Blog Archives

Who Owned Baseball – September 16, 2019 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVPs) + 2019

Screen shot 2019-09-16 at 9.13.42 PM

AP Photo/Tom Olmscheid

Let’s see owned baseball on September 16, 2019

Earning Full WOBs:

José Berríos pitched into the 8th, striking out 8 White Sox in 7 1/3 innings to earn the 5-3 decision for the Twins.

Adalberto Mondesi hit a first inning RBI triple and a 9th inning go ahead double to lead the Royals to a come from behind 6-5 win in Oakland.

Marcell Ozuna went 2 for 4 with a homer, 4 RBI and played great defense as the Cardinals topped the Nationals, 4-2.

Robbie Ray held the Marlins hitless into the 6th and finished with 6 inning, 1 hit, 1 run and 7 strikeouts to set up Arizona’s 7-5 victory.

Earning 1/2 WOBs:

Pablo López threw 6 strong innings, striking out 6 and walking no Arizona batter. He did not fare in the decision as the Marlins dropped the 7-5 final.

Jeff McNeil went 2 for 5 with a homer and 2 RBI but the Mets fell 9-4 in Colorado.

Yusmeiro Petit threw 1 2/3 shutout innings of relief but the A’s could not hold on to the lead and lost 6-5 to Kansas City.

Marcus Semien got 3 hits, including a homer, but the A’s bullpen melted down and dropped the 6-5 game to the Royals.

For an explanation of how WOB works, click here.

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

Who Owned Baseball August 23, 2018 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2018 #WOB

Screen shot 2018-08-23 at 7.16.24 PM

Patrick McDermott/Getty Images

For an explanation of how WOB works, click here.

Aaron Nola won a tense pitchers duel and gave the Phillies a much needed 2-0 victory with 8 shutout frames while striking out 9 Washington batters.

David Price continued his terrific second half with 8 scoreless innings, allowing 3 hits as the Red Sox blanked the Indians, 7-0.

Javier Baez collected 3 hits, including a massive homer, in the Cubs 7-1 thrashing of the Reds.

Ronny Rodriguez homered and doubled, driving in 2, as the Tigers beat the White Sox, 7-2.

They all owned baseball on August 23, 2018

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

Who Owned Baseball September 8, 2017 (Daily #MLB AL/NL Pitcher + Hitter MVP’s) + 2017 #WOB Standings

 

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Photo: Brad Mills, USA TODAY Sports)

Michael Taylor got 4 hits including an eye popping inside the park grand slam, driving in 5 altogether and a stolen base to help the Nationals take a wild 11-10 final against Philadelphia.

Eduardo Escobar singled, doubled and homered in the Twins 8-5 win over the Royals.

Seth Lugo blanked the Reds over 6 shutout frames and earned the 5-1 decision for the Mets.

Mike Clevinger struck out 7 Orioles in 6 shutout innings to lead the Indians to their 16th straight victory, 5-0.

They all owned baseball on September 8, 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.

Washington Nationals Payroll In 2017 + Contracts Going Forward

People can throw stones on Mike Rizo all they want- but the GM has never lost a trade ever, and he ensured the club reeeived

People can throw stones on Mike Rizzo all they want- but the GM has never lost a trade ever, and he ensured the club received a Starting CF in Adam Eaton to the tune of only $38.4 MIL over the nxxt 5 years – even if it cost a boatload of prospects.  This is part to compensate balloon payments on the horizon that are due to both Max Scherzer and Stephen Strasburg.  The club is projected to spend around $154 MIL on salary in 2015, but that is without a proven closer.  The real question is how far the club will go in money to win in the next 2 seasons before Bryce Harper is a Free Agent?

With the rest of the MLB landscape just obliterating Mike Rizzo for the Adam Eaton trade i will defend him on the caveat that he spends the full amount of available funds saved – in order to take a run at the World Series for the next 2 years while Bryce Harper is still on the club.

At this point. it is a long shot that the DC franchise will be able to retain the 2015 NL MVP’s services as the Nationals already have Max Scherzer and Stephen Strasburg to historical contracts (both top 20).

Washington sees Jayson Werth finally come off the books after this next year.  While he will have earned $126 MIL from 2011 – 2017 in his total contract, the club can’t point to this as the worst deal on the club currently.

Ryan Zimmerman is still owed at least $47 MIL over the next 3 years – and has seen his production slip for the last few years.

The Max Scherzer contract does pay him $210 MIL over 7 years (in which he is now in year 3)  – however this is deferred over 14 years, so the club can conduct more flexibility in their contracts for the next few years.

Read the rest of this entry

San Francisco Giants Payroll In 2016 + Contracts Going Forward

The Giants have won the World Series in 2010, 2012 and 2014 recently. A lot of the core is still intact for 2016 - and they could add in Free Agency over the winter, while the Dodgers may not be as formidable in 2016 either. With some flexibility coming in the forms of finances, the San Fran club should spend what they can in 2016 - go for another few premiere players, before trying any form of rebuilding afterwards. The Giants finished the 2015 season a disappointing 83 - 79 - which continued their odd curse.

The Giants have won the World Series in 2010, 2012 and 2014 recently. A lot of the core is still intact for 2016 – and they added Johnny Cueto, Jeff Samardija and Denard Span as key Free Agency overs the winter, while the Dodgers may not be as formidable in 2016 either.  The Giants finished the 2015 season a disappointing 84 – 78 – which continued their odd year curse. Already at about a total team salary of $176 MIL in 2016 – with an AAV of about $189 MIL – and may be over it before the season ends.  They would just be 1st time abusers, so they should go for it if a deal can be struck to improve the club. 

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

Yep.  The Giants are heading into an even year this decade – and will try for a fourth time in a row to become World Champions.

The 1st thing we look at when it comes to payroll is how much a team has in guaranteed contracts.  This franchise is looking at $176 MIL in 2016.

Jake Peavy, Angel Pagan, Santiago Casilla and Javier Lopez are on the last year of their individual pacts and are not on the payroll beyond this year.

Brian Sabean may consider this when he makes some midseason moves for guys who may be on the last year of their contracts elsewhere. 

The Giants spent almost $40 MIL on Disabled List stints in 2015 – and it may have cost them a chance to make the playoffs. 

They are the 2nd favored team (+900) to win the World Series (in overall MLB and the NL) to the Cubs (+650)

San Fran has a chance to win 4 rings in 7 seasons, and should not be dissuaded from going over the $189 MIL Luxury Tax Threshold either.  The club has paid off all of its debt – and is raking in the cash.

The Giants routinely sellout AT & T Park, and will continue to do so.  This venue is considered the #1 stadium by most of the percentage of people who have seen all 30 MLB Parks. 

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) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

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

San Francisco Giants State Of The Union For 2016

With the club pretty much being set for players all around the Infield and Outfield, and now the Starting Staff, the Giants look poised to make another run at a World Series run for an even year this decade. 2016 will see several of its Bullpen members on the last year of their contracts.

With the club pretty much being set for players all around the Infield and Outfield, and now the Starting Staff, the Giants look poised to make another run at a World Series run for an even year this decade. 2016 will see several of its Bullpen members on the last year of their contracts.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer/Part-Owner) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

The only real need to upgrade could be at the Outfield level, with either a CF/LF.    Angel Pagan is also in the last year of his deal, so maybe signing a guy to man the position beyond this coming year would be an option.

The Starting Rotation will be a lot stronger in 2016 with the additions of Johnny Cueto and Jeff Samardzija

You can say what you want about Cueto’s time in Kansas City not being as effective., but he has played most of his career in Cincinnati – and pitched extremely well at Great American Ball Park.

Funny enough his best years have also come in even years with finishing 4th in NL Cy Young Voting in 2012, and 2nd   in 2014, when he led the NL in Innings Pitched with 249.2 – and Strikeouts with 241 for the Reds.

Samardzija still has great stuff, and as a #3 Starter, you could see him bouncing back with a nice year in San Francisco. Read the rest of this entry

San Francisco Giants Payroll In 2016 + Contracts Going Forward

The Giants have won the World Series in 2010, 2012 and 2014 recently. A lot of the core is still intact for 2016 - and they could add in Free Agency over the winter, while the Dodgers may not be as formidable in 2016 either. With some flexibility coming in the forms of finances, the San Fran club should spend what they can in 2016 - go for another few premiere players, before trying any form of rebuilding afterwards. The Giants finished the 2015 season a disappointing 83 - 79 - which continued their odd curse.

The Giants have won the World Series in 2010, 2012 and 2014 recently. A lot of the core is still intact for 2016 – and they could add in Free Agency over the winter, while the Dodgers may not be as formidable in 2016 either. With some flexibility coming in the forms of finances, the San Fran club should spend what they can in 2016 – go for another few premiere players, before trying any form of rebuilding afterwards. The Giants finished the 2015 season a disappointing 84 – 78 – which continued their odd year curse.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer) 

Follow The MLB Reports On Twitter 

Yep.  The Giants are heading into an even year this decade – and will try for a fourth time in a row to become World Champions.

The 1st thing we look at when it comes to payroll is how much a team has in guaranteed contracts.  So far for next year, this sum is $128.1 MIL for 11 players.

Jake Peavy, Angel Pagan, Santiago Casilla and Javier Lopez are on the last year of their individual pacts and are not on the payroll beyond this year. Read the rest of this entry

Madison Bumgarner and Lorenzo Cain Owned October (#WOO)

Scott Strazzante, SF Chronicle - David J. Phillip, AP

Scott Strazzante, SF Chronicle – David J. Phillip, AP

One threw a shutout in the Wild Card Game and captured NLCS and World Series MVP honors.

The other got a pair of hits and drove in a pair in the Wild Card Game, batted .533 with an OPS of 1.255 to win ALCS MVP and took his potent bat and highlight catches into the World Series.

Madison Bumgarner of the San Francisco Giants and Lorenzo Cain of the Kansas City Royals owned October in 2014.

I pick a pitcher and hitter every game from each winning post season team and award them a WOO (Who Owns October.)

And I also have the option to give a 1/2 WOO to a player on a losing team.

I awarded Who Owns the World Series to Bumgarner and his teammate Hunter Pence.

But WOO tallies every post season game, from the Wild Card Game all the way to the final pitch of Game 7 of the World Series.

So not only are the Giants and Royals represented, but so are the Orioles, Cardinals, Tigers, Athletics, Angels, Pirates, Dodgers and Nationals.

Hunter Pence, Pablo Sandoval, Brandon Crawford, Nelson Cruz, Alcides Escobar, Eric Hosmer, Travis Ishikawa, Buster Posey and Kolten Wong all got 2 or higher WOO as hitters to trail Cain’s total of 4. Interestingly Bryce Harper also got 2 WOO even though his Nationals lost the Division Series and did not have the ability to pad his total in the LCS and World Series.

Bumgarner’s 6 1/2 WOO total was more than double the next name, his teammate Yusmeiro Petit who pitched to a 3 WOO all in relief.

Kelvin Herrera and Greg Holland got 2 WOO in relief. Jason Vargas and Yordano Ventura got 2 WOOs as starters.

So they Bumgarner and Cain had amazing post seasons and that will remembered by their fans forever.

They did more than show up for October. They owned it.

Madison Bumgarner And Hunter Pence Owned The 2014 World Series (#WOWS)

MLB.com

MLB.com

Did Madison Bumgarner get the Win or Save tonight? Oh it doesn’t matter. All that matters is that he dominated like no pitcher I have ever seen in my life. 1 run in 21 World Series innings? Being the pitcher to clinch the World Series?

It was a World Series for the ages.

Hunter Pence hit the homer in the top of the first in Game 1 that set the tone of the World Series. He would hit ,429 with a homer and 5 RBI. He got 2 more hits in the Game 7 finale and scored a run.

They were the pitcher and the hitter who owned the 2014 World Series.

Kelvin Herrera with his stellar relief work for the Royals earned 1 1/2 WOWs as well.

Each winning team for every World Series game gets a pitcher and a hitter who earn a full WOO (Who Owns the World Series.)

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

For a full explanation, click HERE

Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) + Who Owns the World Series? (#WOWS) Final Tallies Updated For Game 7 – 2014 World Series

Scott Strazzante - San Francisco Chronicle

Scott Strazzante – San Francisco Chronicle

So October 2014 is officially owned by Madison Bumgarner. Savor this amazing post season.

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

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

When it comes to the World Series, I do a separate tally: WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.) This is still up for grabs

It is important to separate Postseason and World Series accomplishments. It is the purist in me.

For a full explanation, click HERE

From October 29th World Series Game 7:

Receiving 1 WOO’s and WOWS

Madison Bumgarner finished his historic post season with 5 shutout innings out of the bullpen, holding Kansas City to 2 hits and clinched the World Series for the Giants with a 3-2 win. 

Pablo Sandoval capped off a marvelous World Series with a 3-3 performance, reaching base 4 times, scoring twice played solid defense and caught the final out as the Giants took Game 7, 3-2 in Kansas City.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s and WOWS

Alex Gordon went 2-4, scored a run, drove in a run and hit the dramatic 2 out hit that took him all the way to third in the bottom of the 9th. He was stranded as the Royals fell 3-2 to the Giants.

Kelvin Herrera pitched the Royals out of trouble with 2 2/3 shutout innings of relief, striking out 4 and walking none. San Francisco would hold on to win, 3-2.

Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) + Who Owns the World Series? (#WOWS) Tallies Updated For Game 6 – 2014 World Series

USA Today Sports

USA Today Sports

So October 2014 is officially owned by Madison Bumgarner. Savor this amazing post season.

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

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

When it comes to the World Series, I do a separate tally: WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.) This is still up for grabs

It is important to separate Postseason and World Series accomplishments. It is the purist in me.

For a full explanation, click HERE

From October 28th World Series Game 6:

Receiving 1 WOO’s and WOWS

Yordano Ventura dominated the Giants with 7 shutout innings, allowing just 3 hits and forced a game 7 with a 10-0 victory in Kansas City.

Lorenzo Cain drove in 3 runs, scored another, doubled and reached base 4 times, leading the Royals offense to the 10-0 season saving thrashing of San Francisco.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s and WOWS

No Giants hitter nor pitcher earned a WOO or a WOWS

Madison Bumgarner clinched Owning October! (Plus #WOO and #WOWS updates for World Series Game 5)

JAMIE SQUIRE/GETTY IMAGES

JAMIE SQUIRE/GETTY IMAGES

Madison Bumgarner‘s complete game shutout tonight was obviously worth his title of Owning October and the World Series tonight. But it did more than that.

His 5 1/2 WOO (Who Owns October) total for the post season can not be passed. With only 2 games left, nobody can pass Bumgarner. Hunter Pence, Lorenzo Cain and Yusmeiro Petit all have a total of 3. Even if they pick up a WOO the last 2 games, they can not pass Bumgarner.

So October 2014 is officially owned by Madison Bumgarner. Savor this amazing post season.

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

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

When it comes to the World Series, I do a separate tally: WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.)

It is important to separate Postseason and World Series accomplishments. It is the purist in me.

For a full explanation, click HERE

From October 26th World Series Game 5:

Receiving 1 WOO’s and WOWS

Madison Bumgarner continued his October dominance with his second complete game shutout of the month and second win of the series. He allowed just 4 Kansas City hits, walked, none and struck out 8, giving the Giants a 5-0 victory.

Brandon Crawford got 2 hits and drove in 3 runs, leading the Giants offense to beat the Royals 5-0.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s and WOWS

James Shields kept the Royals in the game with 6 solid innings, working out of jams and let up just 2 runs. He would be the hard luck loser to the Giants 5-0.

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – October 26, 2014

Photo: Scott Strazzante, San Francisco Chronicle

Photo: Scott Strazzante, San Francisco Chronicle

Last night’s game was so strange that I feel like we saw 3 different games.

It was like a Tarantino film. I am not convinced it was shown in chronological order.

It is the Game 4 of the World Series episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Yusmeiro Petit, Hunter Pence and Salvador Perez all owned October and the World Series last night.

Read the rest of this entry

Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) + Who Owns the World Series? (#WOWS) Tallies Updated For Game 4 – 2014 World Series

ROB CARR/GETTY IMAGES

ROB CARR/GETTY IMAGES

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

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

When it comes to the World Series, I do a separate tally: WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.)

It is important to separate Postseason and World Series accomplishments. It is the purist in me.

For a full explanation, click HERE

From October 25th World Series Game 4:

Receiving 1 WOO’s and WOWS

Hunter Pence, went 3-5, drove in 3, beat out a double play grounder to let another run come in, scored twice and played terrific defense in the Giants surreal 11-4 victory against Kansas City.

Yusmeiro Petit was his usual dominating self, giving the Giants 3 shutout innings of relief and contributing a basehit as well. He got the 11-4 victory over the Royals.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s and WOWS

Salvador Perez collected 3 hits including an RBI single in the third that gave the Royals a 4-1 lead. The Giants would eventually respond with 10 unanswered runs and win 11-4.

Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) + Who Owns the World Series? (#WOWS) Tallies Updated For Game 3 – 2014 World Series

Screen shot 2014-10-24 at 10.19.03 PM

EZRA SHAW/GETTY IMAGES

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

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

When it comes to the World Series, I do a separate tally: WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.)

It is important to separate Postseason and World Series accomplishments. It is the purist in me.

For a full explanation, click HERE

From October 24th World Series Game 3:

Receiving 1 WOO’s and WOWS

Alcides Escobar doubled on the first pitch of the game and scored a pair of runs, helping the Royals edge the Giants 3-2.

Greg Holland needed just 8 pitches to dispatch the heart of the Giants order in the bottom of the 9th, making a terrific play on the final out of Kansas City’s 3-2 victory.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s and WOWS

Tim Hudson pitched into the 6th inning, going 5 2/3, letting up 4 hits and 1 walk. The Giants bullpen allowed an inherited run to score and he was a hard luck loser to the Royals

Michael Morse came off the bench to drill a pinch hit RBI double and came around to score. That would be all the Giants offense as they lost to the Royals 3-2.

Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) + Who Owns the World Series? (#WOWS) Tallies Updated For WED Oct.22, 2014

 Photo: David J. Phillip, AP

Photo: David J. Phillip, AP

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

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

When it comes to the World Series, I do a separate tally: WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.)

It is important to separate Postseason and World Series accomplishments. It is the purist in me.

For a full explanation, click HERE

From October 22nd World Series Game 2:

Receiving 1 WOO’s and WOWS

Kelvin Herrera threw 1 2/3 key innings in relief, allowing no hits and earning the 7-2 win for the Royals over San Francisco.

Omar Infante made several solid defensive plays, doubled and hit a back breaking 2 run homer that put the 7-2 victory for the Royals over the Giants on ice.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s and WOWS

Gregor Blanco led off the game with a home run to right. The Giants momentum would not last as they lost 7-2 in Kansas City.

San Francisco Giants Pitching Roster Tree In 2014: Sabean Should Not Be Overshadowed By Beane Any Longer!

Brian Sabean has been the architect behind the Giants brilliant 5 year run.  His attention to building a Pitching Staff has to be noted, with several winning draft selections, mixed with key Free Agent signings, and waiver claims.  With all of the hype surrounding the other "Bay Area" GM, it is time that this man is giving his due.

Brian Sabean has been the architect behind the Giants brilliant 5 year run. His attention to building a Pitching Staff has to be noted, with several winning draft selections, mixed with key Free Agent signings, and waiver claims. With all of the hype surrounding the other “Bay Area” GM, it is time that this man is giving his due.

How All Of The Giants Pitchers Were Acquired:

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner):

Follow MLB Reports On Twitter 

With having gone through this exercise of finding out where all of the Giants Pitching Staff came from, there is a new-found appreciation for San Francisco Giants GM Brian Sabean.

While his fellow “Bay Area” counterpart Billy Beane is having books and movie’s written about him, Sabean has put forth a club that is on the verge of potentially winning its 3rd World Series Title in 5 years.

Most of the roster of hurlers was drafted by the franchise, or brought in by a nice Free Agent signing.  The franchise hasn’t lost that many players the other way for their current pitchers, so that has to be commended.

Bumgarner, Lincecum and Cain were all team draft selections, as was Vogelsong, although he came back to the team after several season away in Japan.

Jake Peavy was acquired midway through this year, when the club knew Cain would be out for the year, and that Lincecum was heading to the Bullpen.

Hudson came into the fold this season, following the lead of his former A’s teammate Barry Zito.  The deal was a smart one, as it cost the franchise nothing but money.

Even more impressive of how the roster was constructed, is how the Relief Core was put together.

Hunter Strickland was claimed off of waivers from Pittsburgh. and the club also pick-pocketed Javier Lopez from the Bucs for the talents of John Bowker and the immortal Joe Martinez.

Jeremy Affeldt, Santiago Casilla, Jean Machi and Yusmeiro Petit were all brought in through Free Agency, and the club drafted Sergio Romo to round out the late innings arms. Read the rest of this entry

Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Who Owns the World Series? (#WOWS) Tallies Updated For TUES Oct.21, 2014

DAVID J. PHILLIP/AP

DAVID J. PHILLIP/AP

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

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

When it comes to the World Series, I do a separate tally: WOWS (Who Owns the World Series.)

It is important to separate Postseason and World Series accomplishments. It is the purist in me.

For a full explanation, click HERE

From October 21st World Series Game 1:

Receiving 1 WOO’s and WOWS.

Madison Bumgarner continued his post season dominance by throwing 6 shutout innings before letting up his first ever World Series run. He would get the win, throwing 7 innings of 1 run, 3 hit, 1 walk ball, earning the 7-1 decision for the Giants in Kansas City.

Hunter Pence clocked a 2 run homer that gave the Giants a cushion in the first inning. He reached base 4 times, also getting a double and scoring a pair, leading the Giants to a 7-1 Game 1 thrashing of the Royals.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s and WOWS

 Salvador Perez homered in the 7th for the Royals only run in their 7-1 loss to San Francisco.

Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For NLCS Game THU Oct.16, 2014

San Francisco Chronicle

San Francisco Chronicle

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

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

For a full explanation, click HERE

From October 16th NLCS Game:

Receiving 1 WOO’s.

Travis Ishikawa hit the dramatic, pennant clinching 3 run homer in the bottom of the 9th to down the Cardinals and send the Giants to the World Series, 6-3.

Madison Bumgarner gave the Giants 8 strong innings, allowing just 5 hits and 3 runs. He didn’t get the win but set up the Giants 6-3 clincher over the Cardinals and earned NLCS MVP honors.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s

Jon Jay collected 2 hits, including a double, drove in a run and played solid defense in the Cardinals 6-3 loss in San Francisco.

Adam Wainwright was excellent over 7 innings, allowing 4 hits and 2 runs, striking out 7 and left with the lead. The bullpen would blow the game and the Giants would eliminate St. Louis, 6-3.

 

Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For LCS Games Wed Oct.15, 2014

L.G. PATTERSON/MLB.COM

L.G. PATTERSON/MLB.COM

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

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

For a full explanation, click HERE

From October 15th LCS Games:

Receiving 1 WOO’s

Alcides Escobar went 2-4, scored a run and kicked the ball out of the catchers glove to score another and then started a pair of double plays, helping the Royals clinch the pennant with a 2-1 win against Baltimore.

Yusmeiro Petit was brilliant again out of the bullpen, giving the Giants 3 innings of 1 hit shutout ball and earning the 6-4 decision against the Cardinals.

Buster Posey reached base 3 times and got a pair of RBI hits, driving in 3 in all as the Giants came from behind to beat St. Louis, 6-4

Jason Vargas allowed just 2 hits and struck out 6 in 5 1/3 innings while getting the pennant clinching 2-1 win over the Orioles in Kansas City.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s

Ryan Flaherty homered in the third, which proved to be the Orioles’ last run of the year as they lost the game 2-1 and the series to the Royals.

Kolten Wong doubled and homered, scoring a pair of runs, in the Cardinals 6-4 loss in San Francisco.

 

Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For LCS Games Mon Oct.14, 2014

Photo: Scott Strazzante / San Francisco Chronicle

Photo: Scott Strazzante / San Francisco Chronicle

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

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

For a full explanation, click HERE

From October 14th LCS Games:

Receiving 1 WOO’s

Travis Ishikawa drove in 3 runs with a towering bases clearing double in the first innings. Without that big inning, the Giants would not have been in a position to top the Cardinals, 5-4 in 10 innings.

Lorenzo Cain made a fine catch for the second out in the 9th inning, collected a pair of hits and scored the tying run as the amazing Royals won again, 2-1 over Baltimore.

Jason Frasor earned the decision in the 6th inning by retiring Baltimore’s best hitters, Jones, Cruz and Pearce, in order and setting up the Kansas City go ahead rally which led to a 2-1 final.

Santiago Casilla continued his dominant pitching with a 9 pitch ninth inning that would set up the Giants 5-4 victory over the Cardinals in extra innings.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s

Kolten Wong doubled and tripled, driving in 2 runs in the Cardinals 5-4 extra inning loss in San Francisco.

J.J. Hardy doubled home the Orioles lone run in their 2-1 loss to the Royals.

Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For NLCS GAME SUN Oct.12, 2014

Photo by Chris Lee, clee@post-dispatch.com

Photo by Chris Lee, clee@post-dispatch.com

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

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

For a full explanation, click HERE

From October 12th NLCS Game:

Receiving 1 WOO’s

Kolten Wong launched a 9th inning walk off homer that sent Busch Stadium into a frenzy as the Cardinals topped the Giants 5-4.

Seth Maness was brought into a bases loaded situation in the 9th inning with the game tied and got out of the jam. He would earn the decision as the Cardinals walked off 5-4 winners.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s

 Gregor Blanco got a pair of hits including a go ahead single in the 7th. The Giants would lose to the Cardinals, 5-4.

Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For Games SAT Oct.11, 2014

Photo: Michael Macor, San Francisco Chronicle

Photo: Michael Macor, San Francisco Chronicle

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

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

For a full explanation, click HERE

From October 11th LCS Games:

Receiving 1 WOO’s

Madison Bumgarner added to his outstanding post season numbers by pitching 7 2/3 shutout innings allowing just 4 hits, and 1 walk while striking out 7 Cardinals, earning the 3-0 win for the Giants in NLCS Game 1.

Lorenzo Cain collected 4 hits, including a double, stole a base and singled home a run in the Royals game winning 9th inning rally for a 6-4 final in Baltimore.

Greg Holland closed out the Orioles with a shutout inning that sealed the Royals 6-4 ALCS Game 2 win.

Pablo Sandoval got 3 hits, including a strange double to right field and scored to lead the Giants to a 3-0 victory over the Cardinals.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s

Jon Jay reached base 3 times, including a pair of hits, but didn’t score as the Cardinals lost 3-0 to the Giants.

Adam Jones went 2 for 5 including a game tying 2 run homer in the Orioles 6-4 loss to Kansas City.

To view the Final Tally of Who Owned October Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOO’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN

Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For ALCS FRI Oct.10, 2014

PATRICK SMITH/GETTY IMAGES

PATRICK SMITH/GETTY IMAGES

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

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

For a full explanation, click HERE

From October 10th ALCS:

Receiving 1 WOO’s

Alex Gordon got 3 hits including a broken bat 3 run double in the third and the go ahead home run in the 10th. He also made some fine defensive plays in the Royals 8-6 extra inning win in Baltimore.

Wade Davis kept the Orioles from scoring in the critical 8th and 9th innings. He faced the minimum 6 batters, striking out 4, allowing nobody to reach and struck out Cruz to end the 9th. He earned the decision in Kansas City’s 8-6 ten inning win.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s

Ryan Flaherty got 3 hits, scored and drove in a pair with a 2 run, 2 out single in the 5th. The Orioles would come up just short as Kansas City won in 10, 8-6.

To view the Final Tally of Who Owned October Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOO’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN

Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For NLDS Games Tues Oct.7, 2014

Photo by Chris Lee, clee@post-dispatch.com

Photo by Chris Lee, clee@post-dispatch.com

From October 7th NLDS games:

Receiving 1 WOO’s

Matt Adams hit a dramatic 3 run homer off of baseball’s best pitcher to turn a 2-0 hole into a 3-2 lead and propel the Cardinals to a series clinching 3-2 victory over the Dodgers.

Pat Neshek gave the Cardinals a critical shutdown inning after they took the lead and helped the Cardinals clinch the Division Series in 4 games over Los Angeles with a 3-2 win.

Hunter Pence reached base twice and made the defensive play of the night leaping in right field for a highlight reel catch against the wall as San Francisco defeated Washington, 3-2.

Ryan Vogelsong kept the Giants in the game with 5 2/3 innings, allowing just 2 hits and 2 walks and 1 run. He would not get the decision but helped eliminate the Nationals by a 3-2 final.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s

Carl Crawford collected a pair of hits and scored a run for the Dodgers in their 3-2 loss to St. Louis.

Bryce Harper doubled home a run, hit a towering game tying homer and got on base with 2 outs in the 9th. He would be stranded on base as the Giants eliminated the Nationals in a 3-2 final.

Clayton Kershaw was throwing a masterpiece through 6, allowing 1 hit and no runs while striking out 9. The Cardinals struck in the 7th and a 3 run homer put him on the losing end of a 3-2 elimination of the Dodgers.

To view the Final Tally of Who Owned October Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOO’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN

Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For NLDS Games Mon Oct.6, 2014

Charles Rex Arbogast - AP

Charles Rex Arbogast – AP

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

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

For a full explanation, click HERE

From October 6th NLDS games:

Receiving 1 WOO’s

Doug Fister saved the Nationals season with 7 shutout innings, allowing just 4 hits and got the 4-1 decision over the Giants.

Bryce Harper reached base twice including a towering homer and was solid defensively, helping Washington beat the Giants, 4-1.

John Lackey pitched 7 strong innings, striking out 8, walking just 1 Dodger batter and allowing only 1 run while earning the 3-1 win for the Cardinals.

Kolten Wong broke a 1-1 tie with a towering 2 run homer that was the difference in St. Louis’ 3-1 win over Los Angeles.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s

Madison Bumgarner pitched, for the most part, like his dominating self, taking a shutout into the 7th. But his costly throwing error helped the Nationals rally for 3 and he ultimately got the 4-1 loss in San Francisco.

Hanley Ramirez went 3-4 with an RBI double that produced all of the Dodgers runs in their 3-1 loss to the Cardinals

Hyun-jin Ryu gave Los Angeles 6 solid innings, allowing just 1 run and keeping the Cardinals from a big rally. The bullpen would lose the game, however, 3-1.

Pablo Sandoval got a pair of hits, scored the Giants only run and made a nice defensive play in the Nationals 4-1 win in San Francisco.

Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For ALDS Games Sun Oct.5, 2014

Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

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

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

For a full explanation, click HERE

From October 5th ALDS games:

Receiving 1 WOO’s

Lorenzo Cain, singled, scored, drove in a run and made a pair of spectacular diving rally killing catches in centerfield, helping the Royals cruise to an 8-3 win and swept the Angels out of the playoffs.

Nelson Cruz broke a scoreless tie with a 2 run homer that was all the Orioles needed to beat the Tigers, 2-1, and sweep their way into the ALCS.

Bud Norris pitched shutout ball into the 7th, finishing with 6 1/3 innings, 2 hits and allowing no runs. He earned the 2-1 victory for the Orioles as they swept Detroit.

James Shields worked out of trouble all night, but finished with 2 runs over 6 innings and struck out 6. He earned the Royals 8-3 Division Series clincher over the Angels.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s

Erick Aybar went 4-4 with a double but could not score as the Angels were eliminated by the Royals with an 8-3 loss.

J.D. Martinez doubled home the Tigers lone run in the 9th inning and kept Detroit’s hopes alive. But he would not score the tying run and Baltimore would complete the sweep with a 2-1 win.

David Price pitched 8 solid innings, allowing just 5 hits. One of those hits was a 2 run homer that was the difference in the Tigers 2-1 loss to Baltimore.

To view the Final Tally of Who Owned October Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOO’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN

Sully Baseball Daily Podcast – October 5, 2014

Patrick Smith / Getty Images

Patrick Smith / Getty Images

The Giants and Nationals played 18 innings, which means I could take my wife out for an anniversary dinner, come back and not miss the biggest highlights of the day!

I praise and learn how to pronounce Yusmeiro Petit!

It is a romantic episode of The Sully Baseball Daily Podcast.

Read the rest of this entry

Who Owns October In MLB Playoffs 2014? (#WOO) Tallies Updated For NLDS Games SAT Oct.4, 2014

Richard Mackson, USA TODAY Sports

Richard Mackson, USA TODAY Sports

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

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

For a full explanation, click HERE

From October 4th NLDS games:

Receiving 1 WOO’s

Zack Greinke gave the Dodgers 7 shutout innings, allowing 2 hits and 7 strikeouts. He would not get the decision as the bullpen blew the save, but he set up LA’s 3-2 win over St. Louis.

Matt Kemp got 2 hits including the tie breaking and eventual game winning 8th inning homer as the Dodgers beat the Cardinals 3-2.

Buster Posey got on base 4 times including a critical game extending single in the Giants ninth inning rally that became a 2-1 final 18 inning marathon in Washington.

Yusmeiro Petit pitched 6 innings of 1 hit, 7 strikeout shutout relief. Every single one of the 80 pitches he threw could have resulted in a walk off hit for the Nationals. Instead he helped secure a staggering 2-1 Giants win in 18 innings.

Receiving 1/2 WOO’s

Matt Carpenter reached base 3 times and clubbed a dramatic game tying 2 run homer in the 8th inning. The Cardinals would eventually lose to the Dodgers, 3-2.

Lance Lynn struck out 8 in 6 innings, allowing only 2 runs and kept the Cardinals in the game. LA would eventually win, however, 3-2.

Anthony Rendon got on base 5 times and drove in Washington’s only run in the 18 inning 2-1 loss to the Giants.

Jordan Zimmermann came within one out of a complete game shutout (his second in as many starts and first since his no hitter) before he was pulled with 2 outs and a man on in the 9th. He allowed only 3 hits and 1 walk over 8 2/3 innings. The Nationals bullpen would surrender a run in the 9th and a second one in the 18th and the Giants won 2-1, giving Zimmermann a painful no decision.

To view the Final Tally of Who Owned October Standings, plus see who gained 1/2 WOO’s – Click the READ THE REST OF THIS ENTRY ICON OR SCROLL DOWN

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