Blog Archives

Who Owns October (#WOO) Tallies Updated For October 13, 2018

TURRRRNER

Rob Carr – Getty Images

So I guess the Brewers CAN a lose a game! That isn’t much solace for the Cubs who could have used one more Milwaukee loss for a Division Title!

Justin Turner has a thing for Game 2 of the NLCS. But his blast has made sure we have a competitive series now.

Meanwhile, the beat goes on for the Astros who took advantage of wild Boston pitching to strike the first blow of the ALCS.

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 13

NLCS Game 2

ALCS Game 1:

Receiving 1 WOO

Alex Bregman reached base 4 times, scored twice and made several terrific defensive plays to shut down the Red Sox attack and push the Astros to a 7-2 victory.

Kenley Jansen slammed the door on the Brewers with a scoreless ninth, retiring Yelich with 2 outs and the tying run on, earning the save for the Dodgers 4-3 victory.

Justin Turner got a pair of hits including a dramatic come from behind 2 run homer to lead the Dodgers past Milwaukee, 4-3.

Justin Verlander had one bad inning but dominated the Red Sox for the other 5, allowing 2 hits and 2 runs and striking out 6 to earn the 7-2 decision for Houston.

Receiving 1/2 WOO

Orlando Arcia broke a scoreless tie with a homer. The Brewers fell just short to the Dodgers, 4-3.

Matt Barnes kept the Red Sox in the game with 1 1/3 hitless shutout innings, but the Astros piled on late to win, 7-2.

Steve Pearce got one of the Red Sox three hits and scored one of their two runs in Houston’s 7-2 victory.

Wade Miley threw 5 2/3 shutout innings, walking none and striking out 3 Dodgers. He even got a pair of hits and scored a run. But Milwaukee’s bullpen had a rare off day and blew the game, 4-3.

 Current WOO Totals MLB 2018

Hitters ‘WOO’ MLB 2017,

Alex Bregman – Astros 2, Manny Machado – Dodgers 2 1/2, Ronald Acuña, Jr – Braves 1 1/2, Aaron Judge – Yankees 1 1/2, Francisco Lindor – Indians 1 1/2, Lorenzo Cain – Brewers 1, Marwin Gonzalez – Astros 1, Brock Holt – Red Sox 1, Erik Kratz – Brewers 1,  J. D. Martinez – Red Sox 1, Mike Moustakas Brewers – 1, Eduardo Nunez – Red Sox  1, Gary Sanchez – Yankees 1, George Springer – Astros 1, Justin Turner – Dodgers 1, Tony Wolters – Rockies 1, Christian Yelich – Brewers 1, Orlando Arcia – Brewers 1/2, Nolan Arenado Rockies – 1 /2, Javier Baez – Cubs 1/2, Charlie Blackmon – Rockies 1/2, Xander Bogaerts – Red Sox 1/2, Khris Davis – Athletics 1/2, Freddie Freeman – Braves 1/2, Didi Gregorius – Yankees 1/2, Steve Pearce – Red Sox 1/2, Trevor Story – Rockies 1/2, Kurt Suzuki  – Braves 1/2, Chris Taylor  – Dodgers 1/2,

Pitchers ‘WOO’ MLB 2017,

Justin Verlander – 2 Astros, Brandon Woodruff – Brewers 2, Pedro Baez – Dodgers 1, Dellin Betances – Yankees 1, Corbin Burnes – Brewers 1, Gerrit Cole – Astros 1, Nathan Eovaldi – Red Sox 1, Kyle Freeland – Rockies 1, Kenley Jansen – Dodgers 1, Jeremy Jeffress Brewers – 1, Clayton Kershaw – 1 Dodgers, Collin McHugh – Astros 1, Rick Porcello – Red Sox 1, Hyun-Jin Ryu – Dodgers 1, Chris Sale 1 – Red Sox, Masahiro Tanaka – Yankeees 1, Arodys Vizcaino – Braves 1,  Tyler Anderson – Rockies 1/2, Matt Barnes – Red Sox 1/2, Carlos Carrasco – Indians 1/2, Mike Clevinger – Indians 1/2, Chad Green – Yankees 1/2, Joe Kelly – Red Sox 1/2, Jon Lester – Cubs 1/2, Wade Miley – Brewers 1/2, Sean Newcomb – Braves 1/2, David Robertson – Yankees 1/2, Touki Toussaint – 1 /2 Braves, Lou Trivino – Athletics 1/2

Who Owned Baseball August 29, 2018 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2018 #WOB

VMART

Rich Schultz, AP

For an explanation of how WOB works, click here.

Victor Martinez homered twice, including a dramatic 2 run game tying shot in the 9th, as the Tigers stunned the Yankees, 8-7.

Wade LeBlanc threw 7 shutout innings, allowing 3 hits and striking out 4 Oakland batters to give the Mariners a much needed 7-1 victory.

Lorenzo Cain got on base 3 times, including a go ahead homer in the 11th to give the Brewers a 2-1 win in Cincinnati.

Wade Miley pitched into the 8th, allowing 1 run over 7 1/3 innings. He did not get the decision but helped set up the Brewers 2-1 extra inning triumph over the Reds.

 

They all owned baseball on August 30, 2018

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

Who Owned Baseball July 20, 2018 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2018 #WOB

Screen shot 2018-07-20 at 9.35.42 PM

AP Photo – Charles Rex Arbogast

For an explanation of how WOB works, click here.

Matt Carpenter homered 3 times and doubled twice, driving in 7 runs to lead the Cardinals in an 18-5 laugher against the Cubs.

Yandy Diaz got 4 hits, including a triple, scoring twice and driving in 2, as Cleveland won a wild 9-8 game in 11 innings over Texas.

Dan Straily allowed 1 run over 7 innings, striking out 3 Rays batters to earn the 6-5 victory for the Marlins.

Dallas Keuchel pitched a no hitter into the 8th, which was broken up on a questionable scoring decision, and finished with 7 2/3 innings, 2 hits and 1 run, striking out 5 Angels en route to a 3-1 decision for Houston.

They all owned baseball on July 20, 2018

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

Who Owned Baseball September 2, 2017 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2017 #WOB Standings

1xxxxxxxxx+41TWINS090217

AP Photo/Jim Mone

Eduardo Escobar got 3 hits, including 2 homers, driving in 6 to lead the Twins in a 17-0 thrashing of Kansas City.

Corey Kluber pitched 8 strong innings, allowing 1 run, striking out 7 while walking no Tigers en route to a 5-2 Cleveland final.

Marcell Ozuna hit a 2 run homer and a pair of RBI singles in the Marlins 10-9 win over the Phillies.

Jeff Samardzija struck out 9 Cardinals allowing 2 hits and 1 run over 7 innings. He didn’t get the decision but set up the 2-1 walk off victory for San Francisco.

They all owned baseball on September 2, 2017

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

Who Owned Baseball August 10, 2017 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2017 #WOB Standings

uspresswire-cardinals-dexter-fowler

USA Today Sports

Dexter Fowler got on base 3 times and hit a go ahead grand slam, driving in 5 runs altogether to help the Rally Cat inspired Cardinals past the Royals, 8-6.

Trey Mancini homered twice, added a double and kept the Orioles alive in the pennant race with a 7-2 victory in Oakland.

Jacob deGrom struck out 9 Phillies over 6 2/3 shutout innings as the Mets cruised to a 10-0 final.

Wade Miley threw 7 shutout innings allowing 3 hits as the Orioles topped Oakland, 7-2.

They all owned baseball on August 10, 2017

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

Who Owned Baseball May 21, 2017 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

Screen Shot 2017-05-21 at 7.27.24 PM

Alex Gallardo – AP Photo

 

Clayton Richard went the distance, allowing 5 hits and 1 run while striking out 6 Diamondbacks to earn the 5-1 Padres victory.

Kris Bryant went 3 for 3 with 2 homers and scored 4 times as the Cubs topped the surging Brewers, 13-6.

Marco Estrada struck out 11 Orioles in 7 2/3 innings, allowing a singe run and got the 3-1 decision for Toronto.

Mike Trout reached base 4 times, homered, stole a base, drove in 3 and scored 2 as the Angels mashed the Mets, 12-5.

They all owned baseball on May 21, 2017

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

Who Owned Baseball September 24, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

mileycapture

ROB CARR/GETTY IMAGES

Wade Miley was one out from throwing a complete game shutout. He settled for 8 2/3 innings, allowing 1 run and striking out 11 Diamondbacks, giving the Orioles a critical 6-1 victory.

Clayton Kershaw threw 7 innings of 3 hit shutout ball as the Dodgers clobbered the Rockies, 14-1 and put them on the brink of a division title.

Jose Bautista supplied all the offense with a 3 run homer that pushed Toronto past the Yankees, 3-0.

Josh Reddick reached base 4 times, including a back breaking grand slam, as the Dodgers crushed the Rockies 14-1.

They all owned baseball on September 24, 2016.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

Who Owned Baseball June 27, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

Screen shot 2016-06-27 at 8.38.34 PM

JOE ROBBINS/GETTY IMAGES

Kris Bryant went 5 for 5 with 3 homers, driving in 6 and scoring 4 to lead the Cubs in a wild 11-8 slugfest in Cincinnati.

Jon Gray struck out 8 Blue Jays over 7 innings, walking none and worked around a pair of homers to get the 9-5 victory for Colorado.

Nick Franklin singled, doubled and homered, driving in 5 runs as the Rays snapped their losing streak, 13-7 over Boston.

Danny Duffy pitched 8 innings, allowing 2 runs, walking none and struck out 8 Cardinals batters to earn the 6-2 decision for the Royals.

They all owned baseball on June 27, 2016.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

Who Owned Baseball June 26, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

Screen Shot 2016-06-26 at 7.27.00 PM

RICH SCHULTZ/GETTY IMAGES

Tyler Duffey did not allow a hit until the 6th and finished with 8 innings, 2 hits, 8 strikeouts and 1 run as the Twins clobbered the Yankees, 7-1.

Jose Fernandez struck out 13 Cubs and allowed just 4 hits and 1 run to earn the 6-1 decision for the red hot Marlins.

Lonnie Chisenhall collected 9 total bases with his 4 hits, including a homer and 3 RBI as the Indians continued to roll, 9-3, in Detroit.

Freddie Freeman reached base 4 times, including a homer and a pair of runs scored in the Braves 5-2 victory over the Mets.

They all owned baseball on June 26, 2016.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

Who Owned Baseball June 7, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

Screen shot 2016-06-07 at 11.10.13 PM

NORM HALL/GETTY IMAGES

Zack Greinke threw a complete game 3 hit shutout, walking 2 Tampa Bay batters and earning the 5-0 decision for Arizona.

Chris Carter homered twice, driving in 5 to help the Brewers top Oakland, 5-4.

Wade Miley threw 7 shutout innings, allowing 4 hits and got the 7-1 win for Seattle over Cleveland.

Nelson Cruz reached base 3 times, including a pair of homers, to lead the Mariners past Cleveland, 7-1.

They all owned baseball on June 7, 2016.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

Daily Fantasy MLB DFS Picks For DraftKings – 5/28/16

zack-greinke-arizona-diamondbacks-PI.vadapt.664.high.87

Trey Rose (Featured BBBA Fantasy Baseball Writer/Owner – dynastydigest.sportsblog.com) 

If you have any questions or comments about this article or fantasy baseball, please Tweet me. I post daily DFS lineups for Draft Kings everyday, so please make sure to follow my blog.

P – Zack Greinke (vs. San Diego Padres): The Padres’ offense has been one of the worst in Major League Baseball all year long.

Not only have they struggled this year, but they have struggled against Greinke every time he stepped on the mound. In 178 career at bats against Greinke, the Padres’ batters are batting a cool .191, with one home run, eight RBIs, 44 strikeouts, and a .237 OBP.

Greinke has struggled at some points in 2016, but he has been very good in his last two games, which were against the New York Yankees and St. Louis Cardinals.

Greinke has thrown one game against the Padres this year, in which he threw 7.1 innings, giving up six hits, two earned runs, one walk, and five strikeouts.

P – Wade Miley (vs. Minnesota Twins): $9,100. In Miley’s last six starts, he is 5-0 with a 3.12 ERA. So far this season, he hasn’t had a noticeable “easy” matchup, so it should be nice to face a struggling Twins’ offense.

The Minnesota Twins have by far the worst offensive stats against left-handed pitchers this season out of all Major League Baseball teams.

In 263 at bats against lefties, they are hitting a whopping .209 (last in MLB), 21 runs (last in MLB, and a .285 OBP. Well folks, we are in luck because Wade Miley does in fact throw with his left arm.

SEE THE REST OF THE PICKS

MLB Fantasy Daily (DFS) Picks For DraftKings – 5/17/16

zz draft kings

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

We are ramping up our coverage on DFS play at MLB Reports, and will include some strategy articles in the forthcoming days and weeks.  We come from a high level of handicapping backgrounds, and have been given the go ahead from the braintrust at MLB Reports to start sharing some of these with you.

Of course Chuck Booth and I spearheaded this movement back in a few years ago with just regular baseball futures.  We were not sure if we wanted to go ahead with the MLB DFS Fantasy at all, but were finally convinced for demand by a couple of our BBBA writers (Josh Robbins and Trey Rose).  The need is there and we are looking to deliver.

I have played DFS long enough to be the guy who writes the posts here.  The gambling philosophy championed by Booth in the 90’s is brilliant for any sources of tournaments or gambling period.  It weaves the Martingale Betting System (progressive betting with the double up theory) and it fosters it with several other techniques so you don’t bet against yourself.

One of the biggest blunders made by many gamblers is betting against themselves.  We are going to simplify the process, so if you win, you can really win – none of this barely break even nonsense.

Look for that in coming days.  Now here is what we are going to do for today’s MLB DFS Draft Kings style.

We Will Give You – Daily

5 team stacking options ( We are going to draw most of our players from these 5 squads).

3 Pitching candidates (High level, midlevel and budget).

Read the rest of this entry

MLB Power Rankings 2016: Week 7 – May

Screen shot 2013-10-28 at 8.08.26 PM

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

Follow The MLBreports On Twitter

MAY 15, 2016

Well not much has changed from this week as compared to last week.  Detroit carried its free fall to 4th in the AL Central, the Yankees took 5 of 7 contests – and 7/10 in their homestand to save their season for now.

Miami and Philadelphia continue to stick around in the NL East, and the Giants and Dodgers finally had winning weeks to make the NL West Division Leader respectable.

Nobody looks scarier right now than the Boston Red Sox offense, who led by David Ortiz, Jackie Bradley JR. and Xander Bogaerts, plated 10 runs or more in 5 of the last 6 games, after going their 1st 32 games without doing so.

I am still awaiting for a Jays big winning streak.  Houston has not played winning baseball since the 1st 6 weeks of the 2015 – and are tending to resemble the 2007 Tampa Bay Rays more than anything.

All offense and little pitching and defense.

There is nobody struggling worse than Logan Morrison, Russell Martin, Carlos Gomez and the consortium of LF’s in Anaheim! Recently bouncing out of this list are Jason Heyward and Chase Headley.

We are nearing the quarter pole and rapidly approaching Memorial Day Weekend, so it is not early anymore.
Read the rest of this entry

MLB Power Rankings 2016: Week 6 May

salleCapture

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

Follow The MLBreports On Twitter

MAY 8, 2016

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.

Rank – Team Record (Last week rank) (Up down) (W – L Record Last week)

(1) (1)  Chicago Cubs (E) (24 – 6) :  A real bad day for the Cubs is battling with a team like Washington on Sunday, to see whether or not they are going to sweep them or go 3 – 1 in a series.

Yep, they swept the 4 game set in a 13 inning walk off HR by Javier Baez – to cap a 7 – 0 week. They are on pace for about 129 wins right now.

Depth of the Starting Rotation is looking solid with Jake Arrieta, Jon Lester, John Lackey, Jason Hammel (Killer J’s) and Kyle Hendricks.

Hector Rondon is not even needed in most leads, with the team almost at a +100 differential through 30 games,

(2) (3) Chicago White Sox (+1) (22 – 10) ( 4 – 2):  Chris Sale is 7 – 0, and may go Ron Guidry (circa 1979 on us).  If anyone will win 25 games in a year, it would be him or Jake Arrieta.

Bob Welch won 27 games in 1990 for the A’s was the last guy to do that.

Has anyone noticed that Brett Lawrie has an OBP closer to .400 – than his usual .310 – .320?

Jose Quintana is finally receiving some run support.  If Todd Frazier and Jose Abreu start hitting for BA, than look he the hell out.  We could see a “Windy City” World Series for the 1st time since 1906. Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball April 30, 2016 (Daily MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

MIKE STOBEGETTY IMAGESCapture

Mike Stobe – Getty Images

Michael Conforto continued his hot streak with 3 hits, including a homer, a 3 RBI to help the Mets past San Francisco, 6-5.

Jackie Bradley Jr.hit a double, walked and tripled twice, driving in 3 and scoring 2 as the Red Sox crushed the Yankees 8-0.

Francisco Liriano pitched into the 7th, finishing with 6 2/3 innings, 5 hits and 1 run and got the 5-1 decision for the Pirates over the Reds.

Wade Miley threw a complete game 5 hit shutout, walking none and striking out 4 Royals to earn the 6-0 victory in Seattle.

They all owned baseball on April 30, 2016.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

Odds To Win The 2016 MLB Divisions

LA-Dodgers-logo

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

Not that much has happened since we last checked into these numbers over the last 3 weeks.  The biggest jump on the board was the Giants going to favorites of the NL West after the Johnny Cueto signing.

The Dodgers have since countered and are making this race for the NL West that much better again.  It wasn’t long ago that the Los Angeles NL franchise were the favorites to win the entire World Series.

I think it is almost a dead heat right now between San Francisco and LA – and could come down to the transactions that are done in the next 8 months.

New York did pick up Aroldis Chapman but are still only listed as the 3rd favorite in the Division.  New York has the best Bullpen, the Jays the best offense – and Boston might be the best overall club in the AL East.

If you believe the Yankees will continue to spend $ like Washington is printing it everyday should they contend this coming season, that +200 for the Division is a good odd. Read the rest of this entry

Arizona Diamondbacks State Of The Union For 2016

The first big surprise of the winter came when the Diamondbacks signed Zack Greinke. The organization followed that up with trading a heavy price tag to acquire Shelby Miller to back him up. Dave Stewart has taken a lot of crap for a lopsided deal. I think that is very speculative to talk like that. Besides Free Agent Pitchers are expensive, and a way for small market clubs to negate that is to trade for a controllable player. Tony La Russa also knows that his club is setup for a winning window of approximately 3 - 4 years.

The first big surprise of the winter came when the Diamondbacks signed Zack Greinke. The organization followed that up with trading a heavy price tag to acquire Shelby Miller to back him up. Dave Stewart has taken a lot of crap for a lopsided deal. I think that is very speculative to talk like that. Besides Free Agent Pitchers are expensive, and a way for small market clubs to negate that is to trade for a controllable player. La Russa also knows that his club is set up for a winning window of approximately 3 – 4 years.  Keep the aggression when it comes to upgrading this team.

Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead  Analyst) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

You simply couldn’t have asked for a better start to a winter in 2015 for Arizona.  They are legitimate contenders in the NL West, and still should have the wherewithal to spend another $20 – $25 MIL on salaries for 2016.

I love the aggression set forth by the management.  I hope they keep the pedal to the metal on this one.  A nucleus of a team lasts 3 – 4 years for a mid market club, and by the acquisitions the team has done here completely reflects that.

We have discussed how the Houston Astros developed their young club for a few years now.  It is clearly the best way to rebuild a team.

Another reason why the team has had the financial flexibility to create these maneuvers is that they have Paul Goldschmidt on perhaps the best valued contract in the game of baseball right now.

The other Infielders in the mix for the Diamondbacks need to step up the production for he Arizona squad in 2016.  Whether it is Chris Owings at 2B or Nick Ahmed at SS, these positions were not league average for the slots, as was third base either.

Arizona was carried offensively by Goldschmidt and a great productive OF in A.J. Pollock, David Peralta and Ender Inciarte.

The club dealt Inciarte in the Shelby Miller deal, but could pick up the slack with giving his OF position to Yasmany Tomas full time in 2016.

Welington Castillo was one of the most prolific Catchers in the Majors least year, featuring a 3 slash of .255/.317/.496 with the Diamondbacks, clubbing 17 HRs and knocking in 50 RBI during his 254 AB for the club.

In a roundabout way, he bettered what the club had previously in Miguel Montero, who incidentally was the reason why Castillo was flipped to Seattle initially.

That trade made up for the previous fiasco that was the trade for Mark Trumbo the previous season. Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The 2016 MLB World Series

Pittsburgh had the 2nd best record in the Majors with 98 wins, yet were samarily dismissed in the Wild Card Game by the Cubs - and a lightning hot Jake Arrieta at the time It may actually get worse for the Bucs in coming years with the emergence of the young NL Chicago squad and the continued dominance of the St. Louis franchise. My idea is to spend some money this offseason, but if you are 5 or 6 games behind the playoff bar near the Trade Deadline, to deal all guys on the remainder year of their contracts and to retool for 2017.

Pittsburgh had the 2nd best record in the Majors with 98 wins, yet were simirarily dismissed in the Wild Card Game by the Cubs – and a lightning hot Jake Arrieta at the time. It may actually get worse for the Bucs in coming years with the emergence of the young NL Chicago squad and the continued dominance of the St. Louis franchise. My idea was to spend some money this offseason, but if you are 5 or 6 games behind the playoff bar near the Trade Deadline, to deal all guys on the remainder year of their contracts and retool for 2017.  Instead they have made a boneheaded trade in doling out Neil Walker for Jon Niese this week.  Their odd should not be +1400 as the #3 ranked team in the NL Central.  I don’t think 3 teams qualify for the playoffs out of that Division in 2016.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

Okay hands up, how many of you followed my advice minutes after the Zack Greinke deal – and pounced on that 40/1 play?  I am happy to say I did, and voila, they jumped from +4000 all the way to+1600.

Sure there was an added bonus of the club picking up Shelby Miller via the trade route – but that is how quickly the odds fluctuate.  The job is to render value.

So far we have given really sound advice on this whole off season.  The first time the new odd was posted we said to stay clear of the Dodgers as the favorite.  Look at them right now – they are considered the 5th favorite in the NL.

Now if you think the Los Angeles franchise is not done on the winter with high priced talent, you can get them at this nice odd.  I personally believe they need to add 1 more #2, #3 starter in addition to the latest Dodgers Hisashi Iwakuma signing – and another premiere Outfielder as well. Read the rest of this entry

Its Time For Boston To Break From Philosophy + Sign An Ace: Red Sox State Of The Union 2016

The Red Sox will need to spend some money on Pitching this season. But don't be surprised if they overstock on a few more offensive pieces in the lineup, and then use some of their prospects to obtain even more pitching. They orchestrated a trade for Closer Craig KImbrel on Friday. A bona fide shutdown guy with 225 Career Saves and an ERA of 1.63 lifetime. The winter has just started for the Beantowners.

The Red Sox will need to spend some money on Starting Pitching this season – and preferably and ace.. They orchestrated a trade for Closer Craig Kimbrel on Friday. A bona fide shutdown guy with 225 Career Saves and an ERA of 1.63 lifetime. The winter has just started for the Beantowners.  With many veterans currently aging, and the young nucleus all being under team control, the time to capitalize on the higher drafting as a result of finishing last in the AL East 3 times in 4 years is right now.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

Okay, for years the Boston Red Sox would never pay for a #1 Starter on the Free Agent Market – even their owns. They traded away Jon Lester prior to trying to resign him in 2014, and it backfired on them when he hit the Free Agency market not having played his entire career in Boston.

For the most part, I have agreed with the idea of not paying a guy as an ace.  Here is the problem..The team had finished last in the AL East 3 of the last four campaigns, and that is unacceptable.

You add in Ben Cherington doling out long term deals to Rick Porcello, Hanley Ramirez and Pablo Sandoval in the last year, and all had bad years.  So the temptation may not be to sign anyway.  Again, wrong.. You are the Boston Red Sox.

Well mired in the lower tiers of records the last 4 years (except for the 2013 season), the club has accumulated a great deal of talent in the Minor Leagues.

The franchise is in great shape heading forward, but this comes down to the right time to strike on the rest of the league. Read the rest of this entry

WHO OWNED BASEBALL – THE FINAL RESULTS FOR 2015

Slide1

The regular season is over. My daily tally for Who Owns Baseball is at an end. Every day I determine which player had the best individual day on a winning team to earn a full WOB and on a losing team for a 1/2 WOB.

These are final leaders in each categor for Who Owns Baseball

NATIONAL LEAGUE HITTER WHO OWNED BASEBALL

(AP Photo/Al Behrman)

(AP Photo/Al Behrman)

JOEY VOTTOCincinnati Reds

(Final Total – 7 1/2 WOB.)

Second Place (TIE):

Paul Goldschmidt, Arizona Diamondbacks.
Andrew McCutchen, Pittsburgh Pirates.
(Final Total – 7 WOB.)

NATIONAL LEAGUE PITCHER WHO OWNED BASEBALL

Alex Brandon / Associated Press

Alex Brandon / Associated Press

CLAYTON KERSHAW – Los Angeles Dodgers

(Final Total – 13 1/2 WOB.)

Second Place:
Jake Arrieta, Chicago Cubs
(Final Total – 11 WOB)

Third Place
Zack Greinke, Los Angeles Dodgers
(Final Total – 9 1/2 WOB.)

AMERICAN LEAGUE HITTER WHO OWNED BASEBALL

Rob Carr - Getty Image Sports

Rob Carr – Getty Image Sports

MIKE TROUT – Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim

(Final Total – 10 1/2 WOB.)

Second Place:
Josh Donaldson, Toronto Blue Jays
(Final Total – 6 1/2 WOB)

Third Place
Miguel Cabrera, Detroit Tigers
(Final Total – 6 WOB.)

AMERICAN LEAGUE PITCHER WHO OWNED BASEBALL

Karen Warren, Houston Chronicle

Karen Warren, Houston Chronicle

DALLAS KEUCHEL – Houston Astros

(Final Total – 10  WOB.)

Second Place (TIE):

Sonny Gray, Oakland Athletics.
Chris Sale, Chicago White Sox.
(Final Total – 7 WOB.)

THE WINNERS FROM PREVIOUS SEASONS:

2013

NL Batter: Paul Goldschmidt, Arizona Diamondbacks

NL Pitcher: Clayton Kershaw, Los Angeles Dodgers

AL Batter: Miguel Cabrera, Detroit Tigers

AL Pitcher: (3 Way Tie) R. A. Dickey, Toronto Blue Jays
Matt Moore, Tampa Bay Rays
Max Scherzer, Detroit Tigers

2013

NL Pitcher: Andrew McCutchen, Pittsburgh Pirates

NL Pitcher: Clayton Kershaw, Los Angeles Dodgers

AL Batter: Mike Trout, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim

AL Pitcher:  Felix Hernandez, Seattle Mariners

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

 


Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball October 4, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

 

Brandon Wade - Getty Images

Brandon Wade – Getty Images

Cole Hamels settled down after a shaky first inning to throw a complete game, allowing 3 hits and 2 runs, striking out 8 and topped the Angels, 9-2 to clinch the AL West title for the Texas Rangers.

Chris Davis homered twice and reached base 4 times altogether, driving in 4 and helping the Orioles beat the Yankees, 9-4.

Shelby Miller finally recorded another win, throwing 8 shutout innings, allowing 3 hits and 7 strikeouts, as Atlanta was victorious over St. Louis, 6-0.

A. J. Pollock went 3 for 5, homering and driving in a pair to have the Diamondbacks crush Houston’s hopes to host the Wild Card Game with a 5-3 final.

They all owned baseball on October 4, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

 

Rick Porcello allowed 2 earned runs and 1 unearned run over 7 innings but was saddled with the 3-1 Red Sox loss in Cleveland.

Jose Altuve went 3 for 5 with a triple and two runs scored. His Astros would fall just short to Arizona, 5-3.

Tanner Roark threw 6 shutout innings, allowing 3 hits and 1 walk. He would not factor into the decision as the Nationals lost to the Mets, 1-0.

Dee Gordon captured the NL Batting Title with a single, double and homer, scoring both Marlins runs along the way but Philadelphia won, 7-2.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

 


Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball October 3, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

AL BELLO/GETTY IMAGES

AL BELLO/GETTY IMAGES

Max Scherzer threw his second no hitter of the season, walking none and striking out 17 Mets along the way for the 2-0 Washington final.

Corey Kluber struck out 9 over 8 shutout innings, allowing 3 hits and 2 walks and earning the 2-0 decision for the Indians over Boston.

Christian Yelich had a terrific double header. In all he went reached base nine times, going 5-5 in one game and 3 for 4 with a walk in the other, combining for 3 runs scored and 2 RBI as the Marlins beat the Phillies twice, 7-6 and 5-2.

Colby Rasmus homered twice and added a single to lead the Astros closer to a playoff spot, 6-2 over the Diamondbacks.

They all owned baseball on October 3, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

Noah Syndergaard allowed 2 hits and 1 run and 1 walk while striking out 10 Washington batters. But the Mets were no hit, 2-0.

Marco Estrada pitched into the 7th, finishing with 6 2/3 innings, striking out 9 while giving up 3 hits and walking none. He would get a no decision as the Blue Jays lost to Tampa Bay 4-3.

Paul Goldschmidt reached base 3 times and homered in the Diamondbacks 6-2 loss to the Astros.

Josh Hamilton‘s two homers off the Angels (on their dime) was almost the greatest middle finger in recent years. Unfortunately for him, the Angels made a dramatic rally in the 9th inning to put the Division Clinching on hold and beat the Rangers 11-10.

 

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

 


Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball October 2, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

PAUL BEATY/AP

PAUL BEATY/AP

Chris Sale set the single season strikeout mark for a White Sox pitcher with 274, finishing the game with 7 whiffs in 7 innings, allowing 1 run and 5 hits in the 2-1 final over Detroit.

Carlos Correa kept Houston’s playoff hopes alive by leading a mind boggling offensive attack. He reached base 4 times, including a homer and a stolen base, scoring 4 and driving in 4 as the Astros obliterated the Diamondbacks 21-5.

Jake Arrieta finished his regular season with another shutout performance, striking out 7, allowing just 2 hits over 6 innings and sealing the 6-1 Cubs victory in Milwaukee.

Daniel Castro collected 3 hits including a homer, driving in a pair in the Braves 4-0 blanking of St. Louis.

They all owned baseball on October 2, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

Martin Perez allowed 1 run over 7 innings but got a no decision as the Rangers fell to the Angels, 2-1.

Brad Miller went 3 for 3 with a homer in the Mariners 4-2 defeat to the A’s.

Eugenio Suarez homered and singled, driving in 3 in Cincinnati’s 6-4 loss in Pittsburgh.

 

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

 


Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball October 1, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

AP Photo - Patrick Semansky

AP Photo – Patrick Semansky

Manny Machado reached base 4 times, including 2 homers, a pair of stolen bases, 3 runs scored and 3 RBI to help Baltimore win a rain soaked 6-4 game over the Blue Jays.

Jake Odorizzi topped Miami with 7 innings, one unearned run and 7 strikeouts and earned the 4-1 decision for Tampa Bay.

Socrates Brito came off the bench and went 3 for 3, including a triple and a stolen base, scoring twice and driving in a run, scoring in the game winning rally in Diamondbacks come from behind victory, 8-6.

Jerad Eickhoff pitched 7 shutout innings, striking out 10 and 4 hits to lead the Phillies past the Mets, 3-0.

 

They all owned baseball on October 1, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

 

Albert Pujols doubled and homered, scoring twice, but saw the Rangers beat his Angels 5-3.

Trevor Bauer was terrific for 7 innings, giving up 2 hits and a run and 3 walks. He got no decision as the Twins won in Cleveland, 4-2.

Kirk Nieuwenhuis doubled twice and singled in the Mets 3-0 loss to Philadelphia.

Ryan Weber went 7 innings, allowing 1 run, no walks and 10 strikeouts. He would get a hard luck loss as the Braves lost to the Nationals, 3-0.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

 


Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball September 30, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

Gene J. Puskar - AP Photo

Gene J. Puskar – AP Photo

 

Jason Heyward reached base 4 times, including a grand slam and made some terrific catches in right field in the Cardinals Division Clinching 11-1 laugher over the Pirates. He also added another hit in the opening game of the double header.

Mike Leake threw a complete game 2 hit, no walk shutout to give the Giants a too little too late 5-0 victory over the NL West champion Dodgers.

Ryan Goins reached base 6 times, scoring 3 times and driving in another to led the Blue Jays to a 15-2 blow out of the Orioles and Toronto’s first AL East title since 1993.

Kevin Gausman picked up the Orioles in the second game of the double header with 8 innings, 5 hits and no walks while striking out 10 en route to an 8-1 win over the Blue Jays.

They all owned baseball on September 30, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

Matt Carpenter doubled and homered, driving in a pair in the Cardinals 8-2 defeat by the Pirates in the opening game of their double header. In the night cap, he reached base 4 times, scoring 3 and doubling.

Chad Bettis allowed 1 earned run and 1 unearned run over 6 solid innings but took the 3-1 Rockies loss to Arizona.

Mike Trout reached base 5 times including a homer and a walk in the 9th that made him the tying run. He would be stranded as the Angels come back came just short, 8-7 to Oakland.

Jose Quintana went 9 innings, allowing 5 hits, 3 runs and striking out 8. He would get a no decision as the White Sox fell to Kansas City in 10 innings, 5-3.

 

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

 


Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball September 29, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

Curtis Compton / ccompton@ajc.com

Curtis Compton / ccompton@ajc.com

A. J. Pierzynski went 3 for 3 with 2 homers, providing all of Atlanta’s offense as they snuck past Washington, 2-1.

Clayton Kershaw threw a complete game 1 hit, 1 walk, 13 strikeout shutout to top the Giants 8-0 and clinch the National League West crown for the Dodgers.

Blake Swihart homered twice, driving in 5 runs, helping Boston clobber the Yankees in the Bronx, 10-4

Nick Tropeano struck out 11 and walked just 1 in 6 2/3 innings, earning the 8-1 decision for the Angels over Oakland.

They all owned baseball on September 29, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

Lucas Duda collected 3 hits, 2 of them home runs, and drove in 3, but it was not enough as the Phillies edged the playoff bound Mets, 4-3.

Tanner Roark pitched into the 7th, finishing with 6 2/3 innings, allowing 2 runs and 5 hits. He would be saddled with the loss, however, as the Nationals fell to Atlanta, 2-1.

Eric Hosmer homered and singled in the Royals 4-2 loss to the White Sox.

 

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

 


Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball September 28, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

 

(AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

(AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

Max Scherzer threw a no hitter into the 8th and finished with 8 innings, 2 hits, 1 run, 3 walks and 10 strikeouts, giving the Nationals a controversy free 5-1 decision over the Reds.

Matt den Dekker got 3 hits, including a homer, driving in 2 and scored 2 in Washington’s 5-1 victory over Cincinnati.

Marco Estrada pitched into the 8th inning, settling down after some early trouble to finish with 7 1/3 innings, 4 hits, 3 runs and 1 walk. He did not get the decision but helped set up Toronto’s 4-3 win over the Orioles.

Jackie Bradley Jr. reached base 3 times, including a 2 run homer, driving in 3 and stealing a pair of extra base hits away with his defense as the Red Sox topped the Yankees 5-1 and delayed a post season clinching for their rivals for at least a day.

They all owned baseball on September 28, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

J. A. Happ allowed 1 hit and no walks over 6 shutout innings. He did not get the decision in the Pirates heart breaking 3-0 loss to St. Louis.

Andre Ethier got a pair of hits and drove in the tying run in the 9th inning but the Dodgers fell to San Francisco in the 12th inning, 3-2.

Yordano Ventura was perfect through 5, finishing with 7 shutout frames, allowing 2 hits, 1 walk and striking out 6. He would not get a decision as the Cubs walked off 1-0 winners in the 11th.

Prince Fielder singled, doubled and homered, driving in 4 but the Rangers came up short to Detroit, 7-4.

 

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

 


Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball September 27, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

 

NAM Y. HUH/AP

NAM Y. HUH/AP

Jake Arrieta was perfect through 6 and finished with 7 innings, 1 hit, 1 hit batsman, no walks, 9 strikeouts and a home run of his own as the playoff bound Cubs blanked Pittsburgh, 4-0.

Dallas Keuchel solidified his Cy Young bid by striking out 10 Rangers in 7 innings, allowing 2 hits, 2 walks and 1 run and giving the Astros a critical 4-2 victory.

Ender Inciarte went 4 for 5 with a pair of homers and 3 RBI to lead Arizona past San Diego, 4-2.

Byron Buxton doubled and homered, driving in a pair and scoring 2 to help the still contending Twins clobber the Tigers, 7-1.

They all owned baseball on September 27, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

 

John Lackey threw 7 strong innings, striking out 7 and giving up just 1 run. The bullpen would implode and the Brewers beat the Cardinals, 8-4.

Hisashi Iwakuma pitched into the 8th, finishing with 7 1/3 innings and giving up 3 runs while walking no Angels. He would be saddled with the decision in the 3-2 Mariners loss.

Matt den Dekker collected 4 hits, homered and scored 3 times in the Nationals 12-5 defeat at the hands of the Phillies.

Mikie Mahtook got 2 hits including a homer and 2 RBI but Tampa Bay fell to Toronto, 5-4.

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

 


Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball September 26, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

Ben Margot - AP

Ben Margot – AP

Jarrett Parker put on a mind boggling show, launching 3 homers, including a grand slam, to drive in 7 runs in the football sounding 14-10 San Francisco over Oakland final score.

Stephen Strasburg struck out 13 in 8 innings, allowing 3 hits, 1 walk and 1 run. He did not factor in the decision but helped set up Washington’s 2-1 victory over Philadelphia.

Carlos Correa gave the Astros a much needed burst of energy by going 3 for 4 with 2 homers, including a game tying shot, and 3 RBI to beat Houston 9-7.

Adam Warren pitched 6 strong innings, allowing 3 hits and 1 run, earning the 2-1 win for the Yankees over the White Sox.

They all owned baseball on September 26, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

Andre Ethier went 2 for 4 with a homer and 3 RBI but the Dodgers lost on a walk off homer to the Rockies, 8-6.

Jeremy Hellickson allowed just 4 hits and 1 run over 6 innings but was saddled with the 3-0 loss as San Diego topped Arizona.

Kevin Kiermaier doubled and homered, scoring 3 times and driving in 2 in but the Rays fell 10-8 in Toronto.

 

 

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

 


Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball September 25, 2015 (Daily AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2015 #WOB standings

 (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

(AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

 

Rich Hill threw a complete game 2 hit shutout with 10 strikeouts and 1 walk to top the legit big league lineup (as opposed to who Carlos Carrasco faced with Kansas City) beating Baltimore 7-0.

Shin-Soo Choo went 3 for 5 and crushed a critical 3 run homer to help the Rangers win a critical divisional match up against Houston, 6-2.

Gerrit Cole pushed the playoff bound Pirates closer to the top of the Division with 7 innings of 1 run ball, allowing just 4 hits and 2 walks and earning the 3-2 decision over the Cubs.

Lucas Duda smacked a pair of 3 run homers to move the Mets closer to a division title with a 12-5 pasting of the Reds.

They all owned baseball on September 25, 2015

Earning 1/2 WOBs on losing efforts.

Luis Valbuena briefly gave the Astros hope with a two run homer to help cut their deficit down. But in the end they could not beat the Rangers, 6-2.

Jon Lester went 7 innings without walking a batter, 5 hits and 2 runs but got a tough luck loss as the Pirates won against the Cubs 3-2.

Freddie Freeman got on base 4 times, homered, scored 3 times and drove in 2 but his Braves lost a wild 12-11 slugfest against Miami.

 

To view the Yearly Leaders for Who Owned Baseball Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOB’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN.

 


Read the rest of this entry