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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (June.06) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Justin Edmonds / Getty Images

Justin Edmonds / Getty Images

Dee Gordon got on base 4 times with a pair of triples, a stolen base, two runs scored and three runs batted in, leading the Dodgers to a much needed 7-2 win in Colorado.

Torii Hunter went 3-4 with a homer and a pair of runs scored, stopping Detroit’s slide as they beat Boston 6-2.

Tanner Roark threw 8 innings of 3 hit, no walk shutout ball, striking out 11 Padres. The Nationals inched closer to first place with the 6-0 victory.

Dallas Keuchel tossed 6 innings of shutout ball in Minnesota. The bullpen nearly blew it but he got the decision for the Astros, 5-4.

They owned baseball on June 06, 2014.

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (June.05) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Al Behrman, Associated Press

Al Behrman, Associated Press

Madison Bumgarner pitched 8 innings of 3 hit ball, letting up a single run and walking no Reds batters. He earned his 8th victory for the Giants, 6-1.

Masahiro Tanaka cooled the hot Oakland bats with 6 innings of solid pitching, letting up a single run, as the Yankees held on to win, 2-1.

Casey McGehee went 4-5, including a double, and scored 4 runs helping the Marlins tie for first place while topping the Rays, 11-6.

Dexter Fowler got on base 4 times, scoring a pair and driving in a run, helping the Astros take a 8-5 game against the Angels.

They owned baseball on June 05, 2014.

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (June.04) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Photo: JACK DEMPSEY, AP

Photo: JACK DEMPSEY, AP

Miguel Montero went 3-4, drove in 6 and helped the Diamondbacks score 11 unanswered runs in the final 2 innings in a wild 16-8 victory in Colorado.

Adam Wainwright threw a shutout into the 9th inning. The bullpen would lose the lead for him but his 8 plus innings of 4 hit, 2 walk 8 strikeout ball set up the extra inning 5-2 win for the Cardinals in Kansas City,

Asdrubal Cabrera got on base 3 times including a bottom of the 12th walk off 3 run homer that sunk Boston and continued Cleveland’s winning streak, 7-4.

Hisashi Iwakuma  threw 7 shutout innings, walking no Atlanta batters and helped the Mariners continue their hot streak, 2-0.

They owned baseball on June 04, 2014.

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (June.03) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

(AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

(AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)

Henderson Alvarez pitching a complete game shutout where he walked no batters and threw only 88 pitches. The Marlins beat the Rays by the slimmest of margins, 1-0.

Drew Hutchison engaged in one of the best pitchers duels of the year. He threw 7 shutout innings against the mighty Tigers. He didn’t get the decision but he helped the Blue Jays win, 5-3.

Brandon Moss homered twice including a tie breaking shot in the 10th innings, leading the A’s to a 5-2 victory in the Bronx.

Chris Owings missed the cycle by a single, driving in a pair as the Diamondbacks topped the Rockies, 4-2.

They owned baseball on June 03, 2014.

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

USATSI

USATSI

Kyle Seager missed the cycle by a single. He doubled, tripled twice and launched a back breaking homer as the Mariners blew out the Yankees, 10-2.

Justin Masterson dominated his former team, throwing 7 innings of 3 hit shutout ball, striking out 10 and ending the Red Sox winning streak with a 3-2 win in Cleveland.

Jordy Mercer got on base 5 times, including a homer, drove in a pair and scored 4 times in the Pirates 10-3 romp in San Diego.

Clayton Kershaw threw 8 strong innings, striking out 9 and walking none, allowing the Dodgers to come from behind and beat the White Sox, 5-2.

They owned baseball on June 02, 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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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (June.01) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

ED S. WARREN/AP

ED S. WARREN/AP

In a day full of remarkable pitching performances, Roenis Elias stood out with a masterful 3 hit shutout of the mighty Detroit Tigers. The Mariners won 4-0.

Brock Holt got on base 5 times with 4 doubles and a stolen base helping the Red Sox sweep the Rays with a 4-0 win and extend their winning streak to 7 games.

Kyle Lohse threw a complete game 3 hit shutout against the Cubs, 9-0, and padded the Brewers divisional lead.

Andrew McCutchen homered, smacked a pair of doubles and made a sliding catch, starring in the nationally broadcast 5-3 Pirates victory in Los Angeles.

They owned baseball on June 01, 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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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.31) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Ben Margot, Associated Press

Ben Margot, Associated Press

Yoenis Cespedes was a single shy of the cycle. He hit a go ahead triple in the 7th, blasted a game busting 3 run homer in the 8th and threw out a pair of runners at the plate, doing it all in the A’s 11-3 thumping of the Angels.

Hanley Ramirez went 4-5 with a pair of homers, 5 RBI and 4 runs scored, helping the Dodgers blow out Pittsburgh 12-2.

Masahiro Tanaka did not let up an earned run over 8 innings, giving up just 4 hits and struck out 9 Twins, picking up his 8th win for the Yankees, 3-1.

Johnny Cueto threw shutout ball into the 8th inning. He finished with 7 1/3 innings with 7 strikeouts and 1 walk leading the Reds to a 5-0 win in Arizona.

They owned baseball on May.31, 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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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.30) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Dilip Vishwanat, Getty Images

Dilip Vishwanat, Getty Images

Madison Bumgarner threw 7 three hit shutout innings, striking out 10 while only walking 1 Cardinal batter, leading the Giants to a 9-4 win.

Devin Mesoraco hit a second inning grand slam and later added a solo shot, providing most of the spark for Cincinnati’s 6-4 victory in Arizona.

Corey Kluber pitched into the 8th inning, finishing with 5 hits over 7 1/3, striking out 12 and walking 1 as the Indians topped Colorado, 5-2.

Josh Donaldson had another amazing day at the plate. He got on four times, including a pair of homers and 4 RBI as Oakland topped the Angels, 9-4

They owned baseball on May.30, 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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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.29) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Photo: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Photo: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Josh Collmenter faced the minimum 27 batters in his brilliant 3 hit no walk complete game shutout against the Reds, earning the 4-0 win in Arizona.

Michael Morse homered and drove in the go ahead runs with an 8th inning double as the Giants came from behind to beat the Cardinals, 6-5.

Brad Peacock threw 6 solid innings, striking out 8, walking no Orioles and allowing just one run. He did not get the win but he kept Houston in the game long enough to top Baltimore 3-1 and extend their winning streak to 6 games.

Erick Aybar went 3-5 with a homer, a stolen base and 3 RBI, leading the Angels to a 7-5 win in Seattle.

They owned baseball on May.29, 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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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.28) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Ted S. Warren - AP

Ted S. Warren – AP

Felix Hernandez came within an out of a complete game, finishing with 8 2/3 innings of 4 hit, 1 walk and 9 strikeout ball. He got the 3-1 win for the Mariners over the Angels.

Josh Donaldson made his second hit of the game count. He clocked a 3 run, bottom of the 9th, come from behind walk off homer that stunned the Tigers and made the A’s 3-1 winners.

Bartolo Colon pitched shutout ball into the 8th inning. He threw 7 1/3 innings, striking out 9 and walking just one Pirate, earning the 5-0 victory for the Mets.

Paul Goldschmidt missed the cycle by a triple, driving in 3 and scoring 2, leading the Diamondbacks in a 12-6 bombing of the Padres.

They owned baseball on May.28, 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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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.27) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

Lance Lynn threw a complete game 5 hit shutout, dominating the Yankees 6-0 in St. Louis.

Andre Ethier homered and hit a three run triple, leading the Dodgers past the Reds 6-3.

Collin McHugh won a tense pitchers duel by throwing 7 scoreless innings, striking out 9 Royals and walking none as the Astros won 3-0.

Adam Lind kept the torrid bats alive for Toronto, going 3-5 with a homer and 2 RBI in the 9-6 slugfest against Tampa.

They owned baseball on May.27, 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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30 MLB Team Power Rankings: Week 5 – Apr. 2014

The Astros have helped pad the stats for teams like the A's, Rangers and Angels offenses and Run Differentials so far,  Having this cupcake team will definitely help your playoff chances with the weighted divisional play.

The Astros have helped pad the stats for teams like the A’s, Rangers and Angels offenses and Run Differentials so far in 2014, Having this cupcake team will definitely help your playoff chances with the weighted divisional play.  I will be amazed if they finish out of last in the American League this year, and maybe only the Chicago Cubs will challenge them for the 1st overall pick again for the 2015 MLB Amateur Draft.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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We are now at the 13 – 14% pole of the MLB year.  Parity is reigning supreme on the standings.

For the record, while I love the Milwaukee start, they are just too many variables for them to keep up this pace.

Don’t get me wrong, i think this team is capable of making the playoffs, winning 90 games, but it could be eliminated as fast as they have compiled this record.

Ryan Braun’s thumb could require surgery. Ramirez’s knee’s could fail him.

Considering last night’s situation with Braun and Gomez, that could alter the playing field for the NL.

The suspension laid down for the brawl with the Pirates could also sway some momentum.  Good on Milwaukee for starting 18 – 6.  I just think the Cards will track them down in the next 138 games. Read the rest of this entry

Los Angeles Dodgers State Of The Union: 2014 Preview

Clayton Kershaw agreed to a 7 YRs/$215 MIL extension last week - that will run through the years of 2014 - 2020 with the LA Dodgers.   The deal is slated for an opt out clause after the 2018 season by Kershaw, when he will be only 30 years old.     This is the greatest single Annual Average Salary ALL - Time of $30.7 MIL per year, and is the 6th biggest contract ever in the history of the MLB.  Last year was his mos dominant to date, with a 16 - 9 record, an NL Leading 1.83 ERA and 232 SO.  The about to be 26 Year Old, also nailed down his 2nd NL Cy Young win in 3 years, and the other year he was the runner up in that time frame.  He may be the single most important player to any franchise in the National League.

Clayton Kershaw agreed to a 7 YRs/$215 MIL extension in the offseason – that will run through the years of 2014 – 2020 with the LA Dodgers. The deal is slated for an opt out clause after the 2018 season by Kershaw, when he will be only 30 years old. This is the greatest single Annual Average Salary ALL – Time of $30.7 MIL per annum, and is the 6th biggest contract ever in the history of the MLB. Last year was his most dominant to date, with a 16 – 9 record, an NL Leading 1.83 ERA and 232 SO. The about to be 26 Year Old, also nailed down his 2nd NL Cy Young win in 3 years, and the other year he was the runner up in that time frame. He may be the single most important player to any franchise in the National League.  Kershaw is the 3 time reigning NL ERA champ.

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

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The Dodgers are beginning year 2 of potentially a half-dozen years of dominance.  They have a team filled with ALL – Stars, superior Starting Pitching, and have deep pockets to seal the deal with necessary changes.

The NL West might be stronger this year with more competitive rosters from the D’Backs, Rockies and Giants, yet I still think the Dodger Blue will pulverize the competition, particularly in their own division.

Our Chief Writer Hunter Stokes wrote a great article on the Dodgers taking the 1st few series of the year not as seriously as the rest of the year here.

I fully agree with his stance, yet I don’t think it will make much of a difference.

Injuries aside this team is ready to take down the National League. Read the rest of this entry

Los Angeles Dodgers Payroll In 2014 + Contracts Going Forward: Updated For Kershaw Deal

The Dodgers already have salary commitments that are over $225 MIllion now - with the $$ given to their reigning NL Cy Young Winner.  Kenley Jansen and A.J. Ellis have yet to be paid in Arbitration yet.  The club will certainly pass last years $235 MIL plus payroll.  By doing the Kershaw deal also does not prevent them from trying to sign Masahiro Tanaa either.  Last year, the Dodgers paid out around $10 MIL for their part in going over the Luxury Tax Threshold for the 1st time - at a 17/5% penalty.  Under the current CBA, even if the team went to $300 MIL for 2014, they would only have to dole out roughly $25 MIL in penalties for a 2nd time offender.  LAD have taken full advantage of the salary structure - and don't look for them to relent any time soon.

The Dodgers already have salary commitments that are over $225 Million now – with the $$ given to their reigning NL Cy Young Winner. Kenley Jansen and A.J. Ellis have yet to be paid in Arbitration. The club will certainly pass last years $235 MIL plus payroll. By doing the Kershaw deal also does not prevent them from trying to sign Masahiro Tanaka either. Last year, the Dodgers paid out around $10 MIL for their part in going over the Luxury Tax Threshold for the 1st time – at a 17.5% penalty. Under the current CBA, even if the team went to $300 MIL for 2014, they would only have to dole out roughly $25 MIL in penalties for a 2nd time offender. LAD have taken full advantage of the salary structure – and don’t look for them to relent any time soon.  In 2014, the club will pay a 22.5% penalty for every buck spent over $189 MIL.

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

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I wrote an article just 16 months ago on how the LA Dodgers were going to force the economics of baseball the way they were conduct business with the new ownership.

As someone who has worked the majority of the time on the site for the last 3 years, I take great pride in my research.  So far it has worked out.

The Dodgers following what I said is nice vindication as a writer.

I am not here to toot my own horn, but our website was also on the forefront of the Athletics renaissance a few years back, the Rays coming back to fight in the 2013 year, and also we were one of the 1st to report the Shields for Myers deal.

2013 NLDS Post Season highlights – Mature Lyrics so Parental Guidance is Advised

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“The Record” Clayton Kershaw Contract By The Numbers: How It All Stacks Up

Clayton Kershaw has agreed to a 7 YRs/$215 MIL extension t- that will run through the years of 2014 - 2020 with the LA Dodgers.   The deal is slated for an opt out clause after the 2018 season by Kershaw, when he will be only 30 years old.

Clayton Kershaw has agreed to a 7 YRs/$215 MIL extension – that will run through the years of 2014 – 2020 with the LA Dodgers. The deal is slated for an opt out clause after the 2018 season by Kershaw, when he will be only 30 years old.  The terms go like this for years.  2014:  $22 MIL ( $18 MIL signing bonus is part of that), 2015: $30 MIL, 2016: $32 MIL, 2017 and 2018 he will earn $33 MIL).  From here that will have been $150 MIL for the 1st 5 years of the contract.  If Kershaw remains past this, the deal pays $32 MIL in 2019 – and finally $33 MIL in 2020.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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The verdict is in.  Clayton Kershaw has agreed to a 7 YR Extension for $215 Million.

It is the highest Annual Average Contract ($30.7 MIL) in the history of Major League Baseball, topping A-Rod’s previously set deal worth $27.5 MIL.

The deal is also the richest contract ever in Pitching history – surpassing Justin Verlander’s 7 YRs/$180 MIL extension from 2013 – 2019.

It is the 6th highest deal ever in the MLB, and Kershaw becomes the 7th player ever to receive a contract north of $200 MIL.

Clayton Kershaw Highlights 2013

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The Los Angeles Dodgers Players In All Organizational Affiliates, Prospects + Depth Charts (MLB + MiLB) 2014

Puig slowed down a shade from his torrid 1st month pace - however still slashed .319/.392/.925 - with 19 HRs, 42 RBI. 66  Runs Scored and 122 Hits in just 434 AB.  He has in the 2nd YR of a 7 YR/$42 MIL contract in his pocket, and that may be the bargain of ALL - Time if he continues these type of numbers all the way throughout his length of the deal.  Puig finished in 2nd for NL Rookie of The Year Voting, and placed 15th in NL MVP balloting as well.

Puig slowed down a shade from his torrid 1st month pace – however still slashed .319/.392/.925 – with 19 HRs, 42 RBI. 66 Runs Scored and 122 Hits in just 434 AB for the 2013 year. He has now in the 2nd YR of a 7 YR/$42 MIL contract in his pocket, and that may be the bargain of ALL – Time if he continues these type of numbers all the way throughout his length of the deal. Puig, 23,  finished in 2nd for NL Rookie of The Year Voting, and placed 15th in NL MVP balloting as well.

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): & Jeff Kleiner (Org. Depth Chart Expert)

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The Los Angeles Dodgers had a rollercoaster 2013 campaign.  After a late season 2012 trade, the club went on a spending bonanza to enter the 2013 year.

In late May. it looked bleak. The franchise wanted to fire Don Mattingly, Matt Kemp and Hanley Ramirez were battling various injuries, and the club was 23 – 32.

Enter Yasiel Puig with his historic 1st month, and the team then went on a torrid pace at that hadn’t been done in nearly 60 years.

The crux of this crestwave, was a 42 – 8 stretch that saw the club bypass all 4 Division foes, putting a stranglehold on the NL West once and for all.

Dodgers own the West

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Atlanta Braves Payroll in 2014 + Contracts Going Forward Part 1

It would be one thing if B.J. Upton were the only player on the Braves who had an abysmal season.  When you add the injuries and the season of Dan Uggla to Upton worst year of his career, it is actually amazing this team ended with 96 Wins.  With the club losing Brian McCann, Paul Maholm and Tim Hudson, they will need Upton and CO. to rebound for the team to contend again in 2014.  Upton has to get back to 20/20 years for powers and steals, and at least hit to 85% of his career 3 slash - to justify the contract doled out by the Atlanta Braves.  Uggla must correct his vision problems and get back to raking again.  These 2 guys are the #2 and #3 paid guys on the squad in 2014 behind Justin Upton.

It would be one thing if B.J. Upton were the only player on the Braves who had an abysmal season. When you add the injuries and the season of Dan Uggla to Upton worst year of his career, it is actually amazing this team ended with 96 Wins. With the club losing Brian McCann, Paul Maholm and Tim Hudson, they will need Upton and CO. to rebound for the team to contend again in 2014. Upton has to get back to 20/20 years for powers and steals, and at least hit to 85% of his career 3 slash – to justify the contract doled out by the Atlanta Braves. Uggla must correct his vision problems and get back to raking again. These 2 guys are the #2 and #3 paid guys on the squad in 2014 behind Justin Upton.

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): & Jeff Kleiner (Org. Depth Chart/Payroll Expert)

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The ‘Tomahawk Choppers’ have 2 players that are killing them for Free Agent signings this winter.

B.J. Upton is only in the 2nd year of his 5 YRs/$75 MIL – and underachieving Dan Uggla  is still on the  books for 2 more years.

Between these 2 gentleman, they will bring down $26.25 MIL in 2014.  The Braves are hoping for more than under the ‘Mendoza Line’ Batting Averages – and an occasional big fly.

The Braves are also headed to Arbitration with Freddie Freeman, Jason Heyward and Craig Kimbrel.  This is certainly bound to cost the organization a pretty penny.

In fact, those 3 players will likely exceed the amount of the B.J Upton and Uggla contracts.

Craig Kimbrel 2013 Highlights – Mature Lyrics Parental Guidance Is Advised:

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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

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): 

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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.

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The Los Angeles Dodgers Roster Tree: How All Of The Hitters Were Acquired

Andre Ethier finished 6th in NL MVP Voting during the 2009 season. It has been his best year to date. He hit 31 HRs, added 106 RBI, 76 XBH Overall and scored 92 Runs.  He won a Silver Slugger Award for his efforts.  Ethier was acquired through a chain of transactions that goes all the way back to when the team drafted Mike Piazza (who was traded for Gary Sheffield), who was traded for

Andre Ethier finished 6th in NL MVP Voting during the 2009 season. It has been his best year to date. He hit 31 HRs, added 106 RBI, 76 XBH Overall and scored 92 Runs. He won a Silver Slugger Award for his efforts. Ethier was acquired through a chain of transactions that goes all the way back to when the team drafted Mike Piazza (who was traded for Gary Sheffield), who was traded for Andrew Brown from Atlanta, (who was later flipped for Milton Bradley from Cleveland, before lA turned around and traded Bradley to the A’s for Andre Ethier.)

How All Of The Dodgers Hitters 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 Los Angeles Dodgers – 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.

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Who Owns October? (WOO) Tally Updated For October 15, 2013 Games

(AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

(AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO.

And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO to a worthy player on the losing team.

For a full explanation, click HERE.

From today’s games:

Receiving 1 WOO:

Matt Holliday got a pair of hits including a massive 2 run homer in the 3rd inning that wound up being the difference in the Cardinals 4-2 win over the Dodgers.

John Lackey was magnificent, pitching shutout ball into the seventh inning. He finished with 6 2/3 innings, no runs, 4 hits, 8 strikeouts and no walks. He got the decision in Boston’s 1-0 heart stopping win in Detroit.

Carlos Martinez not only threw 2 key innings of shutout relief but also picked off Nick Punto at second base when the Dodgers were threatening to rally. St. Louis would hold on to win, 4-2.

Mike Napoli homered in the 7th inning and provided all of the offense of the game as the Red Sox beat the Tigers, 1-0.

Receiving 1/2 WOO:

Andre Ethier got on base three times and scored, giving the Dodgers some hope in their 4-2 loss to the Cardinals.

Victor Martinez was one of the only Tiger hitters whose bats were not totally dead. He went 2-4, including a single that put the go ahead run on base and the winning run at the plate in the 9th. The runs would not score and neither would Detroit who fell to Boston, 1-0.

Justin Verlander gave a performance on par with the other dominant Tiger starts in the ALCS. He finished with 8 innings, 4 hits, a single walk and 10 strikeouts. A solo home run in the 7th was his lone blemish, which was enough to lose the game 1-0 to the Red Sox.

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The Atlanta Braves State Of The Union – Fall 2013: Part 1

2013 was not an easy road traveled either. The Braves suffered so many injuries and set backs this season that I think a lot of us almost forget about the ones that happened earlier on in the year. Johnny Venters never even threw a regular season pitch this year and he has been our premiere set up man. Eric O’Flaherty threw his last pitch somewhere around the middle of May against this very Dodger team at Turner Field.

2013 was not an easy road traveled for Atlanta. The Braves suffered so many injuries and set backs this season that I think a lot of us almost forget about the ones that happened earlier on in the year. Johnny Venters never even threw a regular season pitch this year and he has been our premiere set up man. Eric O’Flaherty threw his last pitch somewhere around the middle of May against this very Dodger team at Turner Field.

By Bob McVinua (Special Guest Braves Writer – visit his website here):

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At the point after Eric O’Flaherty went down, many of us Braves fans began to panic and wonder how Fredi Gonzalez would get the ball to arguably the best closer

in all of baseball Craig Kimbrel. What happened after that? The Braves would still go on to post the best bullpen ERA in all of baseball and on top of that set a franchise record for the same mark.

Jason Heyward missed significant time as did Brian McCann. Freddie Freeman spent a couple of weeks on the disabled list and still drove in over 100 runs on the season.

BJ Upton and Dan Uggla struggled throughout most of the 2013 season and BJ was one of the players expected to make a huge impact when he signed with the Braves this winter and it just never happened.

Other players stepped up and young players assumed roles that were well beyond the original expectations of them in 2013.

No one panicked and no one quit and as a fan I am appreciative of the heart and effort this team always put forth.

The Dodgers Celebrate winning the NLDS Series versus Atlanta (At Turner Field)

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Odds To Win The 2013 MLB World Series + ALDS/NLDS Series + The ALCS/NLCS + Odds for 4 Games Fri Oct 4th/2013

Bartolo Colon is anchoring the rotation for the Athletics this season. He is not the strikeout pitcher he was in the past, but is still effective against the opposition. Colon has displayed great control this season.  He starts tonight as the Game #1 Starter versus Max Scherzer.

Bartolo Colon is anchoring the rotation for the Athletics this season. He is not the strikeout pitcher he was in the past, but is still effective against the opposition. Colon has displayed great control this season. He starts tonight as the Game #1 Starter versus Max Scherzer.  The Athletics and Rays are still the highest odds on the board at +800.  I have already wagered on the Rays to win earlier in the season, and now have put $25 on the Athletics to take home the ultimate prize.

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

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Odds To Win the World Series:

LA Dodgers +300

Boston Red Sox +375

St. Louis Cardinals +450

Detroit Tigers +475

Oakland Athletics +800

Tampa Bay Rays +800

Atlanta Braves +1300

Pittsburgh Pirates +1700

ODDS Courtesy of http://www.bet365.com

Ryu and Nolasco on facing the Braves in the NLDS

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2013 MLB Playoff Predictions By MLB Reports

In my view, Evan Longoria could end up being the MVP of the entire playoffs.  I am predicting the Tampa Bay Rays are going to win the World Series versus the LA Dodgers, in what should be a classic Pitching duel of some of the best Starters in the game of baseball today.  Wil Myers and Ben Zobrist help pitching in will also be Paramount.  Picking up proven playoff performer Delmon Young (HR'd last night - and is .266/.328/.887 - with 9 HRs and 16 RBI In 109 AB was also a good move by the Rays brass.  If these guys hit, the Pitching should do enough.

In my view, Evan Longoria could end up being the MVP of the entire playoffs – with his penchant for being clutch in the last games of years. I am predicting the Tampa Bay Rays are going to win the World Series versus the LA Dodgers, iIf Wil Myers and Ben Zobrist help bashing the ball around, then this team is scary. Also picking up proven playoff performer Delmon Young (yes that guy) (HR’d last night – and is .266/.328/.887 – with 9 HRs and 16 RBI In 109 AB) was also a good move by the Rays brass. If these guys hit, the Pitching should do enough.

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

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Okay, now that the Wild Card Games are over, I am 2 – 1 this week in predicting the outcomes of games.  I had both Rays wins and lost with the Reds.

For those that have been reading my gambling pick posts, will also see that I have been discussing some of the odds posted for the playoffs.  Check out those here.

I am not going with the masses this year, however I am picking 2 favorites and 2 underdogs in the 1st Round. 

Really, I think the matchups are a lot more even than even some of the biggest betting industry odds are suggesting.

I may have also taken the Athletics all the way to the World Series if Cespedes wasn’t hampered by his injured Right Shoulder.

Yoenis Cespedes HR Derby Mashing

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Odds To Win The 2013 MLB World Series + ALDS/NLDS Series + The ALCS/NLCS

In my view, the Rays are the best odd on the board at +800.  With David Price, Matt Moore and Alex Cobb all pitching so well, and the team have the best coach in GM, I am really surprised that they are tied with Oakland for the 3rd in the AL in terms of longshots to win the whole Fall Classic.  The Rays won a Game 163 vs the Rangers and the Wild Card Game versus the Indians.  It was their 9th straight game on the road.  This team just finds a way to win.

In my view, the Rays are the best odd on the board at +800. With David Price, Matt Moore and Alex Cobb all pitching so well, and the team have the best coach in Joe Maddon, I am really surprised that they are tied with Oakland for the 3rd in the AL in terms of longshots to win the whole Fall Classic. The Rays won a Game 163 vs the Rangers and the Wild Card Game versus the Indians. It was their 9th straight game on the road. This team just finds a way to win.

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

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Odds To Win the World Series:

Boston Red Sox +360

LA Dodgers +450

Detroit Tigers +475

St. Louis Cardinals +500

Atlanta Braves +700

Oakland Athletics +800

Tampa Bay Rays +800

Pittsburgh Pirates +1150

ODDS Courtesy of http://www.bet365.com

Rays Take Out The Indians 4 – 0

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Braves May Have The Medicine To Cure The “Blue Flu”

The Braves are National League Eastern Division champions and for that they deserve a large amount of recognition. When you think back to the start of Spring Training and look all of those “expert” predictions that said the Washington Nationals would win the East this year you have to realize that despite the busy off season activity the Braves were still labeled as under dogs in their own division.

The Braves are National League Eastern Division champions and for that they deserve a large amount of recognition. When you think back to the start of Spring Training and look all of those “expert” predictions that said the Washington Nationals would win the East this year you have to realize that despite the busy off season activity the Braves were still labeled as under dogs in their own division.

By Bob McVinua (Special Guest Braves Writer – visit his website here):

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Despite injuries and struggles on the offensive end from highly paid players such as BJ Upton and Dan Uggla the Braves still manged to dominant the Eastern Division.

By “dominate” I mean they were in 1st place every single day of the season except for April 4th and they held at least an 8 game lead every single day for the final 60 of the season. If that’s not dominance I don’t know what is.

Besides the incredible season – and all that was achieved, the Braves did fail to secure the number one seed in the National League for the post season – which would have secured them home field throughout the playoffs and allowed them to play the winner of the Wild Card “play in game.” rather then having to face the Dodgers in the N.L.D.S.

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Odds To Win The 2013 World Series As Of Right Now + Playoff Notes Tues Oct.01 (+ Pick Of The Day)

The National League is up for grabs - and I can't believe that the Reds are +1800 right now to win the World Series.  If they win the Wild Card game, the team could be extremely dangerous afterwards.  Honestly, the Indians and Rays should not be favored ahead of them.  TIP OF THE DAY:  Bet $53 on the Reds to win the World Series, for  a win of $1007.  Then to offset a loss today, wager $70.52 on the Pirates at -133.  If the Bucs win, you break even, and if the Cincy club escapes PNC Park, you are alive for your big payday, having bet $123.52, however your payout would still be $1007.

The National League is up for grabs – and I can’t believe that the Reds are +1800 right now to win the World Series. If they win the Wild Card game, the team could be extremely dangerous afterwards. Honestly, the Indians and Rays should not be favored ahead of them. TIP OF THE DAY: Bet $53 on the Reds to win the World Series, for a win of $1007. Then to offset a loss today, wager $70.52 on the Pirates at -133. If the Bucs win, you break even, and if the Cincy club escapes PNC Park, you are alive for your big payday, having bet $123.52, however your payout would still be $1007.

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

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

Odds To Win the World Series:

Boston Red Sox +340

LA Dodgers +450

Detroit Tigers +500

St. Louis Cardinals +550

Atlanta Braves +700

Oakland Athletics +750

Tampa Bay Rays +1500

Cleveland Indians +1600

Pittsburgh Pirates +1600

Cincinnati Reds +1800

ODDS Courtesy of http://www.bet365.com

Rays Take Out The Rangers 5 – 2

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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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2 And A Hook Podcast #13: MLB Reports State Of The Union Address + MLB Fancave Top 7 Finalist Aaron Roberts

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Friday, Aug.16 2013

A      berts ball 1

‘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 )

Guests On The Show:

On today’s show, brought to you by www.mlbreports.com 

& yours truly The Bench Warmers Show.

  I start off with the new replay rules that mlb wants to put in starting next season in 2014.

Chuck Booth (16 minute mark and a 40 Minute Segment) calls in on his segment to talk about the HUGE changes that are taking place on the MLB Reports website so make sure you all check that out!!

Also I got to talk to Thomas Aaron Roberts (1 hour in and 50 minutes) )

Roberts was one of the last 7 MLB Fancave Dwellers & was our first LA Dodgers correspondent back in the infancy of MLB Reports!!

We talked about his experience in the MLB Fancave, all of the ball players he met & advice on being a MLB Fancave Dweller for future contestants…

then we get into about his team the Dodgers & if he thinks they have a chance to go to the World Series!!

Plus i get into my future award winning segment & everyone’s favorite Stats & Facts so pull up a chair, download/play this podcast & SPREAD THE WORD!!! Thank you all for your continuous support!!!

Either click the link just below here… or you can go past the show logo or CLICK THE READ TO READ THIS ENTRY – to listen to it on our Player

2 And A Hook Podcast #13

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Dodgers Have Been Pulverizing The Competition For Weeks – While The Rest Of The NL West Have Been Brutal

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Thursday Aug.08/2013

Despite early season rumors of Mattingly getting fired, Donnie has managed his team back into the division race after a private meeting with Dodger executives. The Dodgers are now 62 - 50 after setting a franchise record 15 game road winning streak and are opening up a commanding lead versus their NL West brethren. Now with Yasiel Puig and Hanley Ramirez igniting the clubs offense, plus Zack Greinke coming back to the Starting Rotation, the team has begun to gel.  But it is also the secondary players that have provided some clutch play of late.

Despite early season rumors of Mattingly getting fired, Donnie has managed his team back into the division race after a private meeting with Dodger executives. The Dodgers are now 63 – 50 after setting a franchise record 15 game road winning streak earlier this week and are opening up a commanding lead versus their NL West brethren. Now with Yasiel Puig and Hanley Ramirez igniting the clubs offense, plus Zack Greinke coming back to the Starting Rotation, the team has begun to gel. But it is also the secondary players that have provided some clutch play of late. The team has won 33 of their last 41 Games.  Now that is outstanding!

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

I was wrong to throw the towel in on the Dodgers at the beginning of June in an article. 

While I initially had LA as my NL representative in the WS before the year started, I thought they were cooked. 

Yasiel Puig was infused into the lineup, and the team has fed off of his electricity.

Zack Greinke and Hanley Ramirez then came back to facilitate the start of this hotstreak.

I am not sure I have ever seen an entire Division struggle so badly – with the exception of 1 team doing the polar opposite simultaneously, like has happened in the NL West over the last 8 weeks.

The Dodgers have been on a historical run in their ascent from last place (trailing by as much as 9.5 games on June 1st) – all the way to top of the Division (by 5 games as of right now.)

There have been countless reasons how the turnaround has transpired.

Don Mattingly has gone from the hotseat – to now being in the position where he could net himself a contract extension when the season is over.

The rest of the NL West Clubs have been incredibly anemic – and we will focus on the records since that date in this piece.

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Top MLB Teams 1 – 30: Monthly Rankings + (Top 200 Stats For Reading And Fantasy Baseball)

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Thursday July.11/2013

The Giants have gone 9 - 23 in their last 32 Games and are in danger of having a brutal campaign just one year after capturing the World Series.  Key injuries and overlogged pitchers have been the main point of contention. They lost 8 Ranking Spots.

The Giants have gone 9 – 23 in their last 32 Games – and are in danger of having a brutal campaign just one year after capturing the World Series. Key injuries and overlogged pitchers have been the main point of contention. They lost 8 Ranking Spots this past time.  Should they also become sellers at the Trade Deadline,  Tim Lincecum and Hunter Pence could fetch a few players in return.  The Giants are currently 40 – 50 and 6.5 Games behind the NL West Leading DBACKS – but are in last in the NL West.

 

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

The time has come for the July Power Rankings with Stats Edition.  There will be one each for May, June, July, August, September – and then a special playoff edition Power Rankings will be done in October.

I will not do a weekly Power Rankings during these weeks, because in essence, these are the weekly rankings done on a much larger scale.

These Reports are done with a heavy thought to how the teams project by the end of the season – along with how the clubs have fared so far.

I will point out who has had great months for the all 30 MLB Teams.  I reward the good performances in these rankings – and leave the poor ones for the Podcasts or future articles. CLICK THE READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON or scroll past the video and picture.

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