Blog Archives

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.

Read the rest of this entry

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.

Read the rest of this entry

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.

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.

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.

Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.05) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

 

Morry Gash - AP

Morry Gash – AP

Carlos Gomez launched a lead off homer, got on base 5 times, scored twice and drove in 3 as the Brewers won the 22nd game, 8-3 over Arizona.

Stefan Romero hit his first big league homer and scored another run for the Mariners, who topped the A’s, 4-2.

Nathan Eovaldi pitched 7 solid innings, striking out 10 and walking just 1. He left the game down 3-0 but the Marlins bats picked up up, walking off against the Mets, 4-3.

Jered Weaver kept the Yankees from a big rally with 8 terrific if not dominating innings. He let up 6 hits but walked just 1 and let up only 1 run over 8 innings, earning the 4-1 Angels victory.

They owned baseball on May.05, 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.

Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.04) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Curtis Compton/Atlanta Journal-Constitution/MCT

Curtis Compton/Atlanta Journal-Constitution/MCT

Brandon Crawford homered twice, driving in 3 runs, leading the Giants to a 4-1 win and a 3 game sweep of the Braves.

Dayan Viciedo‘s second hit of the day was a 3 run, come from behind go ahead 9th inning home run that gave the White Sox a 4-3 victory over the Indians.

Roberto Hernandez pitched into the 8th inning, finishing with 7 1/3 shutout innings, letting up just 4 hits and 3 walks, helping the Phillies sneak past the Nationals, 1-0.

Justin Verlander had a no hitter into the 6th inning. He finished with 7 strong, 4 hit innings, striking out 7 Royals. He got Detroit’s 9-4 victory.

They owned baseball on May.04, 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.

Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.03) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

(Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)

(Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)

Joe Mauer homered, scored from first on a hit, drove in another run and finished 3-4 with 4 RBI as the Twins won 6-1 over Baltimore.

Jon Lester dominated the A’s over 8 shutout innings. He let up just 1 hit, walking 2 and striking out a career high 15 as Boston won 6-3.

Dee Gordon went 5-6 in the leadoff spot. He also stole three bases, scored twice and drove in a pair as the Dodgers would top the Marlins in Miami, 9-7 in 11 innings.

Johnny Cueto topped the Brewers by throwing 8 innings of 3 hit ball. He let up a pair of solo homers and just a hit and a walk other than that. He struck out 10 in the process, earning the 6-2 victory in Cincinnati.

They owned baseball on May.03, 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.

Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.02) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

NESN - MLB.com

NESN – MLB.com

Dustin Pedroia hit a grandslam, doubled, stole a base and got on 4 times as the Red Sox clobbered the A’s, 7-1.

Starling Marte went 4-5 and hit a walk off homer, sealing Pittsburgh’s come from behind victory over the Blue Jays, 6-5.

Ubaldo Jimenez pitched the Orioles into first place by dominating the Twins with 7 1/3 shutout innings, 3 hits, 1 walk and 10 strikeouts getting the 3-0 decision.

Wily Peralta threw 8 shutout frames, giving up just 3 hits and striking out 7 Reds, getting the decision in the 2-0 thriller for the Brewers.

They owned baseball on May.02, 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.

Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.01) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Getty Images

Getty Images

Yunel Escobar hit a tie breaking, 9th inning homer off of the seemingly impervious Koji Uehara to give the Rays a 6-5 win and a double header sweep in Boston.

Juan Uribe combined to get on base 8 times over the course of the Dodgers double header sweep of the Twins. He doubled and drove in a pair in the 9-4 opener. He hit a game tying single in the 4-3 12 inning nightcap.

Roenis Elias shut down the Yankees offense with 7 innings, 6 hits and 1 earned run. He struck out 10 along the way to a Seattle 4-2 victory in the Bronx.

Juan Nicasio pitched 7 shutout innings (in Coors no less), holding the Mets to 3 hits and one walk as the Rockies won 7-4.

They owned baseball on May.01, 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.

Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (April.30) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

AP Photo/Jeff Roberson

AP Photo/Jeff Roberson

Allen Craig collected 4 hits, missing the cycle by a triple, and drove in 3 runs as the Cardinals avoided a Milwaukee sweep, 9-3.

Tim Hudson was a strike from a complete game victory. He settled for 8 2/3 brilliant innings as the Giants topped the Padres, 3-2.

Hank Conger got on base 3 times and hit a go ahead 2 run homer as the Angels cruised past the Indians, 7-1.

Jesse Chavez shut down the Rangers bats. He held them to one hit, one walk and no runs while striking out 8. Oakland demolished their rival in Arlington, 12-1.

They owned baseball on April.30, 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.

Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (April.29) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Steve Mitchell / USA Today Sports

Steve Mitchell / USA Today Sports

Jose Fernandez simply dominated the Atlanta Braves. He pitched 8 shutout 2 hit innings, striking out 8 and walking 2. He also made an amazing fake throw to draw off a runner from third and record an out at the plate. The best baseball show in Miami won the game, 9-0.

Lyle Overbay got two RBI singles, including one in the 11th inning that gave the Brewers a 5-4 lead they would not give up against the Cardinals.

John Lackey threw another solid game, going 8 innings, letting up 2 runs and walking just 1. He got the decision for Boston’s 7-4 win against Tampa Bay.

Mike Zunino collected 4 hits, driving in a run and scoring another, leading the Mariners to a 6-3 win against the Yankees.

They owned baseball on April.29, 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.

Read the rest of this entry

30 MLB Team Power Rankings: Week 5 – Apr. 2014

The Astros have helped pad the stats for teams like the A's, Rangers and Angels offenses and Run Differentials so far,  Having this cupcake team will definitely help your playoff chances with the weighted divisional play.

The Astros have helped pad the stats for teams like the A’s, Rangers and Angels offenses and Run Differentials so far in 2014, Having this cupcake team will definitely help your playoff chances with the weighted divisional play.  I will be amazed if they finish out of last in the American League this year, and maybe only the Chicago Cubs will challenge them for the 1st overall pick again for the 2015 MLB Amateur Draft.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter

We are now at the 13 – 14% pole of the MLB year.  Parity is reigning supreme on the standings.

For the record, while I love the Milwaukee start, they are just too many variables for them to keep up this pace.

Don’t get me wrong, i think this team is capable of making the playoffs, winning 90 games, but it could be eliminated as fast as they have compiled this record.

Ryan Braun’s thumb could require surgery. Ramirez’s knee’s could fail him.

Considering last night’s situation with Braun and Gomez, that could alter the playing field for the NL.

The suspension laid down for the brawl with the Pirates could also sway some momentum.  Good on Milwaukee for starting 18 – 6.  I just think the Cards will track them down in the next 138 games. Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (April.25) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Chris Sweda/ Chicago Tribune

Chris Sweda/ Chicago Tribune

Jose Abreu got three hits including a pair of homers. The second was a 2 out, bottom of the 9th, come from behind, walk off grand slam. Safe to say that was the highlight of the White Sox’s 9-6 win over the Rays.

Yordano Ventura pitched 8 shutout innings, striking out 8, and getting the 5-0 win for the Royals in Baltimore.

Carlos Gomez went 3-5 with a double, a stolen base and two runs scored, leading the Brewers to a 5-2 win over the Cubs.

Stephen Strasburg pitched seven dominating shutout innings. He struck out 11 Padres, walking just 2 and got the 11-1 victory for the Nationals.

They owned baseball on April.25, 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.

Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (April.24) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Photo by Jeff Gross/Getty Images

Photo by Jeff Gross/Getty Images

Carlos Ruiz got on base 5 times, scored twice, hit two doubles including one that drove in 2 runs and broke a 9th inning tie. The Phillies would top the Dodgers 7-3.

Josh Donaldson got on 5 times, clubbed 2 homers and hit another double, driving in 4 and scoring 3 as the A’s rolled 10-1 in Houston.

Bartolo Colon was excellent against the Cardinals. He pitched 7 strong innings, letting up just 1 run, 4 hits and walked none while striking out 8. He got the 4-1 win for the Mets.

Corey Kluber pitched his first complete game against the Royals. He went the full nine, giving up just 4 hits, 1 unearned run, 11 strikeouts and walking none, earning the 5-1 win for the Indians.

They owned baseball on April.24, 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.

Read the rest of this entry

Philadelphia Phillies State Of The Union For 2014

The club was one of the premiere franchises from 2007 - 2011, with 5 straight NL East Titles, 2 World Series Appearances, and taking home the big prize in 2008.  The Phightins have been battling old age, the injury bug, plus the management not knowing whether to pull the plug on the core talent of this squad - or to give it one more go at it.  Charlie Manuel was finally the fall guy last month when he was let go from his managerial duties.  Ryne Sandberg had the team playing better to end the year, but has had issues already with Veteran players.  Will it be enough for the organization to back him beyond this season.  Will the franchise play good enough for another kick at the can in 2014?  .

The club was one of the premiere franchises from 2007 – 2011, with 5 straight NL East Titles, 2 World Series Appearances, and taking home the big prize in 2008. The Phightins have been battling old age, the injury bug, plus the management not knowing whether to pull the plug on the core talent of this squad – or to give it one more go at it. Charlie Manuel was finally the fall guy last year when he was let go from his managerial duties. Ryne Sandberg had the team playing better to end the year, but has had issues already with Veteran players. Will it be enough for the organization to back him beyond this season. Will the franchise play good enough for another kick at the can in 2014? .

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

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

Last year was the 1st losing campaign for the Fightins in over a decade.  It was a mediocre season to be sure, and followed the 3rd straight year of regression.

Since Ryan Howard went down in a heap of pain during the 2011 playoffs, it has ravaged through the fans perception of the club.

2013 wasn’t going to end nicely, however the aging veteran Chase Utley gave the brass and fanbase a nice exiting thought by inking a 2 YR deal.

Ryan Howard has not recovered to his former status, and now makes $25 MIL year. Read the rest of this entry

Master List Of All Free Agents Signed In 2013 Winter – Heading Into 2014 MLB Year

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter

It has been a record setting year for contract $ doled out for players.  When you factor in the player extensions, we are talking about 7 contracts registering in the top 50 Player contracts in the history of the game.

Robinson Cano, Clayton Kershaw, Masahiro Tanaka, Jacoby Ellsbury, Freddie Freeman, Shin-Soo Choo and Homer Bailey have inked deal for between $105 MIL to $240 MIL.

Now there is word the Angels are working on an extension with Mike Trout, to the tune of 6 YRs/$150 MIL,  from 2015 – 2020.  This would be the 22nd highest contract in MLB History.

For the record, Trout’s deal for 2014 is already set at $510 K, and any extension wouldn’t have Luxury Tax Ramifications until his new deal would start in 2015. Read the rest of this entry

The Philadelphia Phillies Payroll In 2014 + Contracts Going Forward

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

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

The Phillies slide down the NL East Standings all started at the end of the 2011 NLCS.  Gruesomely, Ryan Howard pulverized his ankle running down to 1st, and the team has not been right since.

A late charge in 2012 preserved a 81 – 81 record – to extend a decade of .500 or better baseball, however 2013 held a cruel fate of a 73 – 89 final mark.

Injuries to ‘now retired’ Roy Halladay and Howard helped plague the team to its first losing season in 11 years.

Ruben Amaro Jr. and the brass steadfastly approach this season like every other campaign in the last few years, “we will be better in 2014, and still have enough to compete.” Read the rest of this entry

Finally, Some Worth While Free Agents Sign In The MLB 2013 Winter!

With his career winding down and Tim Hudson being 38 years old, will he be able to recover from a gruesome ankle injury in 2014. Should the Braves resign him for depth in the rotation - or cut ties outright? Mr. Hudson will need   He was 114 - 72 (.611) in 9 seasons with the Braves.

With his career winding down and Tim Hudson being 38 years old, will he be able to recover from a gruesome ankle injury in 2014 with the SF Giants?  Mr. Hudson was 114 – 72 (.611) in 9 seasons with the Braves – with a 3.56 ERA.  He will make his return to the Bay Area in California, where he started his 1st 6 years with the Oakland A’s.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twiter

After playing Baseball Stars 1 and 2 on my old Nintendo Entertainment System for 3 weeks, I was happy to receive my baseball fix from the MLB once again..

Yesterday, a slew of Free Agents signed.. Okay… not true….2 noteworthy players inked deals to prolong their careers.

I am talking about Tim Hudson signing a 2 YR/$23 MIL with the Giants, and Carlos Ruiz, signing a 3 Year Deal worth potentially $26.5 MIL, with a Team Option for a 4th year at $4.5 MIL.

Tim Hudson’s 2013 Season Ending Ankle Injury – Not for the weak of heart!

Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – November 19, 2013

MLB

MLB

Going into the 2014 season, is it better to be a Yankees fan, a Phillies fan or an Astros fan?

Don’t answer right away. It is a hard philosophical question on today’s episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

To subscribe on iTunes, click HERE.

To subscribe on SoundCloud, click HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – November 19, 2013

Stoking The Fire: Blog 5 – The Giants Should Move Posey To 1B, Belt To LF – And Sign Ruiz

Buster Posey is one of the best players in the game of baseball pure and simple.  The 2012 NL MVP has Buster Posey is the leader of the Giants offense and game caller for the pitching staff. He has had a down year in respect to his numbers in recent years. He will finish 2013 with another 20 Home Run season and he will be looking forward to 2014 and another chance at a ring. The two time champion signed a contract extension that will see him make $164 MIL from 2013 - 2021.  Will he be able to play the duration of his contract as a backstopper - or will he eventually be moved to 1st Base?

Buster Posey is one of the best players in the game of baseball pure and simple. The 2010 NL Rookie Of The Year is the leader of the Giants offense and game caller for the pitching staff. In 2013, he had down year in respect to his incredible 2013 season.  Posey still slashed .294/.371/.821   The two time champion signed a contract extension that will see him make $164 MIL from 2013 – 2021.  In this article, I explain why I think the team has to move the Slugger to 1B.  The 26 Year Old has a career slash of .308/.377/.864.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twiter

The Giants are at a crossroads in their nucleus.  When healthy and at optimum levels, the Giants can hang with any team in the MLB – as shown by taking home 2 out of the last 4 World Series Titles.

But here is the problem.  This club needs two Starting Pitchers, potentially an OF, a Utility Infielder, meanwhile the franchise must address their long term goals.

The Twins were smart enough to make Joe Mauer a permanent 1B – and it is time for the San Francisco Giants to do the same with Buster Posey.

Read the rest of this entry

MLB 50 Free Agent Predictions

It will all be following the money for many of the Free Agents this winter.  It all started when all 14 players that had Qualifying Offers politely declined them all over the weekend, and are all FA's with Draft Compensation due back to their 2013 club.

It will all be following the money for many of the Free Agents this winter. It all started when all 14 players that had Qualifying Offers politely declined them all over the weekend, and are all FA’s with Draft Compensation due back to their 2013 club.

Free Agent Predictions

By Jordan Gluck (Free Agency Correspondent)

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

These are my personal predictions on where the top free agents will sign. This is the same kind of list of the top 50 free agents made by our friends at mlbtraderumors.com.

Please keep in mind there will be trades this offseason so holes will be filled that way as well (I believe the Cardinals will trade for a SS).

I am not going to estimate any dollar figures in this specific article but I do expect some overpayments this year.

Robinson Cano 2013 Highlights

Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The 2014 MLB World Series + Around The MLB Horn For Quick Team Wish Lists

The Red Sox may have won the 2013 World Series, but they are not the 2014 favorites.  No team has repeated since the Yankees won 3 straight titles from 1998 - 2000.

The Red Sox may have won the 2013 World Series, but they are not the 2014 favorites. No team has repeated since the Yankees won 3 straight titles from 1998 – 2000.

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

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

Now that the Boston Red Sox have won the 2013 World Series, the oddsmakers have already dropped them, plus fellow 2013 Fall Classic Participants (St. Louis) to be tied for the 3rd seed, with the Washington Nationals.

A massive surprise on the list are the Los Angeles Angels, who will have the 6th favorite slot to win the World Series at +1400.

If you are looking for value, you should consider the Reds (Tied for the 8th seed) at +1600.  They are merely a few players, and perhaps a few tweaks from going far in one of these playoffs.

2013 World Series Champion – Red Sox

Read the rest of this entry

The Washington Nationals State Of The Union Part 1: Fall 2013 Through Spring 2014

The Nationals failed to meet expectations as the Preseason favorites to lock down the World Series in 2013.  Heck, they didn't even qualify for the playoffs.  Whether it was injury, or complacency, the talent of this team didn't maximize their potential this year.  However, the club did go 24 - 12 in their last 36 Games Played, and made a late charge at the 2nd Wild Card Spot.  Most of the nucleus is coming back for the 2014 year.  Here are some priorities for the winter.

The Nationals failed to meet expectations as the Preseason favorites to lock down the World Series in 2013. Heck, they didn’t even qualify for the playoffs. Whether it was injury, or complacency, the talent of this team didn’t maximize their potential this year. However, the club did go 24 – 12 in their last 36 Games Played, and made a late charge at the 2nd Wild Card Spot in the Nationals League.  Most of the nucleus is coming back for the 2014 year. Here are some priorities for the winter.

By David Huzzard (Nationals Correspondent via Citizens of Natstown.com – view website here): 

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

1. Find a Manager

There are moves that can be made without a new manager in place, but this is the most important thing the Nationals have to do this off-season. Not having the leader of the team will make all the other moves more difficult.

Players want to know who they are playing for and the manager is going to have a lot of input into what free agents the Nationals go after for the bench and bullpen, which happen to be their two biggest needs personnel-wise.

It is also important to get the new manager in place early so that he has an entire off-season to communicate with the players already in the majors and to familiarize himself with the system and the minor leaguers that could help during the season.

For all of the Rosters, Depth Charts, State of the Unions and Salaries that we do, please visit our dedicated page link here.

Jordan Zimmermann Interview

Read the rest of this entry

Phillies 2014 Preview: How To Handle Halladay

Roy Halladay is still the Active Win Pctg Leader among Pitchers with  a W - L Record of 203 - 105 (.659), and he also owns the most Complete Games at 67 Currently for guys still chucking.  This is despite battling a litany of injuries in 2012 - 2013, posting 15 - 13 Record, while carrying an ERA well north of 5.  Can he reinvent himself at 36 (about to be 37 in May of 2014).  Can the Phils afford to give him a new contract?

Roy Halladay is still the Active Win Pctg Leader among Pitchers with a W – L Record of 203 – 105 (.659), and he also owns the most Complete Games at 67 Currently for guys still chucking. This is despite battling a litany of injuries in 2012 – 2013, posting a 15 – 13 Record, while carrying an ERA well north of 5 in the last 2 campaigns. Can he reinvent himself at 36 (about to be 37 in May of 2014)? It may just be the Phils can’t afford to give him a new contract?

By Chris Creighton (Phillies Correspondent via  http://www.oldcitybaseball.com – visit his website here

Follow MLB Reports on Twitter

Uncertainty. It’s an extremely ominous word among Philadelphia baseball fans because throughout the Phillies organization, there seems to be plenty of it.

Sounding the word out syllabically slow brings about an uncomfortable feeling flooding through my brain and because its plague-like presence is felt when pondering the Phillies future, the reality sets in that it may be a few years before this team can rise to an elite level once again.

The starting staff, the bullpen, the first baseman, the closer, and the outfield are all enormous question marks as the 2013 season comes to a close today.

Roy Halladay’s Perfect Game 2009

Read the rest of this entry

The Philadelphia Phillies Players In All Organizational Affiliates, Prospects + Depth Charts (MLB + MiLB) Fall 2013

The club was one of the premiere franchises from 2007 - 2011, with 5 straight NL East Titles, 2 World Series Appearances, and taking home the big prize in 2008.  The Phightins have been battling old age, the injury bug, plus the management not knowing whether to pull the plug on the core talent of this squad - or to give it one more go at it.  Charlie Manuel was finally the fall guy last month when he was let go from his managerial duties.  Ryne Sandberg has the team playing better.  Will it be enough for the organization to back him beyond this season.  Will the franchise restock for another kick at the can in 2014?  Here is the players they currently possess in the system.

The club was one of the premiere franchises from 2007 – 2011, with 5 straight NL East Titles, 2 World Series Appearances, and taking home the big prize in 2008. The ‘Phightins’ have been battling old age, the injury bug, plus the management not knowing whether to pull the plug on the core talent of this squad – or to give it one more go at it. Charlie Manuel was finally the fall guy last month when he was let go from his managerial duties. Ryne Sandberg has the team playing better. Will it be enough for the organization to back him beyond this season?  Or maybe  the franchise restocks for another kick at the can in 2014? Here is the players they currently possess in the system.

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): and welcome Jeff Kleiner (Salary, Roster and Depth Chart Expert for the MLB) – visit his website  here  

The Phillies have posted winning records since 2001.  While the year may be getting away from them in 2013, there are some extremely encouraging signs for the future.’

Ben Revere was excelling at his position at CF and at the plate before he went down with a season ending injury.

The emergence of Domonic Brown in the 1st half, and 1B/OF Darin Ruf, have given the team a cost conscious alternative to combat huge salaries like Cliff Lee and Ryan Howard, that combine to be over $50 in the next 3 years, the latter, has been injured the most of the last 2 seasons.

You add high priced Veterans like Jimmy Rollins, and $22.5 MIL a year Cole Hamels, and you are talking about a lofty payroll for the next several years.

However, the team also extended franchise face Chase Utley, for 2 YRs/$25 – 30 MIL – that should see him possibly retire a Phillie.

The club has played much better since Ryne Sandberg assumed the helm as manager.

The team also has traded several veterans away in the last few years, to accrue Minor League Talent back in return.  Among the departed have been Hunter Pence, Shane Victorino and Michael Young.

The question going forward is to what this team will do with Roy Halladay and Carlos Ruiz.  Somehow, I think that Ruben Amaro JR, will find a way to re-sign these two guys for a limited years, and possibly incentive laden contracts this coming winter.

Whatever the case, it should be an interesting ride in Philly the next few years.

For a Full 3 year Salary Outlook plus last years Stats for every player in the Phillies Organization click here.

For the 3 Part Historical Series I did on the  Phillies organization, click here.

Chase Utley Highlights

Read the rest of this entry

A Phillies 2014 Forecast, Part I: “The Emperor Has No Clothes”

I certainly wish Amaro was a little more Ben Franklin and a lot less Daft Punk as 2013's Song of the Summer, "Get Lucky", coincidentally captured the embattled GM's philosophy for this year's Phillies. When the song's lyrical hook defiantly proclaims, "We've come too far to give up who we are", I can easily see Ruben's head bobbing an arrogant yes, yes, yes to the beat en route to his office at One Citizens Bank Way. Unfortunately, who the Phillies are right now under Amaro's stubborn direction are a team that is painting themselves into a corner. The current roster carries several veterans already past their prime, but with very few promising young stars in the making ready to carry the torch.

I certainly wish Amaro was a little more Ben Franklin and a lot less Daft Punk as 2013’s Song of the Summer, “Get Lucky”, coincidentally captured the embattled GM’s philosophy for this year’s Phillies. When the song’s lyrical hook defiantly proclaims, “We’ve come too far to give up who we are”, I can easily see Ruben’s head bobbing an arrogant yes, yes, yes to the beat en route to his office at One Citizens Bank Way. Unfortunately, who the Phillies are right now under Amaro’s stubborn direction are a team that is painting themselves into a corner. The current roster carries several veterans already past their prime, but with very few promising young stars in the making ready to carry the torch.

By Chris Creighton (Phillies Correspondent via  http://www.oldcitybaseball.com – visit the website here

Follow MLB Reports on Twitter

“I live on a one-way street that’s also a dead end. I’m not quite sure how I got there.” Steven Wright, Comedian

Sounds about right.

It should be obvious to most that Ruben Amaro Jr.’s ego has been waging war against his own rational sense of decision-making and his ability to consider the future of this Phillies franchise since he was handed the keys to the palace back in November 2008.

A speckled and spotty track-record ripe with big-splash acquisitions along with several transactions banking on a player’s abilities of yesteryear–each of which left the cupboard mostly bare down on the farm–is all he has to show during his tenure as the big boss man.

Even the most optimistic of Philadelphia fans (including myself) now envision the Phillies ship as a tired, rudderless old vessel drifting through uncharted waters without a compass. How did it ever come to this?

Ryan Howards Injury 2011 NLDS


Read the rest of this entry

How Can The New York Mets Improve For The 2014 Season? Start With Some Outfielders!

 

New York Mets

As of today, The New York Mets sit in third place in the National League East with a not so good 57-66 record. With that record being nine games under the .500 mark, they need to make some improvements. How will they do that? One way is to pick up some free agents.

By Dan Wanser (MLB Reports Writer)   

The New York Mets have struggled this year, but they are hoping to be able to do much better next year.

With solid players such as Third Baseman David Wright, Pitcher Matt Harvey, and an up and coming star in Jenrry Mejia the Mets have key players that they can build a good team around for the years to come.

If they want to improve, they need to do something. To do this, they will likely pick up some free agents and possibly make a trade or two.

If they want to pick up some free agents, they can go after outfielders such as Shin-Soo Choo of the Cincinnati Reds who would help defensively in Center Field and could also hit lead-off  or anywhere else in the line-up if asked.

Marlon Byrd’s GS

Read the rest of this entry

How Would Detroit Move On If They Lost Jhonny Peralta? Perhaps Philly May Be The Answer!

Like us on Facebook here

Tuesday July 30th, 2013 

 Jhonny Peralta and the Detroit Tigers might be in for a little trouble. With a number of players being investigated for potentially breaking the leagues policy on power-enhancing substances by being involved in the biogenseis  scandal, Peralta might find himself out for the rest of the regular season and the playoffs if the Tigers qualify

Jhonny Peralta and the Detroit Tigers might be in for a little trouble. With a number of players being investigated for potentially breaking the leagues policy on power-enhancing substances by being involved in the biogenseis scandal, Peralta might find himself out for the rest of the regular season and the playoffs if the Tigers qualify.

By Dan Wanser (MLB Reports Writer)  

Jhonny Peralta is one of a number of players being investigated by Major League Baseball for potentially breaking the leagues substance abuse policy by being involved with biogenesis in Miami.

If Detroit loses their shortstop for the rest of 2013 they may be in for some trouble.

Peralta has been heating up offensively as the season has moved along and is also solid in the field.

So if he does find himself out for the season, who will the American League Central Division leaders call on to take his place? They have a few options.

If Peralta needs to be replaced, Detroit will need someone with some pop in the bat.

Jhonny Peralta Talks about Miguel Cabrera Potentially Repeating His Triple Crown Feat:

Read the rest of this entry

Philadelphia Phillies Trade Possibilities

Like us on Facebook here

Monday July.29, 2013

The year started with the struggles of one of their ace pitchers, followed by injuries off and on to other key players.  With Halladay potentially coming back at the end of the year, plus talk of possibly signing him to an incentive laden contract for 2014, added with a new deal for Chase Utley, the Phils are hoping to extend their chance of a contender for one more year.  Improved play from Domonic Brown and Ben Revere (before being hurt) - has cause for optimism in 2014.  They will need to find a 3B, Catcher and 3rd OF, however that won't require the farm being spent.  Today we examine the possible moves by Ruben Amaro Jr.  at the Trade Deadline

The year started with the struggles of two of their three ace pitchers, followed by injuries off and on to other key players – including Doc Halladaay. With their former ‘CY Young Winner’ potentially coming back at the end of the year, plus talk of possibly signing him to an incentive laden contract for 2014, added with a new deal for Chase Utley, the Phils are hoping to extend their chance of a contender for at least one more year ‘next campaign’. Improved play from Domonic Brown and Ben Revere (before being hurt) – also has cause for optimism in 2014. They will need to find a 3B, a Catcher, a new Closer and a 3rd OF, however that won’t require the farm being spent. Today we examine the possible moves by Ruben Amaro Jr. at the Trade Deadline this year before we get to that point.

By Chris Creighton (Phillies Correspondent via http://www.warrroomphilly.com – visit the website here

The time has come, Phillies fans. Make no mistake about what you’re seeing on the field and reading in the papers, sell mode has now become a reality.

Perhaps I may be channeling my inner Captain Obvious, but for the sake of those still holding out hope, change is a-comin’.

After the ugliest road trip in recent memory mercifully came to an end, the Philadelphia Sports Media pulled no punches welcoming several Phillies players to Seller-dome.

Carlos Ruiz Highlights 2012 – Mature Lyrics So Parental Guidance Is Advised

Read the rest of this entry