2015 MLB Thread

[NoDak 4 Ever]

I bought MLB.tv today. 3 games over .500 making me a little bit of a believer.

[clenz]

Twins win again
16-13
Won 8 of last 10


Single A Cedar Rapids is 16-6 with a 5 game lead on second place in the first half Midwest League Western division. Best record by 4 games in the entire Midwest League. Won 9 of last 10. 13-2 on the road

The "future" stars are starting to play well in AA ball.

Things might start to look up for the Twins...maybe...but not yet. I won't let myself get happy yet

[AshevilleApp2]

Three big series coming up for Detroit. The Royals and Twins in Detroit, then a trip to St Louis.

Iglesias is day to day with a groin strain. Verlander is finally cleared to begin throwing.

[caribbeanhen]

Twins win again
16-13
Won 8 of last 10


Single A Cedar Rapids is 16-6 with a 5 game lead on second place in the first half Midwest League Western division. Best record by 4 games in the entire Midwest League. Won 9 of last 10. 13-2 on the road

The "future" stars are starting to play well in AA ball.

Things might start to look up for the Twins...maybe...but not yet. I won't let myself get happy yet

Jose Berrios is one to watch! that kid will not be denied

[PaladinFan]

Some off day chatter.

Braves top prospect Jose Peraza (2b) is hitting .311 with a .351 OBP in AAA as a 20 year old. I imagine we will see him in Atlanta sometime in June or July.

Peraza is rated as one of the best speedsters in the minor leagues, stealing 60 bags last year. What is exciting for Braves fans, is that a CF in AA, Mallex Smith, grades out at a pure 80 grade speed (Billy Hamilton, Dee Gordon territory). Smith is hitting .315 in Mississippi.

Next season, you might see the Braves have two high contact, high OBP guys, at the top of the lineup that may be two of the fastest players in the major leagues. Something to look forward to.

[caribbeanhen]

Some off day chatter.

Braves top prospect Jose Peraza (2b) is hitting .311 with a .351 OBP in AAA as a 20 year old. I imagine we will see him in Atlanta sometime in June or July.

Peraza is rated as one of the best speedsters in the minor leagues, stealing 60 bags last year. What is exciting for Braves fans, is that a CF in AA, Mallex Smith, grades out at a pure 80 grade speed (Billy Hamilton, Dee Gordon territory). Smith is hitting .315 in Mississippi.

Next season, you might see the Braves have two high contact, high OBP guys, at the top of the lineup that may be two of the fastest players in the major leagues. Something to look forward to.

sounds good paladin but If you want me to get excited show me a Carlos Correra type prospect, only a matter of time before the 20 year old is in Houston

[bonarae]

Meanwhile, the Cardinals are still unstoppable, now having the best record so far in the Majors. When do you think will they collapse? xchinscratchx

[BisonFan02]

"Well, this year I'm told the team did well because one pitcher had a fine curve ball. I understand that a curve ball is thrown with a deliberate attempt to deceive. Surely this is not an ability we should want to foster at Harvard."
-Charles William Eliot

Been watching some good ol Ken Burns "Baseball" and remembered this good quote. xlolx

[AshevilleApp2]

Meanwhile, the Cardinals are still unstoppable, now having the best record so far in the Majors. When do you think will they collapse? xchinscratchx

Hopefully when the Tigers visit.

[clenz]

Twins' first 7 games: 1-6 record, -29 run differential
Twins' next 23 games: 16-7 record, +48 run differential
Since August 1, 2014 the @Twins have scored 419 runs - the MOST in baseball!

[clenz]

Same team that did this to start the season

Most Runs Allowed Before Scoring
Single Season
1974 Padres 23
2015 Twins 22
1890 Infants 22
via EliasSports

[Drblankstare]

The unstoppable killing machine also known as the Minnesota Twins win again. When do the playoff tickets go on sale..................it's fun to hope.

[AshevilleApp2]

The Good: Tigers beat Royals
The Bad: David Price injured when stepping on a bat. Hopefully it won't cost him much (if any) time. And Alex Avila goes on the DL with what is termed a "loose body" on his knee. Looks like surgery and being out 2-6 weeks.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile, Noah Snydergaard is finally called up by the Mets after Gee was put on the 15 day DL. His first opponent? Wow. The Cubs with their two hyped rookies, on Tuesday.

[caribbeanhen]

Meanwhile, Noah Snydergaard is finally called up by the Mets after Gee was put on the 15 day DL. His first opponent? Wow. The Cubs with their two hyped rookies, on Tuesday.
three actually, if you count Addison Russell, a few more in the minors... but hey, the Cubs are in the race

[bonarae]

Kris Bryant has finally hit a homer after around 20+ games in a Chicago Cubs uniform. But his 3-run HR was the majority of the runs the Cubs scored against the Brewers in a losing cause, 12-4.

[caribbeanhen]

Kris Bryant has finally hit a homer after around 20+ games in a Chicago Cubs uniform. But his 3-run HR was the majority of the runs the Cubs scored against the Brewers in a losing cause, 12-4.

let's hope he get's the power stroke going now,

when will the bleachers ever be ready for people?

[AshevilleApp2]

Kansas City beats Detroit in 10 innings and takes 2 of 3 in Detroit. Tough loss since the Tigers had bases loaded with nobody out and couldn't convert in the 10th. On the positive side, Shane Greene went 8 innings and gave up 1run after struggling his last 3-4 outings.

[PaladinFan]

sounds good paladin but If you want me to get excited show me a Carlos Correra type prospect, only a matter of time before the 20 year old is in Houston

There are benefits at picking in the top of the draft several years running.

[caribbeanhen]

There are benefits at picking in the top of the draft several years running.

Braves know a little about that, harken back to 1990 when Larry was picked first out of The Bolles in Jacksonville

[bonarae]

There are benefits at picking in the top of the draft several years running.

The Cubs have had experience with this. However, it has been only recently that the true spotlight of the prospects have been revealed. (Vitters I believe is somewhere in the indie leagues?)

[bonarae]

when will the bleachers ever be ready for people?

Left and Center Field are ready now; Right Field later this year.

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?gid=2015_05_11_nynmlb_chnmlb_1&mode=preview&c_id=mlb

[bonarae]

Bryant has christened the left field bleachers with his first Wrigley Field HR.

[ngineer]

Phillies sending Cody Ashe down to AAA to work on learning LF. Get ready for Makail Franco to get called up this weekend at 3B.

[caribbeanhen]

Carlos Correa, the best prospect in the minors, gets the call to AAA, was hitting .395 at AA

[Gil Dobie]

Carlos Correa, the best prospect in the minors, gets the call to AAA, was hitting .395 at AA

Twins won't move the #1 prospect up to AAA just yet.

[caribbeanhen]

Twins won't move the #1 prospect up to AAA just yet.

if your referring to Buxton be ready for Twin fans to be referring to him as Buston before long

[clenz]

I'm currently eating supper right across the road from Target Field and Target Center.


Twins aren't in town though. ****ers

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[NoDak 4 Ever]

I'm currently eating supper right across the road from Target Field and Target Center.


Twins aren't in town though. ****ers

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

Hopefully the game is on TV. This one is pretty good.

[clenz]

This place is a bit more "hoity toity".


National sales/managers meeting at Honeywell.

I'm underdressed in business casual but business.



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[clenz]

This is where I'm at compared to the stadiums http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/13/bff8a1999f02cae1bd7f355845b99d8c.jpg

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[PaladinFan]

if your referring to Buxton be ready for Twin fans to be referring to him as Buston before long

Remember Buxton as a high school player in Georgia. Hope he gets his shot.

[PaladinFan]

The Cubs have had experience with this. However, it has been only recently that the true spotlight of the prospects have been revealed. (Vitters I believe is somewhere in the indie leagues?)

It takes a few years. The Nationals were fortunate enough to have #1 picks in two years where there were literal can't miss prospects in Strasburg and Harper. There have only been a handful of such players in the last 20 years or so, and they snagged two of them. Can rebuild real quickly around that sort of luck.

Other guys go under the radar. Virtually every MLB team passed on Mike Trout (including the Angels, who had two picks that round). Sometimes it takes a little while for the light to shine.

I am hoping this is a banner draft for the Braves. Atlanta completely renovated its farm system top to bottom. They hold 5 of the first 75 picks in this year's draft as well.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile, is this the season where records are broken and history is made?

We have a first in baseball's long history: a 3-person triple play involving only the infield.

A-Roid has passed Mays; he has around 661+ now.

Among Venezuelan-born players, can Miggy leap over Galarraga in the HR totals?

Are some teams' relief pitching corps in crisis mode now?

[PaladinFan]

Meanwhile, is this the season where records are broken and history is made?

We have a first in baseball's long history: a 3-person triple play involving only the infield.

A-Roid has passed Mays; he has around 661+ now.

Among Venezuelan-born players, can Miggy leap over Galarraga in the HR totals?

Are some teams' relief pitching corps in crisis mode now?

Its sad how the steroid era has tainted baseball. I remember how insane 1998 was during the Mcgwire/Sosa race for 61. A lot of the records that have been touched since then just ring hollow.

[bonarae]

Its sad how the steroid era has tainted baseball. I remember how insane 1998 was during the Mcgwire/Sosa race for 61. A lot of the records that have been touched since then just ring hollow.

But how about basketball and ice hockey? Are those the only sports with "clean" records? xsmhx

[AshevilleApp2]

Meanwhile, is this the season where records are broken and history is made?

We have a first in baseball's long history: a 3-person triple play involving only the infield.

A-Roid has passed Mays; he has around 661+ now.

Among Venezuelan-born players, can Miggy leap over Galarraga in the HR totals?

Are some teams' relief pitching corps in crisis mode now?

Cabrera is within 2 of Galaragga after yesterday, so my guess is yes.

[AshevilleApp2]

Cabrera got HR number 399 in a Tigers win at St. Louis. Shane Greene had to leave the game after the 5th inning with an apparent pinched nerve in his elbow. Hoping it isn't anything really serious, there's not much depth with their starters right now.

The White Sox are playing well lately, and the Twins continue to win. This could be a very interesting summer in the AL Central.

[MR. CHICKEN]

http://www.anygivensaturday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=20736&stc=1.....PHILS BRING UP 22 YEAR OLD....MAIKEL FRANCO 3B...FROM AAA IRON PIGS....(.355 4 HRS. 24 RIBS/33 GAMES)....HE'S DUH REASON CODY ASCHE... IS DOWN LEARNIN' OF....ANY-HOO...HE PROMPTLAH TOOK DUH 0-4 COLLAR.....BATTIN' 5TH 'TWEEN HOWARD/UTLEY....NO STORY BOOK START...DOUGH HE WAS UP LAST SEPTEMBER..FO' SOME EXPERIENCE.....HE'S DUH CENTERPIECE..UH PHILLY HOPES FO' FUTURE......xprayx...BRAWK!

[caribbeanhen]

Its sad how the steroid era has tainted baseball. I remember how insane 1998 was during the Mcgwire/Sosa race for 61. A lot of the records that have been touched since then just ring hollow.

another observaton about 1998, eveytime Sosa was facing a Latin pitcher, moreso a Dominican, I would tell my wife, hey watch this, the pitcher is gonna grove one for Sosa.... and it was true.... over and over again....

[BisonFan02]

Its sad how the steroid era has tainted baseball. I remember how insane 1998 was during the Mcgwire/Sosa race for 61. A lot of the records that have been touched since then just ring hollow.

Don't forget that modern day hitters face pitchers of the same era...and specialty/relief pitching as well. Baseball records really need to be taken in context of era....a few of them especially would NEVER be touched in today's game.

[bonarae]

Also, do we see a downward trend in the number of "Iron Men" in baseball, i.e. there is no chance of breaking Ripken's record anymore?

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article/mlb/castrovince-durability-on-decline-for-todays-players?ymd=20150516&content_id=124746446&vkey=news_mlb

Meanwhile, Miguel Cabrera is now at 400 HRs.

[bonarae]

Mike Redmond is gone as well.

[PaladinFan]

Mike Redmond is gone as well.

Jeffrey Loria being Jeffrey Loria. Oddly enough, Fredi Gonzalez, managing from the other dugout, was also fired by Loria midseason.

Atlanta's Shelby Miller went 8 2/3 hitless before giving up a single to a pinch hitter.

Miller is the only NL pitcher ranked in the top five in wins (5), ERA (1.33), innings (54), and WHIP (0.83). Might be watching the emergence of the next great starter.

[tribe_pride]

Mike Redmond is gone as well.

Replacing Redmond is general manager Dan Jennings who I believe has his only coaching experience as a high school coach in Mobile Alabama in the 1980s (I think).

Does this show what little that baseball managers do? I feel that that is the one sport where I can do almost as well game day as any other head coach.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Replacing Redmond is general manager Dan Jennings who I believe has his only coaching experience as a high school coach in Mobile Alabama in the 1980s (I think).

Does this show what little that baseball managers do? I feel that that is the one sport where I can do almost as well game day as any other head coach.

no, it shows what a terrible owner Jeff Loria is.

[bonarae]

Replacing Redmond is general manager Dan Jennings who I believe has his only coaching experience as a high school coach in Mobile Alabama in the 1980s (I think).

Does this show what little that baseball managers do? I feel that that is the one sport where I can do almost as well game day as any other head coach.

Is the NBA's Steve Kerr an antithesis of Dan Jennings? xchinscratchx

[MR. CHICKEN]

http://www.anygivensaturday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=20740&stc=1.......PHIGHTIN' PHILS....ON SIX GAME RIDE.......OOOPS!..xoopsx...DID AH JES' JINX...DUH BIG CHEESE-STEAK MACHINE....xeekx...DESPITE SOME PITCHIN' INJURIES....AN' SHUTTLE BUS TO AN' FRO' LEHIGH.....DOSE LUV-ABLE OLD VETS....AN' YOUNGIN'S.....MAKIN' JUNIOR'S JOB.....UH TAFFY PULL @...DUH BEACH....xbowx...BRAWK!

[PaladinFan]

Replacing Redmond is general manager Dan Jennings who I believe has his only coaching experience as a high school coach in Mobile Alabama in the 1980s (I think).

Does this show what little that baseball managers do? I feel that that is the one sport where I can do almost as well game day as any other head coach.

There is always a question of how much a manager directly effects wins and losses over the course of a 162 game season.

Even then, its not like these guys are just pulled off the streets. Most of these new managers have been around baseball a long long time. Unlike a lot of other sports (football for instance), there is no tradition in baseball of guys having to work their way up from minor coach to head coach.

edit: Just for an example of one GM turned Manager, look no further than Hall of Famer Bobby Cox. Granted, unlike Jennings he was a manager at the major league level. It isn't unheard of, though, to pull the manager out of the GM chair.

[clenz]

Since April 15th the Twins starting pitchers have the most wins in the majors.

How bout that?

[AshevilleApp2]

Since April 15th the Twins starting pitchers have the most wins in the majors.

How bout that?

Twins are scary, young talent just needs to learn how to win.

[clenz]

Twins are scary, young talent just needs to learn how to win.
I wouldn't hate seeing Rev Run come back to Minnesota.

I still want more pitching. That's always been the Twins heal. Since Jack Morris there hasn't been a really great pitcher to wear a Twins uniform. There have been good ones, but none that were absolute #1 guys - though I suppose Santana fits that.

After that you drop down to...Brad Radke? He was a solid pitcher and did start 9 of the 10 opening day games during his career. He was the Twins Ace, but was he really a true ace?
Johan was either white hot or complete trash. When he was good he was as good as there was. Just couldn't seem to do it full time
Lirano - see Santana but far less consistent and effective


Yeah...

[ngineer]

http://www.anygivensaturday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=20740&stc=1.......PHIGHTIN' PHILS....ON SIX GAME RIDE.......OOOPS!..xoopsx...DID AH JES' JINX...DUH BIG CHEESE-STEAK MACHINE....xeekx...DESPITE SOME PITCHIN' INJURIES....AN' SHUTTLE BUS TO AN' FRO' LEHIGH.....DOSE LUV-ABLE OLD VETS....AN' YOUNGIN'S.....MAKIN' JUNIOR'S JOB.....UH TAFFY PULL @...DUH BEACH....xbowx...BRAWK!

Yes, starting to show some life with the "youngin's" and ol' man Howard is starting to hit a groove. Will be interesting to see how it develops over the next few months leading to trade deadline.

[clenz]

Running count: Yesterday 4/12 games were blacked out on http://MLB.TV in Iowa. Overall 199/615 (32.4 percent) on the year

[bonarae]

Meanwhile, the number of youth participants is declining....

http://espn.go.com/blog/sweetspot/post/_/id/58508/baseball-is-dying-again

[clenz]

I was going to post that yesterday to rehash that argument

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[clenz]

Fantasy update....i haven't crashed yet, but im sure it's coming

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/22/a27bb9923aebbe6047c8852839d678e1.jpg

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[caribbeanhen]

Fantasy update....i haven't crashed yet, but im sure it's coming

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/22/a27bb9923aebbe6047c8852839d678e1.jpg

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starting to wonder if Cano and Tulo not to mention Votta will ever start to hit

and by the way, thanks to Fear the Bird for dropping Cory Kleuber and Beltre...

[clenz]

Since the start of last year Twins second baseman Brian Dozier leads all MLB second basemen in homers (31), walks (108), and runs (145). Tied for second in WAR.

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[AshevilleApp2]

And the Twins move to within a game of the Royals.

[PaladinFan]

Braves, who are surprisingly hovering around .500 in late May, swing a deal with the Dodgers. Dodgers get four MLB players (LHP Stults, IF Callaspo, RP Jamie, and RP Thomas). Braves get back Juan Uribe and Chris Withrow.

Uribe is potentially an upgrade at third base and most certainly the bench (he also can now no longer hit crippling homers against Atlanta). Withrow is a former first round pitcher and a hard throwing reliever. He is also recovering from TJS (a lot of the Braves trade targets are), but is expected back later this year.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

And the Twins move to within a game of the Royals.

I know it's still early but.....

http://replygif.net/i/237.gif

[MR. CHICKEN]

http://www.anygivensaturday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=20752&stc=1.....RUH ROH...xeekx......JUNIOR JES' WENT OFF ON PHIGHTIN'S FANS.....FO' LACK UH PATIENCE.....INVOLVIN' DUH REGUARDED PROSPECTS....DOWN ON DUH FARM......"THEY DON'T UNDERSTAND THE GAME"....."THEY DON'T UNDERSTAND THE PROCESS".....DOUBLE RUH ROH....xeekxxeekx.....AS PHILLIE FANS ARE REGUARDED.....AS MOST KNOWLEDGABLE....IN ALLL DUH LAND........."THEY BITCH AND COMPLAIN".....OH BRUTTER JR.......YAH JES' STEPPED IN WET CEMENT.......AN' DOSE HEAVY DOCKSIDERS......WON'T COME IN HANDY......WHEN YER DUMPED IN DUH DELAWARE......BAH SEASONS END.......xwavex....DOODLE-DOO-DOO!



http://www.delawareonline.com/story/sports/mlb/phillies/2015/05/26/amaros-comments-create-firestorm-sentiment-rings-true/27991243/

[caribbeanhen]

The Phillies have some nice prospects for sure, but a few don't make a farm system... Do they have enough talent in the Minors to energize the fan base? I know of the SS Crawford playing at single A, and of course Nola AT AA

[MR. CHICKEN]

http://www.anygivensaturday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=20754&stc=1......PHILLIES FARM SYSTEM...IS GENERALLAH....CONSIDERED.....OKLAHOMAH...IN DUH 1930'S......BUT HERE'S SOME STUFF.....AWK!


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philadelphia_Phillies_minor_league_players

[bonarae]

Meanwhile, the Cubs are both on the winning - and losing - ends of walk-offs. We have 5 walk-off wins now, including last night's game. Errors are still another issue for us.

Is Baez ready to return to Wrigley? Maybe. But Coghlan can still hit...

[clenz]

I know it's still early but.....

http://replygif.net/i/237.gifI'm trying to hold off on excitment as long as I can.........but at some point I have to let myself get "emotionally invested" and buy into the success, right?


Sabermetrics say this team is due to collapse at some point but it's not like this team has anyone having a career year. I guess Plouffe is with HR and RBI so far, but he's only hitting about .260. I don't think anyone is hitting over .280, Nolasco's ERA is near 5, Santana is still a month plus away from pitching, and yet the team is top 8 in runs and 5th best record in the majors

[NoDak 4 Ever]

I'm trying to hold off on excitment as long as I can.........but at some point I have to let myself get "emotionally invested" and buy into the success, right?


Sabermetrics say this team is due to collapse at some point but it's not like this team has anyone having a career year. I guess Plouffe is with HR and RBI so far, but he's only hitting about .260. I don't think anyone is hitting over .280, Nolasco's ERA is near 5, Santana is still a month plus away from pitching, and yet the team is top 8 in runs and 5th best record in the majors

Yes, I get that but what you don't see is 2 or 3 guys hovering around .175 in the lineup either. Molitor seems more performance oriented than Gardy who seemed to just be going off a chart regarding substitutions and lineup cards.

Likewise, the bullpen seems to be getting tougher. Boyer looked a little shaky last night but Perkins locked it down. I like that we aren't stuck in dogmatic rules about when and how to use pitchers. Discounting Nolasco who runs very hot or cold, you have at least 2 starters in Gibson and Pelfrey who can be counted on to throw some really good innings.

[clenz]

Yes, I get that but what you don't see is 2 or 3 guys hovering around .175 in the lineup either. Molitor seems more performance oriented than Gardy who seemed to just be going off a chart regarding substitutions and lineup cards.

Likewise, the bullpen seems to be getting tougher. Boyer looked a little shaky last night but Perkins locked it down. I like that we aren't stuck in dogmatic rules about when and how to use pitchers. Discounting Nolasco who runs very hot or cold, you have at least 2 starters in Gibson and Pelfrey who can be counted on to throw some really good innings.
That's exactly right.

Hicks is probably the worst hitter on the team, but his glove in CF is WAY to important to not keep in the majors

[PaladinFan]

I have no idea what Amaro is doing. He was back to back 73 win seasons, looking at that or worse this season, a thin farm system and no real "plan" in sight.

I've said on this forum for years that I never understood what direction Amaro was taking the Phillies. Takes a special kind of GM to turn one of the MLB's premier franchises into a group of also-rans without any movable pieces. It is like he is willing to hold the fort until the last man when there is a completely logical option to retreat available to him.

And now to top it off, he starts ranting about the fans, who are some of the best in baseball.

[AshevilleApp2]

I'm trying to hold off on excitment as long as I can.........but at some point I have to let myself get "emotionally invested" and buy into the success, right?


Sabermetrics say this team is due to collapse at some point but it's not like this team has anyone having a career year. I guess Plouffe is with HR and RBI so far, but he's only hitting about .260. I don't think anyone is hitting over .280, Nolasco's ERA is near 5, Santana is still a month plus away from pitching, and yet the team is top 8 in runs and 5th best record in the majors

It is early still, but if I were a Twins fan I'd be buying in. Watching teams come together and play well is fun.

Just checked early scores and the Twins are winning in the 8th and the Royals losing in the 7th. Tigers game should have started minutes ago. Interesting summer ahead.

[clenz]

SWWWWWWWWWWEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEPPPP!!

10 GAMES OVER .500 AND WE'RE ALMOST IN JUNE!

TIME TO BUST OUT THE FIGHT SONG


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GtO67Ner-1c

[AshevilleApp2]

SWWWWWWWWWWEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEPPPP!!

10 GAMES OVER .500 AND WE'RE ALMOST IN JUNE!

TIME TO BUST OUT THE FIGHT SONG


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GtO67Ner-1c


xlolx



Still early though. xcoffeex











;)

[clenz]

xlolx



Still early though. xcoffeex











;)
You have no idea how much of that upper midwest "the worst is still to come" attitude I have in me about the Twins yet.

The fact I was willing to post the theme song is a big step though.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

xlolx



Still early though. xcoffeex











;)

Don't care. It's been a long time since the Twins were in 1st place not on opening day.

- - - Updated - - -


xlolx



Still early though. xcoffeex











;)

Don't care. It's been a long time since the Twins were in 1st place not on opening day.

[Drblankstare]

I've been involved with baseball most of my life, playing or some coaching. I just can't figure out this Twins team. Maybe it comes down to accountability, if that's the case look no further than Torii Hunter. Who knows how long it will last, but who cares at this point

[bonarae]

I have no idea what Amaro is doing. He was back to back 73 win seasons, looking at that or worse this season, a thin farm system and no real "plan" in sight.

I've said on this forum for years that I never understood what direction Amaro was taking the Phillies. Takes a special kind of GM to turn one of the MLB's premier franchises into a group of also-rans without any movable pieces. It is like he is willing to hold the fort until the last man when there is a completely logical option to retreat available to him.

And now to top it off, he starts ranting about the fans, who are some of the best in baseball.

One of the worst ever GM's to be involved in baseball. At least Hendry had some decent moves while the Cubs were Tribune-owned, but couldn't do an Epstein all the way... (and the current owner then poached Epstein from the Red Sox)

[Bisonator]

I've been involved with baseball most of my life, playing or some coaching. I just can't figure out this Twins team. Maybe it comes down to accountability, if that's the case look no further than Torii Hunter. Who knows how long it will last, but who cares at this point

Hunter was a great signing. Never should have let him get away to begin with IMO.

[AshevilleApp2]

Interesting game in Oakland yesterday. Alfredo Simon went on the bereaved list Tuesday night, so the Tigers called Kyle Ryan up from Toledo. He got to Oakland late for the start so Alex Wilson got the start from the bullpen. Ryan ended up pitching the 4th through 6th innings and got the win. But the Tigers basically used six relief pitchers yesterday. Wilson has been big for Detroit this year, after being tossed in as part of the Cespedes/Porcello trade.

In today's episode of "Who's Your Pitcher", the Tigers roll out young Buck Farmer. He got called up when Kyle Lobstein went on the DL a few days ago. Lobstein of course was brought up to replace Justin Verlander who has been on the DL all season.

All in all, I feel fortunate that Detroit hasn't fallen several games back of KC/Minnesota by now.

[clenz]

Hunter was a great signing. Never should have let him get away to begin with IMO.
Great team guy...

**** at keeping his foot out of his mouth

[tribe_pride]

Best statline of the day yesterday goes to Noah Syndergaard - the rookie pitcher for the Mets. 7.1 innings, 6 hits 0 runs, 6 Ks, and 0 BBs. Oh yeah, and at the bat 3-3 with a 430 foot home run.

He was taken out with 1 out in the 8th after he got the first batter out because he reached 100 pitches not because of any 8th inning danger.

[PaladinFan]

Best statline of the day yesterday goes to Noah Syndergaard - the rookie pitcher for the Mets. 7.1 innings, 6 hits 0 runs, 6 Ks, and 0 BBs. Oh yeah, and at the bat 3-3 with a 430 foot home run.

He was taken out with 1 out in the 8th after he got the first batter out because he reached 100 pitches not because of any 8th inning danger.

I often have said that most MLB pitchers were the best athletes for miles of where they grew up. Many were really good hitters over the course of their career.

Pitchers do not spend a lot of time hitting at the professional level, and certainly not as much as those guys that make their living swinging the bat. Still, many MLB pitchers (DH argument aside) have been successful hitters in their careers.

[clenz]

Fantasy update...

http://i348.photobucket.com/albums/q340/unipanthers10/1_zpsqlrsetkd.jpg
http://i348.photobucket.com/albums/q340/unipanthers10/2_zpsv1scnwdk.jpg

[MR. CHICKEN]

Best statline of the day yesterday goes to Noah Syndergaard - the rookie pitcher for the Mets. 7.1 innings, 6 hits 0 runs, 6 Ks, aBBs. Oh yeah, and at the bat 3-3 with a 430 foot home run

He was taken out with 1 out in the 8th after he got the first batter out because he reached 100 pitches not because of any 8th inning danger.


http://www.anygivensaturday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=20759&stc=1......DOESN'T COUNT.......DUH FEAT WAS AGIN'....DUH PHILLIES.......xsmhx.....BRAWK!

[clenz]

I often have said that most MLB pitchers were the best athletes for miles of where they grew up. Many were really good hitters over the course of their career.

Pitchers do not spend a lot of time hitting at the professional level, and certainly not as much as those guys that make their living swinging the bat. Still, many MLB pitchers (DH argument aside) have been successful hitters in their careers.
Meanwhile Jon Lester is now 0-59...

[clenz]

Here's a list of the 30 best hitting pitchers of all time...

Not real impressive


http://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/major-league-baseball-s-30-best-hitting-pitchers-of-the-last-30-years-1.6353526
T-30. JOSE RIJO (1984-2002)
Bats: Right, Throws: Right
Teams: Yankees, Athletics, Reds
.191 BA, .205 OBP, .234 SLG (.439 OPS), 2 HR in 445 ABs |

T-30. JAKE PEAVY (2002-2013)
Bats: Right, Throws: Right
Teams: Padres, White Sox, Red Sox
.173 BA, .212 OBP, .226 SLG (.439 OPS), 2 HR in 433 ABs

28. KERRY WOOD (1998-2012)
Bats: Right, Throws: Right
Teams: Cubs, Indians, Yankees
.171 BA, .196 OBP, .249 SLG (.444 OPS), 7 HR in 346 ABs

27. STEVE AVERY (1990-2003)
Bats: Left, Throws: Left
Teams: Braves, Red Sox, Reds, Tigers
.174 BA, .194 OBP, .252 SLG (.446 OPS), 4 HR in 437 ABs

26. JOHN THOMSON (1997-2007)
Bats Right:, Throws: Right
Teams: Rockies, Rangers, Braves, Mets, Royals
.198 BA, .225 OBP, .223 SLG (.448 OPS), 0 HR in 318 ABs




T-25. TOM GLAVINE (1987-2008)
Bats: Left, Throws: Left
Teams: Braves, Mets
.186 BA, .244 OBP, .210 SLG (.454 OPS), 1 HR in 1,323 ABs

T-25. CHAN HO PARK (1994-2010)
Bats: Right, Throws: Right
Teams: Dodgers, Rangers, Padres, Mets, Phillies, Yankees, Pirates
.179 BA, .215 OBP, .240 SLG (.454 OPS), 3 HR in 430 ABs

23. KIP WELLS (1999-2012)
Bats: Right, Throws: Right
Teams: White Sox, Pirates, Royals, Rockies, Rangers, Nationals, Reds, Cardinals, Padres
.190 BA, .205 OBP, .263 SLG (.468 OPS), 4 HR in 331 ABs

22. FERNANDO VALENZUELA (1980-1997)
Bats: Left, Throws: Left
Teams: Dodgers, Angels, Orioles, Phillies, Padres, Cardinals
.200 BA, .205 OBP, .262 SLG (.467 OPS), 10 HR in 936 ABs

21. OREL HERSHISER (1983-2000)
Bats: Right, Throws: Right
Teams: Dodgers, Indians, Giants, Mets
.201 BA, .230 OBP, .242 SLG (.472 OPS), 0 HR in 810 ABs

T-20. DWIGHT GOODEN (1984-2000)
Bats: Right, Throws: Right
Teams: Mets, Yankees, Indians, Rays, Astros
.196 BA, .212 OBP, .262 SLG (.474 OPS), 8 HR in 741 ABs

T-20. RICK SUTCLIFFE (1976-1994)
Bats: Left, Throws: Right
Teams: Indians, Cubs, Dodgers, Orioles, Cardinals
.181 BA, .229 OBP, .246 SLG (.474 OPS), 4 HR in 562 ABs

18. RANDY WOLF (1999-2012)
Bats: Left, Throws: Left
Teams: Phillies, Dodgers, Brewers, Padres, Orioles, Astros
.185 BA, .221 OBP, .255 SLG (.476 OPS), 5 HR in 687 ABs

17. JAVIER VAZQUEZ (1998-2011)
Bats: Right, Throws: Right
Teams: Expos, Diamondbacks, White Sox, Braves, Yankees, Marlins
.204 BA, .237 OBP, .241 SLG (.478 OPS), 1 HR in 560 ABs

16. WOODY WILLIAMS (1993-2007)
Bats: Right, Throws: Right
Teams: Blue Jays, Padres, Cardinals, Astros
.194 BA, .222 OBP, .267 SLG (.489 OPS,), 4 HR in 540 ABs

T-15. MARK PORTUGAL (1985-1999)
Bats: Right, Throws: Right
Teams: Twins, Astros, Giants, Reds, Phillies, Red Sox
.198 BA, .232 OBP, .260 SLG (.492 OPS), 2 HR in 450 ABs

T-15. JASON MARQUIS (2000-2013)
Bats: Left, Throws: Right
Teams: Braves, Cardinals, Cubs, Rockies, Nationals, Twins, Padres
.196 BA, .214 OBP, .278 SLG (.492 OPS), 5 HR in 647 ABs

13. JASON JENNINGS (2001-2009)
Bats: Left, Throws: Right
Teams: Rockies, Astros, Rangers
.207 BA, .251 OBP, .267 SLG (.519 OPS), 2 HR in 329 ABs

12. LIVAN HERNANDEZ (1996-2012)
Bats: Right, Throws: Right
Teams: Marlins, Giants, Expos, Diamondbacks, Mets, Braves, Nationals, Twins, Rockies, Brewers
.221 BA, .231 OBP, .295 SLG (.526 OPS), 10 HR in 973 ABs

11. ADAM WAINWRIGHT (2005-2013)
Bats: Right, Throws: Right
Teams: Cardinals
.205 BA, .232 OBP, .301 SLG (.534 OPS), 6 HR in 438 ABs

10. ADAM EATON (2000-2009)
Bats: Right, Throws: Right
Teams: Padres, Rangers, Phillies, Orioles, Rockies
.194 BA, .271 OBP, .273 SLG (.543 OPS), 3 HR in 241 ABs |

9. RUSS ORTIZ (1998-2010)
Bats: Right, Throws: Right
Teams: Giants, Braves, Diamondbacks, Astros, Dodgers, Orioles
.205 BA, .257 OBP, .292 SLG (.549 OPS), 7 HR in 507 ABs

8. DAN HAREN (2003-2013)
Bats: Right, Throws: Right
Teams: Cardinals, Athletics, Diamondbacks, Angels, Nationals
.215 BA, .240 OBP, .312 SLG (.552 OPS), 2 HR in 311 ABs

7. BOB FORSCH (1974-1989)
Bats: Right, Throws: Right
Teams: Cardinals, Astros
.213 BA, .235 OBP, .321 SLG (.557 OPS), 12 HR in 893 ABs

6. RICK RHODEN (1974-1989)
Bats: Right, Throws: Right
Teams: Pirates, Yankees, Astros, Dodgers
.238 BA, .253 OBP, .323 SLG (.576 OPS), 9 HR in 761 ABs

5. DON ROBINSON (1978-1992)
Bats: Right, Throws: Right
Teams: Pirates, Giants, Phillies, Angels
.231 BA, .252 OBP, .330 SLG (.582 OPS), 13 HR in 631 ABs

4. YOVANI GALLARDO (2007-2013)
Bats: Right, Throws: Right
Teams: Brewers
.207 BA, .234 OBP, .359 SLG (.593 OPS), 12 HR in 362 ABs

3. CARLOS ZAMBRANO (2001-2012)
Bats: Both, Throws: Right
Teams: Cubs, Marlins
.238 BA, .248 OBP, .388 SLG (.636 OPS), 24 HR in 693 ABs

2. MIKE HAMPTON (1993-2010)
Bats: Right, Throws: Left
Teams: Mariners, Astros, Mets, Rockies, Braves, Diamondbacks
.246 BA, .294 OBP, .356 SLG (.650 OPS), 16 HR in 725 ABs

1. DONTRELLE WILLIS (2003-2011)
Bats: Left, Throws: Left
Teams: Marlins, Tigers, Reds, Diamondbacks
.244 BA, .287 OBP, .378 SLG (.665 OPS), 9 HR in 389 ABs
Essentially, there are 3 pitchers in history that start to get into the "slightly below average" category.

The average of the best hitting pitchers of all time is something like .190 BA, .240 OPB, .280 SLG (.500 OBS) 1 HR every 150 AB


That's the best of the best

[caribbeanhen]

Fantasy update...

http://i348.photobucket.com/albums/q340/unipanthers10/1_zpsqlrsetkd.jpg
http://i348.photobucket.com/albums/q340/unipanthers10/2_zpsv1scnwdk.jpg

Clenz, No offense intended, but If I owned a casino and you Sir would be stopped at the door!

[MR. CHICKEN]

http://www.anygivensaturday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=20777&stc=1.......CODY ASCHE....JES' UP....FROM OUTFIELD TRAININ'.....DOWN ON DUH FARM.......BREAKS UP COLORADAHS...NO-HIT...BID IN EIGHTH..(BETTIS)...AS ROCKIES USE DUH RYAN HOWARD SHIFT....AGIN' DUH NEWLAH ANOITED LEFT FIELDER.......CODE.....HITS UH GROUNDER TA SHORT......HOWEVERAH....TULOWITZKI.....IS RELAXIN' ON OTHERAH SIDE UH SECOND......xlolx...AWK!

ps....SOME POO......FER YA'S....xlolxxlolx...BROCK!



http://www.thegoodphight.com/2015/5/29/8690315/trades-are-for-closers-rockies-4-phillies-1

[clenz]

Clenz, No offense intended, but If I owned a casino and you Sir would be stopped at the door!
I'm actually very bad at casino games.

Been to a casino 4 times in my life. Lost a total of $400. No plans to go back.

My wife, OTOH, seems to walk out 60 to 80 richer ever time.

[caribbeanhen]

I'm actually very bad at casino games.

Been to a casino 4 times in my life. Lost a total of $400. No plans to go back.

My wife, OTOH, seems to walk out 60 to 80 richer ever time.

so far the lesson learned is go with the auto draft and leave the emotions out of it

[PaladinFan]

Here's a list of the 30 best hitting pitchers of all time...

Not real impressive

Essentially, there are 3 pitchers in history that start to get into the "slightly below average" category.

The average of the best hitting pitchers of all time is something like .190 BA, .240 OPB, .280 SLG (.500 OBS) 1 HR every 150 AB


That's the best of the best

They are also competing against other players who spent the overwhelming majority of their time as baseball players working on their hitting.

Again, I am not suggesting that MLB pitchers are comparatively good hitter. I am saying that many of them were really good hitters at some point in their careers.

[clenz]

so far the lesson learned is go with the auto draft and leave the emotions out of it
Best advice there is.

My fantasy football teams that are auto always finish high but my manual very low.

Pick Em games I dominate though. Last two years on this site, out if 12k in a Mitsubishi HVAC Dealer college pick em I finished 23rd. In their pro pick i finished 48th out of 14k. I've won a couple survivor pools.... it's quite strange the difference for me in the fantasy game world.

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

[caribbeanhen]

none to shabby on the pick em games Clenz, as for the auto picks are you using the house computer or your own formula

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Twins have the best record in the AL.

Can the season end today?

[clenz]

Magic # is something like 114...

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

[PaladinFan]

Twins have the best record in the AL.

Can the season end today?

Doing it with some castoffs, too. Glad to see Blaine Boyer finding success. Always liked him.

Georgia boy and former Brave in his younger years. Part of that elite crop of talent that came out of Georgia in the early 2000s.

[ngineer]

Here's a list of the 30 best hitting pitchers of all time...

Not real impressive

Essentially, there are 3 pitchers in history that start to get into the "slightly below average" category.


The average of the best hitting pitchers of all time is something like .190 BA, .240 OPB, .280 SLG (.500 OBS) 1 HR every 150 AB


That's the best of the best

Huh, aren't we forgetting Babe Ruth???? I also thought Warren Spahn was a decent hitting pitcher, but maybe I'm going on a fading memory.

[clenz]

Spahn hit .199 in over 1800 career AB.

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

[Drblankstare]

Watching the Baseball Tonight guys tie themselves into knots trying to explain how the Twins are winning, is quite enjoyable.

[clenz]

Watching the Baseball Tonight guys tie themselves into knots trying to explain how the Twins are winning, is quite enjoyable.
It's fun to watch.

Even if/when the Twins fall apart we will all have the joy of watching people who haven't watched an inning of Twins games this year try to point out why it won't last and struggle to figure out why it's happening.

What will be even better is if they don't fall off and manage to win 85-92 games. Seeing the "experts" heads explode will be worth a first round playoff loss....

[PaladinFan]

Watching the Baseball Tonight guys tie themselves into knots trying to explain how the Twins are winning, is quite enjoyable.

We are in June and the Braves, who basically blew up their baseball team this offseason, are 2.5 games behind the Nationals, a team that is one of the World Series favorites.

It's a long season, and things can go bad just as quickly as they can go good, but there are a couple of really interesting storylines out there this year.

[pokefan02]

We are in June and the Braves, who basically blew up their baseball team this offseason, are 2.5 games behind the Nationals, a team that is one of the World Series favorites.

It's a long season, and things can go bad just as quickly as they can go good, but there are a couple of really interesting storylines out there this year.

Braves fans can thank Southwest Louisiana baseball and McNeese Baseball for Jace Peterson. McNeese fans have already thanked him for his 3 years of baseball and football greatness.

Sent from my HTC M8

[PaladinFan]

Braves fans can thank Southwest Louisiana baseball and McNeese Baseball for Jace Peterson. McNeese fans have already thanked him for his 3 years of baseball and football greatness.

Sent from my HTC M8

Peterson has been a pleasant surprise. I think most Braves fans thought he would be little more than a utility type player when he came over from SD. Especially true considering the Braves' top prospect (and one of the top infield prospects in baseball) is Jose Peraza, a 2B.

Reports are that Peterson has been impressive in his stint as a starter in Atlanta. This past week the Braves have started to work Peraza out in the outfield at AAA, which seems to further confirm that.

Any time a team is moving their top positional prospect around, that indicates how highly they think of the guy at the MLB level.

[Laker]

Darn it. Twins lose in Boston 1-0

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Darn it. Twins lose in Boston 1-0
I think KC might lose to Cleveland.

[PaladinFan]

Braves wrapping up a 10 game west coast road swing. A win would give the Braves a .500 road trip, which would be a smashing success.

I've often thought that the 10 game west coast trips for NL East teams has to be one of the most difficult parts of any regular schedule in professional sports. Long travel, starting games three hours late, cavernous stadiums, and different atmospherics (big temperature swings, lower humidity, etc.). Anything remotely close to a .500 record on those trips are usually considered extremely successful.

[tribe_pride]

Braves wrapping up a 10 game west coast road swing. A win would give the Braves a .500 road trip, which would be a smashing success.

I've often thought that the 10 game west coast trips for NL East teams has to be one of the most difficult parts of any regular schedule in professional sports. Long travel, starting games three hours late, cavernous stadiums, and different atmospherics (big temperature swings, lower humidity, etc.). Anything remotely close to a .500 record on those trips are usually considered extremely successful.

The other noted extremely tough one is 1:00 (eastern time) football games for the West Coast teams. Not sure the record but I have heard that it is much worse than when games start later.

[PaladinFan]

The other noted extremely tough one is 1:00 (eastern time) football games for the West Coast teams. Not sure the record but I have heard that it is much worse than when games start later.

I thought about that. NFL teams, though, are not guaranteed cross country road trips like baseball teams are (they don't play everyone). Even then, most NFL teams arrive for a road game several days ahead of time. The field also doesn't change. Same dimensions regardless of whether you are playing in New York of San Francisco.

I realize these guys are professional athletes, but they are also creatures of habit. It cannot be easy to play an afternoon homegame in Atlanta and then play a 10 pm (EST) game in Los Angeles the next day. Particularly true when those road trips include players you are relatively unfamiliar with in stadiums with sometimes bizarre dimensions.

[AshevilleApp2]

Interesting game in Oakland yesterday. Alfredo Simon went on the bereaved list Tuesday night, so the Tigers called Kyle Ryan up from Toledo. He got to Oakland late for the start so Alex Wilson got the start from the bullpen. Ryan ended up pitching the 4th through 6th innings and got the win. But the Tigers basically used six relief pitchers yesterday. Wilson has been big for Detroit this year, after being tossed in as part of the Cespedes/Porcello trade.

In today's episode of "Who's Your Pitcher", the Tigers roll out young Buck Farmer. He got called up when Kyle Lobstein went on the DL a few days ago. Lobstein of course was brought up to replace Justin Verlander who has been on the DL all season.

All in all, I feel fortunate that Detroit hasn't fallen several games back of KC/Minnesota by now.

Should have kept my mouth shut. xnodx

[PaladinFan]

Braves in the market for relievers. Atlanta is three games out, hovering around .500 and coming off a 4-6 road trip where the bullpen sported an ERA hovering around 10.00. One could safely argue that with even a moderate bump in bullpen support, the Braves would be leading the NL East.

Frustrating, of course, is that going into 2015 the Braves had one of the league's best bullpens. Kimbrel, Walden, Varvaro, Avilan, Carpenter, Grilli, and Johnson. Now it is pretty much just Grilli and a carousel of anyone the front office thinks can throw the ball for a strike.

[ngineer]

We are in June and the Braves, who basically blew up their baseball team this offseason, are 2.5 games behind the Nationals, a team that is one of the World Series favorites.

It's a long season, and things can go bad just as quickly as they can go good, but there are a couple of really interesting storylines out there this year.

Heck the Phillies are only 8 1/2 back...(;-)

[bonarae]

Meanwhile, the first true switch-pitcher has arrived in MLB. His name is Pat Venditte of the A's, and he pitched 2 shutout innings in a losing effort against the Red Sox today.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Meanwhile, the first true switch-pitcher has arrived in MLB. His name is Pat Venditte of the A's, and he pitched 2 shutout innings in a losing effort against the Red Sox today.

I just watched it back. They were talking about him but you hardly noticed, they didn't really show his glove change when I was looking and he looks almost identical from the left and right side.

[caribbeanhen]

Meanwhile, the first true switch-pitcher has arrived in MLB. His name is Pat Venditte of the A's, and he pitched 2 shutout innings in a losing effort against the Red Sox today.

Yep, he's got one of those old school big sweeping curve balls that he brings sidearm..... probably never had any arm problems either.

[PaladinFan]

Yep, he's got one of those old school big sweeping curve balls that he brings sidearm..... probably never had any arm problems either.

Makes me wonder if guys will start to try and develop that skill. I am sure there was a time when switch hitters were not terribly common, and the need for that ability developed over time. There are several notable examples of players teaching themselves to pitch with their non-dominant hand (Billy Wagner, for instance).

Vendetta does not appear to throw terribly hard, but he's got a good arm angle, and good breaking stuff. You can get guys out as a MLB reliever with that combination.

[PaladinFan]

Braves ink Dana Eveland (LHP) and David Aardsma (RHP) to minor league deals. Both pitchers opted out of their contracts with their clubs. Atlanta, in dire need of bullpen help, looked like a logical landing spot for both.

Both assigned to AAA. I imagine we will see both in Atlanta pretty soon.

[PaladinFan]

Braves come back from down 5-0 against "Big Game" James Shields and his perfect record to beat the Padres. Biggest lead blown by the Friars all season.

Atlanta 2.0 back.

[clenz]

Well, the Twins being good was fun while it lasted

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Well, the Twins being good was fun while it lasted
I'm feeling very unsure myself but the pitching is really good so I'm still more positive.

[clenz]

I'm feeling very unsure myself but the pitching is really good so I'm still more positive.
The bats...
There's zero offense

[NoDak 4 Ever]

The bats...
There's zero offense

I know, but it was all **** last year, getting rid of Rick Anderson and Gardy were good moves. They couldn't handle pitchers very well.

Demoting Vavra was a good choice too, I don't know if it's Brunansky or what. The swings haven't been very good.

[Bisonator]

The bats...
There's zero offense

Don't get too down yet clenz. Yeah they sucked against KC but KC has an outstanding pitching staff. And the Twins pitchers were pretty good the first 2 games of the series. If they continue to stink it up against the rangers then there might be issues. The Twins pitching staff is on par with the top teams in the AL. Just need the hitters to get back to where they were with timely hitting.

[Bisonator]

I know, but it was all **** last year, getting rid of Rick Anderson and Gardy were good moves. They couldn't handle pitchers very well.

Demoting Vavra was a good choice too, I don't know if it's Brunansky or what. The swings haven't been very good.

This new pitching coach knows his stuff and better yet how to get the players to buy into the plan. Jury's still out on Bruno. Hopefully he can get the younger guys turned around. I've lost all hope in Mauer!

[clenz]

Don't get too down yet clenz. Yeah they sucked against KC but KC has an outstanding pitching staff. And the Twins pitchers were pretty good the first 2 games of the series. If they continue to stink it up against the rangers then there might be issues. The Twins pitching staff is on par with the top teams in the AL. Just need the hitters to get back to where they were with timely hitting.
This isn't an issue with just the last series

Hunter is the leading average at .268
Highest OBP is .341

Since June 1st here's the runs scored in each game - 0, 3, 2, 8, 5, 2, 2, 1, 0, 2. In 10 games there has only been two that more than 3 have been scored. They have been shut out as many times as they've scored more than 3.

Pitching is great, doesn't matter if they can't score runs - as Felix Hernandez how awesome it is to be one of the best pitcher in the world and get 2 or 3 runs, if lucky, in support

[NoDak 4 Ever]

This new pitching coach knows his stuff and better yet how to get the players to buy into the plan. Jury's still out on Bruno. Hopefully he can get the younger guys turned around. I've lost all hope in Mauer!

They showed a graphic last night about how in 2009, he hit 28 HR and in 2564 at bats since, 39.

I like him at first base, he fields his position well but you can't be paying $23 million a year for a guy who can't hit .300 or 30 HR a season.

[Bisonator]

This isn't an issue with just the last series

Hunter is the leading average at .268
Highest OBP is .341

Since June 1st here's the runs scored in each game - 0, 3, 2, 8, 5, 2, 2, 1, 0, 2. In 10 games there has only been two that more than 3 have been scored. They have been shut out as many times as they've scored more than 3.

Pitching is great, doesn't matter if they can't score runs - as Felix Hernandez how awesome it is to be one of the best pitcher in the world and get 2 or 3 runs, if lucky, in support

Oh I agree but 2-3 runs were enough for them to win quite a few games already this year. Just need timely hits again.

[Bisonator]

They showed a graphic last night about how in 2009, he hit 28 HR and in 2564 at bats since, 39.

I like him at first base, he fields his position well but you can't be paying $23 million a year for a guy who can't hit .300 or 30 HR a season.

He can't even hit for average anymore. Teams are shifting their outfield to take away the left field doubles he used to be known for. Bruno needs to get him pulling more but he doesn't seem to be able to adjust.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

He can't even hit for average anymore. Teams are shifting their outfield to take away the left field doubles he used to be known for. Bruno needs to get him pulling more but he doesn't seem to be able to adjust.

I don't know if it is Bruno or what. They're always talking about his enthusiasm and how he's right on the top step chattering away at the hitters giving encouragement. They also say he likes them to be aggressive but I'm seeing a lot of weak and defensive swings lately.

[Drblankstare]

Couple things on Mauer.

1. He has an unbelievably slow bat, he is getting beat consistently on average fastball on the outer half of the plate, (part of this is his strategy of letting the ball get deep in the strike zone so he can track it), but the other part is that he is just getting old. Bat speed is one of the 1st things to go.

2. Every game I see him being pitched the exactly same way. Almost everything is away, away, away. Nobody comes inside on him. Lefties and Righties doesnt matter, he gets pitched away alot. Look where he stands in the batters box, smack dab in the middle. So the defense plays him away, the pitcher pitches him away and hes standing in the middle of the box. Couple that with the reduced bat speed and your results seem obvious at least to me.

I do not understand why Molitor and Bruno dont try moving in on the box to try to force the pitcher to come in. When you make the pitcher come inside more, there is a higher likelyhood of him missing and grooving one in the middle.

Those of my thoughts anyway.

/mauerrant over:D

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Couple things on Mauer.

1. He has an unbelievably slow bat, he is getting beat consistently on average fastball on the outer half of the plate, (part of this is his strategy of letting the ball get deep in the strike zone so he can track it), but the other part is that he is just getting old. Bat speed is one of the 1st things to go.

2. Every game I see him being pitched the exactly same way. Almost everything is away, away, away. Nobody comes inside on him. Lefties and Righties doesnt matter, he gets pitched away alot. Look where he stands in the batters box, smack dab in the middle. So the defense plays him away, the pitcher pitches him away and hes standing in the middle of the box. Couple that with the reduced bat speed and your results seem obvious at least to me.

I do not understand why Molitor and Bruno dont try moving in on the box to try to force the pitcher to come in. When you make the pitcher come inside more, there is a higher likelyhood of him missing and grooving one in the middle.

Those of my thoughts anyway.

/mauerrant over:D

You're right about his bat speed. It would say it's because of his length but he's pretty much the same size as Giancarlo Stanton. You'd think with a guy like Molitor as manager he wouldn't put up with these hitting problems. Bruno was a pretty consistent power hitter (for the time he played), I don't know why they can't figure out how to get this kid to make his money.

[AshevilleApp2]

"A Tale of Two Pitching Staffs" or "Jekyll and Hyde Revisited".

The Tigers are 31-29 this season. In the 31 wins they have an ERA of 1.27 and WHIP of 0.91. In the 29 losses they have an ERA of 8.48 and a WHIP of 1.92.

Justin Verlander makes his first appearance of the season on Saturday. Hopefully he can improve the staff somewhat. Not to Cy Young levels maybe, but at least a solid #2 starter.

[Drblankstare]

You're right about his bat speed. It would say it's because of his length but he's pretty much the same size as Giancarlo Stanton. You'd think with a guy like Molitor as manager he wouldn't put up with these hitting problems. Bruno was a pretty consistent power hitter (for the time he played), I don't know why they can't figure out how to get this kid to make his money.

It was obvious that Gardy would never confront a star like Mauer about his approach. He was the ultimate players manager, but I really thought Molitor would challenge the older guys a bit more. So far it's hard to tell what his approach is.

[caribbeanhen]

as Felix Hernandez how awesome it is to be one of the best pitcher in the world and get 2 or 3 runs, if lucky, in support

ask Felix about pitching in Houston vs Seattle..... Wow he got bombed last night

and welcome to the Big Leagues Carlos Correra!

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Aaron Hicks better be eating dinner in Rochester tonight.

[grizband]

Bumgarner drops to 7-3, after this Giants lose a 1-0, two hit shutout...

[bonarae]

Buxton is now on the Twins' 25-man roster, checked just now. #1, #2 MLB prospects are now on The Show...

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Buxton is now on the Twins' 25-man roster, checked just now. #1, #2 MLB prospects are now on The Show...

FINALLY! Make us proud, kid.

[TheRevSFA]

Those pesky Rangers are just 1.5 out of first.

Are the astros slumping due to the plans to remove the Hill? Or are these the astros we know and love

[ngineer]

Such Phutility. The Philthies played the Pirates to a 0-0 draw for 12 innings before losing 1-0 in 13 innings, then turn around today and while trailing Pittsburgh 4-2 in the 8th inning score a run on back to back hits, then with another hit and a walk have the bases loaded, still with no out....and fail to score with three straight weak ground outs. I think they off to their worst start this deep into a season since the 1940's.

[caribbeanhen]

Buxton is now on the Twins' 25-man roster, checked just now. #1, #2 MLB prospects are now on The Show...

thats not the only roster he's on!

[PaladinFan]

Braves have been a pleasant surprise. Hovering around .500 midway through June. Better performance out of the pen and the Braves would be leading the division. Interesting to see if the Braves try to bolster that group as we get deeper in the summer.

Cannot overlook the contributions of Cameron Maybin, though. A former top prospect that has largely flopped at the MLB level. He has thrived in Atlanta's system, putting up career numbers in pretty much every category. Really starting to look like the player everyone thought he could be when he was drafted 8 years ago.

[MR. CHICKEN]

http://www.anygivensaturday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=20833&stc=1......STRUGGLIN' PHILS.....SENT DARIN RUF...DOWN TA DUH PIG FARM......RECALL DOM BROWN.....SANDBERG SAYS "RUF NEEDS MO' AT BATS"....RUF....SAYS "FO' WHAT...AH'M UH LIMITED SPLINTERAH JOCKEY....WHAT GOOD IS MO' AB'S....WHEN AH'LL RESIDE ON DUH PINE.....IFIN' EVERAH...AH GET....MO' COFFEE".....NOW OL' DOM....BATTED .257/2 DINGERS......IN 52 REHAB GAMES...FO' DUH OINKIES...SKEDDED TA PLAY RIGHT....LOOKS LIKE GENTILE BEN REVERE....PHIGHTIN'S X-RF......WILL STUDY DOM'S STYLE.....AN' ROOST IN RUFS SEAT.....DIS COMES...FOLLOWIN'....RELIEVER KEN GILES....SNAPPIN' ON SANDBERG & PITCHIN' COACH MCCLURE...WHEN ORDERED TA INTENTIONALLAH WALK....BUCK-O'S....PEDRO ALVEREZ...WHIFF 1st BASE OPEN & 2 OUTS...IN FRIDAY NIGHTS 13 INNIN' PHRILLER......KENNY SAID LATER....."HE'S NOT ABOUT PHREEBIES".......OH BRUTTER.....REALLY IS UH CRACK....IN DAT BELL.....xviolinx...BRAWK-UH-DOODLE-DOO!

FORTUNATELAH....PHILLY IS CAMPED IN DUH NL EAST CELLAR.....AS SEVERE STORM WARNIN'S...ARE PREDICTED....BAH ACTION NEWS'S...CRACK WEATHER GURUS....AWK!

[bonarae]

I forgot to check that the #3 MLB prospect has joined #1 and #2 on The Show as well.

[caribbeanhen]

http://www.anygivensaturday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=20833&stc=1......STRUGGLIN' PHILS.....SENT DARIN RUF...DOWN TA DUH PIG FARM......RECALL DOM BROWN.....SANDBERG SAYS "RUF NEEDS MO' AT BATS"....RUF....SAYS "FO' WHAT...AH'M UH LIMITED SPLINTERAH JOCKEY....WHAT GOOD IS MO' AB'S....WHEN AH'LL RESIDE ON DUH PINE.....IFIN' EVERAH...AH GET....MO' COFFEE".....NOW OL' DOM....BATTED .257/2 DINGERS......IN 52 REHAB GAMES...FO' DUH OINKIES...SKEDDED TA PLAY RIGHT....LOOKS LIKE GENTILE BEN REVERE....PHIGHTIN'S X-RF......WILL STUDY DOM'S STYLE.....AN' ROOST IN RUFS SEAT.....DIS COMES...FOLLOWIN'....RELIEVER KEN GILES....SNAPPIN' ON SANDBERG & PITCHIN' COACH MCCLURE...WHEN ORDERED TA INTENTIONALLAH WALK....BUCK-O'S....PEDRO ALVEREZ...WHIFF 1st BASE OPEN & 2 OUTS...IN FRIDAY NIGHTS 13 INNIN' PHRILLER......KENNY SAID LATER....."HE'S NOT ABOUT PHREEBIES".......OH BRUTTER.....REALLY IS UH CRACK....IN DAT BELL.....xviolinx...BRAWK-UH-DOODLE-DOO!

FORTUNATELAH....PHILLY IS CAMPED IN DUH NL EAST CELLAR.....AS SEVERE STORM WARNIN'S...ARE PREDICTED....BAH ACTION NEWS'S...CRACK WEATHER GURUS....AWK!

I was wondering what that exchange with Giles was about Mr Chicken, warms up the memories of Billy Martin pulling Reggie No Hustle out of RF in the middle of a June Fenway Saturday afternoon matinee and than lighting him up for everyone to see on National TV..... It looked like McClure wanted to rip Giles in half

[caribbeanhen]

Braves have been a pleasant surprise. Hovering around .500 midway through June. Better performance out of the pen and the Braves would be leading the division. Interesting to see if the Braves try to bolster that group as we get deeper in the summer.

Cannot overlook the contributions of Cameron Maybin, though. A former top prospect that has largely flopped at the MLB level. He has thrived in Atlanta's system, putting up career numbers in pretty much every category. Really starting to look like the player everyone thought he could be when he was drafted 8 years ago.

How come I'am not that surprised? It's amazing what a difference it can make when you dump 500 strikeouts and 500 million in salary, oh Boy... The Padres must be desperate as Melvin was back in CF for a few games

Youre boy Mallox Smith is doing very well down in AA, Let's hope we see him sooner than later

[AshevilleApp2]

Braves have been a pleasant surprise. Hovering around .500 midway through June. Better performance out of the pen and the Braves would be leading the division. Interesting to see if the Braves try to bolster that group as we get deeper in the summer.

Cannot overlook the contributions of Cameron Maybin, though. A former top prospect that has largely flopped at the MLB level. He has thrived in Atlanta's system, putting up career numbers in pretty much every category. Really starting to look like the player everyone thought he could be when he was drafted 8 years ago.

Glad to see Maybin coming into his own!

[Drblankstare]

Glad to see Maybin coming into his own!
The Maybin situation is a slight oddity. Rare to see a highly touted top prospect flop, disappear and then resurface a few years later and start playing really good ball.

[PaladinFan]

How come I'am not that surprised? It's amazing what a difference it can make when you dump 500 strikeouts and 500 million in salary, oh Boy... The Padres must be desperate as Melvin was back in CF for a few games

Youre boy Mallox Smith is doing very well down in AA, Let's hope we see him sooner than later

Trades take a while to sort out, but I'd be shocked if the Padres don't lament dealing with Atlanta. Braves gained a starting 2B, starting CF, future CF, and two top pitching prospects for a player they couldn't afford after this season, a guy that pitches 60 innings a year, and the most bloated contract in baseball. Amazing, really.

Smith has really torn up AA. Batting average hovering around .350. I don't think we will see him up this year, but there's a good chance he may be on the opening day roster next season.

[PaladinFan]

The Maybin situation is a slight oddity. Rare to see a highly touted top prospect flop, disappear and then resurface a few years later and start playing really good ball.

He's impressed me. Tall, athletic, rangy player. Speed. Going the other way. Pop. Good defense. A lot to like.

After he was traded to the Braves, there was an article that says even on the Padres he was interested in Braves hitting coach Kevin Seitzer's philosophy. Turns out it was a good move for both Braves and Maybin.

[ngineer]

UFR--Phutilities lose to Pirates, again, in extra innings....1-0!!!! Three runs in 33 innings. Hamels strikes out 12 in 7 innings. What a waste.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile...

Toronto's winning streak is now at 11 games.

The Cubs' walk-off win count is now 8, most in the Majors this year thus far. However, Lester is now 0-63 in batting during the season, and didn't get a decision again. (Cubs won in 11 through Starlin's single.)

[PaladinFan]

Over the last 12 games the Braves have scored 60 runs, hit .300, and only won four games.

The Braves have lost more games when scoring at least 8 runs the last two weeks than they have over the past six seasons.

Tough to watch the pitching staff implode everynight.

[clenz]

My fantasy team has gone the way of the Twins...

Damn

[bonarae]

Meanwhile, Bud Black is out, Dave Roberts is in for the Padres.

[AshevilleApp2]

Currently the Royals have eight starters in the All Star game. Alex Rios is 4th among outfielders, despite playing only 18 games this year.

Maybe things should change next season? It wouldn't bother me if the game had no meaning, which it shouldn't in my opinion. But home field advantage in the World Series rides on the game.

[PaladinFan]

Currently the Royals have eight starters in the All Star game. Alex Rios is 4th among outfielders, despite playing only 18 games this year.

Maybe things should change next season? It wouldn't bother me if the game had no meaning, which it shouldn't in my opinion. But home field advantage in the World Series rides on the game.

The game should be an exhibition. One player rep from each team. Votes are 1/3 from fans, 1/3 from writers, 1/3 from players.

Amazingly, Major League Baseball has by far the most entertaining all star game, steeped in tradition, and it is turning into a joke. If I wanted to watch 8 Royals play in a game, I'd just watch a Royals game.

[bonarae]

Maybe things should change next season? It wouldn't bother me if the game had no meaning, which it shouldn't in my opinion. But home field advantage in the World Series rides on the game.

I hope things should change. Aren't the other pro leagues putting in All Star rosters entirely from the fans? MLB is not the first league to do this IIRC.

[clenz]

I hope things should change. Aren't the other pro leagues putting in All Star rosters entirely from the fans? MLB is not the first league to do this IIRC.
NBA - fan vote decides starters for each league and NBA coaches decide the rest.

NFL - the new "draft" is odd but the top two vote getters are all that matter. Those two are "captains" and are drafted by on "legend". The then draft whomever they want - http://www.nfl.com/probowl/story/0ap3000000446046/article/2015-pro-bowl-draft-rules

NHL - fan vote with the top 6 at each position getting selected to the teams

MLS - Starters chosen by fan vote and 32 chosen by players per collective bargaining agreement

The NHL and MLS are MUCH more fan friendly than the NFL, NBA and MLB. They understand it's about the fans and do everything they can to involve the fans they have. The NBA wants fans involved but not to the extent of MLS and NHL. All three also realize it's strictly an exhibition to showcase crazy amounts of skill and have made the entire game/weekend about it.

The NFL is in an identity crisis because it's the only one post season, it's a much more physical game, and the fans don't give a damn. They used to be like MLB and have tried, unsuccessfully, to go the way of NHL, NBA and MLS.

MLB is the stuffy old guy in the room - in pretty much every aspect of the game (not just all star weekend). They want the illusion the fans matter, which is why they give 100% roster control out, but they don't want the fans deciding anything about the game. It's why baseballs growth of fan base is stagnate compared other sports. I know baseball purists want to point out the TV contracts, which are big, but ratings for nation broadcasts are on par, and even below, international friendlies for soccer.

Royals fans can now play the disrespect card, and did last year some, but they've taken on the "us vs the world" and the "F you all this is for 30 years of being dog **** so when our players act like fools it's okay" attitude.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

NBA - fan vote decides starters for each league and NBA coaches decide the rest.

NFL - the new "draft" is odd but the top two vote getters are all that matter. Those two are "captains" and are drafted by on "legend". The then draft whomever they want - http://www.nfl.com/probowl/story/0ap3000000446046/article/2015-pro-bowl-draft-rules

NHL - fan vote with the top 6 at each position getting selected to the teams

MLS - Starters chosen by fan vote and 32 chosen by players per collective bargaining agreement

The NHL and MLS are MUCH more fan friendly than the NFL, NBA and MLB. They understand it's about the fans and do everything they can to involve the fans they have. The NBA wants fans involved but not to the extent of MLS and NHL. All three also realize it's strictly an exhibition to showcase crazy amounts of skill and have made the entire game/weekend about it.

The NFL is in an identity crisis because it's the only one post season, it's a much more physical game, and the fans don't give a damn. They used to be like MLB and have tried, unsuccessfully, to go the way of NHL, NBA and MLS.

MLB is the stuffy old guy in the room - in pretty much every aspect of the game (not just all star weekend). They want the illusion the fans matter, which is why they give 100% roster control out, but they don't want the fans deciding anything about the game. It's why baseballs growth of fan base is stagnate compared other sports. I know baseball purists want to point out the TV contracts, which are big, but ratings for nation broadcasts are on par, and even below, international friendlies for soccer.

Royals fans can now play the disrespect card, and did last year some, but they've taken on the "us vs the world" and the "F you all this is for 30 years of being dog **** so when our players act like fools it's okay" attitude.

This is getting a **** ton of mileage right now.

[AshevilleApp2]

NBA - fan vote decides starters for each league and NBA coaches decide the rest.

NFL - the new "draft" is odd but the top two vote getters are all that matter. Those two are "captains" and are drafted by on "legend". The then draft whomever they want - http://www.nfl.com/probowl/story/0ap3000000446046/article/2015-pro-bowl-draft-rules

NHL - fan vote with the top 6 at each position getting selected to the teams

MLS - Starters chosen by fan vote and 32 chosen by players per collective bargaining agreement

The NHL and MLS are MUCH more fan friendly than the NFL, NBA and MLB. They understand it's about the fans and do everything they can to involve the fans they have. The NBA wants fans involved but not to the extent of MLS and NHL. All three also realize it's strictly an exhibition to showcase crazy amounts of skill and have made the entire game/weekend about it.

The NFL is in an identity crisis because it's the only one post season, it's a much more physical game, and the fans don't give a damn. They used to be like MLB and have tried, unsuccessfully, to go the way of NHL, NBA and MLS.

MLB is the stuffy old guy in the room - in pretty much every aspect of the game (not just all star weekend). They want the illusion the fans matter, which is why they give 100% roster control out, but they don't want the fans deciding anything about the game. It's why baseballs growth of fan base is stagnate compared other sports. I know baseball purists want to point out the TV contracts, which are big, but ratings for nation broadcasts are on par, and even below, international friendlies for soccer.

Royals fans can now play the disrespect card, and did last year some, but they've taken on the "us vs the world" and the "F you all this is for 30 years of being dog **** so when our players act like fools it's okay" attitude.

Big difference in all of the leagues of course is that the MLB All Star game can potentially influence who becomes the eventual champion. It's crazy to me that a supposed exhibition game should have that kind of impact.

And correct me if I'm wrong, but I thought that the fans only decide the starters in the MLB game.

[AshevilleApp2]

The game should be an exhibition. One player rep from each team. Votes are 1/3 from fans, 1/3 from writers, 1/3 from players.

Amazingly, Major League Baseball has by far the most entertaining all star game, steeped in tradition, and it is turning into a joke. If I wanted to watch 8 Royals play in a game, I'd just watch a Royals game.

I could live with this scenario.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile,

The Feds are investigating the Cardinals because the front-office there hacked into Houston's computer system...

The Padres have named longtime college coach Pat Murphy their interim manager.

[caribbeanhen]

My fantasy team has gone the way of the Twins...

Damn

might be time to tweak the algorithm Clenz, I thought I was done when I was 10 games down but I learned the standings can move fast...

[PaladinFan]

What is going on in Philadelphia? Not sure "rock bottom" is the right work, but it is hard to imagine it getting much worse.

I've been asking this question for a couple of years, but how is Amaro still employed?

[ngineer]

I was down there last night. Putrid performance. Hamels shelved due to hamstring so they brought up a AAA journeyman named Aumont, who was Auful. Walked seven, and threw 104 pitches in four innings! Took 3:15 to "play" (stand around) the game. They're treading water until they can make some major deals and await some nice youngsters mature. It will be at least two years until they can think about contending again. The weird thing is as bad as they are, they are only 13 games out in the mediocre NLEast. Actually, the Phils have be very close to winning a number of games that good teams find ways to win. They lead MLB in runners left in scoring position and worst BA with runners in scoring position. Twice left bases loaded and twice with men on 2d and 3rd without scoring. We now paying the piper for the deals made for Halladay, Oswalt and Lee. The utimate payoff didn't happen, and all three physically broke down early. In addition the loss of Pence has really impacted the offense. They were to get the best AAA catcher in return in Joseph, but he's suffered three concussions and is yet to have his 'cup of coffee' in the bigs. Phillies history has been filled with many more clouds than sun. After 58 years of following them, I am used to it.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile...

Scherzer almost hit perfection in consecutive starts - the first one with a 1-hitter, the second one a no-no that didn't become perfect with a late HBP.

The Cubs are in danger of missing even the Wild Card playoff in Maddon's Year 1, owing to Pittsburgh's surge lately... xsmhx

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers are fading fast. It's still only June, but things are starting to look grim.

[caribbeanhen]

if your referring to Buxton be ready for Twin fans to be referring to him as Buston before long

May 13th comments on the Twins wonder prospect, talk about a kid not being ready..... he just hasn't had enough AB' s in the minors

[PaladinFan]

In another incredible move, the Braves trade Phil Gosselin to Arizona for Bronson Arroyo and RHP Touki Touissant. Touissant was Arizona's 1st round pick in 2014, and is considered one of the top young arms in the minors.

I really cannot get my head around what Arizona is thinking. Braves effectively bought Touissant for $10mm (Arroyo's remaining salary), which is far under the market value they would pay if he were, say, an international free agent. No big deal for Atlanta, who has cleared close to 200mm off the payroll the last few months.

The Braves recent moves have been pretty incredible. The farm system has gone from a bottom five system to a top five system in 8 months, loaded with top end arms, and the MLB team is only 1.5 games out. How all that happened is pretty well beyond me.

[caribbeanhen]

In another incredible move, the Braves trade Phil Gosselin to Arizona for Bronson Arroyo and RHP Touki Touissant. Touissant was Arizona's 1st round pick in 2014, and is considered one of the top young arms in the minors.

I really cannot get my head around what Arizona is thinking. Braves effectively bought Touissant for $10mm (Arroyo's remaining salary), which is far under the market value they would pay if he were, say, an international free agent. No big deal for Atlanta, who has cleared close to 200mm off the payroll the last few months.

The Braves recent moves have been pretty incredible. The farm system has gone from a bottom five system to a top five system in 8 months, loaded with top end arms, and the MLB team is only 1.5 games out. How all that happened is pretty well beyond me.

getting rid of Melvin Jr was the best move!

[bonarae]

Meanwhile...

A French teenager has become the first female prospect ever eligible for MLB, domestic or foreign.

http://m.mlb.com/news/article/132044338/melissa-mayeux-france-eligible-sign-mlb

[clenz]

Technically anyone can make them self eligible

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

[ngineer]

Maikel Franco is for real. What a monster game tonight in Yankee Stadium: 4 for 5 with 2 HRs and 5 RBIs and a dazzling play at 3B. This kid is showing all the signs of becoming a star and somethng for the Phils to be building around.

[clenz]

Buxton turned a texas leaguer into a double to lead off tonights game. Contact to touching second in less than 7 seconds.

He then threw a 96 mph srike from CF to nail a runner at home

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

[caribbeanhen]

Buxton turned a texas leaguer into a double to lead off tonights game. Contact to touching second in less than 7 seconds.

He then threw a 96 mph srike from CF to nail a runner at home

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

good to see him getting a bit more comfortable, who was it that just ripped him on here?

[NoDak 4 Ever]

good to see him getting a bit more comfortable, who was it that just ripped him on here?

I do fear he is trying a little too hard with his speed. Not every hit has to be for extra bases. That was a close-ish play at second. Granted, he's fast enough to make it work but he's going to get caught being too aggressive sometime.

[PaladinFan]

getting rid of Melvin Jr was the best move!

That deal is still incredible to me. The Braves basically made available the game's best relief pitcher on a (relatively) team friendly deal for anyone that would take Upton, Jr. The fact that the Braves got back Cameron Maybin (who is putting together an all-star quality season) and Matt Wisler is even better.

[clenz]

I do fear he is trying a little too hard with his speed. Not every hit has to be for extra bases. That was a close-ish play at second. Granted, he's fast enough to make it work but he's going to get caught being too aggressive sometime.
Yeah...that one guy trying to make something happen on an offense that doesn't exist.... f that.

He'll get called out some times and we'd score the same amount of runs as if he didn't try.

[PaladinFan]

Braves at Nats for a three gamer with first place in the NL East on the line. Both Mets and Braves are trying to take advantage of a Washington club that simply cannot seem to stay healthy. Despite a couple nice runs, the Nats cannot seem to widen a gap.

Good news for the Bravos is they are going to miss Max Scherzer, who has, what, struck out 27 and given up 1 hit in his last 18 innings?

[tribe_pride]

Braves at Nats for a three gamer with first place in the NL East on the line. Both Mets and Braves are trying to take advantage of a Washington club that simply cannot seem to stay healthy. Despite a couple nice runs, the Nats cannot seem to widen a gap.

Good news for the Bravos is they are going to miss Max Scherzer, who has, what, struck out 27 and given up 1 hit in his last 18 innings?

He also hit a batter and went 2 for 6 with a sacrifice in that stretch

[PaladinFan]

He also hit a batter and went 2 for 6 with a sacrifice in that stretch

Must be losing it a little.

[AshevilleApp2]

Verlander to miss another start tonight, this time for back stiffness. The team indicates that it will probably only be one missed turn. I hope so, because they'll need him healthy and effective to get back in the race.

[caribbeanhen]

I do fear he is trying a little too hard .

if you really fear a rookie all out hustling you must be a nervous wreck....

[NoDak 4 Ever]

if you really fear a rookie all out hustling you must be a nervous wreck....
I'm talking about recklessness.

[caribbeanhen]

so you have a highly heralded prospect that get the call to the Bigs ( a bit quick on the trigger I might add) and starts off hitting .100 or so after a week, kid starts to press and finally when he gets a chance to show off his speed, and speed dont slump like Byron's bat, you can bet the kid is going to take some chances, especially as fast as he is.. right?

I guess you cant be to fearful of recklessness as Buxton went for the Golden Sombrero last night, no chance to get thrown out running the bases

[bonarae]

Meanwhile...

The Nationals rotation has set its own franchise record for a scoreless streak - 41 1/3 innings.

And Jon Lester is really having a down year, taking his 4th L in a row against the Dodgers. Maybe he is not suited for the NL after all. xsighx

[caribbeanhen]

Alex Meyer gets the call, converted to a RP and has 17 scoreless consecutive innings at AAA

[Drblankstare]

Buxton to the 15 day DL for a sprained thumb. Why cant we have nice things?

[clenz]

Buxton to the 15 day DL for a sprained thumb. Why cant we have nice things?
We can, but only in extreme moderation.

We drafted Towns and hometown hero Jones last night.

That had to be canceled out by the karmic gods.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Ryne Sandberg steps down as manager of the Phillies. Can we only hope Amaro is next? This dumpster fire is reaching epic proportions....xflamemadx

[bonarae]

Ryne Sandberg steps down as manager of the Phillies. Can we only hope Amaro is next? This dumpster fire is reaching epic proportions....xflamemadx

Join the bandwagon of another team... xeyebrowx has the front office evaluated Amaro as of late? I do think the Phillies are the Coyotes of MLB. xsmhx

[PaladinFan]

Ryne Sandberg steps down as manager of the Phillies. Can we only hope Amaro is next? This dumpster fire is reaching epic proportions....xflamemadx

Like dialing 911 after the house has burned down.

There is no easy solve for the Phillies. Amaro has held onto his assets for too long and consistently miscalculated the market. I fear they are going to have to go the way of the Astros. You can survive if the MLB team isn't good if the farm system is quality or vice versa. When both are bad, you have to rip it down to the studs.

[bonarae]

Like dialing 911 after the house has burned down.

There is no easy solve for the Phillies. Amaro has held onto his assets for too long and consistently miscalculated the market. I fear they are going to have to go the way of the Astros. You can survive if the MLB team isn't good if the farm system is quality or vice versa. When both are bad, you have to rip it down to the studs.

Can you even compare that situation the Phillies are having to the Coyotes', Raiders', etc?

[ngineer]

Then next month is going to be VERY interesting in Philly with the trading deadline approaching and new upper management arriving. Really don't know who is running the asylum at the moment.

[PaladinFan]

Can you even compare that situation the Phillies are having to the Coyotes', Raiders', etc?

I don't think so. Those other teams are essentially on the chopping block due to mismanagement and lingering issues with their venues. The Phillies have a strong brand, a good park, and a dedicated fan base.

The Phillies' biggest issue has always been Amaro, and the free pass he has been given from ownership. His first major move after inheriting a WS champion was to extend Ryan Howard, a move that was largely ridiculed at the time, and has now literally become the worst (dollars for wins) contract in baseball history. In the first four years of that extension, Howard has been -1.8 WAR (i.e., the Phillies would get better production from Joe Schmoe from AAA making 400k instead of Howards $25mm).

From there, things have just gotten worse. Numerous overpays in trades. Numerous times when he got back less value in trading players away. Has made it very public he cares nothing for baseball analytics, despite most of baseball trending that direction.

I feel for Phillies fans on this. They all want him gone. He'll resign or get fired eventually I guess.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile...

The Cardinals, with their defeat of my Cubs, are the first team to reach 50 wins in 74 games or less since 2005 (with the White Sox, eventual WS champion that year, getting it.)

The injury bug has threatened some MLB stars time and again, now it's Giancarlo Stanton's turn on the DL... (after Byron Buxton went on it last week) xsmhx

[caribbeanhen]

Meanwhile...

The Cardinals, with their defeat of my Cubs, are the first team to reach 50 wins in 74 games or less since 2005 (with the White Sox, eventual WS champion that year, getting it.)

The injury bug has threatened some MLB stars time and again, now it's Giancarlo Stanton's turn on the DL... (after Byron Buxton went on it last week) xsmhx

That really sucks for Stanton, the Marlins and The Clenz AGS fantasy baseball team, how does a guy go from launching 500 foot homeruns to a broken humate bone.... is this a stress like fracture that happens to hitters over time?

anyway Stanton's all time numbers are taking a hit with his bad luck with the injury bug...

as for Clenz, I wanted to beat him with his best team, now if I win, it's a tainted win.... not that I'm getting ahead of myself as there is still alot of baseball to play yet, maybe I'll drop one of my bats to make it fair.......

[PaladinFan]

Stanton's loss is bad for baseball.

I was really looking forward to seeing him in the Homerun Derby in Cinncinnatti's bandbox.

[ngineer]

I don't think so. Those other teams are essentially on the chopping block due to mismanagement and lingering issues with their venues. The Phillies have a strong brand, a good park, and a dedicated fan base.

The Phillies' biggest issue has always been Amaro, and the free pass he has been given from ownership. His first major move after inheriting a WS champion was to extend Ryan Howard, a move that was largely ridiculed at the time, and has now literally become the worst (dollars for wins) contract in baseball history. In the first four years of that extension, Howard has been -1.8 WAR (i.e., the Phillies would get better production from Joe Schmoe from AAA making 400k instead of Howards $25mm).

From there, things have just gotten worse. Numerous overpays in trades. Numerous times when he got back less value in trading players away. Has made it very public he cares nothing for baseball analytics, despite most of baseball trending that direction.

I feel for Phillies fans on this. They all want him gone. He'll resign or get fired eventually I guess.

This is why I said at the time of Manuel's firing that I thought they were doing Charlie a favor. The decline was starting, with no immediate fix in sight, and also allowed him to explore other opportunities at the time. Charlie got to leave while still able to savor a great six year run. Also feel sorry for Sandberg to have been placed in a, literally, "no-win" situation. Not sure if it will damage his ability to get a new start somewhere else, or even if he wants to try it again.

[PaladinFan]

This is why I said at the time of Manuel's firing that I thought they were doing Charlie a favor. The decline was starting, with no immediate fix in sight, and also allowed him to explore other opportunities at the time. Charlie got to leave while still able to savor a great six year run. Also feel sorry for Sandberg to have been placed in a, literally, "no-win" situation. Not sure if it will damage his ability to get a new start somewhere else, or even if he wants to try it again.

I do feel for Sandberg, who was a great player and, as I understand, a quality individual.

[tribe_pride]

In his Major League debut for the Mets, Steven Matz pitched 7 2/3 innings giving up 2 runs on 5 hits and 3 walks with 6Ks in a 7-2 win for the Mets. Oh yeah. He was also 3 for 3 with a double and 4 RBIs to become the first pitcher in major league history to drive in 4 runs in his debut.

Mets officially doing a 6 man starter rotation with Colon, deGrom, Syndergaard, Harvey, Matz and Niese. All that with Wheeler missing the year with Tommy John surgery

[caribbeanhen]

Harkens back to the day of Seaver Koosman Matlack in a very young Nolan Ryan

[PaladinFan]

In his Major League debut for the Mets, Steven Matz pitched 7 2/3 innings giving up 2 runs on 5 hits and 3 walks with 6Ks in a 7-2 win for the Mets. Oh yeah. He was also 3 for 3 with a double and 4 RBIs to become the first pitcher in major league history to drive in 4 runs in his debut.

Mets officially doing a 6 man starter rotation with Colon, deGrom, Syndergaard, Harvey, Matz and Niese. All that with Wheeler missing the year with Tommy John surgery

Pitchers can't hit, man. You know that.

[tribe_pride]

Pitchers can't hit, man. You know that.

All I know is that no other player with more than 1 at bat has better than a .500 batting average. That means at least until his next scheduled start on July 5 (unless they use him as a pinch hitter before then), he will be leading the league in batting average (if you include non-qualified players).

[NoDak 4 Ever]

So last week I ordered this hat http://mlb.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMLB2-20939771nm.jpg


Today, the box comes and it's this:

https://scontent-ord1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/t31.0-8/11699004_10100768744526939_4696660647011693251_o.j pg

You think they're just trying to get rid of them any way they can?

[bonarae]

Pitchers can't hit, man. You know that.

The Mets rotation of 2015 is one of the exceptions. Two (if not three) great hitting pitchers.


You think they're just trying to get rid of them any way they can?

I do not know what happened to your situation. Where did you order your cap from?

[NoDak 4 Ever]

The Mets rotation of 2015 is one of the exceptions. Two (if not three) great hitting pitchers.



I do not know what happened to your situation. Where did you order your cap from?

I **** you not. I ordered it from MLB.com

[caribbeanhen]

I **** you not. I ordered it from MLB.com

they must of thought it was a Twin

[MR. CHICKEN]

So last week I ordered this hat http://mlb.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMLB2-20939771nm.jpg


Today, the box comes and it's this:

https://scontent-ord1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/t31.0-8/11699004_10100768744526939_4696660647011693251_o.j pg

You think they're just trying to get rid of them any way they can?

.....BE GLAD......IT WASN'T UH BREWERS....LID................xrolleyesx......AWK!

[MR. CHICKEN]

http://www.anygivensaturday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=20898&stc=1.......PHILS HIRE....ANDY MacPHAIL....AS TEAM PREZ...TA REBUILD FRANCHISE.....EFFECTIVE...OCTOBER.....(STINTS WHIFF TWINS/CUBS/ORIOLES)....HE'S RECEIVIN' OJT......TA LEARN DUH PHIGHTIN'S WAY UH BIDNESS & SPECIAL ASSISTANT TA PAT GILLICK...CURRENT/FORMER LEADER.......START BOXIN' UP DUH DINNERWARE...RUBEN....xwavex...DOODLE-DOO!

[PaladinFan]

Interesting article on Grantland that discusses some about the Braves approach this season (http://grantland.com/the-triangle/mlb-the-30-brewers-braves-rangers-astros-rebuilding/) and how much it resembles the "NBA Model."

The Braves cleared a lot of cap space, and have been willing to take on other team's dead money in exchange for high upside future talent. A lot of the deals to this point have been pretty creative.

Lot going on in Atlanta these days. Falcons and Braves both opening new stadiums in 2017. MLS team coming same year. Hawks have blown the lid off conventional uniform design. Falcons have new coaching staff. Braves and Hawks are both now being lead by competent and creative front offices that just seems to "get it."

[Drblankstare]

So last week I ordered this hat http://mlb.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pMLB2-20939771nm.jpg


Today, the box comes and it's this:

https://scontent-ord1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/t31.0-8/11699004_10100768744526939_4696660647011693251_o.j pg

You think they're just trying to get rid of them any way they can?

Strange that an organization that runs such a button downed All Star voting system could make such a mistake.

[caribbeanhen]

Clenz, whats up with the WHIP..... We are tied at 1.119 but you get the 6 points... must be that the computer can see the extra decimal points?

[PaladinFan]

How bout cha. Braves take 2 of 3 from Nationals and hand Scherezer an L.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile...

Cubs sweep all 7 games with the Mets (2 series). Miami without Stanton up next at Wrigley.

[ngineer]

Brewers sweep the Phillies in "Toilet Bowl" series!

[PaladinFan]

Braves in an interesting spot heading into July. 3 games under .500, but also just 5 games out of both the NL East and NL Wild Card. All that after having completely rebuilt the roster this offseason. They are hanging in this thing despite not having their best hitter for most of the last few weeks (Freddie Freeman).

All indications are that the Braves will continue to be active on the trade market. The Braves have loaded up the last few months on a boatload of top young pitchers. The current MLB rotation does not have a player older than 24. Question may be whether the Braves are willing to deal from this stockpile of young talent to land a guy that can help the MLB team this season.

[caribbeanhen]

Braves in an interesting spot heading into July. 3 games under .500, but also just 5 games out of both the NL East and NL Wild Card. All that after having completely rebuilt the roster this offseason. They are hanging in this thing despite not having their best hitter for most of the last few weeks (Freddie Freeman).

All indications are that the Braves will continue to be active on the trade market. The Braves have loaded up the last few months on a boatload of top young pitchers. The current MLB rotation does not have a player older than 24. Question may be whether the Braves are willing to deal from this stockpile of young talent to land a guy that can help the MLB team this season.

i would hope the answer is no as this years squad is a .500 team in the end. Continue adding kids with big upside potential.

any info on the dimensions of the new park? I like the Mets philosophy of plentiful pitching in a pitchers park

Would like to see the Braves go the same route.

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers drop Joba Chamberlain (yeah!) and Tom Gorzelanny. Cabrera leaves today's game with a calf strain and will undergo an MRI (boo!).

[bonarae]

Meanwhile...

Cubs' struggles against middle of the pack teams continue... xsmhx

[bonarae]

And another piece of bad news...

Miggy now on the DL, to be out at least 6 weeks.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile...

Only 4 Royals were in the final AL ASG 2015 roster. A Blue Jay topped all players in the number of votes, though.

http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/13203869/2015-mlb-all-star-game-kansas-city-royals-put-four-starting-roster-josh-donaldson-toronto-blue-jays-sets-record-votes

[ngineer]

Poor Hamels. Another gem wasted. Phils score FOUR runs in top of 10th to beat Braves, 4-0. SMH.

[bonarae]

Should Hamels go to Japan to recover his reputation? Or should he be traded outright?

[PaladinFan]

Poor Hamels. Another gem wasted. Phils score FOUR runs in top of 10th to beat Braves, 4-0. SMH.

Thought something would have to give there. There may be others, but I would be surprised if there were any other pitchers in the MLB that received less run support than Cole Hamels and Shelby Miller. Didn't help that they were facing each other.

Braves dfa'd the two pitchers that played a part in the 10th inning melt down. Atlanta has had a true revolving door in the bullpen this season. You get a few weeks to see if you can stick, and then are either cut or demoted.

[tribe_pride]

Thought something would have to give there. There may be others, but I would be surprised if there were any other pitchers in the MLB that received less run support than Cole Hamels and Shelby Miller. Didn't help that they were facing each other.

Braves dfa'd the two pitchers that played a part in the 10th inning melt down. Atlanta has had a true revolving door in the bullpen this season. You get a few weeks to see if you can stick, and then are either cut or demoted.

Here are the stats for you on least run support - http://espn.go.com/mlb/stats/pitching/_/sort/runSupportPerStart/type/expanded-2/order/false

Looks like Hamels and Felix Hernandez are both tied for 4th and both have the same ERA

Lance Lynn has a 2.58 ERA with 2.87 run support (6th) and Miller is tied for 10th in run support with 3.18 with the nasty ERA of 2.07

Not surprised to see 2 Mets pitchers in top 10 of least run support. With Philly having 2 and Atlanta having 1, 5 of top 10 in least run support are in the NL East.

[PaladinFan]

Here are the stats for you on least run support - http://espn.go.com/mlb/stats/pitching/_/sort/runSupportPerStart/type/expanded-2/order/false

Looks like Hamels and Felix Hernandez are both tied for 4th and both have the same ERA

Lance Lynn has a 2.58 ERA with 2.87 run support (6th) and Miller is tied for 10th in run support with 3.18 with the nasty ERA of 2.07

Not surprised to see 2 Mets pitchers in top 10 of least run support. With Philly having 2 and Atlanta having 1, 5 of top 10 in least run support are in the NL East.

Shelby Miller has quietly put up an all star caliber season.

If the Cardinals are unable to retain Heyward, Cardinals may rue the Miller/Heyward swap like Braves fans lament giving away young Adam Wainwright for a "win now" outfielder.

Not only that, but the "other" player in that deal, RHP Tyrell Jenkins, has a 3.00 ERA in 16 starts with 3 complete games at AA Mississippi.

[AshevilleApp2]

Well the Tigers have 4 players in the All Star game (maybe 5), despite being only 2 games above .500. Strange season thus far.

[bonarae]

Finally, Jon Lester had his first hit as an NL player, but in a losing cause against the Cardinals. Should I wish for the Cards to collapse in order for us to enter even the postseason? xprayx

[PaladinFan]

Well the Tigers have 4 players in the All Star game (maybe 5), despite being only 2 games above .500. Strange season thus far.

Hopefully the new commissioner "fixes" the all-star game. It is to the point where not even the "Stars" are selected.

[AshevilleApp2]

Hopefully the new commissioner "fixes" the all-star game. It is to the point where not even the "Stars" are selected.

I hope so as well. But I wasn't pointing to the selection of the Tigers players as a problem, only Miguel Cabrera was voted as a starter and he deserved it, even if he can't play. Its more to the problems with pitching (injuries and otherwise) and inconsistency of the Tigers in general.

Jose Iglesias, J.D. Martinez and David Price all have the credentials to be there IMO.

[AshevilleApp2]

Detroit goes to Minnesota today for a 4 game series prior to the All Star break. Depending on how things turn out, it could be a big influence on whether the Tigers are buyers or sellers heading into the trade deadline.

[PaladinFan]

Detroit goes to Minnesota today for a 4 game series prior to the All Star break. Depending on how things turn out, it could be a big influence on whether the Tigers are buyers or sellers heading into the trade deadline.

Braves are in the same boat. They've won their last three series and head to struggling Colorado. Without question, the Braves are far better right now than virtually anyone thought they'd be.

Does Atlanta move some of its stockpile of pitchers to make a run at the post season? To they just stand pat? To they move some of their veteran pieces (Pierzynski, Kelly Johnson, Cameron Maybin, Grilli) who have had good years?

I'd love to see the Braves make a run, but I also realize that Atlanta has those veteran players on short deals that every team covets at the trade deadline to plug some holes.

[Drblankstare]

Looks like Mauer got out his Alex Gordon voodoo doll finally. I swear he robs Joe of a double every game they play. Losing him for an extended period would be a tough loss for the Royals, though I still think they will have enough juice to win the division.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile...

This weekend, the Chicago Crosstown Series is back for 3 games at Wrigley.

Two rising stars of the Cubs (Rizzo and Bryant) are in the Home Run Derby.

[AshevilleApp2]

Braves are in the same boat. They've won their last three series and head to struggling Colorado. Without question, the Braves are far better right now than virtually anyone thought they'd be.

Does Atlanta move some of its stockpile of pitchers to make a run at the post season? To they just stand pat? To they move some of their veteran pieces (Pierzynski, Kelly Johnson, Cameron Maybin, Grilli) who have had good years?

I'd love to see the Braves make a run, but I also realize that Atlanta has those veteran players on short deals that every team covets at the trade deadline to plug some holes.

Very much the same with Detroit, except for a lack of depth on the farm. I think the Tigers can make a run at the Wild Card, but aren't likely to get much further. Too many "ifs" need to work in their favor. But how much young talent could they get for a David Price, or a Joakim Soria, or a Yoenis Cespedes? All are free agents at the end of the season. And while I'd love to see them stay in Detroit, I'm not sure that will happen. Price in particular, after seeing what Max Scherzer got from Washington.

An infusion of talent can keep them competitive for several more years. Lose the above mentioned players, and several more on their roster, to free agency, and you risk being in the position Philadelphia is right now.

[PaladinFan]

Braves finally lock up 1st round pick Kolby Allard, considered by many to be the best prep arm in this year's draft. Stock dropped a bit due to a stress fracture in his back, but considered by many to be top 5 talent.

Atlanta's farm system is now scary deep with pitching. That's not even counting the MLB rotation, which is currently 5 guys 24 and younger.

[PaladinFan]

Interesting article from Ben Badler (Baseball America's international guru) http://www.baseballamerica.com/international/10-teams-international-bonus-pools/

He notes that next season, 10 teams will be strictly limited in international spending due to over signing their pool allotments. Another handful are highly reluctant to spend seven figures on international FAs.

Badler notes that the Braves look ready to jump on next year's international market. Put another way, Atlanta will be going after the top international free agents with money to spend and half the MLB having to sit on the sideline. Much easier to get a free agent signed when Los Angeles, Boston, New York, Chicago, etc. aren't able to bid.

New Braves front office is making this whole management thing look like a game. They are just killing it right now.

[ngineer]

Phillies have already promoted Nola to AAA Lehigh Valley. Assuming success over the next few weeks, we may seem him at CBP in August.

[AshevilleApp2]

Detroit goes to Minnesota today for a 4 game series prior to the All Star break. Depending on how things turn out, it could be a big influence on whether the Tigers are buyers or sellers heading into the trade deadline.

Sell. xsmhx

[clenz]

Suck it Detroit.


That'll teach you to give up 7 runs in the bottom of the 9th and pitch to Dozier

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

[Laker]

The Twins come up with a 7-run 9th inning against the Tigers for a big 8-6 win on Friday night.
Brian Dozier hits his second walk off HR this week.

And I went to bed before it was done and tossed and turned for 45 minutes. My body must have been telling me to go back and watch.

[Drblankstare]

I made the horrible mistake of checking in on the Twins game one last time right before bed. I had to be up at 4am to be on call for work. Hard to sleep after that craziness.

[AshevilleApp2]

The Twins come up with a 7-run 9th inning against the Tigers for a big 8-6 win on Friday night.
Brian Dozier hits his second walk off HR this week.

And I went to bed before it was done and tossed and turned for 45 minutes. My body must have been telling me to go back and watch.

I was following the game online. It sucked. I'm beginning to wonder if the Brad Ausmus experiment has failed. Really questionable handling of the pitching staff last night, in my opinion. Verlander is still working his way back to shape, there was no need to send him out in the 8th inning. No need to use Rondon or Soria with a 6 run lead (5 run heading into the 9th), particularly since Soria had pitched a lot in the previous few games.

Congratulations to the Twins though, they stuck with it and capitalized on their opportunities.

[clenz]

I said it earlier this year and I'll say it again...

There's something about this Twins team that's so different than anything we've seen the last 5 or 6 years. Games the Twins would have lost by 1 or 2 are turning into 1 or 2 run wins. Games that would have snowballed to 6 or more run losses are kept close and occasionally won. Games they would have blown the lead they aren't.

They may not make the playoffs this year but it's much closer than I thought.

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

[bonarae]

Meanwhile...

The Tigers add Neftali Feliz to their bullpen.

Have the Cubs self-destructed against middle and bottom tier teams, regardless of league? xsmhx

Should I start bandwagoning again? xchinscratchx

[caribbeanhen]

Meanwhile...

The Tigers add Neftali Feliz to their bullpen.

Have the Cubs self-destructed against middle and bottom tier teams, regardless of league? xsmhx

Should I start bandwagoning again? xchinscratchx

The White Sox have been on a nice roll here lead by Sale and the Notre Dame WR......

[caribbeanhen]

Braves are in the same boat. They've won their last three series and head to struggling Colorado. Without question, the Braves are far better right now than virtually anyone thought they'd be.

Does Atlanta move some of its stockpile of pitchers to make a run at the post season? To they just stand pat? To they move some of their veteran pieces (Pierzynski, Kelly Johnson, Cameron Maybin, Grilli) who have had good years?

I'd love to see the Braves make a run, but I also realize that Atlanta has those veteran players on short deals that every team covets at the trade deadline to plug some holes.

Brave not going anywhere just yet, and I tell you I for one am not all that surprised by the braves season.... names dont win games....I love what they did and are doing so dont screw it up by trying to make a run this year

[PaladinFan]

Brave not going anywhere just yet, and I tell you I for one am not all that surprised by the braves season.... names dont win games....I love what they did and are doing so dont screw it up by trying to make a run this year

People debated me on this, but I thought the Braves would be better than last year's star-filled team. It was virtually incomprehensible how bad Dan Uggla and BJ Upton were, and how poor the team's approach to the plate was.

We aren't going anywhere this year. I do think that going forward the team could benefit from some veteran pitchers (all starters are 24 and younger). I think you will see the Braves be really active again this offseason and start trading their stockpile of pitching to address needs on the MLB team.

[Smitty]

How was the new format for the HR derby last night?