Category Archives: The Rest: Everything Baseball

From Cuba to Japan, Opening Day to the World Series and the WBC

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (September.1st) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

AP Photo: Pat Sullivan

AP Photo: Pat Sullivan

Brett Oberholtzer threw a complete game, 2 hit shutout that was scoreless until the bottom of the 8th inning. The Astros squeaked past the Mariners, 2-0.

J. J. Hardy turned the Yankees/Orioles game around with one swing of his bat. A 3-1 Yankee lead turned into a 4-3 Baltimore advantage. It sparked the 7 run outburst as the Birds won in the Bronx, 7-3.

Zack Greinke threw 7 solid innings, letting up 2 hits, 1 run and striking out 7 Padres. He earned his 14th win for the Dodgers, 2-1.

Hunter Pence homered, doubled and singled, knocked in a pair and scored three times as the Giants topped the Diamondbacks, 8-2.

They all owned baseball on September 1, 2013.

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

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

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

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

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (August.31st) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

AP Photo/Frank Franklin II

AP Photo/Frank Franklin II

Ivan Nova kept the Yankees playoff hopes alive by throwing a complete game 3 hit shutout against the Orioles for a final score of 2-0.

Omar Infante smacked a pair of home runs while driving in 5 runs. He led the Tigers past fading divisional rival Cleveland, 10-5

A. J. Burnett let up only 1 run and 4 hits, getting the 7-1 victory over St. Louis and propelled the Pirates into first place.

Brandon Phillips answered his critics by being a single short of the cycle. He finished going 3-5 with 3 runs scored and 2 batted in, leading the Reds in their 8-3 win over the Rockies.

They all owned baseball on August 31, 2013.

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

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

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

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

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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 &.5 games out of the division. Many people didnt really expect Cleveland to do to much but key players like Giambi, Jiminez, and Kazmir are keeping them in the race

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)   

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:

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (August.30th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Photo: Dave Arrigio - Pirates

Photo: Dave Arrigio – Pirates

Francisco Liriano shut down the mighty Cardinals lineup with 8 innings of no run, 2 hit ball. He got his 15th win, 5-0, and the Pirates moved into a first place tie with St. Louis.

Todd Helton hit a pair of three run homers, the second one being career hit number 2,499. His 6 RBI were the difference in Colorado’s 9-6 victory over the Reds.

Jarrod Parker held the Rays to a single run over his first 7 innings of work. Eventually he left in the 8th and the bullpen lost the lead, but his performance helped set up Oakland’s 4-3 victory and moved them into the top Wild Card spot.

Dustin Ackley went 4-5 with a triple and 4 RBI, leading the Mariners past the Astros, 7-1.

They all owned baseball on August 30, 2013.

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

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

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

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

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Aug.31 Trade Deadline Maneuvers Part 1

 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.

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)

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.

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The Traveling Salesman Problem: 30 MLB Stadiums In Record Time

The MLB Road Trip has been mastered by about 25 people that have accomplished the feat in under a month.  We are going to keep giving the extreme ballpark chasers some more food for thought here

The 30 MLB Park Road Trip has been mastered by about 25 people who have accomplished the feat in under a month. We are going to keep giving the extreme ballpark chasers some more food for thought here.

By Josh Robbins (Special Guest Writer And Co – Creator for The Factor12 Rating Pitching Metric.)

The Factor 12 (F12) is an analytic measurement utilizing league average performance to compare the value of all MLB pitchers on 60ft6in.com.

My grandfather was a traveling salesman for most of his working life.  Frequently, he recalls stories about selling his wares in exotic places such as Keokuk, Iowa, Hannibal, Missouri, and Cairo, Illinois.

However, the real Traveling Salesman Problem (TSP) asks this question: “Given a list of cities and the distances between each pair of cities, what is the shortest possible route that visits each city exactly once and returns to the origin city?”

Applying this computation to all 30 MLB stadiums is more complex given the nature of the regular season schedule.  A handful of metropolitan cities host two clubs enabling for travel to occur in the same city more than once.

Without using a complex algorithm or formula based system, google maps will be utilized to determine the shortest distances between each city/stadium to determine the most logical route.  

Extreme ballpark chasers are often left to the mercy of the schedule eliminating a perfect directional path.

After optimizing the mileage breakdown between stadiums, this is the shortest possible DRIVING route discovered:

30 Ballparks in 30 Days Documentary

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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.

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): 

Here 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.

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

Photo: Gene J. Puskar - AP

Photo: Gene J. Puskar – AP

Yovani Gallardo kept the Pirates out of first place with 7 shutout innings, getting the 4-0 win for the Brewers.

Daniel Murphy went 4-5 with a pair of doubles, a run scored, 2 RBI and a stolen base, leading the Mets offense in a 11-3 mauling of the Phillies.

Jason Vargas continued the Angels winning ways in Tampa Bay by blanking the Rays over 7 innings of 3 hit shutout ball and getting the 2-0 decision .

Torii Hunter launched a 2 out, 3 run, come from behind, walk off homer that salvaged a game for the Tigers and avoided an Oakland sweep, 7-6.


They all owned baseball on August 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.

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

Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – August 29, 2013

Reuters Photo

Reuters Photo


Today’s episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast was inspired by a Tweet I received.

Not only have I never been impartial, but I don’t see what the point of being impartial in a baseball discussion.

Honest? Yes. Impartial? Nah.

Also I refer to THIS ARTICLE by CBSSports.com writer Jon Heyman about the pending Free Agent class.

Chris Sale, Jay Bruce, Brandon Moss and Ricky Nolasco all owned baseball on August 28, 2013.

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

Subscribe on iTunes HERE.
Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – August 29, 2013

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

Photo: Paul Sancya - AP

Photo: Paul Sancya – AP

Brandon Moss reached base 5 times, homered twice, scored three times and drove in 6 as the A’s demolished the Tigers in Detroit, 14-4.

Chris Sale struck out 12 Astros, walking only 2 while throwing 8 innings of 4 hit, 1 run ball. He got the decision in the White Sox 6-1 victory.

Jay Bruce led the Reds with a homer and 5 runs batted in as Cincinnati blew out the Cardinals in St. Louis, 10-0.

Ricky Nolasco pitched 8 three hit shutout innings, striking out 11 and walking one as the Dodgers beat the Cubs, 4-0.


They all owned baseball on August 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.

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

Read the rest of this entry

A Preview Of The Dbacks Starting Rotation In 2014

Corbin has the ace of the rotation since he made his start of the season for Arizona and has not looked back. If the Dbacks make the postseason, he will be one of the reasons why this happens. The young left-hander leads the team in wins with 13 on the season. He also has a 2.79 ERA in 177.2 inning pitched while just walking 45 batters and striking out 154. He has a WHIP of 1.04 and is limiting batters to a .216 average on the season. Corbin is holding left-handed batters to a batting average of just .180 in 150 at-bats this season. He also knows how to pitch well at Chase Field with him winning eight games at home and having a 1.86 ERA. The youngster is stingy with runners in scoring position, as teams only have a .197 batting average in this situation.

Corbin has been the ace of the rotation since he made his first start of the season for Arizona and has not looked back. If the Dbacks make the postseason, he will be one of the reasons why this happens. The young left-hander leads the team in wins with 13 on the season. He also has a 2.79 ERA in 177.2 inning pitched while just walking 45 batters and striking out 154. He has a WHIP of 1.04 and is limiting batters to a .216 average on the season. Corbin is holding left-handed batters to a batting average of just .180 in 150 at-bats this season. He also knows how to pitch well at Chase Field with him winning eight games at home and having a 1.86 ERA. The youngster is stingy with runners in scoring position, as teams only have a .197 batting average in this situation.

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

The Arizona Diamondbacks have had highs and lows this season, and there is still a chance they could make the playoffs. Arizona sits 8 ½ games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League West division.

The Dodgers seem like they are running away with the division title, but Arizona still has seven games left against them in September to narrow the gap and put some pressure on them.

Patrick Corbin 2013 Highlights 

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

Elisa Amendola - AP Photo

Elisa Amendola – AP Photo

Shane Victorino hit a pair of homers, scored 4 times, drove in 7 and amassed 10 bases in the Red Sox 13-2 humiliation of the Orioles.

Andy Pettitte  pitched 7 shutout innings, leading the Yankees past the Blue Jays, 7-1.

Gerardo Parra drove in 5 runs, including 3 on a homer, and was the specter on deck for the Diamondbacks bizarre 10-9 extra inning walk off victory over the Padres.

Jonathon Niese gave Met fans reason to cheer with a complete game, 3 hit shutout of the Phillies, 5-0.  

They all owned baseball on August 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.

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

Read the rest of this entry

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

Photo: Julian H. Gonzalez - Detroit Free Press

Photo: Julian H. Gonzalez – Detroit Free Press

Coco Crisp  homered, doubled, singled, drove in 2, scored a pair and made a highlight film catch, helping the A’s win a wild back and forth 8-6 game over the Tigers.

Allan Craig was a triple shy of the cycle and hit a 2 out come from behind 7th inning grand slam to put St. Louis ahead of Cincinnati in a crucial divisional victory, 8-6.

Zack Greinke put the Dodgers back in the win column by pitching shutout ball into the 9th inning and finishing with 8 2/3 strong frames, letting up 2 runs and getting the 6-2 decision over the Cubs.

R. A. Dickey did not dominate the Yankees. But he pitched well enough into the 7th to give the Blue Jays a rare “W” against them, 5-2.  

They all owned baseball on August 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.

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

The Orioles’ Best Time To Strike Is 2013 Or 2014: Especially While The Yankees Are Down!

Chris Davis was awarded a 1 YR/$3.3 MIL contract in Arbitration for 2013, but based on his possible 55+ HRs and 130+ RBI. exactly what stratosphere of money will he enter based on those totals.  The Baltimore franchise must consider 2013 - 2014 to be their best chance for a deep playoff run.  After this year, Davis will be making megabucks in 2014 and 2015 - before hitting the Free Agency Market in 2016

Chris Davis was awarded a 1 YR/$3.3 MIL contract in Arbitration for 2013, but based on his possible 55+ HRs and 130+ RBI. exactly what stratosphere of money will he enter based on those totals? The Baltimore franchise must consider 2013 – 2014 to be their best chance for a deep playoff run. After this year, Davis will be making megabucks in 2014 and 2015 – before hitting the Free Agency Market in 2016.  Hardy and Markakis are signed through the 2014 year, while other salaries only escalate – including Matt Wieters becoming eligible for Arbitration next season.  Whenever you have a team where the nucleus is all around the same age, you have team control on $$ for only a short period of time.

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst and Website Owner)

Buck Showalter is no dummy.  There was a reason why he flew off the handle a few weeks ago – when he showed bitterness towards the Yankees receiving salary relief via the Alex Rodriguez suspension.

With a mind like his, he realizes the Yankees had painted themselves into a corner for a few seasons, and one of the biggest reasons why, was the albatross of a contract for #13.

The Yankees are sure to receive the ‘biggest get out of jail free card’ ever – and Buck is eyeballing the fallout. Showalter should be asking management to go for it now.

I have been talking all season (and prior to) about the O’s not having a #1 ace, and it will cost them extensively.

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The Red Sox Infield Shuffle Down The Stretch

Xander Bogaerts is ranked as the 2nd best Shortstop prospect in baseball, and the 6th best overall prospect in the game on mlb.com. Some are comparing him to Manny Machado of Baltimore due to their similar skill set and maturity at such a young age. I think the Red Sox would be very happy if he produces similarly to Machado.

Xander Bogaerts is ranked as the 2nd best Shortstop prospect in baseball, and the 6th best overall prospect in the game on mlb.com. Some are comparing him to Manny Machado of Baltimore due to their similar skill set and maturity at such a young age. I think the Red Sox would be very happy if he produces similarly to the young Orioles Third Baseman.  Boston traded away its top defense Infield prospect (in Jose Iglesias) to create room for Bogaerts.

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

As September approaches all teams have some uncertainty with their team heading towards the playoffs or the links.

Even serious contenders like the Red Sox have inefficiencies that they would like to correct.

Their decisions now will be under harsher criticism than ever as the franchise has missed out on the playoffs the past two seasons in dismal fashion.

There are certainly still big question marks on the clubs pitching staff like the health of Clay Buchholz.

The outfield also has question marks like Shane Victorino who is playing through injury right now to the point where he has dropped hitting from the left side (at the moment) because the injury affects his swing too much from that side of the plate.

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Breaking Down A Potential Suitor For My World Record Of 30 MLB Parks in 23 Days with a 30 – 21 bid

30 in 21 chance by Jake Beham

The schedule of Jake Beham, who is trying to chase down my World Record of Seeing all 30 MLB Parks (every pitch) in 23 calendar days or less.

The schedule of Jake Beham, who is trying to chase down my World Record of Seeing all 30 MLB Parks (every pitch) in 23 calendar days or less.  This schedule must have been done without knowing you have to witness all plays of the game to qualify.  Jake is going to have a tough time dodging a miss on day 2 – where he will try to beat Labor Day Monday traffic from after the game – in order to make 1st pitch at CBP.  He will never make it by car.  The Yankees always play games that are 3 Hours or longer as well.  Even Amtrak train is a longshot.  I give him a 10% chance to make it on his 1st Doubleheader attempt.

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

2 days later he flies to Chase Field – and has scheduled a Doubleheader with Angel Stadium For DH #2.  I am assuming he is planning on taking a Southwest Airlines flight that arrives at John Wayne Arpt.  The flight leaves Phoenix at 455 PM.

That is 4 hours and 15 minutes after 1st pitch.  The flight that arrives in SNA at 605.   If he makes the flight, he could make this.  However it is about a 67% chance.  Most NL games last about 2 hours and 35 minutes.

The airport is close enough to the park in PHX – as is SNA airport.  Any extra innings though, and it is over.

On FRI, Sept.6th, he has scheduled a Wrigley Field and Kauffman Stadium doubleheader for DH #3.  This one is impossible.  The game starts at 120 PM local Chicago Time.

The closest flight I saw that leaves ORD or MDW in time for Kansas City, leaves at 441 PM.  That is 3 hours and 21 minutes from 1st pitch at Wrigley Field.

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The Red Sox Left Town With A Series Win, But Left The Dodgers With So Much More In 2012

A year after the big blockbuster Red Sox/Dodgers trade, both clubs have benefited from the trade. Both clubs lead their division and are looking stronger than ever.

A year after the big blockbuster Red Sox/Dodgers trade, both clubs have benefited from the salvation is created. The Red Sox were able to hit a reset button on their finances – and spend money on key Free Agents: Mike Napoli, Shane Victorino, take on Jake Peavy’s Salary, pick up Jonny Gomes and have a slightly lower payroll overall still.  For the LA Dodgers, they received a bonafide Leadoff hitter in Carl Crawford, plus a lethal Left Handed Bat in 1B Adrian Gonzalez.  The LA club was also willing to eat the $$ owed on bust Josh Beckett.  Los Angeles could bury lots of money for little given away talent wise.  Little did all of us know, that they had an electric ballplayer like Yasiel Puig ready to bust out.  Boston is leading the AL East, and the Dodgers are killing it in the NL West.  Perhaps this might be an October showdown?

BY Enrique Rivera (MLB Reports Dodgers Correspondent)

It has been a year since that big blockbuster Red Sox/Dodgers trade that sent a loaded bank of salary to the Dodgers along with superstar players like Adrian Gonzalez, Carl Crawford, Josh Beckett and Nick Punto.

After a first half of struggles and criticism and watching the Red Sox play better baseball, the Dodgers have proven that the trade benefited them as well.

The Dodgers lead the NL West 9.5 games after being down by 9.5 earlier in the season. Meanwhile in the AL East, the Red Sox lead the division by 1 game.

Adrian Gonzalez’s first AB as a Dodger last year resulting in a HR

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

AP Photo/Seth Wenig

AP Photo/Seth Wenig

Miguel Cabrera homered in the first and got on base four times, scored twice and drove in a pair, leading the Tigers in a 11-3 romp over the Mets.

Jake Peavy pitched a complete game victory in Dodger Stadium, letting up three hits and one walk as the Red Sox prevailed, 8-1.

Jordan Schafer scored in the first and drove home run in the second, setting the stage for the Braves 5-2 win in St. Louis.

Ryan Vogelsong pitched 8 dominating shutout innings, letting up 2 hits and walking just one as the Giants beat the first place Pirates, 4-0.  

They all owned baseball on August 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.

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

The Seattle Mariners Payroll In 2014, Organizational Affiliates, Prospects, Depth Charts, (MLB + MiLB)

The Mariners have one of the gem stadiums in all of baseball right now.  It is too bad the team on the field has not been that great - in what has been a brutal decade.  Jack Z.. was just extended for one more year.  While it wasn't exactly a ringing endorsement, the club's youth has finally shown some promise.  The team has a promising amount of young pitchers, good Starting Pitching already in the Majors, and a few positional players that look like they will stay in the bigs.  Of concern is the fact they will lose several veterans in Mike Morse, Kendrys Morales and Raul Ibanez after this year.  That is, unless they decide to trade any of them in the next week.

The Mariners have one of the gem stadiums in all of baseball right now. It is too bad the team on the field has not been that great – in what has been a brutal decade. Jack Z.. was just extended for one more year. While it wasn’t exactly a ringing endorsement, the club’s youth has finally shown some promise. The team has a promising amount of young pitchers, good Starting Pitching already in the Majors, and a few positional players that look like they will stay in the bigs. Of concern is the fact they will lose several veterans in Mike Morse, Kendrys Morales and Raul Ibanez after this year. That is, unless they decide to trade any of them in the next week.

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): and welcome Jeff Kleiner (Salary, Roster and Depth Chart Expert for the MLB) – visit his website  here  

The Mariners were one of the best teams in the Major Leagues when they moved into Safeco Field.

Despite losing Alex Rodriguez, Randy Johnson and Ken GriffeyJR. in successive seasons, the team matched a Major League Record with 116 Wins during the 2001 year.

Ichiro Suzuki admirably took over the reigns as the team leader, and carried the club on his shoulders for the next years.

Lou Pinella was there until 2003 – and was having his team in perennial contention since the 1995 year.

After 2003, the club has been abysmal in the next decade.

The team has had several face lifts, rotation managers – and the attendance has come down for over 3 Million fans per year, and now the can barely draw about 1.5 MIL people.

Seattle is one of the biggest markets in North America, and can totally put forth a winning team – and a high payroll.

For the team to even sign some Free Agents, the young players of the organization have to start playing well and to potential.

Any team with Felix Hernandez and Hisashi Iwakuma is not that far off from competing.

For a Full 3 year Salary Outlook plus last years Stats for every player in the Mariners Organization click here.

For all 30 teams Organization Lists from the MLB Reports, plus any related Payrolls, Depth Charts, Roster Trees, State Of The Unions click here.

Felix Hernandez Perfect Game Highlights 2012

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The Chicago White Sox Payroll In 2014, Organizational Affiliates, Prospects, Depth Charts, (MLB + MiLB)

The White Sox have been one of the better clubs in the AL over the last decade, however the 2013 season will see them with their worst record in some time.  The team is loaded with controllable Starting Pitching, and have started the rebuild for the position players.  With playing in the AL central, with only the Tigers having a salary north of $100 MIL, the White Sox have shown they are willing to spend the cash to compete.  It probably wont be long before the Southsiders find themselves back near the top of the Division.

The White Sox have been one of the better clubs in the AL over the last decade, however the 2013 season will see them with their worst record in some time. The franchise is loaded with controllable Starting Pitching, and have started the rebuild for the position players. With playing in the AL central, with only the Tigers having a salary north of $100 MIL, the White Sox have shown they are willing to spend the cash to compete. It probably wont be long before the Southsiders find themselves back near the top of the Division.

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): and welcome Jeff Kleiner (Salary, Roster and Depth Chart Expert for the MLB) – visit his website  here  

You guys are all in for a treat.  Jeff Kleiner recently contacted me about a partnership merge for the website.  He has developed a site (prosportsrosters.com) that covers all organizational affiliates in the Minors for all of the Major League Baseball Clubs. 

We are going to combine efforts to bring you the best look at salaries, current 25 Man Player Rosters and Depth Charts for all 30 teams. 

Jeff is going to provide the documents in form of spreadsheets and I am going to accompany the posts with deep analysis of what the numbers tell us from my perspective. 

If you can’t wait for all of my assessments for each club, go and visit Jeff’s website over at http://www.prosportsrosters.com.

In Speaking with Jeff, he is one of the more passionate fans I have come across towards the game of baseball.  He spends enough time in updating his MLB Facts for it to be a Full-Time Job. 

So after the usual Video Clip and READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY button, you will find some serious &*!@?!#!

Jeff updates this page below on a daily basis.  After you click on it….Bookmark it.  There is a 3 year salary forecast and stats not listed here on this page.  Jeff updates these pages daily and these changes include any Roster moves!

For a Full 3 year Salary Outlook plus last years Stats for every player in the White Sox Organization click here.

Adam Dunn Highlights 2012 _ Mature Lyrics So Parental Guidance Is Advised

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

Photo: J. Meric - Getty Images

Photo: J. Meric – Getty Images

Evan Longoria smacked a go ahead RBI single in the 6th and added a home run in the 8th, leading the Rays in a come from behind victory over the Yankees, 4-2.

Jon Lester dominated the Dodgers in Chavez Ravine, pitching shutout ball into the 8th. Eventually he gave way to the bullpen but finished with an impressive 7 1/3, 1 run, 3 hit performance and got the decision in the Red Sox 4-2 win.

Carlos Beltran helped slug the Cardinals back into a first place tie by collecting three hits including a tie breaking home run in the third and an RBI single in the 8th. St. Louis would beat Atlanta, 6-2

Trevor Cahill gave the Diamondbacks 4 innings of shutout ball out of the bullpen on a night where he was supposed to have the night off. Instead he entered a game critical for Arizona’s thin playoff hopes in the 15th inning and proceeded to keep the Phillies off of the board, despite having the winning run at the plate for every batter he faced in the 15th, 16th and 17th innings. Eventually Philadelphia ran out of pitchers. But Cahill was triumphant as Arizona outlasted the Phils, 12-7 in 18 innings.  

They all owned baseball on August 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.

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

The LA Angels Payroll In 2014, Organizational Affiliates, Prospects, Depth Charts, (MLB + MiLB)

Albert Pujols signed a 10 YR/$254 MIL contract with the Angels at the age of 31.  He has seen his numbers decline in th 1st year and now is injured for the rest of the year with a foot injury.  STL Career 3 Slash: .382/.420/1.037 - LAA:  .275/.338/.823.  Pujols needs to come back healthy for at least the duration of 2017, when Hamilton's crippling contract is finally over.

Albert Pujols signed a 10 YR/$254 MIL contract with the Angels in 2012 at the age of 31. He has seen his numbers decline in the past year and a half – and now is injured for the rest of the year with a foot injury. STL Career 3 Slash: .382/.420/1.037 – LAA: .275/.338/.823. Pujols needs to come back healthy for at least the duration of 2017, when Hamilton’s crippling contract is finally over.

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): and welcome Jeff Kleiner (Salary, Roster and Depth Chart Expert for the MLB) – visit his website  here  

You guys are all in for a treat.  Jeff Kleiner recently contacted me about a partnership merge for the website.  He has developed a site (prosportsrosters.com) that covers all organizational affiliates in the Minors for all of the Major League Baseball Clubs. 

We are going to combine efforts to bring you the best look at salaries, current 25 Man Player Rosters and Depth Charts for all 30 teams. 

Jeff is going to provide the documents in form of spreadsheets and I am going to accompany the posts with deep analysis of what the numbers tell us from my perspective. 

If you can’t wait for all of my assessments for each club, go and visit Jeff’s website over at http://www.prosportsrosters.com.

In Speaking with Jeff, he is one of the more passionate fans I have come across towards the game of baseball.  He spends enough time in updating his MLB Facts for it to be a Full-Time Job. 

So after the usual Video Clip and READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY button, you will find some serious &*!@?!#!

Jeff updates this page below on a daily basis.  After you click on it….Bookmark it.  There is a 3 year salary forecast and stats not listed here on this page.  Jeff updates these pages daily and these changes include any Roster moves!

For a Full 3 year Salary Outlook plus last years Stats for every player in the Angels Organization click here.

Mike Trout Highlights 2013

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Should Angel Pagan Come Back In 2013?

 

Angel Pagan led the NL in Triples with 15 in 2012 amongst his 61 Extra Base Hits and 95 Runs.  This year he had scored 30 runs in 46 Games played despite a .262/.314/.688 3 Slash.

Angel Pagan led the NL in Triples with 15 in 2012 amongst his 61 Extra Base Hits and 95 Runs. This year he had scored 30 runs in 46 Games played despite a .262/.314/.688 3 Slash.  The team was 25 – 21 with him in the lineup – and now have gone 31 – 51 since.

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

With the Giants so far out of the playoff picture this year, many may ask why Angel Pagan coming back makes sense.  Why risk a guy getting reinjured?  Why not give him more rest to come back 100% next season?

While these are legitimate questions, it only makes sense that Angel Pagan returns this September to play with the Giants.  

Angel Pagan is a long term asset for the Giants.  He is just one year into his four year deal, and will be counted in the next few years to help the team compete for another World Series title.

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

AP Photo/Jeff Roberson

AP Photo/Jeff Roberson

Adam Wainwright pitched a complete game against the Braves, surrendering just a single run and no walks while striking out 9. He also drove in a run with a sacrifice fly as the Cardinals prevailed, 3-1.

Khris Davis hit a pair of homers, driving in 4, leading the Brewers to a 6-4 victory over the Reds .

Chris Archer tamed the hot Yankee bats with 7 strong innings, allowing just 4 hits and a pair of runs, getting the 7-2 win for the Rays.

Torii Hunter homered in the first, hit an RBI double in the second and came around to score as the Tigers made short work of the Mets, 6-1.  

They all owned baseball on August 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.

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

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

Photo: Leon Halip/Getty Images

Photo: Leon Halip/Getty Images

Chris Herrmann doubled home a run in the first and drove in the winning run in the 8th with another double. He finished 3-5 as the Twins beat the Tigers in Detroit, 7-6.

Jose Tabata went 3-4 with an RBI double, drove in 3 and scored a pair as the Pirates demolished the Giants, 10-5.

Jose Quintana pitched 7 strong innings, letting up only 4 hits, 1 walk and 3 runs, striking out 7. He didn’t get the decision but his strong start set up the White Sox 4-3 12th inning win against the fading Royals.

Mat Latos was wonderful over 8 innings, letting up 1 run and walking none, as the Reds snuck past the Diamondbacks, 2-1.

They all owned baseball on August 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.

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

A Phillies 2014 Forecast, Part I: “The Emperor Has No Clothes”

I certainly wish Amaro was a little more Ben Franklin and a lot less Daft Punk as 2013's Song of the Summer, "Get Lucky", coincidentally captured the embattled GM's philosophy for this year's Phillies. When the song's lyrical hook defiantly proclaims, "We've come too far to give up who we are", I can easily see Ruben's head bobbing an arrogant yes, yes, yes to the beat en route to his office at One Citizens Bank Way. Unfortunately, who the Phillies are right now under Amaro's stubborn direction are a team that is painting themselves into a corner. The current roster carries several veterans already past their prime, but with very few promising young stars in the making ready to carry the torch.

I certainly wish Amaro was a little more Ben Franklin and a lot less Daft Punk as 2013’s Song of the Summer, “Get Lucky”, coincidentally captured the embattled GM’s philosophy for this year’s Phillies. When the song’s lyrical hook defiantly proclaims, “We’ve come too far to give up who we are”, I can easily see Ruben’s head bobbing an arrogant yes, yes, yes to the beat en route to his office at One Citizens Bank Way. Unfortunately, who the Phillies are right now under Amaro’s stubborn direction are a team that is painting themselves into a corner. The current roster carries several veterans already past their prime, but with very few promising young stars in the making ready to carry the torch.

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

Follow MLB Reports on Twitter

“I live on a one-way street that’s also a dead end. I’m not quite sure how I got there.” Steven Wright, Comedian

Sounds about right.

It should be obvious to most that Ruben Amaro Jr.’s ego has been waging war against his own rational sense of decision-making and his ability to consider the future of this Phillies franchise since he was handed the keys to the palace back in November 2008.

A speckled and spotty track-record ripe with big-splash acquisitions along with several transactions banking on a player’s abilities of yesteryear–each of which left the cupboard mostly bare down on the farm–is all he has to show during his tenure as the big boss man.

Even the most optimistic of Philadelphia fans (including myself) now envision the Phillies ship as a tired, rudderless old vessel drifting through uncharted waters without a compass. How did it ever come to this?

Ryan Howards Injury 2011 NLDS


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The Braves Keep On ‘Chopping’ Despite Several Key Injuries

The Braves have been falling by the wayside to injury since the 1st part of the year.  They have lost Venters, O'Flaherty. Hudson and now Heyward for a 2nd time.  If you couple that with lackluster performances from Dan Uggla and B.J. Upton, then this team has overachieved to the fullest with the rest of the choppers!

The Braves have been falling by the wayside to injury since the 1st part of the year. They have lost Venters, O’Flaherty. Hudson and now Heyward for a 2nd time. If you couple that with lackluster performances from Dan Uggla and B.J. Upton, the injury time on the DL for Brian McCann, Brandon Beachy – and even Evan Gattis, plus the retired Chipper Jones having been departed from the 2012 squad, then this team has overachieved to the fullest with the rest of the choppers!  Atlanta currently owns the best record in the MLB – with a 77 – 50 mark, 14 games clear of the 2nd place Washington Nationals in the NL East. Also, please stop inadvertently injuring our players New York Mets!

By Bob McVinua (Special Guest Braves Writer – visit his website here):

The word “injury” has plagued this 2013 Braves team all season long.

The injury bug didn’t take long to hit as Jonny Venters the teams premier set up man was unable to throw a single pitch this regular season.

Then it was Eric O’Flaherty who was hit with a season ending injury. At this point in time it was about mid May and many were in panic mode over what would become of this feared and revered Atlanta Braves bullpen.

It wouldn’t take too long to find out the answer to that question. After a little mixing and matching Fredi Gonzalez found the right guys to plug into those critical 7th/8th inning roles and they have been nothing short of spectacular.

Jason Heyward Hit In The Face – Not For The Weak Of Heart, You Have Been Warned!

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The History Of Extreme Ballpark Chasing (1993 – 2013)

The days of not being able to visit all MLB parks in consecutive days ended in 1993, when the Rockies were introduced, and enhanced even more with the Arizona Diamondbacks entering the league in 1998.  In the last 15 years, several people have tried to see all 30 MLB parks in under a month.  Some successful, some broke some rules, and one guy even bought this website 6 months after he set the World Record for visiting all 30 MLB Parks in just 23 Calendar Days - completing 7 Doubleheaders.

The days of not being able to visit all MLB parks in consecutive days ended in 1993, when the Rockies were introduced, and enhanced even more with the Arizona Diamondbacks entering the league in 1998. In the last 15 years, several people have tried to see all 30 MLB parks in under a month. Some successful, some broke some rules, and one guy even bought this website 6 months after he set the World Record for visiting all 30 MLB Parks in just 23 Calendar Days – completing 7 Doubleheaders.

Ballpark Chaser definition:  Someone who is actively pursuing quests to view Baseball Parks.

Guys talked about in this Article:  Completely Insane!

By Josh Robbins (Special Guest Writer And Co – Creator for The Factor12 Rating Pitching Metric.)  Factor 12 (F12) is an analytic measurement utilizing league average performance to compare the value of all MLB pitchers on 60ft6in.com.

MLB Expansion Makes Ballpark Chasing Possible

Twenty years ago, the course of history changed for ballpark chasing.  In 1993, the Colorado Rockies and Florida Marlins debuted in the National League, increasing the total number of MLB teams to twenty-eight. 

The two new franchises created positions for fifty players and expanded the pursuits for ballpark chasers.

In prior years, the nearest connection between a west coast team and the mid-west was Anaheim Stadium to Royals Stadium, a 23-hour drive covering 1,619 miles. 

As a result, it was impossible for fans to attend games in consecutive days at every MLB stadium during one concurrent driving trip.  Consequently, the only method to complete the entire circuit was to combine land and air travel.

The new league structure dramatically altered the traveling landscape by adding Mile High Stadium in Denver, a 14-hour, 1,011-mile drive from Anaheim Stadium. 

Reggie Deal’s- 30 Day. 30 Park Compilation (A Blind Fan Who visited all 30 MLB Parks in 30 Days last year)

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September Callup Candidates For The Nationals: Washington With A Great 36 Game Sked To End 2013

The Nationals will need a massive collapse from either the Pirates, Reds or Cardinals in order to qualify for the Post Season in 2013.  Despite the struggles, the club still has to go about the business of preparing a 40 Man Roster in September.  Lets preview some of the news, injured players coming back, and recent performances of some of the guys in the Minor League System.

At 62 – 64 with 36 games left, The Nationals will need a massive collapse from either the Pirates, Reds or Cardinals in order to qualify for the Post Season in 2013 being 10.5 Games behind the playoff bar. Despite the struggles, the club still has to go about the business of preparing a 40 Man Roster in September. Lets preview some of the news, injured players coming back, and recent performances of some of the guys in the Minor League System.

By Sean Hogan (Nationals Correspondent via Citizens of Natstown.com – view website here): 

September is just 10 days away. With 9 games in those 10 days, a lot of things can happen with the Nats. They can still go on a run and get back into the thick of things in the Wild Card race.

The reason for this is easy…. The Pirates, Cardinals and Reds are play each other a pile in the last 5 weeks of the year, so all the Nationals have to do is to take care of business, and they can be back in the conversation for the playoff game at least.

The Nats also have a ridiculously easy schedule coming from now until the end of the year in their final 36 games. 

Coming up.  1 more @CHC, 3 @KC (they are struggling now), then a 6 game homestand versus the Marlins and Mets.   They should go 7 – 3 here.

From there, they have a 10 game road trip with 3 @PHI, 3 @MIA and 4 @NYM.  The team could go 7 – 3.

Followed by the road trip is a 10 game homestand:  3 VS PHI, 3 VS ATL (they may have clinched by then – or at least resting guys), and to vs the Marlins ends the stretch.  The team could go 8 – 2.

The Nats end up playing their last 6 on the road versus the Cardinals and Diamondbacks in 3 game series each.  If they win both series, it could be a 4 – 2 road trip. 

You could see the club win 26 of their last 36 games – to have them equal 88 wins.  The Pirates would need to win 15 games out of 36 in this scenario.

While it would still make it unlikely to be in the Wild Card Game, it could put some pressure on the 3 NL Central franchises.

The Cardinals would have to win 16 out of 36 games to stay ahead, and the Reds would need 17 wins out their last 35 games to stay head.

They could also go on a losing streak and drop out of the race just as easily. For the most part, the Nats’ September call-up candidates will be the same, but their eventual roles may differ.

The only player on the 40-man roster that I don’t think has a chance of making it to the Majors in September is Matt Purke, who has always struggled with injuries and is just starting to hack it in high A ball.

Jeff Kobernus – 1st Career HR

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (August.21st) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images

Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images

Shin-Soo Choo led off the game with a home run and finished with 4 hits, driving in 3 and scoring 3 as the Reds hung on to top the Diamondbacks, 10-7.

Ian Kennedy threw 7 shutout innings, giving up just 4 hits and striking out 8, leading the Padres past the Pirates, 2-1.

Jacoby Ellsbury led a Boston attack with three hits, including a double, a stolen base and a pair of runs scored, as the Red Sox won a much needed laugher in San Francisco, 12-1.

Wei-Yin Chen helped keep the struggling Orioles in playoff contention. He threw 7 strong innings, allowing only a pair of solo homers, and got the 4-2 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays.

They all owned baseball on August 21, 2013.

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

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

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

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