) and finished 3rd in NL MVP Voting, while snagging himself a Gold Glove and A Silver Slugger Award.  This year he looks to carry the Bucs to their first playoff birth and winning season since 1992.

Andrew McCutchen is a star player at the age of 26. Last year he hit for a 3 Slash Line of .327/.400/.953 – with a NL leading 194 Hits, 31 HRs and 96 RBI. He enjoyed his 1st 100 Runs Scored Season (107) and finished 3rd in NL MVP Voting, while snagging himself a Gold Glove and A Silver Slugger Award. This year he looks to carry the Bucs to their first playoff birth and winning season since 1992.  He started out slow in 2013, but is coming on strong in the last 2 months.  He has his Slash up to .292/.360./822 – with 9 HRs and 42 RBI.  He has 50 Runs Scored and 16 Stolen Bases in his 78 Games Played.  He has great plate discipline and has been aided buy several teammates for clutch hits.  None are as Clutch as “Cutch”!

Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Writer/Website Owner):

Haley Smilow is a lucky baseball fan.  She was able to interview Andrew McCutchen  at PNC Park.  Not only was he a bonafide NL MVP candidate last year, he is a great guy.

This year, McCutchen looks to lead Pittsburgh to their first winning campaign in 20 years, and the team is playing well.  As of today, they are 51 – 30, good for the best record in the MLB – and a 2 Games Lead on the St. Louis Cardinals in the NL Central.

Haley was able to take Andrew’s mind off of the usual questions he is asked, and it turned out to be a great interview.

Andrew McCutchen Highlights from 2013 – Mature Lyrics so Parental Guidance Is Advised

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1oceI3COXAY] Read the rest of this entry

The Cardinals And Pujols Will Be On The Same Field Again

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Monday, July .1st 2013

albert_pujols

Albert Pujols led the St. Louis Cardinals in nearly every statistical category for over a decade. He was well on his way to being touted the greatest Cardinal of all-time, which would be a substantial honor given the history of the franchise. But all of that changed when the man from Kansas City shocked the baseball world and packed his backs for Anaheim, California on December 8th, 2011.  Since signing the 10 Year Deal with the Angels, Pujols has regressed both years in OPS (.859 in 2012, .752 in 2013 – which pales in comparison to his St. Louis Career OPS of 1.037 – or even his 2011 campaign of a .906 mark. It looks like letting Prince Albert go was a great decision!

By Landen Crouch (Cardinals Correspondent)

After a year and a half, 243 regular season baseball games, and 13 Postseason games, the time has finally arrived.  The St. Louis Cardinals and Albert Pujols will finally be on the same baseball field again.  

The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim will host the St. Louis Cardinals at Angel Stadium on Tuesday night at 10:05 ET.

I believe that at this point, Cardinals fans have moved on from the sting of the Pujols situation.  This is not the same level of hatred as the LeBron James saga in his return to Cleveland.  But, in a way, it is similar.  

Pujols signing with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (of California of the United States of North America of the Northern Hemisphere…etc) shocked everyone.  No one saw it coming.  It was literally as if he packed his bags and snuck out in the middle of the night.

Pujols tells reporter “[St. Louis] is where I wanna be.”

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Yasiel Puig Should Be Selected Into The All-Star Game

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Monday, July.01/2013

Dodgers' Yasiel Puig has been on fire ever since he joined the big club. He is hitting .417 with 7 HRs and RBIs through his first 25 games.

Dodgers’ Yasiel Puig has been on fire ever since he joined the big club. He is hitting for a 3 Slash Line of .436 with 7 HRs and RBIs through his first 27 games. His 44 Hits collected in the 1st month of his career is 2nd All – Time to the great Joe Dimaggio.  There is no doubt that the Cuban Player is one of the best 7 or 8 OF in the National League right now – and it would be blasphemy if he is not given the right to put into the Mid – Summers Classic!

 By Enrique Rivera (MLB Reports – LA Dodgers Correspondent)

There is no doubt about it, Dodgers’ OF Yasiel Puig has been all over the sports media – and rightfully so.

Puig has only played in 27 games and he is batting an excellent .436 with 7 HRs and 16 RBIs.

The Dodgers are 15-11 during that stretch including 8-2 in their last 10 games.

Puig doesn’t seem like he’s ready to cool off as he has a 5 game hitting streak including a 4 for 5 game against the Philadelphia Phillies on Sunday June. 30.

Yasiel Puig helps extend the Dodgers winning streak to six

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Chicago Cubs Trade Candidates

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 Monday, July.1, 2013

Garza is currently 3-1 with a 3.83 ERA in 8 Starts so far in 2013. His career ERA is a nearly identical 3.84 which includes his time in a tough AL East. I think the Orioles need to take a run at him to get a true front-line starter as they are solid everywhere else.

Garza is currently 3-1 with a 3.83 ERA in 8 Starts so far in 2013. His career ERA is a nearly identical 3.84 which includes his time in a tough AL East. I think the Orioles need to take a run at him to get a true front-line starter as they are solid everywhere else.

By Ryan Dana (MLB Reports Writer and Red Sox Correspondent): 

As most Chicago Cubs fans probably know, an article entitled “Chicago Cubs Trade Candidates” will most certainly be talking about candidates to get shipped out-of-town, not imported in.

The Chicago Cubs haven’t had much luck recently. It seems like they have been stuck in the basement of the NL Central for far too long, and they aren’t about to get out of it in 2013. However, maybe there are brighter days on the horizon.

Theo Epstein made a winner out of the Boston Red Sox and brought championships to a club in a drought of similar proportions to the Cubs. He has started the rebuild, and in my opinion is relatively close to putting together a contender.

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (June 30th) – Updated Yearly “WOB” Standings

 (AP Photo/Jim Mone)

(AP Photo/Jim Mone)

David Lough went 4-4, including three doubles, four runs scored, three RBI and a go ahead 8th inning home run leading the Royals to a wild 9-8 win in Minnesota.

Justin Masterson pitched the Indians into a virtual tie with the Tigers as he tossed a masterful 6 hit shutout of the White Sox, 4-0.

Madison Bumgarner gave the Giants 7 innings letting up only 4 hits and 1 run as the champs halted a six game slide with a 5-2 win over the Rockies.

Yasiel Puig was a home run shy of the cycle, finishing 4-5 and scoring a pair as the Dodgers made quick work of the Phillies, 6-1.They all owned baseball on June 30th, 2013.

My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.

At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.

To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here Read the rest of this entry