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Top 5 Home Run Leaders in 2013
Chris Davis was awarded a 1 YR/$3.3 MIL contract in Arbitration for 2013, but based on his AL and MLB leading 53 HRs and 139 RBI. exactly what stratosphere of money will he enter based on those totals? The Baltimore franchise must consider 2014 to be their best chance for a deep playoff run. After this year, Davis will be making megabucks in 2014 and 2015 even in Arbitration – before hitting the Free Agency Market in 2016. Can he duplicate his feats in 2013? We will find out in about 9 and a half months. I think with his swing, and playing in the AL East, he will have a chance to finish in the top 5 in HRs again in 2014 – if not take the crown again.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
It is time to start preparing for upcoming fantasy leagues. While I don’t participate in them anymore, I will do some top 5 and top ten list in order to aid you in your quest.
I will stick with the main categories. Over the next few weeks this site will be tackling Saves Leaders, Holds, Stolen Bases, Wins, and we may sprinkle in a few others.
In addition, Active Lists for top players in offensive and defensive stats are to be presented. This is done so we can see who is close to making the mark historically.
Well, I guess we don’t have to worry about Alex Rodriguez breaking anymore historical records in 2014, so hallelujah!
Chicks Dig The Long Ball
The Boston Red Sox Players In All Organizational Affiliates, Prospects + Depth Charts (MLB + MiLB)
Jackie Bradley can go a long way to help BoSox fans forget about the departure of Jacoby Ellsbury. Known as a patient batter with tonnes of speed, and exceptional fielding, Bradley taking the next leap up to the MLB on a permanent basis would do wonder for the Red Sox in 2014. At 23, he has a Career Minor League 3 Slash of .297/.404/.876
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024 & Jeff Kleiner (Org. Depth Chart Expert) Follow @prosportsroster
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
It has come time for us to flip the calendar at the MLB Reports and shift gears into all of our 2014 season previews.
Each of the 30 MLB teams will have a organizational depth chart blog, a payroll blog, and 1 or 2 State of the Union Pieces from this day – all the way until the 1st day of MLB play this campaign.
We start of with the defending World Series Champions, the Boston Red Sox.
Jackie Bradley Jr. and Xander Bogaerts Are Future Superstars
Ortiz Is Almost Done Playing: Who Will Be The Next Great DH Among The AL Clubs??
David Ortiz has been the quintessential DH in the AL over the last 11 years. Boston is in contention perennially because he put up great #s compared to his competition. With all of the teams imploring several employees to scouting staffs – trying to find advantages to bring to Major League Lineups – why aren’t teams focusing on the DH position more. Ortiz has been a full time DH since joining the Red Sox, and has been instrumental in the club bringing home 3 World Series Titles. In fact, the only time the team has struggled in the last decade, was if “Big Papi” is hurt or struggling.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
There is no doubt in my mind that the Red Sox has won 3 World Series Titles in the last 10 years because they have had the quintessential DH in the American League.
While other teams have used the position as a rest stop for aging players, or stop-gap measure for players with defensive faulty, clubs have not seemed to have stressed emphasis on the slot in the lineup.
My question is why? With everyone always searching for an edge in today’s game, you have one sitting right in front of you, that equates to over 600 AB a year.
David Ortiz (Post Season Heroics 2013)
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 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 @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
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
The Jacoby Ellsbury 7 YRs/$153 MIL Deal Opens Up Many Possibilities for New York
Ellsbury missed 88 Games in 2012 (and also missed 144 Games in 2010), which brings into question his long – term durability. Heck, even this year, he was seen with a walking boot only a few weeks prior to the playoffs. You can’t deny the man has put up some great numbers out of the leadoff spot for the Red Sox since 2007.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
So all of a sudden the Yankees have taken a page from their 2006 playbook.
Prior to that season, they overbid for the services of Johnny Damon, effectively ending his tenure with their rivals – the Boston Red Sox.
They have gone back to the well for a 2nd time – raiding the Sox for their Starting CF.
It is a bold and calculated gamble for the Yankees, but then again, they are the biggest entity in the MLB – and they needed to protect the fledgling ratings on TV, and also to make sure the fans come through the turnstiles at New Yankee Stadium
Jacoby Ellsbury was brought in for a 7 YR/$153 MIL deal – that will send shockwaves throughout the Bronx and Major League Baseball.
Jacoby Ellsbury 2013 Highlights – Mature Lyrics So Parental Guidance Is Advised
The Best Teams In The MLB From 1980 – 2017: The Biggest Question Is, Who Owns 2015 – 2017 Mark? Early Favorite Lends 2 Cubs With 3 Straight LCS Appearances, 1 World Series
With 3 straight LCS appearances and 1 World Series – the Cubs can lay claim to the best team from 2015 – 2017. If Houston were to win the 2018 World Series, they could be turned back to the 2015 – 2016 stretch, however Chicago can advance the years if they are able to go farther than the Stros this campaign
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
There is only so much one can read in an article, otherwise I would make these lists up from the turn of the 20th century.
As I became older and discovered ways to research the history of the game, my knowledge and curious mind grew for more information.
I have studied and read baseball stat books and breezed through the odd Bill James novel.
If I ever take a break from writing or baseball park chasing, I may find some time down the road to watch the 9 part PBS documentary that Ken Burns did on baseball’s history.
Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – November 3, 2013
AP Photo/Ted S. Warren
Today’s episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast is not so much a Sunday Request as it is a Sunday Response.
Andrés du Bouchet is one of the funniest and most talented comedic minds currently breathing in oxygen and breathing out carbon dioxide on the planet Earth. As an Emmy nominated writer and frequent performer on Conan, his brilliant comedic imagination and performing style can be seen on national TV.
And I had the privilege of seeing him as a sketch performer in the late 1990s and 2000s in venues all around New York.
A big sports fan and a lifelong Mets supporter, Andrés went to Twitter to question the adoration of David Ortiz after the 2013 World Series.
So, when the inevitable evidence finally turns up that Ortiz has been on PEDs for the entire Boston portion of his career, is baseball over?
— Andrés du Bouchet (@dubouchet) October 31, 2013
I just think it’s a shame that a city’s biggest folk hero has so clearly been a PED user since he got there. Nothing against Boston.
— Andrés du Bouchet (@dubouchet) October 31, 2013
Meanwhile ESPN continues to mythologize the knucklehead.
— Andrés du Bouchet (@dubouchet) November 1, 2013
If he were a Yankee fan, I’d chalk it up to sour grapes and remind him that Andy Pettitte was practically deified in September.
But I decided to actually respond, not as a Red Sox fan, but as a baseball observer. Why does David Ortiz and Andy Pettitte get off Scott Free while the likes of A-Rod have to fight for their baseball lives.
My conclusion is that PED’s don’t really enter into the thought process.
Follow Andrés on Twitter HERE.
Here is Andrés as seen on TV.
© Atrossity Photography
To subscribe on iTunes, click HERE.
To subscribe on SoundCloud, click HERE.
Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – November 3, 2013
November 3, 2013
DAVID ORTIZ AND JON LESTER OWNED THE WORLD SERIES – Final WOWS Tally
Photo – Jim Davis – Boston Globe Staff
I completed WOO, Who Owns October, and showed that Michael Wacha and David Ortiz were the two dominant forces of this October.
It is difficult to argue against that result.
Now let’s take a look at the other postseason SullyMetric. Beyond owning the Postseason, who specifically owned the World Series. Who owned the World Series as a pitcher and a hitter keeping both team’s production in mind.
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOWS to a worthy player on the losing team.
My explanation for Who Owns the World Series (WOWS) is HERE.
It should be no surprise that David Ortiz got the highest WOWS total. His .688 average, 1.948 OPS and 2 homers with 6 RBI were enough to earn that right. His 8 walks set the table for a lot of other heroics including the Jonny Gomes homer and the Shane Victorino double. He was the overwhelming shadow over the entire series, like it or not. His 3 1/2 WOWS total topped all hitters. Nobody else had 2.
Carlos Beltran and Matt Holliday each finished with 1 1/2. Jonny Gomes’ homer got his total to 1.
Meanwhile Jon Lester‘s two victories and 0.59 ERA in 15 1/3 innings almost got him World Series MVP honors. He struckout 15 and walked only 1, giving the Red Sox a pair wins in games where the Cardinals started Adam Wainwright.
His 2 WOWS led all pitchers.
John Lackey raised his total to 1 1/2 with the clinching win. Surprisingly Felix Doubront, who didn’t even pitch in the Division Series, also finished with a 1 1/2 total with his solid relief in Games 3 and 4.
So like WOO, WOWS crowned the two most worthy players for the World Series. Anyone who saw the Series and kept track of the games would have to agree that David Ortiz and Jon Lester owned it.
WOWS works!
DAVID ORTIZ AND MICHAEL WACHA OWNED OCTOBER – Final WOO Tally
Michael Ivins/Getty Images
Elsa – Getty Images
This is the last day of October but in essence, the month has already been won by David Ortiz and Michael Wacha.
I created the SullyMetric Who Owned October? to determine which player was the dominant force throughout the post season.
I explain the stat HERE, but basically for every post season game, the winning team had a hitter and a pitcher awarded a full WOO based upon how they contributed to the victory.
And, at my discretion, I gave a 1/2 WOO to a player on the losing team if they deserved it.
The idea would be the pitcher and the hitter who had the highest WOO total would be the ones who dominated the post season.
And if the two winners are any indication, it worked in determining the best.
Big Papi David Ortiz finished with a 5 1/2 WOO, the highest total for any batter. Besides his big numbers in the World Series en route to an MVP, he had the highlights throughout the postseason. Read the rest of this entry
Who Owns the World Series (WOWS) – Tally Updated For WS Game #6 October 30, 2013
Photo: Matt Slocum – AP
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOWS to a worthy player on the losing team.
For a full explanation, click HERE.
From October 30th’s game:
Receiving 1 WOWS:
John Lackey redeemed his Red Sox career by pitching into the 7th, letting up a single run and getting the victory despite letting 10 Cardinals reach base. Red Sox won the game 6-1 and the World Series
David Ortiz overwhelmed the entire game. By walking 4 times (three of them intentionally) he set up rallies and put St. Louis on the defensive all night as the Red Sox won 6-1 and took the series.
Receiving 1/2 WOWS:
Matt Carpenter collected 3 hits and gave the Cardinals hope briefly in Game 6. He would ultimately strikeout to end the 6-1 victory for the Red Sox.
Who Owns October? (WOO) Tally Updated For WS Game #6 October 30, 2013
photo by Matt West – Boston Herald
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO.
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO to a worthy player on the losing team.
For a full explanation, click HERE.
From World Series Game #6
Receiving 1 WOO:
John Lackey redeemed his Red Sox career by pitching into the 7th, letting up a single run and getting the victory despite letting 10 Cardinals reach base. Red Sox won the game 6-1 and the World Series
David Ortiz overwhelmed the entire game. By walking 4 times (three of them intentionally) he set up rallies and put St. Louis on the defensive all night as the Red Sox won 6-1 and took the series.
Receiving 1/2 WOO:
Matt Carpenter collected 3 hits and gave the Cardinals hope briefly in Game 6. He would ultimately strikeout to end the 6-1 victory for the Red Sox.
Odds To Win The 2013 MLB World Series, Plus Odds To Win Game #6
David Ortiz is having himself a field day in the 2013 World Series. He is 11 – 15 (.733/.750/2.017) with 2 HRs and 6 RBI. Can you imagine his numbers if Beltran didn’t rob him of the Grandslam in Game #1? Try .800/.813/2.346 with 3 HRs and 10 RBI. He has been epic! —– L.G. Patterson/MLB.COM
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
So here it is again in the Playoffs with St. Louis facing elimination. The club is 8 – 1 in their last 9 elimination games (Game 7 of the 2012 NLCS is the only defeat (SF Giants – suffered in that realm since 2011.)
I think they can stave off being sent home on Wednesday as well. It would be really good for the game of Major League Baseball if we could have another Game #7.
While I don’t like the Red Sox (as a NYY fan) – I respect them, and David Ortiz is one of my favorite players in the game today. What he is doing is incredible.
Odds To Win the World Series Today:
Boston Red Sox -400
St. Louis Cardinals +325
Obstruction Call Game #3 Decisive Play
Pick Off Move To End Game #4
Who Owns the World Series (WOWS) – Tally Updated For WS Game #5 October 28, 2013
L.G. Patterson/MLB.COM
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOWS to a worthy player on the losing team.
For a full explanation, click HERE.
From October 28th’s game:
Receiving 1 WOWS:
Jon Lester won his second game of the World Series, pitching 7 2/3 innings and allowing just 1 run, striking out 7 and walking none as he dominated the Cardinals, 3-1.
David Ortiz went 3-4, drove in a run in the first and raised his mindboggling World Series average to .733 as he helped the Red Sox top St. Louis, 3-1.
Receiving 1/2 WOWS:
Matt Holliday launched a game tying home run that supplied basically all the offense for St. Louis as they lost 3-1 to Boston.
Adam Wainwright threw 7 innings and struck out 10 to only one walk. It wouldn’t be enough as he was the hard luck loser, 3-1 to Boston.
Who Owns October? (WOO) Tally Updated For WS Game #5 October 28, 2013
Photo: L.G. Patterson/MLB.COM
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO.
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO to a worthy player on the losing team.
For a full explanation, click HERE.
From World Series Game #5
Receiving 1 WOO:
Jon Lester won his second game of the World Series, pitching 7 2/3 innings and allowing just 1 run, striking out 7 and walking none as he dominated the Cardinals, 3-1.
David Ortiz went 3-4, drove in a run in the first and raised his mindboggling World Series average to .733 as he helped the Red Sox top St. Louis, 3-1.
Receiving 1/2 WOO:
Matt Holliday launched a game tying home run that supplied basically all the offense for St. Louis as they lost 3-1 to Boston.
Adam Wainwright threw 7 innings and struck out 10 to only one walk. It wouldn’t be enough as he was the hard luck loser, 3-1 to Boston. Read the rest of this entry
Odds To Win The 2013 MLB World Series, Plus Odds To Win Game #3
After Beltran went 2 – 4 with an RBI in Game #2 – he has improved his career Post Season Slash Line to .339/.448/1.163 – with 16 HRs and 38 RBI for his 168 AB. Beltran is in the last year of his 2 YR/$26 MIL deal with St. Louis. He will be a Free Agent after this Series, win or lose. The 36 Year Old, has a .907 OPS in the playoffs this year, with 2 HRs and 13 RBI in his 13 Games Played.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The World Series resumes today at Busch Stadium. David Ortiz takes his hot hitting to St. Louis, and will see some action at 1st Base – while Mike Napoli will be relegated tot he bench.
The Cardinals will be without Allen Craig in lineup, however Carlos Beltran made a triumphant return to the Outfield in Game #2.
Odds To Win the World Series Today:
Boston Red Sox -110
St. Louis Cardinals -110
Ortiz Homers Twice in 2 Games for the the Red Sox (Credit FOX)
Who Owns the World Series (WOWS) – Tally Updated For WS Game #2 October 24, 2013
Photo: Mark L. Baer, USA TODAY Sports
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.)
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOWS to a worthy player on the losing team.
For a full explanation, click HERE.
From October 24th’s game:
Receiving 1 WOWS:
Carlos Beltran came back from a rib injury to collect 2 hits including a key RBI single that gave St. Louis an insurance run against the Red Sox as they took Game 2 of the World Series, 4-2.
Michael Wacha pitched 6 electric innings, keeping the Red Sox off of the board for the first 5 innings. He finished surrendering just 3 hits and 2 runs while striking out 6, earning his 4th October win for the Cardinals, 4-2.
Receiving 1/2 WOWS:
John Lackey was a hard luck loser, pitching into the 7th innings, being charged with 3 runs and striking out 6 along the way as the Red Sox lost 4-2 to the Cardinals.
David Ortiz homered and briefly gave the Red Sox the lead against the Cardinals. It would not hold as St. Louis triumphed, 4-2.
Who Owns October? (WOO) Tally Updated For WS Game #2 October 24, 2013
Photo: Elsa – Getty Images
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO.
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO to a worthy player on the losing team.
For a full explanation, click HERE.
From World Series Game #2
Receiving 1 WOO:
Carlos Beltran came back from a rib injury to collect 2 hits including a key RBI single that gave St. Louis an insurance run against the Red Sox as they took Game 2 of the World Series, 4-2.
Michael Wacha pitched 6 electric innings, keeping the Red Sox off of the board for the first 5 innings. He finished surrendering just 3 hits and 2 runs while striking out 6, earning his 4th October win for the Cardinals, 4-2.
Receiving 1/2 WOO:
John Lackey was a hard luck loser, pitching into the 7th innings, being charged with 3 runs and striking out 6 along the way as the Red Sox lost 4-2 to the Cardinals.
David Ortiz homered and briefly gave the Red Sox the lead against the Cardinals. It would not hold as St. Louis triumphed, 4-2.
The Detroit Tigers Roster Tree Part 2: How All Of The Pitchers Were Acquired
Justin Verlander has been the best pitcher in the American League over the last 5 years. He is 137 – 77 (.640) with a 3.41 ERA in the 1st 9 years of his career. The 2011 AL Cy Young Winner and 2012 Cy Young runner up is signed with the club until at least 2019, and it could be 2020 with a Vesting Option. Verlander has thrown over 200+ IP each year since 2007. The Detroit Tigers are certainly lucky the San Diego Padres took Matt Bush with the 1st overall pick – . The 30 Year old has added a 7 – 5 record in 15 Career Post Season Games and a 3.28 ERA – among 0 – 3 with a 7.20 in 3 World Series Starts.
How All Of The Tigers Pitchers Were Acquired:
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
At the MLB Reports, we intend to show you the Roster Tree for the Detroit Tigers – 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.
For a couple of the Pitchers, they will be in the Hitters side of this Roster Tree – as they were traded with a hitter to become a member of the Tigers.
For the 1st part of the Roster Tree for the Tigers: The Hitters – click here
For all of the Rosters, Depth Charts, State of the Unions and Salaries Posts that we do, please visit our dedicated page link here.
Justin Verlander 2012 ALDS Game #5
Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – October 24, 2013
Photo: Matt Stone – Boston Herald
It is the first anniversary of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast. Show #366 and the beginning of Year #2.
And the Red Sox took game 1 of the World Series in a way that almost felt TOO easy.
David Ortiz and Jon Lester received full WOO’s.
Carlos Beltran received 1/2 WOO’s.
Confused what a WOO is? An explanation for Who Owns October can be found HERE.
An updated WOO tally can be found HERE.
To subscribe on iTunes, click HERE.
To subscribe on SoundCloud, click HERE.
New ‘SullyMetric’: Who Owns the World Series (WOWS) – Explanation and Tally for Game 1
(AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
It might be time for a new ‘SullyMetric.’
In the regular season, I had “Who Owns Baseball?” aka WOB. The explanation is here.
In essence it was the player and pitcher of the day from both leagues. Whomever won the day the most over the year led the league in WOB.
Then the post season came about and thus was born “Who Owns October?” aka WOO. A full explanation is here.
The player and pitcher who each winning team gets a WOO. If someone on the losing team has an admirable performance (I’m looking at YOU, Justin Verlander), then they would receive 1/2 a WOO.
But the World Series is different. People complain that postseason stats and World Series stats are combined, resulting in Bernie Williams and David Ortiz‘s stats dwarf Mickey Mantle‘s and Babe Ruth‘s because of the additional rounds.
So in my Twitter feed came this suggestion from one of my most loyal readers and listeners.
@sullybaseball will woo he supplanted by wows next week?
— brain wash (@BrainWash1) October 19, 2013
You got it. “Who Owns the World Series?” or WOWS.
I am going to continue to keep track of WOO to see who has the best tally for the entire Postseason.
But it is also time to keep a separate list for the World Series. Will the leader of WOO also lead WOWS?
There is only one way to find out… keep track like a maniac!
From October 23rd’s games:
Receiving 1 WOWS:
Jon Lester was brilliant, pitching shutout ball into the 8th. He finished with 7 2/3 scoreless innings, walking 1 and striking out 8 and let up just 5 hits and got the 8-1 win for the Red Sox over the Cardinals in Game 1 of the World Series.
David Ortiz launched one homer and was robbed of a grand slam. In all he drove in 3 as Boston clobbered St. Louis 8-1.
Receiving 1/2 WOWS:
Carlos Beltran gave the Cardinals their lone highlight when he caught David Ortiz’s home run and kept an early Red Sox lead from getting out of hand. He had to leave the game and eventually the Cardinals did collapse, 8-1.
Who Owns October? (WOO) Tally Updated For WS Game #1 October 23, 2013
(AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO.
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO to a worthy player on the losing team.
For a full explanation, click HERE.
From today’s games:
Receiving 1 WOO:
Jon Lester was brilliant, pitching shutout ball into the 8th. He finished with 7 2/3 scoreless innings, walking 1 and striking out 8 and let up just 5 hits and got the 8-1 win for the Red Sox over the Cardinals in Game 1 of the World Series.
David Ortiz launched one homer and was robbed of a grand slam. In all he drove in 3 as Boston clobbered St. Louis 8-1.
Receiving 1/2 WOO:
Carlos Beltran gave the Cardinals their lone highlight when he caught David Ortiz’s home run and kept an early Red Sox lead from getting out of hand. He had to leave the game and eventually the Cardinals did collapse, 8-1.
MLB Playoff Predictions: Who Will Win The 2013 World Series?
Boston will be at a slight offensive advantage at Busch Stadium for Games #3. #4 and #5 – with losing Napoli out of the lineup – if John Farrell decides to have David Ortiz face all of the Cards Right Handed Starting Pitchers. Despite that fact, I can’t ignore the clutch playoff performers that the Boston club have for this series. The Cards team has fought injuries and used their system brilliantly to get this far, but I think they fall just short in the World Series.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The last thing I wanted to be in my 2013 ALCS Prediction was right. I am a New York Yankees fan, but I have to give it up to the Boston Red Sox.
Much like the 2001 New York Yankees made the World Series after 9/11, how could any begrudge the city of Boston having something to rally around like this?
This matchup will feature the winner laying claim to team of the time frame of 2004 – 2013. No one will contest the Yankees were the best team in the MLB from 1996 – 2003.
Odds To Win The 2013 MLB World Series, Plus Odds To Win Game #1
Fenway Park is not just a place – it is a community around the ballpark. This fence also made the Stadium Journey’s top 10 quirks of baseball. Boston will have home field advantage for the World Series – since the AL won the ALL – Star Game in 2013. If it makes anybody feel any better, the Red Sox had the best record in baseball this season anyway. The Red Sox will face the St. Louis Cardinals in the Fall Classic for the 3rd time (St. Louis won in 1967, and Boston won in 2004). The winner will emerge as the only team in the MLB – to have won 3 World Series in the last 10 years. Boston would be 3 out of 10, and the Cardinals would be 3 Titles in 7 years. Pic by http://www.ballparkreviews.com
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Odds To Win the World Series Today:
Boston Red Sox -145
St. Louis Cardinals +125
Ortiz Slams the Red Sox back into a tie (Credit FOX)
Having A Great DH Can Mean Winning The AL Pennant: For Other Teams – The Position Is A Waste!
David Ortiz has been the quintessential DH in the AL over the last 11 years. Boston are perennial contenders because he put up great #s compared to his competition. Ortiz had a great 2013 campaign – where he 3 Slashed .309/.395./.959 – with 30 HRs and 103 RBI in just 137 Games Played. Ortiz is .292/.390/.962 in 11 Years with Boston, with 373 HRs and 1191 RBI. The Red Sox won the World Series in 2004 and 2007 with him at DH, and are looking to win again this year.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @chuckbooth3024
Watching the 2013 season, something really resonated with me while watching the American League: ‘Where have all the great designated hitters in MLB gone?’
It is surprising to me that teams haven’t figured out that having a dominant DH in the league could mean the difference in winning the AL pennant or not.
I also believe that players should be moved their earlier than in their mid 30’s. If they can’t play the field at all, or are not superior at offense, they should be made to Pinch-hit in the NL.
It seemed only a few years ago that every team had a bopper capable of hitting .300 with 30 HR’S and 100 RBI’s. Upon further investigation, I found out some interesting facts.
Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – October 14, 2013
JARED WICKERHAM/GETTY IMAGES
Right after the miraculous victory by the Red Sox in Game 2 of the 2013 ALCS, I recorded an impromptu episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.
No prep. No notes. Just me and my dad sitting at the kitchen table, talking about the game.
David Ortiz and Koji Uehara got full WOOs last night.
Max Scherzer and Alex Avila got half WOOs.
Confused what a WOO is? An explanation for Who Owns October can be found HERE.
An updated WOO tally can be found HERE.
To subscribe on iTunes, click HERE.
To subscribe on SoundCloud, click HERE.
Who Owns October? (WOO) Tally Updated For October 13, 2013 Games
ELISE AMENDOLA/AP
Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO.
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO to a worthy player on the losing team.
For a full explanation, click HERE.
From today’s games:
Receiving 1 WOO:
David Ortiz hit what could have been the most dramatic home run of his career, which is saying something. With one swing of his bat, he turned a 5-1 8th inning hole with 2 outs into a 5-5 tie as his grand slam landed in the bullpen.
It was the first time in a playoff history that a grand slam was hit to tie the game in the 8th inning or later. It changed the tide of the series and set up the 9th inning walk off win for the Red Sox over Detroit.
After the Red Sox tied the game, they needed a shut down inning. They got that from Koji Uehara, who prevented the Tigers big sluggers from getting a chance to bat by tossing a 1-2-3 9th. He would be credited with the victory in Boston’s 6-5 walk off win over Detroit.
Receiving 1/2 WOO:
Alex Avila drove in a run in the second and launched a 2 run shot in the 6th that gave the Tigers a 5-0 lead that they could not hold against Boston.
Max Scherzer became the latest Tigers pitcher to flirt with a post season no hitter. He was remarkable over 7 innings, letting up just 2 hits, 1 run and striking out 13. His bullpen betrayed him and he had to settle for a no decision in the Red Sox stunning 6-5 win.
2013 MLB Playoff Predictions: ALCS + NLCS Matchups
The Red Sox went from 69 Wins in 2012 – to World Series favorite in one year. The ‘Beantowners’ have assembled a playoff tested crew to arm them in their quest to make it to the World Series for the 1st time in 6 years. Will the Red Sox take out the Tigers and go for the team of the decade, with a 3rd World Series Bid (out of the last 10 years) in 2013?
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
After nailing the National League straight on in picks for the LDS Round, I failed in either of my upset predictions of Tampa Bay or Oakland to advance.
I am not displeased though, I won money on the Rays losing the series (that came from a bet for them to win the World Series in June that paid +2000 or so, I bet the Red Sox to win the Series as a hedge.
Heading into last nights game, I could have still gone 3 – 1 for the Series prediction if Oakland could come up with a win.
Really the A’s failing to wrap up Game #4 was the big blow.
Thanks to a nice odd of Justin Verlander -107 @ Sonny Gray (-103), I nailed the game last for a nice little profit.
I never bet one dime on the other series in the NLCS.
So I went 2 – 2 in the Round, but plus some nice cash for my effort. Including the playoff game and Wild Card game, I am now 4 – 3 this Post Season.
The Red Sox win the LDS vs the Tampa Bay Rays
youtube=http://youtu.be/Y4m4eeyhFks
How All Of The Red Sox Hitters Were Acquired Onto The Roster + Analysis: Fall 2013
Ben Cherington pulled off the biggest salary dump in MLB History in 2012, with his clearing the deck of Gonzalez, Crawford and Beckett. He replaced them with saavy, playoff tested Veterans – on lower value, and year contracts. His club won the 2013 AL East with the revamped squad – that improved almost 30 Wins from 2012. So how did the entire roster of hitters all come to be Boston Red Sox Property? We will now tell you.
How All Of The Red Sox Hitters Were Acquired:
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @mlbreports
At the MLB Reports, we intend to show you the Roster Tree for the Boston Red Sox – 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 Hitters.
For all of the Rosters, Depth Charts, State of the Unions and Salaries that we do, please visit our dedicated page link here.
David Ortiz Talks Up The Boston Crowd After The Boston Tragedy – Warning: Explicit Word Used – Parental Discretion Is Advised
Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – October 6, 2013
TBS
It is THE SUNDAY REQUEST on The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.
Do you think Fenway is becoming similar to soccer crowds after the “Myers” chant on Friday? Happened last season too …. @sullybaseball
— Vicki Grimbley (@Grimbers78) October 6, 2013
I love the Myers chant. Trust me, sarcasm and ball busting is nothing new in Boston!
Meanwhile Sonny Gray, Stephen Vogt, David Ortiz and Koli Uehara all earned full WOO’s.
Justin Verlander and James Loney earned half WOO’s.
Confused of what a WOO is? Click Here.
The updated WOO tally is here.
Subscribe on iTunes by clicking HERE.
2 And A Hook Podcast #15: AL Wild Card Race Breakdown, NL Central Chat + The BallPark Pass-Port Inventor
The 2 And A Hook Podcast will be running 8 consecutive shows on Thursdays Sept. 19 + 26, and Oct 3,10,17,24,31) – Join us for our extensive playoff coverage from Chuck Booth, Chris Lacey, James Acevedo and many other guests!
‘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 ) Follow @yankeeman1973
Guests On The Show:
On today’s show, brought to you by www.mlbreports.com
& yours truly The Bench Warmers Show.
I start it off with talking about the Yankees chances of getting the 2nd Wild Card Spot & giving them props for having a good season no matter what happens..
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MLB Reports 
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