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The Top 5 Closers In The MLB For 2015
Rodney had 48 Saves, 0.777 WHIP and a 0.60 ERA in 2012, to place 5th in AL Cy Young Voting and was an ALL-Star. 2013 wasn’t as kind (although he did win the WBC) with a 3.34 ERA and a WHIP of 1.335. The Mariners not armed with many better Options, brought in the then 37 Year Old, to a 2 YR/$14 MIL deal. Rodney did feature a career best 11.1/SO Per 9 IP rate in 2013, but he also walked 4.9 /Per IP as well. His work translated better in the AL West during 2014, where 2/3rds of his games are in Seattle, Los Angeles and Oakland. Rodney led the AL in both Saves (48) and Games Finished in 2014 (64) – while having a 2.85 ERA, but a high 1.342 WHIP. The latter is right near his career totals. His Walk Rate was 3.8, but that is less than his 4.4 clip for his lifetime. The man fashioned a 10.3/9 IP SO rate. I expect more of the same in 2015, with the M’s having one of the better clubs this campaign. There will be more arrows slings after games.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
With the fiasco that is the Detroit Tigers Bullpen. I look for these guys to roll through several different Closers in 2015. Joakim Soria would be the 1st one to attempt after Joe Nathan fails.
I also think the Yankees are going dually use Dellin Betances and Andrew Miller depending on the situational maneuvering matchups. New York will be hard pressed to make the playoffs, but I do think they will net one of the higher team Save totals.
The same could probably said for the Boston Red Sox. I think the near 40 year old Koji Uehara will have a tough time staying healthy for 100% of the opportunities, however he will be just outside the mark.
St. Louis may end up using someone different from Trevor Rosenthal, because we are due for them to change 9th inning guys. Adam Wainwright, Jason Isringhausen Jason Motte, Ryan Franklin and Edward Mujica have all seen the mantle over the last several years for the RedBirds.
Rosenthal has actually had one of the longer stints, however he really struggled at the end of the 2014 year (despite 45 Saves), and it carried over to the playoffs, where he featured 10 base runners, while only recording 11 outs. I am thinking he will not have as many chances in 2015 as well.
If ‘Cash’ Was Handled Right – The Yankees Could Get 2015 Payroll Under The Luxury Tax This Year
A few years ago, the Yankees were trying to get under the Luxury Tax Threshold just a few years ago, before they dished out $175 MIL over 7 years to Masahiro Tanaka. Despite that, the club could have opted to get under last July by trading Kuroda, Suzuki and Gardner near the Deadline, instead of going for an ill-advised run at the playoffs. At an estimated $211 MIL team salary so far, there are options to drop the mark under the limit yet again if the club struggles. Should they not take advantage this time, they are completely dumb beyond recognition.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Losing out on Yoan Moncada Sweepstakes
The Yankees fans let out a collective groan. but the cost of Yoan Moncada would be even more money than his $31.5 MIL signing bonus – and additional $31.5 MIL penalty. How about tacking on another $15.75 MIL for part of their $50% Luxury Tax Penalty?
I agree with the Yankees not wanting to shell out nearly $80 MIL for an unproven teenager. There are a numerous of examples of can’t miss prospects that won’t pan out.
The Yankees are estimated to have a payroll of near $221 MIL. But the actual AAV is a little higher with the length of term bringing up the overall mark. Alex Rodriguez makes $21 MIL in 2015, but he 10 year pact, was for an AAV of $27.5 MIL overall, so that is the number that brings up the clip.
If the Yankees are on pace to have spent $215 MIL in 2015, so by July, that means they would have put out about $105 MIL at the ALL-Star Break. This gives about $84 MIL worth of room, but you must take off around $27 MIL to fall under the limit.
For a Year to Year Breakdown For all of the Yankees players please visit here.
Madison Bumgarner and Lorenzo Cain Owned October (#WOO)
Scott Strazzante, SF Chronicle – David J. Phillip, AP
One threw a shutout in the Wild Card Game and captured NLCS and World Series MVP honors.
The other got a pair of hits and drove in a pair in the Wild Card Game, batted .533 with an OPS of 1.255 to win ALCS MVP and took his potent bat and highlight catches into the World Series.
Madison Bumgarner of the San Francisco Giants and Lorenzo Cain of the Kansas City Royals owned October in 2014.
I pick a pitcher and hitter every game from each winning post season team and award them a WOO (Who Owns October.)
And I also have the option to give a 1/2 WOO to a player on a losing team.
I awarded Who Owns the World Series to Bumgarner and his teammate Hunter Pence.
But WOO tallies every post season game, from the Wild Card Game all the way to the final pitch of Game 7 of the World Series.
So not only are the Giants and Royals represented, but so are the Orioles, Cardinals, Tigers, Athletics, Angels, Pirates, Dodgers and Nationals.
Hunter Pence, Pablo Sandoval, Brandon Crawford, Nelson Cruz, Alcides Escobar, Eric Hosmer, Travis Ishikawa, Buster Posey and Kolten Wong all got 2 or higher WOO as hitters to trail Cain’s total of 4. Interestingly Bryce Harper also got 2 WOO even though his Nationals lost the Division Series and did not have the ability to pad his total in the LCS and World Series.
Bumgarner’s 6 1/2 WOO total was more than double the next name, his teammate Yusmeiro Petit who pitched to a 3 WOO all in relief.
Kelvin Herrera and Greg Holland got 2 WOO in relief. Jason Vargas and Yordano Ventura got 2 WOOs as starters.
So they Bumgarner and Cain had amazing post seasons and that will remembered by their fans forever.
They did more than show up for October. They owned it.
Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) + Who Owns the World Series? (#WOWS) Final Tallies Updated For Game 7 – 2014 World Series
Scott Strazzante – San Francisco Chronicle
So October 2014 is officially owned by Madison Bumgarner. Savor this amazing post season.
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO’S to a worthy player on the losing team.
When it comes to the World Series, I do a separate tally: WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.) This is still up for grabs
It is important to separate Postseason and World Series accomplishments. It is the purist in me.
For a full explanation, click HERE
From October 29th World Series Game 7:
Receiving 1 WOO’s and WOWS
Madison Bumgarner finished his historic post season with 5 shutout innings out of the bullpen, holding Kansas City to 2 hits and clinched the World Series for the Giants with a 3-2 win.
Pablo Sandoval capped off a marvelous World Series with a 3-3 performance, reaching base 4 times, scoring twice played solid defense and caught the final out as the Giants took Game 7, 3-2 in Kansas City.
Receiving 1/2 WOO’s and WOWS
Alex Gordon went 2-4, scored a run, drove in a run and hit the dramatic 2 out hit that took him all the way to third in the bottom of the 9th. He was stranded as the Royals fell 3-2 to the Giants.
Kelvin Herrera pitched the Royals out of trouble with 2 2/3 shutout innings of relief, striking out 4 and walking none. San Francisco would hold on to win, 3-2.
Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) + Who Owns the World Series? (#WOWS) Tallies Updated For Game 6 – 2014 World Series
USA Today Sports
So October 2014 is officially owned by Madison Bumgarner. Savor this amazing post season.
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO’S to a worthy player on the losing team.
When it comes to the World Series, I do a separate tally: WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.) This is still up for grabs
It is important to separate Postseason and World Series accomplishments. It is the purist in me.
For a full explanation, click HERE
From October 28th World Series Game 6:
Receiving 1 WOO’s and WOWS
Yordano Ventura dominated the Giants with 7 shutout innings, allowing just 3 hits and forced a game 7 with a 10-0 victory in Kansas City.
Lorenzo Cain drove in 3 runs, scored another, doubled and reached base 4 times, leading the Royals offense to the 10-0 season saving thrashing of San Francisco.
Receiving 1/2 WOO’s and WOWS
No Giants hitter nor pitcher earned a WOO or a WOWS
Baltimore Orioles State Of The Union For 2015
By Nicholas Delahanty (MLB Reports Writer) Follow @Nick_Delahanty
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Even with some key players being out of the lineup for long periods of time (due to injuries/suspensions), the Baltimore Orioles still found a way to win 96 games during the 2014 regular season, and advanced to the ALCS after sweeping the Detroit Tigers in the ALDS.
Unfortunately, the Orioles’ World Series hopes were crushed by the Kansas City Royals in the Final Four, as the O’s struggled mightily against this year’s “Cinderella story.”
It turned out to be an ugly end for a great season, but the Orioles now need to look forward to the off-season.
With some key players heading towards free agency and arbitration, the Orioles need to make some moves in order to put themselves in contention to compete once again come 2015.
Madison Bumgarner clinched Owning October! (Plus #WOO and #WOWS updates for World Series Game 5)
JAMIE SQUIRE/GETTY IMAGES
Madison Bumgarner‘s complete game shutout tonight was obviously worth his title of Owning October and the World Series tonight. But it did more than that.
His 5 1/2 WOO (Who Owns October) total for the post season can not be passed. With only 2 games left, nobody can pass Bumgarner. Hunter Pence, Lorenzo Cain and Yusmeiro Petit all have a total of 3. Even if they pick up a WOO the last 2 games, they can not pass Bumgarner.
So October 2014 is officially owned by Madison Bumgarner. Savor this amazing post season.
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO’S to a worthy player on the losing team.
When it comes to the World Series, I do a separate tally: WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.)
It is important to separate Postseason and World Series accomplishments. It is the purist in me.
For a full explanation, click HERE
From October 26th World Series Game 5:
Receiving 1 WOO’s and WOWS
Madison Bumgarner continued his October dominance with his second complete game shutout of the month and second win of the series. He allowed just 4 Kansas City hits, walked, none and struck out 8, giving the Giants a 5-0 victory.
Brandon Crawford got 2 hits and drove in 3 runs, leading the Giants offense to beat the Royals 5-0.
Receiving 1/2 WOO’s and WOWS
James Shields kept the Royals in the game with 6 solid innings, working out of jams and let up just 2 runs. He would be the hard luck loser to the Giants 5-0.
Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) + Who Owns the World Series? (#WOWS) Tallies Updated For Game 4 – 2014 World Series
ROB CARR/GETTY IMAGES
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO’S to a worthy player on the losing team.
When it comes to the World Series, I do a separate tally: WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.)
It is important to separate Postseason and World Series accomplishments. It is the purist in me.
For a full explanation, click HERE
From October 25th World Series Game 4:
Receiving 1 WOO’s and WOWS
Hunter Pence, went 3-5, drove in 3, beat out a double play grounder to let another run come in, scored twice and played terrific defense in the Giants surreal 11-4 victory against Kansas City.
Yusmeiro Petit was his usual dominating self, giving the Giants 3 shutout innings of relief and contributing a basehit as well. He got the 11-4 victory over the Royals.
Receiving 1/2 WOO’s and WOWS
Salvador Perez collected 3 hits including an RBI single in the third that gave the Royals a 4-1 lead. The Giants would eventually respond with 10 unanswered runs and win 11-4.
Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) + Who Owns the World Series? (#WOWS) Tallies Updated For Game 3 – 2014 World Series
EZRA SHAW/GETTY IMAGES
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO’S to a worthy player on the losing team.
When it comes to the World Series, I do a separate tally: WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.)
It is important to separate Postseason and World Series accomplishments. It is the purist in me.
For a full explanation, click HERE
From October 24th World Series Game 3:
Receiving 1 WOO’s and WOWS
Alcides Escobar doubled on the first pitch of the game and scored a pair of runs, helping the Royals edge the Giants 3-2.
Greg Holland needed just 8 pitches to dispatch the heart of the Giants order in the bottom of the 9th, making a terrific play on the final out of Kansas City’s 3-2 victory.
Receiving 1/2 WOO’s and WOWS
Tim Hudson pitched into the 6th inning, going 5 2/3, letting up 4 hits and 1 walk. The Giants bullpen allowed an inherited run to score and he was a hard luck loser to the Royals
Michael Morse came off the bench to drill a pinch hit RBI double and came around to score. That would be all the Giants offense as they lost to the Royals 3-2.
Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) + Who Owns the World Series? (#WOWS) Tallies Updated For WED Oct.22, 2014
Photo: David J. Phillip, AP
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO’S to a worthy player on the losing team.
When it comes to the World Series, I do a separate tally: WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.)
It is important to separate Postseason and World Series accomplishments. It is the purist in me.
For a full explanation, click HERE
From October 22nd World Series Game 2:
Receiving 1 WOO’s and WOWS
Kelvin Herrera threw 1 2/3 key innings in relief, allowing no hits and earning the 7-2 win for the Royals over San Francisco.
Omar Infante made several solid defensive plays, doubled and hit a back breaking 2 run homer that put the 7-2 victory for the Royals over the Giants on ice.
Receiving 1/2 WOO’s and WOWS
Gregor Blanco led off the game with a home run to right. The Giants momentum would not last as they lost 7-2 in Kansas City.
Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Who Owns the World Series? (#WOWS) Tallies Updated For TUES Oct.21, 2014
DAVID J. PHILLIP/AP
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO’S to a worthy player on the losing team.
When it comes to the World Series, I do a separate tally: WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.)
It is important to separate Postseason and World Series accomplishments. It is the purist in me.
For a full explanation, click HERE
From October 21st World Series Game 1:
Receiving 1 WOO’s and WOWS.
Madison Bumgarner continued his post season dominance by throwing 6 shutout innings before letting up his first ever World Series run. He would get the win, throwing 7 innings of 1 run, 3 hit, 1 walk ball, earning the 7-1 decision for the Giants in Kansas City.
Hunter Pence clocked a 2 run homer that gave the Giants a cushion in the first inning. He reached base 4 times, also getting a double and scoring a pair, leading the Giants to a 7-1 Game 1 thrashing of the Royals.
Receiving 1/2 WOO’s and WOWS
Salvador Perez homered in the 7th for the Royals only run in their 7-1 loss to San Francisco.
Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For NLCS Game THU Oct.16, 2014
San Francisco Chronicle
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO’S to a worthy player on the losing team.
For a full explanation, click HERE
From October 16th NLCS Game:
Receiving 1 WOO’s.
Travis Ishikawa hit the dramatic, pennant clinching 3 run homer in the bottom of the 9th to down the Cardinals and send the Giants to the World Series, 6-3.
Madison Bumgarner gave the Giants 8 strong innings, allowing just 5 hits and 3 runs. He didn’t get the win but set up the Giants 6-3 clincher over the Cardinals and earned NLCS MVP honors.
Receiving 1/2 WOO’s
Jon Jay collected 2 hits, including a double, drove in a run and played solid defense in the Cardinals 6-3 loss in San Francisco.
Adam Wainwright was excellent over 7 innings, allowing 4 hits and 2 runs, striking out 7 and left with the lead. The bullpen would blow the game and the Giants would eliminate St. Louis, 6-3.
Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For LCS Games Wed Oct.15, 2014
L.G. PATTERSON/MLB.COM
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO’S to a worthy player on the losing team.
For a full explanation, click HERE
From October 15th LCS Games:
Receiving 1 WOO’s
Alcides Escobar went 2-4, scored a run and kicked the ball out of the catchers glove to score another and then started a pair of double plays, helping the Royals clinch the pennant with a 2-1 win against Baltimore.
Yusmeiro Petit was brilliant again out of the bullpen, giving the Giants 3 innings of 1 hit shutout ball and earning the 6-4 decision against the Cardinals.
Buster Posey reached base 3 times and got a pair of RBI hits, driving in 3 in all as the Giants came from behind to beat St. Louis, 6-4
Jason Vargas allowed just 2 hits and struck out 6 in 5 1/3 innings while getting the pennant clinching 2-1 win over the Orioles in Kansas City.
Receiving 1/2 WOO’s
Ryan Flaherty homered in the third, which proved to be the Orioles’ last run of the year as they lost the game 2-1 and the series to the Royals.
Kolten Wong doubled and homered, scoring a pair of runs, in the Cardinals 6-4 loss in San Francisco.
Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For LCS Games Mon Oct.14, 2014
Photo: Scott Strazzante / San Francisco Chronicle
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO’S to a worthy player on the losing team.
For a full explanation, click HERE
From October 14th LCS Games:
Receiving 1 WOO’s
Travis Ishikawa drove in 3 runs with a towering bases clearing double in the first innings. Without that big inning, the Giants would not have been in a position to top the Cardinals, 5-4 in 10 innings.
Lorenzo Cain made a fine catch for the second out in the 9th inning, collected a pair of hits and scored the tying run as the amazing Royals won again, 2-1 over Baltimore.
Jason Frasor earned the decision in the 6th inning by retiring Baltimore’s best hitters, Jones, Cruz and Pearce, in order and setting up the Kansas City go ahead rally which led to a 2-1 final.
Santiago Casilla continued his dominant pitching with a 9 pitch ninth inning that would set up the Giants 5-4 victory over the Cardinals in extra innings.
Receiving 1/2 WOO’s
Kolten Wong doubled and tripled, driving in 2 runs in the Cardinals 5-4 extra inning loss in San Francisco.
J.J. Hardy doubled home the Orioles lone run in their 2-1 loss to the Royals.
Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For NLCS GAME SUN Oct.12, 2014
Photo by Chris Lee, clee@post-dispatch.com
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO’S to a worthy player on the losing team.
For a full explanation, click HERE
From October 12th NLCS Game:
Receiving 1 WOO’s
Kolten Wong launched a 9th inning walk off homer that sent Busch Stadium into a frenzy as the Cardinals topped the Giants 5-4.
Seth Maness was brought into a bases loaded situation in the 9th inning with the game tied and got out of the jam. He would earn the decision as the Cardinals walked off 5-4 winners.
Receiving 1/2 WOO’s
Gregor Blanco got a pair of hits including a go ahead single in the 7th. The Giants would lose to the Cardinals, 5-4.
Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For Games SAT Oct.11, 2014
Photo: Michael Macor, San Francisco Chronicle
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO’S to a worthy player on the losing team.
For a full explanation, click HERE
From October 11th LCS Games:
Receiving 1 WOO’s
Madison Bumgarner added to his outstanding post season numbers by pitching 7 2/3 shutout innings allowing just 4 hits, and 1 walk while striking out 7 Cardinals, earning the 3-0 win for the Giants in NLCS Game 1.
Lorenzo Cain collected 4 hits, including a double, stole a base and singled home a run in the Royals game winning 9th inning rally for a 6-4 final in Baltimore.
Greg Holland closed out the Orioles with a shutout inning that sealed the Royals 6-4 ALCS Game 2 win.
Pablo Sandoval got 3 hits, including a strange double to right field and scored to lead the Giants to a 3-0 victory over the Cardinals.
Receiving 1/2 WOO’s
Jon Jay reached base 3 times, including a pair of hits, but didn’t score as the Cardinals lost 3-0 to the Giants.
Adam Jones went 2 for 5 including a game tying 2 run homer in the Orioles 6-4 loss to Kansas City.
To view the Final Tally of Who Owned October Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOO’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN
Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For ALCS FRI Oct.10, 2014
PATRICK SMITH/GETTY IMAGES
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO’S to a worthy player on the losing team.
For a full explanation, click HERE
From October 10th ALCS:
Receiving 1 WOO’s
Alex Gordon got 3 hits including a broken bat 3 run double in the third and the go ahead home run in the 10th. He also made some fine defensive plays in the Royals 8-6 extra inning win in Baltimore.
Wade Davis kept the Orioles from scoring in the critical 8th and 9th innings. He faced the minimum 6 batters, striking out 4, allowing nobody to reach and struck out Cruz to end the 9th. He earned the decision in Kansas City’s 8-6 ten inning win.
Receiving 1/2 WOO’s
Ryan Flaherty got 3 hits, scored and drove in a pair with a 2 run, 2 out single in the 5th. The Orioles would come up just short as Kansas City won in 10, 8-6.
To view the Final Tally of Who Owned October Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOO’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN
Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For NLDS Games Tues Oct.7, 2014
Photo by Chris Lee, clee@post-dispatch.com
From October 7th NLDS games:
Receiving 1 WOO’s
Matt Adams hit a dramatic 3 run homer off of baseball’s best pitcher to turn a 2-0 hole into a 3-2 lead and propel the Cardinals to a series clinching 3-2 victory over the Dodgers.
Pat Neshek gave the Cardinals a critical shutdown inning after they took the lead and helped the Cardinals clinch the Division Series in 4 games over Los Angeles with a 3-2 win.
Hunter Pence reached base twice and made the defensive play of the night leaping in right field for a highlight reel catch against the wall as San Francisco defeated Washington, 3-2.
Ryan Vogelsong kept the Giants in the game with 5 2/3 innings, allowing just 2 hits and 2 walks and 1 run. He would not get the decision but helped eliminate the Nationals by a 3-2 final.
Receiving 1/2 WOO’s
Carl Crawford collected a pair of hits and scored a run for the Dodgers in their 3-2 loss to St. Louis.
Bryce Harper doubled home a run, hit a towering game tying homer and got on base with 2 outs in the 9th. He would be stranded on base as the Giants eliminated the Nationals in a 3-2 final.
Clayton Kershaw was throwing a masterpiece through 6, allowing 1 hit and no runs while striking out 9. The Cardinals struck in the 7th and a 3 run homer put him on the losing end of a 3-2 elimination of the Dodgers.
To view the Final Tally of Who Owned October Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOO’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN
Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For NLDS Games Mon Oct.6, 2014
Charles Rex Arbogast – AP
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO’S to a worthy player on the losing team.
For a full explanation, click HERE
From October 6th NLDS games:
Receiving 1 WOO’s
Doug Fister saved the Nationals season with 7 shutout innings, allowing just 4 hits and got the 4-1 decision over the Giants.
Bryce Harper reached base twice including a towering homer and was solid defensively, helping Washington beat the Giants, 4-1.
John Lackey pitched 7 strong innings, striking out 8, walking just 1 Dodger batter and allowing only 1 run while earning the 3-1 win for the Cardinals.
Kolten Wong broke a 1-1 tie with a towering 2 run homer that was the difference in St. Louis’ 3-1 win over Los Angeles.
Receiving 1/2 WOO’s
Madison Bumgarner pitched, for the most part, like his dominating self, taking a shutout into the 7th. But his costly throwing error helped the Nationals rally for 3 and he ultimately got the 4-1 loss in San Francisco.
Hanley Ramirez went 3-4 with an RBI double that produced all of the Dodgers runs in their 3-1 loss to the Cardinals.
Hyun-jin Ryu gave Los Angeles 6 solid innings, allowing just 1 run and keeping the Cardinals from a big rally. The bullpen would lose the game, however, 3-1.
Pablo Sandoval got a pair of hits, scored the Giants only run and made a nice defensive play in the Nationals 4-1 win in San Francisco.
Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For ALDS Games Sun Oct.5, 2014
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO’S to a worthy player on the losing team.
For a full explanation, click HERE
From October 5th ALDS games:
Receiving 1 WOO’s
Lorenzo Cain, singled, scored, drove in a run and made a pair of spectacular diving rally killing catches in centerfield, helping the Royals cruise to an 8-3 win and swept the Angels out of the playoffs.
Nelson Cruz broke a scoreless tie with a 2 run homer that was all the Orioles needed to beat the Tigers, 2-1, and sweep their way into the ALCS.
Bud Norris pitched shutout ball into the 7th, finishing with 6 1/3 innings, 2 hits and allowing no runs. He earned the 2-1 victory for the Orioles as they swept Detroit.
James Shields worked out of trouble all night, but finished with 2 runs over 6 innings and struck out 6. He earned the Royals 8-3 Division Series clincher over the Angels.
Receiving 1/2 WOO’s
Erick Aybar went 4-4 with a double but could not score as the Angels were eliminated by the Royals with an 8-3 loss.
J.D. Martinez doubled home the Tigers lone run in the 9th inning and kept Detroit’s hopes alive. But he would not score the tying run and Baltimore would complete the sweep with a 2-1 win.
David Price pitched 8 solid innings, allowing just 5 hits. One of those hits was a 2 run homer that was the difference in the Tigers 2-1 loss to Baltimore.
To view the Final Tally of Who Owned October Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOO’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN
Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For NLDS Games SAT Oct.4, 2014
Richard Mackson, USA TODAY Sports
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO’S to a worthy player on the losing team.
For a full explanation, click HERE
From October 4th NLDS games:
Receiving 1 WOO’s
Zack Greinke gave the Dodgers 7 shutout innings, allowing 2 hits and 7 strikeouts. He would not get the decision as the bullpen blew the save, but he set up LA’s 3-2 win over St. Louis.
Matt Kemp got 2 hits including the tie breaking and eventual game winning 8th inning homer as the Dodgers beat the Cardinals 3-2.
Buster Posey got on base 4 times including a critical game extending single in the Giants ninth inning rally that became a 2-1 final 18 inning marathon in Washington.
Yusmeiro Petit pitched 6 innings of 1 hit, 7 strikeout shutout relief. Every single one of the 80 pitches he threw could have resulted in a walk off hit for the Nationals. Instead he helped secure a staggering 2-1 Giants win in 18 innings.
Receiving 1/2 WOO’s
Matt Carpenter reached base 3 times and clubbed a dramatic game tying 2 run homer in the 8th inning. The Cardinals would eventually lose to the Dodgers, 3-2.
Lance Lynn struck out 8 in 6 innings, allowing only 2 runs and kept the Cardinals in the game. LA would eventually win, however, 3-2.
Anthony Rendon got on base 5 times and drove in Washington’s only run in the 18 inning 2-1 loss to the Giants.
Jordan Zimmermann came within one out of a complete game shutout (his second in as many starts and first since his no hitter) before he was pulled with 2 outs and a man on in the 9th. He allowed only 3 hits and 1 walk over 8 2/3 innings. The Nationals bullpen would surrender a run in the 9th and a second one in the 18th and the Giants won 2-1, giving Zimmermann a painful no decision.
To view the Final Tally of Who Owned October Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOO’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN
Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For 4 LDS Games FRI Oct.3, 2014
Lenny Ignelzi / Associated Press
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO’S to a worthy player on the losing team.
For a full explanation, click HERE
From October 3rd LDS games:
Receiving 1 WOO
Matt Carpenter homered and then hit a bases clearing go ahead 3 run double in the 7th as the Cardinals pulled ahead to stun the Dodgers, 10-9.
Kevin Gausman gave the Orioles 3 2/3 innings of 1 run relief that kept the Tigers from pulling away. Eventually Baltimore would come back to win, 7-6.
Marco Gonzales was the winning pitcher of the most anticipated pitching match up of the year. His one inning of scoreless relief was one of the lone pitching highlights of the Cardinals 10-9 slug fest win against the Dodgers.
Eric Hosmer got on base 4 times, scored a pair and launched the go ahead and eventual game winning 2 run homer in the top of the 11th, leading the Royals to yet another thrilling Royals postseason win. This one was 4-1 over the Angels.
Joe Panik got an RBI single and later tripled and scored and played solid defense, leading San Francisco to a 3-2 victory against the Nationals.
Jake Peavy threw shutout ball into the 6th, finishing with 5 2/3 innings allowing 2 hits and earned the 3-2 win for the Giants in Washington.
Yordano Ventura gave the Royals 7 strong innings, allowing 1 run and 5 hits. He would not get the decision but he set the stage for the 4-1 extra innings victory over the Angels.
Delmon Young hit a pinch hit 3 run double that sparked a wild 8th inning Orioles come back that sunk Detroit, 7-6.
Receiving 1/2 WOO
Miguel Cabrera doubled and went 3-4 with a run scored. It wasn’t enough as the Tigers blew a late lead and fell 7-6 in Baltimore.
Kole Calhoun got a pair of hits and scored the Angels only run in their 4-1 extra inning loss to Kansas City.
A. J. Ellis went 4-5 with a homer, 3 runs scored and 2 RBI in the Dodgers shocking 10-9 loss to the Cardinals.
Bryce Harper went 2-4 including a towering homer that put the Nationals on the board. They would lose to the Giants, 3-2.
Matt Shoemaker did not allow an earned run over his 6 innings of work, walking none while striking out 6. He would not get a decision as the Angels would lose 4-1 in 11 innings.
To view the Final Tally of Who Owned October Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOO’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN
Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For ALDS Games Thu Oct.2, 2014
USA Today Sports
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO’S to a worthy player on the losing team.
For a full explanation, click HERE
From October 2nd ALDS games:
Receiving 1 WOO
Nelson Cruz hit a 2 run homer in the first, drove in another in the 8th and scored year another run in the Orioles wild 12-3 beating of the Tigers.
Andrew Miller struck out 3 in 1 2/3 key innings of relief as Baltimore opened the floodgates late and beat Detroit 12-3.
Mike Moustakas reached base twice, scored twice and hit the tie breaking and eventual game winning homer in the 11th to lead the Royals to a 3-2 win in Anaheim.
Jason Vargas pitched 6 innings, allowing 3 hits (2 solo homers), 2 runs and walked just 1. He didn’t get the win but helped set up Kansas City’s 3-2 extra inning victory against the Angels.
Receiving 1/2 WOO
Miguel Cabrera reached base twice and cut the Orioles lead to 1 with an 8th inning homer. The Detroit bullpen would have a complete meltdown in the 8th and lose 12-3.
Chris Iannetta got on base twice and hit a homer in the Angels 3-2 extra inning loss to Kansas City.
Jered Weaver pitched 7 strong innings, giving up just 3 hits and 2 runs. He would get no decision as the Angels dropped the game in 11 innings to the Royals, 3-2.
To view the Final Tally of Who Owned October Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOO’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN
How All Of The O’s Pitchers Were Acquired: 2014 Roster Tree Explains That The Staff Was Created By Deft Transactions!
Chris Tillman continues to assert himself as one of the emerging great arms in the American League. The 26 Year Old RHP is 26 – 12 in his last 38 game decisions with a mid 3 ERA. Not bad when you consider he and Adam Jones were brought to Maryland for former Draft Pick Erik Bedard, (who is barely hanging on to professional baseball – and was hurt or average in his Seattle days). That deal and the Tommy Hunter and Chris Davis/for Koli Uehara deals kickstarted the renaissance of this historic club. The O’s made the postseason for the 1st time in 15 years during he 2012 campaign, and now possess a massive lead in the AL East with 35 games to go. The O’s management and brass can take stock in a job well done in building this current group of ballplayers.
How All Of The Orioles Pitchers Were Acquired:
By Chuck Booth Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner) & Nick Delahanty (MLB Reports Featured Writer): Follow @chuckbooth3024 Follow @nick_delahanty
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The Orioles made a swift and blunt move last off season, when they traded their 2012 and 2013 Closer Jim Johnson for Jemile Weeks.
The club took some flak in virtually discarding a 101 save man over the last few years to save some money. Johnson was awarded $10 MIL for the year, and has flamed out in Oakland and Detroit since. Those dollars are about what the team receives collectively as a unit.
The team was also lambasted for the signing/not signing of Grant Balfour, because a sketchy physical. Again, they have looked good in the transaction.
The O’s have done a great job building their Bullpen and Rotation.
Chris Tillman was part of the now extremely lopsided deal, which saw Adam Jones for Erik Bedard several years back.
That coupled with some waiver claims (T.J. McFarland as a Rule 5 Draft Picks) and former team draft picks – converting in to late inning arms (Brian Matusz and Closer Zach Britton), and you have seen a brilliant molding of a Relief Core.
Darren O’Day was claimed off of waivers from Texas, in the same campaign the club also fleeced the Rangers, with the Chris Davis/Tommy Hunter deal for Koji Uehara.
Ryan Webb was actually optioned to the Minors, despite decent numbers, while clearing a path for Andrew Miller, as part of a deal from Boston. Miller is one of the better LHP out of the pen in the last year.
The team has supplanted the rotation, with a few key Free Agents over the years, starting with Wei-Yin Chen, and Miguel Gonzalez.
Kevin Gausman represents the only starter right now that was drafted by the team originally.
Bud Norris was brought into Baltimore for a couple of former draft picks and a 2014 RD A compensation pick.
The other significant 2013 deal for the staff – was dealing a Minor Leaguer for Brad Brach.
The Ubaldo Situation
Looking at the numbers, Buck Showalter has the right idea in taking Jimenez out of the rotation.Regardless of the contract figures, Jimenez has failed to be that ace that the Orioles expected to get when he signed his 4 YR $50 MM dollar contract in the winter.
It’s time to let Jimenez take some time to figure things out, as hopefully skipping a start or two will give him time to work on his mechanics to help get him back on track.
This is also familiar territory for the Orioles, as Showalter and crew have had some good success sending guys to the bullpen.
Remember, Zach Britton and Tommy Hunter, two of the best arms in the Orioles’ bullpen this season, were starters that struggled, but once they were shifted to the bullpen they seemed to have figured it out and have been very reliable throughout the season.
Maybe Jimenez can find a role in the pen that could help the team clinch a playoff spot. Read the rest of this entry
How All Of The Tigers Hitters Were Acquired: 2014 Roster Tree – Is It A ‘Title Worthy’ Lineup?
It is tough to believe that someone once wanted to trade Miguel Cabrera. The Marlins were so desperate to rid themselves of the Dontrelle Willis contract, that they unloaded Miguel Cabrera as part of a package for 5 different players in return from Detroit. It will go down as one of the worst trades in MLB History by the time it is all said and done. Cabrera has evolved into the best Right Handed Batter in this generation. He only gets better each year that passes by.
How All Of The Tigers Hitters Were Acquired:
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The Tigers have built a winning tradition on the backs of former Marlins.
1st it was GM Dave Dombrowski, then Jim Leyland, before the club pulled off the biggest trade in the modern day franchise – by landing Miguel Cabrera for not much in return as it stands now.
This started a string of roster moves that enabled this club to have a great run of success since 2006.
Back in 2003, the ‘Motown Boys’ had to win their last game of the year to avoid the worst season ever for losses by an MLB squad – with 119 losses.
The team drafted Justin Verlander the next year – and traded for future ALL – Star Carlos Guillen.
With a horrific lineup from the 2003 campaign, the Tigers GM, inked Free Agents Ivan Rodriguez and then Magglio Ordonez in subsequent years.
Guys like Gary Sheffield and Placido Polanco were also mainstays on the club for different stints of the lineup.
The pursuit of the club’s offense led them to a 2006 World Series Appearance. The club lost to the Cardinals, and Dombrowski continued to build.
Prior to the 2008 year, the team traded for Miguel Cabrera, and the franchise would start a new era of dominance in the AL Central. Read the rest of this entry
The Boston Red Sox State Of The Union Part 2 – The Pitchers: 2014 Preview
This is a not a slight on the Red Sox at all, but they should not be favored to win the American League right now. Detroit should be that placeholder. I am not sure the Red Sox will even win the AL East. I would go with the Rays or Yankees before them right now. The Rays had one of the best second half records in 2013, and the Yankees are a lot better as well. I am also not sure of the team losing Ellsbury, Drew, Dempster and Saltalamacchia has improved itself with Capuano, Middlebrooks, Pierzynski and the tandem of Sizemore and Bradley JR.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
For added depth in the Bullpen, the franchise added Edward Mujica, amply giving the team multiple options at Closer should Koji Uehara not duplicate his 2013 success in 2014.
The management did a great job in peacemealing this Pitching Rotation in 2014.
Big injuries, 3 different Closers, and finally won the hottest Closers to end a year in Uehara pitching for the clubs final outs to win the Fall Classic.
The latest addition as of now for the 2014 season, are Chris Capuano for the Starting staff and also Bullpen arm Burke Badenhop, who came over from a nice year in the pen for the Milwaukee Brewers.
The club will sees Ryan Dempster take the year off for injury, but are stoked about saving his $14 MIL pricetag that he is forfeiting this season.
The Bullpen features Koji Uehara, Craig Breslow, Edward Mujica, Brandon Workman, Burke Badenhop, Andrew Miller, Junichi Tazawa and Alex Wilson round out the potential Relief Core.
The Starting Rotation was also held together with duct tape and barbed wire in 2013, but it was enough to aid the awesome offense, and the team will sporting championship rings because of it.
For Those Thinking The Yankees Are So Much Older Than The Red Sox, Think Again
With spending $503 MIL on contracts this winter, however they are not as old of a club as they were last year. That doesn’t mean the problem won’t come back in future years, it just means this is their best year to compete for some time.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
I am not a Yankees fan, and am definitely not a Red Sox fan either, however it is funny how this rivalry has captivated most baseball followers.
After this winter signings have occurred, I finally decided to do some investigating, because of all the venom fired towards the Bronx Bombers.
Immediately after Carlos Beltran signed, you saw, ‘hey, the Yankees are signing old fogies again.’
I also watched as Boston Red Sox Nation piled on the New York franchise for this.
So after reviewing both rosters, guess what….Both teams have similarly aged players. It is almost dead on. Read the rest of this entry
The Boston Red Sox Payroll In 2014 + Contracts Going Forward
Dustin Pedroia is an example of how to handle your own talent as far as payment. He was signed from 2009 – 2015 , which is 7 YRs/$55 MIL, and then they extended him from 2016 – 2021 (6 YRs/$85 MIL). Being a bit of a bargain on a yearly basis, this natural leader – and former MVP, has given the franchise money flexibility for every year during the duration of his deal. The now 30 Year Old, has a Career 3 Slash of .302/.370/.823. His numbers are great for his 162 game average, with 104 Runs Scored and 194 Hits. Pedroia is pesky with his 46 Doubles, 16 HRs per year.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024 & Jeff Kleiner (Org. Depth Chart Expert) Follow @prosportsroster
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The Boston Red Sox pulled of a major “Hoodini Act” by freeing themselves of the long term contracts of Carl Crawford, Adrian Gonzalez and Josh Beckett in an Aug, 2012 trade.
The club used the dollars saved to reel in Mike Napoli, Stephen Drew, Shane Victorino and Jonny Gomes in 2013. All of these guys were massive contributors to the 2013 World Series team.
The Beantowners still live and die by their Starting Pitching. Jon Lester and unpredicted Jon Lackey had renaissance campaigns – while Clay Buchholz cobbled enough health together for a 12 – 1, 1.74 ERA season.
Replicating their championship season will be tougher in 2014.
David Ortiz Highlights
The Boston Red Sox Players In All Organizational Affiliates, Prospects + Depth Charts (MLB + MiLB)
Jackie Bradley can go a long way to help BoSox fans forget about the departure of Jacoby Ellsbury. Known as a patient batter with tonnes of speed, and exceptional fielding, Bradley taking the next leap up to the MLB on a permanent basis would do wonder for the Red Sox in 2014. At 23, he has a Career Minor League 3 Slash of .297/.404/.876
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024 & Jeff Kleiner (Org. Depth Chart Expert) Follow @prosportsroster
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
It has come time for us to flip the calendar at the MLB Reports and shift gears into all of our 2014 season previews.
Each of the 30 MLB teams will have a organizational depth chart blog, a payroll blog, and 1 or 2 State of the Union Pieces from this day – all the way until the 1st day of MLB play this campaign.
We start of with the defending World Series Champions, the Boston Red Sox.
Jackie Bradley Jr. and Xander Bogaerts Are Future Superstars
The Detroit Tigers Roster Tree Part 1: How All Of The Hitters Were Acquired
It is tough to believe that someone once wanted to trade Miguel Cabrera. The Marlins were so desperate to rid themselves of the Dontrelle Willis contract, that they unloaded Miguel Cabrera as part of a package for 5 different players in return from Detroit. It will go down as one of the worst trades in MLB History by the time it is all said and done. Cabrera has evolved into the best Right Handed Batter in this generation. He only gets better each year that passes by.
How All Of The Tigers Hitters Were Acquired:
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
At the MLB Reports, we intend to show you the Roster Tree for the Detroit Tigers – 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 the 2nd part of the Roster Tree for the Tigers: The Pitchers – click here
For all of the Rosters, Depth Charts, State of the Unions and Salaries Posts that we do, please visit our dedicated page link here.
Miguel Cabrera 2013 Highlights Before The All – Star Break – Mature Lyrics
MLB Reports 
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