Blog Archives

Who Owned Baseball October 1, 2018 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVPs) + 2018 #WOB

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Patrick Gorski – USA Today Sports

SPECIAL RULES FOR TODAY!
Because of the two Tie Breaker Games, I will treat WOB like the post season. Each game will get full WOBs and 1/2 WOBs as I see fit.

For an explanation of how WOB works, click here.

Orlando Arcia went 4 for 4, scoring 2 runs to help the Brewers clinch the Central with a 3-1 Tie Breaker win over the Cubs.

Walker Buehler dominated the Rockies into the 7th, throwing 6 2/3 shutout innings, striking out 3 and getting the 5-2 clinching victory for the Dodgers.

Jhoulys Chacin kept the Cubs from a big inning by allowing only a solo homer over 5 2/3 innings to earn the 3-1 decision for the Brewers.

Max Muncy got 2 hits, including a 2 run homer, to lead the Dodgers past the Rockies in the NL West Tie Breaker, 5-2.

They all owned baseball on October 1, 2018

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.

Who Owned Baseball September 3, 2018 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2018 #WOB

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(AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

 

For an explanation of how WOB works, click here.

 Trevor Story homered twice, driving in 5 runs, and stole a base to propel the Rockies past the Giants, 9-8, and into sole possession of first place.

Ryan O’Hearn went 3 for 4 with 2 homers and 3 RBI as the Royals topped Cleveland, 5-1.

Jose Urena struck out 7 Phillies over 7 innings, allowing 1 run, for the 3-1 Miami win.

Jakob Junis threw 7 shutout innings, striking out 6 Indians and earning the 5-1 decision for Kansas City.

They all owned baseball on September 3, 2018

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.

Who Owned Baseball August 27, 2018 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2018 #WOB

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Steve Gonzales, Houston Chronicle Staff Photographer

For an explanation of how WOB works, click here.

Alex Bregman went 4 for 5, driving in 4, with a double and a back breaking 3 run homer to help the Astros take a critical 11-4 game from Oakland.

Anthony Rizzo collected 3 hits, including a homer, driving in a pair to help the red hot Cubs top the Mets, 7-4.

Carlos Rodon allowed 2 hits and 2 runs over 7 innings to give the White Sox a 6-2 win over the Yankees.

Chris Stratton threw 8 shutout innings, striking out 6 and earning the 2-0 decision as San Francisco blanked Arizona.

They all owned baseball on August 27, 2018

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.

Who Owned Baseball May 28, 2018 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2018 #WOB

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Boston Herald Staff photo by Christopher Evans

For an explanation of how WOB works, click here.

Andrew Benintendi singled, tripled and homered, driving in 4 to help Boston beat Toronto, 8-3.

Justin Verlander pitched 6 2/3 innings in Yankee Stadium, allowing 1 run and 4 hits and won the 5-1 game for the Astros.

Anthony Rizzo reached base 4 times, homered and drove in 3 as the Cubs shutout the Pirates 7-0.

Gio Gonzalez pitched a shutout into the 8th, finishing with 7 2/3 scoreless frames, striking out 3 Orioles and earning the 6-0 decision for Washington.

They all owned baseball on May 28, 2018

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.

Who Owned Baseball May 9, 2018 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2018 #WOB

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Adam Hunger/USA Today Sports, via Reuters

For an explanation of how WOB works, click here.

Brett Gardner had a pair of doubles and the come from behind go ahead triple that sealed the Yankees dramatic 9-6 defeat of the Red Sox.

Carlos Carrasco went the distance, striking out 14 Brewers and allowing 5 hits and 2 runs and knocked in a run himself with a hit to earn the 6-2 decision for Cleveland.

Anthony Rizzo doubled twice and homered, driving in 5, as the Cubs smashed the Marlins, 13-4.

Julio Teheran struck out 7 Rays over 6 shutout innings to help the Braves win, 5-2.

They all owned baseball on May 9, 2018

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.

Who Owned Baseball May 2, 2018 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2018 #WOB

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AP Photo/Elise Amendola

For an explanation of how WOB works, click here.

Mookie Betts was one of two players to hit 3 homers today. He gets the slight edge over Encarnacion because his second homer was the go ahead shot in a razor thin 5-4 Red Sox win over the Royals.

Luis Severino threw a complete game 5 hit shutout, striking out 10 Astros and earning the 4-0 decision for the Yankees.

Nick Hundley doubled twice, singled and homered, scoring 4 times as the Giants rolled over the Padres, 9-4.

Sean Newcomb threw 7 shutout innings, striking out 8 Mets en route to the Braves 7-0 victory.

They all owned baseball on May 2, 2018

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.

Who Owns October (#WOO) Tallies Updated For October 9, 2017

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Photo: Karen Warren, Houston Chronicle

Ohhhh we were so close to a Game 5 in Houston with no clue what pitchers were available. Ah well… congrats to the Astros and nice season Red Sox.

The Dodgers have their groove back and finished the only sweep so far. I guess the Diamondbacks weren’t the threat we all thought they were going to be.

Meanwhile Max Scherzer wanted to make history. Instead the Nationals are almost history themselves.

The Yankees of all teams have pushed the mighty Indians to the brink

So who owned October?

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.

At the end of the post season, we will see who had the highest WOO total as a pitcher and a hitter.

A complete description of the rules can be found HERE.

From October 9

2017 American League Division Series Game 4
2017 National League Division Series Game 3:

Receiving 1 WOO

Cody Bellinger reached base 3 times, homered and made a highlight reel catch to help the Dodgers clinch with a 3-1 victory over Arizona.

Alex Bregman launched a stunning game tying homer off of Sale in the 8th inning and saved the Division Series for the Astros in the 5-4 win against the Red Sox.

Yu Darvish allowed 2 hits and 1 run over 5 innings, striking out 7 Arizona batters in the process as the Dodgers swept the Diamondbacks with a 3-1 win.

Ken Giles closed out an epic Division Series match up with a six out save that clinched the 5-4 Houston victory in Boston.

Aaron Judge doubled home a pair to pad the lead and help the Yankees stun Cleveland, 7-3.

Jose Quintana struck out 7 Nationals over 5 2/3 innings where he allowed 1 unearned run. He did not get the decision but the Cubs won 2-1.

Anthony Rizzo singled home the go ahead run in the 8th inning to push the Cubs past Washington, 2-1.

Luis Severino redeemed his Wild Card Game disaster with 7 innings of 4 hits ball, striking out 9 Indians, winning 7-3 and giving the Yankees a chance to clinch with a Game 5.

 

 

Receiving 1/2 WOO

Andrew Benitendi hit a 2 run go ahead homer to give Boston hope. But the Astros came back to win 5-4 and clinch.

Archie Bradley threw 2 2/3 innings of 1 hit shutout ball to keep the Diamondbacks in the game but the Dodgers topped them 3-1 to finish the series.

Daniel Descalso homered to give the Diamondbacks their only run which was not enough to keep the Dodgers from sweeping the series with a 3-1 final.

Chris Sale kept the Astros scoreless for 4 brilliant innings out of the bullpen. But he could not stretch it to a 5th when he was charged with 2 runs, lost the 5-4 decision and saw the Red Sox get eliminated.

Carlos Santana hit a run homer but it wasn’t enough as the Indians could not close out the Yankees with a 7-3 final.

Max Scherzer took a no hitter into the 7th, whiffing 7 Cubs along the way. He would give up one hit and be charged with one run and the Nationals bullpen took the 2-1 defeat.

Ryan Zimmerman doubled home the Nationals only run as they were pushed to the brink by the Cubs, 2-1.

Current WOO Totals MLB 2017

Hitters ‘WOO’ MLB 2017,

Anthony Rizzo – Cubs 1 1/2, Ryan Zimmerman – Nationals 1 1/2,  Jose Altuve – Astros 1, Greg Bird – Yankees 1, Alex Bregman – Astros 1, Cody Bellinger – Dodgers 1,  Jay Bruce – Indians 1, Kris Bryant – Cubs 1, Carlos Correa – Astros 1, Logan Forsythe – Dodgers 1, Brett Gardner – Yankees 1, Yan Gomes – Indians 1, Aaron Judge – Yankees 1, Ketel Marte – Diamondbacks 1, Hanley Ramirez – Red Sox 1, Justin Turner – Dodgers 1, Andrew Benitendi – Red Sox 1/2, Starlin Castro – Yankees 1/2, Daniel Descalso – Diamondbacks 1/2, Brian Dozier – Twins 1/2, Paul Goldschmidt – Diamondbacks 1/2, Yuli Gurriel – Astros 1/2, Jason Kipnis – Indians 1/2, Sandy Leon – Red Sox 1/2, J. D. Martinez – Diamondbacks 1/2, Gary Sanchez – Yankees 1/2, Carlos Santana – Indians 1/2, Trevor Story – Rockies 1/2, Christian Vazquez – Red Sox 1/2,

Pitchers ‘WOO’ MLB 2017,

David Price – Red Sox 1 1/2, Trevor Bauer – Indians 1, Archie Bradley – Diamondbacks 1, Yu Darvish – Dodgers 1, Sean Doolittle – Nationals 1, Ken Giles – Astros 1, Kyle Hendricks – Cubs 1, Kenley Jansen – Dodgers 1, Clayton Kershaw – Dodgers 1, Dallas Keuchel – Astros 1, Jose Quintana – Cubs 1,  Robbie Ray – Diamondbacks 1, David Robertson – Yankees 1, Masahiro Tanaka – Yankees 1, Josh Tomlin – Indians 1, Justin Verlander – Astros 1, Carlos Carrasco – Indians 1/2, Jaime Garcia – Yankees 1/2, Zack Godley – Diamondbacks 1/2, Jon Lester – Cubs 1/2, Chris Rusin – Rockies 1/2, Chris Sale – Red Sox 1/2, Max Scherzer – Nationals 1/2, Stephen Strasburg – Nationals 1/2,

Who Owns October (#WOO) Tallies Updated For October 7, 2017

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John McDonnell/The Wahington Post

With 2 swings of a bat the entire post season changed for the Nationals. They were about to go down 0-2 and looked limp heading to Wrigley. Now they are tied with Max Scherzer in the bump.

That’s a big difference.

Meanwhile, despite having starters prone to the long ball, LA is back to their winning ways and just needs one win in the desert to move on.

So who owned October?

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.

At the end of the post season, we will see who had the highest WOO total as a pitcher and a hitter.

A complete description of the rules can be found HERE.

From October 67
2017 National League Division Series Game 2:

Receiving 1 WOO

 

Sean Doolittle locked down the Nationals 6-3 final against the Cubs to knot up the series, 1-1.

Logan Forsythe singled 3 times, drove in a run and scored 3 times in the Dodgers 8-5 win against Arizona.

Kenley Jansen retired all 5 batters he faced to record the save as the Dodgers topped the Diamondbacks, 8-5.

Ryan Zimmerman broke an 8th inning tie with a dramatic 3 run homer to lead the Nationals to a 6-3 victory over the Cubs.

Receiving 1/2 WOO

 

Archie Bradley struck out 4 batters in 2 innings, allowing 1 unearned run but it was too little too late in the Diamondbacks 8-5 loss to the Dodgers.

Paul Goldschmidt hit a 2 run homer in the first to give the Diamondbacks and early lead against the Dodgers but they did not hold it for an 8-5 final.

Jon Lester allowed 2 hits and 1 run over 6 strong innings. He did not get the decision in the Cubs 6-3 defeat in Washington.

Anthony Rizzo launched a 2 run homer that broke a tie but the Cubs bullpen blew the 6-3 game to Washington.

Current WOO Totals MLB 2017

Hitters ‘WOO’ MLB 2017,

Jose Altuve – Astros 1, Jay Bruce – Indians 1, Kris Bryant – Cubs 1, Carlos Correa – Astros 1, Logan Forsythe – Dodgers 1, Brett Gardner – Yankees 1, Yan Gomes – Indians 1, Ketel Marte – Diamondbacks 1, Justin Turner – Dodgers 1, Ryan Zimmerman – Nationals 1, Starlin Castro – Yankees 1/2, Brian Dozier – Twins 1/2, Paul Goldschmidt – Diamondbacks 1/2, Sandy Leon – Red Sox 1/2, J. D. Martinez – Diamondbacks 1/2, Anthony Rizzo – Cubs 1/2,  Gary Sanchez – Yankees 1/2, Trevor Story – Rockies 1/2, Christian Vazquez – Red Sox 1/2,

Pitchers ‘WOO’ MLB 2017,

Trevor Bauer – Indians 1, Sean Doolittle – Nationals 1, Kyle Hendricks – Cubs 1, Kenley Jansen – Dodgers 1, Clayton Kershaw – Dodgers 1, Dallas Keuchel – Astros 1, Robbie Ray – Diamondbacks 1, David Robertson – Yankees 1, Josh Tomlin – Indians 1, Justin Verlander – Astros 1, Archie Bradley – Diamondbacks 1/2, Jaime Garcia – Yankees 1/2, Zack Godley – Diamondbacks 1/2, Jon Lester – Cubs 1/2, David Price – Red Sox 1/2, Chris Rusin – Rockies 1/2, Stephen Strasburg – Nationals 1,

Who Owned Baseball September 14, 2017 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2017 #WOB Standings

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Duane Burleson / Getty Images

Avisail Garcia got on base 6 times, homered and drove in 7 runs while scoring a pair himself to help the White Sox demolish the Tigers, 17-7.

Anthony Rizzo went 3 for 4 with a homer, 2 runs batted in and 2 stolen bases in the Cubs 14-6 pounding of the Mets.

Brad Peacock led the Astros past the Angels with 6 innings allowing 3 hits, 3 walks and 1 run for a 5-2 victory.

Zack Godley threw 8 innings of 5 hits shutout ball, striking out 7 Rockies and earning the 7-0 decision for Arizona.

They all owned baseball on September 14, 2017

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

Who Owned Baseball August 26, 2017 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2017 #WOB Standings

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Getty Images

Anthony Rizzo homered twice, added another hit and drove in 5 as the Cubs demolished the Phillies, 17-2.

Andrelton Simmons got a pair of hits including a 3 run homer that put the Angels up for good in the 8th inning, 7-6 over Houston.

Zach Davies threw 7 shutout innings to help the Brewers blank the Dodgers, 3-0.

Kevin Gausman took a shutout into the 8th, finishing with 7 2/3 scoreless innings, striking out 5 Red Sox as the Orioles rolled, 7-0.

They all owned baseball on August 26, 2017

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

Who Owned Baseball August 1, 2017 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

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Bob Levey/Getty Images

 

Evan Longoria became the first Tampa Bay hitter to hit for the cycle since 2009 as he scored twice and drove in 3 in the 6-4 defeat of Houston.

Anthony Rizzo got 3 hits, including 2 homers to lead the Cubs in a 16-4 pasting of the Diamondbacks.

Dylan Bundy pitched 8 shutout innings, allowing 3 hits and striking out 5 Royals to get the 7-2 decision for surging Baltimore.

Kenta Maeda kept the Braves scoreless over 7 solid 2 hit shutout innings and earned the 3-2 win for the Dodgers.

They all owned baseball on August 1, 2017

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

MLB DFS Picks 6/3/17

Dailyrotohelp.com would like to welcome you to the MLB DFS article for the 3rd of June.

For this daily fantasy baseball season, each day we’ll be writing up a group of pitchers and hitters that we’re considering for our cash and GPP lineups on DraftKings and FanDuel. We’ll also provide a list of stacks to consider. As with any DFS sport, the advice below is relevant for fantasy purposes. A player or team might be better or worse from a fantasy perspective than they are in real life due to match-up, price, park factor, etc. This is important when constructing a roster.

One thing to remember outside of making sure your guy is in the lineup, is to always check the weather. Always. Make this something that is part of your basic research. Baseball games can get postponed! Your players receive no points from postponed games!

Fanduel Daily Fantasy Baseball Lineup Picks (6/3/17): MLB DFS Advice

DraftKings Daily Fantasy Baseball Lineup Picks (6/3/17): MLB DFS Advice

DailyRotoHelp.com wants to help you win a ton of cash while also allowing you to feel like you’re making it yourself. You may not agree with all of our picks, but that’s what makes a DFS player a GREAT DFS Player.

Our daily plays are from a collection of experts and a ton of research that goes into them. We have spent countless hours a day crunching the numbers from a dozen different aspects of each sport and bring you the best options each day.

If you take away from our articles the ability to build your own lineups that’s great! If you are still wanting some help definitely subscribe to our Optimal NBA and NFL DFS, or MLB Lineups for both Fanduel and DraftKings for that added boost! Good Luck and bring home that bacon.


Want to win more money at FanDuel and DraftKings? CLICK HERE TO VIEW OPTIMAL DFS LINEUPS for MLB.

MLB DFS Picks for 6/3/2017

Cash Pitchers

Carlos Carrasco

Career vs Current Royals Roster

AVG: 0.244 [42 for 172], BABIP: 0.296, K%: 23.3, BB%: 7.4
FIP: 3.64 Groundout: 46 Strikeout: 44 Single:30 Flyout: 20 Walk: 12 Lineout: 10 Pop Out: 5Home Run: 5 Triple: 4 Double: 3 Forceout: 3Sac Bunt: 2 Intent Walk: 2 Grounded Into DP:2 Hit By Pitch: 1


Jon Lester

Career vs Current Cardinals Roster

AVG: 0.210 [38 for 181], BABIP: 0.254, K%: 26.5, BB%: 7.5
FIP: 3.56 Strikeout: 53 Groundout: 39 Flyout:26 Single: 23 Walk: 15 Lineout: 11 Pop Out: 9Double: 8 Home Run: 6 Sac Fly: 3 Forceout: 2Grounded Into DP: 2 Field Error: 1 Sac Bunt:1 Triple: 1


Johnny Cueto

Career vs Current Phillies Roster

AVG: 0.183 [11 for 60], BABIP: 0.184, K%: 16.9, BB%: 3.1
FIP: 3.82 Groundout: 18 Strikeout: 11 Flyout:7 Double: 4 Pop Out: 4 Lineout: 4 Single: 4Bunt Groundout: 2 Home Run: 2 Walk: 2 Field Error: 2 Sac Bunt: 1 Grounded Into DP: 1 Sac Fly: 1 Hit By Pitch: 1 Triple: 1


Ervin Santana

Career vs Current Angels Roster

AVG: 0.362 [42 for 116], BABIP: 0.435, K%: 18.6, BB%: 7.8
FIP: 3.53 Single: 33 Strikeout: 24 Groundout:23 Flyout: 13 Walk: 10 Double: 7 Lineout: 4Pop Out: 3 Home Run: 2 Forceout: 2 Sac Bunt: 2 Field Error: 2 Bunt Groundout: 1Fielders Choice Out: 1 Hit By Pitch: 1Grounded Into DP: 1


GPP (Tournament Pitchers)

Rich Hill

Career vs Current Brewers Roster

AVG: 0.182 [2 for 11], BABIP: 0.286, K%: 28.6, BB%: 21.4
FIP: 3.53 Strikeout: 4 Walk: 3 Groundout: 2Single: 2 Flyout: 2 Lineout: 1


David Price

Career vs Current Orioles Roster

AVG: 0.238 [71 for 298], BABIP: 0.302, K%: 26.8, BB%: 4.8
FIP: 3.12 Strikeout: 83 Groundout: 56 Single:47 Flyout: 45 Pop Out: 15 Double: 15 Walk: 15Lineout: 13 Home Run: 9 Forceout: 6Grounded Into DP: 5 Field Error: 2 Double Play: 1 Strikeout – DP: 1 Hit By Pitch: 1


Lance McCullers Jr.

Career vs Current Rangers Roster

AVG: 0.345 [19 for 55], BABIP: 0.432, K%: 24.6, BB%: 9.8
FIP: 5.45 Strikeout: 15 Single: 10 Groundout:10 Double: 5 Flyout: 5 Walk: 5 Lineout: 3Home Run: 3 Forceout: 2 Triple: 1 Intent Walk: 1 Pop Out: 1


MLB DFS Picks for 

Catchers:

Click HERE to check out the full article!

Who Owned Baseball May 24, 2017 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

rizzostick

David Banks – USA Today Sports

Anthony Rizzo reached base 4 times, including 2 homers, driving in 3 to help the Champion Cubs hang on against San Francisco, 5-4.

Jose Iglesias went 3 for 4 with a homer and 3 runs scored as Detroit beat Houston, 6-3.

Tyler Chatwood allowed 1 hit and no runs over 8 innings, striking out 8 Phillies as the Rockies rolled, 7-2.

Luis Severino blanked Kansas City over 8 innings, allowing 4 hits and earning the 3-0 decision for the Yankees.

They all owned baseball on May 24, 2017

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

Chicago Cubs Payroll In 2017 + Contracts Going Forward

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Look, there is no way to sugar coat it, the Jason Heyward contract is about the biggest dumpster fire of a contract there may ever be.  Having said that, everyone receives one mulligan. 

Even 3 time World Series winning GM Brian Sabean has had a horrible Matt Cain contract to contend with the last half decade.

Theo Epstein hasn’t made too many blunders – and winning a World Series with both the Red Sox and now the Cubs has solidified a position for him in Cooperstown.

Also lucky is the brilliant signing of Anthony Rizzo of a 7 YR deal prior to 2013, and when he asserted himself as a perennial MVP contender.

Despite carrying a projected payroll in 2017 of around $171 MIL – the team has plenty of expiring contracts in the name of Jake Arrieta, Wade Davis, Jon Lackey, Jon Jay, Pedro Strop, Miguel Montero and Koji Uehara. to replenisg te talent again in 2018 – and going forward

There are only 4 players signed for $79.2 MIL so far.

This is a perfect contrast to the Heyward pact.  Should Rizzo's Team Options be picked up for 2020 and 2021 (for $16.5 MIL each year), then the club will still only have paid him $74 MIL from 2013 - 2021, spanning 9 years at an Annual Value of $8.2 MIL.  That is completely lights out for the organization going forward.

The Rizzo longterm deal a perfect contrast to the Heyward pact. Should Rizzo’s Team Options be picked up for 2020 and 2021 (for $16.5 MIL each year), then the club will still only have paid him $74 MIL from 2013 – 2021, spanning 9 years at an Annual Value of $8.2 MIL. That is completely lights out for the organization going forward.

The one factor of brilliantly drafting and then rostering a club full of guys the same age is that they are all on entry level contracts for a few years before the squad becomes increasingly expensive before Arbitration rights kick in.

2018 will see Kris Bryant, Kyle Hendricks and Addison Russell all hit 1st year Eligible on Arbitration, and then 2019 has Javier Baez, Kyle Schwarber, Willson Contreras and Carl Edwards JR. hit the 1st year. 

it will be at this point the team shoots up the salary page.

Other than Jon Lester, Heyward and Ben Zobrist,  there are no real big salaries on the table for the team to digest.

The biggest dilemma will be the status of Jake Arrieta.  My guess is that he will want too much money and walk away from the Cubs.

More important than that even is simply signing Free Agents (not named Arrieta) by Epstein.

Epstein is creative.  It is okay to figure out a Starting Pitcher in Free Agency, and also add another Closer if need be.  Who knows, by 2018, Hector Rondon and Carl Edwards JR. may be able to lock down that role.

There is still money to spend in the 2017 and 2018 winter markets for sure.

Also playing in the NL Central provides them with security of being able to outspend all the other teams – with the Cardinals only being in the atmosphere.

It is not like they are fighting in the tough NL West with the Giants and high spending Dodgers.  It will still mean facing off against those clubs. and contending with the aging Nationals roster, and New York Mets young staff for a few seasons.

Wrigley Field will be sold out, the revenue streams will break out to record levels, all freely flowing cash into the Ricketts family pockets.

The good news is they are not in cap hell yet  The bad news is that it would only take one more bad deal/paired with Heyward, in order to prevent the club from signing all of their young superstars to extensions.

Epstein is too smart for that.  Look for high value Annual Average Value’s that have expiring contracts before the 2018 and 2019 seasons.  I wouldn’t be surprised if they trade for an existing ace pitcher.

Think Zack Greinke now, or a guy like Justin Verlander in 2018 or 2019, where the other club may eat some of the salary, ask for a high level prospect, and then have a legitimate Starter to lug some innings in the playoffs.

I also wouldn’t be surprised if the brass orchestrates a trade for a guy like Chris Archer – or Sonny Gray (midway through this year if he has healed himself).

Maybe it would cost you a Javier Baez, or a combinations of Carl Edwards JR./Albert Almora JR. to do it, however with Ben Zobrist still in town, defense alignment can be configured in a lot of different ways for at least the next 2 – 3 years.

Like I stated in the Giants Payroll article, the new CBA has also reeled in the Dodgers spending $300 MIL on team payroll.  The best thing that could happen for the Cubs is if Clayton Kershaw were to opt out of his deal beyond 2017.

That would either bring up the price for the Dodgers to sign him, or even give them the chance to sign the guy themselves.  Yes. the Cubs have more flexibility than the Dodgers for at least a couple of offseasons.

Guaranteed Contracts/POS/AGE:

Jason Heyward – OF (28):  With a grand sum of $184 MIL from 2016 – 2023 ( 8 years) this is a brutal deal – and the club is lucky to have already won a World Series in season 1 of this pact.

Heyward will make an astonishing $28.2 MIL for both the 2017 and 2018 seasons.  Epstein at least frontloaded the contract to erase some of the burden by the time the young talent comes up for raises.

This deal is the 13th richest in history for a guy who carried a .631 OPS. in 2016  I tend to think that Heyward will be closer to his Career OPS of .761 the next few years with the pressure somewhat off him now. 

Hit him 7th or 8th and let him work out his kinks. Defense is at least not a problem here with him winning a 4th Gold Glove.

This could end bad in 2017 – with Heyward riding pine for some of the year – if the club opts to use Zobrist, Schwarber and the tandem of Jon Jay and Almora JR. as the OF.

You also have to think that Joe Maddon won’t hesitate to find Willson Contreras reps as well.

Jon Lester – SP (33):  Lester is in the 3rd year of a 7 YR/$165 MIL deal, and is set to reel in $25 MIL in 2017. The deal calls for $27.5 MIL in both 2018 and 2019, before scaling back to $20 MIL in 2020. 

There is a 2021 Club Option as well. Details on that: $25M Team Option, $10M Buyout option guaranteed with 200 innings in 2020 or 400 IP in 2019-20. 

With the Buyout that large, the man would have to fall from grace hard, to not get the Option.  Although he would be nearly 40, $15 MIL extra will probably not be that bad.

Lester is worth every dollar the club has spent so far.  It is hard to find playoff proven commodities on the open market.

Ben Zobrist – UT (36):  Zobrist is the only player in the MLB who was won 2 straight World Series, as also being a member of the 2015 WS Champ KC Royals.

With the availability to play 5 defensive positions, Zobrist was the perfect compliment to the Cubs defensive roster in 2016 – although he played predominantly at 2B. 

With the emergence of Baez in the playoffs, he will likely rove more around in 2017.

Zobrist earns $16.5 MIL in both 2017 and 2018 – before retreating back to $12.5 MIL in 2019.  He will be in his Age 39 season at that point, and it may not look so hot at that point, but one can’t argue at his flexibility on the Roster providing so many options in the title run.

You can even say that his positional switching gives the club a better chance to hold onto Kyle Schwarber (instead of trading him in the American League).

John Lackey – SP (38):  Lackey joined Lester, David Ross. and Epstein as guys who have won World Series in 2013 with Boston and the Cubs in 2016.  He will make $16 MIL in 2017 before hitting Free Agency in 2018.

Lackey lugged 188.1 IP and gave the Cubs a 3.35 ERA in the process.  It doesn’t even matter that he was being pulled in the early innings of the postseason.

Jake Arrieta – SP (31):  Arrieta earns a tidy $15.6 MIL this year and will likely head out into Free Agency as a Scott Boras client.  Unfortunately the man is going to be 32 heading into 2018.

I would not offer him higher than a 4 year deal at $20 – $21 MIL after, yet that will not get the job done when he hits the open market.  Someone will pony up 5 YRs/$125 MIL for him, you watch.

Miguel Montero – C (34);  Montero will make $14 MIL in 2017 – and I am not sure he will Catch more than about 60 games.  Contreras at last is on an entry level contract to offset this salary.  I am surprised the team has not ventured out to trade him.

Wade Davis – CL (32):  It cost the club Jorge Soler and 4 years of Team Control, yet this was the way to go.  $10 MIL for one year of Davis (who Closed for the 2015 wS Champion Royals) is smart business practice.

To acquire an elite Reliever such as this is a great move – when you consider the Yankees, Dodgers and Giants spent $86 MIL, $80 MIL and $62 MIL to sign Aroldis Chapman, Kenley Jansen and Mark Melancon respectively.

Soler was going to be their 7th option as an OF.  Davis, by the way, has a 0.83 ERA in 32.2 IP for his postseason career – and has carried a mid 1 ERA from 2014 – 2016 as a late inning Reliever – spanning 183 IP.

I would also think the club will extend the Qualifying Offer to him this winter ( $17.5 – $19 MIL range for one year), so they may even recover a 2nd or 3rd Draft Pick back all for just $10 MIL.

Jon Jay – OF (32): Has a 2017 contract or $8 MIL to play OF.  He has a career .352 OBP, so could hit 1st or 9th for Maddon, working as an on base guy for the big boppers.  Brilliant little move.

Anthony Rizzo – 1B (28):  Rizzo will take him $7 MIL for 2017, coming after the heels of an ALL-Star, Gold Glove, Silver Slugger and top 4 MVP season in which he clubbed 30+ HRs and added 100 RBI for a 2nd straight season.

Rizzo also makes $7 MIL in 2018, $12 MIL in 2019, and two Team Options in a row call for $16.5 MIL and $2 MIL Buyouts for both 2020 and 2021.

It is contracts like this that setup championship caliber clubs for the organization.

Other valued deals that compare to it last decade or so.  Paul Goldschmidt (5 YRs/$32.5 MIL), Madison Bumgarner (6 YRS/$35.6 MIL) and Andrew McCutchen ( 6 YRs/$51 MIL)  that coincided with 4 straight top 5 NL MVP finishes.

Rizzo should challenge for an MVP every year of that remains on this deal.

Koji Uehara – RP (42):  $6 MIL for one year seems like a lot or a guy of his age, but Uehara has plenty of playoff/Closer experience that is invaluable to a club like this.  I would take it easy on him in the regular season and save the bullets for playoffs.

Hector Rondon – RP (29):  $5.8 MIL for this former Closer is not a bad deal in 2017. Rondon has one more year left of Arbitration before hitting Free Agency in 2019.  He has 77 Saves and a career ERA of 2.97.

Brian Duensing – SP/RP (33):  Makes $2 MIL in 2017 and a Free Agent in 2018. A spot start here and extra Bullpen arm,

Justin Grimm – RP (29): Avoided Arbitration with a $1.8 MIL, has 2 more years left of Arbitration before he is a Free Agent.

Total Money for this Category for 2017: $157.5 MIL (13 Players)

Arbitration Eligible/POS/AGE

3rd  year

Pedro Strop – RP (33):  Is projected to to earn $5.5 MIL in Arbitration, and is a Free Agent in 2018.

Total Money for this Category for 2017: $5.5 MI:  Total money is now $163 MIL

Pre-Arbitration – Entry Level Contracts:

Tommy La Stella – INF (28):  Is Arbitration Eligible from 2018 – 2020 and a Free Agent in 2021.

Kyle Hendricks – SP (27): Is Arbitration Eligible from 2018 – 2020 and a Free Agent in 2021.

Kris Bryant – 3B Is Arbitration Eligible from 2018 – 2021 as a “Super 2” and a Free Agent in 2021.  Bryant is only 25 Years old, and will have 4 years of Arbitration kick in starting next season.

Since the club opted to start his 2015 after the 10 days of service time, they wll retian his rights until the end of 2021.  Bryant is on pace to end up recording Arbitration cash if he keeps his career trajectory.

The club should really look to extend him similar to the Mike Trout 6 YRs.$144 MIL deal he got.

Addison Russell – SS (23):  Is Arbitration Eligible from 2018 – 2021 as a “Super 2” and a Free Agent in 2022.

Comparisons to an extension similar to what he may get are:  Jason Kipnis and Matt Carpenter (6 YRs and $52 MIL)

Matt Szczur – UT (28): Is Arbitration Eligible from 2019 – 2021 and a Free Agent in 2022.

Javier Baez – 2B/3B (24):  Is Arbitration Eligible from 2019 – 2021 and a Free Agent in 2022.

Mike Montgomery – SP/RP (29): Is Arbitration Eligible from 2019 – 2021 and a Free Agent in 2022.

Kyle Schwarber – OF (24): Is Arbitration Eligible from 2019 – 2021 and a Free Agent in 2022.

Willson Contreras – C (25): Is Arbitration Eligible from 2022 – 2022 and a Free Agent in 2023.

Albert Almora JR – OF (23):   Is Arbitration Eligible from 2022 – 2022 and a Free Agent in 2023.

Rob Zastryzny – RP (25) Is Arbitration Eligible from 2022 – 2022 and a Free Agent in 2023.

Total Money for this Category for 2017: $6.0 MIL MIL Toral Money Oveall – $169.0 MIL

Buyouts/Dead Money

Jason Hammel – $2 Million Buyout for 2017 that was agreed to in a gentleman’s deal. There is no dead money on he books past 2017 thus far.

Conclusions:

Despite the Heyward mistake of a deal, Epstein has done everything right.  It will be a constant maneuvering of the incoming talent – to surround the plethora of young superstars the club has.

The Cubs have the availability to sign an elite pitcher in Free Agency in the year or 2, or trade for one.  Beyond that, the team can’t make another top 50 ALL – Time Salary roster mistake.

The brass should also investigate early extensions for Bryant, Ruseell and Contreras immediately while they may afford to wait for Hendricks and Schwarber yet. 

Some sort of guaranteed money to the budget would be wise

As for Arrieta, he is just too old – an unorthodox in order to grant him the cash he will seek.  Epstein has to find creative ways to bring in a #1 or $2 beyond this campaign. 

Chicago is fantastic shape financially to spend as much as it takes to ensure a dynasty in the next half-dozen years. 

If I were in charge I would try to limit any big historic contracts to their own young superstars from this point forwards. 

Also don’t be afraid to trade one of the premiere young offensive players for a quality Starter (#1 or #2 Starter)like Baez, Contreras or Almora.

CubsWS

*** The views and opinions expressed in this report are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of mlbreports.com and their partners***

I am happy to be back at the helm of the MLB Reports, after completing my record 224 Games in the MLB Trip in 2015.  It was the 4th time I have seen all 30 MLB Parks since 2008. During that time away I was fortunate to do 100 Media Interviews

Interview on CSN Philly during the month of July.

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Projected Top 5 Home Run Hitters In Major League Baseball For 2017

Having nothing to do with the ALL - Star Game, and a ton to prove after inviting himselfto the HR derby in San Diego, we placed a $125 bet on Stanton to win the event at +325 odds. He destroyed the field, This was the difference in us turning a small little profit for the year. ).

Having nothing to do with the ALL – Star Game, and a ton to prove after inviting himself to the HR derby in San Diego, we placed a $125 bet on Stanton to win the event at +325 odds – and he won the whole thing.  Now only if he could refrain from beingthe DL for 1 campaign.  It was another injury plagued season for the veteran in 2016, but I still claim he will lead the league in HRs one of these years and possibly challenge 50 HRs in the process.  He is our #1 pick to win the overall MLB HR crown in 2017.

With apologies to the pending Free Agents who cracked 40+ HRs in Mark Trumbo (47) and Chris Carter (41), I just don’t see them duplicating their 2016 campaigns. 

I also foresee a bunch of changes to the top 6 Home Run hitters in the American League in 2017. 

Newly signed Indians player Edwin Encarnacion is quite possibly the only returning top 5 guy that will be in there back to back seasons for the Junior Circuit.

Chris Carter. actually tied was the co-leader for the HR title with Nolan Arenado in 2016. and then was promptly non-tendered by the Brewers for his efforts. 

Mark Trumbo hasn’t been able to parlay his HR title into a Free Agent deal either.  I think this may play a huge factor in a 2017 regression of sorts.

Don’t get me wrong. i fully expect these gentlemen to eclipse 30+ HRs each still in 2017.

Since the top 5 overall Major League HR totals all resided in the AL in 2016 – I suspect this won’t be the case next year.

Ultimately, career years from Khris Davis and Brian Dozier will be hard to do again.

(RELATED – Top 5 Saves Leaders Projected For The MLB in 2017) Read the rest of this entry

Who Owns October in MLB Playoffs 2016 (#WOO) Tallies Updated for October 22, 2016

NLCS - Los Angeles Dodgers v Chicago Cubs - Game Two

Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images

Well, we have a World Series match up… and the Cubs will face off against the Indians in a “Hell Freezes Over” Series.

Time to see who owned October.

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.

At the end of the post season, we will see who had the highest WOO total as a pitcher and a hitter.

A complete description of the rules can be found HERE.

From October 22nd.
NLCS Game 6:

Receiving 1 WOO’s

Kyle Hendricks pitched the Cubs into the World Series with 7 1/3 shutout innings, allowing 2 hits and earning the 5-0 decision over the Dodgers.

Anthony Rizzo got 2 hits including a towering homer off of Kershaw that helped put the game away for the Cubs 5-0 over LA.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s 

Kenley Jansen threw 3 perfect innings out of the bullpen but it was too little and too late as the Dodgers were eliminated by the Cubs, 5-0.

Current ‘WOO’ Totals MLB 2016:

Hitters ‘WOO’ MLB 2016,

Josh Donaldson – Blue Jays 3 1/2, Francisco Lindor – Indians 3, Adrian Gonzalez – Dodgers 2 1/2,  Daniel Murphy – Nationals 2, Addison Russell – Cubs 2, Justin Turner – Dodgers 2,  Javier Baez – Cubs 1 1/2, Edwin Encarnacion – Blue Jays 1 1/2, Conor Gillaspie – Giants 1 1/2, Mookie Betts – Red Sox 1, Kris Bryant – Cubs 1,  Coco Crisp – Indians 1,  Dexter Fowler – Cubs 1, Brandon Guyer – Indians 1, Yasmani Grandal – Dodgers 1, Shawn Kelley – Nationals 1,  Jason Kipnis – Indians 1, Miguel Montero – Cubs 1, Mike Napoli – Indians 1, Joe Panik – Giants 1, Joc Pederson – Dodgers 1, Anthony Rizzo – Cubs 1, Troy Tulowitzki – Blue Jays 1, Jayson Werth – Nationals 1, Ben Zobrist – Cubs 1,  Elvis Andrus – Rangers 1/2, Jose Bautista – Blue Jays 1/2,  Andrew Benintendi  – Red Sox 1/2, Gregor Blanco – Giants 1/2, Ian Desmond – Rangers 1/2, Curtis Granderson – Mets 1/2, Rougned Odor – Rangers 1/2, Roberto Perez – Indians 1/2, Buster Posey – Giants 1/2, Carlos Ruiz – Dodgers 1/2, Michael Saunders – Blue Jays 1/2, Corey Seager – Dodgers 1/2, Mark Trumbo – Orioles 1/2,

Pitchers ‘WOO’ MLB 2016,

Jon Lester – Cubs 3, Kenley Jansen – Dodgers 2 1/2, Clayton Kershaw – Dodgers 2, Corey Kluber – Indians 2, Andrew Miller – Indians 2,   Roberto Osuna – Blue Jays 2, Josh Tomlin – Indians 2, Marco Estrada – Blue Jays 1 1/2, Kyle Hendricks – Cubs 1 1/2,  Madison Bumgarner – Giants 1, Aroldis Chapman – Cubs 1, Rich Hill – Dodgers 1, Derek Law – Giants 1,  Mark Melancon– Nationals 1, Ryan Merritt – Indians 1, Mike Montgomery – Cubs 1, Aaron Sanchez – Blue Jays 1, Marcus Stroman – Blue Jays 1, Travis Wood – Cubs 1, Jake Arrieta – Cubs 1/2,  Johnny Cueto – Giants 1/2, Matt Moore – Giants 1/2, Darren O’Day – Orioles 1/2, Max Scherzer – Nationals 1/2, Noah Syndergaard – Mets 1/2,

Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For Fanduel, DraftKings, and Fanpicks 9/6/16

DailyRoKC04aA01

DraftKings Daily Fantasy Baseball Lineup Picks (9/6/16): MLB DFS Advice

Fanduel Daily Fantasy Baseball Lineup Picks (9/6/16): MLB DFS Advice

Fanpicks Daily Fantasy Baseball Lineup Picks (9/6/16): MLB DFS Advice


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DailyRotoHelp.com wants to help you win a ton of cash while also allowing you to feel like you’re making it yourself. You may not agree with all of our picks, but that’s what makes a DFS player a GREAT DFS Player.

Our daily plays are from a collection of experts and a ton of research that goes into them. We have spent countless hours a day crunching the numbers from a dozen different aspects of each sport and bring you the best options each day.

If you take away from our articles the ability to build your own lineups that’s great! If you are still wanting some help definitely subscribe to our Optimal NBA and NFL DFS, or MLB Lineups for both Fanduel and DraftKings for that added boost! Good Luck and bring home that bacon.


Daily Matchups for 9/6/2016

Pitcher

Corey Kluber

Clay Buchholz

Jason Hammel

Matt Boyd

Jake Odorizzi


CATCHER

Buster Posey

CLICK HERE TO VIEW MORE PICKS

Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For DraftKings 9/6/16

P- Gio Gonzalez (vs. Washington Nationals): $9,300. Over his last three starts, Gio is 2-0 with a 3.06 ERA, and 17 strikeouts in 17.2 innings pitched. He has yet to win against the Braves this season, but he has a 2.31 ERA against them in his two starts. Atlanta’s offense has actually been pretty successful over their past seven games, but they rank 28th in OPS against left-handed pitchers in 2016. Based on their struggles against lefties and Gio’s career success against the Braves, I think he is a no brainer.

P- Jason Hammel (vs. Milwaukee Brewers): $7,500. Hammel has struggled a bit over the last few starts, but he got back on track after throwing six innings of one run ball against the Pirates his last time on the mound. In 107 career at bats against Hammel, the Brewers’ offense is batting .243, with a .327 OBP, and a .432 slugging percentage. These stats are average, but I think Hammel can take care of business on Tuesday. The main reason I’m starting him is because I think his price is very fair and brings about a lot of value. In three starts against the Brewers this season, Hammel has thrown 18 innings, giving up six runs, and he has struck out 18 batters.

 

SEE THE REST OF THE ARTICLE

2016 MLB Playoff and Yearly Award Predictions

With only about a month left in the season, it’s time to take a look at playoff and yearly award predictions. These are obviously subject to change, but below are my predictions. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to reach out to me on Twitter @dynasty_digest.

Playoff Prediction

AL East: Boston Red Sox

AL Central: Cleveland Indians

AL West: Texas Rangers

Wild Card: Toronto Blue Jays and Detroit Tigers

 

 

SEE THE REST OF THE ARTICLE

Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For DraftKings 8/14/16

P- Jake Odorizzi (vs. New York Yankees): $8,200. Odorizzi entered his last start with a 20.2 inning scoreless streak. Unfortunately, he lost that streak, but he still pitched decent. In his last three starts, he is 2-0, with a 1.00 ERA, and 15 strikeouts in 18 innings pitched. In two starts against the Yankees in 2016, he has a 1-1 record, 1.12 ERA, and 11 strikeouts.

P- Tom Koehler (vs. Chicago White Sox): $8,600. Koehler has been lights out recently. Over his last three starts, he has a 2-0 record, 0.47 ERA, and 18 strikeouts in 19 innings pitched. With that said, he is going up against a pretty weak Chicago White Sox lineup. Over the last seven days, the White Sox have a .695 OPS, which ranks 20th in Major League Baseball.

 

SEE THE REST OF THE ARTICLE

Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For DraftKings 7/22/16

Thank you for taking the time to view my daily fantasy picks. You can find my picks for pitcher for tomorrow and a link that forwards you to the rest of the picks. If you have any questions or comments, please send me a message on Twitter (@dynasty_digest).

P – Trevor Bauer (vs. Baltimore Orioles): $8,900

P – Gerrit Cole (vs. Philadelphia Phillies): $7,400

SEE THE REST OF THE PICKS

Who Owned Baseball June 27, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

Screen shot 2016-06-27 at 8.38.34 PM

JOE ROBBINS/GETTY IMAGES

Kris Bryant went 5 for 5 with 3 homers, driving in 6 and scoring 4 to lead the Cubs in a wild 11-8 slugfest in Cincinnati.

Jon Gray struck out 8 Blue Jays over 7 innings, walking none and worked around a pair of homers to get the 9-5 victory for Colorado.

Nick Franklin singled, doubled and homered, driving in 5 runs as the Rays snapped their losing streak, 13-7 over Boston.

Danny Duffy pitched 8 innings, allowing 2 runs, walking none and struck out 8 Cardinals batters to earn the 6-2 decision for the Royals.

They all owned baseball on June 27, 2016.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

Who Owned Baseball June 26, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

Screen Shot 2016-06-26 at 7.27.00 PM

RICH SCHULTZ/GETTY IMAGES

Tyler Duffey did not allow a hit until the 6th and finished with 8 innings, 2 hits, 8 strikeouts and 1 run as the Twins clobbered the Yankees, 7-1.

Jose Fernandez struck out 13 Cubs and allowed just 4 hits and 1 run to earn the 6-1 decision for the red hot Marlins.

Lonnie Chisenhall collected 9 total bases with his 4 hits, including a homer and 3 RBI as the Indians continued to roll, 9-3, in Detroit.

Freddie Freeman reached base 4 times, including a homer and a pair of runs scored in the Braves 5-2 victory over the Mets.

They all owned baseball on June 26, 2016.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

MLB Fantasy Daily (DFS) Picks For DraftKings – 5/17/16

zz draft kings

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

We are ramping up our coverage on DFS play at MLB Reports, and will include some strategy articles in the forthcoming days and weeks.  We come from a high level of handicapping backgrounds, and have been given the go ahead from the braintrust at MLB Reports to start sharing some of these with you.

Of course Chuck Booth and I spearheaded this movement back in a few years ago with just regular baseball futures.  We were not sure if we wanted to go ahead with the MLB DFS Fantasy at all, but were finally convinced for demand by a couple of our BBBA writers (Josh Robbins and Trey Rose).  The need is there and we are looking to deliver.

I have played DFS long enough to be the guy who writes the posts here.  The gambling philosophy championed by Booth in the 90’s is brilliant for any sources of tournaments or gambling period.  It weaves the Martingale Betting System (progressive betting with the double up theory) and it fosters it with several other techniques so you don’t bet against yourself.

One of the biggest blunders made by many gamblers is betting against themselves.  We are going to simplify the process, so if you win, you can really win – none of this barely break even nonsense.

Look for that in coming days.  Now here is what we are going to do for today’s MLB DFS Draft Kings style.

We Will Give You – Daily

5 team stacking options ( We are going to draw most of our players from these 5 squads).

3 Pitching candidates (High level, midlevel and budget).

Read the rest of this entry

Stephen Strasburg Ties Felix Hernandez For 17th On The MLB’s ALL – Time Top 50 Contract List With Extension

 Ed Zurga/Getty Images North America

Ed Zurga/Getty Images North America

Chuck Booth (MLB Reports Majority Owner/Lead  Analyst)

Stephen Strasburg shocked he baseball world the other day – by inking a 7 year extension worth from $175 – $180 MIL.  It ties him for 17th All – Time with Felix Hernandez to start with, but he can earn an additional $7 MIL with $1 MIL per year bonuses for reaching 180 IP.

The deal pays him $15 MIL annually from 2016 – 2023, and then the deferrals kick in from 2023 – 2030, in 7 installments of $10 MIL each.

Some will say his deal is worth more like $162 MIL in present day dollars, however we do not operate our top 50 contracts list like that.  The deal is guaranteed at $175 MIL for now, and we will change it if bonuses are hit.

With this contract, the Nats have 4 current players that are on this ALL – Time List with Scherzer (10th), Strasburg (T 17th), Zimmerman (37th) and Werth (Tied 44th).

This signing is a great move to open a 3 year window for Washington, as they also have Bryce Harper under team control until after the 2018 season, however it also may seal the fate the of the young reigning NL MVP to move elsewhere for 2019.

Werth’s contract does end at the end of the 2017 year. but Zimmerman is still on the books until at least 2020.

It will be tough to come up with the dough necessary to drop a 11 – 13 years contract worth $35 – 40 MIL per annum when it comes to Harper.

Even with Scherzer’s and Strasburg’s deals both containing a ton of deferred money- all of them will still run simultaneously to Harper’s deal – even if they are not on the roster each after the 2023 season.

I think you couldn’t risk trying to outbid everyone for Harper’s services, yet to pay Strasburg market value makes sense.

This club could even save some payroll by trading Gio Gonzalez, as they have Joe Ross and Tanner Roark starting in the rotation for depth, and Lucas Giolito has not started his time service clock. Read the rest of this entry

Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For Draft Kings – 5/10/16

zz draft kings

Trey Rose (Featured BBBA Fantasy Baseball Writer/Owner – dynastydigest.sportsblog.com) 

If you have any questions or comments about this article or fantasy baseball, please Tweet me. I post daily DFS lineups for Draft Kings everyday, so please make sure to follow my blog and my Twitter for updates.

P – Kevin Gausman (vs. Minnesota Twins): $8,200. Gausman has proven he is a great play in daily fantasy over his first few starts in 2016. He is currently averaging 18.8 points per game on DraftKings this season.

He will be facing the 26th ranked offense on Tuesday, whom ranks as the 4th worst in the MLB when it comes to striking out. To top it all off, there is an 11 MPH wind blowing towards home plate, so the baseball should stay in the ballpark on Tuesday.

P – Derek Holland (vs. Chicago White Sox): $6,200. Holland hasn’t been spectacular in 2016, but Tuesday could be the day to turn it around. He is facing the Chicago White Sox, whom are ranked as the 18th overall offense in the MLB. When it comes to facing left-handed pitching, the White Sox are hitting a mediocre .237.

There will also be some very favorable weather for Mr. Holland on Tuesday. In Texas, it is expected to see winds upwards of 20 MPH towards home plate, which means there is a very slim chance of any power production.

To see the rest of the picks, click the link below:

SEE THE REST OF THE PICKS

Trey Rose: Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For Draft Kings 5/2/16

Johnny Cueto

Trey Rose (Featured BBBA Fantasy Baseball Writer/Owner – dynastydigest.sportsblog.com) 

P- Jon Gray (vs. San Diego Padres): $7,900. This is a pretty risky play on Monday, but many factors point towards Gray having a big game.

Gray struggled in his first two starts this season, but they have been against two very tough teams, the Pirates and Dodgers, and they were played at Coors Field.

Coors Field has not been kind to Gray in his 7 career starts at home. In those starts, he has thrown 29.1 innings, with a 9.20 ERA, 52 hits against, 9 walks, and 29 strikeouts.

In 4 career starts on the road, he has thrown 20 innings, with a 2.70 ERA, 16 hits, 8 walks, and 25 strikeouts. Luckily, Gray will be on the road on Monday.

Not only will he be on the road, but he is pitching at a pitcher’s park in San Diego against a mediocre offense. In his only career start versus the Padres, he threw 5 innings, giving up 2 hits, 2 walks, and 6 strikeouts.

Gray’s impressive career strikeout rate (9.5 strikeouts per 9 innings), success on the road, and favorable matchup all point to a great performance on Monday.

P – Johnny Cueto (vs. Cincinnati Reds): $10,800. This start is going to be an emotional one for Cueto. He will be returning to Cincinnati for the first time since he was traded.

He played 8 years in Cincinnati, so the fans will be behind him and I’m sure he wants to put on a show.

Not only will his emotions play a factor, but he is facing one of the worst offenses in Major League Baseball.

The Reds are ranked as the 28th overall offense, which is clearly a huge advantage for Cueto. In Cueto’s first 5 starts in 2016, he is 4-1, with a 2.65 ERA, 33 strikeouts, and only 5 walks.

In his 98 career starts at Cincinnati’s home stadium, he has a 48-22 record, and a 2.91 ERA.

All signs point to a huge day for Cueto on Monday. He is averaging 25 points per game on Draft Kings this season.

To see the rest of the picks, click the link below:

SEE THE REST OF THE PICKS

 

 

Trey Rose: Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For Draft Kings 4/30/16

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Trey Rose (Featured BBBA Fantasy Baseball Writer/Owner – dynastydigest.sportsblog.com) 

P – Jordan Zimmermann (vs. Minnesota Twins): $10,300. Zimmermann has been absolutely dominant since joining the Tigers in the offseason. In 26 innings this season, he is 4-0, with a 0.35 ERA, 16 strikeouts, and 7 walks.

He isn’t going to get a ton of strikeouts, which could hurt in daily fantasy, but he is going to limit the runs and pitch deep into games.

In the 4 starts he has dominated this year, he has faced some very good offenses, which includes the Yankees, Pirates, Royals, and A’s. He will be facing a very lackluster offense on Saturday, the Minnesota Twins, so this should be a great match-up for Zimmermann.

P – Kevin Gausman (vs. Chicago White Sox): $7,500. Gausman put on quite a show in his season debut earlier this week. In 5 innings against the Tampa Bay Rays, he gave up 1 earned run, on 3 hits, 2 walks, and 7 strikeouts.

He was pulled in 5 innings after throwing 91 pitches. Considering that was his first game since coming off the DL, it wasn’t surprising to see him pulled out of the game early. Now that he has a game under his belt, hopefully the Orioles will let him go a little longer on Saturday.

He will be facing the Chicago White Sox, but they shouldn’t be a very tough offense to take care of for Gausman.

To see the rest of the picks, click the link below:

SEE THE REST OF THE PICKS

Daily Fantasy MLB Picks For Draft Kings 4/28/16

JON LAVENGETTO/MLB.COM

JON LAVENGETTO/MLB.COM

Trey Rose (Featured BBBA Fantasy Baseball Writer/Owner – dynastydigest.sportsblog.com) 

Note: There are only 8 games on Thursday, which means the match-ups are very limited. There is also a very good chance of rain for the following games, so pay attention to the forecast: Phillies vs. Nationals, Pirates vs. Rockies, Athletics vs. Tigers.

P – Jon Lester (vs. Milwaukee Brewers): Through 4 starts in 2016, Lester has been absolutely domin

ant. In 27.1 innings pitched, he has a 1.98 ERA, 23 strikeouts, 5 walks, and a 2-1 record. The Brewers’ offense has struggled this season. They are currently ranked as the 25th ranked offense in Major League Baseball.

Lester will be throwing off of his home mound on Thursday as well. All of these factors should work in Lester’s favor.

NOTE: The Chicago Cubs game was postponed on Wednesday night, so Jake Arrieta may take Lester’s spot on Thursday, and if that is the case, Arrieta is a must add.

P – Tanner Roark (vs. Philadelphia Phillies): Roark has been a pleasant surprise for the Washington Nationals this season. In his first 4 starts, he has thrown 24 innings, with a 2.63 ERA, 24 strikeouts, 11 walks, and a 2-2 record.

In his most recent start, he threw 7 innings against the Minnesota Twins, giving up 0 runs, striking out 15, and walking 3. He has a favorable matchup against the Phillies on Thursday, so he is a great start in daily fantasy baseball.

To see the rest of the picks, click the link below:

SEE THE REST OF THE PICKS

Who Owned Baseball April 24, 2016 (Daily MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

Screen Shot 2016-04-24 at 4.41.15 PM

JOHN MINCHILLO/AP

Anthony Rizzo hit a pair of homers, driving in four and led the Cubs to a 9-0 drubbing of the Reds.

Steven Souza Jr. homered twice and drove in three to help the Rays pound the Yankees, 8-1.

Stephen Strasburg pitched into the 8th, striking out 10 Twins batters in 7 1/3 innings. He would not get the decision but the Nationals took the wild and sometimes surreal 16 inning marathon, 6-5.

Yordano Ventura threw 7 strong innings, allowing 3 hits and 1 run as Kansas City cruised past Baltimore, 6-1.

They all owned baseball on April 24, 2016.

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