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Who Owned Baseball May 7, 2017 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2017 #WOB Standings

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UPI

Tommy Pham got 4 hits, two of them homers including a 2 run shot in extra innings to give the Cardinals a 6-4 victory in Atlanta.

Scott Feldman threw a complete game 4 hit shutout, striking out 5 Giants and earning the 4-0 decision for the Reds.

Sandy Leon hit a pair of 2 run homers and helped the Red Sox break open a close game into a 17-6 blow out in Minnesota.

Luis Severino struck out 9 Cubs in 7 innings, allowing only 1 run. He did not get the win but the Yankees topped the Cubs 5-4 in an 18 inning marathon.

They all owned baseball on May 7, 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.

Atlantis Casino Wagers For 2017 MLB Win Totals

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The old adage here is ‘you want to know the truth, follow the money.

We have been talking projections for win totals in the upcoming MLB Year on a all offseason basis here at the MLB Reports. While we agreed a lot with the fangraphs.com prognostications, we had a problem with Baseball Prospectis’s PECOTA System yet again.

In the 1st total listed below are the official Win/Loss Over/Unders For All 30 MLB Clubs posted by Atlantis Casino.

We have to say that they pretty much mirrored what we have on the board for our projections.

Casino’s have a vested interest since it will cost them serious money if there are poor predictions.

In the last week, we have seen the Royals ink Travis Wood, but more importantly Alex Reyes was lost for the season by the Cardinals due to his upcoming Tommy John Surgery. Read the rest of this entry

5 MLB Teams That Could Be Real Contenders – Or Real Pretenders In 2017

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Each year we are enlightened to a few surprises in the MLB we were not expecting.  This year there are 5 teams that seem could flip either way based on the talent coming to fruition.

We tried to pick a club for each Division here, but simply couldn’t come out with a AL Central team.

Tampa Bay Rays:

With Alex Cobb potentially coming back healthy to the rotation that features Chris Archer and Jake Odorizzi already. the Rays will have decent chuckers to start this campaign.

Add Blake Snell, Matt Andriese and recently acquired Jose DeLeon (who should contribute quality innings this campaign and all of a sudden this club doesn’t look too shabby for depth.

The Relief Core is also solid if Brad Boxberger can reclaim his form, and see a similar year for Alex Colome.

Evan Longoria,  and Brad Miller both put forth 30 HR seasons in 2016, and Matt Duffy may prove to be a decent Batting Average guy at Shortstop now.

The Rays Outfield will feature Kevin keirmaier, Mallex Smith, Corey Dickerson and Steven Souza, while one of those guys may also see some time at Designated Hitter. Read the rest of this entry

The New Luxury Tax Threshold Means The Top 11 Salaried Clubs Will All Be Affected In The Present + Future

The Dodgers have spent over $300 MIL in back to back years, and are the clubhouse leaders in Luxury Tax penalties paid. At a 50% penalty, the Los Angeles forked out $40 MIL in Luxury Taxes in 2016. With an estimated $193 MIL payroll - considering there are several roster holes now created by departing players, the team will need to spend around $235 MIL in 2017 total payroll. With a 50% penalty - and an additional 40$ hit for going $40 MIL over the new $195 MIL limit in 2017, I highly expect the organization will be less willing to spend 90 cents extra for every dollar spent beyond that.

The Dodgers have spent over $300 MIL on salary in back to back years, and are the clubhouse leaders in Luxury Tax penalties paid in that time frame. At a 50% penalty currently until falling under the limit for a year, the Los Angeles forked out $40 MIL in Luxury Taxes in 2016. With an estimated $193 MIL payroll already is signed and team controlled players – considering there are several roster holes now created by departing guys, the team will need to spend around $235 MIL in 2017 total payroll in order to be competitive.. With a 50% penalty – and an additional 45% hit for going $40 MIL over the new $195 MIL limit in 2017, I highly expect the organization will be less willing to spend 90 cents extra for every dollar spent beyond that.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

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With the new CBA being tentatively signed yesterday through 2021 – the lower payroll teams will finally see some steeper enforcement of higher payroll squads.

With several penalties that range up to a 90% max penalty for spending over the limit, the dollars finally make sense for the MLB to curtail a team going rogue on their payroll spending.

Under the new deal, the format will jump from a team’s AAV (Average Annual Value) limit of $189 MIL to $195 MIL in 2017, $197 MIL in 2018, $206 MIL in 2019,  $208 MIL in 2020 and $210 MIL on 2021.

The penalty for a 1st year abuser went from 12.5% to 20%, The 2nd year Still remains at 30%, the 3rd season escalates from 40% previously to 50% already.  Each campaign the team is over following 3 years, the team is nailed for 50% of money spent over the limit.

Additionally, the franchise will pay a fee of 12% for spending between $20 MIL to $40 MIL over the Threshold. 

If a organization goes $40 MIL over, they are faced with a surcharge of 42%.

3rd time abusers will pay 45% for every dollar doled out past $40 MIL over.

This means a 1st time penalty would still spank a team to the tune of 60% if a club spends more than $40 MIL over the limit. Read the rest of this entry

Who Owned Baseball September 20, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

 

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ROB FOLDY/GETTY IMAGES

Jose Fernandez struck out 12 Nationals over 8 innings of 3 hit shutout ball and earned the 1-0 decision for Miami.

Matt Boyd allowed only 1 run and 3 hits over 8 frames and led the Tigers to an 8-1 beating of Minnesota.

Odubel Herrera went 3 for 4 with a homer, 3 RBI and 2 stolen bases to help the Phillies edge the White Sox, 7-6.

Edwin Encarnacion homered and doubled, driving in 3 as the Blue Jays clobbered the Mariners, 10-2.

They all owned baseball on September 20, 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 8/20/16

P- Max Scherzer (vs. Atlanta Braves): $13,600. Everyday is a good day to start Max Scherzer, unless he isn’t starting of course. In 162 career at bats against Scherzer, the Braves’ lineup is batting .204, with a .267 OBP, and a .358 slugging percentage. As you can tell by the numbers, they have not faired well against this righty. Over the last seven days the Braves’ offense has a .717 OPS, which ranks 26th in Major League Baseball.

P- Matt Moore (vs. New York Mets): $8,400. Over his last 13 starts, Moore has gone at least six innings, which is great for any daily fantasy league. Over the last seven days, the Mets have a .740 OPS, which ranks 24th in Major League Baseball. They also rank in the bottom third of the league in almost every offensive category against left-handed pitchers in 2016. The Mets have struggled offensively all year long, so hopefully that continues against Moore on Saturday.

 

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Who Owned Baseball August 17, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

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WILL VRAGOVIC | Tampa Bay Times

Chris Archer threw shutout ball into the 8th, finishing with 7 1/3 scoreless frames, striking out 9 Padres and earning the 2-0 decision for the Rays.

Carlos Martinez needed only 79 pitches to give the Cardinals 7 innings, allowing 1 run and 3 hits and got the 8-2 win in Houston.

Yasmany Tomas homered twice and tripled, driving in 6 and helped propel the Diamondbacks past the Mets, 13-5.

Adam Eaton got a pair of hits including a 9th inning come from behind go ahead grand slam that gave the White Sox a stunning 10-7 victory in Cleveland.

They All Owned Baseball on August 17, 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 July 26, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

 

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ORLIN WAGNER/AP

Yunel Escobar reached base 6 times, including a double and helped the Angels throttle the World Champion Royals, 13-0.

Tyler Skaggs pitched his first big league game since 2014 and threw 7 shutout innings, allowing just 3 Royals hits and cruised to an easy 13-0 decision for the Angels.

Brandon Crawford collected 3 hits, including a triple, scoring 2 and driving in 2, to help clinch a 9-7 San Francisco win over the Reds.

Bud Norris gave the Dodgers 6 1/3 shutout innings, allowing 2 hits and struck out 6 Rays, earning the 3-2 victory.

They All Owned Baseball on July 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.

In Memoriam Video For all baseball family who have passed since 2015 ASG.

 

Earning 1/2 WOBs:

Marwin Gonzalez hit a pair of homers in the Astros 6-3 loss to the Yankees.

Ervin Santana threw a complete game, allowing 2 runs and walking none. But he took a hard luck loss as the Twins were blanked by the Braves, 2-0.

Adam Duvall homered twice, driving in 3 but the Reds fell short in San Francisco, 9-7.

Jerad Eickhoff struck out 8 in 7 innings, surrendering 1 run. He took the loss as Philadelphia were topped by Miami, 5-0.

 

2016 WOB Leaders for the National League Hitters,

Freddie Freeman, 5 1/2,

Daniel Murphy, 5 1/2,

Nolan Arenado, 4 1/2,

Trevor Story, 4 1/2,

Kris Bryant, 4,

Chris Carter, 4,

Melvin Upton Jr., 4,

Starling Marte, 3 1/2,

Marcell Ozuna, 3 1/2,

Gregory Polanco, 3 1/2,

Brandon Belt, 3,

Jay Bruce, 3,

Matt Carpenter, 3,

DJ LeMahieu, 3,

Nick Markakis, 3,

Andrew McCutchen, 3,

Wilson Ramos, 3,

Brandon Crawford, 2 1/2,

Wil Myers, 2 1/2,

Chase Utley, 2 1/2,

Aledmys Diaz, 2,

Carlos Gonzalez, 2,

Odubel Herrera, 2,

Aaron Hill, 2,

Tommy Joseph, 2,

Matt Kemp, 2,

Jake Lamb, 2,

Yangervis Solarte, 2,

Giancarlo Stanton, 2,

Ichiro Suzuki, 2,

Yasmany Tomas, 2,

Justin Turner, 2,

Michael Bourn, 1 1/2,

Michael Conforto, 1 1/2,

Maikel Franco, 1 1/2,

Adonis Garcia, 1 1/2,

Paul Goldschmidt, 1 1/2,

Curtis Granderson, 1 1/2,

Jeremy Hazelbaker, 1 1/2,

Cesar Hernandez, 1 1/2,

Chris Herrmann, 1 1/2,

Mark Reynolds, 1 1/2,

Corey Seager,1 1/2,

Jean Segura, 1 1/2,

Christian Yelich, 1 1/2,

 

2016 WOB Leaders for the National League Pitcher,

Clayton Kershaw, 7,

Jose Fernandez, 6 1/2,

Max Scherzer, 6,

Stephen Strasburg, 6,

Jon Lester, 5 1/2,

Jake Arrieta, 5,

Madison Bumgarner, 5,

Drew Pomeranz, 4 1/2, (NL ONLY)

Jeremy Hellickson, 4,

Bartolo Colon, 3 1/2,

Johnny Cueto, 3 1/2,

Jacob deGrom, 3 1/2,

Steven Matz, 3 1/2,

Noah Syndergaard, 3 1/2, (1 as hitter)

Julio Teheran, 3 1/2,

Francisco Liriano, 3,

Kenta Maeda, 3,

Jeff Samardzija, 3,

Adam Conley, 2 1/2,

 

2016 WOB Leaders for American League Hitter,

Jose Altuve, 5,

Mookie Betts, 5,

Robinson Cano, 4,

George Springer, 4,

Khris Davis, 3 1/2,

Miguel Cabrera, 3,

Josh Donaldson, 3,

Ian Kinsler, 2 1/2,

Manny Machado, 3 1/2,

Dustin Pedroia, 3 1/2,

Victor Martinez, 3,

Rougned Odor, 3,

Nelson Cruz, 2 1/2,

Edwin Encarnacion, 2 1/2,

Eric Hosmer, 2 1/2,

Evan Longoria, 2 1/2,

David Ortiz, 2 1/2,

Michael Saunders, 2 1/2,

Kurt Suzuki, 2 1/2,

Mike Trout, 2 1/2,

Jackie Bradley Jr., 2,

Lonnie Chisenhall, 2,

Chris Davis, 2,

Ryan Goins, 2,

Brandon Guyer, 2,

Jose Ramirez, 2,

Steven Souza Jr., 2,

Mark Trumbo, 2,

Justin Upton, 2,

Danny Valencia, 2,

Carlos Beltran, 1 1/2,

Xander Bogaerts, 1 1/2,

Melky Cabrera, 1 1/2,

Lorenzo Cain, 1 1/2,

Carlos Correa, 1 1/2,

Cheslor Cuthbert, 1 1/2,

Rajai Davis, 1 1/2,

Brian Dozier, 1 1/2,

Jarrod Dyson, 1 1/2,

Yunel Escobar, 1 1/2,

Todd Frazier, 1 1/2,

Brett Lawrie, 1 1/2,

Adam Lind, 1 1/2,

Kendrys Morales, 1 1/2,

Trevor Plouffe, 1 1/2,

Colby Rasmus, 1 1/2,

Jonathan Schoop, 1 1/2,

Stephen Vogt, 1 1/2,

2016 WOB Leaders for American League Pitcher,

Corey Kluber 9,

Chris Sale, 4 1/2,

Hector Santiago, 4 1/2,

Rich Hill, 4,

Colby Lewis, 4,

David Price, 4,

Jose Quintana, 3 1/2,

Aaron Sanchez, 3 1/2,

Matt Shoemaker, 3 1/2,

Trevor Bauer, 3,

Carlos Carrasco, 3,

Michael Fulmer, 3,

J.A. Happ, 3,

Dallas Keuchel, 3,

Danny Salazar, 3,

Ervin Santana, 3,

Steven Wright, 3,

Danny Duffy, 2 1/2,

Doug Fister, 2 1/2,

Ian Kennedy, 2 1/2,

Matt Moore, 2 1/2,

Marcus Stroman, 2 1/2,

Justin Verlander, 2 1/2,

Edinson Volquez, 2 1/2,

Nathan Eovaldi, 2,

Kevin Gausman, 2,

Kendall Graveman, 2,

Cole Hamels, 2,

Wade Miley, 2,

Yordano Ventura, 2,

Jordan Zimmermann, 2,

Matt Boyd, 1 1/2,

Marco Estrada, 1 1/2,

Sonny Gray, 1 1/2,

Derek Holland, 1 1/2,

Sean Manaea, 1 1/2,

Jake Odorizzi, 1 1/2,

Masahiro Tanaka, 1 1/2,

Chris Tillman, 1 1/2,

 

Guys Who Have Multi League WOBs,

James Shields 2 (Padres 1, White Sox 1)

 

Guys Who Owned Baseball For One Day In 2016 MLB,

( Pedro Alvarez, Chase Anderson, Matt Andriese, Elvis AndrusChris Archer, Javier Baez,  Adrian Beltre,  Justin Bour, Trevor Brown, Nick Castellanos, Welington Castillo, Jhoulys Chacin, Tyler Chatwood, Gerrit Cole, Hank Conger, C.J. Cron, Jorge De La Rosa, Anthony DeSclafaniTyler Duffey, Adam Duval, Adam Eaton, Jacoby Ellsbury, Danny Espinosa, Wilmer Flores, Evan Gattis, Kyle Gibson, Conor Gillaspie, Mychal Givens, Tyler Goeddel, Miguel Gonzalez, Yasmani Grandal, Junior Guerra, A.J. Griffin, Jedd Gyorko, Jesse Hahn, Jason Hammel, Bryce Harper, Will HarrisChase Headley, Adeiny Hechavarria, Enrique Hernandez, Kyle HendricksMatt Holliday,  Brock Holt, Phil Hughes, Jon Jay, Matt Joyce, Jason Kipnis, Tom Koehler, Mat Latos, Wade LeBlanc, Dae-Ho Lee, Jed Lowrie, Russell Martin, J.D. Martinez, Nomar Mazara, Brian McCannBrandon McCarthy,  Collin McHugh, Jordy Mercer, Brad Miller, Charlie Morton, Brandon Moss, Tyler Naquin, Ricky Nolasco, Bud Norris, Joe Panik, Chris Parmelee, James Paxton, Jake Peavy, Joc Pederson, David Phelps, Michael Pineda, Martin Prado, Albert PujolsAlexei Ramirez, Josh Reddick, Colin Rea, Anthony Rizzo, Alex Rodriguez, Eddie Rosario, Ryan Rua, Cameron Rupp, Carlos Santana, Marcus Semien, Travis Shaw, James Shields (AL ONLY), James Shields (NL ONLY), Tyler Skaggs, Drew Smyly, Blake SnellEugenio Suarez, Jameson Taillon, Chris TaylorTroy Tulowitzki, Luis Valbuena, Vincent Velasquez, Neil Walker, Taijuan Walker, Jered Weaver, Jayson Werth, Tyler White, Matt Wieters, Alex Wood, David Wright, Ryan Zimmerman, Ben Zobrist, )

Guys Who Owned Earned 1/2 A WOB 2016 MLB,

( Jose Abreu, Matt Adams, Oswaldo Arcia, Cody Asche, Erick Aybar, Darwin Barney, Jose Bautista, Gordon Beckham, Brandon Belt, Peter Bourjos, Ryan Braun, Marlon Byrd, Matt Cain, Kole Calhoun, Francisco Cervelli, Robinson ChirinosCoco Crisp, Zach DaviesIvan De Jesus, Ian Desmond, Chris Devenski, R.A. Dickey, Brandon Drury, Lucas Duda, Brett Eibner, Scott Feldman, Brandon Finnegan, Mike Foltynewicz, Dexter Fowler, Christian Friedrich, Adonis Garcia, Oswaldo Garcia, Matt Garza, Scooter Gennett, Johnny Giavotella Gio Gonzalez, Marwin Gonzalez, Alex Gordon, Dee Gordon, Didi Gregorius, Billy Hamilton, Matt Harvey, Hisashi Iwakuma, Kenley JansenAdam Jones, Kevin Kiermaier, Hyun Soo Kim, Ketel Marte, Michael Martinez, Kris Medlen, Taylor Motter, Logan Morrison, Kirk Nieuwenhuis, Ivan Nova, Eduardo Nunez, Angel Pagan, Byung-ho Park, Jarrett Parker, Gerardo Parra, David Peralta, Hernan Perez, Tommy PhamStephen Piscotty, Buster PoseyAlex PresleyHanley Ramirez, J.T. Realmuto, Jose Reyes, Carlos Rodon, CC Sabathia, Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Danny Santana, Kyle Seager, Mallex Smith, Dan Straily, Michael Taylor, Devon Travis, Nick Tropeano, Jose Urena, Cesar Vargas, Carlos Villanueva, Jonathan Villar, Joey Votto, Adam Warren, Matt Wisler, )

Sully baseball hosts a 20 Min Daily Podcast https://mlbreports.com/2013/04/27/sully-baseball-daily-podcast-april-27-2013/

Sully’ Baseball (Paul Francis Sullivan) hosts a 20 Minute Daily Podcast Every Day – 365 Days a Year – unless its a Leap Year – and then he is going to do another one.

Check out Sully Baseball’s 20 Minute Daily Podcast Right here

WOB Stands For ‘Who Owned Baseball’ It is based on a Daily Look at the best players from the baseball games the day before. It is a great way to look at a League’s Daily MVP.

Our Lead Podcast Personality – Paul Francis Sullivan – (feel free to call him ‘Sully’), keeps a running total for the yearly leaders and we will update the standings here every day.

Agree or Disagree with him on the players he selects – leave him a comment at info@sullybaseball.com.

Who Owned Baseball July 3, 2016 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2016 #WOB Standings

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SETH WENIG/AP

Wilmer Flores tied a Mets franchise record with 6 hits, including 2 homers and knocked in 4 runs in a 14-3 embarrassment of the Cubs.

Stephen Strasburg was pulled after 6 2/3 no hit innings. He let up 4 walks and no runs and earned the 12-1 blow out decision for the Nationals over the Reds.

Russell Martin reached base 5 times, homering and driving in 5 as the Blue Jays ambushed Cleveland, 17-1.

J.A. Happ struck out 11 Indians over 7 innings, allowing just 1 run and earned the 17-1 victory for Toronto.

They All Owned Baseball July 3, 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 6/13/16

P- Jerad Eickhoff (vs. Toronto Blue Jays): $8,700. Over his last five starts, Eickoff owns a 2.76 ERA. He is facing a struggling Blue Jays’ offense on Monday. Over the last seven games, the Blue Jays are batting only .221. In 12 starts this year, Eickhoff has a 3.68 ERA, 62 strikeouts, and 15 walks in 73.1 innings pitched.

 

P- Zack Greinke (vs. Los Angeles Dodgers): $11,200. Greinke will be facing his old team on Monday. In only 42 career at bats against Greinke, the Dodgers’ lineup is batting .238, with 9 strikeouts, and a .273 OBP. Over the last seven days, the Los Angeles Dodgers are only batting .208, which is ranked 29th in Major League Baseball.

 

To see the rest of the pick, click the link below:

 

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Nationals Are Banking On A Trio Of Players To Have Comeback Seasons In 2016

The Nationals have made the playoffs in 2 of the last 4 years with 2012 and 2014 being sandwiched between poor 2013 and 2015 campaigns of failed expectations. With 2 .300 hitters fleeing the club this past winter, coupled with the loss of Ian Desmond to Free Agency, this club needs Ryan Zimmerman, Jayson Werth and Anthony Rendon healthy and on the field in 2016. If they struggle in production or health, the efforts of reigning NL MVP Bryce Harper will not matter.

The Nationals have made the playoffs in 2 of the last 4 years with 2012 and 2014 being sandwiched between poor 2013 and 2015 campaigns of failed expectations. With 2 .300 hitters fleeing the club this past winter, coupled with the loss of Ian Desmond to Free Agency, this club needs Ryan Zimmerman, Jayson Werth and Anthony Rendon healthy and on the field in 2016. If they struggle in production or health, the efforts of reigning NL MVP Bryce Harper will not matter.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

Bryce Harper fashioned one of the greatest years we have ever seen by a 22 year old, and the Washington Nationals still only finished with a 83 – 79 record – and plenty of victories behind the NL Playoff Bar.

Harper took home the MVP efforts, and has to be wondering if his supporting cast has his back for the 2016 campaign – if he can make it safely to base at least 300 times again like he did in 2015.

Perhaps the biggest factor Washington struggled down the stretch was injury.  Ryan Zimmerman couldn’t stay on the field – despite racking up a productive 74 RBI on 346 PA.

Denard Span missed 101 games, which is definitely too bad considering the squad was 36 – 25 in games he was featured in.

Jayson Werth never got on track after injuries plagued him early and often – and had his worst year in a decade – after finishing with top 18 votes for MVP in the previous two seasons.

2014 stalwart Anthony Rendon only mustered a half a season of injury riddled play at a .707 OPS after putting forth a Silver Slugger campaign – with a top 5 MVP vote the previous year.

Ian Desmond also had added a horrible 1st half of the year, before he corrected his problems at the plate, and stopped booting the ball around in the second half. Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The 2016 MLB World Series

The Cardinals continued their great play in the MLB since the turn of the milennium - with an MLB best 100 wins in 2015. The organization has transitioned to the next core of young nucleus, while still holding on to a couple of capable veterans. Considering they have plenty of depth, and lots of payroll flexibility coming forth, the franchise could orchestrate a blockbuster trade soon. St. Louis could always sign 1 - 2 Starters via Free Agency as well. As it stands right now, the club has a payroll of around $133 MIL In 2016 listed. They can afford to add about $15 - $17 more million without batting an eye.

The Cardinals continued their great play in the MLB since the turn of the millennium – with an MLB best 100 wins in 2015. The organization has transitioned to the next core of a young nucleus, while still holding on to a couple of capable veterans. Considering they have plenty of depth, and lots of payroll flexibility coming forth, the franchise could orchestrate a blockbuster trade soon.  While I would favor Chicago over them slightly for the NL Central, the RedBirds, Mets, Dodgers Tigers and Mariners have the best value, while the Angels, Giants, Padres, Red Sox and D’Backs have the worst on the board this week.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

I was all set to pounce on my 1st American League bet for the Fall Classic in 2016 earlier this week – when the O’s were at +5000, and presumably bringing both Dexter Fowler and Yovani Gallardo into the stable. 

With Fowler opting back to Chicago, the odd also dropped to +4500 in the meantime (also following the Gallardo wait time for the physical fiasco), and the value is no longer there. 

Baltimore is a low 80 wins team in my view, and will not have enough for the postseason.  Fowler would have added a few W’s for sure.

Of course with the chaos that has ensued,  the Cubs have gone from +700 to +650 prohibitive best odd.  There is no doubt in my mind they should be the consensus favorite. 

One of these years the #1 seed will capitalize and win.  I am still not plunking down cabbage at that clip though.

If I were to do my year end picks right now, I would still have Chicago ending their World Series 108 seasons drought – but I can’t place them as twice the favorite as the St. Louis Cardinals.

Still not sold on the Cubs Bullpen either, and I think Jon Lester can be had in the postseason.  The Mets also line up favorably versus Chicago based on pitching matchups.  New York has the better odds to wager with.

I am currently writing a faceoff piece between the Cubbies and Cards that I will post over the weekend.  The difference is not a whopping 8 or 10 games like ‘FanGraphs’ and ‘PECOTA’ say.  St. Louis should still be in the mid 90’s for victories on the campaign.

I have them as one of my best bets again this week.

New York Yankees have been taken off the best odds list with their injury to Brett Gardner.  It is absolutely paramount that he and Jacoby Ellsbury set the table this campaign – and stay healthy. 

All of the incoming help with Starlin Castro, and internal improvement from Didi Gregorius will be for not.

Mark Teixeira, Carlos Beltran and Alex Rodriguez also will not hit a combined 79 dongs this year like in 2015.  The club is also substantially thinner in the Starting Rotation. 

They are a 85 win club as presently constituted, which should have them in the race for a Wild Card, but it is not worth betting at the +1600 odd. Read the rest of this entry

Okay Angels: Why Not Sign Both Gurriel Brothers?

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

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We had an old saying when I worked as a baggage handler backs eons ago at an undisclosed airport.  It said “The Beatings will continue until morale improves.”  Almost perfect to bashing the ownership of the Halo’s until they start spending again

Since the Angels are not eating at the ‘big boy table’ anymore the recent defection of Yulieski Gurriel and his brother Lourdes Jr. may have just provided a decent alternative.

Why not sign both of them to your roster?  Perhaps big bro ‘Yulieski’ will give you a hometown discount on his deal if you also ink his little brother.  Clearly you could use a 3rd Baseman, and flip Yunel Escobar over to 2nd base in this instance. Read the rest of this entry

The Angels Are Going Cheap In 2016 When They Need To Buck Up One More Time: Sign Fowler!

Billy Eppler and Arte Moreno really need to evaluate how much the 2016 Angels are going to need offense. Easily the worst bench in 2015, coupled with the loss of David Freese so far, the club has not addressed the weaknesses they have at LF and 2B. With Pujols hurt to start the year, this club may be out of it before he returns. At $164 MIL projected they are $25 MIL underneath the limit for payrolls before paying a penalty. Many players are coming off the books after 2016 as well. Spend the dough needed to compete, or risk missing the playoffs - and burning another year of Mike Trout.

Billy Eppler and Arte Moreno really need to evaluate how much the 2016 Angels are going to need offense. Easily the worst bench in 2015, coupled with the loss of David Freese so far, the club has not addressed the weaknesses they have at LF and 2B. With Pujols hurt to start the year, this club may be out of it before he returns. At $164 MIL projected they are $25 MIL underneath the limit for payrolls before paying a penalty. Many players are coming off the books after 2016 as well. Spend the dough needed to compete, or risk missing the playoffs – and burning another year of Mike Trout.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part – Owner) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

I won’t be the first one to be on this wave of people who think that the Angels are rotting away the career of Mike Trout in a Halo’s uniform.

The best overall player in the American League (and at least for right now) plus the Major Leagues, must be furious with the lack of offensive help arriving in Anaheim this off season.

New Angels GM Billy Eppler is following the directive of Arte Moreno not to spend over the Luxury Tax Threshold.  Now it is catching up with them on the field.

Throw in a disastrous move of bringing in Josh Hamilton a few years back – a debacle that will see the club fork out $53.4 MIL over the next 2 year to see him play in Texas. Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The 2016 MLB World Series

Yoenis Cespedes led all LF for HRs with 35 on the campaign in 2015. He picked a contract year for his best season to date out of the 4 years he has been in the Major Leagues. Cespedes hit 17 HRs with the Mets in 2 months, after smacking out just 18 in the first four months with Detroit. Cespedes finished in the top 40 for both leagues in respective big fly's, and was tied for 13th overall with Manny Machado and David Ortiz.  New York brought him back for at least another year, where he helped the Mets go 34 - 23 down the stretch.  Expect more of the same in 2016.  Mets are the best bet of the week for the 'Fall Classic' value wise.

Yoenis Cespedes led all LF for HRs with 35 on the campaign in 2015. He picked a contract year for his best season to date out of the 4 years he has been in the Major Leagues. Cespedes hit 17 HRs with the Mets in 2 months, after smacking out just 18 in the first four months with Detroit. Cespedes finished in the top 40 for both leagues in respective big fly’s, and was tied for 13th overall with Manny Machado and David Ortiz. New York brought him back for at least another year, where he helped the Mets go 34 – 23 down the stretch. Expect more of the same in 2016. Mets are the best bet of the week for the ‘Fall Classic’ value wise.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

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A couple of things have happened over the last week.  The Mets signed Yoenis Cespedes and no odd was changed after this.  Very strange indeed.

With adding the Cuban slugger, the Mets have almost assured their fanbase for another post season berth in 2016.  This club is more like it was in the last 2 months than it was in the 1st four months.

Even if the Nationals were to have an unbelievable year – the Mets should still make the postseason as the #1 Wild Card seed.

I have the Mets as a 96 win team after this move, with the Nats listed about 93 victories.  Had the Nats picked up Cespedes, I would have given Washington a 95 – 92 win advantage over New York. Read the rest of this entry

MLB Power Rankings New Years 2016

Perhaps the Back to the Future Prediction was off by just one year. The Cubs , who are immensely loaded with young offensive superstars added another to the mix with the Jason Heyward signing. Add that to a revamped Bullpen, strong Starters signed last year in Jon Lester and Jason Hammel, coupled with John Lackey this year, and this team is the clear cut #1 ranked team. Oh yeah..They even have depth to make another trade should they need to.

Perhaps the Back to the Future Prediction was off by just one year. The Cubs , who are immensely loaded with young offensive superstars added another to the mix with the Jason Heyward signing. Add that to a revamped Bullpen, strong Starters signed last year in Jon Lester and Jason Hammel, coupled with John Lackey this year, and this team is the clear cut #1 ranked team. Oh yeah..They even have depth to make another trade should they need to.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part-Owner) 

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(1) Chicago Cubs: Big additions of Jason Heyward, Ben Zobrist and John Lackey.  Tonnes of young superstars only ging to get better.

(2) NY Mets:  Starting Pitching best in the Majors.  Offensive depth better in offseason.  Need David Wright to stay healthy.  NL East easiest bottom 3 teams in the bigs.

(3) Kansas City Royals:  Easiest Division in the Majors.  Back to Back AL Pennants and defending World Series Champs.  Look for some more mid year deals. Read the rest of this entry

Los Angeles Angels State Of The Union For 2016

The Angels could easily upgrade 2B and an LF spots, and will need to compensate for Albert Pujols to at least miss the start of the 2016 season as well. They have great depth in the Pitching Rotation, however are bogged down by the Jered Weaver and C.J. Wilson costing them a combined $40 MIL. Add in $30 MIL in buyout/dead money and the team will have a tough time competing in 2016 without nearing $200 MIL in total team payroll.

The Angels could easily upgrade their 2B and LF positions, and will need to compensate for Albert Pujols to at least miss the start of the 2016 season as well. They have great depth in the Pitching Rotation, however are bogged down by the Jered Weaver and C.J. Wilson costing them a combined $40 MIL. Add in $30 MIL in buyout/dead money and the team will have a tough time competing in 2016 without nearing $200 MIL in total team payroll.  This means that Arte Moreno will have to give new GM Billy Eppler some more money to dole out to Free Agents.  Will he do it?  I am afraid for the Halo’s in 2016 if he doesn’t bring in 2 – 3 more upgrades..

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part Owner) 

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It has been a slow but somewhat productive winter for the Angels brass, and in particular for new GM Billy Eppler.  They have done the kind of deals that will work only if they still pull the trigger on signing a premiere player.

Los Angeles acquired a 3B already in Yunel Escobar, who was only traded for by flipping Trevor Gott and a mid level prospect. Not bad for a guy who batted .315/.374/.415 over the past year, makes $7 MIL in 2016, and has a Team Option for 2017 at another $7 MIL – or the club can Buy him out for a cool million.

This came on the heels of trading for Andrelton Simmons, who has 5 years of Team Control left for a guy that only had one more year of salary on the books in Erick Aybar. Read the rest of this entry

Nats Sign Daniel Murphy: Why Not Have Just Kept Escobar And Sign Denard Span?

Daniel Murphy has a career 3 Slash of .288/.331/.424. The Nats signed him to a 3 YR deal worth $37.5 MIL - that will also cost the Nationals the 17th overall pick in the 2016 Draft next year. Some say that pick is worth $8 to $10 MIL. If this is the case, why wouldn't the Nats just have kept Yunel Escobar for $7 MIL over the next 2 years, and then sign Denard Span to the 3 Year deal that Murphy just signed. The Nats are better off today than they were yesterday, but I have to ask the question whether or not they did the right moves.

Daniel Murphy has a career 3 Slash of .288/.331/.424. The Nats signed him to a 3 YR deal worth $37.5 MIL – that will also cost the Nationals the 17th overall pick in the 2016 Draft next year. Some say that pick is worth $8 to $10 MIL. If this is the case, why wouldn’t the Nats just have kept Yunel Escobar for $7 MIL over the next 2 years, and then sign Denard Span to the 3 Year deal that Murphy just signed. The Nats are better off today than they were yesterday, but I have to ask the question whether or not they did the right moves.

Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead  Analyst) 

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The Nats finally got their First Baseman they needed in the upcoming year with a 3 YRS/$37.5 MIL deal with former Met Daniel Murphy.  It will cost the cash, plus the 17th overall pick in the 2016 as compensation for signing him.

It has been an offseason that has seen GM Mike Rizzo obtain several Bullpen pieces for the roster next year.

In the end here, I am not sure Washington wouldn’t have been better off just keeping Yunel Escobar, and signing Denard Span for the same deal that Murphy just got.

So I guess Anthony Rendon will leadoff for the Nationals in 2016?

New Manager Dusty Baker will probably see Bryce Harper move into the Starting Centerfielder position, play Jayson Werth in Left Field, and then use Clint Robinson and Michael Taylor as a platoon in RF. 

Taylor could also play CF, with Harper in Right, but the idea is have the reigning NL MVP not have to crash into fences down the foul pole line. Read the rest of this entry

Dear Santa 2015: A Xmas Letter (Wishlist) From All 30 MLB Teams And Their Fanbases

santa claus

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer) 

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It is that time of year.  All the executives should be toting their favorite team pencil and get ready for a letter to old Saint Nick.

The Winter Meetings have concluded, and as of right now, the Cubs went four hours without acquiring someone so the rest of the league can quickly exhale for a few minutes.

This is the lull of the offseason right now with not much happening from right now all the way through to the Baseball Hall Of Fame Vote.

Speaking of the Hall of Fame – do you think Pete Rose does autograph signings in Vegas on Dec.25 – before gambling the winnings at the craps table right after?  Okay sorry Pete. Read the rest of this entry

How To Fix The Nats For 2016: Washington Nationals State Of The Union

In 2012, the Nationals won the NL East and then followed up with a disappointing 2013 year. The same pattern happened in 2014 and 2015. The Nats window is closing as the club only has one more of team control on Stephen Strasburg - and the total salary for the club escalates with Bryce Harper being Arbitration Eligible starting next year. The team has solid Starting Pitching and a lineup that is coming back for the most part. A key acquisition for both the offense and defense may suffice.

In 2012, the Nationals won the NL East and then followed up with a disappointing 2013 year. The same pattern happened in 2014 and 2015. The Nats window is closing as the club only has one more of team control on Stephen Strasburg – and the total salary for the club escalates with Bryce Harper being Arbitration Eligible starting next year. The team has solid Starting Pitching and a lineup that is coming back for the most part. A key acquisition for both the offense and defense may suffice.

Chuck Booth (Owner/Lead Analyst)

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So having been back from my 224 MLB Game all year trip in 2015 – I was happy to have put in such a great season of witnessing games.  My real disappointment was the Nationals not making the playoffs in 2015.

I am guilty as charged for having a National League favorite team in Washington, and also be a Yankees fan for the American League.

I am a Nats fan because they used to be the Montreal Expos before 2005.  It was a tough negotiation to have been a fan when they moved to D.C., but I followed the team. I saw some bad baseball via MLB.TV for about 6 or 7 years. 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

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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.

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

 

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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.

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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.

 

 

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