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Who Owns October (#WOO) Tallies Updated For October 15, 2017
Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times
Well, it is safe to say Joe Maddon did NOT own October. At least Wade Davis is really rested. And I am guessing that John Lackey isn’t going to pitch in Game 3… or maybe ever again.
Meanwhile Justin Turner has etched himself into Dodger lore by hitting a walk off on the anniversary of the Kirk Gibson shot.
It is looking more and more like the Dodgers year.
So who owned October?
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO’S to a worthy player on the losing team.
At the end of the post season, we will see who had the highest WOO total as a pitcher and a hitter.
A complete description of the rules can be found HERE.
From October 15
2017 NLCS Game 2:
Receiving 1 WOO
Brandon Morrow threw 2 shutout innings against the heart of the Cubs order to help set up the Dodgers 4-1 victory.
Justin Turner drove in all 4 of the Dodgers run including a 3 run walk off shot in the ninth to sink the Cubs, 4-1.
Receiving 1/2 WOO
Carl Edwards Jr. struck out 3 Dodgers in 1 1/3 shutout innings in the Cubs 4-1 loss to the Dodgers.
Addison Russell homered to account for all of the Cubs runs as they fell to the Dodgers, 4-1.
Current WOO Totals MLB 2017
Hitters ‘WOO’ MLB 2017,
Jose Altuve – Astros 2, Carlos Correa – Astros 2, Justin Turner – Dodgers 2, Greg Bird – Yankees 1 1/2, Jay Bruce – Indians 1 1/2, Anthony Rizzo – Cubs 1 1/2, Michael Taylor – Nationals 1 1/2, Ryan Zimmerman – Nationals 1 1/2, Alex Bregman – Astros 1, Cody Bellinger – Dodgers 1, Kris Bryant – Cubs 1, Willson Contreras – Cubs 1, Logan Forsythe – Dodgers 1, Brett Gardner – Yankees 1, Yan Gomes – Indians 1, Didi Gregorius – Yankees 1, Aaron Judge – Yankees 1, Ketel Marte – Diamondbacks 1, Yasiel Puig – Dodgers 1, Hanley Ramirez – Red Sox 1, Albert Almora Jr. – Yankees 1/2, Andrew Benitendi – Red Sox 1/2, Starlin Castro – Yankees 1/2, Daniel Descalso – Diamondbacks 1/2, Brian Dozier – Twins 1/2, Todd Frazier – Yankees 1/2, Paul Goldschmidt – Diamondbacks 1/2, Yuli Gurriel – Astros 1/2, Jason Kipnis – Indians 1/2, Sandy Leon – Red Sox 1/2, J. D. Martinez – Diamondbacks 1/2, Addison Russell – Cubs 1/2, Gary Sanchez – Yankees 1/2, Carlos Santana – Indians 1/2, Trevor Story – Rockies 1/2, Christian Vazquez – Red Sox 1/2, Ben Zobrist – Cubs 1/2,
Pitchers ‘WOO’ MLB 2017,
Kenley Jansen – Dodgers 2, David Robertson – Yankees 2, Justin Verlander – Astros 2, Sean Doolittle – Nationals 1 1/2, Dallas Keuchel – Astros 1 1/2, David Price – Red Sox 1 1/2, Stephen Strasburg – Nationals 1 1/2, Masahiro Tanaka – Yankees 1 1/2, Trevor Bauer – Indians 1, Archie Bradley – Diamondbacks 1, Yu Darvish – Dodgers 1, Wade Davis – Cubs 1, Ken Giles – Astros 1, Kyle Hendricks – Cubs 1, Clayton Kershaw – Dodgers 1, Jon Lester – Cubs 1, Brandon Morrow – Dodgers 1, Jose Quintana – Cubs 1, Robbie Ray – Diamondbacks 1, Josh Tomlin – Indians 1, Carlos Carrasco – Indians 1/2, Carl Edwards Jr – Cubs 1/2, Jaime Garcia – Yankees 1/2, Zack Godley – Diamondbacks 1/2, Tommy Kahnle – Yankees 1/2, Andrew Miller – Indians 1/2, Chris Rusin – Rockies 1/2, Chris Sale – Red Sox 1/2, Max Scherzer – Nationals 1/2,
Who Owns October (#WOO) Tallies Updated For October 12, 2017
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
There goes my “Indians vs. Nationals World Series” pick! Man, the heart break in Washington right now must be intense. (As in Cleveland too.) But the beat goes on for the Cubs who look to be the first repeat champion since the 1998-1999-2000 Yankees.
Man, that’s quite a change from Billy Goats.
So who owned October?
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO’S to a worthy player on the losing team.
At the end of the post season, we will see who had the highest WOO total as a pitcher and a hitter.
A complete description of the rules can be found HERE.
From October 12
2017 National League Division Series Game 5:
Receiving 1 WOO
Willson Contreras got on base 3 times, scored a pair of runs and made a game turning snap throw to first that was eventually called an inning ending pick off that took the wind out of the Nationals sails and set up the Cubs clinching 9-8 victory.
Wade Davis came into the 7th for a 7 out save. He got some help from a double play and a pick off that was reviewed and overturned but he went 1-2-3 in the 9th to seal the wild 9-8 Cubs win to eliminate the Nationals.
Receiving 1/2 WOO
Sean Doolittle struck out a pair and threw a 1-2-3 ninth inning to give the Nationals a chance to clinch in the bottom half of the inning. They came up short to the Cubs, 9-8.
Michael Taylor reached base 3 times, homered and drove in 4 in the Nationals heart breaking 9-8 loss to the Cubs.
Current WOO Totals MLB 2017
Hitters ‘WOO’ MLB 2017,
Jay Bruce – Indians 1 1/2, Anthony Rizzo – Cubs 1 1/2, Michael Taylor – Nationals 1 1/2, Ryan Zimmerman – Nationals 1 1/2, Jose Altuve – Astros 1, Greg Bird – Yankees 1, Alex Bregman – Astros 1, Cody Bellinger – Dodgers 1, Kris Bryant – Cubs 1, Willson Contreras – Cubs 1, Carlos Correa – Astros 1, Logan Forsythe – Dodgers 1, Brett Gardner – Yankees 1, Yan Gomes – Indians 1, Didi Gregorius – Yankees 1, Aaron Judge – Yankees 1, Ketel Marte – Diamondbacks 1, Hanley Ramirez – Red Sox 1, Justin Turner – Dodgers 1, Andrew Benitendi – Red Sox 1/2, Starlin Castro – Yankees 1/2, Daniel Descalso – Diamondbacks 1/2, Brian Dozier – Twins 1/2, Paul Goldschmidt – Diamondbacks 1/2, Yuli Gurriel – Astros 1/2, Jason Kipnis – Indians 1/2, Sandy Leon – Red Sox 1/2, J. D. Martinez – Diamondbacks 1/2, Gary Sanchez – Yankees 1/2, Carlos Santana – Indians 1/2, Trevor Story – Rockies 1/2, Christian Vazquez – Red Sox 1/2, Ben Zobrist – Cubs 1/2,
Pitchers ‘WOO’ MLB 2017,
David Robertson – Yankees 2, Sean Doolittle – Nationals 1 1/2, David Price – Red Sox 1 1/2, Stephen Strasburg – Nationals 1 1/2, Trevor Bauer – Indians 1, Archie Bradley – Diamondbacks 1, Yu Darvish – Dodgers 1, Wade Davis – Cubs 1, Ken Giles – Astros 1, Kyle Hendricks – Cubs 1, Kenley Jansen – Dodgers 1, Clayton Kershaw – Dodgers 1, Dallas Keuchel – Astros 1, Jon Lester – Cubs 1, Jose Quintana – Cubs 1, Robbie Ray – Diamondbacks 1, Masahiro Tanaka – Yankees 1, Josh Tomlin – Indians 1, Justin Verlander – Astros 1, Carlos Carrasco – Indians 1/2, Jaime Garcia – Yankees 1/2, Zack Godley – Diamondbacks 1/2, Andrew Miller – Indians 1/2, Chris Rusin – Rockies 1/2, Chris Sale – Red Sox 1/2, Max Scherzer – Nationals 1/2,
Who Owned Baseball June 22, 2017 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings
Eric Espada / Getty Images
Addison Russell went 4 for 5 with a homer and 2 RBI as the Cubs pounded Miami 11-1.
Carlos Gomez homered twice, added another hit and drove in an eye popping 5 runs to give the Rangers an 11-4 victory over Toronto.
Aaron Nola went 7 1/3 innings, striking out 8 Cardinals allowing 1 run and earning the 5-1 decision for Philadelphia.
Jose Quintana pitched shutout ball into the 7th, finishing with 6 2/3 scoreless frames and striking out 9 Twins as the White Sox rolled, 9-0.
They all owned baseball on June 22, 2017
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.
Chicago Cubs Payroll In 2017 + Contracts Going Forward
Look, there is no way to sugar coat it, the Jason Heyward contract is about the biggest dumpster fire of a contract there may ever be. Having said that, everyone receives one mulligan.
Even 3 time World Series winning GM Brian Sabean has had a horrible Matt Cain contract to contend with the last half decade.
Theo Epstein hasn’t made too many blunders – and winning a World Series with both the Red Sox and now the Cubs has solidified a position for him in Cooperstown.
Also lucky is the brilliant signing of Anthony Rizzo of a 7 YR deal prior to 2013, and when he asserted himself as a perennial MVP contender.
Despite carrying a projected payroll in 2017 of around $171 MIL – the team has plenty of expiring contracts in the name of Jake Arrieta, Wade Davis, Jon Lackey, Jon Jay, Pedro Strop, Miguel Montero and Koji Uehara. to replenisg te talent again in 2018 – and going forward
There are only 4 players signed for $79.2 MIL so far.
The Rizzo longterm deal a perfect contrast to the Heyward pact. Should Rizzo’s Team Options be picked up for 2020 and 2021 (for $16.5 MIL each year), then the club will still only have paid him $74 MIL from 2013 – 2021, spanning 9 years at an Annual Value of $8.2 MIL. That is completely lights out for the organization going forward.
The one factor of brilliantly drafting and then rostering a club full of guys the same age is that they are all on entry level contracts for a few years before the squad becomes increasingly expensive before Arbitration rights kick in.
2018 will see Kris Bryant, Kyle Hendricks and Addison Russell all hit 1st year Eligible on Arbitration, and then 2019 has Javier Baez, Kyle Schwarber, Willson Contreras and Carl Edwards JR. hit the 1st year.
it will be at this point the team shoots up the salary page.
Other than Jon Lester, Heyward and Ben Zobrist, there are no real big salaries on the table for the team to digest.
The biggest dilemma will be the status of Jake Arrieta. My guess is that he will want too much money and walk away from the Cubs.
More important than that even is simply signing Free Agents (not named Arrieta) by Epstein.
Epstein is creative. It is okay to figure out a Starting Pitcher in Free Agency, and also add another Closer if need be. Who knows, by 2018, Hector Rondon and Carl Edwards JR. may be able to lock down that role.
There is still money to spend in the 2017 and 2018 winter markets for sure.
Also playing in the NL Central provides them with security of being able to outspend all the other teams – with the Cardinals only being in the atmosphere.
It is not like they are fighting in the tough NL West with the Giants and high spending Dodgers. It will still mean facing off against those clubs. and contending with the aging Nationals roster, and New York Mets young staff for a few seasons.
Wrigley Field will be sold out, the revenue streams will break out to record levels, all freely flowing cash into the Ricketts family pockets.
The good news is they are not in cap hell yet The bad news is that it would only take one more bad deal/paired with Heyward, in order to prevent the club from signing all of their young superstars to extensions.
Epstein is too smart for that. Look for high value Annual Average Value’s that have expiring contracts before the 2018 and 2019 seasons. I wouldn’t be surprised if they trade for an existing ace pitcher.
Think Zack Greinke now, or a guy like Justin Verlander in 2018 or 2019, where the other club may eat some of the salary, ask for a high level prospect, and then have a legitimate Starter to lug some innings in the playoffs.
I also wouldn’t be surprised if the brass orchestrates a trade for a guy like Chris Archer – or Sonny Gray (midway through this year if he has healed himself).
Maybe it would cost you a Javier Baez, or a combinations of Carl Edwards JR./Albert Almora JR. to do it, however with Ben Zobrist still in town, defense alignment can be configured in a lot of different ways for at least the next 2 – 3 years.
Like I stated in the Giants Payroll article, the new CBA has also reeled in the Dodgers spending $300 MIL on team payroll. The best thing that could happen for the Cubs is if Clayton Kershaw were to opt out of his deal beyond 2017.
That would either bring up the price for the Dodgers to sign him, or even give them the chance to sign the guy themselves. Yes. the Cubs have more flexibility than the Dodgers for at least a couple of offseasons.
Guaranteed Contracts/POS/AGE:
Jason Heyward – OF (28): With a grand sum of $184 MIL from 2016 – 2023 ( 8 years) this is a brutal deal – and the club is lucky to have already won a World Series in season 1 of this pact.
Heyward will make an astonishing $28.2 MIL for both the 2017 and 2018 seasons. Epstein at least frontloaded the contract to erase some of the burden by the time the young talent comes up for raises.
This deal is the 13th richest in history for a guy who carried a .631 OPS. in 2016 I tend to think that Heyward will be closer to his Career OPS of .761 the next few years with the pressure somewhat off him now.
Hit him 7th or 8th and let him work out his kinks. Defense is at least not a problem here with him winning a 4th Gold Glove.
This could end bad in 2017 – with Heyward riding pine for some of the year – if the club opts to use Zobrist, Schwarber and the tandem of Jon Jay and Almora JR. as the OF.
You also have to think that Joe Maddon won’t hesitate to find Willson Contreras reps as well.
Jon Lester – SP (33): Lester is in the 3rd year of a 7 YR/$165 MIL deal, and is set to reel in $25 MIL in 2017. The deal calls for $27.5 MIL in both 2018 and 2019, before scaling back to $20 MIL in 2020.
There is a 2021 Club Option as well. Details on that: $25M Team Option, $10M Buyout option guaranteed with 200 innings in 2020 or 400 IP in 2019-20.
With the Buyout that large, the man would have to fall from grace hard, to not get the Option. Although he would be nearly 40, $15 MIL extra will probably not be that bad.
Lester is worth every dollar the club has spent so far. It is hard to find playoff proven commodities on the open market.
Ben Zobrist – UT (36): Zobrist is the only player in the MLB who was won 2 straight World Series, as also being a member of the 2015 WS Champ KC Royals.
With the availability to play 5 defensive positions, Zobrist was the perfect compliment to the Cubs defensive roster in 2016 – although he played predominantly at 2B.
With the emergence of Baez in the playoffs, he will likely rove more around in 2017.
Zobrist earns $16.5 MIL in both 2017 and 2018 – before retreating back to $12.5 MIL in 2019. He will be in his Age 39 season at that point, and it may not look so hot at that point, but one can’t argue at his flexibility on the Roster providing so many options in the title run.
You can even say that his positional switching gives the club a better chance to hold onto Kyle Schwarber (instead of trading him in the American League).
John Lackey – SP (38): Lackey joined Lester, David Ross. and Epstein as guys who have won World Series in 2013 with Boston and the Cubs in 2016. He will make $16 MIL in 2017 before hitting Free Agency in 2018.
Lackey lugged 188.1 IP and gave the Cubs a 3.35 ERA in the process. It doesn’t even matter that he was being pulled in the early innings of the postseason.
Jake Arrieta – SP (31): Arrieta earns a tidy $15.6 MIL this year and will likely head out into Free Agency as a Scott Boras client. Unfortunately the man is going to be 32 heading into 2018.
I would not offer him higher than a 4 year deal at $20 – $21 MIL after, yet that will not get the job done when he hits the open market. Someone will pony up 5 YRs/$125 MIL for him, you watch.
Miguel Montero – C (34); Montero will make $14 MIL in 2017 – and I am not sure he will Catch more than about 60 games. Contreras at last is on an entry level contract to offset this salary. I am surprised the team has not ventured out to trade him.
Wade Davis – CL (32): It cost the club Jorge Soler and 4 years of Team Control, yet this was the way to go. $10 MIL for one year of Davis (who Closed for the 2015 wS Champion Royals) is smart business practice.
To acquire an elite Reliever such as this is a great move – when you consider the Yankees, Dodgers and Giants spent $86 MIL, $80 MIL and $62 MIL to sign Aroldis Chapman, Kenley Jansen and Mark Melancon respectively.
Soler was going to be their 7th option as an OF. Davis, by the way, has a 0.83 ERA in 32.2 IP for his postseason career – and has carried a mid 1 ERA from 2014 – 2016 as a late inning Reliever – spanning 183 IP.
I would also think the club will extend the Qualifying Offer to him this winter ( $17.5 – $19 MIL range for one year), so they may even recover a 2nd or 3rd Draft Pick back all for just $10 MIL.
Jon Jay – OF (32): Has a 2017 contract or $8 MIL to play OF. He has a career .352 OBP, so could hit 1st or 9th for Maddon, working as an on base guy for the big boppers. Brilliant little move.
Anthony Rizzo – 1B (28): Rizzo will take him $7 MIL for 2017, coming after the heels of an ALL-Star, Gold Glove, Silver Slugger and top 4 MVP season in which he clubbed 30+ HRs and added 100 RBI for a 2nd straight season.
Rizzo also makes $7 MIL in 2018, $12 MIL in 2019, and two Team Options in a row call for $16.5 MIL and $2 MIL Buyouts for both 2020 and 2021.
It is contracts like this that setup championship caliber clubs for the organization.
Other valued deals that compare to it last decade or so. Paul Goldschmidt (5 YRs/$32.5 MIL), Madison Bumgarner (6 YRS/$35.6 MIL) and Andrew McCutchen ( 6 YRs/$51 MIL) that coincided with 4 straight top 5 NL MVP finishes.
Rizzo should challenge for an MVP every year of that remains on this deal.
Koji Uehara – RP (42): $6 MIL for one year seems like a lot or a guy of his age, but Uehara has plenty of playoff/Closer experience that is invaluable to a club like this. I would take it easy on him in the regular season and save the bullets for playoffs.
Hector Rondon – RP (29): $5.8 MIL for this former Closer is not a bad deal in 2017. Rondon has one more year left of Arbitration before hitting Free Agency in 2019. He has 77 Saves and a career ERA of 2.97.
Brian Duensing – SP/RP (33): Makes $2 MIL in 2017 and a Free Agent in 2018. A spot start here and extra Bullpen arm,
Justin Grimm – RP (29): Avoided Arbitration with a $1.8 MIL, has 2 more years left of Arbitration before he is a Free Agent.
Total Money for this Category for 2017: $157.5 MIL (13 Players)
Arbitration Eligible/POS/AGE
3rd year
Pedro Strop – RP (33): Is projected to to earn $5.5 MIL in Arbitration, and is a Free Agent in 2018.
Total Money for this Category for 2017: $5.5 MI: Total money is now $163 MIL
Pre-Arbitration – Entry Level Contracts:
Tommy La Stella – INF (28): Is Arbitration Eligible from 2018 – 2020 and a Free Agent in 2021.
Kyle Hendricks – SP (27): Is Arbitration Eligible from 2018 – 2020 and a Free Agent in 2021.
Kris Bryant – 3B Is Arbitration Eligible from 2018 – 2021 as a “Super 2” and a Free Agent in 2021. Bryant is only 25 Years old, and will have 4 years of Arbitration kick in starting next season.
Since the club opted to start his 2015 after the 10 days of service time, they wll retian his rights until the end of 2021. Bryant is on pace to end up recording Arbitration cash if he keeps his career trajectory.
The club should really look to extend him similar to the Mike Trout 6 YRs.$144 MIL deal he got.
Addison Russell – SS (23): Is Arbitration Eligible from 2018 – 2021 as a “Super 2” and a Free Agent in 2022.
Comparisons to an extension similar to what he may get are: Jason Kipnis and Matt Carpenter (6 YRs and $52 MIL)
Matt Szczur – UT (28): Is Arbitration Eligible from 2019 – 2021 and a Free Agent in 2022.
Javier Baez – 2B/3B (24): Is Arbitration Eligible from 2019 – 2021 and a Free Agent in 2022.
Mike Montgomery – SP/RP (29): Is Arbitration Eligible from 2019 – 2021 and a Free Agent in 2022.
Kyle Schwarber – OF (24): Is Arbitration Eligible from 2019 – 2021 and a Free Agent in 2022.
Willson Contreras – C (25): Is Arbitration Eligible from 2022 – 2022 and a Free Agent in 2023.
Albert Almora JR – OF (23): Is Arbitration Eligible from 2022 – 2022 and a Free Agent in 2023.
Rob Zastryzny – RP (25) Is Arbitration Eligible from 2022 – 2022 and a Free Agent in 2023.
Total Money for this Category for 2017: $6.0 MIL MIL Toral Money Oveall – $169.0 MIL
Buyouts/Dead Money
Jason Hammel – $2 Million Buyout for 2017 that was agreed to in a gentleman’s deal. There is no dead money on he books past 2017 thus far.
Conclusions:
Despite the Heyward mistake of a deal, Epstein has done everything right. It will be a constant maneuvering of the incoming talent – to surround the plethora of young superstars the club has.
The Cubs have the availability to sign an elite pitcher in Free Agency in the year or 2, or trade for one. Beyond that, the team can’t make another top 50 ALL – Time Salary roster mistake.
The brass should also investigate early extensions for Bryant, Ruseell and Contreras immediately while they may afford to wait for Hendricks and Schwarber yet.
Some sort of guaranteed money to the budget would be wise
As for Arrieta, he is just too old – an unorthodox in order to grant him the cash he will seek. Epstein has to find creative ways to bring in a #1 or $2 beyond this campaign.
Chicago is fantastic shape financially to spend as much as it takes to ensure a dynasty in the next half-dozen years.
If I were in charge I would try to limit any big historic contracts to their own young superstars from this point forwards.
Also don’t be afraid to trade one of the premiere young offensive players for a quality Starter (#1 or #2 Starter)like Baez, Contreras or Almora.
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Who Owns October in MLB Playoffs 2016 (#WOO) Tallies Updated for October 19, 2016
Thomas Ondrey/The Cleveland Plain Dealer
One series is over while the other is all knotted up after four games.
Time to see who owned October.
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO’S to a worthy player on the losing team.
At the end of the post season, we will see who had the highest WOO total as a pitcher and a hitter.
A complete description of the rules can be found HERE.
From October 19th.
ALCS Game 5 and NLCS Game 4:
Receiving 1 WOO’s
Francisco Lindor collected 3 hits and scored the first run in the 3-0 Cleveland victory that clinched the pennant in Toronto.
Ryan Merritt threw only his second ever major league start and made it count. He pitched shutout ball into the 5th inning and allowed the Indians to tap into their bullpen, who finished up the games, series and pennant, 3-0 over the Blue Jays.
Mike Montgomery threw a pair of shutout innings out of the bullpen and stopped the Dodgers from getting back into the game as the Cubs poured it on, 10-2.
Addison Russell woke up from a nasty slump to go 3 for 5, including a 2 run homer, to lead the Cubs past the Dodgers, 10-2.
Receiving 1/2 WOO’s
Jose Bautista singled and hit a double in the 9th inning but was stranded as Toronto was eliminated in the ALCS by Cleveland, 3-0.
Justin Turner reached base twice and drove in the Dodgers only 2 runs as they were blown out in Game 4 by the Cubs, 10-2.
Current ‘WOO’ Totals MLB 2016:
Hitters ‘WOO’ MLB 2016,
Josh Donaldson – Blue Jays 3 1/2, Francisco Lindor – Indians 3, Adrian Gonzalez – Dodgers 2 1/2, Daniel Murphy – Nationals 2, Justin Turner – Dodgers 2, Javier Baez – Cubs 1 1/2, Edwin Encarnacion – Blue Jays 1 1/2, Conor Gillaspie – Giants 1 1/2, Mookie Betts – Red Sox 1, Kris Bryant – Cubs 1, Coco Crisp – Indians 1, Dexter Fowler – Cubs 1, Brandon Guyer – Indians 1, Yasmani Grandal – Dodgers 1, Shawn Kelley – Nationals 1, Jason Kipnis – Indians 1, Miguel Montero – Cubs 1, Mike Napoli – Indians 1, Joe Panik – Giants 1, Joc Pederson – Dodgers 1, Troy Tulowitzki – Blue Jays 1, Jayson Werth – Nationals 1, Ben Zobrist – Cubs 1, Elvis Andrus – Rangers 1/2, Jose Bautista – Blue Jays 1/2, Andrew Benintendi – Red Sox 1/2, Gregor Blanco – Giants 1/2, Ian Desmond – Rangers 1/2, Curtis Granderson – Mets 1/2, Rougned Odor – Rangers 1/2, Roberto Perez – Indians 1/2, Buster Posey – Giants 1/2, Carlos Ruiz – Dodgers 1/2, Michael Saunders – Blue Jays 1/2, Mark Trumbo – Orioles 1/2,
Pitchers ‘WOO’ MLB 2016,
Kenley Jansen – Dodgers 2, Clayton Kershaw – Dodgers 2, Corey Kluber – Indians 2, Jon Lester – Cubs 2, Andrew Miller – Indians 2, Roberto Osuna – Blue Jays 2, Josh Tomlin – Indians 2, Marco Estrada – Blue Jays 1 1/2, Madison Bumgarner – Giants 1, Aroldis Chapman – Cubs 1, Rich Hill – Dodgers 1, Derek Law – Giants 1, Mark Melancon– Nationals 1, Ryan Merritt – Indians 1, Mike Montgomery – Cubs 1, Aaron Sanchez – Blue Jays 1, Marcus Stroman – Blue Jays 1, Travis Wood – Cubs 1, Jake Arrieta – Cubs 1/2, Johnny Cueto – Giants 1/2, Kyle Hendricks – Cubs 1/2, Matt Moore – Giants 1/2, Darren O’Day – Orioles 1/2, Max Scherzer – Nationals 1/2, Noah Syndergaard – Mets 1/2,
Who Owned Baseball September 11, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings
MARK J. TERRILL/AP
Andrelton Simmons hit 2 homers to help the Angels prevent a sweep by the Rangers with a 3-2 final.
Corey Kluber struck out 10 Twins in 7 innings, allowing 1 run and earning the 7-1 Cleveland victory.
Addison Russell went 3 for 4 with a homer, scoring 3 times to help the Cubs slug past Houston, 9-5.
Jose Urena missed a complete game shutout by one out, finished with 8 2/3 scoreless frames, allowing 4 hits as the Marlins blanked the Dodgers, 3-0.
They all owned baseball on September 11, 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 August 21, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings
Justin Edmonds, Getty Images
Nolan Arenado went 4 for 5 with a pair of homers and 6 RBI as the Rockies clobbered the Cubs, 11-4.
Noah Syndergaard shut the Giants out over 8 strong innings, allowing 2 hits and getting the 2-0 Mets victory.
Justin Upton drove in 6 with 2 homers to lead Detroit past Boston, 10-5.
Dallas Keuchel allowing 2 runs over 8 innings, striking out 7 Baltimore hitters and earning the 5-3 decision for Houston.
They All Owned Baseball on August 21, 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.
Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For DraftKings 8/14/16
P- Jake Odorizzi (vs. New York Yankees): $8,200. Odorizzi entered his last start with a 20.2 inning scoreless streak. Unfortunately, he lost that streak, but he still pitched decent. In his last three starts, he is 2-0, with a 1.00 ERA, and 15 strikeouts in 18 innings pitched. In two starts against the Yankees in 2016, he has a 1-1 record, 1.12 ERA, and 11 strikeouts.
P- Tom Koehler (vs. Chicago White Sox): $8,600. Koehler has been lights out recently. Over his last three starts, he has a 2-0 record, 0.47 ERA, and 18 strikeouts in 19 innings pitched. With that said, he is going up against a pretty weak Chicago White Sox lineup. Over the last seven days, the White Sox have a .695 OPS, which ranks 20th in Major League Baseball.
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Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For DraftKings 8/10/16
P- Jose Quintana (vs. Kansas City Royals): $10,300. Over his last three starts, Quintana has a 1-0 record, with a 1.74 ERA, and 16 strikeouts in 20.2 innings pitched. He is one win away from his 10th win, so he should be amped to succeed. Over the last 10 games, the Royals rank 26th in OPS with .654, so clearly they are struggling offensively. Quintana should have no problem taking care of business on Wednesday.
P- Jason Hammel (vs. Los Angeles Angels): $8,000. In 66 career at bats against Hammel, the Angels’ offense is batting .212, with two XBH, and a .286 OBP. Over Hammel’s last 21 starts, he has given up one or zero runs in 10 of those starts. He is also very effective at home this season, which is a plus for Wednesday night.
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Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For DraftKings – 7/27/16
P – Jon Gray (vs. Baltimore Orioles): $10,500. The Orioles have been horrendous over the last seven games. They are ranked last in OPS with a .599. Meanwhile, Jon Gray has been absolutely filthy over his last few starts. In his last three starts, Gray has struck out at least eight batters and he has only given up three runs in 20.1 innings pitched. Over his last 11 starts, he owns a 2.93 ERA.
P – Matt Moore (vs. Los Angeles Dodgers): $7,500. Over his last nine starts, Moore has thrown at least six innings. He is facing a Dodgers’ lineup who has struggled mightily against left-handed pitching. In 831 at bats against lefties, the Dodgers are batting .218, with a .295 OBP, and a .350 slugging percentage.
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Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For DraftKings 6/23/16
P- Jerad Eickhoff (vs. Minnesota Twins): $9,400. All of the top tier pitchers have tough match-ups on Thursday, but Eickhoff has a very favorable matchup. He will be facing the Minnesota Twins, who have scored the fewest runs in the American League this year. So far in 2016, Eickhoff is 4-9, with a 3.49 ERA, 83 hits against, and 73 strikeouts in 85 innings pitched. His record isn’t pretty, but it is more a matter of lack of run support, which shouldn’t be an issue against the Twins.
P- Tim Lincecum (vs. Oakland Athletics): $7,100. Lincecum dominated the A’s in his season debut on Saturday. The A’s offense has really struggled recently, so Lincecum should be able to take care of business again on Thursday. Over the last seven games, the A’s rank 29th in runs, 29th in OBP, and 29th in slugging. This will also be Lincecum’s debut at his home stadium, so the crowd will be behind him, which should help him succeed.
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Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For DraftKings 6/20/16
P- Clayton Kershaw (vs. Washington Nationals): $14,200. It is close to impossible not to start Kershaw every time he steps on the mound. He is averaging 30.1 points per game this season on DraftKings. He currently owns a 19-1 strikeout to walk ratio, so he should provide plenty of points every time he steps on the mound. In 155 career at bats against Kershaw, the Nationals’ offense is batting .219, with 48 strikeouts, and a .265 OBP.
P- Drew Smyly (vs. Cleveland Indians): In 77 career at bats against Smyly, the Indians’ offense is batting .195, with 24 strikeouts, and a .249 OBP. He struggled over the past month or so, but he dominated his last time out, in which he struck out 12 batters over seven innings.
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The Chicago Cubs Offense Will Lead To Many World Series Titles
It has been 108 years since the Cubs last won a World Series
Trey Rose (Featured Fantasy Baseball Writer/Owner – dynastydigest.sportsblog.com) Follow @dynasty_digest
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Could this be the year that the Chicago Cubs break their curse of not winning a World Series title since 1908?
Many baseball fans and critics believe they have the best shot out of all teams in Major League Baseball.
The Chicago Cubs organization has done an amazing job at developing homegrown talent over the past 4 to 5 years and this young talent is starting to make a massive impact in the big leagues.
Not only are the Cubs producing homegrown talent, but they made a huge splash in the free agency market this Spring.
This team has so much talent that there are multiple very talented players who currently don’t have a spot in the lineup.
In this article I will highlight each position and share the key organizational depth that could possibly bring home a World Series title in 2016.
Each position will list players who are projected to start and prospects that could have an impact within the next 2-4 years.
Players with multi-positional eligibility will have this listed in their bio. Prospects will be listed at positions that they are projected to play when they arrive in the big leagues.
Please click the link below to see my analysis on Miguel Montero, Willson Contreras, Anthony Rizzo, Dan Vogelbach, Ben Zobrist, Javier Baez, Addison Russell, Gleyber Torres, Dexter Fowler, Jason Heyward, Kyle Schwarber, Jorge Soler, Ian Happ, Albert Almora, and more:
Get Ready For The ‘Zombie Cardinals’ Version 11.0 In 2016: Cubs Are Favored In Division – But Gap Isn’t Huge
St. Louis has been an elite team in the National League for the last 15 years. While Chicago deserves to be favorite in the NL Central – and to win the World Series, never sleep on the St. Louis Cardinals. This team has 9 LCS Appearances since 2000, and did win 100 win games last campaign. Throw in a championship pedigree – and a brilliant youth movement, aided by a few cagey veterans, and the gap is just not that great compared with the Cubs. A huge effort by Adam Wainwright, with less than perfect years from Arrieta and Lester may be all it takes for the RedBirds to remain the kings of the NL Central.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The Cubs have signed Dexter Fowler and traded away Chris Coghlan yesterday, and the Cards will have another week this winter where they are not the focus of the NL Central. It probably suits them just fine.
On the heels of a 100 win campaign during 2015, the gambling websites, PECOTA and FanGraphs are all projecting a massive regression for St. Louis in 2016. I am not one of those people.
I, for one, think the Cardinals are still to be reckoned with.
Switch out a potentially healthy Matt Holliday, coupled with full years from Stephen Piscotty and Randal Grichuk – for the departed Jason Heyward to the Cubs, and I like that.
Throw in Adam Wainwright and Mike Leake, for the loss of Lance Lynn and John Lackey, and I still like that almost as even.
No doubt that Ben Zobrist was a good singing for the Chicago Cubs this offseason, but lets not throw St. Louis over the cliff just yet. Read the rest of this entry
MLB Power Rankings: Early Win Total Predictions For Spring Of 2016
Just because there is parity in the American League it doesn’t mean that the Junior Circuit will not club the National League in Interleague this upcoming season. In fact, I am calling for them to be 50 games over .500 versus the Senior Circuit in the AL vs NL schedule. Most of that will be versus the weaker NL clubs, however the better NL clubs will not entirely dominate the whole AL either.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Updated on Feb.18, 2015
There is parity in the American League and their is a growing distance between the good and the bad clubs in the National League.
One could argue that the top 7 teams (NYM/CHC/SF/WSH/STL/PIT, LAD) in all of the Majors reside in the NL right now, and you then you can counter that by saying they have the 6 worst squads as well (PHI/ATL/MIL/CIN/SD/COL).
The funny thing about this whole ordeal is that the AL is absolutely going to cream the NL in Interleague this forthcoming season. On a 12 year win streak already, I am predicting a 175 – 125 W – L for the games between both leagues. The AL speedbags the National League in my view.
Last year, the American League held a 167 – 133 mark over the National League so that prediction up there is not foreign by any means.
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.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part-Owner) Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
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
Chicago Cubs State Of The Union For 2016
I absolutely love the signing of Zobrist for the Cubs. He is a quality veteran Utility guy for this young versatile club. Zobrist at 35 may have been pricey at the four year deal work, but they were able to trade away Starlin Castro as a result. Zobrist was vital to the Royals 2015 World Series Playoff run – and is Joe Maddon’s favorite all time player. His ability to switch all over the field will give guys like Schwarber, Baez, Soler and Russell all the availability to thrive with matchup maneuvers. The Cubs should not stop here though. They need to acquire a CF – and trade for a #3 starter at some point in the next 8 months.
Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead Analyst) Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The Cubs finally threw their names in the ring on the Free Agent front this week by first signing ultra Utility man Ben Zobrist to a 4 YR/$56 MIL -on the heels of John Lackey to a 2 YR/$32 MIL deal.
The club also dealt Starlin Castro away for another team controllable pitcher in Adam Warren. These are significant steps in the right direction to start their run at the 2016 NL Central Division Title,
2015 was a nice breakout season – and the furthest the team has gone in 12 years however this franchise needs to spend as much money and continue to pursue an end to their century plus World Series drought.
There is no question all other 29 clubs would trade their offensive rosters for the value the young Chicago NL squad is going to put forth the next 5 years. Read the rest of this entry
WHO OWNED BASEBALL – THE FINAL RESULTS FOR 2015
The regular season is over. My daily tally for Who Owns Baseball is at an end. Every day I determine which player had the best individual day on a winning team to earn a full WOB and on a losing team for a 1/2 WOB.
These are final leaders in each categor for Who Owns Baseball
NATIONAL LEAGUE HITTER WHO OWNED BASEBALL
(AP Photo/Al Behrman)
JOEY VOTTO – Cincinnati Reds
(Final Total – 7 1/2 WOB.)
Second Place (TIE):
Paul Goldschmidt, Arizona Diamondbacks.
Andrew McCutchen, Pittsburgh Pirates.
(Final Total – 7 WOB.)
NATIONAL LEAGUE PITCHER WHO OWNED BASEBALL
Alex Brandon / Associated Press
CLAYTON KERSHAW – Los Angeles Dodgers
(Final Total – 13 1/2 WOB.)
Second Place:
Jake Arrieta, Chicago Cubs
(Final Total – 11 WOB)
Third Place
Zack Greinke, Los Angeles Dodgers
(Final Total – 9 1/2 WOB.)
AMERICAN LEAGUE HITTER WHO OWNED BASEBALL
Rob Carr – Getty Image Sports
MIKE TROUT – Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
(Final Total – 10 1/2 WOB.)
Second Place:
Josh Donaldson, Toronto Blue Jays
(Final Total – 6 1/2 WOB)
Third Place
Miguel Cabrera, Detroit Tigers
(Final Total – 6 WOB.)
AMERICAN LEAGUE PITCHER WHO OWNED BASEBALL
Karen Warren, Houston Chronicle
DALLAS KEUCHEL – Houston Astros
(Final Total – 10 WOB.)
Second Place (TIE):
Sonny Gray, Oakland Athletics.
Chris Sale, Chicago White Sox.
(Final Total – 7 WOB.)
THE WINNERS FROM PREVIOUS SEASONS:
2013
NL Batter: Paul Goldschmidt, Arizona Diamondbacks
NL Pitcher: Clayton Kershaw, Los Angeles Dodgers
AL Batter: Miguel Cabrera, Detroit Tigers
AL Pitcher: (3 Way Tie) R. A. Dickey, Toronto Blue Jays
Matt Moore, Tampa Bay Rays
Max Scherzer, Detroit Tigers
2013
NL Pitcher: Andrew McCutchen, Pittsburgh Pirates
NL Pitcher: Clayton Kershaw, Los Angeles Dodgers
AL Batter: Mike Trout, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
AL Pitcher: Felix Hernandez, Seattle Mariners
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Who Owned Baseball October 4, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings
Brandon Wade – Getty Images
Cole Hamels settled down after a shaky first inning to throw a complete game, allowing 3 hits and 2 runs, striking out 8 and topped the Angels, 9-2 to clinch the AL West title for the Texas Rangers.
Chris Davis homered twice and reached base 4 times altogether, driving in 4 and helping the Orioles beat the Yankees, 9-4.
Shelby Miller finally recorded another win, throwing 8 shutout innings, allowing 3 hits and 7 strikeouts, as Atlanta was victorious over St. Louis, 6-0.
A. J. Pollock went 3 for 5, homering and driving in a pair to have the Diamondbacks crush Houston’s hopes to host the Wild Card Game with a 5-3 final.
They all owned baseball on October 4, 2015
Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.
Rick Porcello allowed 2 earned runs and 1 unearned run over 7 innings but was saddled with the 3-1 Red Sox loss in Cleveland.
Jose Altuve went 3 for 5 with a triple and two runs scored. His Astros would fall just short to Arizona, 5-3.
Tanner Roark threw 6 shutout innings, allowing 3 hits and 1 walk. He would not factor into the decision as the Nationals lost to the Mets, 1-0.
Dee Gordon captured the NL Batting Title with a single, double and homer, scoring both Marlins runs along the way but Philadelphia won, 7-2.
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Who Owned Baseball October 3, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings
AL BELLO/GETTY IMAGES
Max Scherzer threw his second no hitter of the season, walking none and striking out 17 Mets along the way for the 2-0 Washington final.
Corey Kluber struck out 9 over 8 shutout innings, allowing 3 hits and 2 walks and earning the 2-0 decision for the Indians over Boston.
Christian Yelich had a terrific double header. In all he went reached base nine times, going 5-5 in one game and 3 for 4 with a walk in the other, combining for 3 runs scored and 2 RBI as the Marlins beat the Phillies twice, 7-6 and 5-2.
Colby Rasmus homered twice and added a single to lead the Astros closer to a playoff spot, 6-2 over the Diamondbacks.
They all owned baseball on October 3, 2015
Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.
Noah Syndergaard allowed 2 hits and 1 run and 1 walk while striking out 10 Washington batters. But the Mets were no hit, 2-0.
Marco Estrada pitched into the 7th, finishing with 6 2/3 innings, striking out 9 while giving up 3 hits and walking none. He would get a no decision as the Blue Jays lost to Tampa Bay 4-3.
Paul Goldschmidt reached base 3 times and homered in the Diamondbacks 6-2 loss to the Astros.
Josh Hamilton‘s two homers off the Angels (on their dime) was almost the greatest middle finger in recent years. Unfortunately for him, the Angels made a dramatic rally in the 9th inning to put the Division Clinching on hold and beat the Rangers 11-10.
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Who Owned Baseball October 2, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings
PAUL BEATY/AP
Chris Sale set the single season strikeout mark for a White Sox pitcher with 274, finishing the game with 7 whiffs in 7 innings, allowing 1 run and 5 hits in the 2-1 final over Detroit.
Carlos Correa kept Houston’s playoff hopes alive by leading a mind boggling offensive attack. He reached base 4 times, including a homer and a stolen base, scoring 4 and driving in 4 as the Astros obliterated the Diamondbacks 21-5.
Jake Arrieta finished his regular season with another shutout performance, striking out 7, allowing just 2 hits over 6 innings and sealing the 6-1 Cubs victory in Milwaukee.
Daniel Castro collected 3 hits including a homer, driving in a pair in the Braves 4-0 blanking of St. Louis.
They all owned baseball on October 2, 2015
Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.
Martin Perez allowed 1 run over 7 innings but got a no decision as the Rangers fell to the Angels, 2-1.
Brad Miller went 3 for 3 with a homer in the Mariners 4-2 defeat to the A’s.
Eugenio Suarez homered and singled, driving in 3 in Cincinnati’s 6-4 loss in Pittsburgh.
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Who Owned Baseball October 1, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings
AP Photo – Patrick Semansky
Manny Machado reached base 4 times, including 2 homers, a pair of stolen bases, 3 runs scored and 3 RBI to help Baltimore win a rain soaked 6-4 game over the Blue Jays.
Jake Odorizzi topped Miami with 7 innings, one unearned run and 7 strikeouts and earned the 4-1 decision for Tampa Bay.
Socrates Brito came off the bench and went 3 for 3, including a triple and a stolen base, scoring twice and driving in a run, scoring in the game winning rally in Diamondbacks come from behind victory, 8-6.
Jerad Eickhoff pitched 7 shutout innings, striking out 10 and 4 hits to lead the Phillies past the Mets, 3-0.
They all owned baseball on October 1, 2015
Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.
Albert Pujols doubled and homered, scoring twice, but saw the Rangers beat his Angels 5-3.
Trevor Bauer was terrific for 7 innings, giving up 2 hits and a run and 3 walks. He got no decision as the Twins won in Cleveland, 4-2.
Kirk Nieuwenhuis doubled twice and singled in the Mets 3-0 loss to Philadelphia.
Ryan Weber went 7 innings, allowing 1 run, no walks and 10 strikeouts. He would get a hard luck loss as the Braves lost to the Nationals, 3-0.
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Who Owned Baseball September 30, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings
Gene J. Puskar – AP Photo
Jason Heyward reached base 4 times, including a grand slam and made some terrific catches in right field in the Cardinals Division Clinching 11-1 laugher over the Pirates. He also added another hit in the opening game of the double header.
Mike Leake threw a complete game 2 hit, no walk shutout to give the Giants a too little too late 5-0 victory over the NL West champion Dodgers.
Ryan Goins reached base 6 times, scoring 3 times and driving in another to led the Blue Jays to a 15-2 blow out of the Orioles and Toronto’s first AL East title since 1993.
Kevin Gausman picked up the Orioles in the second game of the double header with 8 innings, 5 hits and no walks while striking out 10 en route to an 8-1 win over the Blue Jays.
They all owned baseball on September 30, 2015
Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.
Matt Carpenter doubled and homered, driving in a pair in the Cardinals 8-2 defeat by the Pirates in the opening game of their double header. In the night cap, he reached base 4 times, scoring 3 and doubling.
Chad Bettis allowed 1 earned run and 1 unearned run over 6 solid innings but took the 3-1 Rockies loss to Arizona.
Mike Trout reached base 5 times including a homer and a walk in the 9th that made him the tying run. He would be stranded as the Angels come back came just short, 8-7 to Oakland.
Jose Quintana went 9 innings, allowing 5 hits, 3 runs and striking out 8. He would get a no decision as the White Sox fell to Kansas City in 10 innings, 5-3.
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Who Owned Baseball September 29, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings
Curtis Compton / ccompton@ajc.com
A. J. Pierzynski went 3 for 3 with 2 homers, providing all of Atlanta’s offense as they snuck past Washington, 2-1.
Clayton Kershaw threw a complete game 1 hit, 1 walk, 13 strikeout shutout to top the Giants 8-0 and clinch the National League West crown for the Dodgers.
Blake Swihart homered twice, driving in 5 runs, helping Boston clobber the Yankees in the Bronx, 10-4
Nick Tropeano struck out 11 and walked just 1 in 6 2/3 innings, earning the 8-1 decision for the Angels over Oakland.
They all owned baseball on September 29, 2015
Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.
Lucas Duda collected 3 hits, 2 of them home runs, and drove in 3, but it was not enough as the Phillies edged the playoff bound Mets, 4-3.
Tanner Roark pitched into the 7th, finishing with 6 2/3 innings, allowing 2 runs and 5 hits. He would be saddled with the loss, however, as the Nationals fell to Atlanta, 2-1.
Eric Hosmer homered and singled in the Royals 4-2 loss to the White Sox.
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Who Owned Baseball September 28, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings
(AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
Max Scherzer threw a no hitter into the 8th and finished with 8 innings, 2 hits, 1 run, 3 walks and 10 strikeouts, giving the Nationals a controversy free 5-1 decision over the Reds.
Matt den Dekker got 3 hits, including a homer, driving in 2 and scored 2 in Washington’s 5-1 victory over Cincinnati.
Marco Estrada pitched into the 8th inning, settling down after some early trouble to finish with 7 1/3 innings, 4 hits, 3 runs and 1 walk. He did not get the decision but helped set up Toronto’s 4-3 win over the Orioles.
Jackie Bradley Jr. reached base 3 times, including a 2 run homer, driving in 3 and stealing a pair of extra base hits away with his defense as the Red Sox topped the Yankees 5-1 and delayed a post season clinching for their rivals for at least a day.
They all owned baseball on September 28, 2015
Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.
J. A. Happ allowed 1 hit and no walks over 6 shutout innings. He did not get the decision in the Pirates heart breaking 3-0 loss to St. Louis.
Andre Ethier got a pair of hits and drove in the tying run in the 9th inning but the Dodgers fell to San Francisco in the 12th inning, 3-2.
Yordano Ventura was perfect through 5, finishing with 7 shutout frames, allowing 2 hits, 1 walk and striking out 6. He would not get a decision as the Cubs walked off 1-0 winners in the 11th.
Prince Fielder singled, doubled and homered, driving in 4 but the Rangers came up short to Detroit, 7-4.
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Who Owned Baseball September 27, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings
NAM Y. HUH/AP
Jake Arrieta was perfect through 6 and finished with 7 innings, 1 hit, 1 hit batsman, no walks, 9 strikeouts and a home run of his own as the playoff bound Cubs blanked Pittsburgh, 4-0.
Dallas Keuchel solidified his Cy Young bid by striking out 10 Rangers in 7 innings, allowing 2 hits, 2 walks and 1 run and giving the Astros a critical 4-2 victory.
Ender Inciarte went 4 for 5 with a pair of homers and 3 RBI to lead Arizona past San Diego, 4-2.
Byron Buxton doubled and homered, driving in a pair and scoring 2 to help the still contending Twins clobber the Tigers, 7-1.
They all owned baseball on September 27, 2015
Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.
John Lackey threw 7 strong innings, striking out 7 and giving up just 1 run. The bullpen would implode and the Brewers beat the Cardinals, 8-4.
Hisashi Iwakuma pitched into the 8th, finishing with 7 1/3 innings and giving up 3 runs while walking no Angels. He would be saddled with the decision in the 3-2 Mariners loss.
Matt den Dekker collected 4 hits, homered and scored 3 times in the Nationals 12-5 defeat at the hands of the Phillies.
Mikie Mahtook got 2 hits including a homer and 2 RBI but Tampa Bay fell to Toronto, 5-4.
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Who Owned Baseball September 26, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings
Ben Margot – AP
Jarrett Parker put on a mind boggling show, launching 3 homers, including a grand slam, to drive in 7 runs in the football sounding 14-10 San Francisco over Oakland final score.
Stephen Strasburg struck out 13 in 8 innings, allowing 3 hits, 1 walk and 1 run. He did not factor in the decision but helped set up Washington’s 2-1 victory over Philadelphia.
Carlos Correa gave the Astros a much needed burst of energy by going 3 for 4 with 2 homers, including a game tying shot, and 3 RBI to beat Houston 9-7.
Adam Warren pitched 6 strong innings, allowing 3 hits and 1 run, earning the 2-1 win for the Yankees over the White Sox.
They all owned baseball on September 26, 2015
Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.
Andre Ethier went 2 for 4 with a homer and 3 RBI but the Dodgers lost on a walk off homer to the Rockies, 8-6.
Jeremy Hellickson allowed just 4 hits and 1 run over 6 innings but was saddled with the 3-0 loss as San Diego topped Arizona.
Kevin Kiermaier doubled and homered, scoring 3 times and driving in 2 in but the Rays fell 10-8 in Toronto.
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Who Owned Baseball September 25, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings
(AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
Rich Hill threw a complete game 2 hit shutout with 10 strikeouts and 1 walk to top the legit big league lineup (as opposed to who Carlos Carrasco faced with Kansas City) beating Baltimore 7-0.
Shin-Soo Choo went 3 for 5 and crushed a critical 3 run homer to help the Rangers win a critical divisional match up against Houston, 6-2.
Gerrit Cole pushed the playoff bound Pirates closer to the top of the Division with 7 innings of 1 run ball, allowing just 4 hits and 2 walks and earning the 3-2 decision over the Cubs.
Lucas Duda smacked a pair of 3 run homers to move the Mets closer to a division title with a 12-5 pasting of the Reds.
They all owned baseball on September 25, 2015
Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.
Luis Valbuena briefly gave the Astros hope with a two run homer to help cut their deficit down. But in the end they could not beat the Rangers, 6-2.
Jon Lester went 7 innings without walking a batter, 5 hits and 2 runs but got a tough luck loss as the Pirates won against the Cubs 3-2.
Freddie Freeman got on base 4 times, homered, scored 3 times and drove in 2 but his Braves lost a wild 12-11 slugfest against Miami.
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Who Owned Baseball September 24, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings
Charlie Ridel – AP Photo
Mike Moustakas reached base 5 times with a double and a homer, driving in 3 and scoring 3 to help the Royals clobber the Mariners 10-4 and clinch their first Division Title since 1985.
Erasmo Ramirez pitched 7 strong innings, allowing 4 hits and 2 runs and earned the 4-2 decision for Tampa Bay in Boston.
Stephen Piscotty homered and had a pair of RBI singles, driving in 4 in all, helping the Cardinals erase an early hole and beat Milwaukee 7-3.
Steven Matz struck out 8 and walked none in 5 2/3 innings. He did not get the decision but the Mets won a wild 6-4 game in Cincinnati.
They all owned baseball on September 24, 2015
Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.
David Ortiz went 2 for 4 with a homer and 2 RBI in the Red Sox 4-2 defeat by Tampa Bay.
Chris Sale struck out 8 and walked 1 over 7 innings. But a 3 run homer doomed his chances as the White Sox fell to the Yankees, 3-2.
Brandon Crawford reached base 3 times including clubbing his 20th homer of the season, but the Giants bullpen blew the lead again and San Diego walked off 5-4 winners.
Alec Asher threw 7 terrific innings, allowing 3 hits, 1 run and 1 walk. He would be a hard luck loser as the Phillies were shutout by Miami, 1-0.
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