I've been patiently awaiting the start of the US Open since the Masters in April. I got up at 10, turned on ESPN for the start of their live coverage, and was only allowed to suffer for 20 minutes of Chris Berman announcing golf before Mother Nature decided that listening to Boomer call yet another sporting event was 'cruel and unusual punishment'.
Anyways there is baseball to be played so lets take a look at some of the highlights that could be...
I am obligated to start with the first game of the day...Braves v. Reds, which features Tommy Hanson's 3rd career start pitching against Matt Maloney who is also making his 3rd career big league start. Hanson's second start was better than his first (which was a 7 run (6 earned) which feaured 3 home runs against the BrewCrew, to be fair he had a perfect first 3 innings. Maloney on the other hand was the victim of bad luck in his second start, when his Reds were rendered importent against former #1 overall pick Luke Hochevar who needed just 80 pitches to complete the game. Hanson has the stuff of an ace while Maloney, called up to fill in for the injured Edinson Volquez, has solid AAA numbers this season..4-3 2.00 ERA 67.1 IP 58 K's 9 BB's with a 1.03 WHIP. Should be a good game between two good young pitchers.
There is a good duel going on in Minnesota today, with the Pirates Zach Duke (7-4) faces off against Nick Blackburn(5-2) and the Twins. Duke is 10th is ERA+ (132) and is putting together a decent year, even though he doesnt strike out many batters (4.5/9 innings), he doesnt walk many (2.032/9 innings which is 5th in the NL) and he is more a ground ball pitcher than a flyball pitcher. Blackurn has also put up a very nice start to the season with a 3.31 ERA (125 ERA+) and is essentially a very similar pitcher to Duke. He doesnt strike out many, only 3.9/9 innings, but he walks only a handful (2.6/9 innings). He was 5th in the AL last year in walks allowed per 9 innings. Should be a good control pitchers duel.
The last game the has my interest in terms of pitching duels is a late game, Dodgers v. Athletics. This features the surprising Vin Mazzaro and Randy Wolf. Mazzaro started his MLB career with 17 2/3 scoreless innings, and after 3 starts has given up only 3 runs in 19 2/3 innings, while striling out 9 and walking 5. His whip is .966 and his ERA+ is a whopping 301. It might have something to do with that 96 mph 2-seamer he has. Randy Wolf has not put up the same numbers as Mazzaro, but he certainly has not disapointed in LA this season, going 3-2 with a 3.41 ERA while stiking out 6.8/9 and walking only 2.5/9. Should be another fun pitches duel at a nice little pitchers park out in LA.
Other games to keep an eye on...
The Red Sox go for a sweep by sending Jon Lester to the mound to face the dissapointing Ricky Nolasco.
North Side v. South Side at 2:20 ET when the Pale Hose send Gavin Floyd to the mound to face off against Carlos Zambrano and the Cubbies.
The two streaking teams of each league as the Rays send Matt Garza to the mound to face off against Ubaldo Jimenez and the Rockies out at Coors Field.
Enjoy!
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
MOTN!
I guess I will post a few things tonight. No big deal, just some more Interleague Play.
White Sox 4- Cubs 1. This was one of two afternoon games today. Alexi Ramirez hit a high and outside fastball from Dempster into the catch net in left field to start the scoring in the top of the first and the White Sox never looked back. The story of the the game was John Danks, who threw 7 innings giving up 1 run on 5 hits with no walks and 9 k's...Maybe he is turning his season around. In his last two starts against Detroit and today against the Cubs, he has thrown 14.1 innings while giving up 3 runs on 10 hits, 2 walks, while striking out 16. Ozzie can't be mad about that.
Meanwhile on the Left Coast Tim Lincecum (8ip 3er 9k's 8h 0bb) and his Giants faced off against the Los Angeles Angels of Aneheim. The Angels won 4-3 thanks to a 3-run 8th innings by the Angels that was capped off by a ground out by Juan Rivera to drive in Chone Figgins.
On to the rest of the story...
The Royals send Zack Greinke to the mound tonight in a battle of young pitchers to face the Arizona Diamondbacks who are starting Max Scherzer. No need to write about what Greinke has done this season, but Scherzer on the other hand is quietly putting up a solid year, which his 3-4 record does not reflect (yet another reason why W-L is not the way to guage a pitcher's performance throughout the season). He has put up a 3.63 ERA in 67 innings while striking out 69 and walking 28. In case you have not been keeping score, the Royals are 47-32 (.595 win%) in Interleague Play since 2005, but only 244-388 (.386 win%). How unlikely are those numbers? According to Rany Jazayerli http://www.ranyontheroyals.com/2009/06/are-royals-in-wrong-league.html it is about 1 in 7000.
Enough about that, what else is going on!
If the Nationals are actually going to win a game against the Yankees it will be tonight, when John Lannan faces off against Chien-Ming Wang (he of the 14.34 ERA). Remember, the Nationals are 5th in OPS in the National League (4th in OPS+) and with their best pitcher on the mound tonight, could pull off a win at Yankee Stadium. I mean, if Wang struggles and leaves meatballs for Adam Dunn to pull into the short porch in Right Field, it is going to be a long night.
In keeping up with pitchers to keep an eye on here are a few more...
Edwin Jackson is pitching against the Cardinals tonight. In his last 5 starts he is 3-1 with a 1.98 era with 24 K's and 12 BB's in 35.1 innings pitched. These are not far from his season totals (6-3 2.24 ERA 88.1 innings pitched 65 K's 23 BB's). Verlander showed his human side last night, will Jackson do the same tonight?
There really are not many exciting games tonight. Marlins v. Red Sox is fun considering it is the 500th consecutive sellout at Fenway Park. Want to know something crazy? It was 49 years ago today that Ted Williams hit his 500th Home Run. Unfortunately that did not take place at Fenway, but in the now defunct Cleveland Stadium. He was the fourth player to reach this milestone mark after Babe Ruth, Jimmie Foxx, and Mel Ott.
Cahill v. Kuroda is actually a decent matchup with Cahill having not given up more than 3 runs in his last 5 outings, lasting at least 6 inning is 4 of those 5 starts. Hiroki Kuroda is a shutdown starter at Dodgers Stadium with a 6-3 record in 16 starts with a 3.45 ERA and 1.07 WHIP.
Time for the games!
White Sox 4- Cubs 1. This was one of two afternoon games today. Alexi Ramirez hit a high and outside fastball from Dempster into the catch net in left field to start the scoring in the top of the first and the White Sox never looked back. The story of the the game was John Danks, who threw 7 innings giving up 1 run on 5 hits with no walks and 9 k's...Maybe he is turning his season around. In his last two starts against Detroit and today against the Cubs, he has thrown 14.1 innings while giving up 3 runs on 10 hits, 2 walks, while striking out 16. Ozzie can't be mad about that.
Meanwhile on the Left Coast Tim Lincecum (8ip 3er 9k's 8h 0bb) and his Giants faced off against the Los Angeles Angels of Aneheim. The Angels won 4-3 thanks to a 3-run 8th innings by the Angels that was capped off by a ground out by Juan Rivera to drive in Chone Figgins.
On to the rest of the story...
The Royals send Zack Greinke to the mound tonight in a battle of young pitchers to face the Arizona Diamondbacks who are starting Max Scherzer. No need to write about what Greinke has done this season, but Scherzer on the other hand is quietly putting up a solid year, which his 3-4 record does not reflect (yet another reason why W-L is not the way to guage a pitcher's performance throughout the season). He has put up a 3.63 ERA in 67 innings while striking out 69 and walking 28. In case you have not been keeping score, the Royals are 47-32 (.595 win%) in Interleague Play since 2005, but only 244-388 (.386 win%). How unlikely are those numbers? According to Rany Jazayerli http://www.ranyontheroyals.com/2009/06/are-royals-in-wrong-league.html it is about 1 in 7000.
Enough about that, what else is going on!
If the Nationals are actually going to win a game against the Yankees it will be tonight, when John Lannan faces off against Chien-Ming Wang (he of the 14.34 ERA). Remember, the Nationals are 5th in OPS in the National League (4th in OPS+) and with their best pitcher on the mound tonight, could pull off a win at Yankee Stadium. I mean, if Wang struggles and leaves meatballs for Adam Dunn to pull into the short porch in Right Field, it is going to be a long night.
In keeping up with pitchers to keep an eye on here are a few more...
Edwin Jackson is pitching against the Cardinals tonight. In his last 5 starts he is 3-1 with a 1.98 era with 24 K's and 12 BB's in 35.1 innings pitched. These are not far from his season totals (6-3 2.24 ERA 88.1 innings pitched 65 K's 23 BB's). Verlander showed his human side last night, will Jackson do the same tonight?
There really are not many exciting games tonight. Marlins v. Red Sox is fun considering it is the 500th consecutive sellout at Fenway Park. Want to know something crazy? It was 49 years ago today that Ted Williams hit his 500th Home Run. Unfortunately that did not take place at Fenway, but in the now defunct Cleveland Stadium. He was the fourth player to reach this milestone mark after Babe Ruth, Jimmie Foxx, and Mel Ott.
Cahill v. Kuroda is actually a decent matchup with Cahill having not given up more than 3 runs in his last 5 outings, lasting at least 6 inning is 4 of those 5 starts. Hiroki Kuroda is a shutdown starter at Dodgers Stadium with a 6-3 record in 16 starts with a 3.45 ERA and 1.07 WHIP.
Time for the games!
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Thought So...
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/17/sports/baseball/17doping.html?_r=1&partner=rss&emc=rss
My only question is when are the rest of the names going to be released? Clearly someone has access to this list and all the names. Most people following baseball had a hunch this was the truth, but at the end of the day it doesnt really matter. Everyone did (does) steroids. It was legal, now it is not.
I believe there should be blood testing in MLB. Let's face it, if you can't play the game clean, there are plenty of guys out there willing to.
My only question is when are the rest of the names going to be released? Clearly someone has access to this list and all the names. Most people following baseball had a hunch this was the truth, but at the end of the day it doesnt really matter. Everyone did (does) steroids. It was legal, now it is not.
I believe there should be blood testing in MLB. Let's face it, if you can't play the game clean, there are plenty of guys out there willing to.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Matchups Of The Night!
Another edition of MOTN!
2 games...
Indians-Brewers (Pavano v. Bush)
Angels-Giants (Lackey v. Zito)
I think the most interesting of the 2 is that last game. For those of you not paying attention, if the season ended right now, the San Francisco Giants would be the NL Wild Card team. They have the best pitching in the NL and I cant think of an under the radar team I would not want to meet in a 5-game set. Name a better 1-2 combo in the Majors right now not named Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain, and I will quit watching baseball for the rest of my life.
Ok, since you cannot do that, I get to keep watching our Nation's past time! Webb-Haren is only 1/2 of what it was. Sabathia-Burnett? No way. Beckett-Lester? Ok, close.
Enjoy the Games!
2 games...
Indians-Brewers (Pavano v. Bush)
Angels-Giants (Lackey v. Zito)
I think the most interesting of the 2 is that last game. For those of you not paying attention, if the season ended right now, the San Francisco Giants would be the NL Wild Card team. They have the best pitching in the NL and I cant think of an under the radar team I would not want to meet in a 5-game set. Name a better 1-2 combo in the Majors right now not named Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain, and I will quit watching baseball for the rest of my life.
Ok, since you cannot do that, I get to keep watching our Nation's past time! Webb-Haren is only 1/2 of what it was. Sabathia-Burnett? No way. Beckett-Lester? Ok, close.
Enjoy the Games!
A most interesting Question
From The Book Blog by Tom Tango this morning a non insanely statistical question was posed...
Q1: Today is Jun 15, 2009. The following pitchers have all been declared free agents (yes, in the middle of the season), and you are lucky enough to have the most money available to sign one of these pitchers. You are going to give them a 6-year contract. How much would you give each one?
Cole Hamels (b. 1983) Jair Jurrjens (b. 1986) Stephen Strasburg (b. 1988) Justin Verlander (b. 1983) Chien-Ming Wang (b. 1980)
Q2: Same question, but today is Jun 15, 2008, and you have no knowledge of what has happened in the year that follows.
To answer this fun question we need to break down each of the pitchers before and after said dates...
Let's start with Question 1. It is obvious, to me at least, that Wang is dead last. I would probably sign him to a 1 or 2 year deal, not the 6 in the question,even though he has two 19 win seasons, ever since breaking his foot last year he has not been the same pitcher, and frankly the other 4 have been pitching and pitching well. If I had to offer him a 6-year contract it would be for no more than a base of $4 or $5 million a year($30 million total, which might be a little bit high) with plenty of incentives, which he very well could reach.
I think the most difficult decision is what to do with Strasburg. Most of me says slot him 5th, and give him a contract fitting of someone who has never played professional baseball. Oh wait, I remember now, STEVEN STRASBURG HAS NEVER PITCHED ONE PROFESSIONAL INNING. I think a lot of writers forget that when talking about him. He is 21 years old and is coming off maybe the best college pitching year in history. Mark Prior was of similar age and of similar stature when he was drafted by the Cubs. How did that work out? This notion that he is a 'sure-thing' and that "the risk factors are zero" according to his agent, Scott Boras, are lies. I think Boras is the best agent in the game and that he has to say this on behalf of his client, but I do not believe for one second that if forced to answer truthfully that he would stake his entire reputation on Strasburg being the second coming of Jesus Christ himself. I also believe those (Clay Davenport) who claim that if he pitched for Washington this year he would have a 3.54 ERA, strike out 9.3/9-innings, and be a top 10 pitcher in the National League. That may be the biggest load of projection garbage I have read this year (Another Baseball Prospectus projection, of Matt Wieters being the 5th most valuable player in MLB this year, with a line of .311/.395/.544 is a close second, but at least there are professional baseball numbers to back that up). Ok, so after all that I will admit that Strasburg looks amazing, and I would certainly sign him to a 6-year $35 million deal.
Ok so onto the last 3...
Jair Jurrjens is definitely the 3rd best pitcher on this list, as of now. His ERA+ this season is 147, good for 9th in the National League, and I think he is a solid 2 starter, based on his K/BB ratio along with K/9, which is the best predictor of success. I would say 6-years for $60 million would be a reasonable number for a 23 year old with Major League success. It might even be low balling it a little bit considering he is a top 15 guy in the National League.
Justin Verlander has the best pure stuff of anyone on this list. I would say that when he is on his game he is one of the most intimidating pitchers to face in the big leagues, and he has a no-no to his name. That being said he had an awful year last year thanks to a big drop in his velocity, but has rebounded this year to put up a 1.10 ERA in his last 9 starts in which he has gone 7-0. Not too shabby. Lets look at Hamels v. Verlander since they are the same age.
Age 23 Verlander (2006)- 17-9 186 ip 1.328 WHIP 126 ERA+ 2.07 K/BB ratio
Age 23 Hamels(2007)- 15-5 183.1 ip 1.124 WHIP 136 ERA+ 4.12 K/BB ratio
Age 24 Verlander(2007)- 18-6 201.2 ip 1.230 WHIP 125 ERA+ 2.73 K/BB ratio
Age 24 Hamels (2008)- 14-10 227.1 ip 1.082 WHIP (Led NL) 142 ERA+ 3.70 K/BB ratio.
Verlander's Age 25 (2008) season looked like this, just for some perspective- 11-17 201 ip 1.403 WHIP 92 ERA+ 1.87 K/BB
Hamels Age 25 season(2009) looks similar thus far...4-2 62.1 ip 1.380 WHIP 94 ERA+ 4.67 K/BB ratio
That is why Verlander is 2nd...he is good, but not Hamels good. 6-year $80-$90 million
My 1st choice would be Cole Hamels. Ok, so other than the Jurrjens v. Strasburg debate which I think is a very interesting question, the Hamels v. Verlander debate is just as exciting. Hamels is an ace. There is a difference between a #1 starter and an ace, and that difference is a #1 starter is a good, solid guy who you count on every 5th game to give his all and put your team in position to win. An ace is a guy who you count on to do that AND count on to stop losing streaks and give a boost to your team. For an example of this, Matt Cain has the stuff of a #1 starter, but Tim Lincecum has the stuff of an ace. Hamels is an ace, but he threw 262 1/3 innings last year, by far the most he has ever thrown in a season. His arm has been showing the effects, he has been giving up 10.7 hits/9 innings compared to 7.6 in 2008 and 8.0 in 2007. However, his K/BB ratio has never been better and he pitched an amazing 35 innings last post season, something no one else on this list has done. He has bested Verlander every single year except for this current one(2009) in ERA+, and really only trails in strikeouts to Verlander. 6-years $100 million is a number he will get in the future and I would have no problem giving him that right now.
Q1: Today is Jun 15, 2009. The following pitchers have all been declared free agents (yes, in the middle of the season), and you are lucky enough to have the most money available to sign one of these pitchers. You are going to give them a 6-year contract. How much would you give each one?
Cole Hamels (b. 1983) Jair Jurrjens (b. 1986) Stephen Strasburg (b. 1988) Justin Verlander (b. 1983) Chien-Ming Wang (b. 1980)
Q2: Same question, but today is Jun 15, 2008, and you have no knowledge of what has happened in the year that follows.
To answer this fun question we need to break down each of the pitchers before and after said dates...
Let's start with Question 1. It is obvious, to me at least, that Wang is dead last. I would probably sign him to a 1 or 2 year deal, not the 6 in the question,even though he has two 19 win seasons, ever since breaking his foot last year he has not been the same pitcher, and frankly the other 4 have been pitching and pitching well. If I had to offer him a 6-year contract it would be for no more than a base of $4 or $5 million a year($30 million total, which might be a little bit high) with plenty of incentives, which he very well could reach.
I think the most difficult decision is what to do with Strasburg. Most of me says slot him 5th, and give him a contract fitting of someone who has never played professional baseball. Oh wait, I remember now, STEVEN STRASBURG HAS NEVER PITCHED ONE PROFESSIONAL INNING. I think a lot of writers forget that when talking about him. He is 21 years old and is coming off maybe the best college pitching year in history. Mark Prior was of similar age and of similar stature when he was drafted by the Cubs. How did that work out? This notion that he is a 'sure-thing' and that "the risk factors are zero" according to his agent, Scott Boras, are lies. I think Boras is the best agent in the game and that he has to say this on behalf of his client, but I do not believe for one second that if forced to answer truthfully that he would stake his entire reputation on Strasburg being the second coming of Jesus Christ himself. I also believe those (Clay Davenport) who claim that if he pitched for Washington this year he would have a 3.54 ERA, strike out 9.3/9-innings, and be a top 10 pitcher in the National League. That may be the biggest load of projection garbage I have read this year (Another Baseball Prospectus projection, of Matt Wieters being the 5th most valuable player in MLB this year, with a line of .311/.395/.544 is a close second, but at least there are professional baseball numbers to back that up). Ok, so after all that I will admit that Strasburg looks amazing, and I would certainly sign him to a 6-year $35 million deal.
Ok so onto the last 3...
Jair Jurrjens is definitely the 3rd best pitcher on this list, as of now. His ERA+ this season is 147, good for 9th in the National League, and I think he is a solid 2 starter, based on his K/BB ratio along with K/9, which is the best predictor of success. I would say 6-years for $60 million would be a reasonable number for a 23 year old with Major League success. It might even be low balling it a little bit considering he is a top 15 guy in the National League.
Justin Verlander has the best pure stuff of anyone on this list. I would say that when he is on his game he is one of the most intimidating pitchers to face in the big leagues, and he has a no-no to his name. That being said he had an awful year last year thanks to a big drop in his velocity, but has rebounded this year to put up a 1.10 ERA in his last 9 starts in which he has gone 7-0. Not too shabby. Lets look at Hamels v. Verlander since they are the same age.
Age 23 Verlander (2006)- 17-9 186 ip 1.328 WHIP 126 ERA+ 2.07 K/BB ratio
Age 23 Hamels(2007)- 15-5 183.1 ip 1.124 WHIP 136 ERA+ 4.12 K/BB ratio
Age 24 Verlander(2007)- 18-6 201.2 ip 1.230 WHIP 125 ERA+ 2.73 K/BB ratio
Age 24 Hamels (2008)- 14-10 227.1 ip 1.082 WHIP (Led NL) 142 ERA+ 3.70 K/BB ratio.
Verlander's Age 25 (2008) season looked like this, just for some perspective- 11-17 201 ip 1.403 WHIP 92 ERA+ 1.87 K/BB
Hamels Age 25 season(2009) looks similar thus far...4-2 62.1 ip 1.380 WHIP 94 ERA+ 4.67 K/BB ratio
That is why Verlander is 2nd...he is good, but not Hamels good. 6-year $80-$90 million
My 1st choice would be Cole Hamels. Ok, so other than the Jurrjens v. Strasburg debate which I think is a very interesting question, the Hamels v. Verlander debate is just as exciting. Hamels is an ace. There is a difference between a #1 starter and an ace, and that difference is a #1 starter is a good, solid guy who you count on every 5th game to give his all and put your team in position to win. An ace is a guy who you count on to do that AND count on to stop losing streaks and give a boost to your team. For an example of this, Matt Cain has the stuff of a #1 starter, but Tim Lincecum has the stuff of an ace. Hamels is an ace, but he threw 262 1/3 innings last year, by far the most he has ever thrown in a season. His arm has been showing the effects, he has been giving up 10.7 hits/9 innings compared to 7.6 in 2008 and 8.0 in 2007. However, his K/BB ratio has never been better and he pitched an amazing 35 innings last post season, something no one else on this list has done. He has bested Verlander every single year except for this current one(2009) in ERA+, and really only trails in strikeouts to Verlander. 6-years $100 million is a number he will get in the future and I would have no problem giving him that right now.
Bryce Harper Goes to College
Yeah, no kidding.
This was hinted in the Sports Illustrated Cover Article that Mr. Harper, now the morning line favorite to be drafter #1 overall in the 2010 MLB draft, would get his GED and enter community college in order for him to be drafted sooner than 2011. Well this morning it has been reported in a few places, http://www.lvrj.com/sports/48018907.html, that he will be enrolling at the College of Southern Nevada for the upcoming year.
I honestly do not have a problem with this. He is an extremely talented individual who, at 16, is ready for more competitive baseball than what the High School level can provide him with.
Lets look at the facts. He is a 6 foot 3 inch CATCHER who hit .626 in his SOPHOMORE YEAR of High School, while hitting 14 home runs and stealing 36 bases. According to the legend of Bryce Harper, he has also hit a ball 570 feet IN THE AIR, though most people point to the 450 foot bomb he hit at a High School home run derby at Tropicana Field.
Matt Wieters who? Ok, so that is a stretch, and this kid might not pan out, but you have to admit, it is pretty exciting that someone who they say is more developed than A-Rod at the age of 16 is going to be playing pro ball in a year or so (if he decides to sign, which he should, because he is going to get more money than any 17 year old should be allowed to handle).
This was hinted in the Sports Illustrated Cover Article that Mr. Harper, now the morning line favorite to be drafter #1 overall in the 2010 MLB draft, would get his GED and enter community college in order for him to be drafted sooner than 2011. Well this morning it has been reported in a few places, http://www.lvrj.com/sports/48018907.html, that he will be enrolling at the College of Southern Nevada for the upcoming year.
I honestly do not have a problem with this. He is an extremely talented individual who, at 16, is ready for more competitive baseball than what the High School level can provide him with.
Lets look at the facts. He is a 6 foot 3 inch CATCHER who hit .626 in his SOPHOMORE YEAR of High School, while hitting 14 home runs and stealing 36 bases. According to the legend of Bryce Harper, he has also hit a ball 570 feet IN THE AIR, though most people point to the 450 foot bomb he hit at a High School home run derby at Tropicana Field.
Matt Wieters who? Ok, so that is a stretch, and this kid might not pan out, but you have to admit, it is pretty exciting that someone who they say is more developed than A-Rod at the age of 16 is going to be playing pro ball in a year or so (if he decides to sign, which he should, because he is going to get more money than any 17 year old should be allowed to handle).
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Out in Omaha
Alex White, the 15th overall selection in the 2009 MLB draft went 9 strong for his UNC Tar Heels giving up one run while striking out 12. It was all for nothing though as in the top of the 10th, Arizona State scored 4 runs, most off a 3-run opposite field shot by Kole Calhoun. The Sun Devils were helped out by UNC right fielder Garrett Gore dropping a fly ball with a man on first and 1 out. ASU held on to win 5-2.
ASU will play the winner of tonights game between #1 Texas and the suprise of the tournament thus far, Southern Miss. UNC will play the loser in an elimination game.
Tomorrow's action out of Omaha will see LSU play Arkansas and Virginia play Cal State Fullerton, which is the elimination game.
ASU will play the winner of tonights game between #1 Texas and the suprise of the tournament thus far, Southern Miss. UNC will play the loser in an elimination game.
Tomorrow's action out of Omaha will see LSU play Arkansas and Virginia play Cal State Fullerton, which is the elimination game.
Mid Sunday Update
With the most anticipated pitching matchup of the day happening tonight (Chris Carpenter v. Cliff Lee) lets take a look at what has been going on everywhere else in the bigs...
The Yankees are handing the Mets their dignity with a 15-0 thrashing. Johan Santana blew up, giving up 9 runs in 3 innings of work. AJ Burnett on the other hand went 7 shutout with 8 K's.
The Phillies have come back against the Red Sox, who gave Josh Beckett a 4-1 lead to work with which was not enough today as the Philly offense woke up, thanks to the top half of their line up (9 for 20 with 8 RBI 7 runs and even a Ryan Howard stolen base!).
The historically bad LOLNats went up 4-0 against the Rays only to lose 5-4. Washington is now 6-11 in 1 run games and sports a very impressive .262 winning percentage on the season (16-45). The list of the worst teams in history (MLB after 1903) will certainly contain this team as they are the worst team since the 2003 Tigers.
Ivan Rodriguez caught his 2,225th game in his career, putting him 2nd all time with Bob Boone and one behind another 'Pudge', Carlton Fisk. Pudge Rodriguez's Astros are currently up 6-3 on the Diamondbacks.
Ryan Theriot hit a walk off single for the Cubs in their 3-2 win over the Twins.
The Marlins stomped the Blue Jays 11-3 behind Ronny Paulino's 2 home run day.
In a rematch of the 1909 World Series, Honus Wagner led his Pirates past Ty Cobb and his Tigers...kind of. The jersey's were the same, but the names were different. Dontrelle Willis was again forced to leave before the 5th inning as his control helped the Bucs win 6-3 behind the super hot rookie Andrew McCutchen and 3 RBI's from Robinzen Diaz.
Trevor Hoffman lost his first game of the season when A.J Pierzinski hit an RBI single in the top of the 9th to push the ChiSox past the Brewers.
In other games, the Orioles crushed the Braves 11-2, KC beat Cinci 7-1, and the two LA teams won, the Dodgers beating the Rangers 6-3 and the Angels beat the Padres 6-0. Matt Cain continued to recieve run support as the Giants are beating the Oakland A's 7-1 in the 9th, and Colorado continues to play exceptional ball, as they are leading the Mariners 7-1 in the 7th inning. That would make it 11 in a row for the Rockies if they hold on to win.
Joe Mauer went 3-5 today, raising his average to .414. According to Dave Pinto at Baseball Musings this makes his odds of hitting .400 in a 162 game season a bit under 1 in 100, and based on a 140 game season, which reflects Mauer's likely at-bat total due to his stint on the DL, to 1 in 613. Even if he doesnt hit .400, Mauer is still having by far his best season, which is quite scary for the rest of the AL Central.
The Yankees are handing the Mets their dignity with a 15-0 thrashing. Johan Santana blew up, giving up 9 runs in 3 innings of work. AJ Burnett on the other hand went 7 shutout with 8 K's.
The Phillies have come back against the Red Sox, who gave Josh Beckett a 4-1 lead to work with which was not enough today as the Philly offense woke up, thanks to the top half of their line up (9 for 20 with 8 RBI 7 runs and even a Ryan Howard stolen base!).
The historically bad LOLNats went up 4-0 against the Rays only to lose 5-4. Washington is now 6-11 in 1 run games and sports a very impressive .262 winning percentage on the season (16-45). The list of the worst teams in history (MLB after 1903) will certainly contain this team as they are the worst team since the 2003 Tigers.
Ivan Rodriguez caught his 2,225th game in his career, putting him 2nd all time with Bob Boone and one behind another 'Pudge', Carlton Fisk. Pudge Rodriguez's Astros are currently up 6-3 on the Diamondbacks.
Ryan Theriot hit a walk off single for the Cubs in their 3-2 win over the Twins.
The Marlins stomped the Blue Jays 11-3 behind Ronny Paulino's 2 home run day.
In a rematch of the 1909 World Series, Honus Wagner led his Pirates past Ty Cobb and his Tigers...kind of. The jersey's were the same, but the names were different. Dontrelle Willis was again forced to leave before the 5th inning as his control helped the Bucs win 6-3 behind the super hot rookie Andrew McCutchen and 3 RBI's from Robinzen Diaz.
Trevor Hoffman lost his first game of the season when A.J Pierzinski hit an RBI single in the top of the 9th to push the ChiSox past the Brewers.
In other games, the Orioles crushed the Braves 11-2, KC beat Cinci 7-1, and the two LA teams won, the Dodgers beating the Rangers 6-3 and the Angels beat the Padres 6-0. Matt Cain continued to recieve run support as the Giants are beating the Oakland A's 7-1 in the 9th, and Colorado continues to play exceptional ball, as they are leading the Mariners 7-1 in the 7th inning. That would make it 11 in a row for the Rockies if they hold on to win.
Joe Mauer went 3-5 today, raising his average to .414. According to Dave Pinto at Baseball Musings this makes his odds of hitting .400 in a 162 game season a bit under 1 in 100, and based on a 140 game season, which reflects Mauer's likely at-bat total due to his stint on the DL, to 1 in 613. Even if he doesnt hit .400, Mauer is still having by far his best season, which is quite scary for the rest of the AL Central.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Welcome to the Weekend!
The Weekend is here, lets see what is going on in the world of baseball and the games that are on tap for today...
The Cubs activated Rich Harden today to make his first start of the season against the Twins today, who are sending Rookie Anthony Swarzak to the mound.
Here's an interesting article about Miguel Tejada. It's true, he has been one of the more consistant performers in baseball over the past decade...
http://bats.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/06/13/the-consistency-of-miguel-tejada/
The Rockies are going for 9 in a row tonight against the Seattle Mariners, who send Brandon Morrow to the mound for his first start of 2009. His control has been an issue, but if he can learn some control, his electric stuff will take him places.
Clip of the Night...
http://thebiglead.com/?p=14933
Ok, so it is a little slow out there, and the pitching matchups today are not what we would call thrilling.
And of course, the games of the day? Turn on ESPN at 2pm for Arkansas v. Cal State Fullerton and 7 pm for Virginia v. LSU. This signals the beginning of the College World Series.
The Cubs activated Rich Harden today to make his first start of the season against the Twins today, who are sending Rookie Anthony Swarzak to the mound.
Here's an interesting article about Miguel Tejada. It's true, he has been one of the more consistant performers in baseball over the past decade...
http://bats.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/06/13/the-consistency-of-miguel-tejada/
The Rockies are going for 9 in a row tonight against the Seattle Mariners, who send Brandon Morrow to the mound for his first start of 2009. His control has been an issue, but if he can learn some control, his electric stuff will take him places.
Clip of the Night...
http://thebiglead.com/?p=14933
Ok, so it is a little slow out there, and the pitching matchups today are not what we would call thrilling.
And of course, the games of the day? Turn on ESPN at 2pm for Arkansas v. Cal State Fullerton and 7 pm for Virginia v. LSU. This signals the beginning of the College World Series.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Sweep Me Away
Another day, another Red Sox win over the Yankees. I don't think much more needs to be said because this was probably the worst way the Yankees could have lost. CC Sabathia on the mound in the 8th inning with a 3-1 lead only for him to load the bases and watch the game turn into a 4-3 Red Sox win. Of course, it is not all CC's fault, as he ended up throwing 123 pitches because 1) he can and 2) The Burnett and Wang starts from the days before decimated the bullpen making it almost a guarantee that CC was going to go deep into the game no matter what.
Now, after that, lets get onto the news of the day.
12 long years ago Interleague Play started. The San Francisco Giants beat the Texas Rangers 4-3.
Now, after that, lets get onto the news of the day.
12 long years ago Interleague Play started. The San Francisco Giants beat the Texas Rangers 4-3.
There seems to be a lot of talk about what bloggers can and cannot say in response to this...http://www.midwestsportsfans.com/2009/06/raul-ibanez-great-start-comes-with-steroid-speculation/#comment-7814 Personally I do not see what the big deal is. As far as I am concerned this is legitimate speculation in this day and age.
For fantasy players I guess this is a list to keep in mind.
http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/fantasy/article/top-50-fantasy-prospects-in-the-2009-mlb-draft/
Funny List, Interesting too...http://www.11points.com/Sports/11_Major_League_Baseball_Feats_That_Have_Only_Happened_Once
Now why on earth would The Rays do this? http://www.tboblogs.com/index.php/sports/comments/rays-reportedly-work-out-pedro/
The play of the night in MLB...http://mlb.mlb.com/media/video.jsp?content_id=5006293
More interleague play tonight. Highlights include 2 battles of #1 teams (BOS-PHL LAD-TEX) a subway series (NYY-NYM) more neighbors fighting (OAK-SF).
Stay tuned for more!
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
MOTN!
Matchups Of The Night!
Holy crap, this is a sad group of games, but there are a few nuggets worth paying attention to.
Sox-Yanks. Wang v. Wakefield. I think this is the last shot Wang is going to have to win over the New York faithful this year. I mean, he is really bad. Sure he had that amazing 2007 (19-7 3.70 ERA, ok, so not amazing, but that would make him the 2nd best pitcher in the Yanks staff this year). Wakefield is Wakefield, he could go 6 hitless and give up 8 runs in the 7th inning. It happens, but this season he has been everything the Red Sox could ask of him and more. Lately he has been going through one of his phases of giving up lots of runs (14 ER in 17 1/3 innings in his last 3 starts). Advantage-Red Sox
A fun pitching duel tonight could take place at the Astros-Cubs game. The Cubbies have been on a little bit of a roll lately (4 wins in their past 5 games) and toeing the rubber tonight is the man threatening to retire, Carlos Zambrano, who was the shut down ace they need him to be in his last start, with 6 2/3 shutout innings while striking out 7 (he also walked 5, but gave up only 2 hits so we will see where his command is tonight). Opposing him tonight in Houston is Wandy Rodriguez, who despite a filthy start to the season, has cooled off in his last 3 starts, going 0-3 and giving up 18 runs (12 earned) in 13 1/3 innings. He did strike out 16 while walking only 8 in that span so he could turn it around. Lets see how he does against a hot Cubs team, but at the end of the day...Advantage Cubs.
The last game I think is somewhat exciting is the Rockies-Brewers games. Colorado is hot, winning their last 6 games, including a 3-2 win in last night's tilt against the Brewers in Milwaukee. Jorge De la Rosa is on the mound for the Rockies tonight facing his former team, and opposing him is Dave Bush who is charged with stopping a Rockies team that has outscored their opponents 46-14 in their last 6 games (1 v. Houston, 4 v. STL, 1 v. Mil). The Rockies Pythagorean record is 30-28, which is 4 wins more than they have to show so far this season so on the surface it looks like they are heading in the right direction and have been victims of bad luck. Advantage Colorado.
Other games to watch. Mets v. Phillies, obviously when Cole Hamels takes the mound it is always fun to watch. He did pitch a career high in innings last year so hopefully his arm will recover soon, at least Philadephia hopes so.
Toronto v. Texas should be a fun game, with the young Ricky Romero facing off against Kevin Millwood and his surprising start to the season (5-4 2.96 ERA).
Other pitchers are on the mound tonight as well, Justin Verlander who is 6-0 in his last 8 starts with a 1.12 ERA is pitching against one of last years surprises John Danks (4-4 5.10 ERA in 60 innings, but he has 54 K's v. 24 BB's so that is nice to see).
Jair Jurrjens looks to continue his hot start (5-3 2.84 ERA 48 K's 24 BB's in 73 innings) at home against the Pirates, who send recently acquired Charlie Morton to the mound against his former team (he was involved in the Nate McLouth trade).
As always, enjoy the games!
Holy crap, this is a sad group of games, but there are a few nuggets worth paying attention to.
Sox-Yanks. Wang v. Wakefield. I think this is the last shot Wang is going to have to win over the New York faithful this year. I mean, he is really bad. Sure he had that amazing 2007 (19-7 3.70 ERA, ok, so not amazing, but that would make him the 2nd best pitcher in the Yanks staff this year). Wakefield is Wakefield, he could go 6 hitless and give up 8 runs in the 7th inning. It happens, but this season he has been everything the Red Sox could ask of him and more. Lately he has been going through one of his phases of giving up lots of runs (14 ER in 17 1/3 innings in his last 3 starts). Advantage-Red Sox
A fun pitching duel tonight could take place at the Astros-Cubs game. The Cubbies have been on a little bit of a roll lately (4 wins in their past 5 games) and toeing the rubber tonight is the man threatening to retire, Carlos Zambrano, who was the shut down ace they need him to be in his last start, with 6 2/3 shutout innings while striking out 7 (he also walked 5, but gave up only 2 hits so we will see where his command is tonight). Opposing him tonight in Houston is Wandy Rodriguez, who despite a filthy start to the season, has cooled off in his last 3 starts, going 0-3 and giving up 18 runs (12 earned) in 13 1/3 innings. He did strike out 16 while walking only 8 in that span so he could turn it around. Lets see how he does against a hot Cubs team, but at the end of the day...Advantage Cubs.
The last game I think is somewhat exciting is the Rockies-Brewers games. Colorado is hot, winning their last 6 games, including a 3-2 win in last night's tilt against the Brewers in Milwaukee. Jorge De la Rosa is on the mound for the Rockies tonight facing his former team, and opposing him is Dave Bush who is charged with stopping a Rockies team that has outscored their opponents 46-14 in their last 6 games (1 v. Houston, 4 v. STL, 1 v. Mil). The Rockies Pythagorean record is 30-28, which is 4 wins more than they have to show so far this season so on the surface it looks like they are heading in the right direction and have been victims of bad luck. Advantage Colorado.
Other games to watch. Mets v. Phillies, obviously when Cole Hamels takes the mound it is always fun to watch. He did pitch a career high in innings last year so hopefully his arm will recover soon, at least Philadephia hopes so.
Toronto v. Texas should be a fun game, with the young Ricky Romero facing off against Kevin Millwood and his surprising start to the season (5-4 2.96 ERA).
Other pitchers are on the mound tonight as well, Justin Verlander who is 6-0 in his last 8 starts with a 1.12 ERA is pitching against one of last years surprises John Danks (4-4 5.10 ERA in 60 innings, but he has 54 K's v. 24 BB's so that is nice to see).
Jair Jurrjens looks to continue his hot start (5-3 2.84 ERA 48 K's 24 BB's in 73 innings) at home against the Pirates, who send recently acquired Charlie Morton to the mound against his former team (he was involved in the Nate McLouth trade).
As always, enjoy the games!
Holy Shit I am Lazy
Super lazy with this blog thing...I need to make it a part of my day. Anyways, slow baseball news day so a few links to start off with...
Rob Neyer on ESPN's Fantasy Focus Podcast this morning. I think it is worth a listen.
http://myespn.go.com/blogs/sweetspot/0-3-61/Podcast--Neyer-on-Fantasy-Focus.html
Another one of these...
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/joe_posnanski/06/08/james.walks/index.html
Yay! More tools!
http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/article/an-early-look-at-hitf-x/
I actually disagree with this. My vote right now is for Morneau, but that is mostly because Youk was out for a number of games on the DL. I think it is pretty clear that the guy in third is Teixeira.
http://www2.nesn.com/boston-red-sox/2009/06/09/youkilis-deserves-all-star-start-over-teixeira/?1
And one last link and the last link I will post on this subject. I only have one thing to say about this subject and that is this: The Nationals should handle Boras the same way the Dodgers and Red Sox did this past off season. Offer Strasburg a record contract and bonus (more than the $10.5 million contract Mark Prior received) and say it's not going any lower, but it is not going up. Any 21 year old (that is how old I am) who is offered $15-20 Million guaranteed and turns it down is not mature enough to play in Major League Baseball. This is not Boras making the final call, it is Strasburg, and only Strasburg can make the decision.
http://bases.newsvine.com/_news/2009/06/10/2916540-and-so-it-begins-boras-starts-to-over-sell-strasburg?category=sports
One year ago Ken Griffey Junior hit his 600th Home Run...He is currently sitting on 617. I don't think 660 is something he will reach. He had an extraordinary career and even still we are left wondering what could have been if he stayed injury free.
Rob Neyer on ESPN's Fantasy Focus Podcast this morning. I think it is worth a listen.
http://myespn.go.com/blogs/sweetspot/0-3-61/Podcast--Neyer-on-Fantasy-Focus.html
Another one of these...
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/joe_posnanski/06/08/james.walks/index.html
Yay! More tools!
http://www.hardballtimes.com/main/article/an-early-look-at-hitf-x/
I actually disagree with this. My vote right now is for Morneau, but that is mostly because Youk was out for a number of games on the DL. I think it is pretty clear that the guy in third is Teixeira.
http://www2.nesn.com/boston-red-sox/2009/06/09/youkilis-deserves-all-star-start-over-teixeira/?1
And one last link and the last link I will post on this subject. I only have one thing to say about this subject and that is this: The Nationals should handle Boras the same way the Dodgers and Red Sox did this past off season. Offer Strasburg a record contract and bonus (more than the $10.5 million contract Mark Prior received) and say it's not going any lower, but it is not going up. Any 21 year old (that is how old I am) who is offered $15-20 Million guaranteed and turns it down is not mature enough to play in Major League Baseball. This is not Boras making the final call, it is Strasburg, and only Strasburg can make the decision.
http://bases.newsvine.com/_news/2009/06/10/2916540-and-so-it-begins-boras-starts-to-over-sell-strasburg?category=sports
One year ago Ken Griffey Junior hit his 600th Home Run...He is currently sitting on 617. I don't think 660 is something he will reach. He had an extraordinary career and even still we are left wondering what could have been if he stayed injury free.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
Today's Games
Lots of baseball today after a somewhat quiet Monday, lets take a look at some pitching matchups...
1. Beckett v. Burnett- Maybe not the best duel happening today (That would go to the Chris Carpenter-Josh Johnson battle taking place in Miami) but lets face it. Red Sox-Yankees is the premier rivalry in the sport. The Sox are 5-0 against the Yanks this year, and the last meeting between Beckett and Burnett saw both pitchers implode in a game that turned into an afternoon slugfest. In Beckett's last three games he has thrown 22 2/3 innings while giving up only 1 earned run, striking out 22 while giving up only 7 free passes. He has seen his era go from 7.22 at the end of April to the 4.09 era he is entering tonight's game with. Burnett in his last two starts has given up 3 earned runs in 13 innings, but it is his career numbers against the Red Sox (5-0 3.52 era) suggest that this should be one hell of a series opener.
2. Carpenter v. Johnson- If Carpenter keeps pitching the way he has been (4-0 0.71 ERA 31 K's 5 BB's in 38 innings pitched) he could be on his way to a second Cy Young award. Johnson has lived up to his hype, the only Marlins starter to do so, by registering this line (5-1 2.63 ERA 72 K's 19 BB's in 82 innings). With St. Louis coming off of an ugly sweep at the hands of the Rockies, they might finally be showing how weak the left side of their infield is.
3. Santana v. Happ- The battle of the two top teams in the NL East No need to introduce how dominant Johan is and has been this season, but J.A. Happ is one of the few bright spots in the Phillies rotation this year, putting up this...4-0 2.48 ERA 30 K's 14 BB's in 40 innings. The K:BB ratio leaves a bit to be desired, but the .181 batting average against is better than Johan's this year.
In other games, last year's AL Cy Young winner Cliff Lee takes the mound against the struggling Royals and sabermetrician favorite Brian Bannister in Cleveland.
And one of the late games tonight, the Buzzsaw Chad Billingsly takes the mound for the Dodgers against Chris Young and the Padres in Los Angeles.
Of course, the draft starts at 6pm tonight. The consensus #1 in Stephen Strasburg, but after that it is any one's guess. My guess is that the next 3 players off the board are Dustin Ackley from UNC, Mike Minor from Vanderbilt, and Donovan Tate, a high school player from Cartersville, GA. I'm wondering if Aaron Crow falls to the 10th spot is the Nationals pick him again...
1. Beckett v. Burnett- Maybe not the best duel happening today (That would go to the Chris Carpenter-Josh Johnson battle taking place in Miami) but lets face it. Red Sox-Yankees is the premier rivalry in the sport. The Sox are 5-0 against the Yanks this year, and the last meeting between Beckett and Burnett saw both pitchers implode in a game that turned into an afternoon slugfest. In Beckett's last three games he has thrown 22 2/3 innings while giving up only 1 earned run, striking out 22 while giving up only 7 free passes. He has seen his era go from 7.22 at the end of April to the 4.09 era he is entering tonight's game with. Burnett in his last two starts has given up 3 earned runs in 13 innings, but it is his career numbers against the Red Sox (5-0 3.52 era) suggest that this should be one hell of a series opener.
2. Carpenter v. Johnson- If Carpenter keeps pitching the way he has been (4-0 0.71 ERA 31 K's 5 BB's in 38 innings pitched) he could be on his way to a second Cy Young award. Johnson has lived up to his hype, the only Marlins starter to do so, by registering this line (5-1 2.63 ERA 72 K's 19 BB's in 82 innings). With St. Louis coming off of an ugly sweep at the hands of the Rockies, they might finally be showing how weak the left side of their infield is.
3. Santana v. Happ- The battle of the two top teams in the NL East No need to introduce how dominant Johan is and has been this season, but J.A. Happ is one of the few bright spots in the Phillies rotation this year, putting up this...4-0 2.48 ERA 30 K's 14 BB's in 40 innings. The K:BB ratio leaves a bit to be desired, but the .181 batting average against is better than Johan's this year.
In other games, last year's AL Cy Young winner Cliff Lee takes the mound against the struggling Royals and sabermetrician favorite Brian Bannister in Cleveland.
And one of the late games tonight, the Buzzsaw Chad Billingsly takes the mound for the Dodgers against Chris Young and the Padres in Los Angeles.
Of course, the draft starts at 6pm tonight. The consensus #1 in Stephen Strasburg, but after that it is any one's guess. My guess is that the next 3 players off the board are Dustin Ackley from UNC, Mike Minor from Vanderbilt, and Donovan Tate, a high school player from Cartersville, GA. I'm wondering if Aaron Crow falls to the 10th spot is the Nationals pick him again...
DRAFT DAY!
Hey Folks, today is the 2009 MLB Amateur Draft. Here is the order...
1
Washington Nationals
2
Seattle Mariners
3
San Diego Padres
4
Pittsburgh Pirates
5
Baltimore Orioles
6
San Francisco Giants
7
Atlanta Braves
8
Cincinnati Reds
9
Detroit Tigers
10
Washington Nationals- Compensation for failure to sign First Round pick Aaron Crow last year.
11
Colorado Rockies
12
Kansas City Royals
13
Oakland Athletics
14
Texas Rangers
15
Cleveland Indians
16
Arizona Diamondbacks
17
Arizona Diamondbacks-Compensation from Dodgers for signing Free Agent Orlando Hudson.
18
Florida Marlins
19
St. Louis Cardinals
20
Toronto Blue Jays
21
Houston Astros
22
Minnesota Twins
23
Chicago White Sox
24
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim-Compensation from Mets for signing Free Agent Francisco Rodriguez
25
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim- Compensation from Yankees for signing Free Agent Mark Teixeira
26
Milwaukee Brewers
27
Seattle Mariners -Compensation from Phillies for signing Free Agent Raul Ibanez
28
Boston Red Sox
29
New York Yankees-Compensation from failure to sign '08 First Round Pick Gerrit Cole
30
Tampa Bay Rays
31
Chicago Cubs
32
Colorado Rockies-Compensation from Angels for signing Free Agent Brian Fuentes
Ok, so that takes care of the first round. In my opinion the most interesting part of this draft is not who will go first, but how much Stephen Strasburg will sign for. This is a deep draft for pitching, so look for a good amount of arms to go early.
1
Washington Nationals
2
Seattle Mariners
3
San Diego Padres
4
Pittsburgh Pirates
5
Baltimore Orioles
6
San Francisco Giants
7
Atlanta Braves
8
Cincinnati Reds
9
Detroit Tigers
10
Washington Nationals- Compensation for failure to sign First Round pick Aaron Crow last year.
11
Colorado Rockies
12
Kansas City Royals
13
Oakland Athletics
14
Texas Rangers
15
Cleveland Indians
16
Arizona Diamondbacks
17
Arizona Diamondbacks-Compensation from Dodgers for signing Free Agent Orlando Hudson.
18
Florida Marlins
19
St. Louis Cardinals
20
Toronto Blue Jays
21
Houston Astros
22
Minnesota Twins
23
Chicago White Sox
24
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim-Compensation from Mets for signing Free Agent Francisco Rodriguez
25
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim- Compensation from Yankees for signing Free Agent Mark Teixeira
26
Milwaukee Brewers
27
Seattle Mariners -Compensation from Phillies for signing Free Agent Raul Ibanez
28
Boston Red Sox
29
New York Yankees-Compensation from failure to sign '08 First Round Pick Gerrit Cole
30
Tampa Bay Rays
31
Chicago Cubs
32
Colorado Rockies-Compensation from Angels for signing Free Agent Brian Fuentes
Ok, so that takes care of the first round. In my opinion the most interesting part of this draft is not who will go first, but how much Stephen Strasburg will sign for. This is a deep draft for pitching, so look for a good amount of arms to go early.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
A Few Days Off
Took a day off from this, time to get back at it.
Pitching to watch today...
Tommy Hanson makes his very anticipated MLB debut as the Braves take on the Brewers in Atlanta.
Ricky Nolasco makes his return to the Majors after a stint in AAA ball when his Marlins face off against Tim Lincecum and the Giants today in Miami.
Joba v. Garza at the NYS today. The storyline for this game is who is going to hit the 100th home run of the season at the Billion Dollar Bronx Bandbox.
Slowey v. Bedard in Seattle today. Slowey is looking for his 9th win of the year while Bedard is looking to continue his brilliant season. Slowey has only allowed .92 BB/9 this season, following the tradition of Minnesota pitchers who are almost immune to giving up free passes.
Back with more later
Pitching to watch today...
Tommy Hanson makes his very anticipated MLB debut as the Braves take on the Brewers in Atlanta.
Ricky Nolasco makes his return to the Majors after a stint in AAA ball when his Marlins face off against Tim Lincecum and the Giants today in Miami.
Joba v. Garza at the NYS today. The storyline for this game is who is going to hit the 100th home run of the season at the Billion Dollar Bronx Bandbox.
Slowey v. Bedard in Seattle today. Slowey is looking for his 9th win of the year while Bedard is looking to continue his brilliant season. Slowey has only allowed .92 BB/9 this season, following the tradition of Minnesota pitchers who are almost immune to giving up free passes.
Back with more later
Thursday, June 4, 2009
What's Wrong with Jimmy Rollins?
One year removed from a World Series win and two years removed from an MVP award, Jimmy Rollins is now putting up numbers that, if he did not have the name Jimmy Rollins, would relegate him to AAA ball.
2009: .229/.270/.336
Career: .275/.331/.437
His career numbers are almost the same as his 2008 numbers, so what is the problem?
Three Things
1. His power. Not just looking at his slugging percentage, but his ISO (Isolated Power, which is calculated by this formula (Total Bases-Singles)/(At-Bats)) Has dropped from a career high in 2007 (shock) of .235 to .160 in 2008 to .108 in 2009 so far. Yes, he might be on the down slope of his career, but he is only 30, and most MVP caliber, power speed combo's dont drop off the face of the planet like that.
2. His speed. Let's face it, Rollins is not as fast as he used to be. He has stolen 10 bases so far this year, which puts him on pace for 30 which is 8 below his career average of 38. Don't get me wrong, his speed is still a huge asset, just not as big as it once was.
3. His Walks. This is a problem, as he is only drawing a walk in 5% of his at-bats. This, combined with the next reason, is why he is below the OBP Mendoza line of .300.
4. His luck. Rollins BABIP (Batting Average for Balls In Play) is an unfortunate .249. The historical average is .300, which just means that he is hitting the ball to fielders. Should this turn around, he could right his ship, especially if the problem is being combined with his power lull (i.e. the balls that he is hitting that usually find the gap are instead finding outfielders).
Overall, it doesnt seem to be time to panic yet, he is having a really unlucky year...kind of. I wouldnt put money on him producing at his current rate the rest of the year, and the statistics say he shouldnt either, but one thing is for sure. The MVP Jimmy Rollins has gone away for the time being.
2009: .229/.270/.336
Career: .275/.331/.437
His career numbers are almost the same as his 2008 numbers, so what is the problem?
Three Things
1. His power. Not just looking at his slugging percentage, but his ISO (Isolated Power, which is calculated by this formula (Total Bases-Singles)/(At-Bats)) Has dropped from a career high in 2007 (shock) of .235 to .160 in 2008 to .108 in 2009 so far. Yes, he might be on the down slope of his career, but he is only 30, and most MVP caliber, power speed combo's dont drop off the face of the planet like that.
2. His speed. Let's face it, Rollins is not as fast as he used to be. He has stolen 10 bases so far this year, which puts him on pace for 30 which is 8 below his career average of 38. Don't get me wrong, his speed is still a huge asset, just not as big as it once was.
3. His Walks. This is a problem, as he is only drawing a walk in 5% of his at-bats. This, combined with the next reason, is why he is below the OBP Mendoza line of .300.
4. His luck. Rollins BABIP (Batting Average for Balls In Play) is an unfortunate .249. The historical average is .300, which just means that he is hitting the ball to fielders. Should this turn around, he could right his ship, especially if the problem is being combined with his power lull (i.e. the balls that he is hitting that usually find the gap are instead finding outfielders).
Overall, it doesnt seem to be time to panic yet, he is having a really unlucky year...kind of. I wouldnt put money on him producing at his current rate the rest of the year, and the statistics say he shouldnt either, but one thing is for sure. The MVP Jimmy Rollins has gone away for the time being.
Slacking Off
So I have been slacking off today, and the past few days with the blog. I hope to make this the kind of blog with at least 10-15 posts a day. After all, whats the use if I only post one time in the morning?
On to todays news...
Lots of talk about Glavine being released by the Braves. Financially motivated or not, this was a good baseball decision. A slightly cold hearted one, but at the end of the day Tom Glavine is not the Atlanta Braves, and that latter is what Frank Wren is paid to worry about.
And he does an excellent job at it...if you don't think so, look at what he traded for Nate McLouth.
Speaking of Pittsburgh, in their first game without their blonde haired center fielder, they smoked the Mets 11-6, with McLouth's replacement, their best prospect Andrew McCutchen, going 2-4 with a run, rbi, and a stolen base. Not a bad debut.
With the draft soon approaching, here's an update on the ChiSox 1st round pick last year.
http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=556606
He went 0-3 with a strike out in a 7-0 loss today to Oakland, who has now won 3 in a row.
Justin Verlander and Joe Mauer were named AL Pitcher and Player of the Month respectively. In the NL the awards went to Trevor Hoffman and Justin Upton. The top rookies were Rick Porcello (AL) and Manny Parra (NL).
The Red Sox finished a sweep of the Tigers today, winning 6-3. The big news coming out of that game is this...
http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/9645374/Cabrera-leaves-game-with-injury,-Youkilis-too
Thank God this one turned out all right...
http://www.startribune.com/sports/twins/46957052.html
Here's an interesting question...The man pictured is winning right now 2-0 in the 4th.
http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/blog/big_league_stew/post/When-should-fans-root-for-a-visiting-pitcher-to-?urn=mlb,168118
My pick to win the AL Central might be really bad...
http://joeposnanski.com/JoeBlog/2009/06/04/yes-royals-stink-but-do-they-stink/
There ya go...I will be back soon
On to todays news...
Lots of talk about Glavine being released by the Braves. Financially motivated or not, this was a good baseball decision. A slightly cold hearted one, but at the end of the day Tom Glavine is not the Atlanta Braves, and that latter is what Frank Wren is paid to worry about.
And he does an excellent job at it...if you don't think so, look at what he traded for Nate McLouth.
Speaking of Pittsburgh, in their first game without their blonde haired center fielder, they smoked the Mets 11-6, with McLouth's replacement, their best prospect Andrew McCutchen, going 2-4 with a run, rbi, and a stolen base. Not a bad debut.
With the draft soon approaching, here's an update on the ChiSox 1st round pick last year.
http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=556606
He went 0-3 with a strike out in a 7-0 loss today to Oakland, who has now won 3 in a row.
Justin Verlander and Joe Mauer were named AL Pitcher and Player of the Month respectively. In the NL the awards went to Trevor Hoffman and Justin Upton. The top rookies were Rick Porcello (AL) and Manny Parra (NL).
The Red Sox finished a sweep of the Tigers today, winning 6-3. The big news coming out of that game is this...
http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/9645374/Cabrera-leaves-game-with-injury,-Youkilis-too
Thank God this one turned out all right...
http://www.startribune.com/sports/twins/46957052.html
Here's an interesting question...The man pictured is winning right now 2-0 in the 4th.
http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/blog/big_league_stew/post/When-should-fans-root-for-a-visiting-pitcher-to-?urn=mlb,168118
My pick to win the AL Central might be really bad...
http://joeposnanski.com/JoeBlog/2009/06/04/yes-royals-stink-but-do-they-stink/
There ya go...I will be back soon
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
What to watch for today.
Ok, lets get the big game out of the way first.
Randy Johnson going for win #300. 7:05 pm @ Nationals Park.
I have nothing else to say about this that has not been said yet. Best lefty since Spahn, most intimidating pitcher of our generation, and enemy number one in the dove community.
Beyond the Big Unit...our duels of the night.
1. Ted Lilly v. Derek Lowe- These are two of the more underrated starters in the game. Nothing flashy about either of them, get vets who teams count on to go out and get the job done. Essentially identical records between Atlanta and Chicago this year. Should be a good game.
2. Johnny Cueto v. Kyle Lohse- Lohse is coming of some injury problems after being struck in the forearm during his last start. Cueto has been the ace of the Reds so far this season, with 50K's to only 20BB's in 67.2 innings. His era sits at 2.53, and since his first two starts of the season, he has completed the 7th inning of every game he has started.
One other to keep an eye on is Cliff Lee v. Anthony Swarzak. Cliff Lee had a tough luck May, pitching to a 2.57 era with 30 K's and 7 BB's, earning himself a 1-3 record. Swarzak has produced two quality starts in his first two starts of his career. He does not strike many people out, but he gets the job done thanks to no one getting many hits off him with runners in scoring position.
Tom Glavine was released today. Future Hall of Famer and all around class act.
Randy Johnson going for win #300. 7:05 pm @ Nationals Park.
I have nothing else to say about this that has not been said yet. Best lefty since Spahn, most intimidating pitcher of our generation, and enemy number one in the dove community.
Beyond the Big Unit...our duels of the night.
1. Ted Lilly v. Derek Lowe- These are two of the more underrated starters in the game. Nothing flashy about either of them, get vets who teams count on to go out and get the job done. Essentially identical records between Atlanta and Chicago this year. Should be a good game.
2. Johnny Cueto v. Kyle Lohse- Lohse is coming of some injury problems after being struck in the forearm during his last start. Cueto has been the ace of the Reds so far this season, with 50K's to only 20BB's in 67.2 innings. His era sits at 2.53, and since his first two starts of the season, he has completed the 7th inning of every game he has started.
One other to keep an eye on is Cliff Lee v. Anthony Swarzak. Cliff Lee had a tough luck May, pitching to a 2.57 era with 30 K's and 7 BB's, earning himself a 1-3 record. Swarzak has produced two quality starts in his first two starts of his career. He does not strike many people out, but he gets the job done thanks to no one getting many hits off him with runners in scoring position.
Tom Glavine was released today. Future Hall of Famer and all around class act.
Oh Boy
He's not a boy...he's a full grown, long-ball launching, flamethrowing, base stealing, left-handed hitting catcher that is going to be the LeBron James of baseball...
Remember, there is no such thing as a can't miss prospect in baseball.
http://vault.sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1156215/index.htm
But 16 year olds that end up on the cover of SI are as close as they come.
Remember, there is no such thing as a can't miss prospect in baseball.
http://vault.sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1156215/index.htm
But 16 year olds that end up on the cover of SI are as close as they come.
Another Morning
Had an incredible night last night. Got free Presidents Club tickets to the Giants-Nationals game. Total luck...and all because I had a Lincecum shirt on. Now, onto the latest in links.
The first url explains the topic. While his season to date has been less than impressive, his numbers since May 4th have been up to par with the rest of his career. I think he is the hottest chip on the market in a few weeks.
http://mlb.fanhouse.com/2009/06/03/matt-holliday-prepared-to-leave-oakland/
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2009/06/taking-stock-of-matt-holliday.html
Of course, cant go without a Big Unit story, as he is going for #300 tonight. I, for one, believe there will be another 300 game winner.
http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=556101
Before there was Stephen Strasburg, there was Ben McDonald, an overly hyped pitching prospect being represented by Scott Boras.
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/baseball/2009-06-02-ben-mcdonald-cover_N.htm
And last night was a night of landmarks.
Terry Francona wins his 500th game as manager of the Red Sox, becoming only the third person to do so. He is now only 60 behind the 2nd spot held by Mike Higgans, and 571 wins behind Joe Cronin, who has his number (#4) on the right field facade.
Derek Jeter scored his 1500th run. He is a Hall of Famer, as if that needed to be said.
Tim Lincecum registered his 500th career strikeout. He has a way to go to reach Nolan Ryan, but hey, it could happen.
The first url explains the topic. While his season to date has been less than impressive, his numbers since May 4th have been up to par with the rest of his career. I think he is the hottest chip on the market in a few weeks.
http://mlb.fanhouse.com/2009/06/03/matt-holliday-prepared-to-leave-oakland/
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2009/06/taking-stock-of-matt-holliday.html
Of course, cant go without a Big Unit story, as he is going for #300 tonight. I, for one, believe there will be another 300 game winner.
http://www.sportingnews.com/yourturn/viewtopic.php?t=556101
Before there was Stephen Strasburg, there was Ben McDonald, an overly hyped pitching prospect being represented by Scott Boras.
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/baseball/2009-06-02-ben-mcdonald-cover_N.htm
And last night was a night of landmarks.
Terry Francona wins his 500th game as manager of the Red Sox, becoming only the third person to do so. He is now only 60 behind the 2nd spot held by Mike Higgans, and 571 wins behind Joe Cronin, who has his number (#4) on the right field facade.
Derek Jeter scored his 1500th run. He is a Hall of Famer, as if that needed to be said.
Tim Lincecum registered his 500th career strikeout. He has a way to go to reach Nolan Ryan, but hey, it could happen.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
My All-00's and All-10's team
Well I may as well give you my list...
All-Aughts
C-Jorge Posada, with the runner up being Ivan Rodriguez. This is only because Piazza was a 90's guy, and Pudge's best years were split between the end of the 90's and the early 00's, while Posada had the bulk of his career in the 00's.
1b- Albert Pujols...No one else comes close. I guess Lance Berkman is an interesting name, and Mark Teixeira started too late.
2B-Jeff Kent. Not the best fielder of his generation at his position, but he sure could hit. Chase Utley just does not have the total numbers to compete, and Pedroia and Kinsler came way too late to be in this discussion. If Alfonso Soriano stayed at 2nd base he probably would contend with Kent...maybe.
3rd-Alex Rodriguez. Ok, this was tough, because he spent the first few years of the decade dominating the SS position, but at the end of the decade, he did the same at 3rd base. Chipper Jones might deserve this, except he played left field during the same years A-Rod played SS. Going by pure numbers, it is A-Rod though, and it is not as close as some would think, or want to believe.
SS- Derek Jeter. So Miguel Tejada comes pretty close here, especially because of the power, and neither are defensive wizards, thought Tejada was stronger in the field than Jeter.
Here are the decade lines for both of them...
Jeter: .3147/.3854/.4557
Tejada: .2971/.3449/.4849
It's close, but if you add in the speed Jeter has, and call defense too close to make a actual different, I'm taking the guy who gets on base more and can steal.
LF-Barry Bonds. Manny is close, but if I had a choice between the two, I'm taking the guy that got an IBB...with the bases loaded.
RF- Vladimir Guerrero. It's not really close, even through Brian Giles is next in line.
CF- Carlos Beltran. This is a battle between Beltran and Jim Edmonds, I'm taking the speed and glove of Beltran though.
SP-Randy Johnson
SP-Johan Santana
SP-Pedro Martinez
SP-Curt Schilling
SP-Roy Halladay
RP-Mariano Rivera
RP-Trevor Hoffman
RP-Billy Wagner
I think the only SP that could/should be on this list is Roy Oswalt, and he would replace Schilling.
All-10's Team
C-Joe Mauer. I want to type Matt Wieters, but we have no clue how he will end up since we have not seen him play much yet. I am going to assume Mauer can play another 6-7 years as a catcher as long his body can hold up.
1B-Albert Pujols. Once again, not even close. Mark Teixiera is next in line.
2B-Dustin Pedroia. Some homerism is here, as Chase Utley and Ian Kinsler can definately take away this spot from Pedroia.
SS-Hanley Ramirez. His only downfall is that he is a 3rd baseman playing SS, which will become clear within the next few years. Jose Reyes would be the next in line, especially if he gets his head in the game.
3rd- Evan Longoria. I think this will end up being as close as the 1st base argument.
LF- Ryan Braun. His defense is, well, offensive, but you cant question that bat.
CF- Grady Sizemore. His glove is amazing, and so is his bat. He might only hit .270 during the next decade, but his power, speed, and discipline will make up for that. If he slips, I think Adam Jones is next.
RF- Nick Markakis- The total package. Of course, Justin Upton has the potential to blow him out of the water.
SP-Johan Santana
SP-Zack Greinke
SP-Tim Lincecum
SP-Chad Billingsly
SP-Cole Hamels
RP-Joakim Soria
RP-Jonathan Papelbon
RP-Jonathan Broxton
There are lots of names that could be in the pitching spots, I feel these spots lend themselves to a lot more speculation than the position players. After all, Stephen Strasburg could be at the top of this list if he pans out and does not end up like Mark Prior.
All-Aughts
C-Jorge Posada, with the runner up being Ivan Rodriguez. This is only because Piazza was a 90's guy, and Pudge's best years were split between the end of the 90's and the early 00's, while Posada had the bulk of his career in the 00's.
1b- Albert Pujols...No one else comes close. I guess Lance Berkman is an interesting name, and Mark Teixeira started too late.
2B-Jeff Kent. Not the best fielder of his generation at his position, but he sure could hit. Chase Utley just does not have the total numbers to compete, and Pedroia and Kinsler came way too late to be in this discussion. If Alfonso Soriano stayed at 2nd base he probably would contend with Kent...maybe.
3rd-Alex Rodriguez. Ok, this was tough, because he spent the first few years of the decade dominating the SS position, but at the end of the decade, he did the same at 3rd base. Chipper Jones might deserve this, except he played left field during the same years A-Rod played SS. Going by pure numbers, it is A-Rod though, and it is not as close as some would think, or want to believe.
SS- Derek Jeter. So Miguel Tejada comes pretty close here, especially because of the power, and neither are defensive wizards, thought Tejada was stronger in the field than Jeter.
Here are the decade lines for both of them...
Jeter: .3147/.3854/.4557
Tejada: .2971/.3449/.4849
It's close, but if you add in the speed Jeter has, and call defense too close to make a actual different, I'm taking the guy who gets on base more and can steal.
LF-Barry Bonds. Manny is close, but if I had a choice between the two, I'm taking the guy that got an IBB...with the bases loaded.
RF- Vladimir Guerrero. It's not really close, even through Brian Giles is next in line.
CF- Carlos Beltran. This is a battle between Beltran and Jim Edmonds, I'm taking the speed and glove of Beltran though.
SP-Randy Johnson
SP-Johan Santana
SP-Pedro Martinez
SP-Curt Schilling
SP-Roy Halladay
RP-Mariano Rivera
RP-Trevor Hoffman
RP-Billy Wagner
I think the only SP that could/should be on this list is Roy Oswalt, and he would replace Schilling.
All-10's Team
C-Joe Mauer. I want to type Matt Wieters, but we have no clue how he will end up since we have not seen him play much yet. I am going to assume Mauer can play another 6-7 years as a catcher as long his body can hold up.
1B-Albert Pujols. Once again, not even close. Mark Teixiera is next in line.
2B-Dustin Pedroia. Some homerism is here, as Chase Utley and Ian Kinsler can definately take away this spot from Pedroia.
SS-Hanley Ramirez. His only downfall is that he is a 3rd baseman playing SS, which will become clear within the next few years. Jose Reyes would be the next in line, especially if he gets his head in the game.
3rd- Evan Longoria. I think this will end up being as close as the 1st base argument.
LF- Ryan Braun. His defense is, well, offensive, but you cant question that bat.
CF- Grady Sizemore. His glove is amazing, and so is his bat. He might only hit .270 during the next decade, but his power, speed, and discipline will make up for that. If he slips, I think Adam Jones is next.
RF- Nick Markakis- The total package. Of course, Justin Upton has the potential to blow him out of the water.
SP-Johan Santana
SP-Zack Greinke
SP-Tim Lincecum
SP-Chad Billingsly
SP-Cole Hamels
RP-Joakim Soria
RP-Jonathan Papelbon
RP-Jonathan Broxton
There are lots of names that could be in the pitching spots, I feel these spots lend themselves to a lot more speculation than the position players. After all, Stephen Strasburg could be at the top of this list if he pans out and does not end up like Mark Prior.
My Wireless Hates Me
Well it took over an hour to post that last...post. Thank you GW University Wireless.
As a Red Sox fan, this makes me very sad...also the fact it doesnt smell like, beer, Fenway Franks, and that sweaty guy next to you in the bleachers in August is not ok.
http://shop.mlb.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3293304&cp=1452345.1452682.715040
Some Joe Posnanski links for everybody...
http://deadspin.com/5274841/joe-posnanski-i-am-the-worst-thing-to-come-out-of-cleveland-since-arsenio-hall
and if you have not seen this yet...
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/joe_posnanski/06/01/james.wieters/index.html
This article/blog post: http://www.wezen-ball.com/2009/06/predicting-next-team-of-decade.html
follows this one... http://www.sportscolumn.com/2009/05/29/changing-of-the-guards-a-fascinating-decade-in-baseball/
As a Red Sox fan, this makes me very sad...also the fact it doesnt smell like, beer, Fenway Franks, and that sweaty guy next to you in the bleachers in August is not ok.
http://shop.mlb.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3293304&cp=1452345.1452682.715040
Some Joe Posnanski links for everybody...
http://deadspin.com/5274841/joe-posnanski-i-am-the-worst-thing-to-come-out-of-cleveland-since-arsenio-hall
and if you have not seen this yet...
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/joe_posnanski/06/01/james.wieters/index.html
This article/blog post: http://www.wezen-ball.com/2009/06/predicting-next-team-of-decade.html
follows this one... http://www.sportscolumn.com/2009/05/29/changing-of-the-guards-a-fascinating-decade-in-baseball/
Things to Watch
Lots of pitching to watch tonight. I am biased towards watching good pitching more than good hitting so I will always lead with that.
Here are some of the names going tonight: Santana, Lincecum, Haren, Peavy, Halladay, Bedard, Burnett, Matsuzaka, and Porcello.
Unfortunately only the last two are squaring off against each other, and the only reason Dice-K is in that list is because of his gigantic posting fee, contract, and hype he will most likely not live up to. Even after Dice-K's trip to the "DL" he has not been the Dice-K of last year, or even of 2007, as his 0-3 record with 8.82 ERA would point out. He does have 15 K's through 16.1 innings, but he has also allowed 10BB's and 28 Hits!
Porcello on the other hand, being the most hyped High School arm since Josh Beckett, is going for his 6th straight win. In his last 5 starts he has gone 5-0 in 30 innings pitched with a 1.50 ERA, 2:1 K/BB ratio, and he is only 20 years old. Don't start the Doc Gooden comparisons yet, as they are different types of pitchers, but it is extremely impressive and has to give fans in Detroit even more hope that their 3-headed monster of Verlander, Porcello, and Jackson.
The Yankees and Rangers are the game of the night, as the leaders of the AL East and West square off in the $1.5 Billion Bronx Bandbox. The storylines are simple. Yankees are going for 19 games without an error, Jeter is sitting on 1499 Runs, and the battle of the two teams who have slugged the most Home Runs in MLB (83 for Texas, 80 for NYY) is taking place at the stadium that has seen more Home Runs hit there than any other park (87). Should be a fun one, especially with AJ Burnett and Vincente Padilla on the mound. Keep in mind, Burnett finds his groove in the second half of the season, and just shut down the Rangers in Arlington last week.
Ichiro is also going for 26 games in a row with a hit...only 30 away from the record if he connects. You have to believe that of everyone in MLB, this is the one guy who could actually come close to pulling it off.
Will King Albert get another IBB to his name against the A(rroyo) in HAVOC?
So much to watch, so little time...
Here are some of the names going tonight: Santana, Lincecum, Haren, Peavy, Halladay, Bedard, Burnett, Matsuzaka, and Porcello.
Unfortunately only the last two are squaring off against each other, and the only reason Dice-K is in that list is because of his gigantic posting fee, contract, and hype he will most likely not live up to. Even after Dice-K's trip to the "DL" he has not been the Dice-K of last year, or even of 2007, as his 0-3 record with 8.82 ERA would point out. He does have 15 K's through 16.1 innings, but he has also allowed 10BB's and 28 Hits!
Porcello on the other hand, being the most hyped High School arm since Josh Beckett, is going for his 6th straight win. In his last 5 starts he has gone 5-0 in 30 innings pitched with a 1.50 ERA, 2:1 K/BB ratio, and he is only 20 years old. Don't start the Doc Gooden comparisons yet, as they are different types of pitchers, but it is extremely impressive and has to give fans in Detroit even more hope that their 3-headed monster of Verlander, Porcello, and Jackson.
The Yankees and Rangers are the game of the night, as the leaders of the AL East and West square off in the $1.5 Billion Bronx Bandbox. The storylines are simple. Yankees are going for 19 games without an error, Jeter is sitting on 1499 Runs, and the battle of the two teams who have slugged the most Home Runs in MLB (83 for Texas, 80 for NYY) is taking place at the stadium that has seen more Home Runs hit there than any other park (87). Should be a fun one, especially with AJ Burnett and Vincente Padilla on the mound. Keep in mind, Burnett finds his groove in the second half of the season, and just shut down the Rangers in Arlington last week.
Ichiro is also going for 26 games in a row with a hit...only 30 away from the record if he connects. You have to believe that of everyone in MLB, this is the one guy who could actually come close to pulling it off.
Will King Albert get another IBB to his name against the A(rroyo) in HAVOC?
So much to watch, so little time...
Good Afternoon
I like to start late in the day.
This is a shock, not that the early favorite for AL MVP is being recognized, but that he is beating out the big market guys for tops in voting...
http://blogs.tampabay.com/rays/2009/06/longoria-tops-al-allstar-voting.html
This is sad...
http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/story/11812717/rss
This is a shock, not that the early favorite for AL MVP is being recognized, but that he is beating out the big market guys for tops in voting...
http://blogs.tampabay.com/rays/2009/06/longoria-tops-al-allstar-voting.html
This is sad...
http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/story/11812717/rss
The ongoing Jake Peavy saga heads to the City of Brotherly Love...because moving from the mother of all pitchers parks to a total bandbox is a good idea...
http://mlb.fanhouse.com/2009/06/02/peavy-wants-to-feel-philly-first/
More on this in a second...
http://bats.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/06/02/can-pujols-break-bondss-record-no-not-that-one/
Much more later in the day. I get to go watch Tim Lincecum tonight at the always empty Nationals Park...I am obviously hoping for a special performance from him.
Monday, June 1, 2009
25 for Ichiro
Thats a 25 game hitting streak for Ichiro Suzuki, thanks to a double at his first at-bat.
Scoreless through three at Seattle, between the Mariners and Orioles.
Scoreless through three at Seattle, between the Mariners and Orioles.
Yes
Not that anyone has ever read this blog outside of me...but if you manage to stumble upon this in the vast blog wasteland in cyber space...
http://www.gopetition.com/online/28205.html
Thats a petition to get the Red Sox to promote Clay Buchholz to The Show...I signed it, even though it is not likely to happen, or even should happen, especially with Smoltz coming up in a few short weeks. Why not though? I like the kid and I think he has some filthy stuff. Remember that curve that sealed the no-no in 2007? Yeah, no one can hit that.
http://www.gopetition.com/online/28205.html
Thats a petition to get the Red Sox to promote Clay Buchholz to The Show...I signed it, even though it is not likely to happen, or even should happen, especially with Smoltz coming up in a few short weeks. Why not though? I like the kid and I think he has some filthy stuff. Remember that curve that sealed the no-no in 2007? Yeah, no one can hit that.
Follow-Up
Volquez lasted exactely 1 inning today...24 pitches, 2 H, 1BB, 2K, 1ER. Originally it was thought he threw out his back, but now it is being reported that it is due to numbness in the pinkie and ring finger on his right hand.
Oswalt is winning the only real pitching duel tonight between him and Aaron Cook. Houston leads 4-1 thanks to a 2-run shot from Carlos Lee, and a 2 RBI night for Lance Berkman.
The Yankees beat Cleveland 5-2, thanks to a 4-run 7th, which included a 2-run double by Nick Swisher. The Yankees can also thank Indian pitching tonight, for a very generous 11 free passes. Jeter did score, beinging his career run total to 1499. Joba also pitched well, and past the 5th inning, his line: 8ip 2er 5k 2bb 2h 106 pitches, 66 strikes.
Even though Beltran was a late scratch, the Mets still found a way to score more than 3 runs in a game, even though it was in a losing effort to Pittsburgh, the final being 8-5. The Mets did blow that 5 run lead they had early on, as J.J. Putz pitched to 5 batters in the bottom of the 8th, allowing all to reach base, and allowing 3 earned runs and 1 Unearned Run (hey! thats the name of this blog!). Luckily for the Mets faithful, bullpen collapses are something they have rarely had to encounter, and they should move on from this without much panic. Pitt did play well though, especially Wilson Valdez, who went 2 for 4 with 3 RBI.
A few late games tonight, I get to watch Matt Wieters...plus a recap of the Marlins victory over the Brewers coming up shortly.
Oswalt is winning the only real pitching duel tonight between him and Aaron Cook. Houston leads 4-1 thanks to a 2-run shot from Carlos Lee, and a 2 RBI night for Lance Berkman.
The Yankees beat Cleveland 5-2, thanks to a 4-run 7th, which included a 2-run double by Nick Swisher. The Yankees can also thank Indian pitching tonight, for a very generous 11 free passes. Jeter did score, beinging his career run total to 1499. Joba also pitched well, and past the 5th inning, his line: 8ip 2er 5k 2bb 2h 106 pitches, 66 strikes.
Even though Beltran was a late scratch, the Mets still found a way to score more than 3 runs in a game, even though it was in a losing effort to Pittsburgh, the final being 8-5. The Mets did blow that 5 run lead they had early on, as J.J. Putz pitched to 5 batters in the bottom of the 8th, allowing all to reach base, and allowing 3 earned runs and 1 Unearned Run (hey! thats the name of this blog!). Luckily for the Mets faithful, bullpen collapses are something they have rarely had to encounter, and they should move on from this without much panic. Pitt did play well though, especially Wilson Valdez, who went 2 for 4 with 3 RBI.
A few late games tonight, I get to watch Matt Wieters...plus a recap of the Marlins victory over the Brewers coming up shortly.
Volquez Back
HAOC turns back into HAVOC tonight as Edinson Volquez returns from the 15-day DL.
After his breakout 2008 campaign in which he posted a 140 ERA+, and 206 k's in 196 innings, Volquez got off to a shakey start in '09, but is still the NL leader in hits/9 innings with 5.9. Unfortunately, his walk totals are so high he gives up almost as many free passes as he does hits (5.7 BB/9 innings).
His strikeout totals this year are similar to 2008. I guess the thing to look for is increased command and a consistant release point, which is a problem he has had in his worst starts.
I suppose the only player he does not want to get the ball over the plate for tonight is Pujols.
After his breakout 2008 campaign in which he posted a 140 ERA+, and 206 k's in 196 innings, Volquez got off to a shakey start in '09, but is still the NL leader in hits/9 innings with 5.9. Unfortunately, his walk totals are so high he gives up almost as many free passes as he does hits (5.7 BB/9 innings).
His strikeout totals this year are similar to 2008. I guess the thing to look for is increased command and a consistant release point, which is a problem he has had in his worst starts.
I suppose the only player he does not want to get the ball over the plate for tonight is Pujols.
A Slow Monday
Some things I am looking out for...
Pitching Matchups-
1. Oswalt/Cook- Even though they pitch for two of the worst teams in the NL, this still could be a fun game to watch.
Thats it.
Ok, I guess the two most interesting games include the three teams at the top of the NL Central.
St. Louis v. Cinci
Milwaukee v. Florida
-Joba pitches tonight against a Sizemore-less Indians squad...not that he was a force to reckon with for the first two months of the season with a .223/.309/.417 line while being numero uno in outs made(170) and caught stealing (6).
This game also has another story line...
Jeter going for his 1500th run. He currently is sitting on 1498 in the #66 spot all time, 6 runs behind Nap Lajoie for 65th, and 797 behind all time leader Rickey Henderson.
That is too much Yankee talk for me...I will be back later with more on tonights action.
Pitching Matchups-
1. Oswalt/Cook- Even though they pitch for two of the worst teams in the NL, this still could be a fun game to watch.
Thats it.
Ok, I guess the two most interesting games include the three teams at the top of the NL Central.
St. Louis v. Cinci
Milwaukee v. Florida
-Joba pitches tonight against a Sizemore-less Indians squad...not that he was a force to reckon with for the first two months of the season with a .223/.309/.417 line while being numero uno in outs made(170) and caught stealing (6).
This game also has another story line...
Jeter going for his 1500th run. He currently is sitting on 1498 in the #66 spot all time, 6 runs behind Nap Lajoie for 65th, and 797 behind all time leader Rickey Henderson.
That is too much Yankee talk for me...I will be back later with more on tonights action.
Friday, May 22, 2009
30 minutes In
Rollins, Sizemore, Sheffield, Nolan Reimold, and Carlos Ruiz have all hit home runs. Two at The New Yankee Stadium...shocking development.
Dice-K is ok so far, good command, a couple of K's, but a home run to Sheffield. The Captain takes one back for the Red Sox in the bottom of the 2nd. 1-1 Red Sox-Mets.
Porcello-Jimenez is heating up. 1-0 Det-Col through 2 1/2
Nolasco's struggles continue...probably will be taking a trip to the "DL". 4-0 TB-FLA
A.J Burnett falling victim to home stadium. 3-0 Phi-NYY
1-1 Cle-Cin
Rich Harden to DL.
Dice-K is ok so far, good command, a couple of K's, but a home run to Sheffield. The Captain takes one back for the Red Sox in the bottom of the 2nd. 1-1 Red Sox-Mets.
Porcello-Jimenez is heating up. 1-0 Det-Col through 2 1/2
Nolasco's struggles continue...probably will be taking a trip to the "DL". 4-0 TB-FLA
A.J Burnett falling victim to home stadium. 3-0 Phi-NYY
1-1 Cle-Cin
Rich Harden to DL.
A First Post
These are just some thoughts about baseball...
Interleague Play starts tonight. Mets v. Red Sox, Phillies v. Yankees, Rays v. Marlins, Dodgers v. Angels...I am currently just down the road from Nationals Park, site of the Nationals v. Orioles tilt.
What I am Looking For...
Interleague Play starts tonight. Mets v. Red Sox, Phillies v. Yankees, Rays v. Marlins, Dodgers v. Angels...I am currently just down the road from Nationals Park, site of the Nationals v. Orioles tilt.
What I am Looking For...
- Dice-K's control...For $100 Million the Red Sox need him to go into the 7th inning, not 5th.
- Peavy v. Zambrano...Hopefully a duel. At one point this winter they were even rumored to become teammates.
- Randy Johnson in Seattle...sitting on 298 wins, and he's back pitching against formerKen Griffey Junior.
- Porcello/Kershaw...they are not facing off, but they are both pitching tonight. Two future stars.
- Mat Gamel the DH. Lets see what he has-and all 3 of his Major League Hits have been for extra bases (2 doubles, 1home run).
Plus a whole lot more, but that was just what came to mind, those are just some things I am looking forward to seeing play out tonight.
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