Blog Archives

2 And A Hook Podcast #13: MLB Reports State Of The Union Address + MLB Fancave Top 7 Finalist Aaron Roberts

Like us on Facebook here

Friday, Aug.16 2013

A      berts ball 1

‘2 And A Hook’ is an expression from Baseball:  ‘Throw the guy 2 Fast balls and then a Hook’ (AKA Curve Ball, Wiggly one, Chair etc..)

By James Acevedo – Host (Podcast Veteran )

Guests On The Show:

On today’s show, brought to you by www.mlbreports.com 

& yours truly The Bench Warmers Show.

  I start off with the new replay rules that mlb wants to put in starting next season in 2014.

Chuck Booth (16 minute mark and a 40 Minute Segment) calls in on his segment to talk about the HUGE changes that are taking place on the MLB Reports website so make sure you all check that out!!

Also I got to talk to Thomas Aaron Roberts (1 hour in and 50 minutes) )

Roberts was one of the last 7 MLB Fancave Dwellers & was our first LA Dodgers correspondent back in the infancy of MLB Reports!!

We talked about his experience in the MLB Fancave, all of the ball players he met & advice on being a MLB Fancave Dweller for future contestants…

then we get into about his team the Dodgers & if he thinks they have a chance to go to the World Series!!

Plus i get into my future award winning segment & everyone’s favorite Stats & Facts so pull up a chair, download/play this podcast & SPREAD THE WORD!!! Thank you all for your continuous support!!!

Either click the link just below here… or you can go past the show logo or CLICK THE READ TO READ THIS ENTRY – to listen to it on our Player

2 And A Hook Podcast #13

Read the rest of this entry

The Indians 1st Year Under Francona Should End Up A Success – Even If It Doesn’t Mean Playoffs

Like us on Facebook here

Thursday August 15, 2013 

The Cleveland Indians are having a decent second half, but will it be enough to make the playoffs? It shouldn't really matter to Indians fans because they have a great future ahead of them. They have a great manager in Terry Francona and great young players in Jason Kipnis, Michael Bourn, Asdrubal Cabrera and many more.

The Cleveland Indians are having a decent second half, but will it be enough to make the playoffs? It shouldn’t really matter to Indians fans because they have a great future ahead of them. They have a great manager in Terry Francona and great young players in Jason Kipnis, Michael Bourn, Asdrubal Cabrera and many more.  The truth is that they just are not in the same competitive stratosphere as the Detroit Tigers at the present time.  They have a better chance to reel in a Wild Card Position.  As of today, they are 3.5 Games Behind Wild Card Leader #1 holder (Tampa Bay) – and are 3 Games Behind the Oakland Athletics for the 2nd spot.

Ryan Ritchey (Baseball Writer):

The Cleveland Indians have had a tremendous season under first year manager Terry Francona. It isn’t very often for a team like Cleveland to get a manager of his caliber.

Francona broke the curse in Boston, can he break the streak of Championshipless in Cleveland – since the days of Bob Feller via 1948?

I wrote an article right before the All-Star Break stating that the Indians would make a run in the second half and make the playoffs.

Well the best player on the planet Miguel Cabrera has spoiled that idea with all the Home Runs he has been hitting here lately. The Indians can’t make up any ground on the Tigers and they are running out of time.

It might not be this season but give Francona some time, he will make Cleveland a contender in no time. 

Kipnis – Inside The Park HR:

Read the rest of this entry

How All Of The Rockies Pitchers Were Acquired

Like us on Facebook here

Tuesday Aug.13/2013

In one of the better moves done recently by Rockies management, this former Indian was picked up by the team in 2009, for a player that has never made the Major Leagues.  Betancourt has a 0.994 WHIP in his Colorado Career - spanning 244 IP.  Impressive considering some of the Innings lugged are in the thin air of Coors Field

In one of the better moves done recently by Rockies management, this former Indian was picked up by the team in 2009, for a player that has never made the Major Leagues. Betancourt has a 0.994 WHIP and a 2.97 ERA in his Colorado Career – spanning 233.1 IP. Impressive considering some of the Innings lugged are in the thin air of Coors Field.  At age 39 next season, the club has a Team Option for $4.25 MIL.  They should do it.  Their Bullpen has been better than expected.

How All Of The Rockies Pitchers Were Acquired:

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

At the MLB Reports, we intend to show you the Roster Tree for the Colorado Rockies – and how they assembled their current roster for hitting and Pitching.  It will work in a six degrees of separation like format.

Once we figure out the origin of how many trades going back in time it takes to see where the tree started, it will be time to dissect how the team fared on the deals.

If a player has never left the organization at all, the tree will be easy – as it will just be the year they were drafted or signed.  Today, we will cover the Pitchers.

Jorge De La Rosa’s Great Start

Read the rest of this entry

30 MLB Team Power Rankings: Audio Version

Like us on Facebook here

Monday, Aug.12, 2013

The Triple Play Show will have 5 shows per month.  Each show will be about 1 hour

The Triple Play Show will have 5 shows per month. Each show will be about 1 hour. Chuck Booth will guest once a month for MLB Power Rankings,

By The Big Ticket Show ( AKA Triple Play Podcast on http://www.mlbreports.com)

Patrick sits in as the Producer and only representative of the Big Ticket Show – and Chuck Booth joins him to break down all 30 current rankings, plus what the clubs are up to.

To listen to the audio for this Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY logo or past the Triple Play Logo. 

If you want the written version of these rankings click here Read the rest of this entry

MLB 30 Team Power Rankings: Week 20

Like us on Facebook here

Sunday Aug.11/2013

Texas has fought off a July slump - and are 9 - 1 in their last 10 games.  They have added reinforcements in the way of Alex Rios and Matt Garza.  If they can just hold the course - and win the AL West, they have the horses and experience to challenge every other team.  The club was the biggest mover upwards in our rankings this week - going from #10 - #4

Texas has fought off a July slump – and are 9 – 1 in their last 10 games. They have added reinforcements in the way of Alex Rios and Matt Garza. If they can just hold the course – and win the AL West, they have the horses and experience to challenge every other team in October. The club was the biggest mover upwards in our rankings this week – going from #10 – #4.  It was not too long ago that the Rangers were sitting at just a half – dozen games above .500 – and behind the playoff bar.

Audio Version Of These Power Rankings

Audio Monthly Rankings – Aug

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

It is time for the MLB Power Rankings.  These are based on my thoughts on whether who has the best chance to win the World Series.

A lot of these positions are based on who has the toughest Strength of Schedule left, who their competition is for the Division, and possibly even the League they are in,

The races for the Divisions in the NL are becoming less competitive every week.  The NL East and NL West look to be done.  The Pirates are within weeks of ending a 20 year playoff drought.

The Braves rattled off a 14 game winning streak – and should cruise to the NL East crown.

The Athletics are in big trouble with some of their talented offensive players not putting up numbers like they did in 2012.  They now find themselves in 2nd place in the AL West.

Adrian Beltre 2 HR day in July

Read the rest of this entry

MLB 30 Team Power Rankings: Week 19

Like us on Facebook here

Sunday Aug.04/2013

The Braves have charged out of the ALL - Star Break at a pace like they did to start the year. an 11.5 Games Lead, most of their offense is starting to click have helped the team hold down the fort now that the pitching has had vast injuries

The Braves have charged out of the ALL – Star Break at a pace like they did to start the year. They have an 11.5 Games Lead in the NL East over Washington, and most of their offense is starting to click –  which have helped contributed to the team hold down the fort now that the pitching has had vast injuries.

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

It is time for the MLB Power Rankings.  These are based on my thoughts on whether who has the best chance to win the World Series.

A lot of these positions are based on who has the toughest Strength of Schedule left, who their competition is for the Division, and possibly even the League they are in.

How unfortunate it is for the Indians and the Royals to have the Tigers winning 9 of their last ten – to fend off their those absurdly hot AL Central counterparts?

The good news for the KC and CLE teams is that the AL East are beating up on each other in the last month, while Texas will see a Nelson Cruz suspension dampen their odds of making the Post Season.

Check out the Show we did on AL and NL Rankings Here on the 2 And A Hook Podcast

Read the rest of this entry

The MLB Needs To Amend Its Weighted Schedule/Payroll Flaws By The 2016 CBA Renewal!!

Like us on Facebook here

Thursday August.1/2013

If you are a Mariners fan, your park is the furthest geographically away from an NL home park or vice versa (806 Miles).  If you are a fan of the NL, get your bags packed, because chances are, you will need to head on a roady in order to see your favorite NL team every year.

If you are a Mariners fan, your park is the furthest geographically away from another Leagues (NL) home park or vice versa (806 Miles). If your favorite team is in the NL, get your bags packed, because chances are, you will need to head on a roady in order to see your team every year.  The MLB needs to address the situation for complete fairness to every single team.  My plan would still be to have 44 – 52 Divisional Games, 60 other games against the 10 teams in your own league, and then to play 50 Interleague Games.  Of course this isn’t even possible until the MLB and MLBPA workout a new CBA in 2016.

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

Maybe it is because I am a West Cost (Vancouver B.C Canada) guy that lives 1100 Miles away from the nearest NL Ballpark, or maybe it is because I have seen it work well in other professional sports – when I worked as a pro handicapper for 3 plus years.

I am sick of seeing teams come in to town for 3 series in a year – when it might take another team 6 years to visit in Interleague.

Sure if I lived in the East Coast, in a place like New Jersey, I could have my pick of any home parks (AL + NL) within a 450 MILE radius, I may not feel the same, but even that I doubt it.

My friend Doug Miller (from Washington State), also wrote a column worth reading on this subject.  He called it “Team Fatigue”. read that article here

I also wrote a similar column on MLB Baseball’s need to adapt a Payroll/Geographical Re – Alignment that could bring a huge amount of parity to the MLB in future years here.

With the Orioles playing good baseball all year, I fear they will not be playing baseball in October.  You know why?  It is not because they don't deserve too be, and it will likely not be their fault.  The reason is:  they will have had the toughest Strength of Schedule: playing the Yankees, Blue Jays, Red Sox and Rays, while the Indians and Royals play extremely weak clubs like Minnesota and the White Sox a quarter of their schedule. The same can be said for the Oakland and Texas franchise feasting on the hapless (Trade Depleted Astros), and a steady dose of the Mariners (who are far easier to play than any of the AL East teams).

With the Orioles playing good baseball all year, I fear they will not be playing baseball in October. You know why? It is not because they don’t deserve to be, and it will likely not be their fault. The reason is: they will have had the toughest Strength of Schedule: playing the Yankees, Blue Jays, Red Sox and Rays 76 times this year, while the Indians and Royals play extremely weak clubs like Minnesota and the White Sox a quarter of their schedules. The same can be said for the Oakland and Texas franchises feasting on the hapless (Trade Depleted Astros), and a steady dose of the Mariners (who are far easier to play than any of the 5 AL East teams).

Read the rest of this entry

Athletics’ Are Putting Distance Between Themselves And The AL West

Like us on Facebook here

Wednesday, July.31, 2013

Bartolo Colon is anchoring the rotation for the Athletics this season. he is one of the mnay reasons why they have jumped out to huge division lead this season. He has already won 14 games for them this season to go along with an ERA of 2.54 in 141.2 innings pitched. He is not the strikeout pitcher he was in the past, but is still effective against the opposition. Colon has displayed great control this season by only walking 18 batters and he has a 1.09 WHIP. He is 4th with a WAR of 4.5 for pitchers in the AL. He is also 2nd in the AL with Win-Loss percentage of.824

Bartolo Colon is anchoring the rotation for the Athletics this season. He is one of the many reasons why they have jumped out to huge division lead this season. He has already won 14 games for them this season to go along with an ERA of 2.54 in 141.2 innings pitched. He is not the strikeout pitcher he was in the past, but is still effective against opposing batters. Colon has displayed great control this season by only walking 18 batters and has a 1.09 WHIP. He is 4th in the AL with a WAR of 4.5 for pitchers . He is also 2nd in the AL with Win-Loss percentage of.824 to include him throwing three shutouts this season.

By Chris Lacey (Lead Baseball Columnist/Minority Website Owner)  

For the most of this season in baseball it seemed like the Oakland Athletics were going to have some competition in the American League West Division.

The Texas Rangers were expected to challenge them for the division title, but that is not the case this season. Oakland has a five game lead over the Rangers with more than two months left in the baseball season.

2012 Oakland A’s Highlights – Parental Guidance Is Advised

  Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (July.28th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images

Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images

David Ortiz made up for a humiliating ejection on Saturday with an electrifying Sunday. He went 4-4 with a home run, two RBI and a pair of runs scored, leading the Red Sox to a 5-0 victory in Baltimore and catapulted Boston back into first place.

Ubaldo Jimenez dominated the Texas Rangers with 8 masterful shutout innings letting up only 2 hits and 3 walks. He got the 6-0 win as the Indians swept Texas.

Jason Heyward  homered in the third and drove in another run in the go ahead 6th inning rally, propelling the Braves to a 5-2 victory and a three game sweep of the Cardinals.

José Fernández was brilliant through 8 innings. He let just 5 hits, walked none and struck out 13 Pirates and picking up a rare win for the Marlins, 3-2. 

 They all owned baseball on July 28th, 2013.

My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.

At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.

To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here Read the rest of this entry

MLB 30 Team Power Rankings: Week 18: Trade Deadline Edition

Click The Link Below For A Great MLB Reports Podcast On The Trade Deadline

Triple Play Podcast Trade Speculation

Like us on Facebook here

Sunday July.28/2013

The Dodgers have won 25 out of their last 31, play in the weakest division in the MLB right now, and other than Arizona, do not have much competition right now.  Solid Pitching and a revamped healthy lineup has led the charge.  They climbed all the way up to 5th in this weeks rankings.

The Dodgers have won 25 out of their last 31, play in the weakest division in the MLB right now, and other than Arizona, do not have much competition. Solid Pitching and a revamped healthy lineup has led the charge. They climbed all the way up to 6th in this weeks rankings.  The Dodgers have a 230 Million Dollar Plus payroll, and have no plans to slow down in this offseason.  It may actually be a blessing in disguise if this team makes a long run in the playoffs.  It has been speculated they will pursue Robinson Cano this winter.  I have predicted they will offer him a 7 – 8 year deal worth $30 MIL per annum.

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

The Detroit Tigers finds itself back on top of our rankings.  It was a hard decision between them and the Atlanta Braves.

The prevailing thought is that I am more confident in the “Motown Boys” to make the World Series.

Since starting the year 12 – 11, the Braves have only gone 47 – 44.  Lets just say the should finish the season with about 89 wins.  That would force Washington to go 38 – 19 in their final 57 Games.

I fully expect the Nationals to take off at any part in the season, so this is not a foreign concept.

In contrast, I don’t believe in either the Indians or Royals to near 90 wins like the Tigers should have by seasons end.

With a bypass to eliminate the Wild Card Game, Detroit is our #1 team.

Clip is Francona talking about Fielder – (There are 2 more clips of C.Fielder +  P.Fielder at end of this blog)

Read the rest of this entry

The Arizona Diamondbacks Best Hitters (1998 – 2013): Part 2 Of A 3 Part Series

Like us on Facebook here

Friday July.26th/2013

The Arizona Diamondbacks are only 6 games behind .500 for the franchises existence, and are just fraction percentages away from the LA Angels for the best record all time by an expansion franchise.  They have a solid crop of young players that could end up on this list a  few years down the road.

The Arizona Diamondbacks are only 6 games behind .500 for the franchises existence, and are just fraction percentages away from the LA Angels for the best record all time by an expansion franchise. They have a solid crop of young players that could end up on this list a few years down the road.  Chase Field has seen some great offensive seasons from its players.  Whether it was Luis Gonzalez blasting 57 HRs in 2012 (3rd  ALL Time Single Season Best for an NL LHB, behind Barry Bonds 73 – 2001 and Ryan Howard’s 58 in 2006), or Mark Reynolds cracking 44 Round Trippers, while Striking out 223 times for a MLB Record in 2009, it hasn’t been dull in the desert for the clubs offense.

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

The Arizona Diamondbacks have been one of the better franchises in the last 15 years, despite being one of the newest teams.

Unlike their expansion cousins the Tampa Bay Rays, that went through 9 years, before reeling off 5 straight winning seasons, the DBacks won the World Series in just their 4th year of existence.

The team has been able to make 5 playoff years in their 14 years.  This year, they are right in the thick of the race, so they could possibly add a 6th Post Season Birth to their resume.

The team has lacked a lot of long – term hitters for the club, however they have had their share of big seasons.

From “Gonzo” to “Goldy”, we will honor all of these guys in this post.

For Part 3 Of the 3 Part Series: The Franchise Pitchers – click here

Read the rest of this entry

How All Of The Nats Players Were Acquired: (Trade, Signed, Drafted, Waiver Wire) + Analysis

How All Of The Washington Nationals Players Were Acquired:

Strasburg and Harper are the franchises future.  Through drafting and smart trades, the club is now considered one of the best talented clubs in the MLB as of now.  Despite dealing with several injuries this current 2013 season - the future is definitely bright in DC

Strasburg and Harper are the franchises future. Through drafting and smart trades, the club is now considered one of the best talented clubs in the MLB as of now. Despite dealing with several injuries this current 2013 season – the future is definitely bright in DC.  The club has strong pitching in the Major Leagues – with some help coming  for more years to come.  They have potential ALL – Stars in almost every position.  Lets see how all of the players were acquired.

Tuesday July.23/2013

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

At the MLB Reports, we intend to show you the Roster Tree for the Washington Nationals – and how they assembled their current roster for hitting and Pitching.  It will work in a six degrees of separation like format.

Once we figure out the origin of how many trades going back in time it takes to see where the tree started, it will be time to dissect how the team fared on the deals.

If a player has never left the organization at all, the tree will be easy – as it will just be the year they were drafted or signed.

The Rise of the Nationals

Read the rest of this entry

MLB 30 Team Power Rankings: Week 17

Like us on Facebook here

Sunday July.21/2013

The Cardinals are the big benefactor of an early July swoon by the Pirates.  Will this team make some moves at the deadline - to aid the young Starting Rotation Innings?  Will Chris Carpenter be able to make an impact for the club at some point this campaign?  They sit perched back up upon the MLBR Power Rankings for now.

The Cardinals are the big benefactor of an early July swoon by the Pirates. Will this team make some moves at the deadline – to aid the young Starting Rotation Innings? Will Chris Carpenter be able to make an impact for the club at some point this campaign? They sit perched back up upon the MLBR Power Rankings for now.  The Cards have made 7 out of the last 12 NLCS showdowns – holding a 3 – 4 record in those years – and a 2 – 1 mark in the World Series.

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

The Tampa Bay Rays are making a huge statement.  Even as I write this post, they have a commanding 4 – 1 lead on the Toronto Blue Jays, which would make the 58 – 41, and no worse than 1.5 Games Behind the Boston Red Sox heading into play tomorrow.

The Rays will head to Fenway Park right after this for a four game series – before concluding a 10 game Road Swing at Yankee Stadium.  They could end up in 1st place in the AL East by next week.

With their pitching strength – and new underrated offense, would anyone pick against them for the rest of the season?  I have slotted them 7 positions higher than the previous week.

Chris Carpenter 5 months ago, He is now rehabbing in the Minor Leagues with a chance to come back in 2013 – Amazing!

Read the rest of this entry

Triple Play Podcast Predictions Revisited from The Beginning Of The Year: Over/Under Wins

Like us on Facebook here

Sunday July.21/2013

a    triple play podcastBy Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner):

Back on Mar.10 and Mar.24th, the Triple Play Podcast predicted the season win totals over or under for each one of the 30 teams.  Lets see how we are all doing.

I will say that my prediction of Dodgers and Angels in the World Series is not looking promising, however Patrick Beaulieu picked the Jays and Reds.  Chris picked the Nationals and Tigers.  Lets all say, we will probably not be taken out Vegas with these picks, however I think we are going to win more than losing here.

Check Out the Audio Podcasts Or Click past The Triple Play Logo – or CLICK THE REST OF THIS ENTRY past the Audio Links for the shows

On today’s 1st Podcast ever, Patrick, Chris and I shared our American League Predictions via Vegas Odds on Win totals.  There was a bit more ‘Canadiana Flag waving’ than usual at the Reports – and Houston, you know I still love you right?? (was there for the beginning of Altuve Movement – however I did harp on the fact that AL West Teams are going to be fattening up their win totals on your club this year.)

Just Hit the Play Button and Enjoy the Ride For the AL Preview!

There is a Hyperlink below to download this Podcast.

triple play al preview

National League Preview Show (Triple Play Podcast) – download it right here.

If you want to listen right here with our video player below.

Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (July 13th) – Updated Yearly “WOB” Standings

Photo: Lenny Ignelzi - AP

Photo: Lenny Ignelzi – AP

Tim Lincecum threw the second no hitter of the year, striking out 13 Padres along the way. He even walked and scored in his masterpiece as the Giants won 9-0.

A.J. Griffin shut down the first place Boston Red Sox with 8 shutout innings. The A’s were triumphant 3-0 in a possible playoff preview.

The Diamondbacks came back from a 4-1 hole to Milwaukee with an attack led by Didi Gregorius. He smacked a solo homer in the 6th to start the come back. He then drove in the tying tun with a single in the 7th. Arizona would go on to win, 5-4.

Lonnie Chisenhall‘s grand slam was the difference as the Cleveland Indians defeated the Kansas City Royals, 5-3, and moved to within 1 1/2 games of first place.

They all owned baseball on July 13th, 2013.

My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.

At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.

To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here Read the rest of this entry

2 And A Hook Podcast #10: All Star Chat, Yankees, Dbacks + Trade Deadline Talk

Like us on Facebook here

Friday, July.12, 2013

MLB reports and The Benchwarmers Show present 2 and A Hook Podcast

MLB reports and The Benchwarmers Show present 2 and A Hook Podcast.

‘2 And A Hook’ is an expression from Baseball:  ‘Throw the guy 2 Fast balls and then a Hook’ (AKA Curve Ball, Wiggly one, Chair etc..)

By James Acevedo – Host (Podcast Veteran )

Guests On The Show

Im back & ready after being off during the 4th of July week to give you all another baseball packed podcast. On today’s show, brought to you by MLB Reports ( www.mlbreports.com ) & yours truly The Bench Warmers Show.

I star by paying respect to the great Yankee Stadium PA announcer Bob Sheppard on the 3 year anniversary to the day that he passed away…

I talk to the boss man Chuck Booth as he returns to do his segment!  16 Minutes in and a 31 Minute Segment

Chuck makes some notions about the New York Yankees and Brian Cashman needing to risk it all for this year – for the legacies of Derek Jeter, Andy Pettitte, Mariano Rivera and Robinson Cano.  Plus whether the club can trade Joba Chamberlain and Phil Hughes – and maybe acquire a bat. Read the rest of this entry

Top MLB Teams 1 – 30: Monthly Rankings + (Top 200 Stats For Reading And Fantasy Baseball)

Like us on Facebook here

Thursday July.11/2013

The Giants have gone 9 - 23 in their last 32 Games and are in danger of having a brutal campaign just one year after capturing the World Series.  Key injuries and overlogged pitchers have been the main point of contention. They lost 8 Ranking Spots.

The Giants have gone 9 – 23 in their last 32 Games – and are in danger of having a brutal campaign just one year after capturing the World Series. Key injuries and overlogged pitchers have been the main point of contention. They lost 8 Ranking Spots this past time.  Should they also become sellers at the Trade Deadline,  Tim Lincecum and Hunter Pence could fetch a few players in return.  The Giants are currently 40 – 50 and 6.5 Games behind the NL West Leading DBACKS – but are in last in the NL West.

 

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

The time has come for the July Power Rankings with Stats Edition.  There will be one each for May, June, July, August, September – and then a special playoff edition Power Rankings will be done in October.

I will not do a weekly Power Rankings during these weeks, because in essence, these are the weekly rankings done on a much larger scale.

These Reports are done with a heavy thought to how the teams project by the end of the season – along with how the clubs have fared so far.

I will point out who has had great months for the all 30 MLB Teams.  I reward the good performances in these rankings – and leave the poor ones for the Podcasts or future articles. CLICK THE READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON or scroll past the video and picture.

Read the rest of this entry

Streaking Tigers look To Run Away With The AL Central In The 2nd Half

Like us on Facebook here

Wednesday July.10/2013

As of the 10th of July, the Tigers are 49 -40 and sit 3.5 games in front of the Cleveland Indians in first place in the AL Central. The question is, should they be running away with the division instead of just treading water at the to?  Luckily for the Tigers they have a very easy second half schedule, probably the easiest of all MLB division leaders. Can they run away with the division? We’ll find out soon.

By Dan Wanser (Baseball Writer):  

Going into play today, the Tigers sit 3.5 games ahead of the Cleveland Indians in the AL Central.

However, should they be further ahead. Because of last year, many people who follow the MLB expected Detroit to run away with the division,and that hasn’t been the case.

Last season, the Tigers finished their season with an 88 – 74 record – and won 33 of their last 44 home games down the stretch after a slow start. The Tigers need another run like that this year to solidify their spot in the playoffs.

2013 Detroit Tigers Pump-Up Video:

Read the rest of this entry

The NY Yankees Roster Tree Part 1: The Hitters Acquisitions For Each Player

Like us on Facebook here

Tuesday July.09/2013

Derek Jeter starts the 2013 year only 11 hits behind Eddie Collins for 10th place on the ALL-Time hits list.  With a possible Player Option in 2014, - and maybe playing one additional year after - can he hit 327 base knocks to pass Stan Musial for 4th place on the list by that years end?  Will he play beyond this year even?  Derek Jeter was Drafted by the team in 1992 - and represents all that good drafting the team did prior to the new regime

Derek Jeter starts the 2013 year only 11 hits behind Eddie Collins for 10th place on the ALL-Time hits list. With a possible Player Option in 2014, – and maybe playing one additional year after – can he hit 327 base knocks to pass Stan Musial for 4th place on the list by that years end? Will he play beyond this year even? Derek Jeter was Drafted by the team in 1992 – and represents all that good drafting the team did prior to the new regime.

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

At the MLB Reports, we intend to show you the Roster Tree for the Yankees – and how they assembled their current roster for hitting and Pitching.  It will work in a six degrees of separation like format.

Once we figure out the origin of how many trades going back in time it takes to see where the tree started, it will be time to dissect how the team fared on the deals.

If a player has never left the organization at all, the tree will be easy – as it will just be the year they were drafted.

Read the rest of this entry

MLB 30 Team Rankings Week 15

Like us on Facebook here

Monday July.08/2013

The Boston Red Sox started out the season 21 - 8 after their 1st 29 games, and have maintained over the last 61 games, with 33 wins and 28 wins.

The Boston Red Sox started out the season 21 – 8 after their 1st 29 games, and have maintained over the last 61 games, with 33 Wins and 28 Losses. They are #1 on our rankings charts.

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

Past this page break or the Dodgers logo, is the written version of the rankings.  If you want to listen to the audio podcast we did for this, we have the links below to download or just listen.

Triple Play Podcast Ep #15 Monthly Rankings For All 30 Teams

Read the rest of this entry

Can Cleveland Keep Pace in the Second Half?

Like us on Facebook here

Sunday July 7th, 2013 

The Cleveland Indians are in second place in the American League Central 3.5 games back of the Detroit Tigers. Kipnis has come out of his shell and is leading the team in Hits, RBI, Average, and On Base Percentage. Kipnis will be an All-Star on July 16th at Citi Field. The pitching is below average ranked throughout the league but for them to keep pace with the Tigers in the second half they will have to pick it up and try to carry the team. Guys like Jimenez, Swisher, Bourn and Kazmir will have to have a great second half for the Indians to make the playoffs. As it sits right now the only way they will make the playoffs is by winning the American League Central and beating the Detroit Tigers.

The Cleveland Indians are in second place in the American League Central 3.5 games back of the Detroit Tigers. Jason Kipnis has come out of his shell and is leading the team in Hits, RBI, Average, and On Base Percentage. Kipnis will be an All-Star on July 16th at Citi Field. The pitching is below average ranked throughout the league but for them to keep pace with the Tigers in the second half they will have to pick it up and try to carry the team. Guys like Jimenez, Swisher, Bourn and Kazmir will have to have a great second half for the Indians to make the playoffs. As it sits right now the only way they will make the playoffs is by winning the American League Central and beating the Detroit Tigers.

By Ryan Ritchey (Baseball Writer): 

The Cleveland Indians are three games above .500 but are still 3.5 games behind the first place Detroit Tigers after losing the first two game of the series at home.

New manager Terry Francona has done a great job with this club but he still has a lot more to do in order for them to make the playoffs. 

Big names that have produced so far this season are Jason Kipnis and Justin Masterson.

Swisher came over to Cleveland this winter by signing a four-year $56 million contract. The contract includes a fifth year vesting option worth $14 million.

Swisher has given the team a huge boost with his personality but hasn’t produced as much as wanted on the field. Only having 30 RBI has really hurt this club as it has put a lot of pressure on other guys to perform. 

Cleveland Indians 2013 Preview- MLB Network: 

Read the rest of this entry

Potential All – Star Candidates For All 30 MLB Teams:

Like us on Facebook here

Saturday, July.06/2013

Citi Field is one of the newest Ball Parks in the Majors and will have be host to the 2013 ALL - Star Game.  It is light years ahead of where Shea Stadium was.  The home club should have the Starting Pitcher and Third Baseman for the NL, who else will be picked for the NL and AL - will all be revealed in a matter of hours.  MLB Reports gave its candidates and choices in this blog

Citi Field is one of the newest Ball Parks in the Majors and will be host to the 2013 ALL – Star Game. It is light years ahead of where Shea Stadium was. The home club should have the Starting Pitcher and Third Baseman for the NL, who else will be picked for the NL and AL – will all be revealed in a matter of hours. MLB Reports gave its candidates and choices in this blog.  Citi Field also modified its fences last year in hopes of hosting this event.  This is the RF cavernous portion that used to be what Right Field was.  I took this photo in 2009 – during its 1st season in existence.

Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner):

I am doing this list based solely on whether the player is a viable candidate or not.  I don’t care if the fans vote someone else in – although they have done a decent job.

This website’s stance on Yasiel Puig is known by know – if you are reading this for the 1st time.  We feel the man belongs based on his numbers.  He has numbers comparable to Bryce Harper – and his BA and OPS is far above and beyond.

In a recent article our Dodgers Correspondent also mentioned Hanley Ramirez deserves a shot to make the team.

Ordinarily, I would say no – but Troy Tulowitzki is hurt.

Han- Ram might be a victim of all teams needing to be represented as the Padres best candidate is definitely Everth Cabrera – unless Bochy takes Jason Marquis to replace him.

I think behind Bochy should take Ramirez behind David Wright and Pedro Alvarez at 3B.  With Segura, Cabrera and Desmond taking spots at SS. Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – July 5, 2013

CansecoScreen Shot 2013-07-05 at 12.36.41 PM

Today  The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast, I honor Larry Doby, feel bad for A-Rod and break down M C Hammer’s 2 Legit to Quit..

Just another typical podcast.

Wil Nieves, Adrian Beltre, Cole Hamels and Dan Straily all owned baseball on July 4, 2013.

To see the up to date tally of “Who Owns Baseball?,” click HERE.

Subscribe on iTunes HERE.

Follow sullybaseball on Twitter

Could Manny Still Be Manny?

Like us on Facebook here

Friday, July.05/2013

Manny Ramirez was last sniffing around the MLB with Oakland last year in the Minors.  Technically, he finished his PED suspension from the year before  - accrued with the Tampa Bay Rays.  Before that, he was with the White Sox, Wait a second??? When was the last time Manny was Manny on the field?

Manny Ramirez was last sniffing around the MLB with Oakland last year in the Minors. Technically, he finished his PED suspension from the year before – accrued with the Tampa Bay Rays. Before that, he was with the White Sox, Wait a second??? When was the last time Manny was Manny on the field?  You have to go all the way back to his LA Dodgers days.  He was exciting that town like someone named Yasiel Puig is now – batting for a 3 slash line of .396/.485/1.232 in 62 Games Played – with 19 HRs and 63 RBI during the 2008 year   Mannywood couldn’t lead the Dodgers past the Phils in back to back years for  the NLCS.  He then resigned in LA, tested positive for PED use, came back – and was traded to Chicago.

By Brooke Robinson (Rangers Correspondent):

Most baseball fans have spent the first half of the season watching their favorite teams, as well as getting a good laugh out of the constant YouTube videos coming from Taiwan.

Manny Ramirez, in his short term with the EDA Rhinos, starred in his own version of Mr. Baseball part 2 as a crowd favorite in the Chinese Professional Baseball League.

Ramirez hit 8 Homers, moonwalked to the dugout, and had a hilarious attempt to slide into 2B (and stopped about ten feet short).

But the joke was on Texas Rangers fans on Wednesday, whenever Ramirez signed a minor league contract and was optioned to AAA Round Rock Express.

Manny Ramirez:  I’M BACK!

Read the rest of this entry

The Impressive 2013 Orioles Should Be Sending 3 All – Stars to Citi Field

Like us on Facebook here

Thursday, July 4th, 2013

Buck Showalter may finally break the curse of his previous managerial jobs - where his teams become stagnant after a few years of him being the clubs skipper.  Baltimore is 48 - 37 and sit in 2nd Place in the AL East - and would currently be the 2nd Wild Card team in the American League.  Not bad for a team Vegas said was only going to win 78 games this year!

Buck Showalter may finally break the curse of his previous managerial jobs – where his teams become stagnant after a few years of him being the clubs skipper. Baltimore is 48 – 37 on the year – as they sit in 2nd Place for the AL East – and would currently be the 2nd Wild Card team in the American League. Not bad for a team Vegas said was only going to win 78 games this year!

By Ben Kaplan (MLB Reports Baltimore Orioles Correspondent – visit his Battle of The Beltway website here):

For the past season and a half, the Baltimore Orioles have been counted out more times than Gordon Bombay’s Mighty Ducks. But just like everyone’s favorite fictional pee-wee hockey time, the Orioles refuse to go away, and they refuse to listen to the doubters.

The 2013 Baltimore Orioles picked up right where the 2012 Baltimore Orioles left off, defying the odds and winning games that most “experts” don’t feel like they should. You may be asking yourselves, how are they doing it?

The answer is actually very simple, serviceable starting pitching, a shutdown bullpen, and impressive contributions from their lineup, namely Chris Davis, Manny Machado, and Adam Jones.

Chris Davis 2013 Highlights:  Mature Content SO Parental Guidance Is Advised:

Read the rest of this entry

Twins’ Justin Morneau And Josh Willingham Days Are Numbered In Minnesota

Like us on Facebook here

Tuesday, July.02, 2013

The Minnesota Twins are 36-43 on the season, and they are 6.5 games behind division leaders Cleveland Indians and Detroit Tigers.

The Minnesota Twins are 36-43 on the season, and they are 6.5 games behind division leaders Cleveland Indians and Detroit Tigers. It looks they will have another losing season for the team, but there is still a chance they make a run and contend for a division title this season. They do have players that other teams would love to acquire. The only question is how long will they hold on to these players before pulling the trigger on deal. General Manager Terry Ryan will be busy to determine what he can get in return for the players on his roster.

By Chris Lacey (Lead Baseball Columnist/Minority Owner)

The Minnesota Twins are at midpoint in their season and they will have a decision to make with the Trade Deadline only a month away. They will have to make an assessment on their team and determine if they will be a buyer or seller.

The team is currently 4th in the American League Central division with a 36-43 record. They are 6.5  games behind division leaders Cleveland Indians and Detroit Tigers. They are also 8.5 games out of the Wild Card.

Justin Morneau Highlights- So Parental Guidance Is Advised

  Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (June 30th) – Updated Yearly “WOB” Standings

 (AP Photo/Jim Mone)

(AP Photo/Jim Mone)

David Lough went 4-4, including three doubles, four runs scored, three RBI and a go ahead 8th inning home run leading the Royals to a wild 9-8 win in Minnesota.

Justin Masterson pitched the Indians into a virtual tie with the Tigers as he tossed a masterful 6 hit shutout of the White Sox, 4-0.

Madison Bumgarner gave the Giants 7 innings letting up only 4 hits and 1 run as the champs halted a six game slide with a 5-2 win over the Rockies.

Yasiel Puig was a home run shy of the cycle, finishing 4-5 and scoring a pair as the Dodgers made quick work of the Phillies, 6-1.They all owned baseball on June 30th, 2013.

My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.

At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.

To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here Read the rest of this entry

30 MLB Team Power Rankings: Week 14

Like us on Facebook here

Monday July.01/2013

The Bucs have won 9 straight games and now possess a record of 51 - 30.  You have to think that the club will put the nail in the coffin on its 20 year losing streak - with just needing to win 31 of their 81 games remaining.  Better yet, ESPN has them listed as a 88 Percent chance to make the playoffs for the first time since the 1992 season.  At the halfway point in the season, the Bucs have the best record in the MLB - and have reached #2 in our power rankings

The Bucs have won 9 straight games and now possess a record of 51 – 30. You have to think that the club will finally put the nail in the coffin on its 20 year losing streak – with just needing to win 31 of their 81 games remaining. Better yet, ESPN has them listed as a 88 Percent chance to make the playoffs for the first time since the 1992 season. At the halfway point in the season, the Bucs have the best record in the MLB – and have reached #2 in our power rankings.

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

Another Week has come and gone in the MLB.

Week Stats Ending – June.29/2013

(MLB Reports) AL Hitter Of The Week –  Jason Kipnis (CLE – He reached base 24 times in the 8 games (14 hits, 9 Walks and 1 HBP) – with 3 HRs, 6 – 2B, 9 Runs and 11 RBI.  He hit .519 for the week).

Runners up were:  Miguel Cabrera (DET – OPS of 1.583, with 4 HRs and 7 RBI), Dustin Pedroia (BOS – .560 BA, 14 hits), and Raul Ibanez (SEA – OPS of 1.455 – 3 HRs and 5 RBI.)

(MLB Reports) AL Pitcher Of The Week–  R.A. Dickey (TOR – 2 hit CG Shutout versus the Tampa Bay Rays.)

Runners up were: Koji Uehara (BOS – 3 Perfect Saves) and Joe Blanton LAA (1 – 0, with a 1.88 ERA in 2 GS). Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (June 24th) – Updated Yearly “WOB” Standings

 

Photo: Mark J. Terrill - AP

Photo: Mark J. Terrill – AP

Yasiel Puig hit a first inning home run and then broke a 1-1- tie in the 8th with an RBI single as the Dodgers topped the Giants 3-1.

Cliff Lee pitched shutout ball into the 9th inning and was brilliant against San Diego. Unfortunately for him, closer Jonathan Papelbon imploded, letting the Padres tie the game in the 9th. San Diego would win it 4-3 in extra innings.

Michael Brantley hit a 2 run, go ahead single in the 6th inning and then padded the lead with a 2 run homer in the 8th inning to lead Cleveland past Baltimore, 5-2. with a homer and four runs batted in including a two run shot in the second inning as the Blue Jays clobbered the Orioles 13-5.

And Jeremy Hellickson pitched seven brilliant 1 hit innings to stop Toronto’s 11 game winning streak and was credited with the win in Tampa Bay’s 4-1 decision.

They all owned baseball on June 24th, 2013.

My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.

At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.

To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here Read the rest of this entry

30 MLB Team Power Rankings: Week 13

Like us on Facebook here

Monday June.24/2013

EE continues to show his metal this year - by clutching up for 21 HRs thus far .  He has a 3 Slash Line of .274/.355/.900 for the year.  EE had an OPS of 1.326 with 3 HRs and 3 Doubles over the last 6 games.  He was part of key rallies that led to the clubs 6 - 0 week.  Encarnacion is now tied with Miggy Cabrera with 63 HRs since the start of the 2012 year.  He is the MLB Reports hitter of the week!

EE continues to show his metal this year – by clutching up for 21 HRs thus far . He has a 3 Slash Line of .274/.355/.900. EE had an OPS of 1.326 – with 3 HRs and 3 Doubles over the last 6 games, and also scored 7 Runs. He was part of key rallies that led to the clubs 6 – 0 week. The 1B only Struckout 1 time for the 6 Games.  Encarnacion is now tied with Miggy Cabrera with 63 HRs since the start of the 2012 year. He is the MLB Reports hitter of the week!

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

Another Week has come and gone in the MLB.

(MLB Reports) AL Hitter Of The Week –  Edwin Encarnacion (See Picture Above).

Runners up were: Chris Davis (BAL) – (1.357 OPS, with 4 HRs and 10 RBI), Nelson Cruz (TEX) – (.379 BA, 3 HRS and 11 RBI) and Miguel Cabrera (.536 BA, 20 times reached on base in 7 Games, 15 Hits – with 2 HRs and 6 RBI).

(MLB Reports) AL Pitcher Of The Week–  Max Scherzer – who went 2 – 0 with a 2.08 ERA in 2 Game Starts and 16 SO in 13 IP.

Runners Up were: Casey Janssen (1 – 0, with 3 Saves – while only yielding 1 Hit and 1 Walk in 4 IP), Jarrod Parker 2 GS (1 – 0, with a 0.79 WHIP in 14 IP.)

Read the rest of this entry