Instead of going through games and what not, let's look at the stats and standings before the news and notes today.
Standings
-How about the Jays and Rays stickin it to the Red Sox and Yankees thus far this weekend. Baltimore looked good against Seattle yesterday, and they're off to a decent early start.
-Raise your hand if you predicted the Tigers would start the year 0-5. Now put your hand down, because you're lying. The lineup hasn't quite gotten up to speed, and the pitching of Robertson and Dontrelle Willis isn't gonna cut it in the AL. Sure he went hitless for a while but what's the point if you walk 7? If there's an overrated pitcher in baseball right now (not counting Barry Zito) it's the D-Train (wreck). The Royals have fallen back to earth a bit after sweeping said Tigers. Minnesota and Cleveland are middling a bit at the start.
-Nobody really standing out in the AL West with perhaps the exception of Texas, who had a solid week.
-The Mets have looked fantastic at times, but not today against Atlanta who will go nowhere with their bullpen play. The Phillies have also showed their weaknesses and deficencies, and the Nats and Fish are what they are.
-The Cardinals had a fantastic week pitching and are 4-1 to start. Milwaukee is off to a nice start while the Cubs and Astros not so hot thus far. The Reds have shown flashes of a surprise team under Dusty Baker.
-Jake Peavy had a fantastic week that has led the Padres to a 4-2 start. Hiroki Kuroda was phenomenal on Friday and if he can continue this, the Dodgers can be a threat in the west. The Giants and Rockies have started out slow.
This Week's Hot Starts
-Catchers lead both leagues in hitting. No April Fools, Ryan Doumit and AJ Pierzynski set the standards at .533 and .529 respectively. Fukudome and Kendall aren't too far behind. Chase Utley and Justin Upton both have 3 homers. Who knew that Livan Hernandez would have 2 wins so far? Jake Peavy has been wonderful thus far as well.
News & Rumors
-Miguel Olivo and Hideo Nomo (that's right) were brought up by the Royals. Scott Shields is off the DL, while Dioner Navarro, Chad Cordero, and Russ Springer were shelved. Brad Lidge and Jim Edmonds were also activated. Michael Cuddyer was placed on the DL and speedy prospect Denard Span will get his shot in the OF, he should get a chance way more than Craig Monroe.
-After Wes Helms was designated for assignment, the Dodgers and Giants are reportedly not interested. The Astros are guaging interest for C Humberto Quintero. (LA Times, San Jose Mercury News, Houston Chronicle)
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Saturday, April 5, 2008
Friday, April 4, 2008
Around The Majors- Friday
All the scores from today, a preview of tonight's action, the news and notes, and something that every Reds fan must see.
Day Games
-Who knew that Tigers and winless go in the same sentence, it must be since I picked them to win the World Series. AJ Pierzynski was out of his mind today, homering and driving in 5 as the White Sox trounced the 0-4 Tigers 8-5 at Comerica. AJ's 3 run blast off of loser Jason Grilli proved to be the winner, as Dotel, Linebrink, and Danks closed the door after another awful start from Jose Contreras. Pudge Rodriguez drove in a pair in the loss as Carlos Quentin also homered for Chicago.
-The Brewers home opener was a success as the jolted the Giants 13-4 at Miller Park. Johnathan Sanchez did his best Barry Zito impression (at a fraction of the price!), allowing 7 runs over 4 innings to take the loss. Bill Hall homered twice and drove in 6 in the Milwaukee win, as Prince Fielder drove in 3 while Gabe Kapler knocked home a pair. Bengie Molina homered for Frisco, who couldn't do much against winning pitcher Carlos Villanueva. Salmon Torres pitched the final 3 innings to exploit the rediculous loophole in the saves rule.
-Rich Hill and Chris Sampson put out good starts for Houston and the Cubs, but a two run 8th off of Jon Lieber gave the Astros a 4-3 win over Chicago at Wrigley. Houston took the lead in the 4th on a 2 run JR Towles blast, but the Cubs tied the game in the 7th on a two run Geovany Soto single. Go Catchers! But then Miguel Tejada went throwback and TRIPLED home Lance Berkman for the 3-2 lead and then scored on a Ty Wigginton sac fly for the 4th run that would hold up. Jose Valverde gave up a homer to Mark Derosa but still picked up the save. Arizona and Colorado are still in progress.
Friday Night Hardball
Washburn and Trachsel are the starters as Seattle plays Baltimore, as the game will go slower than a Friday at the office. Sonnanstine and Kennedy will pitch as the Yankees and Rays will be warned at the first hint of a beanball affair. Spikes up, everyone! Tim Wakefield will pitch for Boston in Toronto, Scott Baker goes for the Twins against the unbeaten Royals, and Texas takes on the Angels in LA. Paul Byrd takes the hill for Cleveland in Oakland. Kyle Kendrick makes his first start of the year against Cincinnati, Morris and Olsen go in Miami, and Tim Hudson faces John Maine as the Mets and Braves renew their rivalry from the Ted. Odalis Perez and Braden Looper pitch in the STL, and Hiroki Kuroda makes his big league debut as the Dodgers face Justin Germano and the Padres.
News & Notes
-Toronto has finalized Alex Rios' 6 year deal worth 64 million, and 2B Aaron Hill has signed a 4 year deal worth 12 million that could be worth 40 million if the team exercizes an insane number of options.
-Sidearming grandpa southpaw Randy Johnson allowed 5 runs in 4 innings for the AAA Tuscon Sidewinders in a loss. To put that in perspective, Bartolo Colon pitched 5 shuout innings for AAA Pawtucket, and even the lowly Kei Igawa pitched 6 perfect innings for AAA Scranton while striking out 7.
-I usually don't feel bad for people, but Mike Hampton is back on the DL again with a strained pectoral muscle and will find a way never to play again. Gary Sheffield has a torn tendon in one of the fingers on his right hand, and will try to play once the swelling goes down. Rondell White had a similar injury when he was on the Yankees and had an awful season, so I don't know how well Sheff will do this year. My thanks to Yanks broadcaster John Sterling, who brought this point up yesterday.
-Inside sources have told SprungOnSports that a pack of wild pigeons near Yankee stadium have attacked three school children ironically named Davida Ortiz, Margie Ramirez, and Joan Papelbon. Take that, Red Sox scum!!
Fantasy Spin
-Johnny Cueto has the chance to be a truly amazing pitcher, and could win NLROY. His awe inspiring 10 strikeout, 1 run performance over 7 innings wowed the baseball world. Should we be getting carried away in a whirlwind of hype? ESPN baseball genious Jerry Crasnick will take us on a literary journey for our answer:
"Let's see -- Johnny Cueto is a 5-foot-10 Dominican pitcher with electric stuff, excellent control and a real feel for pitching." Crasnick told SOS. "I see dozens of Pedro Martinez comparisons in his short-term future. The kid looks great, but maybe we should give him a month before we get too carried away."
But getting carried away is the most fun part about doing the fantasy spin? Reds fans have a big reason to get excited, as do Cueto owners, but perhaps we should take this one day (or start) at a time.
Day Games
-Who knew that Tigers and winless go in the same sentence, it must be since I picked them to win the World Series. AJ Pierzynski was out of his mind today, homering and driving in 5 as the White Sox trounced the 0-4 Tigers 8-5 at Comerica. AJ's 3 run blast off of loser Jason Grilli proved to be the winner, as Dotel, Linebrink, and Danks closed the door after another awful start from Jose Contreras. Pudge Rodriguez drove in a pair in the loss as Carlos Quentin also homered for Chicago.
-The Brewers home opener was a success as the jolted the Giants 13-4 at Miller Park. Johnathan Sanchez did his best Barry Zito impression (at a fraction of the price!), allowing 7 runs over 4 innings to take the loss. Bill Hall homered twice and drove in 6 in the Milwaukee win, as Prince Fielder drove in 3 while Gabe Kapler knocked home a pair. Bengie Molina homered for Frisco, who couldn't do much against winning pitcher Carlos Villanueva. Salmon Torres pitched the final 3 innings to exploit the rediculous loophole in the saves rule.
-Rich Hill and Chris Sampson put out good starts for Houston and the Cubs, but a two run 8th off of Jon Lieber gave the Astros a 4-3 win over Chicago at Wrigley. Houston took the lead in the 4th on a 2 run JR Towles blast, but the Cubs tied the game in the 7th on a two run Geovany Soto single. Go Catchers! But then Miguel Tejada went throwback and TRIPLED home Lance Berkman for the 3-2 lead and then scored on a Ty Wigginton sac fly for the 4th run that would hold up. Jose Valverde gave up a homer to Mark Derosa but still picked up the save. Arizona and Colorado are still in progress.
Friday Night Hardball
Washburn and Trachsel are the starters as Seattle plays Baltimore, as the game will go slower than a Friday at the office. Sonnanstine and Kennedy will pitch as the Yankees and Rays will be warned at the first hint of a beanball affair. Spikes up, everyone! Tim Wakefield will pitch for Boston in Toronto, Scott Baker goes for the Twins against the unbeaten Royals, and Texas takes on the Angels in LA. Paul Byrd takes the hill for Cleveland in Oakland. Kyle Kendrick makes his first start of the year against Cincinnati, Morris and Olsen go in Miami, and Tim Hudson faces John Maine as the Mets and Braves renew their rivalry from the Ted. Odalis Perez and Braden Looper pitch in the STL, and Hiroki Kuroda makes his big league debut as the Dodgers face Justin Germano and the Padres.
News & Notes
-Toronto has finalized Alex Rios' 6 year deal worth 64 million, and 2B Aaron Hill has signed a 4 year deal worth 12 million that could be worth 40 million if the team exercizes an insane number of options.
-Sidearming grandpa southpaw Randy Johnson allowed 5 runs in 4 innings for the AAA Tuscon Sidewinders in a loss. To put that in perspective, Bartolo Colon pitched 5 shuout innings for AAA Pawtucket, and even the lowly Kei Igawa pitched 6 perfect innings for AAA Scranton while striking out 7.
-I usually don't feel bad for people, but Mike Hampton is back on the DL again with a strained pectoral muscle and will find a way never to play again. Gary Sheffield has a torn tendon in one of the fingers on his right hand, and will try to play once the swelling goes down. Rondell White had a similar injury when he was on the Yankees and had an awful season, so I don't know how well Sheff will do this year. My thanks to Yanks broadcaster John Sterling, who brought this point up yesterday.
-Inside sources have told SprungOnSports that a pack of wild pigeons near Yankee stadium have attacked three school children ironically named Davida Ortiz, Margie Ramirez, and Joan Papelbon. Take that, Red Sox scum!!
Fantasy Spin
-Johnny Cueto has the chance to be a truly amazing pitcher, and could win NLROY. His awe inspiring 10 strikeout, 1 run performance over 7 innings wowed the baseball world. Should we be getting carried away in a whirlwind of hype? ESPN baseball genious Jerry Crasnick will take us on a literary journey for our answer:
"Let's see -- Johnny Cueto is a 5-foot-10 Dominican pitcher with electric stuff, excellent control and a real feel for pitching." Crasnick told SOS. "I see dozens of Pedro Martinez comparisons in his short-term future. The kid looks great, but maybe we should give him a month before we get too carried away."
But getting carried away is the most fun part about doing the fantasy spin? Reds fans have a big reason to get excited, as do Cueto owners, but perhaps we should take this one day (or start) at a time.
SprungOnSports Mailbag
Answering your comments from Sportingnews.com...
N.F.L. Rules Special
wiltfongjr Apr 03, 2008 01:43 PM
I wish the NFL would just make it so receivers only need 1 foot in bounds
-Here's where I vehemently disagree, Wiltfong. What separates the college from the pro game for receivers is the need to have one foot in bounds. It makes it more difficult for wideouts, and is a big reason as to why the NFL is such a step up. And the offense has enough advantages in this league from the pass interference, to the not being able to lay one finger on the QB without being called for roughing the passer. The feet and the forceout are two of the few rules the defense has going for them. Let's not turn this into the Arena League...
Favre_is_overrated_2007 Apr 03, 2008 02:29 PM
I wish the NFL would allow the receivers to be moving forward before the snap. Imagine what the yardage would like then.
-The offense has enough advantages in this league from the pass interference, to the not being able to lay one finger on the QB without being called for roughing the passer. The feet and the forceout are two of the few rules the defense has going for them. Let's not turn this into the Arena League...Hmm.
SpokaneOakfan Apr 03, 2008 05:42 PM
The hair thing isn't about No Fun.
A KC player tackled Polumalu by his long hair and got flagged for it. So the question is- if you had a player with Crystal Gayle hair, would he be untackle-able? The solution here is the high school rule- it's part of the uniform and you can and will be taken down by it.
-The Chiefs may be trying to get the rule for a specific case, but that's the main premise the other owners are going on, rather then an isolated incident. But your line of thinking is a valid one, if you're going to have hair that long you run the risk of having it pulled to the ground WWF style.
N.F.L. Rules Special
wiltfongjr Apr 03, 2008 01:43 PM
I wish the NFL would just make it so receivers only need 1 foot in bounds
-Here's where I vehemently disagree, Wiltfong. What separates the college from the pro game for receivers is the need to have one foot in bounds. It makes it more difficult for wideouts, and is a big reason as to why the NFL is such a step up. And the offense has enough advantages in this league from the pass interference, to the not being able to lay one finger on the QB without being called for roughing the passer. The feet and the forceout are two of the few rules the defense has going for them. Let's not turn this into the Arena League...
Favre_is_overrated_2007 Apr 03, 2008 02:29 PM
I wish the NFL would allow the receivers to be moving forward before the snap. Imagine what the yardage would like then.
-The offense has enough advantages in this league from the pass interference, to the not being able to lay one finger on the QB without being called for roughing the passer. The feet and the forceout are two of the few rules the defense has going for them. Let's not turn this into the Arena League...Hmm.
SpokaneOakfan Apr 03, 2008 05:42 PM
The hair thing isn't about No Fun.
A KC player tackled Polumalu by his long hair and got flagged for it. So the question is- if you had a player with Crystal Gayle hair, would he be untackle-able? The solution here is the high school rule- it's part of the uniform and you can and will be taken down by it.
-The Chiefs may be trying to get the rule for a specific case, but that's the main premise the other owners are going on, rather then an isolated incident. But your line of thinking is a valid one, if you're going to have hair that long you run the risk of having it pulled to the ground WWF style.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Around The Majors- Thursday
Today's games will be followed by the latest news and notes, and a look at AAA's opening day.
Today's Games
-Both John Danks and Jake Westbrook pitched well today, but a Joe Crede homer off of Westbrook in the 8th gave Chicago the lead, and then Linebrink and Jenks closed out a 2-1 White Sox win over the Indians. Juan Uribe also homered for the ChiSox, and Ryan Garko drove in the lone Cleveland run.
-Johnny Cueto's struck out 10 over 7 innings while allowing just one run as the Reds edged the Diamondbacks 3-2. Doug Davis allowed 3 runs and 6 walks in less than 4 innings of work, as Jeff Keppinger homered for Cincy. Justin Upton homered for Arizona, as Weathers, Lincoln, and Cordero closed the door for the Reds.
-The Royals are 3-0 after a 4-1 win over the Tigers. Zach Greinke allowed a run over 7 innings as Ramirez and Soria shut the door for the win. Alex Gordon and Mark Teahan homered for KC, as Brandon Inge went deep for the lone Tiger tally. Jeremy Bonderman took the loss for Detroit. -Washington blew 5-0 and 6-1 leads and lost in the 10th on a bases loaded walk to Jason Werth gave the Phillies an 8-7 win. Clay Condrey defeated Jesus Colome in the contest. Chris Coste homered for the Phillies, and Pedro Feliz drove in 2. Ronnie Belliard drove in a pair in the loss.
-Ervin Santana allowed 2 runs over 6 strong innings, as Matthews, Hunter, and Napoli all homered in a 5-4 Angels win over Minnesota. Joe Mauer homered and drove in 2 for the Twins as Oliver, Speier, and K-Rod closed out the win.
-Brad Thompson struck out 6 over 6 2/3 shutout innings as St Louis blanked Colorado 3-0. Ubaldo Jimenez took the loss for the Rox.
-The Cubs salvaged the last game of their series, defeating the Brewers 6-3. Ryan Dempster allowed just 2 runs over six innings, and Carlos Marmol and Kerry Wood shut the door on the win. Aramis Ramirez homered and Alfonso Soriano had 2 RBI for Chicago. Dave Bush gave up 6 runs over 5, and Prince Fielder drove in a pair for Milwaukee.
-Houston and San Diego are in progress...Toronto and the Yankees will play the rubber match of their 3 game set at 7 as Dustin McGowan matches up with Phil Hughes. Sonnanstine and Trachsel will go as Baltimore battles Tampa Bay. Mike Hampton makes his grand return against Zach Duke as Atlanta plays Pittsburgh.
News & Notes
-Jose Canseco has to watch his back. While in New York signing copies of his new book, MLB officials cornered the slimeball former big league star and questioned him on what he knew about players who used steroids. It's unknown why he was addressed now rather then the time of his first book. We'll see how this turns out, but it could end up juicy......Speaking of juicy, Cubs minor league pitcher Robert Hernandez was suspended 50 games for steroids. He was slated to start the season in Middle A Peoria.
-Houston signed LHP Tim Byrdak and assigned him to AAA Round Rock.
AAA Opening Day
-In the International League, Syracuse defeated Louisville 2-0. Jays prospect starter David Purcey outdueled Reds pitcher Homer Bailey as Adam Ling homered for the Chiefs. Rochester-Richmond, and Durham-Toldeo are in progress. Kei Igawa will pitch for AAA Scranton tonight as they face Lehigh Valley. Haeger and O'Connor go in Columbus, Laffey and Penn pitch in Norfolk, and Bartolo Colon will start tonight for Pawtucket in their game against Indianapolis.
Today's Games
-Both John Danks and Jake Westbrook pitched well today, but a Joe Crede homer off of Westbrook in the 8th gave Chicago the lead, and then Linebrink and Jenks closed out a 2-1 White Sox win over the Indians. Juan Uribe also homered for the ChiSox, and Ryan Garko drove in the lone Cleveland run.
-Johnny Cueto's struck out 10 over 7 innings while allowing just one run as the Reds edged the Diamondbacks 3-2. Doug Davis allowed 3 runs and 6 walks in less than 4 innings of work, as Jeff Keppinger homered for Cincy. Justin Upton homered for Arizona, as Weathers, Lincoln, and Cordero closed the door for the Reds.
-The Royals are 3-0 after a 4-1 win over the Tigers. Zach Greinke allowed a run over 7 innings as Ramirez and Soria shut the door for the win. Alex Gordon and Mark Teahan homered for KC, as Brandon Inge went deep for the lone Tiger tally. Jeremy Bonderman took the loss for Detroit. -Washington blew 5-0 and 6-1 leads and lost in the 10th on a bases loaded walk to Jason Werth gave the Phillies an 8-7 win. Clay Condrey defeated Jesus Colome in the contest. Chris Coste homered for the Phillies, and Pedro Feliz drove in 2. Ronnie Belliard drove in a pair in the loss.
-Ervin Santana allowed 2 runs over 6 strong innings, as Matthews, Hunter, and Napoli all homered in a 5-4 Angels win over Minnesota. Joe Mauer homered and drove in 2 for the Twins as Oliver, Speier, and K-Rod closed out the win.
-Brad Thompson struck out 6 over 6 2/3 shutout innings as St Louis blanked Colorado 3-0. Ubaldo Jimenez took the loss for the Rox.
-The Cubs salvaged the last game of their series, defeating the Brewers 6-3. Ryan Dempster allowed just 2 runs over six innings, and Carlos Marmol and Kerry Wood shut the door on the win. Aramis Ramirez homered and Alfonso Soriano had 2 RBI for Chicago. Dave Bush gave up 6 runs over 5, and Prince Fielder drove in a pair for Milwaukee.
-Houston and San Diego are in progress...Toronto and the Yankees will play the rubber match of their 3 game set at 7 as Dustin McGowan matches up with Phil Hughes. Sonnanstine and Trachsel will go as Baltimore battles Tampa Bay. Mike Hampton makes his grand return against Zach Duke as Atlanta plays Pittsburgh.
News & Notes
-Jose Canseco has to watch his back. While in New York signing copies of his new book, MLB officials cornered the slimeball former big league star and questioned him on what he knew about players who used steroids. It's unknown why he was addressed now rather then the time of his first book. We'll see how this turns out, but it could end up juicy......Speaking of juicy, Cubs minor league pitcher Robert Hernandez was suspended 50 games for steroids. He was slated to start the season in Middle A Peoria.
-Houston signed LHP Tim Byrdak and assigned him to AAA Round Rock.
AAA Opening Day
-In the International League, Syracuse defeated Louisville 2-0. Jays prospect starter David Purcey outdueled Reds pitcher Homer Bailey as Adam Ling homered for the Chiefs. Rochester-Richmond, and Durham-Toldeo are in progress. Kei Igawa will pitch for AAA Scranton tonight as they face Lehigh Valley. Haeger and O'Connor go in Columbus, Laffey and Penn pitch in Norfolk, and Bartolo Colon will start tonight for Pawtucket in their game against Indianapolis.
N.F.L. Rules Special
The owners meetings took place this week, and some rules were changed while others were either shot down or tabled for the next set of meetings in May. One tabled proposal that I'm glad was shot down was the potential reseeding of the playoffs so that Wild Card teams could get home games if they finish with a better record than a division winner. Some will argue that this is good to reward regular season play, but it didn't go over too well with enough owners. "This idea we wanted to push this year to get the discussion going," Said Falcons executive and Competition Committe co-chair Rich McKay. "There were not a lot of hands up, so we withdrew the proposal for now." I believe that teams which won their division should be rewarded with a home game in the playoffs like hockey, baseball, and basketball do. "I do believe if you win a division, it's good for your fans to know you will have a home game," Patriots owner Robert Kraft said. "To win a division, there is a reward and we wanted to keep that." I agree with Kraft's statement completely.
Forceouts have always been one of the most subjective, judgemental calls in the game and now thankfully it'll be eliminated. The rule made it tougher on referees and on defenders who had to worry about whether the receiver would have came down with the ball or not. We don't live in a would have rule, now it's whether he had two feet inbounds or not, and if the wideout was pushed out of the play then call a pass interference. But thank you to the leaugue for eliminating this forceout garbage. In a game so tough for referees, it's nice to see them finally get a break.
In the "Phil Dawson Rule" refs can now review certain field goals on whether it was good or not. I don't see how anyone could argue against this, unless you don't want the right calls to always be made. Deferring on the coin toss will now be instituted in the pro game just like it is in college. For those not familiar with this, not only can a team choose to kick or receive, they can let the other team choose and just pick a side. Titans coach Jeff Fisher said that this could become a large factor in the later, colder months where wind and snow or rain could make one side of the field more advantageous over the other, and the winner of the flip would now get to benefit from that. No more incidental face mask penalties, now only the 15 yarder, which could get a bit dicy towards the beginning of the year while refs adjust to this. I agree with the ruling, it'll just take some time to iron out the potential deficiencies in my mind. And the hair rule was so rediculous, let's keep some expression in this No Fun League. First excessive celebrations, and now excessive hair length? Soon there will be excessive smiling, or way too many fancy plays. C'mon, have a little bit of energy. So this was a recap of the rule changes, more football talk will emerge as the draft quickly (and quietly) approaches
Forceouts have always been one of the most subjective, judgemental calls in the game and now thankfully it'll be eliminated. The rule made it tougher on referees and on defenders who had to worry about whether the receiver would have came down with the ball or not. We don't live in a would have rule, now it's whether he had two feet inbounds or not, and if the wideout was pushed out of the play then call a pass interference. But thank you to the leaugue for eliminating this forceout garbage. In a game so tough for referees, it's nice to see them finally get a break.
In the "Phil Dawson Rule" refs can now review certain field goals on whether it was good or not. I don't see how anyone could argue against this, unless you don't want the right calls to always be made. Deferring on the coin toss will now be instituted in the pro game just like it is in college. For those not familiar with this, not only can a team choose to kick or receive, they can let the other team choose and just pick a side. Titans coach Jeff Fisher said that this could become a large factor in the later, colder months where wind and snow or rain could make one side of the field more advantageous over the other, and the winner of the flip would now get to benefit from that. No more incidental face mask penalties, now only the 15 yarder, which could get a bit dicy towards the beginning of the year while refs adjust to this. I agree with the ruling, it'll just take some time to iron out the potential deficiencies in my mind. And the hair rule was so rediculous, let's keep some expression in this No Fun League. First excessive celebrations, and now excessive hair length? Soon there will be excessive smiling, or way too many fancy plays. C'mon, have a little bit of energy. So this was a recap of the rule changes, more football talk will emerge as the draft quickly (and quietly) approaches
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Around The Majors- Wednesday
More of the same from yesterday with last night's games, some day baseball (the savior of midweek boredom), today's Fantasy Spin, news and notes, and finally concluding with a preview of tonight's action.
Last Night
-Joe Girardi's Yankees managerial debut began successfully as Chien-Ming Wang allowed 2 runs over 7 innings, outdueling Roy Halladay in a 3-2 win over Toronto. Melky Cabrera homered in the win, as Chamberlain and Rivers closed out the Jays for the win.
-The evening started poorly for the Mets, and ended that way as a Robert Andino homer (his first as a big leaguer) in the 10th off of Matt Wise gave Florida a 5-4 win. Starter Pedro Martinez left in the 4th inning with a strained hamstring, but not before giving up 4 runs in his first 2 innings and allowing homers in the first two frames (to Dan Uggla and Luis Gonzalez) for the first time in his career. The Mets battled back with 3 in the 4th and 1 in the 5th to tie the score and then the bullpens brought the game to the 10th where Andino won it for the Fish. Angel Pagan drove in 2 in the Met loss.
-Jon Garland allowed just 1 run over 8 innings as the Angels toasted the Twins 9-1. Boof Bonser pitched well, but took the loss as Vladimir Guerrero drove in 3 for the Halos. Garrett Anderson and Maicer Izturis each drove in 2 in the victory.
-The Rockies and Cardinals finally got a game in this season, and it didn't disappoint. A Yadier Molina homer in the 5th gave St Louis a 1-0 lead going to the 8th, where a Matt Holliday fielder's choice scored a run to tie it, and a walk to Jayson Nix by loser Ryan Franklin gave Colorado a 2-1 lead they wouldn't relinquish. Taylor Buchholz got the win for the Rox, and Fuentes and Corpas closed the game out. The starters, Kip Wells and Kyle Lohse both had good outings.
-Boston and Oakland resumed their series with Dice-K and Blanton both pitching good games, but the Red Sox came out on top with a 2-1 decision. A Jack Cust homer off Dice-K gave Oakland the lead, but an RBI single by Ellsbury in the 5th and a run scoring double by Jason Varitek in the 6th gave Okajima and Papelbon enough support to secure the win.
-In another tight contest from Petco, San Diego scored 2 in the 4th on a Scott Hairston home run which was enough to defeat Houston 2-1. Chris Young's only allowed run was a bases loaded walk to Michael Bourn, and the team of Thatcher, Meredith, Bell, and Hoffman closed it out for the Padres. Brandon Backe allowed the 2 runs over 5 innings in defeat.
-It was a wild one in Seattle as a Josh Hamilton homer off of JJ Putz in the 9th gave Texas a 5-4 win over the homestanding Mariners. Vicente Padilla and Felix Hernandez both spun good games, but the Rangers started the madness in the 8th by scoring twice off of Eric O'Flaherty. Seattle then scored three times in the bottom half on an Ian Kinsler error and a Joaquin Benoit wild pitch. Putz was then summoned to quell the hysteria, but the two run Hamilton dinger gave Texas the lead, and then CJ Wilson pitched the 9th to close it out.
-Matt Cain threw 5 and 2/3 scoreless but couldn't earn the win. Derek Lowe was masterful until the 7th where he walked in a run and then allowed an RBI single to Eugenio Velez. LA then scored twice in the bottom half on a Rafael Furcal single, and won it off Keichi Yabu in the 9th. Takashi Saito picked up the win for the Dodgers.
Day Games
-Brian Bannister threw 7 scoreless innings of 2 hit ball as the Royals shut out the Tigers 4-0. Kenny Rogers allowed 2 runs over 6 innings to take the loss. Billy Butler drove in 2 for KC and Nunez and Soria pitched the final 2 frames to preserve the shutout.
-Ted Lilly allowed 4 runs in 4 2/3 as the Brewers canned the Cubs 8-2 in Wrigley. Jason Kendall had 2 RBI and a steal for Milwaukee, Rickie Weeks homered to lead off the game, and Corey Hart stole 2nd and 3rd in the same inning for the Brewers. Jeff Suppan threw 6 solid innings for the win.
-Bottom of the 9th in Boston, as Jon Lester and the Red Sox hold a 5-0 lead over Oakland.
News & Notes
-Pedro Martinez will go on the 15 day DL with his hurt hamstring and could be out 4-6 weeks according to Peter Gammons.
-Dodgers 3B coach Larry Bowa has been suspended 3 games for arguing a call last night.
-Carlos Zambrano left his start on Monday due to a cramp caused by low potassium. He should be fine, as Lou Piniella told MLB.com. Sources told SprungOnSports that Cubs fans are starting a banana drive so that Z can stay healthy.
-Jorge Posada will be scratched from tonight's Yankees-Jays game due to a sore shoulder, according to ESPN Radio in New York. Jose Molina will start and bat 8th.
Fantasy Spin
-After hitting a big homer in his first big league game, Cubs OF Kosuke Fukudome is being hyped like crazy. I asked Baseball America's Jim Callis on what should be expected from the Japanese sensation:
"Good player, I see him more as .280 with a good OBP and 15-20 HR." So fantasy owners shouldn't go overboard, but Cubs fans should be happy with what he brings to the table. ESPN fantasy writer Jason Grey said that he should hit around 15 homers with a lot of doubles, a good OBP, and plus defense.
-Grey also talked with SOS about Royals closer Joakim Soria, who struck out the side today and earned a save in Monday's win over Detroit. Grey said that he's "As underappeciated as any closer in the game." So try to get him on the cheap as he's highly recommended by yours truly.
Wednesday Night Preview
AJ Burnett and Mike Mussina face off as Toronto and New York go at it at 7pm on ESPN2. Other notable matchups includes Carmona and Vazquez in Chicago, Haren and Arroyo in the 'Natti, and Lincecum-Billingsley in LA
Last Night
-Joe Girardi's Yankees managerial debut began successfully as Chien-Ming Wang allowed 2 runs over 7 innings, outdueling Roy Halladay in a 3-2 win over Toronto. Melky Cabrera homered in the win, as Chamberlain and Rivers closed out the Jays for the win.
-The evening started poorly for the Mets, and ended that way as a Robert Andino homer (his first as a big leaguer) in the 10th off of Matt Wise gave Florida a 5-4 win. Starter Pedro Martinez left in the 4th inning with a strained hamstring, but not before giving up 4 runs in his first 2 innings and allowing homers in the first two frames (to Dan Uggla and Luis Gonzalez) for the first time in his career. The Mets battled back with 3 in the 4th and 1 in the 5th to tie the score and then the bullpens brought the game to the 10th where Andino won it for the Fish. Angel Pagan drove in 2 in the Met loss.
-Jon Garland allowed just 1 run over 8 innings as the Angels toasted the Twins 9-1. Boof Bonser pitched well, but took the loss as Vladimir Guerrero drove in 3 for the Halos. Garrett Anderson and Maicer Izturis each drove in 2 in the victory.
-The Rockies and Cardinals finally got a game in this season, and it didn't disappoint. A Yadier Molina homer in the 5th gave St Louis a 1-0 lead going to the 8th, where a Matt Holliday fielder's choice scored a run to tie it, and a walk to Jayson Nix by loser Ryan Franklin gave Colorado a 2-1 lead they wouldn't relinquish. Taylor Buchholz got the win for the Rox, and Fuentes and Corpas closed the game out. The starters, Kip Wells and Kyle Lohse both had good outings.
-Boston and Oakland resumed their series with Dice-K and Blanton both pitching good games, but the Red Sox came out on top with a 2-1 decision. A Jack Cust homer off Dice-K gave Oakland the lead, but an RBI single by Ellsbury in the 5th and a run scoring double by Jason Varitek in the 6th gave Okajima and Papelbon enough support to secure the win.
-In another tight contest from Petco, San Diego scored 2 in the 4th on a Scott Hairston home run which was enough to defeat Houston 2-1. Chris Young's only allowed run was a bases loaded walk to Michael Bourn, and the team of Thatcher, Meredith, Bell, and Hoffman closed it out for the Padres. Brandon Backe allowed the 2 runs over 5 innings in defeat.
-It was a wild one in Seattle as a Josh Hamilton homer off of JJ Putz in the 9th gave Texas a 5-4 win over the homestanding Mariners. Vicente Padilla and Felix Hernandez both spun good games, but the Rangers started the madness in the 8th by scoring twice off of Eric O'Flaherty. Seattle then scored three times in the bottom half on an Ian Kinsler error and a Joaquin Benoit wild pitch. Putz was then summoned to quell the hysteria, but the two run Hamilton dinger gave Texas the lead, and then CJ Wilson pitched the 9th to close it out.
-Matt Cain threw 5 and 2/3 scoreless but couldn't earn the win. Derek Lowe was masterful until the 7th where he walked in a run and then allowed an RBI single to Eugenio Velez. LA then scored twice in the bottom half on a Rafael Furcal single, and won it off Keichi Yabu in the 9th. Takashi Saito picked up the win for the Dodgers.
Day Games
-Brian Bannister threw 7 scoreless innings of 2 hit ball as the Royals shut out the Tigers 4-0. Kenny Rogers allowed 2 runs over 6 innings to take the loss. Billy Butler drove in 2 for KC and Nunez and Soria pitched the final 2 frames to preserve the shutout.
-Ted Lilly allowed 4 runs in 4 2/3 as the Brewers canned the Cubs 8-2 in Wrigley. Jason Kendall had 2 RBI and a steal for Milwaukee, Rickie Weeks homered to lead off the game, and Corey Hart stole 2nd and 3rd in the same inning for the Brewers. Jeff Suppan threw 6 solid innings for the win.
-Bottom of the 9th in Boston, as Jon Lester and the Red Sox hold a 5-0 lead over Oakland.
News & Notes
-Pedro Martinez will go on the 15 day DL with his hurt hamstring and could be out 4-6 weeks according to Peter Gammons.
-Dodgers 3B coach Larry Bowa has been suspended 3 games for arguing a call last night.
-Carlos Zambrano left his start on Monday due to a cramp caused by low potassium. He should be fine, as Lou Piniella told MLB.com. Sources told SprungOnSports that Cubs fans are starting a banana drive so that Z can stay healthy.
-Jorge Posada will be scratched from tonight's Yankees-Jays game due to a sore shoulder, according to ESPN Radio in New York. Jose Molina will start and bat 8th.
Fantasy Spin
-After hitting a big homer in his first big league game, Cubs OF Kosuke Fukudome is being hyped like crazy. I asked Baseball America's Jim Callis on what should be expected from the Japanese sensation:
"Good player, I see him more as .280 with a good OBP and 15-20 HR." So fantasy owners shouldn't go overboard, but Cubs fans should be happy with what he brings to the table. ESPN fantasy writer Jason Grey said that he should hit around 15 homers with a lot of doubles, a good OBP, and plus defense.
-Grey also talked with SOS about Royals closer Joakim Soria, who struck out the side today and earned a save in Monday's win over Detroit. Grey said that he's "As underappeciated as any closer in the game." So try to get him on the cheap as he's highly recommended by yours truly.
Wednesday Night Preview
AJ Burnett and Mike Mussina face off as Toronto and New York go at it at 7pm on ESPN2. Other notable matchups includes Carmona and Vazquez in Chicago, Haren and Arroyo in the 'Natti, and Lincecum-Billingsley in LA
N.B.A. Today
Scores, standings, news, and rumors are all here and now on Today.
Last Night
-Six late Peja Stojakovic points led New Orleans past Orlando 98-97 to keep the top spot in the west. Chris Paul led 5 players in double figures for the Hornets with 19 points and 12 dimes, and David West had 18 points and 12 boards. Hedo Turkoglu led the Magic with 26, who are pretty much entrenched as the 3rd seed in the east.
-Philadelphia dealt New Jersey a tough blow to their playoff hopes with a 108-99 win at the Izod Center. Andre Miller led the Sixers with 24 points and 11 assists while Vince Carter had 29 in the Nets loss. New Jersey is now 3.5 games behind Atlanta for the final playoff spot. It doesn't look good with 7 games left. The Sixers are in 7th place, a half game out of the 6th spot.
-Milwaukee continued the Knicks' woes, defeating them 119-115 in OT. Michael Redd had 36 to lead all scorers, while Quentin Richardson paced New York with 22.
-Detroit will likely finish with the east's 2nd seed barring a Boston collapse after the Pistons won in Minnesota 94-90 behind 27 from rookie Rodney Stuckey. Al Jefferson had 26 in the Wolves loss as they fell to 19-54.
-Chicago can now be counted out of the playoff picture after a 104-92 home loss to the Celtics. Ray Allen had 22 for Boston, while Kevin Garnett had 20 in the win. Tyrus Thomas led all scorers with 24.
-San Antonio remains tied atop the west as they defeated Golden State 116-92 at the AT&T Center. Tony Parker led all scorers with 26 for the Spurs who are percentage points behind New Orleans. Baron Davis had 19 for the Warriors, who sit a half game behind Denver for 8th in the west and just a full game shy of Dallas for the 7th position.
-Denver stayed on the right side of the playoff picture after a 126-120 win over Phoenix at the Pepsi Center. Allen Iverson led the Nuggets with 31 as Carmelo Anthony had 25 in the win. The Suns were led by Leandro Barbosa's 27, and stand in 5th position a half game clear of Houston who is in 6th and a half game behind the 3rd place Lakers in the division race.
-Houston remains in 6th after losing a tough 99-98 decision in Sacramento. Ron Artest had 30 ti lead the Kings, while Tracy McGrady led all scorers with 32 for the Rockets.
News & Rumors
-The Memphis Commerical Appeal reports that the Grizzlies could fire head coach Marc Iavaroni after just one season on the job.
-Despite the Hawks being in the 8th spot in the east playoffs for now, head coach Mike Woodson and GM Billy Knight may not be safe, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
-Sam Vincent is safe in Charlotte, says their local Observer.
-Bobby Jones suited up and played for the Spurs last night, making that the 5th team he's played for this season. That, folks is an NBA record.
-Ron Artest probably won't leave Sacramento after this season, DeSagana Diop remains happy as a Net, and Zach Randolph wouldn't be shocked if he were traded this summer. (Sacramento Bee, Newark Star-Ledger, Newsday)
-Eric Gordon will decide Friday if he will declare for the NBA Draft, says the Indianapolis Star.
-The Knicks will announce Donnie Walsh as their new president today. This confirms the rumors that the franchise really is on a 7 day delay from the rest of the world.
Wednesday Notables
Indiana remains 3 games out of the final spot in the east, they need a win in Botson (7pm ESPN) to stay in it. The Celtics can clinch the top spot in the conference with a win. Atlanta will host Toronto at the same time. Golden State can tie Dallas this evening for the 7th spot in the west (9:30pm ESPN) and perhaps push Denver out of the playoffs altogether.
Last Night
-Six late Peja Stojakovic points led New Orleans past Orlando 98-97 to keep the top spot in the west. Chris Paul led 5 players in double figures for the Hornets with 19 points and 12 dimes, and David West had 18 points and 12 boards. Hedo Turkoglu led the Magic with 26, who are pretty much entrenched as the 3rd seed in the east.
-Philadelphia dealt New Jersey a tough blow to their playoff hopes with a 108-99 win at the Izod Center. Andre Miller led the Sixers with 24 points and 11 assists while Vince Carter had 29 in the Nets loss. New Jersey is now 3.5 games behind Atlanta for the final playoff spot. It doesn't look good with 7 games left. The Sixers are in 7th place, a half game out of the 6th spot.
-Milwaukee continued the Knicks' woes, defeating them 119-115 in OT. Michael Redd had 36 to lead all scorers, while Quentin Richardson paced New York with 22.
-Detroit will likely finish with the east's 2nd seed barring a Boston collapse after the Pistons won in Minnesota 94-90 behind 27 from rookie Rodney Stuckey. Al Jefferson had 26 in the Wolves loss as they fell to 19-54.
-Chicago can now be counted out of the playoff picture after a 104-92 home loss to the Celtics. Ray Allen had 22 for Boston, while Kevin Garnett had 20 in the win. Tyrus Thomas led all scorers with 24.
-San Antonio remains tied atop the west as they defeated Golden State 116-92 at the AT&T Center. Tony Parker led all scorers with 26 for the Spurs who are percentage points behind New Orleans. Baron Davis had 19 for the Warriors, who sit a half game behind Denver for 8th in the west and just a full game shy of Dallas for the 7th position.
-Denver stayed on the right side of the playoff picture after a 126-120 win over Phoenix at the Pepsi Center. Allen Iverson led the Nuggets with 31 as Carmelo Anthony had 25 in the win. The Suns were led by Leandro Barbosa's 27, and stand in 5th position a half game clear of Houston who is in 6th and a half game behind the 3rd place Lakers in the division race.
-Houston remains in 6th after losing a tough 99-98 decision in Sacramento. Ron Artest had 30 ti lead the Kings, while Tracy McGrady led all scorers with 32 for the Rockets.
News & Rumors
-The Memphis Commerical Appeal reports that the Grizzlies could fire head coach Marc Iavaroni after just one season on the job.
-Despite the Hawks being in the 8th spot in the east playoffs for now, head coach Mike Woodson and GM Billy Knight may not be safe, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
-Sam Vincent is safe in Charlotte, says their local Observer.
-Bobby Jones suited up and played for the Spurs last night, making that the 5th team he's played for this season. That, folks is an NBA record.
-Ron Artest probably won't leave Sacramento after this season, DeSagana Diop remains happy as a Net, and Zach Randolph wouldn't be shocked if he were traded this summer. (Sacramento Bee, Newark Star-Ledger, Newsday)
-Eric Gordon will decide Friday if he will declare for the NBA Draft, says the Indianapolis Star.
-The Knicks will announce Donnie Walsh as their new president today. This confirms the rumors that the franchise really is on a 7 day delay from the rest of the world.
Wednesday Notables
Indiana remains 3 games out of the final spot in the east, they need a win in Botson (7pm ESPN) to stay in it. The Celtics can clinch the top spot in the conference with a win. Atlanta will host Toronto at the same time. Golden State can tie Dallas this evening for the 7th spot in the west (9:30pm ESPN) and perhaps push Denver out of the playoffs altogether.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Around The Majors- Tuesday
Opening Day may be over for most teams in baseball, but not for all of them. I'll go through yesterday's night action, and preview today's games with the latest news and the fantasy spin of the day.
Last Night
-There were a lot of unexpected things going on between the Mariners and Rangers. Erik Bedard walked 4 in his 5 innings of work, Ichiro went hitless, and Kevin Millwood pitched six scoreless innings and lost. Jose Lopez drove in 2 for Seattle and JJ Putz closed the door on the 5-2 win from Arlington. Michael Young homered off Bedard in the first for Texas.
-For all the haters of Livan Hernandez, they were left a bit speechless after yesterday. The new Twin allowed just 2 runs over 7 innings as rookie Carlos Gomez had 2 hits, 2 runs, and 2 steals in a 3-2 win over the Angels. Jered Weaver allowed 3 runs over 6 and 1/3 frames for the loss, as Howie Kendrick had 2 hits and an RBI for LA. Pat Neshek struck out the side in the 8th, and Joe Nathan pitched the 9th for the save.
-It was a wild one at the Ted last night. Long after Ian Snell and Tom Glavine put out good efforts on the hill, the Pirates scored 4 times in the 8th and once in the 9th to take a 9-4 lead. Then Atlanta scored 5 times in the 9th off of Damaso Marte and closer Matt Capps to tie the game at 9. They then went to the 12th inning where Xavier Nady hit a 3 run bomb (his 2nd of the game) off of loser Blaine Boyer to give the Pirates a 12-9 cushion. Then Jeff Francouer homered to make it 12-10 and an RBI single by Mark Kotsay made it 12-11 before Pittsburgh finally got the final out to preserve the win. Nady and Nate McLouth each drove in 4 (McLouth also homered), and Escobar, Jones, and McCann each drove in 3 for the Braves. Atlanta's bullpen has to find a way to stop teams after their offense kept them in the game again with a 9th inning rally.
-Jake Peavy allowed no runs on 3 hits in 7 innings and had 2 RBI as the Padres blanked the Astros 4-0. Roy Oswalt allowed 11 hits for Houston but amazingly gave up only 3 runs in his 5 and 1/3 of work. Michael Bourn stole 2 bags for Houston.
Fantasy Spin
Three prominent players from last night's action; Carlos Gomez, Nate McLouth, and Michael Bourn are the subjects of today's Spin. All three are great assets in H2H leagues because of their speed, but which one is better? The one who can contribute in more than one category. ESPN Fantasy writer AJ Mass says that Pittsburgh's young OF is his man for the job: "McLouth over Gomez... due to his not being a one-cat wonder." Mass said, most likely referring to McLouth's homer last night. "I think I'd go Bourn over Gomez as well - I expect a better SB/AB rate for Bourn." As shown last night, Bourn will go almost whenever he gets on base, which will mean a lot of swiped bags if he improves his overall OBP. Another ESPN writer, Matthew Berry said that he thinks Bourn could steal over 60 bases this year. While Gomez and Bourn may only give you steals, McLouth is better than the two because he can help you out in other areas.
News & Notes
-Moises Alou said that he wouldn't have been able to catch the Bartman Ball even if the now infamous Cubs fan hadn't caught the ball. Wait...now who are they gonna blame? It looks like the 100 year old Scapegoat never gets a break. From farm fodder to Kerry Wood yesterday, it looks like the same Old Style for the Cubbies.
-The average big league salary is now over 3 million dollars, and somehow there was some sort of revelation that A-Rod makes more than the Marlins. In a sad and horrifying truth to Yankee fans, GM Brian Cashman made this astute point about the Marlins:
"They've won a championship more recently than we have as an organization. So there's many different ways to skin a cat,"
Cue the laugh track and a "ha-ha" from Nelson Muntz.
-Philadelphia has signed Olmedo Saenz off of waivers, perhaps more proof that the team wants to trade Wes Helms for relief pitching. God knows they need it. Someone who immediately comes to mind is Mike Stanton. Even if you just laughed at that notion, he can't do much worse than Tom Gordon, right? (insert truthful sounding reassurance to Phillies fans here)
-The Indians are being very secretive about Victor Martinez's injury, more on it as it becomes available. Kelly Shoppach would receive time in his absence.
-Bartolo Colon will start on Opening Day for the Red Sox in 2008, the AAA Pawtucket Red Sox. The former Cy Young award winner makes his start on Thursday. Where's Nelson?
Tuesday Night Preview
The Yankees will try again to start their season at 7 as Chien-Ming Wang and Roy Halladay go at it in The Bronx. The Mets send Pedro Martinez to the hill in Miami at 7 against the Marlins dynamic 2nd starter Rick VandenHurk. Two 8pm games include John Garlans and the Angels facing Boof Bonser and Minnesota and Colorado and St Louis opening the season for real now as Kyle Lohse faces Kip Wells in a battle from the scrap heap. There are four 10pm games today, including Boston and Oakland renewing their series from Cali as Blanton again faces Matsuzaka. Felix Hernandez takes the hill for Seattle as they play Padilla and Texas, Brandon Backe and Chris Young go in San Diego, and Cain-Lowe is the matchup as the Giants battle the rival Dodgers.
Last Night
-There were a lot of unexpected things going on between the Mariners and Rangers. Erik Bedard walked 4 in his 5 innings of work, Ichiro went hitless, and Kevin Millwood pitched six scoreless innings and lost. Jose Lopez drove in 2 for Seattle and JJ Putz closed the door on the 5-2 win from Arlington. Michael Young homered off Bedard in the first for Texas.
-For all the haters of Livan Hernandez, they were left a bit speechless after yesterday. The new Twin allowed just 2 runs over 7 innings as rookie Carlos Gomez had 2 hits, 2 runs, and 2 steals in a 3-2 win over the Angels. Jered Weaver allowed 3 runs over 6 and 1/3 frames for the loss, as Howie Kendrick had 2 hits and an RBI for LA. Pat Neshek struck out the side in the 8th, and Joe Nathan pitched the 9th for the save.
-It was a wild one at the Ted last night. Long after Ian Snell and Tom Glavine put out good efforts on the hill, the Pirates scored 4 times in the 8th and once in the 9th to take a 9-4 lead. Then Atlanta scored 5 times in the 9th off of Damaso Marte and closer Matt Capps to tie the game at 9. They then went to the 12th inning where Xavier Nady hit a 3 run bomb (his 2nd of the game) off of loser Blaine Boyer to give the Pirates a 12-9 cushion. Then Jeff Francouer homered to make it 12-10 and an RBI single by Mark Kotsay made it 12-11 before Pittsburgh finally got the final out to preserve the win. Nady and Nate McLouth each drove in 4 (McLouth also homered), and Escobar, Jones, and McCann each drove in 3 for the Braves. Atlanta's bullpen has to find a way to stop teams after their offense kept them in the game again with a 9th inning rally.
-Jake Peavy allowed no runs on 3 hits in 7 innings and had 2 RBI as the Padres blanked the Astros 4-0. Roy Oswalt allowed 11 hits for Houston but amazingly gave up only 3 runs in his 5 and 1/3 of work. Michael Bourn stole 2 bags for Houston.
Fantasy Spin
Three prominent players from last night's action; Carlos Gomez, Nate McLouth, and Michael Bourn are the subjects of today's Spin. All three are great assets in H2H leagues because of their speed, but which one is better? The one who can contribute in more than one category. ESPN Fantasy writer AJ Mass says that Pittsburgh's young OF is his man for the job: "McLouth over Gomez... due to his not being a one-cat wonder." Mass said, most likely referring to McLouth's homer last night. "I think I'd go Bourn over Gomez as well - I expect a better SB/AB rate for Bourn." As shown last night, Bourn will go almost whenever he gets on base, which will mean a lot of swiped bags if he improves his overall OBP. Another ESPN writer, Matthew Berry said that he thinks Bourn could steal over 60 bases this year. While Gomez and Bourn may only give you steals, McLouth is better than the two because he can help you out in other areas.
News & Notes
-Moises Alou said that he wouldn't have been able to catch the Bartman Ball even if the now infamous Cubs fan hadn't caught the ball. Wait...now who are they gonna blame? It looks like the 100 year old Scapegoat never gets a break. From farm fodder to Kerry Wood yesterday, it looks like the same Old Style for the Cubbies.
-The average big league salary is now over 3 million dollars, and somehow there was some sort of revelation that A-Rod makes more than the Marlins. In a sad and horrifying truth to Yankee fans, GM Brian Cashman made this astute point about the Marlins:
"They've won a championship more recently than we have as an organization. So there's many different ways to skin a cat,"
Cue the laugh track and a "ha-ha" from Nelson Muntz.
-Philadelphia has signed Olmedo Saenz off of waivers, perhaps more proof that the team wants to trade Wes Helms for relief pitching. God knows they need it. Someone who immediately comes to mind is Mike Stanton. Even if you just laughed at that notion, he can't do much worse than Tom Gordon, right? (insert truthful sounding reassurance to Phillies fans here)
-The Indians are being very secretive about Victor Martinez's injury, more on it as it becomes available. Kelly Shoppach would receive time in his absence.
-Bartolo Colon will start on Opening Day for the Red Sox in 2008, the AAA Pawtucket Red Sox. The former Cy Young award winner makes his start on Thursday. Where's Nelson?
Tuesday Night Preview
The Yankees will try again to start their season at 7 as Chien-Ming Wang and Roy Halladay go at it in The Bronx. The Mets send Pedro Martinez to the hill in Miami at 7 against the Marlins dynamic 2nd starter Rick VandenHurk. Two 8pm games include John Garlans and the Angels facing Boof Bonser and Minnesota and Colorado and St Louis opening the season for real now as Kyle Lohse faces Kip Wells in a battle from the scrap heap. There are four 10pm games today, including Boston and Oakland renewing their series from Cali as Blanton again faces Matsuzaka. Felix Hernandez takes the hill for Seattle as they play Padilla and Texas, Brandon Backe and Chris Young go in San Diego, and Cain-Lowe is the matchup as the Giants battle the rival Dodgers.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Around The Majors- Opening Day Preview
In just a small taste of what Opening Day could be like, Nationals Park opened up in grand style last night on ESPN as Nats star 3B Ryan Zimmerman homered off of Peter Moylan in the 9th to give Washington a 3-2 walkoff win over the blue clad Braves. Both Odalis Perez and Tim Hudson turned out very good efforts in the contest, but a Paul Lo Duca passed ball allowed the tying run to score in the 9th off of eventual winning pitcher Jon Rauch, who was filling in at closer for a stiff Chad Cordero. But the Zimmerman jack gave the Washington fans something to cheer about for the present and the future of the park.
Today's Matchups
ESPN has the day's first match in Yankee Stadium's final home opener at 1 as New York and Chien Ming Wang hosts Toronto and Roy Halladay. Verlander faces Meche at 1 as well as Detroit takes on the Royals. ESPN2 will broadcast Ernie Banks day in Chicago as they unveil a statue of him outside of Wrigley Field before Carlos Zambrano and the Cubbies battle Ben Sheets and the rival Brewers at 2:20. Webb and Harang face off 10 minutes earlier in Cincinnati. Rays-O's, Nats-Phils, and White Sox-Indians begin at 3:05. ESPN has the west coast covered at 4:10 as the Dodgers and Giants renew their rivalry in both their 50th seasons on the left coast as Brad Penny takes on Barry Zito. Johan Santana has his first real start for the Mets as they head to Miami to face Mark Hendrickson (Florida's ace) and the Marlins at 4pm, and the Cardinals take on the NL champion Rockies at 4:15 as Francis faces Wainwright. Texas faces Seattle at 6:40, and ESPN2 starts off a night twinbill with the Twins and Angels at 7 followed by Oswalt and Peavy from Petco as the Padres host Houston. The Pirates open up in Atlanta at 7pm.
Today's Matchups
ESPN has the day's first match in Yankee Stadium's final home opener at 1 as New York and Chien Ming Wang hosts Toronto and Roy Halladay. Verlander faces Meche at 1 as well as Detroit takes on the Royals. ESPN2 will broadcast Ernie Banks day in Chicago as they unveil a statue of him outside of Wrigley Field before Carlos Zambrano and the Cubbies battle Ben Sheets and the rival Brewers at 2:20. Webb and Harang face off 10 minutes earlier in Cincinnati. Rays-O's, Nats-Phils, and White Sox-Indians begin at 3:05. ESPN has the west coast covered at 4:10 as the Dodgers and Giants renew their rivalry in both their 50th seasons on the left coast as Brad Penny takes on Barry Zito. Johan Santana has his first real start for the Mets as they head to Miami to face Mark Hendrickson (Florida's ace) and the Marlins at 4pm, and the Cardinals take on the NL champion Rockies at 4:15 as Francis faces Wainwright. Texas faces Seattle at 6:40, and ESPN2 starts off a night twinbill with the Twins and Angels at 7 followed by Oswalt and Peavy from Petco as the Padres host Houston. The Pirates open up in Atlanta at 7pm.
SprungOnSports 2008 MLB Predictions
The season is now underway in the United States, and myself along with a pair of my SOS colleagues will break down what they think will happen in the 2008 baseball season.
SprungOnSports
AL (*Wild Card)
East- Yankees, Red Sox*, Blue Jays, Rays, Orioles.
Central- Tigers, Indians, Twins, White Sox, Royals.
West- Angels, Mariners, A's, Rangers.
NL (*Wild Card)
East- Mets, Phillies*, Braves, Nationals, Marlins.
Central- Cubs, Brewers, Reds, Cardinals, Astros, Pirates.
West- Diamondbacks, Rockies, Padres, Dodgers, Giants.
Playoffs LDS- Tigers over Red Sox, Angels over Yankees, Diamondbacks over Phillies, Mets over Cubs.
LCS- Tigers over Angels, Diamondbacks over Mets.
WS- Tigers over Diamondbacks.
AL Awards
MVP- Alex Rodriguez, 3B, NYY
Cy Young- CC Sabathia, SP, CLE
ROY- Evan Longoria, 3B, TB
Manager- Jim Leyland, DET
Comeback Player- Vladimir Guerrero, OF, LAA.
NL Awards
MVP- Matt Holliday, OF, COL
Cy Young- Jake Peavy, SP, SDG
ROY- Kosuke Fukudome, OF, CHC
Manager- Dusty Baker, CIN
Comeback Player- Kerry Wood, RP, CHC
Jake Weintraub AKA Mets57
AL East 1. Red Sox 2. Yankees 3. Rays 4, Blue Jays 5. Orioles
AL Central 1. Tigers 2. Indians (Wild Card) 3. White Sox 4. Twins 5. Royals
AL West 1. Angels 2. A's 3. Mariners 4. Rangers
NL East 1. Mets 2. Braves (Wild Card) 3. Phillies 4. Nationals 5. Marlins
NL Central 1. Brewers 2. Cubs 3. Reds 4. Astros 5. Cardinals 6. Pirates
NL West 1. Diamondbacks 2. Dodgers 3. Rockies 4. Padres 5. Giants
ALDS: Red Sox over Indians, Tigers over Angels.
NLDS: Mets over Brewers, Diamondbacks over Braves.
ALCS: Red Sox over Tigers
NLCS: Mets over Diamondbacks
WS: Mets over Red Sox
Awards
AL MVP: Miguel Cabrera, Tigers
NL MVP: Prince Fielder, Brewers
AL CY Young: Justin Verlander, Tigers
NL CY Young: Johan Santana, Mets
AL ROY: Clay Buchholtz, Red Sox
NL ROY: Joey Votto, Reds
AL Manager: Joe Maddon, Rays
NL Manager: Bobby Cox, Braves
AL Comeback: Carlos Quentin, White Sox
NL Comeback: Andruw Jones, Dodgers
SOS Baseball Analyst Adam Ehrenreich
AL East: 1. Red Sox 2. Yankees 3. Rays 4. Blue Jays 5. Orioles
AL Central: 1.Tigers 2.Indians (Wild Card) 3.White Sox 4.Royals 5.Twins
AL West: 1.Angels 2.Mariners 3.Rangers 4.A's
NL East: 1. Mets 2.Phillies 3.Marlins 4.Braves 5.Nationals
NL Central: 1.Brewers 2.Cubs (Wild Card) 3.Reds 4.Pirates 5. Astros 6.Cardinals
NL West: 1.Dodgers 2.Diamondbacks 3.Rockies 4.Padres 5. Giants
ALDS: Tigers over Angels, Indians over Red Sox.
NLDS: Mets over Cubs, Brewers over Dodgers.
ALCS: Indians over Tigers.
NLCS: Mets over Brewers.
WS: Indians over Mets.
Awards
NL MVP: Prince Fielder, Brewers
NL Cy Young: Johan Santana, Mets
NL ROY: Chase Headley, Padres
Comeback POY: Nick Johnson, Nats
Manager of the Year: Joe Torre, Dodgers
AL MVP: Grady Sizemore, Indians
AL Cy Young: Erik Bedard, Mariners
AL ROY: Daric Barton, A's
Comeback POY: Vernon Wells, Blue Jays
Manager of the Year: John McLaren, Mariners
SprungOnSports
AL (*Wild Card)
East- Yankees, Red Sox*, Blue Jays, Rays, Orioles.
Central- Tigers, Indians, Twins, White Sox, Royals.
West- Angels, Mariners, A's, Rangers.
NL (*Wild Card)
East- Mets, Phillies*, Braves, Nationals, Marlins.
Central- Cubs, Brewers, Reds, Cardinals, Astros, Pirates.
West- Diamondbacks, Rockies, Padres, Dodgers, Giants.
Playoffs LDS- Tigers over Red Sox, Angels over Yankees, Diamondbacks over Phillies, Mets over Cubs.
LCS- Tigers over Angels, Diamondbacks over Mets.
WS- Tigers over Diamondbacks.
AL Awards
MVP- Alex Rodriguez, 3B, NYY
Cy Young- CC Sabathia, SP, CLE
ROY- Evan Longoria, 3B, TB
Manager- Jim Leyland, DET
Comeback Player- Vladimir Guerrero, OF, LAA.
NL Awards
MVP- Matt Holliday, OF, COL
Cy Young- Jake Peavy, SP, SDG
ROY- Kosuke Fukudome, OF, CHC
Manager- Dusty Baker, CIN
Comeback Player- Kerry Wood, RP, CHC
Jake Weintraub AKA Mets57
AL East 1. Red Sox 2. Yankees 3. Rays 4, Blue Jays 5. Orioles
AL Central 1. Tigers 2. Indians (Wild Card) 3. White Sox 4. Twins 5. Royals
AL West 1. Angels 2. A's 3. Mariners 4. Rangers
NL East 1. Mets 2. Braves (Wild Card) 3. Phillies 4. Nationals 5. Marlins
NL Central 1. Brewers 2. Cubs 3. Reds 4. Astros 5. Cardinals 6. Pirates
NL West 1. Diamondbacks 2. Dodgers 3. Rockies 4. Padres 5. Giants
ALDS: Red Sox over Indians, Tigers over Angels.
NLDS: Mets over Brewers, Diamondbacks over Braves.
ALCS: Red Sox over Tigers
NLCS: Mets over Diamondbacks
WS: Mets over Red Sox
Awards
AL MVP: Miguel Cabrera, Tigers
NL MVP: Prince Fielder, Brewers
AL CY Young: Justin Verlander, Tigers
NL CY Young: Johan Santana, Mets
AL ROY: Clay Buchholtz, Red Sox
NL ROY: Joey Votto, Reds
AL Manager: Joe Maddon, Rays
NL Manager: Bobby Cox, Braves
AL Comeback: Carlos Quentin, White Sox
NL Comeback: Andruw Jones, Dodgers
SOS Baseball Analyst Adam Ehrenreich
AL East: 1. Red Sox 2. Yankees 3. Rays 4. Blue Jays 5. Orioles
AL Central: 1.Tigers 2.Indians (Wild Card) 3.White Sox 4.Royals 5.Twins
AL West: 1.Angels 2.Mariners 3.Rangers 4.A's
NL East: 1. Mets 2.Phillies 3.Marlins 4.Braves 5.Nationals
NL Central: 1.Brewers 2.Cubs (Wild Card) 3.Reds 4.Pirates 5. Astros 6.Cardinals
NL West: 1.Dodgers 2.Diamondbacks 3.Rockies 4.Padres 5. Giants
ALDS: Tigers over Angels, Indians over Red Sox.
NLDS: Mets over Cubs, Brewers over Dodgers.
ALCS: Indians over Tigers.
NLCS: Mets over Brewers.
WS: Indians over Mets.
Awards
NL MVP: Prince Fielder, Brewers
NL Cy Young: Johan Santana, Mets
NL ROY: Chase Headley, Padres
Comeback POY: Nick Johnson, Nats
Manager of the Year: Joe Torre, Dodgers
AL MVP: Grady Sizemore, Indians
AL Cy Young: Erik Bedard, Mariners
AL ROY: Daric Barton, A's
Comeback POY: Vernon Wells, Blue Jays
Manager of the Year: John McLaren, Mariners
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