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2014 Top Home Run Hitters: AL/NL, HR Streaks (5 Active) + Multi HRs: The Heavy Hitters Are Finally Awake

The 2012 and 2013 AL MVP finally is putting it all together.  Miguel Cabrera has helped bash Detroit to an 8 game wining streak, and has finally hit HRs in back to back games. After hitting for a decent average for a few weeks, the 31 Year Old 1B has been racking up RBI, and is adding power back to his repertoire. Miggy now has 25 RBI in 29 Games Played despite just cranking 4 HRs.   But this writer feels a hot streak coming from the RHB.  Cabrera is coming off back to back 44 HR campaigns.

The 2012 and 2013 AL MVP finally is putting it all together. Miguel Cabrera has helped bash Detroit to an 8 game wining streak, and has finally hit HRs in back to back games.After hitting for a decent average for a few weeks, the 31 Year Old 1B has been racking up RBI, and is adding power back to his repertoire. Miggy now has 25 RBI in 29 Games Played despite just cranking 4 HRs. But this writer feels a hot HRs streak coming from the RHB. Cabrera is coming off back to back 44 HR campaigns.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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I picked him to lead the AL and Giancarlo Stanton to lead tie him for the most in the MLB with 49 each.  I think the guy could still do it.  He blasted 44 HRs last year, when he couldn’t even hit for power during the last 6 weeks of 2013.

Also effectively off the snide is Adrian Beltre, who clubbed a Round Tripper in the last 2 games the Rockies have obliterated the Rangers.  It may come as little solace to the now 17 – 17 Texas team, but your Silver Slugger 3B is starting to mash.

Now only if you could have the real Prince Fielder stand up and do the same! Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.07) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Tony Gutierrez, The Associated Press

Tony Gutierrez, The Associated Press

Nolan Arenado extended his hitting streak to 27 games and helped the Rockies clobber the Rangers again, 9-2.

Tom Koehlert threw 8 shutout innings, letting up just 2 hits and 1 walk. He did not get the decision but the Marlins walked off 1-0 against the Mets.

Adam Jones homered twice as the Orioles stayed in first place with their 4-3 victory in Tampa Bay.

Mark Buehrle threw 7 shutout innings, letting up just 3 hits and 2 walks while striking out 6 Phillies. He got his 6th win as the Blue Jays cruised to a 10-0 beating.

They owned baseball on May.07, 2014.

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.06) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

DOUG PENSINGER/GETTY IMAGES

DOUG PENSINGER/GETTY IMAGES

Carlos Gonzalez went 5-5 with 3 RBI, leading the relentless Colorado attack against Texas, 12-1.

Henderson Alvarez threw his second complete game shutout of the season. His 6 hitter against the Mets gave the Marlins a 3-0 victory.

Grady Sizemore got 3 hits including a walk off single off of the Green Monster in the 12th, sealing the Red Sox 4-3 win over Cincinnati.

Hiroki Kuroda was solid pitching into the 8th inning, letting up 1 earned run, striking out 8 Angels and walking none. The bullpen blew his lead but the Yankees won 4-3.

They owned baseball on May.06, 2014.

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.05) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

 

Morry Gash - AP

Morry Gash – AP

Carlos Gomez launched a lead off homer, got on base 5 times, scored twice and drove in 3 as the Brewers won the 22nd game, 8-3 over Arizona.

Stefan Romero hit his first big league homer and scored another run for the Mariners, who topped the A’s, 4-2.

Nathan Eovaldi pitched 7 solid innings, striking out 10 and walking just 1. He left the game down 3-0 but the Marlins bats picked up up, walking off against the Mets, 4-3.

Jered Weaver kept the Yankees from a big rally with 8 terrific if not dominating innings. He let up 6 hits but walked just 1 and let up only 1 run over 8 innings, earning the 4-1 Angels victory.

They owned baseball on May.05, 2014.

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2014 Top Home Run Hitters: AL/NL, HR Streaks (3 Active) + Multi HRs: Myers + Stanton W/Big Days

Giancarlo Stanton is healthy, motivated and when he is on, no ballparks can hold his behemoth blasts in.  Of his 10 HRs, 9 of them have traveled further than 400 Feet.  In the young season, Stanton leads the NL with HRs (10), the Majors with RBI (36) and Total Bases (NL - 74).  The 24 Year Old from Panorama, CA has Slashed .285/.362/.603 - and is a major reason why the Marlins are just a game and a half behind the NL Division Leader.

Giancarlo Stanton is healthy, motivated and when he is on, no ballparks can hold his behemoth blasts. Of his 10 HRs, 9 of them have traveled further than 400 Feet. In the young season, Stanton leads the NL with HRs (10), the Majors with RBI (36) and Total Bases (NL – 74). The 24 Year Old from Panorama, CA has Slashed .285/.362/.603 – and is a major reason why the Marlins are just a game and a half behind the NL Division Leading Braves.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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It was quite the day yesterday for the Tater Trots in the MLB.  Giancarlo Stanton hit 2 big thunderous HRs – to take sole possession of the NL HR lead, in carrying his team to a series win versus the Dodgers, and the Marlins are now 14 – 5 at New Marlins Ball Park this year.

George Kottaras came off the scrap heap to paste 2 shots over the fence.  These HRs represented the only two big flies of the year for the Catcher.

Brandon Crawford hit 2 HRs in the GIants sweep of the Atlanta Braves.  Where Pablo Sandoval has failed for power so far, the INF tandem of “Team Brandon, Belt, Hicks and Crawford” have combined for 16 HRs in 277 AB from the 1B/2B and 3B.

When you throw in Buster Posey‘s totals, then it is 23 HRs in 382 AB.  “Kung Fu” 3B needs to get off the snide in his contract year.

Wil Myers continues his ownership of the Yankees, with an Inside The Park 3 run HR, and adding an RBI Double – keying a 5 -1 win over the Bronx Bombers and CC Sabathia, clinching the series 2/3.

It was the 2nd straight game in which Myers did some yard work, and he also had a 2 HR game against the Pinstripers on Apr.19..  Read a Captioned picture at the end of this article to see his prowess over the Yanks thus far in his short career.

Jonathan Villar of the Houston Astros hit a HR for the 2nd straight contest.

Jose Abreu added to his MLB lead in HRs with his 12th Roundtripper. Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.04) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Curtis Compton/Atlanta Journal-Constitution/MCT

Curtis Compton/Atlanta Journal-Constitution/MCT

Brandon Crawford homered twice, driving in 3 runs, leading the Giants to a 4-1 win and a 3 game sweep of the Braves.

Dayan Viciedo‘s second hit of the day was a 3 run, come from behind go ahead 9th inning home run that gave the White Sox a 4-3 victory over the Indians.

Roberto Hernandez pitched into the 8th inning, finishing with 7 1/3 shutout innings, letting up just 4 hits and 3 walks, helping the Phillies sneak past the Nationals, 1-0.

Justin Verlander had a no hitter into the 6th inning. He finished with 7 strong, 4 hit innings, striking out 7 Royals. He got Detroit’s 9-4 victory.

They owned baseball on May.04, 2014.

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.03) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

(Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)

(Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)

Joe Mauer homered, scored from first on a hit, drove in another run and finished 3-4 with 4 RBI as the Twins won 6-1 over Baltimore.

Jon Lester dominated the A’s over 8 shutout innings. He let up just 1 hit, walking 2 and striking out a career high 15 as Boston won 6-3.

Dee Gordon went 5-6 in the leadoff spot. He also stole three bases, scored twice and drove in a pair as the Dodgers would top the Marlins in Miami, 9-7 in 11 innings.

Johnny Cueto topped the Brewers by throwing 8 innings of 3 hit ball. He let up a pair of solo homers and just a hit and a walk other than that. He struck out 10 in the process, earning the 6-2 victory in Cincinnati.

They owned baseball on May.03, 2014.

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.02) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

NESN - MLB.com

NESN – MLB.com

Dustin Pedroia hit a grandslam, doubled, stole a base and got on 4 times as the Red Sox clobbered the A’s, 7-1.

Starling Marte went 4-5 and hit a walk off homer, sealing Pittsburgh’s come from behind victory over the Blue Jays, 6-5.

Ubaldo Jimenez pitched the Orioles into first place by dominating the Twins with 7 1/3 shutout innings, 3 hits, 1 walk and 10 strikeouts getting the 3-0 decision.

Wily Peralta threw 8 shutout frames, giving up just 3 hits and striking out 7 Reds, getting the decision in the 2-0 thriller for the Brewers.

They owned baseball on May.02, 2014.

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The Top 5 Home Run Hitters AL/NL in 2014, HR Streaks (6 Active) + Multi HR Games

Desmond Jennings was counted on to fill the void left by B.J. Upton when he took over the CF position in 2013.  It wasn't a banner year.  With him hitting a HR for the 2nd straight game, it vaulted the Rays to a 3 game winning Streak.  2014 has been a kinder campaign to the 27 Year Old originally from Birmingham, AL - as he has slashed .277/.378/.463 - with 16 Walks, 6 SB and 16 Runs Scored in his 28 Games Played.  That is great production for the 5 year Veteran.

Desmond Jennings was counted on to fill the void left by B.J. Upton when he took over the CF position in 2013. It wasn’t a banner year – although he still stole 20 bags and scored 82 Runs – with a .748 OPs.. With him hitting a HR for the 2nd straight game in a 10 – 5 14 Inning marathon tilt versus the Yankees, it vaulted the Rays to a 3 game winning Streak. 2014 has been a kinder campaign to the 27 Year Old originally from Birmingham, AL – as he has slashed .277/.378/.463 – with 16 Walks, 6 SB and 16 Runs Scored in his 28 Games Played. That is great production for the 5 year Veteran.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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Last night we had a nice complement of big flies – so that we have 6 streaks active going into today’s play.

There is one Carlos Gonzalez who is still active on his HR streak, but is out of the Rox lineup.

We have not had a multiple HR game since last Sunday when Jhonny Peralta went yard twice.  That Cards SS went deep last night, joining Mike Morse, and a bevy of other NL hitters tied for 5th place with 7 HRs.

Other movers were Nelson Cruz grabbed a share of third place by smacking his 8th HR – and Jose Abreu clubbed his 11th HR to open up a 2 Tater lead on Albert Pujols. Read the rest of this entry

The Top 5 Home Run Hitters AL/NL in 2014, HR Streaks (3 Active) + Multi HR Games: Markakis Smacks 2 + Miami On Fire

The HR contraption that is the CF wall in MIA.  Could the club be relaying signals from opposing catchers by having the fish illuminate during play at New Marlins Ball Park.  "Oh Bull Durham" on that.

The HR contraption that is the CF wall in MIA. Could the club be relaying signals from opposing catchers by having the fish illuminate during play at New Marlins Ball Park. “Oh Bull Durham” on that.  The huge device goes spiraling around once a Marlins jacks a ball that goes over the wall for a Homer.  While the 1st 2 years the device never saw much action, it is being worn out by Miami this year.  This has teams like Atlanta speculating on some “TomFoolery.”

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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The Braves had themselves a weird 3 game set in Miami, where they lost 3 games, gave up 23 runs, and have accused the Marlins of stealing signs for pitches.

It is a weird phenomenon how devastating the Miami squad has bashed at New Marlins Ballpark, but for young guys on their team to figure out cadences and relays from the Braves backstoppers is a little bit too far fetched,

I love how the Home Run monstrosity in CF may be the culprit of sending the secret codes out to the hitters.

Miami has added several (3TO guys this year like Garrett Jones and Jarrod Saltalamacchia.)  3TO stands for 3 True Outs, either via a BB/SO or you round the Bases without having the ball touch the field inside the playing surface.

Also, Florida has been one of the only places not to be plagued by weather in the MLB.  Bash on Miami, you are an entertaining team to watch – and have joined your 4 other teams in the NL East at .500 or better – at least for one day. Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.01) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Getty Images

Getty Images

Yunel Escobar hit a tie breaking, 9th inning homer off of the seemingly impervious Koji Uehara to give the Rays a 6-5 win and a double header sweep in Boston.

Juan Uribe combined to get on base 8 times over the course of the Dodgers double header sweep of the Twins. He doubled and drove in a pair in the 9-4 opener. He hit a game tying single in the 4-3 12 inning nightcap.

Roenis Elias shut down the Yankees offense with 7 innings, 6 hits and 1 earned run. He struck out 10 along the way to a Seattle 4-2 victory in the Bronx.

Juan Nicasio pitched 7 shutout innings (in Coors no less), holding the Mets to 3 hits and one walk as the Rockies won 7-4.

They owned baseball on May.01, 2014.

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (April.30) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

AP Photo/Jeff Roberson

AP Photo/Jeff Roberson

Allen Craig collected 4 hits, missing the cycle by a triple, and drove in 3 runs as the Cardinals avoided a Milwaukee sweep, 9-3.

Tim Hudson was a strike from a complete game victory. He settled for 8 2/3 brilliant innings as the Giants topped the Padres, 3-2.

Hank Conger got on base 3 times and hit a go ahead 2 run homer as the Angels cruised past the Indians, 7-1.

Jesse Chavez shut down the Rangers bats. He held them to one hit, one walk and no runs while striking out 8. Oakland demolished their rival in Arlington, 12-1.

They owned baseball on April.30, 2014.

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Home Run Leaders In 2014, HR Streaks (3 Active) + Multi HR Games: Tulo Keeps On Fire – Stanton Ties For NL Lead!

Giancarlo Stanton tied the NL For the lead with 8 HRs yesterday, when he went deep in the Marlins 9 - 0 romp of the Atlanta Braves.  Stanton also leads the NL in RBI with 32.  He is one of each a HR and an RBI behind Jose Abreu for the MLB lead.  Is this the year Stanton finally reaches projections?  The MLB Reports picked him to lead the MLB in HRs all the way back in FEB of this year.

Giancarlo Stanton tied the NL For the lead with 8 HRs yesterday, when he went deep in the Marlins 9 – 0 romp of the Atlanta Braves. Stanton also leads the NL in RBI with 32. He is one of each a HR and an RBI behind Jose Abreu for the MLB lead. Is this the year Stanton finally reaches projections? The MLB Reports picked him to lead the MLB in HRs all the way back in FEB of this year.

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

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Troy Tulowitzki is on fire.  He homered for the 2nd consecutive game, and is now just 1 Roundtrip behind Giancarlo Stanton and Adrian Gonzalez for the NL Lead.

TULO is also tied with teammate Justin Morneau, for third in RBI this season at 22.

His efforts help the Rockies win last night in Arizona, and the club is now 16 – 12 on the young season, just 0.5 Games behind the Giants. 

Mark Teixeira hit a HR for the second straight contest, and has now clubbed 3 HRs in the week he has been back from injury. 

While the rest of the teams pitching is struggling  or be hurt outside of Masahiro Tanaka, having the 1B hitting like this bodes well for the lineup.

Carlos Santana must be giving fantasy players a collective sigh of relief after putting forth another HR and 3 RBI effort for the 2nd time in as many games in Los Angeles, too bad they were both losses to the Angels. Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (April.29) – Updated MLB Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Steve Mitchell / USA Today Sports

Steve Mitchell / USA Today Sports

Jose Fernandez simply dominated the Atlanta Braves. He pitched 8 shutout 2 hit innings, striking out 8 and walking 2. He also made an amazing fake throw to draw off a runner from third and record an out at the plate. The best baseball show in Miami won the game, 9-0.

Lyle Overbay got two RBI singles, including one in the 11th inning that gave the Brewers a 5-4 lead they would not give up against the Cardinals.

John Lackey threw another solid game, going 8 innings, letting up 2 runs and walking just 1. He got the decision for Boston’s 7-4 win against Tampa Bay.

Mike Zunino collected 4 hits, driving in a run and scoring another, leading the Mariners to a 6-3 win against the Yankees.

They owned baseball on April.29, 2014.

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2014′s Top 5 Home Runs AL + NL, HR Streaks (2 Active) + Multi HR Games:

Heading into play last Thursday night, fantasy players and everyone surrounding the Mariners was wondering what had happened to 3B Kyle Seager.  He has nailed 5 HRs in his last 4 games, and is now hitting for a .798 OPS - with 13 RBI in 79 AB on the young season.  The last 2 years, Seager has hit 20 and 22 HRs respectively - and been the only player on the squad to have decent RBI totals.

Heading into play last Thursday night, fantasy players and everyone surrounding the Mariners was wondering what had happened to 3B Kyle Seager? He has since nailed 5 HRs in his last 4 games, and is now hitting for a .798 OPS – with 13 RBI in 79 AB on the young season. The last 2 years, Seager has hit 20 and 22 HRs respectively – and been the only player on the squad to have decent RBI totals.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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With only 6 games being played last night, there were not too many HRs hit for the contests.

This has left the MLB with 2 current players with HR streaks. 

Those players both have clubbed HRs in back to back games, and they are Giants SS Brandon Hicks and Seattle Mariners 3B Kyle Seager, who hit 3 HRs over the Saturday and Sunday games – and has 5 Tater-Trots in the last 4 games.

Seager had exactly zero Home Runs, before squaring 2 baseballs up last Thursday at home versus the Houston Astros, He was blanked by the Rangers on Friday, before doing yard work on Saturday.

Sunday saw the man have his 2n 2 HR game out of 4 contests. Read the rest of this entry

2014′s Top 5 HRs AL + NL, HR Streaks (4 Active) + Multi HR Games: Adrian Gonzalez Streaking Again

On a team that has desperately be in need of offense - due to early season woes from Yasiel Puig, Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier and Hanley Ramirez, A - Gon has delivered the goods.  Yesterday, he hit a HR for the 3rd straight game, and today he has a chance to match the 4 HR streak he already put up earlier in the Month.  The Dodgers 1B is showing signs of his early career power prowess.  He is currently 3 Slashing .309/.362/.639 - with 8 HRs and 22 RBI in his 1st 18 Games Played.  LA has managed to stick in the NL West race, with a 14 -11 clip thus far, I can't imagine where they would be with such a hot start from Gonzalez.

On a team that has desperately be in need of offense – due to early season woes from Yasiel Puig, Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier and Hanley Ramirez, A – Gon has delivered the goods. Yesterday, he hit a HR for the 3rd straight game, and today he has a chance to match the 4 HR streak he already put up earlier in the Month. The Dodgers 1B is showing signs of his early career power prowess. He is currently 3 Slashing .309/.362/.639 – with 8 HRs and 22 RBI in his 1st 18 Games Played. LA has managed to stick in the NL West race, with a 14 -11 clip thus far, I can’t imagine where they would be with such a hot start from Gonzalez.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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Early season power surges are quite common the MLB.  I mean everyone remember Chris Shelton jumping out of the box with 9 HRs, and also remember Tuffy Rhodes clubbing 3 HRs on Opening Day one year against Dwight Gooden.

The key is parlaying a fast start into some sustainable durability.

Brandon Belt, Brian Dozier are unlikely HR leaders right now, and a lot of people must wonder if Jose Abreu can keep up this kind of pace.

Bautista, Trumbo, Pujols and Stanton had to be penciled in for a lot of HR leaders by experts, fantasy players and scouts alike.

Josh Donaldson has also turned it an, clubbing 7 HRs in the last 15 calendar days, and is looking more like the player that finished 4th in AL MVP balloting.

I still think we will see Miguel Cabera and Prince Fielder enter this race at some point once their bats heat up.  Read the rest of this entry

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

Chris Sweda/ Chicago Tribune

Chris Sweda/ Chicago Tribune

Jose Abreu got three hits including a pair of homers. The second was a 2 out, bottom of the 9th, come from behind, walk off grand slam. Safe to say that was the highlight of the White Sox’s 9-6 win over the Rays.

Yordano Ventura pitched 8 shutout innings, striking out 8, and getting the 5-0 win for the Royals in Baltimore.

Carlos Gomez went 3-5 with a double, a stolen base and two runs scored, leading the Brewers to a 5-2 win over the Cubs.

Stephen Strasburg pitched seven dominating shutout innings. He struck out 11 Padres, walking just 2 and got the 11-1 victory for the Nationals.

They owned baseball on April.25, 2014.

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

Photo by Jeff Gross/Getty Images

Photo by Jeff Gross/Getty Images

Carlos Ruiz got on base 5 times, scored twice, hit two doubles including one that drove in 2 runs and broke a 9th inning tie. The Phillies would top the Dodgers 7-3.

Josh Donaldson got on 5 times, clubbed 2 homers and hit another double, driving in 4 and scoring 3 as the A’s rolled 10-1 in Houston.

Bartolo Colon was excellent against the Cardinals. He pitched 7 strong innings, letting up just 1 run, 4 hits and walked none while striking out 8. He got the 4-1 win for the Mets.

Corey Kluber pitched his first complete game against the Royals. He went the full nine, giving up just 4 hits, 1 unearned run, 11 strikeouts and walking none, earning the 5-1 win for the Indians.

They owned baseball on April.24, 2014.

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2014′s Top 5 HRs AL + NL, HR Streaks (4 Active) + Multi HR Games: Breakouts For Colabello + Abreu

Chris Colabello is the most unlikely early RBI leader in the AL, with 26 knocked in during his 1st 20 Games Played this year.  While he is leading the AL in Doubles with 9, he has now added HRs in back to back games.  The Team Italy player for the last WBC tournament has been hitting in the middle of the lineup for the 10 - 10 Minnesota Twins.  The RHB originally from Framington, MA came into the 2013 season with just 160 AB last year (his rookie campaign in the MLB).  So far in 2014, he has 3 Slashed .346/.386/.577 - and has played 1B/RF and DH.

Chris Colabello is the most unlikely early RBI leader in the AL, with 26 knocked in during his 1st 20 Games Played this year. While he is leading the AL in Doubles with 9, he has now added HRs in back to back games. The Team Italy player for the last WBC tournament has been hitting in the middle of the lineup for the 10 – 10 Minnesota Twins. The RHB originally from Framington, MA came into the 2013 season with just 160 AB last year (his rookie campaign in the MLB). So far in 2014, he has 3 Slashed .346/.386/.577 – and has played 1B/RF and DH.

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

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It was a great night for Tater Trot’s yesterday.  The Giants had teammates crack 2 HRs each in Morse and Sanchez, while Blackmon extended his consecutive HR games streak to 3, and Tulowitzki clubbed a big fly for the 2nd straight contest.

2 men (McCutchen and Blackmon enter play today with 3 games straight with a HR.  The 2013 NL MVP will try to extend his mark versus Tony Cingrani of the Reds in a Thursday afternoon game at PNC Park – while Blackmon will travel to LA – trying to extend his streak versus Josh Beckett tomorrow night.

Kyle Seager, of the Mariners, and Hector Santiago of the Giants, hit their 1st 2 HRs of the year, in Multi HR efforts Wednesday.

Mike Morse and Nelson Cruz continued to pad their early starts towards 2015 Free Agency, also with 2 HR games yesterday. Read the rest of this entry

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

Photo: Ben Margot, AP

Photo: Ben Margot, AP

Martin Perez threw a complete game, 3 hit shutout in Oakland. The 3-0 victory propelled the Rangers into first place by themselves.

Kyle Seager launched a pair of homers, driving in all 5 Seattle runs, including a 3 run bottom of the ninth come from behind walk off homer to give the Mariners a 5-3 win over Houston.

Zack Greinke pitched 7 strong innings, letting up just 5 hits, 2 earned runs and walking 1 while striking out 11. He improved to 4-0 for the Dodgers with the 5-2 win over the Phillies.

Hector Sanchez hit two homers including an 11th inning grand slam, collecting 5 RBI in all and propelling the Giants to a 12-10 win over the Rockies.

They owned baseball on April.23, 2014.

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2014’s Top 5 HRs AL + NL, HR Streaks + Multi HR Games + Pujols Nets Career HR #500

Albert Pujols has fought back from his injury in 2013, to lead the Majors  in HRs (8) - including 2 big bombs last night in Washington.  His 2nd smash, was the 500th of his career, joining 25 other men who have accomplished the feat.  The Angels squared their season record at 10 - 10, and  are 7 - 4 away from Los Angeles.  Pujols became the 3rd youngest MLB'ER to this feat - as only Alex Rodriguez and Ken Griffey JR. were younger.

Albert Pujols has fought back from his injury in 2013, to lead the Majors in HRs (8) – including 2 big bombs last night in Washington. His 2nd smash, was the 500th of his career, joining 25 other men who have accomplished the feat. The Angels squared their season record at 10 – 10, and are 7 – 4 away from Los Angeles. Pujols became the 3rd youngest MLB’ER to this feat – as only Alex Rodriguez and Ken Griffey JR. were younger.

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

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 ALL TIME HR List In Baseball

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

Photo: Tommy Gilligan, USA TODAY Sports

Photo: Tommy Gilligan, USA TODAY Sports

Albert Pujols homered twice, driving in a pair of runs. His second home run was career homer number 500. He helped the Angels top the Nations, 7-2.

Matt Holliday got on base four times, scored, drove in a run and pulled a home run back over the fence with a great catch as the Cardinals topped the Mets, 3-0.

Jose Fernandez won one of the most startling pitching duels of the year, striking out 14 over 8 shutout innings and letting up just 3 hits and walking none. The Marlins would sneak past the Braves, 1-0.

David Price overcame a pair of homers to throw a complete game, striking out 12 and walking one. The Rays beat the Twins, 7-3.

They owned baseball on April.22, 2014.

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

Mark J. Terrill/AP

Mark J. Terrill/AP

Cliff Lee pitched 8 dominating innings against the Dodgers. No runs, no walks, 4 hits and 10 strikeouts as the Phillies rolled, 7-0.

Andrew McCutchen got on base 5 times, crushed a game tying homer in the 8th and drew a walk in the game winning 9th inning rally as the Pirates came from behind to beat the Reds, 6-5.

Garrett Richards let up just 1 hit and 1 run, striking out 6 over 6 innings. He was lifted for a pinch hitter and did not get the decision. But the Angels would top the Nationals, 4-2.

Matt Dominguez homered, doubled and walked, driving in 3 and lead Houston’s surprising attack against Felix Hernandez and the Mariners for a 7-2 win.

They owned baseball on April.21, 2014.

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

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Houston Astros Roster In 2014 Part 1: How All Of The Hitters Were Acquired

The Astros decided to rebuild a few years ago  In doing so they traded away Lance Berkman, Roy Oswalt, Hunter Pence, Carlos Lee, at first, and then have since also traded Bud Norris, Jed Lowrie, Jordan Lyles and Brandon Barnes.  Many of the transactions have given the team many of its current roster today, with many of the players also with the organization - while hardly any of the departing guys are with the team that dealt for them.  Today is the 1st part of a 2 parter seeing how the current club was assembled by the Astros.

The Astros decided to rebuild a few years ago In doing so they traded away Lance Berkman, Roy Oswalt, Hunter Pence, Carlos Lee, at first, and then have since also traded Bud Norris, Jed Lowrie, Jordan Lyles and Brandon Barnes. Many of the transactions have given the team many of its current roster today, with many of the players also with the organization – while hardly any of the departing guys are with the team that dealt for them. Today is the 1st part of a 2 parter seeing how the current club was assembled by the Astros.

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

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At the MLB Reports, we intend to show you the Roster Tree for the Houston Astros – and how they assembled their current roster for hitting and Pitching. 

It will work in a six degrees of separation like format.

Once we figure out the origin of how many trades going back in time it takes to see where the tree started, it will be time to dissect how the team fared on the deals.

If a player has never left the organization at all, the tree will be easy – as it will just be the year they were drafted or signed.

Sometimes pitchers will be in the hitters part of the write-up and vice versa.  This is simply done when one side of hitter or pitcher is dealt for each other.  Read the rest of this entry

Top 5 Home Run Hitters In MLB For 2014: AL/NL, HR Streaks + Multi HR Games

Mark Trumbo has homered in 4 straight games, which is halfway to the ALL - Time Record held by Don Mattingly, Ken Griffey JR and Dale Long.  Mattingly owns the aggregate total of 10 HRs hit for those 8 games.  Despite his efforts, the D'Backs enter today's game at 2 - 7.  Trumbo also leads the MLB with 5 HRs overall.

Mark Trumbo has homered in 4 straight games, which is halfway to the ALL – Time Record held by Don Mattingly, Ken Griffey JR and Dale Long. Mattingly owns the aggregate total of 10 HRs hit for those 8 games. Despite his efforts, the D’Backs enter today’s game at 2 – 7. Trumbo also leads the MLB with 5 HRs overall.  The slugger has 2 more years left of Arbitration Eligibility after the 2014, and will become a Free Agent in 2017.  He was acquired in a trade from the LA Angels that saw the D’Backs part with Starter Tyler Skaggs.  Arizona also sent OF Adam Eaton to the White Sox, and received Minor Leagues A.J. Shugel and Brandon Jacobs in the deal.  Chicago parted with Hector Santiago as well to LA.

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

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Here at the MLB Reports we look to do things different.  It is one of our many motto’s.

We simply can’t look over every stat, or even chart every HR for that matter, but I have decided that we will carry the top 5 HR hitters for each the AL and NL on a page we have dubbed Stats.

For the HR feature. we will also list multiple HR games for players… Or if they have HRs in multiple games.  Once a week we will post these on the home page for the site as a regular page post.

Kemp and Ramirez Both Hit 2 HRs 4 – 6 – 14

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The Kansas City Royals State Of The Union Part 2: Lineup Depth And Versatility

Mike Moustakas was a high school shortstop and was named California High School Player of the Year in both his Sophmore and Junior seasons.  His teammate and left side of the infield counterpart is fellow big leaguer, and first round draft pick Matt Dominguez.  He also launched 52 career home runs in high school, a California record, but then again, I launched a home run at Chatsworth, and I was a skinny pitcher who typically wasn’t allowed to hit, so take that record as you will.

Mike Moustakas was a high school shortstop and was named California High School Player of the Year in both his Sophmore and Junior seasons. His teammate and left side of the infield counterpart is fellow big leaguer, and first round draft pick Matt Dominguez. He also launched 52 career home runs in high school, a California record, but then again, I launched a home run at Chatsworth, and I was a skinny pitcher who typically wasn’t allowed to hit, so take that record as you will.

Shaun Kernahan (Guest Royals Writer): 

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The Tampa Bay Rays do it by getting career years out of castoffs like James Loney.  The Oakland A’s do it with a platoon at nearly every position.

Now the Kansas City Royals will try to be the latest small market club to make a run at the playoffs with an unorthodox roster strategy, of utility and multi-positional players.

Given their roster today, the only player in any likely starting lineup the Royals will throw out there this season that has not played multiple positions in the major leagues is Mike Moustakas.

But even Moustakas has a past that includes him playing other positions. 

When at Chatsworth High School, he played shortstop because current Houston Astros third baseman, Matt Dominguez, played third base on that same high school team.

Pat Venditte – Switch Pitcher Vs Switch Hitter

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The Miami Marlins Payroll In 2014, Organizational Affiliates, Prospects, Depth Charts, (MLB + MiLB)

The Miami Marlins might have exited out of their plan to compete last season, however the talent wasn't going to cut it - and they were able to restock the system with some talent, despite not having an chance to compete in 2013.  Hopefully the ownership will buck up some cash when the team improves a little.

The Miami Marlins might have exited out of their plan to compete last season, however the talent wasn’t going to cut it – and they were able to restock the system with some talent, despite not having an chance to compete in 2013. Hopefully the ownership will buck up some cash when the team improves a little in future years.

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

The Miami Marlins are known for doing a gazillion transactions throughout the year.  Jeffrey Loria and CO. are always looking for ways to save dollars, become younger, and fill the Minor League System with players.

Since the team has won 2 World Series it is time in the MLB (21 Years), some people are even willing to give the franchise some credit, although most of that was attributed to the previous ownership regimes.

They are loaded with a multitude of young players that are highly touted and talented.  The biggest question to ask is how they are going to move forward with Giancarlo Stanton?

2014 will be an interesting campaign for Miami.  They have to hope that a lot of their several young players can mature and prosper, as they are in the same Division as the Washington Nationals and the Atlanta Braves.

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

Giancarlo Stanton Highlights _- Mature Lyrics So Parental Guidance is Advised

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The Houston Astros Payroll in 2014 + Organization: Affiliates, Prospects + Depth Charts (MLB + MiLB)

The Astros have scaled their Payroll to miniscule proportions.  As of this minute, the players they have signed - that aren't on entry level deals, equals $4.37 MIL, and that is if the club picks up their Team Option on Philip Humber for 2014.  The only other player that makes more than an entry level is Jose Altuve at $1.37 MIL in 2014.  The club is paying more in dead money to Wandy Rodriguez ($5.5 MIL in 2014) as part of the 2012 Trade worked out between clubs.

The Astros have scaled their Payroll to miniscule proportions. As of this minute, the players they have signed – that aren’t on entry level deals, equals $4.37 MIL, and that is if the club picks up their Team Option on Philip Humber for 2014. The only other player that makes more than an entry level is Jose Altuve at $1.37 MIL in 2014. The club is paying more in dead money to Wandy Rodriguez ($5.5 MIL in 2014) as part of the 2012 Trade worked out between clubs.  It has been bantered about that the ownership and management are willing to spend some money in Free Agency for 2014.  MLB currently does not have a floor for Team Salary in the current CBA, so why would the club do that until they are ready to compete?

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

A 3rd straight season with 105+ Losses, and 15 straight losses to finish the 2013 campaign does not give the fans very much to look forward to in 2014.

I am here to tell you that the MLB should be ashamed of letting the Houston Astros field such an incompetent team.

Having said this, I don’t personally blame them for tanking it over the last 3 years.  They are the other ‘extreme’ – of what the New York Yankees and LA Dodgers have done payroll wise.

Last season at the end of the year, their highest paid player for the Active Roster was Erik Bedard, making $1.1 MIL.

If they keep picking 1st overall, it is only a matter of time before the team becomes very good, just like the Rays, Nationals, Twins and Pirates have all done in recent times.

For the Up to Date Roster for the Astros all year around, please visit Jeff’s Website right here

For the Entire Page of teams links we have dedicated to Payroll, Rosters, Depth Chart, State Of the Unions and Roster Trees, please click right here. Please bookmark this page and check back, as we are busy on the analysis at MLB Reports always.

Jose Altuve Highlights

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The Miami Marlins Payroll In 2014, Organizational Affiliates, Prospects, Depth Charts, (MLB + MiLB)

The Miami Marlins might have exited out of their plan to compete last season, however the talent wasn't going to cut it - and they were able to restock the system with some talent, despite not having an chance to compete in 2013.  Hopefully the ownership will buck up some cash when the team improves a little.

The Miami Marlins might have exited out of their plan to compete last season, however the talent wasn’t going to cut it – and they were able to restock the system with some talent, despite not having an chance to compete in 2013. Hopefully the ownership will buck up some cash when the team improves a little.

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

The Miami Marlins are known for doing a gazillion transactions throughout the year.  Jeffrey Loria and CO. are always looking for ways to save dollars, become younger, and fill the Minor League System with players.

Since the team has won 2 World Series it is time in the MLB (21 Years), some people are even willing to give the franchise some credit, although most of that was attributed to the previous ownership regimes.

They are loaded with a multitude of young players that are highly touted and talented.  The biggest question to ask is how they are going to move forward with Giancarlo Stanton?

2014 will be an interesting campaign for Miami.  They have to hope that a lot of their several young players can mature and prosper, as they are in the same Division as the Washington Nationals and the Atlanta Braves.

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

Giancarlo Stanton Highlights _- Mature Lyrics So Parental Guidance is 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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