jumpmanfromdabay
Banned
- 25,730
- 2,900
If they End up on the Dodgers. I wish another 90+ year curse on them
2016 MLB thread. THE CUBS HAVE BROKEN THE CURSE! Chicago Cubs are your 2016 World Series champions
- Thread in 'Sports & Training' Thread starter Started by proshares,
- Start date
- Status
- 15,762
- 517
Lester would be a solid pickup.
DO IT NED!!!!!
DO IT NED!!!!!
DeadsetAce
Supporter
- 107,128
- 53,346
beckett 
jumpmanfromdabay
Banned
- 25,730
- 2,900
- 28,043
- 10,466
First batter of the game too
beckett
Come on, guys. Let Josh cook. Settled down, 3 Ks through two. One-hitter? "Step Brothers: YUP!!"
jumpmanfromdabay
Banned
- 25,730
- 2,900
I wish him nothing but failure
DeadsetAce
Supporter
- 107,128
- 53,346
the first inning is typically a struggle for him...getting out with only one run allowed is pretty good
- 28,043
- 10,466
Both you guys clowning. Might as well march out Josh's ex like Cleveland did before a crucial playoff game.
- 13,656
- 1,083
#DatBatSpeed :x :x :x
He should've been the local kid taken in that years first round... but I forgot who we took
Needless to say he's not in Stanton's galaxy talentwise
Chris Withrow...
Stanton dropped to the second round, already accepted a scholarship to USC (baseball) and had football offers from UNLV/UCLA. Perception was that he was going the college route. Then the Fish came in and dropped the bag of loot on his doorstep, done deal after that...
Giant fan sodium levels... funny thing is they still think they got four legit starters in their rotation.
jumpmanfromdabay
Banned
- 25,730
- 2,900
- 8,406
- 41
5.2 innings 3runs- lincecum would kill for that
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GreenNGold89
formerly bbllplaya23
- 6,588
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Dodgers don't have the pitching. I'd be shocked if they won the division. Giants pitching is too strong and there offense is good enough to get them by.
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GREAT
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I don't mind watching games on ESPN. Watching them on TBS is boring, though. Once the playoffs start, it doesn't matter because I am watching games at a bar intoxicated.
That's if the Giants are playing.
That's if the Giants are playing.
- 5,814
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I don't mind watching games on ESPN. Watching them on TBS is boring, though. Once the playoffs start, it doesn't matter because I am watching games at a bar intoxicated.
That's if the Giants are playing.
Guess you will be drinking Odouls then.
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Orioles 3.5 back of the Yankees. And they play each other a lot down the stretch. 
10 top prospects I would call up now.
AL teams best positioned for October.
Early top-30 ranking for 2013 draft.
Rumors.
Even with the minor league season ending, the education of some top prospects will continue. Whether their big league club is in the pennant race or looking toward next year, the opportunity to learn at the big league level exists -- if they get called up. Of course, due to concerns about roster limits, service time and starting arbitration and free-agent clocks, some of these clubs won't promote the players even though they deserve it. But considering the years these 10 players have had this season, as well as the impact they could have on their teams, it's time to bring them up.
Billy Hamilton, SS
Hamilton broke Vince Coleman’s pro baseball record of 145 stolen bases in a single season last week. He’s got 149 and counting between high Class A and Double-A. Despite that, the Reds are leaning away from bringing up Hamilton due to roster and service-time issues. And even if he is brought up, he probably won’t get a chance to play much in the final month of the season with the Reds in the heat of a pennant race. However, a call-up prior to Aug. 31 is important so that he is postseason eligible.
Hamilton can fly but unlike many one-dimensional speedsters, he can swing the bat in order to get on base, too. He displays tremendous bat speed and sweet spot contact. He has hit over .300 with an on-base percentage over .400 at both his minor league stops this year. In the field, Hamilton has tremendous range and a solid glove, but his arm rates as a below-average tool.
There remains a question in the industry if he’ll be able to make the throw from deep in the hole, but the Reds are not ready to give up on him playing shortstop. With Brandon Phillips entrenched at second base and signed through 2017, the Reds have to move Hamilton to the outfield if he can't stay at short. So they will give him every chance to stick.
If the Reds do call up Hamilton before Aug. 31, he would be an amazing weapon off the bench for manager Dusty Baker. Imagine a playoff game tied 2-2 in the ninth inning and Baker uses Hamilton as a pinch runner. He could have impact like Dave Roberts did in the 2004 ALCS, forcing pitchers to throw over to first, pitch out, hold the ball, not throw off-speed pitches. Hamilton could be a game-changing disruption in the postseason. However, it sounds more and more like the Reds though will not promote him.
Wil Myers, OF
Myers emerged as the dominant middle-of-the-lineup hitter in the minor leagues this season, but the Royals resisted the temptation to bring Myers up to the big leagues. However, there is nothing more for Myers to prove against minor league pitching. Consider his gaudy numbers between Double-A and Triple-A, where he hit a combined .309, with 35 home runs and 102 RBIs.
Myers’ best position will be right field, but that is currently manned by veteran Jeff Francoeur, who is in the second year of a three-year, $16 million contract. However, his .287 on-base percentage and 11 home runs has not made it easy for Royals general manager Dayton Moore to trade Francoeur and open up the position for Myers.
Nevertheless, the time has come for Myers to continue his development and spend the last five weeks of the season facing major league pitching. Doing so will offer Myers a head start on 2013, when he will be a legitimate AL Rookie of the Year candidate and a force in the middle of the Royals’ lineup.
Dylan Bundy, RHP
The Orioles remain in the race for both the division crown and an AL wild-card berth, so there is no reason they shouldn’t take advantage of using Bundy, one of the game’s best pitching prospects. Bundy is 8-3 with a 2.01 ERA at three different minor league stops, punching out an impressive 113 men in just 98 1/3 innings pitched. He uses a dominating 93-96 mph fastball in all four quadrants of the strike zone, and his command in the zone has improved. He continues to learn how to take off or add velocity to his curveball; his changeup has been solid. Bundy’s stuff is so dominant, it’s a no-brainer.
Jake Odorizzi, RHP
The Royals’ biggest need is an improvement in the starting rotation, and their failure to call up Odorizzi has been puzzling. Odorizzi is 14-4 with a 2.95 ERA in 24 games between Double-A and Triple-A. Over his past 10 starts he’s allowed three earned runs or fewer in all but one. And in the past three starts he’s pitched at least seven innings, yielding just three earned runs and 10 hits combined. The 22-year-old is not a top-of-the-rotation ace, but he eventually should develop into a solid No. 3-type starter, and it's time for him to get his feet wet.
Danny Hultzen, LHP
Hultzen dominated the Double-A Southern League, posting a 1.19 ERA in 13 starts, yielding just 38 hits in 75 1/3 innings and striking out 79. His promotion to Triple-A wasn’t an instant success. However, working on strict pitching counts and innings limits Hultzen has really started to put it together.
In five of his past seven starts, he’s given up one earned run or fewer. And in his last outing against Reno on Aug. 19, he threw five innings of no-hit baseball. Hultzen's fastball has been 89-93 and he has a tremendous changeup and solid slider with which he can paint on either side of the plate.
Jedd Gyorko, 3B
The Padres listened to offers for Chase Headley at the trade deadline as they prepared to pave an opening for Gyorko at third base. However, the Padres decided to hold on to Headley, who has rewarded them by having a career year. It's possible Headley or Gyorko could switch positions, which would allow the Padres to keep both. Gyorko, who is hitting .319 in Triple-A with 27 home runs, possesses a line-drive stroke that should work well at Petco Park and give the Padres another solid bat in their lineup. Like Myers, he has nothing else to prove in the minor leagues so it’s important he gets to see major league pitching in the final month of the season. However, the Padres are leaning toward not bringing him up in the final month because they have 40-man roster issues and Gyorko doesn't necessarily have to be added this year.
Oscar Taveras, RF
There might not be a spot in the starting lineup for Taveras right now, but his bat will make someone move aside before long. Taveras, 20, is hitting .318 in Double-A with 34 doubles, seven triples and 21 home runs. With Carlos Beltran, Matt Holliday and Jon Jay, the Cardinals' outfield is full, but bringing up Taveras will help his development and give the Cardinals another power bat off the bench. Taveras could play a significant role if the Cardinals make it back to the World Series by giving them flexibility to rotate the DH position. Taveras also gives them important depth just in case they have an injury. Taveras can beat you with the bat, speed, glove or arm and is a definite player to watch.
Kolten Wong, 2B
Wong is the best second baseman in the Cardinals' organization, and that includes big leaguers Skip Schumaker and Daniel Descalso. Wong has good footwork around the bag and transitions really well with ball, glove and throwing motion. He has above-average range to both sides and is solid in all aspects of his defense. At the plate, he possesses a line-drive stroke with surprising power. He has slightly above-average speed and knows how to use it. The 21-year-old Wong is hitting .290 with 22 doubles and 21 steals, and would be an upgrade at second base if manager Mike Matheny gives him a shot.
Jonathan Singleton, 1B
Acquired in the 2011 Hunter Pence trade, the 20-year-old Singleton has a chance to make this one of the better trades of former GM Ed Wade’s run in Houston. Singleton already is in Double-A, boasting a .390 OBP with 26 doubles, 19 home runs and 76 RBIs. His raw power is quickly translating into game power. A September call-up should expedite his development and possibly have him ready to make the Astros’ major league team out of spring training next year.
Jurickson Profar, SS
There is no room for Profar to play for the Rangers this September. However, to keep both Ian Kinsler and Elvis Andrus well rested for the postseason, bringing up Profar could pick up Kinsler and Andrus at least once a week. Profar is the game’s best middle infield prospect, he's having a special year at Double-A and probably will play a full season at Triple-A next year. It also would behoove the Rangers to have him up and playing just in case of an injury to a middle infielder, in which case Profar would have likely gotten the call anyway. A September call-up would help his development because there’s nothing like learning at the major league level during a pennant race.
Billy Hamilton, SS
Hamilton broke Vince Coleman’s pro baseball record of 145 stolen bases in a single season last week. He’s got 149 and counting between high Class A and Double-A. Despite that, the Reds are leaning away from bringing up Hamilton due to roster and service-time issues. And even if he is brought up, he probably won’t get a chance to play much in the final month of the season with the Reds in the heat of a pennant race. However, a call-up prior to Aug. 31 is important so that he is postseason eligible.
Hamilton can fly but unlike many one-dimensional speedsters, he can swing the bat in order to get on base, too. He displays tremendous bat speed and sweet spot contact. He has hit over .300 with an on-base percentage over .400 at both his minor league stops this year. In the field, Hamilton has tremendous range and a solid glove, but his arm rates as a below-average tool.
There remains a question in the industry if he’ll be able to make the throw from deep in the hole, but the Reds are not ready to give up on him playing shortstop. With Brandon Phillips entrenched at second base and signed through 2017, the Reds have to move Hamilton to the outfield if he can't stay at short. So they will give him every chance to stick.
If the Reds do call up Hamilton before Aug. 31, he would be an amazing weapon off the bench for manager Dusty Baker. Imagine a playoff game tied 2-2 in the ninth inning and Baker uses Hamilton as a pinch runner. He could have impact like Dave Roberts did in the 2004 ALCS, forcing pitchers to throw over to first, pitch out, hold the ball, not throw off-speed pitches. Hamilton could be a game-changing disruption in the postseason. However, it sounds more and more like the Reds though will not promote him.
Wil Myers, OF
Myers emerged as the dominant middle-of-the-lineup hitter in the minor leagues this season, but the Royals resisted the temptation to bring Myers up to the big leagues. However, there is nothing more for Myers to prove against minor league pitching. Consider his gaudy numbers between Double-A and Triple-A, where he hit a combined .309, with 35 home runs and 102 RBIs.
Myers’ best position will be right field, but that is currently manned by veteran Jeff Francoeur, who is in the second year of a three-year, $16 million contract. However, his .287 on-base percentage and 11 home runs has not made it easy for Royals general manager Dayton Moore to trade Francoeur and open up the position for Myers.
Nevertheless, the time has come for Myers to continue his development and spend the last five weeks of the season facing major league pitching. Doing so will offer Myers a head start on 2013, when he will be a legitimate AL Rookie of the Year candidate and a force in the middle of the Royals’ lineup.
Dylan Bundy, RHP
The Orioles remain in the race for both the division crown and an AL wild-card berth, so there is no reason they shouldn’t take advantage of using Bundy, one of the game’s best pitching prospects. Bundy is 8-3 with a 2.01 ERA at three different minor league stops, punching out an impressive 113 men in just 98 1/3 innings pitched. He uses a dominating 93-96 mph fastball in all four quadrants of the strike zone, and his command in the zone has improved. He continues to learn how to take off or add velocity to his curveball; his changeup has been solid. Bundy’s stuff is so dominant, it’s a no-brainer.
Jake Odorizzi, RHP
The Royals’ biggest need is an improvement in the starting rotation, and their failure to call up Odorizzi has been puzzling. Odorizzi is 14-4 with a 2.95 ERA in 24 games between Double-A and Triple-A. Over his past 10 starts he’s allowed three earned runs or fewer in all but one. And in the past three starts he’s pitched at least seven innings, yielding just three earned runs and 10 hits combined. The 22-year-old is not a top-of-the-rotation ace, but he eventually should develop into a solid No. 3-type starter, and it's time for him to get his feet wet.
Danny Hultzen, LHP
Hultzen dominated the Double-A Southern League, posting a 1.19 ERA in 13 starts, yielding just 38 hits in 75 1/3 innings and striking out 79. His promotion to Triple-A wasn’t an instant success. However, working on strict pitching counts and innings limits Hultzen has really started to put it together.
In five of his past seven starts, he’s given up one earned run or fewer. And in his last outing against Reno on Aug. 19, he threw five innings of no-hit baseball. Hultzen's fastball has been 89-93 and he has a tremendous changeup and solid slider with which he can paint on either side of the plate.
Jedd Gyorko, 3B
The Padres listened to offers for Chase Headley at the trade deadline as they prepared to pave an opening for Gyorko at third base. However, the Padres decided to hold on to Headley, who has rewarded them by having a career year. It's possible Headley or Gyorko could switch positions, which would allow the Padres to keep both. Gyorko, who is hitting .319 in Triple-A with 27 home runs, possesses a line-drive stroke that should work well at Petco Park and give the Padres another solid bat in their lineup. Like Myers, he has nothing else to prove in the minor leagues so it’s important he gets to see major league pitching in the final month of the season. However, the Padres are leaning toward not bringing him up in the final month because they have 40-man roster issues and Gyorko doesn't necessarily have to be added this year.
Oscar Taveras, RF
There might not be a spot in the starting lineup for Taveras right now, but his bat will make someone move aside before long. Taveras, 20, is hitting .318 in Double-A with 34 doubles, seven triples and 21 home runs. With Carlos Beltran, Matt Holliday and Jon Jay, the Cardinals' outfield is full, but bringing up Taveras will help his development and give the Cardinals another power bat off the bench. Taveras could play a significant role if the Cardinals make it back to the World Series by giving them flexibility to rotate the DH position. Taveras also gives them important depth just in case they have an injury. Taveras can beat you with the bat, speed, glove or arm and is a definite player to watch.
Kolten Wong, 2B
Wong is the best second baseman in the Cardinals' organization, and that includes big leaguers Skip Schumaker and Daniel Descalso. Wong has good footwork around the bag and transitions really well with ball, glove and throwing motion. He has above-average range to both sides and is solid in all aspects of his defense. At the plate, he possesses a line-drive stroke with surprising power. He has slightly above-average speed and knows how to use it. The 21-year-old Wong is hitting .290 with 22 doubles and 21 steals, and would be an upgrade at second base if manager Mike Matheny gives him a shot.
Jonathan Singleton, 1B
Acquired in the 2011 Hunter Pence trade, the 20-year-old Singleton has a chance to make this one of the better trades of former GM Ed Wade’s run in Houston. Singleton already is in Double-A, boasting a .390 OBP with 26 doubles, 19 home runs and 76 RBIs. His raw power is quickly translating into game power. A September call-up should expedite his development and possibly have him ready to make the Astros’ major league team out of spring training next year.
Jurickson Profar, SS
There is no room for Profar to play for the Rangers this September. However, to keep both Ian Kinsler and Elvis Andrus well rested for the postseason, bringing up Profar could pick up Kinsler and Andrus at least once a week. Profar is the game’s best middle infield prospect, he's having a special year at Double-A and probably will play a full season at Triple-A next year. It also would behoove the Rangers to have him up and playing just in case of an injury to a middle infielder, in which case Profar would have likely gotten the call anyway. A September call-up would help his development because there’s nothing like learning at the major league level during a pennant race.
AL teams best positioned for October.
We have arrived at that time of year when six-month projections no longer matter, and when, in one week, a journeyman call-up like Nate McLouth can impact a pennant race more than MVP candidates. Baseball is a summer-long game, but the last bricks of legacies are placed day by day, inning by inning, which is how Howard Ehmke and Al Weis became legends, and how the weakest lineup in World Series history stunned the baseball world in 1988.
There are no super teams now, and all the contenders have needs and holes that they try to plug game to game.
Brett Anderson opened spring training on the disabled list, recovering from Tommy John surgery, and now he is arguably the most important player in the American League wild-card race. When this spring started, Lew Ford hadn't played in the big leagues in five years, Nate McLouth was trying to win a job with the Pittsburgh Pirates. On Monday, Ford and McLouth hit home runs in the midst of a pennant chase that could be decided by one or two big swings.
"McLouth and Ford are great stories," Baltimore Orioles manager Buck Showalter texted late Monday night in response to a question. "They love to play and don't take a single day in the major leagues for granted."
The stretch drive has started with every team seeking solutions. Here's a look at what needs to happen for each current AL contender to make the postseason.
Oakland Athletics: With the Athletics stunningly hanging in the playoff chase, they lost Bartolo Colon -- their most reliable starting pitcher this season -- to a 50-game suspension for performance-enhancing drugs. But the timing was somewhat fortuitous, because Brandon McCarthy had just made his way back from the disabled list and because Anderson had just finished his last minor league rehabilitation outing.
Now Anderson is rested, and in two starts he has been spectacular. The left-hander flirted with a no-hitter into the fifth inning Monday, dominating the Cleveland Indians for seven innings with an array of fastballs and breaking balls, changing speeds. In two starts, he's allowed just six hits, two walks and one run in 14 innings.
Anderson is the son of a college baseball coach and grew up as a field rat, playing catch and shagging fly balls, and all those hours tossing the ball might be paying off now in his recovery. Regaining command is the greatest challenge for any pitcher coming back from a major injury, but Oakland catcher Derek Norris said over the phone Monday night that Anderson already has really great feel for his pitches. "All of them," he said. "Not just two or three."
Anderson is among the fastest-working pitchers in the sport, returning to the rubber quickly between pitches like Mark Buehrle. Because Anderson's command is already so good, Norris really can choose from the whole menu in any part of the count as he decides which pitch to signal. At times the Cleveland hitters appeared caught in what they looked for, and most of the time, the Indians beat the ball into the dirt. Anderson threw a first-pitch strike to 12 of the hitters he faced, and those hitters went 0-for-12.
The Athletics rank 25th in the majors in runs scored, and although Josh Reddick seems to be reviving from a slump -- he hit his 26th homer Monday -- offensive production will continue to be a struggle. But Oakland has some of the best pitching in the majors right now, ranking third in the AL in ERA since the All-Star break. The continued health and success of Anderson and McCarthy may be the most important barometers for the Athletics as they try to pull out an improbable playoff berth.
Travis Blackley will step into Oakland's rotation Wednesday. Anderson was outstanding, Susan Slusser writes.
Baltimore Orioles: The Orioles' success continues to make no sense, defying all the calculations on which almost all teams build their teams now. Their win on Monday was their 13th consecutive in a game decided by one run, and if you don't necessarily agree with how crazy that is, try flipping a quarter and seeing how long it takes to come up one side or the other 13 straight times.
Ford, 36, started at designated hitter, and in the second inning, he hit his first major league homer since July 29, 2007, 1,857 days ago. With the Orioles trailing 3-2 in the bottom of the eighth, the left-handed-hitting McLouth came to bat with a runner at first against reliever Brett Myers, bearing a batting average less than .200.
But at this moment, this was a good matchup for McLouth because of history: In 15 previous at-bats against Myers, he had six hits and three homers, the best power he had generated against any individual pitcher in the majors. Monday night, McLouth swung and blasted a two-run homer, and the Orioles, with their negative run differential and their pitching questions, had picked up their 70th win this season in the same way they have all year, with little pieces of help from all parts of their organization.
Orioles GM Dan Duquette explained in an e-mail how Baltimore wound up with Ford and McLouth. "We drafted Lew Ford with the Red Sox in 1999 and I traded him to the Twins," Duquette wrote. "He was recommended to acquire this year from the Long Island Ducks by Mike Boulanger, who had him in the minors with the Red Sox ... [Boulanger] is currently our minor league hitting coordinator.
"McLouth was recommended by [special assistant to the GM] Lee Thomas this winter when the Pirates signed him, and again when he was released [by the Pirates], because Endy Chavez and Nolan Reimold were both on the DL."
These Orioles are really good at staying in the moment, Showalter says.
The same question about the Orioles remains: Can they get enough pitching to hang on and make the postseason?
Chicago White Sox: Robin Ventura and pitching coach Don Cooper have done extraordinary work this year steering the Chicago rotation through a gauntlet of injuries and injury restrictions, and with Gavin Floyd out indefinitely, more juggling is needed. Jake Peavy will get the ball on Friday. How the White Sox can manage their health through September will determine their chances of holding off Detroit in the AL Central.
New York Yankees: It's all about how healthy they are because of their aging roster. Injuries have been a major concern, and now, with the Yankees' lead in the AL East down to 3½ games, Mark Teixeira is out with a calf problem. If the Yankees can keep CC Sabathia -- who recently spent time on the disabled list -- and others on the field, they should be able to win their division.
After the Yankees' latest loss, Rafael Soriano bolted the clubhouse.
Alex Rodriguez and Andy Pettitte are making progress.
From ESPN Stats & Information: The Yankees are just 22-21 since the All-Star break and have seen their lead in the AL East dwindle from 7 games down to 3½. One of the reasons they have struggled is their collective decline on pitches on the inner half. Here's a look at some Yankees' batting averages this season on inside pitches (before ASB/since ASB):
Robinson Cano: .331/.267
Raul Ibanez: .294/.105
Alex Rodriguez: .287/.208
Curtis Granderson: .206/.139
Andruw Jones: .200/.115
Los Angeles Angels: Dan Haren is simply not the same pitcher he has been in the past, which means that every start made by Jered Weaver and Zack Greinke -- the healthiest and most reliable members of the Angels' rotation -- are of utmost importance down the stretch. The Angels probably can't afford any poor starts from those two in the final month of the season if they are going to erase their 4½-game wild-card deficit.
Detroit Tigers: They have two MVP candidates in Miguel Cabrera and Austin Jackson, and Justin Verlander has a real shot at his second consecutive Cy Young Award. The Tigers' successes and failures this year have seemingly been determined by the complementary parts of the team -- the hitters behind Cabrera and Prince Fielder, the No. 4 and No. 5 starters, the setup men. This is why Delmon Young's recent burst of offense is so crucial and why Max Scherzer and Doug Fister could be the most pivotal performers for Detroit.
Tampa Bay Rays: They have the best ERA in the majors since the All-Star break. Because there is so little margin for error, given the erratic offense, the excellent pitching must continue; it must be efficient. Tampa Bay is not suited for slugfests and won't get to the postseason without superior performance from its arms.
Texas Rangers: They have the best record in the league and appear to be in a strong position to make the postseason. Barring a rash of injuries or an extended run of poor luck, Texas should be able to hold off the A's and win the AL West.
Elsewhere
• Casey Kelly was outstanding in his debut for the San Diego Padres, who continue to play really well. Kelly's father was in the stands for the game, Bill Center writes.
• As Joey Votto nears his return to the lineup, Paul Daugherty writes that the question for the Cincinnati Reds is: What should they do with Todd Frazier?
• Felix Hernandez might have moved into the lead for the AL Cy Young Award with his latest outing. As you watch him pitch these days, it feels like he's totally locked in, with the carrot of this award right in front of him.
Hernandez's current MLB rankings:
ERA: first (2.43)
WHIP: third (1.03)
Innings: first (196.2)
Strikeouts: third (184)
Opponents' OPS: third (.579)
From ESPN Stats & Info, how Felix won Monday:
A. Hernandez recorded a career-high 18 ground-ball outs. His final nine outs of the game came on ground balls.
B. Nine ground-ball outs came on his fastballs, four on his changeup, three on his curveball and two on his slider. It's his first start this season in which he got at least two ground-ball outs on all four of his pitches.
C. Hernandez pounded the strike zone with his fastball. He threw 40 of his 53 fastballs (76 percent) for strikes, his highest percentage in the past four seasons. All but three of his strikes with his fastball came on pitches in the zone.
• Justin Verlander is still the best this year, writes John Lowe, but wins have eluded him.
• Small adjustments have paid off in a big way for Chris Sale.
• David Price was knocked around on Monday in the Rays' loss.
• Cole Hamels and Roy Halladay weighed in on the Stephen Strasburg debate. From Bob Brookover's story:
Doc's free advice to Strasburg and the Nationals?
"I think the work you do in between the starts is more important," Halladay said. "You learn over time how much you need to throw in between your starts and what you need to do during the winter, and that to me is the big difference. It's not how many innings you throw. It's about once I get up there in innings in the second half, do I need to throw a 50-pitch bullpen every time or can I get away with doing less and save myself? Over the years, you learn what works best for you."
Halladay admitted that if he were wearing Strasburg's cleats, he'd be campaigning on a daily basis to continue.
"Oh, yeah, absolutely," he said. "And I'm sure he is."
Moves, deals and decisions
1. The Pirates cut pitcher Erik Bedard.
2. The New York Mets are hoping for a late power surge from Lucas Duda.
3. The Yankees should push Alex Rodriguez on the Los Angeles Dodgers, writes Joel Sherman.
4. The Orioles optioned Jake Arrieta to Triple-A to make room for Joe Saunders.
5. The Boston Red Sox should be careful about re-signing David Ortiz, writes Steve Buckley.
6. Skip Schumaker is OK with his role.
Dings and dents
1. Neil Walker was a late scratch.
2. Jose Bautista went to see a doctor.
3. Mike Napoli likely will be activated in September.
4. Rays shortstop Sean Rodriguez broke his hand punching a locker, he says.
5. Franklin Gutierrez was activated.
6. Dallas Braden had more shoulder surgery, Joe Stiglich writes.
By The Numbers
From ESPN Stats & Info
1: Times in his career Derek Jeter has hit a game-tying homer in the ninth inning or later, after doing so in Monday's loss to the Blue Jays.
5: Shutouts for Felix Hernandez this season, a Mariners franchise record for a single season.
13: The Orioles have won their past 13 games that have been decided by one run, setting a franchise record for most consecutive wins in games decided by one run.
36: The Orioles have hit 36 homers this season in the eighth inning or later, the most in the majors. Nate McLouth did it again on Monday, which was just his second homer in 54 games this season.
AL West notes
• Adrian Beltre is ridiculously hot at the plate.
• An Angels duo could make history.
AL Central notes
• The Indians were shut down in front of a lot of empty seats, writes Paul Hoynes.
• Walks really hurt the White Sox, Mark Gonzales writes.
• Liam Hendriks was a hard-luck loser.
AL East notes
• I watched a lot of the Royals-Red Sox game Monday, and Daisuke Matsuzaka really had some life to his fastball.
• Colby Rasmus and the Toronto Blue Jays pulled out a nice win, Richard Griffin writes.
NL East notes
• Jayson Werth feels like the Washington Nationals are ahead of schedule.
• The Atlanta Braves were completely shut down.
NL Central notes
• The Pirates have fallen to three games behind the St. Louis Cardinals after their latest loss, writes Michael Sanserino.
• Kyle Lohse and the Cardinals waited out a win. Matt Holliday won't win the NL MVP, in all likelihood, but he should be somewhere in the top 10.
• Bronson Arroyo gave a nice lift to the Reds.
• A position player was summoned to the mound by the Chicago Cubs.
• The Milwaukee Brewers blew up the ninth inning.
• The Houston Astros will monitor the innings of their young pitchers.
NL West notes
• Marco Scutaro has been a great pickup for the San Francisco Giants.
• The Dodgers' new offense was shut down, and Josh Beckett gave up a really long home run with his second pitch. He can be who he wants to be with the Dodgers, writes T.J. Simers.
• The Arizona Diamondbacks are hanging on the edge of the race, and they lost again. They are shuffling their roster in the midst of a pennant race.
• Jeff Francis and Tyler Colvin shined for the Colorado Rockies.
There are no super teams now, and all the contenders have needs and holes that they try to plug game to game.
Brett Anderson opened spring training on the disabled list, recovering from Tommy John surgery, and now he is arguably the most important player in the American League wild-card race. When this spring started, Lew Ford hadn't played in the big leagues in five years, Nate McLouth was trying to win a job with the Pittsburgh Pirates. On Monday, Ford and McLouth hit home runs in the midst of a pennant chase that could be decided by one or two big swings.
"McLouth and Ford are great stories," Baltimore Orioles manager Buck Showalter texted late Monday night in response to a question. "They love to play and don't take a single day in the major leagues for granted."
The stretch drive has started with every team seeking solutions. Here's a look at what needs to happen for each current AL contender to make the postseason.
Oakland Athletics: With the Athletics stunningly hanging in the playoff chase, they lost Bartolo Colon -- their most reliable starting pitcher this season -- to a 50-game suspension for performance-enhancing drugs. But the timing was somewhat fortuitous, because Brandon McCarthy had just made his way back from the disabled list and because Anderson had just finished his last minor league rehabilitation outing.
Now Anderson is rested, and in two starts he has been spectacular. The left-hander flirted with a no-hitter into the fifth inning Monday, dominating the Cleveland Indians for seven innings with an array of fastballs and breaking balls, changing speeds. In two starts, he's allowed just six hits, two walks and one run in 14 innings.
Anderson is the son of a college baseball coach and grew up as a field rat, playing catch and shagging fly balls, and all those hours tossing the ball might be paying off now in his recovery. Regaining command is the greatest challenge for any pitcher coming back from a major injury, but Oakland catcher Derek Norris said over the phone Monday night that Anderson already has really great feel for his pitches. "All of them," he said. "Not just two or three."
Anderson is among the fastest-working pitchers in the sport, returning to the rubber quickly between pitches like Mark Buehrle. Because Anderson's command is already so good, Norris really can choose from the whole menu in any part of the count as he decides which pitch to signal. At times the Cleveland hitters appeared caught in what they looked for, and most of the time, the Indians beat the ball into the dirt. Anderson threw a first-pitch strike to 12 of the hitters he faced, and those hitters went 0-for-12.
The Athletics rank 25th in the majors in runs scored, and although Josh Reddick seems to be reviving from a slump -- he hit his 26th homer Monday -- offensive production will continue to be a struggle. But Oakland has some of the best pitching in the majors right now, ranking third in the AL in ERA since the All-Star break. The continued health and success of Anderson and McCarthy may be the most important barometers for the Athletics as they try to pull out an improbable playoff berth.
Travis Blackley will step into Oakland's rotation Wednesday. Anderson was outstanding, Susan Slusser writes.
Baltimore Orioles: The Orioles' success continues to make no sense, defying all the calculations on which almost all teams build their teams now. Their win on Monday was their 13th consecutive in a game decided by one run, and if you don't necessarily agree with how crazy that is, try flipping a quarter and seeing how long it takes to come up one side or the other 13 straight times.
Ford, 36, started at designated hitter, and in the second inning, he hit his first major league homer since July 29, 2007, 1,857 days ago. With the Orioles trailing 3-2 in the bottom of the eighth, the left-handed-hitting McLouth came to bat with a runner at first against reliever Brett Myers, bearing a batting average less than .200.
But at this moment, this was a good matchup for McLouth because of history: In 15 previous at-bats against Myers, he had six hits and three homers, the best power he had generated against any individual pitcher in the majors. Monday night, McLouth swung and blasted a two-run homer, and the Orioles, with their negative run differential and their pitching questions, had picked up their 70th win this season in the same way they have all year, with little pieces of help from all parts of their organization.
Orioles GM Dan Duquette explained in an e-mail how Baltimore wound up with Ford and McLouth. "We drafted Lew Ford with the Red Sox in 1999 and I traded him to the Twins," Duquette wrote. "He was recommended to acquire this year from the Long Island Ducks by Mike Boulanger, who had him in the minors with the Red Sox ... [Boulanger] is currently our minor league hitting coordinator.
"McLouth was recommended by [special assistant to the GM] Lee Thomas this winter when the Pirates signed him, and again when he was released [by the Pirates], because Endy Chavez and Nolan Reimold were both on the DL."
These Orioles are really good at staying in the moment, Showalter says.
The same question about the Orioles remains: Can they get enough pitching to hang on and make the postseason?
Chicago White Sox: Robin Ventura and pitching coach Don Cooper have done extraordinary work this year steering the Chicago rotation through a gauntlet of injuries and injury restrictions, and with Gavin Floyd out indefinitely, more juggling is needed. Jake Peavy will get the ball on Friday. How the White Sox can manage their health through September will determine their chances of holding off Detroit in the AL Central.
New York Yankees: It's all about how healthy they are because of their aging roster. Injuries have been a major concern, and now, with the Yankees' lead in the AL East down to 3½ games, Mark Teixeira is out with a calf problem. If the Yankees can keep CC Sabathia -- who recently spent time on the disabled list -- and others on the field, they should be able to win their division.
After the Yankees' latest loss, Rafael Soriano bolted the clubhouse.
Alex Rodriguez and Andy Pettitte are making progress.
From ESPN Stats & Information: The Yankees are just 22-21 since the All-Star break and have seen their lead in the AL East dwindle from 7 games down to 3½. One of the reasons they have struggled is their collective decline on pitches on the inner half. Here's a look at some Yankees' batting averages this season on inside pitches (before ASB/since ASB):
Robinson Cano: .331/.267
Raul Ibanez: .294/.105
Alex Rodriguez: .287/.208
Curtis Granderson: .206/.139
Andruw Jones: .200/.115
Los Angeles Angels: Dan Haren is simply not the same pitcher he has been in the past, which means that every start made by Jered Weaver and Zack Greinke -- the healthiest and most reliable members of the Angels' rotation -- are of utmost importance down the stretch. The Angels probably can't afford any poor starts from those two in the final month of the season if they are going to erase their 4½-game wild-card deficit.
Detroit Tigers: They have two MVP candidates in Miguel Cabrera and Austin Jackson, and Justin Verlander has a real shot at his second consecutive Cy Young Award. The Tigers' successes and failures this year have seemingly been determined by the complementary parts of the team -- the hitters behind Cabrera and Prince Fielder, the No. 4 and No. 5 starters, the setup men. This is why Delmon Young's recent burst of offense is so crucial and why Max Scherzer and Doug Fister could be the most pivotal performers for Detroit.
Tampa Bay Rays: They have the best ERA in the majors since the All-Star break. Because there is so little margin for error, given the erratic offense, the excellent pitching must continue; it must be efficient. Tampa Bay is not suited for slugfests and won't get to the postseason without superior performance from its arms.
Texas Rangers: They have the best record in the league and appear to be in a strong position to make the postseason. Barring a rash of injuries or an extended run of poor luck, Texas should be able to hold off the A's and win the AL West.
Elsewhere
• Casey Kelly was outstanding in his debut for the San Diego Padres, who continue to play really well. Kelly's father was in the stands for the game, Bill Center writes.
• As Joey Votto nears his return to the lineup, Paul Daugherty writes that the question for the Cincinnati Reds is: What should they do with Todd Frazier?
• Felix Hernandez might have moved into the lead for the AL Cy Young Award with his latest outing. As you watch him pitch these days, it feels like he's totally locked in, with the carrot of this award right in front of him.
Hernandez's current MLB rankings:
ERA: first (2.43)
WHIP: third (1.03)
Innings: first (196.2)
Strikeouts: third (184)
Opponents' OPS: third (.579)
From ESPN Stats & Info, how Felix won Monday:
A. Hernandez recorded a career-high 18 ground-ball outs. His final nine outs of the game came on ground balls.
B. Nine ground-ball outs came on his fastballs, four on his changeup, three on his curveball and two on his slider. It's his first start this season in which he got at least two ground-ball outs on all four of his pitches.
C. Hernandez pounded the strike zone with his fastball. He threw 40 of his 53 fastballs (76 percent) for strikes, his highest percentage in the past four seasons. All but three of his strikes with his fastball came on pitches in the zone.
• Justin Verlander is still the best this year, writes John Lowe, but wins have eluded him.
• Small adjustments have paid off in a big way for Chris Sale.
• David Price was knocked around on Monday in the Rays' loss.
• Cole Hamels and Roy Halladay weighed in on the Stephen Strasburg debate. From Bob Brookover's story:
Doc's free advice to Strasburg and the Nationals?
"I think the work you do in between the starts is more important," Halladay said. "You learn over time how much you need to throw in between your starts and what you need to do during the winter, and that to me is the big difference. It's not how many innings you throw. It's about once I get up there in innings in the second half, do I need to throw a 50-pitch bullpen every time or can I get away with doing less and save myself? Over the years, you learn what works best for you."
Halladay admitted that if he were wearing Strasburg's cleats, he'd be campaigning on a daily basis to continue.
"Oh, yeah, absolutely," he said. "And I'm sure he is."
Moves, deals and decisions
1. The Pirates cut pitcher Erik Bedard.
2. The New York Mets are hoping for a late power surge from Lucas Duda.
3. The Yankees should push Alex Rodriguez on the Los Angeles Dodgers, writes Joel Sherman.
4. The Orioles optioned Jake Arrieta to Triple-A to make room for Joe Saunders.
5. The Boston Red Sox should be careful about re-signing David Ortiz, writes Steve Buckley.
6. Skip Schumaker is OK with his role.
Dings and dents
1. Neil Walker was a late scratch.
2. Jose Bautista went to see a doctor.
3. Mike Napoli likely will be activated in September.
4. Rays shortstop Sean Rodriguez broke his hand punching a locker, he says.
5. Franklin Gutierrez was activated.
6. Dallas Braden had more shoulder surgery, Joe Stiglich writes.
By The Numbers
From ESPN Stats & Info
1: Times in his career Derek Jeter has hit a game-tying homer in the ninth inning or later, after doing so in Monday's loss to the Blue Jays.
5: Shutouts for Felix Hernandez this season, a Mariners franchise record for a single season.
13: The Orioles have won their past 13 games that have been decided by one run, setting a franchise record for most consecutive wins in games decided by one run.
36: The Orioles have hit 36 homers this season in the eighth inning or later, the most in the majors. Nate McLouth did it again on Monday, which was just his second homer in 54 games this season.
AL West notes
• Adrian Beltre is ridiculously hot at the plate.
• An Angels duo could make history.
AL Central notes
• The Indians were shut down in front of a lot of empty seats, writes Paul Hoynes.
• Walks really hurt the White Sox, Mark Gonzales writes.
• Liam Hendriks was a hard-luck loser.
AL East notes
• I watched a lot of the Royals-Red Sox game Monday, and Daisuke Matsuzaka really had some life to his fastball.
• Colby Rasmus and the Toronto Blue Jays pulled out a nice win, Richard Griffin writes.
NL East notes
• Jayson Werth feels like the Washington Nationals are ahead of schedule.
• The Atlanta Braves were completely shut down.
NL Central notes
• The Pirates have fallen to three games behind the St. Louis Cardinals after their latest loss, writes Michael Sanserino.
• Kyle Lohse and the Cardinals waited out a win. Matt Holliday won't win the NL MVP, in all likelihood, but he should be somewhere in the top 10.
• Bronson Arroyo gave a nice lift to the Reds.
• A position player was summoned to the mound by the Chicago Cubs.
• The Milwaukee Brewers blew up the ninth inning.
• The Houston Astros will monitor the innings of their young pitchers.
NL West notes
• Marco Scutaro has been a great pickup for the San Francisco Giants.
• The Dodgers' new offense was shut down, and Josh Beckett gave up a really long home run with his second pitch. He can be who he wants to be with the Dodgers, writes T.J. Simers.
• The Arizona Diamondbacks are hanging on the edge of the race, and they lost again. They are shuffling their roster in the midst of a pennant race.
• Jeff Francis and Tyler Colvin shined for the Colorado Rockies.
Early top-30 ranking for 2013 draft.
The 2013 draft class is shaping up to be the weakest in years, thanks largely to the end of a long run of strong groups of high school arms. The strengths of this upcoming class right now are college pitching, especially the kind of second-tier arms who typically go in the middle to back of the first round, and high school catching, although several of those kids are committed to major Division I programs and might be tough signs.
Having spent the summer scouting the top players for next year's draft, I figured this would be a good time to give you a preliminary ranking. So here's a very early look at the top 30 prospects in the class, starting with one you all probably know quite well.
1. Mark Appel, RHP, Stanford
Drafted eighth overall by Pittsburgh in June, Appel chose not to sign with the Pirates, who offered $3.8 million, instead returning to Stanford to try to reach the College World Series for the first time in his career as a Cardinal. Even maintaining his level of performance would return him to consideration for the top pick, but if Appel can get more say in his pitch calling -- avoiding bench-called nonsense like six consecutive changeups to guys who can't hit his fastball -- he can still improve his stock as a senior.
2. Ryne Stanek, RHP, Arkansas Up to 96 with a power slider, Stanek has raised his arm slot slightly and profiles better as a starter now than he did out of high school, but needs to show he can pitch more off his fastball rather than relying on that tremendous breaking ball to miss bats.
3. Austin Wilson, OF, Stanford
A top prospect since his junior year in high school, Wilson has gotten much bigger since heading to Palo Alto, and started to pull the ball more in the second half of this spring, carrying that power over to the Cape Cod League before an oblique strain ended his season. A full season of power and getting on base with solid defense in the outfield should have him in top-five consideration.
4. Sean Manaea, LHP, Indiana State
Manaea came out of nowhere this summer, sitting 91-96 on the Cape like he was playing catch, with an above-average slider, although his arm slot's a little low and he pronates pretty late, which can put a little extra stress on the arm over time.
5. Austin Meadows, CF, Grayson (Ga.) HS
The best tools package among high school position players, Meadows has bat speed, above-average raw power, plus speed, and has a shot to play center field, although he'll still profile in a corner. It's a weak class of prep bats, but Meadows is one of the few who'd be a first-round talent in any year.
6. Kris Bryant, 3B, San Diego
I had Bryant ranked as a late first-round prospect out of high school but a high price tag dropped him to the 18th round and sent him to the Toreros, where he has mashed for two years. His swing is a little long and he may end up at first base, but he's among the top raw power guys among college bats.
7. Jonathan Crawford, RHP, Florida
Crawford's delivery is a little funky but 93-95 touching 98 with a plus slider will get you noticed, especially if you play for a premium program like Florida.
8. Kohl Stewart, RHP, St. Pius X (Houston)
Stewart is committed to Texas A&M to play quarterback but should never set foot on campus, not with a 92-95 mph fastball that has touched 97 and feel for both a slider and changeup.
9. Trey Ball, OF/LHP, New Castle (Ind.) HS
Ball's a lean, projectable, high-upside athlete who looks more promising with the bat, showing a solid left-handed swing and above-average speed as well as a plus arm from the outfield; he's 88-91 off the mound and could add velocity as he fills out.
10. Clint Frazier, OF, Loganville (Ga.) HS
Frazier has the best bat speed among high school hitters in this class and developing power, but less chance to stay in center than Meadows, his Georgia neighbor.
11. Bobby Wahl, RHP, Ole Miss
The polished right-hander led SEC underclassmen in strikeouts this spring with above-average fasbtall/breaking ball combo.
12. Trevor Williams, RHP, Arizona State
Williams will take over Friday nights from Brady Rogers in Tempe, working with a mid-90s fastball, but needs to show he can miss more bats.
13. A.J. Vanegas, RHP, Stanford
One of several wild-card college arms in this year's draft, Vanegas has shown mid-90s velocity in relief and should work with an above-average fastball as a starter along with a good delivery and the ability to spin a curveball.
14. Oscar Mercado, SS, Gaither HS (Tampa)
Mercado's one of the few true shortstops in this draft class, which is very weak up the middle, and has an excellent chance to be an above-average to plus defender there, with the bat speed for contact but not power.
15. Justin Williams, OF/3B, Terrebonne HS (Houma, La.)
Williams has raw power, winning the home run derbies at both the Perfect Game and Under Armour All-American games in August, with good bat speed and wrist strength, but is otherwise raw as a hitter and on defense.
16. Marco Gonzales, LHP, Gonzaga
He's a command three-pitch lefty who's also an outstanding athlete and can field his position and swing the bat well, just lacking that one knockout pitch or the big fastball that might make him a top-10 candidate.
17. Ryan Eades, RHP, LSU
Eades had a strong freshman year and summer on the Cape in 2011, but struggled with command this spring and took the summer off; he's got a high slot and a solid-average fastball but needs to locate better to succeed.
18. Ian Clarkin, LHP, James Madison HS (San Diego)
He's the hardest-throwing prep lefty in the class and sat 90-93 much of the summer. He needs to improve his command and get more velocity on the curveball, which has good shape but was 69-72 at the Perfect Game All-American Game in August.
19. Andy McGuire, IF, James Madison HS (Oakton, Va.)
I really like this Texas commit's swing, from setup to hip rotation to follow-through, with good balance to let him drive the ball to all fields; he plays shortstop now but will have to move to second or third.
20. Colin Moran, IF, North Carolina
Moran, who currently plays third base, can hit for average, but if he has to move to first base, which is a possibility, his bat may not profile as more than average there.
21. Stephen Gonsalves, LHP, Cathedral Catholic HS (San Marcos, Calif.)
An advanced high school lefty with a solid-average fastball, long but fairly easy delivery, and solid rotation on a two-plane curveball that generates a lot of swings and misses at this level.
22. Brett Morales, RHP, King HS (Tampa)
He was mostly 89-93 this summer with more in the tank, good spin on a curveball, and some feel for the change, although command is spotty and he comes across his body towards the plate.
23. Matt McPhearson, CF, Riverdale Baptist HS (Columbia, Md.)
McPhearson is raw at the plate but has shown he can work the count, with bat speed and the potential for plus defense in center.
24. Jonathan Denney, C, Yukon (Okla.) HS
In a deep class for high school catchers, Denney stood out this summer for his ability to consistently square up the baseball, including a long home run at the Area Code Games, where it's difficult for hitters of any age to get the ball over the fence.
25. A.J. Puk, LHP, Washington HS (Cedar Rapids, Iowa)
No Iowa high schooler has ever gone in the first round, which isn't surprising since schools there play over the summer, but Puk has the size, athleticism, and arm strength -- up to 92 at the Area Code Games with a promising mid-70s curveball -- to end that drought.
26. Aaron Judge, OF, Fresno State
Judge hit the radar with two bombs off Appel in a game this spring, but only hit two more homers the rest of the season. He's 6-foot-7, 230 pounds, athletic and strong, but that size needs to translate into power during his junior year.
27. Karsten Whitson, RHP, Florida
The ninth overall pick by the Padres in 2010 (and fourth on my draft board), Whitson changed his bonus demands after the draft and ended up attending Florida, where various injuries contributed to a poor sophomore year, including diminished velocity. He needs to get healthy and back to 92-96 if he wants to return to the top 10.
28. Dustin Driver, RHP, Wenatchee (Wash.) HS
Driver has a solid-average fastball now and should pitch better than that in the spring, coming from a high arm slot with a good changeup but below-average curveball.
29. Ryan Boldt, OF, Red Wing (Minn.) HS
Boldt's an athletic centerfielder who can run and has great hand acceleration at the plate, although his swing is pretty linear and is geared for contact but not power.
30. Phil Ervin, OF, Samford
Ervin was the Cape Cod League MVP this year, hitting for average and surprising power while getting on base at a good clip; he's just 5-11 and doesn't offer any projection, but his swing is pretty sound and the power is legit.
Having spent the summer scouting the top players for next year's draft, I figured this would be a good time to give you a preliminary ranking. So here's a very early look at the top 30 prospects in the class, starting with one you all probably know quite well.
1. Mark Appel, RHP, Stanford
Drafted eighth overall by Pittsburgh in June, Appel chose not to sign with the Pirates, who offered $3.8 million, instead returning to Stanford to try to reach the College World Series for the first time in his career as a Cardinal. Even maintaining his level of performance would return him to consideration for the top pick, but if Appel can get more say in his pitch calling -- avoiding bench-called nonsense like six consecutive changeups to guys who can't hit his fastball -- he can still improve his stock as a senior.
2. Ryne Stanek, RHP, Arkansas Up to 96 with a power slider, Stanek has raised his arm slot slightly and profiles better as a starter now than he did out of high school, but needs to show he can pitch more off his fastball rather than relying on that tremendous breaking ball to miss bats.
3. Austin Wilson, OF, Stanford
A top prospect since his junior year in high school, Wilson has gotten much bigger since heading to Palo Alto, and started to pull the ball more in the second half of this spring, carrying that power over to the Cape Cod League before an oblique strain ended his season. A full season of power and getting on base with solid defense in the outfield should have him in top-five consideration.
4. Sean Manaea, LHP, Indiana State
Manaea came out of nowhere this summer, sitting 91-96 on the Cape like he was playing catch, with an above-average slider, although his arm slot's a little low and he pronates pretty late, which can put a little extra stress on the arm over time.
5. Austin Meadows, CF, Grayson (Ga.) HS
The best tools package among high school position players, Meadows has bat speed, above-average raw power, plus speed, and has a shot to play center field, although he'll still profile in a corner. It's a weak class of prep bats, but Meadows is one of the few who'd be a first-round talent in any year.
6. Kris Bryant, 3B, San Diego
I had Bryant ranked as a late first-round prospect out of high school but a high price tag dropped him to the 18th round and sent him to the Toreros, where he has mashed for two years. His swing is a little long and he may end up at first base, but he's among the top raw power guys among college bats.
7. Jonathan Crawford, RHP, Florida
Crawford's delivery is a little funky but 93-95 touching 98 with a plus slider will get you noticed, especially if you play for a premium program like Florida.
8. Kohl Stewart, RHP, St. Pius X (Houston)
Stewart is committed to Texas A&M to play quarterback but should never set foot on campus, not with a 92-95 mph fastball that has touched 97 and feel for both a slider and changeup.
9. Trey Ball, OF/LHP, New Castle (Ind.) HS
Ball's a lean, projectable, high-upside athlete who looks more promising with the bat, showing a solid left-handed swing and above-average speed as well as a plus arm from the outfield; he's 88-91 off the mound and could add velocity as he fills out.
10. Clint Frazier, OF, Loganville (Ga.) HS
Frazier has the best bat speed among high school hitters in this class and developing power, but less chance to stay in center than Meadows, his Georgia neighbor.
11. Bobby Wahl, RHP, Ole Miss
The polished right-hander led SEC underclassmen in strikeouts this spring with above-average fasbtall/breaking ball combo.
12. Trevor Williams, RHP, Arizona State
Williams will take over Friday nights from Brady Rogers in Tempe, working with a mid-90s fastball, but needs to show he can miss more bats.
13. A.J. Vanegas, RHP, Stanford
One of several wild-card college arms in this year's draft, Vanegas has shown mid-90s velocity in relief and should work with an above-average fastball as a starter along with a good delivery and the ability to spin a curveball.
14. Oscar Mercado, SS, Gaither HS (Tampa)
Mercado's one of the few true shortstops in this draft class, which is very weak up the middle, and has an excellent chance to be an above-average to plus defender there, with the bat speed for contact but not power.
15. Justin Williams, OF/3B, Terrebonne HS (Houma, La.)
Williams has raw power, winning the home run derbies at both the Perfect Game and Under Armour All-American games in August, with good bat speed and wrist strength, but is otherwise raw as a hitter and on defense.
16. Marco Gonzales, LHP, Gonzaga
He's a command three-pitch lefty who's also an outstanding athlete and can field his position and swing the bat well, just lacking that one knockout pitch or the big fastball that might make him a top-10 candidate.
17. Ryan Eades, RHP, LSU
Eades had a strong freshman year and summer on the Cape in 2011, but struggled with command this spring and took the summer off; he's got a high slot and a solid-average fastball but needs to locate better to succeed.
18. Ian Clarkin, LHP, James Madison HS (San Diego)
He's the hardest-throwing prep lefty in the class and sat 90-93 much of the summer. He needs to improve his command and get more velocity on the curveball, which has good shape but was 69-72 at the Perfect Game All-American Game in August.
19. Andy McGuire, IF, James Madison HS (Oakton, Va.)
I really like this Texas commit's swing, from setup to hip rotation to follow-through, with good balance to let him drive the ball to all fields; he plays shortstop now but will have to move to second or third.
20. Colin Moran, IF, North Carolina
Moran, who currently plays third base, can hit for average, but if he has to move to first base, which is a possibility, his bat may not profile as more than average there.
21. Stephen Gonsalves, LHP, Cathedral Catholic HS (San Marcos, Calif.)
An advanced high school lefty with a solid-average fastball, long but fairly easy delivery, and solid rotation on a two-plane curveball that generates a lot of swings and misses at this level.
22. Brett Morales, RHP, King HS (Tampa)
He was mostly 89-93 this summer with more in the tank, good spin on a curveball, and some feel for the change, although command is spotty and he comes across his body towards the plate.
23. Matt McPhearson, CF, Riverdale Baptist HS (Columbia, Md.)
McPhearson is raw at the plate but has shown he can work the count, with bat speed and the potential for plus defense in center.
24. Jonathan Denney, C, Yukon (Okla.) HS
In a deep class for high school catchers, Denney stood out this summer for his ability to consistently square up the baseball, including a long home run at the Area Code Games, where it's difficult for hitters of any age to get the ball over the fence.
25. A.J. Puk, LHP, Washington HS (Cedar Rapids, Iowa)
No Iowa high schooler has ever gone in the first round, which isn't surprising since schools there play over the summer, but Puk has the size, athleticism, and arm strength -- up to 92 at the Area Code Games with a promising mid-70s curveball -- to end that drought.
26. Aaron Judge, OF, Fresno State
Judge hit the radar with two bombs off Appel in a game this spring, but only hit two more homers the rest of the season. He's 6-foot-7, 230 pounds, athletic and strong, but that size needs to translate into power during his junior year.
27. Karsten Whitson, RHP, Florida
The ninth overall pick by the Padres in 2010 (and fourth on my draft board), Whitson changed his bonus demands after the draft and ended up attending Florida, where various injuries contributed to a poor sophomore year, including diminished velocity. He needs to get healthy and back to 92-96 if he wants to return to the top 10.
28. Dustin Driver, RHP, Wenatchee (Wash.) HS
Driver has a solid-average fastball now and should pitch better than that in the spring, coming from a high arm slot with a good changeup but below-average curveball.
29. Ryan Boldt, OF, Red Wing (Minn.) HS
Boldt's an athletic centerfielder who can run and has great hand acceleration at the plate, although his swing is pretty linear and is geared for contact but not power.
30. Phil Ervin, OF, Samford
Ervin was the Cape Cod League MVP this year, hitting for average and surprising power while getting on base at a good clip; he's just 5-11 and doesn't offer any projection, but his swing is pretty sound and the power is legit.
Rumors.
Hamilton to Boston?
2:49
PM ETJosh Hamilton | Rangers Recommend0Comments0EmailThe Boston Red Sox, now that they have cleared the contracts of Adrian Gonzalez, Carl Crawford and Josh Beckett, have the financial flexibility to make a play for any free agent they desire. Could that include Josh Hamilton, the biggest name on this winter's market?
General manager Ben Cherington, reports ESPNBoston.com, would not rule it out saying the club "has to look at anything," and adds that with all the offense being sent to the Dodgers "we have to find a way to replace that offense."
Hamilton's first choice is going to be to remain in Texas, but it's a two-way street and cost is absolutely going to come into play for the Rangers and Hamilton -- and any other club interested in Hamilton.
He's a bit of a health risk, has some non-baseball concerns that clubs will have to consider and National League clubs may stay away from him altogether, considering the fact that they don't have the DH spot to help keep Hamilton fresh and in the lineup.
If Hamilton were to sign with the Red Sox, the club could say goodbye to Cody Ross, or re-up with him, too, and go with a Ross-Hamilton and Jacoby Ellsbury trio, with Ryan Kalish as the fourth outfielder.
I have to wonder if David Ortiz's future wouldn't be tied to the Sox's potential interest in Hamilton, too, both in terms of payroll and having the designated hitter role available.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Boston Red Sox, Cody Ross, David Ortiz, Texas Rangers, Josh Hamilton
Winter trade candidates
2:27
PM ETFuture Trade Candidates Recommend1Comments4EmailWhile several names rumored to be on the trade block this summer that didn't get moved may again be shopped this offseason, there are likely to be new names surfacing once the 2012 season is over and clubs look to reshape their rosters.
Denard Span, Justin Morneau, Josh Willingham, Josh Johnson, Matt Garza and Justin Upton could again be available, but so could Kansas City's Billy Butler, as the Royals search for impact starting pitching, as well as Cleveland's Shin-Soo Choo and Boston's Jacoby Ellsbury, two names that were mentioned but talks reportedly did not go very far in either instance.
Both Choo and Ellsbury will be a free agents after 2013, while Butler is signed through 2014 with a club option for 2015. The Royals could entertain offers for Gordon rather than Butler, especially if rivals hold out for a more valuable player -- Gordon can play the field well while Butler is relegated to DH duties -- in return for pitching. Prospect Wil Myers could replace Gordon in the field and eventually as a productive bat, if not right away.
Hunter Pence, who was traded to the Giants last month, could be on the move again as his 2013 salary figures to be north of $13 million via arbitration.
Jed Lowrie could also be shopped over the winter, as could fellow shortstop Yunel Escobar, Arizona outfielder Gerardo Parra. A player such as Upton, Butler, Gordon or Baltimore's J.J. Hardy, could be candidates for trade next summer if things fall just right, including health, performance and the development of players behind them.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Baltimore Orioles, Arizona Diamondbacks, Kansas City Royals, Jacoby Ellsbury, Alex Gordon, Billy Butler, Shin-Soo Choo, Justin Upton, Jed Lowrie, Gerardo Parra, J.J. Hardy
Sox want Ross back
2:17
PM ETCody Ross | Red Sox Recommend0Comments1EmailBoston Red Sox outfielder Cody Ross is on the club's wish list for 2013 -- they've even told the player that already -- but it's not likely to be easy to retain his services.
Not only is Ross near the top of the free agent class for outfielders -- and for hitters overall -- but his stock went up when Melky Cabrera was suspended for failing a drug test and he's having a career year.
Ross seems more than amenable to returning to Boston and is expected to seek a three-year contract. The Sox, having dealt Carl Crawford, have a need in the outfield, especially considering the pending free agency of Jacoby Ellsbury -- after the 2013 season -- so expect the club to either keep Ross or add a 2-3 year fix in the outfield over the offseason.
Ross could also be a fit for clubs such as the Washington Nationals, St. Louis Cardinals, Toronto Blue Jays and Los Angeles Angels.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Boston Red Sox, Cody Ross
Interest in Bedard?
1:44
PM ETErik Bedard | Pirates Recommend0Comments0EmailThe Pittsburgh Pirates released lefty Erik Bedard Tuesday, tweets Dejan Kovacecvic, sending the veteran to the free agent heap and opening up a rotation spot for right-hander Kevin Correia.
Bedard has struggled mightily the past two months, producing just three quality outings since June 20. Whether or not there is interest in the veteran after poor performances to that extent remains to be seen.
Bedard, however, has always seemed to be a pitcher that needed more rest than the typical starter, so perhaps a little time off could rejuvenate him for a few key outings for a contender in September.
He's also tough on left-handed batters, so perhaps a club such as the Texas Rangers, New York Yankees or Washington Nationals shows interest in him in a specialist role. There's no guaranteed cash attached, so money is not a concern for clubs interested in Bedard for the remainder of 2012.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Washington Nationals, Texas Rangers, Pittsburgh Pirates, Erik Bedard
Rondon on rehab
1:22
PM ETCleveland Indians Recommend0Comments0EmailWhile it's too late for the Cleveland Indians in 2012, the club needs pitching for next year and may get some production out of their farm system, as injured right-hander Hector Rondon works his way back from multiple elbow surgeries.
He's made two short appearances thus far and will head to Triple-A Columbus to continue his rehab. The 24-year-old has a chance to make an impact for the Tribe in 2013.
Rondon was a solid prospect prior to the injuries and if he returns to form could settle into a mid-rotation role. If he has to move to the bullpen down the line, his fastball could play up enough to forecast a late-inning arm.
It's not out of the question that Rondon could make his big-league debut in September, barring any setbacks.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Cleveland Indians
Mota's impact on SF 'pen
1:17
PM ETSan Francisco Giants Recommend0Comments0EmailThe San Francisco Giants appear set to add Guillermo Mota to their bullpen this week, judging by the right-hander's own text to ESPN.com's Enrique Rojas: "In flight, to Houston.
Mota was suspended in May for 100 games for failing a second banned substance test, but is eligible to return soon.
The Giants begin a 3-game set in Houston Tuesday, so it appears the club's plan is to use Mota in that series.
While Sergio Romo,, Jeremy Affeldt and Santiago Casilla figure to continue to get the save chances, Mota could pitch his way into that mix and could certainly be used late in games right from the get-go. His presence, if he's back to form, gives skipper Bruce Bochy another reliable option, and his arm is fresh to boot.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Guillermo Mota, San Francisco Giants
A test for Pettitte
12:36
PM ETAndy Pettitte | Yankees Recommend3Comments4EmailAndy Pettitte is aiming for a September return from the disabled list, and it could not happen soon enough for the New York Yankees, who need as many pitching options as possible after another ineffective start by Ivan Nova Tuesday night against the White Sox.
Pettitte, sidelined since late June with a fractured ankle but on the mend, isn't ruling out another stint with the Yankees in 2013, reports Mark Feinsand of the New York Daily News.
"As of this moment right now, I want to pitch more right now than I did when I first came to the big leagues," says Pettitte, who was 3-3 with a 3.22 ERA in nine starts before his injury.
It remains to be seen exactly how the 40-year-old Pettitte would fit into the Yankees plans for next season. Given his age and history of injuries, the Yankees might view him only as a back-of-rotation guy.
As for 2012, Pettitte is set to throw off flat ground Tuesday, a steo in the right direction if he's to return for October.
- Doug Mittler and Jason A. Churchill
Tags:New York Yankees, Andy Pettitte
Matsuzaka suitors
11:57
AM ETDaisuke Matsuzaka | Red Sox Recommend0Comments2EmailThe Boston Red Sox have placed Daisuke Matsuzaka on trade waivers, tweets ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney, and the right-hander is coming off his best start since returning from Tommy John surgery.
A club such as the Los Angeles Dodgers or Washington Nationals could show strong interest, as could the Texas Rangers, Baltimore Orioles or Detroit Tigers.
The Dodgers, Rangers, Orioles and Tigers simply need more starting pitching while the Nationals could use Matsuzaka to help fill the void soon left by Stephen Strasburg once he's shut down for the year.
Dice-K is a free agent at season's end and owed a fraction of the $10 million he's earning this season. He also has a full no-trade clause that may be a factor with some interested clubs.
One dark horse suitor could be the Reds, so keep an eye out for them.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags
aisuke Matsuzaka, Boston Red Sox, Stephen Strasburg, Baltimore Orioles, Detroit Tigers, Texas Rangers, Cincinnati Reds, Detroit Tigers, Los Angeles Dodgers, Washington Nationals
Oswalt on the block?
11:40
AM ETRoy Oswalt | Rangers Recommend0Comments0EmailRoy Oswalt nearly signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers before agreeing to a 1-year contract with the Texas Rangers earlier this season. The Dodgers could again be a possibility for the veteran, as he's cleared waivers, reports FOXSports.com's Ken Rosenthal.
Oswalt has struggled in the rotation but shown signs of effectiveness in relief and could greatly benefit from heading back to the National League and playing his home games in a more pitcher-friendly ballpark.
Other clubs that could show interest in Oswalt before the August 31 deadline include the Orioles, Giants, Nationals, Cardinals, Pirates, Tigers and Reds.
MLB.com's T.R. Sullivan reports Tuesda that the Rangers are actually discussing Oswalt with other clubs and are in search of a utility infielder.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Roy Oswalt, Texas Rangers, Los Angeles Dodgers, St. Louis Cardinals, Baltimore Orioles, Cincinnati Reds
Chances Vargas, Millwood are dealt
10:47
AM ETSeattle Mariners Recommend1Comments0EmailThe Seattle Mariners have placed lefty Jason Vargas and right-hander Kevin Millwood on waivers, tweets Ken Rosenthal of FOXSports.com.
Vargas is arbitration eligible for the second time this offseason and could earn more than $7 million for 2013. Millwood is slated for free agency.
The Mariners don't appear to be all that inclined to deal either pitcher, however, despite being nine games back in the Wildcard chase and 14 games behind the AL West division leading Texas Rangers.
The M's have an outside shot to get to .500 on the year and trading either veteran starter only hinders those chances. The club has had a strong second half and may view wins as crucial as a contender might considering how few they have amassed over the past few seasons.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Seattle Mariners, Kevin Millwood, Jason Vargas
Dodgers eye starting pitching
10:42
AM ETLos Angeles Dodgers Recommend1Comments0EmailEven having acquired right-hander Josh Beckett in this week's blockbuster for the ages, the Los Angeles Dodgers continue to search for starting pitching, tweets ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney.
Olney mentions left-hander Mark Buehrle as one possibility and notes that once again money is not a concern for the boys in blue.
Other possibilities include Edinson Volquez of the San Diego Padres, James Shields of the Tampa Bay Rays and perhaps even Dan Haren of the Angels.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:San Diego Padres, Miami Marlins, Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Angels, Mark Buehrle
Kershaw's future with LAD
9:22
AM ETClayton Kershaw | Dodgers Recommend1Comments1EmailLos Angeles Dodgers left-hander Clayton Kershaw is slated for free agency following the 2014 campaign after signing a two-year deal to avoid arbitration prior to this season. The timing may be right, however, for something long-term, something he says he's always open to discussing.
Considering Kershaw's age, production and his status as a pending free agent, the defending Cy Young winner is likely in line to exceed Cole Hamels' recent deal and perhaps even CC Sabatahia's record for pitchers, which stands at seven years and $161 million.
There's no urgency to get anything done this winter, but over the course of the next year or so the two sides are likely to get serious about a long-term solution.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Los Angeles Dodgers, Cole Hamels, CC Sabathia, Clayton Kershaw
Impact of Berkman's return
8:51
AM ETLance Berkman | Cardinals Recommend1Comments0EmailLance Berkman may be nearing a return from the disabled list -- he's rehabbing in Triple-A Memphis -- but Joe Strauss of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch tweets that the veteran still is laboring to run, suggesting perhaps Berkman isn't as ready as the team hoped.
Berkman (knee) is also batting just .111 in three games for the Redbirds, suggesting he may need more time to get back close to 100 percent.
The 36-year-old is contemplating retirement at season's end, which may push him to return sooner than later. Once he's activated, the Cardinals will have to make some tough decisions on when he plays, especially with Allen Craig needing to remain in the lineup regularly.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:St. Louis Cardinals, Allen Craig, Lance Berkman
Lawrie still not ready
8:29
AM ETBrett Lawrie | Blue Jays Recommend1Comments0EmailThe Toronto Blue Jays should get infielder Brett Lawrie back before the end of the month as he's nearing a rehab assignment, but there is no timetable yet as there has been a lack of improvement with his injured right oblique, writes Gregor Chisolm of MLB.com.
It appears Lawrie could remain out at least until rosters expand September 1, which means no roster move will be necessary once he's activated. The oblique injury is generally one with which clubs tend to be cautious, so the second-year big leaguer may be out another week or two, if not longer.
Lawrie is expected to need some rehab games to prepare. but the minor league season ends later this week. In that case, some simulated game situations will have to do, unless Lawrie joins the Jays' Advanced-A club during their playoff run.
- Jason A. Churchill
Eric Karabell
Lawrie still a value
"Lawrie keeps getting discussed as one of fantasy's bigger disappointments, since he was a top-50 pick on draft day and isn't among the top 50 on the Player Rater, or even the top 10 third basemen, but things could be much worse. Lawrie is on pace for 13 home runs, 18 stolen bases and 83 runs scored, and there's nothing wrong with a .282 batting average. Lawrie remains a top-50 candidate for 2013 and beyond, so don't deal him for less than value in keeper formats."
Tags:Brett Lawrie, Adeiny Hechavarria, Yan Gomes, Toronto Blue Jays
Extension for Fowler?
8:22
AM ETDexter Fowler | Rockies Recommend1Comments0EmailColorado Rockies centerfielder Dexter Fowler has changed agents, going from Scott Boras to Casey Close, and may now be more likely to get a contract extension.
As Troy Renck writes, Boras much prefers his clients to hold out until they qualify for free agency, with very few exceptions, though one of those is Fowler's teammate, Carlos Gonzalez.
Fowler will be arbitration eligible for the second time this coming offseason, and could be eligible two more times before free agency hits, thanks to his Super Two status a year ago. He's earning $2.35 million this season and has performed well, suggesting a rather large arbitration salary number.
Perhaps a four-year deal is in order, which would buy out all of his remaining arbitration years, plus one free agent year. Something longer than that is certainly not out of the question, either.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Carlos Gonzalez, Colorado Rockies, Dexter Fowler
Moore's workload
7:57
AM ETMatt Moore | Rays Recommend1Comments3EmailWith all the talk surrounding Stephen Strasburg's innings limit, and to a lesser extent Chris Sale of the Chicago White Sox, too, one other arm to consider in the same light is Tampa's Matt Moore.
Moore is quickly approaching his career-high in innings, set a year ago at 164 1/3 innings. It doesn't appear as if the regular season will be any kind of a problem -- there are about five weeks remaining, which may give Moore eight more starts and roughly 50 innings -- but the Rays could head into the postseason with a workload concern for the left-hander.
If Moore gets to the 180-185 innings range before October, he may not be considered for starts in the playoffs. The Rays, in that scenario, are likely go to David Price, James Shields and Jeremy Hellickson. But the Rays are considering the idea of juggling the rotation a bit to get Moore (as well as Alex Cobb) some extra rest to keep them fresh down the stretch.
One factor to remember is that the club will get some help from Jeff Niemann, who is on the disabled list but expected back by September. Skipper Joe Maddon says Niemann is now ready to return.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Matt Moore, Jeremy Hellickson, Jeff Niemann, James Shields, Tampa Bay Rays, Alex Cobb
Who may get the call?
7:44
AM ETSeptember Call-up Candidates Recommend1Comments0EmailJason A. Churchill
Major League Baseball's 30 clubs can each expand their rosters as of September 1, and they all do just that to different extents. Among the call-ups will be several impact prospects, such as the Padres' decision to call on right-hander Casey Kelly to make his debut Monday.
Trevor Bauer, RHP -- Arizona Diamondbacks
Bauer has been tremendous in his past two outings, issuing just two bases on balls and striking out 21 over 16 frames, and at home in Reno, no less, where the ball travels like it's attached to a Saturn rocket.
Bauer's stuff plays in the big leagues but his control and command still need work. That said, he's likely get the nod for some innings in September as workload does not appear to be a concern at this stage.
The D-backs just dealt Joe Saunders, presumably clearing space for lefty Tyler Skaggs to remain in the rotation, but to get Bauer a few starts Patrick Corbin could be moved to the bullpen or the club could go with six starters a couple times through.
Julio Teheran, RHP -- Atlanta Braves
Teheran still has the electric arm but has not found a consistent third offering and has frequent bouts with control problems. He has pounded the zone consistently since the the calendar turned to August, however, compiling a 25-4 K/BB ratio in five starts, and was lights out in his most recent start over the weekend.
If the Braves do call on the 21-year-old, it's likely to be as a relief option, partly due to workload concerns but also because the Braves are pretty much set in their starting rotation.
Teheran could be a reliever long term, though, and his stuff could play up well in shorter stints. If the club uses him next month and he performs well, a role change for the future could be in order, but at the very least he can help the bullpen stay fresh as the Braves chase a playoff berth.
Wil Myers, OF -- Kansas City Royals
Myers has done all a club can ask of a young hitter; he's produced at the two highest levels of the minors, done so consistently, versus righties and lefties alike, and has now battled through a bit of a slump.
After a stretch where he saw a steady diet of sliders and curveballs down and away that resulted in a lot of punch outs, Myers has responded to bat .294/.405/.412 with just eight strikeouts in his past 10 games, and has just 21 whiffs in August in 25 games played.
The Royals have nothing to lose, so expect Myers to get some at-bats in September, and don't be surprised if he never sees the minors again.
Wily Peralta and Tyler Thornburg, RHP -- Milwaukee Brewers
Peralta may profile best as a reliever, but has good stuff and misses bats despite well below average control, and along with Thornburg serves as the club's top MLB-ready option in the pitching department.
Thornburg, too, may be best suited for the bullpen, but both right-handers could see some time next month, though Peralta may be nearing his innings limit and has one start left for Triple-A Nashville.
The Brewers, if they summon either or both arms, are likely to use them as starters, getting their feet wet in the most valuable possible role for the future. And with Zack Greinke and Randy Wolf gone, and Shaun Marcum hurt and slated for free agency, the Brewers sorely need pitching.
2:49
PM ETJosh Hamilton | Rangers Recommend0Comments0EmailThe Boston Red Sox, now that they have cleared the contracts of Adrian Gonzalez, Carl Crawford and Josh Beckett, have the financial flexibility to make a play for any free agent they desire. Could that include Josh Hamilton, the biggest name on this winter's market?
General manager Ben Cherington, reports ESPNBoston.com, would not rule it out saying the club "has to look at anything," and adds that with all the offense being sent to the Dodgers "we have to find a way to replace that offense."
Hamilton's first choice is going to be to remain in Texas, but it's a two-way street and cost is absolutely going to come into play for the Rangers and Hamilton -- and any other club interested in Hamilton.
He's a bit of a health risk, has some non-baseball concerns that clubs will have to consider and National League clubs may stay away from him altogether, considering the fact that they don't have the DH spot to help keep Hamilton fresh and in the lineup.
If Hamilton were to sign with the Red Sox, the club could say goodbye to Cody Ross, or re-up with him, too, and go with a Ross-Hamilton and Jacoby Ellsbury trio, with Ryan Kalish as the fourth outfielder.
I have to wonder if David Ortiz's future wouldn't be tied to the Sox's potential interest in Hamilton, too, both in terms of payroll and having the designated hitter role available.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Boston Red Sox, Cody Ross, David Ortiz, Texas Rangers, Josh Hamilton
Winter trade candidates
2:27
PM ETFuture Trade Candidates Recommend1Comments4EmailWhile several names rumored to be on the trade block this summer that didn't get moved may again be shopped this offseason, there are likely to be new names surfacing once the 2012 season is over and clubs look to reshape their rosters.
Denard Span, Justin Morneau, Josh Willingham, Josh Johnson, Matt Garza and Justin Upton could again be available, but so could Kansas City's Billy Butler, as the Royals search for impact starting pitching, as well as Cleveland's Shin-Soo Choo and Boston's Jacoby Ellsbury, two names that were mentioned but talks reportedly did not go very far in either instance.
Both Choo and Ellsbury will be a free agents after 2013, while Butler is signed through 2014 with a club option for 2015. The Royals could entertain offers for Gordon rather than Butler, especially if rivals hold out for a more valuable player -- Gordon can play the field well while Butler is relegated to DH duties -- in return for pitching. Prospect Wil Myers could replace Gordon in the field and eventually as a productive bat, if not right away.
Hunter Pence, who was traded to the Giants last month, could be on the move again as his 2013 salary figures to be north of $13 million via arbitration.
Jed Lowrie could also be shopped over the winter, as could fellow shortstop Yunel Escobar, Arizona outfielder Gerardo Parra. A player such as Upton, Butler, Gordon or Baltimore's J.J. Hardy, could be candidates for trade next summer if things fall just right, including health, performance and the development of players behind them.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Baltimore Orioles, Arizona Diamondbacks, Kansas City Royals, Jacoby Ellsbury, Alex Gordon, Billy Butler, Shin-Soo Choo, Justin Upton, Jed Lowrie, Gerardo Parra, J.J. Hardy
Sox want Ross back
2:17
PM ETCody Ross | Red Sox Recommend0Comments1EmailBoston Red Sox outfielder Cody Ross is on the club's wish list for 2013 -- they've even told the player that already -- but it's not likely to be easy to retain his services.
Not only is Ross near the top of the free agent class for outfielders -- and for hitters overall -- but his stock went up when Melky Cabrera was suspended for failing a drug test and he's having a career year.
Ross seems more than amenable to returning to Boston and is expected to seek a three-year contract. The Sox, having dealt Carl Crawford, have a need in the outfield, especially considering the pending free agency of Jacoby Ellsbury -- after the 2013 season -- so expect the club to either keep Ross or add a 2-3 year fix in the outfield over the offseason.
Ross could also be a fit for clubs such as the Washington Nationals, St. Louis Cardinals, Toronto Blue Jays and Los Angeles Angels.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Boston Red Sox, Cody Ross
Interest in Bedard?
1:44
PM ETErik Bedard | Pirates Recommend0Comments0EmailThe Pittsburgh Pirates released lefty Erik Bedard Tuesday, tweets Dejan Kovacecvic, sending the veteran to the free agent heap and opening up a rotation spot for right-hander Kevin Correia.
Bedard has struggled mightily the past two months, producing just three quality outings since June 20. Whether or not there is interest in the veteran after poor performances to that extent remains to be seen.
Bedard, however, has always seemed to be a pitcher that needed more rest than the typical starter, so perhaps a little time off could rejuvenate him for a few key outings for a contender in September.
He's also tough on left-handed batters, so perhaps a club such as the Texas Rangers, New York Yankees or Washington Nationals shows interest in him in a specialist role. There's no guaranteed cash attached, so money is not a concern for clubs interested in Bedard for the remainder of 2012.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Washington Nationals, Texas Rangers, Pittsburgh Pirates, Erik Bedard
Rondon on rehab
1:22
PM ETCleveland Indians Recommend0Comments0EmailWhile it's too late for the Cleveland Indians in 2012, the club needs pitching for next year and may get some production out of their farm system, as injured right-hander Hector Rondon works his way back from multiple elbow surgeries.
He's made two short appearances thus far and will head to Triple-A Columbus to continue his rehab. The 24-year-old has a chance to make an impact for the Tribe in 2013.
Rondon was a solid prospect prior to the injuries and if he returns to form could settle into a mid-rotation role. If he has to move to the bullpen down the line, his fastball could play up enough to forecast a late-inning arm.
It's not out of the question that Rondon could make his big-league debut in September, barring any setbacks.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Cleveland Indians
Mota's impact on SF 'pen
1:17
PM ETSan Francisco Giants Recommend0Comments0EmailThe San Francisco Giants appear set to add Guillermo Mota to their bullpen this week, judging by the right-hander's own text to ESPN.com's Enrique Rojas: "In flight, to Houston.
Mota was suspended in May for 100 games for failing a second banned substance test, but is eligible to return soon.
The Giants begin a 3-game set in Houston Tuesday, so it appears the club's plan is to use Mota in that series.
While Sergio Romo,, Jeremy Affeldt and Santiago Casilla figure to continue to get the save chances, Mota could pitch his way into that mix and could certainly be used late in games right from the get-go. His presence, if he's back to form, gives skipper Bruce Bochy another reliable option, and his arm is fresh to boot.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Guillermo Mota, San Francisco Giants
A test for Pettitte
12:36
PM ETAndy Pettitte | Yankees Recommend3Comments4EmailAndy Pettitte is aiming for a September return from the disabled list, and it could not happen soon enough for the New York Yankees, who need as many pitching options as possible after another ineffective start by Ivan Nova Tuesday night against the White Sox.
Pettitte, sidelined since late June with a fractured ankle but on the mend, isn't ruling out another stint with the Yankees in 2013, reports Mark Feinsand of the New York Daily News.
"As of this moment right now, I want to pitch more right now than I did when I first came to the big leagues," says Pettitte, who was 3-3 with a 3.22 ERA in nine starts before his injury.
It remains to be seen exactly how the 40-year-old Pettitte would fit into the Yankees plans for next season. Given his age and history of injuries, the Yankees might view him only as a back-of-rotation guy.
As for 2012, Pettitte is set to throw off flat ground Tuesday, a steo in the right direction if he's to return for October.
- Doug Mittler and Jason A. Churchill
Tags:New York Yankees, Andy Pettitte
Matsuzaka suitors
11:57
AM ETDaisuke Matsuzaka | Red Sox Recommend0Comments2EmailThe Boston Red Sox have placed Daisuke Matsuzaka on trade waivers, tweets ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney, and the right-hander is coming off his best start since returning from Tommy John surgery.
A club such as the Los Angeles Dodgers or Washington Nationals could show strong interest, as could the Texas Rangers, Baltimore Orioles or Detroit Tigers.
The Dodgers, Rangers, Orioles and Tigers simply need more starting pitching while the Nationals could use Matsuzaka to help fill the void soon left by Stephen Strasburg once he's shut down for the year.
Dice-K is a free agent at season's end and owed a fraction of the $10 million he's earning this season. He also has a full no-trade clause that may be a factor with some interested clubs.
One dark horse suitor could be the Reds, so keep an eye out for them.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags
aisuke Matsuzaka, Boston Red Sox, Stephen Strasburg, Baltimore Orioles, Detroit Tigers, Texas Rangers, Cincinnati Reds, Detroit Tigers, Los Angeles Dodgers, Washington NationalsOswalt on the block?
11:40
AM ETRoy Oswalt | Rangers Recommend0Comments0EmailRoy Oswalt nearly signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers before agreeing to a 1-year contract with the Texas Rangers earlier this season. The Dodgers could again be a possibility for the veteran, as he's cleared waivers, reports FOXSports.com's Ken Rosenthal.
Oswalt has struggled in the rotation but shown signs of effectiveness in relief and could greatly benefit from heading back to the National League and playing his home games in a more pitcher-friendly ballpark.
Other clubs that could show interest in Oswalt before the August 31 deadline include the Orioles, Giants, Nationals, Cardinals, Pirates, Tigers and Reds.
MLB.com's T.R. Sullivan reports Tuesda that the Rangers are actually discussing Oswalt with other clubs and are in search of a utility infielder.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Roy Oswalt, Texas Rangers, Los Angeles Dodgers, St. Louis Cardinals, Baltimore Orioles, Cincinnati Reds
Chances Vargas, Millwood are dealt
10:47
AM ETSeattle Mariners Recommend1Comments0EmailThe Seattle Mariners have placed lefty Jason Vargas and right-hander Kevin Millwood on waivers, tweets Ken Rosenthal of FOXSports.com.
Vargas is arbitration eligible for the second time this offseason and could earn more than $7 million for 2013. Millwood is slated for free agency.
The Mariners don't appear to be all that inclined to deal either pitcher, however, despite being nine games back in the Wildcard chase and 14 games behind the AL West division leading Texas Rangers.
The M's have an outside shot to get to .500 on the year and trading either veteran starter only hinders those chances. The club has had a strong second half and may view wins as crucial as a contender might considering how few they have amassed over the past few seasons.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Seattle Mariners, Kevin Millwood, Jason Vargas
Dodgers eye starting pitching
10:42
AM ETLos Angeles Dodgers Recommend1Comments0EmailEven having acquired right-hander Josh Beckett in this week's blockbuster for the ages, the Los Angeles Dodgers continue to search for starting pitching, tweets ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney.
Olney mentions left-hander Mark Buehrle as one possibility and notes that once again money is not a concern for the boys in blue.
Other possibilities include Edinson Volquez of the San Diego Padres, James Shields of the Tampa Bay Rays and perhaps even Dan Haren of the Angels.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:San Diego Padres, Miami Marlins, Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Angels, Mark Buehrle
Kershaw's future with LAD
9:22
AM ETClayton Kershaw | Dodgers Recommend1Comments1EmailLos Angeles Dodgers left-hander Clayton Kershaw is slated for free agency following the 2014 campaign after signing a two-year deal to avoid arbitration prior to this season. The timing may be right, however, for something long-term, something he says he's always open to discussing.
Considering Kershaw's age, production and his status as a pending free agent, the defending Cy Young winner is likely in line to exceed Cole Hamels' recent deal and perhaps even CC Sabatahia's record for pitchers, which stands at seven years and $161 million.
There's no urgency to get anything done this winter, but over the course of the next year or so the two sides are likely to get serious about a long-term solution.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Los Angeles Dodgers, Cole Hamels, CC Sabathia, Clayton Kershaw
Impact of Berkman's return
8:51
AM ETLance Berkman | Cardinals Recommend1Comments0EmailLance Berkman may be nearing a return from the disabled list -- he's rehabbing in Triple-A Memphis -- but Joe Strauss of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch tweets that the veteran still is laboring to run, suggesting perhaps Berkman isn't as ready as the team hoped.
Berkman (knee) is also batting just .111 in three games for the Redbirds, suggesting he may need more time to get back close to 100 percent.
The 36-year-old is contemplating retirement at season's end, which may push him to return sooner than later. Once he's activated, the Cardinals will have to make some tough decisions on when he plays, especially with Allen Craig needing to remain in the lineup regularly.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:St. Louis Cardinals, Allen Craig, Lance Berkman
Lawrie still not ready
8:29
AM ETBrett Lawrie | Blue Jays Recommend1Comments0EmailThe Toronto Blue Jays should get infielder Brett Lawrie back before the end of the month as he's nearing a rehab assignment, but there is no timetable yet as there has been a lack of improvement with his injured right oblique, writes Gregor Chisolm of MLB.com.
It appears Lawrie could remain out at least until rosters expand September 1, which means no roster move will be necessary once he's activated. The oblique injury is generally one with which clubs tend to be cautious, so the second-year big leaguer may be out another week or two, if not longer.
Lawrie is expected to need some rehab games to prepare. but the minor league season ends later this week. In that case, some simulated game situations will have to do, unless Lawrie joins the Jays' Advanced-A club during their playoff run.
- Jason A. Churchill
Eric Karabell
Lawrie still a value
"Lawrie keeps getting discussed as one of fantasy's bigger disappointments, since he was a top-50 pick on draft day and isn't among the top 50 on the Player Rater, or even the top 10 third basemen, but things could be much worse. Lawrie is on pace for 13 home runs, 18 stolen bases and 83 runs scored, and there's nothing wrong with a .282 batting average. Lawrie remains a top-50 candidate for 2013 and beyond, so don't deal him for less than value in keeper formats."
Tags:Brett Lawrie, Adeiny Hechavarria, Yan Gomes, Toronto Blue Jays
Extension for Fowler?
8:22
AM ETDexter Fowler | Rockies Recommend1Comments0EmailColorado Rockies centerfielder Dexter Fowler has changed agents, going from Scott Boras to Casey Close, and may now be more likely to get a contract extension.
As Troy Renck writes, Boras much prefers his clients to hold out until they qualify for free agency, with very few exceptions, though one of those is Fowler's teammate, Carlos Gonzalez.
Fowler will be arbitration eligible for the second time this coming offseason, and could be eligible two more times before free agency hits, thanks to his Super Two status a year ago. He's earning $2.35 million this season and has performed well, suggesting a rather large arbitration salary number.
Perhaps a four-year deal is in order, which would buy out all of his remaining arbitration years, plus one free agent year. Something longer than that is certainly not out of the question, either.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Carlos Gonzalez, Colorado Rockies, Dexter Fowler
Moore's workload
7:57
AM ETMatt Moore | Rays Recommend1Comments3EmailWith all the talk surrounding Stephen Strasburg's innings limit, and to a lesser extent Chris Sale of the Chicago White Sox, too, one other arm to consider in the same light is Tampa's Matt Moore.
Moore is quickly approaching his career-high in innings, set a year ago at 164 1/3 innings. It doesn't appear as if the regular season will be any kind of a problem -- there are about five weeks remaining, which may give Moore eight more starts and roughly 50 innings -- but the Rays could head into the postseason with a workload concern for the left-hander.
If Moore gets to the 180-185 innings range before October, he may not be considered for starts in the playoffs. The Rays, in that scenario, are likely go to David Price, James Shields and Jeremy Hellickson. But the Rays are considering the idea of juggling the rotation a bit to get Moore (as well as Alex Cobb) some extra rest to keep them fresh down the stretch.
One factor to remember is that the club will get some help from Jeff Niemann, who is on the disabled list but expected back by September. Skipper Joe Maddon says Niemann is now ready to return.
- Jason A. Churchill
Tags:Matt Moore, Jeremy Hellickson, Jeff Niemann, James Shields, Tampa Bay Rays, Alex Cobb
Who may get the call?
7:44
AM ETSeptember Call-up Candidates Recommend1Comments0EmailJason A. Churchill
Major League Baseball's 30 clubs can each expand their rosters as of September 1, and they all do just that to different extents. Among the call-ups will be several impact prospects, such as the Padres' decision to call on right-hander Casey Kelly to make his debut Monday.
Trevor Bauer, RHP -- Arizona Diamondbacks
Bauer has been tremendous in his past two outings, issuing just two bases on balls and striking out 21 over 16 frames, and at home in Reno, no less, where the ball travels like it's attached to a Saturn rocket.
Bauer's stuff plays in the big leagues but his control and command still need work. That said, he's likely get the nod for some innings in September as workload does not appear to be a concern at this stage.
The D-backs just dealt Joe Saunders, presumably clearing space for lefty Tyler Skaggs to remain in the rotation, but to get Bauer a few starts Patrick Corbin could be moved to the bullpen or the club could go with six starters a couple times through.
Julio Teheran, RHP -- Atlanta Braves
Teheran still has the electric arm but has not found a consistent third offering and has frequent bouts with control problems. He has pounded the zone consistently since the the calendar turned to August, however, compiling a 25-4 K/BB ratio in five starts, and was lights out in his most recent start over the weekend.
If the Braves do call on the 21-year-old, it's likely to be as a relief option, partly due to workload concerns but also because the Braves are pretty much set in their starting rotation.
Teheran could be a reliever long term, though, and his stuff could play up well in shorter stints. If the club uses him next month and he performs well, a role change for the future could be in order, but at the very least he can help the bullpen stay fresh as the Braves chase a playoff berth.
Wil Myers, OF -- Kansas City Royals
Myers has done all a club can ask of a young hitter; he's produced at the two highest levels of the minors, done so consistently, versus righties and lefties alike, and has now battled through a bit of a slump.
After a stretch where he saw a steady diet of sliders and curveballs down and away that resulted in a lot of punch outs, Myers has responded to bat .294/.405/.412 with just eight strikeouts in his past 10 games, and has just 21 whiffs in August in 25 games played.
The Royals have nothing to lose, so expect Myers to get some at-bats in September, and don't be surprised if he never sees the minors again.
Wily Peralta and Tyler Thornburg, RHP -- Milwaukee Brewers
Peralta may profile best as a reliever, but has good stuff and misses bats despite well below average control, and along with Thornburg serves as the club's top MLB-ready option in the pitching department.
Thornburg, too, may be best suited for the bullpen, but both right-handers could see some time next month, though Peralta may be nearing his innings limit and has one start left for Triple-A Nashville.
The Brewers, if they summon either or both arms, are likely to use them as starters, getting their feet wet in the most valuable possible role for the future. And with Zack Greinke and Randy Wolf gone, and Shaun Marcum hurt and slated for free agency, the Brewers sorely need pitching.
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I don't mind watching games on ESPN. Watching them on TBS is boring, though. Once the playoffs start, it doesn't matter because I am watching games at a bar intoxicated.
That's if the Giants are playing.
Guess you will be drinking Odouls then.
Orioles' fans take shots now?
New world.
jumpmanfromdabay
Banned
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