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5 Things To Watch About The Brewers In The 2nd Half

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Sunday, August.4, 2013

Kyke Lohse has been the one bright spot for the Brewers starting rotation this season. He is the ace of the staff and  he can be someone that the younger pitchers can look up to. The right-hander has won seven games for the club this season, with an ERA of 3.22 in 134.1 innings pitched. He has also has a WHIP of 1.13 and has only walked 88 batters. Loshe relies on having control of all his pitches to have success against opposing batters. He is limiting batters to a .254 average on the season and left-handers can only manage a .232 batting average in 233 at-bats. He is very impressive while pitching with runners in scoring position, as teams just have a .194 average.

Kyle Lohse has been the one bright spot for the Brewers starting rotation this season. He is the ace of the staff and he can be someone that the younger pitchers can look up to. The right-hander has won seven games for the club this season, with an ERA of 3.22 in 134.1 innings pitched. He has also has a WHIP of 1.13 and has only walked 22 batters. Lohse relies on having control of all his pitches to have success against opposing batters. He is limiting batters to a .254 average on the season and left-handers can only manage a .232 batting average in 233 at-bats. He is very impressive while pitching with runners in scoring position, as teams just have a .194 average.

By Chris Lacey (Lead Baseball Columnist/Minority Website Owner)

The Milwaukee Brewers season in 2013 is one both the fans and team would like to erase from their memory. They have the 2nd worst record in the National League at 46-64 and they are also last in the NL Central with them 20 games behind the Pittsburgh Pirates.

They just had the face of the franchise Ryan Braun suspended for the rest of the season, because he was named in the Biogenesis scandal. For a team to lose a player like him, this would be normally be a crushing blow.

Kyle Lohse 2012 Highlights – Parental Guidance Is Advised

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The MLB Needs To Amend Its Weighted Schedule/Payroll Flaws By The 2016 CBA Renewal!!

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Thursday August.1/2013

If you are a Mariners fan, your park is the furthest geographically away from an NL home park or vice versa (806 Miles).  If you are a fan of the NL, get your bags packed, because chances are, you will need to head on a roady in order to see your favorite NL team every year.

If you are a Mariners fan, your park is the furthest geographically away from another Leagues (NL) home park or vice versa (806 Miles). If your favorite team is in the NL, get your bags packed, because chances are, you will need to head on a roady in order to see your team every year.  The MLB needs to address the situation for complete fairness to every single team.  My plan would still be to have 44 – 52 Divisional Games, 60 other games against the 10 teams in your own league, and then to play 50 Interleague Games.  Of course this isn’t even possible until the MLB and MLBPA workout a new CBA in 2016.

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

Maybe it is because I am a West Cost (Vancouver B.C Canada) guy that lives 1100 Miles away from the nearest NL Ballpark, or maybe it is because I have seen it work well in other professional sports – when I worked as a pro handicapper for 3 plus years.

I am sick of seeing teams come in to town for 3 series in a year – when it might take another team 6 years to visit in Interleague.

Sure if I lived in the East Coast, in a place like New Jersey, I could have my pick of any home parks (AL + NL) within a 450 MILE radius, I may not feel the same, but even that I doubt it.

My friend Doug Miller (from Washington State), also wrote a column worth reading on this subject.  He called it “Team Fatigue”. read that article here

I also wrote a similar column on MLB Baseball’s need to adapt a Payroll/Geographical Re – Alignment that could bring a huge amount of parity to the MLB in future years here.

With the Orioles playing good baseball all year, I fear they will not be playing baseball in October.  You know why?  It is not because they don't deserve too be, and it will likely not be their fault.  The reason is:  they will have had the toughest Strength of Schedule: playing the Yankees, Blue Jays, Red Sox and Rays, while the Indians and Royals play extremely weak clubs like Minnesota and the White Sox a quarter of their schedule. The same can be said for the Oakland and Texas franchise feasting on the hapless (Trade Depleted Astros), and a steady dose of the Mariners (who are far easier to play than any of the AL East teams).

With the Orioles playing good baseball all year, I fear they will not be playing baseball in October. You know why? It is not because they don’t deserve to be, and it will likely not be their fault. The reason is: they will have had the toughest Strength of Schedule: playing the Yankees, Blue Jays, Red Sox and Rays 76 times this year, while the Indians and Royals play extremely weak clubs like Minnesota and the White Sox a quarter of their schedules. The same can be said for the Oakland and Texas franchises feasting on the hapless (Trade Depleted Astros), and a steady dose of the Mariners (who are far easier to play than any of the 5 AL East teams).

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5 Things To Watch About The Reds In The 2nd Half

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Tuesday  July 30, 2013 

 Ryan Ludwick has he has been out since Opening Day with a shoulder injuryThe Cincinnati Reds are trying to make a push for a division title again in 2013 but injuries have plagued them the entire season. Getting players healthy is going to be a huge factor if they expect to win the division and go deep into the playoffs. The major piece missing is Left Fielder Ryan Ludwick as he has been out since Opening Day with a shoulder injury. The other huge piece that has been missing for much of the season has been . He has been on the shelf three different times with a lagging right lat strain. The Reds look to have him back in late August. The last and final piece that needs to get healthy is the bullpen. Guys have been filling in great but that won't last forever. Look for Sean Marshall and Jonathon Broxton to come back and help through the rest of the season and the playoffs.

The Cincinnati Reds are trying to make a push for a division title again in 2013 . but injuries have plagued them the entire season. Getting players healthy is going to be a huge factor if they expect to win the division and go deep into the playoffs. The major piece missing is Left Fielder Ryan Ludwick as he has been out since Opening Day with a shoulder injury. The other huge piece that has been missing for much of the season has been . He has been on the shelf three different times with a lagging right lat strain. The Reds look to have him back in late August. The last and final piece that needs to get healthy is the bullpen. Guys have been filling in great but that won’t last forever. Look for Sean Marshall and Jonathon Broxton to come back and help through the rest of the season and the playoffs.

By Ryan Ritchey (MLB Reports Writer):

The Cincinnati Reds are five games back of the Cardinals going into play on Thursday.

They won the first two of their series after the ALL-Star Break, taking two of three from the Pittsburgh Pirates and three of four from the San Francisco Giants. But then lost three of four against the Dodgers in LA.

The Reds are playing a three game series with the Padres now and need a sweep going into the weekend with St. Louis coming to town. 

Ryan Ludwick 2012 Highlights – Mature Lyrics So Parental Guidance Is Advised:

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Cincinnati Reds Payroll in 2013 And Contracts Going Forward

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Monday, July.29, 2013

Joey Votto is having another good season for the Reds and he will be force in their lineup for years to come. The power numbers for him are down from years past with him only hitting 16 HRs and having 47 RBIs. However the opposition still has to respect his bat and if a pitcher makes a mistake expect him to hit the ball a long way. He has a .317/.429/.931 triple-slash in 388 at-bats this season with 20 Doubles. He is 7th in the NL with 195 Total Bases, and is also 8th with a WAR of 4.7. Votto is 1st in Times On Base in the NL at 202.

Joey Votto is having another good season for the Reds and he will be force in their lineup for years to come. The power numbers for him are down from years past with him only hitting 16 HRs and having 47 RBIs. However the opposition still has to respect his bat and if a pitcher makes a mistake expect him to hit the ball a long way. He has a .317/.429/.931 triple-slash in 388 at-bats this season with 20 Doubles. He is 7th in the NL with 195 Total Bases, and is also 8th with a WAR of 4.7. Votto is 1st in Times On Base in the NL at 202. He obliterates right-handed pitching with a .335 batting average, and handles left-handers just as good with a .286 average.

By Chris Lacey (Lead Baseball Columnist/Minority Website Owner)

The Cincinnati Reds are playing well this season with them winning 59 games, but they are five games out of first place. The Reds are 3rd in the National League Central division behind both the Pittsburgh Pirates and St.Louis Cardinals.

Cincinnati is third in the NL with them scoring 463 runs on the season. They are great at home, and have the 2nd best home record in the NL. The problem for them is hitting away Great American Ball Park with winning just 27 games and three games under .500 on the road.

Joey Votto Highlights – Parental Guidance Is Advised

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

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

Triple Play Podcast Trade Speculation

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Sunday July.28/2013

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Should The Pirates Make A Deal? Huntington Should At Least Pick Up A Reliever!

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Wednesday, July.24/2013

The trading deadline has been an exciting time of year for Pittsburgh Pirates fans the past two seasons and this year looks to be bordering on an extravaganza for the city, as the Bucs will be hosting the division-leading St. Louis Cardinals for a five-game series as the deadline approaches and passes. Although GM Neal Huntington will likely be active, the sound advice might be to hold onto prospects, do not mortgage the future and go with what got you a couple games back of the Cardinals in the NL Central and for the best record in all of MLB.

The trading deadline has been an exciting time of year for Pittsburgh Pirates fans the past two seasons and this year looks to be bordering on an extravaganza for the city, as the Bucs will be hosting the division-leading St. Louis Cardinals for a five-game series as the deadline approaches and passes. Although GM Neal Huntington will likely be active, the sound advice might be to hold onto prospects, do not mortgage the future and go with what got you a couple games back of the Cardinals in the NL Central and for the best record in all of MLB.

By Brad Cuprik (Pirates Correspondent)

If you read the newspapers in Pittsburgh or listen to talk show radio, the expectation is that Huntington is going to make a significant deal to upgrade the Pirates’ hitting, outfield, bullpen, and even starting pitching.

Realizing that baseball in October is a lot different than baseball in May, June and July, if the Bucs needed upgrades in all those areas, how are they winning about 60 percent of their games so far?

The Pirates have posted one of the best records in baseball so far in 2013.

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MLB 30 Team Power Rankings: Week 17

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Sunday July.21/2013

The Cardinals are the big benefactor of an early July swoon by the Pirates.  Will this team make some moves at the deadline - to aid the young Starting Rotation Innings?  Will Chris Carpenter be able to make an impact for the club at some point this campaign?  They sit perched back up upon the MLBR Power Rankings for now.

The Cardinals are the big benefactor of an early July swoon by the Pirates. Will this team make some moves at the deadline – to aid the young Starting Rotation Innings? Will Chris Carpenter be able to make an impact for the club at some point this campaign? They sit perched back up upon the MLBR Power Rankings for now.  The Cards have made 7 out of the last 12 NLCS showdowns – holding a 3 – 4 record in those years – and a 2 – 1 mark in the World Series.

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

The Tampa Bay Rays are making a huge statement.  Even as I write this post, they have a commanding 4 – 1 lead on the Toronto Blue Jays, which would make the 58 – 41, and no worse than 1.5 Games Behind the Boston Red Sox heading into play tomorrow.

The Rays will head to Fenway Park right after this for a four game series – before concluding a 10 game Road Swing at Yankee Stadium.  They could end up in 1st place in the AL East by next week.

With their pitching strength – and new underrated offense, would anyone pick against them for the rest of the season?  I have slotted them 7 positions higher than the previous week.

Chris Carpenter 5 months ago, He is now rehabbing in the Minor Leagues with a chance to come back in 2013 – Amazing!

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Triple Play Podcast Predictions Revisited from The Beginning Of The Year: Over/Under Wins

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Sunday July.21/2013

a    triple play podcastBy Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner):

Back on Mar.10 and Mar.24th, the Triple Play Podcast predicted the season win totals over or under for each one of the 30 teams.  Lets see how we are all doing.

I will say that my prediction of Dodgers and Angels in the World Series is not looking promising, however Patrick Beaulieu picked the Jays and Reds.  Chris picked the Nationals and Tigers.  Lets all say, we will probably not be taken out Vegas with these picks, however I think we are going to win more than losing here.

Check Out the Audio Podcasts Or Click past The Triple Play Logo – or CLICK THE REST OF THIS ENTRY past the Audio Links for the shows

On today’s 1st Podcast ever, Patrick, Chris and I shared our American League Predictions via Vegas Odds on Win totals.  There was a bit more ‘Canadiana Flag waving’ than usual at the Reports – and Houston, you know I still love you right?? (was there for the beginning of Altuve Movement – however I did harp on the fact that AL West Teams are going to be fattening up their win totals on your club this year.)

Just Hit the Play Button and Enjoy the Ride For the AL Preview!

There is a Hyperlink below to download this Podcast.

triple play al preview

National League Preview Show (Triple Play Podcast) – download it right here.

If you want to listen right here with our video player below.

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Five Cardinals Named To The National League All-Star Team

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Sunday, July 14th, 2013

 All five of these Cardinals are absolutely well deserving of the honor to be called National League All-Stars.  These five players are crucial to the success of the St. Louis Cardinals have lived up to the pressures that lie with being a St. Louis Cardinal.  They always seem to find a way to get the job done and be respectable leaders in the club house.  With these guys around, the future of the St. Louis Cardinals is very bright. The Major League Baseball All-Star Game can be seen on FOX, Tuesday night at 8:00 PM ET.

All five of these Cardinals are absolutely well deserving of the honor to be called National League All-Stars. These five players are crucial to the success of the St. Louis Cardinals have lived up to the pressures that lie with being a St. Louis Cardinal. They always seem to find a way to get the job done and be respectable leaders in the club house. With these guys around, the future of the St. Louis Cardinals is very bright. The Major League Baseball All-Star Game can be seen on FOX, Tuesday night at 8:00 PM ET.

By Landen Crouch (Cardinals Correspondent)

One week ago, Major League Baseball released the rosters for the 2013 MLB All-Star Game, which will be held in New York City.  On the roster for the National League are five members of the St. Louis Cardinals, the most representatives by any single team for the 2013 mid-summer classic.  

Catcher, Yadier Molina; First Baseman, Allen Craig; Second Baseman, Matt Carpenter; Outfielder, Carlos Beltran; and Pitcher, Adam Wainwright were among those selected to represent St. Louis Cardinals.

So far, 2013 has been a phenomenal year for the Cardinals, heading into the All-Star Break with the best records in all of baseball. So, obviously, some things have gone right for this team.

 These five players have been crucial to the success of the St. Louis Cardinals in 2013 and are well deserving of their spots in the game.

National League All-Star Team Announced:

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

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Friday, July.12, 2013

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

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

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

By James Acevedo – Host (Podcast Veteran )

Guests On The Show

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

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

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

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

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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Brewers’ Jean Segura And Carlos Gomez Are A Great Offensive Pair

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Wednesday, July.10, 2013

Carlos Gomez is having a breakout year for the Brewers, even with them in last place in the Central division. Where the team stands has not affected his play at all, with his .305 batting average and .895 OPS this season in 318 at-bats. He is sixth in NL with a with a .547 Slugging %, and fifth with 174 Total Bases.

Carlos Gomez is having a breakout year for the Brewers, even with them in last place in the Central division. Where the team stands has not affected his play at all, with his .305 batting average and .895 OPS this season in 318 at-bats. He is sixth in NL with a with a .547 Slugging %, and fifth with 174 Total Bases. He has a WAR of 5.5 this is second in the NL, and his defensive WAR is second at 2.6. He is fifth in the NL with 174 Total Bases and is third with 42 XBH. He hits left-hander better than right-handers, with an average of .330 facing lefties, while righties the average is only .300

By Chris Lacey (Lead Baseball Columnist/Minority Website Owner)

The players for the All-Star game that will take place at Citi Field were just announced over the past weekend and there were some surprises with all teams having at least one player represent their team.

The Milwaukee Brewers have not had had a good season with it starting in spring training.

They lost one of their potential their first baseman when Mat Gamel for the second straight year tore his ACL. They were optimistic that Corey Hart would be able to make a recovery from off season surgery on his right knee.

2012 Carlos Gomez Highlights- So Parental Guidance Is Advised:

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MLB 30 Team Rankings Week 15

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Monday July.08/2013

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

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

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

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

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

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Potential All – Star Candidates For All 30 MLB Teams:

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Saturday, July.06/2013

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

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

Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner):

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pirates’ Will End The Playoff Drought This Season

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Saturday, July.06, 2013

Grilli has done a phenomenal job in closing game for the Pirates this season. He has saved 28 games for the Pirates this season, and has a chance to possibly save 60 games.

Grilli has done a phenomenal job in closing games for the Pirates this season. He has saved 28 games for the Pirates this season which is first in the NL, and has a chance to possibly save 60 games. Grilli has a 2.15 ERA with only one blown save, and  has only surrendered two home runs in 37.2 innings pitched. The right-hander has struck out 60 batters, and has a strikeout rate of 14.3 SO/9. He also has a terrific SO/BB ratio of 8.57. The opposition is only hitting .187 against him this season, with right-handers  hitting just .155. The Pirates know that with a lead in the ninth inning, he is the guy they trust the most.

By Chris Lacey (Lead Baseball Columnist/Minority Website Owner)

Who can remember the last time the Pittsburgh Pirates were in the playoffs, because it seems like it has been a long time. The reason that I can’t remember is that it happened in 1992, when they went 96-66.

This is a long time for a sports franchise to go without at least making the playoffs. The Pirates in the past seasons have started out fast, only to fade away in the second half of the baseball season.

Pittsburgh Pirates Early 2013 Season Highlights- So Parental Guidance Is Advised

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The Cardinals And Pujols Will Be On The Same Field Again

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Monday, July .1st 2013

albert_pujols

Albert Pujols led the St. Louis Cardinals in nearly every statistical category for over a decade. He was well on his way to being touted the greatest Cardinal of all-time, which would be a substantial honor given the history of the franchise. But all of that changed when the man from Kansas City shocked the baseball world and packed his backs for Anaheim, California on December 8th, 2011.  Since signing the 10 Year Deal with the Angels, Pujols has regressed both years in OPS (.859 in 2012, .752 in 2013 – which pales in comparison to his St. Louis Career OPS of 1.037 – or even his 2011 campaign of a .906 mark. It looks like letting Prince Albert go was a great decision!

By Landen Crouch (Cardinals Correspondent)

After a year and a half, 243 regular season baseball games, and 13 Postseason games, the time has finally arrived.  The St. Louis Cardinals and Albert Pujols will finally be on the same baseball field again.  

The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim will host the St. Louis Cardinals at Angel Stadium on Tuesday night at 10:05 ET.

I believe that at this point, Cardinals fans have moved on from the sting of the Pujols situation.  This is not the same level of hatred as the LeBron James saga in his return to Cleveland.  But, in a way, it is similar.  

Pujols signing with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (of California of the United States of North America of the Northern Hemisphere…etc) shocked everyone.  No one saw it coming.  It was literally as if he packed his bags and snuck out in the middle of the night.

Pujols tells reporter “[St. Louis] is where I wanna be.”

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Chicago Cubs Trade Candidates

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 Monday, July.1, 2013

Garza is currently 3-1 with a 3.83 ERA in 8 Starts so far in 2013. His career ERA is a nearly identical 3.84 which includes his time in a tough AL East. I think the Orioles need to take a run at him to get a true front-line starter as they are solid everywhere else.

Garza is currently 3-1 with a 3.83 ERA in 8 Starts so far in 2013. His career ERA is a nearly identical 3.84 which includes his time in a tough AL East. I think the Orioles need to take a run at him to get a true front-line starter as they are solid everywhere else.

By Ryan Dana (MLB Reports Writer and Red Sox Correspondent): 

As most Chicago Cubs fans probably know, an article entitled “Chicago Cubs Trade Candidates” will most certainly be talking about candidates to get shipped out-of-town, not imported in.

The Chicago Cubs haven’t had much luck recently. It seems like they have been stuck in the basement of the NL Central for far too long, and they aren’t about to get out of it in 2013. However, maybe there are brighter days on the horizon.

Theo Epstein made a winner out of the Boston Red Sox and brought championships to a club in a drought of similar proportions to the Cubs. He has started the rebuild, and in my opinion is relatively close to putting together a contender.

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30 MLB Team Power Rankings: Week 14

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Monday July.01/2013

The Bucs have won 9 straight games and now possess a record of 51 - 30.  You have to think that the club will put the nail in the coffin on its 20 year losing streak - with just needing to win 31 of their 81 games remaining.  Better yet, ESPN has them listed as a 88 Percent chance to make the playoffs for the first time since the 1992 season.  At the halfway point in the season, the Bucs have the best record in the MLB - and have reached #2 in our power rankings

The Bucs have won 9 straight games and now possess a record of 51 – 30. You have to think that the club will finally put the nail in the coffin on its 20 year losing streak – with just needing to win 31 of their 81 games remaining. Better yet, ESPN has them listed as a 88 Percent chance to make the playoffs for the first time since the 1992 season. At the halfway point in the season, the Bucs have the best record in the MLB – and have reached #2 in our power rankings.

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

Another Week has come and gone in the MLB.

Week Stats Ending – June.29/2013

(MLB Reports) AL Hitter Of The Week –  Jason Kipnis (CLE – He reached base 24 times in the 8 games (14 hits, 9 Walks and 1 HBP) – with 3 HRs, 6 – 2B, 9 Runs and 11 RBI.  He hit .519 for the week).

Runners up were:  Miguel Cabrera (DET – OPS of 1.583, with 4 HRs and 7 RBI), Dustin Pedroia (BOS – .560 BA, 14 hits), and Raul Ibanez (SEA – OPS of 1.455 – 3 HRs and 5 RBI.)

(MLB Reports) AL Pitcher Of The Week–  R.A. Dickey (TOR – 2 hit CG Shutout versus the Tampa Bay Rays.)

Runners up were: Koji Uehara (BOS – 3 Perfect Saves) and Joe Blanton LAA (1 – 0, with a 1.88 ERA in 2 GS). Read the rest of this entry

The Reds Outlook Till The All Star Break

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Wednesday, June.26th, 2013

Joey Votto might not be hitting with the same kind of authority as a few years back, however he still has a 3 Slash of .325/.439/.963 - with 14 HRs and 38 RBI

Joey Votto might not be hitting with the same kind of authority as a few years back, however he still has a 3 Slash of .325/.439/.963 – with 14 HRs and 38 RBI,  The Canadian 1B is also on pace for a Career High in Hits (probably near 200 Hits.)

Richie Devotie (Guest Baseball Writer):

Well it’s that time of year again, we are almost to the all star break of 2013 ( My How time fly’s by when you’re having fun ). I am going to take a look at the Reds on what they have have done in first half of ’13.

Jay Bruce has been on fire since his twitter rant. Is the last 29 games he has played., Bruce is batting .292 with – 11 Homeruns and 23 knocked in. This just might be on of, his best ever hot streaks.  In  a 7 Game Stretch last week, he had 7 Tater Trots!

Center Fielder Shin-Soo Choo has cooled down a lot in June, but still has a OBP of .421 – and Leads the majors with 20 HBP ( Hit by Pitches ).  Choo is 4 short of a club record held by C Jason LaRue ( 24 HBP ). I don’t think he will approach the NL Single Season Record of 50 (set by Ron Hunt of the Expos in 1971), however it is still an astounding feat – and a tough way to make it aboard base.

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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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St. Louis Cardinals: Mid-June Report

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Wednesday, June 19th, 2013

Cardinals

The St. Louis Cardinals are 20 games over .500 in their first 70 games. In 2005, the last time the Cardinals won 100 Games in a season, the team also started 45-25.  Even after dropping Game #71, the St. Louis team holds the best record in the MLB – and hold a 2.5 Games lead over the Cincinnati Reds in the NL Central.

By Landen Crouch (Cardinals Correspondent)

Seventy games down.  Twenty games over .500.   A record of 18-9 against National League Central Division opponents.  The St. Louis Cardinals have been a model of success thus far in 2013.  

May was a record-setting month for the St. Louis Cardinals, tying the franchise record for most wins with a whopping 20 victories.  So far this season, the St. Louis Cardinals are playing as good of baseball as they have played in years.  

They are well on pace for a 100-plus-win season.  For Cardinal fans everywhere, this season has been a ton of fun to watch.  

Just how good are these St. Louis Cardinals, though?  

Cardinals Mash 5 Home Runs In Route Over Diamondbacks:

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NL: MVP Rankings: Race Remains Close In Late June

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Wednesday, June.19/2013

Troy Tulowitzki just broke his ribs  - and cant ever seem to keep healthy. He is hitting .347/.413/1.048 with 16 HRs and 51 RBI out of the Shortstop position.  The Rockies are startling to lose without him in the lineup - just like last season, when they dropped 93 games with Tulo only playing in 47 Games

Troy Tulowitzki just broke his ribs – and cant ever seem to keep healthy. He is hitting .347/.413/1.048 with 16 HRs and 51 RBI out of the Shortstop position. (MVP like numbers for sure). The Rockies are startling to lose without him in the lineup – just like last season, when they dropped 93 games with Tulo only playing in 47 Games.

Jake Dal Porto (MLB Reports Writer)

The regular season has finally reached the point where the “it’s early,” or “it’s too small of a sample size” excuses are no longer accurate. Most of the regulars are closing in on 300 plate appearances.

The race in the NL is extremely close, and it will become close now that Troy Tulowitzki is on the shelf for at least four weeks. Tulowitzki’s injury could also effect Carlos Gonzalez’s case if the Rockies aren’t able to stay afloat in a tightly-contested National League West division.

Tulowitzki’s 2013 Highlights – Mature Lyrics – so Parental Guidance is Advised

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Milwaukee Brewers: Analyzing Yovani Gallardo’s Trade Market

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Tuesday, June.18/2013

Gallardo has been a good pitcher for the Milwaukee Brewers in his Career.  He is 75 - 49 (.605) with a 3.70 ERA.  He is coming off two seasons in a row during 2011 and 2012, where he was north of 200 IP.  So far this campaign, he has lugged 87.2 IP in his NL Leading 15 Starts

Gallardo has been a good pitcher for the Milwaukee Brewers in his Career. He is 75 – 49 (.605) with a 3.70 ERA. He is coming off two seasons in a row during 2011 and 2012, where he was north of 200 IP. So far this campaign, he has lugged 87.2 IP in his NL Leading 15 Starts.  The RHP is in the 4th year of a 5 YR/$30 MIL dollar contract.  He will make $7.75 MIL in 2013, $11.25 MIL in 2014 – and there is a $13 MIL Team Option in 2015 – or a 600K Buyout.  He will make roughly $15 MIL in his contract for the remainder of this year – and the duration of next years salary.

Jake Dal Porto (MLB Reports Writer)

The inevitable fire sale is looming for the last-place Milwaukee Brewers, and among their collection of tradable pieces, Yovani Gallardo will likely be their most sought out asset.

Gallardo has whirled 14 scoreless innings over his past two starts. The Brewers couldn’t be happier because his trade value is gradually increasing after a brutal start to the season. However, Gallardo’s value wasn’t as high as it once was. It will take a few more scoreless innings before he can get back to that point.

Milwaukee might be wise to hold onto him for another year to see if he can bolster his stock. But that approach also entails negative consequences. He ages a year older, and more importantly, there’s always the chance that his stock is further dented.

So, let’s see what Gallardo’s current market is for this year’s trade deadline:

Yovani Gallardo Highlights – Mature Lyrics so Parental Guidance is Advised.

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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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Blue Jays And Dodgers Are Done In 2013: Stick A Fork In Them: Angels Are Marinating!

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Thursday June.13/2013

The Dodgers don't lead the Majors in many categories this year (except for Bench clearing brawls).  The 1st incident with the Padres cost them Greinke with a broken clavicle.  He will likely be suspended for more games today.  Who else will be suspended??  We should find out from baseball today.  Meanwhile the team is 28 - 37 - and 11 Games behind Arizona

The Dodgers don’t lead the Majors in many categories this year (except for Bench clearing brawls). The 1st incident with the Padres cost them Greinke with a broken clavicle. He will likely be suspended for more games. Who else will be suspended?? We should find out from baseball today. Meanwhile the team is 28 – 37 – and 11 Games behind Arizona.

It is time to call it like it is – and back it up with some cold hard facts.  As a former professional oddsmaker, I understand why the ESPN page lists the Blue Jays at a 2.8% chance to make the playoffs – and the Dodgers just slightly better at 2.9%. 

The math involved is not even as complicated as Sabermetrics.  I will show you how they have derived this notion.  The fanbases will always tell you that they are one big winning streak away from jumping back into the mix. 

They would be right some of the time (Note the 2007 and 2009 Rockies, the 2012 Athletics, the 2011 Cardinals and Rays also made up around 10 Games deficits for playoff spots even in September).

I can also think of the 2005 Astros flying off the wall in the second half to earn a playoff spot.

Here is why these two teams are deep trouble.

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MLB Power Rankings: Week 11

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Tuesday June.11/2013

David Ortiz is providing the kind of difference at the DH position that is an automatic advantage for the Boston Red Sox.  The 37 Year Old has hit for a 3 Slash Line of .314/.395/1.018 - accounting for 13 HRs and 48 RBI in his 46 Games.  The DH position was created for one dimensional players like '''Big Papi", however teams are not imploring awesome players for the slot.

David Ortiz is providing the kind of difference at the DH position that is an automatic advantage for the Boston Red Sox. The 37 Year Old has hit for a 3 Slash Line of .314/.395/1.018 – accounting for 13 HRs and 48 RBI in his 46 Games. The DH position was created for one-dimensional players like ”’Big Papi”, however teams are not imploring awesome players for the slot.  Most teams use the Designated Hitter for position players that are nursing injuries.  The Red Sox have seen their best run in franchise history with the big man.  Later in this article, I will post a link on how valuable DH’s have been in the last 20 years in Major League Baseball AL Pennant Winners.  More often than not, you need a great DH.  Ortiz is signed through 2014 at $13 MIL for the next 2 campaigns.  One of the better deals signed in the offseason

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

Another Week has come and gone in the MLB.

(MLB Reports) AL Hitter Of The Week – David Ortiz has come up clutch in leading the Bo Sox to a season – high 15 games over .500 with many game changing hits like last week. 

Having the best offensive DH is a decisive difference compared to the rest of league.  If everyone remembers, the 2012 Red Sox actually skirted near .500 until ‘Big Papi’ went down with his injury.

DH article from 1992 – 2011 here

Runners up were: Howie Kendrick, Josh Donaldson, Adam Lind, all had strong weeks – especially for Batting Averages, but Ortiz had late inning heroics that changed the outcome for his team out of his 3 HRs and 9 RBI.

(MLB Reports) AL Pitcher Of The Week – Jarrod Parker

The Oakland A’s Chucker went 2 – 0, with a 1.35 ERA.  He has thrown 6 Straight Quality Starts – and has won 5 of his last 6 decisions after starting the year 0 – 5.

Runners Up were  Jeremy Hellickson and Clay Buchholz,

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MLB Mock Rule4 Draft 2013

a 2013 MLB Draft

MLB Mock Draft 

Before I start I just want to say that baseball is a very tough game so when I say he can be a all star or that he can have a curveball that is just unhittable – it may not happen……. and actually is very doubtful to fully reach the ceiling. Read the rest of this entry

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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Out In Left Field: The Reds Injury Stricken Situation

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Wednesday, June.05/2013

ong will Ludwick be out? Early optimism suggested that Ludwick could be back around the All-Star break. However, in the last week or so, it’s been made clear that it’s going to be longer than that. “People seem to be under the impression that I’ll be back in the middle of July and that’s a complete lie,” Ludwick told the Cincinnati Enquirer. “I can’t even resume baseball activities until July 3, so it’s at least the middle of August. I can’t even throw a baseball or swing a bat until July. I’ve got a whole lot of stuff to do. I’ve got to get in baseball shape as they call it. You take three, four months from throwing a baseball, it’s going to take a while to get your arm back in shape.”  The OF hit for a 3 Slash Line .275/.346/.877 - with 26 HRs and 80 RBI in just 422 At-Bats in 2012.  Ludwick signed a 2 YR deal with the Reds worth $15 MIL over the winter.

How long will Ludwick be out? Early optimism suggested that he could be back around the All-Star break. However, in the last week or so, it’s been made clear that it’s going to be longer than that. “People seem to be under the impression that I’ll be back in the middle of July and that’s a complete lie,” Ludwick told the Cincinnati Enquirer. “I can’t even resume baseball activities until July 3, so it’s at least the middle of August.I can’t even throw a baseball or swing a bat until July. I’ve got a whole lot of stuff to do. I’ve got to get in baseball shape as they call it. You take three, four months from throwing a baseball, it’s going to take a while to get your arm back in shape.”

By Matt Steinmann (Reds Correspondent)

On Opening Day 2013, when Reds left fielder Ryan Ludwick went down with a shoulder injury, it was a rather sinking feeling. After having overall good luck with health last season, it was clear that the Reds weren’t going to have quite that luck this season.

Then the bigger questions arose, will Chris Heisey finally prove he can play everyday, and how long will Ludwick be out? 

Unfortunately, the bad luck didn’t stop there. Chris Heisey, after 17 starts (in 23 appearances) in Left Field, ended up on the DL at the end of April with a right hamstring injury.

Although his batting average was a measly .173, his defense was solid, 37 Put Outs in 38 Chances, and 0 errors. He looked to be close to returning a couple of weeks ago, before re-aggravating the injury on a rehab assignment at AA Pensacola.

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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

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