2015 MLB Thread

[bonarae]

Oh wait, Spring Training is on but there's bad news...

Josh Hamilton may become the next Lance Armstrong (OK, I'm comparing general sports personalities now) - http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/mlb-big-league-stew/report--josh-hamilton-confesses-relapse-to-mlb-officials-013433328.html

David Ortiz is not happy with the new pacing rules - http://espn.go.com/boston/mlb/story/_/id/12381319/david-ortiz-boston-red-sox-calls-bs-mlb-pace-rules

[PaladinFan]

I usually do just an NL East thread, but a MLB thread is better I think.

[AshevilleApp2]

I usually do just an NL East thread, but a MLB thread is better I think.

Considering that there are two Tigers fans, a handful of Twins fans and one Indians fan who contribute to the AL Central thread, one overall MLB thread seems appropriate.

[clenz]

Yay losing... I mean, baseball.


That's what its actually called,right?

As a Twins fan all I know is losing.


Anyone want in a fantasy league?

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[Grizalltheway]

I hate to rejoice in anyone struggling with addiction but...anything to help the Mariners finally take the AL West.

[bonarae]

Will the products of the Cubs' epic rebuilding process really show up in Maddon's Year 1?

[clenz]

No.


It sure is fun listening cubs fans right now though.

It will be really fun come August...

It get **** all the time from Cub fan friends-why are you always so negative before the season? I couldn't watch my team without hope.


Well, I'm realistic. When my team is in last place by 5 game on 8/1 I'm not disappointed in the same way you are. You hate life and are super touchy about everything Cub related. I'm okay with life but disappointed that the Twins, yet again, suck.

If both teams are good I'm happier than you. You're just meeting you expectations and I'm THRILLED to have success.

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[BisonFan02]

87 and 91 versus 07 and 08..of the 19 variety there clenzy.

[PaladinFan]

Melvin (fka BJ) Upton out until may with foot inflammation. About the only time losing your starting centerfielder might be considered good news.

I feel bad for the guy. Not easy to be considered one of the all time free agent busts. Hope he can turn it around.

[clenz]

87 and 91 versus 07 and 08..of the 19 variety there clenzy.
Cubs fans are a special breed

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[bonarae]

Cubs fans are a special breed

I agree. They tend not to bandwagon for other winning teams when their team has a losing record... but I'm one bandwagon fan.

[ngineer]

Interesting interview tonight with Dan Plesac who has been in Clearwater watching the Phils. He thinks too many people are writing off the Phillies as not being competitive. Ryan Howard with a new batting stance, lighter and running without a limp for the first time in 3 years, some excellent young arms in the pen and a very decent top three rotation. Problem is too many question marks in the field with some youngsters who could light it up, or get lit up. Should be interesting to see how competitive they will be the first three months. If signs indicate that some of the new youth 'have it' then there may not be the fire sale in July, as the few veterans left may be kept. On paper there are way too many questions about the Phillies to 'bet on them' to even compete for a wild card, but they have the ingredients to be one of the "surprise teams" this year. Every year there is always a team or two who rise up from the depths and make things interesting. For so many years the Phils were counted on to be in the playoffs, so this year's adventure should be interesting. Hope springs eternal in March.

[MR. CHICKEN]

20617......MAH PHILLIES MUG...HALF EMPTY.....SLURP! SLURP!.....NOW JES'....EMPTY.........:(.....BRAWK!

[PaladinFan]

Interesting interview tonight with Dan Plesac who has been in Clearwater watching the Phils. He thinks too many people are writing off the Phillies as not being competitive. Ryan Howard with a new batting stance, lighter and running without a limp for the first time in 3 years, some excellent young arms in the pen and a very decent top three rotation. Problem is too many question marks in the field with some youngsters who could light it up, or get lit up. Should be interesting to see how competitive they will be the first three months. If signs indicate that some of the new youth 'have it' then there may not be the fire sale in July, as the few veterans left may be kept. On paper there are way too many questions about the Phillies to 'bet on them' to even compete for a wild card, but they have the ingredients to be one of the "surprise teams" this year. Every year there is always a team or two who rise up from the depths and make things interesting. For so many years the Phils were counted on to be in the playoffs, so this year's adventure should be interesting. Hope springs eternal in March.

To start, I don't think that you can really write off anyone. Not a single ESPN "expert" last year (there were about 20) picked either the Giants or the Royals to play in the series, much less win it. A number of them picked the Rays to win the world series--a team that finished something like 19 games out of first. Baseball is a funny game.

The Phillies are trying to do the same thing in 2015 that did not work in 2013 or 2014. They have had back to back 73 win seasons and yet are running out the same formula that created those two seasons, with a lot of emphasis on aging veterans regaining their youth surrounded by a smattering of talented, but flawed, bats.

I've been critical of the Phillies' approach for a while. I think they went all-in at all cost to win titles between 2008 and 2011. That really didn't work out the way they planned. The front office just does not seem able to commit to winning or rebuilding. They would just rather tread water it seems.

[clenz]

So...for real...

Fantasy baseball anyone?

I'd prefer to not let the AGS league die before it starts

[AshevilleApp2]

So...for real...

Fantasy baseball anyone?

I'd prefer to not let the AGS league die before it starts

Never played before. How much time do you need to put in, etc?

[clenz]

A couple minutes every other day should be enough to take care if you're paying attention to how the season is going

If we do a live draft that takes time but you can skip it and the computer will auto select the best available team for you.

You can put in as much time as you want but not much is needed, especially in a small league

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[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers release Joel Hanrahan after tests reveal that he needs another Tommy John procedure. Tough break for him.

As far as the Tigers go, he was a low dollar (for baseball) risk. If he could have come back to anything near his production of a few seasons go, it would have been a steal.

[dgtw]

According to baseball expert Marty McFly, the Cubs will win the World Series this year.

When Lewis and Clark were exploring Louisiana, they were closer in time to the Cubs last title than we are today.


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[AshevilleApp2]

According to baseball expert Marty McFly, the Cubs will win the World Series this year.

When Lewis and Clark were exploring Louisiana, they were closer in time to the Cubs last title than we are today.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk


I don't trust anyone named Marty McFly. xnodx

[tribe_pride]

Matt Harvey goes 6 up, 6 down in his first outing since undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2013. He threw 25 pitches topping out at 99 mph and throwing a good curve that wasn't in his pitches before the surgery. Only 2 innings but it's a good start back

[PaladinFan]

Hopefully not a portend for this season, but the Braves threw a 10 inning no hitter today and did not win (2-2 tie).

[PaladinFan]

Neat opportunity for Peter Moylan http://m.braves.mlb.com/news/article/112285988/pitcher-peter-moylan-to-be-player-coach-for-braves-rookie-affiliate

Every team has those guys that will always be fan favorites regardless of who they are playing for. Moylan is one of those guys in Atlanta.

[caribbeanhen]

Hopefully not a portend for this season, but the Braves threw a 10 inning no hitter today and did not win (2-2 tie).

I sure complained alot last year about the Braves whiffs, the get on base strategy will be interesting for sure

[caribbeanhen]

Melvin (fka BJ) Upton out until may with foot inflammation. About the only time losing your starting centerfielder might be considered good news.

I feel bad for the guy. Not easy to be considered one of the all time free agent busts. Hope he can turn it around.

why did he change his name to Melvin? Cant we just get this guy on a retirement plan and tell him he never has to work a day in life? I hear the young 2B prospect is getting a look in CF

[clenz]

why did he change his name to Melvin? Cant we just get this guy on a retirement plan and tell him he never has to work a day in life? I hear the young 2B prospect is getting a look in CF
His name is Melvin I believe

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[PaladinFan]

why did he change his name to Melvin? Cant we just get this guy on a retirement plan and tell him he never has to work a day in life? I hear the young 2B prospect is getting a look in CF

My understanding is that he always goes by Melvin, except in baseball. I think he just wants everyone to call him what his friends and family call him.

They are working Jose Peraza in the outfield. Peraza was originally a shortstop, but Andrelton Simmons has that spot locked in long term. There is a vacancy at 2B, but Atlanta also has a sharp looking infield prospect named Ozzie Albies working his way up the minors and have been connected to the Cuban Hector Olivera as well.

My guess is that Peraza will begin the season at Gwinett. If the Braves land Olivera (who is 29), they will start him at second and eventually move him to third to make room for Albies. Peraza will then play CF or LF. Again, that's just a guess.

[ngineer]

Harang supposed to get a start today. Has been slowed by lower back stiffness. With Lee walking a fine line, Phils really need Harang to "be there".

[PaladinFan]

Harang supposed to get a start today. Has been slowed by lower back stiffness. With Lee walking a fine line, Phils really need Harang to "be there".

Harang has "been around the block," but I think his greatest assets are durability and consistency.

You think Lee is going to pitch by the start of the season?

Maybe the Braves and Phillies get together on Wandy Rodriguez. He's a guy the Phils signed, then claimed he failed a physical. Braves signed him, and he has pitched well this spring. Due a $2m payday if he makes the roster, and the rumors are that the Braves would probably rather deal him and use that roster spot on a younger pitcher.

[Gil Dobie]

3 of the Twins top prospects sent to Minor League camp on Sunday.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile, unlike other Cubs who struggled at the plate once they stabilized in the Majors (read: last year), Kris Bryant has found his groove in Spring Training.

[tribe_pride]

Harvey back this year and it looks like Wheeler is going out on Tommy John surgery. Damn. Luckily the Mets have decent depth at starting pitching with Harvey, Colon, Niese and deGrom and now can add Gee who started a good amount of games last year.

[PaladinFan]

Harvey back this year and it looks like Wheeler is going out on Tommy John surgery. Damn. Luckily the Mets have decent depth at starting pitching with Harvey, Colon, Niese and deGrom and now can add Gee who started a good amount of games last year.

Saw in that Jason Stark article where 50% of pitchers go out with injury every year. The Braves lost two members of their starting rotation to their second TJ surgery within three days of one another last spring training.

It is a gut punch to a team, but in this era I suppose you always have to plan for the worst.

[DSUrocks07]

Go Fish

[ngineer]

Harang has "been around the block," but I think his greatest assets are durability and consistency.

You think Lee is going to pitch by the start of the season?

Maybe the Braves and Phillies get together on Wandy Rodriguez. He's a guy the Phils signed, then claimed he failed a physical. Braves signed him, and he has pitched well this spring. Due a $2m payday if he makes the roster, and the rumors are that the Braves would probably rather deal him and use that roster spot on a younger pitcher.

Lee on the 60-day disabled list. Refusing surgery, going to rehab. Says pitchers like Robin Roberts, et al, years ago worked through these things. True, but back then they only threw fastballs and curveballs. Not all this other junk with ridiculous torque. I hope he can make it back, but I would not count on it. Phils will be looking for another arm, so may Wandy will be in the conversations.

[BisonFan02]

3 of the Twins top prospects sent to Minor League camp on Sunday.

Look forward to seeing them in August.

[PaladinFan]

Lee on the 60-day disabled list. Refusing surgery, going to rehab. Says pitchers like Robin Roberts, et al, years ago worked through these things. True, but back then they only threw fastballs and curveballs. Not all this other junk with ridiculous torque. I hope he can make it back, but I would not count on it. Phils will be looking for another arm, so may Wandy will be in the conversations.

Leo Mazzone, the venerable long time Braves pitching coach, used to make his pitchers throw literally every day. That was something that was radical then, and is even moreso now. Outside of John Smoltz TJS, the Braves had a miraculously long run of pitchers with long successfully injury free careers.

[caribbeanhen]

So...for real...

Fantasy baseball anyone?

I'd prefer to not let the AGS league die before it starts

I would be in if I'm not already out......

[clenz]

Pm me your email that's linked at an ESPN account

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[caribbeanhen]

Pm me your email that's linked at an ESPN account

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PM sent

[clenz]

invite sent.

813jag needs to accept his.


We need one other team.

Since it's a roto league I can create a dummy team to fill that spot and empty the roster if need be.

Should be a deep roster for each team

[PaladinFan]

John Buck officially retires. He had been in camp with the Braves, but was looking unlikely to make the team.

Pretty decent 11 year career as a catcher.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile, Kris Bryant will start the season in the minors. xsmhx Is it because of a "loaded at the position" issue or he needs some more fielding practice?

[tribe_pride]

Meanwhile, Kris Bryant will start the season in the minors. xsmhx Is it because of a "loaded at the position" issue or he needs some more fielding practice?

When the union agreed to that term in the CBA, they knew this would happen. Not sure why anyone would be surprised by this. It only makes sense for a team to do.

[PaladinFan]

Meanwhile, Kris Bryant will start the season in the minors. xsmhx Is it because of a "loaded at the position" issue or he needs some more fielding practice?

Serious question? Cannot tell if you are being facetious.

It is because he is a "super two." Essentially if Bryant starts the season at the MLB level, he will accrue enough service time so that he will be arbitration eligible after two years, instead of three. For a player of his caliber, that is literally a multi-million dollar decision by the Cubs.

Some teams take different views. The Braves, for example, historically do not care about arbitration clocks. When you can help out the Major League team, you are called up. They would rather worry about arbitration several years down the road. Other teams take a different view.

[bonarae]

Serious question? Cannot tell if you are being facetious.

I thought that his performance was really worthy of a 25-man slot but I didn't really consider the financial side. xpeacex

[PaladinFan]

I thought that his performance was really worthy of a 25-man slot but I didn't really consider the financial side. xpeacex

There are formulas for such things, but it essentially gives the player an extra year of arbitration. The Cubs won't publicly say that is the reason he was demoted, but that's the speculation.

From the financial side, it could be a lot of money. For example, take Jason Heyward. Heyward was a super two player who earned a $3.65mm payday in his age 23 season. Had the Braves kept him in the minors, he would have been making a little over league minimum that season. Maybe $2.5mm difference just depending on when he got the callup.

[clenz]

I thought I had a fantasy baseball thread, but apparently I don't.

I'm going to piggy back in this one for our AGS league if you guys don't mind.

Small league this year with only 6 teams, but quality should be good.

The league line up this year is

Boston Braves managed by NHwildEcat
No team logo decided upon yet

Caribbean Hens managed by caribbeanhen
No team logo decided up yet

Fear The Bird managed by Fear The Bird
http://content.sportslogos.net/logos/31/657/full/6321_delaware_blue_hens-mascot-1993.png

Team Wells managed by 813jag
No team name or logo decided upon yet

THE Fighting Fjords managed by BisonFan02
While his team name is about Fjords, he has chosen a logo that has nothing to do with his team name...i think he's drinking again
http://i.imgur.com/U2w7W.jpg


Finally...the league commissioner, winner of best logo and soon to be champion....


It's Mauer Never managed by clenz
http://wac.450f.edgecastcdn.net/80450F/1390thefan.com/files/2011/08/joe_mauer_kittens_youtube.jpg

[AshevilleApp2]

I thought I had a fantasy baseball thread, but apparently I don't.

I'm going to piggy back in this one for our AGS league if you guys don't mind.

Small league this year with only 6 teams, but quality should be good.

The league line up this year is

Boston Braves managed by NHwildEcat
No team logo decided upon yet

Caribbean Hens managed by caribbeanhen
No team logo decided up yet

Fear The Bird managed by Fear The Bird
http://content.sportslogos.net/logos/31/657/full/6321_delaware_blue_hens-mascot-1993.png

Team Wells managed by 813jag
No team name or logo decided upon yet

THE Fighting Fjords managed by BisonFan02
While his team name is about Fjords, he has chosen a logo that has nothing to do with his team name...i think he's drinking again
http://i.imgur.com/U2w7W.jpg


Finally...the league commissioner, winner of best logo and soon to be champion....


It's Mauer Never managed by clenz
http://wac.450f.edgecastcdn.net/80450F/1390thefan.com/files/2011/08/joe_mauer_kittens_youtube.jpg

Welcome! It'll be a break from Tigers, Braves and Phillies updates, which is about all we get on these threads.

[AshevilleApp2]

Speaking of the Tigers, Justin Verlander and Bruce Rondon both hit the DL today. First time for Verlander, but becoming chronic for Rondon.

[PaladinFan]

Speaking of the Tigers, Justin Verlander and Bruce Rondon both hit the DL today. First time for Verlander, but becoming chronic for Rondon.

Good thing baseball is a marathon, not a sprint.

Not sure Detroits situation, but I understand they were already hurting for relief pitching. This probably just cranks up that pressure.

[BisonFan02]

I thought I had a fantasy baseball thread, but apparently I don't.

I'm going to piggy back in this one for our AGS league if you guys don't mind.

Small league this year with only 6 teams, but quality should be good.

The league line up this year is

Boston Braves managed by NHwildEcat
No team logo decided upon yet

Caribbean Hens managed by caribbeanhen
No team logo decided up yet

Fear The Bird managed by Fear The Bird
http://content.sportslogos.net/logos/31/657/full/6321_delaware_blue_hens-mascot-1993.png

Team Wells managed by 813jag
No team name or logo decided upon yet

THE Fighting Fjords managed by BisonFan02
While his team name is about Fjords, he has chosen a logo that has nothing to do with his team name...i think he's drinking again
http://i.imgur.com/U2w7W.jpg


Finally...the league commissioner, winner of best logo and soon to be champion....


It's Mauer Never managed by clenz
http://wac.450f.edgecastcdn.net/80450F/1390thefan.com/files/2011/08/joe_mauer_kittens_youtube.jpg

I'm already in your head.....mind games homie. xlolx

[clenz]

You're just upset that I have the best logo to ever exist.

[caribbeanhen]

Welcome! It'll be a break from Tigers, Braves and Phillies updates, which is about all we get on these threads.

I've seen some Twins fans on here, but I got my eye on the Cubbies..... Wrigley should be rocking this year

[BisonFan02]

I've seen some Twins fans on here, but I got my eye on the Cubbies..... Wrigley should be rocking this year

Yup....Twins fan here. I do have some breaking news to report too....the Twins....will in fact....NOT win the World Series this year. xbawlingx

[superman7515]

I've seen some Twins fans on here, but I got my eye on the Cubbies..... Wrigley should be rocking this year

The Cubs win the World Series this year.

[caribbeanhen]

The Cubs win the World Series this year.

that would be something...


https://youtu.be/_1SpG24rksA?t=15

[caribbeanhen]

Braves acquire Trevor Cahill from Dbacks.....why am I not excited

[AshevilleApp2]

Good thing baseball is a marathon, not a sprint.

Not sure Detroits situation, but I understand they were already hurting for relief pitching. This probably just cranks up that pressure.

The bullpen is the weakest link on the team no doubt.

[superman7515]

Marty McFly already told us, and the Grey's Sports Almanac never lies.

http://mlb.mlb.com/assets/images/9/1/4/103699914/cuts/BackToTheFuture_61e00esi_6r7g7h98.jpg

[superman7515]

On a semi-related note, the Cubs beat "Miami" in the World Series in Back To The Future 2, so obviously that can't happen. But every time the Marlins play the Cubs at home this year, they are having events to #ChangeTheFuture and beat the Cubs. Different give aways and promotions and such, with 50% of the proceeds going to Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research.

[clenz]

I predict the Twins lose less than 89 games this year...




I'll probably be proven wrong by game 140

[clenz]

Pretty nice, but semi-long, preseason write up on the Twins from Aaron Gleeman (has been writing/pod casting the twins for years)...

http://aarongleeman.com/2015/04/03/season-preview-are-the-twins-ready-to-stop-losing/

Highlights if you don't want to read the the whole thing


Sports Illustrated picks (http://www.si.com/mlb/2015/03/23/season-preview-minnesota-twins) the Twins for last place and 67 wins. ESPN.com picks (http://espn.go.com/blog/sweetspot/post/_/id/54964/ranking-the-teams-30-through-25-2) the Twins for last place and 68 wins. Baseball Prospectus projects (http://www.baseballprospectus.com/fantasy/dc/) the Twins for last place and 71 wins. Bovada sets (http://sports.bovada.lv/sports-betting/mlb-baseball-team-props.jsp) the Twins' over/under win total at 72.5. FanGraphs projects (http://www.fangraphs.com/depthcharts.aspx?position=Standings) the Twins for last place and 74 wins. Grantland picks (http://grantland.com/the-triangle/2015-mlb-preview-al-central-indians-tigers-white-sox-royals-twins/) the Twins for last place and "under 75 wins." CBS Sports picks (http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/eye-on-baseball/25125162/mlb-team-preview-minnesota-twins) the Twins for last place. Yahoo Sports picks (http://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/mlb-big-league-stew/mlb-predictions-2015--standings--playoffs--awards-and-more-043325435.html) the Twins for last place. You get the idea.Last year the Twins were 72-90. Then they fired (http://aarongleeman.com/2014/09/30/twins-fire-ron-gardenhire-after-13-seasons-as-manager/) Ron Gardenhire after 13 seasons as manager,handed out (http://aarongleeman.com/2014/12/12/twins-sign-ervin-santana-to-four-year-55-million-contract/) the largest free agent contract in team history to 32-year-old Ervin Santana at $55 million over four years, brought back (http://aarongleeman.com/2014/12/03/twins-sign-torii-hunter-for-10-5-million/) Torii Hunter for a $10.5 million reunion at age 39, signed (http://aarongleeman.com/2014/12/29/twins-sign-tim-stauffer-to-one-year-2-2-million-contract/) 33-year-old reliever Tim Stauffer for $2.2 million, and bypassed young talent in favor of veteran mediocrity (http://aarongleeman.com/2015/03/31/opening-day-roster-takes-shape-as-twins-choose-veterans-over-upside/) for every roster spot up for grabs in spring training.
Those are all the moves of an organization that's sick of losing and also sick of their plummeting fan morale and season ticket sales. They spent big on veterans and further delayed the arrival of prospects, leading to an Opening Day roster with just four players who're 25 years old or younger in shortstop Danny Santana, left fielder Oswaldo Arcia, designated hitter Kennys Vargas, and Rule 5 pick J.R. Graham.


When the reality of the Twins' organizational collapse finally sunk in around mid-2012 or so the idea was that they'd be back to contending by now, but injuries ruined those plans. Joe Mauer's concussion derailed his career and turned him from a Hall of Fame-caliber catcher to a mediocre first baseman. Instead of making their MLB debuts Miguel Sano missed all of last year following elbow surgery and Byron Buxton missed all but 31 games with a wrist injury and a concussion.


The good news is Buxton and Sano remain superstar-caliber prospects, Meyer and May still have enough upside to project as impact pitchers in some role, and there's another wave of prospects (http://aarongleeman.com/2015/03/11/top-40-twins-prospects-of-2015-system-overview/)coming soon led by Jose Berrios, Jorge Polanco, and Nick Burdi. The bad news is none of that figures to actually help the Twins win many games before the All-Star break. Sadly, being a Twins fan in 2015 is still more about waiting for help to arrive than watching it play at Target Field.


This should be the least-awful Twins team since 2010, but that's not saying much and confidence in even that mild statement dropped when they stacked the roster with Pelfrey, Milone, Duensing, Boyer, Schafer, Stauffer, Shane Robinson, Chris Herrmann, and Eduardo Nunez. That's a lot of self-imposed dreck for a team with better, younger options and there's a depressingly strong chance the same "are the Twins ready to stop losing?" question can be asked 365 days from now.

[caribbeanhen]

Twin fans keep an eye on Jose Berrios, that kid is on a mission and will not be denied....

[Professor Chaos]

I predict the Twins lose less than 89 games this year...




I'll probably be proven wrong by game 140
By which time they'll have shut down "Baby Jesus" Mauer and his 12 HRs and $23M price tag.

The Sano and Buxton era can't get here soon enough.

[clenz]

And....

Ervin Santana, the player who recieved the largest free agent contract ever in Twins history, has now been suspended 80 games after testing positive for Stanozolol

[NoDak 4 Ever]

And....

Ervin Santana, the player who recieved the largest free agent contract ever in Twins history, has now been suspended 80 games after testing positive for Stanozolol

Somehow, I'm kind of wishing old Carl had just contracted the team when he had the chance.

[BisonFan02]

And....

Ervin Santana, the player who recieved the largest free agent contract ever in Twins history, has now been suspended 80 games after testing positive for Stanozolol

Well...why not?

[ngineer]

Looking forward to Opening Day at Citizens Bank Park. Hamels against Bucholz of the Red Sox. Decent chance Phils win and I get to see them in first place for the only time this season...Vegas has Philly at 300 to 1 for the World Series.

[superman7515]

Looking forward to Opening Day at Citizens Bank Park. Hamels against Bucholz of the Red Sox. Decent chance Phils win and I get to see them in first place for the only time this season...Vegas has Philly at 300 to 1 for the World Series.

Worst odds in baseball... Fourth largest market in baseball and can't afford a decent farm system because they refuse to believe stats are a thing. You have to laugh, otherwise it's just sad. xsmhx

Anyway, since the Phils are going nowhere and there's a dozen people on this thread that follow them and post stuff anyway, I think I'll pick a different team and follow them throughout the year. I've always liked the A's and don't recall them getting a ton of attention in the thread last year, so maybe I'll follow Oakland for the season.

[bonarae]

For this year, I'm going with both Chicago teams, who both have decent shots at playoff bids barring injuries and/or risky management decisions.

[PaladinFan]

Looking forward to Opening Day at Citizens Bank Park. Hamels against Bucholz of the Red Sox. Decent chance Phils win and I get to see them in first place for the only time this season...Vegas has Philly at 300 to 1 for the World Series.

Phillies had lowest average, OBP, slugging percentage, and OPS in major league spring training. Might be a long one for the Phils.

I say that humbly. Braves will need to put names on the front and back of jerseys this year for the fan.

[BisonFan02]

My team logo is SOO much in clenzy's head....he didn't even show up for the live draft. :D xlolx

[BisonFan02]

Also.......

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/photo/photogallery/mlb_mountain/ruth/04.jpg

[clenz]

My team logo is SOO much in clenzy's head....he didn't even show up for the live draft. :D xlolx
Sorry bout that...kid wouldn't go the hell to bed tonight.

Was I the only one to miss?

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

[BisonFan02]

Sorry bout that...kid wouldn't go the hell to bed tonight.

Was I the only one to miss?

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Naw...Fear the Bird and Team Wells missed too.

[caribbeanhen]

Carib is just glowing about his team.....

[BisonFan02]

Carib is just glowing about his team.....

Completely "winged" mine....would've been better off autodrafting.

[clenz]

Completely "winged" mine....would've been better off autodrafting.
Part of the reason I didn't fight my kid too hard to get to sleep... Sadly

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[BisonFan02]

Part of the reason I didn't fight my kid too hard to get to sleep... Sadly

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True....but with a 6 team league and access to both AL and NL....the FA pool will be massive...no worries.

[clenz]

True....but with a 6 team league and access to both AL and NL....the FA pool will be massive...no worries.
I like leagues like this. I hate fantasy football leagues over 10 and prefer 8.

Especially with baseball, there are so many players, so many streaks, etc... that very few have the ability to properly follow baseball enough to do a 10 plus size league.

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[bonarae]

Opening Night is tonight at Wrigley...

[bonarae]

Meanwhile, Melvin (BJ) Upton and Kimbrel are shipped to San Diego.

[caribbeanhen]

Meanwhile, Melvin (BJ) Upton and Kimbrel are shipped to San Diego.

I gave a little sigh of relief to know BJ or Melvin are no longer in Atlanta, now let's go Braves.... they also get the 41st pick in the 2015 draft

works for me, not sure why they would want Melvin as they OF is already set, unless they move Myers to First base

[PaladinFan]

I gave a little sigh of relief to know BJ or Melvin are no longer in Atlanta, now let's go Braves.... they also get the 41st pick in the 2015 draft

works for me, not sure why they would want Melvin as they OF is already set, unless they move Myers to First base

I don't think the Padres wanted Upton. They wanted Kimbrel. Braves perhaps lessen their return for Kimbrel by attaching Upton (though I think the return was good), but save about $80mm in future commitments. That SD is taking on all of Upton's salary is pretty important.

It is an emotional trade for Braves fans. Kimbrel is the best reliever in the game, IMO. He has had a historic career to this point. Still, an all-star closer on a rebuilding team is pretty useless. Closers are also the easiest player to replace, and the Braves have several internal options that can handle the late innings.

Good news is the Braves get another outfielder that will help the MLB team (Cameron Maybin), the Padres top prospect, another high upside OF, and a draft pick.

[ngineer]

Interesting juxtaposition in the NL East from years past. Phils and Braves likely battling to see who stays out of basement as both undergo major renovations this year. If Papelbon gets off to decent start this year, I would expect some contender trying to get him. Word tonight that Phils are also shopping Revere.

[AshevilleApp2]

I don't think the Padres wanted Upton. They wanted Kimbrel. Braves perhaps lessen their return for Kimbrel by attaching Upton (though I think the return was good), but save about $80mm in future commitments. That SD is taking on all of Upton's salary is pretty important.

It is an emotional trade for Braves fans. Kimbrel is the best reliever in the game, IMO. He has had a historic career to this point. Still, an all-star closer on a rebuilding team is pretty useless. Closers are also the easiest player to replace, and the Braves have several internal options that can handle the late innings.

Good news is the Braves get another outfielder that will help the MLB team (Cameron Maybin), the Padres top prospect, another high upside OF, and a draft pick.

I hope Maybin works out well for you. He's a local kid, and I used to work with his Aunt, so I'm a little biased in his favor. So far he hasn't lived up the lofty expectations the Tigers had when he was drafted. But he definitely has the potential to be at least a very good player.

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers and the Twins open the season at 1:08 pm today from Comerica Park!

This should be an interesting season. Seems like the "experts" are picking Detroit to win the AL Central again. But I can see where most of the other teams in the division may have improved their rosters over last season.

I'll be bold enough to predict that the Tigers will compete for the playoffs. xthumbsupx

[PaladinFan]

Interesting juxtaposition in the NL East from years past. Phils and Braves likely battling to see who stays out of basement as both undergo major renovations this year. If Papelbon gets off to decent start this year, I would expect some contender trying to get him. Word tonight that Phils are also shopping Revere.

It is tough to watch, but the Braves are stockpiling talent in the minor leagues. They now have 4 of the first 54 picks in this year's draft. They cleared a lot of salary off the books.

With a lot of young talented pitchers in the system and money in the bank, they have a lot of flexibility going forward. Appears the trade, while difficult, was a pretty shrewd move for Atlanta.

[clenz]

Interesting juxtaposition in the NL East from years past. Phils and Braves likely battling to see who stays out of basement as both undergo major renovations this year. If Papelbon gets off to decent start this year, I would expect some contender trying to get him. Word tonight that Phils are also shopping Revere.
We'll take him back....

[NoDak 4 Ever]

We'll take him back....

We we won't, he's only 26.

[Fear the Bird]

Interesting tidbit for us AGS MLB fans

Matt Sczcur now known for the guy who held Kris Bryant's spot for 12 days

[PaladinFan]

I hope Maybin works out well for you. He's a local kid, and I used to work with his Aunt, so I'm a little biased in his favor. So far he hasn't lived up the lofty expectations the Tigers had when he was drafted. But he definitely has the potential to be at least a very good player.

It looks like he will stick with the Braves. Atlanta is going to be a platoon heavy team this year. After Upton's injury, Eric Young gained the inside track to be the starting CF. Young is a natural left fielder, so Maybin will probably have a lot of opportunities out there.

If memory serves, Maybin was one of the players included in the deal to Detroit with Miguel Cabrera from Miami. Hopefully a reset back home is what he needs. Braves will have a lot of playing time for a good outfielder.

[AshevilleApp2]

It looks like he will stick with the Braves. Atlanta is going to be a platoon heavy team this year. After Upton's injury, Eric Young gained the inside track to be the starting CF. Young is a natural left fielder, so Maybin will probably have a lot of opportunities out there.

If memory serves, Maybin was one of the players included in the deal to Detroit with Miguel Cabrera from Miami. Hopefully a reset back home is what he needs. Braves will have a lot of playing time for a good outfielder.

Your memory is correct. The Tigers sent Maybin, Andrew Miller and 4 minor league players to the Marlins for Cabrera and Dontrelle Willis. Willis never got over his control problems, but the deal still worked out for Detroit

[clenz]

Fantasy draft results...



ROUND 1


ROUND 2




1
Mike Trout, LAA OF
Caribbean Hens
7
Miguel Cabrera, Det 1B
Fear the Bird


2
Andrew McCutchen, Pit OF
Team Wells
8
Jose Bautista, Tor OF
THE Fighting Fjord


3
Giancarlo Stanton, Mia OF
It's Mauer Never
9
Jose Abreu, CWS 1B
Boston Braves


4
Clayton Kershaw, LAD SP
Boston Braves
10
Edwin Encarnacion, Tor 1B
It's Mauer Never


5
Carlos Gomez, Mil OF
THE Fighting Fjord
11
Felix Hernandez, Sea SP
Team Wells


6
Paul Goldschmidt, Ari 1B
Fear the Bird
12
Troy Tulowitzki, Col SS
Caribbean Hens


ROUND 3


ROUND 4




13
Robinson Cano, Sea 2B
Caribbean Hens
19
Freddie Freeman, Atl 1B
Fear the Bird


14
Anthony Rizzo, ChC 1B
Team Wells
20
Michael Brantley, Cle OF
THE Fighting Fjord


15
Adam Jones, Bal OF
It's Mauer Never
21
Chris Sale*, CWS SP
Boston Braves


16
Yasiel Puig, LAD OF
Boston Braves
22
Max Scherzer, Wsh SP
It's Mauer Never


17
Jose Altuve, Hou 2B
THE Fighting Fjord
23
Ian Desmond, Wsh SS
Team Wells


18
Adrian Beltre, Tex 3B
Fear the Bird
24
Jacoby Ellsbury, NYY OF
Caribbean Hens


ROUND 5


ROUND 6




25
Josh Donaldson, Tor 3B
Caribbean Hens
31
Corey Kluber, Cle SP
Fear the Bird


26
Stephen Strasburg, Wsh SP
Team Wells
32
David Price, Det SP
THE Fighting Fjord


27
Ryan Braun, Mil OF
It's Mauer Never
33
Bryce Harper, Wsh OF
Boston Braves


28
Madison Bumgarner, SF SP
Boston Braves
34
Justin Upton, SD OF
It's Mauer Never


29
Buster Posey, SF C
THE Fighting Fjord
35
Anthony Rendon*, Wsh 2B
Team Wells


30
Hanley Ramirez, Bos SS
Fear the Bird
36
George Springer, Hou OF
Caribbean Hens


ROUND 7


ROUND 8




37
Johnny Cueto, Cin SP
Caribbean Hens
43
Jordan Zimmermann, Wsh SP
Fear the Bird


38
Corey Dickerson, Col OF
Team Wells
44
Victor Martinez, Det DH
THE Fighting Fjord


39
Starling Marte, Pit OF
It's Mauer Never
45
Adrian Gonzalez, LAD 1B
Boston Braves


40
Jon Lester, ChC SP
Boston Braves
46
Evan Longoria, TB 3B
It's Mauer Never


41
Jose Reyes, Tor SS
THE Fighting Fjord
47
Cole Hamels, Phi SP
Team Wells


42
Zack Greinke, LAD SP
Fear the Bird
48
Albert Pujols, LAA 1B
Caribbean Hens


ROUND 9


ROUND 10




49
Carlos Gonzalez, Col OF
Caribbean Hens
55
Billy Hamilton, Cin OF
Fear the Bird


50
Yoenis Cespedes, Det OF
Team Wells
56
Kyle Seager, Sea 3B
THE Fighting Fjord


51
Ian Kinsler, Det 2B
It's Mauer Never
57
David Ortiz, Bos DH
Boston Braves


52
Aroldis Chapman, Cin RP
Boston Braves
58
Prince Fielder, Tex 1B
It's Mauer Never


53
Matt Kemp, SD OF
THE Fighting Fjord
59
Nelson Cruz, Sea OF
Team Wells


54
Craig Kimbrel, Atl RP
Fear the Bird
60
Greg Holland, KC RP
Caribbean Hens


ROUND 11


ROUND 12




61
Jorge Soler, ChC OF
Caribbean Hens
67
Julio Teheran, Atl SP
Fear the Bird


62
Jeff Samardzija, CWS SP
Team Wells
68
James Shields, SD SP
THE Fighting Fjord


63
Kole Calhoun, LAA OF
It's Mauer Never
69
Todd Frazier, Cin 3B
Boston Braves


64
Jason Kipnis, Cle 2B
Boston Braves
70
Adam Wainwright, StL SP
It's Mauer Never


65
Sonny Gray, Oak SP
THE Fighting Fjord
71
Chris Carter, Hou DH
Team Wells


66
Brian Dozier, Min 2B
Fear the Bird
72
Matt Harvey, NYM SP
Caribbean Hens


ROUND 13


ROUND 14




73
Dustin Pedroia, Bos 2B
Caribbean Hens
79
Jason Heyward, StL OF
Fear the Bird


74
Chris Davis, Bal 1B
Team Wells
80
Starlin Castro, ChC SS
THE Fighting Fjord


75
Gerrit Cole, Pit SP
It's Mauer Never
81
Gio Gonzalez, Wsh SP
Boston Braves


76
Jonathan Lucroy, Mil C
Boston Braves
82
Tyson Ross, SD SP
It's Mauer Never


77
Carlos Santana, Cle 3B
THE Fighting Fjord
83
Nolan Arenado, Col 3B
Team Wells


78
Christian Yelich, Mia OF
Fear the Bird
84
Mookie Betts, Bos OF
Caribbean Hens


ROUND 15


ROUND 16




85
Joey Votto, Cin 1B
Caribbean Hens
91
Kolten Wong, StL 2B
Fear the Bird


86
Hunter Pence*, SF OF
Team Wells
92
Matt Carpenter, StL 3B
THE Fighting Fjord


87
Mark Melancon, Pit RP
It's Mauer Never
93
David Robertson, CWS RP
Boston Braves


88
Alexei Ramirez, CWS SS
Boston Braves
94
Jacob deGrom, NYM SP
It's Mauer Never


89
Matt Holliday, StL OF
THE Fighting Fjord
95
Dee Gordon, Mia 2B
Team Wells


90
Jay Bruce, Cin OF
Fear the Bird
96
Trevor Rosenthal, StL RP
Caribbean Hens


ROUND 17


ROUND 18




97
Kenley Jansen*, LAD RP
Caribbean Hens
103
Marcell Ozuna, Mia OF
Fear the Bird


98
Carlos Carrasco, Cle SP
Team Wells
104
Garrett Richards*, LAA SP
THE Fighting Fjord


99
Devin Mesoraco, Cin C
It's Mauer Never
105
Cody Allen, Cle RP
Boston Braves


100
Alex Gordon, KC OF
Boston Braves
106
Alex Cobb*, TB SP
It's Mauer Never


101
Jake Arrieta, ChC SP
THE Fighting Fjord
107
Michael Wacha, StL SP
Team Wells


102
Masahiro Tanaka, NYY SP
Fear the Bird
108
Yordano Ventura, KC SP
Caribbean Hens


ROUND 19


ROUND 20




109
Dellin Betances, NYY RP
Caribbean Hens
115
Manny Machado, Bal 3B
Fear the Bird


110
Homer Bailey*, Cin SP
Team Wells
116
Chris Archer, TB SP
THE Fighting Fjord


111
Elvis Andrus, Tex SS
It's Mauer Never
117
Pablo Sandoval, Bos 3B
Boston Braves


112
Leonys Martin, Tex OF
Boston Braves
118
Mark Trumbo, Ari 1B
It's Mauer Never


113
Lance Lynn, StL SP
THE Fighting Fjord
119
Evan Gattis, Hou C
Team Wells


114
Hisashi Iwakuma, Sea SP
Fear the Bird
120
Drew Hutchison, Tor SP
Caribbean Hens


ROUND 21


ROUND 22




121
Jered Weaver, LAA SP
Caribbean Hens
127
Brett Gardner, NYY OF
Fear the Bird


122
Alex Wood, Atl SP
Team Wells
128
Huston Street, LAA RP
THE Fighting Fjord


123
Jonathan Papelbon, Phi RP
It's Mauer Never
129
Daniel Murphy, NYM 2B
Boston Braves


124
Doug Fister, Wsh SP
Boston Braves
130
Matt Adams, StL 1B
It's Mauer Never


125
Ryan Zimmerman, Wsh 3B
THE Fighting Fjord
131
Mat Latos, Mia SP
Team Wells


126
Salvador Perez, KC C
Fear the Bird
132
Gregory Polanco, Pit OF
Caribbean Hens


ROUND 23


ROUND 24




133
Kris Bryant, ChC 3B
Caribbean Hens
139
Koji Uehara*, Bos RP
Fear the Bird


134
David Wright, NYM 3B
Team Wells
140
Brandon Moss, Cle 1B
THE Fighting Fjord


135
Steve Cishek, Mia RP
It's Mauer Never
141
Rusney Castillo, Bos OF
Boston Braves


136
Charlie Blackmon, Col OF
Boston Braves
142
Yan Gomes, Cle C
It's Mauer Never


137
Jimmy Rollins, LAD SS
THE Fighting Fjord
143
Jayson Werth*, Wsh OF
Team Wells


138
Glen Perkins, Min RP
Fear the Bird
144
Michael Pineda, NYY SP
Caribbean Hens


ROUND 25







145
Yadier Molina, StL C
Caribbean Hens





146
Alex Rios, KC OF
Team Wells





147
Chase Utley, Phi 2B
It's Mauer Never





148
Anibal Sanchez, Det SP
Boston Braves





149
Andrew Cashner, SD SP
THE Fighting Fjord





150
Fernando Rodney, Sea RP
Fear the Bird

[NoDak 4 Ever]

The way Price was pitching I thought he was going to get a perfect game.

[dbackjon]

Meanwhile, Kris Bryant will start the season in the minors. xsmhx Is it because of a "loaded at the position" issue or he needs some more fielding practice?

The only loaded reason is his contract.

[Laker]

Twinkies get shut out by the Motor City Kitties 4-0- Nathan strikes out Torii Hunter on a check swing to end the game.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Twinkies get shut out by the Motor City Kitties 4-0- Nathan strikes out Torii Hunter on a check swing to end the game.

I took advantage of the Extra Innings free preview to see if I really wanted to go in on the MLB.tv package this year. Hell to tha NO.

[caribbeanhen]

It is tough to watch, but the Braves are stockpiling talent in the minor leagues. They now have 4 of the first 54 picks in this year's draft. They cleared a lot of salary off the books.

With a lot of young talented pitchers in the system and money in the bank, they have a lot of flexibility going forward. Appears the trade, while difficult, was a pretty shrewd move for Atlanta.

what was tough to watch was all the strikeouts and players that couldn't put wood to ball with runners in scoring position, I like the rebuild and the draft picks actually.... but I'm weird like that

[caribbeanhen]

I like the pace at which Klueber pitches, get's the ball and throws it, and why not as his stuff is electric

[PaladinFan]

what was tough to watch was all the strikeouts and players that couldn't put wood to ball with runners in scoring position, I like the rebuild and the draft picks actually.... but I'm weird like that

Braves completely revamped their farm system. Arguably went from a bottom five system to a top five system. They also now hold 5 of the first 75 picks in the June draft, so that system is just going to continue to improve.

[PaladinFan]

Great game last night. Of course the Braves trade Kimbrel and have a 1 run lead in the 9th inning with Stanton and Morse due up. Jason Grilli was throwing some bullets, though.

For baseball geeks like me, you have to check out Christian Bethancourt throwing out Dee Gordon attempting to steal second. Probably the league's best base stealer trying to swipe second against the NL's best RHP pickoff move (Teheran) and a catcher with a howitzer (Bethancourt).

[AshevilleApp2]

In ex-Tiger news, Rick Porcello signs a 4 year/$82 million dollar deal with the Red Sox. It will be interesting to see how this plays out. I like Porcello, but on the surface this seems like too much money. But he has shown steady improvement in his years in Detroit and is only 26 years old (albeit with a lot of baseball mileage, since he's been a starter since he was 20). At times last season, he was the Tigers best starter. If he continues to improve, another lucrative contract comes his way at age 30.

For Boston, they only risk 4 years. And with contracts escalating the way they have been, this could turn out to be a bargain.

[caribbeanhen]

Marlin fans will soon be Latos intolerant xdrunkyx .... that guy was tossing volleyballs up there.... no stuff at all

[PaladinFan]

Marlin fans will soon be Latos intolerant xdrunkyx .... that guy was tossing volleyballs up there.... no stuff at all

Didn't get a great look at his velocity given the short appearance, but he was getting hammered up there. Marlins are a trendy pick for a playoff spot, but they are going to need Latos to pitch better than that.

Hard to script a better opening for the Braves.

[clenz]

My fantasy team is looking a lot like my real team.


****, it's going to be a long season

[caribbeanhen]

My fantasy team is looking a lot like my real team.


****, it's going to be a long season

too early to be hitting the panic button clenz

[clenz]

too early to be hitting the panic button clenz
Fantasy,yes
Twins, no

[BisonFan02]

Fantasy,yes
Twins, no

The Twins have a panic button? Since when?

[IBleedYellow]

Damn it's going to be a long baseball season until Bison football is back.

[AshevilleApp2]

Tigers staff becomes the first from an AL team (Angels) in 1977 to start the season with back to back shutouts. Whoulda thunk?

Also, Joe Nathan goes on the DL for 15 days with an elbow strain. Joakim Soria becomes the closer. I hope he does well enough to keep the job.

[PaladinFan]

Probably could have won few bets with this one, but Braves were the first MLB team to 3-0.

[clenz]

Tigers staff becomes the first from an AL team (Angels) in 1977 to start the season with back to back shutouts. Whoulda thunk?

Also, Joe Nathan goes on the DL for 15 days with an elbow strain. Joakim Soria becomes the closer. I hope he does well enough to keep the job.
Well...you're playing the Twins. Odds were pretty good for at least 2 in the series at some point.

[clenz]

The Twins have a panic button? Since when?
Nope...


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qi1LMIUOOAI

[NoDak 4 Ever]

I wouldn't put a dime on the Twins scoring before they leave Detroit.

[clenz]

I wouldn't put a dime on the Twins scoring before they leave Detroit.
I'd put money one it not happening before the temps regularly stay in the upper 70s

[AshevilleApp2]

Well...you're playing the Twins. Odds were pretty good for at least 2 in the series at some point.

True, but I didn't want to pile on the Twins. Y'all seem to have that covered.

And my first baseball game was at the old Metropolitan Stadium, so I don't dislike the Twins.

[AshevilleApp2]

Okay Twins fans, you may be right. Tigers staff set an American League record for scoreless innings at the start of a season. I would love for that to be because Tigers pitching is so great, but I don't think they are.

Just the start of the marathon though.

[clenz]

Okay Twins fans, you may be right. Tigers staff set an American League record for scoreless innings at the start of a season. I would love for that to be because Tigers pitching is so great, but I don't think they are.

Just the start of the marathon though.
I was hopeful the twins would lose less than 90 games. I'm hoping it stays under 115 at this point.

[813Jag]

I thought I had a fantasy baseball thread, but apparently I don't.

I'm going to piggy back in this one for our AGS league if you guys don't mind.

Small league this year with only 6 teams, but quality should be good.

The league line up this year is

Boston Braves managed by NHwildEcat
No team logo decided upon yet

Caribbean Hens managed by caribbeanhen
No team logo decided up yet

Fear The Bird managed by Fear The Bird
http://content.sportslogos.net/logos/31/657/full/6321_delaware_blue_hens-mascot-1993.png

Team Wells managed by 813jag
No team name or logo decided upon yet

THE Fighting Fjords managed by BisonFan02
While his team name is about Fjords, he has chosen a logo that has nothing to do with his team name...i think he's drinking again
http://i.imgur.com/U2w7W.jpg


Finally...the league commissioner, winner of best logo and soon to be champion....


It's Mauer Never managed by clenz
http://wac.450f.edgecastcdn.net/80450F/1390thefan.com/files/2011/08/joe_mauer_kittens_youtube.jpg
Finally updated my team name. Logo is upcoming.

[813Jag]

The Rays start a 7 game road trip tonight in Miami. My hope for the season is for the team to get this stadium issue out of the way.

[clenz]

The Rays start a 7 game road trip tonight in Miami. My hope for the season is for the team to get this stadium issue out of the way.
new stadiums still cause issues - ask Maimi.

How the **** do you have a retractable roof stadium and still have a damn rain delay?

The best part of it? They have a tarp, but it's kept behind the CF wall and don't have a roller for it.

[813Jag]

That makes zero sense, you would think they would close the roof early on those days. Or since Florida is the home of the 15 mibute shower, just keep it closed. The main issue is where the stadium will be built. People hate driving over the bridges for baseball. But they'll do it for football.

[clenz]

Even when the Twins win I lose...http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/10/ee63370671f46d46b2c65ab5f3f919a4.jpg

At one point I was 10-2 with my picks this month... Smh

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

[caribbeanhen]

Jace Ryan Peterson…graduated from Hamilton Christian High School in Louisiana where he was All-State in football, basketball and baseball...attended McNeese State University in Louisiana where he was a baseball teammate of Padres minor leaguer Lee Orr…also was a standout defensive back on the McNeese State football team...

noticed the Braves stand in 2B was a DB at McNeese.... I like 2 sport players...

[caribbeanhen]

Matt Szczur 41 | CF



Full Name: Matthew Szczur
Born: July 20, 1989 in Cape May, NJ
Height: 6' 0''
Weight: 200





Bats: Right
Throws: Right
College: Villanova
MLB Debut: August 17, 2014







Choose Year20142013201220112010

Biography

Drafted in the fifth round of the 2010 draft by the Cubs, Matt enters his fifth season of professional baseball having accumulated 100 or more hits in three-consecutive seasons from 2011-13... Has recorded 100 or more hits in three-straight seasons; 131 in 2011, 117 in 2012 and a career and Southern League-best 144 in 2013... Owns a .285 batting average (427-for-1,498) with 269 runs scored, 85 doubles, 16 triples, 17 home runs and 140 RBI in 375 career minor league games... Has drawn 147 walks while striking out 218 times in 1,680 total plate appearances... Was named a 2013 Southern League mid-season and post-season All-Star ... was named a 2012 Florida State League mid-season All-Star... Named the third-best prospect in the Cubs system by Baseball America following the 2011 season... Was selected to the Team USA roster for the 2011 XM Satellite Radio All-Star Futures Game, July 10, at Chase Field in Arizona... Attended Villanova University in Philadelphia, Pa., and enjoyed a stellar two-sport (baseball and football) career ... in 2010, was the first .400 hitter for Villanova since 1997, batting .443 to earn First-Team All-Big East honors... His .443 batting average in 2010 was the fourth-highest in school history and his .392 career average ranks fifth in school history... Donated peripheral blood cells to a young leukemia patient who only had a 1-in-80,000 chance of finding a match ... missed 10 games during the 2010 college baseball season due to medication taken in advance of the donation ... last year was featured on ESPN's E:60 and was named one of their top stories of 2013. A wide receiver, he led the Wildcats football team to the quarterfinals of the Division I Football Championship in 2008, the national title in 2009 and the semifinals in 2010... Graduated from Lower Cape May (N.J.) Regional High School in 2007... Selected by the Dodgers in the 38th round of the 2007 draft, but did not sign.



what's not to like about this guy? besides the fact that he played at Nova.....

[dgtw]

I haven't followed baseball much the last few years but decided to get back in. I know it may not last long, but I am excited about the Braves' start. Dumping Upton's contract will pay off big time.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[caribbeanhen]

they just showed a clip of Jace while at McNeese clocking the LSU QB..... Nice

[AshevilleApp2]

Too bad there seem to be no Royals fans on the site. They look to be a scary team, based on the small sample size so far.

And for some good Tigers news. Andrew Romine played SS yesterday while they gave Jose Iglesias a day off. Romine had three walks, a single, two steals and two runs scored. Anything he does beyond consistently good defense is a bonus.

[caribbeanhen]

Too bad there seem to be no Royals fans on the site. They look to be a scary team, based on the small sample size so far.

And for some good Tigers news. Andrew Romine played SS yesterday while they gave Jose Iglesias a day off. Romine had three walks, a single, two steals and two runs scored. Anything he does beyond consistently good defense is a bonus.

Im sure your aware but he is the son of Kevin Romine of Redsox

[AshevilleApp2]

Im sure your aware but he is the son of Kevin Romine of Redsox

Actually I wasn't aware of that. Cool.

[PaladinFan]

Week into the season, probably could have won a few bets guessing the Braves would be 6-1.

1.86 ERA is certainly helping.

[clenz]

Not MLB but the Cedar Rapids Kernals, the Twins low A affiliate, have started 5-0 this year. So part of the Twins orginization is good...and it happens to be the team a 20 minute drive from my house with $10 tickets

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Too bad there seem to be no Royals fans on the site. They look to be a scary team, based on the small sample size so far.

And for some good Tigers news. Andrew Romine played SS yesterday while they gave Jose Iglesias a day off. Romine had three walks, a single, two steals and two runs scored. Anything he does beyond consistently good defense is a bonus.

Nothing worse that being a fan of the worst team in baseball living in the market of the best team in baseball.

[Grizalltheway]

Nothing worse that being a fan of the worst team in baseball living in the market of the best team in baseball.

Say what?

http://media4.popsugar-assets.com/files/2014/10/29/195/n/1922398/066ab9619cbb2586_458070592_105wfB1r.xxxlarge/i/San-Francisco-Giants-World-Series-Celebration-Pictures-2014.jpg

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Say what?

http://media4.popsugar-assets.com/files/2014/10/29/195/n/1922398/066ab9619cbb2586_458070592_105wfB1r.xxxlarge/i/San-Francisco-Giants-World-Series-Celebration-Pictures-2014.jpg

You might not have noticed but a new season started last week.

San Francisco Giants 3-5

Kansas City Royals 7-0

[PaladinFan]

Meant to mention this earlier. If you haven't seen the play Andrelton Simmons pulled off against the Mets earlier this week, you need to. http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/eye-on-baseball/25144264/watch-andrelton-simmons-makes-magic-against-mets

I really count myself fortunate that I actually get to watch that guy play shortstop every day.

[Grizalltheway]

You might not have noticed but a new season started last week.

San Francisco Giants 3-5

Kansas City Royals 7-0

Oh. Guess I wasn't aware that the first 7-8 games of a 162 game season determine who the best team is.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Oh. Guess I wasn't aware that the first 7-8 games of a 162 game season determine who the best team is.
Well last season doesn't really matter who is the best team currently.

[clenz]

Well last season doesn't really matter who is the best team currently.
Yet NDSU fans, like yourself, got all butt hurt when NDSU didn't get #1 votes during the regular season last year

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Yet NDSU fans, like yourself, got all butt hurt when NDSU didn't get #1 votes during the regular season last year

OK, this whole thing is getting stupid but when did I ever get butt hurt over NDSU's ranking last year?

Who's the ****ing best team in baseball right now? The 3-5 Giants?

[clenz]

OK, this whole thing is getting stupid but when did I ever get butt hurt over NDSU's ranking last year?

Who's the ****ing best team in baseball right now? The 3-5 Giants?
Way too early to tell who the best team is.

We're less than 5% into the season

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Way too early to tell who the best team is.

We're less than 5% into the season

That term has ALWAYS been used in the current sense as a snapshot. Sure, it's cliche but every damn time you hear "the **** team in ****" it is only referring to that moment.

It's usually the team with the best/worst record.

[clenz]

That term has ALWAYS been used in the current sense as a snapshot. Sure, it's cliche but every damn time you hear "the **** team in ****" it is only referring to that moment.

It's usually the team with the best/worst record.
So you'd agree that a Fordham/Lehigh have always been top 5-7 teams because of their records?

[NoDak 4 Ever]

So you'd agree that a Fordham/Lehigh have always been top 5-7 teams because of their records?

I would agree that we're talking about different things.

[clenz]

I would agree that we're talking about different things.
Not really.


That term has ALWAYS been used in the current sense as a snapshot. Sure, it's cliche but every damn time you hear "the **** team in ****" it is only referring to that moment.

It's usually the team with the best/worst record.Lehigh, the Ivy champ, etc... typically all have pretty good records in the 11-0 to 9-2 records.

You agree, that since it's all based on win loss record that the teams I listed would also be considered among the "best".



It's all the same line of thinking, just a different sport. That's all.


Were you not one of the people leading the charge to make polls public because UNH was getting #1 votes, even though they had a better/as good record as NDSU?

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Not really.

Lehigh, the Ivy champ, etc... typically all have pretty good records in the 11-0 to 9-2 records.

You agree, that since it's all based on win loss record that the teams I listed would also be considered among the "best".



It's all the same line of thinking, just a different sport. That's all.


Were you not one of the people leading the charge to make polls public because UNH was getting #1 votes, even though they had a better/as good record as NDSU?

I thought it was silly and reflected an anti-NDSU bias. One man's opinion.

Now if you talk to any broadcaster, superlatives such as that are not uncommon. It's shorthand rather than taking too much time to describe a particular team's quality in more nuanced terms (I really can't believe I'm having to explain this as much as I have)

MLB is all on the same level, as is the NFL, NBA, etc. FCS is obviously not.

[clenz]

I thought it was silly and reflected an anti-NDSU bias. One man's opinion.

Now if you talk to any broadcaster, superlatives such as that are not uncommon. It's shorthand rather than taking too much time to describe a particular team's quality in more nuanced terms (I really can't believe I'm having to explain this as much as I have)

MLB is all on the same level, as is the NFL, NBA, etc. FCS is obviously not.
Then why is it silly to believe the Giants, less than 5% of the way through the schedule, may still be the best team?

Seems you are showing a silly anti-Giant bias.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Then why is it silly to believe the Giants, less than 5% of the way through the schedule, may still be the best team?

Seems you are showing a silly anti-Giant bias.

Are you finding a lack of arguments in your life that you had to manufacture one here?

[clenz]

Are you finding a lack of arguments in your life that you had to manufacture one here?
How am I manufacturing anything?

You're the one that's changing your stance on what's considered "best"

I don't see how every league record is considered the best but not FCS football...

[NoDak 4 Ever]

How am I manufacturing anything?

You're the one that's changing your stance on what's considered "best"

I don't see how every league record is considered the best but not FCS football...

I was using a very commonly used phrase as it has always been. For some reason, people chose to blow it out of proportion.

[AshevilleApp2]

Sounds like a MVFC problem to me.

[NoDak 4 Ever]

Sounds like a MVFC problem to me.

One that doesn't belong in the MLB thread.

[bonarae]

The 2014 AL champions are currently 7-0. Will they be stopped?

[AshevilleApp2]

The 2014 AL champions are currently 7-0. Will they be stopped?

I expect they'll lose a game or two. They should be the favorite in the AL though.

[Gil Dobie]

Will the Twins surpass the 2003 Tigers 119 loss record for American League teams?

Will they score more runs than losses?

[tribe_pride]

Wow. I guess it is a good thing that Minnesota has the Wild because otherwise, not a good time to be a Minnesota sports fan. Twins start off 1-6, Timberwolves NBA worst 16-65, and Vikings were 7-9.

[PaladinFan]

Wow. I guess it is a good thing that Minnesota has the Wild because otherwise, not a good time to be a Minnesota sports fan. Twins start off 1-6, Timberwolves NBA worst 16-65, and Vikings were 7-9.

I like Minnesota. I have not forgiven them for pulling Ron Gant off first base, though.

[clenz]

Wow. I guess it is a good thing that Minnesota has the Wild because otherwise, not a good time to be a Minnesota sports fan. Twins start off 1-6, Timberwolves NBA worst 16-65, and Vikings were 7-9.
The Vikings at least showed signs of hope...


On that note I have a link to share when i find it back

[clenz]

Minneapolis is the worst 4 sport city in the nation (there are 12)

http://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/sports/four-sport-cities/


I'm a Twins, Vikings, and a "closet" Wolves and Wild fan (they are both second on my list behind the Clippers and Red Wings)

You guys wonder why I'm a miserable SOB...

[AshevilleApp2]

Will the Twins surpass the 2003 Tigers 119 loss record for American League teams?

Will they score more runs than losses?

1) No. That record is dear to me. xlolx

2) Yes. Maybe.

Beyond that, I think the Twins have a good bunch of prospects coming up. Might be a good year to bring some of them up and see where they stand at the Major League level. If that isn't already happening, of course.

[Gil Dobie]

I like Minnesota. I have not forgiven them for pulling Ron Gant off first base, though.

Kent Hrbek said Gant was falling off the base, and when Hrbek tagged him, he kept falling off the base ;)

Makes for a great bobblehead.
http://bringmethenews.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/hrbekgant.jpg

[PaladinFan]

Kent Hrbek said Gant was falling off the base, and when Hrbek tagged him, he kept falling off the base ;)

Makes for a great bobblehead.
http://bringmethenews.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/hrbekgant.jpg

Hogwash. Surprised he could say that with a straight face. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MiraekmCNv4

Gant was clearly back standing. It was Hrbeck who fell over, not Gant.

I largely think Tim McCarver is a moron, and even he got that one right.

[Gil Dobie]

Hogwash. Surprised he could say that with a straight face. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MiraekmCNv4

Gant was clearly back standing. It was Hrbeck who fell over, not Gant.

I largely think Tim McCarver is a moron, and even he got that one right.

I'm not a Twins fan, nor a Hrbek fan, but if you have McCarver on your side, well.................;)

[AshevilleApp2]

Fister gone, Scherzer gone, Porcello gone, Verlander on the DL, and the Tigers start 8-1 with 4 shutouts. Crazy.

Of course an improved defense can do wonders, and this team appears to be significantly better than last years defensively.

[PaladinFan]

Fister gone, Scherzer gone, Porcello gone, Verlander on the DL, and the Tigers start 8-1 with 4 shutouts. Crazy.

Of course an improved defense can do wonders, and this team appears to be significantly better than last years defensively.

You know its a different era in baseball when the Tigers are breaking out the gloves.

[caribbeanhen]

Fister gone, Scherzer gone, Porcello gone, Verlander on the DL, and the Tigers start 8-1 with 4 shutouts. Crazy.

Of course an improved defense can do wonders, and this team appears to be significantly better than last years defensively.

good pitching is about as plentiful as a corn stalk in Nebraska right now, or growing faster than the unemployment line in North Dakota..... just pick one....

- - - Updated - - -


Fister gone, Scherzer gone, Porcello gone, Verlander on the DL, and the Tigers start 8-1 with 4 shutouts. Crazy.

Of course an improved defense can do wonders, and this team appears to be significantly better than last years defensively.

good pitching is about as plentiful as a corn stalk in Nebraska right now, or growing faster than the unemployment line in North Dakota..... just pick one....

[AshevilleApp2]

You know its a different era in baseball when the Tigers are breaking out the gloves.

Got to try and keep up with the new kids on the block. :)

[clenz]

My strategy is starting to pay off.

I typically make zero moves the first week or two the session so I don't over react to a bad start. Started making moves a couple days and have gone from last place with just 23 points to within a couple points of top 3 and rising.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/16/37ae24399369a1e569f0ed1d84960c69.jpg

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

[clenz]

Oh....also....


The best team in baseball just lost 2 of 3 to the worst....and gave up more runs in 3 games to the twins than the twins had scored all season before that series....

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

[clenz]

Sill moving up.

Man this collapse is going to hurt when it hitshttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/16/31c392020d01dc891946f300478aed21.jpg

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

[bonarae]

Kris Bryant is finally debuting tomorrow against the Padres at Wrigley. We just hope that he won't flop too soon... xprayx

[PaladinFan]

good pitching is about as plentiful as a corn stalk in Nebraska right now, or growing faster than the unemployment line in North Dakota..... just pick one....



In the articles on Cliff Lee's injuries this spring one writer noted about 50% of pitchers will end up on the DL. I think teams are realizing that you rarely ever finish (and barely ever start) with the staff you thought you would have. Heck, the Braves lost two starting pitchers for the season to the same injury within the same week last spring training. The Mets have some talented young pitching, but cannot get them healthy and in the rotation at the same time.

[bonarae]

Unfortunately, Bryant was hitless in his debut as the Cubs lost 5-4. However, he showed his great defense.

[PaladinFan]

Ball was flying out of SkyDome tonight. 7 homers between Braves and Jays.

Don't see Toronto much, but that lineup is enough to get you worried.

[caribbeanhen]

paulo Orlando from

Birth Place: Sao Paulo, Brazil

not sure if he's the first Brazilian to play MLB

[bonarae]

paulo Orlando from

Birth Place: Sao Paulo, Brazil

not sure if he's the first Brazilian to play MLB


The third. Yan Gomes of the Indians is the first. (Though he grew up in the US.)

[PaladinFan]

Braves take the series from the Jays.

I'm sure there have been better defensive infields than Atlanta's, but this group is pretty darn good.

[tribe_pride]

Mets are up to 10-3 but are already getting hit by injuries so it will be interesting to see how they respond.

Wright is on the DL (hopefully back after the 15 days) as are Vic Black and Parnell (both late inning relievers who have yet to play). d'Arnaud (.317 BA with 10 RBIs) was hit by a pitch yesterday and broke his hand, Blevins (0.00 ERA in 5 IP in 7 games) was hit by a line drive yesterday and has a fractured his left arm. That is in addition to Wheeler and Edgin getting TJ surgery. All that in addition to the dumbass Mejia (original closer) getting suspended for 80 games.

Team has responded well so far but how much more can they handle before they drop off. 2nd Series coming up against Atlanta on Tuesday.

[clenz]

As proof that MLB struggles to move past old, archaic rules, that suffocate the games future growth...


Iowa - a state with zero major league teams....zero....none...not a single one...has been blacked out of 29% of all MLB games this year.

From Mike Bates, a Twins guy...
Running count: 17 of 45 games were blacked out on http://MLB.TV (http://t.co/X8EDXXPM89) in Iowa this weekend. Season total: to 53/185 (28.6 percent)



Twins
Cubs
White Sox
Brewers
Royals
Cards

All blacked out in the state of Iowa


What a ****ing joke.

[PaladinFan]

As proof that MLB struggles to move past old, archaic rules, that suffocate the games future growth...


Iowa - a state with zero major league teams....zero....none...not a single one...has been blacked out of 29% of all MLB games this year.

From Mike Bates, a Twins guy...
Running count: 17 of 45 games were blacked out on http://MLB.TV (http://t.co/X8EDXXPM89) in Iowa this weekend. Season total: to 53/185 (28.6 percent)



Twins
Cubs
White Sox
Brewers
Royals
Cards

All blacked out in the state of Iowa


What a ****ing joke.

To be fair, my biggest beef with MLB has been their media rights. Some of it is absurd. San Jose mounted a pretty substantial challenge to the anti-trust exemption, which may even be on appeal to the US Supreme Court.

We are in agreement on the media issue. I don't think that the DH rule is archaic and hurting the games growth, though.

[clenz]

To be fair, my biggest beef with MLB has been their media rights. Some of it is absurd. San Jose mounted a pretty substantial challenge to the anti-trust exemption, which may even be on appeal to the US Supreme Court.

We are in agreement on the media issue. I don't think that the DH rule is archaic and hurting the games growth, though.
The worst part is that the regional TV stations that cover those teams - FSNorth (Twins), FSWisconsin (Milwaukee), FSMidwest (Cards/Royals) don't cover but the first county or two right off the boarder with that state.

The Cubs and their TV deal has cost Comcast/WGN their broacast rights and TV stations have been scrambling to find a way to broadcast Cubs games - most Cubs games are only available on substations this year (in my area is channel 9.2...9 is the main ABC affiliate and 9.2 is one of their 3 substations for antenna usage).

The White Sox? **** the White Sox...no one cares about them.



Those with high end satellite packages don't complain because they pay out the ass to have FSN, FSW and FSMW. Those of us with standard cable packages don't get to see any games because of these damn rules. Can't use MLB.tv, midweek games on ESPN are blacked out, etc...

I live a 10 mile drive (15 min through the city) from the Twins low A affiliate and can't watch a Twins game on TV.
Cubs have their AAA team in Iowa and can't get a game on TV
Angles have their low A affiliate in Iowa (not blackout related for them...but still proving my point about how much baseball is in this state)
Seattle have their low A affiliate in Iowa (not blackout related for them...but still proving my point about how much baseball is in this state)
Houston have their low A affiliate in Iowa (not blackout related for them...but still proving my point about how much baseball is in this state)
There are Northwoods League and American Association of Independent Professional Baseball teams in this state
The Royals AAA affiliate is 5 minutes off the Iowa board into Nebraska
The number of MILB, and independent league, teams within an hour or 2 drive of the Iowa boarder is just asinine
There is summer and fall wood leagues and legion leagues all over this state to go along with the 350+ school sponsored teams



There's SO much baseball in this state, yet we can't watch a damn game that isn't the ****ing Yankees, Red Sox or Dodgers that ESPN shoves down our throats.

[caribbeanhen]

sounds like me ranting about not being able to watch enough FCS football....

[BisonFan02]

1.
THE Fighting Fjord (http://games.espn.go.com/flb/clubhouse?leagueId=40531&teamId=2&seasonId=2015)
52.5
+2.5


2.
Fear the Bird (http://games.espn.go.com/flb/clubhouse?leagueId=40531&teamId=4&seasonId=2015)
49.5
-5.5


3.
It's Mauer Never (http://games.espn.go.com/flb/clubhouse?leagueId=40531&teamId=1&seasonId=2015)
48.5
+2


4.
Caribbean Hens (http://games.espn.go.com/flb/clubhouse?leagueId=40531&teamId=5&seasonId=2015)
44.5
-3.5


5.
The Rays Are Moving (http://games.espn.go.com/flb/clubhouse?leagueId=40531&teamId=3&seasonId=2015)
34.5
+7


6.
Boston Braves (http://games.espn.go.com/flb/clubhouse?leagueId=40531&teamId=6&seasonId=2015)
22.5
-2.5

[clenz]

Told you I was coming.

Ya'll thought I was dead when I was at 22 points a week in, didn't you?

- - - Updated - - -


sounds like me ranting about not being able to watch enough FCS football....
I can, "legally", watch more FCS football than MLB baseball in the state of Iowa.

[Smitty]

Had no idea we reactivated the fantasy league. I was in last years. I guess I'll do my best to make next years league.

[Gil Dobie]

Tigers pitchers are 2&3 in ERA in the AL, former Tigers pitchers are 1 & 2 in ERA in the NL, still early though.

[PaladinFan]

Is it the mid-2000s? Braves and Mets battle it out for first place at Citi Field.

Had not realized this, but all but four games the Braves play in April come against non-NL East teams. Always good to play in the division when things are going pretty well.

Need to see something out of Cahill and Stults this series. Braves have a few high ceiling prospects pitching well in AAA right now. I imagine one of those guys will get the call if the #4 and #5 guys continue to struggle. Need Mike Minor back.

[caribbeanhen]

Is it the mid-2000s? Braves and Mets battle it out for first place at Citi Field.

Had not realized this, but all but four games the Braves play in April come against non-NL East teams. Always good to play in the division when things are going pretty well.

Need to see something out of Cahill and Stults this series. Braves have a few high ceiling prospects pitching well in AAA right now. I imagine one of those guys will get the call if the #4 and #5 guys continue to struggle. Need Mike Minor back.

who are those high ceiling prospects in AAA Paladin? I have no confidence in Stults or Cahill

[caribbeanhen]

Michael Gary Foltynewicz

[tribe_pride]

Mets just playing very good ball right now sweeping Philly and Miami in 7 games sandwiched by 2 wins over the Braves scoring 48 and only giving up 26 in those 9 straight wins. The big guy Colon versus Teheran should be a good one on Thursday.

[PaladinFan]

Michael Gary Foltynewicz

You got one. Foltynewicz came over from Houston in the Gattis deal, and immediately was the Braves top pitching prospect. Battled it out for a starting spot this spring, but went back to AAA to work a bit on command. Fastball touches up in the upper 90s with a sharp breaking ball. He pitched a complete game two nights ago with 9Ks, so it looks like the command is coming along.

Matt Wisler came over from San Diego in the deal for Craig Kimbrel. Just blew through the Padres minor league system. Considered Atlanta's top pitching prospect by many.

Manuel Banuelos is a guy that came over from the Yankees this offseason. He was a former top prospect in their system, but sort of got derailed after arm surgery. He has pitched well at Gwinnett, and the Braves hope that he can regain that top prospect billing with a little more care.

Not even counting Max Fried, another Padres pitcher that came over for Justin Upton. He's a legitimate prospect but missing the season due to tommy john. Braves bought low on him given the injury, but he has an extremely high upside.

Would not shock me to see any of these three guys in Atlanta in the very near future either in the rotation or the pen. A lot still depends on Mike Minor, though.

[PaladinFan]

Mets just playing very good ball right now sweeping Philly and Miami in 7 games sandwiched by 2 wins over the Braves scoring 48 and only giving up 26 in those 9 straight wins. The big guy Colon versus Teheran should be a good one on Thursday.

Braves lost even though Chipper Jones was at the park. Unbelievable.

[bulldog10jw]

Braves lost even though Larry Jones was at the park. Unbelievable.

Fixed it. :D

[ngineer]

Ryan Howard hit his first homer of the season last night to spark a come from behind, 7-3 win over Miami. With Utley hitting .109 and Howard at .209, nothing else need be said. Pitching has actually been decent. Just no offense, yet.

[clenz]

After a dismal start to the season the Twins are now playing slightly below average ball.

Winners of 5 of their last 8 and have handed the best team in baseball 3 losses in that time...

So...still not a good non-Royals record, but it's a start.

6-9 overall

[Gil Dobie]

Good news for Tigers fans, Joe Nathan is out for the year. Tigers now have a chance to win it all.

[AshevilleApp2]

Good news for Tigers fans, Joe Nathan is out for the year. Tigers now have a chance to win it all.

I was hoping that he could come back and do something positive for the Tigers, just not as a closer. This does clarify things a bit for the team though. Better now than in September.

I'm guessing this will end his career, not many teams will look hard at a 41 year old coming off surgery.


He had good numbers for the 2015 season before it ended .

1/3 of an inning worked, a strike out and a save. 0.00 ERA. And $10,000,000 earned.

[AshevilleApp2]

The Tigers also sent Ian Krol to Toledo today, and brought up Alex Wilson.

I'm kind of intrigued by Wilson. He came over in the Cespedes/Porcello trade along with another pitcher the Tigers have in Single A. Wilson has big league experience, and pitched well for Boston in limited chances last season. He started out in Toledo this season 1-0 with 4 saves in 5 appearances. I think he also had an 0.00 ERA. Granted, that is just AAA, but the Tigers could really use an effective arm in the bullpen.

[clenz]

Running count: Yesterday, another 5/15 games were blacked out on http://MLB.TV in Iowa. We're at 67/224 (29.9 percent) on the year.

[PaladinFan]

The Tigers also sent Ian Krol to Toledo today, and brought up Alex Wilson.

I'm kind of intrigued by Wilson. He came over in the Cespedes/Porcello trade along with another pitcher the Tigers have in Single A. Wilson has big league experience, and pitched well for Boston in limited chances last season. He started out in Toledo this season 1-0 with 4 saves in 5 appearances. I think he also had an 0.00 ERA. Granted, that is just AAA, but the Tigers could really use an effective arm in the bullpen.

Krol was the last Tiger remaining from the Doug Fister deal.

[caribbeanhen]

1.
THE Fighting Fjord (http://games.espn.go.com/flb/clubhouse?leagueId=40531&teamId=2&seasonId=2015)
52.5
+2.5


2.
Fear the Bird (http://games.espn.go.com/flb/clubhouse?leagueId=40531&teamId=4&seasonId=2015)
49.5
-5.5


3.
It's Mauer Never (http://games.espn.go.com/flb/clubhouse?leagueId=40531&teamId=1&seasonId=2015)
48.5
+2


4.
Caribbean Hens (http://games.espn.go.com/flb/clubhouse?leagueId=40531&teamId=5&seasonId=2015)
44.5
-3.5


5.
The Rays Are Moving (http://games.espn.go.com/flb/clubhouse?leagueId=40531&teamId=3&seasonId=2015)
34.5
+7


6.
Boston Braves (http://games.espn.go.com/flb/clubhouse?leagueId=40531&teamId=6&seasonId=2015)
22.5
-2.5




My ERA is over the top, had a good day yesterday 15 IP only 2 ER..... Thought my ERA would go down more than it did..... was trying to see an easy way to find total IP and ER for the year just to trust but verify the league calculator, but no luck

Clenz, don't freak out, I would never accuse you of anything .... haha

[ngineer]

The Tigers also sent Ian Krol to Toledo today, and brought up Alex Wilson.

I'm kind of intrigued by Wilson. He came over in the Cespedes/Porcello trade along with another pitcher the Tigers have in Single A. Wilson has big league experience, and pitched well for Boston in limited chances last season. He started out in Toledo this season 1-0 with 4 saves in 5 appearances. I think he also had an 0.00 ERA. Granted, that is just AAA, but the Tigers could really use an effective arm in the bullpen.


Papelbon available....

[AshevilleApp2]

Krol was the last Tiger remaining from the Doug Fister deal.

He is. I'm pretty sure he'll be back in Detroit soon. He's been pretty good at times this season, just too inconsistent. And you could almost say that Shane Greene came as part of that deal. The Tigers shipped Robbie Ray to Arizona, and got Greene from the Yankees in return. He's been pretty good so far.

[PaladinFan]

I know we go back and forth on the designated hitter, but I imagine there are a few folks that wouldn't mind Yordano Ventura grab a bat and stand in the box.

One thing to throw at people and act the fool, quite another to do that and then face the other guy's fastball.

[Drblankstare]

Man do the Royals have their panties in a twist. Someone better talk to Ventura before he gets one of his teammates killed.

3rd time in 3 weeks that hes been in the middle of a fight. I cant help but think that he would be a little more restrained if he had to step into the batters box himself, but thats another argument.

Im fine with having some passion, I think its sorely missed in todays game. (God knows I wish the Twins would show it every now and again) But he needs to keep his **** in check.

[Drblankstare]

Running count: Yesterday, another 5/15 games were blacked out on http://MLB.TV in Iowa. We're at 67/224 (29.9 percent) on the year.

??? How are you getting blacked out of that many games in Iowa.

[clenz]

I cant help but think that he would be a little more restrained if he had to step into the batters box himself, but thats another argument.

Only reason I like not having the DH

[clenz]

??? How are you getting blacked out of that many games in Iowa.
It's over 30% now


Back in the 70s each MLB team had to claim areas as "home territories" that they would broadcast games on so that TV games didn't interfere with ticket sales to the games.

Iowa is close to 6 teams so 6 teams picked Iowa



http://deadspin.com/mlbs-awful-blackout-rules-are-finally-under-attack-in-c-1683259431
This is what MLB's broadcast territory map looks like. Look at Iowa. It's within the broadcast territories of the Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Milwaukee Brewers, St. Louis Cardinals, Kansas City Royals, and Minnesota Twins. If you live in Iowa, you can't watch any of those teams' games on MLB.tv or Extra Innings because those services don't show games within your broadcast territory. So effectively, Iowans are blacked out of watching any of the six "local" teams that baseball's broadcast territory system is designed to make available to them.

http://i.kinja-img.com/gawker-media/image/upload/s--h2x-z5jG--/tln8fsucu09cxadn2053.png

[Drblankstare]

It's over 30% now


Back in the 60s each MLB team had to claim areas as "home territories"

Iowa is close to 6 teams so 6 teams picked Iowa

Wow I assumed the Twins, Cubs and White Sox, but I had no Idea about the others, thats crazy. So What home games do you actually get with a standard cable/Sat package?

[clenz]

Wow I assumed the Twins, Cubs and White Sox, but I had no Idea about the others, thats crazy. So What home games do you actually get with a standard cable/Sat package?
With my cable package?

I get no Cards, Royals, Brewers or Twins.
I get about 100-110 White Sox games on ComcastSportsNet-Chicago and WGN
I used to get about 150 Cubs games on ComcastSportsNet-Chicago and WGN but they are going through a whole TV rights ordeal and very very few Cubs games are on now.


Unless you have Dish/Direct with a sports pack or you live close to the Minnesota, Wisconsin or Missouri boarder you aren't seeing **** for a local teams. CSN Chicago has a decent sized reach but that's still only 1/3 of the state

[Drblankstare]

With my cable package?

I get no Cards, Royals, Brewers or Twins.
I get about 100-110 White Sox games on ComcastSportsNet-Chicago and WGN
I used to get about 150 Cubs games on ComcastSportsNet-Chicago and WGN but they are going through a whole TV rights ordeal and very very few Cubs games are on now.


Unless you have Dish/Direct with a sports pack or you live close to the Minnesota, Wisconsin or Missouri boarder you aren't seeing **** for a local teams. CSN Chicago has a decent sized reach but that's still only 1/3 of the state

So your area is claimed by 6 teams, 4 teams you cant get local coverage, but MLB TV still blacks you out. How the hell are you suppose to watch baseball?

[clenz]

So your area is claimed by 6 teams, 4 teams you cant get local coverage, but MLB TV still blacks you out. How the hell are you suppose to watch baseball?
Dish/Direct with the major sports back to get FSN, FSMW, FSKC and FSMil

That's it.

[bonarae]

Back to the game now... sorry for missing almost a week from the forums, I went on vacation and there was unreliable Internet access even at the hotels...

Hmm, Scherzer wants to have the DH in the NL (he was injured while batting)... http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/12769662/max-scherzer-injured-batting-advocates-designated-hitter-rule-national-league

Meanwhile, more Royals are suspended for yet another on-field altercation involving their team... even the White Sox's top 2 pitchers are suspended too. xsmhx

Is Waino's career over? Will the Cubs win the division now? xchinscratchx

[BisonFan02]

Back to the game now... sorry for missing almost a week from the forums, I went on vacation and there was unreliable Internet access even at the hotels...

Hmm, Scherzer wants to have the DH in the NL (he was injured while batting)... http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/12769662/max-scherzer-injured-batting-advocates-designated-hitter-rule-national-league

Meanwhile, more Royals are suspended for yet another on-field altercation involving their team... even the White Sox's top 2 pitchers are suspended too. xsmhx

Is Waino's career over? Will the Cubs win the division now? xchinscratchx

Scherzer needs to grow a sac and clean some of the sand out of you know where....

[PaladinFan]

Back to the game now... sorry for missing almost a week from the forums, I went on vacation and there was unreliable Internet access even at the hotels...

Hmm, Scherzer wants to have the DH in the NL (he was injured while batting)... http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/12769662/max-scherzer-injured-batting-advocates-designated-hitter-rule-national-league

Meanwhile, more Royals are suspended for yet another on-field altercation involving their team... even the White Sox's top 2 pitchers are suspended too. xsmhx

Is Waino's career over? Will the Cubs win the division now? xchinscratchx

If Scherzer wanted the designated hitter, he should have darn well stayed in the American League.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile, the White Sox-Orioles game is postponed due to protests not related to the teams or the game.

Waino is out for a year due to the torn Achilles.

And ... Josh Hamilton is returning to DFW...

[ngineer]

Phillies take 2/3 from the Bravos!! Howard hits two dingers two days in a row! Will wonders never cease? "Ya never know, Harry. Stay around this game long enough you'll see everything."--Richie Ashburn.

[PaladinFan]

Phillies take 2/3 from the Bravos!! Howard hits two dingers two days in a row! Will wonders never cease? "Ya never know, Harry. Stay around this game long enough you'll see everything."--Richie Ashburn.

Howard punishes Atlanta again.

[PaladinFan]

It is April 28, and the Nationals, who everyone expected would run away with the division, are in last place.

First look at the Nationals. On paper they look great, but they are not hitting and their defense is a major achilles heel. They remind me a bit of the Phillies from a few years ago. Really solid lineup when healthy, but there is not a lot of depth.

[AshevilleApp2]

It is April 28, and the Nationals, who everyone expected would run away with the division, are in last place.

First look at the Nationals. On paper they look great, but they are not hitting and their defense is a major achilles heel. They remind me a bit of the Phillies from a few years ago. Really solid lineup when healthy, but there is not a lot of depth.

Keep beating them Bravos! I'd love to see the Nationals down big around the trade deadline.

[bonarae]

Why only broadcast crews are allowed to see the White Sox-Orioles game Wednesday? xsmhx

[clenz]

Why only broadcast crews are allowed to see the White Sox-Orioles game Wednesday? xsmhx
Imagine a riot.....err...peaceful protest breaks out in the stadium. There's no way to contain it

[bonarae]

First time in the modern MLB era, though it has already been used in the minor leagues and in soccer...

http://m.mlb.com/news/article/121075114/anthony-castrovince-mlb-game-without-crowd-also-without-precedent

[PaladinFan]

Keep beating them Bravos! I'd love to see the Nationals down big around the trade deadline.

Wild one tonight. Braves were up 9-1 and now clinging to a 12-10 lead late.

Not a lot of pitching tonight.

[bonarae]

Uh oh. Dan Uggla should be in Japan by now... xsmhx

He choked the Braves' hopes of winning today's game.

[ngineer]

Keep beating them Bravos! I'd love to see the Nationals down big around the trade deadline.

The price for Cole Hamels continues to climb...Dodgers, Cardinals, Yankees all in dire need of immediate pitching help.

[PaladinFan]

Uh oh. Dan Uggla should be in Japan by now... xsmhx

He choked the Braves' hopes of winning today's game.

Uggla continues to kill the Braves, now just in another uniform. A three run ninth inning homer is a gut punch for any fan. Particularly when the batter is a guy you are paying $13mm to play for someone else.

Atlanta made that bed, though. Two three run homers after walks sunk the ship. Cannot walk batters.

[AshevilleApp2]

Interesting game in Minnesota yesterday. Tigers backup and future catcher James McCann got his first career home run, and it was an inside the park homer.

Twins might have made a mistake pitching to Cabrera in the 9th.

On a less happy note, word came out yesterday that ex-Tiger player and current broadcaster Kirk Gibson was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease. I wish him the best.

[Gil Dobie]

Miggy has big game with 2 dingers. Turning point was catcher, James McCann's first MLB HR. A 2 run, inside-the-parker to tie the game at 7. Tigers went on to win 10-7.

[PaladinFan]

The price for Cole Hamels continues to climb...Dodgers, Cardinals, Yankees all in dire need of immediate pitching help.

I do not think you will see the market develop until mid-summer.

Los Angeles, normally a big spender, is now run by the former Rays front office guy, Andrew Friedman. The Dodger's issue is not lack of an ace. They have more aces than anyone. They need depth. I expect them to go after mid-rotation talent.

Cardinals are a likely suitor, but lost some of their minor league depth. Recall they traded a rotational piece (Shelby Miller) and a promising pitching prospect (Tyrell Jenkins) for Jason Heyward.

Yankees are always unpredictable, and moreso in this day and age. There is always the Red Sox, who have been most closely linked to Hamels, but it appears they don't see eye to eye on value.

I think a lot of it is going to come back down to Amaro. Cannot over play his hand on this one. See how the market develops into June or July, get everyone's best offer, and pull the trigger. I think he tends to expect teams to fall over themselves for Phillies players, and that just hasn't happened.

[caribbeanhen]

You got one. Foltynewicz came over from Houston in the Gattis deal, and immediately was the Braves top pitching prospect. Battled it out for a starting spot this spring, but went back to AAA to work a bit on command. Fastball touches up in the upper 90s with a sharp breaking ball. He pitched a complete game two nights ago with 9Ks, so it looks like the command is coming along.

Matt Wisler came over from San Diego in the deal for Craig Kimbrel. Just blew through the Padres minor league system. Considered Atlanta's top pitching prospect by many.

Manuel Banuelos is a guy that came over from the Yankees this offseason. He was a former top prospect in their system, but sort of got derailed after arm surgery. He has pitched well at Gwinnett, and the Braves hope that he can regain that top prospect billing with a little more care.

Not even counting Max Fried, another Padres pitcher that came over for Justin Upton. He's a legitimate prospect but missing the season due to tommy john. Braves bought low on him given the injury, but he has an extremely high upside.

Would not shock me to see any of these three guys in Atlanta in the very near future either in the rotation or the pen. A lot still depends on Mike Minor, though.

Nothing is official yet, but the Braves used Friday's scheduled starter Trevor Cahill out of the bullpen on Wednesday night and Folty would be on regular rest. The hard-throwing 23-year-old right-hander boasts a 2.08 ERA and 30 strikeouts through 21 2/3 innings this season at Triple-A Gwinnett and could be worth a try in deeper mixed fantasy leagues. He was acquired from the Astros this past winter in the Evan Gattis trade. Cahill may be out of the Atlanta rotation for good.

[caribbeanhen]

nice speedy 2 hour game in Baltimore yesterday.... no pandering for the fans speeds the game up although empty ball parks are not the solution haha

[caribbeanhen]

OK, so it's May the 3rd and Dee Gordon is hitting .440, been working with Brett Butler (one of my favorite Braves) on bunting and hitting the fastball....

[bonarae]

Meanwhile, the Cubs are having the May blues once again, losing 3 of 4 to the worst team in the Majors... xsmhx

[clenz]

Twins over .500

Sine the 1-6 start they are 12-6 with some impressive stats

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

[caribbeanhen]

Twins over .500

Sine the 1-6 start they are 12-6 with some impressive stats

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

Was wondering when someone would finally admit that....

Plouffe and Dozier starting to hit now

[clenz]

On the down side Tori Hunter continues to be Tori Hunter and douche it up on social media then *apologize" while blaming everyone for taking it wrong

Sent from my SCH-I545 using Tapatalk

[AshevilleApp2]

The Tigers were fortunate to gain a split in the series at Kansas City over the weekend.

[ngineer]

First Managerial casualty today in Milwaukee. One of the quicker triggers in recent memory.

[PaladinFan]

First Managerial casualty today in Milwaukee. One of the quicker triggers in recent memory.

Especially considering they picked up his option like 2 months ago.

[AshevilleApp2]

The Houston Astros have opened up a 7 game lead in the AL West. That may be the biggest eye opener in the majors so far this year.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile, why has Addison Russell homered before Kris Bryant has hit a single MLB HR?

Bryant misses on a whopping 35% of inside the strike zone pitches. xsmhx

Should the Cubs import a hitting coach from Japan now?

[AshevilleApp2]

Meanwhile, why has Addison Russell homered before Kris Bryant has hit a single MLB HR?

Bryant misses on a whopping 35% of inside the strike zone pitches. xsmhx

Should the Cubs import a hitting coach from Japan now?

I think the Cubs are the Lions of MLB. It really doesn't matter what they do, the results will be the same.

[PaladinFan]

Shelby Miller twirls a complete game shutout for the Braves on only 99 pitches. He has been pretty daggum good this season. Hard to get more overwhelming than a sub-100 pitch complete game shutout.

In other news, Jason Hayward is batting around .220 for St. Louis in a contract year. I love Heyward, but this trade has looked like it could be phenomenal for Atlanta.

[bonarae]

Meanwhile, Mark Buerhle ended his 11 YEARS long losing streak against the Yankees today, when his Blue Jays supported him and defeated the Evil Empire 5-1.

[PaladinFan]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DnVrSZHnvYY

[clenz]

Twins drop 2 touch downs in a shut of victory over Oakland yesterday. Now 2 games over .500. I'm going to do some checking, but it's been a while since that happened.


Oh, and I moved into first place in the fantasy league.

[Gil Dobie]

Twins drop 2 touch downs in a shut of victory over Oakland yesterday. Now 2 games over .500. I'm going to do some checking, but it's been a while since that happened.


Oh, and I moved into first place in the fantasy league.

Rosario hits a HR on his first Major League at bat, first pitch.