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Who Owns October (#WOO) Tallies Updated For October 15, 2018

Kevork Djansezian, Getty Images
I am not going to lie to you. I still am not sure I am pronouncing Jhoulys correctly. But man, he gave the Brewers what they needed.
I DO know how to pronounce Orlando and Arcia. And put those names together and suddenly the Brewers are halfway to the World Series.
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 15, 2018
NLCS Game 3:
Receiving 1 WOO
Orlando Arcia lifted a 2 run homer to put the game away as the Brewers blanked the Dodgers, 4-0.
Jhoulys Chacín threw 5 1/3 shutout innings, striking out 6 Dodgers, and earned the 4-0 decision for Milwaukee.
Receiving 1/2 WOO
Walker Buehler threw 7 strong innings, striking out 8 Brewers, but he also let up a back breaking homer that sealed the Dodgers 4-0 loss.
Manny Machado reached base 3 times including a double in a 9th inning rally that failed to cash in for the Dodgers who dropped the 4-0 game to the Brewers.
Current WOO Totals MLB 2018
Hitters ‘WOO’ MLB 2017,
Manny Machado – Dodgers 3, Alex Bregman – Astros 2, Ronald Acuña, Jr – Braves 1 1/2, Orlando Arcia – Brewers 1 1/2, Aaron Judge – Yankees 1 1/2, Francisco Lindor – Indians 1 1/2, George Springer – Astros 1 1/2, Jackie Bradley Jr. – Red Sox 1, Lorenzo Cain – Brewers 1, Marwin Gonzalez – Astros 1, Brock Holt – Red Sox 1, Erik Kratz – Brewers 1, J. D. Martinez – Red Sox 1, Mike Moustakas Brewers – 1, Eduardo Nunez – Red Sox 1, Gary Sanchez – Yankees 1, Justin Turner – Dodgers 1, Tony Wolters – Rockies 1, Christian Yelich – Brewers 1, Nolan Arenado Rockies – 1 /2, Javier Baez – Cubs 1/2, Charlie Blackmon – Rockies 1/2, Xander Bogaerts – Red Sox 1/2, Khris Davis – Athletics 1/2, Freddie Freeman – Braves 1/2, Didi Gregorius – Yankees 1/2, Steve Pearce – Red Sox 1/2, Trevor Story – Rockies 1/2, Kurt Suzuki – Braves 1/2, Chris Taylor – Dodgers 1/2,
Pitchers ‘WOO’ MLB 2017,
Justin Verlander – 2 Astros, Brandon Woodruff – Brewers 2, Matt Barnes – Red Sox 1 1/2, Pedro Baez – Dodgers 1, Dellin Betances – Yankees 1, Corbin Burnes – Brewers 1, Jhoulys Chacín – Brewers 1, Gerrit Cole – Astros 1, Nathan Eovaldi – Red Sox 1, Kyle Freeland – Rockies 1, Kenley Jansen – Dodgers 1, Jeremy Jeffress Brewers – 1, Clayton Kershaw – 1 Dodgers, Collin McHugh – Astros 1, Rick Porcello – Red Sox 1, Hyun-Jin Ryu – Dodgers 1, Chris Sale 1 – Red Sox, Masahiro Tanaka – Yankeees 1, Arodys Vizcaino – Braves 1, Tyler Anderson – Rockies 1/2, Walker Buehler – Yankees 1/2, Carlos Carrasco – Indians 1/2, Mike Clevinger – Indians 1/2, Chad Green – Yankees 1/2, Joe Kelly – Red Sox 1/2, Jon Lester – Cubs 1/2, Wade Miley – Brewers 1/2, Sean Newcomb – Braves 1/2, David Robertson – Yankees 1/2, Touki Toussaint – 1 /2 Braves, Lou Trivino – Athletics 1/2
Who Owns October (#WOO) Tallies Updated For October 12, 2018

Mark Hoffman, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
FINALLY we have some ballgames going on again. The NLCS started with a thriller… and had another rough October outing for Clayton Kershaw.
It is one thing to give up runs to the mighty Astros. But coughing up a bomb homer to reliever Brandon Woodruff? That is insane. I almost had Woodruff own October as a hitter AND a pitcher!
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 12
NLCS Game 1:
Receiving 1 WOO
Lorenzo Cain went 3 for 5 with a double and a run scored as the Brewers topped the Dodgers, 6-5.
Brandon Woodruff threw 2 perfect innings, striking out 4 Dodgers and clobbered a startling homer off of Kershaw, earning the 6-5 decision in relief for Milwaukee.
Receiving 1/2 WOO
Manny Machado singled and homered, driving in 3, but the Dodgers fell just short in Milwaukee, 6-5.
Current WOO Totals MLB 2018
Hitters ‘WOO’ MLB 2017,
Manny Machado – Dodgers 2 1/2, Ronald Acuña, Jr – Braves 1 1/2, Aaron Judge – Yankees 1 1/2, Francisco Lindor – Indians 1 1/2, Alex Bregman – Astros 1, Lorenzo Cain – Brewers 1, Marwin Gonzalez – Astros 1, Brock Holt – Red Sox 1, Erik Kratz – Brewers 1, J. D. Martinez – Red Sox 1, Mike Moustakas Brewers – 1, Eduardo Nunez – Red Sox 1, Gary Sanchez – Yankees 1, George Springer – Astros 1, Tony Wolters – Rockies 1, Christian Yelich – Brewers 1, Nolan Arenado Rockies – 1 /2, Javier Baez – Cubs 1/2, Charlie Blackmon – Rockies 1/2, Xander Bogaerts – Red Sox 1/2, Khris Davis – Athletics 1/2, Freddie Freeman – Braves 1/2, Didi Gregorius – Yankees 1/2, Trevor Story – Rockies 1/2, Kurt Suzuki – Braves 1/2, Chris Taylor – Dodgers 1/2,
Pitchers ‘WOO’ MLB 2017,
Brandon Woodruff – Brewers 2, Pedro Baez – Dodgers 1, Dellin Betances – Yankees 1, Corbin Burnes – Brewers 1, Gerrit Cole – Astros 1, Nathan Eovaldi – Red Sox 1, Kyle Freeland – Rockies 1,Jeremy Jeffress Brewers – 1, Clayton Kershaw – 1 Dodgers, Collin McHugh – Astros 1, Rick Porcello – Red Sox 1, Hyun-Jin Ryu – Dodgers 1, Chris Sale 1 – Red Sox, Masahiro Tanaka – Yankeees 1, Justin Verlander – 1 Astros, Arodys Vizcaino – Braves 1, Tyler Anderson – Rockies 1/2, Carlos Carrasco – Indians 1/2, Mike Clevinger – Indians 1/2, Chad Green – Yankees 1/2, Joe Kelly – Red Sox 1/2, Jon Lester – Cubs 1/2, Sean Newcomb – Braves 1/2, David Robertson – Yankees 1/2, Touki Toussaint – 1 /2 Braves, Lou Trivino – Athletics 1/2
Sully Baseball Podcast – Going through the last day of the season… or possibly the last day – September 30, 2018

Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times
The potential for full chaos at the end of the season was there in the National League. I checked in bit by bit throughout the day as the NL is STILL undecided after 162 games!
Stretching it all out an extra day in this episode of Sully Baseball.
While we are at it, enjoy the NEW In Memoriam video.
Most Recent Cycle Hit For Each MLB Franchise (Updated For Christian Yelich, September 17, 2018 )

Fox Sports Wisconsin
Another cycle for Christian Yelich?
Why not?
Is hitting for the cycle a once in a lifetime experience? Evidently not for Christian Yelich. In less than a month, he has pulled off the trick twice. BOTH times? Against the Reds. Safe to say he has their number.
With the 8-0 drubbing, the Brewers still have a shot at first place. And it is safe to say Yelich has been a good pick up for the Brewers.
How will the Reds pitch to him tomorrow?
Here is the list, updated for today’s action!
THE MOST CYCLE HIT
FOR EACH FRANCHISE
MILWAUKEE BREWERS
Christian Yelich
September 17, 2018 vs Cincinnati Reds

PITTSBURGH PIRATES
John Jaso
September 28, 2016 vs. Chicago Cubs

NEW YORK YANKEES
Melky Cabrera.
August 2, 2009 vs Chicago White Sox
MINNESOTA TWINS
Michael Cuddyer
May 22, 2009 vs Milwaukee
KANSAS CITY ROYALS
George Brett
June 24, 1990 vs. Toronto
BONUS –
Last Cycles Hit For Teams in Old Locations
MONTREAL EXPOS
Vladimir Guerrero
September 14, 2003 vs. New York Mets
WASHINGTON SENATORS
Jim King
May 26, 1964 vs. Boston
NEW YORK GIANTS
Don Mueller
July 11, 1954 vs. Pittsburgh
PHILADELPHIA ATHLETICS
Elmer Valo
August 2, 1950 vs. Chicago White Sox
BROOKLYN DODGERS
Gil Hodges
June 25, 1949 vs. Pittsburgh
ST. LOUIS BROWNS
George McQuinn
July 19, 1941 vs. Boston Red Sox
BOSTON DOVES
Bill Collins
October 6, 1910 vs. Philadelphia Phillies
Christian Yelich, a former Marlin, has 2 Cycles in 2 Months… while the Marlins are still waiting for their first ever.
Sully Baseball Podcast – Urgency for the Surprise Contenders – June 11, 2017

Dylan Buell/Getty Images North America
Was a Milwaukee and Arizona game in June a playoff preview? That should be a good thing. Several franchises without a World Series title, like Washington, Milwaukee, Colorado and Houston find themselves as contenders in mid June. They should act like the time to win is NOW!
Plus the Washington team that should have won.
Be prepared for the unexpected on this episode of Sully Baseball.
Remembering Lary Sorensen’s Callup to the Majors
Today is a special day in Milwaukee Brewers history for two reasons. On this day in 1977, the Brewers drafted a young kid name Paul Molitor. A 21 year old righty pitcher named Lary Sorensen also made his debut for the Crew that day. Since I think we all know how that thing with Molitor turned out, this week on the blog I’m focusing on Lary Sorensen’s callup to the majors and time in a Brewers uniform.
Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – January 20, 2017
It’s a good day to talk about the Milwaukee Brewers and how they have made some terrific trades recently. They understand better than most teams about windows of opportunity.
Roll out the barrels on this episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.
Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – September 3, 2016

Ralph Freso/Getty Images North America
Evidently the Dodgers and Brewers were discussing a Ryan Braun for Yasiel Puig swap.
Why didn’t that happen?
It would have been great for both sides!
It is a “Pull the Trigger Already!” episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.
Jon Lester, Carlos Carrasco, Matt Kemp, Miguel Cabrera, J.T. Realmuto, Noah Syndergaard and Mike Trout all added to their totals for Who Owns Baseball yesterday.
See the updated listing of WOB on MLB Reports
ORDER SPACEMAN ON iTUNES BY CLICKING HERE
Texas Rangers Acquire Jonathan Lucroy and Jeremy Jeffress From Milwaukee Brewers For Two Top Prospects
Wow, the Texas Rangers have been busy today. The Texas Rangers are all in ladies and gentleman. They have acquired Jonathan Lucroy and Jeremy Jeffress from the Milwaukee Brewers in a deal that is headlined by top prospects, Lewis Brinson and Luis Ortiz. This deal is a win-win deal for both the Texas Rangers and the Milwaukee Brewers. Lets jump into the analysis of this deal.
SEE THE REST OF THE ARTICLE
TRADE RUMORS: Cleveland Indians Looking To Acquire Jonathan Lucroy
It is no secret the Cleveland Indians are looking to acquire an elite bat near the trade deadline. There were rumors the Tribe were going after Cincinnati Reds’ outfielder, Jay Bruce, but it looks like their attention is focused elsewhere at the moment. The latest rumor is the Indians are making a strong push to trade for Milwaukee Brewers’ catcher, Jonathan Lucroy.
SEE THE REST OF THE ARTICLE
183 in 2015: Ball Park Previews, Games 3 + 4 – Wrigley Field/Miller Park Doubleheader

2015 MLB Trip Sponsors: Man Fish Brewery, Megabus.com, MLB Reports, National Car Rental and the MLB Ball Park Pass-Port.
Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead Analyst): Follow @chuckbooth3024
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*** I Will be live tweeting from all ballpark venues I am watching games at. Join the discussion.
Chuck Booth’s 2015 MLB Park Historical Road Trip
The GOAL: 183 Straight Days (every single day at least 1 gm) Of ALL 30 MLB Parks Trip In 2015 (218 Games) view full year schedule.
The CAUSE: To Raise Money for Concussion Awareness (via Sports Legacy Institute. donate money here) Through Inspiring Others.
DAY DATE
Wed Apr 8, 2015 Games #3, #4 – Day #4
Today’s game (s) Start Time (s) in EST and Venue (s):
1:20 Wrigley Field, Cubs vs Cards: Miller Park 7:10, Brewers vs Rockies
Read the rest of this entry
ATR (Ask The Reports) Returns For One Day Here: June 25th, 2014

Home Of Sully Baseball + #WOB, #SullyMetrics, Baseball Analysis (Audio + Written, Roster Trees, Salaries, Org. Depth Charts, Historical Series for All 30 Clubs + State Of The Unions + Wicked Daily Content,) + tyhe best coverage on the 2014 MLB schedule in the world. We are not your average “Cookie Cutter” Website. Also our motto is “THE TRUTH STINGS LIKE A CATCUS!”
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports Follow @mlbreports
As our website has increasingly adapted to changes both suggested by our readers and writers, we are forever changing our content on our little space carved out on the interwebs.
So for a little bit of nostalgia, I add an installment of a previous segment we once had, called ATR (Ask The Reports).
Q: I noticed you pulled down the HR leaderboard pages and placed them on a website called www.30mlbteamsreports.com, is this the same ownership of that site?
CB: Absolutely, I purchased the domain www.30mlbteamsreports.com to help control some of the amount of stuff we post at http://www.mlbreports.com. In some cases, we will post some of our work on both websites from now on. Read the rest of this entry
Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (September.13th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings
Jarrod Saltalamacchia turned a tight 4-4 game into a comfortable 8-4 Boston lead with one swing of his bat. His 7th inning grand slam was the difference in the opener of the Red Sox/Yankees series.
Hisashi Iwakuma was outstanding against the Cardinals. He threw 7 shutout innings, letting up just 3 hits and 2 walks. Unfortunately for him, the Mariners bullpen was not up to the task and Seattle would fall to St. Louis, 2-1 in 10 innings.
Wilin Rosario got a pair of hits and drove in 4 including 2 in the Rockies tie breaking 7th inning rally as Colorado beat Arizona, 7-5.
Kyle Lohse pitched a complete game victory against the Reds, letting up just 4 hits and 1 run, getting the 5-1 decision for the Brewers.
They all owned baseball on September 13, 2013.
My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.
At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.
To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.
To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here
Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (August.29th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings
Yovani Gallardo kept the Pirates out of first place with 7 shutout innings, getting the 4-0 win for the Brewers.
Daniel Murphy went 4-5 with a pair of doubles, a run scored, 2 RBI and a stolen base, leading the Mets offense in a 11-3 mauling of the Phillies.
Jason Vargas continued the Angels winning ways in Tampa Bay by blanking the Rays over 7 innings of 3 hit shutout ball and getting the 2-0 decision .
Torii Hunter launched a 2 out, 3 run, come from behind, walk off homer that salvaged a game for the Tigers and avoided an Oakland sweep, 7-6.
They all owned baseball on August 29, 2013.
My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.
At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.
To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.
To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here
Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (August.23rd) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings
Adam Wainwright pitched a complete game against the Braves, surrendering just a single run and no walks while striking out 9. He also drove in a run with a sacrifice fly as the Cardinals prevailed, 3-1.
Khris Davis hit a pair of homers, driving in 4, leading the Brewers to a 6-4 victory over the Reds .
Chris Archer tamed the hot Yankee bats with 7 strong innings, allowing just 4 hits and a pair of runs, getting the 7-2 win for the Rays.
Torii Hunter homered in the first, hit an RBI double in the second and came around to score as the Tigers made short work of the Mets, 6-1.
They all owned baseball on August 23, 2013.
My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.
At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.
To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.
To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here Read the rest of this entry
Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (August.16th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings
James Shields lived up to his “Big Game” nickname by throwing 7 shutout innings against first place Detroit and completing a doubleheader sweep for the Royals, 3-0.
Jake Arrieta dominated the St. Louis Cardinals, pitching 7 two hit shutout innings and getting a rare victory for the Cubs, 7-0.
Alfonso Soriano continued his torrid hitting pace by putting the Red Sox away early. He went 3-4 with a homer, a stolen base and 4 runs batted in, leading the Yankees to a 10-3 victory in Fenway.
Jonathan Lucroy went 3-5 and 3 RBI. He clocked a bottom of the ninth, 2 run, come from behind, walk off home run to stun the Reds and give Milwaukee the 7-6 win.
They all owned baseball on August 16, 2013.
My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.
At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.
To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.
To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here Read the rest of this entry
Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – July 30, 2013
Former Red Sox great George Scott passed away and is remembered on The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.
He was a loved former Red Sox hitting massive home runs from the late 1960’s and throughout the 1970’s.
Also former Red Sox pitcher Frank Castillo died in a dark day for Boston sports fans.
Francisco Liriani, Yoenis Cespedes, Chris Denorfria and David Price all owned baseball on July 29, 2013.
To see the up to date tally of “Who Owns Baseball?,” click HERE.
Subscribe on iTunes HERE.
Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (July14th) – Updated Yearly “WOB” Standings
Justin Verlander made a serious bid for his 3rd career no hitter. He held the Rangers hitless for the first 6 2/3 innings before Mitch Moreland doubled off of the wall. He finished with 7 innings of one hit ball, getting credit for the Tigers 5-0 victory.
Wily Peralta pitched 7 strong innings, letting up only 1 run, as the Milwaukee Brewers beat the Arizona Diamondbacks by a 5-1 score.
Josh Donaldson certainly hit like an All Star yesterday. He drove in all three Oakland runs including a 2 run game tying home run in the 7th and a walk off single in the 11th as the A’s topped Boston 3-2.
Michael Cuddyer went 2-5 with a homer and drove in all three Rockies runs in Colorado’s 3-1 victory over the Dodgers.
They all owned baseball on July 14th, 2013.
My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.
At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.
To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.
To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here Read the rest of this entry
Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (June 25th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings
Dustin Pedroia drove in runs in the first, second, third and seventh inning, sparking the Red Sox to an 11-4 drubbing of the Rockies.
Chris Sale allowed only 3 hits over 8 innings, striking out 13. The bullpen prevented him from getting a decision but he set up the White Sox 5-4 walk off win against the Mets.
Rickie Weeks went 3-4 with 2 homers, a double and 4 RBI as the Brewers blasted the Cubs 9-3.
And Kyle Kendrick let up only 2 runs over 8 innings, walking none, as the Phillies came from behind to beat the Padres 6-2.
They all owned baseball on June 25th, 2013.
My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.
At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.
To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.
To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here Read the rest of this entry
Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (June 10th) – Updated Yearly “WOB” Standings
Jeremy Guthrie pitched into the 7th inning, letting up only 2 runs as the Royals got a much needed win against the Tigers, 3-2.
Brandon Phillips went 2-4, diving in 6 including a grand slam into the fog as the Reds beat the Cubs 6-2.
Yovani Gallardo pitched eight innings of 4 hit shutout ball helping the Brewers beat the Marlins, 6-1.
Adam Dunn went 4-5, homering twice and driving in 5 runs as the White Sox outslugged the Blue Jays 10-6.
They all owned baseball on June 10th, 2013.
My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.
At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.
To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.
To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here Read the rest of this entry
Rickie Weeks’ Impact On The 2013 Milwaukee Brewers
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Sunday April 14, 2013

Rickie Weeks had a rough 2012 campaign, only hitting .230. He still managed, though, to slug 21 HR and knock in 63 runs.
Bernie Olshansky (Baseball Writer): Follow @BernieOlshansky
2012 was a long year for Rickie Weeks and the Milwaukee Brewers. Even after Prince Fielder left to sign with the Detroit Tigers, fans had high hopes for the 2012 season. Ryan Braun, Rickie Weeks, and upcoming First Baseman Mat Gamel were all set to bring the Brewers back to the playoffs.
Unfortunately Gamel started the season and suffered a torn ACL, which caused him to miss the rest. Braun was caught up in a steroid scandal that threatened to suspend him but never did. Luckily Braun was not suspended and had a very good season.
Weeks, on the other hand, had a horrific first half of the year. The Brewers wound up just four games over .500 at 83-79 and finished third in the NL Central. Brewers’ fans hope that 2013 will be different.
Rickie Weeks 2012 Highlights – Mature Lyrics so Parental Guidance is advised:
The Battle Of Los Angeles: Dodgers or Angels?
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Tuesday December 18, 2012
Kyle Holland (MLB Reports Intern): Follow @TheKHolland13.
2012 was a year to remember for Los Angeles fans. Even though neither team made a playoff appearance, both showed they will be a contender in years to come. The Angels signed Albert Pujols and C.J. Wilson before the season started. The club possibly had the best player in the league with Mike Trout. The Dodgers already had Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier, and 2011 Cy Young Award winner Clayton Kershaw. In late August ,the Dodgers traded for slugger Adrian Gonzalez, Carl Crawford, and Josh Beckett.
The 2012-13 offseason has been in no way different for Los Angeles. The Angels and Dodgers have clearly made the most impact so far heading into the 2013 campaign.
First let’s look at the Dodgers. They started their spending spree with a bang when they signed Hyun-Jin Ryu. The Dodgers won the right to sign him from his Korean League team (Hanwha Eagles), initially on November 9 for a $25,737,737.33 bid. He ended up signing for 6 Years/$36 Million on December 9. He has been reported to have a 90 MPH fastball that can top out at 95. He has a very impressive changeup-that has been said to be a very effective putout pitch. He also has a slider and a decent curveball. He pitched in the 2009 World Baseball Classic but has yet to announce if he’s pitching in the 2013 WBC. This is doubtful due to the fact the Dodgers probably want to preserve his arm during Spring Training and save the innings for the regular season.
The Dodgers have also made another huge acquisition in ace Zack Greinke. The guy started last year in Milwaukee as a member of the Brewers, before being traded halfway through the year to the Angels. He finished 2012 with a 15-5 Record, and a 3.48 ERA in 121.1 Innings Pitched. Greinke decided to sign with the cross town rivals for 6 years/$147 Million, the largest contract ever for a Right-handed pitcher. With Kershaw, Greinke and Ryu, the Dodgers may arguably have the best starting rotation in the National League.
Now that we know what the Dodgers have to offer in 2013, a plus lineup and a stellar pitching rotation. Across the city, the Angels have a situation that is not much different.
2012 was one of their best years in recent memory whether they made the postseason or not. The way they see it is the Billy Beane way: No one cares if you don’t win the last game of the season. So what do they do? They sign more absurd people so they can get the job done. The club went 81-57 with Trout in the lineup and only what could of have been if Pujols hadn’t started out so slow.
After signing the top Free Agent last year in Albert Pujols, they took the same approach again signing Josh Hamilton. It was almost identical in the events leading up to both signings. They didn’t even seem to be a contender in the Hamilton sweepstakes and yet they ended up landing the slugger. The contract awaiting the Outfielder in LA, is for 5 years/$125 Million. This is also key because they were able to weaken the Rangers. LA is basically the one team Texas did not want Hamilton to sign with and he did. Talk about frustration in the Rangers organization from pillar to post.
This Hamilton signing gives the Angels probably the best outfield in all of baseball. Mike Trout in Center just makes it fantastic alone. He probably should have won a Gold Glove and probably would have sewn up the MVP had he played in the 1st month. Hamilton will be in left and he has range and a cannon for an arm . Trumbo will round off the outfield in right. These are all fantastic outfielders, with the ability to make solid contact with the ball and hit it over the fence on a regular basis.
So exactly who wins the battle of LA right now? Judging by player ability and experience combined, I’d say the Dodgers. The better overall team? Probably the Angels. The Dodgers hitting will win them games, but defense wins championships. The Angels have power, defense, and pitching in C.J.Wilson, Jared Weaver, and Jerome Williams. The Dodgers have a stellar lineup and an absurd rotation, but the defense behind the staff lacks compared to the Angels.
Only time will be able to tell between these two teams. Games between them will certainly be highly awaited by every baseball fan in LA. You better be ready to dish out large amounts of cash if you’re looking attend any of these games between the two clubs for the foreseeable future… Or at least cue up the CD of Rage Against the Machine’s: “Battle of Los Angeles.”
(*The views and opinions expressed in this report are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of mlbreports.com*)
Welcome to our newest Baseball Intern: Kyle Holland:
Kyle is a life long baseball fan outside of Boston. He is a sophomore in high school has played baseball since he was 5. Although growing up in one of the best baseball towns in the major leagues, he has been a Giants fan since 2009. He credits his aunt with the Giants being his favorite team as she lives in San Francisco. Some of his favorite players include Buster Posey, Stephen Drew, Trevor Bauer, Stephen Strasburg, and minor leaguer Danny Hultzen. You can find Kyle on Twitter Follow @TheKHolland13.
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Aramis Ramirez is Criminally Underrated
Sunday, December 2nd, 2012
Sam Evans (Baseball Writer):
Aramis Ramirez just had one of the best seasons for a thirty-four year old third baseman in the history of Major League Baseball. However, it seemingly went unnoticed. Playing with Milwaukee after nine seasons with the Chicago Cubs, Ramirez had one of the finest seasons of his career. Throughout his fifteen years in the majors, Ramirez has never been the most consistent player. However, what gets overlooked very often is the fact that Ramirez has been one of the ten most productive third basemen since 2000. For one reason or another, Aramis Ramirez is criminally underrated.
2012 Trade Deadline Update #6 7/29: Lirano to the White Sox, Johnson to D-Backs, and More
Sunday July 29th, 2012
Bernie Olshansky: Here are some of the latest key baseball trades that have taken place over the last 24 hours:
Francisco Liriano to the White Sox
After losing out on Greinke, the White Sox needed to make a move. Their pitching needed an extra boost. Chris Sale hasn’t been himself his last two starts, giving up five earned runs in each, and Jake Peavy has been on and off lately, going 1-2 in his past three starts. Although Liriano has for the most part had a terrible year, holding a 3-10 record with an atrocious 5.31 ERA, he hasn’t been all that bad in his last few starts (excluding his last start against Chicago—2.2 innings, seven earned runs),striking out 10 and 15 in the two starts before facing Chicago. The White Sox are hoping that Liriano will continue his turnaround and help them reach the playoffs. This could be tough for the White Sox though; the Tigers seem to have the makings of a playoff team to not make the playoffs, and the AL West looks like it could produce three playoff teams as of now. But, with all this, Chicago does look promising after the acquisition of Kevin Youkilis earlier in the year. Adam Dunn has returned to form, hitting more home runs and striking out just as much. It looks like the White Sox will have a good shot to play in October. Read the rest of this entry
MLB Trade Deadline Update #5 7/28: Segura Traded, Scutaro to San Francisco, Reds Looking for Leadoff Hitter
Saturday July 28th, 2012
Sam Evans: With the MLB Non-Waiver Trade Deadline coming up on Tuesday, let’s look at what trades have recently happened, and what could happen in the coming days:
2012 Trade Deadline Update #4 7/27: The Dodgers Need More Pitching- Evaluating the Options
Friday July 27th, 2012
Bernie Olshansky: After acquiring shortstop/third baseman Hanley Ramirez from the Marlins, the Dodgers got exponentially better. With Hanley, the Dodgers gained an offensive force on the left side of the infield. With two solid pitchers, the Dodgers are good team, but a third would take them to the next level. There are several options out there:
Cliff Lee, Phillies
Signed through 2015, Lee will be a long-term option that could cost a premium. Fortunately for the Dodgers, money isn’t too much of a factor now with the new ownership. The left-handed Lee would fit well possibly as the number-three starter after Chad Billingsley to rotate left/right/left with Clayton Kershaw at the top of the rotation. The Phillies might trade Lee this year due to his out-of-character 1-6 record with a 3.95 ERA. Signing Cliff Lee could potentially put at risk the ability to re-sign Clayton Kershaw, since Kershaw’s two-year $19 million contract expires after next year. The Dodgers would be busy paying Lee the last three and a half years of his five-year $120 million contract, so Kershaw might have to settle for a little bit less (even with the new ownership) or sign with another team—the last thing the Dodgers would want. Acquiring Cliff Lee will be highly unlikely for this reason, plus the fact that the Phillies might want to hold onto their 2nd/3rd ace. Read the rest of this entry
The Rangers Should Sacrifice Some of Their Prospects to Win This Year
Wednesday July 25th, 2012
Sam Evans: The Texas Rangers are currently 57-39, which gives them the second-best record in baseball behind only the New York Yankees. Texas isn’t just playing for this year, they also have enough prospects to acquire anyone they want at the trade deadline. Instead of waiting for young players to develop, the Rangers should recognize their chance to win it all this year, and trade away a couple of those players. If Texas could acquire a top of the rotation starter or a superstar outfielder, they should seriously consider trading some of their finest young prospects.
It will take a lot for the Texas Rangers to miss the playoffs this year. Despite playing in a division featuring an interesting Angels team, and a surging Oakland ballclub, Texas still has the highest playoff odds (99.8% chance) according to Baseball Prospectus. The Rangers could probably start Matt Kata instead of Adrian Beltre at third base for the rest of the season, and still make the playoffs. However, at some point, reaching the playoffs just isn’t enough. The Texas franchise wants to win the World Series this year, and in order to do that, they probably need to make a move at the deadline. Read the rest of this entry
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