Blog Archives

2014 MLB Season Opener Date for Games In Sydney, Australia + Week 1 Of The MLB Schedule (March.23 – April.06/2014)

The MLB Reports is going to be the #1 place to come for the 2014 Major League Baseball Schedule: Dates, Days, Home Openers, # Games Per Day: Break Downs into pages of a Year Long Calendar, Monthly Calendar, Weekly Calendar - all on one page for each, so you can know your favorite teams schedule, or plan to do a MLB Road Trip. I will also do a doubleheader Master Schedule for - two parks in one day for that extreme Ball Park Chaser (Coming in Feb).  Also, we will have a Sunday Night ESPN schedule page, an Interleague Schedule Page for all year, 6 different 30 Ballparks in 30 days trip schedulers, and a couple of schedules I feel could break the records for ballpark viewing.  Those last few pages all are coming in February.

The MLB Reports is going to be the #1 place to come for the 2014 Major League Baseball Schedule: Dates, Days, Home Openers, # Games Per Day: Break Downs into pages of a Year Long Calendar, Monthly Calendar, Weekly Calendar – all on one page for each, so you can know your favorite teams schedule, or plan to do a MLB Road Trip. I will also do a doubleheader Master Schedule for – two parks in one day for that extreme Ball Park Chaser (Coming in Feb). Also, we will have a Sunday Night ESPN schedule page, an Interleague Schedule Page for all year, 6 different 30 Ballparks in 30 days trip schedulers, and a couple of schedules I feel could break the records for ballpark viewing. Those last few pages all are coming in February.

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

With the exception of that we don’t know who is going to have the North American Home Opener on Sunday March.30/2014 yet, these are the tentative schedule – and I have highlighted home openers for each club.

Only a few teams like:  St. Louis, New York (AL), Seattle, and San Francisco will not have hosted games from Mar.30 – April.06.  Everybody will have played a home game by April.08/2014.

All 30 MLB Parks – Mature Lyrics So Parental Guidance Is Advised

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Official Home Openers At All 30 MLB Parks In 2014

The MLB Reports is going to be the #1 place to come for the 2014 Major League Baseball Schedule: Dates, Days, Home Openers, # Games Per Day: Break Downs into pages of a Year Long Calendar, Monthly Calendar, Weekly Calendar - all on one page for each, so you can know your favorite teams schedule, or plan to do a MLB Road Trip. I will also do a doubleheader Master Schedule for - two parks in one day for that extreme Ball Park Chaser (Coming in Feb).  Also, we will have a Sunday Night ESPN schedule page, an Interleague Schedule Page for all year, 6 different 30 Ballparks in 30 days trip schedulers, and a couple of schedules I feel could break the records for ballpark viewing.  Those last few pages all are coming in February.

The MLB Reports is going to be the #1 place to come for the 2014 Major League Baseball Schedule: Dates, Days, Home Openers, # Games Per Day: Break Downs into pages of a Year Long Calendar, Monthly Calendar, Weekly Calendar – all on one page for each, so you can know your favorite teams schedule, or plan to do a MLB Road Trip. I will also do a doubleheader Master Schedule for – two parks in one day for that extreme Ball Park Chaser (Coming in Feb). Also, we will have a Sunday Night ESPN schedule page, an Interleague Schedule Page for all year, 6 different 30 Ballparks in 30 days trip schedules, and a couple of schedules I feel could break the records for ballpark viewing. Those last few pages all are coming in February.

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

With the exception of that we don’t know who is going to have the North American Home Opener on Sunday March.30/2014 yet, these are the tentative home openers for each club.

30 MLB Park Rankings – According to a Fan

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (September.8th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Photo: John Sleezer - KC Star

Photo: John Sleezer – KC Star

Bruce Chen kept the Royals in the playoff picture with 7 strong innings, giving up 2 runs and walking none, getting the 5-2 win over the Tigers.

Michael Wacha not only pitched 7 shutout inning against division rival Pittsburgh, but he drove in a pair of runs as well, earning the decision as St. Louis topped the Pirates, 9-2 to complete the sweep.

James Loney woke up a dormant Tampa lineup by getting on base 4 times and sparking the 8th inning come from behind rally with a game tying double and coming around to score later in the frame. The Rays would get a desperately needed victory over Seattle, 4-1.

Jay Bruce homered twice off of Clayton Kershaw, setting up the Reds eventual walk off 3-2 win over the Dodgers.

They all owned baseball on September 7, 2013.

My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.

At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.

To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (September.7th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Photo by Huy Mach, St. Louis Post Dispatch

Photo by Huy Mach, St. Louis Post Dispatch

Adam Wainwright pitched the Cardinals back into first place, tossing 7 masterful 2 hit shutout innings against the Pirates. He struck out 8 and walked only 2 as St. Louis triumphed, 5-0.

Freddy Galvis collected 4 hits including a walk off shot in the bottom of the ninth, giving the Phillies a 6-5 win over first place Atlanta.

Dan Straily threw 7 shutout innings, striking out 7 and walking one, keeping Oakland in first place with a 2-1 victory over Houston.

Nick Swisher doubled home Cleveland’s first run and then homered in the second inning, propelling the Indians past the Mets, 9-4 and within a game of the Wild Card.

They all owned baseball on September 7, 2013.

My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.

At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.

To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here

Read the rest of this entry

Pirates, Dodgers, & Rays Improve Team With Good Deals

Justin Morneau is a great addition to the Pittsburgh Pirates. The team is hoping that he can propel  them to a division title along with the other new faces to their squad. Morneau is having a very productive with him hitting .259 to include 17 HRs and and 74 RBIs. He is not the guy who was the AL MVP in 2006 that hit 34 HRs while driving in 130 RBIs and had an average of .321. He can still provide a team with solid at-bats in a game and is a good guy to have in the clubhouse. The left-hander can hit righties as good as southpaws. He has a .286 average facing right-handers and hist .282 against left-handed pitchers. He still knows how to handle the bat with runners in scoring position, as indicated by him having 54 RBIs in this situation.

Justin Morneau is a great addition to the Pittsburgh Pirates. The team is hoping that he can propel them to a division title along with the other new faces to their squad. Morneau is having a very productive season with him hitting .259 to include 17 HRs and and 74 RBIs. He is not the guy who was the AL MVP in 2006 that hit 34 HRs while driving in 130 RBIs and had an average of .321. He can still provide a team with solid at-bats in a game and is a good guy to have in the clubhouse. The left-hander can hit righties as good as southpaws. He has a .286 average facing right-handers and hist .282 against left-handed pitchers. He still knows how to handle the bat with runners in scoring position, as indicated by him having 54 RBIs in this situation.

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

The waiver wire during the month of August is way for teams that are either contending for a playoff spot or leading their respective division to improve their team.

Since we are in the final month of the baseball season, there are a couple of teams that made moves to ensure that they have players to help them for the stretch run.

Justin Morneau Career Highlights– Parental Guidance Is Advised 

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Is A Chief Needed For The Braves Young Rotation?

At first thought of Freddy Garcia stepping any where near the hill to start a playoff game, may have fans cringe at the thought, but keep in mind of his prior playoff pedigree.  In a spot start or pinch, the wily veteran chucker may be up for the challenge.  The 36 Year Old from Venezuela holds a 6 - 3 record - with a 3.28 ERA in 10 Game Starts, and in particular was 3 - 0, with a 2.14 ERA for the 2005 World Champion White Sox.  Could he channel some of his experience for Atlanta if called upon?

At first thought of Freddy Garcia stepping anywhere near the hill to start a playoff game, may have fans cringe at the thought, but keep in mind of his prior playoff pedigree. In a spot start or a pinch, the wily veteran chucker may be up for the challenge. The 36 Year Old from Venezuela, holds a 6 – 3 record – with a 3.28 ERA in 10 Post Season Game Starts, and in particular was 3 – 0, with a 2.14 ERA for the 2005 World Champion White Sox. Could he channel some of his experience for Atlanta if called upon?

By Bob McVinua (Special Guest Braves Writer – visit his website here):

Freddy Garcia, nicknamed the “chief” has recently been called up from the minor leagues to add some relief to the Atlanta bullpen.

At first I was very skeptical of the move and didn’t really see it as being anymore then an inexpensive way to eat up innings down the stretch while the team sits on a large division lead.

Then when Garcia began to see minor league action and couldn’t seem to get anyone out I became even more convinced that this deal wouldn’t amount to anything.

Well we all know how quickly things can change in Major League Baseball and today’s zeros can become tomorrow’s hero’s in the blink of an eye.

Freddy Garcia hurls a SO versus the Nationals 5/30/2013

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (September.4th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Photo: Joe Robbins/Getty Images

Photo: Joe Robbins/Getty Images

Matt Adams came off the bench and became the first Cardinals player ever to hit two extra inning home runs in the same game. Both game St. Louis the lead and the second one was the eventual game winner in the 16th, topping the Reds 5-4.

David Ortiz delivered 3 hits including 2 of the 8 Red Sox homers. His second home run was career hit humber 2,000 as Boston clobbered Detroit in a 20-4 laugher.

Dillon Gee pitched 7 terrific innings, letting up 1 run and 4 hits and got the 5-2 victory for the Mets over the first place Braves.

Jarrod Parker did his job in a divisional showdown against Texas. He pitched 6 innings letting up just 5 hits and 2 runs while walking none, giving the A’s the chance to run up the score in an 11-4 blow out that put Oakland back into a first place tie.

They all owned baseball on September 4, 2013.

My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.

At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.

To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here

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Jeter Passes Eddie Collins For 10th On The ALL – Time Hit List: Next Up – Paul Molitor – Only 4 Hits Away!

I am sure that Derek Jeter will attempt to play in 2014 - regardless of how this season ends up.  #2 has a Player Option for $8 MIL in 2014.  It would behoove he and the club if Jeter exercises it.  After he led the MLB in hits last year with 216, he is sitting on 11 hits in 2013 - due to 3 DL stints and just 49 AB this year.  Jeter passed Eddie Collins, and will soon blow by Paul Molitor, but how much longer will he play after this campaign?

I am sure that Derek Jeter will attempt to play in 2014 – regardless of how this season ends up. #2 has a Player Option for $8 MIL in 2014. It would behoove he and the club if Jeter exercises it. After he led the MLB in hits last year with 216, he is sitting on just 11 knocks in 2013 – due to 3 DL stints and just 49 AB. The Yanks are hoping that Jeter can provide them a spark towards a 2013 playoff spot.  The worst the team has ever done in his 19 year career, is finish 87 -74 in 2000 (still won the WS). The only time the club missed the playoffs – was in 2008, when they were 89 – 73.

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst and Website Owner)

This season has to have been the most mentally grueling campaign for EL Capitan.  Jeter has fought through several injuries, DL stints, and seen his teammates struggle for the 1st time in 5 years.

Despite all of that, Derek Jeter smacked two base hits last night (including his 3315th) – to pass Eddie Collins for 10th on the ALL – Time Hit List (If you are on mlb.com).  It was just the Shortstops 11th hit on the year.

Next on the list is long time Brewer great, and Baseball Hall of Famer Paul Molitor at 3319 Career hits sitting 9th.  With any luck, Jeter will pass this legend by the week’s end.

Derek Jeter’s only HR this year

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Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – August 31, 2013

(AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

(AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

If you aren’t following the races in the NL Central and AL Wild Card and West, then you are really missing out.

Plus more Sabathia worries, even after a Yankee win.

That topic and more on today’s episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Francisco Liriano, Jarrod Parker, Dustin Ackley and Todd Helton all owned baseball on August 30, 2013.

To see the up to date tally of “Who Owns Baseball?,” click HERE

Subscribe on iTunes HERE.
Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – August 31, 2013

Aug.31 Trade Deadline Maneuvers Part 1

 had his best year in 2011 with the Nationals, where he hit .303, with 31 HRs and 95 RBI during his 515 AB.  The Orioles would love that kind of production to aid their DH core of hitters.  The club however, would simply settle for his Career 3 Slash Line of .284/.338/.816 in parts of 9 seasons and 1827 At-Bats.  Morse makes $6.75 MIL this year, and will be a Free Agent after the campaign is finished.

Mike Morse had his best year in 2011 with the Nationals, where he hit .303, with 31 HRs and 95 RBI during his 515 AB. The Orioles would love that kind of production to aid their DH core of hitters. The club however, would simply settle for his Career 3 Slash Line of .284/.338/.816 in parts of 9 seasons and 1827 At-Bats. Morse makes $6.75 MIL this year, and will be a Free Agent after the campaign is finished.

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst and Website Owner)

The Orioles picking up Mike Morse is a good move.  The  guy is familiar with Region, is a nice contrast to Chris Davis – and cost the club a minimal amount to bring over.

I think the big 6 FT 5 players is just the kind of guy the Baltimore team has missed over the year.

The Designated Hitters slot has been abysmal – and if Morse can to the back of his bubblegum card, this move will pan out.

The team’s lineup will now feature  Manny Machado 3B, , Nick Markakis RF, Chris Davis 1B, Adam Jones CF, Matt Wieters C, J.J. Hardy SS, Mike Morse DH, Nate McLouth LF and Brian Roberts 2B.

Morse joins Scott Feldman, Francisco Rodriguez and Bud Norris as late season acquisitions.  All of them have contributed to the franchise.

All of a sudden having a 7 – 9, with a 25 – 30 HR powers in Morse, added with veteran Brian Roberts (if healthy) and Nate McLouth, could add a speed element when the team swings around back to the top of the lineup.

It is good for depth and when consider the team is only 5 games out of the 2nd Wild Card Spot, this is plausible with 3o games left.

Chris Tillman has asserted himself an up and coming #2 Pitcher on the team. I must say, him doing this 2 years in a row, has made a believer out of me now.

The man is 24 – 7 over his last 31 decisions – and has a mid tier 3 ERA – competing in a donnybrook of a Division.  Yesterday’s win over Boston was just another example of how much the 25 year old has bailed the club out of a losing streak.

You know Buck Showalter will have his guys ‘game ready’ for the challenge.

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Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – August 30, 2013

AP Photo

AP Photo

Somewhere between babying pitchers and blowing out arms, there is a gray area.

Between Stephen Strasburg and Mark Prior, there must be a midground.

There is… it is called “Anything the St. Louis Cardinals are doing.

That topic and more on today’s episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Torii Hunter, Yovani Gallardo, Daniel Murphy and Jason Vargas all owned baseball on August 29, 2013.

To see the up to date tally of “Who Owns Baseball?,” click HERE.

Subscribe on iTunes HERE.

SULLY BASEBALL DAILY PODCAST – August 30, 2013

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – August 28, 2013

Photo: Chris Lee - St. Louis Post Dispatch

Photo: Chris Lee – St. Louis Post Dispatch


The St. Louis Cardinals sure look like they are the team to beat with the playoffs looming. If this squad joins the ranks of great Cardinal teams of the past, which player is the face of this Red Birds squad?

Also more closer insanity and some thoughts about my grandfather on today’s episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Shane Victorino,  Gerardo Parra, Jonathon Niese and Andy Pettitte all owned baseball on August 27, 2013.

To see the up to date tally of “Who Owns Baseball?,” click HERE

Subscribe on iTunes HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – August 28, 2013

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (August.26th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Photo: Julian H. Gonzalez - Detroit Free Press

Photo: Julian H. Gonzalez – Detroit Free Press

Coco Crisp  homered, doubled, singled, drove in 2, scored a pair and made a highlight film catch, helping the A’s win a wild back and forth 8-6 game over the Tigers.

Allan Craig was a triple shy of the cycle and hit a 2 out come from behind 7th inning grand slam to put St. Louis ahead of Cincinnati in a crucial divisional victory, 8-6.

Zack Greinke put the Dodgers back in the win column by pitching shutout ball into the 9th inning and finishing with 8 2/3 strong frames, letting up 2 runs and getting the 6-2 decision over the Cubs.

R. A. Dickey did not dominate the Yankees. But he pitched well enough into the 7th to give the Blue Jays a rare “W” against them, 5-2.  

They all owned baseball on August 26, 2013.

My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.

At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.

To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here Read the rest of this entry

Triple Play Podcast Ep #20: DBacks + NL Central Talk

The Triple Play Show will have 5 shows per month.  Each show will be about 1 hour

The Triple Play Show will have 5 shows per month. Each show will be about 1 hour. Chuck Booth will guest once a month for MLB Power Rankings,

By The Big Ticket Show ( AKA Triple Play Podcast on http://www.mlbreports.com)

On this week’s show Chris Lacey (Lead Baseball Columnist and Minority Owner of mlbreports.) com  joins us to discuss the D’Backs season and to break down the dog fight in the NL Central.

All that plus Chris Leitch returns as the boys cover all the biggest news in MLB  – including our weekly Blue Jays ‘BITCH” on their play.

To listen to the audio for this Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY logo or past the Triple Play Logo. 

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Breaking Down A Potential Suitor For My World Record Of 30 MLB Parks in 23 Days with a 30 – 21 bid

30 in 21 chance by Jake Beham

The schedule of Jake Beham, who is trying to chase down my World Record of Seeing all 30 MLB Parks (every pitch) in 23 calendar days or less.

The schedule of Jake Beham, who is trying to chase down my World Record of Seeing all 30 MLB Parks (every pitch) in 23 calendar days or less.  This schedule must have been done without knowing you have to witness all plays of the game to qualify.  Jake is going to have a tough time dodging a miss on day 2 – where he will try to beat Labor Day Monday traffic from after the game – in order to make 1st pitch at CBP.  He will never make it by car.  The Yankees always play games that are 3 Hours or longer as well.  Even Amtrak train is a longshot.  I give him a 10% chance to make it on his 1st Doubleheader attempt.

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

2 days later he flies to Chase Field – and has scheduled a Doubleheader with Angel Stadium For DH #2.  I am assuming he is planning on taking a Southwest Airlines flight that arrives at John Wayne Arpt.  The flight leaves Phoenix at 455 PM.

That is 4 hours and 15 minutes after 1st pitch.  The flight that arrives in SNA at 605.   If he makes the flight, he could make this.  However it is about a 67% chance.  Most NL games last about 2 hours and 35 minutes.

The airport is close enough to the park in PHX – as is SNA airport.  Any extra innings though, and it is over.

On FRI, Sept.6th, he has scheduled a Wrigley Field and Kauffman Stadium doubleheader for DH #3.  This one is impossible.  The game starts at 120 PM local Chicago Time.

The closest flight I saw that leaves ORD or MDW in time for Kansas City, leaves at 441 PM.  That is 3 hours and 21 minutes from 1st pitch at Wrigley Field.

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (August.24th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Photo: J. Meric - Getty Images

Photo: J. Meric – Getty Images

Evan Longoria smacked a go ahead RBI single in the 6th and added a home run in the 8th, leading the Rays in a come from behind victory over the Yankees, 4-2.

Jon Lester dominated the Dodgers in Chavez Ravine, pitching shutout ball into the 8th. Eventually he gave way to the bullpen but finished with an impressive 7 1/3, 1 run, 3 hit performance and got the decision in the Red Sox 4-2 win.

Carlos Beltran helped slug the Cardinals back into a first place tie by collecting three hits including a tie breaking home run in the third and an RBI single in the 8th. St. Louis would beat Atlanta, 6-2

Trevor Cahill gave the Diamondbacks 4 innings of shutout ball out of the bullpen on a night where he was supposed to have the night off. Instead he entered a game critical for Arizona’s thin playoff hopes in the 15th inning and proceeded to keep the Phillies off of the board, despite having the winning run at the plate for every batter he faced in the 15th, 16th and 17th innings. Eventually Philadelphia ran out of pitchers. But Cahill was triumphant as Arizona outlasted the Phils, 12-7 in 18 innings.  

They all owned baseball on August 24, 2013.

My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.

At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.

To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (August.23rd) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

AP Photo/Jeff Roberson

AP Photo/Jeff Roberson

Adam Wainwright pitched a complete game against the Braves, surrendering just a single run and no walks while striking out 9. He also drove in a run with a sacrifice fly as the Cardinals prevailed, 3-1.

Khris Davis hit a pair of homers, driving in 4, leading the Brewers to a 6-4 victory over the Reds .

Chris Archer tamed the hot Yankee bats with 7 strong innings, allowing just 4 hits and a pair of runs, getting the 7-2 win for the Rays.

Torii Hunter homered in the first, hit an RBI double in the second and came around to score as the Tigers made short work of the Mets, 6-1.  

They all owned baseball on August 23, 2013.

My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.

At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.

To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here Read the rest of this entry

The History Of Extreme Ballpark Chasing (1993 – 2013)

The days of not being able to visit all MLB parks in consecutive days ended in 1993, when the Rockies were introduced, and enhanced even more with the Arizona Diamondbacks entering the league in 1998.  In the last 15 years, several people have tried to see all 30 MLB parks in under a month.  Some successful, some broke some rules, and one guy even bought this website 6 months after he set the World Record for visiting all 30 MLB Parks in just 23 Calendar Days - completing 7 Doubleheaders.

The days of not being able to visit all MLB parks in consecutive days ended in 1993, when the Rockies were introduced, and enhanced even more with the Arizona Diamondbacks entering the league in 1998. In the last 15 years, several people have tried to see all 30 MLB parks in under a month. Some successful, some broke some rules, and one guy even bought this website 6 months after he set the World Record for visiting all 30 MLB Parks in just 23 Calendar Days – completing 7 Doubleheaders.

Ballpark Chaser definition:  Someone who is actively pursuing quests to view Baseball Parks.

Guys talked about in this Article:  Completely Insane!

By Josh Robbins (Special Guest Writer And Co – Creator for The Factor12 Rating Pitching Metric.)  Factor 12 (F12) is an analytic measurement utilizing league average performance to compare the value of all MLB pitchers on 60ft6in.com.

MLB Expansion Makes Ballpark Chasing Possible

Twenty years ago, the course of history changed for ballpark chasing.  In 1993, the Colorado Rockies and Florida Marlins debuted in the National League, increasing the total number of MLB teams to twenty-eight. 

The two new franchises created positions for fifty players and expanded the pursuits for ballpark chasers.

In prior years, the nearest connection between a west coast team and the mid-west was Anaheim Stadium to Royals Stadium, a 23-hour drive covering 1,619 miles. 

As a result, it was impossible for fans to attend games in consecutive days at every MLB stadium during one concurrent driving trip.  Consequently, the only method to complete the entire circuit was to combine land and air travel.

The new league structure dramatically altered the traveling landscape by adding Mile High Stadium in Denver, a 14-hour, 1,011-mile drive from Anaheim Stadium. 

Reggie Deal’s- 30 Day. 30 Park Compilation (A Blind Fan Who visited all 30 MLB Parks in 30 Days last year)

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Pirates Chuckers A.J. Burnett And Francisco Liriano Are Leading The Team To Greatness

A.J. Burnett is showing that he is not a one-hit wonder by having another solid year pitching for the Pirates in their rotation. He leads the club in strikeouts with 160 on the season in 145.2 innings pitched with a WHIP of 1.22. He has allowed nine Home Runs with him walking 53 batters. Burnett has a strikeout per nine of 9.9 and is holding opponents to a batting average of .231. He has been very tough on right-handers by holding them to an average of .203 in 286 at-bats. The right-hander is just as good with runners in scoring position, as indicated by teams just hitting .188 in this situation.  When there are two outs and runners in scoring position, he limits teams to a .197 average.

A.J. Burnett is showing that he is not a one-hit wonder by having another solid year pitching for the Pirates in their rotation. He leads the club in strikeouts with 160 on the season in 145.2 innings pitched, with a WHIP of 1.22 and a 3.09 ERA. He has allowed nine Home Runs with him walking 53 batters. Burnett has a strikeout per nine of 9.9 and is holding opponents to a batting average of .231. He has been very tough on right-handers by holding them to an average of .203 in 286 at-bats. The right-hander is just as good with runners in scoring position, as indicated by teams just hitting .188 in this situation. When there are two outs and runners in scoring position, he limits teams to a .197 average.

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

There have been plenty of story lines this season in baseball, and one them is could the Pittsburgh Pirates finally end their drought of losing seasons. For those that don’t know the Pirates have not had a winning baseball season since 1992.

This is a long time to go without having a winning season and the fans in Pittsburgh have been waiting some time to see a good baseball club. 

The Pirates have a great fan base and also they have one of the most beautiful ballparks in all of baseball. PNC Park has a great skyline that shows off the city and the three yellow bridges.

Pittsburgh Pirates 2013 First Half Highlights  Parental Guidance Is Advised

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Pressure Building For Pirates; Cardinals Winning Again – But Face Tough Schedule Coming Up

Cardinals

The Cardinals are only (12-15) since the All-Star Break in mid-July, far off the pace from their Major-League leading (57-36) record in the first half of the season. However, the recent series win over the Pirates gives the fans hope that the Cardinals can overcome their tough month and still win the NL Central Division.

By Landen Crouch (Cardinals Correspondent)

Early last week, the St. Louis Cardinals beat the Pittsburgh Pirates twice in a crucial mid-August three-game series.  

It was most definitely a thrilling series that saw two extra-inning walk-off singles (one on Tuesday by Adron Chambers in the 14th inning, and one Thursday afternoon by Matt Holliday in the 12th inning).  

The Cardinals definitely could have used a sweep in the series, but two out of three is the next best thing.

Over the weekend, the Cardinals took two of three on the road against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field.  And then they topped that off with a come-from-behind win at Miller Park on Monday night to beat the Brewers 8-5.

Cardinals Walk-Off On Pirates in 12th:

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (August.15th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

AP Photo/Jeff Roberson

AP Photo/Jeff Roberson

Matt Carpenter went 4-5, launched an RBI triple in the Cardinals go ahead rally in the 5th and scored the winning run in the 12th, giving St. Louis a critical victory over the Pirates, 6-5.

Chris Nelson made several sparkling plays in the field and hit a pair of homers. His second shot was a grand slam that broke the game open, helping the Angels top the Yankees (his former club) 8-4. 

Zack Wheeler struck out 12 and walking only 1 in 6 innings against the San Diego Padres. He did not get the decision, but he set up the Mets’ 4-1 triumph.

Anibal Sanchez pitched into the 8th inning letting up only one run over 7 1/3 innings, getting the Tigers a win in an important division rival match up against the Royals, 4-1. 

 

They all owned baseball on August 15, 2013.

My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.

At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.

To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here Read the rest of this entry

How All Of The Rockies Pitchers Were Acquired

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Tuesday Aug.13/2013

In one of the better moves done recently by Rockies management, this former Indian was picked up by the team in 2009, for a player that has never made the Major Leagues.  Betancourt has a 0.994 WHIP in his Colorado Career - spanning 244 IP.  Impressive considering some of the Innings lugged are in the thin air of Coors Field

In one of the better moves done recently by Rockies management, this former Indian was picked up by the team in 2009, for a player that has never made the Major Leagues. Betancourt has a 0.994 WHIP and a 2.97 ERA in his Colorado Career – spanning 233.1 IP. Impressive considering some of the Innings lugged are in the thin air of Coors Field.  At age 39 next season, the club has a Team Option for $4.25 MIL.  They should do it.  Their Bullpen has been better than expected.

How All Of The Rockies Pitchers Were Acquired:

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

At the MLB Reports, we intend to show you the Roster Tree for the Colorado Rockies – 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 Pitchers.

Jorge De La Rosa’s Great Start

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30 MLB Team Power Rankings: Audio Version

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Monday, Aug.12, 2013

The Triple Play Show will have 5 shows per month.  Each show will be about 1 hour

The Triple Play Show will have 5 shows per month. Each show will be about 1 hour. Chuck Booth will guest once a month for MLB Power Rankings,

By The Big Ticket Show ( AKA Triple Play Podcast on http://www.mlbreports.com)

Patrick sits in as the Producer and only representative of the Big Ticket Show – and Chuck Booth joins him to break down all 30 current rankings, plus what the clubs are up to.

To listen to the audio for this Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY logo or past the Triple Play Logo. 

If you want the written version of these rankings click here Read the rest of this entry

MLB 30 Team Power Rankings: Week 20

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Sunday Aug.11/2013

Texas has fought off a July slump - and are 9 - 1 in their last 10 games.  They have added reinforcements in the way of Alex Rios and Matt Garza.  If they can just hold the course - and win the AL West, they have the horses and experience to challenge every other team.  The club was the biggest mover upwards in our rankings this week - going from #10 - #4

Texas has fought off a July slump – and are 9 – 1 in their last 10 games. They have added reinforcements in the way of Alex Rios and Matt Garza. If they can just hold the course – and win the AL West, they have the horses and experience to challenge every other team in October. The club was the biggest mover upwards in our rankings this week – going from #10 – #4.  It was not too long ago that the Rangers were sitting at just a half – dozen games above .500 – and behind the playoff bar.

Audio Version Of These Power Rankings

Audio Monthly Rankings – Aug

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

It is time for the MLB Power Rankings.  These are based on my thoughts on whether who has the best chance to win the World Series.

A lot of these positions are based on who has the toughest Strength of Schedule left, who their competition is for the Division, and possibly even the League they are in,

The races for the Divisions in the NL are becoming less competitive every week.  The NL East and NL West look to be done.  The Pirates are within weeks of ending a 20 year playoff drought.

The Braves rattled off a 14 game winning streak – and should cruise to the NL East crown.

The Athletics are in big trouble with some of their talented offensive players not putting up numbers like they did in 2012.  They now find themselves in 2nd place in the AL West.

Adrian Beltre 2 HR day in July

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The White Sox Post Non Waiver Trade Deadline + Possible Aug/Offseason Trade Candidates

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Thursday, August.08, 2013

You almost have to be bitter about the Sox recently sweeping the New York Yankees.  While it was fun to do, and booing A - Rod was right up the Southsiders alley, this team just put itself too many wins away from the Astros from the 1st overall pick in 2014.  They should extremely active in the August Trade Market - and perhaps the offseason.  It is time for the rebuild to commence!

You almost have to be bitter about the Sox recently sweeping the New York Yankees. While it was fun to do, and booing A – Rod was right up the Southsiders alley, this team just put itself too many wins away from the Astros from the 1st overall pick in 2014. They should extremely active in the August Trade Market – and perhaps the offseason. It is time for the rebuild to commence!  Chicago enters play today at 43 – 69, tied with the Marlins for the 2nd worst record in the MLB.  This was a team that was within a week of playing in the Post Season in 2012.  A major shakeup is needed in going forward.

1st part by Brian Madsen (MLB Reports White Sox Correspondent

It was all but certain that the White Sox were going to be sellers come the trade deadline in 2013.

The question was, were they selling everybody? Well, they didn’t trade everybody, but they still traded more players than they have during a season in recent memory.

And, there could be more to come during the August waiver period.

Matt Thornton was the first to go, traded to the Boston Red Sox for the young Brandon Jacobs. A staple in the White Sox bullpen since 2006, Thornton was a quality reliever for quite a while.

And he has fit in just fine in the Boston bullpen, accumulating a 2.70 ERA since his acquisition.

The second chip to fall was the still-DLed Jesse Crain. Crain was sent to the Tampa Bay Rays in a very unique “player-to-be-named” scenario.

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The Humidor Effect On Baseballs At Coors Field: 11 Years In

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Tuesday Aug.06/2013

Since the Humidor room has been put into use at Coors Field, Team batting averages have dropped 8-10% and HRs have dropped 20-25% yearly.  The Rockies still have routinely finished in the top 7 in all offensive categories for every year since 2002.  This year, they lead MLB in every offensive category.

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

In the first 10 years of Coors Field, or the Rockies existence for that matter, the baseballs were being belted out of the park at a historically record rate. 

Some of this was due to the steroid era.  Most of it was arrived at by the dry air of Colorado.

The reason is simple, in dry air the ball travels further than in thin air, thus causing more frequent home runs. 

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (August.4th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

AP Photo/Ben Margot

AP Photo/Ben Margot

Derek Holland threw 8 shutout innings, striking out 10 and walking only 2, giving the Rangers a 4-0 victory against the A’s, pulling them a game closer to first place.

A. J. Burnett went the distance, scattering 8 hits and giving up only 1 run as the Pirates topped Colorado, 5-1 and maintained a game and a half lead over St. Louis.

Mike Moustakas broke up a scoreless tie with a 5th inning homer. He would get on base three times in the Royals beat the Mets, 6-2. 

David Freese went 3-4 with a homer and three runs scored, leading the Cardinals attack in their 15-2 blow out on the road in Cincinnati.


They all owned baseball on August 4, 2013.

My explanation for “Who Owns Baseball” can be found here.

At the end of the year, we will tally up who owned baseball the most individual days and see how it compares to the final MVP and Cy Young vote.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON.

To View The List of just the nightly winners (WOB dedicated Page) starting from Mar.31/2013 – today click here Read the rest of this entry

Could There Be A Giant Miracle In San Fran This Year?

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Monday August 5, 2013

The defending champion San Francisco Giants aren't having a championship season in 2013. They are 10 games back of the National League West leading Los Angeles Dodgers. The Giants of the past relied on pitching and little offense. In 2013 they have gotten little offense and even less pitching. The bright spot for the Giants pitching staff was Tim Lincecum's 148 pitch no-hitter. It will take a miracle for them to come back but it is possible.

The defending champion San Francisco Giants aren’t having a championship season in 2013. They are 12 games back of the National League West leading Los Angeles Dodgers. The clubs of the past have relied on pitching and little offense. In 2013, they have received little offense and even less pitching. Their number one starter (Matt Cain), has had one of his worst seasons since 2008. Lights out closer Sergio Romo hasn’t been lights out – and the bullpen has been iffy at best. The bright spot for the Giants pitching staff was Tim Lincecum’s 148 pitch no-hitter. It will take a miracle for them to come back, but it is possible.  The Dodgers, despite playing lights out baseball,  continue to fight the injury bug to Hanley Ramirez and Yasiel Puig, and it SF can encounter any hotstreak, they may be able to make up a lot of ground in a short-term, being the NL West.

Ryan Ritchey (Baseball Writer):

The defending champion San Francisco Giants aren’t playing like champions in 2013. They are 12 games under .500 and are 12 games back of the National League West leading Los Angeles Dodgers.

The pitching staff has carried them to greatness, but this season it has been far from great.

They will need to tear it up in the next 3 weeks to have any chance at all. 

Once the Divisions all play each other the majority of the way, 2 NL West playing each other – will ensure at least  one team SF is chasing in the Division – will put up a ‘W’ on a nightly basis.

Chances are, they would likely need to win about 86 or 87 Games minimum to be on the cusp of a spot in the Wild Card – and hope the Dodgers play under .500 the rest of the way in. 

The Giants would need to reel off a clip of about 37 – 15 mark in their last 52 games (over.700 baseball).  Of course this not PROBABLE!

Tim Lincecum’s No – Hitter

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MLB 30 Team Power Rankings: Week 19

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Sunday Aug.04/2013

The Braves have charged out of the ALL - Star Break at a pace like they did to start the year. an 11.5 Games Lead, most of their offense is starting to click have helped the team hold down the fort now that the pitching has had vast injuries

The Braves have charged out of the ALL – Star Break at a pace like they did to start the year. They have an 11.5 Games Lead in the NL East over Washington, and most of their offense is starting to click –  which have helped contributed to the team hold down the fort now that the pitching has had vast injuries.

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

It is time for the MLB Power Rankings.  These are based on my thoughts on whether who has the best chance to win the World Series.

A lot of these positions are based on who has the toughest Strength of Schedule left, who their competition is for the Division, and possibly even the League they are in.

How unfortunate it is for the Indians and the Royals to have the Tigers winning 9 of their last ten – to fend off their those absurdly hot AL Central counterparts?

The good news for the KC and CLE teams is that the AL East are beating up on each other in the last month, while Texas will see a Nelson Cruz suspension dampen their odds of making the Post Season.

Check out the Show we did on AL and NL Rankings Here on the 2 And A Hook Podcast

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

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Thursday August.1/2013

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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