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Who Owned Baseball May 17, 2018 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2018 #WOB

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Steve Mitchell, USA TODAY Sports

For an explanation of how WOB works, click here.

Justin Turner drove in 5 runs while collecting 3 hits, including a pair of doubles, leading the Dodgers to a much needed 7-0 win over Miami.

Khris Davis went 4 for 4 with a 2 run homer and scored 3 in Oakland’s 10-5 pounding of the Blue Jays.

Kenta Maeda struck out 8 Marlins over 8 innings of 2 hit shutout ball as the Dodgers finally broke their losing streak and blanked the Marlins, 7-0.

David Price took a shutout into the 9th and completed the 6-2 victory for the Red Sox over the Orioles.

They all owned baseball on May 17, 2018

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

Who Owned Baseball May 12, 2018 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2018 #WOB

Trevor Story

AP Photo/David Zalubowski

For an explanation of how WOB works, click here.

Trevor Story reached base 4 times, including 2 homers and drove in all the runs in the 4-0 Rockies blanking of Milwaukee.

Francisco Lindor homered twice and doubled twice to give the Indians a much needed 6-2 win over Kansas City.

Stephen Strasburg pitched into the 7th, finishing with 1 run and 1 walk over 6 2/3 innings, striking out 9 Diamondbacks and getting the 2-1 victory for the Nationals.

Charlie Morton struck out 14 Rangers over 7 innings, allowing 4 hits and 1 run to earn the 6-1 decision for the Astros.

They all owned baseball on May 12, 2018

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

Who Owned Baseball September 1, 2017 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2017 #WOB Standings

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Associated Press

Logan Morrison got 3 hits including a homer, driving in all 3 Tampa Bay runs in their 3-1 victory over the White Sox.

Stephen Piscotty missed the cycle by a double, driving in 2 and scoring 3, leading the Cardinals past the Giants, 11-6.

Doug Fister allowed a first inning run and then shutout the Yankees for the next 6, finishing with 1 run, 7 innings, 4 hits and 1 run as the Red Sox won, 4-1.

Jimmy Nelson struck out 11 Nationals in 7 shutout innings and earned the 1-0 decision for the Brewers.

They all owned baseball on September 1, 2017

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

Who Owned Baseball August 27, 2017 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2017 #WOB Standings

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(Photo: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports)

Byron Buxton collected 13 total bases by homering 3 times, adding a single, stealing a base and driving in 5 runs as Minnesota beat Toronto, 7-2.

Carlos Carrasco threw 7 shutout innings, striking out 8 Royals in Cleveland’s 12-0 romp.

Giancarlo Stanton reached base 4 times, including his 50th homer, driving in 3, to help the red hot Marlins win again, 6-2 over the Padres.

Patrick Corbin struck out 8 Giants over 7 shutout innings earning the 11-0 decision for Arizona.

They all owned baseball on August 27, 2017

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

Who Owned Baseball August 22, 2017 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2017 #WOB Standings

Doug Fister, Sandy Leon

Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Doug Fister pats catcher Sandy Leon on the head after the Red Sox defeated the Cleveland Indians 9-1 in a baseball game, Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2017, in Cleveland. (AP Photo/Tony Dejak)

Doug Fister allowed a lead off homer and then held the Indians hitless for the next 9 innings, going the distance in the 9-1 Red Sox win.

Gary Sanchez homered twice, added another hit and drove in 4 as the Yankees mashed the Tigers 13-4.

Patrick Corbin threw 8 strong innings, allowing 4 hits and 1 run while striking out 6 Mets for the 7-4 Diamondbacks victory.

Yangervis Solarte drove in 6 runs with a homer and 2 other hits pushing San Diego past St. Louis, 12-4.

They all owned baseball on August 22, 2017

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

Who Owned Baseball July 31, 2017 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

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Gio Gonzalez took a no hitter into the 9th before letting up a lead off single. He finished with 8 innings, 1 hit and 5 Marlin strikeouts to win the 1-0 final for Washington.

Doug Fister held the Indians scoreless into the 8th and finished with 7 2/3 innings, 5 hits and 2 runs to get the 6-2 decision for Boston.

Tommy Joseph collected 3 hits and drive in 2 while scoring another to lead the Phillies past Atlanta, 7-6.

Matt Davidson reached base 3 times, homered and smacked a walk off single in the bottom of the 9th as the White Sox came from behind to beat the Blue Jays, 7-6.

They all owned baseball on July 31, 2017

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

MLB Power Rankings: Early Win Predictions In 2017

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Last Updated: Jan 24, 2017

Over the last week we have seen some factors that have changed some win totals and rankings.  Unfortunately the saddening loss of Yordano Ventura will cause the Royals to lose a win or 2.

We saw Jose Bautista re-sign with the Jays, Mark Trumbo re-sign with the O’s and the Phillies sign Michael Saunders.  These are significant signings for the 1st 2 – and Saunders becomes one of Phlladelphia’s best clubs.

The Marlins also traded for Dan Straily.

For the MLB Rankings, we are also factoring in the World Series chances of each club.

It is important to also recognize the 300 games of the MLB Interleague.  The American League holds a 13 year winning streak, and adds to their victories in the year.

So far in 2017, we have the Junior Circuit registering a record of 167 – 133 vs the Senior Circuit.  Before you throw stones at me – it was exactly this record that the AL hung vs the NL in 2015.

Going back to Kansas City….I really hope I am wrong about their pending 2017 record.  Hopefully they also go and sign a Jason Gammel or Doug Fister to help the rotation.

Lets also hope that we don’t have any more deaths have to be figure out where we have teams wins at.  It is awful.  I hate using the Miami Marlins win total as a struggle to grip with the loss of Jose Fernandez. Read the rest of this entry

The Nats Pay A Steep Price For Eaton: The New CF Has A Team Friendly 5 Year Deal Which Is The Key To Salvage The Trade

For a second straight week we love the Nationals with the best odd value of the week. They have some financial flexibility to bring in a few more ALL - Star Caliber players and also possess the prospects in order to get it done. If you believe (like I do)

Mike Rizzo is getting scorched for the fact he gave up the #3 and #38 top MLB Pipeline Prospects.  Throw in their #6 prospect – and you can see how people have said the Nats GM orchestrated a bad deal.  I am not one of those people.  This was a move that is more financial based than even the young players.  If Washington is still able to get a top line Closer, and add several more pieces, while dancing around the Luxury Tax Threshold of $195 MIL – I am down with this trade if they re-spend the cash on another Starter that is MLB ready this season.

For the majority of the last week we heard the Nationals were trying to land Andrew McCutchen in a trade, but they shocked the world on Wednesday by acquiring CF Adam Eaton from the White Sox in exchange for three RHP (Lucas Giolito, Reynaldo Lopez and Dane Dunning). 

These three guys represent the club’s #1, #3 and #6 prospects.  Giolito was ranked #3 overall and Lopez #38 by MLBPipeline.com

This seems like a lot for just one player – but you have to look at several factors here.

Mike Rizzo landed a player that just turned 28 a few years ago.. He is the leadoff guy the team has needed ever since the departure of Denard Span.  This is so critical when you consider the Nats will likely only have Bryce Harper for the next 2 years. Read the rest of this entry

These 6 Under-The-Radar Free Agent Signings Have Worked out Great in 2016

When baseball season is over and we have nothing to look forward to except a long, cold winter, who doesn’t love watching a team get the Hot Stove going with a huge splash via trade or free agency?

Nobody, that’s who. Even if it negatively impacts your favorite team, it’s at least entertaining to hop on social media and watch everyone freak out for a short period of time. But as we’ve seen over the past couple winters with the San Diego Padres and Arizona Diamondbacks, the offseason winners don’t always end up being the actual winters in October.

Actually, it seems like that almost never happens.

There’s nothing wrong with going after top-tier free agents once winter rolls around – especially if a team has a glaring need at that particular position. Sometimes it seems like a no-brainer, but it’s not that easy. The smaller deals that don’t grab as many headlines for one reason or another can end up having just as much – or even more – of an impact on a team’s ultimate success or failure in the following season.

Here are six free agents from last winter who mostly flew under-the-radar compared to other higher-priced ballplayers, but have worked out very well in 2016. 

READ REST OF ENTRY

Who Owned Baseball August 6, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

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JASON O. WATSON/GETTY IMAGES

Jake Arrieta threw 8 shutout innings, allowing 3 Oakland hits and earned the 4-0 decision for the Cubs.

Ryan Braun reached base 4 times, homered twice, stole a base and drove in 7 as the Brewers outslugged Arizona, 15-6.

Corey Kluber allowed 2 runs and 5 hits over 8 strong innings and won the 5-2 Cleveland final over the Yankees.

Jonathan Lucroy homered twice in the Rangers 3-2 win over Houston.

They All Owned Baseball on August 6, 2016.

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

In Memoriam Video For all baseball family who have passed since 2015 ASG.

Who Owned Baseball June 27, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

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JOE ROBBINS/GETTY IMAGES

Kris Bryant went 5 for 5 with 3 homers, driving in 6 and scoring 4 to lead the Cubs in a wild 11-8 slugfest in Cincinnati.

Jon Gray struck out 8 Blue Jays over 7 innings, walking none and worked around a pair of homers to get the 9-5 victory for Colorado.

Nick Franklin singled, doubled and homered, driving in 5 runs as the Rays snapped their losing streak, 13-7 over Boston.

Danny Duffy pitched 8 innings, allowing 2 runs, walking none and struck out 8 Cardinals batters to earn the 6-2 decision for the Royals.

They all owned baseball on June 27, 2016.

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

Who Owned Baseball June 26, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

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RICH SCHULTZ/GETTY IMAGES

Tyler Duffey did not allow a hit until the 6th and finished with 8 innings, 2 hits, 8 strikeouts and 1 run as the Twins clobbered the Yankees, 7-1.

Jose Fernandez struck out 13 Cubs and allowed just 4 hits and 1 run to earn the 6-1 decision for the red hot Marlins.

Lonnie Chisenhall collected 9 total bases with his 4 hits, including a homer and 3 RBI as the Indians continued to roll, 9-3, in Detroit.

Freddie Freeman reached base 4 times, including a homer and a pair of runs scored in the Braves 5-2 victory over the Mets.

They all owned baseball on June 26, 2016.

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

Who Owned Baseball June 20, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

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Kirthmon F. Dozier, DFP

Justin Upton hit an 8th inning go ahead homer and a walk off shot in the 11th to give the surging Tigers an 8-7 win over Seattle.

Doug Fister gave the Astros 7 strong innings, allowing 2 runs and only 4 hits. He would get the 10-7 decision over the Angels.

Mark Reynolds homered twice and walked to help the Rockies top Miami, 5-3.

Clayton Kershaw struck out 8 Washington batters and walked none over 7 innings, allowing 1 run and getting his 11th victory for the Dodgers, 4-1.

They all owned baseball on June 20, 2016.

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

Who Owned Baseball June 14, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

 

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Julie Jacobson

James Taillon took a no hitter into the 7th and finished with 8 innings of 2 hit shutout innings as the Pirates blanked the Mets, 4-0.

Carlos Gonzalez went 4 for 5 including a homer to lead the Rockies in a 13-10 slugfest over the Yankees.

Doug Fister pitched into the 8th, going 7 1/3 innings, allowing 2 runs and earned the 5-2 decision for the Astros over St. Louis.

Josh Donaldson reached base 4 times, homered and drove in 5 to help Toronto blast the Phillies, 11-3.

They all owned baseball on June 14, 2016.

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

Who Owned Baseball May 12, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

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CHRIS CARLSON/AP

Clayton Kershaw threw a 3 hit, 1 walk complete game shutout masterpiece, striking out 13 Mets and finishing the 5-0 victory for the Dodgers.

David Price pitched into the 7th, finishing with 6 2/3 innings, allowing 6 hits, 1 run and 1 walk while striking out 12 Astros as Boston cruised to an 11-1 final.

Matt Holliday went 4 for 5 with a pair of homers and 3 RBI to help the Cardinals take a 12-10 slugfest in Anaheim.

Chase Headley finally got an extra base hit, a homer, and reached base 3 times, driving in two and scoring twice and sparked the Yankees past the Royals, 7-3.

They all owned baseball on May 12, 2016.

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

Who Owned Baseball May 11, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

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ALEX BRANDON/AP

Max Scherzer matched the record for strikeouts in a 9 inning game by fanning 20 Tigers and throwing the complete game 3-2 masterpiece in Washington.

Noah Syndergaard earns a rare pitcher WOB as a hitter, clubbing a pair of homers, driving in all four of the Mets run and earning the 4-3 decision on the mound against the Dodgers to boot.

Doug Fister threw 7 strong innings, allowing just 2 runs and walking no Indians batter. He did not get the decision but set up the Astros walk off 5-3 in the 16th.

Jackie Bradley Jr. homered twice and doubled, knocking in 6 as the red hot Red Sox clubbed the A’s, 13-3.

They all owned baseball on May 11, 2016.

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

MLB Daily Fantasy Picks DFS For FanDuel 4/26/16

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Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

Just like I wrote in my DraftKings piece, I am high on stacks versus Rich Hill of the A’s and Nate Karns of the Mariners.

I seriously couldn’t believe FanDuel still has Cabrera listed at $3400 tonight.  This is an absolute steal.

The Mariners do not play well at Safeco usually (are at 2 – 5 this year) – and face a tough task in facing 2015 AL Cy Young Winner Dallas Keuchel.

The ballpark doesn’t scare guys like George Springer, Carlos Correa or Jose Altuve. They are the road team, all hit Left Handed Pitching well, and I think it is time for the Astros to take off.

At least I have 2 games where stacking was present.  My hope is that Bryant and Puig both make up for being single picks.

Read the rest of this entry

MLB DFS Picks For FanDuel – 4/25/16

 (AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

(AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

There is awesome value with the Detroit Tigers players on Monday.  You have Miguel Cabrera all the way down to $3700, Victor Martinez to $2600 and Justin Upton to $3000.  I have the Tigers 2 – 5hitters all lined up in a stack.

Against conventional wisdom, I have Carlos Gonzalez against a LHP.  With it being Jeff Locke, and CARGO hitting right behind Nolan Arenado, there would have been a nice 3 – 4 combo.  Except for than it would mean a weaker OF move with Nori Aoki, and Jose Iglesias at SS.

Now I get to use  J.D. Martinez, Carlos Correa and Kyle Seager instead of Arenado, Iglesias and Aoki.

When you can put together a lineup where all 8 guys have been ALL – Stars in the past, and are capable of doing some yard work, than this is exciting. Some of the guys are struggling for sure, but that is why they are priced so low currently.

Starting Pitchers 

Marcus Stroman vs White Sox, $8100

Ross Stripling vs Marlins, $7600

Rick Porcello vs Braves,  $7400

Team Stacks

Detroit Tigers vs Kendall Graveman

Seattle Mariners vs Doug Fister

Colorado Rockies vs Jeff Locke

Sample Lineup 

P – Rick Porcello, $7400

C – Victor Martinez,  $2600

1B – Miguel Cabrera, $3700

2B – Robinson Cano, $3700

3B – Kyle Seager, $3000

SS – Carlos Correa $4100

OF – Carlos Gonzalez, $4000

OF –  Justin Upton, $3000

OF –  J.D. Martinez, $3300


$34, 800, 000 ($200 Left)

If you’re not familiar with the points breakdown, here’s the format utilizing a $35 million salary cap.  

Scoring System: https://www.fanduel.com/spring-training?t=lobby

1 Starting Pitcher (SP)

1 Catcher (C)

1 First Baseman (1B)

1 Second Baseman (2B)

1 Third Baseman (3B)

1 Short Stop (SS)

3 Outfielders (OF)

Game Types: https://www.fanduel.com/how-it-works

50-50s


If you’re interested in playing DFS games, please use my Fanduel referral link to signup.

Please use the Referral Link for a signup bonus:

https://www.fanduel.com/?invitedby=bobadney&cnl=da

a gambling ring

*** The views and opinions expressed in this report are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of mlbreports.com and their partners***

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A big thanks goes out to our ‘Chief Writer/Part Owner’ Hunter Stokes for preparing today’s featured post.

To Subscribe and listen daily to  ‘Our Lead Personality’  Sully’s 20 Minutes Daily (every day since Oct.24, 2012) Podcast click here.  Guaranteed listening to the Sully Baseball Daily Podcast will be the best time you invest in online.

FanDuel DFS Picks 4/14/16

 fanduel

Josh Robbins (Featured Fantasy Writer/60ft6in.com) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

Hi, my name is Josh Robbins.  I would like to share my Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) strategy with you throughout the MLB season during weekdays.  Fanduel is my preferred game of skill.

Welcome to the 2nd week of the 2016 MLB season.

3-Strikes: Here’s what you expect from my daily articles:

My Top 3 Starting Pitchers (aces, mid-level, bargain)

My Top 3 Stacking Options (multiple players from the same team)

My Top 3 BVP (Batter vs. Pitcher) Options

APRIL 14, 2016

Starting Pitchers 

1. Marcus Stroman ($8100) vs. New York Yankees

2. Jason Hammel ($7900) vs. Cincinnati Reds

3. Ross Stripling ($7600) vs. Arizona Diamondbacks

Player Stacks/Team Offense

I’m a huge fan of stacks especially deep lineups maximizing the four players allowed per team.

  1. Texas Rangers vs. Chris Tillman
  2. Kansas City Royals vs. Doug Fister

3.   Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Robbie Ray

 

BVP (Minimum 10 AB)

1. Adrian Beltre vs. Chris Tillman (6-12/ 1 HR/ 1.417 OPS)

2. J.J. Hardy vs. Cole Hamels (4-12/ 1 HR/ 1.135 OPS)

3. Eric Hosmer vs. Doug Fister (8-23/ 1 HR/ 0.988 OPS)

 

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If you’re not familiar with the points breakdown, here’s the format utilizing a $35 million salary cap.  

Scoring System: https://www.fanduel.com/spring-training?t=lobby

1 Starting Pitcher (SP)

1 Catcher (C)

1 First Baseman (1B)

1 Second Baseman (2B)

1 Third Baseman (3B)

1 Short Stop (SS)

3 Outfielders (OF)

Game Types: https://www.fanduel.com/how-it-works

50-50s


If you’re interested in playing DFS games, please use my Fanduel referral link to signup.

Please use the Referral Link for a signup bonus:

https://www.fanduel.com/?invitedby=bobadney&cnl=da

a gambling ring

*** The views and opinions expressed in this report are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of mlbreports.com and their partners***

***Josh Robbins is a Video-Journalist and Baseball Historian who is originally from Poughkeepsie, NY (so grew up a Yankees/Don Mattingly fan)..  In 2010, he earned a Master’s Degree in Sport Management from CSU-Long Beach. 

From June 16 to July 11, 2008, he watched a game in all 30 MLB stadiums in a world record 26 days by car.  Please email Josh at robbinsjosh@hotmail.com or visit 60ft6in.com for more information about the Factor12 Rating.***

To Subscribe and listen daily to  ‘Our Lead Personality’  Sully’s 20 Minutes Daily (every day since Oct.24, 2012) Podcast click here.  Guaranteed listening to the Sully Baseball Daily Podcast will be the best time you invest in online!

2016 MLB Team Salaries Links Page here.

To subscribe to our website and have the Daily Reports sent directly to your inbox, click here and follow the link at the top of our homepage. Like us on Facebook.

Nats Need Stellar Years From Scherzer/Strasburg Similar To Johnson/Schilling Duo In 2001 – To Win The World Series

Max Scherzer was filthy in the 1st half of 2015 - with a 2.11 ERA heading up to the ALL - Star Break, and Stephen Strasburg ended the 2nd half of the year with a 1.90 in his Post ALL - Star games. If these 2 day aces can be in top form for the whole year, and then carry through to the playoffs, it would go a long with their chances to win a World Series. Since Jordan Zimmermann and Doug Fister left, the rotation is not as deep as it once was, yet these guys could make for an unforgettable 1 -2 punch in the postseason, and combined with Bryce Harper, potentially win the Fall Classic this year.

Max Scherzer was filthy in the 1st half of 2015 – with a 2.11 ERA heading up to the ALL – Star Break, and Stephen Strasburg ended the 2nd half of the year with a 1.90 in his Post ALL – Star games. If these 2 day aces can be in top form for the whole year, and then carry through to the playoffs, it would go a long with their chances to win a World Series. Since Jordan Zimmermann and Doug Fister left, the rotation is not as deep as it once was, yet these guys could make for an unforgettable 1 -2 punch in the postseason, and combined with Bryce Harper, potentially win the Fall Classic this year.

Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead  Analyst) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

With Zack Greinke flying the coop in Los Angeles over the winter, all of a sudden, this dynamic pair of Nationals chuckers should be the best back to back starting tandem in the Majors right now.

It is a walk year for Stephen Strasburg.  He has shown flashes of brilliance, but has yet to put it together for the whole year.  You could say his career has kind of been like Schilling’s prior to his arrival in Arizona.

I think both guys could near 20 wins each. have mid 2 ERA’s – and both compete against the NL’s elite for the NL Cy Young Award.

If they have great seasons, it should equal a playoff berth – and if not the NL East Division.  Strasburg’s best two years were in 2012 and 2014, so maybe he is just a better even year pitcher himself.

Scherzer is 53 – 20 with a near 1.00 WHIP and ERA of 3 since the start of the 2013 season.  No doubt these 2 guys will pull up awesome numbers in playing the Marlins, Phillies and Braves for almost 40% of their total games.  Add in the Brewers, Reds, Padres, Rockies to the fold, and that becomes half of the year.

Should Washington make the playoffs, that is exactly why they doled out $210 over 7 years for Scherzer in the first place.  The former Tigers pitcher was pretty damn good in the 1st RD of the postseason for Detroit, going 3 – 1, with an ERA of 2.79 and WHIP of 1.034 in 29 Innings worth of work in the LDS rounds.  I think he could take the next step beyond that.

Last year Scherzer threw 2 no-hitters and nearly tossed 2 more.  He has shown he can last longer than ever before.  He was a workhorse with his 228.2 IP. It was a career high, just like his 276 Strikeouts in that timeframe and his incredible WHIP of 0.918 were.

It is time to for Strasburg to leave it all on the table.  Much like his 34 Game Starts in 2014, where he logged 215 Innings and a NL Leading 242 Strikeouts, the former #1 overall pick could really make a fortune in Free Agency with a banner year. At Age 27 until late July when he turns 28, he is still in his prime years coming for the next few campaigns. 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

Los Angeles Dodgers State Of The Union For 2016

The Dodgers need to start spending money like right now, otherwise they stand to jeopardize themselves winning a 4th straight NL West title in 2016. Both the Giants and D'Backs have signed ace pitchers this year, and added another good Starting Pitcher besides the point. The club does have several young pieces and Depth at Roster to pull off a blockbuster trade forth coming - or they still have enough resources to acquire players for their 2016 run. The clock is officially ticking gentelmen

The Dodgers need to start spending money like right now, otherwise they stand to jeopardize themselves winning a 4th straight NL West title in 2016. Both the Giants and D’Backs have signed ace pitchers this year, and added another good Starting Pitcher besides the point. The club does have several young pieces and Depth at Roster to pull off a blockbuster trade forth coming – or they still have enough resources to acquire players for their 2016 run. The clock is officially ticking gentlemen.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

The Dodgers are having the same kind of offseason the Baltimore Orioles had in 2014 – going into 2015.

If everyone remembers that year, they rejected a couple year contract with Grant Balfour, when he failed a physical, and they did the same thing with Grady Sizemore.

That club also traded back to back 50 Saves guy Jim Johnson.  By the way, the 2014 O’s won the AL East with a 97 – 65 record.

Key cogs in the wheel were new Closer Zach Britton, and Super Utility man Steve Pearce.  A lot of parallels can be made between that squad and the Dodgers.

Late last week, the Dodgers pulled out of a three year deal wish Hisashi Iwakuma because they had concerns with a physical.

For the whole winter they have watched the Giants sign Johnny Cueto and Jeff Samardzija, while the Diamondbacks stole Zack Greinke way from them, while trading a kings ransom for Shelby Miller. Read the rest of this entry

St. Louis Cardinals State Of The Union For 2016

The Cardinals continued their great play in the MLB since the turn of the milennium - with an MLB best 100 wins in 2015. The organization has transitioned to the next core of young nucleus, while still holding on to a couple of capable veterans. Considering they have plenty of depth, and lots of payroll flexibility coming forth, the franchise could orchestrate a blockbuster trade soon. St. Louis could always sign 1 - 2 Starters via Free Agency as well. As it stands right now, the club has a payroll of around $133 MIL In 2016 listed. They can afford to add about $15 - $17 more million without batting an eye.

St. louis continued their great play in the MLB since the turn of the millennium – with an MLB best 100 wins in 2015. The organization has transitioned to the next core of young nucleus, while still holding on to a couple of capable veterans. Considering they have plenty of depth, and lots of payroll flexibility coming forth, the franchise could orchestrate a blockbuster trade soon. St. Louis could always sign 1 – 2 Starters via Free Agency as well. As it stands right now, the club has a payroll of around $133 MIL listed in 2016. They can afford to add about $15 – $17 more million without batting an eye.

Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead  Analyst) 

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The Cardinals continue to be the model franchise in the Major Leagues.  With 9 NLCS births since 2000, this club has thrived with rolling over the roster, and not making mistakes on the Free Agency watch.

2016 shouldn’t be any different for competing for a playoff spot. St. Louis won 100 games in 2015 – and may top the century mark in 2016 again.  Crazily enough though it might not be enough for a Division win.

I think I can safely say the Cards and the Cubs are the two best all around teams in the big leagues right now.

I am still giving the nod to Chicago as the favorite right now, but that may change with some winter alterations.

Word has come down that Matt Holliday has been taking reps at 1B this offseasons.  If he were able to convert that to his positional arsenal for the next few years, than that would free up Matt Adams to be traded.

Among the moves the club has made over he last week was trade Jon Jay to the Padres for 2B Jedd Gyorko.  This is a classic Cardinals move. Read the rest of this entry

Chicago White Sox State Of The Union For 2016

The White Sox should be decisively better in 2016, however to lump them in with the Royals right now for the Division is just not practical yet. However the team could hit on all cylinders and then add players as the year goes on. Chicago only stands to lose four player to Free Agency after 2016 in John Danks, Adam LaRoche, Al Avila and Dioner Navarro. The latter 2 were brought in on one year deals to provide the Catching tandem in 2015.

The White Sox should be decisively better in 2016, however to lump them in with the Royals right now for the Division is just not practical yet. However the team could hit on all cylinders and then add players as the year goes on. Chicago only stands to lose four player to Free Agency after 2016 in John Danks, Adam LaRoche, Al Avila and Dioner Navarro. The latter 2 were brought in on one year deals to provide the Catching tandem in 2015.

Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead  Analyst) 

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Chicago has finally thrown their hat into the ring for the AL Central Race.  They have pulled off a trade to acquire Todd Frazier in as 3 way deal with the Reds and Dodgers.

The end result is they get 2 years from the former Reds, while parting with Trayce Thompson, Frankie Montas and Micah Johnson away from the club. It is a quality versus quantity deal.

This comes on the heels of the club picking up Brett Lawrie for 3 years worth of service for a couple of Minor Leaguers.

Before these deals, the club really only hand secured a tandem of Catchers with Alex Avila and Dioner Navarro for the offense.  Now they have much more depth, and are asserting themselves with one of the better lineups in the AL Central.

If Adam LaRoche can bounce back with his usual 25 HRs and  80 RBI power, you could have 3 Infielders and the Designated Hitter all crack 20+ HRs in the 2016 campaign.

Jose Abreu also stands to benefit with bringing in a hitter like Todd Frazier.  You could see a lineup that goes Adam Eaton, Melky Cabrera, Jose Abreu, Adam LaRoche, Frazier, Lawrie, Avisail Garcia, Avila or Navarro and Tyler Saladino.  This looks a lot lengthier than a few days ago.

By the moves they made, they could also trade LaRoche to another club if they were so inclined.  There is no reason to think the Avila and Navarro couldn’t see some DH action for their roles in the 2016 club. Read the rest of this entry

Miami Marlins State Of The Union For 2016

The Miami Marlins have not had a winning season since finishing 87 - 75 in 2009. With some deft maneuvers and the right allocation of team salary - this club could contend in the NL East with Atlanta and Philadelphia both rebuilding. With a suspect ownership group I am not sure they will be bolster the club any bit.

The Miami Marlins have not had a winning season since finishing 87 – 75 in 2009. With some deft maneuvers and the right allocation of team salary – this club could contend in the NL East with Atlanta and Philadelphia both rebuilding for the next couple of years. With a suspect ownership group I am not sure they will be bolster the club any bit – which would waste away the great value they have with their players currently with Fernandez, Stanton and Gordon.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer) 

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Just what the hell are the Marlins up to this winter?  Talk about a team that has done relatively nothing.  I understand that the market isn’t the greatest however you have Jose Fernandez and Giancarlo Stanton at a ridiculous value.

This club should be spending as much money as humanly possible right now to go for it.  The Braves and Phillies are down and rebuilding – and even Washington doesn’t seem as formidable as they have in previous years.

There was so much hype after signing Stanton long-term last season that has all dissipated within the last 12 months.

The management also turned out one of the better trades last year in picking up NL Batting Champion Dee Gordon for Andrew Heaney as the best players of the deal. Read the rest of this entry

Minnesota Twins State Of The Union: Looking For The Playoffs In 2016

The Twins finished 2nd in the AL Central and could be the Houston Astros type of 2015 club in 2016. If you think they can finish 2nd in the AL Central one more time, it may be enough to secure a Wild Card Spot. I think the AL East will beat each other up - and will only produce one playoff team in 2016. The management needs to realize that the next 2 or 3 years represent the best time for the organization to take back the helm of the AL Central like they did from 2001 - 2010.

The Twins finished 2nd in the AL Central and could be the Houston Astros type of 2015 club in 2016. If you think they can finish 2nd in the AL Central one more time, it may be enough to secure a Wild Card Spot. I think the AL East will beat each other up – and will only produce one playoff team in 2016. The management needs to realize that the next 2 or 3 years represents the best time for the organization to take back the helm of the AL Central like they did from 2001 – 2010.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer) 

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The Minnesota Twins know how to build a winner.  From 1992 – 1999 the team was not the greatest team around and they gradually built a ton of players through the draft like Torii Hunter, Justin Morneau and later Johan Santana, Francisco Liriano and Joe Mauer.

Being a good franchise means a smart game plan, and especially when you are a smaller market.

From 2001 – 2010 the club won 6 AL Central Titles and were always on the verge of sneaking through.  They never seemed to have great depth Starting Pitching to move past clubs in the postseason (despite having Santana).

After the club moved into Target Field, it should have alleviated some of the financial concerns the organization had.  They were in the top 10 for total team salary.  Except for the core was getting older.  Veterans were traded and the management focused on replenishing the Minor League System.

Lean years followed from 2011 – 2014, and it cost Ron Gardenhire his job after the 2014 campaign. Read the rest of this entry

Pittsburgh Pirates State Of The Union For 2016: All Hands On Deck To At Least Start 2016!

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 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.

Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead  Analyst) 

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I start this blog by praising Neil Huntington and his management for how they assembled this team over the last 6 – 7 years.

It follows the Royals and Twins before them as smaller market clubs that finally used the draft to their advantage after struggling for years.

Here is the thing though..You have a team that needs the final pieces now to compete for a championship!

Heading into 2016 the teams core nucleus comes back, and the club will attempt for a 4th straight playoff appearance.

There are 8 players on the last year of their deals, and you have several other players that will become increasingly more difficult to keep as their Arbitration Dollars exponentially grow over the coming years. Read the rest of this entry

The Oakland A’s State Of The Union For 2016: Beane Counting Or Picking?

Billy Beane saw his A's have their worst record in 18 years in 2015. It was a rebuilding that included him trading away the AL MVP caliber player in Josh Donaldson for a list of 4 players. It will take a couple of seasons to see how bad this may have been. After that deal, it was business as usual, with the man acquiring 4 decent Starting Pitching prospects for players on the last year of their contract. The team doesn't have any real money committed, and their is a ton of flexibility.

Billy Beane saw his A’s have their worst record in 18 years in 2015 – and worst in his GM tenure. It was a rebuilding effort that included him trading away the AL MVP caliber player in Josh Donaldson for a list of 4 players. It will take a couple of seasons to see how bad this may have been. After that deal, it was business as usual, with the man acquiring 4 decent Starting Pitching prospects for players on the last year of their contract. The team doesn’t have any real money committed, and there is a ton of flexibility.  Whether they spend it is another matter.

Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead  Analyst) 

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It used to be that Billy Beane would wait until a player was about to hit Free Agency until he would trade that player for the next round of guys.  Now he doesn’t even like his ALL – Stars to hit higher levels of Arbitration.

After last years all in effort to make a run at the postseason, Beane started the dismantle process of his squad.  Perhaps the most controversial move was to flip Josh Donaldson for a package of four players.

A lot of people are still upset about that deal considering Donaldson is going to be a perennial MVP candidate, however he was that already for the A’s, and it failed to result in a placement beyond the 1st round. Read the rest of this entry

MLB Top Free Agent Predictions (Picks 26 – 50)

Matt Wieters accepted the 1 Year Qualifying Offer with the Baltimore Orioles. He joined both Colby Rasmus and Brett Anderson as the 1st 3 men to ever accept the 'QO' under the new format. Marco Estrada was also taken off off the market Friday, accepting a 2 YR/$26 MIL deal with the Toronto Blue Jays.

Matt Wieters accepted the 1 Year Qualifying Offer with the Baltimore Orioles. He joined both Colby Rasmus and Brett Anderson as the 1st 3 men to ever accept the ‘QO’ under the new format. Marco Estrada was also taken off off the market Friday, accepting a 2 YR/$26 MIL deal with the Toronto Blue Jays.

Jordan Gluck (Part Owner/Featured Writer): 

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MLB Free Agent Predictions

I will be using mlbtraderumors.com top 50 free agents to make things easy. To be clear there are other free agents outside this list (some who I think should be on it) who will be available and many could have breakout or comeback seasons.

Additionally there will be players that get non tendered during arbitration. Well so here are my predictions.

Players 1 – 25 link

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How To Fix The Nats For 2016: Washington Nationals State Of The Union

In 2012, the Nationals won the NL East and then followed up with a disappointing 2013 year. The same pattern happened in 2014 and 2015. The Nats window is closing as the club only has one more of team control on Stephen Strasburg - and the total salary for the club escalates with Bryce Harper being Arbitration Eligible starting next year. The team has solid Starting Pitching and a lineup that is coming back for the most part. A key acquisition for both the offense and defense may suffice.

In 2012, the Nationals won the NL East and then followed up with a disappointing 2013 year. The same pattern happened in 2014 and 2015. The Nats window is closing as the club only has one more of team control on Stephen Strasburg – and the total salary for the club escalates with Bryce Harper being Arbitration Eligible starting next year. The team has solid Starting Pitching and a lineup that is coming back for the most part. A key acquisition for both the offense and defense may suffice.

Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead Analyst)

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So having been back from my 224 MLB Game all year trip in 2015 – I was happy to have put in such a great season of witnessing games.  My real disappointment was the Nationals not making the playoffs in 2015.

I am guilty as charged for having a National League favorite team in Washington, and also be a Yankees fan for the American League.

I am a Nats fan because they used to be the Montreal Expos before 2005.  It was a tough negotiation to have been a fan when they moved to D.C., but I followed the team. I saw some bad baseball via MLB.TV for about 6 or 7 years. Read the rest of this entry