Blog Archives

The Nationals Case Against Extending Jordan Zimmermann

The problem with any of the Nationals players not name Harper or Strasburg, is that any time the club is talking about extending one of their players before them, those guys have to be kept in mind for when they hit Free Agency.

The problem with any of the Nationals players not named Harper or Strasburg, is that any time the club is talking about extending one of their players before them, those guys have to be kept in mind for when they hit Free Agency..  The Nationals are creeping up the payroll scale each year that their core is together.  Whether it is Arbitration, or players like Jayson Werth and Gio Gonzalez being paid more as their own contracts mature.  2014 will see the club set another record for player salaries, adding to the fuel that it will be tough to extend Zimmermann.

By David Huzzard (Nationals Correspondent via Citizens of Natstown.com – view website here): 

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With how much love role players like Michael Morse and Steve Lombardozzi have garnered from Nats fans as they’ve left town it will be amazing to see what happens when the Washington Nationals lose a legitimate star player.

With Ian Desmond and Jordan Zimmermann both two years away from free agency there is a high likelihood that that day is soon approaching.

The Nationals have made several overtures to Jordan Zimmermann but no deal has been reached or even come close. Zimmermann wants fair market value which is understandable but what is fair market value for a pitcher like him?

Zack Greinke with a career 3.65 ERA and one Cy Young under his belt set the record for free agent pitchers with the $147 million contract he signed last off-season heading into his age 29 season.

Jordan Zimmermann April 2013 Shutout – Mature Lyrics so Parental Guidance is Advised

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Stoking The Fire – Week 7: Bullet Version Of Free Agent Signings + Trades This Winter

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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2014 Winter Transactions

Dodgers Sign SP Dan Haren -1 YR/$10 MIL: Great Depth move for the probable 2014 NL West Division champs!

Rays Sign C Jose Molina – 2 YRs/$4.5 MIL: Great Defensive Catcher, club doesn’t spend a ton either.

Cards Sign SS/OF – Jhonny Peralta 4 YRs/$52 MIL: Hate the PED aspect of this – smart deal for Cards.

Angels Sign RP – Joe Smith 3 YRs/$15.75 MIL: The club still needs 4 more relievers and 3 starters.

Yankees Sign C – Brian McCann 5 YRs/$85 MIL (6th Year Option at $15 MIL):  Great early strike for the Bombers!

Angels and Cards Trade OF Peter Bourjos for 3B David Freese: is Jerry DiPoto high?  Fight at the trainers table next year.

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MLB Player Profile: How Valuable Has Ben Zobrist Been To The Rays?

Ben Zobrist has quietly tuned into one of the best all around players in the game.  He has finished in the top for WAR in 3 of the 4 years - including 1st in 2011 and 2nd in 2009.  . Zobrist who continues this season with his musical chairs role on the team has not let his bat cool down ays fans need not worry this early. With only 10 games played in the young season now is not the time to start throwing in the towel and saying that GM Andrew Friedman and his staff have lost their touch.

Ben Zobrist has quietly tuned into one of the best all around players in the game of baseball. He has finished in the top for WAR in 3 of the last 5years – including 1st in 2011 and 2nd in 2009.  Zobrist, 32,  who continued this season with his musical chairs defensive role on the team this year, has two years left on his current contract, and will be a Free Agent at the end of the 2015 season.  It was the summer of 2006, that the brass traded Aubrey Huff for the young player.  Zobrist has played 1500+ Innings in 4 different defensive positions for the franchise (SS/2B/RF/LF – and it helps Joe Maddon bring in favorable platoon matchups for several other lineup spots).  He has a career 3 Slash of .263/.354/.789 in 8 seasons for Tampa.

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

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Picture how bad the Tampa Bay Devil Rays were when the Houston Astros traded Ben Zobrist with Mitch Talbot to the Tampa Bay Rays for Aubrey Huff and cash on July.12/2006.

The team was in the 8th season out of 9 years of under .500 ball.  The guy he was traded for had great offensive acumen, and was the franchise leader in several career categories as he departed the door.

Zobrist had an auspicious beginning with the Rays, struggling during the 2006 – 2007 years.  His OPS numbers for those years were .572 and .391 respectively.

Joe Maddon was not as worried as others were about the 6th Round Drat Pick of the Houston Astros back in 2004,because the guy would be a Maddon type of player.

Ben Zobrist 2 Part Interview

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Stoking The Fire – Week 6: The ‘Royals’ MUST Sign James Shields To An Extension Right Away!

Shields was brought into do a job in the 2013 year, and he did just that, leading the American League In Innings Pitched, Game Starts - and Batters Faced - en route to a 13 - 9 year, with a 3.15 ERA.  The Royals have him for an exercised $12.5 MIL Team Option in 2014, but the ALL - Star Pitcher has expressed interest in signing an extension long - term.

Shields was brought into do a job (via trade) in the 2013 year, and he did just that, leading the American League In Innings Pitched, Game Starts – and Batters Faced – en route to a 13 – 9 year, with a 3.15 ERA. The Royals have him for an exercised $12.5 MIL Team Option in 2014, but the ALL – Star Pitcher has expressed interest in signing an extension long – term.  My question is – why are they not backing up the Brinks truck right now?

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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I have been writing for this fine website for a few weeks now.  I must say that I have been bored with my bleeping mind since the World Series – from lack of excitement.

One of my 1st articles a few weeks back, also addressed the Kansas City Royals need to go for it in 2014.  It is not time to sit back any longer.  At the end of this post, I will provide a link to read that post too.

I was commuting to my business last week, and I heard that James Shields likes it in KC – and would be willing to stay long-term if possible.

Okay, so why aren’t David Glass and Dayton Moore at Shields house right now, hammering away on an extension deal?

James Shields 2013 HIghlights

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The Minnesota Twins Payroll In 2014 + Contracts Going Forward

In 2014, Joe Mauer will be in year #4 out of the 8 YR/$184 MIL extension that he signed.  The 30 Year Old native of Minnesota returned more to what his usual Career numbers resemble in 2013 - with a 3 Slash Line of .324/.405/.880.  Perhaps the club will now move him to 1st base permanently with the departure of Justin Morneau.  The 2009 AL MVP, and former 3 time Batting Champion is now the Active Leader for Batting Average at .323 - and has a lifetime .405 OBP. Mauer is a 6 time ALL - Star - and will need to continue his offensive flair making #23 MIL annually until the end of the 2018 season.

In 2014, Joe Mauer will be in year #4 out of the 8 YR/$184 MIL extension that he signed. The 30 Year Old native of Minnesota returned more to what his usual Career numbers resemble in 2013 – with a 3 Slash Line of .324/.405/.880. Perhaps the club will now move him to 1st base permanently with the departure of Justin Morneau. The 2009 AL MVP, and former 3 time Batting Champion, is now the Active Leader for Batting Average at .323 – and has a lifetime .405 OBP. Mauer is a 6 time ALL – Star – and will need to continue his offensive flair making $23 MIL annually until the end of the 2018 season.

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

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With Justin Morneau leaving the club via a trade at the deadline this campaign, the Twins are starting to resemble the ‘Metrodome’ style – version of the team in terms of having a lower payroll .

Joe Mauer ($23 MIL in 2014) is the only player that stands to make over $10 Million next year.

As of right now, the players they have signed, Josh Willingham, Kevin Correia, Ryan Doumit, Glen Perkins and Jared Burton are the only Veteran’s signed long – term – and they make $23 MIL as a collective unit.

At 5 players – and only $46 MIL on the books, the Twins have a chance to go shopping on Free Agents.

For all of the Rosters, Depth Charts, State of the Unions and Salaries Posts that we do, please visit our dedicated page link here.

2013 Twins Mid season highlights – Best of the year Anyway – Mature Lyrics so Parental Guidance is Advised

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“Stoking The Fire” Week 3: Kansas City Royals State Of The Union 2014 Part 1

James Shields turned in a workman like effort for the Royals - only to have received little run support.  With the Trade having going down seemingly to correct each other main ailments with the Rays needing offense and the Royals needing defense.  It has worked for both teams.  2014 becomes the most pivotal year in the last 3 decades for the franchise - as it is "Big Game" James' last year under contract.

James Shields turned in a workman like effort for the Royals (13 – 9, with a 3.15 ERA – AL leading 228.2 IP and 34 Game Starts) – only to have received little run support. With the Trade having going down seemingly to correct each other main ailments with the Rays needing offense and the Royals needing defense. It has worked for both teams. 2014 becomes the most pivotal year in the last 3 decades for the franchise – as it is “Big Game” James’ last year under contract.  With them trading away Wil Myers for his services, the team needs to capitalize on this year.  Ultimately the franchise should spend any amount of $$$ necessary in 2014 to compete with the big boys of the AL.  With so many of their own core young players due to start receiving salaries increases, this next year has to be the time to go for it!!

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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I am officially calling out the Royals Management and ownership to buck up again for the 2014 season.  If ever there was a year to spend the money it is now!

You have James Shields for one more year, and all of your core young players like Billy Butler, Eric HosmerLuke Hochevar and Mike Moustakas are heading for some payraises in the near future for Arbitration.

Wade Davis also will see his money bumped in 2015.

For all of the Rosters, Depth Charts, State of the Unions and Salaries Posts that we do, please visit our dedicated page link here.

The time to win is now!

Shields first inning as a Royal

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MLB’s Payroll Matters Part 2: Just Because Some Low Payroll Teams Have Bucked The Trend – Doesn’t Mean It Will Continue

It seems the only to way to build a team successfully - is to be atrocious for several (talking 6 - 8 seasons), stockpile top 5 Draft Picks, and have them all become your nucleus for a matter of a few seasons. The reason is because of Team Control Salaries.  Teams like the Rays and Pirates have also held players in the Minor Leagues longer than needed - due to salary and Arbitration implications.  I can think of Desmond Jennings, Wil Myers, Chris Archer for the Rays, while Gerrit Cole and Jeff Locke come to mind for the Bucs.

It seems the only to way to build a team successfully – is to be atrocious for several (talking 6 – 8 seasons like the Twins, Nationals, Pirates, Rays in recent years – and now the Astros are following suit), stockpile top 5 Draft Picks, and have them all become your nucleus for a matter of a few seasons. The reason is because of Team Controllable Salaries. Teams like the Rays and Pirates have also held players in the Minor Leagues longer than needed – due to salary and Arbitration implications. I can think of Desmond Jennings, Wil Myers, Chris Archer for the Rays, while Gerrit Cole and Jeff Locke come to mind for the Bucs.  If a player is ready for action in the Majors, he should playing – end of story.

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

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Lets just take a look at the teams that have played well above their value.  The Twins are a story much like the Marlins in 1997 and 2003.

The Twins had a good team in the late 80’s, and won 2 World Series Titles in 1987 and 1991.  However the economics of the game hit them hard, and they struggled for an 8 year stretch in the AL Central.

For Part 1 of the MLB’s State Of the Union Part 1:  Click here.

Major League Contraction Talk Again?

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (September.27th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

AP Photo/Al Behrman

AP Photo/Al Behrman

A.J. Burnett pitched 8 terrific innings against rival Cincinnati, earning the victory after yielding only 1 run and 5 hits. Pittsburgh topped the Reds 4-1 and put them on the verge of home field in the Wild Card game.

Matt Holliday reached base 5 times, homered and scored twice, leading the Cardinals to a 7-0 drubbing of the Cubs and a clinching of the NL Central title.

James Shields finished his first season in Kansas City with another terrific game. He went 7 innings, 4 hits, 1 runs, walked just one White Sox batter and struck out 10, earning his 13th win, 6-1.

Drew Stubbs powered the Indians a little closer to the Wild Card by getting on base 3 times, scoring all three times including a homer. The Tribe topped the Twins 12-6.

They all owned baseball on September 27, 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 OR SCROLL DOWN.

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (September.22nd) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

(AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

(AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

With one swing of his bat, Justin Maxwell gave the Royals hope, clinched a division title for the Oakland A’s and sent the Rangers reeling. His 10th inning, walk off grand slam sealed a 4-0 triumph for the Royals that eliminated the Rangers from the AL West race and kept KC in the Wild Card hunt.

The late inning heroics in Kansas City were set up by the brilliant 8 inning shutout performance by James Shields. He kept the Rangers off the board and gave the Royals a chance. He may not of received the decision in the 4-0 KC win, but he made it possible. 

Billy Hamilton continues to be everything advertised and then some. He went 3-6 with a double and two more stolen bases. Now batting lead off and being a spark plug, the Reds clobbered the Pirates in a critical playoff match up, 11-3.

Yusmeiro Petit was not intimidated by the Yankee Stadium ceremonies. He was terrific into the 7th inning, matching zeros and letting up a single solo homer. He did not get the decision, but he set up the Giants 2-1 victory over the Yankees.

They all owned baseball on September 22, 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 OR SCROLL DOWN.

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (September.11th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

AP Photo: Tony Dejak

AP Photo: Tony Dejak

James Shields lived up to his “Big James” nickname by throwing 8 innings of 4 hit, 2 run ball against rival Cleveland, getting the 5-2 win that pulled Kansas City to within 2 games of a playoff spot..

Robinson Cano drove in two runs including a go ahead 9th inning home run that put the Yankees ahead for good as they topped Baltimore 5-4.

Jose Fernandez made the most of his final start of the season. He went 7 innings, letting up 1 run and homered. While his celebration got the Braves mad, he got the last laugh with a 5-2 victory.

Justin Morneau helped his new team keep pace in the Division race, getting 4 hits and scoring twice as the Pirates finished the sweep of the Rangers, 7-5.

They all owned baseball on September 11, 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 Tampa Bay Rays Starting Pitching Is Not As Strong As It Was In 2012: They Miss James Shields!

The Tampa Bay Rays came into 2013 off of a great 2012 campaign. They finished third in the East but they did end the season with 90 wins. Doing so, they were expected to win the American League East this season. Picking up Wil Myers from the Royals for James Shields was a huge move for them. Was it a mistake now that we look back and the Rays pitching is falling apart without Shields' 200 innings.

The Tampa Bay Rays came into 2013 off of a great 2012 campaign. They finished third in the East but they did end the season with 90 wins. Doing so, they were expected to win the American League East this season. Picking up Wil Myers from the Royals for James Shields was a huge move for them. Was it a mistake now that we look back and the Rays pitching is falling apart without Shields’ 200 innings?  Tampa has many teams nipping at their heels for the 2nd Wild Card Spot in New York (2.5 Games back), Baltimore (3.0 Games Back), Cleveland (3.5 Games Back) and the Kansas City Royals are 4.5 Games Back.  They must correct their pitching for the final 3 weeks.

Ryan Ritchey (Featured Baseball Columnist): 

The Tampa Bay Rays rely on their pitching and defense more than any aspect of the game. Having great young pitchers is what they live by, and it has worked for their team.

But, it has been the complete opposite in 2013.

Injuries to multiple guys in the rotation has set them off track and now have to catch up to the Red Sox in the division. David Price and Matt Moore are the studs of their staff, but David Price struggled early and also went on the Disabled List along with Moore.

It is going to take a lot for them to win the division, but there is always the Wild Card, and when you are in the playoffs you never know what can happen.

Alex Cobb Hit In Head By Line Drive: Parental Guidance Advised!

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MLB 30 Team Power Rankings: Week 21

42 - 8, 25 - 3, 19 - 1, 10 wins in a row.  These are all significant numbers put up with a team with deep pockets, the ability to outdraw everyone, and owners willing to do whatever it takes to bring home the 1st World Series Title since 1988.  No one can touch these guys right now. Best 3 Starters in the NL and hottest 2 NL Hitters in Puig and Ramirez.  Oh yeah, the Bullpen has been lights out for the last 50 contests!

42 – 8, 25 – 3, 19 – 1, 10 wins in a row. These are all significant numbers put up with a team with deep pockets, the ability to outdraw everyone for park attendance, and owners willing to do whatever it takes to bring home the 1st World Series Title since 1988. No one can touch these guys right now. Best 3 Starters in the NL and hottest 2 NL Hitters in Puig and Ramirez. Oh yeah, the Bullpen has been lights out for the last 50 contests!

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

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

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

The races for the Divisions (AL East, AL West and NL Central are starting to tighten up, while the NL West, AL Central and most notably NL East are looking to be foregone conclusions

The Braves have rattled of a 18 – 3 stretch, and have been ousted by the Dodgers for the #1 spot in the MLB Rankings .

The Rangers are trying to ricochet off of a couple of great deals, in order to flame down the Oakland Athletics.

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Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – August 17, 2013

Photo: Julian H. Gonzalez - Detroit Free Press/MCT

Photo: Julian H. Gonzalez – Detroit Free Press/MCT

The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast today reviews the Red Sox brutal loss to the Yankees and once again I defend the Royals for making the James Shields trade.

James Shields, Jonathan LuCroy, Jake Arrieta and once again Alfonso Soriano all owned baseball on August 16, 2013.


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


Subscribe on iTunes
HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – August 17, 2013

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (August.16th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

AP Photo/Duane Burleson

AP Photo/Duane Burleson

James Shields lived up to his “Big Game” nickname by throwing 7 shutout innings against first place Detroit and completing a doubleheader sweep for the Royals, 3-0.

Jake Arrieta dominated the St. Louis Cardinals, pitching 7 two hit shutout innings and getting a rare victory for the Cubs, 7-0.

Alfonso Soriano continued his torrid hitting pace by putting the Red Sox away early. He went 3-4 with a homer, a stolen base and 4 runs batted in, leading the Yankees to a 10-3 victory in Fenway.

Jonathan Lucroy went 3-5 and 3 RBI. He clocked a bottom of the ninth, 2 run, come from behind, walk off home run to stun the Reds and give Milwaukee the 7-6 win.

They all owned baseball on August 16, 2013.

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

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

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

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

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – July 28, 2013

Paul Beaty - AP

Paul Beaty – AP



It is THE SUNDAY REQUEST on The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast!

Here is today’s request…

Should Moore be fired and my thoughts on the trade are two separate issues.

Andrelton Simmons, Chris Archer, Stephen Drew and Hyun-jin Ryu all owned baseball on July 27, 2013.

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

Subscribe on iTunes HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – July 28, 2013

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

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Thursday July.11/2013

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (July.9th) – Updated Yearly “WOB” Standings

(AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

(AP Photo/Carlos Osorio)

Alex Rios tied an American League record with six hits in a 9 inning game, the first 5 against Justin Verlander. Rios also stole a pair of bases and sparked the game winning 8th inning rally as White Sox clubbed their way to an 11-4 win.

James Shields pitched well over 7 innings, giving up only 1 run and 5 hits, winning the game 3-1 for the Royals over the Yankees.

Marlon Byrd broke open a tense, back and forth game against the Giants by blasting an 8th inning grand slam. The Mets prevailed, 10-6.

Wily Peralta threw a complete game shutout against the mighty Cincinnati Reds. He held the defending division champs to 3 hits as the Brewers won a close game, 2-0.

They all owned baseball on July 9th, 2013.

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

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

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

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

2 And A Hook Podcast Ep #9: LAA, SD, MIA And SEA Chat With Great Guests

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Friday, June.28, 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

On today’s podcast, brought to you by MLB Reports ( www.mlbreports.com ) & yours truly The Bench Warmers Show, I talk to the boss man Chuck Booth as he returns to do his segment!  8 Minutes and a 18 Segment

Chuck makes a HUGE announcement about MLB Reports & then we talked about contract stuff like arbitration, Super 2, & service time…

Also we talk about these guys Wil Myers, Yasiel Puig & Chris Archer on why they should have been up in the major leagues since the beginning of the season!

Then I talk to LAA correspondent Joshua Jones (34 Minute Mark and a 18 Minute Segment) about the Angels season & what might or might not happen…

Next up was Bernie Olshansky (53 Minute Mark and a 13 Minutes Segment)  about the padres & what moves they might make for the future…after that i talked to Mariners/Marlins correspondent.

The last guest of the show is the 2nd longest active writer on the MLB Reports website Sam Evans (1 HR and 12 Min Mark and a 25 Min Segment) ( @RJA206 ) as we get into the mariners/marlins & whats been going on with both of these teams!

I then get into everyone’s favorite segment Stats & Facts (29, Minute Mark (5 minutes) 1 HR, 7 Min Mark ( 5 Minutes ) and, 1 HR 37 MIN (20 Minutes) –  so go check it out & SPREAD THE WORD!!! Thanks Read the rest of this entry

Baltimore Orioles Organization: Payroll, Depth Charts + Rosters, (MLB + MiLB)

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Wednesday, June.26/2013

The Orioles defied the odds with a 29 - 9 One run games record and a record streak of Extra Innings Wins that reached the teens.  In a vaunted AL East - Vegas has only predicted them as about a 77 win team this year.  So far the team has started 42 - 35 - and are tied for the 2nd Wild Card slot in the American League with the Yankees.  Many pundits, such as myself, have blasted the brass for not adding on a Starting Pitcher.  It may end up costing them a playoff spot.  Please Mr. Duquette - acquire a top notch starter and be prepared to give up a lot in return.  It is not every year you have three guys with MVP Caliber seasons - with Davis Jones and Machado

The Orioles defied the odds with a 29 – 9 One run games record and a record streak of Extra Innings Wins that reached the teens last year. In a vaunted AL East – Vegas has only predicted them as about a 77 win team this year. So far the team has started 42 – 35 – and are tied for the 2nd Wild Card slot in the American League with the Yankees. Many pundits, such as myself, have blasted the brass for not adding on a Starting Pitcher. It may end up costing them a playoff spot. Please Mr. Duquette – acquire a top notch starter and be prepared to give up a lot in return. It is not every year you have three guys with MVP Caliber seasons – with Davis, Jones and Machado.

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  

You guys are all in for a treat.  Jeff Kleiner recently contacted me about a partnership merge for the website.  He has developed a site (prosportsrosters.com) that covers all organizational affiliates in the Minors for all of the Major League Baseball Clubs.  We are going to combine efforts to bring you the best look at salaries, current 25 Man Player Rosters and Depth Charts for all 30 teams. 

Jeff is going to provide the documents in form of spreadsheets and I am going to accompany the posts with deep analysis of what the numbers tell us from my perspective.  If you can’t wait for all of my assessments for each club, go and visit Jeff’s website over at http://www.prosportsrosters.com.

In Speaking with Jeff, he is one of the more passionate fans I have come across towards the game of baseball.  He spends enough time in updating his MLB Facts for it to be a Full-Time Job.  So after the usual Video Clip and READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY button, you will find some serious &*!@?!#!

Jeff updates this page below on a daily basis.  After you click on it….Bookmark it.  There is a 3 year salary forecast and stats not listed here on this page.  Jeff updates these pages daily and these changes include any Roster moves!

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

2012 Wild Card Celebration

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30 MLB Team Power Rankings: Week 13

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Monday June.24/2013

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

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

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

Another Week has come and gone in the MLB.

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

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

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

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

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Tampa Bay Rays Organization: 2013 Team Payroll, Depth Charts + Rosters, (MLB + MiLB)

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Thursday, June.20/2013

The Rays had a horrible string of seasons from 1998 - 2007 in terms of Won - Loss Record.  Because of their futile showings, they were able to draft high.  Since 2008, they have posted a winning record every season since, have made the playoffs 3 times, and have turned over the Roster several times.  They are competitive, cost effective and play in the vaunted AL East with powerhouse teams like the Yankees and Red Sox

The Rays had a horrible string of seasons from 1998 – 2007 in terms of Won – Loss Record. Because of their futile showings, they were able to draft high. Since 2008, they have posted a winning record every season since, have made the playoffs 3 times, and have turned over the Roster several times. They are competitive, cost effective and play in the vaunted AL East with powerhouse teams like the Yankees and Red Sox.  The brass of the organization has done a commendable job.

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  

You guys are all in for a treat.  Jeff Kleiner recently contacted me about a partnership merge for the website.  He has developed a site (prosportsrosters.com) that covers all organizational affiliates in the Minors for all of the Major League Baseball Clubs.  We are going to combine efforts to bring you the best look at salaries, current 25 Man Player Rosters and Depth Charts for all 30 teams. 

Jeff is going to provide the documents in form of spreadsheets and I am going to accompany the posts with deep analysis of what the numbers tell us from my perspective.  If you can’t wait for all of my assessments for each club, go and visit Jeff’s website over at http://www.prosportsrosters.com.

In Speaking with Jeff, he is one of the more passionate fans I have come across towards the game of baseball.  He spends enough time in updating his MLB Facts for it to be a Full-Time Job.  So after the usual Video Clip and READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY button, you will find some serious &*!@?!#!

Jeff updates this page below on a daily basis.  After you click on it….Bookmark it.  There is a 3 year salary forecast and stats not listed here on this page.  Jeff updates these pages daily and these changes include any Roster moves!

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

David Price 2012 Highlights – Rays Song:

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MLB Team Power Rankings: Week 12

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Monday June.17/2013

Adam Dunn has finally put together an awesome week this year.  He hit for a 3 Slash Line of .389/.455/1.510 - with 4 HRs and 8 RBI.  His efforts didn't stop the team from losing 4 straight, however he is the MLB Reports AL Hitter of The Week!

Adam Dunn has finally put together an awesome week this year. He hit for a 3 Slash Line of .389/.455/1.510 – with 4 HRs and 8 RBI. His efforts didn’t stop the team from losing 4 straight, however he is the MLB Reports AL Hitter of The Week!

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

Another Week has come and gone in the MLB.

(MLB Reports) AL Hitter Of The Week – Adam Dunn (See Picture Above).

Runners up were: Teammates Evan Longoria, (.305, 4 HRs and 6 RBI) and Matt Joyce (385, 4 HRs and 5 RBI), plus Adam Lind (.407, 2 HRs and 6 RBI.)

(MLB Reports) AL Pitcher Of The Week – Corey Kluber

Kluber threw in 16 IP, featured a 2 – 0 Record on back to back 8 IP starts – including a 0.56 ERA.

Runners Up were: Bartolo Colon (2 – 0, 1.38 ERA,) Jim Johnson (4 Saves in 4 Opportunities) and Miguel Gonzalez (2 – 0, 2.54 ERA).

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Triple Play Podcast Ep # 13 – Around The Horn w/OAK/KC/COL/TOR + Bean Wars + The Genius Beane

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Monday, June.17, 2013

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

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

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

Guests in this Podcast – Chuck Booth (MLB Reports Owner and Lead Analyst) 

On this week’s show Chuck Booth joins us to break down all the biggest stories in MLB. We also go Around the Horn with Chuck to discuss the A’s, Rockies and Royals current situations and declare the worthy few that belong on their respective Mt Rushmore’s. Bethubb.com best bets end the show as always. Happy Father’s Day!!!!!!!

Intro – 10 Minutes, Toronto Blue Jays talk from 10 Minute to the 18 Minute Mark.  OAK chat – 18 minute – 33 Minute Mark, COL Talk 33 Minutes – 44 Minute Mark.  Kansas City Royals Chart 44 Minutes Mark – 59 Minute Mark.  Late Jays Talk Bethubb Best Bets 1 hour 1 MIN mark to 1 hour 9 Minute Mark.

Quick Facts:  Catsfish Hunter was 7 – 2 in the Post Season for the 1972, 1973 and 1974 World Series Winning A’s – and only 2 -4 with the 3 Post Seasons with the Yankees.  Still 5 World Series Winners was great.  Chuck also meant Ewing Kauffman (Chuck thought his nickname was Charlie in the podcast – maybe because his name his Charlie) when talking about the Royals MT. Rushmore for the franchise.

Yogi Berra did indeed play in 14 World Series and won 10 of them in his Yankees days.

To Keep Reading and Listen to this Podcast click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY or scroll past the Triple Play Logo.

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Reviewing The Top 5 – 2013 MLB Draft Picks

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Saturday, June.08, 2013

The 2013 Draft has come and gone and will take years to decide how good each teams selection was in the 1st Round.  We decided to take a look at the top 5 Picks again.

The 2013 Draft has come and gone – and will take years to decide how good each teams selection was in the 1st Round. We decided to take a look at the top 5 Picks again.

By Chris Lacey (Featured Baseball Columnist)

How quickly can a teams fortune change with top 5 MLB Draft Picks??  Think of the 119 Loss 2003 Detroit Tigers drafting Justin Verlander – and going to a World Series just 3 years later.

Tampa Bay Devil Rays picked 1st for many years, finally having their players come together in 2008, once Evan Longoria, James Shields, B.J. Upton and David Price asserted themselves in 2008.

A horrid Washington Nationals team losing 95 -100 Games every year drafted Stephen Strasburg and Bryce Harper in successive drafts – before cranking out a franchise record 98 Wins just  a couple of years later.

The Astros, Cubs, Rockies, Twins and Indians sure hope the 2013 Top 5 Picks will warrant heavy discussion as a great class of picks as the years go by.

Mark Appel is interviewed 3 Months Ago:

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Top Teams In The MLB 1 – 30 + (200 Best Stats For The Last Month)

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Thursday June.06/2013

Chris Davis was the hitter of the month for the MLB Reports.  The guy has 20 HRs and 20 2B on the season - after hitting 11/11 for both columns in the last 30 Days.  The Orioles slugger also hit for a 3 Slash Line of .385/.448/1.256.  Davis also Walked 11 Times, drove in 22 RBI - and collected 40 Hits in just 24 Games Played.  He is on pace for a 50 HR/ 50 Doubles Season.  "Crush" is due for Arbitration after this year - and will garner a considerable payraise from the $3.3 MIL he will earn this season.

Chris Davis was the AL hitter of the month for the MLB Reports. The guy has 20 HRs and 20 2B on the season – after hitting 11/11 for both columns in the last 30 Days. The Orioles slugger also hit for a 3 Slash Line of .385/.448/1.256. Davis also Walked 11 Times, drove in 22 RBI – and collected 40 Hits in just 24 Games Played. He is on pace for a 50 HR/50 Doubles Season. “Crush” is due for Arbitration after this year – and will garner a considerable payraise from the $3.3 MIL he will earn this season.

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

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

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

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

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

Chris Davis 2013 Highlights:

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Matt Moore Is Emerging As A True Ace

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Tuesday, June.04, 2013

Matt Moore has jumped out of the gate 8 - 0 in April + May combined.  He is tied for 1st in the AL with Masterson and Buchholz.  The 23 Year Old man from New Mexico, is also 3rd in the AL for ERA (2.18) behind Buchholz (1.62) and iwakuma of Seattle (2.13)

Matt Moore has jumped out of the gate 8 – 0 in April + May combined. He is tied for 1st in the AL with Masterson and Buchholz. The 23 Year Old man from New Mexico, is also 3rd in the AL for ERA (2.18) behind Buchholz (1.62) and Iwakuma of Seattle (2.13).  These totals were accrued before the start of play Tuesday June.4/2013.  Moore has helped keep the Tampa Bay Rays in contention for the AL East – and one shutters to think, where the club would be without his brilliant performance to start the year.

By Chris Lacey (Featured Baseball Columnist)

The best teams in baseball that have success on a consistent basis seem to have one thing in common, and that is they have a strong pitching staff. The Tampa Bay Rays are one of these teams that always receive great contributions from their pitchers.

This is one of the reasons that in past couple of seasons, they either have a great chance of winning their division or earning a wild card berth.

They have a pitcher that is having a spectacular season for them. The one pitcher that comes to mind when you think of the Rays is David Price. That would make sense, but Price has battled injuries this season. The pitcher that has stepped up in his absence is talented left-hander Matt Moore.

Matt Moore’s quick Start – Mature Lyrics so parental guidance is advised

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MLB Team Power Rankings

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Sunday June.02/2013

Miguel Cabrera is absolutely unconscious this season so far;.  He has a 3 Slash Line of .369 (Leads AL)/.445 (Leads AL/1.121 (2ndi n AL), with 17 HRs (2nd AL) and a mind - blowing 65 RBI through 54 Games Played.  He is on pace for 51 HRs. 195 RBI and about 250 Hits.  He keeps getting better every single year if possible. Despite his prominence - and a lineup full of ALL - Star hitters and Pitchers, the Tigers are limping along at just a few games over .500.  It certainly isn't this 30 Year Olds fault.

Miguel Cabrera is absolutely unconscious this season so far; He has a 3 Slash Line of .369 (Leads AL)/.445 (Leads AL/1.121 (2nd in AL), with 17 HRs (2nd AL) and a mind – blowing 65 RBI through 54 Games Played. He is on pace for 51 HRs, 195 RBI and about 250 Hits. He keeps getting better every single year if possible. Despite his prominence – and a lineup full of ALL – Star hitters and Pitchers, the Tigers are limping along at just a few games over .500. It certainly isn’t this 30 Year Old’s fault.

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

Featuring the Podcasters the Big ticket Show in the Audio Portion

I will be doing a stat fueled rankings list on this Thursday.  These rankings will have some stats and  random thoughts of what I will be talking about in today’s podcast with the Big Ticket Show (AKA, Triple Play Podcast.)

Games Prior to Sunday June.02/2013

Cardinals 2013 30/30 Preview

Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON to continue… or scroll past the Triple Play Podcast. Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.31) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Johnny Cueto was one of the four players who owned baseball on May 31, 2013. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Johnny Cueto was one of the four players who owned baseball on May 31, 2013. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Johnny Cueto let up only one and one walk over 8 shutout innings as the Reds defeated the Pirates 6-0.

Jonathan Lucroy went 5-5 with two homers, three runs scored and four runs batted in as the Brewers topped Philadelphia 8-5.

Chris Dickerson crushed a 2 out, 3 run, walk off, come from behind homer to turn a Baltimore loss into an Oriole 7-5 win over the Tigers and bring the Birds to within 1 game in the loss column of first place.

And CC Sabathia shut down the Red Sox into the 8th inning, going 7 1/3 innings, letting up only 1 run, no walks and 10 strikeouts to end the Yankee losing streak, 4-1 and bring them to within a game of first.

They all owned baseball on May 31st, 2013.

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

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

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

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

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May 30th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Dillon Gee

Dillon Gee pitched 7 1/3 innings, letting up one run, 4 hits no walks and 12 strikeouts as the Mets beat the Yankees 3-1 and completed the season sweep of the Subway Series.

Luis Valbuena went 3-4, a triple shy of the cycle, scoring three runs as the Cubs swept the White Sox with an 8-3 win.

Jacoby Ellsbury went on a franchise record setting stolen base binge, swiping 5 bags against the Phillies while getting on base 4 times including 3 hits as the Red Sox beat the Phillies, 9-2.

And Freddy Garcia pitched 8 shutout innings, letting up only 3 hits and no walks as the Orioles topped the Nats 2-0.

They all owned baseball on May 30th, 2013.

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

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

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

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

2 And A Hook Podcast Episode #6: Fantasy, Phillies And Rangers Expert Interviews + Notes

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Friday, May.31/2013

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) 

People in this Podcast:

On today’s show, brought to you by MLB Reports (www.mlbreports.com) & The Bench Warmers Show (thebenchwarmers.podomatic.com), I started by paying respects to a follower of mine on twitter (the great late Kiley)   who passed away last week…not only she was a great Yankee fan who loved Derek Jeter – but also was the most sweetest giving person ever, R.I.P….

I start to talk about the Subway Series then I interviewed my first guest Derek Jackson (10 Minute Mark  – 20 Minute Segment.   who is a fantasy expert for MLB Reports! We talked about which callups to watch midway through the season,a look at the rookie crop of players & second year players…check out his latest fantasy article here Read the rest of this entry