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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.12) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Jason O. Watson, Getty Images

Jason O. Watson, Getty Images

Tim Lincecum pitched like the ace of 2008-2010. He threw 7 2/3 innings, 2 hit, 1 run ball, striking out 11 Braves. He got the decision in San Francisco’s 4-2 win.

Eric Young Jr. led the Mets offense in a wild back and forth game in the Bronx. He went 3-5 with a two run homer and a stolen base in the 9-7 comeback victory against the Yankees.

Jesse Chavez pitched into the 9th, letting up just a pair of solo homers and keeping the White Sox from rallying. The A’s held on, 5-4.

Jose Bautista went 3-4 with his 10th homer of the season as the Blue Jays topped the Angels, 7-3.

They owned baseball on May.12, 2014.

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

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2014’s Top Home Run Hitters: AL/NL, HR Streaks (5 Active) + Multi HRs Games

5ebb0-puig

There were a lot of HRs hit for how few games there were on a shortened Monday schedule last evening.  Yasiel Puig hit a mammoth HR to erase a 2 run deficit into a lead.

The 2nd Year Dodger is on fire right now, and has hit back to back HRs in the last few games. 

After a slower start, the 23 Year Old is now resembling the player he was last year, featuring a .318/.408/.551 3 Slash Line for the campaign – with 7 HRs and 29 RBI.

These totals put him on pace for about 33 HRs and 120 RBI for the year if he keeps it up.  He will quickly be reengaged into the NL MVP Voting if his is the case. Read the rest of this entry

2014’s Top Home Run Hitters: AL/NL, HR Streaks (3 Active) + Multi HRs Games

For the 3rd straight weekend, Mark Teixeira has hit HRs in back to back games.  He has begun his 2014 season with power we haven't seen from him in a few years.  Tex has 7 HRs in just 79 AB - with having knocked in 16 RBI.  He is on pace to crack about 40 HRs and add about 100 RBI.  Don't think he will maintain that pace, but a 25 - 30 HRs campaign, with 80 RBI is not out of the question,

For the 3rd straight weekend, Mark Teixeira has hit HRs in back to back games. He has begun his 2014 season with power we haven’t seen from him in a few years. Tex has 7 HRs in just 79 AB – with having knocked in 16 RBI. He is on pace to crack about 40 HRs and add about 100 RBI. Don’t think he will maintain that pace, but a 25 – 30 HRs campaign, with 80 RBI is not out of the question.

Yesterday, Derek Norris hit 2 HRs to lift the A’s to a sweep over the Nationals.  He also had back to back games of HRs early last month, and is featuring an OPS of nearly 1.100.

John Jaso, he is Catching tandem partner, had back to back games with dingers over the weekend.

Dustin Ackley hit HRs in both Saturday and Sunday games to put himself on our board of HRs.  On Sunday, the guy clobbered two balls over the wall to give him 4 on the year. 

Joey VottoTroy Tulowitzki and Mark Teixeira all have been hit big HRs over the last 20 calendar days, all featuring 3 different stints, where they carried HR streak of 2 or more games.

Victor Martinez is also creeping up on the leaderboard with his recent power surge.

Finally, Charlie Blackmon did some yard work giving him 9 HRs and 29 RBI on the young season.  He is tied for 5th in NL HRs. Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.11) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Thearon W. Henderson, Getty Images

Thearon W. Henderson, Getty Images

Derek Norris hit a pair of three run homers and helped the A’s clobber Washington, 9-1.

John Lackey shut down the Rangers bats over 7 strong innings, walking none, letting up just a pair of runs and striking out 9, getting the 5-2 Red Sox win.

Daniel Murphy got on base 5 times including a 2 run homer in the Mets game tying 9th inning rally. They would walk off against Philadelphia, 5-4.

Homer Bailey pitched into the 8th inning, finishing with 7 1/3 innings, 4 hits and 1 run, striking out 6 as the Reds topped Colorado, 4-1.

They owned baseball on May.11, 2014.

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

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30 MLB Team Power Rankings: Week 7 – May 2014

The Mariners are 10 - 4 in their last 14 games - without receiving any outstanding play from one particular player.  They are the biggest jumpers in this weeks rankings, going from #20 - #15.  The club concludes a series vs the Kansas City Royals, before they welcome the Tampa Rays next into Safeco Field.

The Mariners are 10 – 4 in their last 14 games – without receiving any outstanding play from one particular player. They are the biggest jumpers in this weeks rankings, going from #20 – #15. The club concludes a series vs the Kansas City Royals, before they welcome the Tampa Rays next into Safeco Field.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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We are almost at the quarter pole for action in the MLB.

The biggest mover and shakers this week were the Seattle Mariners, followed by Baltimore Orioles. LA Angels and San Francisco Giants.

Plummeting in the other directions were led by the Phils, who we dropped from 17th to 24th.

The Yankees, Nationals, Dodgers and Rangers all lost 4 places in the rankings based on sub-par weeks.

The AL New York franchise is about 1 bad week from free-falling to the AL East.  Right now the team has received buoyancy because of ace Masahiro Tanaka being 5 – 0.

Brian McCann and Carlos Beltran are having a tough time finding their rhythm with the Bronx Bombers.

I believe the Dodgers will rectify their situation shortly and take off.

Washington is barely over .500 even though most of their players are playing to their capabilities.

The Royals offense is destroying their team morale, as is the Mets having a tough time with the Relief Core, and their Pitchers are still battling .000 for the year like you and me.

Oakland is still leading the MLB in wins since the start of the 2012 year.

The Red Sox are one of the most likely teams to climb the standings in the next few weeks.

With the Cards not playing well, keep in mind, 18 of the next 21 games reside in Busch Stadium for them.  It is time to make some headway.

The AL has fashioned a 18 – 8 mark in Interleague this week to apply a 34 – 33 overall lead on the NL now.

The Rockies are blasting every baseball into orbit right now.  These guys are hitting as well at home as the Pre-Humidor ERA. Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.10) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Photo: Ben Margot, Associated Press

Photo: Ben Margot, Associated Press

John Jaso went 3-5 with a home run, started a 9th inning comeback with a lead off single and launched a walk off double in the 10th as the A’s stunned Washington, 4-3.

Tyler Skaggs retired 21 consecutive batters and pitched into the 9th. He finished with 8 plus innings, 4 hits, 2 earned runs and walked no Blue Jay batters, getting the 5-3 win for the Angels.

Corey Dickerson doubled twice and homered twice, leading the Rockies to an 11-2 thrashing of the Reds.

Zack Greinke held the Giants to just 2 runs over 7 innings and put the Dodgers in a position to come back, which they did 6-2.

They owned baseball on May.10, 2014.

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

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.09) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

AP

AP

Yu Darvish got to within one out of a no hitter. He would “settle” for 8 2/3 of 1 hit, 2 walk, 12 strikeout dominance of the Red Sox as the Rangers rolled, 8-0.

Johnny Cueto threw a marvelous, hitting streak busting, 8 innings, 2 run ball, striking out 8 Rockies and walking just one. The bullpen once again blew his lead, but the Reds walked off a 4-3 winner.

Jose Abreu went 3-4 with another homer, pushing the White Sox past the Diamondbacks, 9-3.

Jedd Gyorko homered twice off of Fernandez, driving in 6 as the Padres stunned Miami, 10-1.

They owned baseball on May.09, 2014.

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

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.08) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Darren Calabrese/AP

Darren Calabrese/AP

Edwin Encarnacion homered for the third straight game including 2 last night, giving him 200 for his career. His 3-4 performance with 3 RBI sparked the Blue Jays 12-6 drubbing of the Phillies.

Dallas Keuchel ended the Tigers winning streak by pitching into the 8th inning. He finished with 7 2/3 innings and 2 earned runs and no walks, giving Houston a rare win, 6-2.

Anthony Rizzo got on base 4 times, homered, doubled, drove in a pair and helped the Cubs top the White Sox, 12-5.

Ryan Volgelsong threw 7 1/3 innings, giving up just 5 hits and 1 earned run. He did not get the decision but he set up the Giants extra innings victory in Los Angeles, 3-1.

They owned baseball on May.08, 2014.

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

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2014 Top Home Run Hitters: AL/NL, HR Streaks (5 Active) + Multi HRs: The Heavy Hitters Are Finally Awake

The 2012 and 2013 AL MVP finally is putting it all together.  Miguel Cabrera has helped bash Detroit to an 8 game wining streak, and has finally hit HRs in back to back games. After hitting for a decent average for a few weeks, the 31 Year Old 1B has been racking up RBI, and is adding power back to his repertoire. Miggy now has 25 RBI in 29 Games Played despite just cranking 4 HRs.   But this writer feels a hot streak coming from the RHB.  Cabrera is coming off back to back 44 HR campaigns.

The 2012 and 2013 AL MVP finally is putting it all together. Miguel Cabrera has helped bash Detroit to an 8 game wining streak, and has finally hit HRs in back to back games.After hitting for a decent average for a few weeks, the 31 Year Old 1B has been racking up RBI, and is adding power back to his repertoire. Miggy now has 25 RBI in 29 Games Played despite just cranking 4 HRs. But this writer feels a hot HRs streak coming from the RHB. Cabrera is coming off back to back 44 HR campaigns.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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I picked him to lead the AL and Giancarlo Stanton to lead tie him for the most in the MLB with 49 each.  I think the guy could still do it.  He blasted 44 HRs last year, when he couldn’t even hit for power during the last 6 weeks of 2013.

Also effectively off the snide is Adrian Beltre, who clubbed a Round Tripper in the last 2 games the Rockies have obliterated the Rangers.  It may come as little solace to the now 17 – 17 Texas team, but your Silver Slugger 3B is starting to mash.

Now only if you could have the real Prince Fielder stand up and do the same! Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.07) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Tony Gutierrez, The Associated Press

Tony Gutierrez, The Associated Press

Nolan Arenado extended his hitting streak to 27 games and helped the Rockies clobber the Rangers again, 9-2.

Tom Koehlert threw 8 shutout innings, letting up just 2 hits and 1 walk. He did not get the decision but the Marlins walked off 1-0 against the Mets.

Adam Jones homered twice as the Orioles stayed in first place with their 4-3 victory in Tampa Bay.

Mark Buehrle threw 7 shutout innings, letting up just 3 hits and 2 walks while striking out 6 Phillies. He got his 6th win as the Blue Jays cruised to a 10-0 beating.

They owned baseball on May.07, 2014.

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

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The Rockies Exploding 2014 Offense – A Bigger Advantage Than Ever At Home: This Team Is Lethal

Coors Field is one of the better places in the MLB to watch a game - and this year (much like the last 21 year) the team is crippling opposing pitching.  With pitching beginning ro reign supreme in the MLB realms, the offensive attack put forth by Colorado may be enough of an advantage to outslug teams.  The Rockies have potential ALL - Stars at many of the positions, and just a sick amount of speed, defense plus power.  The team just needs to receive adequate pitching and remain healthy, and this could be the best year in Denver since 2007!

Coors Field is one of the better places in the MLB to watch a game – and this year (much like the last 21 years) the team is crippling opposing pitching. With run prevention beginning to reign supreme in the MLB realms, the offense attack put forth by Colorado may be enough of an advantage to outslug teams. The Rockies have potential ALL – Stars at many of the positions, and just a sick amount of speed, defense plus power. The team just needs to receive adequate pitching and to remain healthy, and this could be the best year in Denver since 2007!

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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I always have likened the Colorado Rockies to a heavyweight puncher that is capable of a knockout blow when you are least expecting it. 

In 2014, they are making their best 45 Year Old George Foreman impression vs. James Buster Douglas!

If they have all of their players performing on the field like Troy Tulowitzki and Carlos Gonzalez, then look the hell out.

You add in ALL – Star performances from Justin Morneau (looking like a Todd Helton clone circa 2007), Charlie Blackmon (putting up Dexter Fowler‘s best numbers) – and torrid play on defense and offense from 26 game hitting streak man ‘Nolan Arenado,” and you are talking about some haymakers being thrown.

The club assembled a decent Bullpen, and have an array of Starting Pitchers throw well on the bump. Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The 2014 Divisions: Colorado Biggest Jump As A Favorite

Matt Wieters is off to an outstanding start to the 2014 season, and it would be a crying shame if the Catcher had to be shelved with a position player Tommy John Surgery.  The 27 Year Old Veteran has slashed .341/.374/.560 with 5 HRs and 18 RBI so far this campaign.  Wieters has one more year of Arbitration Eligibility before he hits the open market in 2016.  If Wieters is injured but could still play, he may be the Full Time DH for the rest of 2014.

Matt Wieters is off to an outstanding start to the 2014 season, and it would be a crying shame if the Catcher had to be shelved with a position player Tommy John Surgery. The 27 Year Old Veteran has slashed .341/.374/.560 with 5 HRs and 18 RBI so far this campaign. Wieters has one more year of Arbitration Eligibility before he hits the open market in 2016. If Wieters is injured but could still play, he may be the Full Time DH for the rest of 2014.  If he is cleared to play tonight, the O’s would be right up there with the Rays for value in terms of gambling who will win the AL East.  New York and Boston simply don’t pay enough.

 

Odds To Win The 2014 Divisions

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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2 weeks ago I wrote my last Division Odds piece. You can read that article here. 

I jumped on board the odd for the Colorado Rockies at +1800 for the NL West.  Everyone was still buying into the San Diego Padres more.

 With the early season slumping for the Dodgers, and injury woes, I liked the Rox value at the clip it was at.

Fast forward to today, and the odd is now at +750.

In the AL East, I talked about the Orioles doing a good job weathering the storm before Manny Machado was back.

This club still hasn’t received steady contributions from an injured Chris Davis, or a slumping Adam Jones, but they sit tied for 1st place with New York.

I would have picked them to be the best bet again this week in the AL East, except for the Matt Wieters UCL deal has me worried.

When has a visit to Dr. Andrews translated well lately?

In my article here today, I have highlighted my pick from last post, and I how I fared.  The bold picks represent who I think is the best value play for the $ wagered. Read the rest of this entry

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

DOUG PENSINGER/GETTY IMAGES

DOUG PENSINGER/GETTY IMAGES

Carlos Gonzalez went 5-5 with 3 RBI, leading the relentless Colorado attack against Texas, 12-1.

Henderson Alvarez threw his second complete game shutout of the season. His 6 hitter against the Mets gave the Marlins a 3-0 victory.

Grady Sizemore got 3 hits including a walk off single off of the Green Monster in the 12th, sealing the Red Sox 4-3 win over Cincinnati.

Hiroki Kuroda was solid pitching into the 8th inning, letting up 1 earned run, striking out 8 Angels and walking none. The bullpen blew his lead but the Yankees won 4-3.

They owned baseball on May.06, 2014.

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

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2014 Top Home Run Hitters: AL/NL, HR Streaks (3 Active) + Multi HRs: Myers + Stanton W/Big Days

Giancarlo Stanton is healthy, motivated and when he is on, no ballparks can hold his behemoth blasts in.  Of his 10 HRs, 9 of them have traveled further than 400 Feet.  In the young season, Stanton leads the NL with HRs (10), the Majors with RBI (36) and Total Bases (NL - 74).  The 24 Year Old from Panorama, CA has Slashed .285/.362/.603 - and is a major reason why the Marlins are just a game and a half behind the NL Division Leader.

Giancarlo Stanton is healthy, motivated and when he is on, no ballparks can hold his behemoth blasts. Of his 10 HRs, 9 of them have traveled further than 400 Feet. In the young season, Stanton leads the NL with HRs (10), the Majors with RBI (36) and Total Bases (NL – 74). The 24 Year Old from Panorama, CA has Slashed .285/.362/.603 – and is a major reason why the Marlins are just a game and a half behind the NL Division Leading Braves.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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It was quite the day yesterday for the Tater Trots in the MLB.  Giancarlo Stanton hit 2 big thunderous HRs – to take sole possession of the NL HR lead, in carrying his team to a series win versus the Dodgers, and the Marlins are now 14 – 5 at New Marlins Ball Park this year.

George Kottaras came off the scrap heap to paste 2 shots over the fence.  These HRs represented the only two big flies of the year for the Catcher.

Brandon Crawford hit 2 HRs in the GIants sweep of the Atlanta Braves.  Where Pablo Sandoval has failed for power so far, the INF tandem of “Team Brandon, Belt, Hicks and Crawford” have combined for 16 HRs in 277 AB from the 1B/2B and 3B.

When you throw in Buster Posey‘s totals, then it is 23 HRs in 382 AB.  “Kung Fu” 3B needs to get off the snide in his contract year.

Wil Myers continues his ownership of the Yankees, with an Inside The Park 3 run HR, and adding an RBI Double – keying a 5 -1 win over the Bronx Bombers and CC Sabathia, clinching the series 2/3.

It was the 2nd straight game in which Myers did some yard work, and he also had a 2 HR game against the Pinstripers on Apr.19..  Read a Captioned picture at the end of this article to see his prowess over the Yanks thus far in his short career.

Jonathan Villar of the Houston Astros hit a HR for the 2nd straight contest.

Jose Abreu added to his MLB lead in HRs with his 12th Roundtripper. Read the rest of this entry

MLB Shutout Survivor 2014: Texas Were Shutout Last Night, Leaving COL + LAA Left

Tulowitzki nearly has an OPS of 1.200 - and has seen his club go 15 - 12 to start the 2014 season.  They along with the Angeles, are the only two teams remaining this year to be blanked.  Justin Morneau also clubbed a HR in yesterday's game - giving him 6 HRs (like Tulo) but the big 1B has a 1 RBI lead (21 - 20).  Tulowitzki had 2 Doubles and 2 Walks to add to his perfect evening Wed,

Tulowitzki nearly has an OPS of 1.200 – and has seen his club go 15 – 12 to start the 2014 season. They along with the Angeles, are the only two teams remaining this year to be blanked. Justin Morneau also clubbed a HR in yesterday’s game – giving him 6 HRs (like Tulo) but the big 1B has a 1 RBI lead (21 – 20). Tulowitzki had 2 Doubles and 2 Walks to add to his perfect evening Wed,

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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It is quite surprising that the Rangers held out this long when you consider the power outage from Prince Fielder – couples with injuries to Adrian Beltre and Shin-Soo Choo, but they were blanked for the 1st time last night in the 2014 Season.

Sonny Gray of the Oakland A’s threw a Complete Game Shutout against them, and Yu Darvish so his lifetime record fall to 1 – 7, with a 5.23 ERA versus the Bay Area franchise.

The Rangers have scored 1 run on multiple occasions this year, but had yet to be bageled.

The Angels beat the Indians last evening, by scoring 8 runs.  They have not been blanked.  The Rockies also used a HR barrage to knock off the SF Giants, and run their streak of not having zero runs in the year yet. Read the rest of this entry

And Then There Were 5 Teams Left: MLB Shutout Survivor 2014 Contest

Harang, who was part of four organizations in the last year, no hit the Mets for 7 Innings before coming out of the game for Atlanta last night.  While the Relief Core could not keep the no-hitter intact, they kept the Shutout, thus eliminating the Mets from the 2014 Shutout Survivor competition.

Harang, who was part of four organizations in the last year, no hit the Mets for 7 Innings before coming out of the game for Atlanta last night – after 121 pitches thrown. While the Relief Core could not keep the no-hitter intact, they kept the Shutout, thus eliminating the Mets from the 2014 Shutout Survivor competition.  Harang has been lights out for the Braves this year, as that was his second game carrying a no – hitter into the 7th inning already.

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

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Eliminated Last Night are the Mets, Twins and White Sox.

In this post, which we are also going to feature in a Subpage at the site called ‘Shutout Survivor’, we will document who wins this race for all 30 MLB Teams, meaning we will state the date a teams gets Shutout for the 1st time of the year.

After the games on Apr.18th, there are 25 teams taken out of this competition.  The AL still has 3 teams remaining in this and the NL has 2  The NL Central and AL East and NL East are completely eliminated as well.

Should be a great contest to see who can be the last team to score zero runs in a game.

5 teams yet to be blanked:  Rockies, Dodgers, Indians, Rangers and Angels. Read the rest of this entry

Oakland Athletics Roster In 2014: How All Of The Pitchers Were Acquired

Jarrod Parker is out for the year with  Tommy John Surgery.  You are talking about a guy that was 25 - 16 with a 3.68 ERA over the last 2 years combined.  He has top of the rotation stuff and will be greatly missed.  The A's also had a TJ scare with A.J. Griffin, but it has been downgraded to an elbow strain for now.  Parker was traded for by the Athletics in a major package sent to Oakland - including Chris Carter< Carlos Gonzalez and Ryan Cook for Starter Dan Haren.  The club still has many of the components left as assets from that very deal. While it is bad Parker is out in 2014, he will be back.

Jarrod Parker is out for the year with Tommy John Surgery. You are talking about a guy that was 25 – 16 with a 3.68 ERA over the last 2 years combined. He has top of the rotation stuff and will be greatly missed. The A’s also had a TJ scare with A.J. Griffin, but it has been downgraded to an elbow strain for now. Parker was traded for by the Athletics in a major package sent to Oakland with Collin Cowgill and  Ryan Cook for Starter Trevor Cahill. The club still has Parker and Cahill.  While it is bad Parker is out in 2014, he will be back. Cahill has been ineffective for the D’backs in 2014 – with a 9.17 ERA and an MLB leading 4 losses.

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

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I just finished writing an article about how Billy Beane was smart not to have signed Barry Zito, Mark Mulder and Tim Hudson to extensions here.

You really wont find him do this anytime soon with any of his chuckers.

The Scott Kazmir deal is the one he likes to do.  It is simple as to why the man operates like this.  He doesn’t have to give up any assets in the process.

Beane is a “Baseball Rounder”.

It is not unlike him to do manage 50 – 60 transactions per year.  He was won more than he has lost – whether it is Free Agency or trades.  His ballclub has the best record in the Majors since the start of play in 2012 – at 200 – 144 (.581 baseball).

We will go through the Pitching First, and then the hitting by the weekend. Read the rest of this entry

MLB Odds To Win Both Of The AL And NL Pennants In 2014: 5 Best Value Plays

With injuries to the Pitching Staff mounting fast for the Rays, and now with them not paying out such a great odd, the value pendulum has swung back to pick either the Yankees at +900 or the Red Sox at +750 for the AL Pennant.  The Yankees just took 3 out of 4 from the Red Sox, have a better offense in this year's lineup, and have decent pitching.  Boston is the reigning champs - and will be part of the race before all is said and done.  Factor in major injuries to Texas, Oakland and the LA Angels early, and a horrid Tigers Bullpen so far, and these two rivals have the best value on the board.

With injuries to the Pitching Staff mounting fast for the Rays, and now with them not paying out such a great odd, the value pendulum has swung back to pick either the Yankees at +900 or the Red Sox at +750 for the AL Pennant. The Yankees just took 3 out of 4 from the Red Sox, have a better offense in this year’s lineup, and have decent pitching. Boston is the reigning champs – and will be part of the race before all is said and done. Factor in major injuries to Texas, Oakland and the LA Angels early, and a horrid Tigers Bullpen so far, and these two rivals have the best value on the board.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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The Rays are finally listed where they should be on the betting board.

3 teams start play today tied in the AL East in the Rays, Yankees and Jays.  Baltimore has struggled along with Boston.

I think it is way too early to shovel dirt on the Red Sox season.  While I think they may not take down another pennant, they are my 2nd favorite play in the AL Pennant Odd list for return.

The Yankees are my favorite odds pick right now with a +900 mark.

Yes they have injuries to old guys are their team, but the guys in the lineup can mash right now, and particularly at Yankee Stadium. Read the rest of this entry

30 MLB Team Power Rankings: Week 3 MLB Baseball 2014

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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A little rant before the power rankings this week

Well, another 7 days has passed in baseball for this year.

There are no more home openers, attendance is down, fans are scattering about their Easter business and the NFL Draft is around to swing its mighty sword on the sports landscape. Read the rest of this entry

HRs Streaks, Multiple HR Games + Top 5 HRs AL + NL IN MLB 2014 So Far: Through Games Apr.12

It was a slow start to the year for Adrian Gonzalez, but now he has hit a HR in 3 straight games, and is hitting for a 3 slash of .267/.333/.623 - with 4 HRs and 11 RBI through his 1st 45 AB.  His play this week is a big reason the Dodgers are back in 1st place heading into action today.

It was a slow start to the year for Adrian Gonzalez, but now he has hit a HR in 3 straight games, and is hitting for a 3 slash of .267/.333/.623 – with 4 HRs and 11 RBI through his 1st 45 AB. His play this week is a big reason the Dodgers are back in 1st place heading into action today.

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

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Here at the MLB Reports we look to do things different.  It is one of our many motto’s.

We simply can’t look over every stat, or even chart every HR for that matter, but I have decided that we will carry the top 5 HR hitters for each the AL and NL on a page we have dubbed Stats.

For the HR feature. we will also list multiple HR games for players… Or if they have HRs in multiple games.  Once a week we will post these on the home page for the site as a regular page post. Read the rest of this entry

Top 5 Home Run Hitters In MLB For 2014: AL/NL, HR Streaks + Multi HR Games

Mark Trumbo has homered in 4 straight games, which is halfway to the ALL - Time Record held by Don Mattingly, Ken Griffey JR and Dale Long.  Mattingly owns the aggregate total of 10 HRs hit for those 8 games.  Despite his efforts, the D'Backs enter today's game at 2 - 7.  Trumbo also leads the MLB with 5 HRs overall.

Mark Trumbo has homered in 4 straight games, which is halfway to the ALL – Time Record held by Don Mattingly, Ken Griffey JR and Dale Long. Mattingly owns the aggregate total of 10 HRs hit for those 8 games. Despite his efforts, the D’Backs enter today’s game at 2 – 7. Trumbo also leads the MLB with 5 HRs overall.  The slugger has 2 more years left of Arbitration Eligibility after the 2014, and will become a Free Agent in 2017.  He was acquired in a trade from the LA Angels that saw the D’Backs part with Starter Tyler Skaggs.  Arizona also sent OF Adam Eaton to the White Sox, and received Minor Leagues A.J. Shugel and Brandon Jacobs in the deal.  Chicago parted with Hector Santiago as well to LA.

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

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Here at the MLB Reports we look to do things different.  It is one of our many motto’s.

We simply can’t look over every stat, or even chart every HR for that matter, but I have decided that we will carry the top 5 HR hitters for each the AL and NL on a page we have dubbed Stats.

For the HR feature. we will also list multiple HR games for players… Or if they have HRs in multiple games.  Once a week we will post these on the home page for the site as a regular page post.

Kemp and Ramirez Both Hit 2 HRs 4 – 6 – 14

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30 MLB Team Power Rankings: April

The Tigers fought off a tough KC club in the 1st series and now have battled their own bullpen and injury woes to be the only unbeaten team.  Add that to one of the weaker divisions, and you see the #1 ranked team in our list this week.

The Tigers fought off a tough KC club in the 1st series and now have battled their own bullpen and injury woes against the Orioles –  to be the only unbeaten team left in the MLB a. Add that to one of the weaker divisions, and you see the #1 ranked team in our list this week.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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Well, we have seen one week come and go.  It is important to realize that only about 3% of the entire season has gone by.

People tend to panic when their team isn’t doing so well, and some fanbases are ready to project their club as a playoff contender.

While it is still a good idea never to bury yourself with a bad first few week or 2, as long as you are hovering around the .500 clip, you should be fine.

How we do these rankings at the MLB Reports is based on 1 thing.  The chances of the club winning the World Series.

After all, that is why we have 45 days of Spring Training, 186 days in the regular season, and another 30 or so in the playoffs.

Some teams will have their number predicated on the strength of their divisions are not.

Nearly 47% of any teams schedule is within their own division.  So the AL East and NL West would be tough divisions.

The NL East and AL Central have 2 playoff contenders in each division, while 3 teams may be easier opponents. Read the rest of this entry

HRs For 2014 So Far + HR Streaks, Multi – HR Games

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

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Here at the MLB Reports we look to do things different.  It is one of our many motto’s.

We simply can’t look over every stat, or even chart every HR for that matter, but I have decided that we will carry the top 5 HR hitters for each the AL and NL on a page we have dubbed Stats.

For the HR feature. we will also list multiple HR games for players… Or if they have HRs in multiple games.  Once a week we will post these on the home page for the site as a regular page post.

In this page, we are also going to feature in Subpages:  A Shutout Survivor for all 30 MLB Teams, meaning we will state the date a teams gets Shutout for the 1st time of the year. Read the rest of this entry

Colorado Rockies State Of The Union For 2014

 This club often reminds me of an aging heavyweight fighter.  You may beat on them for a time, but there is always that chance the team will land a haymaker on you.  2007 was one of their days in the sunshine.  2014 may see them at least make the postseason again.  With a 20 - 1 odd for the club, the value is there for a longshot pick.

This club often reminds me of an aging heavyweight fighter. You may beat on them for a time, but there is always that chance the team will land a haymaker on you. 2007 was one of their days in the sunshine. 2014 may see them at least make the postseason for the 1st time since 2009. With a 20 – 1 odd for the club to win the NL west, the value is there for a longshot pick – should you be allowed to gamble on this chance.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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The Colorado Rockies brass were a busy bunch in the 2013 winter, heading into the 2014 year.  They have picked up several solid players for the upcoming campaign.

I simply hate that this club plays in the NL West with the Dodgers and Giants.

This year, just like any in recent memory, will depend heavily on whether the team can keep Carlos Gonzalez and Troy Tulowitzki.

When both are clubbing it, this 3 – 4 punch may be the best in baseball now that Prince Fielder and Miguel Cabrera have been separated. Read the rest of this entry

MLB 2014 Bold Predictions Including Awards Categories

Prince Fielder's 2013 - 3 Slash Line (.279/.362/.819) is far below his Career Mark of .286/.389/.916.  The man has not hit a HR in his last 74 AB.  Fielder at least had 5 HRs in 1st 70 AB for his playoff Career.  Maybe that will change in Texas, after he clubs his way to an AL MVP for the Rangers

Prince Fielder’s 2013 – 3 Slash Line (.279/.362/.819) is far below his Career Mark of .286/.389/.916. The man also has not hit a HR in his last 74 AB in the postseason. for the last 2 years of 2012 and 2013.  Fielder at least had 5 HRs in 1st 70 AB for his playoff Career. Maybe that will change in Texas, after he clubs his way to an AL MVP for the Rangers.  He is capable of putting up monster numbers in Texas, and should enjoy hitting at ‘The BallPark In Arlington” 81` times a year.

By Jordan Gluck (Prospects/Baseball Operations Correspondent)

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Since everyone else was making their predictions for the upcoming seasons, I am throwing down my picks too.  But first there are some categories to rifle through 1st.

AL MVP:
Prince Fielder

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Colorado Rockies Payroll In 2014 + Contracts Going Forward

Troy Tulowitzki is one of the best all-round shortstops in baseball. he plays Gold Glove caliber defense, and he actually hits well pretty much anywhere whether home (.935 OPS) and Away (.819 OPS).  The team always plays better with their franchise Shortstop is in the lineup - and they have a punchers chance to compete in their Division.  Tulo is owed $134 MIL over the next 7 years, and could easily command that type of salary on the open market

Troy Tulowitzki is one of the best all-round shortstops in baseball. he plays Gold Glove caliber defense, and he actually hits well pretty much anywhere whether home (.935 OPS) and Away (.819 OPS). The team always plays better with their franchise Shortstop is in the lineup – and they have a punchers chance to compete in their Division. Tulo is owed $134 MIL over the next 7 years, and could easily command that type of salary on the open market

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): & Jeff Kleiner (Org Depth + Payroll Expert – find his website here)

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The Rockies have to play in the same Division as new payroll ‘powerhouse machine’ Los Angeles.  It is hard to fathom that Colorado’s $88 MIL 2014 Payroll will trail the Dodgers payroll by almost $150 MIL.

If there were ever a case to cry out for the inequities in salaries, the 3 teams in the NL West of San Diego, Arizona and Colorado have a huge case.

It wasn’t always like this, only 2 years ago the Dodgers were hovering in the same financial stratosphere as the Rox.

New ownership and a huge TV deal has landed LA a windfall that they have reinvested in their on field talent over the last 18 months.

Colorado is one of the weirdest franchises because of their home ballpark. Read the rest of this entry

30 MLB Team Power Rankings MAR 2014

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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Okay, not much has changed in the last month.

They are about 20 unsigned Free Agents left in the open market pool, Baltimore inked Nelson Cruz and Ubaldo Jimenez – and Chris Capuano is with the Red Sox, Paul Maholm replaces him LA for the 2014 campaign.

Of note of the things I am watching in Spring Training.  The Dodger Blue is also experiencing many injuries – and Yasiel Puig showed up to camp overweight.

LA is talking about not sending Clayton Kershaw and Zack Greinke to Australia in a few weeks.

I can understand with the RHP because he was yanked after four pitches last week, but withholding your star ace from the season opener, and possibly the North America starter the following week. Read the rest of this entry

The Top 5 Players In Baseball

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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It should come as no shock for anyone on this list.  Notice how I did not mention the MVP word anywhere in the Title.

This is solely for the purpose of pushing Mike Trout on the list.

In terms of all around play, there is no doubt in most experts minds, that the 22 Year Old is best overall player in the game of baseball.

If you are picking it just solely on a hitter, I am still giving the nod to Miguel Cabrera. Read the rest of this entry

30 MLB Team Power Rankings FEB 2014

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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Not withstanding the last few signings in the MLB, noteworthy is Bronson Arroyo to the Diamondbacks, and Paul Maholm to the Los Angeles Dodgers, these will not effect the grand scheme for the rankings of all clubs.

Nelson Cruz is still available, and I would be very surprised if he doesn’t ink a deal with the Mariners.  This would put them slightly ahead of the Angels if done, as oppose to a dead heat right now.

There are no real surprises to be had here.

The Orioles, Blue Jays and Pirates have had the worst offseasons, while the Rangers, Royals, Rays, Giants, Yankees, Cardinals and Dodgers have helped out their causes for the upcoming campaign.

30 MLB Team Power Rankings MAR 2014

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Top 10 Stolen Base Leaders in 2013

Ellsbury missed 88 Games in 2012 (and also missed 144 Games in 2010), which brings into question his long - term durability. Heck, even this year, he was seen with a walking boot only a few weeks prior to the playoffs. You can't deny the man has put up some great numbers out of the leadoff spot for the Red Sox since 2007. Ellsbury has a Career 3 Slash of .297/.350/.789 - and averages 57 XBH, 55 SB, 198 Hits and 108 RBI for every 162 Games Played. The Yankees have inked him to a 7 year deal, and will bank on him staying healthy for most of the contract.

Ellsbury missed 88 Games in 2012 (and also missed 144 Games in 2010), which brings into question his long – term durability. Heck, even this year, he was seen with a walking boot only a few weeks prior to the playoffs. You can’t deny the man has put up some great numbers out of the leadoff spot for the Red Sox since 2007. Ellsbury has a Career 3 Slash of .297/.350/.789 – and averages 57 XBH, 55 SB, 198 Hits and 108 RBI for every 162 Games Played. The Yankees have inked him to a 7 year deal, and will bank on him staying healthy for most of the contract.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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With a decrease in the total amount of players taking PED’s in the MLB, speed is a more important factor to help manufacture runs than it was even a decade ago.

Jacoby Ellsbury leads the list last year with 52 bag swipes.  The Yankees will need him to duplicate what he did in 2013 if they want any chance to compete in 2014.

Everth Cabrera would have been the odds on favorite to take the title – had he not been suspended 50 games for his part in the Biogenesis clinic.

Rajai Davis also enters the list.  The Blue Jay in 2013, and Tiger in 2014, swiped 45 bags despite only coming in with 331 AB.

Jacoby Ellsbury 5 Stolen Base Game 2013

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