Category Archives: The Rest: Everything Baseball
From Cuba to Japan, Opening Day to the World Series and the WBC
Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – November 15, 2013
Paul Sancya/AP
The MVP race has been decided. The debate over who should win the MVP? That is far from over. And I for one hope they never come up with a universal formula for the award.
That and more on The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.
The link to Gary Armida’s article can be found HERE.
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Arizona May Have To Rethink Their Team Salary In The NL West With High Spending LA + SF
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. Having said this, they compete with the two most expensive payrolls in the NL – in their Division with the Dodgers and Giants.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Chase Field is a pretty cool ballpark. The Diamondbacks have been often voted as one of the better organizations in the MLB for how they treat their fanbases for guest services, value and overall baseball experiences.
While the D’Backs finished in 14th for NL Attendance this year, they cracked the 2 Million fan barrier for the 15th straight year since entering the league.
Over the last 8 years, the team has kept comfortably between 2.0 MIL and 2.5 MIL.
Back in the first few seasons of MLB in the desert, the franchise was drawing well over 3 Million fans..
Paul Goldschmidt 2013 Highlights
Stoking The Fire: Blog 5 – The Giants Should Move Posey To 1B, Belt To LF – And Sign Ruiz
Buster Posey is one of the best players in the game of baseball pure and simple. The 2010 NL Rookie Of The Year is the leader of the Giants offense and game caller for the pitching staff. In 2013, he had down year in respect to his incredible 2013 season. Posey still slashed .294/.371/.821 The two time champion signed a contract extension that will see him make $164 MIL from 2013 – 2021. In this article, I explain why I think the team has to move the Slugger to 1B. The 26 Year Old has a career slash of .308/.377/.864.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twiter Follow @mlbreports
The Giants are at a crossroads in their nucleus. When healthy and at optimum levels, the Giants can hang with any team in the MLB – as shown by taking home 2 out of the last 4 World Series Titles.
But here is the problem. This club needs two Starting Pitchers, potentially an OF, a Utility Infielder, meanwhile the franchise must address their long term goals.
The Twins were smart enough to make Joe Mauer a permanent 1B – and it is time for the San Francisco Giants to do the same with Buster Posey.
Its Colorado Rockies Awareness Day
The Rockies jumped out to a 12 – 4 record to start this season – and finished off 62 -0 84 afterwards. This club often reminds me of an aging heavyweight fighter. You may beat on them for a time, but there is always that chance the team will land a haymaker on you. 2007 was one of their days in the sunshine.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
We cover all 30 teams in the Majors, but some of the franchises are just more entertaining than others.
In the last 14 months, I have studied the Rockies and Athletics more than any other team in the MLB.
I am fascinated by the Coors Field effect on the baseball. I wrote a 2 part blog going through the numbers for the park pre and post humidor, and the most significant players on in their history of what their road and home splits were.
Fireworks Display at Coors Field 2012
An American Hobby: Baseball Memorabilia – 1978 Topps Eddie Murray Card
Eddie Murray is second among switch hitters ALL – Time in HRs to Mickey Mantle with 504 HRs. This former Rookie of The Year Award Winner in 1977, 7 time ALL – Star, 3 time Silver Slugger and Glove Award Winner, also featured 6 top AL MVP finishes. In a time where 3B weren’t known for hitting that much, he was a masher. Murray still is in the top 10 with his 1917 RBI (1st as a switch hitter). He also is the Career Leader in SF with 128.
By Lee Edelstein (‘Baseball Memorabilia Enthusiast’ – visit his website here) Follow @chinmusicstory
MLB Reports: twitter-follow screen_name=’MLBreports’ show_screen_name=’yes’] We are pleased to present you with Baseball Author Lee Edelstein as the newest writer with us at the Reports. Lee will be providing us with great stories about baseball memorabilia on a regular basis.
MLB Reports
An American Hobby
Blog 13
Today’s article features a member of the 3,000 Hit AND 500 Home Run clubs. He is one of only four players in MLB history to accomplish this dual feat (Hank Aaron, Willie Mays, Rafael Palmeiro).
His nickname was ‘Steady Eddie’ and it was the perfect moniker for Eddie Murray, who would go on to play more games at first base than anyone in baseball history.
As a rookie, Murray played in 160 games, hit .283, swatted 27 homers, and drove in 88 runs. His debut performance earned him the Rookie of the Year Award for 1977.
No sophomore jinx for Murray who, over the next ten years, would average 28 home runs and 99 RBI per year.
Eddie Murray – Baseball Hall Of Fame Biographies
The Toronto Blue Jays Players, Organizational Affiliates, Prospects + Depth Charts (MLB + MiLB)
The Blue Jays have been trading away all of their top prospects in recent years, and so far, not one of the players has come back to burn them. Unfortunately, the veterans brought in via trade haven’t pushed them over the top either.
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
For all of the Rosters, Depth Charts, State of the Unions and Salaries Posts that we do, please visit our dedicated page link here.
The Blue Jays have invested a great deal of their future in trades in recent years. First they traded away several prospects to acquire Jose Reyes, Mark Buehrle, Josh Johnson and John Buck.
The 2nd move was to also trade Travis d’Arnaud and Buck for R.A.Dickey. However the moves backfired on them in 2013.
What is worse for the team, is the franchise has not been able to develop their own talent over the last several years. Their best players on the club were all brought in via trades.
Jose Bautista and Edwin Encarnacion were absolute steals for the guys they doled out to reel them in (Robinson Diaz, never played in the Majors for Pit in the Joey Bats deal, and they originally acquired in the Scott Rolen traded to Cincy. He was selected off of waivers by Oakland, before he came to the club via Free Agency.
Jose Bautista 2013 Highlights
Milwaukee Should Put Ryan Braun On The Trading Block
Ryan Braun is coming back to start the 2014 year with the Brewers, but maybe the brass should be thinking about trading him to spread out the talent pool on their young squad? Chances are the Pirates, Reds and Cardinals are going to get the best of the you for the next few years, and you really have to take stock in the 2013 winter Free Agent’s. There is a huge need out there for an OF like Braun – if he were to be made available via trade. . One has to think whether or not he will be 100% ready to come back to Milwaukee – as that is a lot of baggage to go through initially. Read the rest of the piece to see who I think could be a potential suitor!
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twiter Follow @mlbreports
Okay, I maybe a little late on my thoughts of Ryan Braun, but I wasn’t writing for this website at the time the fiasco went down. I am not going to spend too much time talking about his suspension either.
My purpose of writing this piece is to say that the Brewers should trade the jaded superstar before they even start play in 2014.
Let’s face it, the man’s talents may be in question, however the dude put up monster numbers during 2012 – when the entire world had their sights set on him. Yet this is different.
Braun has been exposed for the ‘Fraud’ that he is. More than just setting a bad example, he lied to the fans of the Brewers, and to that entire town of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
The Mets Should Be Careful Which Free Agents They Sign For 2014
Johan Santana is just another cautionary tale of why it is hard for teams to invest money long – term on Starting Pitching, There are just far too many ways for hurlers to be injured in comparison to Roster Players. The Mets will just have to bide time until 2014 when the team can finally take the former Cy Young winner of the teams payroll book. Santana signed a 6 YR/$137.5 MIL deal with the Mets after coming over from Minnesota. While he was good in his 1st year (leading the NL with a 2.53 ERA), he just started 109 Games for his New York Career.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twiter Follow @mlbreports
Lets face it, the Mets have had a poor track record of signing Free Agents lately.
Quickly to go over the list: Jason Bay, Luis Castillo, (4 YRs/$24.75 MIL and they released him following a 2010 year – where he ballooned in weight – and hit just .235), their own Free Agent in Oliver Perez, (3 YRs/ $36 MIL for 3 wins and a ERA near 7 in that time), and Johan Santana.
Lest we forget the horrible trades that ended the careers of Roberto Alomar (Made $13 MIL in a season and a half – before New York jettisoned him to the White Sox for hitting .265 in 2002 – 2003 combined where he was a .300 Career Hitter).
Mo Vaughn. could barely move by the time he made it to New York city. The Mets paid him almost $48 MIL to have only 567 AB.
Vaughn only played in 166 games for New York, and was out of league after 2003. At least Kevin Appier (the traded player for him) was done playing by 2004 as well, but at $20 MIL less cost.
While I agree that the New York (NL) franchise should spend some money they have finally been hoarding up, the brass have to be careful who they select to throw that dough on.
Jason Bay Hurt for the Mets in July 2010
The Phillies State Of The Union: Hitters Edition + They Should Give A Full Chance To Darin Ruf In 2014
The Phillies are to the NL what the Yankees are to the AL, and old and expensive team. They had their 1st losing campaign in over a decade, and are without a 3rd Baseman, Catcher and possibly an OF to fill the holes. That is if they end up resigning Doc Halladay. But 2013 wasn’t an entire loss. Performances by Domonic Brown and Darin Ruf have to give the management some hope. Playing guys under team control, low payroll deals will enable the franchise the flexibility to pursue high end talent in Free Agency. Today, I explain how the Phightins’ can do this. How will the team fare under 2nd year skipper Ryne Sandberg – after a 20 – 22 finish?
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twiter Follow @mlbreports
2014 was a tough year on the Phillies. For one, the fact that the MLB Reports is having an Awareness Day for them today, based on them having the 7th worst record (73 – 89) in the Majors during 2013 is mind – boggling.
We are talking about a team that had 5 Division Titles in a row (2007 – 2011), a huge payroll, and a bountiful nest of ALL – Stars to hit in the lineup, and in the Starting Rotation.
Much like the Yankees though, their core is all hitting their waning years. Chase Utley, Ryan Howard and Jimmy Rollins are having a tough time staying on the field to be productive.
2013 was always going to be about the team resurrecting its status as an NL Elite, instead they saw Roy Halladay blow up before their eyes, Cole Hamels struggle, and nobody was there to save them.
For all of the Rosters, Depth Charts, State of the Unions and Salaries Posts that we do, please visit our dedicated page link here.
Darin Ruf’s Towering Shot in Aug of 2013
Should MLB Have A Salary Cap? – “Hard Cheddar” With Steve Cheeseman Takes Another Crack At It
The MLB can talk about parity all they want in the new era of modern baseball, but ever since the mid 90’s the Yankees have 5 WS, Red Sox 3 WS, Giants 2 WS, Cardinals, Marlins 2 WS, White Sox 1 WS, Braves 1 WS, D-Backs 1 WS, Angels 1 WS, Philies – WS. That is 10 teams in the last 20 years of action. Out of those teams, only the 2002 Angels, 2003 Marlins, 2006 version of the Cardinals and 2010 version of the Giants had Payrolls that weren’t considered tops in the MLB. Baseball can talk about parity all they want, but with the Dodgers new rogue spending, the rich and poor difference is about to escalate.
By ‘Special Guest Writer’ Steve Cheeseman Follow @cheeseman_s
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
“Hard Cheddar” – with Steve Cheeseman
Should MLB Have a Salary Cap?
During this years “fall classic”, a thought occurred to me. Other than the Pittsburgh Pirates, it seems like that for the most part, the same teams compete for the title of world champions each year.
What MLB introduced a salary cap? Would more teams gain the ability to compete on an even playing ground? Within all 30 teams of the NL and AL, payrolls for these clubs are drastically different.
Boston Red Sox World Champs in 2013 (3rd WS Title in 10 Years)
Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – November 6, 2013
The Astrodome is going to be demolished. And with it goes any uniqueness of the Astros-franchise.
That’s the topic for today’s Episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.
Here is the Sully Baseball video from 2011 about the Astros identity.
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The Chicago Cubs Players, Organizational Affiliates, Prospects + Depth Charts (MLB + MiLB)
Rizzo followed up his short 2012 campaign, in which he hit .285 with 15 HR and 48 RBI with a lower Slash line of .233/.323/.742 – but still clubbed 23 HRs and added 80 RBI. If he maximizes his potential, you are looking at a perennial threat each year to lead the NL in HRs. Rizzo was traded from the Padres for Andrew Cashner, and it was the 3rd time Jed Hoyer had acquired the guy in his management life. The team signed him to a 7 YR/$41 MIL extension this year, that will see him in until at least 2019, and potentially til 2021.
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
Theo Epstein and the Ricketts new the job was going to be a tough one. Replenishing the young talent in the organization, after much trepidation, will continue to be the focal point of the North Chicago franchise.
The most of the Veterans have left for prospects. Gone are; Matt Garza, Scott Feldman, Alfonso Soriano, Carlos Marmol, David DeJesus, Ryan Dempster, Geovany Soto, Ian Stewart, Reed Johnson, Paul Maholm.
In are a bunch of young players acquired for the services of the old guys.
Players such as Pedro Strop, Jake Arrieta, Mike Olt, Corey Black, Justin Grimm and a host of other youngsters in the Minor League Level.
The Cubs also have traded for lots of International Money limits, where they have brought in further assets to the organization.
For all of the Rosters, Depth Charts, State of the Unions and Salaries Posts that we do, please visit our dedicated page link here.
Qualifying Offers To Players 1 YR/$14.1 MIL: Who Should Take The Deal And Who Should Pass
The Red Sox made calculated Qualifying Offers to Stephen Drew and Mike Napoli, where they pretty much know that Ellsbury will decline. It is this writer’s opinion that both Napoli and Drew should accept their deals. Both of them would still be young enough in next year’s Free Agency Market, plus they would not be guaranteed to make much more money for their 2014 contracts, and are not guaranteed of being on a contender like the Boston franchise.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twiter Follow @mlbreports
When the list of Qualifying Offers first unfolded the other day, I have to admit, I was surprised to see that Stephen Drew was on the list.
By virtue of the Red Sox doing this move, they have made it impossible for any other team to bid on Drew, as the compensatory pick is probably too much to give up.
This is a smart move for Boston, who didn’t want to lose the guy, and were smart enough to only offer a year deal to him.
Obviously the cash is more than he is worth, but offsetting the cost is the mere fact it only a one year risk.
Curtis Granderson’s 3 HRs in 1st 4 Innings, April.19/2012
“Stoking The Fire” Week 4: Mariners State Of The Union: Spend Some $$$ This Winter Seattle!!
Life has not been so great for the fans of the PAC NW of late. The Mariners have regressed in the last decade of baseball – and are withering with the lowest attendance teams in the game of baseball. This followed the 1st 5 years of Safeco Field’s existence, where they were drawing over 3 Million fans – and competing in the AL West every year. It is imperative this team spends money on quality Free Agents this winter. Loaded with a multitude of young arms, and position players. this franchise should be seeking power bats in the OF and 1B/DH positions.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twiter Follow @mlbreports
Nothing is more a waste of time, than watching a premiere talent like Felix Hernandez, have to suffer in the haphazard city of Seattle, while the team has entered a new generation of futility.
This is a franchise that was abysmal from 1977 – until the time that Ken Griffey JR. came to the rescue.
A few years later, armed with some good drafting – and Randy Johnson from trading away Mark Langston, and the team was ready to compete.
Of course I can always quote “Seinfeld” – where Jay Buhner was also acquired for DH Slugger Ken Phelps.
But since Lou Pinella followed ALL – Stars out the door in 2004, Johnson, (1998) Griffey (1999) and Alex Rodriguez in (2000), the club has fallen on some hard times.
At first the team was stoic with the players leaving the nest, as Jamie Moyer and Ichiro Suzuki helped lead the charge for a record winning 116 Games in 2001.
Suzuki was the right infusion when the other guys left, and he stayed graciously with the team until mid 2012.
Raul Ibanez Highlights:
The Mariners Managerial Search Continues
Former Ozzie Guillen assistant Joey Cora would be the popular choice for the Mariners open Managerial position. The man played a significant role on the the 1995 club that won their first Division Title since coming into the Majors in 1977.
Sam Evans ( Baseball Writer and Marlins, Mariners Correspondent): Follow @RJA206
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The Mariners new manager needs to be someone who can turn around the recent trend of losing baseball at Safeco Field and help bring a new era of baseball to the pacific northwest.
General Manager Jack Zduriencik has exhaustively looked at a number of different options, with potential candidates ranging from young to old, some with Seattle connections, some completely new to the city.
However, it appears, although this is just an assumption, that he has narrowed his list to three option.
Chip Hale, the Athletics bench coach, Lloyd McClendon, the Tigers hitting coach, and Joey Cora, the former White Sox bench coach. Here is a look at each of the three top candidates and which one is my favorite of the bunch.
Joey Cora Game #5 (ALDS) HR versus the Yankees in 1995
The Minnesota Twins Payroll In 2014 + Contracts Going Forward
In 2014, Joe Mauer will be in year #4 out of the 8 YR/$184 MIL extension that he signed. The 30 Year Old native of Minnesota returned more to what his usual Career numbers resemble in 2013 – with a 3 Slash Line of .324/.405/.880. Perhaps the club will now move him to 1st base permanently with the departure of Justin Morneau. The 2009 AL MVP, and former 3 time Batting Champion, is now the Active Leader for Batting Average at .323 – and has a lifetime .405 OBP. Mauer is a 6 time ALL – Star – and will need to continue his offensive flair making $23 MIL annually until the end of the 2018 season.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
With Justin Morneau leaving the club via a trade at the deadline this campaign, the Twins are starting to resemble the ‘Metrodome’ style – version of the team in terms of having a lower payroll .
Joe Mauer ($23 MIL in 2014) is the only player that stands to make over $10 Million next year.
As of right now, the players they have signed, Josh Willingham, Kevin Correia, Ryan Doumit, Glen Perkins and Jared Burton are the only Veteran’s signed long – term – and they make $23 MIL as a collective unit.
At 5 players – and only $46 MIL on the books, the Twins have a chance to go shopping on Free Agents.
For all of the Rosters, Depth Charts, State of the Unions and Salaries Posts that we do, please visit our dedicated page link here.
2013 Twins Mid season highlights – Best of the year Anyway – Mature Lyrics so Parental Guidance is Advised
The Minnesota Twins Players, Organizational Affiliates, Prospects + Depth Charts (MLB + MiLB)
Ron Gardenhire and Tom Kelly have been the only 2 men to manage the Twins in the last 27 years. Having stability in the Manager and GM position lends itself for a proper run franchise in terms of on the field success. The Twins will give Gardenhire the chance to rebuild with this club yet again. Stocked with several young prospects, we could the club turn around to be a contender again in the next few years.
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 Minnesota Twins have had 3 – 90+ Losses Seasons in a row. This came right on the heels of the franchise having made the playoffs 6 out of 9 years.
All of those Post Season Appearances were made as Division Champions from the AL Central.
The Twins had enough smarts about them to understand where they were in the 1990’s. The management knew the club was better off building within – rather than spending via Free Agency.
From 1993 – 2000, the team never finished better than 4th in the Division they played. The club drafted really high for this time period, and had a nice renaissance by the time 2001 started.
For all of the Rosters, Depth Charts, State of the Unions and Salaries Posts that we do, please visit our dedicated page link here.
Joe Mauer 2013 Highlights
Join Us As A General Writer Or Team Correspondent
Is baseball your passion? Let’s be serious: is baseball your life? If you have baseball 24/7 on your brain, we want you!
1) We are looking for dedicated and hard working individuals to cover a team of their choice and put forth 1- 2 quality Articles a Month. It is our goal to have a Correspondent in every baseball city.
This could be ideal for strong independent bloggers who faithfully cover a team with blogs each week.
We would be able to re-post your work and promote your pieces, so this way you would gain double the websites that promote your written work. We have a nice following here of dedicated fans that well written and thought provoking pieces. Read the rest of this entry
The Miami Marlins State Of The Union – Winter 2013 + A 1 Year Look Back At MIA/TOR Trade
It has almost been a year since the Blue Jays and Marlins deal that saw Josh Johnson, Jose Reyes, Emilio Bonifacio, John Buck, Josh Johnson come to Canada – in exchange for a bushel full of prospects, Yunel Escobar and Henderson Alvarez. Toronto suffered the same fate nearly as the 2012 Marlins – in terms of record. All of the Miami players struggled at the MLB level, but primarily that is because they were all 1st or 2nd year players. It will be plenty of seasons until the final verdict is handed down on this trade. Reyes still slashed .296/.353/.780 – and posted 113 Hits and 58 Runs in 93 Games Played the for Toronto Blue Jays. He did miss 69 Games due to injury.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @mlbreports
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
A year has almost gone by since big blockbuster move made by the Miami Marlins and the Toronto Blue Jays.
In a bullet version of this story, the Miami team only finished with 7 wins less than the 2012 version of themselves, yet they have stockpiled many of young assets, and all for about a one-third of a payroll they had last year.
Jose Reyes, Mark Buehrle and R.A. Dickey (parlayed by throwing Travis d’Arnaud and former Marlin John Buck via trade) had average years only, and Emilio Bonifacio was eventually moved to Kansas City for bad play.
Houston Astros State Of The Union Address: Fall 2013
From 1992 – 2006, Houston was one of the best franchises in the games of baseball, not having one losing season in that time span. They won 4 Division Titles, 8 – 2nd place finishes, and appeared in 6 playoffs. After being swept in the 2005 World Series, the core got old, and the team waited too long to rebuild. Once it was time, the management actually did a smart thing in totally gutting the entire franchise, in order to restock the Minor League System. Now with 3 105+ Loss seasons, and back to back 1st overall picks, the team has begun the process. An ownership changed mirrored the last transference of all the remaining Veterans from the previous regime. How long will it take for the Astros to compete again?
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @mlbreports
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The Astros had one of the easiest years to peg down in the game of baseball for 2013.
They were horrible early, traded away every possible Veteran that were making any kind of cash on the Major League Level, and then proceeded to be even worse after the ALL – Star Game.
The worst part of the campaign was left for the end, where they promptly lost their last 15 games – to finish with a record of 51 – 111.
It was their 3rd straight 100+ Loss season. But overlooking the obvious is that they actual drew a few more fans in 2013 – compared to 2012.
That was more a symptom of the club moving to the American League. At least they were not last in the league for Attendance, like payroll.
Odds To Win The 2014 MLB World Series + Around The MLB Horn For Quick Team Wish Lists
The Red Sox may have won the 2013 World Series, but they are not the 2014 favorites. No team has repeated since the Yankees won 3 straight titles from 1998 – 2000.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Now that the Boston Red Sox have won the 2013 World Series, the oddsmakers have already dropped them, plus fellow 2013 Fall Classic Participants (St. Louis) to be tied for the 3rd seed, with the Washington Nationals.
A massive surprise on the list are the Los Angeles Angels, who will have the 6th favorite slot to win the World Series at +1400.
If you are looking for value, you should consider the Reds (Tied for the 8th seed) at +1600. They are merely a few players, and perhaps a few tweaks from going far in one of these playoffs.
2013 World Series Champion – Red Sox
“Stoking The Fire” Week 3: Kansas City Royals State Of The Union 2014 Part 1
James Shields turned in a workman like effort for the Royals (13 – 9, with a 3.15 ERA – AL leading 228.2 IP and 34 Game Starts) – only to have received little run support. With the Trade having going down seemingly to correct each other main ailments with the Rays needing offense and the Royals needing defense. It has worked for both teams. 2014 becomes the most pivotal year in the last 3 decades for the franchise – as it is “Big Game” James’ last year under contract. With them trading away Wil Myers for his services, the team needs to capitalize on this year. Ultimately the franchise should spend any amount of $$$ necessary in 2014 to compete with the big boys of the AL. With so many of their own core young players due to start receiving salaries increases, this next year has to be the time to go for it!!
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twiter Follow @mlbreports
I am officially calling out the Royals Management and ownership to buck up again for the 2014 season. If ever there was a year to spend the money it is now!
You have James Shields for one more year, and all of your core young players like Billy Butler, Eric Hosmer, Luke Hochevar and Mike Moustakas are heading for some payraises in the near future for Arbitration.
Wade Davis also will see his money bumped in 2015.
For all of the Rosters, Depth Charts, State of the Unions and Salaries Posts that we do, please visit our dedicated page link here.
The time to win is now!
Shields first inning as a Royal
Odds To Win The 2013 MLB World Series, Plus Odds To Win Game #6
David Ortiz is having himself a field day in the 2013 World Series. He is 11 – 15 (.733/.750/2.017) with 2 HRs and 6 RBI. Can you imagine his numbers if Beltran didn’t rob him of the Grandslam in Game #1? Try .800/.813/2.346 with 3 HRs and 10 RBI. He has been epic! —– L.G. Patterson/MLB.COM
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
So here it is again in the Playoffs with St. Louis facing elimination. The club is 8 – 1 in their last 9 elimination games (Game 7 of the 2012 NLCS is the only defeat (SF Giants – suffered in that realm since 2011.)
I think they can stave off being sent home on Wednesday as well. It would be really good for the game of Major League Baseball if we could have another Game #7.
While I don’t like the Red Sox (as a NYY fan) – I respect them, and David Ortiz is one of my favorite players in the game today. What he is doing is incredible.
Odds To Win the World Series Today:
Boston Red Sox -400
St. Louis Cardinals +325
Obstruction Call Game #3 Decisive Play
Pick Off Move To End Game #4
Who Owns the World Series (WOWS) – Tally Updated For WS Game #5 October 28, 2013
L.G. Patterson/MLB.COM
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOWS to a worthy player on the losing team.
For a full explanation, click HERE.
From October 28th’s game:
Receiving 1 WOWS:
Jon Lester won his second game of the World Series, pitching 7 2/3 innings and allowing just 1 run, striking out 7 and walking none as he dominated the Cardinals, 3-1.
David Ortiz went 3-4, drove in a run in the first and raised his mindboggling World Series average to .733 as he helped the Red Sox top St. Louis, 3-1.
Receiving 1/2 WOWS:
Matt Holliday launched a game tying home run that supplied basically all the offense for St. Louis as they lost 3-1 to Boston.
Adam Wainwright threw 7 innings and struck out 10 to only one walk. It wouldn’t be enough as he was the hard luck loser, 3-1 to Boston.
Who Owns October? (WOO) Tally Updated For WS Game #5 October 28, 2013
Photo: L.G. Patterson/MLB.COM
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO.
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO to a worthy player on the losing team.
For a full explanation, click HERE.
From World Series Game #5
Receiving 1 WOO:
Jon Lester won his second game of the World Series, pitching 7 2/3 innings and allowing just 1 run, striking out 7 and walking none as he dominated the Cardinals, 3-1.
David Ortiz went 3-4, drove in a run in the first and raised his mindboggling World Series average to .733 as he helped the Red Sox top St. Louis, 3-1.
Receiving 1/2 WOO:
Matt Holliday launched a game tying home run that supplied basically all the offense for St. Louis as they lost 3-1 to Boston.
Adam Wainwright threw 7 innings and struck out 10 to only one walk. It wouldn’t be enough as he was the hard luck loser, 3-1 to Boston. Read the rest of this entry
“Hard Cheddar” Weekly Segment 2: MLB Heroes And Zeroes For 2013!
Yasiel Puig was signed as an International Free Agent in 2012. The 22 Year old phenom exploded onto scene in the National League – 3 Slashing .319/.381/.925 – with 19 HRs, 42 RBI and 66 Runs Scored in his 104 Games Played. He was a big part of the team winning the Division – and he will be a mainstay for years – being signed until 2018. Puig’s electrified the city of Los Angeles, and Dodger Stadium with his all out hustle, flamboyant play, and their flair for the dramatic. Once fellow teammate Hanley Ramirez joined him, the club went on a historic 42 – 8 run, which hadn’t happened in nearly 60 years for a 50 game stretch.
By ‘Special Guest Writer’ Steve Cheeseman Follow @cheeseman_s
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“Hard Cheddar” – with Steve Cheeseman
2013 Hero’s and Zero’s of MLB
Throughout the 2013 Major League Baseball season, there had been plenty to talk about. Lots of surprise players, as well as surprise teams.
This season in my opinion was as good as any. However, like any sport, there was also plenty to forget, but not necessarily forgive, as you’ll see.
Here are my hero’s and zero’s for the 2013 MLB season.
Yasiel Puig Highlights 2013 – Mature Content – Parental Guidance is Advised
Jack Morris: It Is Time To Elect This Winner Into The Baseball Hall Of Fame!
Jack Morris was a winner, a true throwback pitcher who came after hitters with reckless abandon. He pitched based on what the score was – and had no personal regard for his own personal statistics. It is this very reason why the debate has hit epic proportions on social media hubs, amongst bloggers, former players, analysts, broadcaster and statisticians. I intend to prove the case for the guy in a manner that will have some similarities to other pieces you may have read, yet promote a big look into the numbers that I have been bouncing around in my head for months.
BY Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
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The debate for whether or not Jack Morris belongs in the Baseball Hall Of Fame has heated up to an ALL-Time high with the big vote going down in Jan of 2014 for the final time.
575 members of BBWAA fraternity will decide whether or not the big man from Minnesota will enter one of the hardest Hall Of Fame’s to enter in pro sports (if not the hardest).
Morris will need a 75% (432 Minimum Votes) of them to write down his name on their ballot for enshrinement into Cooperstown.
Last year, Morris received 67.7 % of the writers votes in his 14th year of eligibility. He will have his name on a 14th ballot this year.
He has been trending up in recent years, so if he can improve in 2014, with the same amount of 2011-2012 jump of (+13.2%), then he will make it in.
If he fails to reach the Hall this year, it would be his last year of eligibility for the BBWAA Vote.
He could still make it via the Veterans Committee after that. But that could take some significant time.
Who Owns the World Series (WOWS) – Tally Updated For WS Game #4 October 27, 2013
(AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOWS to a worthy player on the losing team.
For a full explanation, click HERE.
From October 27th’s game:
Receiving 1 WOWS:
Felix Doubront gave the Red Sox 2 2/3 solid innings, striking out 3 and bridged the game to the final few innings, earning the win, 4-2.
Jonny Gomes got the biggest hit of the series, a 3 run homer, that gave the Red Sox a lead they would not relinquish for a 4-2 final over the Cardinals.
Receiving 1/2 WOWS:
Allen Craig once again slammed a huge hit off of Koji Uehara and remained a strange force in the endings of the World Series games, which St. Louis lost, 4-2. Read the rest of this entry
When Can The Baseball Writers For The Hall Of Fame Consider Cheating Through PED Use, Or Not?
Barry Bonds once admitted to a Federal Jury that he used PED’s. As MLB’s ALL-Time HR King with 762 Round-Trippers, will the BBWAA ever consider looking past this and elect him into Cooperstown? —Photo by sportsagent.com.
Prof. Wes Reber Porter and Dan Dressman (Special Guest Writers): Follow @WRPspdADVOCACY and Follow @DannyDressman
When the 2014 MLB Hall of Fame Ballot is released in November, the heated discussion will begin about which controversial candidates, if any at all, would be inducted into Cooperstown (HOF).
While isolated athletes have come up in previous years, this year represents a first real tension between the modern era of baseball – the “steroid era” – and traditional standards for admission into the Hall.
The 575 baseball writers are, and should be, entrusted to weigh cheating and use of PEDs against the HOF’s criteria of “character,” “sportsmanship” and “upholding the integrity of the game” (the integrity standards).
These writers each will struggle, however, with a preliminary question that falls outside of their expertise:under which circumstances may a HOF voter consider, at all, a candidate’s connection to cheating and performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs)? Read the rest of this entry
Baseball Academies In The Dominican Republic
Sam Evans (Baseball Writer): Follow @RJA206
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In 2012, almost ten percent of all major league players were born in the Dominican Republic. This is despite the population of the United States of America being more than thirty-one times greater than that of the D.R.
How does the Dominican Republic produce so many baseball players, one might ask.
Well, baseball academies run by major league teams and player agents are one of the driving forces increasing the number of professional baseball players from the D.R.
MLB Reports 
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