Blog Archives
MLB Schedule June 2014
Do yourself a favor and read this blog on the 30 MLB Park Pass-Port here
Before You read the Month Schedule for June 2014, just wanted to say that MLB Reports is going to be the best website on the planet for MLB 2014 scheduling.
For Weekly/Monthly MLB Schedules or all 2430 MLB games in 2014 on 1 page post – find the links master grid right here Read the rest of this entry
MLB Schedule May 2014
Do yourself a favor and read this blog on the 30 MLB Park Pass-Port here
Before You read the Month Schedule for May 2014, just wanted to say that MLB Reports is going to be the best website on the planet for MLB 2014 scheduling.
For Weekly/Monthly MLB Schedules or all 2430 MLB games in 2014 on 1 page post – find the links master grid right here Read the rest of this entry
Interleague Master Schedule For The 2014 MLB Season
Do yourself a favor and read this blog on the 30 MLB Park Pass-Port here
In this blog, we look at the start times, plus home an away teams for all of the Interleague schedule during the 2014 season.
For Weekly/Monthly MLB Schedules or all 2430 MLB games in 2014 on 1 page post – find the links master grid right here
MLB 2014 March – April Schedule – Includes All Home Openers
Ballpark Chaser Guides Links Courtesy of http://www.ballparkchasers.com:
Also do yourself a favor and read this blog on the 30 MLB Park Pass-Port here
Before You read the Month Schedule for March-April/2014, here are 30 Links to Ballpark Chaser Guides, that will aid you in your road trip quests.
American League
AL EAST
Yankee Stadium, Bronx, NY (New York Yankees)
Fenway Park, Boston, MA (Boston Red Sox)
Rogers Centre, Toronto, ON (Toronto Blue Jays)
Tropicana Field, St. Petersburg, FL (Tampa Bay Rays)
Oriole Park, Baltimore, MD (Baltimore Orioles)
AL CENTRAL
Comerica Park, Detroit, MI (Detroit Tigers)
U.S. Cellular, Chicago, IL (Chicago White Sox)
Progressive Field, Cleveland, OH (Cleveland Indians)
Target Field, Minneapolis, MN (Minnesota Twins)
Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City, MO (Kansas City Royals)
AL WEST
Angel Stadium of Anaheim, Anaheim, CA (Los Angeles Angels)
Rangers Ballpark, Arlington, TX (Texas Rangers)
Minute Maid Park, Houston, TX (Houston Astros)
Safeco Field, Seattle, WA (Seattle Mariners)
O.co Coliseum, Oakland, CA (Oakland Athletics)
National League
NL EAST
Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia, PA (Philadelphia Phillies)
Nationals Park, Washington, DC (Washington Nationals)
Marlins Park, Miami, FL (Miami Marlins)
Citi Field, Flushing, NY (New York Mets)
Turner Field, Atlanta, GA (Atlanta Braves)
NL CENTRAL
Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati, OH (Cincinnati Reds)
Miller Park, Milwaukee, WI (Milwaukee Brewers)
Wrigley Field, Chicago, IL (Chicago Cubs)
PNC Park, Pittsburgh, PA (Pittsburgh Pirates)
Busch Stadium, St. Louis, MO (St. Louis Cardinals)
NL WEST
AT&T Park, San Francisco, CA (San Francisco Giants)
Petco Park, San Diego, CA (San Diego Padres)
Chase Field, Phoenix, AR (Arizona Diamondbacks)
Coors Field, Denver, CO (Colorado Rockies)
Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles, CA (LA Dodgers) Read the rest of this entry
All 30 MLB Parks In 21 Days – 2014?
All 2430 games will be posted at MLB reports, and we will also have schedules for interleague, doable doubleheaders attempts at parks, weekly, monthly and a running page with all games on 1 page post. All at http://www.mlbreports.com. I have spent thousands of hours dissecting the MLB schedule for the last 7 years. It helped aid me in becoming the fastest human ever to witness (every pitch for all 30 MLB home games) – when I made it to all stadiums in 23 calendar days from Apr.6th – Apr.28/2012. I broke my own record that was set in 2009 (30 – 24). It takes countless hours figuring out geography, finances – and setting up contingency plans if you fail at a game. You will see a snippet of my work here.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
I haven’t been able to sleep for a few days. After blowing off the snail speed website of http://www.mlb.com for not converting the last 7 teams home start times, I decided to try my luck with http://www.espn.com.
Much to my delight, they have posted all of the games times for all 30 MLB clubs – in coordination with the teams doing so themselves on their own sites.
I have done this for the last 7 years. Yes, it is sad in a way, but we all have our vices in life, mine just happens to be the master schedule for Major League Baseball.
My interest this year was ramped up even more when Craig Calcaterra wrote a blog about how somebody was doing 30 Ballparks in 30 days.
I am not going to say this is not still a great feat – because it is, I just wish he would have taken 5 seconds to google the record holder for “Fastest To See All 30 MLB Ballparks.”
Once again, this wasn’t done, so half of the story wasn’t told.
For those that have followed this website over the course of 2011 – 2014, or even have been a part of ballparkchasers.com – will be aware we have a fraternity of insane stadium goers.
ALL Games Attended – you must be there from 1st to last pitch. You have to go to all 30 parks before returning to another one, otherwise it starts all over.
For Weekly/Monthly MLB Schedules or all 2430 MLB games in 2014 on 1 page post – find the links master grid right here
Odds To Win The MLB 2014 World Series As Of Right Now
With spending $503 MIL on contracts this winter, the Bronx Bombers have gone from an odd of +1500 to +1200. They are still behind Detroit, Boston and Texas in the odds and are 7th overall in the MLB.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Right on cue with the Masahiro Tanaka signing, the Yankees jumped from +1400 to +1200 to win the World Series. if you heeded my advice, you received them at the 1st odd.
it was the 2nd recommendation that came in really nicely. I also said the Mariners were great value at +4000, and once they signed Robinson Cano, they vaulted to +3300.
So who is a bigger longshot to win the World Series now. The Gambling Pundits, dropped the Rays to +2000 now. It is now one of the best value picks on the board.
I finally decided to put my money where my mouth is with a wager. After the Superbowl, I will likely throw down so more cash.
Odds To Win The MLB 2014 World Series As Of Right Now
Odds To Win The 2014 World Series
1. LA Dodgers +700
2. Washington Nationals +800
3. Detroit Tigers +900
T4. St. Louis Cardinals +1000
T4. Boston Red Sox +1000
6. Texas Rangers +1100
T7. Oakland Athletics +1400
T7. Atlanta Braves +1400
T7. New York Yankees +1400
T10. LA Angels +1500
T10. Cincinnati Reds +1500
T12. Tampa Bay Rays +1800
T12. Toronto Blue Jays +1800
T14. Kansas City Royals +2500
T14. Cleveland Indians +2500
T14. San Francisco Giants +2500
T14. Pittsburgh Pirates +2500
T14. Baltimore Orioles +2500
T19. Arizona Diamondbacks +3300
T19. Seattle Mariners +3300
21. Philadelphia Phillies +3500
22. Milwaukee Brewers +4000
23. Chicago White Sox +4500
T24. Chicago Cubs +5500
T24. Colorado Rockies +5500
26. San Diego Padres +6600
T27. Minnesota Twins +8000 (+7700)
T27. New York Mets +8000 (+7700)
29. Miami Marlins +10000 (+10000)
30. Houston Astros +25000 (+25000)
odds brought to you by www.bet365.com
Updated Odds To Win The 2014 MLB World Series As Of Right Now: A – Rod Suspension Could Affect These
People so egotistical as Rodriguez can’t be humble enough to realize that playing MLB Baseball is a privilege not a right. He has sullied the game, alienating teammates, and now has sent his lawyers on a stupid campaign versus the MLB and the Yankees. It was time to make an example out of him. They did just that when the Arbitrator reduced his suspension from 211 games to 162 games. While it wasn’t the full amount of games, it was 97 more than Ryan Braun’s previous record of a 65 game ban. The Yankees will save $22 – $23 MIL on the ordeal, and will either sign Tanaka or stay under the $189 MIL mark to reset their penalty for the 2015 season. Patrick Smith – Getty Images
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
With a pretty slow week for movements in the MLB, I think the Yankees had the best news with the Alex Rodriguez suspension for the whole year on Saturday.
The worst news of the week happened for the Texas Rangers, who will be without Starting Derek Holland for half of the 2014 MLB campaign because of his freak accident.
Also, the Dodgers and Yankees are still said to be the leaders on the Masahiro Tanaka sweepstakes.
Among other news, Carlos Gonzalez also had emergency appendectomy surgery Friday Night.
While I have recently said Colorado is decent value at their World Series odd (+5500 as a good value pick), I would hold off until the team plays in Spring Training to see how he responds.
Alex Rodriguez Suspension Announced
The Los Angeles Dodgers Players In All Organizational Affiliates, Prospects + Depth Charts (MLB + MiLB) 2014
Puig slowed down a shade from his torrid 1st month pace – however still slashed .319/.392/.925 – with 19 HRs, 42 RBI. 66 Runs Scored and 122 Hits in just 434 AB for the 2013 year. He has now in the 2nd YR of a 7 YR/$42 MIL contract in his pocket, and that may be the bargain of ALL – Time if he continues these type of numbers all the way throughout his length of the deal. Puig, 23, finished in 2nd for NL Rookie of The Year Voting, and placed 15th in NL MVP balloting as well.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024 & Jeff Kleiner (Org. Depth Chart Expert) Follow @prosportsroster
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The Los Angeles Dodgers had a rollercoaster 2013 campaign. After a late season 2012 trade, the club went on a spending bonanza to enter the 2013 year.
In late May. it looked bleak. The franchise wanted to fire Don Mattingly, Matt Kemp and Hanley Ramirez were battling various injuries, and the club was 23 – 32.
Enter Yasiel Puig with his historic 1st month, and the team then went on a torrid pace at that hadn’t been done in nearly 60 years.
The crux of this crestwave, was a 42 – 8 stretch that saw the club bypass all 4 Division foes, putting a stranglehold on the NL West once and for all.
Dodgers own the West
Some MLB Teams Need To Place Their Starting Times For The Majority Of Their Schedules Earlier
The Rays are always at the bottom for attendance in the Major Leagues, so it boggles my mind how they can’t have their game times for the next year up that quick. Weather is never a factor at all, and they have no geographical MLB teams remotely close to them. The Royals and the Padres are also teams that do not post their times early enough – while sagging at the gates.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
I am a big fan of the MLB posting their schedules so early compared to other sporting entities. However with this being said, there are several teams who have not completed their start times for the majority of their home ballparks 2014 campaign yet.
My question is, why the hell not?
In an economy starving for our entertainment dollar, what is the hold up?
Look I am all for the quirks in the variances for each club based on ESPN Sunday night baseball, heck, even coordinating with the other geographical rivals in your area, to have the most potential ticket buyers head through the wickets at your turnstiles.
As of right now, the Tigers, Astros, Rays, Angels, Red Sox, Rangers, Padres, Indians, Royals, Braves, and White Sox have not posted these. Read the rest of this entry
Updated Odds To Win The 2014 MLB World Series As Of Right Now:
The Blue Jays were the odds on favorite to win the World Series in 2013 among oddsmakers. After a failure of a season, these guys are still placing way too much faith in the team. To have them listed as tied with the Rays for the 12th best odd to win the World Series is a joke. Stay away from this bet. The odd should be +3000 – and not +1800. Toronto is listed as tied for the 3rd favorite in the AL East, behind Boston and New York respectively. It could really be another last place finish in the Division for the Canadian franchise.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The top 12 clubs have opened up a little lead on all of the guys tied for 14th, which includes the Royals and Indians (more of a longshot, but +300 and +200 more respectively.
The Dodgers continue to be the current leaders to take home the prize. If they are able to land Masahiro Tanaka for any reason, their +700 will be even lower.
I still think the Rangers are a bit of a bargain at +1100. They are behind Boston and Detroit in the AL leaderboard.
I would wait for to place a bet on the Boston Red Sox, if you are so inclined, because they are said to be out of the running. Since this is the case, whomever shall acquire the NPB superstar, their odds will lower – and Boston may rise after.
The AL East is reigning supreme in this with 4 of the top 12 spots being positioned by them. The worst Division is the AL Central who only possess 1 member in the top 12.
The Yankees were +1500 last week, and now have moved up to +1400 with the A’s and the Braves.
Again, if they are to bring Tanaka in the fold, I believe they will blow the luxury tax out of the water next year. If you want to bet this club to win, I suggest you do so now.
Next to the totals, I have weighed in on what I think the odd should be. Read the rest of this entry
Updated Odds To Win The 2014 MLB World Series As Of Right Now: Tanaka Could Influence These Later
Masahiro Tanaka has finally been posted by his team from the NPBL (Golden Lions). Mark my words, with the exception of a crazy bid coming from the Dodgers way out West, no one will outbid the Yankees for this guys services. Based on his age and wherewithal, the Pinstripers can alter their immediate future by landing the 25 Year Old Japanese Phenom. If they spend the $125 MIL – $140 MIL for a 6 or 7 year total ($20 MIL post, plus player contract, look for them to blow their $189 MIL budget out of control in 2014, – and opt to reset in 2015 instead.) Tanaka was 24 – 0 – with a miniscule 1.27 ERA in 2013.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Since nothing has changed since last week, I have two bets for you to take – and one for you to avoid.
As I mentioned last Saturday, the Rangers have confirmed on the Shin-Soo Choo signing. In my expert opinion this should have moved the line on Texas.
Instead, they are still the 3rd favorite to win the World Series coming out of the AL.
This is not right. Maybe I could see the Tigers still ahead of them based on the Division they are in, but the Red Sox have no business being ahead of them.
The Best Of Masahiro Tanaka
Final 2013 Major League Attendances In The MLB
The “Trop” was frequented less in 2013 than any other MLB stadium and it is a shame. The team has made 4 playoff spots in the last 6 years, has the 2nd best record in the game since the start of the 2008 campaign (NYY are 1st) and are sniffing the AL East crown out every year. Tropicana Field has been the only MLB Park for the Rays. Unfortunately the club has a lease that runs through the year 2027. There have been several talks of a downtown Tampa Stadium right off of Highway 4. All have plans have been derailed. With limited revenues generated playing out of Tropicana Field, it will be tough to keep doing this year after year, however the management had the good foresight to see the MLB game switching back to more pitching and defense. With some of the best players on the club locked up under team control, the management has been able to overcome all of these obstacles to field a competitive club.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
It is funny how all of the top Free Agents have been signing with the American League teams in recent years.
Out of the 1.5 Billion Dollars in contracts offered this winter to guys, more than 1.1 Billion of those bucks have been given to guys like the M’s Robinson Cano (10 YRs.$240 MIL), Jacoby Ellsbury (7 YRs/$153 MIL), Shin-Soo Choo (7 YRs/$130 MIL) and potentially 6 YRs/$100 MIL for Brian McCann (5 YRs/85 MIL is guaranteed.).
For these reasons, you would think the AL is dominating the attendance every year.
As you will read here, they are not.
New Marlins BallPark 2012
Updated Odds To Win The 2014 World Series As Of Right Now
Grant Balfour is a fiery Aussie, and has every right to be mad at the Baltimore Orioles. Tests have shown his arm is no different from it was a few years ago. Baltimore clearly decided at the last-minute to weasel out of the deal. The 35 Year Old has vowed revenge on Dan Duquette. I hope he signs on with the Rays or Yankees – because then they play the O’s 19 times a year. You think Balfour is fired up to enter games – wait till he is called upon in games versus Baltimore from this point forward. On a side note, with the Orioles penny-pinching their way through this winter, do not pick them to win anything in 2014. Not very smart when you a have a tepid fanbase to begin with. If the team has a shaky start, attendance and apathy will start.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
It was a controversial week for the Baltimore Orioles, who had signed Grant Balfour to a 2 YR/$15.0 MIL contract – before backing out at the last second.
The O’s are tied with the Pirates and GIants for the 16th best odd to win the World Series. While I believe there is great value with the other two teams stated there, Baltimore has had a brutal off-year.
My hunch is that they are going to sign Fernando Rodney instead. Bad move fella’s. You missed the ball on this one, not only that, i think you have pissed off your faithful fans at Camden Yards.
If this club doesn’t pull off any significant player to come into the fold, the walkup crowds will be lessened.
Balfour lights up Martinez verbally – Swearing involved here, parental guidance is advised
The Final Tallies On All 30 MLB Teams Payroll In 2013
The A’s wrapped up their 16th AL West Title in 46 years since moving to Oakland in late September of this previous campaign. They have clinched the Division at home the last 2 years. It is even more impressive when they have been 29th and 27th in the team payroll respectively during that time span.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The bills have been totaled up, and the final dollars have been put forth – to have the team salaries for all 30 MLB teams.
These totals reflect the 40 man rosters the clubs all carried in 2013, and what position they finished in cash wise versus the other 29 franchises.
We will definitely have many of different articles this offseason, dissecting all of these numbers.
With all of the Free Agents signed recently inked to big deals like: Robinson Cano, Jacoby Ellsbury, Hunter Pence, Brian McCann and Curtis Granderson, we should a bigger spike across the board in 2014.
A’s Win Back To Back AL WEST Titles
Updated Odds To Win The 2014 World Series As Of Right Now
While I believe the Dodgers will win the NL West – and also represent that league in the World Series for 2014, the odds for betting them are not there. As the favorite, you can’t make any money. The Giants (+2500), D’Backs (+3300) and Rockies (+5500) all represent great value – considering all of them have already upgraded their franchises over this winter.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
9 days ago I posted my last article on these odds. One of my captions was to pick the Mariners at +4000 for a couple of bucks considering they may land Robinson Cano.
A day later they did, and now they are trading at +3300. The M’s also picked up Corey Hart and Logan Morrison in separate transactions. I still the team is a good bet at that value mark.
If they were to trade for David Price (by packaging Taijuan Walker, Nick Franklin, another prospect and maybe a relief pitcher, they would have 3 dominant top pitchers, plus a young fireballer in James Paxton still.
This team would vaguely resemble the type of squad the Giants were in 2010. A great deal of pitching and a decent enough offense. Read the rest of this entry
Brian Wilson Re-signs For 2014 With The Dodgers – And Potentially In 2015 Too
Brian Wilson was given a 1 YR/$10 MIL deal with the Dodgers, that also has him having a Player Option for the 2015 year at $9 MIL. If Wilson has a great year in 2014, it will still benefit the Dodgers, but at the same time it may have been the deciding factor in retaining ‘The Beard’s’ services. Wilson has a 3.11 ERA in 333.2 IP worth of work in career, with 171 Saves in 196 Chances for an 87.2 % conversion Rate, Wilson is a 3 Time ALL – Star and 2 time World Series Winner. His winning pedigree will continue to be cherished in the Dodgers Pitching Relief Core.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twiter Follow @mlbreports
Brian Wilson is a California guy now through and through and I couldn’t be happier that my favorite player of ALL – Time is still playing his home games as the closest park to my residence in Bakersfield, CA.
The Dodgers and Wilson both agreed on a 1 YR/$10 MIL in 2014 – with a $9 MIL Player Option in 2015 for the man originally from Londonderry, NH.
Wilson will turn 32 before next season, and has successfully returned from 2 Tommy John Surgeries to resume his career.
2013 saw him only give up 1 ER in his 24 Appearances – combining both the regular and post season in 19.2 IP – good for an ERA of 0.47 in that time frame.
Brian Wilson Contract Explained
Updated Odds To Win The 2014 World Series As Of Right Now
The last time the Tigers won a World Series was 1984. They have not improved their chances quite yet in the offseason. Absolute worst odd on the board as the #3 favorite
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
It is unbelievable to me that the oddsmakers are giving the Angels and Blue Jays a better chance to win next year’s World Series trophy – over the San Francisco Giants and Pittsburgh Pirates.
The two defending LCS champions are listed as tied for 4th at +1000, meaning you would win 1000 dollars for every 100 dollars wagered.
The Yankees are given the same amount of odd to win next year as the Atlanta Braves and the Oakland A’s. Based on these projections, these guys have the Yankees potentially making the playoffs.
While I am a fan of the Bronx Bombers, this is a poor odd value, so STAY AWAY. Wait for the Yankees to at least sign 2 – 3 Starting Pitchers before you place that kind of wager.
Let It Ride scene – A great way to find out who to bet
Finally, Some Worth While Free Agents Sign In The MLB 2013 Winter!
With his career winding down and Tim Hudson being 38 years old, will he be able to recover from a gruesome ankle injury in 2014 with the SF Giants? Mr. Hudson was 114 – 72 (.611) in 9 seasons with the Braves – with a 3.56 ERA. He will make his return to the Bay Area in California, where he started his 1st 6 years with the Oakland A’s.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twiter Follow @mlbreports
After playing Baseball Stars 1 and 2 on my old Nintendo Entertainment System for 3 weeks, I was happy to receive my baseball fix from the MLB once again..
Yesterday, a slew of Free Agents signed.. Okay… not true….2 noteworthy players inked deals to prolong their careers.
I am talking about Tim Hudson signing a 2 YR/$23 MIL with the Giants, and Carlos Ruiz, signing a 3 Year Deal worth potentially $26.5 MIL, with a Team Option for a 4th year at $4.5 MIL.
Tim Hudson’s 2013 Season Ending Ankle Injury – Not for the weak of heart!
Arizona May Have To Rethink Their Team Salary In The NL West With High Spending LA + SF
The Arizona Diamondbacks didn’t have the type of year in 2013 that they had wished for, however the future looks really strong. Aided by a slugging 1st Baseman (Paul Goldschmidt), and great young Staring Pitching like Wade Miley and Patrick Corbin, added with Veterans Miguel Montero, Martin Prado and Aaron Hill, with prospects A.J. Pollock and Adam Eaton being the future core, this team should see some heavy duty improvement from year to year. Having said this, they compete with the two most expensive payrolls in the NL – in their Division with the Dodgers and Giants.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Chase Field is a pretty cool ballpark. The Diamondbacks have been often voted as one of the better organizations in the MLB for how they treat their fanbases for guest services, value and overall baseball experiences.
While the D’Backs finished in 14th for NL Attendance this year, they cracked the 2 Million fan barrier for the 15th straight year since entering the league.
Over the last 8 years, the team has kept comfortably between 2.0 MIL and 2.5 MIL.
Back in the first few seasons of MLB in the desert, the franchise was drawing well over 3 Million fans..
Paul Goldschmidt 2013 Highlights
The Colorado Rockies Players, Organizational Affiliates, Prospects + Depth Charts (MLB + MiLB)
Troy Tulowitzki is one of the best all-round shortstops in baseball. he plays Gold Glove caliber defense, and he actually hits well pretty much anywhere whether home (.934 OPS) and Away (.819 OPS). The team always plays better with their franchise Shortstop is in the lineup – and they have a punchers chance to compete in their Division. In 2013, he hit for a 3 Slash Line of .312/.391/.932 – with 23 HRS and 82 RBI in just 446 AB. The 28 Year Old missed 36 games this past campaign, and that cost him a chance to win the NL MVP, as he was an early favorite.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @mlbreports and Jeff Kleiner (Salary, Roster and Depth Chart Expert for the MLB) – visit his website here Follow @prosportsroster
For all of the Rosters, Depth Charts, State of the Unions and Salaries Posts that we do, please visit our dedicated page link her
The Rockies will enter the 2014 campaign without Todd Helton for the 1st time in 18 years. The team is always in a precarious situation when it comes to prospects, talented veteran’s, and an uncertainty of how the team will fare year to year.
Colorado has been a streaky club from 2007 – now. They made their only World Series Appearance ever in 2007, and the team has had chances for the playoffs most years that Troy Tulowitzki has played in significant AB.
The teams offensive prospects look great with Nolan Arenado, Jordan Pacheco. Dexter Fowler, Wilin Rosario and of course their big #2 Shortstop TULO. For the most part, this team has been able to develop within.
Yes Carlos Gonzalez was brought in by trade, but that was with the asset the team drafted in Matt Holliday.
Todd Helton: Look Back At A Franchise Player’s Career
Odds To Win The 2014 MLB World Series + Around The MLB Horn For Quick Team Wish Lists
The Red Sox may have won the 2013 World Series, but they are not the 2014 favorites. No team has repeated since the Yankees won 3 straight titles from 1998 – 2000.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Now that the Boston Red Sox have won the 2013 World Series, the oddsmakers have already dropped them, plus fellow 2013 Fall Classic Participants (St. Louis) to be tied for the 3rd seed, with the Washington Nationals.
A massive surprise on the list are the Los Angeles Angels, who will have the 6th favorite slot to win the World Series at +1400.
If you are looking for value, you should consider the Reds (Tied for the 8th seed) at +1600. They are merely a few players, and perhaps a few tweaks from going far in one of these playoffs.
2013 World Series Champion – Red Sox
Brian Wilson Has Earned Himself Some $$$ With His 2013 Showing: And Is The Best Relief Pitcher Left In The Playoffs!
From 2008-2011, Brian Wilson was one of the top closers in the Majors with 163 Saves. He Saved 48 Games with a 1.81 ERA only 3 years ago in 2010 for the World Champ Giants. He went through TJ Surgery for a 2nd time in April of 2012. He has since made an awesome comeback with the Dodgers, only giving up 1 ER in his Dodgers 24 Appearances, including 6 Scoreless frames in the 2013 playoffs. Who will give him a chance in 2014, by signing the pending Free Agent? Dodgers fans are hoping he stays.
Hunter Stokes (Featured Baseball Columnist): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
I am big Brian Wilson fan. Part of me was devastated when the Giants won the World Series in 2012, because he was not on the team.
I was happy to learn that he bid his time this season, made sure he was fully healed up from his 2nd Tommy John Surgery, and made a triumphant return with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
He could have rushed back in the spring, signed with another club, and tried haphazardly to work through his pitching in game action, however the man knows his body tweaks.
Brian Wilson as Captain Highlander on George Lopez Show
MLB’s Payroll Matters Part 2: Just Because Some Low Payroll Teams Have Bucked The Trend – Doesn’t Mean It Will Continue
It seems the only to way to build a team successfully – is to be atrocious for several (talking 6 – 8 seasons like the Twins, Nationals, Pirates, Rays in recent years – and now the Astros are following suit), stockpile top 5 Draft Picks, and have them all become your nucleus for a matter of a few seasons. The reason is because of Team Controllable Salaries. Teams like the Rays and Pirates have also held players in the Minor Leagues longer than needed – due to salary and Arbitration implications. I can think of Desmond Jennings, Wil Myers, Chris Archer for the Rays, while Gerrit Cole and Jeff Locke come to mind for the Bucs. If a player is ready for action in the Majors, he should playing – end of story.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Lets just take a look at the teams that have played well above their value. The Twins are a story much like the Marlins in 1997 and 2003.
The Twins had a good team in the late 80’s, and won 2 World Series Titles in 1987 and 1991. However the economics of the game hit them hard, and they struggled for an 8 year stretch in the AL Central.
For Part 1 of the MLB’s State Of the Union Part 1: Click here.
Major League Contraction Talk Again?
Odds To Win The 2013 MLB World Series + ALDS/NLDS Series + The ALCS/NLCS + Odds for 4 Games Fri Oct 4th/2013
Bartolo Colon is anchoring the rotation for the Athletics this season. He is not the strikeout pitcher he was in the past, but is still effective against the opposition. Colon has displayed great control this season. He starts tonight as the Game #1 Starter versus Max Scherzer. The Athletics and Rays are still the highest odds on the board at +800. I have already wagered on the Rays to win earlier in the season, and now have put $25 on the Athletics to take home the ultimate prize.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Odds To Win the World Series:
LA Dodgers +300
Boston Red Sox +375
St. Louis Cardinals +450
Detroit Tigers +475
Oakland Athletics +800
Tampa Bay Rays +800
Atlanta Braves +1300
Pittsburgh Pirates +1700
ODDS Courtesy of http://www.bet365.com
Ryu and Nolasco on facing the Braves in the NLDS
Interleague Master Schedule For The 2014 MLB Season
For the 2014 MLB Schedule Links Page – that has Monthly, Weekly, Daily, 30 MLB Teams and all 2430 Games for on 1 running Page Post, click here
Do yourself a favor and read this blog on the 30 MLB Park Pass-Port here
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The AL have won 13 out of the 17 years for Interleague play. The American League has also won every year since the start of the 2004 year.
1997: NL won 117 – 97 (.547) NL up yearly series 1 – 0
1998: AL won 114 – 110 (.509) Yearly series tied 1 – 1
1999: NL won 135 – 116 (.538) NL up yearly series 2 – 1
2000: AL won 136 – 115 (.542) Yearly series tied 2 – 2
2001: AL won 132 – 120 (.524) AL up yearly series 3 – 2
2002: NL won 129 – 123 ( .512) Yearly series tied 3 – 3
2003: NL won 137 – 115 (.544) NL up yearly series 4 – 3
2004: AL won 127 – 125 (.504) Yearly series tied 4 – 4
2005: AL won 136 – 116 (.540) AL up yearly series 5 – 4
2006: AL won 154 – 98 (.611) AL up yearly series 6 – 4
2007: AL won 137 – 115 (.544) AL up yearly series 7 – 4
2008: AL won 149 – 103 (.591) AL up yearly series 8 – 4
2009: AL won 154 – 98 (.611) AL up yearly series 9 – 4
2010: AL won 138 – 114 (.548) AL up yearly series 10 – 4
2011: AL won 134 – 118 (.532) AL up yearly series 11 – 4
2012: AL won 142 – 110 (.611) AL up yearly series 12 – 4
2013: AL won 154 – 146 (.513) AL up yearly series 13 – 4
2014: AL Won Season Series for the 11th straight campaign – yearly season series AL Up 14 – 4
SUN Sept.28, 2014 Results: NYM 8 HOU 3, 2014 – AL wins season series 163 – 137 (.543)
ALL Time: AL leads the NL 2353 – 2126 (.525)
See Ya All in 2015 for Interleague
2013 MLB Playoff Predictions By MLB Reports
In my view, Evan Longoria could end up being the MVP of the entire playoffs – with his penchant for being clutch in the last games of years. I am predicting the Tampa Bay Rays are going to win the World Series versus the LA Dodgers, iIf Wil Myers and Ben Zobrist help bashing the ball around, then this team is scary. Also picking up proven playoff performer Delmon Young (yes that guy) (HR’d last night – and is .266/.328/.887 – with 9 HRs and 16 RBI In 109 AB) was also a good move by the Rays brass. If these guys hit, the Pitching should do enough.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Okay, now that the Wild Card Games are over, I am 2 – 1 this week in predicting the outcomes of games. I had both Rays wins and lost with the Reds.
For those that have been reading my gambling pick posts, will also see that I have been discussing some of the odds posted for the playoffs. Check out those here.
I am not going with the masses this year, however I am picking 2 favorites and 2 underdogs in the 1st Round.
Really, I think the matchups are a lot more even than even some of the biggest betting industry odds are suggesting.
I may have also taken the Athletics all the way to the World Series if Cespedes wasn’t hampered by his injured Right Shoulder.
Yoenis Cespedes HR Derby Mashing
Odds To Win The 2013 MLB World Series + ALDS/NLDS Series + The ALCS/NLCS
In my view, the Rays are the best odd on the board at +800. With David Price, Matt Moore and Alex Cobb all pitching so well, and the team have the best coach in Joe Maddon, I am really surprised that they are tied with Oakland for the 3rd in the AL in terms of longshots to win the whole Fall Classic. The Rays won a Game 163 vs the Rangers and the Wild Card Game versus the Indians. It was their 9th straight game on the road. This team just finds a way to win.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Odds To Win the World Series:
Boston Red Sox +360
LA Dodgers +450
Detroit Tigers +475
St. Louis Cardinals +500
Atlanta Braves +700
Oakland Athletics +800
Tampa Bay Rays +800
Pittsburgh Pirates +1150
ODDS Courtesy of http://www.bet365.com
Rays Take Out The Indians 4 – 0
Odds To Win The 2013 World Series As Of Right Now + Playoff Notes Tues Oct.01 (+ Pick Of The Day)
The National League is up for grabs – and I can’t believe that the Reds are +1800 right now to win the World Series. If they win the Wild Card game, the team could be extremely dangerous afterwards. Honestly, the Indians and Rays should not be favored ahead of them. TIP OF THE DAY: Bet $53 on the Reds to win the World Series, for a win of $1007. Then to offset a loss today, wager $70.52 on the Pirates at -133. If the Bucs win, you break even, and if the Cincy club escapes PNC Park, you are alive for your big payday, having bet $123.52, however your payout would still be $1007.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Odds To Win the World Series:
Boston Red Sox +340
LA Dodgers +450
Detroit Tigers +500
St. Louis Cardinals +550
Atlanta Braves +700
Oakland Athletics +750
Tampa Bay Rays +1500
Cleveland Indians +1600
Pittsburgh Pirates +1600
Cincinnati Reds +1800
ODDS Courtesy of http://www.bet365.com
Rays Take Out The Rangers 5 – 2
Odds To Win The 2013 World Series As Of Right Now – Playoff Quick Notes Mon Sept.30
The Red Sox went worst to first in the AL East from last year to this year, and took the best record in the American League to boot along the way. The Boston club now will be able to sit around and watch 2 playoff games, in which their 1st round opponents will throw 1 if not 2 pitchers out of their rotation before heading to Fenway Friday night to start the ALDS series. Boston is the new favorite to win the World Series – as they possess home field advantage all the way through the Post Season, including the World Series – thanks to the AL winning the ALL – Star Game this past summer.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Odds To Win the World Series:
Boston Red Sox +340
LA Dodgers +450
Detroit Tigers +525
St. Louis Cardinals +600
Atlanta Braves +700
Oakland Athletics +750
Cleveland Indians +1500
Pittsburgh Pirates +1600
Cincinnati Reds +1800
Tampa Bay Rays +2200
Texas Rangers +2200
Pirates Celebrate breaking 21 year playoff drought
MLB Reports 
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