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Who Owned Baseball July 26, 2017 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings
Paul Sancya – AP Photo
Eric Hosmer collected 5 hits, including a grand slam, scored 5, drove in 6 and added a stolen base for good measure as the Royals embarrassed the Tigers, 16-2.
Chris Sale gave the Red Sox a much needed win after pitching 7 innings of 3 hit shutout ball, striking out 11 Mariners in the 4-0 final.
Christian Yelich reached base 5 times with a homer and 4 runs scored in the Marlins wild 22-10 slugfest with Texas.
Aaron Nola struck out 10 Astros in 6 shutout innings as the Phillies rolled, 9-0.
They all owned baseball on July 26, 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.
Most Recent Cycle Hit For Each MLB Franchise (Updated For Wil Myers, April 10, 2017)
![wil-myers_1c0mrm8yiv4s81ox7i5jubrb4q[1]](https://mlbreports.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/wil-myers_1c0mrm8yiv4s81ox7i5jubrb4q1.jpg?w=604)
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
PITTSBURGH PIRATES
John Jaso
September 28, 2016 vs. Chicago Cubs
NEW YORK YANKEES
Melky Cabrera.
August 2, 2009 vs Chicago White Sox
MINNESOTA TWINS
Michael Cuddyer
May 22, 2009 vs Milwaukee
KANSAS CITY ROYALS
George Brett
June 24, 1990 vs. Toronto
BONUS –
Last Cycles Hit For Teams in Old Locations
MONTREAL EXPOS
Vladimir Guerrero
September 14, 2003 vs. New York Mets
WASHINGTON SENATORS
Jim King
May 26, 1964 vs. Boston
NEW YORK GIANTS
Don Mueller
July 11, 1954 vs. Pittsburgh
PHILADELPHIA ATHLETICS
Elmer Valo
August 2, 1950 vs. Chicago White Sox
BROOKLYN DODGERS
Gil Hodges
June 25, 1949 vs. Pittsburgh
ST. LOUIS BROWNS
George McQuinn
July 19, 1941 vs. Boston Red Sox
BOSTON DOVES
Bill Collins
October 6, 1910 vs. Philadelphia Phillies
Still waiting for the first ever Marlins cycle.
Extra Base Hits (The Underrated Baseball Statistic): Active Top 10 MLB Leaders
| Rank | Player (age 2017, seasons) | Extra Base Hits |
|---|
(1) Albert Pujols, LAA – (37, 16) – 1209
(2) Adrian Beltre, TEX – (38, 19) – 1072
(3) Carlos Beltran, HOU – (40, 19) – 1035
(4) Miguel Cabrera, DET – (34, 14) – 986
(5) Robinson Cano, SEA – (34, 12) – 790
(6) Matt Holliday, NYY – (37, 13) – 775
(7) Adrian Gonzalez, LAD – (35, 13) – 735
(8) Chase Utley, Free Agent – 38, 14) – 684
(9) Ryan Howard, Free Agent -(37, 13) – 680
(10) Curtis Granderson, NYM (36, 13) – 665 Read the rest of this entry
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 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
MLB Power Rankings: Early Predictions For 2017
The week wasn’t really putting forth any big news until Edwin Encarnacion signed with the Indians a few days ago. This changed the landscape of the favorite in the American League.
Other deals included the Phillies acquiring Clay Buchholz, the Pirates inking Ivan Nova to the a 3 Year Deal, the Angels bringing in Ben Revere, and the Tigers dotting the line with Alex Avila on a contract to be the backup Catcher in Motown.
I added a few wins to Cleveland’s win total, and added a few losses to the AL Central.
For the confidence I have in the Pirates making a new baseball deal for Major League ready talent in Andrew McCutchen, I also boosted the Bucs for a few more W’s on the season prediction, and tacked on a few more losses for the Reds, Cubs and Brewers. Read the rest of this entry
Texas Rangers State Of The Union For 2017: Jon Daniels Must Counter To Houston/Seattle’s Early Moves
The Texas Rangers won an American League best 95 games last season – to win their 2nd AL west Division. and to make the playoffs for the 5th time since 2010. The winter has not gotten off to a good start, as they have watched the Astros and Mariners all add depth to their teams – while Texas has lost players from their own year end roster. The team has to get involved right now to change the course of this offseason. The time to win is now with Yu Darvish and Jonathon Lucroy in walk contract years – while their ALL – Star Veterans like Cole Hamels and Adrian Beltre become another year older.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner)
Follow @stokes_Hunter21 @mlbreports
The Rangers have been one of the better teams in the MLB since the 2010 season. Back to Back AL Pennants, and now back to back AL West Division wins have seen them reach the playoff 5 times out of the last 7 campaigns.
For those who like pitching – the franchise has 2 number one aces for at least one more year in Yu Darvish and Cole Hamels.
Simply put, the development of all of their Draft Picks, domestically or international, coupled with the management’s keen eye for talent, have the club still in the conversation for another few years.
Here is the thing though….The Astros and Mariners have been the two busiest clubs in acquiring talent thus far in the winter. Both of these teams have closed or narrowed the gap on Texas already,
Houston has signed Free Agents Josh Reddick and Carlos Beltran – with also dealing for Brian McCann. This will not affect their 2017 squad as both didn’t require anybody from the Major League Roster to get it done.
Seattle has not made as big of a splash like Houston, but has shored up some depth, and have nicely added Jean Segura (who was an ALL – Star and top 15 NL MVP in 2016 – without losing anything of note.)
Texas has signed Andrew Cashner and lost Beltran for sure…yikes.. Read the rest of this entry
Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For DraftKings 8/19/16
P- Tanner Roark (vs. Atlanta Braves): $10,600. In nine career starts against Atlanta, Tanner Roark has a 1.77 ERA. In fact, his last start was against the Braves, where he went seven innings giving up five hits, one earned run, and he struck out three. In his two starts against Atlanta this year, Roark has given up one earned run in 14 innings pitched.
P- Adam Wainwright (vs. Philadelphia Phillies): $6,600. This pick does scare me a bit, but I’m going to stick with it. Over Wainwright’s last two starts, he has not been effective at all. Luckily, the Cardinals are giving Wainwright an extra two days of rest because he believes he has found the issue in his windup. This pick is risky, but the other options that are affordable are very risky as well.
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Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For DraftKings 8/4/16
P- Matt Moore (vs. Philadelphia Phillies): $8,400. Thursday is an absolutely brutal day for potential starting pitcher choices in daily fantasy. I decided to go with Matt Moore as he makes his debut for the San Francisco Giants. Over his last three starts with the Rays, he has a 2-1 record, 2.14 ERA, and 12 strikeouts. Over the last seven games, the Phillies have a .694 OPS, which is ranked 20th in baseball. They also rank 28th in OPS against left-handed pitchers this season, which is a great sign for Moore. If Moore can limit his walks, he could go very deep into this game.
P- Nathan Eovaldi (vs. New York Mets): $7,300. Eovaldi had a terrible June, but he has been very sharp recently. Over his last six appearances, he has only allowed six runs. The New York Mets’ offense has been very lackluster this year, so hopefully Eovaldi shows more success. I would typically go with a more “for sure” option, but the pitching slate is very slim on Thursday.
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Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For DraftKings 8/3/16
P- Cole Hamels (vs. Baltimore Orioles): $11,100. Hamels is red hot and the Orioles’ bats are ice cold, seems like a good combination. Over the last seven games, Baltimore is batting .203, with a .272 OBP, and a .332 slugging percentage. Meanwhile, over Hamels’ last three starts he has a 0.84 ERA and a 3-0 record. He has lasted eight innings in two of his last three starts. He has also been absolutely dominant on the road this year, going 8-1 with a 1.71 ERA.
P- Jake Odorizzi (vs. Kansas City Royals): $9,100. Just when you thought Baltimore was ice cold, Kansas City is even worse. Over their last seven games, the Royals are batting .202, with a .255 OBP, and a .304 slugging percentage. Odorizzi has not allowed a run over his last 14.2 innings pitched, so clearly he is throwing the ball well.
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Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For DraftKings 7/30/16
P – Anthony DeSclafani (vs. San Diego Padres): $9,400. DeSclafani has been incredibly reliable this season when he is healthy. He is 6-0 on the year, with a 3.09 ERA, and 46 strikeouts in 55.1 innings pitched.
He is pitching in San Diego’s home stadium, which is a much better pitcher’s park than what DeSclafani is used to in Cincinnati. If this righty continues to pitch like he has over the last two months, the Padres’ offense shouldn’t pose a problem on Saturday..
P – Jeremy Hellickson (vs. Atlanta Braves): $8,900. Now is Hellickson’s time to shine if he wants to get dealt to a competing team. Over his last seven starts, he has a 2.20 ERA, which is obviously very appealing to teams looking to acquire pitching around the trade deadline.
He will be facing one of the worst offenses in baseball, so this should be a great matchup for the righty.
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Who Owned Baseball July 25, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings
LM OTERO – AP
Adrian Beltre got 4 hits including 2 homers. The second one was a 2 out, 2 run, come from behind walk off shot to propel the Rangers to a 7-6 final over Oakland.
Aaron Sanchez threw 7 innings with no earned runs and 7 strikeouts to earn the 4-2 decision for the Blue Jays over San Diego.
Jay Bruce slammed a pair of 2 run homers to help the Reds sink the struggling Giants, 7-5.
Jeremy Hellickson threw 6 innings of 1 hit shutout ball. He did not get the decision but set up the Phillies 4-0 blanking of the Marlins.
They All Owned Baseball on July 25, 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.
In Memoriam Video For all baseball family who have passed since 2015 ASG.
Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For DraftKings 7/20/16
I’m sorry for getting these picks out so late. I was unfortunately involved in a small car accident, which took forever to sort out. I am completely fine and so is my truck, but it has been a long night. Due to the late post, I’m not going to post explanations for each pick. If you have any specific questions about players, please feel free to reach out to me on social media.
P – Felix Hernandez (vs. Chicago White Sox): $10,100
P – Jaime Garcia (vs. San Diego Padres): $7,900
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Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For DraftKings 7/10/16
Due to the amount of time dedicated to the analysis of my midseason top 100 prospect rankings analysis, which you can find on my blog, I will not be providing reasonings behind my DFS picks for the next few days.
I can assure you my picks below have been chosen using the same research methods I use on a daily basis. These methods include weather, B v. P stats, recent success, splits, stacks and much more. If you have any questions or comments, I will be glad to answer via social media (@dynasty_digest).
P- Carlos Carrasco (vs. New York Yankees): $11,600
P- A.J. Griffin (vs. Minnesota Twins): $7,000
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Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For DraftKings 7/1/16
P – Michael Fulmer (vs. Tampa Bay Rays): $10,900. Fulmer has been dominant this season. In 63.2 innings pitched, he owns a 7-2 record, 2.54 ERA, 50 hits against, 60 strikeouts, and 24 walks. The Rays offense has struggled quite a bit in 2016, so Fulmer should be able to take care of business. Prior to Fulmer’s last start, he threw 33.1 consecutive scoreless innings.
P – Tanner Roark (vs. Cincinnati Reds): $9,800. Roark struggled his last time out against the Reds, but he has been spectacular for the rest of the 2016 season. In 16 starts, he owns a 7-5 record, with a 2.96 ERA, 90 hits against, 89 strikeouts, and 32 walks in 100.1 innings pitched. The Reds offense has been miserable over the past seven games, which is a great sign for Roark.
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Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For DraftKings 6/25/16
P- Madison Bumgarner (vs. Philadelphia Phillies): $14,000. Bumgarner has not allowed more than two earned runs in his past 12 starts. He is now 8-3 on the season, with a 1.83 ERA, and 115 strikeouts. In 62 career at bats against Bumgarner, the Phillies’ offense is batting .210, with two home runs, 20 strikeouts, and a .239 OBP.
P- Brandon Finnegan (vs. San Diego Padres): This month has been great for Finnegan. He is 2-1, with a 2.96 ERA, and he has gone six innings while giving up fewer than two runs in three of the last four starts. On the season, he is 3-5, with a 3.81 ERA,with 59 strikeouts.
To view the rest of the picks, click the link below:
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Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For DraftKings 6/19/16
P- Jacob deGrom (vs. Atlanta Braves): $11,300. deGrom has had some pretty bad luck recently when it comes to run support, but this hasn’t affected how well he has pitched. In his last five starts, he has four quality starts and he dominated the Pirates’ over his last two starts. In six career starts against the Braves, deGrom owns a 3-2 record with a 1.89 ERA.
P- Mike Fiers (vs. Cincinnati Reds): $6,500. Fiers is coming off one of his best starts of the season, in which he gave up two runs and five hits against the Rays in seven innings of work. He is pitching at home, which is very good. He owns a 3.67 ERA at home, compared to a 6.19 ERA on the road. In 67 career at bats against Fiers, the Reds’ lineup is batting .179, with one home run, seven XBH, 10 RBIs, 14 strikeouts, and a .242 OBP.
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The Most Recent Cycle Hit For All Teams (Updated for Freddie Freeman, 6-15-2016)
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!
MLB Fantasy Daily (DFS) Picks For FanDuel – 4/30/16 + Bonus 2nd Lineup
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner)
Follow @stokes_Hunter21 @mlbreports
The Tigers have definitely heated up their lineup in the last week – and are perhaps still vastly underrated on FanDuel right now. Looking to capitalize on low values for Miguel Cabrera, Justin Upton and J.D. Martinez.
I also believe in the NY Yankees getting the better of Rick Porcello on Saturday with LHB Brett Gardner and Brian McCann. I added Starlin Castro to the fold at Fenway Park.
For some reason, the Yankees do well at Fenway for batting anyway. Plus I can’t think that Porcello will keep up his success either.
There is a lot of frontline pitchers throwing on Saturday, so I am steering clear of a a ton of cash on FanDuel. I do love Francisco Liriano vs the Reds. Heck, I love anyone against the Reds – who are starting their freefall.
The Yankees and Tigers are kind of an old unconventional duo for a couple of stacks, and that is what I am hoping for. I may play a Chase Field lineup as well – and just call it a day. Read the rest of this entry
MLB Power Rankings 2016: Week 4 – April
One is the #1 club in the whole MLB right now, and the other was the biggest mover and shaker of the week for week 3 of MLB action. Both are leading the Central Divisions in their respective leagues behind awesome starting pitching and timely power.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) Follow @stokes_Hunter21
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Disclaimer: We based these rankings on best strength to win the World Series. Therefore some teams that have an easier division to play in, with the least path of resistance to the postseason overall may be ranked a lot higher than a club who is equally talented, yet may play in a juggernaut of a division.
Game Records were before the results of the ESPN Sunday Night Game was played.
After a crazy week in which we saw our 1st no hitter, and massive long 16 inning game in Washington, we have for you the MLB Power Rankings.
There was no movement from the top 3 clubs. The NL West saw the Dodgers take a decent lead on the Giants – and that is major critical, as that is the team most likely to give them trouble in their quest for a 4th straight Division crown.
Bryce Harper has pulverized the Phillies, Marlins, Braves and Twins thus far. His late inning heroics are taking him to the next level.
The biggest mover and shaker this week was the White Sox, who climbed up 7 slots. The Giants dropping 8 positions was the biggest decline.
Bad weeks were had by the Tigers, Red Sox, Yankees and Astros. All clubs in the AL who are supposed to contend for a playoff slot.
The Mariners won their 3rd straight road series against the Angels (after beating the Yankees and Tribe 1s), and sit just a half game back in the AL West.
Oakland had started 7 – 0 on the road, before yielding 15 runs over the last 2 losses to the Blue Jays. They are tied with the Rangers for the lead in the Division, but it is just a matter of time before they are bounced out in my opinion.
Cleveland had a nice week of 4 – 2 to jump up 5 spots in the rankings. and are that much closer to bringing back Michael Brantley.
Gaining only one spot but having an awesome week were the New York Mets. All the boys are hitting now, and they are 8 – 2 in their last 10 contests. Read the rest of this entry
FanDuel DFS Picks 4/14/16
Josh Robbins (Featured Fantasy Writer/60ft6in.com) Follow @Qualcomm98
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Hi, my name is Josh Robbins. I would like to share my Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) strategy with you throughout the MLB season during weekdays. Fanduel is my preferred game of skill.
Welcome to the 2nd week of the 2016 MLB season.
3-Strikes: Here’s what you expect from my daily articles:
My Top 3 Starting Pitchers (aces, mid-level, bargain)
My Top 3 Stacking Options (multiple players from the same team)
My Top 3 BVP (Batter vs. Pitcher) Options
APRIL 14, 2016…
Starting Pitchers
1. Marcus Stroman ($8100) vs. New York Yankees
2. Jason Hammel ($7900) vs. Cincinnati Reds
3. Ross Stripling ($7600) vs. Arizona Diamondbacks
Player Stacks/Team Offense
I’m a huge fan of stacks especially deep lineups maximizing the four players allowed per team.
- Texas Rangers vs. Chris Tillman
- Kansas City Royals vs. Doug Fister
3. Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Robbie Ray
BVP (Minimum 10 AB)
1. Adrian Beltre vs. Chris Tillman (6-12/ 1 HR/ 1.417 OPS)
2. J.J. Hardy vs. Cole Hamels (4-12/ 1 HR/ 1.135 OPS)
3. Eric Hosmer vs. Doug Fister (8-23/ 1 HR/ 0.988 OPS)
If you’re not familiar with the points breakdown, here’s the format utilizing a $35 million salary cap.
Scoring System: https://www.fanduel.com/spring-training?t=lobby
1 Starting Pitcher (SP)
1 Catcher (C)
1 First Baseman (1B)
1 Second Baseman (2B)
1 Third Baseman (3B)
1 Short Stop (SS)
3 Outfielders (OF)
Game Types: https://www.fanduel.com/how-it-works
50-50s
If you’re interested in playing DFS games, please use my Fanduel referral link to signup.
Please use the Referral Link for a signup bonus:
https://www.fanduel.com/?invitedby=bobadney&cnl=da
*** The views and opinions expressed in this report are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of mlbreports.com and their partners***
***Josh Robbins is a Video-Journalist and Baseball Historian who is originally from Poughkeepsie, NY (so grew up a Yankees/Don Mattingly fan).. In 2010, he earned a Master’s Degree in Sport Management from CSU-Long Beach.
From June 16 to July 11, 2008, he watched a game in all 30 MLB stadiums in a world record 26 days by car. Please email Josh at robbinsjosh@hotmail.com or visit 60ft6in.com for more information about the Factor12 Rating.***
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2016 MLB Team Salaries Links Page here.
Odds To Win The 2016 AL MVP In The MLB: Best And Worst Bets
Miguel Cabrera won this award back in 2012 and 2013 – and is fully healthy this upcoming campaign, on a club that is much improved and will be in contention for a playoff spot all year. His +700 odd is a great value bet. We are picking the man to win the American League MVP this year. Mike Trout will likely finish 2nd again, and that is based solely on his team probably not vying for a playoff position this year in my view. Trout should still win the AP Player of the Year and Sporting News player of the year as well..
Hunter Stokes (MLB Reports Part _Owner – Chief Writer) Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
There is no doubt in the world that Mike Trout is the best overall player in the American League, and he is still the best player in the Majors (at least for now – until Bryce Harper has a better 2016 than him again in 2015), but his team is going to make it tough for him to win the MVP over the next few years.
The 2014 winner, and 3 time runner-up in 2012, 2013 and 2015 has to be wondering what his franchise is doing wasting his talent – by surrounding a mediocre supporting cast?
Having said this, the +175 odd is still about where it should be. If the Angels are in the race down the stretch, and he has better number than the field, Trout will take his 2nd trophy this season.
Honestly the odd that surprised me the most was the Manny Machado odd at +500. I am not questioning his talent, or the fact he should be a top 5 player for years in the AL; I am questioning the website for having the O’s ranked 14th out of 15 AL Clubs! Read the rest of this entry
Sully Baseball Daily Podcast Archives May.1, 2013 – May.31, 2013 (Episodes 190 – 220)
Paul Francis Sullivan (please call him Sully) does a podcast 365 days a year – unless it is a leap year – then he will do another 1. He has done a show everyday since Oct.24/2012. This to date represents a streak of 1219 days consecutively!
Past the CLICK TO READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY are episodes 190 – 220 of the Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.
We will also archive all of his podcasts to date (in coming weeks) so they are easily accessible for all his fans. Check out all his Archived info here.
Our website followers have grown larger each year for his podcast.
Follow Sully Baseball On Twitter Follow @sullybaseball
To subscribe on iTunes, click HERE.
To subscribe on SoundCloud, click HERE.
Read the rest of this entry
Forget Prospects When Your Window Is Open To Win With Good (To ALL – Star) MLB Players Available!
I am sick and tired of hearing about Draft Picks being coveted by clubs, and in particular with the picks 11 – 30th having to be given up as compensation for signing a guy who was extended a Qualifying Offer. Prospects turn into Suspects in a real hurry. Only 4 or 5 out of the picks 11 – 30 contribute significantly within 4 years usually. Meaning if your roster is poised to win right now, go ahead and burn your pick by signing proven players that can help your squad right now!
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
I can’t stand it when I hear that ready to win Major League Clubs are holding off on good Free Agent Signing because of a pending Draft Pick in the coming MLB Amateur Draft being forfeited.
For current organizations like the Texas Rangers, Toronto Blue Jays, Los Angeles Angels, Pittsburgh Pirates, New York Mets, Detroit Tigers, KC Royals, Washington Nationals, Arizona Diamondbacks and San Francisco Giants – all of them project to be contenders in 2016 except the O’s, and the last 6 clubs listed here are acting on that – while the 1st 4 are not.
Let me kind of qualify that. The Jays did in 2015 – and may do so in 2016. The real truth will be told by the August.1 Trade Deadline. Not picking up a top end rotation guy by then will hurt their chances to win in the last few months and definitely in the playoffs. Read the rest of this entry
Texas, You Are Dreaming If You Think The Current Starting Rotation Will Be Good Enough In 2016!
The Rangers rose from the AL West ashes in 2015 and won their first Division Title in 4 years. It came off the heels of 2 injury riddled seasons that plagued any chance to make the playoffs. The club has about $150 MIL worth of salaries to pay in 2016 but should consider spending out another $10 – $15 MIL for one more piece in the rotation. They have a need for a Starting Pitcher and could use a breakout campaign from either Joey Gallo or Jurickson Profar to add depth for a mid year trade to acquire a proven playoff Starter. The club will also hope Yu Darvish can come back at full strength.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
I am quite perplexed on the thought process of the Texas Rangers this offseason. I mean, talk about resting on your laurel’s fellas!
This club was quite lucky to have run down the Houston Astros in 2015 when it did for the AL West. It took renaissance years from Shin-Soo Choo and Prince Fielder, and a hot Adrian Beltre over the last few months to get it done.
While I praised them big time for the addition of Cole Hamels at the Trade Dealine in 2015, I am giving them guff now for not surrounding him with ample playoff caliber pitching this winter.
Yu Darvish is a world class talent, but he is just coming back from Tommy John Surgery, and may take at least 6 weeks to begin the year.
Derek Holland is slated up high on your staff even though he has towed the hill just 13 games over the last 3 campaigns.
Read the rest of this entry
Texas Rangers State Of The Union For 2016
The Rangers rose from the AL West ashes in 2015 and won their first Division Title in 4 years. It came off the heels of 2 injury riddled seasons that plagued any chance to make the playoffs. The club has about $140 MIL worth of salaries to pay in 2016 but should consider spending out another $10 – $15 MIL. They recently filled their need for Starting Pitching and could use a breakout campaign from either Joey Gallo or Jurickson Profar to help the cause. The club will also hope Yu Darvish can come back at full strength.
Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead Analyst) Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The Rangers have done a decent job in adding depth in the last few days to the Starting Rotation. The club has brought back fan favorite and 17 game winner for them in 2015 – Colby Lewis on a 1 Year deal worth $6 MIL.
Then John Daniels agreed to sign A.J. Griffin to the Pitching Staff even though he hasn’t pitched in the Majors of the last 2 years in recovering from Tommy John Surgery.
These are small moves in the grand scheme of things, but should help make sure that Yu Darvish can come back from his own Tommy John Surgery in his own good time.
You also have to factor that Derek Holland has faced a multitude of health issues over the last 2 years, most notably his spinal injury in 2015. It is a good thing the club traded for Cole Hamels last year. Read the rest of this entry
Assessing Adrian Beltre’s Place ALL – Time: Rangers Should Lock Him Up For A Few More Years
Adrian Beltre has earned every cent of his 6 years/$96 MIL deal signed before the 2011 season so far. He has 3 slashed .309/.358/.514 in his tenure and has finished in the top 15 for MVP voting in each of those campaigns. The Rangers should try to extend him for 2 or 3 more years past 2016 – and lock up the future Hall Of Famer so he can end his career in Arlington. Beltre will play next season at Age 37 – and will make $16 MIL in the final year of his pact.
Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead Analyst) Follow @chuckbooth3024
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When Adrian Beltre arrived in Texas for the 2011 season he had a fine career that was started at age 20 in Los Angeles. What he has achieved in Arlington was turn a decent lifetime of playing baseball into a Hall of Fame Career.
The 36 year old Third Baseman could hold records for the hot corner for XBH, 2B’s, R, GP, PA, AB, Hits and RBI just to start with – and cement his legacy in Cooperstown.
So how many years can he play beyond next year? I think it is realistic to say he could play until he is 40. That would mean playing in the 2017, 2018 and 2019 seasons. Read the rest of this entry
Texas Rangers Payroll In 2016 + Contracts Going Forward
The Rangers rose from the AL West ashes in 2015 and won their first Division Title in 4 years. It came off the heels of 2 injury riddled seasons that plagued any chance to make the playoffs. The club has about $140 MIL worth of salaries to pay in 2016 but should consider spending out another $10 – $15 MIL. They have a need for a Starting Pitcher and could use a breakout campaign from either Joey Gallo or Jurickson Profar to add depth for mid year trade to acquire a proven playoff Starter. The club will also hope Yu Darvish can come back at full strength. While they have 5 of the top 46 contracts of ALL – Time on their salary, 3 of them came via trade where the former team is picking up some of the dough.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer) Follow @stokes_hunter21
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The Texas Rangers have 5 of the top 50 MLB Contracts of ALL – Time on their roster with Prince Fielder (10th), Cole Hamels (32nd), Shin-Soo Choo (37th), Josh Hamilton (42nd) and Elvis Andrus (tied for 46th).
Yes 3 of them came over via trade after chunks were already off, and their former team is still subsidizing some of the money going forward as well, but the Rangers are still already at over $120 MIL already committed in total team salary for 2016.
We have also heard grumblings that the team will look to extend Adrian Beltre this week in order to have him finish out his potential Hall Of Fame Career in Texas. This won’t hurt the bottom line in 2016 – but will also put some dough on the future of the teams finances should it occur. 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. 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) Follow @stokes_hunter21
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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 Mets Should Do Whatever It Takes To Sign Yoenis Cespedes This Winter
Yoenis Cespedes is a superstar player that has shown he loves the New York spotlight. With some progressive thinking, and a great amount of their young pitching superstars under team control for several years, the Mets have the wherewithal to sign the big Cuban OF. It is my idea that they outbid everyone to sign him, and then trade Curtis Granderson to create enough room in the OF, so that he can move over to a permanent spot in RF at Flushing Meadows, NY.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer) Follow @stokes_hunter21
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There are few players deserving of 100 Million Dollar Plus contracts in the game of baseball right now. Yoenis Cespedes has played himself into consideration for this honor with his second half of play.
Vastly underrated, and a main cog in the A’s renaissance from the time he was there, he has done the same thing in Flushing Meadows.
The Mets are a different kettle of fish with the Big Man in their lineup.
How do you like a .287/.337/.604 3 Slash line with 31 Extra Base Hits and 44 RBI in 57 Games Played with the Mets? Before you think this is just a blip on the radar, the man averages over 70 Extra Base Hits – with 30 HRs and 103 RBI over his 162 Game average for his career thus far. 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
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.
