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Daily Fantasy Baseball Lineup Picks (8/31/18): MLB DFS Advice for FanDuel and DraftKings

DraftKings & FanDuel MLB DFS Lineups & Picks for August 31, 2018

We have our MLB DFS 8/31/18 slate for Thursday. Like we’ve mentioned numerous times in all of our videos, weather is extremely important at this time of the season, and lineups are constantly changing. Make sure you keep an eye on both, but check back here for updates.

Below is a list of our top MLB DFS pitchers, hitters, and stacks to target in Cash and GPP lineups on DraftKings and FanDuel.

The info below can also be used for crafting your daily fantasy baseball strategy at drafters.com

If you have an questions or need to see late-minute changes, follow me on Twitter at @FantasyAdvice22. Let’s bring home the bacon!

Fanduel Daily Fantasy Baseball Lineup Picks (8/31/18): MLB DFS Advice

DraftKings Daily Fantasy Baseball Lineup Picks (8/31/18): MLB DFS Advice


FanDuel & DraftKings DFS Pitchers

Jose Quintana

#62 Throws: Left

Career vs Current Phillies Roster

PA K% wOBA AVG FIP
137 29.2 0.265 0.190 3.64
EV LA xwOBA xBA xSLG
82.3 MPH 14.9 ° 0.270 0.212 0.336
* Statcast data only available back to 2015

Luis Severino

#40 Throws: Right

Career vs Current Tigers Roster

PA K% wOBA AVG FIP
47 31.9 0.240 0.227 0.77
EV LA xwOBA xBA xSLG
80.8 MPH 15.6 ° 0.282 0.241 0.345
* Statcast data only available back to 2015

Corey Kluber

#28 Throws: Right

Career vs Current Rays Roster

PA K% wOBA AVG FIP
39 25.6 0.404 0.281 4.73
EV LA xwOBA xBA xSLG
82.4 MPH 16.0 ° 0.402 0.301 0.495
* Statcast data only available back to 2015

Want to see more? Check out the article HERE.  Want to listen to our daily breakdown? Subscribe to our Youtube channel HERE!

Who Owned Baseball September 28, 2017 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2017 #WOB Standings

 

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Getty Images

Giancarlo Stanton hit his 58th and 59th homers and got on base 2 other times to lead the Marlins to a 7-1 pounding of the Braves.

Carlos Correa reached base 5 times, homered, drove in 3 and scored 3 as Houston crushed Boston, 12-2.

Jen-Ho Tseng threw 3 shutout innings out of the bullpen with the game on the line for each pitch and earned the 2-1 decision for the Cubs, eliminating the Cardinals from the post season.

Carlos Carasco took a shutout into the 9th, finishing with 8 1/3 innings of scoreless ball while striking out 14 Twins and earning the 5-2 victory for Cleveland.

They all owned baseball on September 28, 2017

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

Most Recent Cycle Hit For Each MLB Franchise (Updated For Jose Abreu, September 9, 2017 )

Abreu

Getty Images

The White Sox future looks bright and present has a big highlight!

Sure the Giants and the White Sox are basically just playing out the string. But don’t tell Jose Abreu that. He legged out a triple and completed the cycle against the Giants.

It was the first White Sox cycle since Jose Valentin. The last White Sox cycle hit by someone with a first name OTHER than Jose was Chris Singleton in 1999.

Lots of young talent on this White Sox team. Maybe next Abreu can lead them to more wins.

Here is the list, updated for today’s action!

THE MOST CYCLE HIT
FOR EACH FRANCHISE

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CHICAGO WHITE SOX
September 9, 2017 vs. San Francisco Giants
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TAMPA PAY RAYS
Evan Longoria
August 1, 2017 vs. Houston Astros
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LOS ANGELES DODGERS
Cody Bellinger
July 15, 2017
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COLORADO ROCKIES
Nolan Arenado
June 18, 2017 vs. San Francisco
rangers
TEXAS RANGERS
April 29, 2017 vs. Angels
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Washington Nationals
Trea Turner
April 25, 2017 vs. Colorado
San_Diego_Padres_logo.svg
SAN DIEGO PADRES
April 10, 2017 vs. Colorado
new-pittsburgh-pirates-logo


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

Indians_Logo
CLEVELAND INDIANS
Rajai Davis
July 2, 2016 vs. Toronto
atlanta-braves-logo
ATLANTA BRAVES
June 15, 2016 vs. Cincinnati
boston1
BOSTON RED SOX
June 16, 2015 vs. Atlanta
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HOUSTON ASTROS
Brandon Barnes
July 19, 2013 vs. Seattle
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LOS ANGELES ANGELS OF ANAHEIM
Mike Trout
May 21, 2013 vs. Seattle
downloadARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS
Aaron Hill
June 29, 2012 vs. Milwaukee
NEW YORK METS
April 27, 2012 vs. Colorado
San_francisco_giants_alternate_logo
SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS
September 15, 2011 vs. Colorado
brewers
MILWAUKEE BREWERS
George Kottaras
September 3, 2011 vs. Houston

Baltimore_orioles_logo_2012_-_present

BALTIMORE ORIOLES
Felix Pie
August 14, 2009 vs. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim

300px-NewYorkYankees_PrimaryLogo.svg

NEW YORK YANKEES
Melky Cabrera.
August 2, 2009 vs Chicago White Sox

Minnesota-Twins-Logo
MINNESOTA TWINS
Michael Cuddyer
May 22, 2009 vs Milwaukee

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SEATTLE MARINERS
Adrian Beltre.
September 1, 2009 vs. Texas
6xk2lpc36146pbg2kydf13e50
OAKLAND ATHLETICS
Mark Ellis
June 4, 2007 vs. Boston
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DETROIT TIGERS
Carlos Guillen
August 1, 2006 vs Tampa Bay.
216px-St._Louis_Cardinals_Logo.svg
ST. LOUIS CARDINALS
Mark Grudzielanek
April 27, 2005 vs. Milwaukee Brewers
Phillies
PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES
David Bell
June 28, 2004 vs. Montreal
toronto-blue-jays-logo-300x300
TORONTO BLUE JAYS
Jeff Frye
August 17, 2001 vs. Texas
chicago-cubs-logo

CHICAGO CUBS
Mark Grace
May 9, 1993 vs San Diego

kansas-city-royals-logo

KANSAS CITY ROYALS
George Brett
June 24, 1990 vs. Toronto

20080614093925!NLC-CIN-Logo
CINCINNATI REDS
June 2, 1989 vs. San Diego Padres

BONUS –

Last Cycles Hit For Teams in Old Locations

MONTREAL EXPOS
Vladimir Guerrero
September 14, 2003 vs. New York Mets

WashingtonSenators6171

WASHINGTON SENATORS
Jim King
May 26, 1964 vs. Boston

nygiants1216

NEW YORK GIANTS
Don Mueller
July 11, 1954 vs. Pittsburgh

ATHLETICS79565hw71h4m5djk38h0
PHILADELPHIA ATHLETICS
Elmer Valo
August 2, 1950 vs. Chicago White Sox

BROOKLYN
BROOKLYN DODGERS
Gil Hodges
June 25, 1949 vs. Pittsburgh

brownie1340

ST. LOUIS BROWNS
George McQuinn
July 19, 1941 vs. Boston Red Sox

DOVES7245

BOSTON DOVES
Bill Collins
October 6, 1910 vs. Philadelphia Phillies

Time is running out for the first Marlins cycle to be hit this year.

 

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – December 31, 2016

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Gregory Shamus/Getty Images North America

So 2016 is wrapping up. It was a strange year, but a memorable one for Cubs and Cleveland fans.

I look forward to 2017 and some new Sully Baseball features.

Crossing T’s and Dotting I’s on this Episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – November 14, 2016

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As the Cubs get all the attention this off season in Chicago, the White Sox need to examine what they are going to do at this cross road in the franchise’s history.

I look at the South Side for this episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Read the rest of this entry

Who Owns October and Who Owns the 2016 World Series (#WOO and #WOWS) Tallies Updated For November 1, 2016

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Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune

It all comes down to one game. Does it get better than that?

So who owned October and the World Series?

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.

But the World Series deserves its own stats. WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.)

At the end of the post season, we will see who had the highest WOO total as a pitcher and a hitter. The WOWS total will be kept separately. Each game now counts towards both tallies.

A complete description of the rules can be found HERE.

From November 1st
2016 World Series Game 6:

Receiving 1 WOO’s and WOWS

Jake Arrieta struck out 9 Indians in 5 2/3 innings, allowing 2 runs and earned the 9-3 decision for the Cubs in Game 6.

Kris Bryant collected 4 hits including a homer and a pair of runs scored as the Cubs clocked the Indians 9-3 and forced a Game 7.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s and WOWS

Jason Kipnis singled, doubled and homered, scoring a pair but the rest of the Indians were silenced in their 9-3 loss to the Cubs.

Current ‘WOWS’ Totals MLB 2016:

Hitters ‘WOWS’ MLB 2016,

Kris Bryant – Cubs 2,  Jason Kipnis – Indians 1 1/2, Coco Crisp  – Indians 1, Roberto Perez – Indians 1, Kyle Schwarber – Cubs 1, Rajai Davis – Indians 1/2, Dexter Fowler – Cubs 1/2, Mike Napoli – Indians 1/2, Jorge Soler – Cubs 1/2, Ben Zobrist – Cubs 1/2,

Pitchers ‘WOWS’ MLB 2016,

Jake Arrieta – Cubs 2,  Corey Kluber – Indians 2, Jon Lester – Cubs 1, Andrew Miller – Indians 1, Kyle Hendricks – Cubs 1/2, Bryan Shaw – Indians 1/2,

HCurrent WOO Totals MLB 2016

Hitters ‘WOO’ MLB 2016,

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

Pitchers ‘WOO’ MLB 2016,

Corey Kluber – Indians 4,  Jon Lester – Cubs 4, Andrew Miller – Indians 3,  Jake Arrieta – Cubs 2 1/2,   Kenley Jansen – Dodgers 2 1/2, Kyle Hendricks – Cubs 2,  Clayton Kershaw – Dodgers 2,   Roberto Osuna – Blue Jays 2, Josh Tomlin – Indians 2, Marco Estrada – Blue Jays 1 1/2, Madison Bumgarner – Giants 1, Aroldis Chapman – Cubs 1, Rich Hill – Dodgers 1, Derek Law – Giants 1,  Mark Melancon– Nationals 1, Ryan Merritt – Indians 1, Mike Montgomery – Cubs 1, Aaron Sanchez – Blue Jays 1, Marcus Stroman – Blue Jays 1, Travis Wood – Cubs 1,  Johnny Cueto – Giants 1/2, Matt Moore – Giants 1/2, Darren O’Day – Orioles 1/2, Max Scherzer – Nationals 1/2, Bryan Shaw – Indians 1/2, Noah Syndergaard – Mets 1/2,

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – October 31, 2016

ct-cubs-indians-world-series-game5-photos-058

Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune

Game 5 of the 2016 World Series was a thriller. I gave my in game thoughts and post game opinions as the baseball season moves on to November.

It is a raise the W and extend the season episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Jon Lester, Kris Bryant, Bryan Shaw and Rajai Davis all added to their totals for Who Owns October and Who Owns the World Series (WOO and WOWS.)

For the up to date standings of Who Owns October and Who Owns the World Series, go to MLB Reports

What is “Who Owns October”? Click HERE for an explanation.

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Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – August 2, 2016

chicago_2002_proper_1080p_blu_ray_x264_lchd_01_31

Miramax Films

The trade deadline was crazy, some teams screwed up and others did well. The Rangers were magicians and the Phillies were odd.

Meanwhile I need to praise Brian Cashman, and I compared him to Richard Gere in Chicago,

It is a Razzle Dazzle Them episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Danny Duffy, Max Kepler, Kyle Hendricks, Daniel Murphy, Matt Reynolds, Marcus Stroman and Mike Napoli all added to their totals for Who Owns Baseball yesterday.

See the updated listing of WOB on MLB Reports

 

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Midseason Top 100 MLB Prospect Rankings Analysis (11-20)

Below you can find my analysis for the prospects ranked between 11-20 for the 2016 midseason top prospect list. If you want to see the full top 100 list, please visit the following link: SEE THE TOP 100 PROSPECT RANKINGS. I will be posting daily analysis of every player listed in the top 100, so please follow my blog and other social media for updates.

 

  1. Alex Reyes (STL, 21 Years Old, RHP): If you are looking for a frontline starter, look no further. Reyes has the upside of a top-10 pitcher in the next few years. He has an elite fastball-breaking ball combination and his changeup has developed quite nicely. He has been known to touch 102-103 MPH with his fastball, so that speaks for itself. He has struggled this season at Triple-A, but that doesn’t take away from his potential. In 55 innings pitched, he owns a 5.07 ERA, 51 hits against, 79 strikeouts, and 27 walks. He has an elite strikeout rate, but his walk rate does scare me. He was just scratched from his most recent start in the minors, so many people believe the Cardinals are preparing to call him up to the big leagues.

SEE THE REST OF THE ARTICLE

Yankees Get A King’s Ransom From The Chicago Cubs For Aroldis Chapman

Many people believed the New York Yankees were going to be in “sell” mode this trade deadline, but today might have confirmed that notion. Reports say the Yankees have dealt four-time all-star, Aroldis Chapman, to the Chicago Cubs for what is believed to be four players. These players include the Cubs’ best prospect, Gleyber Torres, Billy McKinney, Adam Warren, and one other. I’m sure the Yankees weren’t too keen on rebuilding, but it is too hard to pass up this offer the Chicago Cubs made.

 

SEE THE REST OF THE ARTICLE

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – May 26, 2016

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Scott Kane – Getty Images

Jake Arrieta won again. He ALWAYS wins. We keep hearing about his amazing win streak. They leave out the fact that in the middle of the win streak was his losing the biggest game of his life.

It is a “No disrespect, just stating facts” episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Steven Matz, Corey Kluber, Kris Bryant, Adam Lind, Dan Straily, Matt Adams and Logan Morrison all added to their totals for Who Owns Baseball yesterday.

See the updated listing of WOB on MLB Reports

 

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Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – February 23, 2016

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Rick Scuteri / USA TODAY Sports

The Cubs are the team to beat.

Read that sentence again. It seems strange to think about it, doesn’t it?

But seeing that they are the team to beat, don’t be surprise of someone beats them!

It is a don’t mention the Billy Goat episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

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183 in 2015: Ball Park Recaps 1 – 4

sponsorship

The GOAL: 183 Straight Days (every single day at least 1 gm) Of ALL 30 MLB Parks Trip In 2015 (218 Games)

The CAUSE:  To Raise Money for Concussion Awareness Through Inspiring Others

I have logged 4500 miles driving,  another 1000 taking busses thus far..

There were 4 Doubleheaders completed,  1 flush cancellation in regards to Wrigley., and several weird things happening to prevent me from completing all I needed to do.

I made it just fine to the MLB Season Opener. But after that has been a collision of cluster bangs for me to sift through. Read the rest of this entry

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, MLB Ball Park Pass-Port

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 The MLB Reports On Twitter 

***  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
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183 in 2015: Ball Park Preview, Game 3 – Wrigley Field

2015 MLB Trip Sponsors: Man Fish Brewery, Megabus.com, MLB Reports, National Car Rental, MLB Ball Park Pass-Port

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 The MLB Reports On Twitter 

***  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:  Tueday, Apr.07, 2015

Game # 3 Day # 3

Today’s game (s) Start Time (s) in EST  and Venue (s):

Wrigley Field :8:05 EST Cubs Vs Cards

After 3500 miles on the road since Friday., including 1000 yesterday,  it will be nice to be on the same park the next 2 games.

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Megabus Saves The Day For Travel Savings On Year Long MLB Trip

To this minute,  have booked over 70 bus rides that only cost me a $1 to book the journey with.  With the majority of my baseball games watched on the road in Philadelphia, New York, Washington, Baltimore and Washington, one can spend a fortune on parking, gas, tolls and hotels from extended driving.  Well, I am here to tell you that Megabus has rescued me from financial ruin on my upcoming journey.  These are bus rides so cheap, that you can probably find the fares in seat cushions of your couch or car!

To this minute, have booked over 70 bus rides that only cost me a $1 to book the journey with. With the majority of my baseball games watched on the road in Philadelphia, New York, Washington, Baltimore and Washington, one can spend a fortune on parking, gas, tolls and hotels from extended driving. Well, I am here to tell you that Megabus has rescued me from financial ruin on my upcoming journey. These are bus rides so cheap, that you can probably find the fares in seat cushions of your couch or car!

Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead Anayst): 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

Megabus Saves The Day For Travel Savings On Year Long MLB Trip

Go to their homepage and book a trip here.

I have changed my schedule so many times on the upcoming season that I never got around to posting the monthly and yearly master schedules. There is a reason for that.

Since the beginning of this ordeal it has come to down to every trick in the book I know to save on travel, and my new favorite go to is Megabus.com

It is a Bus Site that starts the bidding on many bus fares for just $1 on certain days and times. As the times approach for the date to arrive, the rates incrementally go up.

I am lucky to feature 120+ games with both New York clubs, Boston, Baltimore, Washington and Philadelphia this campaign, as such I am fortunate to reel in the savings.

To date, I have placed bookings on over 70 bus rides for $1.00 between these fine cities. I even found a few loopholes to circumnavigate the $10 fares that are customary between Pittsburgh with New York and Boston, while using the Beltway cities of Washington and Baltimore to do the same.

The hub for all of these fine cities, (median so to speak) is Philadelphia. If y ou stop there 1st , the journeys are a $1 there, and then repeat the fare to New York.

New York to Boston is always on the docket for just $1. Pretty much I spent all of Tuesday booking trips through Labor Day weekend. It was the 1st day these routes were live for purchasing. Task completed. Read the rest of this entry

The Chicago Cubs Should Pass On Tanaka

The Chicago Cubs are currently in the running for Masahiro Tanaka, the best pitcher in Japan over the last few years. In fact, near the end of this week he will be visiting Chicago to speak with both the Cubs and White Sox about his future employment, possibly with one of these teams. However the Cubs are currently on a path set for building, and shouldn’t put themselves in a position to throw off those plans by acquiring someone who’s ready for a “win now” type of team.

Chicago Cubs: Just Let Tanaka Go

By Robert Villarreal (MLB Reports Cubs Writer)

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter

Let me start by saying this: I have never seen Masahiro Tanaka play but from the footage I’ve seen I’d love to see him in Cubbie blue. 

He’s an incredible talent; So good in fact that once Yu Darvish left for America and the Major Leagues, he automatically became the best pitcher currently in Japan.

There are only 17 more days left in Tanaka’s 30-day signing period, with multiple teams anxiously awaiting a shot at the next pitching phenom.

However it would be in the Cubs best interest to pass on Tanaka at this time, no matter how incredible that argument may seem right now.

Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – November 23, 2013

ChicagoNow.com

ChicagoNow.com

Today The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast looks at Chicago… a big market city that certainly isn’t acting like one with their baseball teams.

Both stink. The White Sox have hope. The Cubs have a long term rebuilding… REALLY long term.

To subscribe on iTunes, click HERE.

To subscribe on SoundCloud, click HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – November 23, 2013

Trade Deadline Wrap – Up: Part I – The Winners

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Wednesday, August 7, 2013

The winners at the trade deadline have something in common.  One team used to call Theo Epstein their general manager and the other currently calls him their President.  Both the Red Sox and the Cubs have done a spectacular job at the deadline to meet the needs of their organizations.

The winners at the trade deadline have something in common. One team used to call Theo Epstein their general manager – and the other currently calls him their President. Both the Red Sox and the Cubs have done a spectacular job at the deadline to meet the needs of their organizations.  Boston fully expects to be in a pennant drive for the AL East, so adding a proven Starter like Peavy – is a great insurance move considering the Clay Buchholz injury situation.  Unlike last year, the Cubs were able to do some deals with their veterans – to help their team in the future.

By Nicholas Rossoletti (Yankees Correspondent/Trade Correspondent):

July 31, 2013 has come and gone.  The non-waiver trade deadline is always one of the more interesting times of the baseball year.  

Fans become obsessed with the idea of improving their team’s opportunity to win a World Series, whether it be for the upcoming October or in an attempt to rebuild for future seasons.

The question on everyone’s mind now that the deadline is over: how did your team do at the deadline? Did it get better? Did the organization “win” the transaction and will it translate now or later into more wins on the field?

This will end up invariably being a two-part article because of the depth we need to take to look at these moves.  Let’s get right into it with the Winners:

1. Boston Red Sox – The Red Sox are a unique team in that they are concerned both with the current championship window for 2013, but also, a larger window they hope to keep open over the next 3 to 5 years.  

In an effort to stabilize their rotation over the next 1 and 1/2 seasons, the Red Sox acquired Jake Peavy from the White Sox.  Peavy has pitched very well this season.  

His 8.55 K/9 and 1.91 BB/9 are both indicators of an elite level starting pitcher.  Peavy is not the same ace that he was during his prime of 2004 through 2007, but his current numbers speak to an adequate No. 1 starter or a very strong No. 2 starter.

JAKE PEAVY: THE NEWEST MEMBER OF THE RED SOX

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To Buy Or Not To Buy, That Is The Question For NYY? Soriano Deal Looks Imminent

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Tuesday, July 23, 2013

The trade deadline is quickly approaching, and there is very little doubt in the Bronx what the Yankees need.  For the first time since 1990, the Yankee offense is one of the worst in baseball. If there is any hope that the Yankees can compete for a playoff spot, the front office has to add pieces to the anemic Yankee lineup.

The trade deadline is quickly approaching, and there is very little doubt in the Bronx what the Yankees need. For the first time since 1990, the Yankee offense is one of the worst in baseball. If there is any hope that the Yankees can compete for a playoff spot, the front office has to add pieces to the anemic Yankee lineup. The Bronx Bombers are reeling out of the ALL – Star Break, dropping 3 of 4 – and 5 of their last 7 overall.  They need a quick resurgence, as the Rays have won 18 out of 20, while the Orioles have won 5 games in a row to both leapfrog them in the standings.  The Yankees begin play today 4.5 Games Behind the Playoff Bar.

By Nicholas Rossoletti (Yankees Correspondent/Trade Correspondent):

The dog days of summer have arrived.  Every team has played in excess of 90 games, and the All-Star break has come and gone.  At this point, it seems only right that we discuss the Yankees as either buyers or sellers at the trade deadline.

 Going into Sunday, the Yankees were 6 games behind the Red Sox for first place and were 8 games over .500, which is good for fourth in the uber-competitive American League East.  

Certainly, a playoff spot is still available to the Yankees at this point, and I believe that if you are the Yankees you have to at least examine the market to find what offensive help is available.

The Yankees have pitched well throughout the first half and have both David Phelps and Michael Pineda returning from injury in the next few weeks so the team has enough pitching to get them through the second half and potentially into a playoff spot.  

The major issue has been and will continue to be the once vaunted Yankees offense is a shadow of its former self.

ALFONSO SORIANO ON THE THROW DOWN:

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Chicago Cubs Payroll In 2013: Team Organizational Rosters + Depth Charts – (MLB + MiLB)

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Wednesday, May.29/2013

Anthony Rizzo entered 2013 with high expectations as the Cubs Opening Day First Baseman. He has come along way since 2008.  The man has battled injuries, 2 team changes and has settled down in Chicago to be one of he most promising young power hitting prospects in the MLB today.  He could end up being a 35 - 40 HR, 100 RBI man in the 'Windy City' - and this would make him an icon at Wrigley Field.  Recently he signed a 7 YR/ $41 MIL extension and will be a vital part in the rebuild of this franchise

Anthony Rizzo entered 2013 with high expectations as the Cubs Opening Day First Baseman. He has come along way since 2008. The man has battled injuries, 2 team changes and has settled down in Chicago to be one of he most promising young power hitting prospects in the MLB today. He could end up being a 35 – 40 HR, 100 RBI man in the ‘Windy City’ – and this would make him an icon at Wrigley Field. Recently he signed a 7 YR/ $41 MIL extension and will be a vital part in the rebuild of this franchise.  He is hitting for a 3 Slash Line of .263/.324/.829 – with 10 HRs and 35 RBI in 50 in 50 Games in the 2013 season.

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  

You guys are all in for a treat.  Jeff Kleiner recently contacted me about a partnership merge for the website.  He has developed a site (prosportsrosters.com) that covers all organizational affiliates in the Minors for all of the Major League Baseball Clubs.  We are going to combine efforts to bring you the best look at salaries, current 25 Man Player Rosters and Depth Charts for all 30 teams. 

Jeff is going to provide the documents in form of spreadsheets and I am going to accompany the posts with deep analysis of what the numbers tell us from my perspective.  If you can’t wait for all of my assessments for each club, go and visit Jeff’s website over at http://www.prosportsrosters.com.

In Speaking with Jeff, he is one of the more passionate fans I have come across towards the game of baseball.  He spends enough time in updating his MLB Facts for it to be a Full-Time Job.  So after the usual Video Clip and READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY button, you will find some serious &*!@?!#!

Jeff updates this page below on a daily basis.  After you click on it….Bookmark it.  There is a 3 year salary forecast and stats not listed here on this page.  Jeff updates these pages daily and these changes include any Roster moves!

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

Starlin Castro Highlights 2012 – Mature Lyrics So Parental Guidance Is advised

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A Night With Mookie Wilson Part 2: The Interview

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Thursday, May 9th, 2013

By Jordan Hennessey (Blue Jays Correspondent) 

One night with Mookie Wilson Part 2: The Interview

“Personality outweighed talent, you are most successful on the field when you have a group of men who are willing to make sacrifices for the betterment of the team. He thought the 1988 team might have been better, but the 1986 team “got the most out of each other” – Mookie Wilson.

To Read About A Night with Mookie Wilson Part 1 – click here

Click past the READ THE REST OF THE ENTRY ICON TO KEEP READING + Listen to the Audio Interview:

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Cubs Payroll In 2013 And Contracts Going Forward

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Saturday, Mar.02, 2013

The Cubs final payroll from 2012 was just north of $107 Million, and, over the winter, President of Baseball Operations Theo Esptein and GM Jed Hoyer added plenty of pitching depth to the 2013 team.

The Cubs final payroll from 2012 was just north of $107 Million, and, over the winter, President of Baseball Operations Theo Esptein and GM Jed Hoyer added plenty of pitching depth to the 2013 team.

By Alex Kantecki (Cubs Correspondent):

Only the Houston Astros stood between the Chicago Cubs and last place in the NL Central in 2012. The Cubs lost 101 games – their most losses since 1966, when the team went 51-103 — and finished with the second worst record in baseball. Under President of Baseball Operations Theo Epstein, the Cubs went backwards from the year before, losing 10 more games than in 2011.

Epstein continues to rebuild the Cubs’ farm system, and the organization boasts four top prospects – Shortstop Javier Baez, Outfielder Albert Almora, Outfielder Jorge Soler and Relief Pitcher Arodys Vizcaino — all of whom are represented in the Top 100 Prospects of Baseball America and Baseball Prospectus. Over the winter, the Cubs bolstered their Starting Pitching staff, adding Starters Edwin Jackson, Scott Feldman, Scott Baker and Carlos Villanueva.

Chicago Cubs 2012 Highlights: Mature Lyrics so Parental Guidance is advised:

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Todd Helton Should Be Retiring After This Year – But With His Head Held High!

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Wednesday February.27,  2013

Helton is still the active Leader in the MLB -  with a Career OBP of .419.  He was the beneficiary of the Pre - Humidor days of Coors Field, however he does have a .289/..84/.864 3 Slash Line on the Road.  His Coors Field 3 Slash Line is .350/.447/1.06

Helton is still the active Leader in the MLB – with a Career OBP of .419. He was the beneficiary of the Pre – Humidor days of Coors Field, however he does have a .289/.384/.864 3 Slash Line on the Road. His Coors Field 3 Slash Line is .350/.447/1.060.  He also has been a great defender – having won 3 Gold Gloves the early part of the 2000’s.  His best year was in 2000 – where he hit for a Slash Line of .372/.463/1.162 with 42 HRs, 59 2B and 147 RBI.  He flirted with .400 well into Aug.

By Jon Schifferle ( Rockies Correspondent – visit his own personal website here  .  Follow him on twitter here   

Todd Helton, the Rockies first round draft choice in 1995, has been a staple in the Rockies lineup ever since his first full season in 1998.  A batting champion, 5 time All-Star, 3 time Gold Glove winner, and the holder of many Rockies team records, plus he should be the first player to ever have his number retired by the Rockies after he retires.  The question is, when should he retire? 

Helton is clearly ending his career in the near future.  His 2012 numbers were definitely not where they need to be, especially considering the boost that he gets from playing in Coors Field for half of his games (he hit a dismal .208 on the road last season).  You could blame his struggles last season on his injuries, but even then you have to ask yourself if he will be able to recover, and if the injuries permanently damage his ability to play the game.   

Todd Helton 2011 Highlight Mix –

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Anthony Rizzo’s Time Is Now

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Thursday, February.14, 2013

Rizzo had  a decent rookie campaign - with a 3 Slash Line of .285/.342/.805 with 15 HRs and 48 RBI in just 337 AB during the 2012 season.

Rizzo had a decent rookie campaign – with a 3 Slash Line of .285/.342/.805 with 15 HRs and 48 RBI in just 337 AB during the 2012 season.

By Alex Kantecki (Cubs Correspondent):

One winter ago, Chicago Cubs President of Baseball Operations Theo Epstein and General Manager Jed Hoyer acquired First Baseman Anthony Rizzo from the San Diego Padres in exchange for hard-throwing Right-Hander Andrew Cashner, one of the Cubs’ top pitching prospects at the time.

But this wasn’t Epstein’s and Hoyer’s first go-around with the 6-foot-3, 220-pounder, who – along with Cubs Senior Vice President of Scouting and Player Development Jason McLeod – drafted Rizzo while serving as Boston’s GM and Assistant GM, respectively, in 2007. The threesome reunited four years later and brought the 23-Year Old star-in-the-making over to the North Side:

“We believe Anthony has the potential to be a middle-of-the-order run producer for the Cubs for a very long time,” Hoyer said (link here). “He still has some development left. We feel what he’s done at age 20 at Double-A and Age 21 at Triple-A was remarkable.”

Anthony Rizzo Highlights From 2012: Mature Lyrics so Parental Guidance is advised:

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MLB Player Profile: Chicago Cubs SP Matt Garza

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Friday, January.18, 2013

Matt Garza may only have a Career Record of 57-61 (.483)  - but had a ERA if 3.84 during his 7 year career for the Cubs, Rays and Twins.

Matt Garza may only have a Career Record of 57-61 (.483) – but had a ERA if 3.84 during his 7 year career for the Cubs, Rays and Twins.  He also has carried an ERA of under 4 for 6 straights seasons – including 3 tough years in the AL East.

Alex Kantecki (Guest Baseball Writer and Cubs Correspondent):

Matt Garza was Jim Hendry’s last big addition before the Cubs general manager got the boot in 2011. The Cubs needed a dependable No. 3 to slot in the rotation behind Cubs’ mainstays Ryan Dempster and Carlos Zambrano, and Garza fit the bill. In three years with Tampa Bay, Garza compiled a 34-31 record with a 3.86 ERA and a 1.25 WHIP with 7.10 K/9 and 3.05 BB/9 in 592.1 Innings Pitched — not ace numbers by any stretch of the imagination, but respectable for a No. 2/No. 3 type.

 Garza, 29, was an innings-eater, with two straight seasons of 200-plus innings from 2009-2010. To acquire Garza, the Cubs sent five prospects, including No. 1 prospect Chris Archer and No. 4 prospect Hak-Ju Lee to Tampa Bay. The move, considered by many as a desperation trade by a general manager looking to save his job, is still scrutinized today. But should it be?

Matt Garza Highlight:  Worst Throw Ever to 1st Base?

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MLB Player Profile: The Cubs OF Alfonso Soriano

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Sunday, January.06, 2013

Alfonso Soriano has hit 434 Career HRs in 14 Years and has clubbed 164 of them with Chicago over the last 6 years.  He is on the 7th Year of an 8 YR/136 Million Dollar Contract.  He has made 2 ALL-Star Appearances with the Cubs.

Alfonso Soriano has hit 373 Career HRs in 14 Years and has clubbed 164 of them with Chicago over the last 6 years. He is on the 7th Year of an 8 YR/136 Million Dollar Contract. He has made 2 ALL-Star Appearances with the Cubs.  The Man also has 270 SB and 836 Extra Base Hits.  He should end his Career with over 1000 XBH, which would place him in the top 40 of ALL-Time for that Category.

Alfonso Soriano: Misunderstood, Good, But Never A Fit    

Alex Kantecki (Guest Baseball Writer and Cubs Correspondent):

It’s no secret Alfonso Soriano isn’t the most liked player among Cubs fans. Following the 2006 season when then general manager Jim Hendry signed the Outfielder to the largest contract in team history ($136 Million over eight years), fans dreaming of a World Series title pinned their hopes on the unconventional Leadoff hitter that hit 46 HR and stole 41 bases with the Washington Nationals the year before. Soriano did his part and helped lead the Cubs to two straight National League Central titles in 2007 and 2008, but the Cubs were swept away in the Division Series both years. Like his teammates, Soriano struggled to do much of anything in the postseason, collecting three hits in 29 Plate Appearances and failing to score or drive in a single run in six games.

Alfonso Soriano 2012 Highlights – Parental Guidance Is Advised

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Kevin Youkilis: (The Greek God Of Walks) Can Still Help A Ball Club

Wednesday, Nov.28/2012

Youkilis was well short of his .388 Career OBP with the White Sox in 2012 (.346), however the guy is still better than over half of the 3B in the MLB. With the White Sox, his OPS was .772.

Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Writer/Website Owner):

Part of being a baseball writer is leaving some of your fandom behind in the wake of it.  I never thought in a million years I would be writing a praise-full piece about Kevin Youkilis.  But here it is… Last month, the White Sox declined his 13 Million Dollar 2013 Team Option and bought him out for a 1 Million Dollars.  Anyone could have projected this, including Youkilis, but why didn’t Kenny Williams try to get creative with it?  What if they could have offered Youkilis a 2 year extension for 5-6 Million Dollars and bring the total value of the contract up to around 19 Million Dollars for the 3 years with the added $?  Youkilis stabilized the White Sox’s 3B position nicely during his 80 game stint.  His 3 category stat line read .236/.346/.772, with 15 HRs and 46 RBI and 47 Runs in 292 AB.)  If you double that production, his full year totals would have been about 30 HRs, 92 RBI and 95 Runs.  Those numbers will still fetch a pretty penny on the open market.  Now that the White Sox have bought him out, he can sign with anyone. Read the rest of this entry

Beltre and Hamilton Need to Carry the Rangers for a 3rd Straight WS Appearance

Tuesday, August.28/2012

Hamilton and Beltre need to carry the Rangers to their 3rd straight World Series Appearance. This feat has not been done since the Yankees went to 4 straight WS Appearances from 1998-2001.

Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Writer): It is Adrian Beltre Awareness Week! What is that exactly?  I have adopted an idea to carry out on twitter-in order to provide the unheralded players of the MLB, their just credit.  So far there has been Juan Pierre, Mike Morse , Jose Altuve  Awareness Weeks and now it is Adrian Beltre’s turn.  I decided on the Rangers 3rd base slugger because I believe that he is on a path for Cooperstown.  Rather than bore you with details I have already written about before on the Reports, you can click here for my previous article on Beltre hitting himself into Hall Of Fame Consideration: click here.

Okay back to the point.  It was right after Adrian Beltre’s 3 HR game that I started sending out my link on the article and hailing Beltre as a man worthy for Cooperstown if he keeps it up.  I had many of my followers indicate they had never thought about him like that.  In bullet point style here.  Right after that he had a 3 hit game, in which he was a Triple short of the cycle.  The next day he hit for his second career cycle.  It made me feel really good about my stance on the guy.  5 HRs, 2 Doubles, a Triple and 2 singles is a month for some guys and Beltre accomplished this feat in 14 AB over 3 games.  That is 29 total bases folks, a slugging percentage of over 2 and a .714 Average.  The Rangers offense has several players that seem to blow up like this.  Nelson Cruz had 8 RBI not so long ago.  Beltre had that 3 homer game in the ALCS last year.  Then there was Josh Hamilton and his 4 HR game.  Hamilton has also had 3 games this year where he had collected 5 RBI or more.

The Rangers are a power house offense.  They have guys like Mitch Moreland and Mike Napoli hitting 8th routinely.  They are going to win the AL West for a 3rd Straight year.  With all of this said, something doesn’t resonate with me in them making their 3rd straight World Series this year.  That feat has not been accomplished since the Yankees made 4 fall classics in a row from 1998-2001.  The Rangers are vulnerable and have weaknesses in their pitching.  They don’t have C.J Wilson this year and Rookie Yu Darvish is slowing down after a great first half.  I think with Darvish, it is the innings that are catching up to him.  In Japan, they usually have 6 man rotations.  This is new territory for the talented chucker.

Adrian Beltre Highlights!

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Us Cellular Field: Book Excerpt from ‘The Fastest 30 Ball Games.’

Wednesday August.01/2012

Baseball Park World Record Chasing All-Started for me at US Cellular Field. I had my first retro-active game if needed) on July.1/2008 of my first ever streak chase. I also finished my 30-29 at the CEL.’ I had gone to 40 Baseball Games in 35 Days overall.

     Game#2 Day#1

US Cellular Field

Chicago, IL

July.02/2008

I had a tip from my brother Trent early on in the planning stages, that the United States airline companies often ‘sand-bag’ their flying times to destinations to take jet-way delays into consideration.  More often than not, the airlines are able to beat the scheduled arrival time by many minutes.  I actually used a tool on the internet called ‘Flight Tracker’ to watch the very flight I was on to see if this was a correct statement.  I watched this exact flight land 4 weeks in a row, all approximately 15 minutes earlier then the 6:32 PM time it was supposed to arrive on that day.  That day I was not as lucky.  It was after all a ‘Chicago Airport.’  Still at a 6:30 PM arrival-I had about 40 minutes to first pitch.  I had called in a sedan service to pick me up from ‘MIDWAY’.

True to their word, there was a young guy in his twenties waiting for me in the arrival gate and he escorted me through to the limo stand at a running pace.  I saw it had started to rain and weather was something I would always keep my eye on during transportation throughout the trip. Read the rest of this entry

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