Blog Archives
Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – June 13, 2014
It is the 600th episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.!
Today’s topics include changes that are coming in San Diego and the need for Yasiel Puig, Bryce Harper or Manny Machado to be the next great baseball bad guy.
Derek Jeter, Max Scherzer, John Mayberry Jr, Jhoulys Chacin, Logan Morrison, Chris Sale, David Peralta and Jon Niese all added to their totals for Who Owns Baseball
The Long Ball, HR Leaders, Multi HR Gms, Consecutive Streaks MLB 2014
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
For Games Played Through June 9, 2014
Top 5 HR Leaders AL
Nelson Cruz, Orioles – 21
Edwin Encarnacion. Blue Jays – 20 (Homered June 9th)
Jose Abreu, White Sox – 18 (Homered June 9th)
Josh Donaldson, A’s – 17
Brandon Moss, A’s – 16 Read the rest of this entry
2014’s Top Home Run Hitters (MLB): HR Streaks (3 Active) (Puig, Dozier, Crawford) + Goldy’s Big Night)
Paul Goldschmidt carried the offense for the whole season in 2013 and also played stellar defense at first base for the DBacks. . He had a .302/.401/.952 triple-slash with 36 HRs and 125 RBIs – and this also included him having 332 Total Bases. He also led the National League in Extra-Base hits with 75 and was third in runs scored at 103. He finished 2nd in NL MVP Voting for his efforts. . In 2014, he has continued his assault on NL pitching, despite the club not faring as well. Heading into Sunday, he has a slash line of .324/.375/.571 – and leads the NL in GP (45) PA (202) AB (182) H (59) 2B (18) XBH (27) and TB (104) and is tied for 4th in HRs with 9.
Paul Goldschmidt absolutely obliterated Dodgers Pitching on Saturday night, touching them up for 2 HRs, 2 – 2B, 6 RBI 5 Runs, Added 12 Total Bases, and even walked once for good measure.
Goldschmidt also was the only MLB’er to smack 2 big flies yesterday. Furthermore he entered a logjam of players that are now tied for 4th place in the NL with Charlie Blackmon, Carlos Gomez, Brandon Belt, Justin Upton Adrian Gonzalez and Yasiel Puig.
Speaking of Puig, he hit a HR for a 2nd straight game, and his 4th smash over the fence of the week. He finds himself back in the top 5 in several offensive categories.
Troy Tulowitzki enjoyed home cooking again, with his 3 – 4 night, with his 12th HR to stay tied with other NL Leader Giancarlo Stanton.
Both Jose Bautista and Brian Dozier did yard work yesterday, to draw themselves in a tie for 3rd place each with Nelson Cruz of the Baltimore Orioles.
Current HR streaks that ended yesterday were Derek Dietrich at 2, and Josh Donaldson at 3 games straight, although the A’s 3B hit a Triple and added 3 RBI in the win versus the Indians in Cleveland Saturday. Read the rest of this entry
2014’s Top Home Run Hitters (MLB): HR Streaks (2 Active) (Donaldson-3,Dietrich-2) + Reddick WHAMS 2 Dingers FRI
Last year Josh Reddick was struggling mightily early in the year before he crushed a 3 HR game and a 2 HR game versus the Toronto Blue Jays at SkyDome in 2 straight days. .The LHB is a streaky hitter, but he has yet to duplicate his sustained success in the 2012 year, where he mashed 32 HRs for the whole season. If you look at his 2014 Slash Line, it looks a lot alike last campaign. 2013 – .226/.307/.379 – with 12 HRs and 56 RBI in 385 AB. HIs 2014 #s now are .236/.297/.386 – with 4 HRs and 18 RBI, which is just about a 1/3rd of the totals pace from last year in a 1/3rd of the Games Played..
Josh Reddick has broken out of his slump and pasted the ball over the last 3 games. His Grand Slam and 2 run HR effort last night, coupled with his HR a few nights ago, now give him 3 HRs on the year.
Reddick must continue his assault on pitching, as the team just picked up Kyle Blanks, and they are already armed with Coco Crisp, Yoenis Cespedes, Craig Gentry and Brandon Moss, all rotating through OF/DH/1B.
While Moss will see more action at the First Base Position, likely in a platoon with Blanks, both have capable ability to play RF like him.
Still for one night, it was good to see him rake the ball again, and all the Oakland fans are now bringing back the song ” Careless Whisper” by Wham, as it is the slugger’s walkup song.
Yeah, baseball players are not very superstitious are they? Read the rest of this entry
2014’s Top Home Run Hitters In The MLB: HR Streaks (3 Active): (Donaldson, Cruz, Morse) + EE IS Mashing!
Encarnacion has put together back to back great seasons in the middle of the Jays lineup, bashing out 42 HRs in 2012, and then knocking out another 36 in 2013. At just a contract extension of 3 YRs/$29 MIL for 2014 – 2016, the Jays MGMT can be happy with the sluggers value. EE started off slow in April with just one HR, although he has exploded for 7 in May already, and he has vaulted into the RBI race with 30 knocked in as well. Encarnacion is third in the Majors In HRs since the start of the 2012 season. Last night, he had his 2nd 2 HR game in 8 days. EE also has a 3 game HR streak this month as well.
Edwin Encarnacion had his 2nd Multi HR game of May already, and now after a slow start, has clubbed 8 HRs and added 30 RBI for the year.
Double EE has been one of the most consistent HR hitters in the MLB from the start of the 2012 campaign, as he trails only Miguel Cabrera (94 HRs) and Chris Davis (88 HRs) – with hit total tally of 86 Homers in that time frame.
Encarnacion hit 42 HRs in 2012, and nailed 36 of them last season.
In addition to his 2 Multi HR games, he also had HRs in 3 straight games earlier in this month.
Juan Francisco and he are carrying the club, with teams seemingly pitching around Jose Bautista.
Francisco himself as done yard work 7 times in just 82 AB this year. The new Blue Jays 3B has given them an infusion of offense.
It is kind of weird that the Brewers gave up on him – after this 27 Year Old, (who can play 1B/3B and PH) cracked 13 HRs and 32 RBI in his 240 AB for the 2013 Year.
The Brew Crew opted for Mark Reynolds, who was more expensive, but could potentially draw more walks. Both of them strike out a ton.
Anyways, Francisco had hit 20 HRs and added 50 RBI in his last 322 AB in the big leagues. This will suit the Canadian franchise just fine, even if his whiff rate his high.
It is funny how names continue to pop out within this organization. There was Juan Encarnacion, then Edwin Encarnacion.
Then you have Frank Francisco, Ben Francisco – and now Juan Francisco, which is a mix for Ben Francisco and Juan Encarnacion.
Of course they already have two Jose’s in Bautista and Reyes, and they also had Perez’s last year.
And I digress. Read the rest of this entry
2014’s Top HR Hitters In The MLB: HR Streaks (3 Active): (Ortiz, Solarte, Donaldson) + Abreu’s Monster Start In 2014
For the 2nd straight game David Ortiz clubbed 2 HRs against his former team the Twins. The big Red Sox DH now is tied for 2nd in the AL with 11 HRs (with Nelson Cruz). The 38 Year Old Designated Hitter is pulverizing the ball of late, and has shown no signs of slowing down. This bodes well for Boston, who can use the automatic advantage Ortiz gives them at a position that is struggling to find players that thrive in. The LHB has sipped champagne after winning 3 World Series with Boston, and with the way he is slugging of late, the Beantowners will be back atop the AL East Division rather shortly
David Ortiz not only hit jacks in 2 consecutive games, the ALL – Time DH HR leader hit 2 of them, in both Tuesday and Wednesday’s game.
For his efforts, he has tied for 2nd in AL HRs. The man keeps on ticking even at the age of 38.
Nelson Cruz blasted a shot that almost brought the O’s back in a game they trailed the Tigers 6 – 0. The O’s may have lost 7 – 5, but they continue to receive great play from this man.
Cruz was a bargain basement deal at 1 YR/$8 MIL, for a guy who is currently on pace to smash over 40 HRs, and drive in well over 120 RBI.
These are the kind of numbers the 33 Year Old was posting for the Rangers in 2013, before being placed on 50 game suspension for his part in the Biogenesis PED mess. Read the rest of this entry
2014’s Top Home Run Hitters In The MLB: AL/NL, HR Streaks (1 Active) + Multi HRs Games
Brandon Moss has unleashed some serious power in the Bay Area since becoming a member of the A’s. He has clubbed 59 HRs and added 172 RBI in just 844 AB. This means he is averaging a big fly for every 14.3 AB, and about an RBI every 4.90 AB. This is outstanding production. In 550 AB, he would club about 38 HRs and add about 112 RBI. Oakland has him under team control for 2015 and 2016 in Arbitration before he can hit Free Agency in 2017. Moss has 8 HRs (2 last night) and knocked in 33 this season – while carrying a 3 Slash of .286/.364/.526 – which is close to his .894 Lifetime OPS with the A’s,
Brandon Moss continued to raise his stock in the realms of the power hitting players pantheon Tuesday by doing yard work twice.
David Ortiz did all he could to help Boston win with a 2 HR effort. There you go, looking at his year numbers for 2014, as they bare resemblance to his career 3 Slash.
The only active MLB’er to carry HRs in consecutive games this day is Mets OF Curtis Granderson.
This fine gentlemen showed the New York fans what they are missing, as he has clubbed shots over the wall in back to back games.
Granderson had back to back 40+ HR campaigns with the Bronx Bombers, and will always be compared to Carlos Beltran in the next 3 years. They both have 5 HRs – and Granderson has 4 more RBI, while Beltran has better averages.
Beltran is also hurt now with a bone spur. The Yankes felt his postseason pedigree was the deciding factor of signing him over Granderson.
Both Ortiz and Victor Martinez climbed into the top 5 in HRs last evening.
All 5 HR streaks ended for the guys who had walked into the night from previous games – including C.J. Cron losing his consecutive games bid via pinch hitting against the Phillies. Read the rest of this entry
2014’s Top Home Run Hitters: AL/NL, HR Streaks (5 Active) + Multi HRs Games
There were a lot of HRs hit for how few games there were on a shortened Monday schedule last evening. Yasiel Puig hit a mammoth HR to erase a 2 run deficit into a lead.
The 2nd Year Dodger is on fire right now, and has hit back to back HRs in the last few games.
After a slower start, the 23 Year Old is now resembling the player he was last year, featuring a .318/.408/.551 3 Slash Line for the campaign – with 7 HRs and 29 RBI.
These totals put him on pace for about 33 HRs and 120 RBI for the year if he keeps it up. He will quickly be reengaged into the NL MVP Voting if his is the case. Read the rest of this entry
30 MLB Team Power Rankings: Week 7 – May 2014
The Mariners are 10 – 4 in their last 14 games – without receiving any outstanding play from one particular player. They are the biggest jumpers in this weeks rankings, going from #20 – #15. The club concludes a series vs the Kansas City Royals, before they welcome the Tampa Rays next into Safeco Field.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
We are almost at the quarter pole for action in the MLB.
The biggest mover and shakers this week were the Seattle Mariners, followed by Baltimore Orioles. LA Angels and San Francisco Giants.
Plummeting in the other directions were led by the Phils, who we dropped from 17th to 24th.
The Yankees, Nationals, Dodgers and Rangers all lost 4 places in the rankings based on sub-par weeks.
The AL New York franchise is about 1 bad week from free-falling to the AL East. Right now the team has received buoyancy because of ace Masahiro Tanaka being 5 – 0.
Brian McCann and Carlos Beltran are having a tough time finding their rhythm with the Bronx Bombers.
I believe the Dodgers will rectify their situation shortly and take off.
Washington is barely over .500 even though most of their players are playing to their capabilities.
The Royals offense is destroying their team morale, as is the Mets having a tough time with the Relief Core, and their Pitchers are still battling .000 for the year like you and me.
Oakland is still leading the MLB in wins since the start of the 2012 year.
The Red Sox are one of the most likely teams to climb the standings in the next few weeks.
With the Cards not playing well, keep in mind, 18 of the next 21 games reside in Busch Stadium for them. It is time to make some headway.
The AL has fashioned a 18 – 8 mark in Interleague this week to apply a 34 – 33 overall lead on the NL now.
The Rockies are blasting every baseball into orbit right now. These guys are hitting as well at home as the Pre-Humidor ERA. Read the rest of this entry
30 MLB Team Power Rankings: Week 6 – May. 2014
The Motown Boys won all 4 games they played this week and have opened up a 4 game lead on the Royals. This team has the easiest schedule left on the board. The squad also announced they have picked up Reliever Joel Hanrahan, This is a great depth move on their part, and insurance for the Closers position.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
As we enter the 2nd month of play in the Major League Baseball, we really start to delve into who is playing good and who is playing bad.
How about we begin with the National League holding a 26 – 17 record versus the American League in Interleague play.
The last stat is the main reason why there is only 3 teams out of the 15 with a positive Run Differential. (No team in the AL East has a club in the plus, and only the Tigers have one in the AL Central.
The Angels and A’s also yield nice Run Differentials – however a lot of that was from beating up the Houston Astros.
The NL possesses 9 clubs with a positive mark.
The NL East has all 5 teams with a .500 clip or better heading into today’s action. Read the rest of this entry
30 MLB Team Power Rankings: Week 5 – Apr. 2014
The Astros have helped pad the stats for teams like the A’s, Rangers and Angels offenses and Run Differentials so far in 2014, Having this cupcake team will definitely help your playoff chances with the weighted divisional play. I will be amazed if they finish out of last in the American League this year, and maybe only the Chicago Cubs will challenge them for the 1st overall pick again for the 2015 MLB Amateur Draft.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
We are now at the 13 – 14% pole of the MLB year. Parity is reigning supreme on the standings.
For the record, while I love the Milwaukee start, they are just too many variables for them to keep up this pace.
Don’t get me wrong, i think this team is capable of making the playoffs, winning 90 games, but it could be eliminated as fast as they have compiled this record.
Ryan Braun’s thumb could require surgery. Ramirez’s knee’s could fail him.
Considering last night’s situation with Braun and Gomez, that could alter the playing field for the NL.
The suspension laid down for the brawl with the Pirates could also sway some momentum. Good on Milwaukee for starting 18 – 6. I just think the Cards will track them down in the next 138 games. Read the rest of this entry
Triple Play Podcast Episode 2 Of 2014: Empire State Of Mind: NYM + NYY + TOR Chat
The Triple Play Show will have 2 shows per month. Each show will be about 1 hour. Chuck Booth will guest once a month for MLB Reports Power Rankings,
By The Big Ticket Show ( AKA Triple Play Podcast on http://www.mlbreports.com) Follow @bigticketshow
Mike Silva (Radio Host 1240 AM WGBB, Long Island New York – 19 Minute Mark and a 31 Min segment) ) Follow @mikesilvamedia
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
New York, New York big city of dreams where not everything is as it seems, so we had Mike Silva (http://www.mikesilvamedia.com)of WGBB1240 AM break down the Mets and a bit of the Yankees + our new Mt .Flushmore segment. Read the rest of this entry
30 MLB Team Power Rankings: April
The Tigers fought off a tough KC club in the 1st series and now have battled their own bullpen and injury woes against the Orioles – to be the only unbeaten team left in the MLB a. Add that to one of the weaker divisions, and you see the #1 ranked team in our list this week.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Well, we have seen one week come and go. It is important to realize that only about 3% of the entire season has gone by.
People tend to panic when their team isn’t doing so well, and some fanbases are ready to project their club as a playoff contender.
While it is still a good idea never to bury yourself with a bad first few week or 2, as long as you are hovering around the .500 clip, you should be fine.
How we do these rankings at the MLB Reports is based on 1 thing. The chances of the club winning the World Series.
After all, that is why we have 45 days of Spring Training, 186 days in the regular season, and another 30 or so in the playoffs.
Some teams will have their number predicated on the strength of their divisions are not.
Nearly 47% of any teams schedule is within their own division. So the AL East and NL West would be tough divisions.
The NL East and AL Central have 2 playoff contenders in each division, while 3 teams may be easier opponents. Read the rest of this entry
The Game Odds Are Posted For Opening Series MLB 2014 in Sydney: Dodgers Vs Dbacks + Picks
Clayton Kershaw gets the nod in Sydney, Australia for the MLB opener. He may also pitch the MLB North American Opener next Sunday in San Diego, before potentially throwing 5 days later for the Dodgers Season Opener. This could mean he Starts 3 of the clubs 6 games. If Greinke follows him in SD, that could mean 5 Starts for these guys in the teams first 8 games, with potentially Ryu also throwing 2 starts in. For those people who don’t think this season starter in Australia could benefit the Dodgers, think again. They could lead the NL West for every day of the 2014 season, and could net 3 wins before anyone in the NL West or MLB in total has their 1st victory.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Chuck Booth gave me this mission to kick of the year writing this article. We both come from a long history of predicting outcomes of games.
Some years we have done well, and some years have not been okay.
It has been researched and studied that Doubleheaders have a high probability of seeing a split for the 2 games.
You throw in the neutral site factor of this series, and all home field advantage is thrown out the window.
Chuck nailed the prediction of what they would put the game odds for the 2 games – based on the Starting Pitchers. Read the rest of this entry
White Sox What Ifs: 2014
Jose Abreu signed the most lucrative contract for an international signee in MLB history – at 6 YRs/$68 MIL, before Tanaka eclipsed his deal (7 YRs/$155 MIL). He’ll more than likely start the 2014 season with the big club, rather than starting in the minors. He’ll spend most of his time at first base, with (more than likely) some occasional starts at DH.
By ‘White Sox Correspondent’ Brian Madsen Follow @brianm731
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Let’s play a game. Let’s play “White Sox What Ifs” 2014 version. And let’s assume that if 7 out of these 10 What Ifs come to fruition, our White Sox are going to the postseason in 2014. So let’s start….
(1.) What If Adam Eaton becomes the on-base machine it appears he could be so far in Spring Training? The White Sox haven’t had a lead-off hitter of his caliber since Scott Podsednik.
Not only can Eaton get on base with regularity, he can steal bases. He can stretch singles into doubles, and doubles into triples. He’s everything a lead off hitter should be. And he can bunt. Enough said.
Your mouth waters with just the above? Wait. He can play defense, unlike your beloved Scotty Pods (who also had the limp arm of an 8 year old). Eaton possesses similar daredevil-type maneuvers that Aaron Rowand possessed.
Though Rowand would often mis-judge fly balls and make up for it with above average speed in CF to make a great catch,
Eaton has the speed and instincts to make a great grab in front of him, to his left or right, and over the shoulder. Very excited! Read the rest of this entry
Los Angeles Dodgers State Of The Union: 2014 Preview
Clayton Kershaw agreed to a 7 YRs/$215 MIL extension in the offseason – that will run through the years of 2014 – 2020 with the LA Dodgers. The deal is slated for an opt out clause after the 2018 season by Kershaw, when he will be only 30 years old. This is the greatest single Annual Average Salary ALL – Time of $30.7 MIL per annum, and is the 6th biggest contract ever in the history of the MLB. Last year was his most dominant to date, with a 16 – 9 record, an NL Leading 1.83 ERA and 232 SO. The about to be 26 Year Old, also nailed down his 2nd NL Cy Young win in 3 years, and the other year he was the runner up in that time frame. He may be the single most important player to any franchise in the National League. Kershaw is the 3 time reigning NL ERA champ.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The Dodgers are beginning year 2 of potentially a half-dozen years of dominance. They have a team filled with ALL – Stars, superior Starting Pitching, and have deep pockets to seal the deal with necessary changes.
The NL West might be stronger this year with more competitive rosters from the D’Backs, Rockies and Giants, yet I still think the Dodger Blue will pulverize the competition, particularly in their own division.
Our Chief Writer Hunter Stokes wrote a great article on the Dodgers taking the 1st few series of the year not as seriously as the rest of the year here.
I fully agree with his stance, yet I don’t think it will make much of a difference.
Injuries aside this team is ready to take down the National League. Read the rest of this entry
The Dodgers On Field Management Should Be Showing As Much Urgency As The D’Backs For The 2014 MLB Opening Series!
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
I started talking about something in my Power Rankings yesterday and it festered with me all day until I decided to expand on the subject a little more today.
As I was listening to XM Radio explain that Kirk Gibson was going to start Patrick Corbin and Trevor Cahill in the 1st 2 games of the MLB Season in Australia, the Dodgers have been quiet to name a starter.
I wrote a few months back, that I would like to have seen them throw Clayton Kershaw for that opener, pitch versus the San Diego Padres a week later, and to conclude with the Dodger Stadium Opener.
We all know now that Zack Greinke won’t even be making the trip due to health concerns.
I understand that one fully, but don’t sit there and tell me that the 2 time NL Cy Young Winner is now going to throw in either of the 1st 2 games. Read the rest of this entry
30 MLB Team Power Rankings MAR 2014
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Okay, not much has changed in the last month.
They are about 20 unsigned Free Agents left in the open market pool, Baltimore inked Nelson Cruz and Ubaldo Jimenez – and Chris Capuano is with the Red Sox, Paul Maholm replaces him LA for the 2014 campaign.
Of note of the things I am watching in Spring Training. The Dodger Blue is also experiencing many injuries – and Yasiel Puig showed up to camp overweight.
LA is talking about not sending Clayton Kershaw and Zack Greinke to Australia in a few weeks.
I can understand with the RHP because he was yanked after four pitches last week, but withholding your star ace from the season opener, and possibly the North America starter the following week. Read the rest of this entry
The Top 5 Players In Baseball
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
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It should come as no shock for anyone on this list. Notice how I did not mention the MVP word anywhere in the Title.
This is solely for the purpose of pushing Mike Trout on the list.
In terms of all around play, there is no doubt in most experts minds, that the 22 Year Old is best overall player in the game of baseball.
If you are picking it just solely on a hitter, I am still giving the nod to Miguel Cabrera. Read the rest of this entry
“Mr. Puig” And “Mr. Montero” More Namely: Step Away From The Buffet Table In The Offseason!
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
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It happens to a few guys every year. Seldomly does it threaten to plague a guys career.
I can think of Carl Everett blossoming over his transition to the 2005 World Series White Sox win, to a big man in Seattle, who could hardly swing his hips around.
We remember how big Kevin Mitchell became after he was in such phenomenal condition early in his career. But 40 pounds overweight like Jesus Montero waddled into the Mariners Spring Training? C’mon Man!
The only happy guy out of this news has to be Yasiel Puig, who is donning the scales 26 LBS heavier than when we saw him last. Read the rest of this entry
MLB Futures (Regular Season Prop Specials): Gambling 101
Get set for another season of throwing some cash around when it comes to baseball. MLB Reports will have you ready with what we are looking at as well.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
We all love to see if we can be a good gambler right?
Of course some of it is just bragging rights with our buddies, and of course no one is allowed to gamble in the USA, unless you are living in a state that allows it either.
So, whether you want to just play for winning amongst friends, or actually want to risk some sheckels, here are some fun specials to wager on in 2014 Read the rest of this entry
Bold Predictions For MLB Players/Teams In 2014
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
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It is time for bold predictions for players in 2014. I personally think it is going to be the most exciting season ever in the MLB.
My enthusiasm is tempered a little by the high payroll teams starting to flex their muscles around.
When will the MLB wake up and realize they should have a more equal playing field for the teams?
Anyways that is a different blog for another time. Read the rest of this entry
The Lighter Side Of The MLB: Memories, Characters And Things That Make Me Laugh
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Okay, the MLB has has had their fair share of characters and memories that illustrate how funny some things are. We all like to blow these up on social media circles.
In this article, I just wanted to share some of these occurrences I have found amusing – also some of things that have cracked up some of our writers at this website.
Of course, we also have Paul Sullivan (AKA Sully) who usually makes people laugh once a podcast because he is a former comedian.
Some of his things that make us laugh are: “Did you know that Mariano Rivera is retiring?” diatribes and explaining WAR to novice baseball people is also classic.
Sully likes to emphasize that he understands sabermetrics, but several other of our listeners have cracked up at his pronunciation of BABIP. Read the rest of this entry
Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – February 4, 2014
(Photo by Stephen Dunn/Getty Images)
Don Mattingly might be batting Yasiel Puig in the leadoff spot. I think it is a great idea and could mean a change in attitude that I completely embrace.
Talking lead off hitting on this episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.
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Los Angeles Dodgers Payroll In 2014 + Contracts Going Forward: Updated For Kershaw Deal
The Dodgers already have salary commitments that are over $225 Million now – with the $$ given to their reigning NL Cy Young Winner. Kenley Jansen and A.J. Ellis have yet to be paid in Arbitration. The club will certainly pass last years $235 MIL plus payroll. By doing the Kershaw deal also does not prevent them from trying to sign Masahiro Tanaka either. Last year, the Dodgers paid out around $10 MIL for their part in going over the Luxury Tax Threshold for the 1st time – at a 17.5% penalty. Under the current CBA, even if the team went to $300 MIL for 2014, they would only have to dole out roughly $25 MIL in penalties for a 2nd time offender. LAD have taken full advantage of the salary structure – and don’t look for them to relent any time soon. In 2014, the club will pay a 22.5% penalty for every buck spent over $189 MIL.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
I wrote an article just 16 months ago on how the LA Dodgers were going to force the economics of baseball the way they were conduct business with the new ownership.
As someone who has worked the majority of the time on the site for the last 3 years, I take great pride in my research. So far it has worked out.
The Dodgers following what I said is nice vindication as a writer.
I am not here to toot my own horn, but our website was also on the forefront of the Athletics renaissance a few years back, the Rays coming back to fight in the 2013 year, and also we were one of the 1st to report the Shields for Myers deal.
2013 NLDS Post Season highlights – Mature Lyrics so Parental Guidance is Advised
“The Record” Clayton Kershaw Contract By The Numbers: How It All Stacks Up
Clayton Kershaw has agreed to a 7 YRs/$215 MIL extension – that will run through the years of 2014 – 2020 with the LA Dodgers. The deal is slated for an opt out clause after the 2018 season by Kershaw, when he will be only 30 years old. The terms go like this for years. 2014: $22 MIL ( $18 MIL signing bonus is part of that), 2015: $30 MIL, 2016: $32 MIL, 2017 and 2018 he will earn $33 MIL). From here that will have been $150 MIL for the 1st 5 years of the contract. If Kershaw remains past this, the deal pays $32 MIL in 2019 – and finally $33 MIL in 2020.
Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): Follow @stokes_hunter21
Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The verdict is in. Clayton Kershaw has agreed to a 7 YR Extension for $215 Million.
It is the highest Annual Average Contract ($30.7 MIL) in the history of Major League Baseball, topping A-Rod’s previously set deal worth $27.5 MIL.
The deal is also the richest contract ever in Pitching history – surpassing Justin Verlander’s 7 YRs/$180 MIL extension from 2013 – 2019.
It is the 6th highest deal ever in the MLB, and Kershaw becomes the 7th player ever to receive a contract north of $200 MIL.
Clayton Kershaw Highlights 2013
Updated Odds To Win The 2014 MLB World Series As Of Right Now: A – Rod Suspension Could Affect These
People so egotistical as Rodriguez can’t be humble enough to realize that playing MLB Baseball is a privilege not a right. He has sullied the game, alienating teammates, and now has sent his lawyers on a stupid campaign versus the MLB and the Yankees. It was time to make an example out of him. They did just that when the Arbitrator reduced his suspension from 211 games to 162 games. While it wasn’t the full amount of games, it was 97 more than Ryan Braun’s previous record of a 65 game ban. The Yankees will save $22 – $23 MIL on the ordeal, and will either sign Tanaka or stay under the $189 MIL mark to reset their penalty for the 2015 season. Patrick Smith – Getty Images
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
With a pretty slow week for movements in the MLB, I think the Yankees had the best news with the Alex Rodriguez suspension for the whole year on Saturday.
The worst news of the week happened for the Texas Rangers, who will be without Starting Derek Holland for half of the 2014 MLB campaign because of his freak accident.
Also, the Dodgers and Yankees are still said to be the leaders on the Masahiro Tanaka sweepstakes.
Among other news, Carlos Gonzalez also had emergency appendectomy surgery Friday Night.
While I have recently said Colorado is decent value at their World Series odd (+5500 as a good value pick), I would hold off until the team plays in Spring Training to see how he responds.
Alex Rodriguez Suspension Announced
The Los Angeles Dodgers Players In All Organizational Affiliates, Prospects + Depth Charts (MLB + MiLB) 2014
Puig slowed down a shade from his torrid 1st month pace – however still slashed .319/.392/.925 – with 19 HRs, 42 RBI. 66 Runs Scored and 122 Hits in just 434 AB for the 2013 year. He has now in the 2nd YR of a 7 YR/$42 MIL contract in his pocket, and that may be the bargain of ALL – Time if he continues these type of numbers all the way throughout his length of the deal. Puig, 23, finished in 2nd for NL Rookie of The Year Voting, and placed 15th in NL MVP balloting as well.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024 & Jeff Kleiner (Org. Depth Chart Expert) Follow @prosportsroster
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The Los Angeles Dodgers had a rollercoaster 2013 campaign. After a late season 2012 trade, the club went on a spending bonanza to enter the 2013 year.
In late May. it looked bleak. The franchise wanted to fire Don Mattingly, Matt Kemp and Hanley Ramirez were battling various injuries, and the club was 23 – 32.
Enter Yasiel Puig with his historic 1st month, and the team then went on a torrid pace at that hadn’t been done in nearly 60 years.
The crux of this crestwave, was a 42 – 8 stretch that saw the club bypass all 4 Division foes, putting a stranglehold on the NL West once and for all.
Dodgers own the West
Atlanta Braves Payroll in 2014 + Contracts Going Forward Part 1
It would be one thing if B.J. Upton were the only player on the Braves who had an abysmal season. When you add the injuries and the season of Dan Uggla to Upton worst year of his career, it is actually amazing this team ended with 96 Wins. With the club losing Brian McCann, Paul Maholm and Tim Hudson, they will need Upton and CO. to rebound for the team to contend again in 2014. Upton has to get back to 20/20 years for powers and steals, and at least hit to 85% of his career 3 slash – to justify the contract doled out by the Atlanta Braves. Uggla must correct his vision problems and get back to raking again. These 2 guys are the #2 and #3 paid guys on the squad in 2014 behind Justin Upton.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024 & Jeff Kleiner (Org. Depth Chart/Payroll Expert) Follow @prosportsroster
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
The ‘Tomahawk Choppers’ have 2 players that are killing them for Free Agent signings this winter.
B.J. Upton is only in the 2nd year of his 5 YRs/$75 MIL – and underachieving Dan Uggla is still on the books for 2 more years.
Between these 2 gentleman, they will bring down $26.25 MIL in 2014. The Braves are hoping for more than under the ‘Mendoza Line’ Batting Averages – and an occasional big fly.
The Braves are also headed to Arbitration with Freddie Freeman, Jason Heyward and Craig Kimbrel. This is certainly bound to cost the organization a pretty penny.
In fact, those 3 players will likely exceed the amount of the B.J Upton and Uggla contracts.
Craig Kimbrel 2013 Highlights – Mature Lyrics Parental Guidance Is Advised:
Odds To Win The 2014 MLB World Series + Around The MLB Horn For Quick Team Wish Lists
The Red Sox may have won the 2013 World Series, but they are not the 2014 favorites. No team has repeated since the Yankees won 3 straight titles from 1998 – 2000.
By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner): Follow @chuckbooth3024
Follow MLB Reports On Twitter Follow @mlbreports
Now that the Boston Red Sox have won the 2013 World Series, the oddsmakers have already dropped them, plus fellow 2013 Fall Classic Participants (St. Louis) to be tied for the 3rd seed, with the Washington Nationals.
A massive surprise on the list are the Los Angeles Angels, who will have the 6th favorite slot to win the World Series at +1400.
If you are looking for value, you should consider the Reds (Tied for the 8th seed) at +1600. They are merely a few players, and perhaps a few tweaks from going far in one of these playoffs.
2013 World Series Champion – Red Sox
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