Blog Archives
E-MAILBAG: Ask the Reports, Wednesday June 29th
Thank you for reading the E-mailbag. Please send all your questions to mlbreports@gmail.com and please include your first name and City/Country.
We will be compiling a list of your questions from our e-mailbag and posting the responses on Wednesdays.
Wednesday June 29, 2011
Q: Money aside, who do you sign Prince or Pujols? From: Barry, New York.
MLB reports: The debate that has been raging from the last off-season continues. Going into the year, most would have chosen Albert Pujols. Great track record, monster numbers to the point of being a cut above Prince Fielder. Now with the Pujols injury and Fielder strong season, many are starting to lean towards Prince. Regardless of money, if I had a crack at either superstar first baseman, I would go with Pujols. Despite being older and having to come back from injury, Pujols is still Pujols. He is this generation’s Babe Ruth in my estimation and at his peak, brings a higher level of play than Fielder. Both will get their money, no doubt. Based on historical performances, I expect Pujols to still receive the higher payday unless he cannot return successfully from injuries. The ironic part is that the Cardinals will most likely retain Pujols, while Fielder will depart Milwaukee as a free agent. But if I had to choose one, Pujols on my team please.
Q: Will my Orioles ever contend? You live in Toronto so you know what I mean. From: Gary, Baltimore.
MLB reports: I hear ya Gary. I hear the moans and groans throughout the Rogers Centre on many nights about the inability of the Toronto Blue Jays to compete with the money of the Yankees and Red Sox. But often lost in the discussion is the Tampa Bay Rays. Last I checked, the Rays have been contenders for some time on a minimal budget. Yes, your Orioles can compete, even in the AL East. But the team will need to be built around strong homegrown prospects. With all the young Orioles players coming up and in place, the future is bright. Matt Wieters, Manny Machado and company will complement Adam Jones and Nick Markakis well. Plus you have young pitching coming up in every level. The future is bright in Baltimore and the team is being built the right way. Give it time, hope is there.
Q: When are the All-Star team rosters announced? I can’t wait! From Liz, Toronto.
MLB reports: The All-Star game will be played in Arizona on Tuesday July 12th. The rosters for the AL and NL squads will be announced on Sunday July 3rd. Then from July 3-7, fans will be able to vote on-line for the final player for each squad. Ballots need to be in by tomorrow so make sure to vote for your favorite players soon!
Q: Are you a Phillies fans? You talk about the team ALOT on twitter! From: Mary, Florida.
MLB reports: Hi Mary. Thanks for the question. I am a baseball fan in general (thus the “MLB reports” name). As far as favorite teams, as most of the readers know, I tend to lean towards the Tigers. I also show the Jays love as well. I talk about the Phillies quite a bit because they are very good. Look at their record. From there, I tend to focus on Roy Halladay and Cliff Lee. What the two of them could accomplish in the playoffs together is scary. I have never seen a 1-2 punch at the top of a rotation like this ever. Halladay may be the best pitcher of our time and Lee is unhittable when he is on. My heart may not be in Philadelphia, but my respect surely is.
Q: How do I join MLB Reports? I love baseball and writing. Please help! From Catherine, Seattle.
MLB reports: Thank you for the inquiry Catherine. We have people contributing to MLB reports in many ways. We are looking at taking on a couple of Interns. Click here to learn about the position and to apply. We also encourage readers to e-mail us about writing guest spots. As part of the MLB reports mandate, we look to help develop and assist young baseball writers in developing their craft. You can also “like” us on Facebook and contribute posts/pictures on our wall. We love our readers to get involved, as the Reports should be for the fans and by the fans. Let me know and we will get you involved! If any readers are also interested in applying for the Intern positions or contributing to MLB reports, please see our contact information below.
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Latest AL and NL Vote Totals: 2011 MLB All-Star Game
Thursday, June 23, 2011
MLB reports: With the MLB All-Star Game less than three weeks, the race to finalize the lineups is starting to tighten up. The majority of the starters have fairly significant leads and will be in Arizona, barring injury or declining the invitation. However, some of the races have started to tighten up, with the positions up for grabs until the final votes are in. Let’s take a look at the current leading vote getters per league and position:
AMERICAN LEAGUE ALL-STAR (as of June 21)
CATCHER
Russell Martin – Yankees: 2,226,797
Alex Avila – Tigers: 1,730,511
Joe Mauer – Twins: 1,341,474
Jarrod Saltalamacchia – Red Sox: 1,135,617
Yorvit Torrealba – Rangers: 980,697
Verdict: Martin is in unless Avila gets a huge spike in votes at the end. While many are pushing for Avila to get the nod, Martin has the numbers and the fan base to likely win out.
FIRST BASE
Adrian Gonzalez – Red Sox: 3,017,960
Mark Teixeira – Yankees: 2,407,665
Miguel Cabrera – Tigers: 1,771,893
Mitch Moreland – Rangers: 890,468
Paul Konerko – White Sox: 676,194
Verdict: A-Gonz will be starting in Arizona. Take it to the bank. He has been one of the best players in the AL this season and plays in Boston. The fans will continue to vote for him until he is announced as the winner.
SECOND BASE
Robinson Cano – Yankees: 3,664,498
Dustin Pedroia – Red Sox: 2,239,172
Ian Kinsler – Rangers: 1,452,880
Orlando Cabrera – Indians: 910,941
Ben Zobrist – Rays: 828,771
Verdict: Cano continues to lead the pack by a country mile. His season totals justify his position.
THIRD BASE
Alex Rodriguez – Yankees: 2,876,537
Adrian Beltre – Rangers: 2,307,380
Kevin Youkilis – Red Sox: 2,025,438
Evan Longoria – Rays: 1,639,405
Brandon Inge – Tigers: 490,734
Verdict: A-Rod is still A-Rod. Beltre is getting closer though and could make this one interesting.
SHORTSTOP
Derek Jeter – Yankees: 2,654,040
Asdrubal Cabrera – Indians: 2,242,157
Elvis Andrus – Rangers: 1,513,929
Jhonny Peralta – Tigers: 875,371
Marco Scutaro – Red Sox: 813,888
Verdict: Jeter, the New York Yankees captain, continues to lead the way. However, an injury and poor play this season have led Cabrera to get closer in the voting. If Cabrera has a few more strong games, there is a chance he could be in Arizona as the starter. Either way, expect Cabrera to represent the Indians at the All-Star game.
DESIGNATED HITTER
David Ortiz – Red Sox: 3,116,578
Michael Young – Rangers: 1,760,195
Jorge Posada – Yankees: 1,120,830
Victor Martinez – Tigers: 932,711
Johnny Damon – Rays: 864,535
Verdict: Papi picked a great year to have a strong campaign. A free agent at year’s end, he is a worthy All-Star pick.
OUTFIELD
Jose Bautista – Blue Jays: 4,156,940
Curtis Granderson – Yankees: 3,473,227
Josh Hamilton – Rangers: 2,400,408
Jacoby Ellsbury – Red Sox: 2,249,323
Carl Crawford – Red Sox: 1,789,097
Ichiro Suzuki – Mariners: 1,537,101
Nelson Cruz – Rangers: 1,462,426
Nick Swisher – Yankees: 1,271,843
Brett Gardner – Yankees: 1,120,179
J.D. Drew – Red Sox: 1,112,720
Matt Joyce – Rays: 1,038,098
Jeff Francoeur – Royals: 906,983
Grady Sizemore – Indians: 867,281
David Murphy – Rangers: 785,630
Shin-Soo Choo – Indians: 764,817
Verdict: Bautista and Granderson continue to lead the AL outfielders in voting and deservedly so. Hamilton and Ellsbury are battling it out for the final spot in a competition of what have you done for me lately vs. last year’s statistics. Depending on where you sit in the debate, the 2010 MVP Hamilton or the 2011 resurgent Ellsbury should be the third AL outfielder. With Hamilton banged up and Ellsbury playing so well for a first place Boston squad, expect Ellsbury to win out.
NATIONAL LEAGUE ALL-STAR (as of June 20)
CATCHER
Brian McCann – Braves: 2,301,252
Yadier Molina – Cardinals: 1,836,490
Buster Posey – Giants: 1,573,484
Jonathan Lucroy – Brewers: 1,098,507
Carlos Ruiz – Phillies: 1,095,081
Verdict: McCann is the best catcher in baseball, not just the NL. He has received the justified votes and will be starting for the NL squad.
FIRST BASE
Albert Pujols – Cardinals: 2,806,864
Joey Votto – Reds: 2,270,211
Prince Fielder – Brewers: 2,066,327
Ryan Howard – Phillies: 1,477,478
Freddie Freeman – Braves: 559,762
Verdict: Pujols was the leader and remains so despite being placed on the shelf recently. With Pujols out of the picture, Votto and Fielder will continue to duke it out for top spot. The power and flash of Prince will likely rule over the steadiness of Votto.
SECOND BASE
Brandon Phillips – Reds: 2,286,378
Rickie Weeks – Brewers: 2,094,502
Chase Utley – Phillies: 1,827,194
Dan Uggla – Braves: 1,012,370
Freddy Sanchez – Giants: 987,606
Verdict: Phillips and Weeks are neck-in-neck in one of the closest positional battles. Based on Weeks recent play, my money is on him to get the starting role.
THIRD BASE
Placido Polanco – Phillies: 2,599,925
Chipper Jones – Braves: 1,558,895
Pablo Sandoval – Giants: 1,302,098
David Wright – Mets: 1,228,710
Scott Rolen – Reds: 1,102,626
Verdict: Polanco of the NL leading Philadelphia Phillies appears to have this one locked up. Without much in the way of competition, Polanco has been the best of the bunch according to the fans.
SHORTSTOP
Troy Tulowitzki – Rockies: 2,385,991
Jose Reyes – Mets: 1,972,820
Jimmy Rollins – Phillies: 1,354,896
Alex Gonzalez – Braves: 928,992
Yuniesky Betancourt – Brewers: 860,163
Verdict: Reyes of the Mets is making a late charge but Tulo might have too big of a lead to overcome. Expect this one to go to the wire as Reyes has been getting much of the press and attention in the past few days.
OUTFIELD
Ryan Braun – Brewers: 3,034,057
Lance Berkman – Cardinals: 2,562,428
Matt Holliday – Cardinals: 2,390,118
Matt Kemp – Dodgers: 2,062,667
Andre Ethier – Dodgers: 1,889,298
Jay Bruce – Reds: 1,681,613
Shane Victorino – Phillies: 1,357,115
Carlos Beltran – Mets: 1,261,308
Jason Heyward – Braves: 1,059,581
Raul Ibanez – Phillies: 982,046
Justin Upton – D-backs: 950,047
Carlos Gonzalez – Rockies: 944,666
Corey Hart – Brewers: 910,550
Martin Prado – Braves: 830,105
Alfonso Soriano – Cubs: 804,303
Verdict: Braun has the top spot locked up with Berkman almost guaranteed a starting spot in Arizona as well. The third outfield position will come down a battle between Matt Holliday, Matt Kemp and Andre Ethier. Kemp is narrowing the margin but based on the vote numbers, St. Louis will likely have 2/3 of the starting All-Star outfield come July 12th.
MLB reports will continue to keep you up-to-date as the voting for the MLB All-Star game comes to a close. We will announce the starting lineups and rosters as they are made available and let you know on any injury replacements. This year’s field will be a competitive one and we look forward to catching all the action in Arizona, as the American League and National League battle for home field advantage in the World Series.
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2011 MLB All-Star Game Ballots: National League Vote Totals
Monday June 13, 2011
MLB reports: The MLB All-Star Game is coming up on July 12th from Phoenix, Arizona. With home field advantage on the line, fans literally start debating in April who should appear as the “best of the best” representatives for each league. With the American League dominating the All-Star game for so many years, I decided to start with the NL and find out who are the current vote leaders. Looking at the fan votes, the arguments center on whether the most deserving or most popular players end up being voted in. Some people question on whether first-half stats weigh too much in the voting, as the previous year’s body of work should possibly be factored in more. Home parks are also considered, given that teams that have high attendance rates will often see sharp spikes in All-Star Game votes for its players. Let’s take a look at the NL vote totals as of today to consider if the fans are getting it right:
CATCHER
Brian McCann, Braves: 1,646,822
Yadier Molina, Cardinals: 1,345,260
Buster Posey, Giants: 1,309,521
Jonathan Lucroy, Brewers: 807,588
Carlos Ruiz, Phillies: 797,450
Verdict: McCann is the best catcher in the NL, if not all of baseball. His numbers have been consistently there throughout the years and 2011 has been no different. Bravo to the fans, they scored well in the first position reviewed. Posey, despite his season ending surgery, is still sitting at 3rd. Surprising is that Lucroy is in 4th place, showing that Brewers fans know how to vote for their own. With such a void of quality catchers behind McCann and Molina though, it is apparent based on the vote totals that the NL catching situation needs an influx of new talent soon.
FIRST BASE
Albert Pujols, Cardinals: 2,081,590
Joey Votto, Reds: 1,773,348
Prince Fielder, Brewers: 1,371,296
Ryan Howard, Phillies: 1,109,487
Freddie Freeman, Braves: 457,926
Verdict: Always the most debated position, 2011 is no different for the NL first basemen. Albert Pujols is the 2nd highest vote getting in the NL and based on his past track history, deserves it. Many others at his position have had stronger seasons, including Votto and Fielder. Based on numbers alone, including this year and 2010, Votto should be leading the votes at first base and should have the highest totals of any player overall in the NL. This vote shows how much the All-Star Game is a popularity contest, as Fielder is over 700k votes behind Pujols at this point. Albert Pujols is a solid player and an All-Star, but not the best player at his position at this point in his career. Votto’s time will come, but not this year according to the fan. Thumbs down from this analyst.
SECOND BASE
Brandon Phillips, Reds: 1,754,872
Rickie Weeks, Brewers: 1,461,383
Chase Utley, Phillies: 1,281,190
Dan Uggla, Braves: 833,610
Freddy Sanchez, Giants: 791,457
Verdict: The best way that I can describe the second base vote situation is a “mess”. Utley has been injured for most of the year, Uggla has slumped all year and Sanchez is injured again, likely gone for the year. Yet these three players consist 3/5 of the top vote getting at second base. Phillips and Weeks are neck-in-neck for top spot. Based on numbers alone, I think Weeks should have a higher total. But a strong case can be made for Brandon Phillips, who has been very consistent for years. Again a fairly feeble crop of players overall to choose from, but the fans did not make a bad choice with their top two choices. One thumb up here as Phillips is a good choice, but not the best selection.
THIRD BASE
Placido Polanco, Phillies: 1,822,129
Chipper Jones, Braves: 1,197,332
Pablo Sandoval, Giants: 1,029,380
David Wright, Mets: 934,636
Scott Rolen, Reds: 824,656
Verdict: One word: huh? Is the NL third base crop this weak? I hate…no, loathe this top-five list. Between slumping and injured players, I don’t see an all-star in the bunch. But with Zimmerman injured, Aramis slowing down, Alvarez developing…there really isn’t much to choose from here. Pick your poison in this case but based on track history alone, I could have seen Wright easily taken here. Polanco is on top mainly based on Philadelphia Popularity. While a .300 average is nice, Polanco is steady but not a superstar. The All-Star Game is meant for the games elite players and Placido is not it. Another thumbs down.
SHORTSTOP
Troy Tulowitzki, Rockies: 1,828,509
Jose Reyes, Mets: 1,241,553
Jimmy Rollins, Phillies: 999,537
Alex Gonzalez, Braves: 744,786
Stephen Drew, D-backs: 639,204
Verdict: An extremely difficult decision for the fans to choose their NL starting shortstop. Jose Reyes has been one of the best players in baseball this year, but has battled injuries and inconsistency for the last couple of seasons. Troy Tulowitzki on the other hand has been one of the steadiest shortstops in the game, when healthy. Tulo has shown better health and far better consistency than Reyes and deserves the nod in the category. Kudos to the fans. Kudos.
OUTFIELD
Ryan Braun, Brewers: 2,230,505
Lance Berkman, Cardinals: 1,878,314
Matt Holliday, Cardinals: 1,855,416
Andre Ethier, Dodgers: 1,468,537
Matt Kemp, Dodgers: 1,372,804
Jay Bruce, Reds: 1,201,224
Shane Victorino, Phillies: 1,001,749
Jason Heyward, Braves: 883,068
Carlos Beltran, Mets: 875,339
Justin Upton, D-backs: 719,937
Raul Ibanez, Phillies: 712,577
Martin Prado, Braves: 676,791
Carlos Gonzalez, Rockies: 674,282
Corey Hart, Brewers: 652,737
Alfonso Soriano, Cubs: 649,093
Verdict: The criteria for All-Star voting has its greatest upheaval in the last position: the outfield. Lance Berkman, the 2nd highest recipient of votes in the position has been one of the best hitters in the NL for years. But last year Berkman had some very pedestrian numbers, to the point that some questioned how much he had left in the tank. The same goes with Carlos Beltran at #9, who was injured for so long that many expected him to never return. While Beltran has displayed a strong comeback, it is debatable if he is worthy of being an all-star. Matt Holliday has been an excellent player for years, but missed much of the 2011 campaign with an appendectomy. Yet Holliday sits as the #3 vote getting in the NL outfield voting. Andre Ethier and Matt Kemp have both excelled this year in Los Angeles, yet are only the #4 and #5 vote getter. Having Ryan Braun at the top spot is undisputable. The man has done it for years and deserves to be the king of the castle. I may not agree but respect Berkman getting a starting spot. But Matt Kemp should be starting in Arizona and is not even the highest vote getter on his own team in the outfield. Two thumbs up for Braun, one thumb up for Berkman and two thumbs down for Holliday. Digging further, the level of votes for the often-injured Heyward, decent Victorino and declining Ibanez are signs of voting popularity by the fans, not a reward for production by the players.
Overall, we found that the fans made decent selections in voting for its NL all-stars. But with better options on the board, it appears that in too many cases the local hero won out over more deserving players. Also, the 2011 statistics often weighed heavily in favor of the voting, ahead of the total body of work of a player including the previous year’s worth of statistics. Looking at the current vote leaders in the National League, I would give one thumb up and the other thumb down. In tomorrow’s edition of the Reports, we will review the American League Vote totals and analyze the projected All-Star Game starters. All coming up, stay tuned!
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Top Home Run Hitters: The MLB Leaderboard
Sunday June 12, 2011
MLB reports: Another week goes by and we find that there are more changes on the MLB Home Run Leaderboard. Jose Bautista finally has some competition and the proven long ball hitters of seasons past have finally made the list. Let’s take a look at the home run leaders in Major League Baseball as of today:
Tie 1st: Jose Bautista, Toronto Blue Jays: 20
Jose Bautista hit #20 on May 28th. Since then, he has remained stuck on 20 while the rest of baseball starts to catch up. For a man in a home run draught, he still has 58/35 BB/K on the season, with a .338 AVG, .490 OBP and .692 SLG. As Bautista works to recapture his early season form, Adam Lind has come back to the Jays as a man on a mission. Lind is hitting .327 on the season with 11 home runs of his own, a beneficiary of the protection that Bautista can afford him in the lineup. Realistically speaking, Bautista was never going to hit 80 home runs this season. But he remains on pace for 50+ and Bautista may still match or exceed his 54 long balls from last year.
Tie 1st: Curtis Granderson, New York Yankees: 20
There is a 2nd sherif in town and his name is Curtis Granderson. One of three Yankees on our list, Granderson has enjoyed a rejuvenation at age 30. Granderson is close to matching his 24 home runs from last year and well on his way to exceeding his career high of 30 home runs from 2009. Granderson’s 27/65 BB/K ratio tell me that he has not necessarily changed his free swinging ways at the plate and a “market correction” may be in order here. But despite his .267 AVG, Granderson has not shown any slow downs in the power department. 2011 has been Curtis Granderson’s coming out party and if Bautista isn’t careful, we may have another home run king on the season very soon.
Tie 3rd: Matt Kemp, Los Angeles Dodgers: 19
Matt Kemp (“The Bison”) at the age of 26, has finally started to cement his place in the book of baseball superstardom. With 19 home runs on the year, to go along with his incredible .331 AVG, .408 OBP and .632 SLG, Kemp has gone from prospect to star seemingly overnight. After hitting 26 and 28 home runs over the last two seasons respectively, Kemp is on pace to hit 40-50 home runs this year. Hitting in the heart of the Dodgers lineup with Andre Ethier, Kemp has been the heart and soul of the team this year. As he matures as a person and leader, so has his game developed on the field. The sky is the limit for this young superstar, who has future MVP written all over him.
Tie 3rd: Mark Teixeira, New York Yankees: 19
The last two spots on our top-five list should come as no surprise, starting with Yankee slugger Mark Teixeira. With 39 home runs in 2009 and 43 in 2005, Teixeira has showcased his home run strengths in previous years. A consistent 30+ home run threat, Teixeira is on his way to setting a career high in the category, showing his enjoyment playing in Yankee Stadium with its short porch. Teixeira, with his smooth swing, home run park and protection in the lineup, has all the factors in his favor. By season’s end, I expect him to remain near the top of this list and could very well finish at the #1 position.
5th: Prince Fielder, Milwaukee Brewers: 18
The final spot goes to Prince Fielder, the impending free agent slugging first baseman for the Milwaukee Brewers. Prince has literally done it all this season. He has shown a great eye, with 36/31 BB/K in 2011, to go along with his .300 AVG, .410 OBP and .614 SLG. The man hit 50 home runs in 2007 and 46 in 2009. With a BIG payday ahead (rumored to be in the $200 million range), Fielder is showcasing his skills this year. At 27-years of age, Prince will be able to write his own ticket when picking his next home. He has certainly ensured to give himself the best chance to make the big bucks in the future by his strong play in the present. Fielder’s agent? None other than Scott Boras. Expect Fielder to continue to explode on the field all season with teammate Ryan Braun as the Brewers make one more giant push with its hulking first baseman steering the ship.
After looking at such an impressive top-five list, the rest of the sluggers represent the who’s-who of baseball. Bruce, Braun, Quentin, Pujols, Cabrera, A-Rod…yes, they are all here. Mike Stanton with 16 home runs has come together quickly in his 2nd season to become one of the top home run hitters in the game. As we discussed several times to start the season, the cream always rises to the top as the months go by. As we sit at almost the halfway mark of the season, the proven home run sluggers have proven just that.
The Best of the Rest:
Jay Bruce, Cincinnati Reds: 17
Carlos Quentin, Chicago White Sox: 17
Lance Berkman, St. Louis Cardinals: 16
Paul Konerko, Chicago White Sox: 16
David Ortiz, Boston Red Sox: 16
Mike Stanton, Florida Marlins: 16
Nelson Cruz, Texas Rangers: 15
Ryan Braun, Milwaukee Brewers: 14
Albert Pujols, St. Louis Cardinals: 14
Miguel Cabrera, Detroit Tigers: 13
Ryan Howard, Philadelphia Phillies: 13
Alex Rodriguez, New York Yankees: 13
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Pujols vs. Bautista: Battle of the Sluggers- Friday Faceoff
Friday, May 27, 2011
MLB reports: On the surface we appear to have a changing of the guard in baseball. Albert Pujols had been anointed the next Babe Ruth many years ago and his numbers to-date have been simply outstanding. 416 home runs over 11 seasons with a lifetime .329 AVG, .423 OBP and .617 SLG are clear hall of fame numbers. But then something seems to have happened this year. As Pujols entered his free agency year, his numbers began to drop. As Albert Pujols has fallen back down to earth, home run king Jose Bautista continues his career rise. After 54 home runs in 2010, Bautista has hit the ground running in 2011 and has the MLB world talking. After so many requests for this faceoff, let’s take a look at Albert Pujols and Jose Bautista in 2011 and determine which is the better player.
Age
Pujols is 31 years-of-age while Bautista is 30. Rumors have constantly circled Pujols that his actual age may be closer to 33-34, based on Dominican age scandals in the past. But without substantiation, we will take Pujols at his word and conclude that both players are very close in age and in the same stage of their careers. Verdict: Draw.
Power
Bautista leads the majors in home runs with 19 while Pujols has been slow out of the gate at 8. Pujols has a .407 SLG while Bautista sits at .785. There is no question that Bautista has far exceeded Pujols in the power department this year. Considering that Bautista has only had Adam Lind for part of time for protection in the lineup with few other sluggers makes the numbers even more astounding. Pujols has both Lance Berkman and Matt Holliday in the mix and should be able to see far better pitches than Bautista. This part is a no doubter. Verdict: Bautista, by a country mile.
Patience and Batting Eye
This should have been Pujols category for the taking. With a career 934/666
BB/K, Pujols has a batting eye that few can match. This year however, Pujols sits at 20/20 BB/K. Good numbers, but not superstar Pujols type numbers. Bautista on the other hand leads the way with 42 walks on the season and is on pace to break 150. With only 24 strike outs in 2011, Bautista has an almost 2/1 BB/K ratio. It looks like we have a new sherif in town. In 2010, Pujols was great with 103/76 BB/K while Bautista produced 100/116 BB/K. While the walks were evenly matched, Pujols was able to strike out fewer times. But that was then and this season reads a different story. Pujols has a .330 OBP and Bautista leads with a .492 OBP. Not even close. Verdict: round 3 goes to Bautista.
Batting Average
Pujols has a lifetime .329 AVG while Bautista sits at .250. In 2010, Pujols had a .312 AVG while Bautista sat at .260. In 2011 though we have a seen a role reversal. Pujols has a .261 AVG while Bautista has a .342 AVG. Case closed again. Verdict: Bautista.
Stolen Bases
Neither player is a speed demon by any stretch. Bautista has 5 stolen bases on the year with 9 in 2010. Pujols had 14 last year but three this year. Neither gets on base with the thought of running and the stolen bases are negligible between the players. Pujols has stolen up to 16 bases in his career and stole 14 last year. But at the current pace, the numbers are fairly even. Pujols has stolen three bases without getting caught while Bautista has been 5 for 7 in his opportunities. Verdict: Draw.
Verdict
With 3 rounds going to Jose Bautista and 2 draws, this week’s competition was a no-brainer. Jose Bautista in 2011 has taken the crown of best hitter in baseball away from Albert Pujols. It almost seems like the players have somehow changed bodies. Jose Bautista has literally become the Albert Pujols of 2011, while Pujols himself has morphed into a lesser slugger in the mold of Bautista before 2010. Bautista is doing all the right things, by hitting for average, taking a lot of walks and hitting home runs with no end in sight. Pujols in contrast, has been a shell of himself this year. He is not able to do any of the things that Bautista has and will need to get himself moving if he hopes to catch up. As mentioned before, Pujols has great lineup protection and should be seeing many more fastballs and quality pitches to hit than Bautista. While Adam Lind was hot for a stretch, he is by no means Berkman or Holliday. Jose Bautista has had to produce with sub par players surrounding him in the batting order for most of the season. Pujols has also played 9 more games than Bautista, who missed games due to personal reasons and a neck strain. We shall see where these players are at come season’s end. Only time will tell. But until then, we are ready to crown Jose Bautista as the best hitter in baseball. Check the numbers, they don’t lie.
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Pujols and Fielder: Where They Will Land in 2012
MLB reports: There are two seasons in baseball: the season in itself with games and statistics to analyze and the offseason, with players moves and signings to report and speculate. I rarely like to combine the two seasons, as fans spend several winter months running through rumors in the winter and are ready for actual baseball come March. I am often told by fans that the MLB season is meant for playing baseball, not running through free agency analysis. Yet, I cannot even begin to count the amount of daily requests I receive asking me on where Albert Pujols and Prince Fielder will sign in 2012. We may not want to discuss it in May, but the truth is that two of the biggest (literally) sluggers that the game has ever seen will be entering free agency at the same time this year. In the back of our minds, we are all curious where each will play. Today, I will help shed some light on the future of Pujols and Fielder.
As I look into the magic crystal ball, the top contending teams for the services of Pujols and Fielder are as follows:
St. Louis Cardinals
I have said from day one that Pujols is not going anywhere and I am sticking to my guns. Pujols leaving St. Louis is like the Babe leaving Boston, franchise crippling (for many…many years at least). The Cardinals, MLB, the fans of St. Louis and even the President of the United States will likely have a say in directing Pujols to re-sign with his current employers. Pujols will get a huge payday, don’t get me wrong, but he does not seem to be the type to take the largest contract offer on the table. Plus with Tony LaRussa at the helm, there will many forces at play to keep Sir Albert (aka “The Great Pujols”) in St. Louis. In the event that the Cardinals lose out on their franchise player, logic dictates that they will make a run at Fielder. I cannot see a fit here, as location and money does not seem to work for Prince. I see the bright lights of the big city ahead for Fielder and with a stable of teams gunning for him, he will be a difficult player to sign.
New York Yankees
Any talk of free agency signings begin and end with the Yankees. They are always a threat to make a run for the top hired guns and often get their way. The Mark Teixeira signing came out of left field and after losing out on Cliff Lee last year, the Yankees are hungry to add more big names to their roster. The top target of the Yankees would be Pujols, but I cannot see him fitting in New York. With a gold glover entrenched at first, Pujols is not and will not sign to be a DH for the balance of his career. The money might be right, but the position and environment does not suit Sir Albert. On the other hand, Prince is a logical candidate for New York. To become the biggest name in baseball, Prince would love to perform on its biggest stage and there is none bigger than New York. Like his dad before him, Prince would look great in pinstripes. Given the strained relationship between father and son, I could see Prince having an added incentive to perform better than his dad did with the Yankees. I am not sure how Prince will take to being a DH but with age, weight and injuries all becoming a risk, I could see Prince getting off the field as a huge bonus for his career. Posada is on the last year of his contract (and leg of his career) and a DH spot is about to open up in New York. But if Prince is determined to keep his glove, then all bets are off.
Kansas City Royals
This team probably comes as a shock to you. Before you start with the angry messages, think about some factors. I had considered this team in the past, but a limited budget and winning prospects left me with many doubts. But after reading some articles on the subject, I began to be swayed. Pujols went to school in the area. Pujols met his wife in Kansas City. Everyone supposedly wants to come home…and perhaps Pujols is the same. The move to the Royals would not be far from his current location. The Royals are a team on the rise with the best farm system in baseball. The signing of Pujols could instantly bring the team to respectability. Even though top prospect Eric Hosmer plays first and Billy Butler is the DH, positions can be realigned for Pujols. The signing of Pujols could be the missing link that the Royals need and I can see this signing as a real possibility. I will give the Royals a 10% chance at best at signing Pujols, but that is 10% better than most teams. As far as Fielder goes, don’t even think about it, Pujols and the Royals are a one-time match only.
San Francisco Giants
The World Series champs have several factors going for them. Money in the bank. Great attendance numbers and incredible pitching. Somehow the Giants won it all in 2010 with weak hitting but if they hope to get back to the fall classic, they will need better hitting. They don’t come better or bigger than Pujols or Fielder. Both players are solid fits for the Giants. Signing with the Giants allows either player to stay in the NL. The ballpark should not be a factor as Pujols and Fielder could launch home runs in San Diego if required. The requirement for offense means the Giants will push heavily to sign one of these guys. Since I see Pujols back in St. Louis, I will not give him much of a chance of signing here. But that being said, it is one of the only credible possibilities. Prince is more likely than Pujols to jump to San Francisco and enjoy the weather and admiration of becoming the next Barry Bonds, sans the steroids. Again unlikely, but one of the only true landing spots for either slugger.
Toronto Blue Jays
Surprised? You shouldn’t be. The Blue Jays have money in the bank and a team on the rise. They shed the huge Vernon Wells contract and despite paying Jose Bautista a king’s ransom, still have room in the budget for the right superstar. Possibly. Let’s not even discuss Pujols here. It is not going to happen as I cannot see a fit for him in terms of market and team. But Prince Fielder is another story. Cecil made his professional debut with the Jays and Prince knows the city well. I remember Prince as a youngster coming to Toronto and hitting home runs at BP when Cecil was with the Tigers. The Jays have a first baseman in Adam Lind that can rotate first and DH with Prince. Together with Jose Bautista, the Jays would have two of the biggest boppers in the game in their lineup. The Rogers Centre, being the launching pad that it is, could see over fifty home runs for Fielder. All the chips could be in place for a Toronto signing in Prince’s future. The issues that I see are that Toronto is not a large enough market, may not hand out the biggest contract, Canadian taxes/visa issues in the minds of players and strength of team on the field. The Jays would be an underdog to sign Fielder, but one of few teams that has the resources and the incentives to lure him away from Milwaukee.
One team that is missing from the discussion is the Milwaukee Brewers, Fielder’s current team. They have been omitted for good reason. The team does not have the finances to sign Prince and does not appear to have the resources to sign either slugger to a long-term contract. With Braun, Weeks, Greinke all locked up, the Brewers are tapped out from the mega-dollars that both sluggers seek. Other teams like the Cubs, Angels and Orioles have the money but do not have the market and/or lineups that Pujols and Fielder will be seeking. The Mets and Dodgers are having ownership issues that will likely limit or eliminate their ability during the next free agency period. So with that being said, the truth is that anything can happen. As we saw last year with Cliff Lee, who went to the Phillies and Mark Teixeira signing with the Yankees before, a mystery team can always emerge. But based on my evaluation and analysis, if you needed a final prediction from me: Pujols to Cardinals, Fielder to Yankees. Final answer.
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Top Home Run Hitters: MLB 2011
MLB reports: For pure fun today, I wanted to scan the major league baseball leaderboard and evaluate the top home run hitters of 2011. While this list can change at a moment’s notice, looking at the board with over three weeks into the season is always fun. At least my idea of fun. I originally planned to make a top ten list, but that was going to prove to be futile. Six hitters sit at the top of the list with seven home runs a piece and eight hitters tied for second with six home runs each. Let’s take a close look at the top fourteen then and see which hitters are likely to remain on the list and which have caught lightning in a bottle for a few games.
First Place – Seven Home Runs
Jose Bautista: Toronto Blue Jays
After 54 home runs last year, is anyone still waiting for a slowdown? With 19 walks already, .359 AVG and 1.256 OPS, Bautista continues to build on the momentum of last year. Living up to his large contract extension signed in the off-season, it appears that the new Jose Bautista is here to stay. At 30 years of age, Bautista is showing that he has enough juice in his bat to approach another 50 home runs this year.
Adrian Beltre: Texas Rangers
Another big contract signing entering 2011, Beltre has made good on the promise of his bat hitting in Arlington. Inconsistent throughout his career, analysts have often said that if healthy and playing in a hitters park, the sky is the limit. Beltre hit 48 home runs back in 2004 playing for the Dodgers and have never approached those numbers since. At 32 and playing in one of the best hitters park in a stacked lineup, big numbers could come his way. I see somewhat of a regression, but 30-35 home runs is a safe bet at this point.
Ryan Braun: Milwaukee Brewers
The Hebrew Hammer has 128 career home runs in four seasons going into 2011. He has Prince Fielder in the lineup with him. At 27, Braun is this generation’s Ralph Kiner and Hank Greenberg. No slowdowns ahead for this Brewer as he shoots for his first 40+ home run season. The 2007 NL Rookie of the Year is a future MVP and his time could come this year.
Curtis Granderson: New York Yankees
The only surprise in the top home run hitters category, Granderson has always shown glimpses of brilliance but injuries and slumps have slowed his path. The 20/20/20/20 season in 2007 was impressive, as was the career high 30 home runs that Granderson hit in 2009 for the Tigers. Even though he missed 26 games last year to injury, he still was able to amass 24 home runs. Now healthy and with the short porch in Yankee stadium, Granderson has a good chance at equaling and besting his career best power numbers. Given the Yankees lineup as well, I would not count him out. Granderson is unlikely to remain among the league leaders in bombs, but a solid 30+ home run season is definitely in order.
Albert Pujols: St. Louis Cardinals
Coming into this season, the Great Pujols hit a Ruthian 408 home runs in 10 seasons. Truly our generation’s Babe Ruth, Pujols has to be considered one of the best home run hitters of all time. With an .806 OPS, Pujols hasn’t even begun to heat up. Pujols has Holliday and a resurging Lance Berkman for protection and going into his first free agency year, expect legendary numbers by seasons end. This is Albert Pujols we are talking about…I do not have to say anything else.
Troy Tulowitzki: Colorado Rockies
Still only 26 years old, Tulowitzki is working towards becoming the best player in baseball. Missing significant time in 2008 and 2010, Tulo still has 99 career home runs going into today. Playing in the home run haven called Colorado, all Tulo has to do is to stay healthy to succeed. As this is an odd year, history is shown that he will likely play close to a full season. His career high of 32 home runs is well within reach and I can see a 40+ home run season this year. The talent and circumstances are all there…all he needs is health.
Second Place: Six Home Runs
Lance Berkman: St. Louis Cardinals
Going into the second tier of top home run hitters, we find some resurgent players, surprises and expected studs. Berkman was an uncertainty coming into season. The 35-year-old Big Puma has seen 40+ home run seasons in his career. 2010 was an injury shortened season and after getting traded to the Yankees and faltering in New York, critics began to write him off. I was a big fan of his move to St. Louis, back to the NL Central and the opportunity to play with Pujols and Holliday. Defense aside, Berkman’s 9 walks and league leading .725 SLG show that the Puma is back. With the occasional days off and prime spot in the lineup, 35 home runs is my predicted total for this superstar.
Jonny Gomes: Cincinnati Reds
The man has seem to been around forever but is actually only 30 years old. Gomes has seen several 20+ home run seasons in his career, including 18 in 2010 playing in a career high 148 games. With 18 walks, Gomes has disguised his poor .212 avg this season with a .386 OBP and .530 SLG. The owner of a lifetime .332 OBP and .463 SLG, Gomes will get a fair amount of playing time this year. While he is not the second coming of Adam Dunn, Gomes has clearly found a home in Cincinnati. His lower average and 19 strikeouts concern me at this point as he will need to become a steadier hitter to continue to receive steady playing time. Part of the surprises of this list, expect a return to form in order for Gomes. Despite lofty totals, I cannot foresee a 30 home run season coming, even though he plays in that ballpark. He is too streaky and Dusty Baker is not patient enough to stick with him.
Howie Kendrick: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
Not one of my favorite players to cover, I have always soured on Kendrick for his inability to take walks. With a career high of 10 home runs (twice), low stolen bases totals and inability to consistently get on base, I have rarely seen the upside of Kendrick at the plate. This season, apparently as light switch has gone off inside his head or bat, as Kendrick is well on his way to shattering his previous power numbers and already has 10 walks on the season (last year he set a career high of 28). Does a leopard change its spots…or does a Kendrick learn patience? I will believe it when I see it. I have watched Kendrick for too long to be sold on what I have seen thus far. if he is still able to keep up this approach going into July, maybe I will cut him some slack. Until then, I expect to see Kendrick off this list by mid-June at the latest. A nice run, but a run is all this is at the end of the day in my opinion.
Russell Martin: New York Yankees
The second Yankee on our list has found a new home and new lease on life in the Bronx. Martin had a career high 19 home runs in 2007 playing for the Dodgers, earning a Silver Slugger award that year. With an OPS of 1.099, Martin is the early favorite for Comeback Player of the Year. Playing nearly every game this season and enjoying a healthy hip, Martin apparently has renewed drive and focus that was previously lacking in Los Angeles. At 28 years old and continuing our trend of young superstars on the list, all Martin really has to do is stay healthy this year. In the loaded Yankees lineup and with the short porch, Martin has a chance at 25 home runs this year.
Jorge Posada: New York Yankees
Yankee #3 is on the downside of his career, or so we are led to believe. The 39-year-old Posada is a full-time DH for the full-time in his career. While his .153 AVG and .711 OPS, his 6 home runs (of his 9 total hits) is outstanding. Too many factors are against Posada staying on the leaderboard. Health is always a concern and despite no longer playing the field, any tweaks at this point could send the elderly Posada to the DL. Further, his numbers are showing that when he is not hitting home runs, he is simply not hitting or getting on base. As Posada continues his best Rob Deer impersonation, I don’t foresee great things ahead for the future hall of famer, nearing the end of an outstanding career.
Carlos Quentin: Chicago White Sox
Both Chicago teams are represented, with the powerful Quentin starting off for the White Sox. The likely pick for MVP had he stayed healthy in 2008, Quentin has a laundry list of injuries and ailments his entire career. But when healthy, Quentin is always a home run threat. With a 1.023 OPS and having Rios, Dunn, Konerko, Ramirez and Beckham in the lineup for protection, Quentin looks to best his career high of 36 home runs in 2008. I am sitting on the fence on this one. The potential is there, but so are the injuries. Expect at least a couple of trips to the disabled list but assuming reasonable health, I will take 30+ home runs for Carlos. The Adam Dunn factor cannot be discounted, as he will prove to be great protection for Quentin all season long.
Alfonso Soriano: Chicago Cubs
A 20+ home run hitter for nine straight seasons, Soriano was written off for dead by many experts, yours truly included. 2009 was a dismal season for Soriano and although he had a steady return last year, at the age of 35 and with knee issues, little was expected from the talented Dominican. Despite his .513 SLG this season, there are several reasons to expect a continuing decline for Soriano. His BB/K rate this year is an abysmal 3/21, as his .244 AVG and .272 OBP. If you ask me, I see Soriano slowly decaying into the next Yuniesky Betancourt. Soriano is still a lock for another 20+ home run year but with the rest of his game on such a rapid decline, don’t expect much else. If the Cubs have any other options, I expect Soriano to see more time on the bench or even a trade in order. But at his salary, I cannot foresee any team taking a chance.
Mark Teixeira: New York Yankees
The last player on our list and Yankee #4, Teixeira clearly did not get the memo that we are in April and not August. A notorious slow starter, Teixeira is already up to twelve walks, .402 OBP and .621 SLG. For the 31-year-old Teixeira who has 281 career home runs, his career high of 43 home runs in 2005 could be broken. Considering that Teixeira has the ability to hit 10-12 home runs per month in the summer, I see a clear breakout year for this superstar first baseman. The Yankees went out and got him for a reason. In addition to his gold glove defense, I am smelling a possible silver slugger and MVP award in 2011.
What is the future of this list? Hard to tell without a crystal ball, as so many factors can arise. Injuries, playing time, lineup position…things can change. But a trend is clear from the early season home run leaders. Most are in the 27-30 year-old age bracket and are proven home run hitters in their careers. I expect most of the above hitters to remain on the list, with some surprises to fade away and new players to emerge. Other superstars, like Joey Votto and Adrian Gonzalez will join this list very soon. But even in the short span of three weeks into the season, it is clear that even with only a few games played, the home run hitting cream is already rising to the top.
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