Monthly Archives: September 2013

Phillies 2014 Preview: How To Handle Halladay

Roy Halladay is still the Active Win Pctg Leader among Pitchers with  a W - L Record of 203 - 105 (.659), and he also owns the most Complete Games at 67 Currently for guys still chucking.  This is despite battling a litany of injuries in 2012 - 2013, posting 15 - 13 Record, while carrying an ERA well north of 5.  Can he reinvent himself at 36 (about to be 37 in May of 2014).  Can the Phils afford to give him a new contract?

Roy Halladay is still the Active Win Pctg Leader among Pitchers with a W – L Record of 203 – 105 (.659), and he also owns the most Complete Games at 67 Currently for guys still chucking. This is despite battling a litany of injuries in 2012 – 2013, posting a 15 – 13 Record, while carrying an ERA well north of 5 in the last 2 campaigns. Can he reinvent himself at 36 (about to be 37 in May of 2014)? It may just be the Phils can’t afford to give him a new contract?

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

Follow MLB Reports on Twitter

Uncertainty. It’s an extremely ominous word among Philadelphia baseball fans because throughout the Phillies organization, there seems to be plenty of it.

Sounding the word out syllabically slow brings about an uncomfortable feeling flooding through my brain and because its plague-like presence is felt when pondering the Phillies future, the reality sets in that it may be a few years before this team can rise to an elite level once again.

The starting staff, the bullpen, the first baseman, the closer, and the outfield are all enormous question marks as the 2013 season comes to a close today.

Roy Halladay’s Perfect Game 2009

Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – September 30, 2013

Photo - Chuck Crow: Cleveland Plain Dealer

Photo – Chuck Crow: Cleveland Plain Dealer

I wanted anarchy!

I got it! The season and the playoff picture can not be decided in 162 games. We need one more to settle it out.

Meanwhile, the day to day friend of listening and watching baseball has come to a close.

Those topics plus talking about never ending games in Houston, triumph in Cleveland and the wild no hitter in Miami on The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Henderson Alvarez, Hunter Pence, Geovany Soto and Ubaldo Jimenez all owned baseball for September 29, 2013.

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

Subscribe on iTunes HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – September 30, 2013.

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (September.29th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

(AP Photo/Alan Diaz)

(AP Photo/Alan Diaz)

Henderson Alvarez threw the 6th no hitter in Marlins history. He needed help from a run scoring wild pitch to end the game which he won and put himself in the history books, 1-0.

Hunter Pence brought the Giants back into the game with a 2 run single in the 7th then ended it with a walk off single in the 9th, polishing off a 7-6 win over the Padres.

Ubaldo Jimenez pitched into the 7th, giving up just one run and walking one while striking out 13. He led the Indians past the Twins, 5-1 and clinched a playoff spot for the Tribe.

Geovany Soto hit a tie breaking double in the 6th and smacked a home run for insurance in the 8th as the Rangers topped the Angels 6-2 and forced a tie breaker.

They all owned baseball on September 29, 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 OR SCROLL DOWN.

Read the rest of this entry

Philadelphia Phillies 2014 Full MLB Schedule On 1 Page Post

Philadelphia Phillies 2014 Full Year Schedule On 1 Page Post

Dan Wanser (MLB Reports Writer):   
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

All times listed for games are local.

Monday Mar.31/2014

Off

Tuesday April.01/2014

Phillies @ Rangers – TBD

April 2014

Wednesday April.02/2014

Phillies @ Rangers – TBD

Thursday April.03/2014

Off

Friday April.04/2014

Phillies @ Cubs – 2:20

Saturday April.05/2014

Phillies @ Cubs – 4:05

Sunday April.06/2014

Phillies @ Cubs – TBD Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The 2013 World Series As Of Right Now – Playoff Quick Notes Mon Sept.30

The Red Sox went worst to first in the AL East, and took the best record in the American League to boot along the way.  The Boston club now will be able to sit around and watch 2 playoff games, in which their 1st round opponents will throw 1 if not 2 pitchers out of their rotation before heading to Fenway Friday night to start the ALDS series.  Boston is the new favorite to win the World Series - as they possess home field advantage all the way through the Post Season, including the World Series - thanks to the AL winning the ALL - Star Game this past summer.

The Red Sox went worst to first in the AL East from last year to this year, and took the best record in the American League to boot along the way. The Boston club now will be able to sit around and watch 2 playoff games, in which their 1st round opponents will throw 1 if not 2 pitchers out of their rotation before heading to Fenway Friday night to start the ALDS series. Boston is the new favorite to win the World Series – as they possess home field advantage all the way through the Post Season, including the World Series – thanks to the AL winning the ALL – Star Game this past summer.

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

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

Odds To Win the World Series:

Boston Red Sox +340

LA Dodgers +450

Detroit Tigers +525

St. Louis Cardinals +600

Atlanta Braves +700

Oakland Athletics +750

Cleveland Indians +1500

Pittsburgh Pirates +1600

Cincinnati Reds +1800

Tampa Bay Rays +2200

Texas Rangers +2200

Pirates Celebrate breaking 21 year playoff drought

Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – September 29, 2013

MLB

MLB

It is THE SUNDAY REQUEST on The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

I take a look at where the playoffs will probably go (after the Wild Card mess is sorted out of course) and comparing my good picks (St. Louis) and not so good picks (Giants and Angels) from the beginning of the year.

Brad Miller, Nathan Eovaldi, Neil Walker and Andy Pettitte all owned baseball for September 28, 2013.

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

Subscribe on iTunes HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – September 29, 2013

Cardinals’ Wrap Up Division, While Pirates’ & Reds’ Still Have Plenty To Play For

Francisco Liriano has been the pitcher in the rotation for the Pirates' this season. He now has the opportunity to send Pittsburgh back to NLDS. Liriano has been making hitters look foolish the whole season, by holding the opposition to a .224 average and left-handed batters can't touch him with them only managing a .131 average. He loves to pitch at home, where he has an 8-1 mark with an ERA of 1.47. The southpaw handles pressure well by limiting teams to a .233 average with runners in scoring position. He has faced Cincinnati four times this season and his holding them to a .197 batting average.

Francisco Liriano has been the best pitcher in the rotation for the Pirates’ this season. He now has the opportunity to send Pittsburgh back to NLDS. Liriano has been making hitters look foolish the whole season, by holding the opposition to a .224 average and left-handed batters can’t touch him with them only managing a .131 average. He loves to pitch at home, where he has an 8-1 mark with an ERA of 1.47. The southpaw handles pressure well by limiting teams to a .233 average with runners in scoring position and two outs. He has faced Cincinnati four times this season and his holding them to a .193 batting average.

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

The National League Central has been the most exciting division to watch in baseball this season. There were three teams each with their own strengths and weaknesses vying for one spot.

It was expected that it would take up to the final weekend in baseball to determine the winner of this division. The St.Louis Cardinals just recently wrapped up the division title and are now focusing on trying to finish the season with the best record in the NL.

Pittsburgh Pirates: 2013 Highlights – Parental Guidance Is Advised

Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (September.28th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Scott Halleran/Getty Images

Scott Halleran/Getty Images

Andy Pettitte ended his remarkable career with a complete game victory, letting up just 1 run and 5 hits as the Yankees topped the Astros, 2-1.

Brad Miller homered twice and drove in 5 runs as the Mariners beat the AL West Champion A’s, 7-5.

Nathan Eovaldi pitched well over 6 innings, wiggling out of trouble and yielding only a single run against the Tigers. He did not get the decision but his pitching performance set up the Marlins 2-1 extra inning triumph.

Neil Walker launched a pair of home runs that sparked the Pirates power outburst while winning against the Reds 8-3 and clinched home field in the Wild Card Game..

They all owned baseball on September 28, 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 OR SCROLL DOWN.

Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The 2013 World Series As Of Right Now – Playoff Quick Notes

As of today, the best value on the board to win the World Series is the Atlanta ball club.  As tied for the 5th best odd to take home the trophy, the Braves can still win home field advantage throughout the National League Series play.  The Braves have a deep lineup, a solid Bullpen - and will have home advantage in the 1st round.  The odd reflects that they may have to play the favorite (Dodgers) in the 1st round - should they finish behind the St. Louis Cardinals in the  Standings in the last 2 days.

As of today, the best value on the board to win the World Series is the Atlanta ball club. As tied for the 5th best odd to take home the trophy, the Braves can still win home field advantage throughout the National League Series play this weekend. The Braves have a deep lineup, a solid Bullpen – and will have home advantage in the 1st round. The odd reflects that they may have to play the favorite (Dodgers) in the NLDS- should they finish behind the St. Louis Cardinals in the Standings in the last 2 days of the season.

Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner):

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

Odds To Win the World Series:

LA Dodgers +250

Boston Red Sox +350

Detroit Tigers +450

St. Louis Cardinals +600

Atlanta Braves +800

Oakland Athletics +800

Cincinnati Reds +1500

Pittsburgh Pirates +1700

Tampa Bay Rays +1800

Cleveland Indians +2000

Texas Rangers +2000

Cardinals Clinch the NL Central Sept.27/2013

Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – September 28, 2013

MLB.com

MLB.com

What do I want?

I want anarchy in the AL Wild Card. I want it to be a total mess with a 3 way tie.

Meanwhile in Texas, why are the Angels and Rangers basically wearing identical uniforms? How hard is it to coordinate which jersey each team is wearing?

That and more on Today’s episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast

Matt Holliday, A.J. Burnett, Drew Stubbs and James Shields all owned baseball for September 27, 2013.

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

Subscribe on iTunes HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – September 28, 2013

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (September.27th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

AP Photo/Al Behrman

AP Photo/Al Behrman

A.J. Burnett pitched 8 terrific innings against rival Cincinnati, earning the victory after yielding only 1 run and 5 hits. Pittsburgh topped the Reds 4-1 and put them on the verge of home field in the Wild Card game.

Matt Holliday reached base 5 times, homered and scored twice, leading the Cardinals to a 7-0 drubbing of the Cubs and a clinching of the NL Central title.

James Shields finished his first season in Kansas City with another terrific game. He went 7 innings, 4 hits, 1 runs, walked just one White Sox batter and struck out 10, earning his 13th win, 6-1.

Drew Stubbs powered the Indians a little closer to the Wild Card by getting on base 3 times, scoring all three times including a homer. The Tribe topped the Twins 12-6.

They all owned baseball on September 27, 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 OR SCROLL DOWN.

Read the rest of this entry

New York Yankees Payroll In 2014 + Contracts Going Forward + The Cano And A – ROD Factors

The Yankees should not pay Robinson Cano more than $25 - $28 MIL per season for a max of 7 years.  The club was fortunate to have the relief of A - Rod's suspension - otherwise the percentage of inking the Free Agent 2B would not even be possible - and have a competitive team.

The Yankees should not pay Robinson Cano more than $25 – $28 MIL per season for a max of 7 years. The club is fortunate to have the relief of A – Rod’s pending suspension – otherwise the percentage of inking the Free Agent 2B would not even be possible.  Cano’s agent -Jay – Z, has thrown out the first Salvo, saying the Slugger wants a 10 YR/$300 – 305 MIL Deal.  The Bronx Bombers would be crazy to offer any more than what I stated up in the 1st sentence of this Caption.  New York is looking to reset its Luxury Tax Penalty (when the Threshold is moved to $189 in 2014), in order to spend again commencing in 2015.

Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner):

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

They are old and 2014 will not make them younger.  However, there are some small tweaks that the team could do in order to make the payroll make sense. 

The 2014 version of the Yankees may struggle. Exiting are Mariano Rivera, Andy Pettitte, Hiroki Kuroda, Boone Logan, Joba Chamberlain, Phil Hughes, Curtis Granderson, Brendan Ryan and potentially Derek Jeter (although he has a Player Option for 2014) and Mark Reynolds.

To the Readers on our Payroll Breakdowns:   Keep in mind these are all just estimates as we are all not forensic payroll accountants.  For a better look at how Payrolls work in the MLB please check out this article here.

Derek Jeter Highlights:

Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – September 27, 2013

 (AP Photo/George Nikitin)

(AP Photo/George Nikitin)

Did Tim Lincecum pitch his final game as a member of the San Francisco Giants?
It is possible. And The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast will not let that event come and go without a proper salute.

Tommy Medica, Alex Cobb, Jurickson Profar and the man of the hour, Tim Lincecum all owned baseball for September 26, 2013.

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

Subscribe on iTunes HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – September 27, 2013

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (September.26th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

 (AP Photo/Jim Cowsert)

(AP Photo/Jim Cowsert)

Jurickson Profar came off the bench to crush a walk off homer that kept the Rangers in the Wild Card hunt by topping the Angels, 6-5.

Tommy Medica got on base 3 times and scored the winning run in the bottom of the 11th, giving Padres fans something to cheer about in PetCo’s season finale, 3-2 over Arizona.

Alex Cobb was not intimidated  by an emotional Yankee Stadium crowd. He kept New York off the scoreboard with 7 innings of 3 hit shutout ball, giving Tampa Bay the 4-0 victory and inched closer to the post season.

Tim Lincecum pitched what could have been his final game as a member of the Giants. He made it a good one, letting up only 2 runs over 7 innings. He did not get the decision but was the star of San Francisco’s 3-2 victory over the arch rival Dodgers.

They all owned baseball on September 26, 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 OR SCROLL DOWN.

Read the rest of this entry

Add Another Season Of Misery For The City Of Washington: 80 Years + 3 Franchises Have Disappointed

The Nationals are just the latest in a string of failures the city of Washington has seen.  It has been 80 years since an MLB club from the District has seen World Series Baseball, and now they will have to wait another season.  Despite being the Preseason favorite to make the Fall Classic, Washington has missed the playoffs outright,

The Nationals are just the latest in a string of failures the city of Washington has seen. It has been 80 years since an MLB club from the District has seen World Series Baseball, and now they will have to wait another season. Despite being the Preseason favorite to make the Fall Classic, Washington has missed the playoffs outright in 2013.

By James O’Hara (Nationals Correspondent via Citizens of Natstown.com – view website here): 

Follow the MLB Reports on Twitter  

On Oct. 1, 1971 in the last game played by the Washington Senators at RFK Stadium, fans began tearing apart the stadium and field to claim souvenirs. Much like the current Washington Nationals are tearing apart Washington, D.C.

A lot is made of the Chicago Cubs (not winning a World Series since 1909 – or playing in one since 1945) and Boston Red Sox decades long pursuit of World Series titles and the pressure from it – before knocking the monkey from their back in 2004.

But that cannot compare to the pressure of being in town without baseball for 33 years – and having not played in the World Series at all since the Joe Cronin led 1933 squad lost.

From 1971 – 2004, Thirty-three World Series champions were crowned without a team from Washington, D.C. even entering the fight.

It is almost fitting in a way that the Montreal Expos moved to Washington, as you are talking about 1 of 2 teams in the MLB currently, that have never played (other is Seattle)  in a World Series before. The Expos/Nats club is now completed its 46th season in the MLB.

It is almost fitting in a way that the Montreal Expos moved to Washington, as you are talking about 1 of 2 teams in the MLB currently, that have never played (other is Seattle) in a World Series before. The Expos/Nats club have now completed their 45th season in the Majors without showing up in the “Fall Classic”.

Read the rest of this entry

Looking Back At Some Of The Highlights From The Marlins 2013 Season

 

The Marlins season has gone as planned, in the sense that they have been absolutely terrible; however, that's not to say that they haven't had some memorable highlights and played some tremendous games.

The Marlins season has gone as planned, in the sense that they have been absolutely terrible; however, that’s not to say there haven’t been  some memorable highlights and played some tremendous games.

Sam Evans ( Baseball Writer and Marlins, Mariners Correspondent):

Follow MLB Reports on Twitter

No matter how bad anyone thought the Marlins would be at the start of the season, things have managed to turn out worse.

With proven players like Giancarlo Stanton and Logan Morrison failing to perform at the levels they are capable of and the organization starting a laughable infield for the majority of the season, 2013 has been one of the worst seasons in franchise history.

However, that’s not to say there haven’t been memorable, enjoyable, and even unforgettable Miami games and performances that have taken place in the 2013 regular season.

Here’s a look at the few unforgettable games and bright young names that will be remembered in years to come.

Marlins Outlast Mets in 20-innings

Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – September 26, 2013

 (AP Photo/Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Curtis Compton)

(AP Photo/Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Curtis Compton)

Brewers Braves Baseball

I really hope Brian McCann approves of today’s episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

He is a classic super sensitive guy pretending to be a tough guy. Color me unimpressed.

Plus the Yankees are eliminated and I have thoughts about the team in the Bronx.

Max Scherzer, Darnell McDonald, Kyle Lohse and Evan Longoria all owned baseball on September 25, 2013.

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

Subscribe on iTunes HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – September 26, 2013

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (September.25th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

(AP Photo/Jim Mone)

(AP Photo/Jim Mone)

Max Scherzer  truly earned his 21st victory of the season. He threw 7 shutout innings, striking out 10 Twins and letting only 2 get hits. The 1-0 triumph clinched the AL Central for the Tigers.

Evan Longoria  pushed Tampa Bay closer to a playoff spot and eliminated the Yankees altogether. He went 3-5 with a pair of homers and 4 RBI, leading the way as the Rayswon another laugher in the Bronx, 8-3.

Kyle Lohse was effective and economical in his dominating shutout of the Braves. He needed only 89 pitches to go 9 innings where he let up only 2 hits and no walks as the Brewers won, 4-0.

Darnell McDonald  broke open a 1-1 tie with a three run homer that gave the Cubs a lead they would never relinquish against the Pirates. The final score in Wrigley was 4-2, Chicago.

They all owned baseball on September 25, 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 OR SCROLL DOWN.

Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – September 25, 2013

AP Photo/Patrick Semansky

AP Photo/Patrick Semansky

Remember how charmed the Orioles were in one run games and extra inning contests last season? Well in 2013, the Law of Averages kicked them in the butt.

Unlucky Birds and more on today’s Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Jason Giambi, James Paxton, Pedro Alvarez and tough luck Michael Wacha all owned baseball on September 24, 2013.

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

Subscribe on iTunes HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – September 25, 2013

How All Of The Rockies Hitters Were Acquired Onto The Roster + Analysis: Fall 2013

Coors Field is still a hitting haven.  While the averages have all dipped approximately 10% since the Humidor was placed into the facility over a decade ago, it still remains the premiere place for any of the MLB'ers to bat.  Some of the organizational players will not hit as good on the road, with playing in the NL West, in cavernous parks like Dodger Stadium, Petco Park and AT & T Park, however the weight will only affect their overall numbers away from the thin air.  Historic players like Larry Walker and Todd Helton displayed good road numbers, despite their gawdy home statistics, however they will never be looked in the same eye.  In today's post, we will examine how all of the hitters were acquired, tracking the teams Drafting and Trading Record in the process.  We will also include all of their home and road splits.

Coors Field is still a hitting haven. While the averages have all dipped approximately 10% since the Humidor was placed into the facility over a decade ago, it still remains the premiere place for any of the MLB’ers to bat. Some of the organizational players will not hit as good on the road, with playing in the NL West, in cavernous parks like Dodger Stadium, Petco Park and AT & T Park, however the weight will only affect their overall numbers away from the thin air – and not their overall stats. Historic players like Larry Walker and Todd Helton displayed good road numbers, despite their gawdy home statistics, however they will never be looked in the same eye. In today’s post, we will examine how all of the hitters were acquired, tracking the teams Drafting and Trading Record in the process. We will also include all of their home and road splits.

How All Of The Rockies Hitters Were Acquired:

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

At the MLB Reports, we intend to show you the Roster Tree for the Colorado Rockies – and how they assembled their current roster for hitting and Pitching.  It will work in a six degrees of separation like format.

Once we figure out the origin of how many trades going back in time it takes to see where the tree started, it will be time to dissect how the team fared on the deals.

If a player has never left the organization at all, the tree will be easy – as it will just be the year they were drafted or signed.  Today, we will cover the Hitters.

For all of the Rosters, Depth Charts, State of the Unions and Salaries that we do, please visit our dedicated page link here.

Todd Helton Retirement Announcement:

Read the rest of this entry

The Braves Win The NL East For The 1st Time Since 2005: The Team Is Way Different From Early 2013

The Braves won 14 straight Division Titles from 1991 - 2005, that culminated in 5 World Series Visits, with cashing in for the Trophy in 1995, however other than a Wild Card Berth (2010), and a Wild Card Play In Game (that they both lost), the club has not seen playoff success for the past 14 years.  The Bravos will have a full NLDS Series to claim another chance at a NLCS Pennant, for the 1st time since 1999.

The Braves won 14 straight Division Titles from 1991 – 2005, that culminated in 5 World Series Visits, with cashing in for the Trophy in 1995, however other than a Wild Card Berth (2010), and a Wild Card Play In Game in 2012 (that they both lost), the club has not seen playoff success for the past 14 years. The Bravos will have a full NLDS Series to claim another chance at a NLCS Pennant, for the 1st time since 1999. Atlanta is still duking it out with the Dodgers and Cardinals for overall home field advantage throughout the playoffs, and have a 0.5 Games Lead over St. Louis (2 game lead over Los Angeles) with just 5 games left.  This would be extremely ‘vital’ to the club – as the team sports a (MLB best) record of 53 – 23 at Turner Field – compared to 40 – 41 on the road this season.

By Hayley Howell (Featured Baseball Writer + Braves Enthusiastic Fan)  

Follow MLB Reports

The first fourteen years of my life (1991-2005) the Braves won consecutive division titles (the best run in MLB to date). They were the first team in the NL to go from last place to first place the next year (“Worst to First”).

They went to the World Series. (1991 was the first time that the home team won all 7 games of the World Series-too bad Atlanta wasn’t the home team).

On my first trip to the local library after moving downtown twenty minutes from home I quickly discovered there were only two Braves books in the whole four floors:

The Miracle Season and a book by John Smoltz that I wish I could remember the title of because I read that thing like it was a holy canon that summer.

I know the Braves beat the Astros 6-5 a few hours after I was born, and I think, in baseball astrology terms, that meant I was destined to become a Braves fan.

The first World Series I was alive for was the Braves and the Twins, not as if I could remember it, but I know that people still argue over the bad call that supposedly caused the Braves to lose, as if one call among thousands could determine a game much less a series.

And for fourteen years consecutively the Braves won their Division (of course the 1994 Season was cancelled, negating the only time the season ended, without them atop the NL East Standings – Montreal was leading that year).

Braves Clinch The NL East

Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (September.24th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Photo: Chris Lee - St. Louis Post Dispatch

Photo: Chris Lee – St. Louis Post Dispatch

 

Michael Wacha no hit the Washington Nationals until there were 2 outs in the 9th inning. He let up an infield single, but his 8 2/3 innings were enough for St. Louis’ 2-0 win.

James Paxton dominated for 7 innings, letting up 4 hits, walking none and striking out 10 as the Mariners seriously damaged the Royals post season hopes, 4-0.

Pedro Alvarez doubled twice and drove in 3 leading the Pirates closer to home field in the Wild Card game by topping the Cubs, 8-2.

Jason Giambi came off the bench and delivered a 2 out 2 run walk off come from behind homer that gave Cleveland the 5-4 win over the White Sox and turned what could have been a devastating loss into possibly the highlight of the Indians’ season.

They all owned baseball on September 24, 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 OR SCROLL DOWN.

Read the rest of this entry

Its Gut Check Time For The Rangers: Indians + Rays In The AL Wild Card Driver Seats

Baltimore entered last Friday night just 1 game behind the playoff bar.  They were swept in a 4 game series down in Tampa Bay, in a wraparound series, that included a devastating 18 inning loss among the tough defeats.  The club also lost Manny Machado to injury.  The magic number to eliminate the club is just 3.

Baltimore entered last Friday night just 1 game behind the playoff bar. They were swept in a 4 game series down in Tampa Bay, in a wraparound series, that included a devastating 18 inning loss among the tough defeats. The club also lost Manny Machado to injury yesterday. The magic number to eliminate the team is just 3.  The guys end the regular season with 6 straight at Camden Yards.  The only real meaningful resolutions will be if Chris Davis can crack 4 Home Runs, to tie Ken Griffey Jr. (56 HRs) for the most HRs by a LHB in the AL for the last 52 years?

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

2013 WILDCARD Race Breakdown in AL

Team                         W –  L   GBL Games Left Upcoming in Sequence

Tampa Bay Rays       87 – 69     –   ( 3 @ NYY, 3 @ TOR)

Cleveland Indians     86 – 70     –   ( 2 vs CWS, 4 @ MIN)

Texas Rangers           85 – 71    1   (2 vs HOU, 4 vs LAA)

Kansas City Royals  83 –  73   3.0  (2 @ SEA, 4 @ CWS)

New York Yankees   82 – 74   4.0   (3 vs TB, 3 @ HOU)

Baltimore Orioles     81 – 75   5.0  ( 3 vs TOR, 3 vs BOS)

We have had some clarification occur over the last week in the AL Wild Card Race as the Rays and Indians have both won 4 straight in their goal to make the playoffs.

The Yankees went 3 – 3 for the week, including a heart – wrenching loss to the Giants late on Sunday,  It must have pained them even more to see the Rays come back in the late innings versus the Orioles.

Had Baltimore won that game, the Yankees would start the series in New York versus the Rays tonight with a chance to cut their deficit to them by 3 games via a sweep.

The Bronx Bombers then waltz into Houston, where they might win their last 3 games.  However, with Tampa’s come from behind win yesterday, it makes their Magic number versus the Yanks to 3. 

Manny Machado’s Gruesome Injury – Sept.23/2013

Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – September 24, 2013

 (AP Photo/Mark Duncan)

(AP Photo/Mark Duncan)

Upset that the Cleveland Indians have a soft schedule the rest of the way? Think that is unfair?

Here is some advice: Quit your whining and win your games!

That and more on today’s episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Alex Rios, Shin Soo Choo, Charlie MortonandWade Davis all owned baseball on September 23, 2013.

(That’s right… a relief appearance tops a complete game shutout.)

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

Subscribe on iTunes HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – September 24, 2013

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (September.23rd) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

 (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

(AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

 

Alex Rios hit for the cycle, finishing a 4-4 night with 3 runs scored and 4 RBI as the Rangers kept up in the Wild Card race with a 12-0 pounding of the Astros.

Wade Davis entered a game with the winning run on third and the Royals season on the line in the 10th. He wiggled out of the jam with some help from his outfield defense and pitched a 1-2-3 11th and got the decision in Kansas City’s 6-5 potential season saving win against the Mariners.

Shin-Soo Choo went 3-6 with 2 RBI, a pair of stolen bases and the walk off hit that put the Reds into October as they squeaked past the Mets, 3-2.

Charlie Morton was brilliant over 7 shutout innings, letting up only 3 hits and walking 1. He did not get the decision but his dominating performance set up the Pirates 2-1 victory over the Cubs, clinching at least a Wild Card for Pittsburgh.

They all owned baseball on September 23, 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 OR SCROLL DOWN.

Read the rest of this entry

Oakland + Tampa Bay Are Building Their Teams The Old School Way

The A's wrapped up their 16th AL West Title in 46 years since moving to Oakland yesterday.  They have clinched the Division at home the last 2 years.

The A’s wrapped up their 16th AL West Title in 46 years since moving to Oakland yesterday. They have clinched the Division at home the last 2 years.  They beat out the Rangers and Angels  – clubs that double their Team Salary of  roughly $65 MIL in 2013.

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst and Website Owner)

It is a simple rule of economics how these teams have built their teams.  Yep, but you must look a little deeper.  Over the course of the last year, I have constructed both teams entire Roster Trees.

Both managements constructed these teams by selling high on players (usually trading their ALL – Stars for 2 – 3 players back in return, and continuing the cycle.)

The Athletics and Rays have been incredible at finding Free Agents, that cost exactly zero assets back in return.

Just look to Bartolo Colon, Coco Crisp and Yoenis Cespedes for the A’s, while Fernando Rodney, James Loney, Casey Kotchman and Rafael Soriano all have signed Free Agent contracts on limited years recently over the last several seasons.

It corresponded with the players having the best years of their careers, or complete renaissance’s for a bargain based salary.

Oakland A’s Clinch The 2013 AL WEST

Read the rest of this entry

Giants’ Tim Lincecum and Hunter Pence Forcing Team To Make Tough Decisons

Hunter Pence is having a great season for the Giants and has been one of their productive players on offense for the team this season. He always plays very good defense as well with him having a fielding percentage of .981 and has only committed seven errors in the outfield. Pence has a .286 average on the season with 174 hits to include him hitting 25 HRs and 93 RBIs. He has also stolen 21 bases and has only been caught three times. He loves to face left-handed pitchers with him having a .314 average against them. The right-handed hitter know what to do with runners in scoring position, as indicated by a .291 average with 68 RBIs in this situation.

Hunter Pence is having a great season for the Giants and has been one of their most productive players on offense for the team this season. He also plays very good defense as well with him having a fielding percentage of .981 and has only committed seven errors in the outfield. Pence has a .286 average on the season with 174 hits to include him hitting 25 HRs and having 93 RBIs. He has also stolen 21 bases and has only been caught three times. He loves to face left-handed pitchers with him having a .314 average against them. The right-handed hitter knows what to do with runners in scoring position, as indicated by a .291 average with 68 RBIs in this situation. He still hits well with two outs and runners in scoring position with a .317 batting average and 37 RBIs in 82 at-bats.

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

The San Francisco Giants are finding out the hard way that defending a title is not so easy to do. They are going to finish the season with a record under .500 for the first time since 2008, when they went 72-90 and finished fourth in the National League West division. 

The team does have some decisions to make in the off season and one of them involves a very popular member of their starting rotation. The “Franchise” Tim Lincecum will be a free agent at the end of the season and the Giants will have to decide what they want to do.

There has been a decrease in velocity from his fastball and this has resulted in him having troubles getting opposing batters out. He has had to transform from a pitcher that could blow hitters away with a blazing fastball to one that now relies on spotting his various pitches.

Hunter Pence 2012 Highlights – Parental Guidance Is Advised

  Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – September 23, 2013

Photo: Adam Hunger - New York Daily News

Photo: Adam Hunger – New York Daily News

Andy Pettitte’s career is winding down (again) and so is Mariano Rivera’s.

The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast takes a long look at their legacies and what they mean to the Yankee squad.

James Shields, Justin Maxwell, Yusemeiro Petit and Billy Hamilton all owned baseball on September 22, 2013.

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

Subscribe on iTunes HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – September 23, 2013

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (September.22nd) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

(AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

(AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

With one swing of his bat, Justin Maxwell gave the Royals hope, clinched a division title for the Oakland A’s and sent the Rangers reeling. His 10th inning, walk off grand slam sealed a 4-0 triumph for the Royals that eliminated the Rangers from the AL West race and kept KC in the Wild Card hunt.

The late inning heroics in Kansas City were set up by the brilliant 8 inning shutout performance by James Shields. He kept the Rangers off the board and gave the Royals a chance. He may not of received the decision in the 4-0 KC win, but he made it possible. 

Billy Hamilton continues to be everything advertised and then some. He went 3-6 with a double and two more stolen bases. Now batting lead off and being a spark plug, the Reds clobbered the Pirates in a critical playoff match up, 11-3.

Yusmeiro Petit was not intimidated by the Yankee Stadium ceremonies. He was terrific into the 7th inning, matching zeros and letting up a single solo homer. He did not get the decision, but he set up the Giants 2-1 victory over the Yankees.

They all owned baseball on September 22, 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 OR SCROLL DOWN.

Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – September 22, 2013

MLB

MLB


It is THE SUNDAY REQUEST on The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Would I be excited to see the Expos return?
OUI!

Is it just crazy talk?
NON!

Russell Martin, Alberto Callaspo, Clayton Kershaw and Alex Cobb all owned baseball on September 21, 2013.

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

Subscribe on iTunes HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – September 22, 2013

%d bloggers like this: