Blog Archives

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (August.13th) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Photo: Mark J. Rebilas, USA TODAY Sports

Photo: Mark J. Rebilas, USA TODAY Sports

Paul Goldschmidt hit a bottom of the 9th game tying homer and then launched a walk off shot in the 11th, sealing the Diamondbacks’ 4-3 come from behind victory over the Orioles.

Jose Fernandez was outstanding for 7 shutout innings, walking one and letting only 3 Royals get hits. He did not get the decision, but he set up Miami’s 1-0 ten inning win. 

Alfonso Soriano went 3-6 with a pair of homers and six runs batted in, electrifying a dormant Yankee offense and leading them to a 14-7 blowout of the Angels. 

Ryan Dempster  kept the Blue Jays at bay for 7 strong innings, letting up just 4 hits and a single run. He was taken out prematurely and the bullpen blew his lead. But the Red Sox would take the lead for good in the 11th, 4-2 .

They all owned baseball on August 13, 2013.

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

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

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

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

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (August.3rd) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

AP Photo/Al Behrman

AP Photo/Al Behrman

Devin Mesoraco  homered twice, driving in 3 runs as the Reds bounced back from a Friday blow out to beat the Cardinals, 8-3.

Francisco Liriano continued his remarkable comeback with 7 shutout 2 hit innings against the Colorado Rockies. He picked up his 12th win for the 5-2 Pittsburgh triumph.

Curtis Granderson broke up a scoreless tie with a 7th inning two run homer. The Yankees got a much needed win, 3-0, against the Padres. 

Max Scherzer pitched shutout ball into the 8th, finishing with 7 2/3 innings, allowing only 3 hits. He improved to 16-1 as the Tigers topped the reeling White Sox 3-0.


They all owned baseball on August 3, 2013.

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

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

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

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

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

AP Photo/Nick Wass

AP Photo/Nick Wass

Gerrit Cole pitched 7 innings of 2 hit, 1 run ball against the Nationals. He not only got credited for the 5-1 Pirates win, but went 2-3 with an RBI for good measure.

Adrian Gonzalez went 2-4 including a go ahead 3 run homer in the 8th inning that capped a wild Dodger comeback victory against the Blue Jays, 10-9.

Eduardo Nunez collected a pair of hits including a one out RBI triple in the 9th off of Rangers closer Joe Nathan. That tied the game and would later score the go ahead run as the Yankees stunned Texas, 5-4.

Jarred Cosart threw 7 terrific innings, letting up only one earned run. He did not get the win, but his fine outing put the Astros in a position to come from behind and beat Oakland 5-4.

They all owned baseball on July 23rd, 2013.

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

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

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

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

To Buy Or Not To Buy, That Is The Question For NYY? Soriano Deal Looks Imminent

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Tuesday, July 23, 2013

The trade deadline is quickly approaching, and there is very little doubt in the Bronx what the Yankees need.  For the first time since 1990, the Yankee offense is one of the worst in baseball. If there is any hope that the Yankees can compete for a playoff spot, the front office has to add pieces to the anemic Yankee lineup.

The trade deadline is quickly approaching, and there is very little doubt in the Bronx what the Yankees need. For the first time since 1990, the Yankee offense is one of the worst in baseball. If there is any hope that the Yankees can compete for a playoff spot, the front office has to add pieces to the anemic Yankee lineup. The Bronx Bombers are reeling out of the ALL – Star Break, dropping 3 of 4 – and 5 of their last 7 overall.  They need a quick resurgence, as the Rays have won 18 out of 20, while the Orioles have won 5 games in a row to both leapfrog them in the standings.  The Yankees begin play today 4.5 Games Behind the Playoff Bar.

By Nicholas Rossoletti (Yankees Correspondent/Trade Correspondent):

The dog days of summer have arrived.  Every team has played in excess of 90 games, and the All-Star break has come and gone.  At this point, it seems only right that we discuss the Yankees as either buyers or sellers at the trade deadline.

 Going into Sunday, the Yankees were 6 games behind the Red Sox for first place and were 8 games over .500, which is good for fourth in the uber-competitive American League East.  

Certainly, a playoff spot is still available to the Yankees at this point, and I believe that if you are the Yankees you have to at least examine the market to find what offensive help is available.

The Yankees have pitched well throughout the first half and have both David Phelps and Michael Pineda returning from injury in the next few weeks so the team has enough pitching to get them through the second half and potentially into a playoff spot.  

The major issue has been and will continue to be the once vaunted Yankees offense is a shadow of its former self.

ALFONSO SORIANO ON THE THROW DOWN:

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How Will This Years Home Run Derby Play Out At Citi Field?

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Saturday July 13th, 2013 

This years annual Homerun Derby will be held during All-Star weekend at Citi Field. Like every year, four players from each league will compete to see who is the best Homerun hitter in the MLB right now. Prince Fielder will once again compete in the Derby looking to win in back-to-back years. The only difference is, this year he will compete with the American League instead of the National League like in previous years. We are definitely in for an exciting treat this year as we will get to see the likes of Prince Fielder, David Wright, Robinson Cano, Chris Davis, and several others compete to see who can hit the most homeruns.

This years annual Homerun Derby will be held during All-Star weekend at Citi Field. Like every year, four players from each league will compete to see who is the best Homerun hitter in the MLB right now. Prince Fielder will once again compete in the Derby looking to win in back-to-back years.  We are definitely in for an exciting treat this year as we will get to see the likes of Prince Fielder, David Wright, Robinson Cano, Chris Davis, and several others compete to see who can hit the most big flies.

By Dan Wanser (Baseball Writer): 

During this years All-Star break festivities that will take place at Citi Field, we will be lucky to see players such as Chris Davis, Prince Fielder,  David Wright, and  Robinson Cano take the field and try to hit as many Tater Trots as they can.

Players like Robinson Cano and Prince Fielder will look to add to their previous victories, as players like Chris Davis and Bryce Harper will look to make a name for themselves by being first time winners.

How will the different players do in this years State Farm Homerun Derby? Here’s my take:

2012 MLB Homerun Derby Slow Motion Swings:

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (July.10th) – Updated Yearly “WOB” Standings

Screen Shot 2013-07-11 at 12.08.12 AM

Hanley Ramirez  went 3-6, contributed to the game tying rally in the 9th and launched a go ahead home run in the 14th inning that proved to be the game winner in Phoenix as the Dodgers crept to within 1 1/2 games of the Diamondbacks, 7-5.

Robinson Cano gave the dormant Yankee offense a much needed jolt by crushing a 3 run homer in the third. He would finish 3-4 as New York made short work of Kansas City, 8-1.

Francisco Liriano shut out the first place A’s over his 7 innings of masterful work, leading the Pirates to a 5-0 victory.

Wei-Yin Chen returned from the disabled list to 7 innings of 3 hit ball, getting the win as Baltimore topped Texas, 6-1.

They all owned baseball on July 10th, 2013.

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

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

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

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

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (July 5th) – Updated Yearly “WOB” Standings

(AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

(AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Francisco Liriano pitched the first complete game for the Pirates this season, letting up only 4 hits and 2 runs. He drove in a run for good measure, leading the best team in baseball to a 6-2 victory over the Cubs.

Kirk Nieuwenhuis reached base 6 times, coming around to score 3 times and driving in 5 runs in the process. He was a homer shy of the Cycle while propelling the Mets to a 12-5 drubbing of Milwaukee.

Ivan Nova went the distance for the Yankees, giving up only 3 hits and 1 walk while striking out 11. He benefitted from a 9th inning walk off rally to get the decision in the 3-2 triumph over Baltimore.

Jose Bautista homered in the third and smacked an RBI single in the fourth, giving the Blue Jays more than enough offense to defeat the Twins 4-0.

They all owned baseball on July 5th, 2013.

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

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

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

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

Who Owned Baseball Yesterday – (July 1st) – Updated Yearly “WOB” Standings

Photo: Jim Mone/AP

Photo: Jim Mone/AP

Robinson Cano homered twice, went 3-4 with 3 RBI and scored all 4 times he reached base helping the Yankees come from behind against to Twins to win 10-4.

R. A. Dickey held a tough Tigers lineup to 2 runs over 7 innings, getting the 8-3 win for the Toronto Blue Jays.

Jose Fernandez pitched 8 shutout innings, letting up only 2 hits, 1 walk and 10 strikeouts, leading the Marlins to a 4-0 win over the Padres.

Todd Frazier drove in a run and scored, then hit a three run homer in the second as the Reds won a rain shortened 8-1 win over the defending champion Giants.

They all owned baseball on July 1st, 2013.

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

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

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

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

The Yankees Youth Movement

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Monday, June 24/2013

The Yankees find themselves in the unfamiliar territory of having to rely on younger players to get the team back to the post-season.  Hopefully, the youth movement in the Bronx can help keep the Yankees competitive.

The Yankees find themselves in the unfamiliar territory of having to rely on younger players to get the team back to the post-season. Hopefully, the youth movement in the Bronx can help keep the Yankees competitive. Almonte, Adams and Romine, who is exactly are these guys?  3 guys whom have seen regular duty in the lineup over the last few weeks.  The Yankees managed to take the 1st 2 games of their weekend  series with Tampa before losing the series finale on Sunday.  At 41 – 34, they start play today at 2.5 Games Behind the Boston Red Sox in the AL East.  A Division in which all teams are over .500.

By Nicholas Rossoletti (Yankees Correspondent/Trade Correspondent):

As I sit here typing this, I feel a bit out of my element.  My own life has been very much a roller coaster of late.  I’m in the process of moving out of a place I’ve called home for the last four years.  I’ve been traveling for most of the month, and generally, I feel about as out of touch with the Yankees as I have in quite a long time.

After preaching patience to Yankee fans everywhere over the last several months, its become abundantly clear that those All-Stars I’ve been waiting on to carry the team back to October may not show up.  Mark Teixeira is back on the Disabled List with his bothersome wrist. Curtis Granderson just had pins removed from his hand and has yet to take a rehab swing.

Kevin Youkilis‘ back may end his career.  Alex Rodriguez, well, is actually putting on a show in rehab, but god only knows if and when he will face the wrath of Major League Baseball for whatever role he played in this Biogenesis noise. 2013 was supposed to be the final ride of this Yankees group with the serious regrowing pains coming in 2014 and beyond.

In addition to the absolutely atrocious injuries, the glass slipper has shattered for the replacement Yankees, who carried the team through April.  Vernon Wells, the most notable of the slumping replacements, has given the team little to no reason to continue to give him run.  

After writing several pieces begging for patience and instructing fans to embrace Wells, I will admit to having a bit of mud on my face.  Wells is what most people thought he was.  An expensive piece with just enough left in his bat to give you a bit of hope.  I was hoping for a 1-2 WAR player out of Wells.  It is official.  I am (and/or was) delusional.

ZOILO GOES DEEP:

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Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – June 21, 2013

(AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)

(AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)

Will Miami ever become a baseball town? Not if their fans keep clinging to the past.

And what should the Yankees do with Robinson Cano?

Those topics and more on today’s episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Pedro Alvarez, Jordan Zimmermann, Evan Longoria and John Lackey all owned baseball on June 19, 2013.

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

Subscribe on iTunes HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – June 21, 2013

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Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – June 11, 2013

Photo: Joe Nicholson, USA Today  Sports

Photo: Joe Nicholson, USA Today Sports

The Hall of Fame resume of Andy Pettitte is the topic for today’s episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Here is the link for the article from Was Watching.

Follow Mike Silva on Twitter @MikeSilvaMedia
Follow Dan Reed on Twitter @dano2384

Brandon Phillips, Adam Dunn, Yovani Gallardo and Jeremy Guthrie all owned baseball on June 10, 2013.

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

Subscribe on iTunes HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – June 11, 2013

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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (June 9th) – Updated Yearly “WOB” Standings

(AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

(AP Photo/David Zalubowski)

Dexter Fowler went 4-6, scored the tying run and drove in the walk off RBI as the Rockies came from behind to beat the Padres 8-7


Jordan Zimmermann pitched seven innings of 2 hit shutout innings, striking out 8, as the Nationals won 7-0, setting up a sweep of the Twins in a double header and climbed back to .500.


Jarrod Saltalamacchia homered twice, driving in four, as the Red Sox clobbered the Angels 10-5.


David Phelps may have been saddled with a no decision, but he was excellent over 6 innings of 3 hit ball, letting up a single run, as the Yankees went on to rally to a 2-1 victory over the Mariners.


They all owned baseball on June 9th, 2013.

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

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

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

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

Paul Goldschmidt Has To Be The Top NL MVP Candidate Thus Far

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Saturday, June.08, 2013

Paul Goldschmidt is pistol hot in the last 7 days.  He has even had 2 Grand Slams and a 3 run Decisive HR those contests.  His 3 Slash Line is .345/.425/1.148- with3 Taters and 16 RBI.  The 25 Year Old big man from Wilmington,  Delaware, also added  DBacks are leading the NL West and Goldschmidt is a bonafide early NL MVP candidate thus far.  He is hitting .336 for the season with 15 HRs (3rd in AL) and an NL leading 57 RBI.

Paul Goldschmidt is pistol hot in the last 7 days. He has even had 2 Grand Slams and a 3 run Decisive HR in those contests. His 3 Slash Line is .345/.425/1.148 – with 3 Taters and 16 RBI in June. The 25 Year Old big man from Wilmington, Delaware, also has at least 1 RBI in 7 straight games.  The  DBacks are leading the NL West and Goldschmidt is a bonafide early NL MVP candidate thus far. He is hitting .332 for the season – with 15 HRs (3rd in NL) and an NL leading 57 RBI.

By Chris Lacey (Featured Baseball Columnist)

Nobody better come within 10 feet of Arizona Diamondbacks 1st Baseman Paul Goldschmidt because he is on complete fire.  In the last weeks

With apologies to the slugging duo of Troy Tulowitzki and Carlos Gonzalez of the Rockies, or Reds teammates Brandon Phillips and Joey Votto, based on the last week of play – Goldchmidt has cruised to the best player in the National League so far in 2013.

What is even better is that he is doing this act solo.  Sure he is being helped by Gerardo Parra, Didi Gregorius, and a cast of other Diamonbacks players, but for the most part, the 25 Year Old is carrying the Arizona club to 1st place in the NL West

There is one thing that all successful baseball teams have in common, and that is they have one player in their line up that strikes fear into the heart of opposing teams.

Paul Goldschmidt Highlights 2013 – Mature Lyrics So Parental Guidance is Advised

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New York Yankees: What Goes Up, Must Come Down

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Wednesday, June.5/2013

It had been a fun two months of the season for the Yankees until the last week in May lead to series losses to the Mets and Red Sox.  No amidst more controversy and another injury, the Yankees must regroup and get ready for the heart of the summer.

It had been a fun two months of the season for the Yankees until the last week in May lead to series losses to the Mets and Red Sox. No amidst more controversy and another injury, the Yankees must regroup and get ready for the heart of the summer.  Heading into play Wednesday, they are 33 – 25 (.569) and 2.5 Games Behind the Boston Red Sox for the AL East.

By Nicholas Rossoletti (Yankees Correspondent/Trade Correspondent):

There is no one that wishes that I could stop typing the words “Disabled List” and “Injury Replacements” more than me.  It seems like each of my articles since I took over the Yankee Correspondent position for MLB Reports has focused on how the team would survive the first portion of the 2013 season after off-season and Spring Training injuries left the team without its most expensive and experienced pieces.

Thanks to elite pitching from almost the entire team as well as some timely hitting from some unlikely sources, the Yankees have not just managed to compete through injuries but succeed.

As May turns to June, the thought was that the regular Yankee bats would return, which is basically the same thing we were told as April turned to May.  

Now more than ever it seems necessary as the team has been regressing back to a fairly disturbing mean.  The team has lost five in a row and dropped to two (2) games back of the Red Sox.  

It is imperative that the team get healthy quickly. The first of the Yankee regulars to return was Curtis Granderson, who got all of 31 Plate Appearances before lightning struck twice.

The injury bug continues to bite the Yankees moving forward.  The offense will be without a bat that generated 84 Home Runs over the 2011 and 2012 seasons for a little while longer.

BIG TEX:

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The Pinstripe Magic

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Monday, May.20/2013

Yankee fans consistently criticize their General Managers decision making process despite the fact that the last four years have been substantial successes. Will Yankee fans come to appreciate Cashman's ability to find value to help sustain success?

Yankee fans consistently criticize their General Managers decision making process despite the fact that the last four years have been substantial successes. Will Yankee fans come to appreciate Cashman’s ability to find value to help sustain success?

By Nicholas Rossoletti (Yankees Correspondent/Trade Correspondent):

There is a tendency for certain fan bases to panic quickly because of past failures.  It can be hard to put your faith blindly in an organization that has frequently disappointed you. 

The other side of that coin is that certain ball clubs deserve a bit more rope on the organizational end because of a string of impressive results. 

One organization has seen such an unbelievable string of successful regular seasons over the last two decades.  The New York Yankees.  Despite this success, the fans of the organization ride a roller coaster quite unlike anything else in sports.

Vernon Wells Going Yard in Colorado:

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eu7IGoYtndY]
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Who Owned Baseball Yesterday (May.18) – Updated Yearly ‘WOB’ Standings

Screen Shot 2013-05-19 at 8.40.47 AM

Joey Votto went 4-4 with a homer and 2 RBI and reached base 6 times as the Reds demolished the Phillies 10-0.

Brandon McCarthy threw a complete game 3 hit shutout as the Diamondbacks blanked the Marlins 1-0.

Matthew Joyce went 3-5 with a homer and 5 RBI and delivered the tying and go ahead runs in the 9th inning rally as the Rays stunned the Orioles 10-6.

And David Phelps pitched 7 strong innings letting up only 1 run as the Yankees defeated the Blue Jays 7-2.

They all owned baseball on May 18th, 2013

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

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

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

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

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – May 13, 2013

MEANDFOLEY

The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast features a special guest today. Comedian Erin Foley, as seen on Conan and all over TV, stopped by the Sully Baseball studios.

She was once a Yankee fan living in New England. I was once a Red Sox fan living in New York. We had a lot to talk about.

Erin is the co host of the podcast Sports Without Balls that is very funny and worth subscribing to.

Listen to THIS EPISODE to hear about Erin’s altercation with a Diamondbacks fan in Burbank Airport.

Chris Sale, Jorge de la Rosa, Marco Scutaro and Jose Bautista owned baseball on May 12, 2013.

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

Subscribe on iTunes HERE.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – May 13, 2013

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Yankees Current State Of The Union + The Phil Hughes Question

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Wednesday, May.08/2013

As the Yankees enter May, they do so in second place trailing their rivals, the Boston Red Sox. This is a surprise for many who thought that Boston and New York would struggle in 2013.

As the Yankees enter May, they do so in second place trailing their rivals, the Boston Red Sox. This is a surprise for many who thought that Boston and New York would struggle in 2013

By Nicholas Rossoletti (Yankees Correspondent/Trade Correspondent):

As April came to a close and May began, the Yankees found themselves in an all so familiar place. The New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox were atop the American League East.  It seems like this struggle between century old rivals has dominated the AL East for the better part of the last 15 years.  

This year was supposed to be different as New York and Boston were both expected to cede the division to the Baltimore O’s, Tampa Bay Rays and Toronto Blue Jays, and perhaps that will still be the case, but after five weeks of the season, it certainly seems like the demise of the Yanks and Sox was greatly overstated.

Part of the reason that the Yankees have managed to prove their naysayers incorrect has been their stellar starting pitching.  Each of the top four Yankee starters has pitched well to start the season, but as the title of the article suggests, there is one pitcher who has stood out especially in the last several weeks.

 His performance leads to this question: Is Phil Hughes finally becoming the pitcher he was always touted to be? Is the 26-year old right hander finally blossoming into a strong 1/2 starter? The numbers, at least early on, scream YES. 

The Phil Hughes Question:

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Yankees Update: Week 4 – The Injuries Mount Yet They Are Still The Bronx Bombers!

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Wednesday May 1,2013

After a hot start to the 2013 campaign, Francisco Cervelli has broken his hand and added his name to the long list of Yankee injuries in 2013.  Cervelli worked to get back to the Majors and won the Yankee starting job out of training camp.  Now only time will tell whether Cervelli can return from injury with the same skill that he opened the season.

After a hot start to the 2013 campaign, Francisco Cervelli has broken his hand and added his name to the long list of Yankee injuries in 2013. The man worked his way back to the Majors and won the Yankee starting job out of training camp. Now only time will tell whether Cervelli can return from injury with the same skill that he opened the season.

By Nicholas Rossoletti (Yankees Correspondent/Trade Correspondent):

The end of April was supposed to signal the beginning of the end of the Yankee injury woes. Upon breaking camp, it was thought that Derek Jeter, Curtis Granderson and Mark Teixeira would all be returning in the next week or two.  

Now, it has become clear that the Yankee injury woes are just beginning.

As discussed in last week’s piece, Jeter’s set-back already has extended his time table until the middle of July at the earliest.  Big Tex has been unable to meet his time table as well and is not prepared to take live swings yet.

Granderson is the only player on track to return from injury based on the original timeframe.  Grandy is slated to return in at some point in May.

Frankie Being Frankie:
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NYY “Down on the Farm”- Week 4: Familiar Faces

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SCWBRR

RailRiders

Scranton Logo

Wednesday May 1, 2013

By Nicholas Rossoletti (Yankees Correspondent/Trade Correspondent):

This week DOWN ON THE FARM….

As stated my Major League article this week, Triple-A lost several assets this week to the Major League club. Austin Romine and Vidal Nuno were both called to the Majors to help ease some of the injury woes facing the Bronx Bombers.  

While those new names will graces the scorecards in the Bronx, there are some familiar names still hanging around Scranton, who deserve a bit of attention this week.

 Chien-Ming Wang has started two games since his return to the Yankee organization.  Wang has managed to keep runners off base and has delivered 22 ground outs in 2 starts.  

Obviously, every Yankee fan remembers the terrific seasons where Wang posted other-worldly Ground Ball Rates of above 60%.  If his shoulder is healthy and his sinker is, well, sinking, Wang could be a very useful depth piece as the season rolls along for this organization. Read the rest of this entry

Miami Marlins Outfielder Austin Kearns Hospitalized

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Sunday, April 14th, 2013

Austin Kearns has been hospitalized for an irregular heart rate.

Austin Kearns has been hospitalized for an irregular heart rate.

By Sam Evans (Marlins Correspondent): 

A few hours before the Marlins took on the Phillies Sunday afternoon, the news broke that Austin Kearns was being taken to the hospital for an irregular heartbeat. Kearns, 32, has been said to be doing just fine. Nonetheless, anytime an athlete still in their prime has heart problems it is a scary reminder of what can happen.

The injury-plagued Marlins now have two of their Outfielders, Kearns and Giancarlo Stanton, unable to play for the time being. For a team that is already struggling to be even close to mediocre, this is another defeating blow. Kearns will be hospitalized overnight as doctors attempt to figure out just what happened. 

The Austin Kearns Story:

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Opening Series Win: Red Sox vs. Yankees – A Sign Of Things To Come For Boston?

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Sunday April.07/2013

Dustin "Laser Show" Pedroia is the most vital part of this Red Sox team if not for his play on the field, for the hustle and tenacity he plays every game with. Hopefully Don Orsillo is yelling "to the moon" a lot this season.

Dustin “Laser Show” Pedroia is the most vital part of this Red Sox team if not for his play on the field, for the hustle and tenacity he plays every game with. Hopefully Don Orsillo is yelling “to the moon” a lot this season.  The man has started the year with a 2 Slash Line of .318/.400/.764 with 7 hits in the 1st 5 games.  The 2008 AL MVP  has a Career 3 Slash of .303/.369/.830.  His average season (per 162 Games) is 194 Hits, 17 HRs, 43 Doubles and 77 RBI.  His  most important stat of this column is his 106 Runs Scored mark for a full year.

By Ryan Dana (MLB Reports Writer and Redsox Correspondent): 

I dare you to find a more exciting way to start a season than facing your bitter rivals? Taking 2 of 3 games from them on their field is even better. The start to the 2013 Boston Red Sox season has been good all things considered; much better than the starts to their past 2 seasons.

They spent the start of 2012 getting swept by the Tigers in 3 games, then losing 2 of 3 to the Blue Jays (This was before the Blue Jays had talent on their roster). The year prior, in 2011, the Red Sox came in with high expectations only to start the season 0-6 with series sweeps at the hands of the Rangers and Indians.

To take a quote from rap legend turned sports agent, (hint: he just stole Robinson Cano away from Scott Boras, uh-oh) “moral victories is for Minor League coaches.” Yes that would be Jay-Z.

In the Major Leagues it is all about where you stand in your division. After the 1st series of play for Major League teams the Red Sox were tied with Baltimore atop the AL East. I know I’m getting carried away; it is after all, only 3 games into the season, (Now a little bit further). In the end a win is a win, and a loss is a loss.

However, I want to look at how the Red Sox won (and lost). I want to do this because I think it sheds light on what they are poised to do in 2013.

Red Sox vs. Yankees Opening Day Recap:

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2 And A Hook Podcast – Episode #2: The Yankees, Injured Players And Early Year Schedules

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Thursday, April.04/2013

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

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

People in this Podcast:

Chuck Booth – Guest (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner):

Nicholas Rossoletti – Guest (Trade/Yankees Correspondent)

By James Acevedo – Host (Podcast Veteran) 

On today’s show brought to you by www.mlbreports.com & yours truly The Bench Warmers, we talk about opening week of MLB! Chuck Booth called in on his usual segment – to talk about injuries that have been going on lately to start this season and  especially with baseball’s All – Stars. Read the rest of this entry

What Buster Posey’s New Contract Means For The Giants

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Wednesday April.3,  2013

I don't that there is a single Giants fan that didn't want this to happen.  Buster Posey has done about as much as any player could possibly do for a city in his few years with the Giants, and I think we're all glad that he has the opportunity to retire as a career Giant.  While this signing on the surface looks like every other major extension, a player does something better than most and rightfully gets payed handsomely for it, this signing a few interesting implications along with it.

I don’t know that there is a single Giants fan that didn’t want this to happen. Buster Posey has done about as much as any player could possibly do for a city in his few years with the Giants, and I think we’re all glad that he has the opportunity to retire as a career Giant. While this signing on the surface looks like every other major extension, a player does something better than most and rightfully now gets paid handsomely for it.  This signing brings a few interesting implications along with it.

By Jon Schifferle ( Giants Correspondent – visit his own personal website here.) 

 5 Points About Posey’s Contract:

1.The Giants are ready to compete for a long time.

Through the extensions of Madison Bumgarner, Matt Cain, and Buster Posey, the Giants have shown that they are ready to keep this core, build around it, and compete every year with it.  

When franchises are starting to let their stars go, or even trading away their stars for younger players with little experience but lots of potential, it is generally the first sign of a rebuilding club.

 This is not always true, sometimes the players are forced out, or they have fallen out of favor with the team, and then are traded, but generally it is  the start of a bad pattern that eventually causes the team to end up looking like the Cubs or the Astros.  

The Giants clearly feel that they won’t need to take this path to be competitive in the future, and that they can refuel their farm system without trades or extra draft picks.

Buster Posey Highlights from 2012 – Mature Lyrics so Parental Guidance is advised:

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All-Star Studded Injury Report + Chipper Jones Retirement Effect On The Braves

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Monday, April 1/2013

Chipper had a lifetime slash line of .303/.401/.529 with 2726 Hits and 468 HRs. He played the game the way it was supposed to be played, with class and all out effort.

Chipper had a lifetime slash line of .303/.401/.529 with 2726 Hits and 468 HRs. He played the game the way it was supposed to be played, with class and all out effort.

By Ryan Dana (MLB Reports Writer): 

The start of the 2013 Major League Baseball season is upon us. While that is beyond awesome, unfortunately there is a list of really good players who will likely not start the season playing for a Major League team. Most of these players are out due to injury, but there are also a few others I would like to mention that are out due to retirement, suspension, or the fact that they have still yet to sign with a team.

It will be a bittersweet Opening Day for the Atlanta Braves who will be without Chipper Jones this season. He spent his entire 19 years of Major League service time with the Braves, and after an MVP season in 1999, a 1995 World Series Championship, and 8 All-Star appearances, Chipper has decided to call it a career. Jones was one of, if not the best, switch hitter of all time.

Chipper Jones Highlights

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MLB Mascots Make No Sense

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Friday, March.15/2013

The Swinging Friar

The Swinging Friar.

MLB Reports:  Welcome to our newest Kids writer  Jason Alpert-Wisnia – for being selected to join our MLB Reports Kids Writing team.  We are pleased to present the readers with a youthful look to the game of baseball.  Moms and Dad’s – if you have a young kid who loves baseball and wants to write about the game, please email us at mlbreports@gmail.com.  We will be selecting three more kid writers for our website this year. 

By Jason Alpert-Wisnia: (MLB Reports Kids Writer – visit his website here )

The MLB teams, no matter if in the AL or the NL,need mascots. The mascots are a pop-culture icon for the team that brings a fun and cheerful aspect to the ballpark, no matter how the game is going, and is great for using on products the team can sell for large amounts of profit. But, team’s mascots usually have reasons for being what they are. But, some teams mascots make NO sense what-so-ever on why their thereBut no matter how crazy and wacky, there is always a reason for what they are, even if the reason is not very good and is very unrealistic or sensible.

But no matter how weird, the mascots are are still a BIG part of the team, no matter what, but some teams are seriously odd, and really don’t make sense when compared to what the team’s team name and logo are about, or make sense, but are used and have personalities that don’t make much sense.

Phillie Phanatic Montage:

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The Method To Pirates GM Neal Huntington’s Team Building Strategy

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Tuesday March 12, 2013

Neal Huntington was named General Manager by the Pirates in 2007 and has yet to produce a winning season.

Neal Huntington was named General Manager by the Pirates in 2007 – and has yet to produce a winning season.  Expectations are becoming higher with each passing year.  The Pirates are the only NL Team not to make the playoffs since the 1994 Lockout.

Bernie Olshansky (Baseball Writer):

There is no question that the Pittsburgh Pirates have gone through their fair share of struggles. They have not had a winning season since 1992, and the closest the team has come to a .500 season was last year, when they went 79 – 83. It looks, though, as if there is light at the end of the tunnel for Pirates fans. 

General Manager Neal Huntington has made some nice moves to strengthen the team since he was named in 2007.

He immediately went to work, hiring a new manager and making major trades up to the 2008 trading deadline. One of two major trades included sending Xavier Nady to the Yankees for pitchers, notably Jeff Karstens, Ross Ohlendorf, and Outfielder Jose Tabata.

The second major trade was sending Jason Bay to the Red Sox for Brandon Moss, Andy Laroche, and others. Although these deals never really came to fruition, Huntington made it clear that he would not stand idly by and let his team suffer.

Pittsburgh Pirates Highlights – Mature Lyrics so Parental Guidance is advised:

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Adam Jones Is In One Of His Moods And It’s Hard To Blame Him

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Thursday February.28, 2013

Adam Jones had his 4th straight improved season for overall numbers in 2012 while hitting .287 with 32 HRs, Driving in 82 RBI and scoring 103 Runs.  Having signed a big contract of 6 Year/ 85 Million Dollar Contract recently, he will need to show a steady improvement going forward.

Adam Jones had his 4th straight improved season for overall numbers in 2012 while hitting .287 with 32 HRs, Driving in 82 RBI and scoring 103 Runs. Having signed a big contract of 6 Years/$85 Million Dollar Contract recently, he will need to show a steady improvement going forward as the teams best player.

By Chance Moore (Orioles Correspondent)  

The Orioles did what many thought would be impossible in 2012. They ended a string of 14 straight losing seasons and played all the way into October before losing a very tight American League Division Series to the New York Yankees.

So why is everybody so convinced that they will stumble back to mediocrity this year? Why are the so-called experts and oddsmakers setting the bar so low when the Orioles have basically the same team back and have a chance to get much more from several key players who were injured in 2013?

Adam Jones Highlights in 2012:  Mature Lyrics so Parental Guidance is Advised!

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Top Base Stealers Projected For The 2013 MLB Baseball Season

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Wednesday February.20/2013

Trout must find a way to stay selective at the plate -to keep walking in 2013 - especially if his average dips.  He can wreak havoc on the base paths once he makes it there.

Trout must find a way to stay selective at the plate -to keep walking in 2013 – especially if his average dips. He can wreak havoc on the base paths once he makes it there.

Bernie Olshansky (Baseball Writer):

Workouts for all teams are in full swing and Spring Training games will start this weekend. Baseball season is here. In the past few weeks, I have projected saves and HR leaders for this upcoming season. In this week’s installment of projections, I will predict the SB leaders for the year (in descending order).

1. Mike Trout, 50

Last year, Trout caught the baseball world by storm after being called up nearly a month after the season started. The young superstar stole 49 bases en route to an MVP-like season. If it were not for Miguel Cabrera winning the Triple Crown, Trout would have been the MVP. The Angels outfielder stole 49 bases in less than a full season. I believe that Trout will steal roughly the same amount of bases due to the Angels’ acquisition of Josh Hamilton. The Angels will want Trout in scoring position as much as possible. This year, there is no way the Angels will not make the playoffs with Trout, Hamilton, and Albert Pujols.

Mike Trout Highlights 2012 – Mature Lyrics so Parental Guidance is advised:

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Top HR Hitters Projected For The 2013 MLB Baseball Season

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Thursday February 7th, 2013

Adam Dunn has hit 38 + HRs in 8 of the last 9 years.

Adam Dunn has hit 38 + HRs in 8 of the last 9 years.

Bernie Olshansky (Baseball Writer):

2012 was an exciting year for the long ball. The MLB saw its first Triple Crown winner since 1967, and there were six guys that hit over 40 HR. It seems as if 2013 will be more of the same with the emergence of new sluggers in Mike Trout and Bryce Harper. In this feature, I will highlight some of the hitters who I think will have the most dingers (and how many) by the end of 2013. I don’t think Joey Bats will stay healthy enough to reach this list (although he will have a chance if he can miss the injury bug.

Adam Dunn: 40

In the years that Dunn has not slumped, he has been pretty consistent. This past season proved to the baseball community that the slugger is not quite done yet. Although he hit for a very low average, Dunn still managed to club over 40 bombs. Knowing this, I have no problem putting Adam Dunn down to hit at least 40 this year. He will have more confidence than he did in 2012 – and will most likely be in better shape to start off the year. The White Sox might have a shot at the playoffs if Dunn can stay healthy and keep his average above the Mendoza Line.

Mike Trout: 41

Trout had 49 SB, 129 Runs 30 HRs and 83 RBI in just 138 Games.  Might he improve on these numbers with a full year and the addition of Josh Hamilton to the cleanup spot in 2013?

Trout had 49 SB, 129 Runs 30 HRs and 83 RBI in just 138 Games. Might he improve on these numbers with a full year and the addition of Josh Hamilton to the cleanup spot in 2013?

The Angels prized possession did not even start the year with the big club, yet he still hit 30 HR. A legitimate candidate for MVP, Trout will not have a problem hitting 41 HR this season. The protection for Trout in Albert Pujols and Josh Hamilton makes this argument even more convincing. I could see Trout driving in 100 runs this year and winning the MVP. Just like Dunn, Trout needs to maintain his health. With Trout, Hamilton, and Pujols running on all cylinders, the Angels will not have a problem reaching the playoffs after failing to do so in 2012. The Athletics and Rangers will not be a match for the powerful offense that now includes Josh Hamilton.

HRs 2012 (Explicit Music Lyrics-Parental Guidance Advised)

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