Blog Archives

MLB Daily Fantasy Picks DFS For FanDuel 4/27/16

Team Stack #1 includes the Nats 1, 2, 3 and possibly #5 or #6 hitter with Michael Taylor, Anthony Rendon, Bryce Harper and Jayson Werth. Washington will face off against the Phillies RHP Jeremy Hellickson,

Team Stack #1 includes the Nats 1, 2, 3 and possibly #5 or #6 hitter with Michael Taylor, Anthony Rendon, Bryce Harper and Jayson Werth. Washington will face off against the Phillies RHP Jeremy Hellickson Wed night at Nationals Park in DC.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

I am all for thinking that Jake Arrieta will continue to deal with the rest of the pitchers, but he is so overpriced on FanDuel, that it will kill the rest of your roster.  Yes his PPG is astronomical, and the experts will say to always use he or Clayton Kershaw on days they are pitching.  I won’t do it, and then split next to nil with the rest of the punters.

I love betting against the Braves each and every day  – and will keep the tradition going for probably the whole year here. Steven Wright is at home versus the powerless Braves.

By using that guy, I am able to stack two lineups with the Red Sox and Nationals, where I can use David Ortiz and Bryce Harper on my roster.

Using the Washington squad minus Daniel Murphy was necessary to implore the Xander Bogaerts, Dustin Pedroia and Ortiz move.

The Nats should still hit those guys 1, 2, 3 and 5 tomorrow, or maybe Werth at 6 vs Jeremy Hellickson.

Bryce Harper was walked 3 times on Tuesday – and you can count one a free pass about once a game right now. Read the rest of this entry

2016’s 30 MLB Park Home Openers Results: Fans Go Home Disappointed 19 Times

Best home win for all 30 clubs in winning 10 - 1 over the Milwaukee Brewers Monday Apr 11, 2016

Best home win for all 30 clubs in winning 10 – 1 over the Milwaukee Brewers Monday Apr 11, 2016  9 runs difference was the best run differential for the home clubs.

Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead  Analyst) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

It was a bad year for the home clubs in MLB Season Openers in 2016.  The road clubs won 19 of the 30 MLB Park openers.  The worst defeat was at Petco Park (where the Padres lost 15 – 0).

The Cardinals featured the best win for the home side, working over the Brewers for a 10 – 1 win yesterday.

Of note, it was the last home park openers for David Ortiz and the great Vin Scully announced the lineup for his last Dodger Stadium opener, in what was the 30th home opener on the itinerary.

The American League went 5 – 10 and the National League went 6 – 9.

Baltimore, San Francisco, Chicago Cubs and Detroit were the only four clubs that won openers, that also won another home opener to which they were on the road.

The Cardinals had the most lopsided win at home winning 10 – 1, the Giants scored the most runs with 12, and the biggest loss and defeat for a home squad, was San Diego being bageled 15 – 0 by the Dodgers in Game 1 at Petco, in what turned out to be a 3 game home series where they were shutout in all games and outscored 25 – 0.

To end the stats here, the NL Central was the only winning division at 4 – 1, where the Brewers lost the only contest at Miller Park to the Giants.

Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – March 24, 2016

AROD4KEPNERweb-master675

Jerome Miron/USA Today Sports, via Reuters

Alex Rodriguez is calling it a career in two seasons. You will miss him when he is gone.

And soon Brett Gardner will be that strange odd lone figure: A World Champion Yankee.

It is a an end of an era episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast

Read the rest of this entry

Projected Top 5 Home Run Hitters In Major League Baseball For 2016

Giancarlo Stanton should contend for the NL HR championship crown in 2016. He is capable of cracking 40 - 50 HRs if he can play a year completely healthy. The Marlins are lucky to have one of the best young hitters in the game on offense, and to also have Jose Fernandez as their #1 Pitcher. Finances dictate the club will only be able to secure one long term - and Fernandez has more years left of team control, and is going to cost the team less cash.

Giancarlo Stanton should contend for the NL HR championship crown in 2016. He is capable of cracking 40 – 50 HRs if he can play a year completely healthy. The Marlins are lucky to have one of the best young hitters in the game on offense.  We will predict he will lead the overall MLB as well.  Stanton cracked 27 HRs in just 74 Games Played in 2015 before a broken hand derailed his last three months of the season.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

So I think I fared fairly well from my prognostications of last HR leaders last year – although I was seriously off on Mark Trumbo and George Springer and of course Nelson Cruz did not slow down in 2015.

I almost nailed the totals for the top 1 – 4 in the AL.  Bryce Harper did emerge.  I also said that Edwin Encarnacion and Jose Bautista would be near the top of the list of near misses, but those continued to be productive past that.

So it comes to another year of figuring out this maze of the top power hitters.  I still believe that if Giancarlo Stanton remains healthy for a full season – that he will bomb 50 HRs.  I am picking him to be the National League Leader. Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast Archives Jan 1, 2015 – Jan 31, 2015 (Episodes 800 – 830)

sunkenDFiamond

Paul Francis Sullivan (please call him Sully) does a podcast 365 days a year – unless it is a leap year – then he will do another 1. He has done a show everyday since Oct.24/2012. This to date represents a streak of 1238 days consecutively!

Past the CLICK TO READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY are episodes 800 – 830 of the Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

We will also archive all of his podcasts to date (in coming weeks) so they are easily accessible for all his fans. Check out all his Archived info here.

Our website followers have grown larger each year for his podcast.

Follow Sully Baseball On Twitter

To subscribe on iTunes, click HERE.

To subscribe on SoundCloud, click HERE. Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast Archives Jan 1, 2014 – Jan 31, 2014 (Episodes 435 – 465)

sunkenDFiamond

Paul Francis Sullivan (please call him Sully) does a podcast 365 days a year – unless it is a leap year – then he will do another 1. He has done a show everyday since Oct.24/2012. This to date represents a streak of 1236 days consecutively!

Past the CLICK TO READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY are episodes 435 – 465 of the Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

We will also archive all of his podcasts to date (in coming weeks) so they are easily accessible for all his fans. Check out all his Archived info here.

Our website followers have grown larger each year for his podcast.

Follow Sully Baseball On Twitter

To subscribe on iTunes, click HERE.

To subscribe on SoundCloud, click HERE. Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast Archives Dec 1, 2015 – Dec 31, 2015 (Episodes 1134 – 1164)

sunkenDFiamond

Paul Francis Sullivan (please call him Sully) does a podcast 365 days a year – unless it is a leap year – then he will do another 1. He has done a show everyday since Oct.24/2012. This to date represents a streak of 1235 days consecutively!

Past the CLICK TO READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY are episodes 1134 – 1164 of the Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

We will also archive all of his podcasts to date (in coming weeks) so they are easily accessible for all his fans. Check out all his Archived info here.

Our website followers have grown larger each year for his podcast.

Follow Sully Baseball On Twitter

To subscribe on iTunes, click HERE.

To subscribe on SoundCloud, click HERE. Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast Archives Dec 1, 2014 – Dec 31, 2014 (Episodes 769 – 799)

sunkenDFiamond

Paul Francis Sullivan (please call him Sully) does a podcast 365 days a year – unless it is a leap year – then he will do another 1. He has done a show everyday since Oct.24/2012. This to date represents a streak of 1235 days consecutively!

Past the CLICK TO READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY are episodes 769 – 799 of the Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

We will also archive all of his podcasts to date (in coming weeks) so they are easily accessible for all his fans. Check out all his Archived info here.

Our website followers have grown larger each year for his podcast.

Follow Sully Baseball On Twitter

To subscribe on iTunes, click HERE.

To subscribe on SoundCloud, click HERE. Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast Archives Dec 1, 2013 – Dec 31, 2013 (Episodes 404 – 434)

sunkenDFiamond

Paul Francis Sullivan (please call him Sully) does a podcast 365 days a year – unless it is a leap year – then he will do another 1. He has done a show everyday since Oct.24/2012. This to date represents a streak of 1235 days consecutively!

Past the CLICK TO READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY are episodes 404 – 434 of the Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

We will also archive all of his podcasts to date (in coming weeks) so they are easily accessible for all his fans. Check out all his Archived info here.

Our website followers have grown larger each year for his podcast.

Follow Sully Baseball On Twitter

To subscribe on iTunes, click HERE.

To subscribe on SoundCloud, click HERE. Read the rest of this entry

Baseball’s Fun Problem: Old School Vs New: Goose Vs Bautista/Cespedes/Harper

bautista19812090-mmmain

Andrew Martin (Featured Baseball Writer/Owner – baseballhistorian.blogspot.ca) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

Baseball has a “fun” problem. The game noticeably stands apart from other professional leagues with its reputation for longer, slower-moving games and expectations for more stoic behavior on the field. S

ports are a leading source of entertainment but baseball lags behind their counterparts in many ways when it comes to their image of being stuffy and boring.

This was personified by recent comments made by Hall-of-Fame reliever Goose Gossage, blasting behavior he thinks is ruining the game.

READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast Archives Nov 1, 2013 – Nov 30, 2013 (Episodes 374 – 403)

sunkenDFiamond

Paul Francis Sullivan (please call him Sully) does a podcast 365 days a year – unless it is a leap year – then he will do another 1. He has done a show everyday since Oct.24/2012. This to date represents a streak of 1232 days consecutively!

Past the CLICK TO READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY are episodes 374 – 403 of the Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

We will also archive all of his podcasts to date (in coming weeks) so they are easily accessible for all his fans. Check out all his Archived info here.

Our website followers have grown larger each year for his podcast.

Follow Sully Baseball On Twitter

To subscribe on iTunes, click HERE.

To subscribe on SoundCloud, click HERE. Read the rest of this entry

Is Edwin Encarnacion The Key To Next Offseason For The Boston Red Sox?

Edwin Encarnacion has been one of the top 5 offensive hitters in the AL since the start of the 2012 year.  It is unfortunate that Bautista and he will probably not remain a Blue Jays beyond this upcoming year.  If EE can't come to terms with the Canadian franchise - perhaps Boston may be a perfect candidate to ink the slugger after this season.

Edwin Encarnacion has been one of the top 5 offensive hitters in the AL since the start of the 2012 year. It is unfortunate that Bautista and he will probably not remain a Blue Jays beyond this upcoming year. If EE can’t come to terms with the Canadian franchise – perhaps Boston may be a perfect candidate to ink the slugger after this season.

Andrew Martin (Featured Baseball Writer/Owner – baseballhistorian.blogspot.ca) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

The 2016 MLB season has just kicked off with the first spring training games of the year, yet it’s not too early to start looking forward to next year.

As things currently stand, there is a lengthy list of players set to become free agents in 2017.

While they possess varying skills and positions, there is one player in particular the Boston Red Sox should focus their attention on, and that is Edwin Encarnacion — who could be the key to next offseason as an excellent candidate to replace the departing David Ortiz.

READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – March 2, 2016

GrabbagCapture

 

Today is a grab bag episode.

Lonnie Smith talks about his time with the World Champion Philadelphia Phillies…

And Subway Squawkers‘ Lisa Swan shares her thoughts on farewell tours.

It is a spring cleaning episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Follow Subway Squawkers on Twitter by clicking HERE.

 

 

Read the rest of this entry

2016 MLB Preseason Power Rankings

Featured Image -- 1364

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

With just 5 weeks to the regular season – and all of the important Free Agents finally being locked up with Ian Desmond signing with the Rangers, it is time to see where all 30 MLB clubs stack up.

We are going to be running weekly power rankings once the year starts on Apr.3, 2016.

The way I compile the Power Rankings is best on confidence to win the World Series.  Some clubs may be more talented (or playing better) than a squad they are behind in the rankings,  but the Division (and strength of opponents) plays a massive factor.

It is the reason why teams like the Royals or Astros will be selected above a team like the Toronto Blue Jays.

The Pittsburgh Pirates might win 90 games (which may only see one AL club join them), but because they have to contend with the Cards and Cubs in the NL Central, it will be tough for them to receive a great ranking (at least until games are played). Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – February 25, 2016

Jose-Reyes--Colorado-Rockies-jpg

Mitchell Layton/Getty Images

Domestic violence is finally going to be dealt with in baseball.

I am not sure what commissioner Manfred should do about Jose Reyes, Yasiel Puig and Aroldis Chapman. But I DO know that saying things like David Ortiz said does not help.

Players are role models. If you don’t like that, quit and join a beer league.

It is a do the right thing NOW edition of the Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The Overall Homer Crown In 2016 MLB Baseball: Battle Of The Big Fly’s

Stanton has light tower power - and should lead the NL in Homers if he can remain healthy for a whole year. While it doesn't lock up a postseason berth having an MVP type season - coupled with a CY Young caliber pitcher on the field, it should translate in a chance to contend for the year.

Stanton has light tower power – and should lead the NL and MLB in Homers if he can remain healthy for a whole year.   In just 74 Games Played last campaign, the big slugger belted 27 HRs.  The problem is always staying on the field.  There is no reason to think he can’t crack 50+ HRs if he played a full season.  To aid his efforts as the biggest favorite to win this years MLB Homer crown – is that Marlins Park is bringing in the fences and also lowering them.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

I am flat-out wondering why these guys failed to include Chris Carter on this list?  For a prolific Home Run Hitter over the last 3 years (90 bombs), this guy is getting no respect.

I mean they have Corey Seager, Matt Adams and Freddie Freeman at the +20000 clip, but no word for a guy who finished 2nd in 2014 MLB Homers?

Carter is headed to the best home run park in the Major Leagues in Milwaukee, and will not be on a competitive club, where his AB may be in question.  Sure the guy might fan 250 times in 600 AB this season, but he may crack 40 taters for all we know.

I have requested this gambling website send me the odd for Carter (you can request a player that wasn’t listed), and I will get back to you shortly.

Let me start by saying that if Giancarlo Stanton remains healthy for a full year that he should definitely lead the Majors in longballs.  Despite us predicting him to do this, his odd only is listed as our #5 value best bet on the board. Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The 2016 MLB World Series

Yoenis Cespedes led all LF for HRs with 35 on the campaign in 2015. He picked a contract year for his best season to date out of the 4 years he has been in the Major Leagues. Cespedes hit 17 HRs with the Mets in 2 months, after smacking out just 18 in the first four months with Detroit. Cespedes finished in the top 40 for both leagues in respective big fly's, and was tied for 13th overall with Manny Machado and David Ortiz.  New York brought him back for at least another year, where he helped the Mets go 34 - 23 down the stretch.  Expect more of the same in 2016.  Mets are the best bet of the week for the 'Fall Classic' value wise.

Yoenis Cespedes led all LF for HRs with 35 on the campaign in 2015. He picked a contract year for his best season to date out of the 4 years he has been in the Major Leagues. Cespedes hit 17 HRs with the Mets in 2 months, after smacking out just 18 in the first four months with Detroit. Cespedes finished in the top 40 for both leagues in respective big fly’s, and was tied for 13th overall with Manny Machado and David Ortiz. New York brought him back for at least another year, where he helped the Mets go 34 – 23 down the stretch. Expect more of the same in 2016. Mets are the best bet of the week for the ‘Fall Classic’ value wise.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

A couple of things have happened over the last week.  The Mets signed Yoenis Cespedes and no odd was changed after this.  Very strange indeed.

With adding the Cuban slugger, the Mets have almost assured their fanbase for another post season berth in 2016.  This club is more like it was in the last 2 months than it was in the 1st four months.

Even if the Nationals were to have an unbelievable year – the Mets should still make the postseason as the #1 Wild Card seed.

I have the Mets as a 96 win team after this move, with the Nats listed about 93 victories.  Had the Nats picked up Cespedes, I would have given Washington a 95 – 92 win advantage over New York. Read the rest of this entry

The Padres Should Definitely Not Pursue Yoenis Cespedes: But The Angels Should

Yoenis Cespedes led all LF for HRs with 35 on the campaign in 2015. He picked a contract year for his best season to date out of the 4 years he has been in the Major Leagues. Cespedes hit 17 HRs with the Mets in 2 months, after smacking out just 18 in the first four months with Detroit. Cespedes finished in the top 40 for both leagues in respective big fly's, and was tie for 13th overall with Manny Machado and David Ortiz. The 30 Year Old would not be a good fit in San Diego - where they have a similar player in Matt Kemp already. His presence with Trout and Calhoun in Los Angeles would be the best all around Outfield in the Majors should he sign there.

Yoenis Cespedes led all LF for HRs with 35 on the campaign in 2015. He picked a contract year for his best season to date out of the 4 years he has been in the Major Leagues. Cespedes hit 17 HRs with the Mets in 2 months, after smacking out just 18 in the first four months with Detroit. Cespedes finished in the top 40 for both leagues in respective big fly’s, and was tie for 13th overall with Manny Machado and David Ortiz. The 30 Year Old would not be a good fit in San Diego – where they have a similar player in Matt Kemp already. His presence with Trout and Calhoun in Los Angeles would be the best all around Outfield in the Majors should he sign there.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

With Yoenis Cespedes still on the open market a lot of speculation is running rampant on which squads should be in the running for his services.

While I am not sure I buy the theory at all, the Padres have been said to be checking in on the big Cuban star.

This type of signing would be a monumental mistake in my view.

I would hope that A.J. Preller would have learned his lesson by acquiring high strikeout, low OBP players that have power that may not translate to their home park in Petco Park. Read the rest of this entry

Chris Davis (Tied For 20th) + Justin Upton (38th) Join The Top 50 All – Time Salary List

Losing Chris Davis and his 45+ HR power would have been very difficult to replace. The O's have their man with a creative deferral payment plan that will see them pay Davis $119 MIL from 2016 - 2022, and then pay out $42 MIL over the next 15 years in deferrals.

Losing Chris Davis and his 45+ HR power would have been very difficult to replace. The O’s have their man with a creative deferral payment plan that will see them pay Davis $119 MIL from 2016 – 2022, and then pay out $42 MIL over the next 15 years in deferrals.  The $161 MIL has him tied for 19th ALL – Time in MLB Player Contracts with CC Sabathia.  The Orioles slugger led the league with 47 HRs (2nd time in 3 years), and has clubbed 126 HRs (led all of the MLB) in the last 3 seasons despite being levied a 25 game suspension for his medication in Sept of 2014.

Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead  Analyst) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

Chris Davis, 30 in 2016,  and Justin Upton, 28,  are now in the 9 figure club and among historical contracts of ALL – Time.  Davis inked a 7 YR deal for $161 MIL – while Upton is at 6 Years for $132.75 (distributed evenly throughout.)

The Big 1B/OF for the O’s will make $119 MIL from 2016 – 2022 paid evenly by $17 MIL per year before the crazy deferral program kicks in.  From 2023 – 2030, Davis will earn $3.5 per annum for another $31 MIL.  The deal then goes from 2031 – 2037 at a 1.4 MIL per annum clip.   All told it is $161 MIL spread over 21 years. Read the rest of this entry

Top 10 Active List: Homers Per At Bat

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part-Owner) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

I guess I was pretty surprised to that despite 181 HRs in just 2567 AB – Giancarlo Stanton doesn’t have enough AB to qualify for the career lead in this category.

For the record Stanton has gone deep for every 14.18 AB thus far, including his 2015 year where he did yard work 27 times in just 279 AB – which is just 10.33 AB per jack.

Mike Trout is operating at a Home Run so far at 1/17.61 AB.  Bryce Harper is just 3 HRS shy of the 100 Homer plateau.  He has a HR/per 18.86 AB in his career, but he was at an incredible 1 longball per 12.40 AB last season. Read the rest of this entry

Detroit Tigers State Of The Union For 2016

The Tigers are already at a budget of near $180 MIL - and could still use another Starting Pitcher and OF to add to the mix. What if they were to sign Yoenis Cespedes and then add another Starter - this could bring them over the $200 MIL barrier. With just a penalty of 17.5%, it would not cost the club more than about $5 in fees if that were to happen. They and the Angels would have the most to gain by crossing the Luxury Tax limit.

The Tigers are already at a budget of near $180 MIL – and could still use another Starting Pitcher and OF to add to the mix. What if they were to sign Yoenis Cespedes and then add another Starter – this could bring them over the $200 MIL barrier. With just a penalty of 17.5% for one year over, it would not cost the club more than about $5 MIL in fees if that were to happen.  It is only because they are the most winnable Division – and can draw over 3 Million fans that I would even say this is a good idea to spend more money for one season.

Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead  Analyst) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

The Detroit Tigers are getting older by the second.  The recent Free Agent signings of Jordan Zimmermann, Mike Pelfrey, Mark Lowe and Jarrod Saltalamacchia – coupled with the acquisitions of Cameron Maybin, Justin Wilson, Francisco Rodriguez have just furthered the ticking time bomb of father time.

Departing from the 2015 Roster are: Ian Krol, Rajai Davis, Alex Avila, Alfredo Simon, Al Alburquerque, Joe Nathan and Tom Gorzelanny.

If you also add 4 months from each of Yoenis Cespedes, Joakim Soria and David Price to the list from the beginning of 2015, how does the departed compare to the incoming for 2016?

It actually is pretty fair, but the difference comes down to Cespedes.  The Bullpen may be a lot stronger as well.  Simon and Avila is favorable to Saltalamacchia and Pelfrey.

Rodriguez, Lowe and Wilson compares to Soria and Albuquerque and Gorzelanny strongly.

Price and Zimmermann is at least comparable, with Price maybe holding a slight edge, but not at an extension of $107 MIL over 2 years better. Value wise, the Tigers may have the better long term deal.

So with this in mind, the 2016 club is not better on paper yet. Read the rest of this entry

Los Angeles Angels State Of The Union For 2016

The Angels could easily upgrade 2B and an LF spots, and will need to compensate for Albert Pujols to at least miss the start of the 2016 season as well. They have great depth in the Pitching Rotation, however are bogged down by the Jered Weaver and C.J. Wilson costing them a combined $40 MIL. Add in $30 MIL in buyout/dead money and the team will have a tough time competing in 2016 without nearing $200 MIL in total team payroll.

The Angels could easily upgrade their 2B and LF positions, and will need to compensate for Albert Pujols to at least miss the start of the 2016 season as well. They have great depth in the Pitching Rotation, however are bogged down by the Jered Weaver and C.J. Wilson costing them a combined $40 MIL. Add in $30 MIL in buyout/dead money and the team will have a tough time competing in 2016 without nearing $200 MIL in total team payroll.  This means that Arte Moreno will have to give new GM Billy Eppler some more money to dole out to Free Agents.  Will he do it?  I am afraid for the Halo’s in 2016 if he doesn’t bring in 2 – 3 more upgrades..

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

It has been a slow but somewhat productive winter for the Angels brass, and in particular for new GM Billy Eppler.  They have done the kind of deals that will work only if they still pull the trigger on signing a premiere player.

Los Angeles acquired a 3B already in Yunel Escobar, who was only traded for by flipping Trevor Gott and a mid level prospect. Not bad for a guy who batted .315/.374/.415 over the past year, makes $7 MIL in 2016, and has a Team Option for 2017 at another $7 MIL – or the club can Buy him out for a cool million.

This came on the heels of trading for Andrelton Simmons, who has 5 years of Team Control left for a guy that only had one more year of salary on the books in Erick Aybar. Read the rest of this entry

Boston Red Sox Payroll In 2016 + Contracts Going Forward

With adding the contracts of David Price and Craig Kimbrel in recent player moves, this pushes Boston to near $200 MIL in team payroll for 2016. I think they should try to add a few pitchers near the 2016 Trade deadline. With a lot of money tied up in the future, any player they take on should have their contracts end in 2016. Boston stands to pay 17.5% for money spent over the $189 MIL limit. They could run with a $220 MIL salaried club in 2016 and only pay around $6 MIL in additional fees. Do it, and pale it back afterwards.

With adding the contracts of David Price and Craig Kimbrel in recent player moves, this pushes Boston to near $200 MIL in team payroll for 2016. I think they should try to add a few pitchers near the 2016 Trade deadline. With a lot of money tied up in the future, any player they take on should have their contracts end in 2016. Boston stands to pay 17.5% for money spent over the $189 MIL limit. They could run with a $220 MIL salaried club in 2016 and only pay around $6 MIL in additional fees. Do it, and pale it back afterwards.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part-Owner) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

Well the Boston Red Sox are finally going to join the Dodgers and Yankees as teams that cross the Luxury Tax Threshold for 2016.  This was made possible by recently picking up  David Price for 7 YRs at $31 MIL average per year.

Already in 2017, the team is committed for around $162 MIL – and that is without their stalwart DH of David Ortiz anymore.  2018, the salary obligations are at $151 MIL, and the franchise has already lumped $139 MIL on the books fr the 2019 cash.

This is a leap of faith for the franchise, as they were always reluctant to pay top dollars for Free Agent Pitchers.

Last year’s signings of Pablo Sandoval and Hanley Ramirez are looking like poor moves right now, however they can be helped with bounce back years in 2016. Read the rest of this entry

Giants Ink Johnny Cueto: It’s Tied For The 37th ALL – Time In MLB Contracts

Johnny Cueto is 97 - 70 (.578) career with a 3.30 ERA however he has put forth a 2.71 ERA since the start of the 2011 year. Much like his new team, Cueto has performed better in the even years of this decade, where he finished 2nd in Cy Young Voting in 2012 and 4th in 2014 Cy Young Voting.

Johnny Cueto is 97 – 70 (.578) career with a 3.30 ERA however he has put forth a 2.71 ERA since the start of the 2011 year. Much like his new team, Cueto has performed better in the even years of this decade, where he finished 2nd in Cy Young Voting in 2012 and 4th in 2014 Cy Young Voting.

Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead  Analyst) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

The landscape of the NL West just changed again. As of right now I give the Giants as equally a shot to win the NL West as I do the LA Dodgers.  Signing Johnny Cueto is an awesome move.

Even better than the 6 YRs/$130 MIL deal is an opt out clause after 2 years, when Cueto can forego the final 4 years of the pact – leaving the San Fran club with $84 MIL on the table.

The current contract also calls for a Team Option for a 7th year.

Cueto, who is 30, most likely will opt out after 2017 if he can put up great back to back seasons as good as his 2.71 ERA since the start of the 2011 campaign, – only bested by Clayton Kershaw in that time frame.

Read the rest of this entry

Projected Top 5 Home Run Hitters In Major League Baseball For 2016

Giancarlo Stanton should contend for the NL HR championship crown in 2016. He is capable of cracking 40 - 50 HRs if he can play a year completely healthy. The Marlins are lucky to have one of the best young hitters in the game on offense, and to also have Jose Fernandez as their #1 Pitcher. Finances dictate the club will only be able to secure one long term - and Fernandez has more years left of team control, and is going to cost the team less cash.

Giancarlo Stanton should contend for the NL HR championship crown in 2016. He is capable of cracking 40 – 50 HRs if he can play a year completely healthy. The Marlins are lucky to have one of the best young hitters in the game on offense.  We will predict he will lead the overall MLB as well.  Stanton cracked 27 HRs in just 74 Games Played in 2015 before a broken hand derailed his last three months of the season.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

So I think I fared fairly well from my prognostications of last HR leaders last year – although I was seriously off on Mark Trumbo and George Springer and of course Nelson Cruz did not slow down in 2015.

I almost nailed the totals for the top 1 – 4 in the AL.  Bryce Harper did emerge.  I also said that Edwin Encarnacion and Jose Bautista would be near the top of the list of near misses, but those continued to be productive past that.

So it comes to another year of figuring out this maze of the top power hitters.  I still believe that if Giancarlo Stanton remains healthy for a full season – that he will bomb 50 HRs.  I am picking him to be the National League Leader. Read the rest of this entry

Jason Heyward Signs With The Cubs For The 13th Highest Contract In MLB History

Jason Heyward

Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead  Analyst) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

It has been announced that Jason Heyward has just inked an 8 YR deal with the Chicago Cubs for $184 MIL deal.  The contract calls for a player opt out after 3 years, but for now he is tied with Joe Mauer for 13th overall in total dollars during a deal.

Whether Heyward is worth that kind of dough in AAV is beside the point.  At 26, he was one of the youngest Free Agent players of all time that could garner that type of cash.

No question about the man’s defensive prowess being unique in the game right now.  He has also cut down on the amount of Strikeouts from early in his career. Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The 2016 MLB World Series

Pittsburgh had the 2nd best record in the Majors with 98 wins, yet were samarily dismissed in the Wild Card Game by the Cubs - and a lightning hot Jake Arrieta at the time It may actually get worse for the Bucs in coming years with the emergence of the young NL Chicago squad and the continued dominance of the St. Louis franchise. My idea is to spend some money this offseason, but if you are 5 or 6 games behind the playoff bar near the Trade Deadline, to deal all guys on the remainder year of their contracts and to retool for 2017.

Pittsburgh had the 2nd best record in the Majors with 98 wins, yet were simirarily dismissed in the Wild Card Game by the Cubs – and a lightning hot Jake Arrieta at the time. It may actually get worse for the Bucs in coming years with the emergence of the young NL Chicago squad and the continued dominance of the St. Louis franchise. My idea was to spend some money this offseason, but if you are 5 or 6 games behind the playoff bar near the Trade Deadline, to deal all guys on the remainder year of their contracts and retool for 2017.  Instead they have made a boneheaded trade in doling out Neil Walker for Jon Niese this week.  Their odd should not be +1400 as the #3 ranked team in the NL Central.  I don’t think 3 teams qualify for the playoffs out of that Division in 2016.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

Okay hands up, how many of you followed my advice minutes after the Zack Greinke deal – and pounced on that 40/1 play?  I am happy to say I did, and voila, they jumped from +4000 all the way to+1600.

Sure there was an added bonus of the club picking up Shelby Miller via the trade route – but that is how quickly the odds fluctuate.  The job is to render value.

So far we have given really sound advice on this whole off season.  The first time the new odd was posted we said to stay clear of the Dodgers as the favorite.  Look at them right now – they are considered the 5th favorite in the NL.

Now if you think the Los Angeles franchise is not done on the winter with high priced talent, you can get them at this nice odd.  I personally believe they need to add 1 more #2, #3 starter in addition to the latest Dodgers Hisashi Iwakuma signing – and another premiere Outfielder as well. Read the rest of this entry

Greinke Signs With Arizona: 12th Best Deal ALL – Time Of 50 MLB Richest Contracts.

Zack Greinke opted of his deal after this season, even though he will stay have nearly $26 MIL per year left on his deal running through 2018. There is no doubt in my mind that LA will probably walk away from Greinke. I base that on the comments from GM Andrew Friedman - who isn't looking to spend a lot of money, and also shed payroll. If the brass is able to pull of some swift financing, they should be able to absorb a ne deal with the RHP, and not have the salary for the club be blown out of proportion.

Zack Greinke opted of his deal (6 YRs/$147.6 MIL) after this last season with the Dodgers, even though he will still nearly $26 MIL per year left on his deal running through 2018. The 32 Year Old has been dynamite since moving to Los Angeles, featuring a 60 – 17 (.779) record with a mid 2 ERA since he was dealt to the Angels in mid 2012 from the Brewers.  He just inked the most lucrative deal ever signed for the MLB in AAV at $34.42 MIL per year.

Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead  Analyst) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

A collective haymaker punch has just been thrown at the rest of the National League West.  The Diamondbacks have inked Zack Greinke to a 6 YRs/$206.5 MIL pact as of last night.

This is the 3rd richest Pitcher contract ever signed behind David Price‘s 7 YRs/$217 MIL deal – and Clayton Kerhsaw’s extension of 7 YRs/$210 MIL.

It is also the highest Average Annual contract  ahead at $34.42 MIL per season, edging out both Price and Miguel Cabrera at a clip of $31 MIL each a campaign for their respective deals.

Greinke, 32, who finished 2nd in NL Cy Young Voting with an incredible 1.66 ERA in 222.1 IP worth of work in 2015 had opted out of his 6 YRs/$147.5 MIL deal with the Dodgers after just 3 years.

The Right Handed Pitcher left 3 years and $77.5 MIL on the table – and this was the right move as he was slated to earn just under $26 MIL a season for that contract.

This is the 12th richest deal of ALL – Time in the Major Leagues – and is also the 12th player to crack the $200 MIL+ barrier.

Read the rest of this entry

Price With Richest Pitcher Contract In MLB History (8th Best In History): Top 50 ALL – Time Deals

David Price has just inked the most expensive pitcher contract in the history of the MLB. With his and Jordan Zimmermann both hitting the top 50 contracts of ALL - Time in the last week, it has pushed Homer Bailey out of the top 50 deals of all time for chuckers. Right now, there is no one that has had the Tommy John Surgery while having a contract as a pitcher in the top 50. Expect that to change. Which poses the question - are pitchers really worth 9 figure deals?

David Price has just inked the most expensive pitcher contract in the history of the MLB. With his and Jordan Zimmermann both hitting the top 50 contracts of ALL – Time in the last week, it has pushed Homer Bailey out of the top 50 deals of all time for chuckers. Right now, there is no one that has had the Tommy John Surgery while having a contract as a pitcher in the top 50. Expect that to change. Which poses the question – are pitchers really worth 9 figure deals?

Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead  Analyst) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

David Price just inked the richest deal in MLB history with the Boston Red Sox at 7 YRs/$217 MIL.  It is also the 8th richest contract ever doled out.

The question is whether or not it is a worthy investment to put that much dough on the table for a guy that will progressively decline as the deal goes on.

If you follow our Tommy John Surgery Tracker, you will find that 30 or so pitchers are having their names added to the list.  Last season, the first 9 figured player – and top 50 salaried player had their arm go under a TJ Surgery in Home Bailey.

The time is coming again when an even higher profile pitcher will have to go down with it while his name is on a pact for a huge 9 figure salary.

it is the main reason why some clubs just can’t afford the risk.  Boston has the funds to do this, and this clearly was the prudent move for the franchise to do after losing out on Jon Lester last season.

Most of the Starting Pitchers have not seen better years with their names on this list like Justin VerlanderFelix HernandezMatt CainBarry ZitoCole HamelsCC Sabathia and Mike Hampton. Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – November 18, 2015

Boston Herald Staff Photo by Matt Stone

Boston Herald Staff Photo by Matt Stone

 

Big Papi is probably going to hang them up after the 2016 seasons. Savor this rare event Red Sox fans: A beloved player may retire WITH the Red Sox! Imagine that! It doesn’t happen often.

Plus the Brandon Crawford signing shows the Giants are creating a core for the ages.

It is a multiple title episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Read the rest of this entry