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Most Recent Cycle Hit For Each MLB Franchise (Updated For Wil Myers, April 10, 2017)

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Getty Images

The First Cycle of the Year!

Going into 2015, the Padres had never had a no hitter nor a cycle hit. Now they are still waiting for that elusive no hitter, but they can chalk up multiple cycles now.

Wil Myers lined one into left center field and legged it out for a triple, completing the cycle and leading the Padres to a 5-3 victory against the Rockies.

Back in 2015, Matt Kemp legged out HIS cycle with a triple in Coors.

Innnnnnteresting. The Padres are STILL waiting for their first cycle that wasn’t hit in Colorado!

Go figure.

Here is the list, updated for today’s action!

THE MOST CYCLE HIT
FOR EACH FRANCHISE

San_Diego_Padres_logo.svg
SAN DIEGO PADRES
April 10, 2017 vs. Colorado
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PITTSBURGH PIRATES
John Jaso
September 28, 2016 vs. Chicago Cubs

Indians_Logo
CLEVELAND INDIANS
Rajai Davis
July 2, 2016 vs. Toronto
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ATLANTA BRAVES
June 15, 2016 vs. Cincinnati
rangers
TEXAS RANGERS
Adrian Beltre
August 3, 2015 vs. Colorado
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BOSTON RED SOX
June 16, 2015 vs. Atlanta
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COLORADO ROCKIES
Michael Cuddyer
August 17,2014 vs. Cincinnati
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HOUSTON ASTROS
Brandon Barnes
July 19, 2013 vs. Seattle
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LOS ANGELES ANGELS OF ANAHEIM
Mike Trout
May 21, 2013 vs. Seattle
downloadARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS
Aaron Hill
June 29, 2012 vs. Milwaukee
NEW YORK METS
April 27, 2012 vs. Colorado
San_francisco_giants_alternate_logo
SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS
September 15, 2011 vs. Colorado
brewers
MILWAUKEE BREWERS
George Kottaras
September 3, 2011 vs. Houston
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TAMPA PAY RAYS
B. J. Upton
October 2, 2009 vs. New York Yankees

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BALTIMORE ORIOLES
Felix Pie
August 14, 2009 vs. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim

300px-NewYorkYankees_PrimaryLogo.svg

NEW YORK YANKEES
Melky Cabrera.
August 2, 2009 vs Chicago White Sox

Minnesota-Twins-Logo
MINNESOTA TWINS
Michael Cuddyer
May 22, 2009 vs Milwaukee

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LOS ANGELES DODGERS
April 13, 2009 vs San Francisco
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SEATTLE MARINERS
Adrian Beltre.
September 1, 2009 vs. Texas
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Washington Nationals
August 28, 2008 vs. Los Angeles Dodgers
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OAKLAND ATHLETICS
Mark Ellis
June 4, 2007 vs. Boston
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DETROIT TIGERS
Carlos Guillen
August 1, 2006 vs Tampa Bay.
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ST. LOUIS CARDINALS
Mark Grudzielanek
April 27, 2005 vs. Milwaukee Brewers
Phillies
PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES
David Bell
June 28, 2004 vs. Montreal
toronto-blue-jays-logo-300x300
TORONTO BLUE JAYS
Jeff Frye
August 17, 2001 vs. Texas
white-sox-logo-white
CHICAGO WHITE SOX
April 27, 2000 vs. Baltimore
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CHICAGO CUBS
Mark Grace
May 9, 1993 vs San Diego

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KANSAS CITY ROYALS
George Brett
June 24, 1990 vs. Toronto

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CINCINNATI REDS
June 2, 1989 vs. San Diego Padres

BONUS –

Last Cycles Hit For Teams in Old Locations

MONTREAL EXPOS
Vladimir Guerrero
September 14, 2003 vs. New York Mets

WashingtonSenators6171

WASHINGTON SENATORS
Jim King
May 26, 1964 vs. Boston

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NEW YORK GIANTS
Don Mueller
July 11, 1954 vs. Pittsburgh

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PHILADELPHIA ATHLETICS
Elmer Valo
August 2, 1950 vs. Chicago White Sox

BROOKLYN
BROOKLYN DODGERS
Gil Hodges
June 25, 1949 vs. Pittsburgh

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ST. LOUIS BROWNS
George McQuinn
July 19, 1941 vs. Boston Red Sox

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BOSTON DOVES
Bill Collins
October 6, 1910 vs. Philadelphia Phillies

Still waiting for the first ever Marlins cycle.

MLB Teams Taking A Powder In 2017 So Far

Some MLB Teams have had a tough winter so far, and we take a look at why this is. We understand that not all clubs have to be in win mode, and some mabe rebuilding, however the process and mindset is what we are questioning here

Some MLB Teams have had a tough winter so far, and we take a look at why this is. We understand that not all clubs have to be in win mode, and some maybe rebuilding, however the process and mindset is what we are questioning here.  For a team that is not going all in and should be based on their limited window of winning opportunity, we also call them to the carpet.  Stop taking a powder in 2017 and give your head a shake!

MLB Teams Taking A Powder In 2017 So Far

There are certain clubs who have done a nice job improving their clubs year over year, some that have done nicely in maintaining, well, and there are teams that are not looking so hot in 2017.

Let me also qualify this in saying that the Toronto Blue Jays are dangerously close to falling into this pegging themselves.  You guys can’t seriously think that you can enter into the 2017 campaign with the Outfield trio of Melvin Upton Jr., Kevin Pillar and Ezequiel Carrera can you?

Give Jose Bautista a 1 Year Deal worth $15 MIL – with a 2nd year Team Option of $19.4 MIL – or a Buyout Clause of $2.2 MIL  The Player could also opt out if he wants to after 2017.  You may risk losing a Draft Pick at all with the way this is going Toronto.

With the 1st ED pick attached to Joey Bats. and the looming future QO’s never receiving as much again,  how could a team justify losing that high of Amateur Draft Selection for an aging 36 year old slugger.

Here is the thing though Blue Jays brass:  You need him..Both at the turnstiles and in the lineup.  He doesn’t cost you anything but money – and the guy still carried out a .815 OPS despite a rough down year.

With a chip on his shoulder, I think he will bounce back big time.  You can defensive replace him every night if you wish, or use Kendrys Morales at First, and let Justin Smoak ride pine for some DH AB to open up for Bautista.

Losing Edwin Encarnacion, Bautista and Michael Saunders is not made up by Morales and Steve Pearce fellas!  You drew 3.4 Million Fans in 2016.  Toronto will keep the faith if you bring back #19 for one more year. Read the rest of this entry

Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For DraftKings 7/25/16

P- Carlos Martinez (vs. New York Mets): $11,400. Martinez has been very reliable in daily fantasy all year long. In fact, he hasn’t allowed more than three runs in a start since late May. He continues to pitch deep into games, which is great in DraftKings. The Mets offense has been brutal all season long and they have struggled to produce runs over the last seven games, so this should be very favorable for Martinez.

P- Jeremy Hellickson (vs. Miami Marlins): $8,300. In 139 career at bats against Hellickson, the Marlins’ lineup is only batting .216, with a .243 OBP, and a .365 slugging percentage. Hellickson should be on his A-game with the trade deadline right around the corner if he wants to be dealt to a competing team. In his last start against the Marlins, he held them to one earned run, on five hits in eight innings pitched.

 

SEE THE REST OF THE PICKS

Dave Dombrowski Living up to Reputation, Which is Exactly What the Red Sox Wanted

Following last-place finishes in three of the last four years prior to 2016, the Boston Red Sox decided it was time for a change in ideology with regard to baseball operations.

Nearly a full calendar year in his new position, Dave Dombrowski has made his impact felt with numerous moves, which is exactly what the Red Sox were looking for this year and the immediate future. Here’s a look at some notable acquisitions made since last winter:

It’s still pretty early in trade season with regard to the August 1 deadline, but Boston has undoubtedly been the most active team thus far.

This is exactly the reason why ownership pegged Dombrowski as their top choice for this role. As much as he has a reputation for balancing analytics with more traditional player evaluation, he’s also known for being unafraid of making a big splash.

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Who Owned Baseball June 27, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

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JOE ROBBINS/GETTY IMAGES

Kris Bryant went 5 for 5 with 3 homers, driving in 6 and scoring 4 to lead the Cubs in a wild 11-8 slugfest in Cincinnati.

Jon Gray struck out 8 Blue Jays over 7 innings, walking none and worked around a pair of homers to get the 9-5 victory for Colorado.

Nick Franklin singled, doubled and homered, driving in 5 runs as the Rays snapped their losing streak, 13-7 over Boston.

Danny Duffy pitched 8 innings, allowing 2 runs, walking none and struck out 8 Cardinals batters to earn the 6-2 decision for the Royals.

They all owned baseball on June 27, 2016.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

Who Owned Baseball June 26, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

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RICH SCHULTZ/GETTY IMAGES

Tyler Duffey did not allow a hit until the 6th and finished with 8 innings, 2 hits, 8 strikeouts and 1 run as the Twins clobbered the Yankees, 7-1.

Jose Fernandez struck out 13 Cubs and allowed just 4 hits and 1 run to earn the 6-1 decision for the red hot Marlins.

Lonnie Chisenhall collected 9 total bases with his 4 hits, including a homer and 3 RBI as the Indians continued to roll, 9-3, in Detroit.

Freddie Freeman reached base 4 times, including a homer and a pair of runs scored in the Braves 5-2 victory over the Mets.

They all owned baseball on June 26, 2016.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

The Most Recent Cycle Hit For All Teams (Updated for Freddie Freeman, 6-15-2016)

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KEVIN C. COX/GETTY IMAGES

The First Cycle of the Year!

And true to 2016 Atlanta Braves style, the team almost lost the damn game. It took extra innings, but Freddie Freeman made the list. This might be the highlight of Atlanta’s season!

Here is the list, updated for today’s action!

Who Owned Baseball May 27, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

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Fred Thornhill – AP

Josh Donaldson went 4 for 5 with 2 homers including a go ahead 2 run shot in the 8th inning that was the difference in Toronto’s 7-5 win over Boston.

Michael Fulmer pitched shutout ball into the 8th, allowing 3 hits over 7 2/3 innings, earning the 4-1 decision for the Tigers in Oakland.

Aaron Hill reached base 4 times, homering twice and leading Milwaukee past Cincinnati, 9-5.

Jacob deGrom threw 7 solid innings, allowing 1 run and 3 hits. The Mets bullpen blew his lead but they walked off 6-5 winners over the Dodgers.

They all owned baseball on May 27, 2016.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

MLB Daily Fantasy Picks (DFS) For FanDuel – 5/12/16

fanduel

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner)

Clayton Kershaw won me a lot of money last start, and I will use him every time he is Starting.

I like using an affordable stack alongside the LHP, so I am using the struggling Tigers at hitter friendly Camden Yards tomorrow night.

Again, love FanDuel with using Victor Martinez as a Catcher. he can go in a 4 player stack with J.D. Martinez, Miguel Cabrera and Justin Upton.

In order to afford this lineup, I am using the KC Royals in another mini stack, imploring the use of Alcides Escobar, Alex Gordon and Omar Infante.  All 3 men are decent contact free swingers, who can do damage against Nate Eovaldi.

Since Aaron Hill crushed it last Saturday night with Kershaw’s start in the same day – I put him in the lineup again.  Not bad value for $2100 the way he has performed recently.

Read the rest of this entry

Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For DraftKings – 5/12/16

JOSHUA LOBEL/MLB.COM

JOSHUA LOBEL/MLB.COM

Trey Rose (Featured BBBA Fantasy Baseball Writer/Owner – dynastydigest.sportsblog.com) 

If you have any questions or comments about this article or fantasy baseball, please Tweet me. I post daily DFS lineups for Draft Kings everyday, so please make sure to follow my blog.

P – David Price (vs. Houston Astros): $11,100

P – Vincent Velasquez (vs. Atlanta Braves): $10,900

SEE THE REST OF THE PICKS

Who Owned Baseball May 7, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

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Getty Images

Bartolo Colon pitched into the 7th, finishing with 6 2/3 solid innings to earn the 6-3 decision for the Mets in San Diego. But most of all, he broke the internet with the first home run of his career that became one of the most joyful moments in recent baseball history.

Aaron Hill slammed three homers, including a 2 run shot that brought the Brewers to within one, a solo blast that tied the game in the 8th and a 10th inning grand slam that was the difference in the 13-7 slug-fest against the Reds.

Ian Kennedy slowed down a red hot Indians team with 7 shutout frames, allowing only 4 hits and 2 walks and got the 7-0 victory for the defending champ Royals.

Robinson Cano hit a pair of homers, including a go ahead blast in the tenth. He added two more hits for ten total bases and led the Mariners past Houston, 3-2.

They all owned baseball on May 7, 2016.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

2016 MLB Preseason Power Rankings

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Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

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With just 5 weeks to the regular season – and all of the important Free Agents finally being locked up with Ian Desmond signing with the Rangers, it is time to see where all 30 MLB clubs stack up.

We are going to be running weekly power rankings once the year starts on Apr.3, 2016.

The way I compile the Power Rankings is best on confidence to win the World Series.  Some clubs may be more talented (or playing better) than a squad they are behind in the rankings,  but the Division (and strength of opponents) plays a massive factor.

It is the reason why teams like the Royals or Astros will be selected above a team like the Toronto Blue Jays.

The Pittsburgh Pirates might win 90 games (which may only see one AL club join them), but because they have to contend with the Cards and Cubs in the NL Central, it will be tough for them to receive a great ranking (at least until games are played). Read the rest of this entry

Arizona Diamondbacks State Of The Union For 2016

The first big surprise of the winter came when the Diamondbacks signed Zack Greinke. The organization followed that up with trading a heavy price tag to acquire Shelby Miller to back him up. Dave Stewart has taken a lot of crap for a lopsided deal. I think that is very speculative to talk like that. Besides Free Agent Pitchers are expensive, and a way for small market clubs to negate that is to trade for a controllable player. Tony La Russa also knows that his club is setup for a winning window of approximately 3 - 4 years.

The first big surprise of the winter came when the Diamondbacks signed Zack Greinke. The organization followed that up with trading a heavy price tag to acquire Shelby Miller to back him up. Dave Stewart has taken a lot of crap for a lopsided deal. I think that is very speculative to talk like that. Besides Free Agent Pitchers are expensive, and a way for small market clubs to negate that is to trade for a controllable player. La Russa also knows that his club is set up for a winning window of approximately 3 – 4 years.  Keep the aggression when it comes to upgrading this team.

Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead  Analyst) 

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You simply couldn’t have asked for a better start to a winter in 2015 for Arizona.  They are legitimate contenders in the NL West, and still should have the wherewithal to spend another $20 – $25 MIL on salaries for 2016.

I love the aggression set forth by the management.  I hope they keep the pedal to the metal on this one.  A nucleus of a team lasts 3 – 4 years for a mid market club, and by the acquisitions the team has done here completely reflects that.

We have discussed how the Houston Astros developed their young club for a few years now.  It is clearly the best way to rebuild a team.

Another reason why the team has had the financial flexibility to create these maneuvers is that they have Paul Goldschmidt on perhaps the best valued contract in the game of baseball right now.

The other Infielders in the mix for the Diamondbacks need to step up the production for he Arizona squad in 2016.  Whether it is Chris Owings at 2B or Nick Ahmed at SS, these positions were not league average for the slots, as was third base either.

Arizona was carried offensively by Goldschmidt and a great productive OF in A.J. Pollock, David Peralta and Ender Inciarte.

The club dealt Inciarte in the Shelby Miller deal, but could pick up the slack with giving his OF position to Yasmany Tomas full time in 2016.

Welington Castillo was one of the most prolific Catchers in the Majors least year, featuring a 3 slash of .255/.317/.496 with the Diamondbacks, clubbing 17 HRs and knocking in 50 RBI during his 254 AB for the club.

In a roundabout way, he bettered what the club had previously in Miguel Montero, who incidentally was the reason why Castillo was flipped to Seattle initially.

That trade made up for the previous fiasco that was the trade for Mark Trumbo the previous season. Read the rest of this entry

Teams That Should Take Advantage Of A Weak Penalty For The Luxury Tax In 2016

In the last year of the current CBA, there is potentially only one more year to take advantage of a feeble penalty as a first time abuser in 2016. With Boston set to join the Dodgers and Yankees as abusers, I took a look at other teams who should consider the 2016 campaign as a rare gamble to dole out some cash in seeking a World Series trophy before the new CBA is authored in prior to the 2017 season.

In the last year of the current CBA, there is potentially only one more year to take advantage of a feeble penalty as a first time abuser in 2016. With Boston set to join the Dodgers and Yankees as abusers, I took a look at other teams who should consider the 2016 campaign as a rare gamble to dole out some cash in seeking a World Series trophy before the new CBA is authored in prior to the 2017 season.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part-Owner) 

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The Boston Red Sox might just be on to something.  They will be penalized for the 1st year of going over the new $189 MIL limit in 2016, but it is also the last year the CBA may have the percentages.

Currently right now, there is a 17.5% penalty for spending dollars over $189 MIL.  The Dodgers and Yankees are the only other teams that are budgeted over the mark in addition to Boston.

On the cusp are the Detroit Tigers, sitting at around $177 MIL – while the Giants and Angels are nearly at $170 MIL.  The Cubs are also near the $165 MIL area.

Why not spend like crazy in 2016 – and take advantage of the system as it is presented towards you? Read the rest of this entry

The Middle Infield Positions Have Regressed To What They Used To Be In The MLB Power Wise

Carlos Correa led all Shortstops with 22 HRs in 2015 - despite not being called up until early June. With how rare his power is at the position currently, this will be an automatic advantage for the Houston Astros for the next half - dozen years .

Carlos Correa led all Shortstops with 22 HRs in 2015 – despite not being called up until early June. With how rare his power is at the position currently, this will be an automatic advantage for the Houston Astros for the next half – dozen years. Brandon Crawford was the only other Shortstop to hit the 20 HR plateau in 2015.  The position has receded to what it used to be over 20 – 25 years ago when Cal Ripken was a rare player to hit for power at Short.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Onwer) 

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Part of going over the winter transactions wire for all players available in the league has taught me even more of what I had thought about the state of the MLB currently.

Since steroids have been removed practically from the game, Third Base, Short Stop and Second Baseman have seen their numbers plummet offensively.

You could also lump the First Baseman, Outfielders and Catchers to this list as well, however they still own the predominant amount of power hitters in the game.

So you have a need a Third Base this offseason…That is bad news for you because David Freese is the best available Free Agent on the market. Read the rest of this entry

The Most Recent Cycle Hit For Each Team (Updated for Matt Kemp, August 14, 2015 )

DAVID ZALUBOWSKI/AP

DAVID ZALUBOWSKI/AP

THE FIRST PADRE CYCLE!!!

 

No Padre has ever thrown a no hitter. No Padres team has ever won the World Series. No Padre had ever hit for the cycle… until now.

Matt Kemp hit a fly ball that ricocheted off the right center field wall in Coors Field. By the time he stood at third base, the cycle was achieved.

This has been a rough year for the Padres and for Kemp, but this hit must have felt sweet.

Here is the list, updated for today’s action!

The Most Recent Cycle Hit For Each Team (Updated for Adrian Beltre, August 3, 2015 )

SportsGrid.com

SportsGrid.com

Adrian Beltre with the Tri Cycle.

The Rangers third baseman, who is quietly assembling a Hall of Fame resume, joined Bob Meusel, Babe Herman and Long John Reilly in the exclusive “Three Cycles in a Career” club.

OK, it isn’t quite Bonds, Aaron, Ruth, Mays… but it is kind of cool.

Bad news for Shin-Soo Choo who didn’t even last 3 weeks on this list!

Meanwhile Beltre is on here twice as the most recent cycle for the Rangers and the Mariners.

 

Here is the list, updated for today’s action!

The Most Recent Cycle Hit For Each Team (Updated for Shin-Soo Choo, July 21, 2015)

DAVID ZALUBOWSKI/AP

DAVID ZALUBOWSKI/AP

First Texas cycle in 2 years!

Lots of people hit their cycles in Colorado. Choo is the latest. In fact his teammate Delino DeShields almost joined him if only he could have connected for a Coors homer himself.

Either way, it was safe to say that humidor or no humidor, it was a good night to hit in Colorado (except for the Rockies who were shutout, 9-0.

Here is the list, updated for today’s action!

The Most Recent Cycle Hit For Each Team (Updated for Brock Holt – June 16, 2015)

 (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)

(AP Photo/Elise Amendola)

The First Cycle Hit for 2015!

With all the great hitters in baseball, naturally it is BROCK HOLT of the Red Sox who gets a single, double, triple and homer. Granted, I am not thrilled that he wears Wade Boggs’ number 26, but this is a day to celebrate.

Good bye John Valentin, no longer on this list.

I have compiled a list of the most current no hitter for each franchise, but here is the companion list for the cycle. Is it harder to hit for the cycle? Probably. But Holt did it!

Here is the list, updated for today’s action!

The Most Recent Cycle Hit For Each Team

 

(Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)

(Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)

Why doesn’t hitting for the Cycle get the same love as throwing a no hitter?

Seriously, hitting for the cycle is just about as uncommon as a no hitter. Only 305 cycles have been hit, as opposed to 287 no hitters.

Getting the perfect combination of a single, double, triple and homer requires skill, consistency and an obscene amount of luck.

Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron, Barry Bonds and Willie Mays never did it once.

Michael Cuddyer, Chris Speier and Brad Wilkerson did it twice.

There has never been a cycle hit in the post season, as opposed to a pair of October no-no’s (Don Larsen and Roy Halladay.)

The Marlins have never had a player hit for the cycle. Neither have the Padres, who also have never had a no hitter.

So while I carefully update the list of the most current no hitter for each franchise, I have neglected to do the same for players who hit for the cycle… until now.

The pic is of the last cycle, hit by Michael Cuddyer, who has done so in both leagues (along with Bob Watson and John Olerud.)

Some of the teams have waited a while for an update. Eric Davis’ cycle in 1989 remains the last time it happened for Cincinnati. The Expos (2003) have had one more recently than the Red Sox (1996.)

Here is the list, to be updated when the next cycle is hit!

MLB Power Rankings March 2015

Once again, the National League is very top heavy. with the Nationals, Dodgers and Cards reeling in 3 of the first 4 rankings spots.

Once again, the National League is very top-heavy. with the Nationals, Dodgers and Cards reeling in 3 of the first 5 rankings spots.  The American League has more parity in the league this year. and could feature several new entrants into postseason play.  This includes the two longest playoff drought teams in the Toronto Blue Jays (the last team to make the playoffs since the Strike/Lockout in 1994 and 1995 – and the M’s haven’t since their 116 win campaign in 2001. The Marlins own the longest such dry spell in the NL<- with their last playoff berth coming in their 2003 World Series win.  You also have many young franchises like the Houston Astros and Minnesota Twins having several of their young studs coming into the fold, and teams like the Rangers trying to be relevant again following a league record for DL Stints in 2014.  This will mean there are no easy wins on the J’unior Circuit’ this campaign.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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1.  Washington Nationals – This team is so far above the rest of the MLB, they should be everyones unanimous pick to win the best record in the MLB.  Their Division is weaker the NL West, and the teams in the NL Central are a lot closer in parity.

2.  LA Dodgers – Too many changes will take the club time to gel.  Emphasis on Joc Pederson to do well may be too much to ask.  Not enough is being said about the club losing the offense of Matt Kemp and Hanley Ramirez. Any club with Clayton Kershaw and Zack Greinke as their top 2 starting pitchers will never be to far from the top ranking.

3.  Detroit Tigers – This is all based on the American League Central.  While I believe the team is not as strong as last year in the pitching department with Max Scherzer, they may be better in the lineup with Yoenis Cespedes. Read the rest of this entry

D’Backs Pitching Staff In 2014: The Roster Tree Shows Now Ex – GM Towers Fault(y) On Assembly

Kevin Towers had been at the GM helm since Sept.22, 2010 before having his duties relinquished today.  He authored some of the worst trades in club history, and has seen his team pay the price for it the most this year, with a 59 - 81 record, after back to back 81 seasons in 2012 and 2013, and a NL West Title in his 1st year on the job in 2011.  Tower traded away Stephen Drew, Justin Upton, Mark Reynolds, Chris Young, Tyler Skaggs, Adam Eaton, Matt Davidson, Martin Prado all without much of talent brought back to the fold in return.  It was time to go.

Kevin Towers had been at the GM helm since Sept.22, 2010 before having his duties relinquished today. He authored some of the worst trades in club history, and has seen his team pay the price for it the most this year, with a 59 – 81 record, after back to back 81 seasons in 2012 and 2013, and a NL West Title in his 1st year on the job in 2011. Towers traded away Stephen Drew, Justin Upton, Mark Reynolds, Chris Young, Tyler Skaggs, Adam Eaton, Matt Davidson and Martin Prado – all without much of talent brought back to the fold in return. It was time to go.

How All Of The D’Backs Pitchers Were Acquired:

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

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It has not been a banner year for the Arizona Diamondbacks.  I don’t need to beleaguer that point out to much to the common fan of the franchise.

What I found most disturbing out of the Roster Tree, is the team’s brass continued reliance and insistence on Relief arms.

But before we divulge into that, the name Dan Haren is still haunting this franchise. (Not Towers fault, but still an important trade historically) Read the rest of this entry

MLB Trade Deadline Breakdown 2014 + The August Aftermath

jonah hill

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

It was a flurry of action that baseball really needed.  Half way through the day, I was amazed their was actually day games.

Oakland and Detroit pushed all of their chips in, and you have to think they are pretty much done with transactions, although one of them doing an August deal could prompt the other to do the same.

I am holding back reservations for judging the Pirates, Blue Jays and Royals….however they all must be the “MLB clubhouse leaders” in August acquisitions to challenge for playoff slots.

Although KC better have a better idea than having Raul Ibanez take regular AB at 1B..That is horrible..

It wasn’t like the club didn’t know Eric Hosmer was injured badly.

I am also about throwing Ruben Amaro‘s career about 10 second from a toe-tag (and those ten seconds are August), for standing pat on his 47 – 60 aging core.

Like I have said so many times on twitter and social media outlets.  Someone teach this man some basic economics.

Take a lesson from Boston, and trade-off assets, to receive younger ones in the process, then you can turn around and spend every red cent in Free Agency in the offseason.. Read the rest of this entry

How All Of The Royals Were Acquired – 2014 Roster Tree: They Could Also Use An Injection Via Trade

The Royals rode a 11 game winning streak to 1st place in the AL Central in June.  What is more impressive is that they smashed the Tigers in the 1st 3 games of that 4 game series currently.  However a brutal stretch of play, culminating in a 9 - 18 record post the streak, has them wallowing near the .500 mark, and could fall out fast if the offense can't turn it around.  Today, we will examine how the Royals received all of their offense.

The Royals rode a 11 game winning streak to 1st place in the AL Central in June of this year. What is more impressive is that they smashed the Tigers in the 1st 3 games of that 4 game series – before relenting the last game of the series,  however a brutal stretch of play happened after that, culminating in a 9 – 18 record post the streak, and has them wallowing near the .500 mark.  This squad could fall out contention fast if the offense can’t turn it around. Today, we will examine how the Royals received all of their offense.

How All Of The Royals Hitters Were Acquired:

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

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The time to sit around and watch this club struggle is no more.

The Kansas City Royals must take decisive action either way to avoid future years of bashing from their already tepid fanbase.

The problem for years has been the offense – and especially since James Shields and Wade Davis came to town in a deal that saw massive prospect OF Wil Myers go back the other way.

It was an aggressive move and bold outlook for the 2013 and 2014 years, but Dayton Moore and David Glass have underestimated just how much power you need in the lineup on a daily basis.

This roster of batters is comprised mostly of their homegrown talent, or speedy light hitting talent they have acquired by trades.

Alcides Escobar and Lorenzo Cain were both picked up in the 2010 trade of Zack Greinke tot the Brewers.  A deal that also saw the club pick up Jake Odorizzi, who was packaged in the deal for Shields and Davis. Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The 2014 World Series + Best Value Bets Based On Trade Deadline Speculation

Welcome to your new World Series Favorite. according to the oddsmakers.  I see their rationale.  The A's have the best record in the Majors, and also the biggest lead within their Division.  Oh yeah..this club has back to back West Titles, and a deep lineup in a parity league that is the AL.  While I don't endorse them as the favorite for the World Series right now (based on predicting playoffs solely), there is no doubt I would rank them #1 in power rankings currently.

Welcome to your new World Series Favorite. according to the oddsmakers. I see their rationale. The A’s have the best record in the Majors, and also the biggest lead within their Division. Oh yeah..this club has back to back West Titles, and a deep lineup in a parity league that is the AL. While I don’t endorse them as the favorite for the World Series right now (based on predicting playoffs solely), there is no doubt I would rank them #1 in power rankings currently.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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I had another on fire week last week, with 5 right predictions, and 5 draws, with zero outright losses.

Furthermore, Cincinnati jumped from +5500 to now being +4000 – with making it back to .500 last night.

I also have seen the KC Royals skyrocket from +8000 2 weeks ago, to now be sitting pretty at +2500.  The Royals were my best bets 2 weeks ago.

Your new favorite to win the World Series is the Oakland A’s at +650.  I understand the odd believe me, but this will be temporary.

I fully expect the Nationals to take over this position if their recent pitching trends continue.

Also if the Dodgers can come within 2 games of the Giants, they will take over as the Fall Classic Favorites once again.

Again this week I hate the Blue Jays being among the heavy favorites for the title.  These guys gave been slipping recently, and the Orioles and Yankees are breathing down their necks in the AL East.

I also firmly believe with the AL West stranglehold the A’s are sure to bury the Angels, and if Detroit is a matchup for any WILD Card winner out of the AL West, heck even the Royals with James Shields, I favor them over any Halo’s pitcher for 1 game. Read the rest of this entry

How All Of The Diamondbacks Hitters Were Acquired (2014 Roster Tree)

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How All Of The D’Backs Hitters Were Acquired:

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

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The Diamondbacks are having a brutal season at 30 – 44 thus far, and are now under the microscope of Tony La Russa.

This has to be done for good reason.  The club’s transaction record recently is highly suspect even though they are being led by veteran GM Kevin Towers.

When covering this Roster Tree (just for the hitters) I have found a disturbing trend of 2 team and 3 way trades that may not be beneficial to the long term success for the snakes.

The 1st one coming to mind is shipping out Trevor Bauer, Bryan Shaw and Matt Albers for a fringe 1B prospect in Lars Anderson, Reliever Tony Sipp and shortstop Didi Gregorius (even though Chris Owings was already in the system). Read the rest of this entry

Arizona Diamondbacks 2014 Payroll + Contracts Going Forward

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): & Jeff Kleiner (Org Depth + Payroll Expert – find his website here)

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The Diamondbacks brass hit a proverbial HR, when they extended Paul Goldschmidt to a 5 YRs/$32 MIL deal prior to the 2013 campaign.

The Then 25 Year Old finished runner up to the NL MVP Voting, and likely would have won it based on his .302/.401/.551 year with an NL leading 36 HRs, 125 RBI, (he also led in Slugging, OPS and Scored 103 Runs.)

Having a franchise player for the next 4 years at such a feasible rate in terms of payroll enables them to do so many things with their salary structure.

The club added Bronson Arroyo (2 YRs, min $23.5 MIL – or 3 YRs/$30 MIL), were able to deal for Mark Trumbo (who entered 1st Year of Arbitration at $4.8 MIL in 2014) and recently signed Reliever Oliver Perez to a modest 2 YRs/$4.25 MIL deal. Read the rest of this entry

Top 5 HR Hitters In The MLB For 2014

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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You may be surprised at who I am going to pick to lead the Majors in tater – trots this upcoming campaign.  The names may not be foreign, yet I am betting on a couple of comebacks.

This is all really a crapshoot with injuries, lineups, whether or not a guy has protection in the lineup.

I also think this will be another season without a 50+ HR mark.  God I would love to be wrong.  Nothing would make me happier than someone approaching 60 RoundTrippers.

While it is a sham that Roger Maris‘s 61 HR year of 1961 has been dwarfed by the ‘PED’ use era, a lot of purists would still look favorably at somebody passing this mark clean for a change.

If a batter does it in the American League, then it would break the former Yankees Slugger’s AL record.

Just falling short of this list will be Pedro Alvarez, Paul Goldschmidt, Ryan Braun and Bryce Harper. I believe those gentlemen may hit in the high 30’s for HRs. Read the rest of this entry

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.

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):

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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

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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 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.

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)

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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.

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