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

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Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images

Clayton Kershaw took a shutout into the 9th, finishing with 8 1/3 innings, 4 hits, 1 run and struck out 8 Arizona batters to earn the 7-1 decision for the Dodgers.

Dallas Keuchel struck out 7 A’s in 7 innings, allowing 1 run and 4 hits as the Astros rolled, 7-2.

David Freese collected 3 hits including an RBI single and an RBI double to help the Pirates win against the Cubs, 4-2.

Brad Miller reached base 4 times, homered and scored 3 times to lead the Rays past the Red Sox, 10-5..

They all owned baseball on April 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.

Atlantis Casino Wagers For 2017 MLB Win Totals

over-under

The old adage here is ‘you want to know the truth, follow the money.

We have been talking projections for win totals in the upcoming MLB Year on a all offseason basis here at the MLB Reports. While we agreed a lot with the fangraphs.com prognostications, we had a problem with Baseball Prospectis’s PECOTA System yet again.

In the 1st total listed below are the official Win/Loss Over/Unders For All 30 MLB Clubs posted by Atlantis Casino.

We have to say that they pretty much mirrored what we have on the board for our projections.

Casino’s have a vested interest since it will cost them serious money if there are poor predictions.

In the last week, we have seen the Royals ink Travis Wood, but more importantly Alex Reyes was lost for the season by the Cardinals due to his upcoming Tommy John Surgery. Read the rest of this entry

5 MLB Teams That Could Be Real Contenders – Or Real Pretenders In 2017

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Each year we are enlightened to a few surprises in the MLB we were not expecting.  This year there are 5 teams that seem could flip either way based on the talent coming to fruition.

We tried to pick a club for each Division here, but simply couldn’t come out with a AL Central team.

Tampa Bay Rays:

With Alex Cobb potentially coming back healthy to the rotation that features Chris Archer and Jake Odorizzi already. the Rays will have decent chuckers to start this campaign.

Add Blake Snell, Matt Andriese and recently acquired Jose DeLeon (who should contribute quality innings this campaign and all of a sudden this club doesn’t look too shabby for depth.

The Relief Core is also solid if Brad Boxberger can reclaim his form, and see a similar year for Alex Colome.

Evan Longoria,  and Brad Miller both put forth 30 HR seasons in 2016, and Matt Duffy may prove to be a decent Batting Average guy at Shortstop now.

The Rays Outfield will feature Kevin keirmaier, Mallex Smith, Corey Dickerson and Steven Souza, while one of those guys may also see some time at Designated Hitter. Read the rest of this entry

Signing Wllson Ramos WAS A Great Necessary Gamble For The Tampa Bay Rays

Wilson Ramos was in heavy NL MVP consideration in the 2st half off 2016 - .330.382/.546 - with 14 HRs and 48 RBI for his 1st 68 Games Played before he slowed down a bit in the 2nd half before tearing his ACL (for the 2nd time of his Carrer) in the last weekend of the regualr season

Wilson Ramos was in heavy NL MVP consideration in the 1stt half off 2016 – .330./382/.546 – with 14 HRs and 48 RBI for his 1st 68 Games Played before he slowed down a bit in the 2nd half before tearing his ACL (for the 2nd time of his Career) in the last weekend of the regular season.  Ramos can deliver as a #4 or #5 Hitter on the Rays if he is fully healthy.  The big Venezuelan should see some time as Designated Hitter and Catcher in 2017 – before taking over the primary duties as Catcher in 2017.  For a 2 YR/$12.5 MIL minimum commitment, this is a steal for Tampa if Ramos can bounce bacl.

You have to feel horrible for the Wilson Ramos tearing his ACL late in the season for the Nationals.  He was one of the most valuable players in the National League for the 1st half of the year.

Ramos would have been the #1 Catcher on the open market had he remained healthy, and could have seen a deal that rivaled the Russell Martin contract from a few seasons ago (5 YRs/$82 MIL).  Instead he lost 75% of his value as an injured player.

The 2 year pact comes with a base of $12.5 MIL – and has been said to include several incentive bonuses.  This is exactly the kind of risk the Rays need to make in order to compete.

Matt Silverman and the brass are gambling that Ramos could come back in early spring, and then split time as both a DH and Catcher throughout the 2017 season, until he could take the primary backstopper position for the 2018 year.

Tampa Bay struggled in 2016 – failing to register their 1st 80 win season since 2007. but a lot of that was due to Starting Pitcher injuries – or guys underperforming.  Among the position that were bad was the Catching Position. Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball September 21, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

sanchez5Gary Sanchez reached base 4 times, homering twice and powered the Yankees to an 11-5 thumping of the Rays.

Felix Hernandez threw 7 shutout innings against Toronto. He did not get the decision but the Mariners walked off 2-1 winners.

Paul Goldschmidt homered twice and provided all the offense as the Diamondbacks pushed past San Diego, 3-2.

Chad Kuhl struck out 6 Brewers in 6 innings, allowing 1 run and got the 4-1 victory for the Pirates.

They all owned baseball on September 21, 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 August 13, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

 

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RICH SCHULTZ/GETTY IMAGES

Aaron Judge homered in his first ever big league at bat, added another hit and a fine running catch to make quite a first impression leading the Yankees to an 8-4 victory over Tampa Bay.

Matt Boyd did not allow a run in his 7 innings of 2 hit domination of the Rangers and got the 2-0 victory for Detroit.

Joey Votto started the scoring with an RBI single. He would finish with 4 hits, including a double and a pair of runs batted in as Cincinnati clubbed Milwaukee, 11-5.

Madison Bumgarner threw 7 shutout innings, striking out 8 Orioles and earning the 6-2 decision for the Giants.

They All Owned Baseball on August 13, 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.

In Memoriam Video For all baseball family who have passed since 2015 ASG.

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

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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

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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.

Who Owned Baseball May 21, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

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ROB FOLDY/GETTY IMAGES

Ichiro Suzuki reached base 5 times, including 4 hits, now 46 shy of 3,000 and helped the Marlins squeak past Washington, 3-2.

Mookie Betts got three hits, including two homers (one being a grand slam) as the Red Sox stopped the red hot Indians, 9-1.

Mike Leake threw 7 shutout frames, allowing 4 hits and earning the 6-2 decision for the Cardinals over the Diamondbacks.

Michael Fulmer struck out 11 Rays in 7 innings, giving up just 1 run and got the 5-4 win for Detroit.

They all owned baseball on May 21, 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 Power Rankings 2016: Week 7 – May

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Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

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MAY 15, 2016

Well not much has changed from this week as compared to last week.  Detroit carried its free fall to 4th in the AL Central, the Yankees took 5 of 7 contests – and 7/10 in their homestand to save their season for now.

Miami and Philadelphia continue to stick around in the NL East, and the Giants and Dodgers finally had winning weeks to make the NL West Division Leader respectable.

Nobody looks scarier right now than the Boston Red Sox offense, who led by David Ortiz, Jackie Bradley JR. and Xander Bogaerts, plated 10 runs or more in 5 of the last 6 games, after going their 1st 32 games without doing so.

I am still awaiting for a Jays big winning streak.  Houston has not played winning baseball since the 1st 6 weeks of the 2015 – and are tending to resemble the 2007 Tampa Bay Rays more than anything.

All offense and little pitching and defense.

There is nobody struggling worse than Logan Morrison, Russell Martin, Carlos Gomez and the consortium of LF’s in Anaheim! Recently bouncing out of this list are Jason Heyward and Chase Headley.

We are nearing the quarter pole and rapidly approaching Memorial Day Weekend, so it is not early anymore.
Read the rest of this entry

MLB Power Rankings 2016: Week 6 May

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Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

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MAY 8, 2016

Disclaimer:  We based these rankings on best strength to win the World Series.  Therefore some teams that have an easier division to play in, with the least path of resistance to the postseason overall may be ranked a lot higher than a club who is equally talented, yet may play in a juggernaut of a division.

Rank – Team Record (Last week rank) (Up down) (W – L Record Last week)

(1) (1)  Chicago Cubs (E) (24 – 6) :  A real bad day for the Cubs is battling with a team like Washington on Sunday, to see whether or not they are going to sweep them or go 3 – 1 in a series.

Yep, they swept the 4 game set in a 13 inning walk off HR by Javier Baez – to cap a 7 – 0 week. They are on pace for about 129 wins right now.

Depth of the Starting Rotation is looking solid with Jake Arrieta, Jon Lester, John Lackey, Jason Hammel (Killer J’s) and Kyle Hendricks.

Hector Rondon is not even needed in most leads, with the team almost at a +100 differential through 30 games,

(2) (3) Chicago White Sox (+1) (22 – 10) ( 4 – 2):  Chris Sale is 7 – 0, and may go Ron Guidry (circa 1979 on us).  If anyone will win 25 games in a year, it would be him or Jake Arrieta.

Bob Welch won 27 games in 1990 for the A’s was the last guy to do that.

Has anyone noticed that Brett Lawrie has an OBP closer to .400 – than his usual .310 – .320?

Jose Quintana is finally receiving some run support.  If Todd Frazier and Jose Abreu start hitting for BA, than look he the hell out.  We could see a “Windy City” World Series for the 1st time since 1906. Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball April 29, 2016 (Daily MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

Marlins Brewers Baseball

(AP Photo/Morry Gash)

Adam Conley took a no hitter into the 8th and finished with 7 2/3 no hit shutout innings. The Marlins bullpen blew the no hitter and the shutout in the 9th but held on to the 6-3 win in Milwaukee.

Justin Bour went 3 for 3 with a pair of homers and 5 RBI to lead the Marlins in a wild and memorable 6-3 victory over the Brewers.

Felix Hernandez pitched into the 8th, finishing with 7 2/3 shutout innings, 5 hits and 3 walks, earning the ever so close 1-0 thriller for the Mariners against Kansas City.

Victor Martinez got four hits, including two homers, to propel the Tigers past Minnesota, 9-2.

They all owned baseball on April 29, 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 Power Rankings 2016: Week 4 – April

One is the #1 club in the whole MLB right now, and the other was the biggest mover and shaker of the week for week 3 of MLB action.

One is the #1 club in the whole MLB right now, and the other was the biggest mover and shaker of the week for week 3 of MLB action.  Both are leading the Central Divisions in their respective leagues behind awesome starting pitching and timely power.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

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Disclaimer:  We based these rankings on best strength to win the World Series.  Therefore some teams that have an easier division to play in, with the least path of resistance to the postseason overall may be ranked a lot higher than a club who is equally talented, yet may play in a juggernaut of a division.

Game Records were before the results of the ESPN Sunday Night Game was played.

After a crazy week in which we saw our 1st no hitter, and massive long 16 inning game in Washington, we have for you the MLB Power Rankings.

There was no movement from the top 3 clubs.  The NL West saw the Dodgers take a decent lead on the Giants – and that is major critical, as that is the team most likely to give them trouble in their quest for a 4th straight Division crown.

Bryce Harper has pulverized the Phillies, Marlins, Braves and Twins thus far.  His late inning heroics are taking him to the next level.

The biggest mover and shaker this week was the White Sox, who climbed up 7 slots.  The Giants dropping 8 positions was the biggest decline.

Bad weeks were had by the Tigers, Red Sox, Yankees and Astros.  All clubs in the AL who are supposed to contend for a playoff slot.

The Mariners won their 3rd straight road series against the Angels (after beating the Yankees and Tribe 1s), and sit just a half game back in the AL West.

Oakland had started 7 – 0 on the road, before yielding 15 runs over the last 2 losses to the Blue Jays.  They are tied with the Rangers for the lead in the Division, but it is just a matter of time before they are bounced out in my opinion.

Cleveland had a nice week of 4 – 2 to jump up 5 spots in the rankings. and are that much closer to bringing back Michael Brantley.

Gaining only one spot but having an awesome week were the New York Mets.  All the boys are hitting now, and they are 8 – 2 in their last 10 contests. Read the rest of this entry

Brew Crew + Rays Eliminated From MLB Shutout Survivor 2016 – (19 Teams Left): Cubs/Rangers Step Closer To Win MLB Runs Scoring Survivor 2016

It is no surprise to our website that the Rays are struggling offensively, and were finally knocked out of the Shutout Survivor competition. How does that Infield look now - with Brad Miller and Logan Morrison hit under .100 - and barely hitting the ball at all. We said they lost their 3 best Batting Average players last year (where they still finished 14th), and also spoke of the Starting Pitching being overrated. We are right thus far, but we will await the rest of the year.

It is no surprise to our website that the Rays are struggling offensively, and were finally knocked out of the Shutout Survivor competition. How does that Infield look now – with Brad Miller and Logan Morrison hit under .100 – and barely hitting the ball at all? We said they lost their 3 best Batting Average players last year (where they still finished 14th in total team offense), and also spoke of the Starting Pitching and Bullpen being overrated – and suffering talent losses as well. We are right thus far, but we will await the rest of the year.

Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead  Analyst)

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I said it yesterday that last year the clubs were dropping more like flies than this year.  Yesterday two more clubs were zeroed off by opponents, and thus eliminated from the MLB Shutout Survivor.

The Brewers were clipped 7 – 0 by Jaime Garcia, and Danny Salazar coupled with some brilliant late inning relief,  carved up the Rays for a 6 – 0 bagel.  We are still awaiting outcomes for teams that were shutout in Game 8 and Game 9 – as the Tribe is only at 7 games played themselves.

The Padres are clubhouse leaders for Shutouts against for the whole MLB, and are making history in doing so.  They are the first club to score jack squat in 5 of their 1st 10 contests.  Good news was they played some games at Coors Field last week – or it could have been worse.

Frankly I am amazed this squad lasting so long in this competition with what kind of lineup their putting forth on a daily basis. They did start off the 1st 2 series at hitter friendly - Mlller Park. They were handled to the tune of just one hit yesterday in their loss by Jaime Garcia of the Cardinals.

Frankly I am amazed this squad lasting so long in this competition with what kind of lineup their putting forth on a daily basis. Milwaukee did start off the 1st 2 series at hitter friendly – Mlller Park. They were handled to the tune of just one hit yesterday in their loss by Jaime Garcia of the Cardinals – who tossed a Complete Game Shutout.

Read the rest of this entry

I Am Not Buying Into The Tampa Bay Rays This Year

This squad also doesn't have any ALL - Star caliber position players, and will have a tough time keeping up with the offenses of the Jays, Orioles, Red Sox and even the Yankees. I would gladly take all other 4 teams shut down late inning relief over Tampa Bay's as well.

This squad also doesn’t have any ALL – Star caliber position players, and will have a tough time keeping up with the offenses of the Jays, Orioles, Red Sox and even the Yankees. I would gladly take all other 4 teams shut down late inning relief over Tampa Bay’s as well.  Last season the club took advantage of a strong Bullpen that led the AL in Saves with 60, and have since traded stalwart Jake McGee, and have lost Brad Boxberger to start they year for 2 months.  Some of the departed veterans were also not adequately replaced.  All of the four other club all improved or maintained, whereas Tampa will need some luck to just maintain.

Hunter Stokes (MLB Reports Part _Owner – Chief Writer) 

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Forgive me if I don’t follow a lot of other people’s opinion on the Tampa Bay Rays. I outlined in a recent article on over/under win totals for the year that the Rays are 1 of 2 best bets to be under their 82.5 wins for the year.

Okay so last year I did also call for their demise – and they rallied late in the year for a 80 – 82 record, however I don’t even think this club is as good as the roster that competed the 2015 season – meanwhile all the other clubs have maintained or added good players to their depth charts.

Out for the Rays are Jake McGee, John Jaso, Nate Karns, Asdrubal Cabrera, Grady Sizemore, J.P. Arencibia and Brad Boxberger is out 8 weeks after core muscle surgery.

In are: Corey Dickerson Logan Morrison, Brad Miller, Steve Pearce, Danny Farquhar, Ryan Webb and Hank Conger.

Not exactly loading the fanbase with can’t miss talent the Rays are significantly weaker in 2016 than 2015 in my view.

Their Bullpen is worse…The loss of the Starter Karns may actually hurt the club. Read the rest of this entry

Tampa Bay Rays State Of The Union For 2016

The Rays have still been one of the best teams in baseball since the start of 2008. Last year marked their 1st losing season since 2007 - and that was only at 80 - 82. But with the starting positional players listed on depth chart all being below league averages on offense - except for Logan Forsythe and Evan Longoria, they will need a few breakout players from their bench. It may be time trade one or 2 Starting Pitchers to add some offensive help. If they fall out of contention, it also may not be a bad idea to trade all veterans that they can. This may include Evan Longoria.

The Rays have still been one of the best teams in baseball since the start of 2008. Last year marked their 1st losing season since 2007 – and that was only at 80 – 82. But with the starting positional players listed on depth chart all being below league averages on offense – except for Logan Forsythe and Evan Longoria, they will need a few breakout players from their bench. It may be time trade one or 2 Starting Pitchers to add some offensive help. If they fall out of contention in 2016 it also may not be a bad idea to trade all veterans that they can. This may include Longoria.

Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead  Analyst) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

The Tampa Bay Rays failed to make it to .500 or better for the 1st time since 2008 in 2015, however with a 5 game winning streak at the end of the campaign, they made it to 80 wins or better for an 8th year in a row.  I highly suspect this year that may come crashing down.

First Boston went off on a spending spree to amp up its roster, and now the Yankees have added Aroldis Chapman to the fold, and upgraded at Second Base with Starlin Castro.

Toronto made its moves for the better in late July, and should be a team to be reckoned with again in 2016.

Only the Orioles don’t look to compete in the AL East during the 2016 campaign with the Rays thus far, and they still may be tough to play 19 times a year if they are to re-sign Chris Davis.

Tampa Bay still clearly has the best Pitching Rotation in the Division with Chris Archer, Alex Cobb, Drew Smyly, Matt Moore and Jake Odorizzi filtering in spots 1 – 5.  But will it be enough to help a fledgling offensive in 2016? Read the rest of this entry

St. Louis Cardinals State Of The Union For 2016

The Cardinals continued their great play in the MLB since the turn of the milennium - with an MLB best 100 wins in 2015. The organization has transitioned to the next core of young nucleus, while still holding on to a couple of capable veterans. Considering they have plenty of depth, and lots of payroll flexibility coming forth, the franchise could orchestrate a blockbuster trade soon. St. Louis could always sign 1 - 2 Starters via Free Agency as well. As it stands right now, the club has a payroll of around $133 MIL In 2016 listed. They can afford to add about $15 - $17 more million without batting an eye.

St. louis continued their great play in the MLB since the turn of the millennium – with an MLB best 100 wins in 2015. The organization has transitioned to the next core of young nucleus, while still holding on to a couple of capable veterans. Considering they have plenty of depth, and lots of payroll flexibility coming forth, the franchise could orchestrate a blockbuster trade soon. St. Louis could always sign 1 – 2 Starters via Free Agency as well. As it stands right now, the club has a payroll of around $133 MIL listed in 2016. They can afford to add about $15 – $17 more million without batting an eye.

Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead  Analyst) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

The Cardinals continue to be the model franchise in the Major Leagues.  With 9 NLCS births since 2000, this club has thrived with rolling over the roster, and not making mistakes on the Free Agency watch.

2016 shouldn’t be any different for competing for a playoff spot. St. Louis won 100 games in 2015 – and may top the century mark in 2016 again.  Crazily enough though it might not be enough for a Division win.

I think I can safely say the Cards and the Cubs are the two best all around teams in the big leagues right now.

I am still giving the nod to Chicago as the favorite right now, but that may change with some winter alterations.

Word has come down that Matt Holliday has been taking reps at 1B this offseasons.  If he were able to convert that to his positional arsenal for the next few years, than that would free up Matt Adams to be traded.

Among the moves the club has made over he last week was trade Jon Jay to the Padres for 2B Jedd Gyorko.  This is a classic Cardinals move. Read the rest of this entry

Tampa Bay Rays Payroll In 2016 + Contracts Going Forward

The Rays are one of six teams that are projected to spend over $30 MIL in Arbitration Eligible Players along with the Baltimore Orioles, Toronto Blue Jays, New York mets Chicago Cubs and Washington Nationals all will likely pay more in totality than the Rays for 2016.

The Rays are one of six teams that are projected to spend over $30 MIL in Arbitration Eligible Players along with the Baltimore O’s, Toronto Blue Jays, NY Mets, Chicago Cubs and Washington Nationals all will likely pay more in totality than the Rays for 2016.  The team will only have around a $70 MIL payroll for the coming year.  Don’t look for them to add that many pieces either with drawing just under 1.3 Million fans in 2015 – the worst attendance figure in the Major Leagues.   The club has won at least 80 games a year since 2008, and still they can’t draw at Tropicana Field.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer) 

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The Rays only have four players on current contracts so far this winter, but they also only stand to lose 2 players after the 2016 year in James Loney and Logan Morrison.

Tampa has 3 players in the 1st year of Arbitration and 5 guys in the 2nd Year of Arbitration.  The 2nd year guys include Jake McGee, Logan Forsythe and Alex Cobb – all could be added with 1st Year ARB player Drew Smyly as distinct trade candidates.

Already having 5 pending Free Agents in 2018 has to be in the minds of the management.  All of them will not end the 2016 year on the Roster in my view.

Morrison and Loney both may not reach opening day as both being on the Roster either. Read the rest of this entry

Trades Are Coming In Fast This Winter

A.J. Preller has been really active trying to replenish his prospect pool after making a big splash in his rookie offseason. The Padres finished a dismal 74 - 88. At least he recognizing the error of his ways - and trying to eradicate his mistakes. He dealt his two best Relievers already, stockpiling 6 prospects in return.

A.J. Preller has been really active trying to replenish his prospect pool after making a big splash in his rookie offseason. The Padres finished a dismal 74 – 88. At least he recognizing the error of his ways – and trying to eradicate his mistakes. He dealt his two best Relievers already, stockpiling 6 prospects in return in the trades.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Onwer) 

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It seems everyday now that there is a new MLB Trade to discuss.  I love it.  Nothing is better than this kind of thing during a long offseason.  I thought we would take a minute to break down what has occurred so far since the World Series ended.

The Mariners, Padres are doing multiple trades trying to revamp their teams cosmetically.

The trade I like for both clubs the most is probably the John Ryan Murphy to the Twins for Aaron Hicks deal. Read the rest of this entry

How To Fix The M’s For 2016: Seattle Mariners State Of The Union

Seattle was a lot of peoples pick to win the American League it seemed. A 76 - 86 season record ensued, causing the franchise to fire their GM and coach. Now with a tough AL West to contend with in the near future, we look on how the M's may go about their business this fall.

Seattle was a lot of peoples pick to win the American League in 2015. A 76 – 86 season record ensued, causing the franchise to fire their GM and coach. Now with a tough AL West to contend with in the near future, we look on how the M’s may go about their business this fall.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer) 

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The Seattle Mariners made a lot of prognosticators look bad this year (including yours truly).  Of course the Washington Nationals also did as well. Yep..Guilty again.

It was a good thing I put some money on the Blue Jays to win the World Series in preseason, and then hedged against them in the ALCS with KC.  I was  also fortunate enough to go 9 – 4 with my prop bets as well, and did decent in picking the Mets over the Dodgers in Game 5 of the NLDS, then win over the Cubs, otherwise I would have taken a beating for the year.

Anyways, enough about me, how about the 76 – 86 Mariners?  This team dropped 11 wins from the 2014 campaign, and it looked ugly on them. Read the rest of this entry

WHO OWNED BASEBALL – THE FINAL RESULTS FOR 2015

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The regular season is over. My daily tally for Who Owns Baseball is at an end. Every day I determine which player had the best individual day on a winning team to earn a full WOB and on a losing team for a 1/2 WOB.

These are final leaders in each categor for Who Owns Baseball

NATIONAL LEAGUE HITTER WHO OWNED BASEBALL

(AP Photo/Al Behrman)

(AP Photo/Al Behrman)

JOEY VOTTOCincinnati Reds

(Final Total – 7 1/2 WOB.)

Second Place (TIE):

Paul Goldschmidt, Arizona Diamondbacks.
Andrew McCutchen, Pittsburgh Pirates.
(Final Total – 7 WOB.)

NATIONAL LEAGUE PITCHER WHO OWNED BASEBALL

Alex Brandon / Associated Press

Alex Brandon / Associated Press

CLAYTON KERSHAW – Los Angeles Dodgers

(Final Total – 13 1/2 WOB.)

Second Place:
Jake Arrieta, Chicago Cubs
(Final Total – 11 WOB)

Third Place
Zack Greinke, Los Angeles Dodgers
(Final Total – 9 1/2 WOB.)

AMERICAN LEAGUE HITTER WHO OWNED BASEBALL

Rob Carr - Getty Image Sports

Rob Carr – Getty Image Sports

MIKE TROUT – Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim

(Final Total – 10 1/2 WOB.)

Second Place:
Josh Donaldson, Toronto Blue Jays
(Final Total – 6 1/2 WOB)

Third Place
Miguel Cabrera, Detroit Tigers
(Final Total – 6 WOB.)

AMERICAN LEAGUE PITCHER WHO OWNED BASEBALL

Karen Warren, Houston Chronicle

Karen Warren, Houston Chronicle

DALLAS KEUCHEL – Houston Astros

(Final Total – 10  WOB.)

Second Place (TIE):

Sonny Gray, Oakland Athletics.
Chris Sale, Chicago White Sox.
(Final Total – 7 WOB.)

THE WINNERS FROM PREVIOUS SEASONS:

2013

NL Batter: Paul Goldschmidt, Arizona Diamondbacks

NL Pitcher: Clayton Kershaw, Los Angeles Dodgers

AL Batter: Miguel Cabrera, Detroit Tigers

AL Pitcher: (3 Way Tie) R. A. Dickey, Toronto Blue Jays
Matt Moore, Tampa Bay Rays
Max Scherzer, Detroit Tigers

2013

NL Pitcher: Andrew McCutchen, Pittsburgh Pirates

NL Pitcher: Clayton Kershaw, Los Angeles Dodgers

AL Batter: Mike Trout, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim

AL Pitcher:  Felix Hernandez, Seattle Mariners

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Who Owned Baseball October 4, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

 

Brandon Wade - Getty Images

Brandon Wade – Getty Images

Cole Hamels settled down after a shaky first inning to throw a complete game, allowing 3 hits and 2 runs, striking out 8 and topped the Angels, 9-2 to clinch the AL West title for the Texas Rangers.

Chris Davis homered twice and reached base 4 times altogether, driving in 4 and helping the Orioles beat the Yankees, 9-4.

Shelby Miller finally recorded another win, throwing 8 shutout innings, allowing 3 hits and 7 strikeouts, as Atlanta was victorious over St. Louis, 6-0.

A. J. Pollock went 3 for 5, homering and driving in a pair to have the Diamondbacks crush Houston’s hopes to host the Wild Card Game with a 5-3 final.

They all owned baseball on October 4, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

 

Rick Porcello allowed 2 earned runs and 1 unearned run over 7 innings but was saddled with the 3-1 Red Sox loss in Cleveland.

Jose Altuve went 3 for 5 with a triple and two runs scored. His Astros would fall just short to Arizona, 5-3.

Tanner Roark threw 6 shutout innings, allowing 3 hits and 1 walk. He would not factor into the decision as the Nationals lost to the Mets, 1-0.

Dee Gordon captured the NL Batting Title with a single, double and homer, scoring both Marlins runs along the way but Philadelphia won, 7-2.

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Who Owned Baseball October 3, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

AL BELLO/GETTY IMAGES

AL BELLO/GETTY IMAGES

Max Scherzer threw his second no hitter of the season, walking none and striking out 17 Mets along the way for the 2-0 Washington final.

Corey Kluber struck out 9 over 8 shutout innings, allowing 3 hits and 2 walks and earning the 2-0 decision for the Indians over Boston.

Christian Yelich had a terrific double header. In all he went reached base nine times, going 5-5 in one game and 3 for 4 with a walk in the other, combining for 3 runs scored and 2 RBI as the Marlins beat the Phillies twice, 7-6 and 5-2.

Colby Rasmus homered twice and added a single to lead the Astros closer to a playoff spot, 6-2 over the Diamondbacks.

They all owned baseball on October 3, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

Noah Syndergaard allowed 2 hits and 1 run and 1 walk while striking out 10 Washington batters. But the Mets were no hit, 2-0.

Marco Estrada pitched into the 7th, finishing with 6 2/3 innings, striking out 9 while giving up 3 hits and walking none. He would get a no decision as the Blue Jays lost to Tampa Bay 4-3.

Paul Goldschmidt reached base 3 times and homered in the Diamondbacks 6-2 loss to the Astros.

Josh Hamilton‘s two homers off the Angels (on their dime) was almost the greatest middle finger in recent years. Unfortunately for him, the Angels made a dramatic rally in the 9th inning to put the Division Clinching on hold and beat the Rangers 11-10.

 

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Who Owned Baseball October 2, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

PAUL BEATY/AP

PAUL BEATY/AP

Chris Sale set the single season strikeout mark for a White Sox pitcher with 274, finishing the game with 7 whiffs in 7 innings, allowing 1 run and 5 hits in the 2-1 final over Detroit.

Carlos Correa kept Houston’s playoff hopes alive by leading a mind boggling offensive attack. He reached base 4 times, including a homer and a stolen base, scoring 4 and driving in 4 as the Astros obliterated the Diamondbacks 21-5.

Jake Arrieta finished his regular season with another shutout performance, striking out 7, allowing just 2 hits over 6 innings and sealing the 6-1 Cubs victory in Milwaukee.

Daniel Castro collected 3 hits including a homer, driving in a pair in the Braves 4-0 blanking of St. Louis.

They all owned baseball on October 2, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

Martin Perez allowed 1 run over 7 innings but got a no decision as the Rangers fell to the Angels, 2-1.

Brad Miller went 3 for 3 with a homer in the Mariners 4-2 defeat to the A’s.

Eugenio Suarez homered and singled, driving in 3 in Cincinnati’s 6-4 loss in Pittsburgh.

 

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Who Owned Baseball October 1, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

AP Photo - Patrick Semansky

AP Photo – Patrick Semansky

Manny Machado reached base 4 times, including 2 homers, a pair of stolen bases, 3 runs scored and 3 RBI to help Baltimore win a rain soaked 6-4 game over the Blue Jays.

Jake Odorizzi topped Miami with 7 innings, one unearned run and 7 strikeouts and earned the 4-1 decision for Tampa Bay.

Socrates Brito came off the bench and went 3 for 3, including a triple and a stolen base, scoring twice and driving in a run, scoring in the game winning rally in Diamondbacks come from behind victory, 8-6.

Jerad Eickhoff pitched 7 shutout innings, striking out 10 and 4 hits to lead the Phillies past the Mets, 3-0.

 

They all owned baseball on October 1, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

 

Albert Pujols doubled and homered, scoring twice, but saw the Rangers beat his Angels 5-3.

Trevor Bauer was terrific for 7 innings, giving up 2 hits and a run and 3 walks. He got no decision as the Twins won in Cleveland, 4-2.

Kirk Nieuwenhuis doubled twice and singled in the Mets 3-0 loss to Philadelphia.

Ryan Weber went 7 innings, allowing 1 run, no walks and 10 strikeouts. He would get a hard luck loss as the Braves lost to the Nationals, 3-0.

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Who Owned Baseball September 30, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

Gene J. Puskar - AP Photo

Gene J. Puskar – AP Photo

 

Jason Heyward reached base 4 times, including a grand slam and made some terrific catches in right field in the Cardinals Division Clinching 11-1 laugher over the Pirates. He also added another hit in the opening game of the double header.

Mike Leake threw a complete game 2 hit, no walk shutout to give the Giants a too little too late 5-0 victory over the NL West champion Dodgers.

Ryan Goins reached base 6 times, scoring 3 times and driving in another to led the Blue Jays to a 15-2 blow out of the Orioles and Toronto’s first AL East title since 1993.

Kevin Gausman picked up the Orioles in the second game of the double header with 8 innings, 5 hits and no walks while striking out 10 en route to an 8-1 win over the Blue Jays.

They all owned baseball on September 30, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

Matt Carpenter doubled and homered, driving in a pair in the Cardinals 8-2 defeat by the Pirates in the opening game of their double header. In the night cap, he reached base 4 times, scoring 3 and doubling.

Chad Bettis allowed 1 earned run and 1 unearned run over 6 solid innings but took the 3-1 Rockies loss to Arizona.

Mike Trout reached base 5 times including a homer and a walk in the 9th that made him the tying run. He would be stranded as the Angels come back came just short, 8-7 to Oakland.

Jose Quintana went 9 innings, allowing 5 hits, 3 runs and striking out 8. He would get a no decision as the White Sox fell to Kansas City in 10 innings, 5-3.

 

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Who Owned Baseball September 29, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

Curtis Compton / ccompton@ajc.com

Curtis Compton / ccompton@ajc.com

A. J. Pierzynski went 3 for 3 with 2 homers, providing all of Atlanta’s offense as they snuck past Washington, 2-1.

Clayton Kershaw threw a complete game 1 hit, 1 walk, 13 strikeout shutout to top the Giants 8-0 and clinch the National League West crown for the Dodgers.

Blake Swihart homered twice, driving in 5 runs, helping Boston clobber the Yankees in the Bronx, 10-4

Nick Tropeano struck out 11 and walked just 1 in 6 2/3 innings, earning the 8-1 decision for the Angels over Oakland.

They all owned baseball on September 29, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

Lucas Duda collected 3 hits, 2 of them home runs, and drove in 3, but it was not enough as the Phillies edged the playoff bound Mets, 4-3.

Tanner Roark pitched into the 7th, finishing with 6 2/3 innings, allowing 2 runs and 5 hits. He would be saddled with the loss, however, as the Nationals fell to Atlanta, 2-1.

Eric Hosmer homered and singled in the Royals 4-2 loss to the White Sox.

 

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Who Owned Baseball September 28, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

 

(AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

(AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Max Scherzer threw a no hitter into the 8th and finished with 8 innings, 2 hits, 1 run, 3 walks and 10 strikeouts, giving the Nationals a controversy free 5-1 decision over the Reds.

Matt den Dekker got 3 hits, including a homer, driving in 2 and scored 2 in Washington’s 5-1 victory over Cincinnati.

Marco Estrada pitched into the 8th inning, settling down after some early trouble to finish with 7 1/3 innings, 4 hits, 3 runs and 1 walk. He did not get the decision but helped set up Toronto’s 4-3 win over the Orioles.

Jackie Bradley Jr. reached base 3 times, including a 2 run homer, driving in 3 and stealing a pair of extra base hits away with his defense as the Red Sox topped the Yankees 5-1 and delayed a post season clinching for their rivals for at least a day.

They all owned baseball on September 28, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

J. A. Happ allowed 1 hit and no walks over 6 shutout innings. He did not get the decision in the Pirates heart breaking 3-0 loss to St. Louis.

Andre Ethier got a pair of hits and drove in the tying run in the 9th inning but the Dodgers fell to San Francisco in the 12th inning, 3-2.

Yordano Ventura was perfect through 5, finishing with 7 shutout frames, allowing 2 hits, 1 walk and striking out 6. He would not get a decision as the Cubs walked off 1-0 winners in the 11th.

Prince Fielder singled, doubled and homered, driving in 4 but the Rangers came up short to Detroit, 7-4.

 

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Who Owned Baseball September 27, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

 

NAM Y. HUH/AP

NAM Y. HUH/AP

Jake Arrieta was perfect through 6 and finished with 7 innings, 1 hit, 1 hit batsman, no walks, 9 strikeouts and a home run of his own as the playoff bound Cubs blanked Pittsburgh, 4-0.

Dallas Keuchel solidified his Cy Young bid by striking out 10 Rangers in 7 innings, allowing 2 hits, 2 walks and 1 run and giving the Astros a critical 4-2 victory.

Ender Inciarte went 4 for 5 with a pair of homers and 3 RBI to lead Arizona past San Diego, 4-2.

Byron Buxton doubled and homered, driving in a pair and scoring 2 to help the still contending Twins clobber the Tigers, 7-1.

They all owned baseball on September 27, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

 

John Lackey threw 7 strong innings, striking out 7 and giving up just 1 run. The bullpen would implode and the Brewers beat the Cardinals, 8-4.

Hisashi Iwakuma pitched into the 8th, finishing with 7 1/3 innings and giving up 3 runs while walking no Angels. He would be saddled with the decision in the 3-2 Mariners loss.

Matt den Dekker collected 4 hits, homered and scored 3 times in the Nationals 12-5 defeat at the hands of the Phillies.

Mikie Mahtook got 2 hits including a homer and 2 RBI but Tampa Bay fell to Toronto, 5-4.

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Who Owned Baseball September 26, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

Ben Margot - AP

Ben Margot – AP

Jarrett Parker put on a mind boggling show, launching 3 homers, including a grand slam, to drive in 7 runs in the football sounding 14-10 San Francisco over Oakland final score.

Stephen Strasburg struck out 13 in 8 innings, allowing 3 hits, 1 walk and 1 run. He did not factor in the decision but helped set up Washington’s 2-1 victory over Philadelphia.

Carlos Correa gave the Astros a much needed burst of energy by going 3 for 4 with 2 homers, including a game tying shot, and 3 RBI to beat Houston 9-7.

Adam Warren pitched 6 strong innings, allowing 3 hits and 1 run, earning the 2-1 win for the Yankees over the White Sox.

They all owned baseball on September 26, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

Andre Ethier went 2 for 4 with a homer and 3 RBI but the Dodgers lost on a walk off homer to the Rockies, 8-6.

Jeremy Hellickson allowed just 4 hits and 1 run over 6 innings but was saddled with the 3-0 loss as San Diego topped Arizona.

Kevin Kiermaier doubled and homered, scoring 3 times and driving in 2 in but the Rays fell 10-8 in Toronto.

 

 

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