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An Avalanche in Colorado, A Collapse for Philadelphia and A Decision for Cleveland: Locked On MLB – June 17, 2019

17ADEC62-FCF3-465A-9071-DE376CD04CBDThe Rockies lost two games that defied belief. That could haunt them later. So might the Phillies collapse against rival Atlanta.

Meanwhile the Indians have crept back into the playoff picture, which could put the team in a cross road while deciding to go for it or rebuild.
This is the Locked On MLB Podcast hosted by me, Paul Francis Sullivan. Please call me Sully.

Listen to the Episode by clicking HERE

Who Owns October (#WOO) Tallies Updated For October 12, 2017

Screen Shot 2017-10-13 at 4.23.22 AM

Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune

There goes my “Indians vs. Nationals World Series” pick! Man, the heart break in Washington right now must be intense. (As in Cleveland too.) But the beat goes on for the Cubs who look to be the first repeat champion since the 1998-1999-2000 Yankees.

Man, that’s quite a change from Billy Goats.

So who owned October?

Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)

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

At the end of the post season, we will see who had the highest WOO total as a pitcher and a hitter.

A complete description of the rules can be found HERE.

From October 12

2017 National League Division Series Game 5:

Receiving 1 WOO

Willson Contreras got on base 3 times, scored a pair of runs and made a game turning snap throw to first that was eventually called an inning ending pick off that took the wind out of the Nationals sails and set up the Cubs clinching 9-8 victory.

Wade Davis came into the 7th for a 7 out save. He got some help from a double play and  a pick off that was reviewed and overturned but he went 1-2-3 in the 9th to seal the wild 9-8 Cubs win to eliminate the Nationals.

 

Receiving 1/2 WOO

Sean Doolittle struck out a pair and threw a 1-2-3 ninth inning to give the Nationals a chance to clinch in the bottom half of the inning. They came up short to the Cubs, 9-8.

Michael Taylor reached base 3 times, homered and drove in 4 in the Nationals heart breaking 9-8 loss to the Cubs.

 

Current WOO Totals MLB 2017

Hitters ‘WOO’ MLB 2017,

Jay Bruce – Indians 1 1/2, Anthony Rizzo – Cubs 1 1/2, Michael Taylor – Nationals 1 1/2,  Ryan Zimmerman – Nationals 1 1/2,  Jose Altuve – Astros 1, Greg Bird – Yankees 1, Alex Bregman – Astros 1, Cody Bellinger – Dodgers 1, Kris Bryant – Cubs 1, Willson Contreras – Cubs 1, Carlos Correa – Astros 1, Logan Forsythe – Dodgers 1, Brett Gardner – Yankees 1, Yan Gomes – Indians 1, Didi Gregorius – Yankees 1, Aaron Judge – Yankees 1, Ketel Marte – Diamondbacks 1, Hanley Ramirez – Red Sox 1, Justin Turner – Dodgers 1, Andrew Benitendi – Red Sox 1/2, Starlin Castro – Yankees 1/2, Daniel Descalso – Diamondbacks 1/2, Brian Dozier – Twins 1/2, Paul Goldschmidt – Diamondbacks 1/2, Yuli Gurriel – Astros 1/2, Jason Kipnis – Indians 1/2, Sandy Leon – Red Sox 1/2, J. D. Martinez – Diamondbacks 1/2, Gary Sanchez – Yankees 1/2, Carlos Santana – Indians 1/2, Trevor Story – Rockies 1/2, Christian Vazquez – Red Sox 1/2, Ben Zobrist – Cubs 1/2,

Pitchers ‘WOO’ MLB 2017,

David Robertson – Yankees 2, Sean Doolittle – Nationals 1 1/2, David Price – Red Sox 1 1/2, Stephen Strasburg – Nationals 1 1/2, Trevor Bauer – Indians 1, Archie Bradley – Diamondbacks 1, Yu Darvish – Dodgers 1,  Wade Davis – Cubs 1, Ken Giles – Astros 1, Kyle Hendricks – Cubs 1, Kenley Jansen – Dodgers 1, Clayton Kershaw – Dodgers 1, Dallas Keuchel – Astros 1, Jon Lester – Cubs 1, Jose Quintana – Cubs 1,  Robbie Ray – Diamondbacks 1, Masahiro Tanaka – Yankees 1, Josh Tomlin – Indians 1, Justin Verlander – Astros 1, Carlos Carrasco – Indians 1/2, Jaime Garcia – Yankees 1/2, Zack Godley – Diamondbacks 1/2, Andrew Miller – Indians 1/2, Chris Rusin – Rockies 1/2, Chris Sale – Red Sox 1/2, Max Scherzer – Nationals 1/2,

Odds To Win The 2017 MLB League Pennants: You Will Never Guess Who May Have The Best Value

No teams in the AL would be faoored against the Cubs should they face the reigning Champs, so it mau be easier to bet them just to win the Pennant

No teams in the AL would be favored against the Cubs should they face the reigning Champs, so it may be easier to bet them just to win the AL Pennant.

There is a reason why these odds value favorites are not any real difference for the Odds To Win The World Series and these will be any different. 

Basically, you could just go ahead with a World Series bet for anyone you think that can win the Title, and then simply hedge when it comes  to the Fall Classic.

I always say that MLB Power Rankings should have a lot to do with odds to win any type of Division, League Pennant or World Series.

The 1st thing that jumped out to me here was that the LA Angels are at 35/1 for the Junior Circuit.  Should they face any of the Senior Circuit’s top clubs, they would probably all be +150 underdogs.

If you were to pick the Angels at +3500, and then parlay that into a +150 wager in the World Series, than the overall odd shoots +8750 rather than the +7500.

Personally, the Angels have had a great winter to shore up the defense – and have addressed a few roster spots with a deeper bench. 

Is it that foreign to think that the Los Angeles Angels could jump out quickly if Mike Trout can carry them?

In their 1st 60 games of the season, the Halo's effectively miss the Indians and Red Sox on the docket, and only have to play 3 games versus the Tigers as well. Yes, they play a huge chunk of their games vs the AL West, but they have improved against all of the clubs as of right now. Mike Scioscia's squad gets to play 4 games at Tampa - and 4 games vs the Twins, 3 vs Toronto and Atlanta at home, with 3 at Kc and Miami. The club are slated to host the Braves for 3 games. Did I mention they play the A's 10 times in their 1st 60 contests as well? I could see them with 34 or 36 wins at the 60 game mark In an exhausting stretch from Apr 3, to May 15, the team also plays 43 games in 46 nights, with 20 of them at home, but that is a great itinerary to kick off the campaign.

In their 1st 60 games of the season, the Halo’s effectively miss the Indians and Red Sox on the docket, and only have to play 3 games versus the Tigers as well. Yes, they play a huge chunk of their games vs the AL West, but they have improved against all of the clubs as of right now. Mike Scioscia’s squad gets to play 4 games at Tampa – and 4 games vs the Twins, 3 vs Toronto and Atlanta at home, with 3 at KC and Miami. Did I mention they play the A’s 10 times in their 1st 60 contests as well? I could see them with 34 or 36 wins at the 60 game mark In an exhausting stretch from Apr 3, to May 15, the team also plays 43 games in 46 nights, with 20 of them at home, but that is a great itinerary to kick off the campaign.

Lets say they are 8 or 10 games over at that point, I could actually see the organization spending a little bit more money in the 2nd half to acquire talent. 

Also if they can withstand until Albert Pujols gets back healthy everyday as the permanent DH.

Don’t get me wrong, I like the Astros, M’s and Rangers still better for the Division, but the gap is not that much….Particularly if the Astros don’t add a Starting Pitcher, the Mariners don’t add a slugging First Baseman, and Texas is hesitant to spend more money on payroll.

The Angels did win 98 Games in 2014 and 85 games in 2015, before receding to 74 victories last campaign. 

Mike Trout is due for one of those just carry the club on his back seasons, (not that he hasn’t been awesome individually in that time span.

If the Cubs make the World Series, than only the Boston Red Sox or Cleveland Indians may even come close to an even match for an opponent, with the reigning champs still holding a distinct advantage.

Boston’s +270 is a brutal look at an odd for the AL.  I am not infatuated with the odd of +600 for the World Series either.  They play in a tough AL East where all 5 teams could compete.

Both the Indians and Astros are fairly pitted for their odds towards the AL Pennant.

Texas continues to be the oddball 2nd favorite in the AL West despite having a poor winter thus far. 

News that they will probably sign Mike Napoli should buoy some spirits, and I am willing to acknowledge that when it happens, yet I feel they still need more.

If the Rangers also swing a Jurickson Profar for a Tampa Bay starter like Jake Odorizzi, then I could par them up with Houston.  As of right now, they are two players short.

I still love the odds for the Nationals even though I wish they wouldn’t have come to near Spring Training without a proven Closer.

The more we draw near to the regular season, the less I like the Yankees too in 2017.  They are going to be way too dependent on Gary Sanchez setting the world on fire to contend in my opinion.

New York’s rotation does not instill confidence despite having a lock down Relief Core.  Jacoby Ellsbury and Brett Gardner are in their mid 30’s now – where the speed doesn’t play as good.

Starlin Castro and Didi Gregorius clubbed 20 HRs each in 2016, but so did 116 other players last campaign. 

These guys never walk either with OBP’s of .300 and .304 respectivelY.  Chase Headley is average at best.

For the Bronx Bombers to duplicate even their 84 win season last year, I think Sanchez will have to destroy 40 – 50 Jacks into the seats. 

Detroit has better Starting pitching and a world-class offense compared to the Pinstripers, yet are behind them in the odds?

Speaking of Detroit.  For being the 2nd favorite team in the AL Central, they possess the 6th place odd out of all 2nd place listed clubs. 

The Tigers can beat up the White Sox and Twins all years, and the Royals are all of a sudden not looking as good either,  I am all over the Motown Boys.

St. Louis, for the record, are the 5th out of 6th 2nd place listed odds, and are fully valued at +1250.

The Cubs are the cream of the crop, but wagering the club for +180 is not worth it.  You are better off wagering them to win the Fall Classic at +370 instead. 

There is no AL team that Chicago would be an underdog against.  Having said that, the money is not there to plunk down any cabbage for this.

I only wish you could bet the field in the NL vs the Cubs.  The Dodgers are also not a good at +435, mostly because Chicago sits in their path.

If I were to bet the Mets ever to win the NL Pennant, it would be in the mid season when I could see their rotation in action and remain healthy.

Odds To Win The American League

Blue Bold Means Good Vale with #value confidence in parenthesis

Maroon Bold Means Bad Vale with # value confidence in parenthesis

Boston Red Sox +270 (3)

Cleveland Indians +445

Houston Astros +680

Texas Rangers +900 (1)

Toronto Blue Jays +960 (3)

Seattle Mariners +1250

NY Yankees +1350 (2)

Detroit Tigers +1550 (5)

Baltimore O’s +1550

KC Royals +1850

LA Angels +3500 (1)

TB Rays +3700

Oakland A’s +7000

Minnesota Twins +7000

Chicago White Sox +7000

Odds To Win The Nationals League

Chicago Cubs +180 (5)

Dodgers +435 (4)

Washington Nationals +600 (2)

NY Mets +735

SF Giants +740

St.Louis Cardinals +1250 (4)

Colorado Rockies +2400

Pittsburgh Pirates +2400

Miami Marlins +3800

Arizona D’Backs +5000

Philadelphia Phillies +6000

Cincinnati Reds +7500

Atlanta Braves +9000

Milwaukee Brewers +10000

SD Padres +10000

Odds courtesy of betdsi.eu

AL vs NL

*** The views and opinions expressed in this report are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of mlbreports.com and their partners***

A big thanks goes out to our ‘Chief Writer/Part Owner’ Hunter Stokes for preparing today’s featured post.

To Subscribe and listen daily to  ‘Our Lead Personality’  Sully’s 20 Minutes Daily (every day since Oct.24, 2012) Podcast click here.  Guaranteed listening to the Sully Baseball Daily Podcast will be the best time you invest in online!

Odds To Win The 2017 MLB Divisions

chicago-cubs-logo

It is coming to that time where we all start making our predictions, and also plunk down more cabbage on the yearly bets. The 1st week of the February usually will come out with Player Prop Bets, and Teams Win Totals of Over and Under.

I don’t need to remind our long term readers that we have excelled in this foray since the beginning of introducing Gambling 101 as a category to mlbreports.com.

We look to continue our 70% best bet percentage.  I am looking to bounce back in the regular season in particularly as I made up the most of the money in player props, HR Derby and World Series Odds.

Today we are focusing on the MLB Divisions.

The AL East is the strongest Division in the game as 4 clubs are at least half decent. and even Tampa Bay is not that bad. Read the rest of this entry

Chicago Cubs Payroll In 2017 + Contracts Going Forward

cubs

Look, there is no way to sugar coat it, the Jason Heyward contract is about the biggest dumpster fire of a contract there may ever be.  Having said that, everyone receives one mulligan. 

Even 3 time World Series winning GM Brian Sabean has had a horrible Matt Cain contract to contend with the last half decade.

Theo Epstein hasn’t made too many blunders – and winning a World Series with both the Red Sox and now the Cubs has solidified a position for him in Cooperstown.

Also lucky is the brilliant signing of Anthony Rizzo of a 7 YR deal prior to 2013, and when he asserted himself as a perennial MVP contender.

Despite carrying a projected payroll in 2017 of around $171 MIL – the team has plenty of expiring contracts in the name of Jake Arrieta, Wade Davis, Jon Lackey, Jon Jay, Pedro Strop, Miguel Montero and Koji Uehara. to replenisg te talent again in 2018 – and going forward

There are only 4 players signed for $79.2 MIL so far.

This is a perfect contrast to the Heyward pact.  Should Rizzo's Team Options be picked up for 2020 and 2021 (for $16.5 MIL each year), then the club will still only have paid him $74 MIL from 2013 - 2021, spanning 9 years at an Annual Value of $8.2 MIL.  That is completely lights out for the organization going forward.

The Rizzo longterm deal a perfect contrast to the Heyward pact. Should Rizzo’s Team Options be picked up for 2020 and 2021 (for $16.5 MIL each year), then the club will still only have paid him $74 MIL from 2013 – 2021, spanning 9 years at an Annual Value of $8.2 MIL. That is completely lights out for the organization going forward.

The one factor of brilliantly drafting and then rostering a club full of guys the same age is that they are all on entry level contracts for a few years before the squad becomes increasingly expensive before Arbitration rights kick in.

2018 will see Kris Bryant, Kyle Hendricks and Addison Russell all hit 1st year Eligible on Arbitration, and then 2019 has Javier Baez, Kyle Schwarber, Willson Contreras and Carl Edwards JR. hit the 1st year. 

it will be at this point the team shoots up the salary page.

Other than Jon Lester, Heyward and Ben Zobrist,  there are no real big salaries on the table for the team to digest.

The biggest dilemma will be the status of Jake Arrieta.  My guess is that he will want too much money and walk away from the Cubs.

More important than that even is simply signing Free Agents (not named Arrieta) by Epstein.

Epstein is creative.  It is okay to figure out a Starting Pitcher in Free Agency, and also add another Closer if need be.  Who knows, by 2018, Hector Rondon and Carl Edwards JR. may be able to lock down that role.

There is still money to spend in the 2017 and 2018 winter markets for sure.

Also playing in the NL Central provides them with security of being able to outspend all the other teams – with the Cardinals only being in the atmosphere.

It is not like they are fighting in the tough NL West with the Giants and high spending Dodgers.  It will still mean facing off against those clubs. and contending with the aging Nationals roster, and New York Mets young staff for a few seasons.

Wrigley Field will be sold out, the revenue streams will break out to record levels, all freely flowing cash into the Ricketts family pockets.

The good news is they are not in cap hell yet  The bad news is that it would only take one more bad deal/paired with Heyward, in order to prevent the club from signing all of their young superstars to extensions.

Epstein is too smart for that.  Look for high value Annual Average Value’s that have expiring contracts before the 2018 and 2019 seasons.  I wouldn’t be surprised if they trade for an existing ace pitcher.

Think Zack Greinke now, or a guy like Justin Verlander in 2018 or 2019, where the other club may eat some of the salary, ask for a high level prospect, and then have a legitimate Starter to lug some innings in the playoffs.

I also wouldn’t be surprised if the brass orchestrates a trade for a guy like Chris Archer – or Sonny Gray (midway through this year if he has healed himself).

Maybe it would cost you a Javier Baez, or a combinations of Carl Edwards JR./Albert Almora JR. to do it, however with Ben Zobrist still in town, defense alignment can be configured in a lot of different ways for at least the next 2 – 3 years.

Like I stated in the Giants Payroll article, the new CBA has also reeled in the Dodgers spending $300 MIL on team payroll.  The best thing that could happen for the Cubs is if Clayton Kershaw were to opt out of his deal beyond 2017.

That would either bring up the price for the Dodgers to sign him, or even give them the chance to sign the guy themselves.  Yes. the Cubs have more flexibility than the Dodgers for at least a couple of offseasons.

Guaranteed Contracts/POS/AGE:

Jason Heyward – OF (28):  With a grand sum of $184 MIL from 2016 – 2023 ( 8 years) this is a brutal deal – and the club is lucky to have already won a World Series in season 1 of this pact.

Heyward will make an astonishing $28.2 MIL for both the 2017 and 2018 seasons.  Epstein at least frontloaded the contract to erase some of the burden by the time the young talent comes up for raises.

This deal is the 13th richest in history for a guy who carried a .631 OPS. in 2016  I tend to think that Heyward will be closer to his Career OPS of .761 the next few years with the pressure somewhat off him now. 

Hit him 7th or 8th and let him work out his kinks. Defense is at least not a problem here with him winning a 4th Gold Glove.

This could end bad in 2017 – with Heyward riding pine for some of the year – if the club opts to use Zobrist, Schwarber and the tandem of Jon Jay and Almora JR. as the OF.

You also have to think that Joe Maddon won’t hesitate to find Willson Contreras reps as well.

Jon Lester – SP (33):  Lester is in the 3rd year of a 7 YR/$165 MIL deal, and is set to reel in $25 MIL in 2017. The deal calls for $27.5 MIL in both 2018 and 2019, before scaling back to $20 MIL in 2020. 

There is a 2021 Club Option as well. Details on that: $25M Team Option, $10M Buyout option guaranteed with 200 innings in 2020 or 400 IP in 2019-20. 

With the Buyout that large, the man would have to fall from grace hard, to not get the Option.  Although he would be nearly 40, $15 MIL extra will probably not be that bad.

Lester is worth every dollar the club has spent so far.  It is hard to find playoff proven commodities on the open market.

Ben Zobrist – UT (36):  Zobrist is the only player in the MLB who was won 2 straight World Series, as also being a member of the 2015 WS Champ KC Royals.

With the availability to play 5 defensive positions, Zobrist was the perfect compliment to the Cubs defensive roster in 2016 – although he played predominantly at 2B. 

With the emergence of Baez in the playoffs, he will likely rove more around in 2017.

Zobrist earns $16.5 MIL in both 2017 and 2018 – before retreating back to $12.5 MIL in 2019.  He will be in his Age 39 season at that point, and it may not look so hot at that point, but one can’t argue at his flexibility on the Roster providing so many options in the title run.

You can even say that his positional switching gives the club a better chance to hold onto Kyle Schwarber (instead of trading him in the American League).

John Lackey – SP (38):  Lackey joined Lester, David Ross. and Epstein as guys who have won World Series in 2013 with Boston and the Cubs in 2016.  He will make $16 MIL in 2017 before hitting Free Agency in 2018.

Lackey lugged 188.1 IP and gave the Cubs a 3.35 ERA in the process.  It doesn’t even matter that he was being pulled in the early innings of the postseason.

Jake Arrieta – SP (31):  Arrieta earns a tidy $15.6 MIL this year and will likely head out into Free Agency as a Scott Boras client.  Unfortunately the man is going to be 32 heading into 2018.

I would not offer him higher than a 4 year deal at $20 – $21 MIL after, yet that will not get the job done when he hits the open market.  Someone will pony up 5 YRs/$125 MIL for him, you watch.

Miguel Montero – C (34);  Montero will make $14 MIL in 2017 – and I am not sure he will Catch more than about 60 games.  Contreras at last is on an entry level contract to offset this salary.  I am surprised the team has not ventured out to trade him.

Wade Davis – CL (32):  It cost the club Jorge Soler and 4 years of Team Control, yet this was the way to go.  $10 MIL for one year of Davis (who Closed for the 2015 wS Champion Royals) is smart business practice.

To acquire an elite Reliever such as this is a great move – when you consider the Yankees, Dodgers and Giants spent $86 MIL, $80 MIL and $62 MIL to sign Aroldis Chapman, Kenley Jansen and Mark Melancon respectively.

Soler was going to be their 7th option as an OF.  Davis, by the way, has a 0.83 ERA in 32.2 IP for his postseason career – and has carried a mid 1 ERA from 2014 – 2016 as a late inning Reliever – spanning 183 IP.

I would also think the club will extend the Qualifying Offer to him this winter ( $17.5 – $19 MIL range for one year), so they may even recover a 2nd or 3rd Draft Pick back all for just $10 MIL.

Jon Jay – OF (32): Has a 2017 contract or $8 MIL to play OF.  He has a career .352 OBP, so could hit 1st or 9th for Maddon, working as an on base guy for the big boppers.  Brilliant little move.

Anthony Rizzo – 1B (28):  Rizzo will take him $7 MIL for 2017, coming after the heels of an ALL-Star, Gold Glove, Silver Slugger and top 4 MVP season in which he clubbed 30+ HRs and added 100 RBI for a 2nd straight season.

Rizzo also makes $7 MIL in 2018, $12 MIL in 2019, and two Team Options in a row call for $16.5 MIL and $2 MIL Buyouts for both 2020 and 2021.

It is contracts like this that setup championship caliber clubs for the organization.

Other valued deals that compare to it last decade or so.  Paul Goldschmidt (5 YRs/$32.5 MIL), Madison Bumgarner (6 YRS/$35.6 MIL) and Andrew McCutchen ( 6 YRs/$51 MIL)  that coincided with 4 straight top 5 NL MVP finishes.

Rizzo should challenge for an MVP every year of that remains on this deal.

Koji Uehara – RP (42):  $6 MIL for one year seems like a lot or a guy of his age, but Uehara has plenty of playoff/Closer experience that is invaluable to a club like this.  I would take it easy on him in the regular season and save the bullets for playoffs.

Hector Rondon – RP (29):  $5.8 MIL for this former Closer is not a bad deal in 2017. Rondon has one more year left of Arbitration before hitting Free Agency in 2019.  He has 77 Saves and a career ERA of 2.97.

Brian Duensing – SP/RP (33):  Makes $2 MIL in 2017 and a Free Agent in 2018. A spot start here and extra Bullpen arm,

Justin Grimm – RP (29): Avoided Arbitration with a $1.8 MIL, has 2 more years left of Arbitration before he is a Free Agent.

Total Money for this Category for 2017: $157.5 MIL (13 Players)

Arbitration Eligible/POS/AGE

3rd  year

Pedro Strop – RP (33):  Is projected to to earn $5.5 MIL in Arbitration, and is a Free Agent in 2018.

Total Money for this Category for 2017: $5.5 MI:  Total money is now $163 MIL

Pre-Arbitration – Entry Level Contracts:

Tommy La Stella – INF (28):  Is Arbitration Eligible from 2018 – 2020 and a Free Agent in 2021.

Kyle Hendricks – SP (27): Is Arbitration Eligible from 2018 – 2020 and a Free Agent in 2021.

Kris Bryant – 3B Is Arbitration Eligible from 2018 – 2021 as a “Super 2” and a Free Agent in 2021.  Bryant is only 25 Years old, and will have 4 years of Arbitration kick in starting next season.

Since the club opted to start his 2015 after the 10 days of service time, they wll retian his rights until the end of 2021.  Bryant is on pace to end up recording Arbitration cash if he keeps his career trajectory.

The club should really look to extend him similar to the Mike Trout 6 YRs.$144 MIL deal he got.

Addison Russell – SS (23):  Is Arbitration Eligible from 2018 – 2021 as a “Super 2” and a Free Agent in 2022.

Comparisons to an extension similar to what he may get are:  Jason Kipnis and Matt Carpenter (6 YRs and $52 MIL)

Matt Szczur – UT (28): Is Arbitration Eligible from 2019 – 2021 and a Free Agent in 2022.

Javier Baez – 2B/3B (24):  Is Arbitration Eligible from 2019 – 2021 and a Free Agent in 2022.

Mike Montgomery – SP/RP (29): Is Arbitration Eligible from 2019 – 2021 and a Free Agent in 2022.

Kyle Schwarber – OF (24): Is Arbitration Eligible from 2019 – 2021 and a Free Agent in 2022.

Willson Contreras – C (25): Is Arbitration Eligible from 2022 – 2022 and a Free Agent in 2023.

Albert Almora JR – OF (23):   Is Arbitration Eligible from 2022 – 2022 and a Free Agent in 2023.

Rob Zastryzny – RP (25) Is Arbitration Eligible from 2022 – 2022 and a Free Agent in 2023.

Total Money for this Category for 2017: $6.0 MIL MIL Toral Money Oveall – $169.0 MIL

Buyouts/Dead Money

Jason Hammel – $2 Million Buyout for 2017 that was agreed to in a gentleman’s deal. There is no dead money on he books past 2017 thus far.

Conclusions:

Despite the Heyward mistake of a deal, Epstein has done everything right.  It will be a constant maneuvering of the incoming talent – to surround the plethora of young superstars the club has.

The Cubs have the availability to sign an elite pitcher in Free Agency in the year or 2, or trade for one.  Beyond that, the team can’t make another top 50 ALL – Time Salary roster mistake.

The brass should also investigate early extensions for Bryant, Ruseell and Contreras immediately while they may afford to wait for Hendricks and Schwarber yet. 

Some sort of guaranteed money to the budget would be wise

As for Arrieta, he is just too old – an unorthodox in order to grant him the cash he will seek.  Epstein has to find creative ways to bring in a #1 or $2 beyond this campaign. 

Chicago is fantastic shape financially to spend as much as it takes to ensure a dynasty in the next half-dozen years. 

If I were in charge I would try to limit any big historic contracts to their own young superstars from this point forwards. 

Also don’t be afraid to trade one of the premiere young offensive players for a quality Starter (#1 or #2 Starter)like Baez, Contreras or Almora.

CubsWS

*** The views and opinions expressed in this report are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of mlbreports.com and their partners***

I am happy to be back at the helm of the MLB Reports, after completing my record 224 Games in the MLB Trip in 2015.  It was the 4th time I have seen all 30 MLB Parks since 2008. During that time away I was fortunate to do 100 Media Interviews

Interview on CSN Philly during the month of July.

To Subscribe and listen daily to  ‘Our Lead Personality’  Sully’s 20 Minutes Daily (every day since Oct.24, 2012) Podcast click here.  Guaranteed listening to the Sully Baseball Daily Podcast will be the best time you invest in online!

Top 5 Projected Save Leaders For The MLB In 2017

Aroldis Chapman appeared in 31 Games for the Yankees in 2016, holding 20 Saves and a crisp 2l01 ERA and WHIP of .867

Aroldis Chapman appeared in 31 Games for the Yankees in 2016, holding 20 Saves and a crisp 2l01 ERA and WHIP of  .867.  This was done in just over 3 months.  With the Yankees kickstarting him up from Spring Training, and without the aid of Andrew Miller as a fallback option, I expect the flamethrowing southpaw to have one of his best seasons ever out of the pen in 2017.

What  a scene it will be at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW in he District today where Aroldis Chapman and Joe Maddon will reunite to celebrate their 2016 World Series Championship.

The big Lefty Cuban should be the favorite to win the 2017 Saves Title for the entire MLB.  It is not that the Yankees will lead the league in wins – heck they may finish 4th in the AL East.  I just believe that with the pop gun offense (say for Gary Sanchez) that the victories will all be closely contested.

I highly thought of Kenley Jansen and Craig Kimbrel for this honor as well, however I like their managers to give them the odd day off ans Save Opportunities.

As of today, we have the Cubs nearing the 100 in plateau again, but just like the aforementioned players above, I think Maddon will use several guys to register Saves for Chicago in 2017 – like Wade Davis, Hector Rondon and Carl Edwards JR.

The reigning World Series Champs are also a lot more prone to blow out teams in a weakened National League where 6 clubs may lose 90 Games or more.

For the sake of preserving arms and fatigue, I would also not be surprised to see a few more SVO’s going to Andrew Miller in lieu of Cody Allen for the AL Pennant winners Cleveland.

(RELATED – Top 5 Home Runs Hitters Projected For The MLB in 2017) Read the rest of this entry

Early 2017 MLB Team Win Projections

Having a great offsesson despite David Ortiz retiring. Are the deepest all around team in the American League, with the greatest collection of veterans and young players

Having a great offsesson despite David Ortiz retiring. Are the deepest all around team in the American League, with the greatest collection of veterans and young players.  The biggest other move in the Division so far was the Yankees signing Aroldis Chapman, and that may just help the Bombers stay above .500 – and have a chance to compete.

Following the recent Winter Meetings, the new CBA being signed. and then the subsequent few weeks after, the projections are win totals based on the teams if over/unders were to be placed.

From the onset. the Boston Red Sox are the clear favorite in the AL East – with adding Chris Sale, Mitch Moreland, Tyler Thornburg to their ALL – Star cast, while David Ortiz (retired), Travis Shaw (traded) Koji Uehara (Signed with the Cubs), Brad Ziegler (Free Agent) are off the postseason roster that lost to the Tribe.

The players going back to the White Sox were not from the Major League Roster for the most part.

With the Jays having Edwin Encarnacion, Jose Bautista, Michael Saunders. R. A. Dickey, Brett Cecil off the 25 man roster, to replacing with Kendrys Morales and Steve Pearce for the most part as main transactions. this is a far cry from an even trade.  However the club will still likely make some more moves.

Cleveland stands to benefit for the rest of the division all seeming to rebuild. but the Tigers have only dealt Cameron Maybin away – so they are sitting on the cusp of challenging for the AL Central again.  Detroit may want to explore going for it one more year based on what the Royals have done, and the fact the White Sox and Twins might be the worst clubs in the Junior Circuit.

Houston has been super progressive with signing Josh Reddick and Carlos Beltran as Free Agents, while also flipping for Brian McCann.  This was a squad that started 7 – 17,before reeling off a nice 77 – 62 mark down the stretch to fall just short of the playoff bar.

Seattle is also positioning themselves upward just by how bad the Rangers have fared this winter.  Not only that, but they added strength to their worst 2 weaknesses in adding Jean Segura at SS. and Carlos Ruiz as a viable backup Catcher. Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – December 9, 2016

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Rob Carr/Getty Images North America, Tim Bradbury/Getty Images North America and Elsa/Getty Images North America

It looks like Koji Uehara is heading to the Cubs. They will have three pitchers who have clinched a World Series title out of the pen.

Why not try to get more?

It is time to celebrate and clinch in this episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Enjoy this video podcast.

Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – December 8, 2016

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Mike Stobe/Getty Images North America

The Cubs brought in Wade Davis, who will be the closer for the defending World Champions for the second straight year.

If he clinches a post season series in Chicago, he will join a select fraternity in terms pitchers for 2 different franchises.

Slam the door on this episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The 2017 World Series: Nats/Giants/Astros Great Value – Bounce On KC/NYY

For a second straight week we love the Nationals with the best odd value of the week. They have some financial flexibility to bring in a few more ALL - Star Caliber players and also possess the prospects in order to get it done. If you believe (like I do)

For a second straight week we love the Nationals with the best odd value of the week. They have some financial flexibility to bring in a few more ALL – Star Caliber players and also possess the prospects in order to get it done. If you believe (like I do) that the Nats are serious about trading for guys like Andrew McCutchen and Chris Sale, than it is imperative you get this club at their odd this week.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

The Nationals are really making noise about trying to land Andrew McCutchen and Chris Sale.  Even if they don’t fulfill the need, I still think they will add more depth via trade for another good Starting Pitcher and also add an impressive CF, and reliever.

We shall wait and see whether or not that could be the likes of Dexter Fowler or a reunion with Ian Desmond to play CF, Aroldis Chapman or Kenley Jansen to be added to for late inning work.  At +1200 the Nats are full value for the best odd of the week.

The NL East may be easier to win than the NL West and NL Central if you think the way that most good handicappers are right now.  The Mets are dreaming if they think they can contend with 3 Infield Starters with bad backs, and a declining metrics Shortstop, added to not a true CF, and a horrible Catcher offensive situation.

I am trying not to bag on the Mets too much here, as I think they could still rally to win 85 – 90 wins again next year based on the strength of the rest of the Division, it is just the health concerns that would frighten me to pieces. Read the rest of this entry

6 MLB Teams That Will Be Hurt Most By The New CBA

Billy Beane was the king of the front offices just a few years ago, but a future loss of MLB Revenue Sharin and tougher Billy Beane was the king of the front offices just a few years ago, but a future loss of MLB Revenue Sharing for Oakland and not being able to recoup 1st RD Draft picks by losing star players will hurt them even greater. The AL West also has 4 big market clubs residing it now, with Houston being a lot better than they were in 2013 and 2014, the best time the A's have seen of recent vintage. it will be a tough grind for Oakland to compete until a new stadium is built.

Billy Beane was the king of the front offices just a few years ago, but a future loss of MLB Revenue Sharing and not being able to recoup 1st RD Draft picks by losing star players will hurt them even greater. The AL West also has 4 big market clubs residing it now, with Houston being a lot better than they were in 2013 and 2014 when they first joined the Division from the National League, This time frame was the best the A’s have seen of recent vintage. it will be a tough grind for Oakland to compete until a new stadium is built.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

Yesterday we talked about 6 teams that stand to gain an advantage under the new CBA,  Today we explore the 6 teams that were hurt most.

While the news of taxing the higher revenue generating teams will work to bridge the top teams to the mid – market revenue clubs. the abolishing of a 1st RD Draft Pick compensation pick being lost to franchises for having signed one of their Qualifying Offer rejected players will hurt many franchises.

Kansas City, Pittsburgh, Oakland. Colorado, San Diego and Milwaukee all had days in my opinion.  The Rays, Twins, Reds and Marlins are not too far from list either, however all of those organizations also are not good shape with the new pact either, however they are not as bad as the top 6 clubs.

The Pirates were already thinking about trading Andrew McCutchen, and this should give a violent shove in that direction. 

It will also show that players such as Carlos Gonzalez, Sonny Gray, Charlie Blackmon, Starling Marte, Gregory Polanco, Gerrit Cole, Eric Hosmer, Mike Moustakas and Nolan Arenado will all be dealt before their Team Control expires. It is the new landscape of the CBA. 

I would hate the new CBA as these clubs.

Under the old agreement . these teams may have been more apt to take their chances on a playoff run – sighting at least a 1st RD Draft Pick would be coming back their way should their superstars leave their squads. Read the rest of this entry

Cleveland Indians State Of The Union For 2017: The Tribe Better Not Trade Andrew Miller!

The Cleveland has ridden great drafting, trades and salaried contracts to put themselves into contention for the AL Pennant over the next couple of years. The last thing they need to do is try and deal the one Bullpen who helped pushed them over the top in the Junior Circuit in 2016. At worst start the season with Andrew Miller - and if things go horribly, you can always trade him midway through the year with other guys as well.

The Cleveland has ridden great drafting, trades and salaried contracts to put themselves into contention for the AL Pennant over the next couple of years. The last thing they need to do is try to deal the one Bullpen member who helped pushed them over the top in the Junior Circuit in 2016. At worst, start the season with Andrew Miller – and if things go horribly, you can always trade him midway through the year with ome other guys as well.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

The 2016 season showed us just how valuable that a Relief Pitcher like Andrew Miller can be.  Loaded with an arsenal of great Bullpen guys, Terry Francona flipped the coaching book on its keester by bringing back the old way that Relievers used to be implemented late in the games.  I was a kid who would watch Goose Gossage mow down hitters as a hired gun late in contests.

We all saw it before our very own eyes.  Now comes the most ridiculous notion ever of considering trading him?  Really Cleveland??  You better not even fathom this until at least midway through the 2017 campaign.

I understand it is tough for a mid market club doling out $9M a year for a guy who might log 70 Innings – and not save the games he is in, but they just need to look at how good they fared in 2016.

The Tribe was without its best player all year in Michael Brantley, and also without Danny Salazar/Carlos Carrasco for the majority of the playoffs too.  There is no way this club should have gone this far, and pushed the Cubs to the brink of elimination in the Fall Classic, before the reigning champs came back to ruin the party in Cleveland.

If I were in Chris Antonetti’s shoes I don’t start any dialogue about 2017’s roster without Andrew Miller on the opening day squad.

$9 Million is not earth shattering cash when you consider Andrew Cashner - and his bloated ERA of 5.25 just backed up his dome into Texas and settled for a cool $10 MIL for the 2017 season. If Cleveland can't afford the guy they might as well pack up town in the middle of the night and head elsewhere (something that has happened in Cleveland before.)

$9 Million is not earth shattering cash when you consider Andrew Cashner – and his bloated ERA of 5.25 just backed up his dome into Texas and settled for a cool $10 MIL for the 2017 season. If Cleveland can’t afford the guy they might as well pack up town in the middle of the night and head elsewhere (something that has happened in Cleveland before.)  The 6 FT 7 – 31 Year old-fashioned a 10 – 1 record this year. with an incredible 123 Ks and just 9 BB in his 74.1 IP worth of work.  Miller then fanned 30 batters, walked just five, while sporting a 1.40 ERA in 20.1 IP in the postseason, winning the ALCS MVP honors and nearly helped lead his team to Cleveland’s first WS win since 1948.  If the goal is to win in the playoffs you can’t trade this guy right now.  He is money there, and you have a chance to go back to October baseball again in 2017.

This 2016 AL Pennant squad should be conceivably better with a healthy Michael Brantley coming back, equaled with more seasoning from Tyler Naquin, and topped off with the emergence of Francisco Lindor/Jason Kipnis as an awesome double play combination.

it may be hard to fill the 34 HRs and 101 RBI that Mike Napoli brought forth, but one could still find a few cheap replacements to pull in some nice numbers. They could employ another DH full time like Pedro Alvarez on the cheap, and work in some against LHP – by bringing back Rajai Davis who crushes southpaws.  Davis could act as a 4th OF in the midst of Naquin, Brantley and Lonnie Chisenhall.

The Indians still also have Brandou Guyer – who can handle a stick against LHP as well  – and act as a DH/OF.

Cleveland is currently slated to pay around $105 MIL to all of its current guys.  Maybe there is only a few million in the coffers to play in Free Agency this offseason, yet this teams strength is its Bullpen – so don’t trade from that position of strength.

Terry Francona should be given all ample bodies to begin the campaign.  If it all goes awry during the season you can always trade some players midway through the year if it looks like it will not be their year.

Furthermore, I would ride the beginning of the year just like they ended the playoffs.  I would not change anything at all out of the gate.  I would start the year off by playing with a huge sense of urgency.

The way the rest of the AL  Central is looking, with the Tigers and white Sox talking a bot cutting payroll and maybe going for a rebuild, combined with KC potentially selling on their pending Free Agents in the next couple of years like Eric Hosmer, Mike Moustakas, Lorenzo Cain and Wade Davis, then you could see how a quick Cleveland start could discourage the rest of the pack.

The Dodgers just set a record for innings logged into the playoffs and it served them well.  The good news is the Indians can rely on their starters to provide some much needed rest for their late inning arms, by logging some of their own innings.

Go into frontrunner mode and let Francona figure out a way to get the likes of Miller, Allen and Shaw enough rest – so they can patchwork it through the end of the season.

Winning a bunch of games early, added with an awesome 2016 season – should see the Indians organization see a rise in attendance through the wickets to start the year.  An early lead would only help the situation out.  Cleveland should go all out to win in 2017.  Go the way of the 2014 Royals turning a World Series loss into a repeat trip the next year.

Cleveland will need Miller’s skill set when it comes time for the playoffs too.  This guy just seems to get better the more work he gets.  Keep riding the horse.

The franchise is so lucky that they have Lindor in Pre-Arbitration status – and that despite missing almost all of the 2016 season – that Michael Brantley is criminally underpaid for his services on the board. 

Kipnis, Kluber and Carrasco were also extended contracts at the exact perfect time. Having all these guys not cost a boatload is the reason you could have afforded Miller in the 1st place

Bryan Shaw and Carlos Santana are the only guys that are free after the 2017 year anyways.  Those guys while vital to the team this year, can be replaced – whereas a guy like Miller is a game changer in his role.  If they really need to keep the finances in line, they would be better served to dangle these players as trade bait first.

Terry Francona has won 2 Manager of the Year Awards in his 4 seasons in Cleveland. He is also underrated in his Bullpen management. The organization should let him have all of the weapons in the Relief Core. I think he should also run with the style he used in the playoffs to start the year. Worry about resting the guys later in the year if they come flying out of the gates early. This way of thinking could have us return to what Relievers used to be implored for in game use.

Terry Francona has won 2 Manager of the Year Awards in his 4 seasons in Cleveland. He is also underrated in his Bullpen management. The organization should let him have all of the weapons in the Relief Core. I think he should also run with the style he used in the playoffs to start the year. Worry about resting the guys later in the year if they come flying out of the gates early. This way of thinking could have us return to what Relievers used to be implored for in game use.

*** The views and opinions expressed in this report are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of mlbreports.com and their partners***

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A big thanks goes out to our ‘Chief Writer/Part Owner’ Hunter Stokes for preparing today’s featured post.

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Which Relief Pitcher Will The Washington Nationals Acquire At The Trade Deadline?

The Washington Nationals are currently in first place in the National League East, but they are in desperate need of some help in their bullpen. Their current closer, Jonathan Papelbon, has struggled all season long, which has cost the Nationals multiple games. He currently has a 4.18 ERA, 19 saves, and three blown saves in 34 appearances. Due to these struggles, the Washington Nationals could consider many options near the trade deadline. Some possibilities are mentioned in the link below:

 

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MLB Power Rankings 2016: Week 1 – April

cubs

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

Disclaimer:  We based these rankings on best strength to win the World Series.  Therefore some teams that have an easier division to play in, with the least path of resistance to the postseason overall may be ranked a lot higher than a club who is equally talented, yet may play in a juggernaut of a division.

Team – Rank (W – L Record) (Last week ranking in parenthesis)

(1) Chicago Cubs  (5 – 1)  (1):  The Cubs weathered the loss of their slugging OF Kyle Schwarber this week – by taking 5 of the 1st 6 games played, and all on the road.  After these 6 contests – the squad is outscoring their opponents 42 – 15.

Love the idea of setting the table with Dexter Fowler, Jason Heyward and Ben Zobrist 1-2-3 prior to the boppers coming after in Anthony Rizzo and Kris Bryant.

Having the 2015 NL ROY may help Rizzo win the NL MVP this season.  He had 10 RBI this week – including a 6 RBI effort.

Jake Arrieta is already 2 – 0, and this team shows no signs of slowing down.

(2)  KC Royals  (4 – 1) (2):  This club just knows how to win with the dominant Bullpen and clutch hitting.  They have only yielded 11 runs thus far, and this team has not even hit huge strides on offense yet.

The AL Central is better in 2016 there is no question, however KC will be ready to take them on.  There may not be a more filthy Late Inning Reliever right now than Wade DavisEdinson Volquez has picked up right where he left off in 2015 as well. Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast Archives Dec.1, 2012 – Dec.31, 2012 (Lost Eps 39 – 69)

sully baseball funny game

Paul Francis Sullivan (please call him Sully) does a podcast 365 days a year – unless it is a leap year – then he will do another 1. He has done a show everyday since Oct.24/2012. This to date represents a streak of 1215 days consecutively!

Past the CLICK TO READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY are episodes 39 – 69 of the Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Sully starting posting his daily podcasts at the mlbreports.com on Feb.6, 2013. So we will add the dates between Oct.24, 2012 and Feb.6, 2013 in case you missed any of his awesome 1st 105 episodes.

But we will also archive all of his podcasts to date (in coming weeks) –  so they are easily accessible for all his fans.

Our website followers have grown larger each year for his podcast.

Follow Sully Baseball On Twitter

To subscribe on iTunes, click HERE.

To subscribe on SoundCloud, click HERE. Read the rest of this entry

Projected Top 5 Save Leaders In The American And National League For MLB 2016

Craig Kimbrel is still about as filthy as they come in nailing down games in the Majors. With 225 Saves and a 1.63 ERA in the last 5 years of his career, this 27 year old flamethrower brings his talents to Beantown and a top rated club. Last year was the 1st season he didn't lead the National League after four consecutive years of leading the Senior Circuit. He still managed 39 Saves for a 74 win San Diego team. Since the Red Sox are going to be somewhere in the 90 win range, Kimbrel should at least be in the mid 40's in Saves again for 2016.

Craig Kimbrel is still about as filthy as they come in nailing down games in the Majors. With 225 Saves and a 1.63 ERA in the last 5 years of his career, this 27 year old flamethrower brings his talents to Beantown and a top rated club. Last year was the 1st season he didn’t lead the National League after four consecutive years of leading the Senior Circuit. He still managed 39 Saves for a 74 win San Diego team. Since the Red Sox are going to be somewhere in the 90 win range, Kimbrel should at least be in the mid 40’s in Saves again for 2016.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

Figuring out the Saves Leaders for the 2016 year is a lot easier to project than the Holds Leaders we did last week.  Perhaps the easiest to discern is also the National League.

Since I projected 7 teams will win 90+ games in the Senior Circuit I have listed 5 teams with their Closer out of the fold there.  I did however, leave out Hector Rondon and Mark Melancon.

I feel the Bucs may trade Melancon despite being in a position to make the playoffs.   I also think the Cubs will blow out a ton of clubs this season in games, and therefore not need Rondon to lockdown a 3 run or under lead.

This is the same reason why I won’t label Roberto Osuna for the top 5 in the American League either.  It is also not unfathomable to see the Jays go with Drew Storen to close down games.

I fully think that Craig Kimbrel will lead the entire Major Leagues for the Boston Red Sox as their Closer.

I may have gone with Aroldis Chapman on the list as well, however his pending suspension for his domestic violence call in should see him riding pine for at least 25 games.  The New York Yankees should still lead the Junior Circuit for total team Saves.
Read the rest of this entry

Kansas City Royals State Of The Union For 2016

Back to Back AL pennants and this years World Series Winners. They are the biggest favorite to win their respective division so far on the board. The KC franchise has most of the core nucleus all heading for Free Agency before the 2018 season. If I were a fan of this club - I would be okay with the team rebuilding after this, but for now to throw all chips in and try to cash in on a chance for a small dynasty. Dayton Moore and the Brass should use any one of their Minor League Players to acquire the next piece or 2 to make that happen in 2016 and 2017.

Back to Back AL pennants and this years World Series Winners. They are the biggest favorite to win their respective division so far on the board. The KC franchise has most of the core nucleus all heading for Free Agency before the 2018 season. If I were a fan of this club – I would be okay with the team rebuilding after this, but for now to throw all chips in and try to cash in on a chance for a small dynasty. Dayton Moore and the Brass should use any one of their Minor League Players to acquire the next piece or 2 to make that happen in 2016 and 2017.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

The Royals are back to back AL Pennant winners and the reigning World Series Champions right now.  Furthermore, they are playing in the most winnable Division in the Majors right now.

Kansas City were the 1st real small market club to win the World Series since the 2003 Marlins club took home the Fall Classic that year.

Just like the 2014 winter, the club will sustain losses between the end of the year to Spring Training the following year.

The door is not closed on Alex Gordon yet, however I don’t think it is in the clubs best interest to pay a 9 figure salary to a guy who is already 30.

KC has already seen Ben Zobrist sign with the Cubs, Johnny Cueto with the Giants, and Greg Holland will not pitch at all in the 2016 season with Tommy John Surgery recovery, and certainly not for the Royals.

Dayton Moore has done a decent job acquiring talent though.  The team resigned Starter Chris Young, and they added one time Royals Closer Joakim Soria.

The window is not just for 2016 – as the club only stands to lose back up Catcher Drew Butera following next year, but also for 2017. Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – November 6, 2015

 John Minchillo/AP

John Minchillo/AP

Teams looking to win pennants and World Series titles should search the free agent bins looking for fading starting pitchers.

They could just turn out to be the bullpen depth you are looking for!

It is a bargan hunting episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Listen to my guest spot on Sports Without Balls by clicking HERE.

 

Read the rest of this entry

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – November 2, 2015

ALEX TRAUTWIG/GETTY IMAGES

ALEX TRAUTWIG/GETTY IMAGES

Did the Royals win this World Series or did the Mets lose it?

The answer is YES. Both are true.

The Royals won it all. They deserve it. They were the best team in the American League almost the entire season and they earned this title.

But MAN, this is going to be a bitter pill for Met fans to swallow.

And I face that always uncertain darkness: The off season has begun.

It is a “Crown the Champs” episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Luke Hochevar, Eric Hosmer, Curtis Granderson and Matt Harvey all added to their totals of Who Owned the World Series and Who Owned October (WOWS and WOO).

Read the rest of this entry

Who Owns October and Who Owns the 2015 World Series (#WOO and #WOWS) Tallies Updated For November 1, 2015

RON VESELY/MLB PHOTOS

RON VESELY/MLB PHOTOS

The Royals earned their crown as 3 of their 4 World Series wins were won in the 8th or later.

What a strange ending.

Now comes for the final entry of Who Owns October and Who Owns the World Series.

Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)

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

But the World Series deserves its own stats. WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.)

At the end of the post season, we will see who had the highest WOO total as a pitcher and a hitter. The WOWS total will be kept separately. Each game now counts towards both tallies.

A complete description of the rules can be found HERE.

From November 1st, World Series Game 4:

Receiving 1 WOO’s and WOWS

Luke Hochevar gave the Royals 2 critical shutout innings in the 10th and the 11th where a single Mets run would have forced a game 6. He allowed no hits and walked just 1 and earned the World Series clinching victory in relief for Kansas City, 7-2.

Eric Hosmer  broke the Mets shutout with a double in the 9th and dashed home to score the tying run on a wild play with 2 outs in the 9th.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s and WOWS

Curtis Granderson led off the game with a homer and later scored on a sacrifice fly. In the end, the Mets would collapse in the 9th and lose in the 12th to the Royals, 7-2.

Matt Harvey took a World Series saving shutout into the 9th inning, striking out 9 along the way. He finished with 8 plus innings, 5 hits, 2 runs and 2 walks but would get a heart breaking no decision as the Royals rallied to beat the Mets in 12 innings, 7-2.

Current‘WOWS’ and ‘WOO’ Totals MLB 2015:

Hitters ‘WOWS’ MLB 2015,

Salvador Perez – Royals 1 1/2, Alcides Escobar – Royals 1, Eric Hosmer – Royals 1, David Wright – Mets 1, Ben Zobrist – Royals 1, Michael Conforto – Mets 1/2, Lucas Duda – Mets 1/2, Curtis Granderson – Mets 1/2, Daniel Murphy – Mets 1/2,

Pitchers ‘WOWS’ MLB 2015,

Johnny Cueto – Royals 1, Wade Davis – Royals 1, Luke Hochevar – Royals 1, Noah Syndergaard – Mets 1,  Chris Young – Royals 1, Matt Harvey – Mets 1/2, , Jonathon Niese – Mets 1/2,

Hitters ‘WOO’ MLB 2015,

Troy Tulowitzki – Blue Jays 3 1/2, Daniel Murphy – Mets 3, Salvador Perez – Royals 3, Jorge Soler – Cubs 3, Alcides Escobar – Royals 2 1/2,  Jorge Soler – Cubs 2 1/2, , Justin Turner – Dodgers 2 1/2, Jose Bautista – Blue Jays 2, Delino DeShields – Rangers 2, Eric Hosmer – Royals 2, Mike Moustakas – Royals 2, David Wright – Mets 2, Lorenzo Cain – Royals 1 1/2, Yoenis Cespedes – Mets 1 1/2, Lucas Duda – Mets 1 1/2, Dexter Fowler – Cubs 1 1/2, Curtis Granderson – Mets 1 1/2, Stephen Piscotty – Cardinals 1 1/2, Colby Rasmus – Astros 1 1/2, Kyle Schwarber – Cubs 1 1/2, Jose Altuve – Astros 1, Chris Carter – Astros 1, Travis d’Arnaud – Mets , Rougned Odor – Rangers 1,  Kevin Pillar – Blue Jays 1, Ben Revere – Blue Jays 1, Alex Rios – Royals 1, Ben Zobrist – Royals 1, Starlin Castro – Cubs 1/2, Francisco Cervelli – Pirates 1/2, Michael Conforto – Mets 1/2, Carlos Correa – Astros 1/2, Josh Donaldson – Blue Jays 1/2, Edwin Encarnacion – Blue Jays 1/2, Adrian Gonzalez – Dodgers 1/2, Didi Gregorius – Yankees 1/2, Jason Heyward – Cardinals 1/2, Howie Kendrick – Dodgers 1/2, Kendrys Morales – Royals 1/2, Luis Valbuena – Astros 1/2, Kolten Wong – Cardinals 1/2,

Pitchers ‘WOO’ MLB 2015,

Wade Davis – Royals 4,  Jacob deGrom – Mets 3, Matt Harvey – Mets 2 1/2, Noah Syndergaard – Mets 2 1/2, Marcus Stroman – Blue Jays 2 1/2, Chris Young – Royals 2 1/2, Jake Arrieta – Cubs 2,  Johnny Cueto – Royals 2, Marco Estrada – Blue Jays 2,  Dallas Keuchel – Astros 2, Zack Greinke – Dodgers 1 1/2, Cole Hamels – Rangers 1 1/2, Clayton Kershaw – Dodgers 1 1/2,  R. A. Dickey – Blue Jays 1, Jake Diekman – Rangers 1,  Kelvin Herrera – Royals 1, Luke Hochevar – Royals 1, John Lackey – Cardinals 1, Jon Lester – Cubs 1, Steven Matz – Mets 1, Collin McHugh – Astros 1, Hector Rondon – Cubs 1, Edinson Vólquez – Royals 1, Travis Wood – Cubs 1, Bartolo Colon – Mets 1/2, Liam Hendriks 1/2Lance McCullers – Astros 1/2, Jonathon Niese – Mets 1/2, David Price– Blue Jays 1/2,

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – November 1, 2015

Howard Simmons - NY Daily News

Howard Simmons – NY Daily News

It is time for the Sunday Request.

//platform.twitter.com/widgets.jsIn the light of the Mets collapse last night, I felt like this would be cruel and unusual to talk to a rabid Mets fan like Poppi Kramer. So I found myself refusing a Sunday Request. It turned out it was good that I did.

//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

It is a respectful and mournful episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Wade Davis and Salvador Perez and Michael Conforto all added to their totals of Who Owned the World Series and Who Owned October (WOWS and WOO).

Read the rest of this entry

Who Owns October and Who Owns the 2015 World Series (#WOO and #WOWS) Tallies Updated For October 31, 2015

SEAN M. HAFFEY/GETTY IMAGES

SEAN M. HAFFEY/GETTY IMAGES

Trick for the Mets! Treat for the Royals! It is Halloween Baseball!

We have ourselves a World Series.

And now the Sully Metrics of October get a little more complicated.

I will continue to figure out Who Owns October.Time to figure out who owns October!

Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)

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

But the World Series deserves its own stats. WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.)

At the end of the post season, we will see who had the highest WOO total as a pitcher and a hitter. The WOWS total will be kept separately. Each game now counts towards both tallies.

A complete description of the rules can be found HERE.

From October 31st, World Series Game 4:

Receiving 1 WOO’s and WOWS

Wade Davis continued his post season dominance with 2 shutout innings (plus an at bat) to shut down the Mets and earn the save in Kansas City’s 5-3 win.

Salvador Perez went 3 for 4 with a double, scored in the 5th and drove in a critical insurance run in the 8th to lead Kansas City to a stunning 5-3 win over the Mets.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s and WOWS

Michael Conforto launched a pair of homers that put the Mets ahead. But the bullpen and defense would conspire against him as the Mets lost to the Royals, 5-3.

Current‘WOWS’ and ‘WOO’ Totals MLB 2015:

Hitters ‘WOWS’ MLB 2015,

Salvador Perez – Royals 1 1/2, Alcides Escobar – Royals 1, David Wright – Mets 1, Ben Zobrist – Royals 1, Michael Conforto – Mets 1/2, Lucas Duda – Mets 1/2, Daniel Murphy – Mets 1/2,

Pitchers ‘WOWS’ MLB 2015,

Johnny Cueto – Royals 1, Wade Davis – Royals 1, Noah Syndergaard – Mets 1,  Chris Young – Royals 1, Jonathon Niese – Mets 1/2,

Hitters ‘WOO’ MLB 2015,

Troy Tulowitzki – Blue Jays 3 1/2, Daniel Murphy – Mets 3, Salvador Perez – Royals 3, Jorge Soler – Cubs 3, Alcides Escobar – Royals 2 1/2,  Jorge Soler – Cubs 2 1/2, , Justin Turner – Dodgers 2 1/2, Jose Bautista – Blue Jays 2, Delino DeShields – Rangers 2, Mike Moustakas – Royals 2, David Wright – Mets 2, Lorenzo Cain – Royals 1 1/2, Yoenis Cespedes – Mets 1 1/2, Lucas Duda – Mets 1 1/2, Dexter Fowler – Cubs 1 1/2, Stephen Piscotty – Cardinals 1 1/2, Colby Rasmus – Astros 1 1/2, Kyle Schwarber – Cubs 1 1/2, Jose Altuve – Astros 1, Chris Carter – Astros 1, Travis d’Arnaud – Mets , Curtis Granderson – Mets 1, Eric Hosmer – Royals 1, Rougned Odor – Rangers 1,  Kevin Pillar – Blue Jays 1, Ben Revere – Blue Jays 1, Alex Rios – Royals 1, Ben Zobrist – Royals 1, Starlin Castro – Cubs 1/2, Francisco Cervelli – Pirates 1/2, Michael Conforto – Mets 1/2, Carlos Correa – Astros 1/2, Josh Donaldson – Blue Jays 1/2, Edwin Encarnacion – Blue Jays 1/2, Adrian Gonzalez – Dodgers 1/2, Didi Gregorius – Yankees 1/2, Jason Heyward – Cardinals 1/2, Howie Kendrick – Dodgers 1/2, Kendrys Morales – Royals 1/2, Luis Valbuena – Astros 1/2, Kolten Wong – Cardinals 1/2,

Pitchers ‘WOO’ MLB 2015,

Wade Davis – Royals 4,  Jacob deGrom – Mets 3, Noah Syndergaard – Mets 2 1/2, Marcus Stroman – Blue Jays 2 1/2, Chris Young – Royals 2 1/2, Jake Arrieta – Cubs 2,  Johnny Cueto – Royals 2, Marco Estrada – Blue Jays 2, Matt Harvey – Mets 2, Dallas Keuchel – Astros 2, Zack Greinke – Dodgers 1 1/2, Cole Hamels – Rangers 1 1/2, Clayton Kershaw – Dodgers 1 1/2,  R. A. Dickey – Blue Jays 1, Jake Diekman – Rangers 1,  Kelvin Herrera – Royals 1, John Lackey – Cardinals 1, Jon Lester – Cubs 1, Steven Matz – Mets 1, Collin McHugh – Astros 1, Hector Rondon – Cubs 1, Edinson Vólquez – Royals 1, Travis Wood – Cubs 1, Bartolo Colon – Mets 1/2, Liam Hendriks 1/2Lance McCullers – Astros 1/2, Jonathon Niese – Mets 1/2, David Price– Blue Jays 1/2,

Who Owns October and Who Owns the 2015 World Series (#WOO and #WOWS) Tallies Updated For October 30, 2015

Doug Mills/The New York Times

Doug Mills/The New York Times

My my my!

We have ourselves a World Series.

And now the Sully Metrics of October get a little more complicated.

I will continue to figure out Who Owns October.Time to figure out who owns October!

Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)

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

But the World Series deserves its own stats. WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.)

At the end of the post season, we will see who had the highest WOO total as a pitcher and a hitter. The WOWS total will be kept separately. Each game now counts towards both tallies.

A complete description of the rules can be found HERE.

From October 30th, World Series Game 3:

Receiving 1 WOO’s and WOWS

Noah Syndergaard did not have his ace stuff but pitched well enough over 6 innings with 6 strikeouts to earn the 9-3 decision for the Mets over the Royals.

David Wright hit a 2 run homer and a 2 run single to lead the Mets to a critical 9-3 victory over the Royals.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s and WOWS

Salvador Perez reached base twice and scored a run in the Royals 9-3 loss to the Mets.

Current‘WOWS’ and ‘WOO’ Totals MLB 2015:

Hitters ‘WOWS’ MLB 2015,

Alcides Escobar – Royals 1, David Wright – Mets 1, Ben Zobrist – Royals 1, Lucas Duda – Mets 1/2, Daniel Murphy – Mets 1/2, Salvador Perez – Royals 1/2,

Pitchers ‘WOWS’ MLB 2015,

Johnny Cueto – Royals 1, Noah Syndergaard – Mets 1,  Chris Young – Royals 1, Jonathon Niese – Mets 1/2,

Hitters ‘WOO’ MLB 2015,

Troy Tulowitzki – Blue Jays 3 1/2, Daniel Murphy – Mets 3, Jorge Soler – Cubs 3, Alcides Escobar – Royals 2 1/2,  Jorge Soler – Cubs 2 1/2, , Justin Turner – Dodgers 2 1/2, Jose Bautista – Blue Jays 2, Delino DeShields – Rangers 2, Mike Moustakas – Royals 2, Salvador Perez – Royals 2, David Wright – Mets 2, Lorenzo Cain – Royals 1 1/2, Yoenis Cespedes – Mets 1 1/2, Lucas Duda – Mets 1 1/2, Dexter Fowler – Cubs 1 1/2, Stephen Piscotty – Cardinals 1 1/2, Colby Rasmus – Astros 1 1/2, Kyle Schwarber – Cubs 1 1/2, Jose Altuve – Astros 1, Chris Carter – Astros 1, Travis d’Arnaud – Mets , Curtis Granderson – Mets 1, Eric Hosmer – Royals 1, Rougned Odor – Rangers 1,  Kevin Pillar – Blue Jays 1, Ben Revere – Blue Jays 1, Alex Rios – Royals 1, Ben Zobrist – Royals 1, Starlin Castro – Cubs 1/2, Francisco Cervelli – Pirates 1/2, Carlos Correa – Astros 1/2, Josh Donaldson – Blue Jays 1/2, Edwin Encarnacion – Blue Jays 1/2, Adrian Gonzalez – Dodgers 1/2, Didi Gregorius – Yankees 1/2, Jason Heyward – Cardinals 1/2, Howie Kendrick – Dodgers 1/2, Kendrys Morales – Royals 1/2, Luis Valbuena – Astros 1/2, Kolten Wong – Cardinals 1/2,

Pitchers ‘WOO’ MLB 2015,

Wade Davis – Royals 3,  Jacob deGrom – Mets 3, Noah Syndergaard – Mets 2 1/2, Marcus Stroman – Blue Jays 2 1/2, Chris Young – Royals 2 1/2, Jake Arrieta – Cubs 2,  Johnny Cueto – Royals 2, Marco Estrada – Blue Jays 2, Matt Harvey – Mets 2, Dallas Keuchel – Astros 2, Zack Greinke – Dodgers 1 1/2, Cole Hamels – Rangers 1 1/2, Clayton Kershaw – Dodgers 1 1/2,  R. A. Dickey – Blue Jays 1, Jake Diekman – Rangers 1,  Kelvin Herrera – Royals 1, John Lackey – Cardinals 1, Jon Lester – Cubs 1, Steven Matz – Mets 1, Collin McHugh – Astros 1, Hector Rondon – Cubs 1, Edinson Vólquez – Royals 1, Travis Wood – Cubs 1, Bartolo Colon – Mets 1/2, Liam Hendriks 1/2Lance McCullers – Astros 1/2, Jonathon Niese – Mets 1/2, David Price– Blue Jays 1/2,

Who Owns October and Who Owns the 2015 World Series (#WOO and #WOWS) Tallies Updated For October 28, 2015

AP Photo/David J. Phillip

AP Photo/David J. Phillip

The Royals are in control! And now the Sully Metrics of October get a little more complicated.

I will continue to figure out Who Owns October.Time to figure out who owns October!

Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)

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

But the World Series deserves its own stats. WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.)

At the end of the post season, we will see who had the highest WOO total as a pitcher and a hitter. The WOWS total will be kept separately. Each game now counts towards both tallies.

A complete description of the rules can be found HERE.

From October 28th, World Series Game 2:

Receiving 1 WOO’s and WOWS

Johnny Cueto pitched the first AL complete game victory in the World Series since 1991, allowing 2 hits and 1 run and giving a weary bullpen the night off as the Royals cruised to a 7-1 victory over the Mets.

Alcides Escobar tied the game with an RBI single and broke it open with a 2 run triple to lead Kansas City to a 7-1 thumping of the Mets.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s and WOWS

Lucas Duda was the Mets offense, collecting their only 2 hits and driving in their only run as they got crushed by the Royals, 7-1.

Current‘WOWS’ and ‘WOO’ Totals MLB 2015:

Hitters ‘WOWS’ MLB 2015,

Alcides Escobar – Royals 1, Ben Zobrist – Royals 1, Lucas Duda – Mets 1, Daniel Murphy – Mets 1/2,

Pitchers ‘WOWS’ MLB 2015,

Johnny Cueto – Royals 1,  Chris Young – Royals 1, Jonathon Niese – Mets 1/2,

Hitters ‘WOO’ MLB 2015,

Troy Tulowitzki – Blue Jays 3 1/2, Daniel Murphy – Mets 3, Jorge Soler – Cubs 3, Alcides Escobar – Royals 2 1/2, , Jorge Soler – Cubs 2 1/2, , Justin Turner – Dodgers 2 1/2, Delino DeShields – Rangers 2, Mike Moustakas – Royals 2, Jose Bautista – Blue Jays 2, Lorenzo Cain – Royals 1 1/2, Yoenis Cespedes – Mets 1 1/2, Lucas Duda – Mets 1 1/2, Dexter Fowler – Cubs 1 1/2, Salvador Perez – Royals 1 1/2, Stephen Piscotty – Cardinals 1 1/2, Colby Rasmus – Astros 1 1/2, Kyle Schwarber – Cubs 1 1/2, Jose Altuve – Astros 1, Chris Carter – Astros 1, Travis d’Arnaud – Mets , Curtis Granderson – Mets 1, Eric Hosmer – Royals 1, Rougned Odor – Rangers 1,  Kevin Pillar – Blue Jays 1, Ben Revere – Blue Jays 1, Alex Rios – Royals 1, David Wright – Mets 1, Ben Zobrist – Royals 1, Starlin Castro – Cubs 1/2, Francisco Cervelli – Pirates 1/2, Carlos Correa – Astros 1/2, Josh Donaldson – Blue Jays 1/2, Edwin Encarnacion – Blue Jays 1/2, Adrian Gonzalez – Dodgers 1/2, Didi Gregorius – Yankees 1/2, Jason Heyward – Cardinals 1/2, Howie Kendrick – Dodgers 1/2, Kendrys Morales – Royals 1/2, Luis Valbuena – Astros 1/2, Kolten Wong – Cardinals 1/2,

Pitchers ‘WOO’ MLB 2015,

Wade Davis – Royals 3,  Jacob deGrom – Mets 3, Marcus Stroman – Blue Jays 2 1/2, Chris Young – Royals 2 1/2, Jake Arrieta – Cubs 2,  Johnny Cueto – Royals 2, Marco Estrada – Blue Jays 2, Matt Harvey – Mets 2, Dallas Keuchel – Astros 2, Zack Greinke – Dodgers 1 1/2, Cole Hamels – Rangers 1 1/2, Clayton Kershaw – Dodgers 1 1/2,  Noah Syndergaard – Mets 1 1/2, R. A. Dickey – Blue Jays 1, Jake Diekman – Rangers 1,  Kelvin Herrera – Royals 1, John Lackey – Cardinals 1, Jon Lester – Cubs 1, Steven Matz – Mets 1, Collin McHugh – Astros 1, Hector Rondon – Cubs 1, Edinson Vólquez – Royals 1, Travis Wood – Cubs 1, Bartolo Colon – Mets 1/2, Liam Hendriks 1/2Lance McCullers – Astros 1/2, Jonathon Niese – Mets 1/2, David Price– Blue Jays 1/2,

Who Owns October and Who Owns the 2015 World Series (#WOO and #WOWS) Tallies Updated For October 27, 2015

Shane Keyser - Kansas City Star skeyser@kcstar.com

Shane Keyser – Kansas City Star skeyser@kcstar.com

The World Series has begun! And now the Sully Metrics of October get a little more complicated.

I will continue to figure out Who Owns October.Time to figure out who owns October!

Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)

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

But the World Series deserves its own stats. WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.)

At the end of the post season, we will see who had the highest WOO total as a pitcher and a hitter. The WOWS total will be kept separately. Each game now counts towards both tallies.

A complete description of the rules can be found HERE.

From October 27th, World Series Game 1:

Receiving 1 WOO’s and WOWS

Chris Young came out of the bullpen to throw three no hit shutout innings, walking 1 and striking out 4 Mets, earning the 14 inning 5-4 Kansas City victory in relief.

Ben Zobrist reached base 4 times, including a pair of doubles, a run scored and a 14th inning hit that put the winning run at third with nobody out. The run would come into score eventually and the Royals took game 1, 5-4 over the Mets.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s and WOWS

Daniel Murphy saw his home run streak end but he got 2 more hits and scored a run in the Mets 5-4 loss to Kansas City.

Jonathon Niese threw a pair of dynamic innings out of the bullpen, striking out 3 Royals and allowing just 1 hit and no runs. The Mets would lose 5-4 in 14 innings.

Current ‘WOO’ Totals MLB 2015:

Hitters ‘WOWS’ MLB 2015,

Ben Zobrist – Royals 1, Daniel Murphy – Mets 1/2,

Pitchers ‘WOO’ MLB 2015,

Chris Young – Royals 1, Jonathon Niese – Mets 1/2,

Hitters ‘WOO’ MLB 2015,

Troy Tulowitzki – Blue Jays 3 1/2, Daniel Murphy – Mets 3, Jorge Soler – Cubs 3, Jorge Soler – Cubs 2 1/2, , Justin Turner – Dodgers 2 1/2, Delino DeShields – Rangers 2, Mike Moustakas – Royals 2, Jose Bautista – Blue Jays 2, Lorenzo Cain – Royals 1 1/2, Yoenis Cespedes – Mets 1 1/2, , Alcides Escobar – Royals 1 1/2, Dexter Fowler – Cubs 1 1/2, Salvador Perez – Royals 1 1/2, Stephen Piscotty – Cardinals 1 1/2, Colby Rasmus – Astros 1 1/2, Kyle Schwarber – Cubs 1 1/2, Jose Altuve – Astros 1, Chris Carter – Astros 1, Travis d’Arnaud – Mets , Lucas Duda – Mets 1, Curtis Granderson – Mets 1, Eric Hosmer – Royals 1, Rougned Odor – Rangers 1,  Kevin Pillar – Blue Jays 1, Ben Revere – Blue Jays 1, Alex Rios – Royals 1, David Wright – Mets 1, Ben Zobrist – Royals 1, Starlin Castro – Cubs 1/2, Francisco Cervelli – Pirates 1/2, Carlos Correa – Astros 1/2, Josh Donaldson – Blue Jays 1/2, Edwin Encarnacion – Blue Jays 1/2, Adrian Gonzalez – Dodgers 1/2, Didi Gregorius – Yankees 1/2, Jason Heyward – Cardinals 1/2, Howie Kendrick – Dodgers 1/2, Kendrys Morales – Royals 1/2, Luis Valbuena – Astros 1/2, Kolten Wong – Cardinals 1/2,

Pitchers ‘WOO’ MLB 2015,

Wade Davis – Royals 3,  Jacob deGrom – Mets 3, Marcus Stroman – Blue Jays 2 1/2, Chris Young – Royals 2 1/2, Jake Arrieta – Cubs 2, Marco Estrada – Blue Jays 2, Matt Harvey – Mets 2, Dallas Keuchel – Astros 2, Zack Greinke – Dodgers 1 1/2, Cole Hamels – Rangers 1 1/2, Clayton Kershaw – Dodgers 1 1/2,  Noah Syndergaard – Mets 1 1/2,  Johnny Cueto – Royals 1, R. A. Dickey – Blue Jays 1, Jake Diekman – Rangers 1,  Kelvin Herrera – Royals 1, John Lackey – Cardinals 1, Jon Lester – Cubs 1, Steven Matz – Mets 1, Collin McHugh – Astros 1, Hector Rondon – Cubs 1, Edinson Vólquez – Royals 1, Travis Wood – Cubs 1, Bartolo Colon – Mets 1/2, Liam Hendriks 1/2Lance McCullers – Astros 1/2, Jonathon Niese – Mets 1/2, David Price– Blue Jays 1/2,

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – October 24, 2015

THIRDANNIVERSARYPICPortraitForInvite

THE THIRD ANNIVERSARY SHOW!

Every single day for three years I have done this show, and I don’t see myself stopping any time soon.

Meanwhile I breakdown Game 6 of the ALCS and anticipate the Royals/Mets World Series.

Three straight years… no time to slow down. It is the new episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast!

Mike Moustakas, Wade Davis, David Price and Jose Bautista all owned October yesterday.

 

Read the rest of this entry

Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2015? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For October 23, 2015

LG Patterson - MLB Photos

LG Patterson – MLB Photos

The World Series match up is set. The Royals and the Mets will face off.

Time to figure out who owns October!

Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)

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

At the end of the post season, we will see who had the highest WOO total as a pitcher and a hitter.

A complete description of the rules can be found HERE.

From October 23rd, ALCS Game 6:

Receiving 1 WOO’s

Wade Davis threw the final 1 2/3 innings, striking out 3 Blue Jays, earning the decision and closed out the ALCS with a 4-3 Royals clincher.

Mike Moustakas homered and singled, scoring a pair and made some sparkling defensive plays to lead the Royals past the Blue Jays, 4-3.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s

Jose Bautista homered twice including a dramatic game tying shot in the 8th inning. It would not be enough as the Royals came back to beat Toronto, 4-3 and advance to the World Series.

David Price gave the Blue Jays a quality start, pitching into the 7th, striking out 8 and walking 1. He did not get a decision as Toronto was eliminated by the Royals, 4-3.

Current ‘WOO’ Totals MLB 2015:

Hitters ‘WOO’ MLB 2015,

Troy Tulowitzki – Blue Jays 3 1/2, Jorge Soler – Cubs 3, Daniel Murphy – Mets 2 1/2, Jorge Soler – Cubs 2 1/2, , Justin Turner – Dodgers 2 1/2, Delino DeShields – Rangers 2, Mike Moustakas – Royals 2, Jose Bautista – Blue Jays 2, Lorenzo Cain – Royals 1 1/2, Yoenis Cespedes – Mets 1 1/2, , Alcides Escobar – Royals 1 1/2, Dexter Fowler – Cubs 1 1/2, Salvador Perez – Royals 1 1/2, Stephen Piscotty – Cardinals 1 1/2, Colby Rasmus – Astros 1 1/2, Kyle Schwarber – Cubs 1 1/2, Jose Altuve – Astros 1, Chris Carter – Astros 1, Travis d’Arnaud – Mets , Lucas Duda – Mets 1, Curtis Granderson – Mets 1, Eric Hosmer – Royals 1, Rougned Odor – Rangers 1,  Kevin Pillar – Blue Jays 1, Ben Revere – Blue Jays 1, Alex Rios – Royals 1, David Wright – Mets 1, Starlin Castro – Cubs 1/2, Francisco Cervelli – Pirates 1/2, Carlos Correa – Astros 1/2, Josh Donaldson – Blue Jays 1/2, Edwin Encarnacion – Blue Jays 1/2, Adrian Gonzalez – Dodgers 1/2, Didi Gregorius – Yankees 1/2, Jason Heyward – Cardinals 1/2, Howie Kendrick – Dodgers 1/2, Kendrys Morales – Royals 1/2, Luis Valbuena – Astros 1/2, Kolten Wong – Cardinals 1/2,

Pitchers ‘WOO’ MLB 2015,

Wade Davis – Royals 2,  Jacob deGrom – Mets 3, Marcus Stroman – Blue Jays 2 1/2, Jake Arrieta – Cubs 2, Marco Estrada – Blue Jays 2, Matt Harvey – Mets 2, Dallas Keuchel – Astros 2, Zack Greinke – Dodgers 1 1/2, Cole Hamels – Rangers 1 1/2, Clayton Kershaw – Dodgers 1 1/2,  Noah Syndergaard – Mets 1 1/2, Chris Young – Royals 1 1/2,, Johnny Cueto – Royals 1, R. A. Dickey – Blue Jays 1, Jake Diekman – Rangers 1,  Kelvin Herrera – Royals 1, John Lackey – Cardinals 1, Jon Lester – Cubs 1, Steven Matz – Mets 1, Collin McHugh – Astros 1, Hector Rondon – Cubs 1, Edinson Vólquez – Royals 1, Travis Wood – Cubs 1, Bartolo Colon – Mets 1/2, Liam Hendriks 1/2Lance McCullers – Astros 1/2, David Price– Blue Jays 1/2,

Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2015? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For October 21, 2015

RON VESELY/MLB PHOTOS

RON VESELY/MLB PHOTOS

One LCS is done and the other will see another day.

Time to figure out who owns October!

Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)

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

At the end of the post season, we will see who had the highest WOO total as a pitcher and a hitter.

A complete description of the rules can be found HERE.

From October 21st.

ALCS Game 5 and NLCS Game 4:

Receiving 1 WOO’s

Lucas Duda homered and doubled twice, driving in 5 and putting the Cubs on their heels from the start and set up the Mets 8-3 pennant clincher against the Cubs.

Marco Estrada kept the Royals off the board until the 8th, finishing with 7 2/3 innings, 3 hits, 1 run and 1 walk and kept the Blue Jays alive with a 7-1 victory over Kansas City.

Steven Matz kept the Cubs off the board early while the Mets put together a big lead. He did not get the decision but he set up the Mets 8-3 win.

Troy Tulowitzki went 2 for 4 with a bases clearing double that propelled the Blue Jays past the Royals, 7-1.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s

Salvador Perez homered to provide one of the few Royals highlights in their 7-1 loss to Toronto.

Jorge Soler singled and doubled twice, scoring 2 runs. But it was not enough as the Cubs lost 8-3 to the Mets.

Current ‘WOO’ Totals MLB 2015:

Hitters ‘WOO’ MLB 2015,

Troy Tulowitzki – Blue Jays 3 1/2, Jorge Soler – Cubs 3, Daniel Murphy – Mets 2 1/2, Jorge Soler – Cubs 2 1/2, , Justin Turner – Dodgers 2 1/2, Delino DeShields – Rangers 2, Lorenzo Cain – Royals 1 1/2, Yoenis Cespedes – Mets 1 1/2, , Alcides Escobar – Royals 1 1/2, Dexter Fowler – Cubs 1 1/2, Salvador Perez – Royals 1 1/2, Stephen Piscotty – Cardinals 1 1/2, Colby Rasmus – Astros 1 1/2, Kyle Schwarber – Cubs 1 1/2, Jose Altuve – Astros 1, Jose Bautista – Blue Jays 1, Chris Carter – Astros 1, Travis d’Arnaud – Mets , Lucas Duda – Mets 1, Curtis Granderson – Mets 1, Eric Hosmer – Royals 1, Mike Moustakas – Royals 1, Rougned Odor – Rangers 1,  Kevin Pillar – Blue Jays 1, Ben Revere – Blue Jays 1, Alex Rios – Royals 1, David Wright – Mets 1, Starlin Castro – Cubs 1/2, Francisco Cervelli – Pirates 1/2, Carlos Correa – Astros 1/2, Josh Donaldson – Blue Jays 1/2, Edwin Encarnacion – Blue Jays 1/2, Adrian Gonzalez – Dodgers 1/2, Didi Gregorius – Yankees 1/2, Jason Heyward – Cardinals 1/2, Howie Kendrick – Dodgers 1/2, Kendrys Morales – Royals 1/2, Luis Valbuena – Astros 1/2, Kolten Wong – Cardinals 1/2,

Pitchers ‘WOO’ MLB 2015,

Jacob deGrom – Mets 3, Marcus Stroman – Blue Jays 2 1/2, Jake Arrieta – Cubs 2, Wade Davis – Royals 2, Marco Estrada – Blue Jays 2, Matt Harvey – Mets 2, Dallas Keuchel – Astros 2, Zack Greinke – Dodgers 1 1/2, Cole Hamels – Rangers 1 1/2, Clayton Kershaw – Dodgers 1 1/2,  Noah Syndergaard – Mets 1 1/2, Chris Young – Royals 1 1/2,, Johnny Cueto – Royals 1, R. A. Dickey – Blue Jays 1, Jake Diekman – Rangers 1,  Kelvin Herrera – Royals 1, John Lackey – Cardinals 1, Jon Lester – Cubs 1, Steven Matz – Mets 1, Collin McHugh – Astros 1, Hector Rondon – Cubs 1, Edinson Vólquez – Royals 1, Travis Wood – Cubs 1, Bartolo Colon – Mets 1/2, Liam Hendriks 1/2Lance McCullers – Astros 1/2,

Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2015? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For October 20, 2015

RON VESELY/MLB PHOTOS

RON VESELY/MLB PHOTOS

The Mets and Royals are on the verge of winning their pennants.

Time to figure out who owns October!

Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)

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

At the end of the post season, we will see who had the highest WOO total as a pitcher and a hitter.

A complete description of the rules can be found HERE.

From October 20th. ALCS Game 4 and NLCS Game 3:

Receiving 1 WOO’s

Lorenzo Cain reached base 4 times, stealing a base, scoring a run and drove in 3 as the Royals clobbered the Blue Jays, 14-2.

Yoenis Cespedes collected 3 hits, including a double, stole a key base and scored the go ahead run on a wild pitch and drove in 2 other runs to lead the Mets past the Cubs, 5-2.

Jacob deGrom -threw 7 strong innings, striking out 7 and allowing 2 hits to earn the 5-2 decision for the Mets over the Cubs.

Chris Young allowed just 3 hits and 2 runs to the mighty Blue Jays. He didn’t pitch enough to get the decision but helped set up the Royals 14-2 blowout victory.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s

Liam Hendriks did his best to keep Toronto in the game with 4 1/3 shutout innings, 1 hit and no walks. But the damage had been done and the Royals won, 14-2.

Ben Revere reached base 3 times and scored in the Blue Jays humiliating 14-2 loss to Kansas City.

Jorge Soler crushed a game tying homer in the 4th but the Cubs would eventually fall to the Mets, 5-2.

Current ‘WOO’ Totals MLB 2015:

Hitters ‘WOO’ MLB 2015,

Daniel Murphy – Mets 2 1/2, Jorge Soler – Cubs 2 1/2, Troy Tulowitzki – Blue Jays 2 1/2, , Justin Turner – Dodgers 2 1/2, Delino DeShields – Rangers 2, Lorenzo Cain – Royals 1 1/2, Yoenis Cespedes – Mets 1 1/2, , Alcides Escobar – Royals 1 1/2, Dexter Fowler – Cubs 1 1/2, Stephen Piscotty – Cardinals 1 1/2, Colby Rasmus – Astros 1 1/2, Kyle Schwarber – Cubs 1 1/2, Jose Altuve – Astros 1, Jose Bautista – Blue Jays 1, Chris Carter – Astros 1, Travis d’Arnaud – Mets 1, Curtis Granderson – Mets 1, Eric Hosmer – Royals 1, Mike Moustakas – Royals 1, Rougned Odor – Rangers 1, Salvador Perez – Royals 1, Kevin Pillar – Blue Jays 1, Ben Revere – Blue Jays 1, Alex Rios – Royals 1, David Wright – Mets 1, Starlin Castro – Cubs 1/2, Francisco Cervelli – Pirates 1/2, Carlos Correa – Astros 1/2, Josh Donaldson – Blue Jays 1/2, Edwin Encarnacion – Blue Jays 1/2, Adrian Gonzalez – Dodgers 1/2, Didi Gregorius – Yankees 1/2, Jason Heyward – Cardinals 1/2, Howie Kendrick – Dodgers 1/2, Kendrys Morales – Royals 1/2, Luis Valbuena – Astros 1/2, Kolten Wong – Cardinals 1/2,

Pitchers ‘WOO’ MLB 2015,

Jacob deGrom – Mets 3, Marcus Stroman – Blue Jays 2 1/2, Jake Arrieta – Cubs 2, Wade Davis – Royals 2, Matt Harvey – Mets 2, Dallas Keuchel – Astros 2, Zack Greinke – Dodgers 1 1/2, Cole Hamels – Rangers 1 1/2, Clayton Kershaw – Dodgers 1 1/2,  Noah Syndergaard – Mets 1 1/2, Chris Young – Royals 1 1/2,, Johnny Cueto – Royals 1, R. A. Dickey – Blue Jays 1, Jake Diekman – Rangers 1, Marco Estrada – Blue Jays 1,  Kelvin Herrera – Royals 1, John Lackey – Cardinals 1, Jon Lester – Cubs 1, Collin McHugh – Astros 1, Hector Rondon – Cubs 1, Edinson Vólquez – Royals 1, Travis Wood – Cubs 1, Bartolo Colon – Mets 1/2, Liam Hendriks 1/2Lance McCullers – Astros 1/2,

Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2015? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For October 19, 2015

HARRY HOW/GETTY IMAGES

HARRY HOW/GETTY IMAGES

Thankfully the Blue Jays have decided to show up for the ALCS. No sweep this year.

Time to figure out who owns October!

Each winning team for every post season game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns October.)

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

At the end of the post season, we will see who had the highest WOO total as a pitcher and a hitter.

A complete description of the rules can be found HERE.

From October 19th. ALCS Game 3:

Receiving 1 WOO’s

Marcus Stroman did not have his best stuff but battled into the 7th inning, allowing 4 runs and 1 walk and earning a much needed 11-8 win over the Royals in Toronto.

Troy Tulowitzki got a pair of hits including a game busting 3 run homer that helped the Blue Jays top the Royals 11-8.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s

Alcides Escobar led off the game with a triple and would score. He would finish with 4 hits and 3 runs scored but the Royals would fall short to Toronto, 11-8.

Current ‘WOO’ Totals MLB 2015:

Hitters ‘WOO’ MLB 2015,

Daniel Murphy – Mets 2 1/2, Troy Tulowitzki – Blue Jays 2 1/2, , Justin Turner – Dodgers 2 1/2, Delino DeShields – Rangers 2, Jorge Soler – Cubs 2, Alcides Escobar – Royals 1 1/2, Dexter Fowler – Cubs 1 1/2, Stephen Piscotty – Cardinals 1 1/2, Colby Rasmus – Astros 1 1/2, Kyle Schwarber – Cubs 1 1/2, Jose Altuve – Astros 1, Jose Bautista – Blue Jays 1, Chris Carter – Astros 1, Travis d’Arnaud – Mets 1, Curtis Granderson – Mets 1, Eric Hosmer – Royals 1, Mike Moustakas – Royals 1, Rougned Odor – Rangers 1, Salvador Perez – Royals 1, Kevin Pillar – Blue Jays 1, Alex Rios – Royals 1, David Wright – Mets 1, Lorenzo Cain – Royals 1/2, Starlin Castro – Cubs 1/2, Francisco Cervelli – Pirates 1/2, Yoenis Cespedes – Mets 1/2, Carlos Correa – Astros 1/2, Josh Donaldson – Blue Jays 1/2, Edwin Encarnacion – Blue Jays 1/2, Adrian Gonzalez – Dodgers 1/2, Didi Gregorius – Yankees 1/2, Jason Heyward – Cardinals 1/2, Howie Kendrick – Dodgers 1/2, Kendrys Morales – Royals 1/2, Ben Revere – Blue Jays 1/2, Luis Valbuena – Astros 1/2, Kolten Wong – Cardinals 1/2,

Pitchers ‘WOO’ MLB 2015,

Marcus Stroman – Blue Jays 2 1/2, Jake Arrieta – Cubs 2, Wade Davis – Royals 2, Jacob deGrom – Mets 2, Matt Harvey – Mets 2, Dallas Keuchel – Astros 2, Zack Greinke – Dodgers 1 1/2, Cole Hamels – Rangers 1 1/2, Clayton Kershaw – Dodgers 1 1/2,  Noah Syndergaard – Mets 1 1/2, Johnny Cueto – Royals 1, R. A. Dickey – Blue Jays 1, Jake Diekman – Rangers 1, Marco Estrada – Blue Jays 1,  Kelvin Herrera – Royals 1, John Lackey – Cardinals 1, Jon Lester – Cubs 1, Collin McHugh – Astros 1, Hector Rondon – Cubs 1, Edinson Vólquez – Royals 1, Travis Wood – Cubs 1, Bartolo Colon – Mets 1/2Lance McCullers – Astros 1/2,  Chris Young – Royals 1/2,

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