Blog Archives

Re – Aligning To 4 Divisions May Help The MLB

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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Since the MLB doth refuses to address their salary discrepancies among teams in the league, how about we take another radical approach?

How about eliminate the 6 Divisions – and come back with 4 new divisions!

We can also go back to 14 teams in the AL and 16 in the NL.

I have long since agreed with this websites philosophy on re-aligning the Divisions for payroll and geography reasons. Read the rest of this entry

Master Schedule For All MLB Doubleheader Attempts In April 2014

All 2430 games will be posted at MLB reports, and we will also have schedules for interleague, doable doubleheaders attempts at parks, weekly, monthly and a running page with all games on 1 page post.  All at www.mlbreports.com

All 2430 games in the 2014 MLB schedule  are now posted at MLB reports, and we will also have schedules for interleague, doable doubleheaders attempts at parks, weekly, monthly and a running page with all games on 1 page post. All at http://www.mlbreports.com

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

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

Over the last few years the MLB has made doubleheaders more capable – by scheduling so many matinees in the month of April.

While these games are subject to many weather delays because of how early it is in the year, the most amount of action for doubleheader attempts will be this month.

Now a lot of people think this is a crazy way to witness contests in the Majors, as some would prefer to soak up all of the sights in the park – and not rush in veering off to another ballpark.

For this, I understand, I am just crafting out another way to do this. Read the rest of this entry

The Modern Day Doubleheader For Baseball Fans Of The MLB

Breaking the World Record for "Fastest To See all 30 MLB Park (every pitch): caused me to study every possible scenario for all Doubleheader Attempt humanly possible for all MLB Teams.  Over the course of the next week - I will dissecting the 2014 MLB schedule - in order to list every 2 games in one day scenarios this year.  I will list them by month blogs first, and then have a dedicated page at this website - that has the whole year on one page post!

Breaking the World Record for “Fastest To See all 30 MLB Parks” (every pitch): caused me to study every scenario for all Doubleheader Attempts humanly possible for all MLB Teams. Over the course of the next week – I will dissecting the 2014 MLB schedule – in order to list every 2 games in one day maneuver this year. I will list them by month blogs first, and then have a dedicated page at this website – that has the whole year on one page post!

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

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

Gone are the days when baseball teams deliberately schedule two games in one stadium like teams used to do in past generations.  

If there is not a postponed game for the duration of your team’s schedule, you will not even have this occurrence.   I am here to tell that modern-day traveling has opened up possibilities for two games in one day for separate cities like never before.

For the extreme ballpark chasers, nothing is more exciting for a baseball fan when Major League Baseball posts the new season’s calendar.  Usually the brass does this in mid-September.  

Across the world, ballpark goers mark their favorite teams mapped out schedule.

A lot of fans check off what new or old baseball parks they want to visit in the next season.  Plans formulate with a heavy thought to their own planned vacation time.  ‘

For the most hard-core baseball fan, their whole lives revolve around this process.

Posting the schedule mind you, is only part one of itinerary.

Read the rest of this entry

2014 Prognostications As Of Right Now In The MLB

The Royals may be the benefactors of a vaunted AL East Division - and a massively improved AL West this year.  I think Cleveland, Minnesota and Chicago will struggle to nail down 70 wins, and Detroit may also regress a couple of wins.  This could help Kansas City break a 29 year playoff drought.

The Royals may be the benefactors of a vaunted AL East Division – and a massively improved AL West this year. I think Cleveland, Minnesota and Chicago will struggle to nail down 70 wins, and Detroit may also regress a couple of wins. This could help Kansas City break a 29 year playoff drought – via a Wild Card Berth..

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter

Okay, yes these may very well change in the next two months, however I must report on the early front runners to how things are shaping up from where teams stand today.

It is important when you are looking over people’s predictions that the sum of all wins equals 2430 wins.  The reason is because that is the number of games played in the Majors each year.

The ‘MLB Fancave’ in New York may have been the first ones to make that mainstream knowledge, yet smart baseball handicappers have been figuring this out for years. Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – January 30, 2014

 (AP Photo/Al Behrman)

(AP Photo/Al Behrman)

Where should Joey Votto bat? Is he a #3 hitter? Is he a #2 hitter?

Today on The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast, I ask the obvious question: Why isn’t Joey Votto the lead off hitter for the Cincinnati Reds??

To subscribe to The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast on iTunes, click HERE.

To subscribe on SoundCloud, click HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – January 30, 2014

All 2430 MLB Regular Season Games On 1 Page Post (Game Times Given So Far)

Do yourself a favor and read this blog on the 30 MLB Park Pass-Port here

Before You read the whole 2014 MLB season, just wanted to say that MLB Reports is going to be the best website on the planet for the MLB 2014 scheduling.

For Weekly/Monthly MLB Schedules or all 2430 MLB games in 2014 on 1 page post – find the links master grid right here Read the rest of this entry

MLB Schedule Sept 2014

Do yourself a favor and read this blog on the 30 MLB Park Pass-Port here

Before You read the Month Schedule for Sept 2014, just wanted to say that MLB Reports is going to be the best website on the planet for MLB 2014 scheduling.

For Weekly/Monthly MLB Schedules or all 2430 MLB games in 2014 on 1 page post – find the links master grid right here Read the rest of this entry

MLB Schedule Aug 2014

Do yourself a favor and read this blog on the 30 MLB Park Pass-Port here

Before You read the Month Schedule for Aug 2014, just wanted to say that MLB Reports is going to be the best website on the planet for MLB 2014 scheduling.

For Weekly/Monthly MLB Schedules or all 2430 MLB games in 2014 on 1 page post – find the links master grid right here Read the rest of this entry

MLB Schedule July 2014

Do yourself a favor and read this blog on the 30 MLB Park Pass-Port here

Before You read the Month Schedule for July 2014, just wanted to say that MLB Reports is going to be the best website on the planet for MLB 2014 scheduling.

For Weekly/Monthly MLB Schedules or all 2430 MLB games in 2014 on 1 page post – find the links master grid right here Read the rest of this entry

MLB Schedule June 2014

Do yourself a favor and read this blog on the 30 MLB Park Pass-Port here

Before You read the Month Schedule for June 2014, just wanted to say that MLB Reports is going to be the best website on the planet for MLB 2014 scheduling.

For Weekly/Monthly MLB Schedules or all 2430 MLB games in 2014 on 1 page post – find the links master grid right here Read the rest of this entry

MLB Schedule May 2014

Do yourself a favor and read this blog on the 30 MLB Park Pass-Port here

Before You read the Month Schedule for May 2014, just wanted to say that MLB Reports is going to be the best website on the planet for MLB 2014 scheduling.

For Weekly/Monthly MLB Schedules or all 2430 MLB games in 2014 on 1 page post – find the links master grid right here Read the rest of this entry

Interleague Master Schedule For The 2014 MLB Season

Do yourself a favor and read this blog on the 30 MLB Park Pass-Port here

In this blog, we look at the start times, plus home an away teams for all of the Interleague schedule during the 2014 season.

For Weekly/Monthly MLB Schedules or all 2430 MLB games in 2014 on 1 page post – find the links master grid right here

Read the rest of this entry

MLB 2014 March – April Schedule – Includes All Home Openers

Ballpark Chaser Guides Links Courtesy of http://www.ballparkchasers.com:

Also do yourself a favor and read this blog on the 30 MLB Park Pass-Port here

Before You read the Month Schedule for March-April/2014, here are 30 Links to Ballpark Chaser Guides, that will aid you in your road trip quests.

American League

AL EAST

Yankee Stadium, Bronx, NY  (New York Yankees)

Fenway Park, Boston, MA (Boston Red Sox)

Rogers Centre, Toronto, ON (Toronto Blue Jays)

Tropicana Field, St. Petersburg, FL (Tampa Bay Rays)

Oriole Park, Baltimore, MD  (Baltimore Orioles)

AL CENTRAL

Comerica Park, Detroit, MI (Detroit Tigers)

U.S. Cellular, Chicago, IL (Chicago White Sox)

Progressive Field, Cleveland, OH (Cleveland Indians)

Target Field, Minneapolis, MN (Minnesota Twins)

Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City, MO (Kansas City Royals)

AL WEST

Angel Stadium of Anaheim, Anaheim, CA (Los Angeles Angels)

Rangers Ballpark, Arlington, TX (Texas Rangers)

Minute Maid Park, Houston, TX (Houston Astros)

Safeco Field, Seattle, WA (Seattle Mariners)

O.co Coliseum, Oakland, CA (Oakland Athletics)

National League

NL EAST

Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia, PA (Philadelphia Phillies)

Nationals Park, Washington, DC (Washington Nationals)

Marlins Park, Miami, FL (Miami Marlins)

Citi Field, Flushing, NY (New York Mets)

Turner Field, Atlanta, GA (Atlanta Braves)

NL CENTRAL

Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati, OH (Cincinnati Reds)

Miller Park, Milwaukee, WI (Milwaukee Brewers)

Wrigley Field, Chicago, IL  (Chicago Cubs)

PNC Park, Pittsburgh, PA (Pittsburgh Pirates)

Busch Stadium, St. Louis, MO (St. Louis Cardinals)

NL WEST

AT&T Park, San Francisco, CA (San Francisco Giants)

Petco Park, San Diego, CA (San Diego Padres)

Chase Field, Phoenix, AR (Arizona Diamondbacks)

Coors Field, Denver, CO (Colorado Rockies)

Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles, CA (LA Dodgers) Read the rest of this entry

All 30 MLB Parks In 21 Days – 2014?

All 2430 games will be posted at MLB reports, and we will also have schedules for interleague, doable doubleheaders attempts at parks, weekly, monthly and a running page with all games on 1 page post.  All at www.mlbreports.com

All 2430 games will be posted at MLB reports, and we will also have schedules for interleague, doable doubleheaders attempts at parks, weekly, monthly and a running page with all games on 1 page post. All at http://www.mlbreports.com.  I have spent thousands of hours dissecting the MLB schedule for the last 7 years.  It helped aid me in becoming the fastest human ever to witness (every pitch for all 30 MLB home games) – when I made it to all stadiums in 23 calendar days from Apr.6th – Apr.28/2012.  I broke my own record that was set in 2009 (30 – 24). It takes countless hours figuring out geography, finances – and setting up contingency plans if you fail at a game.  You will see a snippet of my work here.

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

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

I haven’t been able to sleep for a few days.  After blowing off the snail speed website of http://www.mlb.com for not converting the last 7 teams home start times, I decided to try my luck with http://www.espn.com.

Much to my delight, they have posted all of the games times for all 30 MLB clubs – in coordination with the teams doing so themselves on their own sites.

I have done this for the last 7 years.  Yes, it is sad in a way, but we all have our vices in life, mine just happens to be the master schedule for Major League Baseball.

My interest this year was ramped up even more when Craig Calcaterra wrote a blog about how somebody was doing 30 Ballparks in 30 days.

I am not going to say this is not still a great feat – because it is, I just wish he would have taken 5 seconds to google the record holder for “Fastest To See All 30 MLB Ballparks.”

Once again, this wasn’t done, so half of the story wasn’t told.

For those that have followed this website over the course of 2011 – 2014, or even have been a part of ballparkchasers.com – will be aware we have a fraternity of insane stadium goers.

ALL Games Attended – you must be there from 1st to last pitch.  You have to go to all 30 parks before returning to another one, otherwise it starts all over.

For Weekly/Monthly MLB Schedules or all 2430 MLB games in 2014 on 1 page post – find the links master grid right here

Read the rest of this entry

Some MLB Teams Need To Place Their Starting Times For The Majority Of Their Schedules Earlier

The Rays are always at the bottom for attendance in the Major Leagues, so it boggles my mind how they can't have their game times for the next year up that quick.  Weather is never a factor at all, and they have no geographical MLB teams remotely close to them.  The Royals and the Padres are also teams that do not post their times early enough - while sagging at the gates.

The Rays are always at the bottom for attendance in the Major Leagues, so it boggles my mind how they can’t have their game times for the next year up that quick. Weather is never a factor at all, and they have no geographical MLB teams remotely close to them. The Royals and the Padres are also teams that do not post their times early enough – while sagging at the gates.

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

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I am a big fan of the MLB posting their schedules  so early compared to other sporting entities.  However with this being said, there are several teams who have not completed their start times for the majority of their home ballparks 2014 campaign yet.

My question is, why the hell not?

In an economy starving for our entertainment dollar, what is the hold up? 

Look I am all for the quirks in the variances for each club based on ESPN Sunday night baseball, heck, even coordinating with the other geographical rivals in your area, to have the most potential ticket buyers head through the wickets at your turnstiles.

As of right now, the Tigers, Astros, Rays, Angels, Red Sox, Rangers, Padres, Indians, Royals, Braves, and White Sox have not posted these. Read the rest of this entry

Updated Odds To Win The 2014 MLB World Series As Of Right Now:

The Blue Jays were the odds on favorite to win the World Series in 2013 among oddsmakers.  After a failure of a season, these guys are still placing way too much faith in the team.  To have them listed as tied with the Rays for the 12th best odd to win the World Series is a joke.  Stay away from this bet.  The odd should be +3000 - and not +1800.  Toronto is listed as tied for the 3rd favorite in the AL East, behind Boston and New York respectively.  It could really be another last place finish in the Division for the Canadian franchise.

The Blue Jays were the odds on favorite to win the World Series in 2013 among oddsmakers. After a failure of a season, these guys are still placing way too much faith in the team. To have them listed as tied with the Rays for the 12th best odd to win the World Series is a joke. Stay away from this bet. The odd should be +3000 – and not +1800. Toronto is listed as tied for the 3rd favorite in the AL East, behind Boston and New York respectively. It could really be another last place finish in the Division for the Canadian franchise.

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

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

The top 12 clubs have opened up a little lead on all of the guys tied for 14th, which includes the Royals and Indians (more of a longshot, but +300 and +200 more respectively.

The Dodgers continue to be the current leaders to take home the prize.  If they are able to land Masahiro Tanaka for any reason, their +700 will be even lower.

I still think the Rangers are a bit of a bargain at +1100. They are behind Boston and Detroit in the AL leaderboard.

I would wait for to place a bet on the Boston Red Sox, if you are so inclined, because they are said to be out of the running.  Since this is the case, whomever shall acquire the NPB superstar, their odds will lower – and Boston may rise after.

The AL East is reigning supreme in this with 4 of the top 12 spots being positioned by them.  The worst Division is the AL Central who only possess 1 member in the top 12.

The Yankees were +1500 last week, and now have moved up to +1400 with the A’s and the Braves.

Again, if they are to bring Tanaka in the fold, I believe they will blow the luxury tax out of the water next year.  If you want to bet this club to win, I suggest you do so now.

Next to the totals, I have weighed in on what I think the odd should be. Read the rest of this entry

Updated Odds To Win The 2014 MLB World Series As Of Right Now: Tanaka Could Influence These Later

Masahiro Tanaka has finally been posted by his team from the NPB (Golden Lions).  Mark my words, with the exception of a crazy bid coming from the Dodgers way out West, no one will outbid the Yankees for this guys services.  Based on his age and wherewithal, the Pinstripers can alter their immediate future by landing the 25 Year Old Japanese Phenom.  If they spend the $125 MIL - $140 MIL for a 6 or 7 year total ($20 MIL post, plus player contract, look for them to blow their $189 MIL budget out of control in 2014, - and opt to reset in 2015 instead.)

Masahiro Tanaka has finally been posted by his team from the NPBL (Golden Lions). Mark my words, with the exception of a crazy bid coming from the Dodgers way out West, no one will outbid the Yankees for this guys services. Based on his age and wherewithal, the Pinstripers can alter their immediate future by landing the 25 Year Old Japanese Phenom. If they spend the $125 MIL – $140 MIL for a 6 or 7 year total ($20 MIL post, plus player contract, look for them to blow their $189 MIL budget out of control in 2014, – and opt to reset in 2015 instead.)  Tanaka was 24 – 0 – with a miniscule 1.27 ERA in 2013.

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

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

Since nothing has changed since last week, I have two bets for you to take – and one for you to avoid.

As I mentioned last Saturday, the Rangers have confirmed on the Shin-Soo Choo signing.  In my expert opinion this should have moved the line on Texas.

Instead, they are still the 3rd favorite to win the World Series coming out of the AL.

This is not right.  Maybe I could see the Tigers still ahead of them based on the Division they are in, but the Red Sox have no business being ahead of them.

The Best Of Masahiro Tanaka

Read the rest of this entry

Final 2013 Major League Attendances In The MLB

The "Trop" was frequented less in 2013 than any other MLB stadium and it is a shame.  The team has made 4 playoff spots in the last 6 years, has the 2nd best record in the game since the start of the 2008 campaign (NYY are 1st) and are sniffing the AL East crown out every year. Tropicana Field has been the only MLB Park for the Rays.  Unfortunately the club has a lease that runs through the year 2027.  There have been several talks of a downtown Tampa Stadium right off of Highway 4. All have plans have been derailed.  With limited revenues generated playing out of Tropicana Field, it will be tough to keep doing this year after year, however the management had the good foresight to see the MLB game switching back to more pitching and defense.  With some of the best players on the club locked up under team control,

The “Trop” was frequented less in 2013 than any other MLB stadium and it is a shame. The team has made 4 playoff spots in the last 6 years, has the 2nd best record in the game since the start of the 2008 campaign (NYY are 1st) and are sniffing the AL East crown out every year. Tropicana Field has been the only MLB Park for the Rays. Unfortunately the club has a lease that runs through the year 2027. There have been several talks of a downtown Tampa Stadium right off of Highway 4. All have plans have been derailed. With limited revenues generated playing out of Tropicana Field, it will be tough to keep doing this year after year, however the management had the good foresight to see the MLB game switching back to more pitching and defense. With some of the best players on the club locked up under team control, the management has been able to overcome all of these obstacles to field a competitive club.

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

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

It is funny how all of the top Free Agents have been signing with the American League teams in recent years.

Out of the 1.5 Billion Dollars in contracts offered this winter to guys, more than 1.1 Billion of those bucks have been given to guys like the M’s Robinson Cano (10 YRs.$240 MIL), Jacoby Ellsbury (7 YRs/$153 MIL), Shin-Soo Choo (7 YRs/$130 MIL) and potentially 6 YRs/$100 MIL for Brian McCann (5 YRs/85 MIL is guaranteed.).

For these reasons, you would think the AL is dominating the attendance every year.

As you will read here, they are not.

New Marlins BallPark 2012

Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – December 23, 2013

Rob Carr - Getty Images

Rob Carr – Getty Images

Shin Soo Choo signs an insane contract with the Rangers than can only be justified if the Rangers win it all. No pressure.

And I do the worst Grant Balfour impersonation EVAH on today’s episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

To subscribe to The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast on iTunes, click HERE.

To subscribe on SoundCloud, click HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – December 23, 2013

Jared Wickerham/Getty Images

Jared Wickerham/Getty Images

Updated Odds To Win The 2014 World Series As Of Right Now

Grant Balfour is a fiery Aussie, and has every right to be mad at the Baltimore Orioles.  Tests have shown his arm is no different than it was a few years ago.  Baltimore clearly decided at the last minute to weasel out of the deal.  The 35 Year Old has vowed revenge on Dan Duquette.  I hope he signs on with the Rays or Yankees - because then they play the O's 19 times a year.  You think Balfour is fired up to enter games - wait till he is called upon in games versus Baltimore from this point forward.

Grant Balfour is a fiery Aussie, and has every right to be mad at the Baltimore Orioles. Tests have shown his arm is no different from it was a few years ago. Baltimore clearly decided at the last-minute to weasel out of the deal. The 35 Year Old has vowed revenge on Dan Duquette. I hope he signs on with the Rays or Yankees – because then they play the O’s 19 times a year. You think Balfour is fired up to enter games – wait till he is called upon in games versus Baltimore from this point forward.  On a side note, with the Orioles penny-pinching their way through this winter, do not pick them to win anything in 2014.  Not very smart when you a have a tepid fanbase to begin with.  If the team has a shaky start, attendance and apathy will start.

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

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

It was a controversial week for the Baltimore Orioles, who had signed Grant Balfour to a 2 YR/$15.0 MIL contract – before backing out at the last second.

The O’s are tied with the Pirates and GIants for the 16th best odd to win the World Series.  While I believe there is great value with the other two teams stated there, Baltimore has had a brutal off-year.

My hunch is that they are going to sign Fernando Rodney instead.  Bad move fella’s.  You missed the ball on this one, not only that, i think you have pissed off your faithful fans at Camden Yards.

If this club doesn’t pull off any significant player to come into the fold, the walkup crowds will be lessened.

Balfour lights up Martinez verbally – Swearing involved here, parental guidance is advised

Read the rest of this entry

The Final Tallies On All 30 MLB Teams Payroll In 2013

The A's wrapped up their 16th AL West Title in 46 years since moving to Oakland yesterday.  They have clinched the Division at home the last 2 years.  It is even more impressive when they have been 29th and 27th in team payroll respectively.

The A’s wrapped up their 16th AL West Title in 46 years since moving to Oakland in late September of this previous campaign. They have clinched the Division at home the last 2 years. It is even more impressive when they have been 29th and 27th in the team payroll respectively during that time span.

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

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

The bills have been totaled up, and the final dollars have been put forth – to have the team salaries for all 30 MLB teams.

These totals reflect the 40 man rosters the clubs all carried in 2013, and what position they finished in cash wise versus the other 29 franchises.

We will definitely have many of different articles this offseason, dissecting all of these numbers.

With all of the Free Agents signed recently inked to big deals like: Robinson Cano, Jacoby Ellsbury, Hunter Pence, Brian McCann and Curtis Granderson, we should a bigger spike across the board in 2014.

A’s Win Back To Back AL WEST Titles

Read the rest of this entry

Passing The Torch From Greatest MLB Player To Player During The Years 1979 – 2013: From Brett To Cabrera

Cabrera has had back to back AL MVP seasons in 2012 and 2013.  He has also won 3 straight AL Batting Titles.  Cabrera is the best player offensively in the universe.  He has put up 10 straight 100+ RBI campaigns, but he has racked in 276 RBI, and also 88 HRs.  The 11 Year Veterans totals would have even been higher in 2013, but he fought a torn groin for the last half of the year.

Cabrera has had back to back AL MVP seasons in 2012 and 2013. He has also won 3 straight AL Batting Titles. Cabrera is the best player offensively in the universe. He has put up 10 straight 100+ RBI campaigns, but he has racked in 276 RBI, and also 88 HRs – while featuring an OPS well north of 1.000. The 11 Year Veterans totals would have even been higher in 2013, but he fought a torn groin for the last half of the year.  The 8 time ALL – Star and 5 time Silver Slugger Award Winner has improved even greater on his totals over the last decade.  Cabrera has a Career 3 Slash Line of .321/.399/.967 – with 365 HRs and 1260 RBI in just 1660 Games Played.

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

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

While watching Miguel Cabrera this year, I started thinking about the best players in the MLB over the last 33 years.  I am talking the best player of the game at any point of time. 

I tracked back to 1979 for this article.  I may expand further back in follow-up articles.  I didn’t rank defense as  highly as offense when I came up with the players. 

I agonized over players like Mike SchmidtJim Rice, Wade Boggs and Cal Ripken for some of the years given in specific time frames.  These gentlemen were given every consideration. 

In the end, we are talking about the best player in the game though and it is always subject to debate and personal opinion. 

The criteria had to involve leading the league in several different offensive and/or defensive categories, followed by routinely being in the top 7 in MVP balloting (if not taking home the honor), All-Star Appearances for every year I listed them for and most of them won silver sluggers and/or Gold Gloves as well.

Cabrera’s 3 HR Game – 2013

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Updated Odds To Win The 2014 World Series As Of Right Now

The last time the Tigers won a World Series was 1984.  They have not improved their chances quite yet in the offseason.  Absolute worst odd on the board as the #3 favorite

The last time the Tigers won a World Series was 1984. They have not improved their chances quite yet in the offseason. Absolute worst odd on the board as the #3 favorite

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

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

It is unbelievable to me that the oddsmakers are giving the Angels and Blue Jays a better chance to win next year’s World Series trophy – over the San Francisco Giants and Pittsburgh Pirates.

The two defending LCS champions are listed as tied for 4th at +1000, meaning you would win 1000 dollars for every 100 dollars wagered.

The Yankees are given the same amount of odd to win next year as the Atlanta Braves and the Oakland A’s.  Based on these projections, these guys have the Yankees potentially making the playoffs. 

While I am a fan of the Bronx Bombers, this is a poor odd value, so STAY AWAY.  Wait for the Yankees to at least sign 2 – 3 Starting Pitchers before you place that kind of wager.

Let It Ride scene – A great way to find out who to bet

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Cincinnati Reds State Of The Union: Is 2014 The Year?

The Cincinnati Reds are coming off of a heartbreaking season, losing in the one game playoff to the Pittsburgh Pirates. They finished third in the National League Central after winning the division in 2012. Manager Dusty Baker has been fired so the search is on for the next guy to take this team to the promise land. The Reds will most likely lose Shin-Soo Choo to free agency, and put Billy Hamilton in center field for 2014. Is 2014 the year of the Reds?

The Cincinnati Reds are coming off of a heartbreaking season, losing in the one game playoff to the Pittsburgh Pirates. They finished third in the National League Central after winning the division in 2012. Manager Dusty Baker had to be fired so a new manager could take this team to the promise land. Cincys will most likely lose Shin-Soo Choo to Free Agency, and put Billy Hamilton in center field next campaign. Is 2014 the year of the Reds?

BY Ryan Ritchey (Featured Baseball Columnist): 

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

For the Cincinnati Reds 2013 ended in a disappointment. The Reds won 90 games once again, finishing 3rd in the National League Central, but couldn’t get past the Pittsburgh Pirates in the National League Wild Card.

Right after the season the Reds manager Dusty Baker was fired. I could write a full post just on Dusty Baker and how many things he did right/wrong but I won’t get into that.

Billy Hamilton steals 4 bases in his 1st four Games

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Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – November 28, 2013

1978 Topps #401 Anderson MG

1978 Topps #401 Anderson MG

This Thanksgiving, I salute Sparky Anderson on the anniversary of his firing and talk a little Jack Morris and the Hall of Fame debate.

Gather the family around the computer, folks. It is a very Sully Baseball Daily Podcast Thanksgiving.

To read my tribute to Hall of Famer Turkey Stearnes, click here.

To subscribe on iTunes, click HERE.

To subscribe on SoundCloud, click HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – November 28, 2013

AL East Around The Horn – Hot Stove Talk

Boston better snap out of their post season celebrations long enough to tend to their own Free Agents.  The longer they wait to sign Mike Napoli. Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Stephen Drew and Jacoby Ellsbury, the longer the odds will be for the club to resign them.  Ellsbury is likely gone, and Drew could also be replaced with Bogaerts/Middlebrooks, however their Catcher and First Base scenario's need to be addressed

Boston better snap out of their post season celebrations long enough to tend to their own Free Agents. The longer they wait to sign Mike Napoli. Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Stephen Drew and Jacoby Ellsbury, the longer the odds will be for the club to resign them. Ellsbury is likely gone, and Drew could also be replaced with Bogaerts/Middlebrooks, however their Catcher and First Base scenario’s need to be addressed.  Other than A.J. Pierzynsnki, there is not a backstopper left on the FA market that would be equal or greater than Salty.  As for Napoli, there is not many 1B with power on the market, and I can’t see them bringing in James Loney or Justin Morneau.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twiter

The Yankees should still covet Carlos Beltran as their #1 target. As far as length goes, who cares if he wants a 4th year.   What all of a sudden you care about employing a 40 year old?

The Red Sox better watch themselves for their inactivity.  There are not many Catchers on the open market right now, and all of a sudden Jarrod Saltalamacchia is growing in value.

Also, don’t count out the Seattle Mariners making a pitch for Mike Napoli.  He is one of those guys who can transcend lineups with big swings. 

The M’s can boost attendance with some early season wins – and have money to spend

Mike Napoli Highlights 2013 – Mature Lyrics so parental guidance is advised

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Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – November 9, 2013

Photos: ESPN - Rob Tringali/MLB Photos/Getty Images

Photos: ESPN – Rob Tringali/MLB Photos/Getty Images

Today on The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast, I chatted with ESPN Insider writer and the creator of ZiPS, Dan Szymborski.

We talked about internet arguments, why fans will learn the wrong lesson from the 2013 Red Sox, predicted which teams would go on ill advised spending sprees and other topics.

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Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – November 9, 2013

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

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MLB’s Payroll Matters Part 2: Just Because Some Low Payroll Teams Have Bucked The Trend – Doesn’t Mean It Will Continue

It seems the only to way to build a team successfully - is to be atrocious for several (talking 6 - 8 seasons), stockpile top 5 Draft Picks, and have them all become your nucleus for a matter of a few seasons. The reason is because of Team Control Salaries.  Teams like the Rays and Pirates have also held players in the Minor Leagues longer than needed - due to salary and Arbitration implications.  I can think of Desmond Jennings, Wil Myers, Chris Archer for the Rays, while Gerrit Cole and Jeff Locke come to mind for the Bucs.

It seems the only to way to build a team successfully – is to be atrocious for several (talking 6 – 8 seasons like the Twins, Nationals, Pirates, Rays in recent years – and now the Astros are following suit), stockpile top 5 Draft Picks, and have them all become your nucleus for a matter of a few seasons. The reason is because of Team Controllable Salaries. Teams like the Rays and Pirates have also held players in the Minor Leagues longer than needed – due to salary and Arbitration implications. I can think of Desmond Jennings, Wil Myers, Chris Archer for the Rays, while Gerrit Cole and Jeff Locke come to mind for the Bucs.  If a player is ready for action in the Majors, he should playing – end of story.

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

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

Lets just take a look at the teams that have played well above their value.  The Twins are a story much like the Marlins in 1997 and 2003.

The Twins had a good team in the late 80’s, and won 2 World Series Titles in 1987 and 1991.  However the economics of the game hit them hard, and they struggled for an 8 year stretch in the AL Central.

For Part 1 of the MLB’s State Of the Union Part 1:  Click here.

Major League Contraction Talk Again?

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Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – October 4, 2013

Cara Owsley /The Cincinnati Enquirer

Cara Owsley /The Cincinnati Enquirer

The Division Series is NOT off to a flying start.
Meanwhile Dusty Baker is no longer the Reds manager. Will Joe Girardi take over?

Those topics and more on today’s Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

To subscribe on iTunes, click HERE.