Blog Archives

Who Owned Baseball July 13, 2018 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2018 #WOB

Brewers_Pirates_Baseball_49140

Keith Srakocic AP

For an explanation of how WOB works, click here.

Josh Bell doubled, tripled and had 2 singles, driving in 2 runs, giving the Pirates a 7-3 victory over the Brewers.

Justin Smoak reached base 4 times, homering twice and driving in 4 runs, as the Blue Jays broke the Red Sox winning streak by beating them 13-7.

Jake Arrieta threw 7 shutout innings, striking out 3, to help the Phillies blank the Marlins, 2-0.

Dallas Keuchel kept the Tigers off the board for 6 innings, scattering 6 hits and a walk, to lead the Astros to a 3-0 win.

 

They all owned baseball on July 13, 2018

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

Who Owned Baseball May 16, 2018 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2018 #WOB

AAxou32

Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

For an explanation of how WOB works, click here.

Justin Verlander blanked the Angers with a complete game, 5 hit shutout where he recorded his 2,500th career strikeout in the Astros 2-0 win.

Justin Smoak homered, doubled and walked, driving in 3 to help the Blue Jays pound the Mets, 12-1.

Nick Pivetta struck out 11 Orioles over 7 innings, allowing 2 hits and 1 run to earn the 4-1 decision for Philadelphia.

Starlin Castro got 4 hits, including a double, driving in a run and scoring another as the Marlins rallied to top the Dodgers, 6-5.

They all owned baseball on May 16, 2018

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

Who Owned Baseball May 13, 2018 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2018 #WOB

oriolespimc

Patrick Semansky / AP

For an explanation of how WOB works, click here.

Joey Rickard hit a pair of homers, added a third hit, drive in 5 and scored 3 as the Orioles demolished the Rays, 17-1.

Dallas Keuchel threw 7 shutout innings, striking out 8 Rangers and earning the 6-1 decision for the Astros.

Mark Reynolds got two homers, including an 8th inning go ahead shot, and had a third hit to power the Nationals past the Diamondbacks, 6-4.

Freddy Peralta did not allow a hit until the 6th in his big league debut and struck out 13 Rockies over 5 2/3 shutout innings to propel the Brewers into first place, 7-3.

They all owned baseball on May 13, 2018

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

Who Owned Baseball April 1, 2018 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2018 #WOB Standings

Smoakey

TOM SZCZERBOWSKI/GETTY IMAGES

For an explanation of how WOB works, click here.

Justin Smoak reached base 4 times, homered twice including a dramatic 2 out go ahead grand slam in the 8th to slug the Blue Jays past the Yankees, 7-4.

José Berríos threw a complete game 3 hit shutout, striking out 6 Orioles, as the Twins won 7-0.

Bryce Harper smacked a pair of homers and added a walk as Washington held on to beat Cincinnati, 6-5.

Trevor Williams gave the Pirates 6 no hit innings before being lifted after 85 pitches. The bullpen let up 2 Tiger hits but no runs in the 1-0 final.
 

They all owned baseball on April 1, 2018

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

Who Owned Baseball July 20, 2017 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

jake_lamb_homers_reds-620x370

AP Photo/John Minchillo

Jake Lamb homered twice, driving in 6, to help Arizona pound the Reds, 12-2.

Justin Smoak went 3 for 5, with 2 homers and 3 RBI, as the Blue Jays held off a late Boston rally and won 8-6.

Patrick Corbin pitched into the 8th, finishing with 7 1/3 innings, allowing 1 run and striking out 6 Reds for the 12-2 Arizona win.

Luis Severino threw 7 shutout innings to earn the 4-1 Yankee victory in Seattle.

 

They all owned baseball on July 20, 2017

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

Who Owned Baseball May 15, 2017 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2017 #WOB Standings

 

sd-1494915514-hospdtdftr-snap-image

Gregory Bull / AP

Hunter Renfroe got on base 3 times and drove in 4, the last 2 in a walk off 2 run shot in extra innings that gave San Diego a come from behind 6-5 final over Milwaukee.

Lonnie Chisenhall got on base 3 times, homered and drove in 3 for Cleveland as they topped Tampa Bay, 8-7.

Zack Godley allowed 1 hit and struck out 7 Mets in 6 2/3 innings. He did not get a decision but Arizona’s bats unloaded on the Mets defense and won 7-3.

Jesse Chavez pitched 7 strong innings, allowing 3 runs and got a win for the Angels over the White Sox, 5-3.

They all owned baseball on May 15, 2017

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

MLB Teams Taking A Powder In 2017 So Far

Some MLB Teams have had a tough winter so far, and we take a look at why this is. We understand that not all clubs have to be in win mode, and some mabe rebuilding, however the process and mindset is what we are questioning here

Some MLB Teams have had a tough winter so far, and we take a look at why this is. We understand that not all clubs have to be in win mode, and some maybe rebuilding, however the process and mindset is what we are questioning here.  For a team that is not going all in and should be based on their limited window of winning opportunity, we also call them to the carpet.  Stop taking a powder in 2017 and give your head a shake!

MLB Teams Taking A Powder In 2017 So Far

There are certain clubs who have done a nice job improving their clubs year over year, some that have done nicely in maintaining, well, and there are teams that are not looking so hot in 2017.

Let me also qualify this in saying that the Toronto Blue Jays are dangerously close to falling into this pegging themselves.  You guys can’t seriously think that you can enter into the 2017 campaign with the Outfield trio of Melvin Upton Jr., Kevin Pillar and Ezequiel Carrera can you?

Give Jose Bautista a 1 Year Deal worth $15 MIL – with a 2nd year Team Option of $19.4 MIL – or a Buyout Clause of $2.2 MIL  The Player could also opt out if he wants to after 2017.  You may risk losing a Draft Pick at all with the way this is going Toronto.

With the 1st ED pick attached to Joey Bats. and the looming future QO’s never receiving as much again,  how could a team justify losing that high of Amateur Draft Selection for an aging 36 year old slugger.

Here is the thing though Blue Jays brass:  You need him..Both at the turnstiles and in the lineup.  He doesn’t cost you anything but money – and the guy still carried out a .815 OPS despite a rough down year.

With a chip on his shoulder, I think he will bounce back big time.  You can defensive replace him every night if you wish, or use Kendrys Morales at First, and let Justin Smoak ride pine for some DH AB to open up for Bautista.

Losing Edwin Encarnacion, Bautista and Michael Saunders is not made up by Morales and Steve Pearce fellas!  You drew 3.4 Million Fans in 2016.  Toronto will keep the faith if you bring back #19 for one more year. Read the rest of this entry

MIlwaukee Is Making A Boneheaded Move If Non-Tendering Chris Carter: Should Have Learned From Houston Last Year

Chris Carter would be the perfect addition to compete the M's lineup. This man has been criminally underrated for the power and walks he has put forth over the last 4 campaigns. With the ability to DH/play 1B or LF, Carter would give the Mariners the best lineups on the daily basis to mash the pitching,

Chris Carter would be the perfect ‘cheap’ addition to compete on a lot of American League Rosters. This man has been criminally underrated for the power and walks he has put forth over the last 4 campaigns. With the ability to DH/play 1B or LF, with Milwaukee having 2 years left of team control in Arbitration, the club has DFA’d him, and likely will be forced to release him outright as A Free Agent.  The management also signed an unproven MLB’er (Eric Thames) to a guaranteed $15 MIL over 3 years.  Pretty bad on all front in my opinion!

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

Last year at this time I made the point that the Houston Astros made a big mistake in non-tendering Chris Carter.  At that juncture, the man has clubbed 90 HRS over the previous 3 campaigns with the Astros.

Houston struggled at the First Base Position all year in 2016 – with a collection of Tyler White, Marwin Gonzalez, Luis Valbuena and Yulieski Gurriel.  With just bringing forth 84 wins. with the cutoff for the playoffs at 89 victories, one could say the franchise could have used the slugger ( and his .821 OPS, 41 HRs and 94 RBI).

The ‘Stros’ finished with production of .232/.299/.381 – 19 HRs, 62 RBI out of the position – which had a huge factor in them not reaching the playoffs, having the 2nd worst offensive output for the American League (Yankees – the worst).

Carter is a powerful dude who is a kind of the new Adam Dunn of the Majors.  If he qualified for HR/PER AB ALL – Time with 3000 PA (he has 2645 his 14.97 AB per homer would rank him 13th in Major League Baseball History.  So where is the love? Read the rest of this entry

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

Screen Shot 2016-08-26 at 10.34.39 PM

CHRIS YOUNG/AP

 

Justin Smoak went 3 for 5 with a homer and 5 RBI to help propel the Blue Jays into first place by themselves with a 15-8 thrashing of Minnesota.

Kris Bryant scored all 3 times he reached base including a key 8th inning homer and a go ahead homer in the 10th as the Cubs came from behind to top the Dodgers, 6-4.

Justin Verlander pitched into the 8th, striking out 8 Angels in 7 2/3 innings and walking just 1, earning the 4-2 victory for Detroit.

Braden Shipley threw 7 strong innings, allowing 4 hits and 1 run, setting p Arizona’s 4-3 extra inning win over Cincinnati.

They All Owned Baseball on August 26, 2016.

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

Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For DraftKings – 5/28/16

zack-greinke-arizona-diamondbacks-PI.vadapt.664.high.87

Trey Rose (Featured BBBA Fantasy Baseball Writer/Owner – dynastydigest.sportsblog.com) 

If you have any questions or comments about this article or fantasy baseball, please Tweet me. I post daily DFS lineups for Draft Kings everyday, so please make sure to follow my blog.

P – Zack Greinke (vs. San Diego Padres): The Padres’ offense has been one of the worst in Major League Baseball all year long.

Not only have they struggled this year, but they have struggled against Greinke every time he stepped on the mound. In 178 career at bats against Greinke, the Padres’ batters are batting a cool .191, with one home run, eight RBIs, 44 strikeouts, and a .237 OBP.

Greinke has struggled at some points in 2016, but he has been very good in his last two games, which were against the New York Yankees and St. Louis Cardinals.

Greinke has thrown one game against the Padres this year, in which he threw 7.1 innings, giving up six hits, two earned runs, one walk, and five strikeouts.

P – Wade Miley (vs. Minnesota Twins): $9,100. In Miley’s last six starts, he is 5-0 with a 3.12 ERA. So far this season, he hasn’t had a noticeable “easy” matchup, so it should be nice to face a struggling Twins’ offense.

The Minnesota Twins have by far the worst offensive stats against left-handed pitchers this season out of all Major League Baseball teams.

In 263 at bats against lefties, they are hitting a whopping .209 (last in MLB), 21 runs (last in MLB, and a .285 OBP. Well folks, we are in luck because Wade Miley does in fact throw with his left arm.

SEE THE REST OF THE PICKS

MLB Power Rankings 2016: Week 7 – May

Screen shot 2013-10-28 at 8.08.26 PM

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

Follow The MLBreports On Twitter

MAY 15, 2016

Well not much has changed from this week as compared to last week.  Detroit carried its free fall to 4th in the AL Central, the Yankees took 5 of 7 contests – and 7/10 in their homestand to save their season for now.

Miami and Philadelphia continue to stick around in the NL East, and the Giants and Dodgers finally had winning weeks to make the NL West Division Leader respectable.

Nobody looks scarier right now than the Boston Red Sox offense, who led by David Ortiz, Jackie Bradley JR. and Xander Bogaerts, plated 10 runs or more in 5 of the last 6 games, after going their 1st 32 games without doing so.

I am still awaiting for a Jays big winning streak.  Houston has not played winning baseball since the 1st 6 weeks of the 2015 – and are tending to resemble the 2007 Tampa Bay Rays more than anything.

All offense and little pitching and defense.

There is nobody struggling worse than Logan Morrison, Russell Martin, Carlos Gomez and the consortium of LF’s in Anaheim! Recently bouncing out of this list are Jason Heyward and Chase Headley.

We are nearing the quarter pole and rapidly approaching Memorial Day Weekend, so it is not early anymore.
Read the rest of this entry

MLB Daily Fantasy Picks (DFS) For FanDuel – 5/9/16

fanduel

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner)

In order to accommodate our Coors Field lineup, we are going to forego any expensive pitcher on Monday, and go with flamethrowing Aaron Sanchez of the Jays against Jake Peavy in San Francisco

Peavy has bee the ultimate gong show the last several outings, and despite being back in the comfort of AT & T – it will still be tough to tame the high powered Blue Jays

While I am going with the clubs second tier offensive players you could certainly skip picking the Coors Field game – and implement Jose Bautista, Edwin Encarnacion against Peavy.

I am using the top of the Rockies lineup to bludgeon Rubby De La RosaCarlos Gonzalez at $3900 vs a RHP at home might be the value play of the night.

It would be nice if Russell Martin could kickstart his offense this year  I keep playing him as a cheap option on fantasy – but he has failed to deliver  Like teammate Troy Tulowitzki though, at least he doesn’t cost much money.  The latter I refuse to play now until he goes over the Mendoza Line for BA.

Love Aaron Sanchez in a big ballpark with Kevin Pillar running the ball down in the OF.  The Giants have a decent lineup of LHB, but Joe Panik has been hurt, and Brandon Crawford not to his 2015 standards yet.  Brandon Belt does scare me, but he is a different hitter at home.

Sanchez can strike out players at least – which will be crucial for this play.

I will be checking to see if they do switch EE in at 1B for Smoak, in which case I would switch to underperforming Prince Fielder vs Miguel Gonzalez (for $2700).

Read the rest of this entry

MLB Power Rankings 2016: Week 6 May

salleCapture

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

Follow The MLBreports On Twitter

MAY 8, 2016

Disclaimer:  We based these rankings on best strength to win the World Series.  Therefore some teams that have an easier division to play in, with the least path of resistance to the postseason overall may be ranked a lot higher than a club who is equally talented, yet may play in a juggernaut of a division.

Rank – Team Record (Last week rank) (Up down) (W – L Record Last week)

(1) (1)  Chicago Cubs (E) (24 – 6) :  A real bad day for the Cubs is battling with a team like Washington on Sunday, to see whether or not they are going to sweep them or go 3 – 1 in a series.

Yep, they swept the 4 game set in a 13 inning walk off HR by Javier Baez – to cap a 7 – 0 week. They are on pace for about 129 wins right now.

Depth of the Starting Rotation is looking solid with Jake Arrieta, Jon Lester, John Lackey, Jason Hammel (Killer J’s) and Kyle Hendricks.

Hector Rondon is not even needed in most leads, with the team almost at a +100 differential through 30 games,

(2) (3) Chicago White Sox (+1) (22 – 10) ( 4 – 2):  Chris Sale is 7 – 0, and may go Ron Guidry (circa 1979 on us).  If anyone will win 25 games in a year, it would be him or Jake Arrieta.

Bob Welch won 27 games in 1990 for the A’s was the last guy to do that.

Has anyone noticed that Brett Lawrie has an OBP closer to .400 – than his usual .310 – .320?

Jose Quintana is finally receiving some run support.  If Todd Frazier and Jose Abreu start hitting for BA, than look he the hell out.  We could see a “Windy City” World Series for the 1st time since 1906. Read the rest of this entry

Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For FanDuel 5/4/16

fanduel

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

There is a sneaky bargain dollar deal on Wednesday night.  If you search really good already – you probably know that Justin Smoak is a fantastic value at $2300 against Colby Lewis.

Not only did the big switch hitting 1B club 2 HRs on Tuesday to win me some money, but he has done yard twice vs his opponent at the Rogers Centre – with a 1.438 OPS in 16 AB.

Jose Bautista has also fared well against Lewis, with a pair of HRs against him, with a ridiculous 9 Walks as well.  Joey Bats has a .619 OPS versus the man.

To help the stack even further, Michael Saunders has a HR and a .898 OPS in 20 AB.

In order to create the dollars needed to play the best pitcher on the board (Felix Hernandez), I put in Russell Martin at C as the 4th Jays player.

In case you haven’t noticed – Twins OF Danny Santana has been bringing in 8.7 PPG as a $2400 cost to the budget.  Give me that production any time.  I also added his teammate Brian Dozier to the fold tomorrow.

At 3B – I have enlisted Anthony Rendon for a 2nd straight day, as he hit his 1st HR of the season Tuesday.

Francisco Lindor had 3 hits Tuesday – and despite me wanting to play Troy Tulowitzki, he was was ineligible as a 5th Toronto player is prohibited. Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball May 3, 2016 (Daily MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

SMOAKCapture

TOM SZCZERBOWSKI/GETTY IMAGES

Justin Smoak hit a game tying homer in the bottom of the 9th and a walk off shot in the bottom of the 10th to give the Blue Jays a stunning 3-1 win over Texas.

Chris Carter homered twice in Milwaukee’s 5-4 victory over the Angels.

Jose Quintana held the Red Sox to one run on a solo homer, 4 hits and no walks over 8 strong innings to get the 4-1 decision for the White Sox.

Matt Wisler threw 8 innings of one hit shutout ball, walking just 2 and earning the 3-0 blanking for Atlanta.

They all owned baseball on May 3, 2016.

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

DFS Picks For FanDuel – 4/15/16

 fanduel

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

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

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

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

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

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

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

My Top 3 BVP (Batter vs. Pitcher) Options

APRIL 15, 2016

Starting Pitchers 

1. Clayton Kershaw ($12800) vs. San Francisco Giants

2. Luis Severino ($8500) vs. Seattle Mariners

3. Joe Ross ($7200) vs. Philadelphia Phillies

Player Stacks/Team Offense

Toronto Blue Jays vs. Rick Porcello

Milwaukee Brewers vs. Jeff Locke

Los Angeles Angels vs. Tommy Milone

BVP (Minimum 10 AB)

1. Justin Smoak vs. Rick Porcello (7-16/ 3 HR/ 1.589 OPS)

2. Jose Bautista vs. Rick Porcello (13-28/ 3 HR/ 1.331 OPS)

3. Albert Pujols vs. Tommy Milone (9-22/ 0 HR/ 1.186 OPS)

Sample Lineups

P – Joe Ross, WSH @ PHI. $7200

C –  Russell Martin, BOS @ TOR, $2400

1B – Adam Lind, SEA @ NYY, $2300

2B – Kolten Wong, CIN @ STL, $2500

3B –  Anthony Rendon, WSH @ PHI, $2800

SS –  Troy Tulowitzki, BOS @ TOR, $3000

OF –  Jose Bautista.  BOS @ TOR, $4600

OF –  Bryce Harper, WSH @ PHI, $5300

OF – Mike Trout, LAA @ MIN, $4900


 

$35, 000, 000 ($0 left)

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

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

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

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

1 Starting Pitcher (SP)

1 Catcher (C)

1 First Baseman (1B)

1 Second Baseman (2B)

1 Third Baseman (3B)

1 Short Stop (SS)

3 Outfielders (OF)

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

50-50s


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

Please use the Referral Link for a signup bonus:

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

a gambling ring

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

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

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

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

2016 MLB Team Salaries Links Page here.

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

What Should The Yankees Do For 1B Depth Now + Beyond 2016 With Bird Hurt?

Justin Morneau would definitely be a flier for some team based on his recent concussion history. Although he did recently win a Batting Title for the Colorado Rockies. A club like the Indians may use his services where he could DH some and play 1st Base.

Justin Morneau would definitely be a flier for some team based on his recent concussion history. Although he did recently win a Batting Title for the Colorado Rockies in 2014 by Batting .319. The former AL MVP has a swing a lot like former Yankees player – Tino Martinez and would be perfect depth for the Yankees.  Morneau, 34, could also take some Designated Hitter reps against tough Right Handed Pitchers.  The Canadian posted a .316/.364/.487 3 Slash Line with 20 HRs and 42 Doubles in his 670 AB spanning the last 2 seasons for the Rockies.  I believe he could put up at a .275/.333/.425 line for the Yankees if they brought him in.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

It is unfair for a player like Gregory Bird, that he tore his labrum and will miss the entire 2016 season. 

With Mark Teixeira spending a pile of time on the meat wagon for various injuries in the last few years, the young 23 year old slugger could have solidified a long-standing place on the team if he could have had the opportunity forthcoming.

Instead this little injury is really putting the ‘Pinstripers’ depth to question before pitchers and catchers even report at First Base.

Brian Cashman has to play this thing right – as any injury ‘Tex’ could cripple the club.  The organization should dole out some decent cabbage for a guy to backup at 1st now with this news.

At first glance you have to look at the potential Free Agents out there left on the table.  Both Pedro Alvarez and Justin Morneau are still on the open market.
Read the rest of this entry

Toronto Should Trade For Ryan Braun

Ryan Braun has been the starter in RF for the Brewers for almost a decade. Greeted warmly at the team's convention recently, a multitude of fans gathered for autographs. Speaking to MLB.com's Adam McCalvy, Braun said that he has felt embraced in Milwaukee since his suspension, insisting he had only one "challenging conversation" with a fan while calling around last year to apologize to season-ticket holders. "It wasn't surprising in any way," Braun said of that one tough talk. "I made a mistake; I made a big mistake. I don't expect everybody to be supportive or everybody to be understanding or everybody to understand where I was coming from. I certainly didn't anticipate the amount of support I received." Before the Biogenesis scandal took center stage, he was hitting .298 with 9 HRs and 38 RBIs. Expect those numbers to climb dramatically and be much closer to his career .312 average, and tack on 30-40 HRs.

Ryan Braun has been the starter in RF for the Brewers for almost a decade. However, he has battled several thumb injuries, and is now 32 Years Old.  Since Milwaukee will not likely be contenders for the next 3 – 4 years in a tough NL Division, they should really start to rebuild.  Toronto also needs to look past 2016 – when both Encarnacion and Bautista are Free Agents.  If they can’t come up with the funds to sign either of them in extensions, they should pursue Braun in the next 6 – 8 months.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

The Toronto Blue Jays have played it conservative for 2016, but still have a realistic shot to win in 2016 because of their offense.  Going beyond 2016 looks extremely difficult when you factor in they may lose both Edwin Encarnacion and Jose Bautista following next year.

This would be a shame, but both players should be able to command around $20 MIL per year for at least the next 2 – 3 years after this upcoming one.  That may be too much for the Canadian club to afford.

Our website has spoken at length of how Toronto must capitalize on this opportunity.  As of right now, I don’t think they have enough pitching to get it done in the playoffs either.

Free Agency will be a tough sell for the franchise to bring in any ace pitchers or premiere offensive stars in the coming years.  You also may have a tough time to crack those deals when the Canadian dollar is hovering around 70 cents for every American Greenback right now.

I say go after Ryan Braun via a trade in the next 6 – 8 months. Read the rest of this entry

Toronto Blue Jays Payroll In 2016 + Contracts Going Forward

The Blue Jays are at the unique crossroads where they have grown massively in attendance - but are exponentially growing in cost of payroll each year. Based on some great front office decisions on Bautista, Encarnacion and Donaldson - the club as their best chance to in a championship is right now. Push all of your chips in, sign some more players - and take on salary. You may just lead the American League in attendance if you do (just like in the early 90's). The Jays have talked about cutting payroll in 2016. That would be a grave mistake. Right now they are at about $130 MIL in total team salary for next season.

The Blue Jays are at the unique crossroads where they have grown massively in attendance – but are exponentially growing in cost of payroll each year. Based on some great front office decisions on Bautista, Encarnacion and Donaldson – the club has their best chance to in a championship is right now. Push all of your chips in, sign some more players – and take on salary. You may just lead the American League in attendance if you do (just like in the early 90’s). The Jays have talked about cutting payroll in 2016. That would be a grave mistake. Right now they are at about $140 MIL in total team salary for next season.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

The Blue Jays have $94 MIL in guaranteed contracts already in commitments for Troy Tulowitzki, Russell Martin, Jose Bautista, Marco Estrada, R.A. Dickey J.A. Happ and Edwin Encarnacion.

The club also will have about another $35 – $38 MIL in Arbitration dealing with another 10 players.

This would mean the team is hovering around the $130 MIL already before they pull the trigger on any moves this offseason.

We made it abundantly clear in our Toronto Blue Jays State Of The Union that this is no time to slow down in going for a championship.

One of the biggest things we mentioned there was the lack of an ace in the AL East.  For Toronto to win the Division they may not need a #1 guy again.  They will only need another #1 guy in the postseason. Read the rest of this entry

Toronto Should Sign A Free Agent Slugger/Leadoff Guy Then Flip Encarnacion: Blue Jays State Of The Union 2016

The Blue Jays ended the longest MLB playoff drought in 2015 - and made it to game 6 of the ALCS. With losing David Price and Mark Buehrle after this year, how should the team work this off year? I say they should treat 2016 as World Series or bust. Sign a bopping Left Handed Bat, or at least a left handed Leadoff Batter, and then trade everyone they possibly can at the Deadline for a run at the World Series. After next season, Edwin Encarnacion and Joey Bats are also Free Agents. More onus to go for it this upcoming year.

The Blue Jays ended the longest MLB playoff drought in 2015 – and made it to game 6 of the ALCS. With losing David Price and Mark Buehrle after this year, how should the team work this off year? I say they should treat 2016 as World Series or bust. Sign a bopping Left Handed Bat, or at least a Lef Handed Leadoff Batter, and then trade everyone they possibly can at the Deadline for a run at the World Series. After next season, Edwin Encarnacion and Joey Bats are also Free Agents. More onus to go for it this upcoming year.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

The Jays are coming off an awesome year for the franchise.  Yet all of this coincided with them losing GM Alex Anthopoulos and may see David Price and Mark Buehrle not return in 2016.

This offense and fielding defense is hands above the rest of the Division right now.  With the Yankees holding off father time in 2015, they may not be able to do it in 2016, and the Red Sox not having enough resources to sign a pile of Free Agents in the winter, the only Canadian franchise should be favored heavily to win the AL East in 2016 right now.

For the organization there within lies a dilemma.  The team is on the cusp of a championship so how do they add the last pieces? Read the rest of this entry

WHO OWNED BASEBALL – THE FINAL RESULTS FOR 2015

Slide1

The regular season is over. My daily tally for Who Owns Baseball is at an end. Every day I determine which player had the best individual day on a winning team to earn a full WOB and on a losing team for a 1/2 WOB.

These are final leaders in each categor for Who Owns Baseball

NATIONAL LEAGUE HITTER WHO OWNED BASEBALL

(AP Photo/Al Behrman)

(AP Photo/Al Behrman)

JOEY VOTTOCincinnati Reds

(Final Total – 7 1/2 WOB.)

Second Place (TIE):

Paul Goldschmidt, Arizona Diamondbacks.
Andrew McCutchen, Pittsburgh Pirates.
(Final Total – 7 WOB.)

NATIONAL LEAGUE PITCHER WHO OWNED BASEBALL

Alex Brandon / Associated Press

Alex Brandon / Associated Press

CLAYTON KERSHAW – Los Angeles Dodgers

(Final Total – 13 1/2 WOB.)

Second Place:
Jake Arrieta, Chicago Cubs
(Final Total – 11 WOB)

Third Place
Zack Greinke, Los Angeles Dodgers
(Final Total – 9 1/2 WOB.)

AMERICAN LEAGUE HITTER WHO OWNED BASEBALL

Rob Carr - Getty Image Sports

Rob Carr – Getty Image Sports

MIKE TROUT – Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim

(Final Total – 10 1/2 WOB.)

Second Place:
Josh Donaldson, Toronto Blue Jays
(Final Total – 6 1/2 WOB)

Third Place
Miguel Cabrera, Detroit Tigers
(Final Total – 6 WOB.)

AMERICAN LEAGUE PITCHER WHO OWNED BASEBALL

Karen Warren, Houston Chronicle

Karen Warren, Houston Chronicle

DALLAS KEUCHEL – Houston Astros

(Final Total – 10  WOB.)

Second Place (TIE):

Sonny Gray, Oakland Athletics.
Chris Sale, Chicago White Sox.
(Final Total – 7 WOB.)

THE WINNERS FROM PREVIOUS SEASONS:

2013

NL Batter: Paul Goldschmidt, Arizona Diamondbacks

NL Pitcher: Clayton Kershaw, Los Angeles Dodgers

AL Batter: Miguel Cabrera, Detroit Tigers

AL Pitcher: (3 Way Tie) R. A. Dickey, Toronto Blue Jays
Matt Moore, Tampa Bay Rays
Max Scherzer, Detroit Tigers

2013

NL Pitcher: Andrew McCutchen, Pittsburgh Pirates

NL Pitcher: Clayton Kershaw, Los Angeles Dodgers

AL Batter: Mike Trout, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim

AL Pitcher:  Felix Hernandez, Seattle Mariners

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.

 


Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball October 4, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

 

Brandon Wade - Getty Images

Brandon Wade – Getty Images

Cole Hamels settled down after a shaky first inning to throw a complete game, allowing 3 hits and 2 runs, striking out 8 and topped the Angels, 9-2 to clinch the AL West title for the Texas Rangers.

Chris Davis homered twice and reached base 4 times altogether, driving in 4 and helping the Orioles beat the Yankees, 9-4.

Shelby Miller finally recorded another win, throwing 8 shutout innings, allowing 3 hits and 7 strikeouts, as Atlanta was victorious over St. Louis, 6-0.

A. J. Pollock went 3 for 5, homering and driving in a pair to have the Diamondbacks crush Houston’s hopes to host the Wild Card Game with a 5-3 final.

They all owned baseball on October 4, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

 

Rick Porcello allowed 2 earned runs and 1 unearned run over 7 innings but was saddled with the 3-1 Red Sox loss in Cleveland.

Jose Altuve went 3 for 5 with a triple and two runs scored. His Astros would fall just short to Arizona, 5-3.

Tanner Roark threw 6 shutout innings, allowing 3 hits and 1 walk. He would not factor into the decision as the Nationals lost to the Mets, 1-0.

Dee Gordon captured the NL Batting Title with a single, double and homer, scoring both Marlins runs along the way but Philadelphia won, 7-2.

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.

 


Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball October 3, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

AL BELLO/GETTY IMAGES

AL BELLO/GETTY IMAGES

Max Scherzer threw his second no hitter of the season, walking none and striking out 17 Mets along the way for the 2-0 Washington final.

Corey Kluber struck out 9 over 8 shutout innings, allowing 3 hits and 2 walks and earning the 2-0 decision for the Indians over Boston.

Christian Yelich had a terrific double header. In all he went reached base nine times, going 5-5 in one game and 3 for 4 with a walk in the other, combining for 3 runs scored and 2 RBI as the Marlins beat the Phillies twice, 7-6 and 5-2.

Colby Rasmus homered twice and added a single to lead the Astros closer to a playoff spot, 6-2 over the Diamondbacks.

They all owned baseball on October 3, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

Noah Syndergaard allowed 2 hits and 1 run and 1 walk while striking out 10 Washington batters. But the Mets were no hit, 2-0.

Marco Estrada pitched into the 7th, finishing with 6 2/3 innings, striking out 9 while giving up 3 hits and walking none. He would get a no decision as the Blue Jays lost to Tampa Bay 4-3.

Paul Goldschmidt reached base 3 times and homered in the Diamondbacks 6-2 loss to the Astros.

Josh Hamilton‘s two homers off the Angels (on their dime) was almost the greatest middle finger in recent years. Unfortunately for him, the Angels made a dramatic rally in the 9th inning to put the Division Clinching on hold and beat the Rangers 11-10.

 

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.

 


Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball October 2, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

PAUL BEATY/AP

PAUL BEATY/AP

Chris Sale set the single season strikeout mark for a White Sox pitcher with 274, finishing the game with 7 whiffs in 7 innings, allowing 1 run and 5 hits in the 2-1 final over Detroit.

Carlos Correa kept Houston’s playoff hopes alive by leading a mind boggling offensive attack. He reached base 4 times, including a homer and a stolen base, scoring 4 and driving in 4 as the Astros obliterated the Diamondbacks 21-5.

Jake Arrieta finished his regular season with another shutout performance, striking out 7, allowing just 2 hits over 6 innings and sealing the 6-1 Cubs victory in Milwaukee.

Daniel Castro collected 3 hits including a homer, driving in a pair in the Braves 4-0 blanking of St. Louis.

They all owned baseball on October 2, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

Martin Perez allowed 1 run over 7 innings but got a no decision as the Rangers fell to the Angels, 2-1.

Brad Miller went 3 for 3 with a homer in the Mariners 4-2 defeat to the A’s.

Eugenio Suarez homered and singled, driving in 3 in Cincinnati’s 6-4 loss in Pittsburgh.

 

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.

 


Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball October 1, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

AP Photo - Patrick Semansky

AP Photo – Patrick Semansky

Manny Machado reached base 4 times, including 2 homers, a pair of stolen bases, 3 runs scored and 3 RBI to help Baltimore win a rain soaked 6-4 game over the Blue Jays.

Jake Odorizzi topped Miami with 7 innings, one unearned run and 7 strikeouts and earned the 4-1 decision for Tampa Bay.

Socrates Brito came off the bench and went 3 for 3, including a triple and a stolen base, scoring twice and driving in a run, scoring in the game winning rally in Diamondbacks come from behind victory, 8-6.

Jerad Eickhoff pitched 7 shutout innings, striking out 10 and 4 hits to lead the Phillies past the Mets, 3-0.

 

They all owned baseball on October 1, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

 

Albert Pujols doubled and homered, scoring twice, but saw the Rangers beat his Angels 5-3.

Trevor Bauer was terrific for 7 innings, giving up 2 hits and a run and 3 walks. He got no decision as the Twins won in Cleveland, 4-2.

Kirk Nieuwenhuis doubled twice and singled in the Mets 3-0 loss to Philadelphia.

Ryan Weber went 7 innings, allowing 1 run, no walks and 10 strikeouts. He would get a hard luck loss as the Braves lost to the Nationals, 3-0.

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.

 


Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball September 30, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

Gene J. Puskar - AP Photo

Gene J. Puskar – AP Photo

 

Jason Heyward reached base 4 times, including a grand slam and made some terrific catches in right field in the Cardinals Division Clinching 11-1 laugher over the Pirates. He also added another hit in the opening game of the double header.

Mike Leake threw a complete game 2 hit, no walk shutout to give the Giants a too little too late 5-0 victory over the NL West champion Dodgers.

Ryan Goins reached base 6 times, scoring 3 times and driving in another to led the Blue Jays to a 15-2 blow out of the Orioles and Toronto’s first AL East title since 1993.

Kevin Gausman picked up the Orioles in the second game of the double header with 8 innings, 5 hits and no walks while striking out 10 en route to an 8-1 win over the Blue Jays.

They all owned baseball on September 30, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

Matt Carpenter doubled and homered, driving in a pair in the Cardinals 8-2 defeat by the Pirates in the opening game of their double header. In the night cap, he reached base 4 times, scoring 3 and doubling.

Chad Bettis allowed 1 earned run and 1 unearned run over 6 solid innings but took the 3-1 Rockies loss to Arizona.

Mike Trout reached base 5 times including a homer and a walk in the 9th that made him the tying run. He would be stranded as the Angels come back came just short, 8-7 to Oakland.

Jose Quintana went 9 innings, allowing 5 hits, 3 runs and striking out 8. He would get a no decision as the White Sox fell to Kansas City in 10 innings, 5-3.

 

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.

 


Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball September 29, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

Curtis Compton / ccompton@ajc.com

Curtis Compton / ccompton@ajc.com

A. J. Pierzynski went 3 for 3 with 2 homers, providing all of Atlanta’s offense as they snuck past Washington, 2-1.

Clayton Kershaw threw a complete game 1 hit, 1 walk, 13 strikeout shutout to top the Giants 8-0 and clinch the National League West crown for the Dodgers.

Blake Swihart homered twice, driving in 5 runs, helping Boston clobber the Yankees in the Bronx, 10-4

Nick Tropeano struck out 11 and walked just 1 in 6 2/3 innings, earning the 8-1 decision for the Angels over Oakland.

They all owned baseball on September 29, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

Lucas Duda collected 3 hits, 2 of them home runs, and drove in 3, but it was not enough as the Phillies edged the playoff bound Mets, 4-3.

Tanner Roark pitched into the 7th, finishing with 6 2/3 innings, allowing 2 runs and 5 hits. He would be saddled with the loss, however, as the Nationals fell to Atlanta, 2-1.

Eric Hosmer homered and singled in the Royals 4-2 loss to the White Sox.

 

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.

 


Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball September 28, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

 

(AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

(AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Max Scherzer threw a no hitter into the 8th and finished with 8 innings, 2 hits, 1 run, 3 walks and 10 strikeouts, giving the Nationals a controversy free 5-1 decision over the Reds.

Matt den Dekker got 3 hits, including a homer, driving in 2 and scored 2 in Washington’s 5-1 victory over Cincinnati.

Marco Estrada pitched into the 8th inning, settling down after some early trouble to finish with 7 1/3 innings, 4 hits, 3 runs and 1 walk. He did not get the decision but helped set up Toronto’s 4-3 win over the Orioles.

Jackie Bradley Jr. reached base 3 times, including a 2 run homer, driving in 3 and stealing a pair of extra base hits away with his defense as the Red Sox topped the Yankees 5-1 and delayed a post season clinching for their rivals for at least a day.

They all owned baseball on September 28, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

J. A. Happ allowed 1 hit and no walks over 6 shutout innings. He did not get the decision in the Pirates heart breaking 3-0 loss to St. Louis.

Andre Ethier got a pair of hits and drove in the tying run in the 9th inning but the Dodgers fell to San Francisco in the 12th inning, 3-2.

Yordano Ventura was perfect through 5, finishing with 7 shutout frames, allowing 2 hits, 1 walk and striking out 6. He would not get a decision as the Cubs walked off 1-0 winners in the 11th.

Prince Fielder singled, doubled and homered, driving in 4 but the Rangers came up short to Detroit, 7-4.

 

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.

 


Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball September 27, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

 

NAM Y. HUH/AP

NAM Y. HUH/AP

Jake Arrieta was perfect through 6 and finished with 7 innings, 1 hit, 1 hit batsman, no walks, 9 strikeouts and a home run of his own as the playoff bound Cubs blanked Pittsburgh, 4-0.

Dallas Keuchel solidified his Cy Young bid by striking out 10 Rangers in 7 innings, allowing 2 hits, 2 walks and 1 run and giving the Astros a critical 4-2 victory.

Ender Inciarte went 4 for 5 with a pair of homers and 3 RBI to lead Arizona past San Diego, 4-2.

Byron Buxton doubled and homered, driving in a pair and scoring 2 to help the still contending Twins clobber the Tigers, 7-1.

They all owned baseball on September 27, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

 

John Lackey threw 7 strong innings, striking out 7 and giving up just 1 run. The bullpen would implode and the Brewers beat the Cardinals, 8-4.

Hisashi Iwakuma pitched into the 8th, finishing with 7 1/3 innings and giving up 3 runs while walking no Angels. He would be saddled with the decision in the 3-2 Mariners loss.

Matt den Dekker collected 4 hits, homered and scored 3 times in the Nationals 12-5 defeat at the hands of the Phillies.

Mikie Mahtook got 2 hits including a homer and 2 RBI but Tampa Bay fell to Toronto, 5-4.

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.

 


Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball September 26, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

Ben Margot - AP

Ben Margot – AP

Jarrett Parker put on a mind boggling show, launching 3 homers, including a grand slam, to drive in 7 runs in the football sounding 14-10 San Francisco over Oakland final score.

Stephen Strasburg struck out 13 in 8 innings, allowing 3 hits, 1 walk and 1 run. He did not factor in the decision but helped set up Washington’s 2-1 victory over Philadelphia.

Carlos Correa gave the Astros a much needed burst of energy by going 3 for 4 with 2 homers, including a game tying shot, and 3 RBI to beat Houston 9-7.

Adam Warren pitched 6 strong innings, allowing 3 hits and 1 run, earning the 2-1 win for the Yankees over the White Sox.

They all owned baseball on September 26, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

Andre Ethier went 2 for 4 with a homer and 3 RBI but the Dodgers lost on a walk off homer to the Rockies, 8-6.

Jeremy Hellickson allowed just 4 hits and 1 run over 6 innings but was saddled with the 3-0 loss as San Diego topped Arizona.

Kevin Kiermaier doubled and homered, scoring 3 times and driving in 2 in but the Rays fell 10-8 in Toronto.

 

 

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.

 


Read the rest of this entry