Category Archives: MLB Teams: Articles and Analysis
From the Atlanta Braves to the Washington Nationals, Discussions on All 30 MLB Teams
St. Louis Cardinals Current Roster Tree: How All Of The Team Was Acquired
The Cardinals Roster Tree has been the easiest to do by far. This organization has Drafted so incredibly well, that there has been no real need for trading of late. We will still see how drafting J.D. Drew has turned into Adam Wainwright, and how Albert Pujols signing with the Angels, made for the Cards to select young phenom Michael Wacha. St. Louis is in their 8th NLCS in the last 13 years, with a multitude of young stars coming. They are going to be players in the National League for some time to come.
How All Of The Cardinals Were Acquired:
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @chuckbooth3024
At the MLB Reports, we intend to show you the Roster Tree for the St. Louis Cardinals – 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.
For all of the Rosters, Depth Charts, State of the Unions and Salaries that we do, please visit our dedicated page link here.
Carlos Beltran Steals Game #1 of the 2013 NLCS for the Cards
MLB’s Payroll Matters Part 2: Just Because Some Low Payroll Teams Have Bucked The Trend – Doesn’t Mean It Will Continue
It seems the only to way to build a team successfully – is to be atrocious for several (talking 6 – 8 seasons like the Twins, Nationals, Pirates, Rays in recent years – and now the Astros are following suit), stockpile top 5 Draft Picks, and have them all become your nucleus for a matter of a few seasons. The reason is because of Team Controllable Salaries. Teams like the Rays and Pirates have also held players in the Minor Leagues longer than needed – due to salary and Arbitration implications. I can think of Desmond Jennings, Wil Myers, Chris Archer for the Rays, while Gerrit Cole and Jeff Locke come to mind for the Bucs. If a player is ready for action in the Majors, he should playing – end of story.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Lets just take a look at the teams that have played well above their value. The Twins are a story much like the Marlins in 1997 and 2003.
The Twins had a good team in the late 80’s, and won 2 World Series Titles in 1987 and 1991. However the economics of the game hit them hard, and they struggled for an 8 year stretch in the AL Central.
For Part 1 of the MLB’s State Of the Union Part 1: Click here.
Major League Contraction Talk Again?
The Players In All Of The San Diego Padres Organization: Affiliates, Prospects + Depth Charts (MLB + MiLB) Fall 2013
The Padres have not made the playoffs since 2006, and have only authored 2 winning seasons in the last 7 years. It is not from a lack of a good coach, rather the NL West has far superior talent, while the San Diego franchise has been trying to replenish the farm, went through an ownership change, and now the team needs to make some decisions this offseason, that will shape the fortunes of the club for the next several years.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @mlbreports and welcome Jeff Kleiner (Salary, Roster and Depth Chart Expert for the MLB) – visit his website here Follow @prosportsroster
The Padres didn’t have very much go right for them in terms of organizational prospects panning out at the Major League Level.
Although, the franchise must be stoked about the development of Andrew Cashner.
Trading away Adrian Gonzalez was tough enough, and right after that, the club flipped Anthony Rizzo to the Cubs, after a sub – par rookie campaign.
The Padres have a tough hoe ahead of them – competing with mega spending Los Angeles will prove very tough considering that team has a payroll in the $230 MIL range, while the ‘Pods’ are not in the $100 MIL range.
Having said that, the team still competed all year, and put up 76 Wins on the board.
They have one of the better skippers in the game with Bud Black.
The key will be the youth of the franchise, as that is how they can keep their payroll down, is to have their top prospects work out, be under team control – much like the way of the Oakland Athletics and Tampa Bay Rays models.
For the Up to Date Roster for the Padres all year around, please visit Jeff’s Website right here
For the Entire Page of teams links we have dedicated to Payroll, Rosters, Depth Chart, State Of the Unions and Roster Trees, please click right here. Please bookmark this page and check back, as we are busy on the analysis at MLB Reports always.
Andrew Cashner uses his bat and arm
Arizona Diamondbacks Roster in 2014: State Of The Union
Patrick Corbin pitched like the ace of the staff for Arizona and gave them a chance to win every time he pitched. The DBacks went 23-9 in the games that he started. He used the combination of a good fastball and a devastating slider that confused hitters when they came up to the plate against him. The southpaw won 14 games and pitched over 200 innings in his first full season in the rotation. He struck out 178 batters and only walked 54 with a 1.16 WHIP. Corbin held opposing batters to a .240 average and left-handers only hit .203 against him. He did struggle in the final month, as it looked like he ran out of gas. The rotation for Arizona is promising with him leading the way.
By Chris Lacey (Lead Baseball Columnist/Minority Website Owner) Follow @aecanada12
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @aecanada12
The Arizona Diamondbacks had some expectations that the team would play better in 2013 and they made some moves to ensure that this would happen.
However this did not happen, as the team finished for the second consecutive season at 81-81. They ended up finishing second in the National League West division behind the Los Angeles Dodgers.
For all of the Rosters, Depth Charts, State of the Unions and Salaries that we do, please visit our dedicated page link here.
Odds To Win The 2013 MLB World Series + ALDS/NLDS Series + The ALCS/NLCS + Odds for 4 Games Fri Oct 4th/2013
Bartolo Colon is anchoring the rotation for the Athletics this season. He is not the strikeout pitcher he was in the past, but is still effective against the opposition. Colon has displayed great control this season. He starts tonight as the Game #1 Starter versus Max Scherzer. The Athletics and Rays are still the highest odds on the board at +800. I have already wagered on the Rays to win earlier in the season, and now have put $25 on the Athletics to take home the ultimate prize.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Odds To Win the World Series:
LA Dodgers +300
Boston Red Sox +375
St. Louis Cardinals +450
Detroit Tigers +475
Oakland Athletics +800
Tampa Bay Rays +800
Atlanta Braves +1300
Pittsburgh Pirates +1700
ODDS Courtesy of http://www.bet365.com
Ryu and Nolasco on facing the Braves in the NLDS
2013 MLB Playoff Predictions By MLB Reports
In my view, Evan Longoria could end up being the MVP of the entire playoffs – with his penchant for being clutch in the last games of years. I am predicting the Tampa Bay Rays are going to win the World Series versus the LA Dodgers, iIf Wil Myers and Ben Zobrist help bashing the ball around, then this team is scary. Also picking up proven playoff performer Delmon Young (yes that guy) (HR’d last night – and is .266/.328/.887 – with 9 HRs and 16 RBI In 109 AB) was also a good move by the Rays brass. If these guys hit, the Pitching should do enough.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Okay, now that the Wild Card Games are over, I am 2 – 1 this week in predicting the outcomes of games. I had both Rays wins and lost with the Reds.
For those that have been reading my gambling pick posts, will also see that I have been discussing some of the odds posted for the playoffs. Check out those here.
I am not going with the masses this year, however I am picking 2 favorites and 2 underdogs in the 1st Round.
Really, I think the matchups are a lot more even than even some of the biggest betting industry odds are suggesting.
I may have also taken the Athletics all the way to the World Series if Cespedes wasn’t hampered by his injured Right Shoulder.
Yoenis Cespedes HR Derby Mashing
Looking Back At Some Of The Highlights From The Mariners 2013 Season
In 2014, the Seattle franchise will be welcoming in a new coach – as Eric Wedge will not be returning for another year as the team’s skipper. As Safeco Field closes it’s roof for the season, let’s take a look back at the brighter moments from the Mariners abysmal 2013 year – in which they finished 71 – 91, only good for 4th in the AL West.
Sam Evans ( Baseball Writer and Marlins, Mariners Correspondent): Follow @RJA206
Follow MLB Reports on Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The Seattle Mariners 2013 season left a lot to be desired.
The Mariners continued to lose fans as they didn’t play competitive baseball for the majority of the season. However, there were some memorable highlights and breakout performances that made the Mariners season slight more bearable.
Here’s a look back at the more enjoyable aspects of the Mariners 2013 regular season.
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 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 @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
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
Cardinals’ Wrap Up Division, While Pirates’ & Reds’ Still Have Plenty To Play For
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) Follow @aecanada12
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
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 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 @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
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
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 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 @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
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:
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 there haven’t been some memorable highlights and played some tremendous games.
Sam Evans ( Baseball Writer and Marlins, Mariners Correspondent): Follow @RJA206
Follow MLB Reports on Twitter Follow @mlbreports
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
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 – 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): Follow @mlbreports
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:
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. 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) Follow @mlbreports
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
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 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) Follow @aecanada12
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
The Philadelphia Phillies Players In All Organizational Affiliates, Prospects + Depth Charts (MLB + MiLB) Fall 2013
The club was one of the premiere franchises from 2007 – 2011, with 5 straight NL East Titles, 2 World Series Appearances, and taking home the big prize in 2008. The ‘Phightins’ have been battling old age, the injury bug, plus the management not knowing whether to pull the plug on the core talent of this squad – or to give it one more go at it. Charlie Manuel was finally the fall guy last month when he was let go from his managerial duties. Ryne Sandberg has the team playing better. Will it be enough for the organization to back him beyond this season? Or maybe the franchise restocks for another kick at the can in 2014? Here is the players they currently possess in the system.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @mlbreports and welcome Jeff Kleiner (Salary, Roster and Depth Chart Expert for the MLB) – visit his website here Follow @prosportsroster
The Phillies have posted winning records since 2001. While the year may be getting away from them in 2013, there are some extremely encouraging signs for the future.’
Ben Revere was excelling at his position at CF and at the plate before he went down with a season ending injury.
The emergence of Domonic Brown in the 1st half, and 1B/OF Darin Ruf, have given the team a cost conscious alternative to combat huge salaries like Cliff Lee and Ryan Howard, that combine to be over $50 in the next 3 years, the latter, has been injured the most of the last 2 seasons.
You add high priced Veterans like Jimmy Rollins, and $22.5 MIL a year Cole Hamels, and you are talking about a lofty payroll for the next several years.
However, the team also extended franchise face Chase Utley, for 2 YRs/$25 – 30 MIL – that should see him possibly retire a Phillie.
The club has played much better since Ryne Sandberg assumed the helm as manager.
The team also has traded several veterans away in the last few years, to accrue Minor League Talent back in return. Among the departed have been Hunter Pence, Shane Victorino and Michael Young.
The question going forward is to what this team will do with Roy Halladay and Carlos Ruiz. Somehow, I think that Ruben Amaro JR, will find a way to re-sign these two guys for a limited years, and possibly incentive laden contracts this coming winter.
Whatever the case, it should be an interesting ride in Philly the next few years.
For a Full 3 year Salary Outlook plus last years Stats for every player in the Phillies Organization click here.
For the 3 Part Historical Series I did on the Phillies organization, click here.
Chase Utley Highlights
The Arizona Diamondbacks Players In All Organizational Affiliates, Prospects, Depth Charts, (MLB + MiLB) Fall 2013
The Arizona Diamondbacks didn’t have the type of year in 2013 that they had wished for, however the future looks really strong. Aided by a slugging 1st Baseman (Paul Goldschmidt), and great young Staring Pitching like Wade Miley and Patrick Corbin, added with Veterans Miguel Montero, Martin Prado and Aaron Hill, with prospects A.J. Pollock and Adam Eaton being the future core, this team should see some heavy duty improvement from year to year.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @mlbreports and Jeff Kleiner (Salary, Roster and Depth Chart Expert for the MLB) – visit his website here Follow @prosportsroster
The Arizona Diamondbacks are one of the better run franchises in the MLB In fact, they are in a constant battle with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, for the best record ALL – Time for an expansion team.
The club has made the playoffs in 5 of its 15 years existence. While they won’t make the Post Season in 2013, they have been competitive for yet another campaign.
One of the best things they could have done was to lock down Paul Goldschmidt to a a lengthy (team friendly contract, that will see the big First Baseman be the pillar behind the offense for the next several seasons.
Kevin Towers and his scouting staff are always on top of the mark for player development, and it will probably result in the team having a chance every year in both the NL West Race and for a Wild Card Birth.
For a Full 3 year Salary Outlook plus last years Stats for every player in the D-Backs Organization click here.
Paul Goldschmidt Highlights 2013
The 4 Teams Chasing Texas + Tampa In The AL Wild Card Have A Great Chance (Mon – THU Game W – L Grid For All 6 Teams)
The Cleveland Indians are in the driver seat in the AL Wild Card Race. While they may not overtake the #1 Wild Card Spot by Thursday, they can guarantee to be in a playoff position if they can simply win 3 out of the next 4 games. After Thursday, the Tribe has the easiest path to the Post Season out of any of these 6 clubs when it comes to Strength Of Schedule! Cleveland last made the playoffs in 2007, when they blew a 3 – 1 ALCS to the Boston Red Sox.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
2013 WILDCARD Race Breakdown in AL
Team W – L GBL Games Left Upcoming in Sequence
Tampa Bay Rays 81 – 67 – (4 vs TEX, 4 vs BAL, 3 @ NYY, 3 @ TOR)
Texas Rangers 81 – 67 – (4 @ TB, 3 @ KC, 3 vs HOU, 4 vs LAA)
Cleveland Indians 81 – 68 0.5 (3 @ KC, 4 vs HOU, 2 vs CWS, 4 @ MIN)
Baltimore Orioles 79 – 70 2.5 (3 @ BOS, 4 @ TB, 3 vs TOR, 3 vs BOS)
New York Yankees 79 – 71 3.0 (3 @ TOR, 3 @ SF, 3 vs TB, 3 vs HOU)
Kansas City Royals 78 – 71 3.5 (3 vs CLE, 3 vs TEX, 3 @ SEA, 4 @ CWS)
The American League Wild Card spots #1 and #2 are considerably up for grabs.
To make it an even tighter race, the teams trailing Tampa and Texas can all make up ground in their own individual series this week when those clubs play each other 4 times.
This is a perfect storm for these 4 clubs to narrow the gap.
What I am going to do is make in make a grid based on how the teams will do based on the Rays and the Rangers series.
KC Royals Win the 1985 World Series – Now Sit in a 28 Year Playoff Drought (Longest in the MLB)
White Sox 2014 Questions
This season was Flowers first chance at being the every day catcher, and he has also disappointed.Flowers was part of the Javier Vasquez trade to the Atlanta Braves a few years ago, and at the time, was a highly touted prospect. But, he has fought through mediocrity ever since his acquisition. Flowers has since hurt his shoulder, and will miss the rest of the 2013 season.
While the young backstopper continued to struggle this season, the Sox called up catching prospect Josh Phegley from Triple A Charlotte in July. Flowers is Arbitration Eligible in 2015 – and under team control until 2018.
By ‘White Sox Correspondent’ Brian Madsen Follow @brianm731
As a very disappointing 2013 season winds down for the Chicago White Sox, several questions arise heading into 2014. Who will be the starting third baseman?
Who will be the starting catcher? Who will be in center field? Who’s at first base? And, maybe even, who will be the White Sox manager?
Let’s start at third base. Jeff Keppinger was signed during the 2012-2013 offseason with the expectations of being the every day third basemen, and a quality bat in the lineup.
A career .281 hitter, Keppinger has disappointed in 2013. While he’s come around the passed month or so, he’s hitting just .244, well below expectations.
Jeff Keppinger Highlights
The San Francisco Giants Players – Organizational Affiliates, Prospects, Depth Charts, (MLB + MiLB)
The Giants won the World Series in 2010 and 2012, however 2013 will see the team have a losing record, and a bunch of question marks will soon follow with some impending Free Agents. The game has changed in the NL West, with the Dodgers hoarding a Team Salary in the $230 MIL a year range for the next several seasons. The Giants have to spend the money to compete. They have the resources, hold one the best attendances in the National League, and have the consensus #1 Ballpark in the Major Leagues when voted among the others. Regardless of the money spent or not, the management team will have to work more diligently than ever.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @mlbreports and welcome Jeff Kleiner (Salary, Roster and Depth Chart Expert for the MLB) – visit his website here Follow @prosportsroster
The Giants have won 2 of the last 3 World Series Titles. The club was built heavily on Starting Pitching that was drafted, however Brian Sabean has finagled the salary of the team to supplement the offense.
Great acquisitions such as Angel Pagan, Hunter Pence and Marco Scutaro joined the club last season – to help bolster the offense.
The team has had lots of hometgrown products grow up and become money players like Buster Posey, Pablo Sandoval, Matt Cain, Madison Bumgarner and Tim Linceum.
The club will have to make some decisions in the offseason, as Hunter Pence, Barry Zito and Tim Lincecum all become Free Agents. with that being said, their heavy dollar contracts also free up a lot of cash to replenish the team.
For a Full 3 year Salary Outlook plus last years Stats for every player in the GIants Organization click here.
GIants Highlights World Series Champions 2012 Celebration
The Yankees Keep The Pedal To The Metal For A Playoff Spot
Despite not having a top Catcher in the mix, and also not wishing for Soriano to be a Yankee, Cashman has still done a decent job maneuvering the team through some murky times, by finding a bunch of guys on the scrap heap, to help this club. Recently, the teams offense is resembling the ‘Bronx Bombers’ mantra, and the club has gone 22 – 12 over their last 34 game, to pull within 1 game of the last playoff spot, with 15 games left on the schedule.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst and Website Owner) Follow @mlbreports
This season has seen the Yankees face a multitude of injuries to their best players, plus a lot of the key components to the 2012 version of the club are playing elsewhere.
The Bronx Bombers surprising flew out of the gate in April, led by Vernon Wells and Travis Hafner of all people. If it weren’t for New York, Wells would be rusting on the Anaheim bench, and “Pronk” might be looking for work still.
Despite a fast start, the team was counting on Curtis Granderson and Derek Jeter to return after a few weeks into the season, both of them ended up going back on the DL. Jeter is now on his 4th stint on the Disabled List – and is out for the remainder of the regular year.
I will say that while I was ultra choked at Brian Cashman for not bringing in an experienced Catcher like A.J. Pierzynski, or potentially trading for a guy like John Buck, that he did acquire Vernon Wells and brought back Alfonso Soriano.
I wrote an article back when Curtis Granderson was hurt in the preseason, that these should be the 1st and 2nd options for the team (Soriano and Wells. It simply made sense for this year, and even for the 2014 year.
In early July, right before the ALL – Star break, the Yankees were hovering around .500 again, and I send it was time for the team’s Management to become ‘Riverboat Gamblers.’
Alfonso Soriano 2 HR Game August versus the Angels
Jayson Werth Has Led The Charge To The Nationals Fringe Playoff Chance
The Nationals have been compiling a bunch of Curly W’s lately. The team now sits at 77 – 69, and have an outside chance to put a scare into the Reds by only having a 5.5 Games Deficit for the 2nd Wild Card Slot. Washington has a 10 Game Home stand starting tonight vs PHI (3 gms), ATL (4 gms) + MIA (3 Games). The team will probably have to win 9 games, as then they head on the road for their last 6 games @ STL (3 Games) and ARI (3 Games), and will likely need 4 more wins there. If they go 13 – 3 in their last 16, then they better hope the Reds go 7 -8 (or worse) to force a playoff game.
By David Huzzard (Nationals Correspondent via Citizens of Natstown.com – view website here): Follow @davidhuzzard
Follow @mlbreports Follow @citsofnatstown
Back when Werth signed a seven year $126 million contract to come to Washington, one of the biggest criticisms was that he wasn’t a middle of the order bat. That he only succeeded in the Phillies line-up because he had Utley and Howard batting in front of him.
In the first year of the contract that appeared to be the case as Werth batted a disappointing .232/.330/.719, and looked more like a bottom of the order bat than anything else.
2012 saw Werth injure his wrist early on, return as the lead-off hitter, and do an excellent job in getting on base, but the power wasn’t there as he had an ISO of only .140. His lowest since 2005.
Jayson Werth Highlights – Mature Lyrics So Parental Guidance Is Advised
Pirates, Dodgers, & Rays Improve Team With Good Deals
Justin Morneau is a great addition to the Pittsburgh Pirates. The team is hoping that he can propel them to a division title along with the other new faces to their squad. Morneau is having a very productive season with him hitting .259 to include 17 HRs and and 74 RBIs. He is not the guy who was the AL MVP in 2006 that hit 34 HRs while driving in 130 RBIs and had an average of .321. He can still provide a team with solid at-bats in a game and is a good guy to have in the clubhouse. The left-hander can hit righties as good as southpaws. He has a .286 average facing right-handers and hist .282 against left-handed pitchers. He still knows how to handle the bat with runners in scoring position, as indicated by him having 54 RBIs in this situation.
By Chris Lacey (Lead Baseball Columnist/Minority Website Owner) Follow @aecanada12
The waiver wire during the month of August is way for teams that are either contending for a playoff spot or leading their respective division to improve their team.
Since we are in the final month of the baseball season, there are a couple of teams that made moves to ensure that they have players to help them for the stretch run.
Justin Morneau Career Highlights– Parental Guidance Is Advised
Is A Chief Needed For The Braves Young Rotation?
At first thought of Freddy Garcia stepping anywhere near the hill to start a playoff game, may have fans cringe at the thought, but keep in mind of his prior playoff pedigree. In a spot start or a pinch, the wily veteran chucker may be up for the challenge. The 36 Year Old from Venezuela, holds a 6 – 3 record – with a 3.28 ERA in 10 Post Season Game Starts, and in particular was 3 – 0, with a 2.14 ERA for the 2005 World Champion White Sox. Could he channel some of his experience for Atlanta if called upon?
By Bob McVinua (Special Guest Braves Writer – visit his website here): Follow @tomahawkchop95
Freddy Garcia, nicknamed the “chief” has recently been called up from the minor leagues to add some relief to the Atlanta bullpen.
At first I was very skeptical of the move and didn’t really see it as being anymore then an inexpensive way to eat up innings down the stretch while the team sits on a large division lead.
Then when Garcia began to see minor league action and couldn’t seem to get anyone out I became even more convinced that this deal wouldn’t amount to anything.
Well we all know how quickly things can change in Major League Baseball and today’s zeros can become tomorrow’s hero’s in the blink of an eye.
Freddy Garcia hurls a SO versus the Nationals 5/30/2013
The Athletics Have Blasted Their Way Back To The Top Of The AL West Standings, But How Far Can They Go?
The A’s have been hanging around the top of the AL West all season long, and have been blasting their way back to the top. With players like Coco Crisp, Jed Lowrie, Brandon Moss and Alberto Callaspo leading the way of late, they are poised to make a run for not only the division but maybe the American league Pennant.
By Dan Wanser (MLB Reports Writer) Follow @DanWanser
Follow @mlbreports
The Oakland Athletics have been considered contenders to win the American League West the entire season, but now that the season is coming to an end they are blasting their way to the top in an attempt to overtake the Texas Rangers.
With key players doing their job offensively, Pitchers doing their job well and keeping the team in games, and a pretty easy schedule going down the stretch they have all the components to make a stretch run.
Oakland’s 2012-2013 season Highlights:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=KccmTHfY9U4
Texas Rangers: Different Year Than 2012, Or Same Result?
Yu Darvish, Adrian Beltre, Ian Kinsler, and Jurickson Profar are just a few of the great players up and down their roster. Last season they lost the American League West to the Oakland Athletics on the last day of the season. Will the same happen this season, or will their be a different result? With 25 Games left to play, and identical 79 – 58 records in the AL West, The A’s and the boys from Arlington are embattled in a tightly Division Race in 2013.
Ryan Ritchey (Featured Baseball Columnist): Follow @baseballaddicts
Follow @mlbreportsThe 2012 season didn’t end as planned for the Texas Rangers. They had a five game lead over the Oakland Athletics in the American League West with nine games remaining and lost the division. It was crushing for the team and the fans.
Losing the division put them in a one game playoff with the Baltimore Orioles. Coming off the shock of losing the division, the Rangers lost to the Orioles 5-1 at home.
Will this season be the same for the Rangers, or will there be a different result? Here are three reasons why it could be the same and three why it could be different…
Yu Darvish Dominates Diamondbacks with 14 K’s:
Reds One And Done In 2013?
The Reds had high expectations coming into this 2013 season and things haven’t gone according to plan. Between injuries and many other things, the Reds sit in third place in the National League Central. Ryan Ludwick has finally made his return to the lineup in the last week or so but even he isn’t tearing up opposing pitching. Todd Frazier and Zack Cozart have had below average seasons at the plate and it has hurt the Reds in the clutch. The Reds are leading the Arizona Diamondbacks for the second Wild Card spot but they need to get hot going into, what will most likely be a one game playoff.
Ryan Ritchey (Baseball Writer): Follow @baseballaddicts
Follow @mlbreportsComing out of last season’s meltdown in the first round of the playoffs against the Giants, you would have thought the Reds would want revenge this season.
It has been the complete opposite. This team doesn’t have any drive and are always playing with zero enthusiasm.
Injuries to Johnny Cueto, Ryan Ludwick and Sean Marshall have really hurt them this season. It has put pressure on other guys to do things they have never done in their career.
For the most part it has been good, but then again there are times where they just seemed inexperienced and it comes back to hurt them.
JJ Hoover has gone from awful at the beginning of the season, to great in the middle, and now back to awful. He is in a role he has never been in before so you can’t blame it all on him.
In the last week and a half he has given up two Grand Slams in big situations, one to Paul Goldschmidt and the other to Allen Craig. Granted they are both MVP candidates, but you can’t give up Grand Slams in the situations that he did so.
Brandon Phillips Goes Off On Reporter: Parental Guidance Advised! Explicit Language!
Key Players Mixed With Comeback Players Are Keeping The Indians In The Race For A Playoff Spot
The Indians currently sit with a 71-63 record which puts them only 4.5 games out of a Wild Card spot and 7.5 games out of the division. Many people didn’t really expect Cleveland to do too much but with better than expected performances from Giambi, Jimenez, and Kazmir – they are keeping up in the race for the playoffs.
By Dan Wanser (MLB Reports Writer) Follow @DanWanser
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The Cleveland Indians currently sit in second place in the American League Central behind the Detroit Tigers and are in fourth place in the Wild Card behind Oakland, Tampa Bay, and Baltimore.
Right now, Key players like Ubaldo Jimenez, Jason Kipnis and Just Masterson are leading the way, but is also surprise contributions from Jason Giambi, and Scott Kazmir that are also keeping them in the race for the playoffs.
With time running out, these players need to continue to lead and more players need to start to step up if this team wants to make the playoffs.
Kazmir Dominates:
Aug.31 Trade Deadline Maneuvers Part 1
Mike Morse had his best year in 2011 with the Nationals, where he hit .303, with 31 HRs and 95 RBI during his 515 AB. The Orioles would love that kind of production to aid their DH core of hitters. The club however, would simply settle for his Career 3 Slash Line of .284/.338/.816 in parts of 9 seasons and 1827 At-Bats. Morse makes $6.75 MIL this year, and will be a Free Agent after the campaign is finished.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst and Website Owner) Follow @mlbreports
The Orioles picking up Mike Morse is a good move. The guy is familiar with Region, is a nice contrast to Chris Davis – and cost the club a minimal amount to bring over.
I think the big 6 FT 5 players is just the kind of guy the Baltimore team has missed over the year.
The Designated Hitters slot has been abysmal – and if Morse can to the back of his bubblegum card, this move will pan out.
The team’s lineup will now feature Manny Machado 3B, , Nick Markakis RF, Chris Davis 1B, Adam Jones CF, Matt Wieters C, J.J. Hardy SS, Mike Morse DH, Nate McLouth LF and Brian Roberts 2B.
Morse joins Scott Feldman, Francisco Rodriguez and Bud Norris as late season acquisitions. All of them have contributed to the franchise.
All of a sudden having a 7 – 9, with a 25 – 30 HR powers in Morse, added with veteran Brian Roberts (if healthy) and Nate McLouth, could add a speed element when the team swings around back to the top of the lineup.
It is good for depth and when consider the team is only 5 games out of the 2nd Wild Card Spot, this is plausible with 3o games left.
Chris Tillman has asserted himself an up and coming #2 Pitcher on the team. I must say, him doing this 2 years in a row, has made a believer out of me now.
The man is 24 – 7 over his last 31 decisions – and has a mid tier 3 ERA – competing in a donnybrook of a Division. Yesterday’s win over Boston was just another example of how much the 25 year old has bailed the club out of a losing streak.
You know Buck Showalter will have his guys ‘game ready’ for the challenge.
Chicago White Sox: Looking Towards 2014
2013 has not been kind to the Chicago White Sox. What was expected by many to at least be a competitive team, the White Sox haven’t even been that. 2012 ended in disappointment, after being in first place most of the season. But, I don’t think anyone believed they would have the fourth worst record in MLB by the end of August.
By Brian Madsen (White Sox Correspondent): Follow @brianm731
Follow @mlbreportsHere are the White Sox, in last place in the AL Central, behind just the Astros, Marlins and Cubs for the worst record in the game. And though the season hasn’t been a good one, there are some bright spots.
MLB Reports 
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