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Tampa Bay Rays Organization: 2014 Depth Charts + Rosters, (MLB + MiLB)
Joe Maddon has a career Record of 704 – 644 (.522), but is 552 – 421 (.567) over the last 6 years from 2008 – 2013. He runs his offenses like the Angels used to, with a NL style built on speed and contact. He may be the best AL Skipper when it comes to utilizing players versatility and matchups. Maddon is also great at working in Rookie players.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024 & Jeff Kleiner (Org. Depth Chart Expert) Follow @prosportsroster
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The Tampa Rays have been the model franchise in the AL for the last 6 years. Of course the St. Louis Cardinals club would be the team of the National League.
Besides the New York Yankees, the Tampa Bay Rays have won more games in the last 6 years.
The teams record is 552 -421 during this time span, including 4 playoff spots and 1 AL Pennant.
The key to the teams continuous consistency is their Minor League System. From 9 years of drafting high from 1998 – 2007, to then making smart trades, the Rays have have been able to sustain their club by using the farm.
Wil Myers 2013 Highlights
Some MLB Teams Need To Place Their Starting Times For The Majority Of Their Schedules Earlier
The Rays are always at the bottom for attendance in the Major Leagues, so it boggles my mind how they can’t have their game times for the next year up that quick. Weather is never a factor at all, and they have no geographical MLB teams remotely close to them. The Royals and the Padres are also teams that do not post their times early enough – while sagging at the gates.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
I am a big fan of the MLB posting their schedules so early compared to other sporting entities. However with this being said, there are several teams who have not completed their start times for the majority of their home ballparks 2014 campaign yet.
My question is, why the hell not?
In an economy starving for our entertainment dollar, what is the hold up?
Look I am all for the quirks in the variances for each club based on ESPN Sunday night baseball, heck, even coordinating with the other geographical rivals in your area, to have the most potential ticket buyers head through the wickets at your turnstiles.
As of right now, the Tigers, Astros, Rays, Angels, Red Sox, Rangers, Padres, Indians, Royals, Braves, and White Sox have not posted these. Read the rest of this entry
Updated Odds To Win The 2014 MLB World Series As Of Right Now:
The Blue Jays were the odds on favorite to win the World Series in 2013 among oddsmakers. After a failure of a season, these guys are still placing way too much faith in the team. To have them listed as tied with the Rays for the 12th best odd to win the World Series is a joke. Stay away from this bet. The odd should be +3000 – and not +1800. Toronto is listed as tied for the 3rd favorite in the AL East, behind Boston and New York respectively. It could really be another last place finish in the Division for the Canadian franchise.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The top 12 clubs have opened up a little lead on all of the guys tied for 14th, which includes the Royals and Indians (more of a longshot, but +300 and +200 more respectively.
The Dodgers continue to be the current leaders to take home the prize. If they are able to land Masahiro Tanaka for any reason, their +700 will be even lower.
I still think the Rangers are a bit of a bargain at +1100. They are behind Boston and Detroit in the AL leaderboard.
I would wait for to place a bet on the Boston Red Sox, if you are so inclined, because they are said to be out of the running. Since this is the case, whomever shall acquire the NPB superstar, their odds will lower – and Boston may rise after.
The AL East is reigning supreme in this with 4 of the top 12 spots being positioned by them. The worst Division is the AL Central who only possess 1 member in the top 12.
The Yankees were +1500 last week, and now have moved up to +1400 with the A’s and the Braves.
Again, if they are to bring Tanaka in the fold, I believe they will blow the luxury tax out of the water next year. If you want to bet this club to win, I suggest you do so now.
Next to the totals, I have weighed in on what I think the odd should be. Read the rest of this entry
Updated Odds To Win The 2014 MLB World Series As Of Right Now: Tanaka Could Influence These Later
Masahiro Tanaka has finally been posted by his team from the NPBL (Golden Lions). Mark my words, with the exception of a crazy bid coming from the Dodgers way out West, no one will outbid the Yankees for this guys services. Based on his age and wherewithal, the Pinstripers can alter their immediate future by landing the 25 Year Old Japanese Phenom. If they spend the $125 MIL – $140 MIL for a 6 or 7 year total ($20 MIL post, plus player contract, look for them to blow their $189 MIL budget out of control in 2014, – and opt to reset in 2015 instead.) Tanaka was 24 – 0 – with a miniscule 1.27 ERA in 2013.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Since nothing has changed since last week, I have two bets for you to take – and one for you to avoid.
As I mentioned last Saturday, the Rangers have confirmed on the Shin-Soo Choo signing. In my expert opinion this should have moved the line on Texas.
Instead, they are still the 3rd favorite to win the World Series coming out of the AL.
This is not right. Maybe I could see the Tigers still ahead of them based on the Division they are in, but the Red Sox have no business being ahead of them.
The Best Of Masahiro Tanaka
Final 2013 Major League Attendances In The MLB
The “Trop” was frequented less in 2013 than any other MLB stadium and it is a shame. The team has made 4 playoff spots in the last 6 years, has the 2nd best record in the game since the start of the 2008 campaign (NYY are 1st) and are sniffing the AL East crown out every year. Tropicana Field has been the only MLB Park for the Rays. Unfortunately the club has a lease that runs through the year 2027. There have been several talks of a downtown Tampa Stadium right off of Highway 4. All have plans have been derailed. With limited revenues generated playing out of Tropicana Field, it will be tough to keep doing this year after year, however the management had the good foresight to see the MLB game switching back to more pitching and defense. With some of the best players on the club locked up under team control, the management has been able to overcome all of these obstacles to field a competitive club.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
It is funny how all of the top Free Agents have been signing with the American League teams in recent years.
Out of the 1.5 Billion Dollars in contracts offered this winter to guys, more than 1.1 Billion of those bucks have been given to guys like the M’s Robinson Cano (10 YRs.$240 MIL), Jacoby Ellsbury (7 YRs/$153 MIL), Shin-Soo Choo (7 YRs/$130 MIL) and potentially 6 YRs/$100 MIL for Brian McCann (5 YRs/85 MIL is guaranteed.).
For these reasons, you would think the AL is dominating the attendance every year.
As you will read here, they are not.
New Marlins BallPark 2012
Updated Odds To Win The 2014 World Series As Of Right Now
Grant Balfour is a fiery Aussie, and has every right to be mad at the Baltimore Orioles. Tests have shown his arm is no different from it was a few years ago. Baltimore clearly decided at the last-minute to weasel out of the deal. The 35 Year Old has vowed revenge on Dan Duquette. I hope he signs on with the Rays or Yankees – because then they play the O’s 19 times a year. You think Balfour is fired up to enter games – wait till he is called upon in games versus Baltimore from this point forward. On a side note, with the Orioles penny-pinching their way through this winter, do not pick them to win anything in 2014. Not very smart when you a have a tepid fanbase to begin with. If the team has a shaky start, attendance and apathy will start.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
It was a controversial week for the Baltimore Orioles, who had signed Grant Balfour to a 2 YR/$15.0 MIL contract – before backing out at the last second.
The O’s are tied with the Pirates and GIants for the 16th best odd to win the World Series. While I believe there is great value with the other two teams stated there, Baltimore has had a brutal off-year.
My hunch is that they are going to sign Fernando Rodney instead. Bad move fella’s. You missed the ball on this one, not only that, i think you have pissed off your faithful fans at Camden Yards.
If this club doesn’t pull off any significant player to come into the fold, the walkup crowds will be lessened.
Balfour lights up Martinez verbally – Swearing involved here, parental guidance is advised
The Final Tallies On All 30 MLB Teams Payroll In 2013
The A’s wrapped up their 16th AL West Title in 46 years since moving to Oakland in late September of this previous campaign. They have clinched the Division at home the last 2 years. It is even more impressive when they have been 29th and 27th in the team payroll respectively during that time span.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The bills have been totaled up, and the final dollars have been put forth – to have the team salaries for all 30 MLB teams.
These totals reflect the 40 man rosters the clubs all carried in 2013, and what position they finished in cash wise versus the other 29 franchises.
We will definitely have many of different articles this offseason, dissecting all of these numbers.
With all of the Free Agents signed recently inked to big deals like: Robinson Cano, Jacoby Ellsbury, Hunter Pence, Brian McCann and Curtis Granderson, we should a bigger spike across the board in 2014.
A’s Win Back To Back AL WEST Titles
Updated Odds To Win The 2014 World Series As Of Right Now
The last time the Tigers won a World Series was 1984. They have not improved their chances quite yet in the offseason. Absolute worst odd on the board as the #3 favorite
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
It is unbelievable to me that the oddsmakers are giving the Angels and Blue Jays a better chance to win next year’s World Series trophy – over the San Francisco Giants and Pittsburgh Pirates.
The two defending LCS champions are listed as tied for 4th at +1000, meaning you would win 1000 dollars for every 100 dollars wagered.
The Yankees are given the same amount of odd to win next year as the Atlanta Braves and the Oakland A’s. Based on these projections, these guys have the Yankees potentially making the playoffs.
While I am a fan of the Bronx Bombers, this is a poor odd value, so STAY AWAY. Wait for the Yankees to at least sign 2 – 3 Starting Pitchers before you place that kind of wager.
Let It Ride scene – A great way to find out who to bet
The Jacoby Ellsbury 7 YRs/$153 MIL Deal Opens Up Many Possibilities for New York
Ellsbury missed 88 Games in 2012 (and also missed 144 Games in 2010), which brings into question his long – term durability. Heck, even this year, he was seen with a walking boot only a few weeks prior to the playoffs. You can’t deny the man has put up some great numbers out of the leadoff spot for the Red Sox since 2007.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
So all of a sudden the Yankees have taken a page from their 2006 playbook.
Prior to that season, they overbid for the services of Johnny Damon, effectively ending his tenure with their rivals – the Boston Red Sox.
They have gone back to the well for a 2nd time – raiding the Sox for their Starting CF.
It is a bold and calculated gamble for the Yankees, but then again, they are the biggest entity in the MLB – and they needed to protect the fledgling ratings on TV, and also to make sure the fans come through the turnstiles at New Yankee Stadium
Jacoby Ellsbury was brought in for a 7 YR/$153 MIL deal – that will send shockwaves throughout the Bronx and Major League Baseball.
Jacoby Ellsbury 2013 Highlights – Mature Lyrics So Parental Guidance Is Advised
AL East Around The Horn – Hot Stove Talk
Boston better snap out of their post season celebrations long enough to tend to their own Free Agents. The longer they wait to sign Mike Napoli. Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Stephen Drew and Jacoby Ellsbury, the longer the odds will be for the club to resign them. Ellsbury is likely gone, and Drew could also be replaced with Bogaerts/Middlebrooks, however their Catcher and First Base scenario’s need to be addressed. Other than A.J. Pierzynsnki, there is not a backstopper left on the FA market that would be equal or greater than Salty. As for Napoli, there is not many 1B with power on the market, and I can’t see them bringing in James Loney or Justin Morneau.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
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The Yankees should still covet Carlos Beltran as their #1 target. As far as length goes, who cares if he wants a 4th year. What all of a sudden you care about employing a 40 year old?
The Red Sox better watch themselves for their inactivity. There are not many Catchers on the open market right now, and all of a sudden Jarrod Saltalamacchia is growing in value.
Also, don’t count out the Seattle Mariners making a pitch for Mike Napoli. He is one of those guys who can transcend lineups with big swings.
The M’s can boost attendance with some early season wins – and have money to spend
Mike Napoli Highlights 2013 – Mature Lyrics so parental guidance is advised
Brian McCann Signing Proves The Yankees Are Not Thinking About A Rebuild: Try A Reload!
The near 30 Year old McCann has clubbed 20+ HRs in 7 of his 8 seasons, including smacking 20 in 2013 – in just 356 AB. His Career 3 Slash is .277/.350/.823. McCann could also be used as a DH by the team to maximize his AB. McCann will be the best offensive Catcher in the Bronx since the days of Jorge Posada. Each one of the Yankees dynasty’s at World Series Titles have had great Catchers. New York has set themselves up nicely for the 2014 year. They must now wait on the Alex Rodriguez hearing before they can set how much money they can spend next campaign.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
For those people who thought the Yankees were going to begin a rebuild project in the Bronx, forget about it.
This is the 27 time World Series Champions way of saying, “we intend to be around for a long time.”
The Yankees will still try to come under the $189 Luxury Tax Threshold, but that doesn’t mean they wont finagle around it with the Free Agents they bring in for next year.
Brian McCann was just the 1st strike. Count on them bringing back Robinson Cano, and at least 2 Starting Pitchers.
Brian McCann Highlights
MLB Player Profile: How Valuable Has Ben Zobrist Been To The Rays?
Ben Zobrist has quietly tuned into one of the best all around players in the game of baseball. He has finished in the top for WAR in 3 of the last 5years – including 1st in 2011 and 2nd in 2009. Zobrist, 32, who continued this season with his musical chairs defensive role on the team this year, has two years left on his current contract, and will be a Free Agent at the end of the 2015 season. It was the summer of 2006, that the brass traded Aubrey Huff for the young player. Zobrist has played 1500+ Innings in 4 different defensive positions for the franchise (SS/2B/RF/LF – and it helps Joe Maddon bring in favorable platoon matchups for several other lineup spots). He has a career 3 Slash of .263/.354/.789 in 8 seasons for Tampa.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Picture how bad the Tampa Bay Devil Rays were when the Houston Astros traded Ben Zobrist with Mitch Talbot to the Tampa Bay Rays for Aubrey Huff and cash on July.12/2006.
The team was in the 8th season out of 9 years of under .500 ball. The guy he was traded for had great offensive acumen, and was the franchise leader in several career categories as he departed the door.
Zobrist had an auspicious beginning with the Rays, struggling during the 2006 – 2007 years. His OPS numbers for those years were .572 and .391 respectively.
Joe Maddon was not as worried as others were about the 6th Round Drat Pick of the Houston Astros back in 2004,because the guy would be a Maddon type of player.
Ben Zobrist 2 Part Interview
Baltimore Orioles State Of The Union Part 2: Ways to Address the Starting Pitching Weakness
In order to have a chance to win the very competitive AL East, pitching is crucial. For the Orioles, there are a few ways they can attack this offseason in hopes to find some quality pitchers to strengthen their staff. 2014 may represent their best chance to go far in the playoffs considering the struggles of the New York Yankees, the Blue Jays and the Rays will likely see a decline when they trade ace David Price in 2014.
By Nicholas Delahanty (Guest MLB Reports Writer) Follow @Nick_Delahanty
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After a season in which they won 85 games and finished tied for 3rd place in the AL East, the Baltimore Orioles need to bolster their starting rotation in order to make a push towards the top of the division in 2014.
The numbers don’t lie, as the Orioles starting rotation ranked in the bottom part of the league in most categories, including ERA and innings pitched.
As of right now, the Orioles have four guys penciled in to their rotation next season (Chris Tillman, Miguel Gonzalez, Wei-Yin Chen, and Bud Norris), so they need to try to bring in one or two arms to compete for rotation spots.
Chris Tillman Highlights of A Shutout
Baltimore Orioles State Of The Union Part 1: What Will the O’s Hitters Look Like In 2014?
Even though they fell short of the playoffs this year, I don’t think the Orioles need to change much as they move forward and begin to focus on next season. With very few Free Agents at the end of this year, the 2014 line-up is likely to be very similar to last years.
By Dan Wanser (MLB Reports Writer) Follow @DanWanser
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Despite not making the playoffs at 85 – 77, the Baltimore Orioles had a very successful season that they just couldn’t finish off.
With leaders in the line-up like First Baseman Chris Davis and Manny Machado at the Hot Corner, the O’s are poised to be playoff contenders from the very start of next season.
Although there aren’t too many holes to fill, there are some things that need fixing so here’s what I think the Orioles will look like next year.
Chris Davis 2013 Highlights of all HRs – Mature Lyrics So Parental Guidance is A Must
The Toronto Blue Jays Players, Organizational Affiliates, Prospects + Depth Charts (MLB + MiLB)
The Blue Jays have been trading away all of their top prospects in recent years, and so far, not one of the players has come back to burn them. Unfortunately, the veterans brought in via trade haven’t pushed them over the top either.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @mlbreports and Jeff Kleiner (Salary, Roster and Depth Chart Expert for the MLB) – visit his website here Follow @prosportsroster
For all of the Rosters, Depth Charts, State of the Unions and Salaries Posts that we do, please visit our dedicated page link here.
The Blue Jays have invested a great deal of their future in trades in recent years. First they traded away several prospects to acquire Jose Reyes, Mark Buehrle, Josh Johnson and John Buck.
The 2nd move was to also trade Travis d’Arnaud and Buck for R.A.Dickey. However the moves backfired on them in 2013.
What is worse for the team, is the franchise has not been able to develop their own talent over the last several years. Their best players on the club were all brought in via trades.
Jose Bautista and Edwin Encarnacion were absolute steals for the guys they doled out to reel them in (Robinson Diaz, never played in the Majors for Pit in the Joey Bats deal, and they originally acquired in the Scott Rolen traded to Cincy. He was selected off of waivers by Oakland, before he came to the club via Free Agency.
Jose Bautista 2013 Highlights
Odds To Win The 2014 MLB World Series + Around The MLB Horn For Quick Team Wish Lists
The Red Sox may have won the 2013 World Series, but they are not the 2014 favorites. No team has repeated since the Yankees won 3 straight titles from 1998 – 2000.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Now that the Boston Red Sox have won the 2013 World Series, the oddsmakers have already dropped them, plus fellow 2013 Fall Classic Participants (St. Louis) to be tied for the 3rd seed, with the Washington Nationals.
A massive surprise on the list are the Los Angeles Angels, who will have the 6th favorite slot to win the World Series at +1400.
If you are looking for value, you should consider the Reds (Tied for the 8th seed) at +1600. They are merely a few players, and perhaps a few tweaks from going far in one of these playoffs.
2013 World Series Champion – Red Sox
“Hard Cheddar” Weekly Segment 2: MLB Heroes And Zeroes For 2013!
Yasiel Puig was signed as an International Free Agent in 2012. The 22 Year old phenom exploded onto scene in the National League – 3 Slashing .319/.381/.925 – with 19 HRs, 42 RBI and 66 Runs Scored in his 104 Games Played. He was a big part of the team winning the Division – and he will be a mainstay for years – being signed until 2018. Puig’s electrified the city of Los Angeles, and Dodger Stadium with his all out hustle, flamboyant play, and their flair for the dramatic. Once fellow teammate Hanley Ramirez joined him, the club went on a historic 42 – 8 run, which hadn’t happened in nearly 60 years for a 50 game stretch.
By ‘Special Guest Writer’ Steve Cheeseman Follow @cheeseman_s
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“Hard Cheddar” – with Steve Cheeseman
2013 Hero’s and Zero’s of MLB
Throughout the 2013 Major League Baseball season, there had been plenty to talk about. Lots of surprise players, as well as surprise teams.
This season in my opinion was as good as any. However, like any sport, there was also plenty to forget, but not necessarily forgive, as you’ll see.
Here are my hero’s and zero’s for the 2013 MLB season.
Yasiel Puig Highlights 2013 – Mature Content – Parental Guidance is Advised
Jack Morris: It Is Time To Elect This Winner Into The Baseball Hall Of Fame!
Jack Morris was a winner, a true throwback pitcher who came after hitters with reckless abandon. He pitched based on what the score was – and had no personal regard for his own personal statistics. It is this very reason why the debate has hit epic proportions on social media hubs, amongst bloggers, former players, analysts, broadcaster and statisticians. I intend to prove the case for the guy in a manner that will have some similarities to other pieces you may have read, yet promote a big look into the numbers that I have been bouncing around in my head for months.
BY Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports on Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The debate for whether or not Jack Morris belongs in the Baseball Hall Of Fame has heated up to an ALL-Time high with the big vote going down in Jan of 2014 for the final time.
575 members of BBWAA fraternity will decide whether or not the big man from Minnesota will enter one of the hardest Hall Of Fame’s to enter in pro sports (if not the hardest).
Morris will need a 75% (432 Minimum Votes) of them to write down his name on their ballot for enshrinement into Cooperstown.
Last year, Morris received 67.7 % of the writers votes in his 14th year of eligibility. He will have his name on a 14th ballot this year.
He has been trending up in recent years, so if he can improve in 2014, with the same amount of 2011-2012 jump of (+13.2%), then he will make it in.
If he fails to reach the Hall this year, it would be his last year of eligibility for the BBWAA Vote.
He could still make it via the Veterans Committee after that. But that could take some significant time.
Don Mattingly Would Be Perfect For The Nationals Or Tigers MGR Positions: Dodgers Skipper Is Still In Limbo
Don Mattingly has a Managerial Record of 260 -225 (.536) in his 1st 3 years as Dodgers Skipper. Among the totals in this year – was that he guided the club to a 62 – 30 record during the last 92 Games this year. The Dodgers were knocked out the NLCS Round versus the Cardinals. Mattingly’s $1.4 Vesting Option was picked up by that accord of being in the final 4 this season. The Dodgers are only offering the one year of 2014, and Mattingly believes he has done a great enough job to earn a multi-year deal.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
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The Dodgers are making a mistake in not signing Don Mattingly to a multi – year deal. If you actually sit back and think about what he was able to do is a miracle this year.
Matt Kemp was 50% of himself – and also missed half of the year.
Hanley Ramirez played at an MVP caliber for the time he was in there, problem was – missed 74 games.
Carl Crawford was great, but he missed 45 Games.
Yasiel Puig came up – with 60 Games already taken off of the year.
Zack Greinke missed 2 months after Carlos Quentin charged him.
Brandon League was abysmal early as a Closer.
The 3rd base/Shortstop position featured an opening day of Luis Cruz and Justin Sellers.
“Hard Cheddar” Weekly Segment 1: The Toronto Blue Jays Of The NL East?
The Blue Jays have pretty much been a mediocre franchise in the league for the last 20 years. After winning back to back World Series in 1992 and 1993, the club has had some expensive and talented pieces, yet like so many of the ‘god awful’ teams have shown us recently, maybe the club should have tanked it for 7 – 10 years in order to stockpile Grade A level talent through the MLB Amateur Draft? Toronto has been caught in the middle of a building a team through the Draft, but never seem to be bad enough to receive high enough picks to select ultimate fortune changers for the organization. Maybe they should try another way.. Lets talk about that today.
By ‘Special Guest Blue Jays Writer’ Steve Cheeseman Follow @cheeseman_s
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“Hard Cheddar” – with Steve Cheeseman
Regardless if you’re a casual fan, or die hard Toronto Blue Jay fan, many things come into mind with regard to what should happen next after a terrible 2013 season.
Do Media/Cable giant Roger’s need to spend more money? Should they rebuild from the draft? Should they rent older, experienced players on short term deals?
How about a shift from the American League to the National League?
For the start of the 2013 season, the Houston Astros made the move from the NL to the west division of the AL. This was to equally balance the two leagues to contain 15 teams in each.
In terms of performance, it didn’t help. The 2012 NL Astros finished the season with a 55-107 record, which was good for last in all of Major League Baseball.
Montreal’s OIympic Stadium will host a Blue Jays Exhibition Game in 2014
The Disaster That Was The Blue Jays 2013 Season: State Of The Union
Following the 2012 Major League Baseball season, Toronto Blue Jays GM Alex Anthopoulos made some noticeable moves, to seemingly re-invent Canada’s team. Jay’s fans everywhere were ecstatic and pumped for the upcoming season, thinking that playoff baseball would finally return to Canada after 20 long seasons.
By ‘Special Guest Blue Jays Writer’ Steve Cheeseman Follow @cheeseman_s
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Another Season, Another Disaster.
The off-season started with a boom, with the signings of Maicer Izturis (3 yr-$9 million), and Melky Cabrera (2 yr-$16million). This was followed by acquiring hard throwing Esmil Rogers from Cleveland.
They weren’t done yet.
On November 14th, Anthopoulos completed a blockbuster trade with the Miami Marlins, receiving pitchers Josh Johnson (2-time All-Star)and Mark Buehrle (4-time All-Star), short-stop Jose Reyes (4-time All-Star, 2011 NL Batting Champion), catcher John Buck, utility man Emilio Bonifacio, and $8 million in cash in exchange for pitcher Henderson Alvarez, short-stop Yunel Escobar, catcher Jeff Mathis, and prospects.
It was a steal. Toronto then sent John Buck and prospects to the New York Mets, for reigning NL Cy Young winner R.A. Dickey, catcher Josh Thole and a prospect.
Odd makers out of Las Vegas named the Toronto Blue Jays as the favorites to win the 2013 World Series. Too good to be true right? Pretty much.
Munenori Kawasaki – See You Tomorrow
MLB’s Payroll Matters Part 2: Just Because Some Low Payroll Teams Have Bucked The Trend – Doesn’t Mean It Will Continue
It seems the only to way to build a team successfully – is to be atrocious for several (talking 6 – 8 seasons like the Twins, Nationals, Pirates, Rays in recent years – and now the Astros are following suit), stockpile top 5 Draft Picks, and have them all become your nucleus for a matter of a few seasons. The reason is because of Team Controllable Salaries. Teams like the Rays and Pirates have also held players in the Minor Leagues longer than needed – due to salary and Arbitration implications. I can think of Desmond Jennings, Wil Myers, Chris Archer for the Rays, while Gerrit Cole and Jeff Locke come to mind for the Bucs. If a player is ready for action in the Majors, he should playing – end of story.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Lets just take a look at the teams that have played well above their value. The Twins are a story much like the Marlins in 1997 and 2003.
The Twins had a good team in the late 80’s, and won 2 World Series Titles in 1987 and 1991. However the economics of the game hit them hard, and they struggled for an 8 year stretch in the AL Central.
For Part 1 of the MLB’s State Of the Union Part 1: Click here.
Major League Contraction Talk Again?
Baltimore Orioles 2014 Full MLB Schedule On 1 Page Post
Baltimore Orioles 2014 Full Year Schedule On 1 Page Post
By Dan Wanser (MLB Reports Writer): Follow @DanWanser
Follow @mlbreports
Monday Mar.31/2014
Orioles vs. Red Sox – TBD
April 2014
Tuesday April.01/2014
Off
Wednesday April.02/2014
Orioles vs. Red Sox – TBD
Thursday April.03/2014
Orioles vs. Red Sox – TBD
Friday April.04/2014
Orioles @ Tigers – TBD
Saturday April.05/2014
Orioles @ Tigers – TBD
Sunday April.06/2014
Orioles @ Tigers – TBD Read the rest of this entry
Interleague Master Schedule For The 2014 MLB Season
For the 2014 MLB Schedule Links Page – that has Monthly, Weekly, Daily, 30 MLB Teams and all 2430 Games for on 1 running Page Post, click here
Do yourself a favor and read this blog on the 30 MLB Park Pass-Port here
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The AL have won 13 out of the 17 years for Interleague play. The American League has also won every year since the start of the 2004 year.
1997: NL won 117 – 97 (.547) NL up yearly series 1 – 0
1998: AL won 114 – 110 (.509) Yearly series tied 1 – 1
1999: NL won 135 – 116 (.538) NL up yearly series 2 – 1
2000: AL won 136 – 115 (.542) Yearly series tied 2 – 2
2001: AL won 132 – 120 (.524) AL up yearly series 3 – 2
2002: NL won 129 – 123 ( .512) Yearly series tied 3 – 3
2003: NL won 137 – 115 (.544) NL up yearly series 4 – 3
2004: AL won 127 – 125 (.504) Yearly series tied 4 – 4
2005: AL won 136 – 116 (.540) AL up yearly series 5 – 4
2006: AL won 154 – 98 (.611) AL up yearly series 6 – 4
2007: AL won 137 – 115 (.544) AL up yearly series 7 – 4
2008: AL won 149 – 103 (.591) AL up yearly series 8 – 4
2009: AL won 154 – 98 (.611) AL up yearly series 9 – 4
2010: AL won 138 – 114 (.548) AL up yearly series 10 – 4
2011: AL won 134 – 118 (.532) AL up yearly series 11 – 4
2012: AL won 142 – 110 (.611) AL up yearly series 12 – 4
2013: AL won 154 – 146 (.513) AL up yearly series 13 – 4
2014: AL Won Season Series for the 11th straight campaign – yearly season series AL Up 14 – 4
SUN Sept.28, 2014 Results: NYM 8 HOU 3, 2014 – AL wins season series 163 – 137 (.543)
ALL Time: AL leads the NL 2353 – 2126 (.525)
See Ya All in 2015 for Interleague
New York Yankees Payroll In 2014 + Contracts Going Forward + The Cano And A – ROD Factors
The Yankees should not pay Robinson Cano more than $25 – $28 MIL per season for a max of 7 years. The club is fortunate to have the relief of A – Rod’s pending suspension – otherwise the percentage of inking the Free Agent 2B would not even be possible. Cano’s agent -Jay – Z, has thrown out the first Salvo, saying the Slugger wants a 10 YR/$300 – 305 MIL Deal. The Bronx Bombers would be crazy to offer any more than what I stated up in the 1st sentence of this Caption. New York is looking to reset its Luxury Tax Penalty (when the Threshold is moved to $189 in 2014), in order to spend again commencing in 2015.
Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
They are old and 2014 will not make them younger. However, there are some small tweaks that the team could do in order to make the payroll make sense.
The 2014 version of the Yankees may struggle. Exiting are Mariano Rivera, Andy Pettitte, Hiroki Kuroda, Boone Logan, Joba Chamberlain, Phil Hughes, Curtis Granderson, Brendan Ryan and potentially Derek Jeter (although he has a Player Option for 2014) and Mark Reynolds.
To the Readers on our Payroll Breakdowns: Keep in mind these are all just estimates as we are all not forensic payroll accountants. For a better look at how Payrolls work in the MLB please check out this article here.
Derek Jeter Highlights:
Add Another Season Of Misery For The City Of Washington: 80 Years + 3 Franchises Have Disappointed
The Nationals are just the latest in a string of failures the city of Washington has seen. It has been 80 years since an MLB club from the District has seen World Series Baseball, and now they will have to wait another season. Despite being the Preseason favorite to make the Fall Classic, Washington has missed the playoffs outright in 2013.
By James O’Hara (Nationals Correspondent via Citizens of Natstown.com – view website here): Follow @nextyeardc
Follow the MLB Reports on Twitter Follow @mlbreports
On Oct. 1, 1971 in the last game played by the Washington Senators at RFK Stadium, fans began tearing apart the stadium and field to claim souvenirs. Much like the current Washington Nationals are tearing apart Washington, D.C.
A lot is made of the Chicago Cubs (not winning a World Series since 1909 – or playing in one since 1945) and Boston Red Sox decades long pursuit of World Series titles and the pressure from it – before knocking the monkey from their back in 2004.
But that cannot compare to the pressure of being in town without baseball for 33 years – and having not played in the World Series at all since the Joe Cronin led 1933 squad lost.
From 1971 – 2004, Thirty-three World Series champions were crowned without a team from Washington, D.C. even entering the fight.
It is almost fitting in a way that the Montreal Expos moved to Washington, as you are talking about 1 of 2 teams in the MLB currently, that have never played (other is Seattle) in a World Series before. The Expos/Nats club have now completed their 45th season in the Majors without showing up in the “Fall Classic”.
Its Gut Check Time For The Rangers: Indians + Rays In The AL Wild Card Driver Seats
Baltimore entered last Friday night just 1 game behind the playoff bar. They were swept in a 4 game series down in Tampa Bay, in a wraparound series, that included a devastating 18 inning loss among the tough defeats. The club also lost Manny Machado to injury yesterday. The magic number to eliminate the team is just 3. The guys end the regular season with 6 straight at Camden Yards. The only real meaningful resolutions will be if Chris Davis can crack 4 Home Runs, to tie Ken Griffey Jr. (56 HRs) for the most HRs by a LHB in the AL for the last 52 years?
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
2013 WILDCARD Race Breakdown in AL
Team W – L GBL Games Left Upcoming in Sequence
Tampa Bay Rays 87 – 69 – ( 3 @ NYY, 3 @ TOR)
Cleveland Indians 86 – 70 – ( 2 vs CWS, 4 @ MIN)
Texas Rangers 85 – 71 1 (2 vs HOU, 4 vs LAA)
Kansas City Royals 83 – 73 3.0 (2 @ SEA, 4 @ CWS)
New York Yankees 82 – 74 4.0 (3 vs TB, 3 @ HOU)
Baltimore Orioles 81 – 75 5.0 ( 3 vs TOR, 3 vs BOS)
We have had some clarification occur over the last week in the AL Wild Card Race as the Rays and Indians have both won 4 straight in their goal to make the playoffs.
The Yankees went 3 – 3 for the week, including a heart – wrenching loss to the Giants late on Sunday, It must have pained them even more to see the Rays come back in the late innings versus the Orioles.
Had Baltimore won that game, the Yankees would start the series in New York versus the Rays tonight with a chance to cut their deficit to them by 3 games via a sweep.
The Bronx Bombers then waltz into Houston, where they might win their last 3 games. However, with Tampa’s come from behind win yesterday, it makes their Magic number versus the Yanks to 3.
Manny Machado’s Gruesome Injury – Sept.23/2013
2 And A Hook Podcast #15: AL Wild Card Race Breakdown, NL Central Chat + The BallPark Pass-Port Inventor
The 2 And A Hook Podcast will be running 8 consecutive shows on Thursdays Sept. 19 + 26, and Oct 3,10,17,24,31) – Join us for our extensive playoff coverage from Chuck Booth, Chris Lacey, James Acevedo and many other guests!
‘2 And A Hook’ is an expression from Baseball: ‘Throw the guy 2 Fast balls and then a Hook’ (AKA Curve Ball, Wiggly one, Chair etc..)
By James Acevedo – Host (Podcast Veteran ) Follow @yankeeman1973
Guests On The Show:
On today’s show, brought to you by www.mlbreports.com
& yours truly The Bench Warmers Show.
I start it off with talking about the Yankees chances of getting the 2nd Wild Card Spot & giving them props for having a good season no matter what happens..
CLICK THE READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON or CLICK PAST THE MLB REPORTS LOGO
The 4 Teams Chasing Texas + Tampa In The AL Wild Card Have A Great Chance (Mon – THU Game W – L Grid For All 6 Teams)
The Cleveland Indians are in the driver seat in the AL Wild Card Race. While they may not overtake the #1 Wild Card Spot by Thursday, they can guarantee to be in a playoff position if they can simply win 3 out of the next 4 games. After Thursday, the Tribe has the easiest path to the Post Season out of any of these 6 clubs when it comes to Strength Of Schedule! Cleveland last made the playoffs in 2007, when they blew a 3 – 1 ALCS to the Boston Red Sox.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
2013 WILDCARD Race Breakdown in AL
Team W – L GBL Games Left Upcoming in Sequence
Tampa Bay Rays 81 – 67 – (4 vs TEX, 4 vs BAL, 3 @ NYY, 3 @ TOR)
Texas Rangers 81 – 67 – (4 @ TB, 3 @ KC, 3 vs HOU, 4 vs LAA)
Cleveland Indians 81 – 68 0.5 (3 @ KC, 4 vs HOU, 2 vs CWS, 4 @ MIN)
Baltimore Orioles 79 – 70 2.5 (3 @ BOS, 4 @ TB, 3 vs TOR, 3 vs BOS)
New York Yankees 79 – 71 3.0 (3 @ TOR, 3 @ SF, 3 vs TB, 3 vs HOU)
Kansas City Royals 78 – 71 3.5 (3 vs CLE, 3 vs TEX, 3 @ SEA, 4 @ CWS)
The American League Wild Card spots #1 and #2 are considerably up for grabs.
To make it an even tighter race, the teams trailing Tampa and Texas can all make up ground in their own individual series this week when those clubs play each other 4 times.
This is a perfect storm for these 4 clubs to narrow the gap.
What I am going to do is make in make a grid based on how the teams will do based on the Rays and the Rangers series.
KC Royals Win the 1985 World Series – Now Sit in a 28 Year Playoff Drought (Longest in the MLB)
The Yankees Keep The Pedal To The Metal For A Playoff Spot
Despite not having a top Catcher in the mix, and also not wishing for Soriano to be a Yankee, Cashman has still done a decent job maneuvering the team through some murky times, by finding a bunch of guys on the scrap heap, to help this club. Recently, the teams offense is resembling the ‘Bronx Bombers’ mantra, and the club has gone 22 – 12 over their last 34 game, to pull within 1 game of the last playoff spot, with 15 games left on the schedule.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst and Website Owner) Follow @mlbreports
This season has seen the Yankees face a multitude of injuries to their best players, plus a lot of the key components to the 2012 version of the club are playing elsewhere.
The Bronx Bombers surprising flew out of the gate in April, led by Vernon Wells and Travis Hafner of all people. If it weren’t for New York, Wells would be rusting on the Anaheim bench, and “Pronk” might be looking for work still.
Despite a fast start, the team was counting on Curtis Granderson and Derek Jeter to return after a few weeks into the season, both of them ended up going back on the DL. Jeter is now on his 4th stint on the Disabled List – and is out for the remainder of the regular year.
I will say that while I was ultra choked at Brian Cashman for not bringing in an experienced Catcher like A.J. Pierzynski, or potentially trading for a guy like John Buck, that he did acquire Vernon Wells and brought back Alfonso Soriano.
I wrote an article back when Curtis Granderson was hurt in the preseason, that these should be the 1st and 2nd options for the team (Soriano and Wells. It simply made sense for this year, and even for the 2014 year.
In early July, right before the ALL – Star break, the Yankees were hovering around .500 again, and I send it was time for the team’s Management to become ‘Riverboat Gamblers.’
Alfonso Soriano 2 HR Game August versus the Angels
MLB Reports 
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