Lots of movers and shakers over the last day or so. There were some pretty good players that changed teams via the waiver wire. I go through them, gauge their impacts, and go over what's gone down thus far today in the big leagues.
Waiver Wire News
Yesterday, Arizona made a couple of signings to possibly counteract the deadline dealings of their division foes in San Diego. They picked up a nice cog for their bench in Jeff Cirillo who was released by the Twins, and they inked BK Kim who was dropped by Florida. He'll provide help to their middle relief. Today they also picked up a usefull arm in Joe Kennedy, who was released by Oakland. To make room for these guys, the Snakes said goodbye to Brian Barden and Jeff DaVannon. The latter will find a home, Boston comes to mind as a team that needs a backup OF. Seattle designated Jason Ellison for assignment, and Toronto claimed IF Hector Luna.
Saturday Night Live
Alex Rodriguez finally hit career home run number 500 as the Yankees rolled the Royals 16-8 at The Stadium. He drove in 3, as did youngsters Robinson Cano and Wilson Betemit who has stroked the ball quite well since he's come over from the Dodgers this week. David DeJesus homered and drove in 3 in the loss. New York is now 2 games back of wild card leader Cleveland, who fell to Minnesota 3-2 in Minneapolis. Michael Cuddyer drove in 2 for the Twinkies. Shawn Marcum pitched 6 solid innings and Frank Thomas homered twice as Toronto tamed Texas 9-5. Joe Blanton outdueled Kelvim Escobar as Oakland bested the Angels 2-1. Dice-K Matsuzaka faces Jarrod Washburn at 10 eastern, be sure to catch this one. The Cubs scored 6 times in the 3rd off of John Maine to defeat the Mets 6-2. Ted Lilly struck out 8 over 7 and 2 thirds for the win. Barry Bonds continues his quest for 755 tonight in San Diego at 10 against Clay Hensley. The Snakes play the Dodgers in the quest for the NL West at 10 as Livan Hernandez goes against Derek Lowe.
Stubhub
Saturday, August 4, 2007
Friday, August 3, 2007
Around The Majors- Friday
Today, Ill recap last night's games, take a look at the standings, go through the news and notes, and preview the weekend in baseball.
Thursday Recap
Jake Westbrook got his first win since April as the Indians shut out Texas 5-0. E
ric Gagne debuted as Boston beat Baltimore 7-4. Both the Yankees and White Sox scored 8 runs in the 2nd inning, but Chicago prevailed over New York 13-9. KC and the Twins were postponed because of the Minneapolis bridge collapse. Vlad Guerrero homered twice as the Angels downed the A's 6-4.
Jose Castillo hit a 2 out single in the 11th to lead the Pirates past the Cardinals 5-4. Corey Hart hit 2 home runs, but the Mets dominated Milwaukee 12-4 in a game where manager Ned Yost got into a fight with Catcher Johnny Estrada. The Phillies clubbed the Cubs 10-6, and the Padres got 10 k's from Jake Peavy and 2 jacks from Morgan Ensberg to destroy the D-Backs 11-0. Washington beat Cincy 7-3, Colorado edged Florida 4-3, and Houston outlasted Atlanta 12-11 in 14.
Standings
Boston has won 7 of 10 and leads the Yankees by 8 games in the AL East. Baltimore has won 7 of 10 and Tampa has lost 7 of 10. Detroit has lost 8 of 10 and Cleveland has lost 7 of 10. The Tigers lead the Indians by half a game in the AL Central. The Twins are 6 back. The Angels lead the Mariners by 3.5 games in the AL West. Philadelphia has won 7 of 10 and are 4 games behind the Mets in the NL East. The Braves are 4.5 back and Florida has lost 8 of 10. Milwaukee has lost 7 of 10 and are now percentage points behind the Cubs in the NL Central. St Louis is 6 back, Pittsburgh has lost 7 of 10, and the Reds have dropped 5 straight. Arizona has won 8 of 10 and are one game clear of the Dodgers and 1.5 ahead of San Diego in the NL West. LA has lost 7 of 10. Cleveland leads Seattle by a game for the AL Wild Card, the Yankees by 3, and Minnesota by 5.5. The Dodgers lead the Cubs, Brewers, and Padres by a half game for the NL Wild Card. Philadelphia is a game back, Atlanta 1.5, and the Rockies are 2.5 games back.
News and Notes
- P
hil Hughes will come back and start for the Yankees against Kansas City tomorrow, and Pedro Martinez allowed 2 runs in 5+ innings for Port St Lucie yesterday. I asked ESPN Fantasy expert Eric Karabell whether Hughes was worth the fantasy start, and when Pedro will actually come back to return for the Mets:
What's the ETA for Pedro, and is Phil Hughes worth the start on Saturday?
ERIC KARABELL- In some of my leagues I would start Hughes, yes. He's still a rookie, though, so be cautious. I can't stress enough how many rookies have failed to help fantasy owners this season. As for Pedro, I am pessimistic, I have to admit. I expect him to be on strict pitch counts for weeks, and when a guy goes five innings, all it takes is one mistake and it's a bad start. Pedro could start next week.
- According to a report by Fortune M
agazine, the YES Network is up for sale, but the Yankees denied that and were only looking to see how much they could get. More on this topic as time goes by.
- Marlins young starter Josh Johnson will have Tommy John Surgery and will likely miss the entire 2008 season.
- Baseball's top prospect, Arizona OF Justin Upton was called up from AA yesterday when they placed Carlos Quentin on the DL, and was a defensive replacement yesterday. Upton will start in right field tonight.
- The Phillies placed Rod Barajas on the DL and brought up Clay Condrey. Atlanta optioned prospect P Jo-Jo Reyes, the White Sox activated Mike MacDougal, Elizardo Ramirez was optioned, Rodrigo Lopez was shelved, and Matt Kata was designated.
Weekend Preview
Friday
El Duque and Carlos Zambrano duel at 220 in Wrigley in a possible playoff preview. Buehrle-Miller face off in Detroit, Wang faces the Royals, Halladay against Texas, and Sabathia-Santana in Minnesota. Jon Lester will battle King Felix in Seattle. Snell pitches against Cincy, Oswalt-Willis in Miami, Francis-Smoltz in Atlanta, and Kendrick-Gallardo in Milwaukee. Barry Bonds will try to tie the reccord in San Diego against Greg Maddux (10pm ESPN2). Billingsley battles the first place Snakes.
Saturday
Phil Hughes comes back against the KC debut of Kyle Davies. Maine-Lilly, prospect Aaron Laffey debuts against Matt Garza and the Twins, and Escobar-Blanton are all of FOX (4pm). Jimenez and Hudson battle at 7 on FOX. Vazquez-Bonderman, Kazmir against the O's, and Dice-K-Washburn finishes the AL. Hamels-Suppan, Pineiro debuting for the Cards, Harang goes against Matt Morris' debut, and Jennings-Mitre in Miami. Bonds goes against Clay Hensley, and Lowe faces Arizona.
Sunday
Meche-Mussina, Bedard in Tampa, and Carmona in Minnesota. Lackey faces Haren in Oakland, and Beckett-Batista in Seattle. Cook-James in Atlanta, Gorzelanny in Cincy, and Lowry-Germano in today's Bonds watch. Webb battles Penny in LA, and Tom Glavine goes for career win 300 at Wrigley against Jason Marquis and the Cubs. (8pm ESPN)
Thursday Recap
Jake Westbrook got his first win since April as the Indians shut out Texas 5-0. E
ric Gagne debuted as Boston beat Baltimore 7-4. Both the Yankees and White Sox scored 8 runs in the 2nd inning, but Chicago prevailed over New York 13-9. KC and the Twins were postponed because of the Minneapolis bridge collapse. Vlad Guerrero homered twice as the Angels downed the A's 6-4.Jose Castillo hit a 2 out single in the 11th to lead the Pirates past the Cardinals 5-4. Corey Hart hit 2 home runs, but the Mets dominated Milwaukee 12-4 in a game where manager Ned Yost got into a fight with Catcher Johnny Estrada. The Phillies clubbed the Cubs 10-6, and the Padres got 10 k's from Jake Peavy and 2 jacks from Morgan Ensberg to destroy the D-Backs 11-0. Washington beat Cincy 7-3, Colorado edged Florida 4-3, and Houston outlasted Atlanta 12-11 in 14.
Standings
Boston has won 7 of 10 and leads the Yankees by 8 games in the AL East. Baltimore has won 7 of 10 and Tampa has lost 7 of 10. Detroit has lost 8 of 10 and Cleveland has lost 7 of 10. The Tigers lead the Indians by half a game in the AL Central. The Twins are 6 back. The Angels lead the Mariners by 3.5 games in the AL West. Philadelphia has won 7 of 10 and are 4 games behind the Mets in the NL East. The Braves are 4.5 back and Florida has lost 8 of 10. Milwaukee has lost 7 of 10 and are now percentage points behind the Cubs in the NL Central. St Louis is 6 back, Pittsburgh has lost 7 of 10, and the Reds have dropped 5 straight. Arizona has won 8 of 10 and are one game clear of the Dodgers and 1.5 ahead of San Diego in the NL West. LA has lost 7 of 10. Cleveland leads Seattle by a game for the AL Wild Card, the Yankees by 3, and Minnesota by 5.5. The Dodgers lead the Cubs, Brewers, and Padres by a half game for the NL Wild Card. Philadelphia is a game back, Atlanta 1.5, and the Rockies are 2.5 games back.
News and Notes
- P
hil Hughes will come back and start for the Yankees against Kansas City tomorrow, and Pedro Martinez allowed 2 runs in 5+ innings for Port St Lucie yesterday. I asked ESPN Fantasy expert Eric Karabell whether Hughes was worth the fantasy start, and when Pedro will actually come back to return for the Mets:What's the ETA for Pedro, and is Phil Hughes worth the start on Saturday?
ERIC KARABELL- In some of my leagues I would start Hughes, yes. He's still a rookie, though, so be cautious. I can't stress enough how many rookies have failed to help fantasy owners this season. As for Pedro, I am pessimistic, I have to admit. I expect him to be on strict pitch counts for weeks, and when a guy goes five innings, all it takes is one mistake and it's a bad start. Pedro could start next week.
- According to a report by Fortune M
agazine, the YES Network is up for sale, but the Yankees denied that and were only looking to see how much they could get. More on this topic as time goes by.- Marlins young starter Josh Johnson will have Tommy John Surgery and will likely miss the entire 2008 season.
- Baseball's top prospect, Arizona OF Justin Upton was called up from AA yesterday when they placed Carlos Quentin on the DL, and was a defensive replacement yesterday. Upton will start in right field tonight.
- The Phillies placed Rod Barajas on the DL and brought up Clay Condrey. Atlanta optioned prospect P Jo-Jo Reyes, the White Sox activated Mike MacDougal, Elizardo Ramirez was optioned, Rodrigo Lopez was shelved, and Matt Kata was designated.
Weekend Preview
Friday
El Duque and Carlos Zambrano duel at 220 in Wrigley in a possible playoff preview. Buehrle-Miller face off in Detroit, Wang faces the Royals, Halladay against Texas, and Sabathia-Santana in Minnesota. Jon Lester will battle King Felix in Seattle. Snell pitches against Cincy, Oswalt-Willis in Miami, Francis-Smoltz in Atlanta, and Kendrick-Gallardo in Milwaukee. Barry Bonds will try to tie the reccord in San Diego against Greg Maddux (10pm ESPN2). Billingsley battles the first place Snakes.
Saturday
Phil Hughes comes back against the KC debut of Kyle Davies. Maine-Lilly, prospect Aaron Laffey debuts against Matt Garza and the Twins, and Escobar-Blanton are all of FOX (4pm). Jimenez and Hudson battle at 7 on FOX. Vazquez-Bonderman, Kazmir against the O's, and Dice-K-Washburn finishes the AL. Hamels-Suppan, Pineiro debuting for the Cards, Harang goes against Matt Morris' debut, and Jennings-Mitre in Miami. Bonds goes against Clay Hensley, and Lowe faces Arizona.
Sunday
Meche-Mussina, Bedard in Tampa, and Carmona in Minnesota. Lackey faces Haren in Oakland, and Beckett-Batista in Seattle. Cook-James in Atlanta, Gorzelanny in Cincy, and Lowry-Germano in today's Bonds watch. Webb battles Penny in LA, and Tom Glavine goes for career win 300 at Wrigley against Jason Marquis and the Cubs. (8pm ESPN)
Thursday, August 2, 2007
N.B.A. Thursday- KG Discussion
First of all, I want to say that my thoughts and prayers are with all the people from the Twin Cities area. I then want to say that I find it insanely ironic that the day that the Garnett trade was confirmed, that the bridge collapsed. The foundation of Minnesota basketball in its history is now gone, as is the foundation of a major MPLS and STP thoroughfare. Throuroughly eery isn't it?
Th
at being said, the balance of power hasn't shifted to the East, that's just rediculous. Ray Allen, KG, Zach Randolph, and Rashard Lewis isn't even close to enough to sway the power out east. The best seed in the East may not have beaten Utah in a series last year according to John Hollinger. That being said, the Celtics are now a contender in the East, while the Wolves will still struggle to reach the postseason out West. The trio of Garnett, Ray Allen, and Paul Pierce will be one of the best threesomes of weapons in recent memory. But Marc Stein is quick to point out that similar aging trios have failed. Case in point, the Olajuwon-Barkley-Pippen days of the late 90's, and Dominique Wilkins, Moses Malone and Reggie Theus for the Hawks in the late '80's. Stein then comments that they didn't play in this Eastern Conference. LeBron reached the finals last year, and his supporting cast consisted of a one footed Larry Hughes and Zydraunas Ilgauskas. Chicago and Detroit will be the main competition for the Celts in the conference, and they should be a lock for the division over surprisingly formidable New York and the Nets, who's big three doesn't really seem so big anymore compared to the boys from Beantown. The issue for the Celtics is now that they've traded their entire team and the ushers and dance girls to the Wolves, who will fill out the roster? They have Rajon Rondo at the point, and it really doesn't matter if he's elite or not at all. Doc Rivers will have 3 set plays for Rondo: pass to KG, pass to Allen, and pass to Pierce. They're looking through Europe and the D-League for roster fillers and they'll be just fine. They could have me in their starting 5 and still reach the Eastern semis in their sleep. This may have saved Danny Ainge's job. What's your take on this matter??
Th
at being said, the balance of power hasn't shifted to the East, that's just rediculous. Ray Allen, KG, Zach Randolph, and Rashard Lewis isn't even close to enough to sway the power out east. The best seed in the East may not have beaten Utah in a series last year according to John Hollinger. That being said, the Celtics are now a contender in the East, while the Wolves will still struggle to reach the postseason out West. The trio of Garnett, Ray Allen, and Paul Pierce will be one of the best threesomes of weapons in recent memory. But Marc Stein is quick to point out that similar aging trios have failed. Case in point, the Olajuwon-Barkley-Pippen days of the late 90's, and Dominique Wilkins, Moses Malone and Reggie Theus for the Hawks in the late '80's. Stein then comments that they didn't play in this Eastern Conference. LeBron reached the finals last year, and his supporting cast consisted of a one footed Larry Hughes and Zydraunas Ilgauskas. Chicago and Detroit will be the main competition for the Celts in the conference, and they should be a lock for the division over surprisingly formidable New York and the Nets, who's big three doesn't really seem so big anymore compared to the boys from Beantown. The issue for the Celtics is now that they've traded their entire team and the ushers and dance girls to the Wolves, who will fill out the roster? They have Rajon Rondo at the point, and it really doesn't matter if he's elite or not at all. Doc Rivers will have 3 set plays for Rondo: pass to KG, pass to Allen, and pass to Pierce. They're looking through Europe and the D-League for roster fillers and they'll be just fine. They could have me in their starting 5 and still reach the Eastern semis in their sleep. This may have saved Danny Ainge's job. What's your take on this matter??Monday, July 30, 2007
Monday Trade Update
As expected Mark Teixeira will head to Atlanta with a reported four prospects coming over to the Rangers. Octavio Dotel will go to the Braves as well. Luis Castillo will head to the Mets, and Kyle Lohse is a Phillie. Analysis on these deals and more tomorrow along with all the rumors as I do a blog live from 8:30am eastern up until the deadline at 4pm. Stick here with SprungOnSports for all the latest developments.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Baseball Trade Update
The Devil Rays made two trades yesterday with the
bottom feeders of the NL Central. They first dealt Ty Wigginton to Houston for reliever Dan Wheeler, and then dealt Jorge Cantu to the Reds in a multi player deal that brought minor league Pitcher Brian Shackleford to the Rays. Houston now has a large glut of infielders, with Mark Loretta, Mike Lamb, the retiring Craig Biggio, and now Wigginton in the fold. One of the first two will almost certainly be dealt. Wigginton was hitting .275 with 16 homers and 49 RBIs in 98 games this season. The trade for Wheeler could signal that the Rays may be more open to dealing closer Al Reyes to a contender. Wheeler is 1-4 with a 5.07 ERA with 11 saves for the Astros. His trade means that Houston may not trade their other setup reliever, Chad Qualls. The Reds got the 2nd baseman Cantu, along with OF Shaun Cumberland and cash in exchange for Shackleford, P Calvin Medlock and future considerations. Cantu has a homer and 15 RBI's in 49 combined games with the Rays and AAA. Cumberland was batting .246 with 6 homers and 34 RBI's for AA Montgomery. Shackleford was 0-5 with a 4.96 ERA in 14 games for AAA Louisville. In 42 games between AA and AAA, Medlock was 4-3 with a 3.39 ERA and 2 saves.
bottom feeders of the NL Central. They first dealt Ty Wigginton to Houston for reliever Dan Wheeler, and then dealt Jorge Cantu to the Reds in a multi player deal that brought minor league Pitcher Brian Shackleford to the Rays. Houston now has a large glut of infielders, with Mark Loretta, Mike Lamb, the retiring Craig Biggio, and now Wigginton in the fold. One of the first two will almost certainly be dealt. Wigginton was hitting .275 with 16 homers and 49 RBIs in 98 games this season. The trade for Wheeler could signal that the Rays may be more open to dealing closer Al Reyes to a contender. Wheeler is 1-4 with a 5.07 ERA with 11 saves for the Astros. His trade means that Houston may not trade their other setup reliever, Chad Qualls. The Reds got the 2nd baseman Cantu, along with OF Shaun Cumberland and cash in exchange for Shackleford, P Calvin Medlock and future considerations. Cantu has a homer and 15 RBI's in 49 combined games with the Rays and AAA. Cumberland was batting .246 with 6 homers and 34 RBI's for AA Montgomery. Shackleford was 0-5 with a 4.96 ERA in 14 games for AAA Louisville. In 42 games between AA and AAA, Medlock was 4-3 with a 3.39 ERA and 2 saves.
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Saturday Baseball Rumors
First off, let's analyze what happened on Friday. Barry Bonds hit homer 754 last night, putting him one swing away from tying Hank Aaron's hallowed record. God save us all! There were also several deals done on Friday, so let's get to them all.
Friday's Done Deals
- The Phillies wasted no time in acquiring a temporary replacement for Chase Utley, acquiring Tadahito Iguchi from the White Sox in exchange for Pitcher Michael Dubee.
Iguchi is batting .251 with 17 doubles, four triples, six home runs and 31 RBIs in 90 games with the White Sox this season. The 21 year old Dubee is a reliever for Middle A and was 4-4 with a 3.88 ERA for Lakewood of the Sally League.
- Cleveland reunites with Kenny Lofton, as they acquire him from Texas in exchange for Catcher Max Ramirez, who was traded to the Indians last year from Atlanta for Bob Wickman. Lofton batting .303 with seven homers and 23 RBIs this year. The 22 year old Ramirez was batting an identical .303 with 12 homers and 62 RBI's for high A Kinston. The Indians also designated Hector Luna for assignment, and optioned Cliff Lee to AAA.
- Milwaukee dealt for a reliever, acquiring Seth McClung from Tampa Bay in exchange for reliever Grant Balfour. McClung was optioned to AAA Nashville, but was 1-5 with a 1.99 ERA with 5 saves in 40 games for AAA Durham. Balfour was 1-1 with a 1.87 ERA with 7 saves in 32 games combined in AA and AAA.
- The Mets activated Moises Alou from the DL, and designated Sandy Alomar for assignment.
- Philadelphia activated Brett Myers from the DL.
- The Padres acquired outfielder Scott Hairston from Arizona in exchange for Pitcher Leo Rosales. Hairston was batting .222 with 3 homers and 16 RBI's in 76 games for the Snakes.
He'll be a hitter off the bench for the Friars. The 26 year old Rosales was 1-1 with a 3.28 ERA and 14 saves in 24 games for AAA Portland. The Padres also signed Shea Hillenbrand.
- Tampa Bay designated catcher Raul Casanova for assignment.
Rumors
- The Angels have abandoned their pursuit of Mark Teixeira, and have looked towards acquiring Jermaine Dye or Mike Piazza. They've asked Florida about Miguel Cabrera, but they have zero interest in dealing him. (LA Times)
- Texas is still talking to the Angels, Dodgers, and Braves about Teixeira. (Dallas Morning News)
- Texas will likely wait until the Tuesday deadline to deal Teixeira. (Atlanta Journal Constitution)
- The Yankees are also interested in Teixeira. (Toronto Sun)
- A trade that would've sent Dye to Boston fell throught because they couldn't agree on players to send back. Dye didn't want to go there anyway. The Angels have been told to forget about dealing for Paul Konerko. (Chicago Tribune)
- The White Sox were seeking Clay Buchholz or Jacoby Ellsbury in return. (Hartford Courant)
- The Mariners are trying to deal for Dontrelle Willis, Livan Hernandez, or Jon Garland, and even asked the Yankees about Andy Pettitte. The Yankees are interested in Ty Wigginton and Al Reyes. (Newark Star-Ledger)
- Seattle is interested in acquiring Kei Igawa from the Yankees. (Seattle Times)
- The Mets are interested in Luis Castillo, Mark Loretta, and Mark Grudzielanek before the deadline. The Yankees had serious discussions about Eric Gagne, and are not completely out of the Teixeira sweepstakes just yet. Texas likes Yanks prospects Ian Kennedy and Jeffrey Marquez. New York would not deal Melky Cabrera. The Yanks are not pursuing Wigginton. (Newsday)
- A Twins scout was in New York looking at Mets prospects. (Minneapolis Star Tribune)
- The Yankees have set their sights on Chad Qualls and Dan Wheeler. (New York Daily News)
- The Yankees are open to dealing Kyle Farnsworth and Scott Proctor. (New York Times)
- The Yankees and Red Sox are interested in Dan Johnson. (San Francisco Chronicle)
- The Tigers are interested in Farnsworth, and the Yanks would be interested in Chad Bradford if he were put on the block. The Cubs like Texas relievers and Catcher Gerald Laird, and may give up Felix Pie to get what they want. Atlanta's trade of Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Elvis Andrus, and Matt Harrison was a done deal according to some sources, the teams were just arguing on how much of Tex's contract the Rangers would pick up. (NY Post)
- Several American League executives said that they wouldn't be surprised if the Yankees obtained Tampa Bay infielder Ty Wigginton before Tuesday's trade deadline. (Journal News)
- The Rays haven't gotten to discussing names with the Red Sox for Wigginton. Seattle is interested in Reyes and Edwin Jackson. A Mets scout was seen in Tampa. (St Petersburg Times)
- Jay Payton wants to remain an Oriole, but he may not ahve a choice. (Washington Post)
- Teams are still interested in Mike Lamb, Loretta, Qualls, and Wheeler. (Houston Chronicle)
- The Twins may deal Juan Rincon. (St Paul Pioneer Press)
- Likely destinations: Dunn-Angels, Dye-Padres, Teixeira-Angels/Braves, Wigginton-Twins, Reggie Sanders-Boston, Loretta-Padres, Piazza-Angels/Twins, Sammy Sosa-Mets, Matt Morris-Seattle, Hernandez-M's/Mets/Phillies/Boston, Contreras-Mets, Gagne-Yankees/Tigers/Dodgers/Cubs, Dotel-Dodgers, Cordero-Mets. (Jon Heyman)
- Boston had a 3 way deal in place for Dye, but their was a problem with a player from the 3rd team. Atlanta's offer for Teixeira remains the best. The Angels won't get him unless they add a 3rd player such as Brandon Wood to their offer. Texas wants a pitching prospect better then Harrison in a deal. The Dodgers offered James Loney, Andre Ethier, and John Meloan for Tex but the Rangers are insisting on Clayton Kershaw in a deal. Castillo is the Mets first choice in a 2nd baseman. Arizona is mildly interested in Dunn. Kyle Lohse is interesting Arizona, the Dodgers, and Seattle. (Ken Rosenthal)
- Igawa could be easily obtained in a trade. Tim Purpura said that there's a 50-50 chance that Houston makes a trade. A Mets scout saw Garland. Johnson will be dealt to the Yankees. (Buster Olney)
Friday's Done Deals
- The Phillies wasted no time in acquiring a temporary replacement for Chase Utley, acquiring Tadahito Iguchi from the White Sox in exchange for Pitcher Michael Dubee.
Iguchi is batting .251 with 17 doubles, four triples, six home runs and 31 RBIs in 90 games with the White Sox this season. The 21 year old Dubee is a reliever for Middle A and was 4-4 with a 3.88 ERA for Lakewood of the Sally League.- Cleveland reunites with Kenny Lofton, as they acquire him from Texas in exchange for Catcher Max Ramirez, who was traded to the Indians last year from Atlanta for Bob Wickman. Lofton batting .303 with seven homers and 23 RBIs this year. The 22 year old Ramirez was batting an identical .303 with 12 homers and 62 RBI's for high A Kinston. The Indians also designated Hector Luna for assignment, and optioned Cliff Lee to AAA.
- Milwaukee dealt for a reliever, acquiring Seth McClung from Tampa Bay in exchange for reliever Grant Balfour. McClung was optioned to AAA Nashville, but was 1-5 with a 1.99 ERA with 5 saves in 40 games for AAA Durham. Balfour was 1-1 with a 1.87 ERA with 7 saves in 32 games combined in AA and AAA.
- The Mets activated Moises Alou from the DL, and designated Sandy Alomar for assignment.
- Philadelphia activated Brett Myers from the DL.
- The Padres acquired outfielder Scott Hairston from Arizona in exchange for Pitcher Leo Rosales. Hairston was batting .222 with 3 homers and 16 RBI's in 76 games for the Snakes.
He'll be a hitter off the bench for the Friars. The 26 year old Rosales was 1-1 with a 3.28 ERA and 14 saves in 24 games for AAA Portland. The Padres also signed Shea Hillenbrand.- Tampa Bay designated catcher Raul Casanova for assignment.
Rumors
- The Angels have abandoned their pursuit of Mark Teixeira, and have looked towards acquiring Jermaine Dye or Mike Piazza. They've asked Florida about Miguel Cabrera, but they have zero interest in dealing him. (LA Times)
- Texas is still talking to the Angels, Dodgers, and Braves about Teixeira. (Dallas Morning News)
- Texas will likely wait until the Tuesday deadline to deal Teixeira. (Atlanta Journal Constitution)
- The Yankees are also interested in Teixeira. (Toronto Sun)
- A trade that would've sent Dye to Boston fell throught because they couldn't agree on players to send back. Dye didn't want to go there anyway. The Angels have been told to forget about dealing for Paul Konerko. (Chicago Tribune)
- The White Sox were seeking Clay Buchholz or Jacoby Ellsbury in return. (Hartford Courant)
- The Mariners are trying to deal for Dontrelle Willis, Livan Hernandez, or Jon Garland, and even asked the Yankees about Andy Pettitte. The Yankees are interested in Ty Wigginton and Al Reyes. (Newark Star-Ledger)
- Seattle is interested in acquiring Kei Igawa from the Yankees. (Seattle Times)
- The Mets are interested in Luis Castillo, Mark Loretta, and Mark Grudzielanek before the deadline. The Yankees had serious discussions about Eric Gagne, and are not completely out of the Teixeira sweepstakes just yet. Texas likes Yanks prospects Ian Kennedy and Jeffrey Marquez. New York would not deal Melky Cabrera. The Yanks are not pursuing Wigginton. (Newsday)
- A Twins scout was in New York looking at Mets prospects. (Minneapolis Star Tribune)
- The Yankees have set their sights on Chad Qualls and Dan Wheeler. (New York Daily News)
- The Yankees are open to dealing Kyle Farnsworth and Scott Proctor. (New York Times)
- The Yankees and Red Sox are interested in Dan Johnson. (San Francisco Chronicle)
- The Tigers are interested in Farnsworth, and the Yanks would be interested in Chad Bradford if he were put on the block. The Cubs like Texas relievers and Catcher Gerald Laird, and may give up Felix Pie to get what they want. Atlanta's trade of Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Elvis Andrus, and Matt Harrison was a done deal according to some sources, the teams were just arguing on how much of Tex's contract the Rangers would pick up. (NY Post)
- Several American League executives said that they wouldn't be surprised if the Yankees obtained Tampa Bay infielder Ty Wigginton before Tuesday's trade deadline. (Journal News)
- The Rays haven't gotten to discussing names with the Red Sox for Wigginton. Seattle is interested in Reyes and Edwin Jackson. A Mets scout was seen in Tampa. (St Petersburg Times)
- Jay Payton wants to remain an Oriole, but he may not ahve a choice. (Washington Post)
- Teams are still interested in Mike Lamb, Loretta, Qualls, and Wheeler. (Houston Chronicle)
- The Twins may deal Juan Rincon. (St Paul Pioneer Press)
- Likely destinations: Dunn-Angels, Dye-Padres, Teixeira-Angels/Braves, Wigginton-Twins, Reggie Sanders-Boston, Loretta-Padres, Piazza-Angels/Twins, Sammy Sosa-Mets, Matt Morris-Seattle, Hernandez-M's/Mets/Phillies/Boston, Contreras-Mets, Gagne-Yankees/Tigers/Dodgers/Cubs, Dotel-Dodgers, Cordero-Mets. (Jon Heyman)
- Boston had a 3 way deal in place for Dye, but their was a problem with a player from the 3rd team. Atlanta's offer for Teixeira remains the best. The Angels won't get him unless they add a 3rd player such as Brandon Wood to their offer. Texas wants a pitching prospect better then Harrison in a deal. The Dodgers offered James Loney, Andre Ethier, and John Meloan for Tex but the Rangers are insisting on Clayton Kershaw in a deal. Castillo is the Mets first choice in a 2nd baseman. Arizona is mildly interested in Dunn. Kyle Lohse is interesting Arizona, the Dodgers, and Seattle. (Ken Rosenthal)
- Igawa could be easily obtained in a trade. Tim Purpura said that there's a 50-50 chance that Houston makes a trade. A Mets scout saw Garland. Johnson will be dealt to the Yankees. (Buster Olney)
Friday, July 27, 2007
Around The Majors- Friday
The weekend is almost upon us! The baseball weekend will be previewed after a look at Thursday's games, a check of the standings, and the latest news and notes. That will be followed by Friday's freshest rumors, including the Mark Teixeira trade that could happen today! All today here on ATM.
Thursday Recap
Baltimore scored 4 in the 8th to beat Tampa Bay 10-7, completing the sweep. 
The White Sox edged Detroit 4-3 on a Zach Miner throwing error. (Tigers pitchers and errors? Where have we seen that before?) Manny Ramirez clocked two homers as Boston bested Cleveland 14-9, the Royals shut out the Yankees 7-0, and Nick Swisher homered twice as Oakland silenced Seattle 6-2.
The White Sox edged Detroit 4-3 on a Zach Miner throwing error. (Tigers pitchers and errors? Where have we seen that before?) Manny Ramirez clocked two homers as Boston bested Cleveland 14-9, the Royals shut out the Yankees 7-0, and Nick Swisher homered twice as Oakland silenced Seattle 6-2. A 5 run 6th pushed Pittsburgh past the Mets 8-4, the Reds beat the Brewers 6-5 in 10, Washington edged Philadelphia 7-6, and the Giants beat the Braves 4-2. Houston pounded the Padres 7-1, St Louis crushed the Cubs 11-1, Brad Penny won his 13th as the Dodgers defeated the Rockies 5-4, and Eric Byrnes' 3 run walk off blast gave the Diamondbacks a 7-4 win over Florida.
Standings
The Yankees have won 7 of 10 and are 7.5 games behind Boston in the AL East. Toronto has won 5 in a row, Baltimore has won 4 straight and 7 of 10, and Tampa Bay has lost 6 in a row and 7 of 10. Detroit leads Cleveland by 1.5 games in the AL Central. Minnesota has lost 4 in a row and 7 of 10. The Angels may have lost 7 of 10, but Seattle is now 4 games back in the AL West because they've lost 7 straight and 8 of 10. Texas has won 4 straight. The Mets lead Atlanta by 4 games in the NL East, Florida has dropped 4 straight games. Milwaukee's lead is now 2 games over the Cubs in the NL Central, Pittsburgh has lost 8 of 10 to drop into the cellar. Arizona has won 6 straight and 7 of 10 to go 1.5 back behind the Dodgers in the NL West. San Diego has dropped 7 of 10 to go 2 games back. Cleveland leads Seattle by 4 and the Yankees by 4.5 in the AL Wild Card. Arizona leads the NL Wild Card by a half a game over San Diego, 1 game over the Cubs, 1.5 over Atlanta, 2.5 over the Phillies, and 4 over Colorado.
News and Notes
- It was a rough night for Chase Utley, but it could've been much worse.
Utley broke his hand when he was hit by a pitch in the Phils' 7-6 loss to Washington, but he'll only be out 3 weeks, according to assistant GM Ruben Amaro. Utley is obviously disappointed, but "As breaks go, it's not that bad of a break," Abraham Nunez will fill in for now, but the team will look for a second baseman before the deadline.
Utley broke his hand when he was hit by a pitch in the Phils' 7-6 loss to Washington, but he'll only be out 3 weeks, according to assistant GM Ruben Amaro. Utley is obviously disappointed, but "As breaks go, it's not that bad of a break," Abraham Nunez will fill in for now, but the team will look for a second baseman before the deadline. - Brad Penny left his start against Colorado with an abdominal cramp, but still picked up his 13th win.
- Curt Schilling threw 5 scoreless innings in his rehab start in AAA.
- According to Jerry Crasnick of ESPN, the Nationals are close to signing Dmitri Young to a 2 year, 10 million dollar contract extension.
- Kerry Wood the reliever threw a scoreless innning for Mid A Peoria, and will pitch another rehab inning today.
- The Reds activated Juan Castro from the DL as they placed Pedro Lopez on it. Fernando Rodney will be going to the minors for rehab. The Royals recaleld Jason Shiell from the minors. The Mets optioned Joe Smith to AAA. Utley was placed on the DL, Joe Thatcher (recently acquired) was brought up by the Padres, and John Lannan was brought up by Washingto to start yestersday's game and got ejected.
Weekend Preview
Friday
The Yankees will host Baltimore in a suspended game. The Yankees scored 4 runs in the 8th inning to take an 8-6 lead. The Yankees are up with two outs in the top of the 8th with Derek Jeter on 2nd. Pettitte will faces Guthrie right after in the regularly scheduled match. Bonser faces Byrd in Cleveland, Garland faces Toronto, Robertson-Weaver in LA, and King Felix against Oakland. Moyer faces the Pirates, Hill in Cincy, Peavy in Houston, and Zito against the Marlins. (10pm ESPN)
Saturday
The Mets play 2 with Washington. El Duque pitches the first at 12, and Pelfrey goes at 7. Miller-Saunders, Maddux-Sampson, and Smoltz-Davis are the pitching matchups for the 4pm FOX games. Gaudin goes in Seattle, Clemens in Baltimore, and Halladay-Buehrle in Chicago. Jon Lester makes his 2nd start in Tampa Bay. Marshall-Harang in Cincy, Billingsley-Francis in Denver, and Willis-Cain in San Francisco.
Sunday
How about Santana-Sabathia to start your day! Wang-Cabrera in Baltimore, Dice-K-Kazmir, Vazquez against Toronto, and DiNardo-Washburn in Seattle. Bonderman faces Escobar in LA (8pm ESPN). Maine faces Washington, Zambrabo faces the Reds, Snell in Philly, Young-Jennings, and Gallardo in St Louis. The Dodgers get a look at Ubaldo Jimenez in Denver, Mitre-Morris, and Hudson-Hernandez.
Rumors
- Sources say that the Braves have made a killer offer for Mark Teixeira. Atlanta has offered Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Elvis Andrus, and AA lefty Matt Harrison for jusr Tex. The Dodgers will now likely focus on pitching, and the Angels would only be able to offer 2 players. So it looks like the Braves will win out. If the Twins decide to sell, Carlos Silva and Luis Castillo would be dealt. Castillo would be of great interest to the Mets. The Marlins will not deal Dontrelle Willis. Arizona has shown mild interest in Adam Dunn. The Rockies are interested in Dan Wheeler. The Diamondbacks, Dodgers, Braves and Cubs all are interested in Royals right-hander Zack Greinke, but it is doubtful the Royals would trade him unless they were overwhelmed. The Dodgers have been replaced by the Indians as the front runners for Octavio Dotel. (Ken Rosenthal)
- Teixeira could go to the Braves or Angels. Both teams have made strong offers, and Atlanta is interested in Eric Gagne. The Rangers don't want to deal CJ Wilson, but could trade Ron Mahay. The Rangers want young pitching in return and the Braves' best prospects are two left-handers: Jo-Jo Reyes and Matt Harrison. Right-handers Joey Devine, Kyle Davies and Manny Acosta are also possible. The Angels are interested in Paul Konerko. Cleveland is interested in Kenny Lofton. (TR Sullivan)
- The Marlins could be softening their stance on Willis. Tony Gwynn Jr has been the subject of several rumors, but the Brewers have resisted in trading him for now. Russ Springer is not likely to be traded by the Cardinals, but Juan Encarnacion might. The Cubs are in serious talks to acquire Ryan Church from Washington. Boston is interested in Ty Wigginton. Seattle is interested in Willis and Jason Jennings. The Mets could get Jose Contreras, Sammy Sosa, Mark Grudzielanek, Wigginton, and Mark Loretta. The Yankees are interested in Salomon Torres. (Jim Molony)
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
