Blog Archives

MLB Schedule July 2014

Do yourself a favor and read this blog on the 30 MLB Park Pass-Port here

Before You read the Month Schedule for July 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 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

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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 www.mlbreports.com

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):

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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

Read the rest of this entry

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.

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):

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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.

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):

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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 NPB (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.)

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):

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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

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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 “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):

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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

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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 than 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.

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):

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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

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Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – December 21, 2013

Photos: AP

Photos: AP

Barry Bonds IS Mel Gibson.

Does that sound like a strange comparison? Perhaps. But it is how my mind works and I explain on today’s episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

To subscribe to The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast on iTunes, click HERE.

To subscribe on SoundCloud, click HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – December 21, 2013

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 yesterday.  They have clinched the Division at home the last 2 years.  It is even more impressive when they have been 29th and 27th in team payroll respectively.

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):

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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

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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

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):

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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

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Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – December 2, 2013

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Author Bruce Markusen is the guest on today’s episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

We discussed his book The Team That Changed Baseball: Roberto Clemente and the 1971 Pittsburgh Pirates and shared our thoughts about that club’s significance.

To buy a copy of the book on Amazon, click HERE.

To subscribe on iTunes, click HERE.

To subscribe on SoundCloud, click HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – December 2, 2013

The Braves Will Be Paying The B.J. Upton Deal For Years – Not Just Money Either!

The Brothers Upton both were acquired in the offseason by the Atlanta Braves.  This was a risk for the organization, and while Justin played extremely well in condensed pockets, Upton is quickly establishing himself as one of the worst contracts ever signed in Major League Baseball.  a .184/.268/.557 - with 9 HRs and 26 RBI is simply abysmal.  The Braves brass should send him to the Winter Leagues, to correct his problems.

The Brothers Upton both were acquired last year’s offseason by the Atlanta Braves. This was a risk for the organization, and while Justin played extremely well in condensed pockets, B.J. Upton is quickly establishing himself as one of the worst contracts ever signed in Major League Baseball history, a .184/.268/.557 – with 9 HRs and 26 RBI is simply abysmal. The Braves brass should have sent him to the Winter Leagues, to correct his problems.  The younger brother is still on the hook for 4 more years – and $60 MIL.  Not only is the franchise jaded towards signing another Free Agent this winter to a similar deal, they have lost their 2 longest tenured players in Brian McCann and Tim Hudson.

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

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It is a not a shock the Braves are shying away from the Free Agency thus far in the winter.  After all, the franchise spent the most they ever had for B.J. Upton last offseason, only to have been served a train wreck in 2013.

Honestly, besides the 1st month, and a torrid stretch in August, Justin Upton wasn’t far off the power production of his older brother in the other 4 months of play.

If it weren’t for the Chris Johnson add in that deal (Braves savior), plus his subsequent Batting Average race for the NL lead, this would be an even graver subject.

The last line was not an indictment on the Braves and D’Backs trade, rather just that Johnson helped make up for the lack of production from B.J. Upton. 

We all know overall Justin Upton made the same numbers as were likely projected.  That trade is yet to be determined, but adding Johnson was a nice little move.

B.J. Upton – rare good game in 2013

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Should MLB Have A Salary Cap? – “Hard Cheddar” With Steve Cheeseman Takes Another Crack At It

The MLB can talk about parity all they want in the new era of modern baseball, but ever since the mid 90's the Yankees have 5 WS, Red Sox 3 WS, Giants 2 WS, Cardinals Marlins 2 WS, White Sox 1 WS, Braves 1 WS, D-Backs 1 WS, Angels 1 WS, Philies - WS.  That is 10 teams in the last 20 years of action.  Out of those teams, only the 2002 Angels, 2003 Marlins and 2010 version of the Giants had Payrolls that weren't considered tops in the MLB.

The MLB can talk about parity all they want in the new era of modern baseball, but ever since the mid 90’s the Yankees have 5 WS, Red Sox 3 WS, Giants 2 WS, Cardinals, Marlins 2 WS, White Sox 1 WS, Braves 1 WS, D-Backs 1 WS, Angels 1 WS, Philies – WS. That is 10 teams in the last 20 years of action. Out of those teams, only the 2002 Angels, 2003 Marlins, 2006 version of the Cardinals and  2010 version of the Giants had Payrolls that weren’t considered tops in the MLB.  Baseball can talk about parity all they want, but with the Dodgers new rogue spending, the rich and poor difference is about to escalate.

By ‘Special Guest Writer’ Steve Cheeseman 

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“Hard Cheddar” – with Steve Cheeseman

Should MLB Have a Salary Cap?

During this years “fall classic”, a thought occurred to me.  Other than the Pittsburgh Pirates, it seems like that for the most part, the same teams compete for the title of world champions each year.  

What MLB introduced a salary cap?  Would more teams gain the ability to compete on an even playing ground?  Within all 30 teams of the NL and AL, payrolls for these clubs are drastically different.  

Boston Red Sox World Champs in 2013 (3rd WS Title in 10 Years)

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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.

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):

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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

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“Hard Cheddar” Weekly Segment 2: MLB Heroes And Zeroes For 2013!

Yasiel Puig was signed as an International Free Agent in 2012.   The 22 Year old phenom exploded onto scene in the National League - 3 Slashing .319/.381/.925 - with 19 HRs, 42 RBI and 66 Runs Scored in his 104 Games Played.  He was a big part of the team winning the Division - and he will be a mainstay for years - being signed until 2018.  Puig's electrified the city of Los Angeles, and Dodger Stadium with his all out hustle, flamboyant play, and their flair for the dramatic.  Once fellow teammate Hanley Ramirez joined him, the club went on a historic 42 - 8 run, which hadn't happened in nearly 60 years for a 50 game stretch.

Yasiel Puig was signed as an International Free Agent in 2012. The 22 Year old phenom exploded onto scene in the National League – 3 Slashing .319/.381/.925 – with 19 HRs, 42 RBI and 66 Runs Scored in his 104 Games Played. He was a big part of the team winning the Division – and he will be a mainstay for years – being signed until 2018. Puig’s electrified the city of Los Angeles, and Dodger Stadium with his all out hustle, flamboyant play, and their flair for the dramatic. Once fellow teammate Hanley Ramirez joined him, the club went on a historic 42 – 8 run, which hadn’t happened in nearly 60 years for a 50 game stretch.

By ‘Special Guest Writer’ Steve Cheeseman 

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“Hard Cheddar” – with Steve Cheeseman

2013 Hero’s and Zero’s of MLB

Throughout the 2013 Major League Baseball season, there had been plenty to talk about. Lots of surprise players, as well as surprise teams.

This season in my opinion was as good as any.  However, like any sport, there was also plenty to forget, but not necessarily forgive, as you’ll see.  

Here are my hero’s and zero’s for the 2013 MLB season.

Yasiel Puig Highlights 2013 – Mature Content – Parental Guidance is Advised

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St. Louis Cardinals Current Roster Tree: How All Of The Team Was Acquired

The Cardinals Roster Tree has been the easiest to do by far.  This organization has Drafted so incredibly well, that there has been no real need for trading of late.  We will still see how drafting J.D. Drew has turned into Adam Wainwright, and how Albert Pujols signing with the Angels, made for the Cards to select young phenom Michael Wacha.  St. Louis is in their 8th NLCS in the last 13 years, with a multitude of young stars coming.  They are going to be players in the National League for some time to come.

The Cardinals Roster Tree has been the easiest to do by far. This organization has Drafted so incredibly well, that there has been no real need for trading of late. We will still see how drafting J.D. Drew has turned into Adam Wainwright, and how Albert Pujols signing with the Angels, made for the Cards to select young phenom Michael Wacha. St. Louis is in their 8th NLCS in the last 13 years, with a multitude of young stars coming. They are going to be players in the National League for some time to come.

How All Of The Cardinals Were Acquired:

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

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter

At the MLB Reports, we intend to show you the Roster Tree for the St. Louis Cardinals – 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.

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

Carlos Beltran Steals Game #1 of the 2013 NLCS for the Cards

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Major League Contraction Talk Again?

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Who Owns October? (WOO) Tally Updated for October 9, 2013

Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images

Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images

Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO.

And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO to a worthy player on the losing team.

For a full explanation, click HERE.

From today’s games:

Receiving 1 WOO

David Freese launched a 2 run homer in the second inning that kept the Pirates on the defensive for most of the game. The Cardinals would win, 6-1.

Adam Wainwright pitched a masterpiece complete game, keeping Pittsburgh off the board until the 7th and clinched the Division Series for St. Louis, 6-1.

Receiving 1/2 WOO:

Gerrit Cole pitched well in a decisive game. His only blemish was the Freese homer. Other than that, he let up 2 other hits and struck out 5 in 5 innings. He would have gone longer had it not been an elimination game. The Pirates lost, 6-1. Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The 2013 MLB World Series, Plus Odds For Oakland And Detroit In Game #5 Of the ALDS

Today will be the last day you can receive such a decent odd for the Boston club to win the World Series at +210.  Whether the A's win, and the Odds will drop to the -150 range, or Detroit will win - and their odd pretty much stays the same.  If you were the Red Sox - who would you rather play?  I got to think they would want to play the Tigers, because Detroit is not hitting the ball, and Oakland makes for a far trip out West, and don't give those A's any momentum from knocking off Detroit!

Today will be the last day you can receive such a decent odd for the Boston club to win the World Series at +210. Whether the A’s win, and the Odds will drop to the -150 range, or Detroit will win – and their odd pretty much stays the same. If you were the Red Sox – who would you rather play? I got to think they would want to play the Tigers, because Detroit is not hitting the ball, and Oakland makes for a far trip out West, and don’t give those A’s any momentum from knocking off Detroit!

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

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Odds To Win the World Series:

Boston Red Sox +210

LA Dodgers +230

St. Louis Cardinals +360

Detroit Tigers +500

Oakland Athletics +900

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Who Owns October? (WOO) Tally Updated for October 7, 2013

Photo: Charles LeClaire, USA TODAY Sports

Photo: Charles LeClaire, USA TODAY Sports

Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO.
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO to a worthy player on the losing team.

For a full explanation, click HERE.

From today’s games:

Receiving 1 WOO

Alex Cobb was not on top of his game but he kept the Red Sox from breaking open the game in his 5 innings of work and helped set up Tampa’s 5-4 come from behind win.

Matt Holliday provided all the offense the Cardinals with need with his 2 run homer that sparked St. Louis’ 2-1 win over the Pirates.

Clayton Kershaw pitched on short rest and threw 6 innings with 2 unearned runs, 6 strikeouts and 1 walk. He would not get the decision but the Dodgers would prevail, 5-4.

Evan Longoria saved the series with one swing of his bat by launching a 2 out 3 run homer in the 5th that woke the Rays up. Tampa would go on to win 5-4.

Dan Otero worked out of trouble in two scoreless innings from the bullpen and prevented the Tigers from staging a comeback as the A’s won 6-3.

Seth Smith got two hits including a 2 run homer that gave the A’s insurance in their 6-3 win in Detroit.

Juan Uribe launched a 2 run 8th inning go ahead come from behind homer that gave the Dodgers the clinching lead over the Braves that they would not relinquish, 5-4.

Michael Wacha threw a no hitter into the 8th inning and kept the Cardinals alive, defeating the Pirates in Pittsburgh, letting up just 1 run and 1 hit for a final of 2-1.

Receiving 1/2 WOO:

Jose Alvarez stopped the bleeding in Detroit with 3 innings of no hit shutout ball out of the bullpen. It would not be enough as the Tigers could not score or mount a comeback, losing 6-3.

Pedro Alvarez broke up the no hitter with a towering home run that brought the Pirates to within one run. It would be practically all of the Pirates offense in their 2-1 loss.

Jacoby Ellsbury got three hits, two of them doubles, and a stolen base and scored 2 of the Red Sox 4 runs in their 5-4 loss to the Rays.

Freddy Garcia stunned the Dodger Stadium crowd with a wonderful 6 inning performance where his lone blemishes came on a pair of solo homers. He struck out 6 and let up only 2 runs and would have received the win if the bullpen did not melt down in the 8th.

Charlie Morton let only 2 Cardinals score and allowed only 3 hits while pitching into the 6th in the Pirates 2-1 loss.

Jhonny Peralta drove in 1/3 of the Tigers entire run total for the series with his game tying 2 run single in the 4th. The Tigers would lose 6-3.

Ric Flair endorsing the new “SullyMetric” – WOO!!

To view the Playoff Leaders for ‘Who Owned October Standings’ – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

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How All Of The Red Sox Hitters Were Acquired Onto The Roster + Analysis: Fall 2013

Ben Cherington pulled off the biggest salary dump in MLB History in 2012, with his clearing the deck of Gonzalez, Crawford and Beckett.  He replaced them with saavy, playoff tested Veterans - on lower value, and year contracts.  His club won the 2013 AL East with the revamped squad - that improved almost 30 Wins from 2012.

Ben Cherington pulled off the biggest salary dump in MLB History in 2012, with his clearing the deck of Gonzalez, Crawford and Beckett. He replaced them with saavy, playoff tested Veterans – on lower value, and year contracts. His club won the 2013 AL East with the revamped squad – that improved almost 30 Wins from 2012.  So how did the entire roster of hitters all come to be Boston Red Sox Property?   We will now tell you.

How All Of The Red Sox Hitters Were Acquired:

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

At the MLB Reports, we intend to show you the Roster Tree for the Boston Red Sox – 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.  Today, we will cover the Hitters.

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

David Ortiz Talks Up The Boston Crowd After The Boston Tragedy – Warning:  Explicit Word Used – Parental Discretion Is Advised

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Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – October 7, 2013

Photo by Matt West - Boston Herald

Photo by Matt West – Boston Herald

It could be a day of clinching in baseball today, or teams can get off the mat.

Today on The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast, we break down the 4 games being played today and why David Price should stay off of Twitter after a loss.

Chris Capuano, Francisco Liriano, Andrew McCutchen and Hanley Ramirez all earned full WOO’s.
Evan Gattis and Carlos Beltran earned half WOO’s.

Confused of what a WOO is? Click Here.

The updated WOO tally is HERE.

Subscribe on iTunes by clicking HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – October 7, 2013

Who Owns October? (WOO) Tally Updated for October 6, 2013

(AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

(AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO.
And at my discretion, I award a 1/2 WOO to a worthy player on the losing team.

For a full explanation, click HERE.

From today’s games:

Receiving 1 WOO

Chris Capuano came out of the bullpen in the 4th inning and stopped the Braves offense. He threw 3 no hit scoreless innings, scattering 3 walks and allowed the Dodgers to pull away. He received the victory in Los Angeles’ 13-6 win.

Francisco Liriano was up to the challenge in Game 3 of the Division Series. He pitched 6 strong innings, letting up only 3 hits and 2 runs. He even walked for good measure as the Pirates won 5-3 over the Cardinals.

Andrew McCutchen might not have had the big highlight hit, but he was on base 4 times, scored 2 of the Pirates runs and hit the double that sparked the game winning rally as the Pirates won 5-3.

Hanley Ramirez was a home run short of the cycle, getting on base 4 times, scoring 3 runs and contributed to three different rallies as the Dodgers pushed the Braves to the brink, 13-6.

Receiving 1/2 WOO:

Carlos Beltran continued to be a force in post season play. He hit a game tying 2 run single in the 5th and crushed a game tying homer in the 8th, providing virtually all of St. Louis’ offense in a 5-3 loss to the Pirates.

Evan Gattis singled and scored in the first inning and singled in the Braves 3rd inning rally, pacing Atlanta’s offense early before they were shut down in the 13-6 loss to the Dodgers.

I’ll update the new names daily.

Ric Flair endorsing the new “SullyMetric” – WOO!!

To view the Playoff Leaders for ‘Who Owned October Standings’ – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

Read the rest of this entry

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.

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 MLB Reports On Twitter

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

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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 MLB Reports On Twitter

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

 

 

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2013 MLB Playoff Predictions By MLB Reports

In my view, Evan Longoria could end up being the MVP of the entire playoffs.  I am predicting the Tampa Bay Rays are going to win the World Series versus the LA Dodgers, in what should be a classic Pitching duel of some of the best Starters in the game of baseball today.  Wil Myers and Ben Zobrist help pitching in will also be Paramount.  Picking up proven playoff performer Delmon Young (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.

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 MLB Reports On Twitter

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

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