Blog Archives

Athletics’ Are Putting Distance Between Themselves And The AL West

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Wednesday, July.31, 2013

Bartolo Colon is anchoring the rotation for the Athletics this season. he is one of the mnay reasons why they have jumped out to huge division lead this season. He has already won 14 games for them this season to go along with an ERA of 2.54 in 141.2 innings pitched. He is not the strikeout pitcher he was in the past, but is still effective against the opposition. Colon has displayed great control this season by only walking 18 batters and he has a 1.09 WHIP. He is 4th with a WAR of 4.5 for pitchers in the AL. He is also 2nd in the AL with Win-Loss percentage of.824

Bartolo Colon is anchoring the rotation for the Athletics this season. He is one of the many reasons why they have jumped out to huge division lead this season. He has already won 14 games for them this season to go along with an ERA of 2.54 in 141.2 innings pitched. He is not the strikeout pitcher he was in the past, but is still effective against opposing batters. Colon has displayed great control this season by only walking 18 batters and has a 1.09 WHIP. He is 4th in the AL with a WAR of 4.5 for pitchers . He is also 2nd in the AL with Win-Loss percentage of.824 to include him throwing three shutouts this season.

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

For the most of this season in baseball it seemed like the Oakland Athletics were going to have some competition in the American League West Division.

The Texas Rangers were expected to challenge them for the division title, but that is not the case this season. Oakland has a five game lead over the Rangers with more than two months left in the baseball season.

2012 Oakland A’s Highlights – Parental Guidance Is Advised

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Rangers’ Trade Deadline Possibilities

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Tuesday, July.30, 2013

Alex Rios is one option that the Rangers could go with to meet the need of a right-handed bat in their lineup. He has a .272 average and a .752 OPS in 397 at-bats for the White Sox this season to include hitting 12 HRs and having 49 RBIs. The right-handed outfielder is also very adept at stealing bases, as he has already stolen 22 bases while being caught just six times. He also play good defense in the outfield as well with only committing three errors. Rios is a right-hander, but he excels in facing left-handers with a .296 batting average and an OPS of .829.

Alex Rios is one option that the Rangers could go with to meet the need of a right-handed bat for their club. He has a .272 average and a .752 OPS in 397 at-bats for the White Sox this season to include hitting 12 HRs and having 49 RBIs. The right-handed outfielder is also very adept at stealing bases, as he has already stolen 22 bases while being caught just six times. He also play good defense in the outfield as well with only committing three errors. Rios is a right-hander, but he excels in facing left-handers with a .296 batting average and an OPS of .829. He does most of his damage in 6th inning, as indicated by him hitting .352 with 19 hits in 54 at-bats this season.

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

For most baseball teams that won’t make the playoffs, the Trade Deadline is a way for them to trade players away that will be impending free agents the following season.

The teams don’t see these players as a part of their long-term plans for the organization will want to get something in return rather than just allowing the player to sign with another team and they get nothing in return. 

Joe Nathan 2011 Highlights – Parental Guidance Is Advised

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Philadelphia Phillies Trade Possibilities

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Monday July.29, 2013

The year started with the struggles of one of their ace pitchers, followed by injuries off and on to other key players.  With Halladay potentially coming back at the end of the year, plus talk of possibly signing him to an incentive laden contract for 2014, added with a new deal for Chase Utley, the Phils are hoping to extend their chance of a contender for one more year.  Improved play from Domonic Brown and Ben Revere (before being hurt) - has cause for optimism in 2014.  They will need to find a 3B, Catcher and 3rd OF, however that won't require the farm being spent.  Today we examine the possible moves by Ruben Amaro Jr.  at the Trade Deadline

The year started with the struggles of two of their three ace pitchers, followed by injuries off and on to other key players – including Doc Halladaay. With their former ‘CY Young Winner’ potentially coming back at the end of the year, plus talk of possibly signing him to an incentive laden contract for 2014, added with a new deal for Chase Utley, the Phils are hoping to extend their chance of a contender for at least one more year ‘next campaign’. Improved play from Domonic Brown and Ben Revere (before being hurt) – also has cause for optimism in 2014. They will need to find a 3B, a Catcher, a new Closer and a 3rd OF, however that won’t require the farm being spent. Today we examine the possible moves by Ruben Amaro Jr. at the Trade Deadline this year before we get to that point.

By Chris Creighton (Phillies Correspondent via http://www.warrroomphilly.com – visit the website here

The time has come, Phillies fans. Make no mistake about what you’re seeing on the field and reading in the papers, sell mode has now become a reality.

Perhaps I may be channeling my inner Captain Obvious, but for the sake of those still holding out hope, change is a-comin’.

After the ugliest road trip in recent memory mercifully came to an end, the Philadelphia Sports Media pulled no punches welcoming several Phillies players to Seller-dome.

Carlos Ruiz Highlights 2012 – Mature Lyrics So Parental Guidance Is Advised

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Triple Play Podcast #18: The Trade Deadline + Rangers Chat

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Sunday, July.28, 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)

Guests in this Podcast

Brooke Robinson

Nicholas Rossoletti

With the trade deadline around the corner we reach to mlbreports.com’s trade analyst Nick Rossoletti to break down the deals that have happened and the ones that will.

Brooke Robinson stops by to discuss all things Texas Rangers including who she’d put on their Mt Rushmore.

And of course Pat and Chris take a stick to that lying SOB Ryan Braun and their weekly Blue Jays bitch. All that and the bethubb.com best bets!

Click past the Triple Play Icon or CLICK: READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY TO CONTINUE:

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

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

Triple Play Podcast Trade Speculation

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Sunday July.28/2013

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Cubs’ Find Ideal Trade Partner For Matt Garza

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Thursday, July.25, 2013

Matt Garza was the big fish in this year's trade deadline. There were plenty of teams that him had him on their radar, and they scouted every game he pitched for the Cubs this season. He won six games for them this season with a 3.17 ERA in 71 innings pitched to go along with 62 strike outs and 20 walks. He has a WHIP of 1.14 and has only given up eight home runs on the season. Garza is holding the opposition to a .229 batting average, while righties only hit .224 when facing him. He is good when runners are in scoring position, as indicated by teams just managing a .245 average.

Matt Garza was the big fish in this year’s trade deadline. There were plenty of teams that him had him on their radar, and they scouted every game he pitched for the Cubs this season. He won six games for them this season with a 3.17 ERA in 71 innings pitched to go along with 62 strike outs and 20 walks. He has a WHIP of 1.14 and has only given up eight home runs on the season. Garza is holding the opposition to a .229 batting average, while righties only hit .224 when facing him. He is good when runners are in scoring position, as indicated by teams just managing a .245 average. The Rangers got the pitcher they wanted, and he should bring some stability to their rotation.

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

The Chicago Cubs were trying to find the perfect trade partner this season with them having the premier starting pitcher available this trade deadline.

Matt Garza was the best pitcher on the market for teams who needed help with their rotation could acquire. The one caveat is that those teams would have to give up very good prospects in their farm system to obtain his services. 

Matt Garza Career Highlights – Parental Guidance Is Advised

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MLB 30 Team Power Rankings: Week 17

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Sunday July.21/2013

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Sunday July.21/2013

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

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

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

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

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

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

There is a Hyperlink below to download this Podcast.

triple play al preview

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

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

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Athletics’ Yoenis Cespedes And Josh Donaldson Crucial To Their Success

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Thursday, July.18, 2013

Cespedes put on quite a show in this years HR Derby with him turning Citi Field into his own hitters haven. He is hitting just .225 on the season for the Athletics. The value he has to the team means more than numbers can show.  The opposing teams have to respect the power that he has. Cespedes power numbers are still good with him hitting 15 HRs and 43 RBIs.

Cespedes put on quite a show in this years HR Derby with him turning Citi Field into his own hitters paradise. He is hitting just .225 on the season for the Athletics. The value he has to the team means more than numbers can show. The opposing teams have to respect the power that he has. Cespedes power numbers are still good with him hitting 15 HRs and 43 RBIs. He does fairly well facing left-handers this season with him hitting .253 against him. He does struggle facing right-handers with his average just at .214 in 220 at-bats.

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

If you did not get a chance to watch the HR Derby on Monday, you missed a great young player put on a show. Oakland Athletics outfielder Yoenis Cespedes made Citi Field look like a hitters’ park with each ball he launched into orbit.

That ballpark is not known for being friendly to hitters, but don’t tell Cespedes that. This is not the first time he has been in a competition like this, and it won’t be his last.

Yoenis Cespedes 17 Homeruns in the First Round of the 2013 Homerun Derby

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AL Wins The 2013 ALL – Star Game: Chances Are Home Field Wont Matter In The World Series Anyway

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Wednesday July.17/2013

It was the Mariano Rivera show last night.  Not only does this man have a sparkling 0.70 ERA in 142 IP in the Post Season for his Career - you can now add 9 Scoreless Innings, 4 Saves and a Hold (courtesy of last night).  The last man to wear #42 also won the MVP for the ALL - Star Game in his last Appearance ever at the Mid Summers'Classic

It was the Mariano Rivera show last night. Not only does this man have a sparkling 0.70 ERA in 142 IP in the Post Season for his Career – you can now add 9 Scoreless Innings, 4 Saves and a Hold (courtesy of last night) to his ALL – Star Resume. The last man to wear #42 –  also won the MVP for the ALL – Star Game in his last Appearance ever at the Mid Summers’Classic.

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

Talking with my better half yesterday (and she is not a hardcore but casual baseball fan), she asked me a little bit more about the ALL – Star Game.  I eventually went onto telling her about how the winning team receives home field advantage in the World Series.

I have done some digging.  The results are in.

I may make an argument that winning the ALL – Star Game might actually be a bad thing.  Not so much for hosting Game #7, because there has only been one Game #7 since its implementation, however that the fans of the winning club in the ALL – Star Game – have actually seen less home games in the last 10 years.  The odds actually point to the winning team playing less games in the Series.

Since the implementation of the “This Game Will mean something again?” there have been 10 World Series played.

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Shutting The Door: Who Are The Top Five Closers In Each League At The Break?

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Tuesday July 16th, 2013 

Mariano Rivera holds the ALL-Time Record for any closer (active of retired) with 638 Saves.  He has been the most dominant Relief Pitcher on the planet over the last two decades.  What is incredible, is that he never has a bad season - which is prone to happen to even Hall Of Fame Pitchers.  Rivera also leads Active Pitchers in ERA (2.20), Games Finished (1089) and a WHIP 1.005. Add another 42 Saves, and a 0.70 ERA in 142 IP in his Post Season Career - and you are talking about the standard which any future Closer will be measured up to.

Mariano Rivera holds the ALL-Time Record for any closer (active or retired) with 638 Saves. He has been the most dominant Relief Pitcher on the planet over the last two decades. What is incredible, is that he never has a bad season – which is prone to happen to even Hall Of Fame Relief Pitchers. Rivera also leads Active Pitchers in ERA (2.20), Games Finished (1089) and a WHIP 1.005. Add another 42 Saves, and a 0.70 ERA in 142 IP in his Post Season Career – and you are talking about the standard which any future Closer will be measured up to.

By Dan Wanser (Baseball Writer):  

You’re playing your rivals in a game that can put you in first place. You go in to the top of the 9th inning with the score 3-2.

Your starter went a solid seven innings, and then your middle reliever got you through the 8th. Three outs away, who do you call in from the pen?

 This one guy will be the difference in whether you win or you lose. He needs to come in and get the next three outs, arguably the most important three outs of the game.

In this nerve-racking situation, you need a guy who can come in, put his nerves aside, and finish off this ballgame to get the win. Who are you bringing in from the pen? Your closer.  

So if your team is in this situation, who do you want in the game? Here’s the pitchers who I think have been the best closers in this first half of the season.

Mariano Rivera Enters The Game To ‘Enter Sandman’

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

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Friday, July.12, 2013

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

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

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

By James Acevedo – Host (Podcast Veteran )

Guests On The Show

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

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

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

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

Top MLB Teams 1 – 30: Monthly Rankings + (Top 200 Stats For Reading And Fantasy Baseball)

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Thursday July.11/2013

The Giants have gone 9 - 23 in their last 32 Games and are in danger of having a brutal campaign just one year after capturing the World Series.  Key injuries and overlogged pitchers have been the main point of contention. They lost 8 Ranking Spots.

The Giants have gone 9 – 23 in their last 32 Games – and are in danger of having a brutal campaign just one year after capturing the World Series. Key injuries and overlogged pitchers have been the main point of contention. They lost 8 Ranking Spots this past time.  Should they also become sellers at the Trade Deadline,  Tim Lincecum and Hunter Pence could fetch a few players in return.  The Giants are currently 40 – 50 and 6.5 Games behind the NL West Leading DBACKS – but are in last in the NL West.

 

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

The time has come for the July Power Rankings with Stats Edition.  There will be one each for May, June, July, August, September – and then a special playoff edition Power Rankings will be done in October.

I will not do a weekly Power Rankings during these weeks, because in essence, these are the weekly rankings done on a much larger scale.

These Reports are done with a heavy thought to how the teams project by the end of the season – along with how the clubs have fared so far.

I will point out who has had great months for the all 30 MLB Teams.  I reward the good performances in these rankings – and leave the poor ones for the Podcasts or future articles. CLICK THE READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON or scroll past the video and picture.

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MLB 30 Team Rankings Week 15

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Monday July.08/2013

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

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

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

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

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

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Rangers’ How Good Can This Team Be

If you want to listen to the audio podcast we did for our Monthly 30 Team Rankings, we have the links below to download or just listen

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

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Monday, July.08, 2013

Yu Darvish is one of the right-handed pitchers in baseball. He is a strikeout machine, and he leads the American League in strikeouts with 157.

Yu Darvish is one of the best right-handed pitchers in baseball and is the ace of  the Texas Rangers rotation. He is a strikeout machine, and he leads the American League in strikeouts with 157. He has a 3.02 ERA with 119.1 innings pitched with a WHIP of 1.04, and SO/9 of 11.8. Darvish has a SO/BB ratio of 3.83, and is second in the AL with a Hits per 9 IP of 6.33. He is sixth in the AL with a WAR of 3.2. The opposition is only hitting .194 against him this season, with right-handers just barely making contact with their .146 batting average. When there are runners in scoring position with two outs, he pretty much untouchable with teams hitting .146

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

The Texas Rangers are having a good season considering that they did not sign the two biggest free-agents this past off season in outfielder Josh Hamilton and starting pitcher Zack Greinke.

The Rangers sit just ½ a game behind Oakland Athletics in the American League West division with the All-Star break less than two weeks away. They are 9th in runs scored with 379 runs, and 6th with a batting average of .260. They have a runs differential of +26 this season.

Texas Rangers ALCS Highlights- So Parental Guidance Is Advised

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Justin Maxwell’s Days Potentially Numbered For The Astros

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Sunday, July 7th/2013

Struggling with injuries in his tenure with the Nationals was a major part in his journey to his current slot in Houston, but as the injury bug has him in it’s firm grip, Maxwell’s tenure in Houston could just about be over if should he not shake the injury bug.

Struggling with injuries in his tenure with the Nationals was a major part in his journey tfor his current slot in Houston, but as the injury bug has him in it’s firm grip, Maxwell’s tenure in Houston could just about be over if should he not shake the injury bug.

By Richard Perez (Astros Correspondent visit the StrosBros Website here):

It has been a fun ride for Astros fans watching Justin Maxwell take their hearts by storm over the last season and a half.

Garnering love and respect from Astros fans for his personality and versatile style of play, Maxwell has hit a wall this year, a wall all too familiar with the 29 year old journeyman outfielder.

Seeming to improve on his previous season by leaps and bounds, he started 2013 playing outstandingly for the first month of the season, almost as if he was an entirely new player after a rough spring training.

But it was not long before Maxwell came down to earth and became reacquainted with his old pal, the disabled list. He suffered a broken hand after being hit by a pitch from Seattle’s Hisashi Iwakuma, since that day.

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Potential All – Star Candidates For All 30 MLB Teams:

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Saturday, July.06/2013

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

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

Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner):

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

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

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

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

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

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

Could Manny Still Be Manny?

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Friday, July.05/2013

Manny Ramirez was last sniffing around the MLB with Oakland last year in the Minors.  Technically, he finished his PED suspension from the year before  - accrued with the Tampa Bay Rays.  Before that, he was with the White Sox, Wait a second??? When was the last time Manny was Manny on the field?

Manny Ramirez was last sniffing around the MLB with Oakland last year in the Minors. Technically, he finished his PED suspension from the year before – accrued with the Tampa Bay Rays. Before that, he was with the White Sox, Wait a second??? When was the last time Manny was Manny on the field?  You have to go all the way back to his LA Dodgers days.  He was exciting that town like someone named Yasiel Puig is now – batting for a 3 slash line of .396/.485/1.232 in 62 Games Played – with 19 HRs and 63 RBI during the 2008 year   Mannywood couldn’t lead the Dodgers past the Phils in back to back years for  the NLCS.  He then resigned in LA, tested positive for PED use, came back – and was traded to Chicago.

By Brooke Robinson (Rangers Correspondent):

Most baseball fans have spent the first half of the season watching their favorite teams, as well as getting a good laugh out of the constant YouTube videos coming from Taiwan.

Manny Ramirez, in his short term with the EDA Rhinos, starred in his own version of Mr. Baseball part 2 as a crowd favorite in the Chinese Professional Baseball League.

Ramirez hit 8 Homers, moonwalked to the dugout, and had a hilarious attempt to slide into 2B (and stopped about ten feet short).

But the joke was on Texas Rangers fans on Wednesday, whenever Ramirez signed a minor league contract and was optioned to AAA Round Rock Express.

Manny Ramirez:  I’M BACK!

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (July 4th) – Updated Yearly “WOB” Standings

 (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

(AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

Dan Straily returned from the minors to throw 7 innings of 1 hit shutout baseball, winning a 1-0 thriller for the A’s over the Cubs.

Adrian Beltre clocked a pair of homers. The second homer began the Rangers 7th inning come from behind rally against the Mariners, resulting in a 5-4 Texas win.

Cole Hamels pitched 7 innings, letting up only one earned run and struck out 8 Pirates while walking none, giving the Phillies a much needed 6-4 win.

And Wil Nieves went 4-7 with a pair of RBI and got a 2 out single that helped the Diamondbacks set up the game winning rally in the 15th inning, 5-4 against the Mets.

They all owned baseball on July 4th, 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

Cliff Lee Is Dealing Right Now – But Will He Be Dealt?

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Thursday, July 4th, 2013

Cliff Lee is 83 - 35 with an under 3.00 ERA since the beginning of the 2008 season (.704).  In 2009 and 2010 Lee was a Trade Deadline acquisition that then proceeded to lead that new team to a World Series Birth.  Both teams ( PHI - 2009) and TEX (2010) lost those World Series.  Maybe a 3rd crack would see him net a title.  The 34 Year Old makes $25 MIL this year, plus $25 MIL for both of 2014 and 2015, he also has a Vesting Option for 2016 worth 2016 with $27.5 MIL - if he can pitch 200 IP in 2015 or a combined mark of 400 IP In 2014 and 2015.  The deal carries for a $12.5 MIL if he reaches these.  That means he could potentially make $62.5 MIL total for 2014 and 2015

Cliff Lee is 83 – 35 -with an under 3.00 ERA since the beginning of the 2008 season (.704). In 2009 and 2010,  Lee was a Trade Deadline acquisition – that then proceeded to lead that new team to a World Series Birth 2 years in a row. Both teams ( PHI – 2009) and TEX (2010) lost those World Series. Maybe a 3rd crack would see him net a title. The 34 Year Old makes $25 MIL this year, plus $25 MIL for both of 2014 and 2015, he also has a Vesting Option for 2016 worth 2016, worth $27.5 MIL – if he can pitch 200 IP in 2015 or a combined mark of 400 IP In 2014 and 2015. The deal carries for a $12.5 MIL Buyout if he reaches these. He could potentially make $62.5 MIL total for 2014 and 2015.

By Chris Creighton (Phillies Correspondent via http://www.warrroomphilly.com – visit the website here

I remember how I could hardly sleep on that Thirteenth night of December 2010. Rumors were abound that something secretive was simmering on the MLB Hot Stove involving Cliff Lee, but the teams involved weren’t 100% clear.

The Rangers, Yankees and Angels were all obvious suitors with suitcases stuffed with sawbucks, but a buzz was a-buzzing. You see, a mystery team was now in the hunt and with a belly full of butterflies, somehow I knew it was the Phillies as my head hit the pillow.

Cliff Lee was about to come home and for the first time since my early childhood, I awoke the next morning at 5:00 am without the help of an alarm to read the news. Cliffmas had, indeed, come early to Philadelphia.

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30 MLB Team Power Rankings: Week 14

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Monday July.01/2013

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

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

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

Another Week has come and gone in the MLB.

Week Stats Ending – June.29/2013

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

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

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

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

2 And A Hook Podcast Ep #9: LAA, SD, MIA And SEA Chat With Great Guests

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Friday, June.28, 2013,

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

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

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

By James Acevedo – Host (Podcast Veteran )

Guests On The Show

On today’s podcast, brought to you by MLB Reports ( www.mlbreports.com ) & yours truly The Bench Warmers Show, I talk to the boss man Chuck Booth as he returns to do his segment!  8 Minutes and a 18 Segment

Chuck makes a HUGE announcement about MLB Reports & then we talked about contract stuff like arbitration, Super 2, & service time…

Also we talk about these guys Wil Myers, Yasiel Puig & Chris Archer on why they should have been up in the major leagues since the beginning of the season!

Then I talk to LAA correspondent Joshua Jones (34 Minute Mark and a 18 Minute Segment) about the Angels season & what might or might not happen…

Next up was Bernie Olshansky (53 Minute Mark and a 13 Minutes Segment)  about the padres & what moves they might make for the future…after that i talked to Mariners/Marlins correspondent.

The last guest of the show is the 2nd longest active writer on the MLB Reports website Sam Evans (1 HR and 12 Min Mark and a 25 Min Segment) ( @RJA206 ) as we get into the mariners/marlins & whats been going on with both of these teams!

I then get into everyone’s favorite segment Stats & Facts (29, Minute Mark (5 minutes) 1 HR, 7 Min Mark ( 5 Minutes ) and, 1 HR 37 MIN (20 Minutes) –  so go check it out & SPREAD THE WORD!!! Thanks Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (June 27th) – Updated Yearly “WOB” Standings

(AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)

(AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)

Derek Holland pitched a complete game 2 hit shutout in the Bronx as the Rangers snuck past the Yankees, 2-0.

Mike Trout collected 4 hits, including one in the game winning 10th inning rally, as the Angels came from behind to beat the Tigers 3-1.

Marlon Byrd hit a 2 run homer in the 8th inning that turned a 2-1 hole into a 3-2 Mets win over the Rockies. Byrd threw out Michael Cuddyer trying to stretch out a single in the 9th inning.

And Patrick Corbin did not get the decision, but he was strong over 7 innings, letting up only 2 runs, helping the Diamondbacks set up a 3-2 victory over the Nationals in Washington.

They all owned baseball on June 27th, 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 Reds Outlook Till The All Star Break

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Wednesday, June.26th, 2013

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

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

Richie Devotie (Guest Baseball Writer):

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

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

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

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The LA Angels Have Got To String Together A Big Stretch Of Wins – And Quick!

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Wednesday, June.26th, 2013

J.B. Shuck and Peter Bourjos have done their job, Howie Kendrick is Batting .321, Mark Trumbo is on pace for a 35 HR - 100+ RBI campaign, Errick Aybar is solid, and Callaspo is okay for a Third Baseman.  The team has suffered from the #3 and #4 hitters, and inadequate Starting Pitching - other than C.J. Wilson and Jason Vargas. The Bullpen has also been abysmal with the exception of Sean Burnett.  The club has gone 9 -14 since their big 8 game winning streak last month.

J.B. Shuck and Peter Bourjos have done their job, Howie Kendrick is Batting .321, Mark Trumbo is on pace for a 35 HR – 100+ RBI campaign, Errick Aybar is solid, and Callaspo is okay for a Third Baseman. The team has suffered from the #3 and #4 hitters, and inadequate Starting Pitching – other than C.J. Wilson and Jason Vargas. The Bullpen has also been abysmal with the exception of Sean Burnett. The club has gone 9 -14 since their big 8 game winning streak last month.

By Josh Jones (Angels Correspondent): 

Gut-check time

The 2013 Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim are at a crossroads.  Seventy-six games into the season and the team has not had the ability to find prolonged success in order to climb back into the AL West standings.

The club is currently 34 – 43 after being swept over the weekend by the Pittsburgh Pirates before trouncing the Tigers for the 4th straight time this , yet they still find themselves considering the unthinkable:  being sellers at the deadline.  They are 10 Games behind both of the Oakland Athletics and Texas Rangers – while they are 8.5 Games out of the last playoff spot holder.

LA Angels Preview – They haven’t lived up to the Hype yet:

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30 MLB Team Power Rankings: Week 13

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Monday June.24/2013

EE continues to show his metal this year - by clutching up for 21 HRs thus far .  He has a 3 Slash Line of .274/.355/.900 for the year.  EE had an OPS of 1.326 with 3 HRs and 3 Doubles over the last 6 games.  He was part of key rallies that led to the clubs 6 - 0 week.  Encarnacion is now tied with Miggy Cabrera with 63 HRs since the start of the 2012 year.  He is the MLB Reports hitter of the week!

EE continues to show his metal this year – by clutching up for 21 HRs thus far . He has a 3 Slash Line of .274/.355/.900. EE had an OPS of 1.326 – with 3 HRs and 3 Doubles over the last 6 games, and also scored 7 Runs. He was part of key rallies that led to the clubs 6 – 0 week. The 1B only Struckout 1 time for the 6 Games.  Encarnacion is now tied with Miggy Cabrera with 63 HRs since the start of the 2012 year. He is the MLB Reports hitter of the week!

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

Another Week has come and gone in the MLB.

(MLB Reports) AL Hitter Of The Week –  Edwin Encarnacion (See Picture Above).

Runners up were: Chris Davis (BAL) – (1.357 OPS, with 4 HRs and 10 RBI), Nelson Cruz (TEX) – (.379 BA, 3 HRS and 11 RBI) and Miguel Cabrera (.536 BA, 20 times reached on base in 7 Games, 15 Hits – with 2 HRs and 6 RBI).

(MLB Reports) AL Pitcher Of The Week–  Max Scherzer – who went 2 – 0 with a 2.08 ERA in 2 Game Starts and 16 SO in 13 IP.

Runners Up were: Casey Janssen (1 – 0, with 3 Saves – while only yielding 1 Hit and 1 Walk in 4 IP), Jarrod Parker 2 GS (1 – 0, with a 0.79 WHIP in 14 IP.)

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Triple Play Podcast Episode #14: Empire State Of Mind: NYY + NYM Chat

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Sunday, June.23, 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)

Guests in this Podcast – James Acevedo (MLB Reports 2 And A Hook Podcast Host – 42 Minute Mark and a 15 Minute Segment) 

Mike Silva (Radio Host 1240 AM WGBB, Long Island New York – 14 Minute Mark and a 27 Min segment)

New York, New York big city of dreams where not everything is as it seems, so we had Mike Silva of WGBB1240 AM and James Acevedo of the Bench Warmers and 2 and a Hook podcasts come on and break down the Mets and Yankees.Mt Rushmore, BetHubb.com best bets and Blue Jays talk too. Another Home Run show! Read the rest of this entry

2 And A Hook Podcast Ep #8: Dodgers (Puig Especially), White Sox + Braves Talk With Awesome Guests!

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Thursday, June.20/2013

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

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

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

By James Acevedo – Host (Podcast Veteran )

On today’s show, brought to you by MLB Reports (www.mlbreports.com) & yours truly The Bench Warmers, I talked with MLB Reports Braves correspondent Bob McVinua (www.braveschoptalk.wordpress.com) about the Atlanta Braves season so far, what’s to come for them the rest of the season plus other things…

Then I talked to MLB Reports Dodgers correspondent Enrique Rivera about their phenom Yasiel Puig, if the Dodgers somehow can get back in the playoff race amongst other issues…

Also I interviewed MLB Reports White Sox correspondent Brian Madsen about the White Sox offensive struggles, is their farm system producing any future ball players & other stuff…also I do my Stats & Facts segment as usual so check out this baseball podcast that talks baseball like it outta be!!! SPREAD THE WORD!! Thank you all for your support!!!

People in this Podcast:

Bob McVinua (MLB Reports Guest Braves Correspondent – About 9 Minutes in and a 21 Minute Segment)

Enrique Rivera (MLB Reports LA Dodgers Correspondent – 31 Minute Mark and a 15 Minute Segment) 

Brian Madsen (MLB Reports White Sox Correspondent- 53 Minutes In and a 17 Minute Segment) 

(Stats and Facts done by James at the 1 Hour and 10 Minute Mark for 20 Minutes and for the 1st 9 Minutes.)

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (June 17th) – Updated Yearly “WOB” Standings

AP Photo/John Amis

AP Photo/John Amis

Dillon Gee was brilliant pitching 8 1/3 innings after a rain delay and before a double header. His bid for a shutout was cruely ended by Freddie Freeman‘s 2 strike, 2 run walk off homer. But that does not diminish his brilliant effort.

Giancarlo Stanton had 2 of the Marlins 3 hits and drove in all three runs with a pair of homers. One was in the 9th inning and broke the tie as the Marlins beat the Diamondbacks 3-2.

Josh Johnson may not have received a decision, but his 7 1/3 innings of shutout ball with 10 strikeouts against 2 walks helped set up the Blue Jays 2-0 win over the Rockies.

And Nelson Cruz clubbed a double and pair of homers, driving in 4 as the Rangers squeaked past the A’s, 8-7.

They all owned baseball on June 17th, 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

MLB Team Power Rankings: Week 12

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Monday June.17/2013

Adam Dunn has finally put together an awesome week this year.  He hit for a 3 Slash Line of .389/.455/1.510 - with 4 HRs and 8 RBI.  His efforts didn't stop the team from losing 4 straight, however he is the MLB Reports AL Hitter of The Week!

Adam Dunn has finally put together an awesome week this year. He hit for a 3 Slash Line of .389/.455/1.510 – with 4 HRs and 8 RBI. His efforts didn’t stop the team from losing 4 straight, however he is the MLB Reports AL Hitter of The Week!

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

Another Week has come and gone in the MLB.

(MLB Reports) AL Hitter Of The Week – Adam Dunn (See Picture Above).

Runners up were: Teammates Evan Longoria, (.305, 4 HRs and 6 RBI) and Matt Joyce (385, 4 HRs and 5 RBI), plus Adam Lind (.407, 2 HRs and 6 RBI.)

(MLB Reports) AL Pitcher Of The Week – Corey Kluber

Kluber threw in 16 IP, featured a 2 – 0 Record on back to back 8 IP starts – including a 0.56 ERA.

Runners Up were: Bartolo Colon (2 – 0, 1.38 ERA,) Jim Johnson (4 Saves in 4 Opportunities) and Miguel Gonzalez (2 – 0, 2.54 ERA).

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