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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.25) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Ron Cortes / McClatchy-Tribune

Ron Cortes / McClatchy-Tribune

Josh Beckett threw the first no hitter of 2014 and the first Dodger no no since 1996 as he dominated the Phillies, 6-0.

Evan Gattis homered twice, driving in 3 runs and led the Braves to a 7-0 victory against the Rockies.

Dallas Keuchel pitched a complete game victory, letting up just one unearned run, walking none, as the Astros topped the Mariners, 4-1/

Derek Jeter had a 4 hit game in the Yankees 7-1 thrashing of the White Sox.

They owned baseball on May.25, 2014.

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.

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.24) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Duane Burleson, AP

Duane Burleson, AP

Rougned Odor went 4-5 with 5 RBI including a pair of triples helping the hobbled Rangers blow out the Tigers, 12-2.

R. A. Dickey pitched into the 9th innings, giving the Blue Jays 8 1/3 innings of 5 hit, 1 walk, 2 run ball. He got the victory over Oakland, 5-2.

Ben Revere went 4-4, including a double, drove in a run and scored 3, leading the Phillies to a 5-3 over the Dodgers.

Travis Wood threw 7 1/3 innings of 3 hit ball, walking just 2 batters. He earned the 3-2 decision for the Cubs in San Diego.

They owned baseball on May.24, 2014.

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.

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.23) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Photo: Nick Wass, AP

Photo: Nick Wass, AP

 

Chris Davis got on base 3 times, homered and drove in 4 runs, powering the Orioles to an 8-4 victory over Cleveland.

Felix Hernandez dominated the Astros with 8 strong innings, 5 hits, 1 run, 1 walk and 9 strikeouts as the Mariners rolled, 6-1.

Mark Reynolds homered twice and helped Milwaukee win a slugfest against Miami, 9-5.

Gavin Floyd pitched into the 7th, letting up just 2 runs in 6 2/3 innings, striking out 7 and walking none. He didn’t get the decision but helped set up Atlanta’s 3-2 topping of Colorado.

They owned baseball on May.23, 2014.

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.

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.22) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Nam Y. Huh/AP

Nam Y. Huh/AP

Chris Sale came off the DL and retired the first 17 Yankees he faced. A base hit prevented him from pushing the no hitter issue and finished with 6 innings of 1 hit shutout ball with 10 strikeouts and no walks. He got the 3-2 win for the White Sox.

Jose Bautista went 3-5 with a homer leading the Blue Jays to a 7-2 victory and a sweep of the slumping defending champion Red Sox.

Henderson Alvarez gave the Marlins 7 innings of 4 hit shutout ball, walking just 2 Phillies in the process. He did not get the decision but the Marlins walked off a 4-3 winner.

Shane Robinson went 3-4, hit a game tying double and scored an insurance run in the Cardinals come from behind 4-2 win over Arizona.

They owned baseball on May.22, 2014.

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.

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.21) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Photo: Harry How, Getty Images

Photo: Harry How, Getty Images

Jered Weaver threw a complete game 2 hitter, let up one run on a solo shot and picked off a runner at first in the 9th to give the Angels a 2-1 win over the Astros.

Kyle Lohse went 8 strong, letting up just 1 run, striking out 8 and walking no Braves as the Brewers took the showdown between first place clubs, 6-1.

Edwin Encarnacion had another 2 homer day, driving in 3 and pushing the Blue Jays past the Red Sox, 6-4, and into a first place tie.

Marcell Ozuna hit a grand slam and drove in a fifth run, getting on base 3 times in the Marlins 14-5 drubbing of the Phillies.

They owned baseball on May.21, 2014.

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.

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.20) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Charles LeClaire, USA TODAY Sports

Charles LeClaire, USA TODAY Sports

Chris Davis clobbered 3 homers, collected another hit, scored 4 runs and drove in 5, leading the Orioles to a 9-2 blowout in Pittsburgh.

Denard Span went 5 for 5 with a pair of doubles, two runs batted in and a stolen base as the Nationals beat the Reds, 9-4.

Hisashi Iwakuma gave the Mariners 8 strong innings with 6 hits and 2 earned runs, earning the 6-2 victory in Texas.

In a night of multiple complete game shutouts,Julio Teheran gets the nod, holding the first place Brewers scoreless and giving the Braves a memorable 5-0 six hit triumph.

They owned baseball on May.20, 2014.

Why Julio Teheran and NOT Adam Wainwright? Listen to today’s The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

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.

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30 MLB Team Power Rankings: Week 6 – May. 2014

The Motown Boys won all 4 games they played this week and have opened up a 4 game lead on the Royals.  This team has the easiest schedule left on the board.  The squad also announced they have picked up Reliever Joel Hanrahan,  This is a great depth move on their part, and insurance for the Closers position.

The Motown Boys won all 4 games they played this week and have opened up a 4 game lead on the Royals. This team has the easiest schedule left on the board. The squad also announced they have picked up Reliever Joel Hanrahan, This is a great depth move on their part, and insurance for the Closers position.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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As we enter the 2nd month of play in the Major League Baseball, we really start to delve into who is playing good and who is playing bad.

How about we begin with the National League holding a 26 – 17 record versus the American League in Interleague play. 

The last stat is the main reason why there is only 3 teams out of the 15 with a positive Run Differential.  (No team in the AL East has a club in the plus, and only the Tigers have one in the AL Central.

The Angels and A’s also yield nice Run Differentials – however a lot of that was from beating up the Houston Astros.

The NL possesses 9 clubs with a positive mark.

The NL East has all 5 teams with a .500 clip or better heading into today’s action. Read the rest of this entry

30 MLB Team Power Rankings: Week 5 – Apr. 2014

The Astros have helped pad the stats for teams like the A's, Rangers and Angels offenses and Run Differentials so far,  Having this cupcake team will definitely help your playoff chances with the weighted divisional play.

The Astros have helped pad the stats for teams like the A’s, Rangers and Angels offenses and Run Differentials so far in 2014, Having this cupcake team will definitely help your playoff chances with the weighted divisional play.  I will be amazed if they finish out of last in the American League this year, and maybe only the Chicago Cubs will challenge them for the 1st overall pick again for the 2015 MLB Amateur Draft.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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We are now at the 13 – 14% pole of the MLB year.  Parity is reigning supreme on the standings.

For the record, while I love the Milwaukee start, they are just too many variables for them to keep up this pace.

Don’t get me wrong, i think this team is capable of making the playoffs, winning 90 games, but it could be eliminated as fast as they have compiled this record.

Ryan Braun’s thumb could require surgery. Ramirez’s knee’s could fail him.

Considering last night’s situation with Braun and Gomez, that could alter the playing field for the NL.

The suspension laid down for the brawl with the Pirates could also sway some momentum.  Good on Milwaukee for starting 18 – 6.  I just think the Cards will track them down in the next 138 games. Read the rest of this entry

Current Odds To Win Each MLB Division 2014

 This club often reminds me of an aging heavyweight fighter.  You may beat on them for a time, but there is always that chance the team will land a haymaker on you.  2007 was one of their days in the sunshine.  2014 may see them at least make the postseason again.  With a 20 - 1 odd for the club, the value is there for a longshot pick.

This club often reminds me of an aging heavyweight fighter. You may beat on them for a time, but there is always that chance the team will land a haymaker on you. 2007 was one of their days in the sunshine. 2014 may see them at least make the postseason again. With a 20 – 1 odd for the club, the value is there for a longshot pick.  I mean the Dodgers could always run into injuries as well.

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

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The season is upon us this weekend for real.

The LA Dodgers have a chance to do some serious damage with the North America Opener versus the San Diego Padres, as part of a 3 game series.

If they win 2 out of 3 in that set, this will go a long way in burying the San Diego team early.

In the NL West, since LA is 2 – 0 already, the Rockies are now paying 20 – 1 odds to win the Division.

While I am not saying this will happen, the value is there.

Also I can’t believe how the injuries have not effected the odds on the Tigers. Read the rest of this entry

The Seattle Mariners State Of The Union For 2014 Part 1: Winter Deals + Pitchers

Felix Hernandez has been the face of the Seattle Mariners since 2009 when he won 19 games for the Mariners.  He followed up with a CY Young season in 2010.   The last 3 years, he has gone 39 - 33, with a lowe 3 ERA, but finished 4th in Cy Young Voting in 2012, and was oine of the frontrunner to win the 2013 AL Cy Young - before the team shut him down for the rest of the year in Sept (still finished 8th in Voting).  Hernandez sports a 110 - 86 record with a 3.20 ERA for his 9 year career.  Expect nearly 16  - 18 wins this year with a near 3 ERA.  Photo: Chris Carlson - AP

Felix Hernandez has been the face of the Seattle Mariners since 2009 when he won 19 games for the Mariners. He followed up with a CY Young season in 2010. The last 3 years, he has gone 39 – 33, with a lowe 3 ERA, but finished 4th in Cy Young Voting in 2012, and was one of the frontrunners to win the 2013 AL Cy Young – before the team shut him down for the rest of the year in Sept (still finished 8th in Voting). Hernandez sports a 110 – 86 record with a 3.20 ERA for his 9 year career. Expect nearly 16 – 18 wins this year with a near 3 ERA. The Mariners have only had 2 winning seasons out of the time “King Felix has been on the team.  A start at Safeco Field for the team by him is worth about 10K fans extra. Photo: Chris Carlson – AP

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

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A decade of frustration has set in after the clubs best stretch of success proceeded if from the time Ken Griffey Jr. arrived, until longtime MGR. Lou Piniella left the fold in 2003.

That was the last season the Mariners were sniffing around a playoff spot.

Back then, attendance was nearly 40K per game at Safeco, and you see tailgate parties, and the smell of garlic wafted through the surrounding area of the park.

In 2012, the club hit an all time low in attendance for the new stadium, and it wasn’t much better in 2013.  Seattle drew just over 20,000 fans per game.

Something had to be done.  Other than games that brought tonnes of excitement, and the King’s Court Section for Felix Hernandez home outings, there wasn’t much for the teams fanbase to be happy about with the home team.

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Angels State Of The Union For 2014: A Hot Start Is Paramount For Success

The Angels have spent almost a half of a billion in Free Agency over the last 3 years, and all they have to show for it, is back to back 3rd place finishes in the AL West.  The team also featured an anemic Bullpen in the 2013 campaign. But with AL West rivals all having significant injuries both to start the year and long-term for 2014, this has opened up the door for the start of campaign at least.  It is incumbent that their top guys stay injury free, and spend exactly no days on the DL, because they don't have suitable replacements to step in.  With poor starts to both of the last 2 years, this squad looks to break this trend in 2014.

The Angels have spent almost a half of a billion in Free Agency over the last 3 years, and all they have to show for it, is back to back 3rd place finishes in the AL West. The team also featured an anemic Bullpen in the 2013 campaign. But with AL West rivals all having significant injuries both to start the year and long-term for 2014, this has opened up the door for the start of the 2014 campaign at least. It is incumbent that their top guys stay injury free, and spend exactly no days on the DL, because they don’t have suitable replacements to step in. With poor starts to both of the last 2 years, this squad looks to break this trend this seasom.

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

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Hunter Stokes (Our chief writer) wrote a piece that was picked up by MLB Trade Rumors blogroll, stating that Jerry DiPoto has done a poor job in constructing the current team based on the roster tree here.

I agree with him 100% on this, especially on the moves, the Bullpen not being 100% finished yet, the Starting Rotation too reliant on their top 2 pitchers – and we have had several of their fans take some jabs at us for going with these notions.

The club’s brass has had a better winter in 2013 going into 2014, then they had last year, however it still doesn’t alleviate the fact, this team can’t sustain one injury to any of their top players because of said moves to deplete their depth.

The Starting Staff is composed of 60% of youth that is not used to toting long innings in Garrett Richards, Hector Santiago and Tyler Skaggs.

The team has a lot of players that will strikeout a lot, so it is also important to receive key HRs at crucial times in the game.

The club will also lose 34 HRs worth of power they received from Mark Trumbo in 2013, but it was the right time to move him.  Whether they received enough of a return is yet to be determined, but it also cut down the whiffs for 2014.

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Odds To Win Each Division In Major League Baseball 2014 Change With TJ Surgeries

Medlen was only 2nd to Clayton Kershaw for ERA in the NL since mid 2012.  Unfortunately for the RHP, he is on his way for a 2nd Tommy John Surgery recovery.  Medlen injured himself earlier this week in Spring Training.  He was projected to be Atlanta's #1 Starting Pitcher,

Medlen was only 2nd to Clayton Kershaw for ERA in the NL since mid 2012. Unfortunately for the RHP, he is on his way for a 2nd Tommy John Surgery recovery. Medlen injured himself earlier this week in Spring Training. He was projected to be Atlanta’s #1 Starting Pitcher,

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

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The theme of the week is Tommy John Surgery . It has affected the Athletics, Braves and Diamondbacks on the odds board all over.

Brandon Beachy and Kris Medlen moved the line for the Braves from a +120 Mark to +140.  Arizona went from +650 to +700 on the heels of Patrick Corbin being lost.

The Athletics have 60% of their rosters on injury watch.  Jarrod Parker is gone for the 2014 year because of a torn UCL.  A.J. Griffin has a UCL strain – and Scott Kazmir has triceps soreness. Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win Each Division In Major League Baseball 2014

The Rays have one of the 2 best Starting Pitcher staffs in the American league, and have averaged over 90 wins for the last 6 years.  Bringing back Price, and having Myers and Archer for a full year should make the team even better in 2013.  Keep in mind they have also added Heath Bell and Grant Balfour to anchor the Bullpen, an obvious upgrade over the inconsistent Fernando Rodney.  They have been more consistent than the Red Sox and Yankees the last 2 years.  As such should not be the 3rd favorite in the Division,

The Rays have one of the 2 best Starting Pitcher staffs in the American league, and have averaged over 90 wins for the last 6 years. Bringing back Price, and having Myers and Archer for a full year should make the team even better in 2013. Keep in mind they have also added Heath Bell and Grant Balfour to anchor the Bullpen, an obvious upgrade over the inconsistent Fernando Rodney. They have been more consistent than the Red Sox and Yankees the last 2 years. As such should not be the 3rd favorite in the Division.

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

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We have gone through several weeks and months in the off year for gambling odds, and now with the Dodgers and Diamondbacks Opening MLB Series less than 3 weeks away, it is the Division Winners.

Much like my predictions are for the National League and the American League Winners, along with the World Series Winners, I love the Rays, Rangers and Giants for the value.

The worst dollars won for teams being favorites are the Tigers at -270, and Dodgers at -275.  I am picking both of these teams to crush it this season, but I will not be wagering on the high favorites prices.

Like I have said before, the LA Dodgers are a couple of injuries away from opening up the NL West.  Even the Arizona Diamondbacks at +650 are worth a stab. Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The MLB 2014 World Series: Tigers Best Value Of The Week

The Tigers are my pick of the week for value.  They were the AL favorite just two weeks ago outright, before being tied with Boston last week.  This odd is favorable for sure.  The AL Central provides the Tigers with an easier path to the World Series because of 76 games within the Division.  The AL East had 4 teams over 85 wins last year.  Baltimore and New York are better than they were, and Boston plus Tampa should maintain.  The AL East has 5 of the top 13 odds for the World Series (5 of the top 8 clips for the AL.)  The AL West is also going to beat up each other a little.  Take the team that has appeared in 3 straight League Championships, and has the best Pitching Staff in the American League.

The Tigers are my pick of the week for value. They were the AL favorite just two weeks ago outright, before being tied with Boston last week. This odd is favorable for sure. The AL Central provides the Tigers with an easier path to the World Series because of 76 games within the Division. The AL East had 4 teams over 85 wins last year. Baltimore and New York are better than they were in 2013, and Boston plus Tampa should maintain. The AL East has 5 of the top 13 odds for the World Series (5 of the top 8 clips for the AL.) The AL West is also going to beat up each other a little. Take this AL Central team that has appeared in 3 straight League Championships, and has the best Pitching Staff in the American League.

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

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Well, it is nice to be vindicated on the market again.  Just like I said when the Mariners roamed up from +4000 to +2800 after the Cano signing.  I told people to pounce on that odd.

Last week, I posted in this column, that your bet of the week for value as the Orioles.

I have also been calling for the Rays to be higher on the oddsmakers list, and while they have passed the Jays finally, how come they are so far behind the Yankees and Red Sox?  Market correction is needed there.

For the record, I called the Yankees a great value at +1500 in December, before they signed Masahiro Tanaka.  If you have listened at home, this has worked out for you.  Don’t bet the, at +1200, tied for the 6th best odd in the AL, there is no value there.  Tampa at +1800 is still a better option. Read the rest of this entry

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

If you have read any of these odds listed prior, I had mentioned the M's were great value at +4000 (even after Cano, in which I said pounce, they have since jumped to +3300 in January, and now are at +2800).  However this team is suffering from early injury trouble, can't seem to land an additional bat to the roster, and are banking on too many variables at the new odd.  Stay clear.

If you have read any of these odds listed prior, I had mentioned the M’s were great value at +4000 (even after Cano, in which I said pounce, they have since jumped to +3300 in January, and now are at +2800). However this team is suffering from early injury trouble, can’t seem to land an additional bat to the roster, and are banking on too many variables at the new odd. Stay clear.

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

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It has been a tough week for the Seattle Mariners.  1st a freak injury to  Hisashi Iwakuma – has him out 4 – 6 with a bad finger that was caught into a batting cage net.

While Franklin Gutierrez being hurt is not a surprise, it still comes at a bad time.

To make matters worse, Nelson Cruz seems to balking at signing a deal with the PAC NW club.

At this point, the Mariners might want to just think about whether they really want that guy anyway.

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30 MLB Team Power Rankings FEB 2014

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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Not withstanding the last few signings in the MLB, noteworthy is Bronson Arroyo to the Diamondbacks, and Paul Maholm to the Los Angeles Dodgers, these will not effect the grand scheme for the rankings of all clubs.

Nelson Cruz is still available, and I would be very surprised if he doesn’t ink a deal with the Mariners.  This would put them slightly ahead of the Angels if done, as oppose to a dead heat right now.

There are no real surprises to be had here.

The Orioles, Blue Jays and Pirates have had the worst offseasons, while the Rangers, Royals, Rays, Giants, Yankees, Cardinals and Dodgers have helped out their causes for the upcoming campaign.

30 MLB Team Power Rankings MAR 2014

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

Yes it has taken years for the Mariners to build their Minor League Systems up, and begin to see the fruits of their labour, however risking all a huge chunk of their team salary on a player - who might see a harsh decline in his production - based on variant factors, is a gamble they simply shouldn't delve into.  Perhaps with the outcome of the meeting the club had with Cano, it has effectively burned the bridges between the two parties?  The M's are on the cusp of breaking through to success, but they should take the Pirates mode of getting there, instead of trying to jump the shark too early.

Yes it has taken years for the Mariners to build their Minor League Systems up, and begin to see the fruits of their labor, however risking  a huge chunk of their team salary on a player – who might see a harsh decline in his production – based on variant factors, is a gamble they simply shouldn’t have delved into.  The M’s are on the cusp of breaking through to success, but they should take the Pirates mode of getting there, instead of trying to jump the shark too early.  While the ramifications of the Cano deal might blow up long-term, look for this team to be better for the next couple of years.  They also make our ‘good valued teams’ for Winning the 2014 World Series.

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

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The Oddsmakers have finally dropped the Angels in the rankings.  At +1600, they are still not down as far as I would put them, however they are outside the top 10 now.

As you will see in a post this weekend done by Hunter Stokes, I am still surprised to see the Yankees more of an underdog than the Boston Red Sox.

In his report, Hunter will show you the age of both teams is similar – while the lineups are more comparable in 2014 then they were in 2013.

Tampa Bay is still the class of the bunch at +2000.  In some Vegas Casino’s – this club may be posted as more of a favorite, but at http://www.bet365.com, they are still at that mark. Read the rest of this entry

Cano Signs With Seattle 10 YRs/$240 MIL: Do You Want A Good Team Or A Good Business?

Cano and his brass were in the Emerald City over night - to dicker with the Seattle Brass over a supposed 9 YR contract worth around $225 - $240 MIL.  But something went awry, and the Cano camp made the Seattle Mariners storm off with disgust over what the demands were. In a city where they have only had 2 winning seasons in the last 10 years, they do not need to put all of their eggs in just one basket.  We will go through the long decade of suffering in his blog, and come up with the conclusion, that the last thing the franchise needs - is another Free Agency flop.

Cano and his management posse were in the Emerald City over night – to dicker with the Seattle Brass over a supposed 9 YR contract worth around $225 – $240 MIL . But something went awry, and the Cano camp made the Seattle Mariners storm off with disgust over what the demands were originally.   It has now been reported the sides agreed to a 10 YR/$240 MIL deal.  This could be a colossal mistake from the club, despite seeing probable early returns on their investment and the ticket wicket and for TV Ratings. In a city where they have only had 2 winning seasons in the last 10 years, they didn’t need to put all of their eggs in just one basket. We will go through the long decade of suffering in his blog, and come up with the conclusion, that the last thing the franchise needs – is another Free Agency flop.

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): (Big Credit to Paul Francis Sullivan)  

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The deal was supposed to be 9 YRs/$225 MIL for Robinson Cano‘s services to be taken to The Pacific Northwest, and play for the home fans of Safeco Field.

Somewhere in the deliberations, the Roc Nations Sports Agency (Jay – Z’s gang) made an unruly notion for something, to which the brass of the Seattle Mariners stormed off.

It would be nice to have been a fly on the wall for that sparing off of the minds.

The two sides finally agreed this morning to a 10 YR/$240 MIL deal for the ALL – Star, SIlver Slugger 2B.

Before the deal, a neutral fan had to ask Cano really taking the M’s seriously, or was it all for show – in hopes he could draw more cash from a team he really wants to play for?

Sully’s Daily Podcast from last night – truer words have never been spoken – Listen to this 20 Min show!

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – December 5, 2013

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MLB 50 Free Agent Predictions

It will all be following the money for many of the Free Agents this winter.  It all started when all 14 players that had Qualifying Offers politely declined them all over the weekend, and are all FA's with Draft Compensation due back to their 2013 club.

It will all be following the money for many of the Free Agents this winter. It all started when all 14 players that had Qualifying Offers politely declined them all over the weekend, and are all FA’s with Draft Compensation due back to their 2013 club.

Free Agent Predictions

By Jordan Gluck (Free Agency Correspondent)

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These are my personal predictions on where the top free agents will sign. This is the same kind of list of the top 50 free agents made by our friends at mlbtraderumors.com.

Please keep in mind there will be trades this offseason so holes will be filled that way as well (I believe the Cardinals will trade for a SS).

I am not going to estimate any dollar figures in this specific article but I do expect some overpayments this year.

Robinson Cano 2013 Highlights

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Odds To Win The 2014 MLB World Series + Around The MLB Horn For Quick Team Wish Lists

The Red Sox may have won the 2013 World Series, but they are not the 2014 favorites.  No team has repeated since the Yankees won 3 straight titles from 1998 - 2000.

The Red Sox may have won the 2013 World Series, but they are not the 2014 favorites. No team has repeated since the Yankees won 3 straight titles from 1998 – 2000.

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

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Now that the Boston Red Sox have won the 2013 World Series, the oddsmakers have already dropped them, plus fellow 2013 Fall Classic Participants (St. Louis) to be tied for the 3rd seed, with the Washington Nationals.

A massive surprise on the list are the Los Angeles Angels, who will have the 6th favorite slot to win the World Series at +1400.

If you are looking for value, you should consider the Reds (Tied for the 8th seed) at +1600.  They are merely a few players, and perhaps a few tweaks from going far in one of these playoffs.

2013 World Series Champion – Red Sox

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Looking Back At Some Of The Highlights From The Mariners 2013 Season

As Safeco Field closes it's roof for the season, let's take a look back at the brighter moments from the Mariners abysmal 2013 season.

In 2014, the Seattle franchise will be welcoming in a new coach – as Eric Wedge will not be returning for another year as the team’s skipper.  As Safeco Field closes it’s roof for the season, let’s take a look back at the brighter moments from the Mariners abysmal 2013 year – in which they finished 71 – 91, only good for 4th in the AL West.

Sam Evans ( Baseball Writer and Marlins, Mariners Correspondent):

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The Seattle Mariners 2013 season left a lot to be desired.

The Mariners continued to lose fans as they didn’t play competitive baseball for the majority of the season. However, there were some memorable highlights and breakout performances that made the Mariners season slight more bearable.

Here’s a look back at the more enjoyable aspects of the Mariners 2013 regular season. 

SEA @ OAK: Farquhar fans Cespedes to lock down the save

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (September.18th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

(AP Photo/George Nikitin)

(AP Photo/George Nikitin)

Josh Hamilton hit a game tying homer in the ninth and drove in the winning run in the 11th as the Angels stunned the A’s in Oakland, 5-4.

Billy Hamilton got on base 5 times with a double, two singles and two walks, stole 4 bases and scored twice including in the game winning 13th inning rally as the Reds topped the Astros 6-5.

Hisashi Iwakuma saw his road scoreless inning streak extend to 25 as he went 8 innings letting up only 4 hits and getting the 8-0 victoru over the Tigers.

Adam Wainwright pitched and hit the Cardinals closer to a Division Title. He threw 7 1/3 innings letting up 3 runs, a good total for Coors Field. He also went 3-3 including a double and 2 RBI picking up the 5-4 decision against Colorado.

They all owned baseball on September 18, 2013.

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

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

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

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

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (September.13th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

(AP Photo/Elise Amendola)

(AP Photo/Elise Amendola)

Jarrod Saltalamacchia turned a tight 4-4 game into a comfortable 8-4 Boston lead with one swing of his bat. His 7th inning grand slam was the difference in the opener of the Red Sox/Yankees series.

Hisashi Iwakuma was outstanding against the Cardinals. He threw 7 shutout innings, letting up just 3 hits and 2 walks. Unfortunately for him, the Mariners bullpen was not up to the task and Seattle would fall to St. Louis, 2-1 in 10 innings.

Wilin Rosario got a pair of hits and drove in 4 including 2 in the Rockies tie breaking 7th inning rally as Colorado beat Arizona, 7-5.

Kyle Lohse pitched a complete game victory against the Reds, letting up just 4 hits and 1 run, getting the 5-1 decision for the Brewers.

They all owned baseball on September 13, 2013.

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

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

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

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

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The Seattle Mariners Payroll In 2014, Organizational Affiliates, Prospects, Depth Charts, (MLB + MiLB)

The Mariners have one of the gem stadiums in all of baseball right now.  It is too bad the team on the field has not been that great - in what has been a brutal decade.  Jack Z.. was just extended for one more year.  While it wasn't exactly a ringing endorsement, the club's youth has finally shown some promise.  The team has a promising amount of young pitchers, good Starting Pitching already in the Majors, and a few positional players that look like they will stay in the bigs.  Of concern is the fact they will lose several veterans in Mike Morse, Kendrys Morales and Raul Ibanez after this year.  That is, unless they decide to trade any of them in the next week.

The Mariners have one of the gem stadiums in all of baseball right now. It is too bad the team on the field has not been that great – in what has been a brutal decade. Jack Z.. was just extended for one more year. While it wasn’t exactly a ringing endorsement, the club’s youth has finally shown some promise. The team has a promising amount of young pitchers, good Starting Pitching already in the Majors, and a few positional players that look like they will stay in the bigs. Of concern is the fact they will lose several veterans in Mike Morse, Kendrys Morales and Raul Ibanez after this year. That is, unless they decide to trade any of them in the next week.

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): and welcome Jeff Kleiner (Salary, Roster and Depth Chart Expert for the MLB) – visit his website  here  

The Mariners were one of the best teams in the Major Leagues when they moved into Safeco Field.

Despite losing Alex Rodriguez, Randy Johnson and Ken GriffeyJR. in successive seasons, the team matched a Major League Record with 116 Wins during the 2001 year.

Ichiro Suzuki admirably took over the reigns as the team leader, and carried the club on his shoulders for the next years.

Lou Pinella was there until 2003 – and was having his team in perennial contention since the 1995 year.

After 2003, the club has been abysmal in the next decade.

The team has had several face lifts, rotation managers – and the attendance has come down for over 3 Million fans per year, and now the can barely draw about 1.5 MIL people.

Seattle is one of the biggest markets in North America, and can totally put forth a winning team – and a high payroll.

For the team to even sign some Free Agents, the young players of the organization have to start playing well and to potential.

Any team with Felix Hernandez and Hisashi Iwakuma is not that far off from competing.

For a Full 3 year Salary Outlook plus last years Stats for every player in the Mariners Organization click here.

For all 30 teams Organization Lists from the MLB Reports, plus any related Payrolls, Depth Charts, Roster Trees, State Of The Unions click here.

Felix Hernandez Perfect Game Highlights 2012

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MLB Player Profile: Mariners Pitcher Erasmo Ramirez

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Sunday, July 28th, 2013

Erasmo Ramirez has a career 3.92 FIP in 69 MLB innings pitched.

Erasmo Ramirez has a career 3.92 FIP in 69 MLB innings pitched.  While he was putting together a decent campaign during the 2012 year (with a WHIP of 1.00 – and an ERA of 3.36).  The 2013 has not been as kind – with an ERA of 8.71, based on his 2 Game Starts this season, despite yielding a 1 – 0 record thus far.

Sam Evans ( Baseball Writer and Marlins, Mariners Correspondent):

Aside from Felix Hernandez and Hisashi Iwakuma, the 2013 Seattle Mariners starting rotation has been far from consistent.

Fortunately for them, Erasmo Ramirez, who has just been recalled, should be able to provide quality innings for a team that is definitely in need of pitching.

Ramirez, 23, has already had ten career MLB starts but elbow soreness at the start of this season has prevented him from really taking off in the Majors.

With his outstanding control and four impressive pitches, Ramirez should turn into a valuable middle of the rotation arm for Seattle in years to come.

Erasmo Ramirez Spotlight 5-28

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

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

Triple Play Podcast Trade Speculation

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Sunday July.28/2013

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Friday, July.12, 2013

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

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

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

By James Acevedo – Host (Podcast Veteran )

Guests On The Show

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

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

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

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

MLB 30 Team Rankings Week 15

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Monday July.08/2013

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

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

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

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

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

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Justin Maxwell’s Days Potentially Numbered For The Astros

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Sunday, July 7th/2013

Struggling with injuries in his tenure with the Nationals was a major part in his journey to his current slot in Houston, but as the injury bug has him in it’s firm grip, Maxwell’s tenure in Houston could just about be over if should he not shake the injury bug.

Struggling with injuries in his tenure with the Nationals was a major part in his journey tfor his current slot in Houston, but as the injury bug has him in it’s firm grip, Maxwell’s tenure in Houston could just about be over if should he not shake the injury bug.

By Richard Perez (Astros Correspondent visit the StrosBros Website here):

It has been a fun ride for Astros fans watching Justin Maxwell take their hearts by storm over the last season and a half.

Garnering love and respect from Astros fans for his personality and versatile style of play, Maxwell has hit a wall this year, a wall all too familiar with the 29 year old journeyman outfielder.

Seeming to improve on his previous season by leaps and bounds, he started 2013 playing outstandingly for the first month of the season, almost as if he was an entirely new player after a rough spring training.

But it was not long before Maxwell came down to earth and became reacquainted with his old pal, the disabled list. He suffered a broken hand after being hit by a pitch from Seattle’s Hisashi Iwakuma, since that day.

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Potential All – Star Candidates For All 30 MLB Teams:

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Saturday, July.06/2013

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

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

Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner):

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

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

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

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

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

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