Blog Archives

Sully Baseball Podcast – Angels flunked one test and are facing another – April 23, 2018

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Bob Levey/Getty Images North America

The Angels got clobbered at home by the Red Sox and dropped two more to San Francisco, derailing their momentum. If they want to make a play for the AL West, they need to play the Astros well, head to head. The Angels and Astros series starts tonight.

Seeing the whole season as a series if tests in this episode of Sully Baseball.

While we are at it, enjoy the In Memoriam video.

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Sully Baseball Podcast – Talking Twins in Anaheim – March 13, 2018

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While in the parking lot of Angel Stadium in Anaheim, I break down why the Twins had the best off season of any team in baseball.

Waiting for the season to start on this episode of Sully Baseball.

While we are at it, enjoy the In Memoriam video.

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Sully Baseball Podcast – Talking Angels with J. Keith van Straaten – January 20, 2018

The Angels have the best player in baseball and signed one of the biggest stars in the world. There is plenty to get excited about in Anaheim.

I invited comedian, TV host and Angels super fan J. Keith van Straaten to join the podcast. We talked about his fandom, Mike Trout, Shohei Ohtani, Mike Scioscia and what made the 2002 team so special.

Giving Orange County its due on this episode of Sully Baseball.

Visit the website for J. Keith van Straaten by clicking HERE.

Subscribe to the podcast Go Fact Yourself by clicking HERE.

Follow J. Keith van Straaten on Twitter by clicking HERE.

While we are at it, enjoy the In Memoriam video.

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Sully Baseball Podcast – Talking Braves stadium and Angels team that should have won – April 20, 2017

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Scott Cunningham


One of my most devoted listeners asked me a question.

The Braves new stadium seems nice but kind of what they already had. Meanwhile I discuss the Angels team that should have won.

Travelling down the state of California on this episode of Sully Baseball.

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Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – February 28, 2017

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Jeff Gross/Getty Images North America

Mike Trout might never be universally recognized and that MAY just be a product of the current way we consume culture. Meanwhile Mike Scioscia might have outstayed his welcome.

Adapt with the times in this episode of Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

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Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – August 24, 2016

 

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Believe it or not, the Angels have one of the oldest stadiums in baseball. And maybe they will find reason to leave Anaheim behind them.

It is a Heavenly episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast

Gregory Polanco, Victor Martinez, Jake Arrieta, Sean Manaea, Nolan Arenado, Nick Buss and Jon Grayall added to their totals for Who Owns Baseball yesterday.

See the updated listing of WOB on MLB Reports

ORDER SPACEMAN ON iTUNES BY CLICKING HERE

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Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – August 10, 2014

LISA BLUMENFELD/GETTY IMAGES

LISA BLUMENFELD/GETTY IMAGES

It is time for The Sunday Request on The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Oh there was a whopper of a long game LAST night.

It is an up all night and up early episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

James Shields, Mike Trout, Mike Fiers, David Peralta, Max Scherzer, Shin-Soo Choo, Freddie Freeman and Aaron Harang all added to their totals for Who Owns Baseball?

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How All Of The St. Louis Cardinals Roster Was Acquired: 2014 Season

The Cardinals Roster Tree has been the easiest to do by far.  This organization has Drafted so incredibly well, that there has been no real need for trading of late.  We will still see how drafting J.D. Drew has turned into Adam Wainwright, and how Albert Pujols signing with the Angels, made for the Cards to select young phenom Michael Wacha.  St. Louis is in their 8th NLCS in the last 13 years, with a multitude of young stars coming.  They are going to be players in the National League for some time to come.

The Cardinals Roster Tree has been the easiest to do by far. This organization has Drafted so incredibly well, that there has been no real need for trading of late. We will still see how drafting J.D. Drew has turned into Adam Wainwright, and how Albert Pujols signing with the Angels, made for the Cards to select young phenom Michael Wacha. St. Louis is made to their 8th NLCS in the last 13 years,  and 4th World Series Appearance in the last 10, with a multitude of young stars coming in the horizon. They are going to be players in the National League for some time to come.

How All Of The Cardinals Were Acquired:

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

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At the MLB Reports, we intend to show you the Roster Tree for the St. Louis Cardinals – and how they assembled their current roster for hitting and Pitching.  It will work in a six degrees of separation like format.

Once we figure out the origin of how many trades going back in time it takes to see where the tree started, it will be time to dissect how the team fared on the deals.

If a player has never left the organization at all, the tree will be easy – as it will just be the year they were drafted or signed.

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (April.02) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings 2014

Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Mark Buehrle came within one misplayed line drive from the first complete game shutout of the year. He would settle for 8 2/3 shutout innings with 4 hits, 1 walk and 11 strikeouts, leading Toronto to a 3-0 win over Tampa Bay.

Ian Kinsler provided all of the offense the Tigers would need. He homered in the fourth and got the walk off hit in the 10th, giving Detroit a 2-1 win over the Royals

Tim Hudson pitched shutout ball into the 8th, letting up only 3 hits and striking out 7, walking no Diamondbacks, getting the win in his Giants debut, 209.

Ryan Ludwick‘s got the 9th inning lead off single and scored the walk off run as the Reds won a thriller against the Cardinals, 1-0.

They owned baseball on April.2, 2014.

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.

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Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – March 13, 2014

Photo by Jim McIsaac Getty Images

Photo by Jim McIsaac Getty Images

 

Livan Hernandez and Francisco Rodriguez are both in the news.

Both were major figures in the 2002 World Series.

Both remind me of M.Night Shyamalan.

It makes sense if you listen to The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast. Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – January 21, 2014

Harry How/Getty Images North America

Harry How/Getty Images North America

Today on The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast, I discuss bias and impartiality.

Being called biased kind of hurt. I will never be impartial, but my impartiality will be tempered by a lack of bias.

Does that make sense?

I hope so.

To subscribe to The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast on iTunes, click HERE.

To subscribe on SoundCloud, click HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – January 21, 2014

Cards State Of The Union – Fall 2013: John Mozeliak + STL Brass Are Baseball’s Best ‘Rounders’

The Cardinals are the model NL Franchise, having gone to 8 out of the last 13 NLCS Matchups.  They also stand to benefit that the highest revenue teams in the MLB like New York, Boston, Los Angles (x2), Detroit, Texas and San Francisco do not reside in their Division.  At a just north of a $115 MIL payroll, they slightly hover over the Reds for highest team salary in the NL Central.  if the Cards continue to do well in player acquisitions, they will keep contending every year in the NL.

The Cardinals are the model NL Franchise, having gone to 8 out of the last 13 NLCS Matchups. They also stand to benefit that the highest revenue teams in the MLB like New York, Boston, Los Angles (x2), Detroit, Texas and San Francisco do not reside in their Division. Their team has been run the best in the MLB for over a decade.   At a just north of a $115 MIL payroll, they slightly hover over the Reds for highest team salary in the NL Central. if the Cards continue to display “Rounding techniques” in  player acquisitions, they will keep contending every year with the other big boys across baseball.  When you add the fact that the brass knows how to run a club like the Oakland A’s and Tampa Bays Rays do, but also have money to spend, then you can see how dangerous this organization has been since 2000.

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

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What is not to like about this team?

The club has appeared in 4 World Series in the last decade, 8 NLCS series since the turn of the millennium, and now with brilliant drafting and trades, the club is in outstanding position to keep it up for the next decade.

While I hated the fact they recently signed Jhonny Peralta, I understand the move because it was so smart.

This franchise addressed their two top needs this offseason, without surrendering any of their top young Pitching prospects, or even Oscar Taveras for that matter.

Did I also mention that when Carlos Beltran signs somewhere else – the club receives another pick?

Michael Wacha Tosses 8.2 IP Of No – Hit Ball 9/24/13

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The Mark Trumbo Trade Watch Continues in LA: Could He Be Headed To STL, TB, MIA, PIT Or Other?

The Angels have spent almost a half of a billion in Free Agency over the last 3 years, and all they have to show for it, is back to back 3rd place finishes in the AL West.  The team will lose Jason Vargas this year, and the Angels are expected to non-tender Tommy Hanson.  The team also featured an anemic Bullpen in the 2013 campaign.  If the Angels are wishing to trade Mark Trumbo, they best acquire 2 Pitchers that can fill in their weaknesses.  Los Angeles have a surplus of OF/DH and 1B on the Roster with Hamilton, Pujols and Bourjos.  Trumbo will be a heavy commodity sought after because he has 3 years of Team Control left with any aspiring club that brings him in.

The Angels have spent almost a half of a billion in Free Agency over the last 3 years, and all they have to show for it, is back to back 3rd place finishes in the AL West. The team will lose Jason Vargas this year, and the Angels are expected to non-tender Tommy Hanson. The team also featured an anemic Bullpen in the 2013 campaign. If the Angels are wishing to trade Mark Trumbo, they best acquire 2 Pitchers that can fill in their weaknesses. Los Angeles have a surplus of OF/DH and 1B on the Roster with Hamilton, Pujols and Bourjos. Trumbo will be a heavy commodity sought after because he has 3 years of Team Control left with any aspiring club that brings him in.

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

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The Angels have doled out nearly half a Billion in contracts over the last 3 winters of Free Agency and have nothing to show for it but heartache, misery – and a team that was once a perennial playoff favorite dropped under .500 for only the 2nd time in the last decade during the 2013 season.

Hemorrhaging funds for a club not competing can’t sit well with the team owner Arte Moreno.  Amidst in all of this would be a contract for Mike Scioscia as manager for $5 MIL a year, that renders him unfireable, and  even untradeable.

This team is loaded with talented players like Mike Trout, Albert Pujols, Josh Hamilton, Jered Weaver, C.J. Wilson, Howie Kendrick – and of course Mark Trumbo.

Mark Trumbo’s 1st 24 HRs of 2013

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Milwaukee Should Put Ryan Braun On The Trading Block

Ryan Braun is coming back to start the 2014 year with the Brewers, but maybe the brass should be thinking about trading him to spread out the talent pool on their young squad?  Chances are the Pirates, Reds and Cardinals are going to get the best of the you for the next few years, and you really have to take stock in the 2013 winter Free Agent's.  Their is a huge need out there for an OF like Braun.  One has to think whether or not he will be 100% ready to come back to Milwaukee - as that is a lot of baggage to go through initially.  Read the rest of the piece to see who I think could be a potential suitor!

Ryan Braun is coming back to start the 2014 year with the Brewers, but maybe the brass should be thinking about trading him to spread out the talent pool on their young squad? Chances are the Pirates, Reds and Cardinals are going to get the best of the you for the next few years, and you really have to take stock in the 2013 winter Free Agent’s. There is a huge need out there for an OF like Braun – if he were to be made available via trade. . One has to think whether or not he will be 100% ready to come back to Milwaukee – as that is a lot of baggage to go through initially. Read the rest of the piece to see who I think could be a potential suitor!

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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Okay, I maybe a little late on my thoughts of Ryan Braun, but I wasn’t writing for this website at the time the fiasco went down.  I am not going to spend too much time talking about his suspension either.

My purpose of writing this piece is to say that the Brewers should trade the jaded superstar before they even start play in 2014.

Let’s face it, the man’s talents may be in question, however the dude put up monster numbers during 2012 – when the entire world had their sights set on him.  Yet this is different.

Braun has been exposed for the ‘Fraud’ that he is.  More than just setting a bad example, he lied to the fans of the Brewers, and to that entire town of Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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MLB Playoff Predictions: Who Will Win The 2013 World Series?

Boston will be at a slight offensive advantage at Busch Stadium for Games #3. #4 and #5 - with losing Napoli out of the lineup - if John Farrell decides to have David Ortiz face all of the Cards Right Handed Starting Pitchers.  Despite that fact, I can't ignore the clutch playoff performers that the Boston club have for this series.  The Cards team has fought injuries and used their system brilliantly to get this far, but I think they fall just short in the World Series.

Boston will be at a slight offensive advantage at Busch Stadium for Games #3. #4 and #5 – with losing Napoli out of the lineup – if John Farrell decides to have David Ortiz face all of the Cards Right Handed Starting Pitchers. Despite that fact, I can’t ignore the clutch playoff performers that the Boston club have for this series. The Cards team has fought injuries and used their system brilliantly to get this far, but I think they fall just short in the World Series.

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

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The last thing I wanted to be in my 2013 ALCS Prediction was right.  I am a New York Yankees fan, but I have to give it up to the Boston Red Sox.

Much like the 2001 New York Yankees made the World Series after 9/11, how could any begrudge the city of Boston having something to rally around like this?

This matchup will feature the winner laying claim to team of the time frame of 2004 – 2013.  No one will contest the Yankees were the best team in the MLB from 1996 – 2003. 

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St. Louis Cardinals Current Roster Tree: How All Of The Team Was Acquired

The Cardinals Roster Tree has been the easiest to do by far.  This organization has Drafted so incredibly well, that there has been no real need for trading of late.  We will still see how drafting J.D. Drew has turned into Adam Wainwright, and how Albert Pujols signing with the Angels, made for the Cards to select young phenom Michael Wacha.  St. Louis is in their 8th NLCS in the last 13 years, with a multitude of young stars coming.  They are going to be players in the National League for some time to come.

The Cardinals Roster Tree has been the easiest to do by far. This organization has Drafted so incredibly well, that there has been no real need for trading of late. We will still see how drafting J.D. Drew has turned into Adam Wainwright, and how Albert Pujols signing with the Angels, made for the Cards to select young phenom Michael Wacha. St. Louis is in their 8th NLCS in the last 13 years, with a multitude of young stars coming. They are going to be players in the National League for some time to come.

How All Of The Cardinals Were Acquired:

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

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

At the MLB Reports, we intend to show you the Roster Tree for the St. Louis Cardinals – and how they assembled their current roster for hitting and Pitching.  It will work in a six degrees of separation like format.

Once we figure out the origin of how many trades going back in time it takes to see where the tree started, it will be time to dissect how the team fared on the deals.

If a player has never left the organization at all, the tree will be easy – as it will just be the year they were drafted or signed.

For all of the Rosters, Depth Charts, State of the Unions and Salaries that we do, please visit our dedicated page link here.

Carlos Beltran Steals Game #1 of the 2013 NLCS for the Cards

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (September.2nd) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

(AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

(AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

Andre Ethier went 3-4 with three runs scored and three batted in. He homered, walked and hit a pair of doubles, leading the first place Dodgers past the Rockies, 10-8.

Erick Aybar hit a 2 run homer that broke open a tight ball game. He would finish the game going 2-4 with a homer, triple and 4 RBI as the Angels blew out the Rays, 11-2.

Mat Latos threw a critical complete game, 4 hit, 2 run victory. He stymied the Cardinals and gave the Reds a 7-2 victory that kept them in the Central race .

Doug Fister came into Fenway Park and shut out the Red Sox over 7 no run, 4 hit innings. The Tigers won the potential ALCS preview by a score of 3-0.

They all owned baseball on September 2, 2013.

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

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

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

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

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Key Players Mixed With Comeback Players Are Keeping The Indians In The Race For A Playoff Spot

The Indians currently sit with a 71-63 record which puts them only 4.5 games out of a Wild Card spot and &.5 games out of the division. Many people didnt really expect Cleveland to do to much but key players like Giambi, Jiminez, and Kazmir are keeping them in the race

The Indians currently sit with a 71-63 record which puts them only 4.5 games out of a Wild Card spot and 7.5 games out of the division. Many people didn’t really expect Cleveland to do too much but with better than expected performances from  Giambi, Jimenez, and Kazmir – they are keeping up in the race for the playoffs.

By Dan Wanser (MLB Reports Writer)   

The Cleveland Indians currently sit in second place in the American League Central behind the Detroit Tigers and are in fourth place  in the Wild Card behind Oakland, Tampa Bay, and  Baltimore.

Right now, Key players like Ubaldo Jimenez, Jason Kipnis and Just Masterson are leading the way, but is also surprise contributions from  Jason Giambi, and Scott Kazmir  that are also  keeping them in the race for the playoffs.

With time running out, these players need to continue to lead and more players need to start to step up if this team wants to make the playoffs.

Kazmir Dominates:

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Who Has Earned Their $ – And Who Has Not: The Top MLB Contracts Of All – Time Part 1 of 10

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Saturday Aug.10/2013

Mike Piazza has been linked to admission of using PED's during.  his career.  This will probably not go down favorably with the BBWAA.  Mike Piazza hit 427 HRs in his MLB Career (397 as a Catcher) to go along with a .308 Avg and 1335 RBI.

Mike Piazza has been linked to admission of using PED’s during. his career. This will probably not go down favorably with the BBWAA towards an entry into the Baseball Hall of Fame. Mike Piazza hit 427 HRs in his MLB Career (397 as a Catcher) to go along with a .308 Avg and 1335 RBI. From 1999 – 2005, he signed a 7 YR/$91 MIL deal with the New York Mets after being acquired from the Miami Marlins.  He was full value for the franchise, hitting for a 3 Slash Line of .296/.373/.915.  In the 7 years of his deal, he blasted 197 HRs and drove in 579 RBI – despite missing half of the 2003 year.  He was the most prolific hitting Catcher during the era.

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

In doing a recent article about the Oakland Athletics and Tampa Bay Rays ways of contracts, I thought I would delve into some of the biggest contracts of ALL – Time – in order to dissect them.

I have decided to break the articles up into a 10 part series that will go through the top 53 contracts in the history of the MLB.  We are going to count backwards.

Each week for the next 2 months, there will be a post over the weekend with a set of 5 or 6 players. 

At the MLB Reports, we are committed to being the best overall payroll/roster/depth chart/state of the union site for each club. Bookmark our page dedicated for keeping track of this here.

Signing high 8 or 9 digit Salaries is a risky business that can cripple a franchise for many years.  I mean who wouldn’t want to shed themselves of the biggest Free Agency contracts of late.

I think once we have gone through these all, you will see most of them have not lived up to the value they did – when they first received their deals.

Billy Beane, The A’s Management, The Rays front office and the Braves have been the best run franchises in terms of not making horrendous mistakes.

I have to give the ultimate edge to the A’s and Rays because of B.J. Upton‘s current 5 YR/$75 MIL contract looks to be the worst FA signing ever presently, he fell just short of being in this list.’

Tied for #49 are 5 players, and the 48 th biggest contract belongs to Mike Piazza.

Mike Piazza Post 9/11 HR

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Triple Play Podcast Ep # 13 – Around The Horn w/OAK/KC/COL/TOR + Bean Wars + The Genius Beane

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Monday, June.17, 2013

The Triple Play Show will have 5 shows per month.  Each show will be about 1 hour

The Triple Play Show will have 5 shows per month. Each show will be about 1 hour.

By The Big Ticket Show ( AKA Triple Play Podcast on http://www.mlbreports.com)

Guests in this Podcast – Chuck Booth (MLB Reports Owner and Lead Analyst) 

On this week’s show Chuck Booth joins us to break down all the biggest stories in MLB. We also go Around the Horn with Chuck to discuss the A’s, Rockies and Royals current situations and declare the worthy few that belong on their respective Mt Rushmore’s. Bethubb.com best bets end the show as always. Happy Father’s Day!!!!!!!

Intro – 10 Minutes, Toronto Blue Jays talk from 10 Minute to the 18 Minute Mark.  OAK chat – 18 minute – 33 Minute Mark, COL Talk 33 Minutes – 44 Minute Mark.  Kansas City Royals Chart 44 Minutes Mark – 59 Minute Mark.  Late Jays Talk Bethubb Best Bets 1 hour 1 MIN mark to 1 hour 9 Minute Mark.

Quick Facts:  Catsfish Hunter was 7 – 2 in the Post Season for the 1972, 1973 and 1974 World Series Winning A’s – and only 2 -4 with the 3 Post Seasons with the Yankees.  Still 5 World Series Winners was great.  Chuck also meant Ewing Kauffman (Chuck thought his nickname was Charlie in the podcast – maybe because his name his Charlie) when talking about the Royals MT. Rushmore for the franchise.

Yogi Berra did indeed play in 14 World Series and won 10 of them in his Yankees days.

To Keep Reading and Listen to this Podcast click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY or scroll past the Triple Play Logo.

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The Texas Pitching Staff In April

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Sunday, April.28/2013

Rookie RHP Nick Tepesch has had an impressive start to the season with 14 SO over 21 Innings Pitched.  RHP Tepesch was drafted in the 14th round by Texas in 2010 (same as Grimm) spent two years in the Minor League system, never pitching above AA Frisco. He had a career ERA of 3.77, and had only recorded one shutout in his Minor League career. Once LHP Martin Perez was set back by a hand injury, the 24 year old was finally given his chance in the Majors.

Rookie RHP Nick Tepesch has had an impressive start to the season with 14 SO over 21 Innings Pitched. The 24 Year Old man from Kansas City, Missouri was drafted in the 14th round by Texas in 2010 (same as Grimm).  After he spent two years in the Minor League system, never pitching above AA Frisco, he had a career ERA of 3.77, and had only recorded one shutout in his Minor League Career. Once LHP Martin Perez was set back by a hand injury, Tepesch was finally given his chance in the Majors.

By Brooke Robinson (Rangers Correspondent):

It’s the last weekend in April, we’re 23 games into the season, and the Texas Rangers are tied for the best record in baseball (16-7). Sounds a little bit like 2012 right?

The strange part is… they didn’t get there with the monster offense of the previous season. For about the first time since 1983- the Rangers have incredible pitching.

Tepesch’s Nearly unhittable on Apr.25/2013 Start

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Trust In Cash: Vernon Wells And Getting Through Early 2013

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Monday April.1, 2013

Our own Chuck Booth predicted that Mr. Wells could be wearing pinstripes this season and low and behold, Chuck was right.  Now, to see if Wells can bridge the gap for the Yankees until Curtis Granderson returns.

Our own Chuck Booth predicted that Mr. Wells could be wearing pinstripes this season and lo and behold, Chuck was right. Now, to see if Wells can bridge the gap for the Yankees until Curtis Granderson returns.

By Nicholas Rossoletti (Yankees + Trade Correspondent)

There have been few moments as divisive for Yankees fans over the past year than last weekend’s trade for Vernon Wells.  While I will get to the trade analysis of the Wells deal, I find it incredibly interesting the conversations and general disdain Yankee fans are currently showing for the management team in the Bronx.  

The Yankee universe took to social media after the announcement of the trade.  A large contingent were calling for Brian Cashman’s job, which I’m sure is not anything unusual for the General Manager of the Yankees.  It did get me thinking about where the team is coming into the season.

Vernon Wells Highlights – Parental Guidance is Advised:

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Andrew Of The “Baseball Romine’s” – The Next Maicer Izturis?

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Monday, March.18,  2013

Andrew Romine was drafted in the 5th Round of the 2007 MLB Amateur Draft. He comes from a baseball pedigree with his dad (Kevin Romine having played for the Boston Red Sox from 1985 - 1991) and his brother Austin Romine Catching for the New York Yankees this year

Andrew Romine was drafted in the 5th Round of the 2007 MLB Amateur Draft. He comes from a baseball pedigree with his dad (Kevin Romine having played for the Boston Red Sox from 1985 – 1991) and his brother Austin Romine Catching for the New York Yankees this year – after having a cup of coffee for the Bronx Bombers in 2011.  This family has played in every defensive position in the Major Leagues except for the First Base position.  Kevin and Austin have even played a game at the Designated Hitter.

Josh Jones (Angels Correspondent):

While he has not made the roster yet, Utility Infielder Andrew Romine might already be atop of Manager Mike Scioscia’s go to weapons.  Angel fans know how important recently departed Maicer Izturis was for the Angels, just as one-time fan favorite Chone Figgins, with the manager  putting him in the lineup nearly every day at any of the three Infield positions.

Izturis gave a steady switch-hitting bat who had a quality batting eye, the ability to put the ball in play on hit-and-runs, and a steady glove.  He looks and feels like a mirror image of Izturis, possessing all of the traits that the former Angels Infielder brought to the table except the fact that Romine now only bats exclusively from the left side.

Andrew Romine bunting for a base hit in 2009:

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Rondon’s Struggles Continue For Tigers, Valverde And Wilson Rumors Emerge

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Saturday, March.09/2013

Bruce Rondon is 1-1 in Spring Training so far with a 5.79 ERA.  He has allowed 7 Hits (including 1 HR) and Walked 5 in 4.2 IP.  Not such a hot start for the rookie phenom.  With World Series Aspirations this year - can the Tigers afford to not enter the Regular Season with a proven Closer?

Bruce Rondon is 1-1 in Spring Training so far with a 5.79 ERA. He has allowed 7 Hits (including 1 HR) and Walked 5 in 4.2 IP. Not such a hot start for the rookie phenom. With World Series Aspirations this year – can the Tigers afford to not enter the Regular Season with a proven Closer?

By Matthew Lafave (Tigers Correspondent)

Panic in Motown?

Not quite yet.

But the Tigers ‘chosen’ Closer isn’t making things easy.

Bruce Rondon, 22-Years-Old, is expected to be the closer for this coming season and hopefully many more to follow. Tigers GM Dave Dombrowski and manager Jim Leyland have both made it known that it’s his job to lose this spring.

Losing it is just the path he is on. Through 4.2 IP, he has given up 7 Hits, 3 ER, 1 HR, and yielded 5 Walks..It’s early we know, but at what point does early become too late?

If he happens to pitch himself out of the Closer spot then who will be our fearless Closer?

Bruce Rondon hits 103 MPH!

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Hamilton Strikes Out Again In Texas

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Monday, February.25/2013

Josh Hamilton

From the Editor’s Desk ***There will be no highlights,captions or additional statistics in this article.  Some of the articles we have are of the seriously opinionated angle that doesn’t warrant these peripheral things to a post.****

By Brooke Robinson (Rangers Correspondent):

Baseball fans in Texas were heartbroken in December when the news broke of OF Josh Hamilton signing with the rival Angels. Many had grown to love his personality and ability on and off the field, even buying Hamilton jerseys when he signed with his new team. The Slugger had given several good seasons to the fans in Arlington, however bitter it did end. So you could imagine the turmoil in Texas after his interview February 17 with comments regarding the Dallas/Fort Worth area and its fans. In an interview with CBS, Hamilton gave a few choice words about the area not being a “true baseball town” and that the fans there were “spoiled, quickly”. You would have thought Nolan Ryan left for the Yankees.

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Top Base Stealers Projected For The 2013 MLB Baseball Season

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Wednesday February.20/2013

Trout must find a way to stay selective at the plate -to keep walking in 2013 - especially if his average dips.  He can wreak havoc on the base paths once he makes it there.

Trout must find a way to stay selective at the plate -to keep walking in 2013 – especially if his average dips. He can wreak havoc on the base paths once he makes it there.

Bernie Olshansky (Baseball Writer):

Workouts for all teams are in full swing and Spring Training games will start this weekend. Baseball season is here. In the past few weeks, I have projected saves and HR leaders for this upcoming season. In this week’s installment of projections, I will predict the SB leaders for the year (in descending order).

1. Mike Trout, 50

Last year, Trout caught the baseball world by storm after being called up nearly a month after the season started. The young superstar stole 49 bases en route to an MVP-like season. If it were not for Miguel Cabrera winning the Triple Crown, Trout would have been the MVP. The Angels outfielder stole 49 bases in less than a full season. I believe that Trout will steal roughly the same amount of bases due to the Angels’ acquisition of Josh Hamilton. The Angels will want Trout in scoring position as much as possible. This year, there is no way the Angels will not make the playoffs with Trout, Hamilton, and Albert Pujols.

Mike Trout Highlights 2012 – Mature Lyrics so Parental Guidance is advised:

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Why The Orioles And Lohse Make Sense

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Saturday February 16, 2013

Lohse has had an up-and-down career since making his debut in 2001. He has bounced around cities and has experienced some good seasons, and some less than impressive seasons. He was a big part in the middle of the rotation during their 2011 World Series run finishing 14-8 while posting a 3.39 ERA.

Lohse has had an up-and-down career since making his debut in 2001. He has bounced around cities and has experienced some good seasons, also with  some less than impressive seasons. He was a big part in the middle of the Cardinals rotation during their 2011 World Series run – finishing 14-8 while posting a 3.39 ERA.

By Kyle Holland (MLB Reports Writer):

2012 was a career year for the Cardinals’ RHP Kyle Lohse. At Age 34, Lohse has become one of the most inconsistent pitchers in the game of baseball. Since making his debut in 2001 at 21 years old with the Minnesota Twins, Lohse has had some stellar years, and some not-so-great years. This includes a 2008 season – where he went 15-6 with a 3.78 ERA. He followed that great season with ugly 2009 finishing 6-10 while posting a 4.74 ERA.

In 2012,  Lohse turned back to his ace pitching ways. Coming off a solid 2011 season – with a 14-8 record, it didn’t look like Lohse could improve too much. He proved everyone wrong and pitched his way to a 16-3 record. His .842 W-L% lead the National League – while his 2.86 ERA wound up eighth in all of the Majors.

Why the Cardinals will not sign Kyle Lohse:

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2012 AL and NL Rookie of the Year Predictions

Sunday November 11th, 2012

Sam Evans: Even though it may seem as if all of baseball is already focused on 2013, some of the major awards for the 2012 MLB Regular Season have yet to be announced. The AL and NL Rookie of the Year awards will be announced on Monday. Bryce Harper, Wade Miley and Todd Frazier are the finalists for the National League. Mike Trout, Yoenis Cespedes and Yu Darvish are the last three in the American League. I predict that Bryce Harper and Mike Trout will be the two players rewarded for their outstanding rookie seasons by taking home the hardware. Read the rest of this entry

A.L Wild Cards: The Playoff Picture Update

Sunday September 30th, 2012

Jake Dal Porto: The added wild card spot wasn’t a particularly popular move when it was first announced. Now, however, it’s provided some late season drama for teams that probably wouldn’t be in the race without the additional spot. It’s a win-win for all parties involved.

However, everyone can’t jump in on the fun in the American League. Only two teams will get a shot at winning a one game sudden death playoff and moving on to the ALDS.

A.L. Wild Card Standings (as of Sunday morning)

Baltimore: 91-67 –

New York: 91-67 –

Oakland: 90-68 –

L.A. Angels: 87-70 2.5 GB

Tampa Bay: 87-71 3 GB

So, as you can see, the A’s and the Orioles or Yankees would play in a one game do or die if the season ended today. However, nothing is final yet. There are two more teams that stand legitimate chances at taking one of those two spots— the Rays and Angels. Or, the two teams that are expected to make the playoffs.

Let’s breakdown the chances of each team punching their ticket to the postseason: Read the rest of this entry

MLB Reports Monthly Power Rankings: August 2012

Monday August.6/2012

Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Writer and @chuckbooth3024 on twitter)- It has been a crazy month in which teams have stockpiled some heavy talent at the trade deadline to get ready for the playoffs.  Amongst the biggest gainers for the rankings this month were: the Athletics, Reds, Braves, Tigers, Dodgers (because of the deals) and Mariners while the Mets, Red Sox, Indians and Royals saw brutal months all but seal their playoff fates.  I do think that Boston has a punchers chance but that all is dependent on David Ortiz returning to the lineup swiftly.  The power of the best teams is definitely leaning to the National League right now where several teams are playing great baseball.  With one-third of the season left we are all in for a treat as baseball fans.

I will have one more regular season Power Rankings month of September (to be posted on Labor Day Weekend,)  before I also provide a playoff style ranking of the 1-10 seeds right before the Wild Card Teams play the play in game.  It certainly has been awesome to follow how the trade deadline has effected the Monthly Rankings this time around.  I think it is safe to say that this years deadline provided more interest and following-from even the casual fan more than any other year before.  I also believe that the Non-Waiver Trade Deadline is now the best Trade Deadline in all of sports.  Social Media has a lot to do with this but so does parity.  The 2nd Wild Card spot has also created more teams willing to trade prospects in lieu of going for it. Read the rest of this entry

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