MLB 2011 Season Thread

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Holy shit Scott Hairston.

Carlos Who?</font> :shifty:

[Emperor Smeat]

:eek: Lackey has managed to pitch 2 good games in a row and that is not saying much considering how awful or inconsistent he's been at times.

He had his typical horrible inning with today occurring in the 1st but after stopped Tampa from doing any more damage.

[Damian Rey]

Good for lackey. They are going to need him to pitch decent enough down the stretch to remain ahead of the Yankees, and possibly the Rays. Once they get into the playoffs, though, I don't see where Lackey figures.

[ClockShot]

Beltran out today with flu-like symptoms. So the Mets are trotting out this lineup against Cole Hamels:

1. Angel Pagan, CF
2. Justin Turner, 2B
3. Scott Hairston, RF
4. Daniel Murphy, 3B
5. Jason Bay, LF
6. Ronny Paulino, C
7. Nick Evans, 1B
8. Ruben Tejada, SS
9. Jon Niese, P

And of course it's the FOX game, so I won't even have the SNY team to keep me entertained.


:rofl:

Minus the pitcher, this should be the A lineup since they sent Hamels packing early and kicked ass at the same time today.

[Emperor Smeat]

Good for lackey. They are going to need him to pitch decent enough down the stretch to remain ahead of the Yankees, and possibly the Rays. Once they get into the playoffs, though, I don't see where Lackey figures.
It depends on Buccholz but right now Lackey would be the #4 guy. Buccholz got his return pushed back to around late August to early September which now leave him with just a few starts to get back to his old self before the playoffs.

The bigger concern is Lester because as long as he doesn't have a set back, then the Red Sox don't have to suddenly panic at the trade deadline to boost the rotation.

[Damian Rey]

I think they should at least look for a solid middle of the rotation starter. Buccholz is going to need some time to get back into the swing of things, and having a solid starter in the rotation would be a wise move.

[Evil Vito]

:rofl:

Minus the pitcher, this should be the A lineup since they sent Hamels packing early and kicked ass at the same time today.

<font color=goldenrod>Yeah, incredible game. And Hairston drove in a career-high 5 runs.

Alright, it's safe to trade Beltran now. We got this.</font> :cool: :shifty:

[Damian Rey]

The Padres brought their hitting sticks to the ballpark this afternoon. They;ve tagged Zito for 2 three run homers and an RBI single ad hold a 7-1 lead in the bottom of the 4th. Loving this.

[RP]

There's a deal on the table for Aramis Ramirez to go to the Angels for two prospects, one possibly being Chris Schnoll and the other being a top 15 prospect. They are waiting for Ramirez to decide if he wants to waive his NTC.

[RP]

I hope it's Tyler Chatwood

[Boomer]

I had my doubts about Freddie Freeman starting as a rookie at first this year, but he is playing ridiculously good baseball right now. Unfortunately, Jason Heyward is having a horrible second year. He isn't squaring up balls very often, and seems to roll out to second at least once a game.

[owenbrown]

Red Sox-Rays now in the 15th inning at 12:12 am central time score is 0-0 geez

[Emperor Smeat]

Epic pitching matchup that finally ended 1-0 Red Sox after 16 innings.

The worst part is the Rays won't have much of a bullpen for Monday's game against the Yankees while the Red Sox still need to travel for their game against Baltimore.

[MVP]

I think they should at least look for a solid middle of the rotation starter. Buccholz is going to need some time to get back into the swing of things, and having a solid starter in the rotation would be a wise move.

Yeah, I'm still for the Red Sox acquiring another starter rather than a right-handed bat. Buchholz is going to have a difficult time getting back to his old self in September after dealing with a back injury, and I think it's only a matter of time before Wakefield starts falling apart since he hasn't been good in the 2nd half for a number of years now, not surprisingly given his age.

[Droford]

Epic pitching matchup that finally ended 1-0 Red Sox after 16 innings.

The worst part is the Rays won't have much of a bullpen for Monday's game against the Yankees while the Red Sox still need to travel for their game against Baltimore.

Im happy about that. Anything to help the Os out after they just got on a 2 game winning streak for the first time in a month is fine by me.

[parkmania]

If the Pirates can stay within reach of the NL Central lead over the next month, they MIGHT just have a chance.

Thursday they have an off day, then play 20 consecutive days (the most allowed by the agreement with MLBPA) - including 3 at home vs the Cardinals, 3 at home vs the Padres, 3 games in Philly, 3 in SF, and 4 in ATL. This is definitely MAKE IT OR BREAK IT for the Battlin' Bucs.

[Nervous Ferret]

Pirates are crazy, who the hell even pitches for them? I know the black kid McDonald, but I don't think he's really been anything special. I guess Morton and Maholm have apparently done well. Who else is in their rotation? Jeff Karstens? Ohlendorff? No idea


Dirty bullpen and some crazy nice young bats though


Edit

Forgot about Correjia (sp) is having a pretty nice year

[Damian Rey]

I'm pulling for the Pirates. An old friend of mine who's dad I've known since I was a kid is a big time Pirates fan, and I know it'd make his day if they were able to somehow find their way into the playoffs.

[parkmania]

Pirates are crazy, who the hell even pitches for them? I know the black kid McDonald, but I don't think he's really been anything special. I guess Morton and Maholm have apparently done well. Who else is in their rotation? Jeff Karstens? Ohlendorff? No idea


1. Correia (11-7, 4.04 ERA)
2. Maholm (6-9, 3.06)
3. Morton (8-5, 3.62)
4. McDonald (5-4, 4.42)
5. Karstens (8-4, 2.34)

Evan Meek (1-1, 3.15) is currently on the 15-day DL (since June 10). for the second time this season. Ross Ohlendorf (0-0, 7.27 in 2 starts) has been on the 60-day DL since VERY early in the season.

[DaveWadding]

The Pirates are 15-6 against shitty teams (read: the Cubs and the Astros) and 35-38 against everyone else.

[Damian Rey]

They're basically making due with a respectable, non spectacular pitching staff. I'd be willing to bet they're and at least above average team defensively considering all of their starters are pitch to contact guys who won't miss many bats.

[Damian Rey]

The Pirates are 15-6 against shitty teams (read: the Cubs and the Astros) and 35-38 against everyone else.

Sounds like the 2010 Reds :shifty:

[Aguakate]

The Pirates are 15-6 against shitty teams (read: the Cubs and the Astros) and 35-38 against everyone else.

...If you beat teams you SHOULD beat, and maintain a .500 average against winning teams, you win the NL Central.

[weather vane]

GO PIRATES!

[Damian Rey]

I wish next week would hurry the fuck up and get here. Outside of a few glimmers of hope (Cameron Maybin's development, Chase Headley's emergence, etc.), watching the Padres has been a chore in and of itself. Not only are they bad, but they're unexciting. I just want them to trade their best pieces so I can see some young guys come up and get excited for the possible prospects they recieve.

[Ermaximus]

The Pirates in first place, who knew? I'm quite excited really. Going to follow them more now rather than the Braves. Still rooting for both teams though.

[Innovator]

http://thechive.files.wordpress.com/2011/07/prisonrulesbaseballp1.gif?w=256&h=192

I hope I never get tired of seeing this.

[Emperor Smeat]

The Pirates might be in first place but there is still the annual trade deadline deals left that the Pirates love to do each year although the backlash would be huge if the team dismantles again for no real reason like every year.

That deadline and not their 20 game stretch is probably the biggest obstacle left for them reaching the playoffs or having a winning record.

[Damian Rey]

It has been stated in several outlets that the Pirates are looking to add pitching and possibly a LF bat. They're not trading anyone this season. As long as they don't mortgage their future, they're going to make a move to get better.

[DaveWadding]

Good news for our favorite Mets fan:

According to Buster Olney of ESPN.com, the Mets are now "100 percent certain" that they will not trade Jose Reyes before the deadline.

That settles that. It wasn't too long ago that many assumed that a trade was a foregone conclusion, but Olney writes that Reyes has "changed their minds." The Mets are a longshot to contend for a playoff spot this season, but parting with Reyes would almost certainly cause an uproar in the fanbase which would be difficult for the new front office to recover from.

[Damian Rey]

Just imagine the uproar the fans will emit when Reyes walks for a monstrous contract elsewhere, and the Mets are left hoping the two draft picks they get will turn out.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>I wouldn't write off the Mets being able to re-sign Reyes. K-Rod's monster option is off the table and the bloated contracts of Beltran, Perez, Castillo, etc. are coming off the books. Add that to the fact that Reyes clearly wants to stay and his agent has been known to negotiate team-friendly deals and I think they'll work something out.

I'd guess the big "sticking point" is years. I'd think the Mets will need to wind up guaranteeing a 6th year to seal the deal but who knows. Alderson's normally not one to ink huge contracts, but Einhorn will be kicking in more capital so the money to retain Reyes is there and keeping him will be huge from a ticket sale perspective. Not to mention the free agent market this year is going to be incredibly weak anyway.</font>

[DaveWadding]

I hope the Mets do resign Reyes. I wouldn't want to hear you cry about it all offseason.

[DaveWadding]

Stephen Drew just broke something.

[DaveWadding]

Yep, his ankle. Done for the season. Goodbye playoffs.

[Gertner]

Jays sweep the Mariners and their bullpen somehow manages not to fuck things up.

[parkmania]

Pirates sign Jason Grilli.

I guess they're gonna use him to set up Hanrahan.

[Damian Rey]

I think there's a good chance the Mets resign him, but if they don't get it done during their exlcusive negotiating period, they're going to be in trouble. There are a few teams that could sweep in and sign him.

In Padres news, rumors are swirling that Ryan Ludwick being traded to the Indians is close to being finalized. Also, Anthony Rizzo, the 1st baseman the Padres received in the 3 fo 1 Adrian Gonzalez deal, has been sent back to AAA Tuscon, while Kyle Blanks, for top Padres prospect, has been recalled. Blanks has ridiculous power, He struggled a lot last year before getting hurt. I'm hoping he finds his stroke, because when he's on, the ball goes a long way.

[Aguakate]

Whatever happens with Reyes, I'm sure it'll be the best thing for the Mets, since Alderson is in charge, and he's been there, done that.

Now, the Mets HAVE to do something about David Wright...dude's fallen off the radar HARD...they gotta get him back into it...

[DaveWadding]

What are you talking about? Wright has been injured this year. Period. Last year was pretty much a regular year in his career.

[Aguakate]

...IDK, I just feel David Wright hasn't lived up to expectations...you don't hear about him as much the last couple years as you did before...maybe it's the fact he's been injured, and I've forgotten him, who knows...

[Damian Rey]

A lot of it has to do with the Mets not being a playoff front runner, and playing second fiddle to the Yankees.

http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/wrighda03.shtml

The guy had one "bad" year, but even then, the only thing that took a dip was his HR totals. Everything else was on par. If the Mets were playoff contenders, Wright would be heard from more often. The guy is arguably the best 3rd baseman in the National League.

[DaveWadding]

I would say that he is. With no question. Who's better?

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Wright's on tap to return tomorrow, which will be excellent.

Today was probably Beltran's last home game as a Met. :( Fucking crazy to think that I was only a sophomore in high school when he signed his huge contract. :o Time flies.</font>

[DaveWadding]

I thought you were 12?

[Aguakate]

I would say that he is. With no question. Who's better?

Offensively, some would give Aramis Ramirez an honorable mention...but he's just so streaky...

[Damian Rey]

Wright is a better player than Ramirez. He's a better defender, has more speed, and is a more complete player in general. Not to say Ramirez isn't good, 'cause he's a stud. But I'd take Wright over him any day.

[DaveWadding]

As a Cubs fan, so would I.

[Damian Rey]

I respect your objectivity.

[Aguakate]

I wouldn't take anyone over Ramirez RIGHT NOW, but of course, he's in the middle of a hot streak...

...now, 2 weeks from now or so, when he's in the middle of one of his weeks-long slumps, I'll probably feel otherwise...

[Damian Rey]

It doesn't matter to me, personally. Wright is by and far the better player, hot streak or not. Granted, this is just my opinion. But I think David Wright is a complete, 5 tool package. How many guys like that are at the hot corner? As good as Longoria is, he's not a 5 tool player. Wright is.

I remember when I'd tell people I'd take Adrian Gonzalez over Ryan Howard. People would call me a Padre homer/apologist, since Howard was clearly the better player. Even though Adrian hits for a higher average, is miles ahead in defense, and hits for power, despite spending the majority of his career hitting in the grand canyon, as opposed to Howard, who hits in a sandbox 81 times a year.

[Aguakate]

Geez, every time I see Nomar Garciaparra on ESPN's Baseball Tonight, I just can't believe how his career went south so fast. Dude was on pace to have a HOF career like Jeter and ARod, but, injuries caught up with him.

It's sad, kinda.

[DaveWadding]

Being a Cub also caught up with him.

[ClockShot]

Yankees grab Marcus Thames off Waivers.

Nice. :cool:

[Damian Rey]

Nothing like a good old retread, eh Clock Shot?

[Triple Naitch]

Geez, every time I see Nomar Garciaparra on ESPN's Baseball Tonight, I just can't believe how his career went south so fast. Dude was on pace to have a HOF career like Jeter and ARod, but, injuries caught up with him.

It's sad, kinda.

Same with Mark Mulder. He was probably the most talented of Oakland's big three.

Although he is damn handsome looking on camera.

[Emperor Smeat]

Judge rejects the Dodgers proposed $150 million financing plan for bankruptcy and instead tells the owner and team to solve the financial crisis with MLB help.

http://espn.go.com/los-angeles/mlb/story/_/id/6793717/judge-rejects-los-angeles-dodgers-150m-financing-plan

A month ago Selig killed the tv deal with Fox after finding out the McCourts were attempting to take out $173 million for "personal use" after saying they wouldn't. The judge in today's case might have figured the owners would try the same tactic with the bankruptcy deal and ended that from being a possibility.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>So Beltran has said that even if he is traded, he would be completely open to re-signing with the Mets in the off-season.

I wonder how much money he'll command in the off-season. He's proven time and again that he's an incredible player when healthy. Yes he missed considerable time in '09 and '10, but when he was playing he was the goods. His only outright bad year with the Mets was 2005.

I've all but given up on Fernando Martinez being an impact player and no other OF prospects are close - so fuck it, if Beltran would sign at a reasonable price I'd go for it. Many Mets fans gave him a bad wrap for reasons I don't understand...as far as I'm concerned, he's been one of the best players to ever put on a Mets uniform. If you're doing an all-time Mets team, he's easily warranted being slotted in between Straw and Mookie Wilson/Cleon Jones.</font>

[DaveWadding]

So, in news that will surprise no one, Brandon Webb needs yet another shoulder surgery. This time on his rotator cuff. AS far as I'm concerned, Dude's finished.

[Damian Rey]

Beltran is an amazing player when he's healthy. I noticed F-Mart's numbers have plummeted. Kinda sad. If Beltran wants $10mil or less, I could see the Mets being open to bringing him in for a one year deal.

[Aguakate]

Carlos Beltran hasn't been HORRIBLE as a Met...it's just that the team hasn't been winning for a couple years, and it kinda dims out his production.

[ClockShot]

Anybody think Erik Wedge is going to get another season over in Seattle? Mariners got a 13 game losing streak going on.

Also think Jack Zduriencik is going to get canned and Seattle is gonna push hard for Cashman after the offseason.

[RP]

Fuck it. Keep hitting A-Ram!

Aramis has fucked around and gotten in the MVP race now. Atleast he should be.

[Evil Vito]

Beltran is an amazing player when he's healthy. I noticed F-Mart's numbers have plummeted. Kinda sad. If Beltran wants $10mil or less, I could see the Mets being open to bringing him in for a one year deal.

<font color=goldenrod>I'd guess he asks for at least 3 years. Maybe even 4.</font>

[Gertner]

Mother fuck. Jo Jo Reyes gives me indigestion.

[Damian Rey]

No way should anyone give Beltran a multi year deal. Maybe a one year guarenteed with a second year option and a buy out. Not being a CF'r hurts his value, not to mention, he's had his fair share of injuries.

No way should Ramirez be MVP. His team is terrible, with or without him. Bautista can make a case based on the fact that his incredible offense has kept the Blue Jays near and around .500 for 2 years now. Ramirez cannot say that.

Meanwhile, the Padres and Phillies are playing slugfest, and I'm falling head over heels for Cameron Maybin. At first, it was just some lust heavy crush. Now I'm flat out in love with the guy. Silly Marlins for dumping him for 2 middle relievers.

[ClockShot]

To my fellow Bronx Brothers and those who care interested, New York Times got a nice article about the richest AAA player ever, Kei Igawa. For those who don't know, Kei Igawa was supposed to be our response to the Red Sox winning the Matsuzaka auction a few years back.

Kinda crazy that A. The Padres claimed him off waivers one time, and the front office didn't want to trade him for reason unknown. And B. Cashman worked out 2 deals to send him back to Japan but Igawa refused, even though we told him he would not see another day in the Majors.

Go here. (http://www.nytimes.com/2011/07/24/sports/baseball/kei-igawa-the-lost-yankee.html?pagewanted=1&_r=2&hpw)

[Damian Rey]

I saw that report somewhere earlier this morning. Could have been ESPN. I think that guy would have thrived in San Diego for my Padres. Big ballpark, and the division is pitcher friendly as well.

I remember when the Padres made the claim, I was thinking "Great. Decent lefty starter who would probably be well served in PETCO."

Didn't Cashman say his superiors vetoed the claim and pull him back from the Padres? Thiought I read that. In all reality, they only owe him $4mil this year, and his contract is up. And has he ever been given a legit chance to crack the rotation? I see he has pitched in less than 20 games in his major league career.

They should just cut ties with him, already. That career 3.81 ERA in the minors isn't going to get any better.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Wait what? 3.81 is pretty good.

[Damian Rey]

Wait what? 3.81 is pretty good.

In the minor leagues? I don't think so. You have top prospects with ERAs half that size. 3.81 in the majors is solid for a back end 4 or 5 starter. But Igawa is posting that number in the minors.

His AAA ERA this season is better than his AA, but for a guy in his early 30s, who's been a pro for a long while, I would hope his numbers would look a little better, wouldn't you?

Also, Supreme. I've been discussing with my friend that Chapman needs to be stretched out and would be much more valuable as a starter. I know there have been times where he his velocity as varied when throwing back to back nights, which is why I argue having him start would be better for both him and the team, long term. What's your take?

[Emperor Smeat]

Ouch at the Mariners loosing their 14th game in a row although not complaining since today they lost to the Red Sox.

Igawa's problem was how badly the Yankees mishandled him starting with over paying during the bidding when everyone else had concerns about his arm strength and stats. It also didn't help the team had no patience and demoted him after 1-2 months instead of letting him adjust to the MLB style. They also valued him soo low he hasn't been recalled in the last 2 years even with all the pitching injuries the team has had during the time.

Buccholz starts is rehab stint next week which could determine what the Red Sox do or don't do for the trade deadline but the good news is Lester is still set to come back and start next week.

[Damian Rey]

If they're not going to use Igawa, the Yankees should just DFA him. I'm more than positive and NL team would be willing to pick him.

I think Wedge and Jack Z are gone ater this year. Yea, Z has had a few nice drafts, but the team is going nowhere fast, and I'm pretty sure JZ was the one who gave Figgins that terrible deal.

Good for Buccholz. The Sox are going to need him. I still think they should at least look into getting a middle or back end rotation guy just for insurance purposes. When Buccholz gets back, he's still going to need some time to find his rythm again.

[Emperor Smeat]

They can't because either Cashman wants to salvage at least some of his value so they won't have what could potentially end up as one of the worst busts in MLB history in terms of money paid or for some strange reason they don't want to just "eat" his salary like they've done to countless salaries in the past for the luxury tax penalty.

At least now, you see, Igawa doesn’t count against their luxury-tax payroll because they were able to dump him off the 40-man roster. But if somebody actually wanted him (not that there’s any indication of that), the Yankees would have to pay virtually his entire salary. And that would pull all those dollars back onto their luxury-tax bill, to the tune of a 40 percent tax on whatever they’re paying.

In other words, one GM said, “They have huge incentive not to trade him, even if they could. So he’s one of the all-time stuck-in-purgatory cases.”
http://riveraveblues.com/2010/07/why-kei-igawa-is-still-a-scranton-yankee-32818/

[Damian Rey]

Well keeping him for the sake of such us stupid. They took a gamble, it didn't work out. Time to cut ties and move on. There's no need to keep him. They should trade him for some 30 something minor leaguer.

[RP]

Pineda might not make it out of the first inning.

[ClockShot]

HazMat goes 5-5.

I miss him :'(

[RP]

If Matt Garza demanded a trade after this game, i would applaud him for sticking up for himself because this has gotten ridiculous. Third straight start the Cubs bullpen has blown a win for him. It's a joke. Jim Hendry is deadman walking.

[RP]

This is just fucking stupid. They need to fire all these fucks right now just to make a point.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Cubs bullpen blowing games even when they're not playing.

[DaveWadding]

Marmol gets out of it.

[RP]

Lets do it Aramis

[Emperor Smeat]

Wakefield became just the 2nd player in Red Sox history to record 2,000 strikeouts with the team (Roger Clemens was first) and 1 win away from 200 career wins which is actually amazing for a Knuckleball type pitcher.

[DaveWadding]

Jesus are the Astros stupid? Why would you walk 2 guys in a row intentionally?

[Supreme Olajuwon]

woooooo Reds winning streak

[Nervous Ferret]

I heard on ESPN this morning that thia is the first time the Pirates have been in contention in quite some time


-mrslackalack

[Nervous Ferret]

Reyes can be one of the most dynamic players in the game IMO when he is healthy.

-mrs. Lackalack

[Droford]

Some team in need of some back of the rotation pitching will get Guthrie from the Os and be happy. I think he pitched his last game today for the Os. They never score him runs, and if lands on a team that can score him runs he'd end up being decent. As it is, I think he goes in knowing he almost has to be perfect in order to get a win due to the Os not scoring runs for him over the past like 3 years..

[RP]

Jesus are the Astros stupid? Why would you walk 2 guys in a row intentionally?

No clue what was going on there. Its not like Campana has warning track power. He was the easiest out. You have to strike someone out. Strike him out and then have Barney hitting in a clutch scenario, being a rookie. I would have taken that chance.

[Evil Vito]

Beltran has apparently put the kibosh on any trade to an AL team. Says he wants to stay in the NL to play in the field and he's familiar with the pitchers.

He gave the Mets a list of 7 NL teams he'd accept being traded to when there are probably 8 NL teams in realistic contention. Most are blindly assuming that the excluded team is the Pirates for whatever reason, but its a non-issue since they aren't going to get him.

It's probably down to the Giants, Phillies, and Braves...all of whom seem unwilling to part with much because Beltran's contract forbids the team from offering arbitration (aka no draft pick compensation). A shame really, most years the top hitter on the trade market can always get you a big haul.

[RP]

He said he wants to play the outfield. He didn't say he wouldn't go to the AL

[RP]

And I think A Ram is way better then Beltran. Not sure why everyone isn't fawning over him.

[Gertner]

Jo Jo Reyes was DFA. There is a fucking God!!!

[Aguakate]

And I think A Ram is way better then Beltran. Not sure why everyone isn't fawning over him.

...'cause he's not willing to waive his "no trade clause", I think...he wants to stay in Chicago...while Beltran has said he'll go, just not to certain teams...

...Oh, and Jim Hendry's an ass.

[ClockShot]

Twins got destroyed last night by the rangers. Gardenhire used up the pen so fast, Mike Cuddyer had to pitch the 8th.

[RP]

Is there a way to watch minor league game s online?

[ClockShot]

Is there a way to watch minor league game s online?

milb.com

They got their own TV thing.

[DaveWadding]

Aramis Ramirez is still smoking.

[RP]

Aramis Ramirez just destroyed a first pitch fast ball.

[Droford]

Arrietta just drilled Bautista in the head but it looks like hes ok.

[RP]

So much for that lead. Thanks for showing up Dempster

[ClockShot]

God dammit.

CC lost the perfect game/no hitter.

[Dragon]

CC has been on an insane run. 0.83 ERA over his last 54 innings.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Rockies told the Reds they want Aroldis Chapman, Devin Mesoraco (top catching prospect), Chris Heisey and two other players for Ubaldo Jimenez.

Pass.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Jonny Gomes is gone though. So that's cool.

[Corndad]

This Buccos/Braves game may never end. Its getting redic now.

[Corndad]

And on to the 18th...

[Boomer]

McCann injured, going on the DL. Just awful.

[Boomer]

WHAT THE FUCK WAS THAT? That is seriously the worst call I have ever seen. That ump was awful all night, but that shit just takes the cake.

[Boomer]

The Braves' worst pitcher gets the win and the game winning hit all because the ump wanted to go home, apparently. Feel bad for that Pirate girl yelling "LETS GO PIRATES" into the TV mike for 19 innings.

[Corndad]

Worst call I've ever seen. That's how you end a 19 inning game. Really? REALLY?

[Nervous Ferret]

Rofl I literally watched that entire game

[Evil Vito]

Selig and the rules committee are fucking clueless if they don't add replay challenges after this.

[RP]

I saw one quick replay and I thought the catcher whiffed.

[Boomer]

The tag was certainly not a good one, but he was out without any doubt in my mind. Most umps would probably call that shit out just on principal.

[McLegend]

Rofl what a horrible call.

[RP]

Skip Bayless made a great point

" a swipe tag??? What is this...second base? "

[Aguakate]

That call was horrible. I expect an apology from that umpire today, like Jim Joyce...'cause it wasn't just a regular Pirates game we have seen the past 18 years, where they're so far out of the race, it doesn't matter if they win or lose...this bad call actually cost them a game in the standings.

[Gertner]

Jays trade Zach Stewart and Jason Frasor to White Sox for Mark Teahen and Edwin Jackson.

Apparently the Jays are gonna flip Jackson, Scrabble and Dotel to St. Louis for Colby Rasmus.

Is this is true, AA is a bigger genius than I imagined.

[Gertner]

St. Louis Dispatch confirms it. Jays send Dotel, Jackson and Rzepczynski to the Cardinals for Colby Rasmus.

I'm so happy, I'm gonna jerk off on my computer monitor.

[RP]

so they're trading there second best pitching prospect for Colby Rasmus? Sounds dumb to me.

[RP]

Honestly, the Jays got fleeced by Kenny Williams. Sox just shed about 17 million worth of junk and picked up a nice bullpen arm and a top 50 prospect in all of baseball. All because the Jays had a hard on for a overated outfielder with a bad attitude. Enjoy.

[Gertner]

Zack Stewart is a 25 year old stuck in AA with control problems, a 4.20 ERA and the Jays have TONS of pitching prospects (Drabek, Alvarez, McGuire, Hutchison, Beede, Norris, Synngaard, Sanchez)

Yunel Escobar also had a "bad Attitude" when he came here and is now one of the best shortstops in baseball.

Oh, Jason Frasor is only good in non pressure situations. There's a reason why he hasn't closed games despite Rauch and Francisco sucking.

The only thing that hurts is losing Rzepczynski.

[Boomer]

Schafer - DL
McCann - DL
Chipper - Still hurt, just after getting off the DL
Prado - Just off the DL, 0-9 last night
Uggla - Almost hitting over .200!
Heyward - Awful sophomore season; still rolling out to second base with impressive consistency
Alex Gonzalez - Only around for his defense (even with an error last night!)

The Braves might be done. At least we have the best backup catcher in baseball?

[Dragon]

Can't believe the Cardinals could only get a half year rental in Jackson, Rzepczynski, Dotel, and Corey Patterson for Rasmus.

Jays GM continues to stockpile talent at every opportunity. Dude's a machine, seems like the Jays are involved in every name that comes up.

[RP]

Erving Santana has a no hitter going

[RP]

giants are about to trade Zach Wheeler, one of there top prospects for Beltran. Oddly its being floated as if the Mets are hoping for another team to up the offer for Beltran.

[RP]

No hitter for Ervin Santana!

[Damian Rey]

The Cards are a bunch of idiots. Trading a potential 5 tool star in Rasmus for rentals and no impending replacement is so stupid. A blatant case of LaRussa getting in the way of what's best for the team.

In the meantime, the Jays just got that much better. Great move by their front office.

[RP]

Everything I've read says the Jays have the best farm system in the majors right now.

[Damian Rey]

ESPN's Keith Law ranked them as having the #4 best farm system in the game. Dealing Rolen and Halladay was a shot in the arm for the organization.

[Supreme Olajuwon]

Rasmus is a baller. So glad to see him out of the division.

[Damian Rey]

I honestly love the kid. Has all he tools you want in a CF. He's gonna tear shit up in Toronto, and being an anti LaRussa guy, I'm glad he GTFO out St. Louis.

Like Gerty said, the Jays got a "bad attitude" in Yunel Escobar, and now he's an all star caliber player that the Jays can pencil in the lineup 2.5 years. Rasmus is going to thrive there.

[ClockShot]

Double A with the genius move yet again. Gets and flips Ed Jackson in a matter of hours.

[Gertner]

ESPN's Keith Law ranked them as having the #4 best farm system in the game. Dealing Rolen and Halladay was a shot in the arm for the organization.

VERY pitching heavy in terms of their prospects, not so much batting wise aside from Gose, Sierra, Lawrie and D'Arnaud. AA has done wonders, and it looks like he's gonna be able to sign Norris and Beede his two high school pitching draft picks that looked to be unsignable. Very pleased.

[Gertner]

With Rasmus the Jays line up looks impressive

SS Escobar
LF Thames
3B Bautista
1B Lind
CF Rasmus
DH E5
RF Snider
C Arencibia
2B Hill.

Can't wait till Lawrie comes up.

[Juan]

Carlos Beltran is gonna look good in a Giants uniform

[ClockShot]

Way to go, bullpen. You just had to end Seattle's losing streak, didn't you?

In other news, Cubs are trying to unload Carlos Zambrano to some sucker. Hendry called the Yankees to see if we were interested.

"No thanks."

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Fuck yes. All of the "experts" said there was no way the Mets get an A-prospect for Beltran, but Alderson stayed firm and wound up with one of the best pitching prospects in baseball. Genius.</font>

[Skippord]

lol was just reading twitter

Ken Rosenthal "The Mets want Wheeler or Brown, they won't get Wheeler. We'll see on Brown"

like an hour before the trade

[Corndad]

Of course the Pirates and Braves are in extra innings again tonight lol

[Boomer]

At least we have the best backup catcher in baseball?

[DaveWadding]

Justin Upton. 3rd deck of the Western Metal Supply Co. in San Diego. Wow.

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[Aguakate]

The Red Sox have been scoring a BUNCH of runs lately, which is GOOD, but, they're pitchers are giving up runs too...

[RP]

Being reported that the Cubs are in serious talks to trade Carlos Zambrano, Reed Johnson and cash, to the Yankees for Manuel Banuelos, Dellin Betances and Ivan Nova

[Gertner]

Thank God Romero went into the 9th last night. I don't know who besides Rauch and Francisco could have pitched last night.

[RP]

Cubs traded Kosuke to Cleveland for two prospects. Don't have names yet, but one is a upper prospect and the other is a lower.

[RP]

Carlton Smith and Abner Abreau. Thats what I've read.

[RP]

This is a great trade for the Cubs. Abreu might be a potential all star.

[Dragon]

Being reported that the Cubs are in serious talks to trade Carlos Zambrano, Reed Johnson and cash, to the Yankees for Manuel Banuelos, Dellin Betances and Ivan Nova

There's zero chance of that happening. Thats a package they could get Ubaldo with.

What I've heard is the Cubs called the Yankees about taking on Zambrano and his contract but they weren't interested (thankfully).

[RP]

Was joking obviously

[Dragon]

Ah, you'd be surprised how many people seem to think Zambrano will bring back a top prospect on other sites.

[RP]

If the Cubs got either one of those prospects back for Zambrano, id eat my own poop and like it.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>I normally can never bring myself to root for a repeat unless the potentially repeating team is playing against a team I hate. But that changes this year - gotta pull for the Giants. Would love to see Carlos get a ring.

Just saw his press conference. Looks weird seeing him in another cap.</font> :(

[Supreme Olajuwon]

OH shit

Hideki Irabu just committed suicide

damn

[Supreme Olajuwon]

oh apparently they found his body yesterday, but it didn't come out until now

damn

[Triple Naitch]

<iframe width="480" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/dzeuvZc1KI8" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

RIP

[RP]

Aramis Ramirez is backing off his no trade clause, the Phils and Braves are needing a right hand bat and Jim Hendry has his thumb up his ass right now. I bet the Cubs could pull Dominic Brown.

[Innovator]

http://thechive.files.wordpress.com/2011/07/mad-baseball-bro.gif?w=270&h=197

[Triple Naitch]

Aramis Ramirez is backing off his no trade clause, the Phils and Braves are needing a right hand bat and Jim Hendry has his thumb up his ass right now. I bet the Cubs could pull Dominic Brown.

Can't tell if you're being serious.

[Droford]

LOL

The Rangers "banned" the crowd from doing The Wave at their ballpark.

[Aguakate]

Why?

[Innovator]

Good.

[Damian Rey]

As if I wasn't already a fan of the organization, the Rangers continue to make me look good for liking them. I hate the wave.

Speaking of the Rangers, word on the streets is they've amped up their interest in Padres closer Heath Bell, and the current rumored players that would be exchanged is 20 yr. old RHP Rober Erlin, who is the 34th best prospect in all of baseball according to scouting outlet Baseball America, 24 yr. old LHP Derek Holland, and 1B/3B Chris Davis.

Honest to God, if that's the Rangers' final offer for a mid 30s closer in a contract year, I'm pulling the trigger. Two potential #2 starters in Erlin and Holland, and an athletic, absolute masher in Chris Davis, who's still onl 25 years old and has been sadi to be able to handle third base on a daily basis and could easily run into 30 HR a year. Davis would be the throw in player with Holland and Erlin being the prized pieces.

Hope that's the deal that comes through.

[Triple Naitch]

Looks like the Phillies are gonna wind up with Pence tonight.

[McLegend]

Woohoo

[Damian Rey]

That'd be a great pickup for Philly. They get Pence relatively cheap for now with the potential to sign him long term. He's a great fit in that ballpark as well.

[Aguakate]

I was kinda hoping the Phillies would get Aramis Ramirez...if not only just so the Cubs would unload that contract.

[Triple Naitch]

I was totally expecting them to have to include Dom Brown or send him somewhere else for a package the Astros might like, but they didn't have to do either. Huge win for Amaro. Ed Wade is so getting fired at the end of the year for trading Pence at his peak and not getting a maximum return.

[Damian Rey]

Wade's a lame duck GM anyways. I would assume new ownership is kicking him to the curb regardless.

The Phillies may still deal Brown. Pence can slot in RF if they grab him, and if Ibanez doesn't come back, they could always go for another OF in free agency.

Aramis Ramirez wasn't a good choice for Philly since Polanco is under contract through the end of 2012.

Brown could still be dealt to help the Phillies fill needs in other areas. In other words, I'm hoping Brown goes to my Padres for a deal involving Mike Adams.

[Aguakate]

So it's a done deal. Pence got traded to the Phillies for 4 prospects.

[Damian Rey]

Yea, good move by the Phills. They held onto their best prospect in Domonic Brown and got a good, young, controllable OF who is going to play well in that park for years to come. Nice job by Amaro.

I don't forsee them platooning Brown, Ibanez and Pence, though. Something is going to have to give and I'm hoping Brown becomes available (to the Padres).

[Boomer]

McLouth on the DL. Keep 'em coming.

[Aguakate]

Braves are done. So many injuries, they don't make any deals...

[Damian Rey]

McClouth has been a massive bust for the Braves. I wonder if this pushes the Braves to acquire an OF. Pence and Beltran, the two best available OF's, are off the board. Ryan Ludwick may be a fit.

[Aguakate]

Adam Dunn would be SUCH a great fit for the Braves...

[Damian Rey]

That contract wouldn't be. Add to that he's been mired in a horrific slump all year, and putting him on a team in the middle of a pennant race is not going to help the cause. Not to mention, where do you put him?

Freeman's at 1st and has it locked down for the next handful of years. I expect Uggla and Prado to switch positions at some point, but either way, LF is plugged. Dunn is pretty much a $14mil DH at this point.

I don't think the Braves would be wise to make that move. At all.

[Aguakate]

Dunn's just a National League guy. And perhaps being in the middle of a pennant race is what he needs to wake up and get to hitting...

...but I know it's not going to happen...it was just wishful thinking...

[Damian Rey]

Maybe it's just me, but I've never bought into the whole "NL/AL guy". And Dunn has never been in a high pressure situation. He's always been on celler dwellers, sans his short time in Arizona, where hit .247/..417/.472. But the DBacks were plummeting out of contention.

I think he's under enough pressure trying to live up to a contract in a city where winning is expected and for a loose cannon manager. He's also just not a fit in Atlanta.

And it's okay. My pipe dream for the Padres is to land Jurickson Profar from the Rangers, but that's not gonna happen unless it's MLB: The Show.

[Boomer]

Braves need a right-handed bat. Michael Bourn would be what we need if he wasn't a lefty.

[Emperor Smeat]

The strikeouts are killing Dunn this season because he's averaging almost 1 strikeout for every 2 at-bats more than him adjusting to AL style pitching after years in the NL.

Phillies did great in their deal even at the cost of 2 of the prospects they gave away were in the Top 25 because Astros are in a long rebuilding period especially with the need to rehaul their entire bullpen.

Wakefield missed out on his 200th career win although the bigger news is Buccholz status appears to have worsen with now it being very likely he misses out on the rest of the regular season based on the NESN pre-game report.

[Aguakate]

BOston needs a pitcher. All these 10-9 games are going to kill the bullpen.

[Damian Rey]

Ryan Ludwick to the Braves. He's hitting .230 something, though he's a type B free agent, which means the Braves would have to give up something of comparable value to a sandwich pick in next year's draft.

I've been saying it for at least a week that Boston better add a starter or they're in trouble.

[Boomer]

The Braves don't need someone else who's hitting .230. I'd rather trot out all the AAA guys in Gwinnett.

[Damian Rey]

I'm sure they don't. I honestly am having a hard time seeing Ludwick get moved. He was doind somewhat decent before the break, hitting around .250, but now he's just plummeting. I think the Padres are stuck with him unless they completely unload him for a PTBNL or cash considerations.

[RP]

Braves need Aramis Ramirez and they need to give the Cubs Minor.

[DaveWadding]

D'Backs trade for Jason Marquis. Fuck. :(

[ClockShot]

Rangers send Tommy Hunter and Chris Davis to the O's for Koji Uehara and $2 mil. cash.

[Damian Rey]

I read that earlier today. I wonder what kind of effect, if any, this may have the talks between the Rangers and Padres. If anything, the Padres still have a considerable amount of leverage. They don't have to trade anyone, and Texas would benefit more by getting Bell in their bullpen than going home empty handed.

This is getting pretty interesting...

[Damian Rey]

It's funny. Padres fans on the official message board are starting to get antsy about Bell still being on the team, and are beginning to become upset that the GM, Jed Hoyer, has yet to make a deal. Some people are livid that the Padres "missed the boat" on Hunter and Davis.

Personally, I would have liked Davis, but no way do I ship out a top flight closer for a raw HR hitter in Davis and a #3 starter at best in Tommy Hunter. Better to keep Bell and collect two top 50 draft picks than to give him away for less than what you're asking price is.

[Droford]

Uehara is 36...they got a somewhat decent 25 year old #3-5 starting pitcher and a potential power hitting 1B/potential corner infield utility player a la Ty Wigginton last year..

Good deal. If you read between the lines, picking up Davis means the trade of Lee to Pittsburgh will probably happen (not starting the game tonight at 1B), and Guthrie is probably gone as well.

[Damian Rey]

I like the deal for the O's. Davis could play 3rd base as well, or DH or slot at first. He has a lot more power than Wiggington, and should play everday in Baltimore. Hunter is nice just because he can slot right into their rotation, no questions asked.

The Rangers, however, gave up some solid pieces and I question the return value.

[Skippord]

looks like the Rockies may be sending Ubaldo to Clevelant

:'(

[Damian Rey]

Skipp, I'm....I'm so sorry. What's the prospective return? Oh, and :wavesad:

[Skippord]

Drew Pomeranz, Alex White, and Matt McBride

which is a pretty sick return, but still

[Damian Rey]

Yeah, I'd ask for one more player. Maybe Kipnis or Chisenhall. I know that'd be a stretch, but the Rockies are in no need to dump Jimenez. Hopefully the deal works out for you guys. I love how the Indians are having an out of nowhere fluke season that has been on a slide since May, and yet they're getting a bit desperate and trying to dump prospects for a starting pitcher.

I like that they're trying to improve, but they are not the best team in that division and I don't believe in them at all.

[Skippord]

would love to get Chisenhall too, but Pomeranz and White should be a nice start for building a pitching staff that doesn't suck

[Innovator]

Mercy rule? 12-0 Yankees in the 1st.

[Droford]

The Orioles have given up 12 runs and 10 hits in the first inning.

I fucking hate baseball

[Droford]

Yankees are halfway to the Rangers magical 30 runs vs the Os and its not even out of the 2nd inning.

[Damian Rey]

Tommy Hunter is probably shaking in his spikes knowing he has to try to pitch against some of the best hitters in the game in a division featuring some of the best hitter's parks in the game.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Ubaldo is pitching right now. If he does get traded, this is highly irregular that he'd still make this start.</font>

[Damian Rey]

Well him starting suggests that the deal is not done, and the Rockies were said to have Esmil Rogers warming in the pen just in case. He's getting clocked right now, though.

UPDATE: Ubaldo is getting hugs in the dugout accoring to MLBTR. Looks like he may officially be an Indian.

[ClockShot]

Mercy rule? 12-0 Yankees in the 1st.

"It's when the Yankees score 8 runs in the first inning, then slowly pull away."

- Jacob Ruppert on his perfect afternoon at a yankees game.

[ClockShot]

Baldy to the Indians, eh. With a little luck he could right that ship and put them back in contention.

Either the Yankees are going to get Kuroda on the cheap, or it's going to be a really quiet day in the Bronx.

[Skippord]

easily the saddest start to a game ever

still though D-POM

[Damian Rey]

I really feel like the Indians are overreacting to what has been a fluke season. The only reason they're even talking about contention is due to the ChiSox and Twins being complete failures, and the ChiSox might pull out a division win if they keep playing halfway decent.

[ClockShot]

I really feel like the Indians are overreacting to what has been a fluke season. The only reason they're even talking about contention is due to the ChiSox and Twins being complete failures, and the ChiSox might pull out a division win if they keep playing halfway decent.

The Tribe looked legit when the season began. Soon after they came back down to earth and the Tigers took advantage.

If Grady Sizemore would stay healthy, they could be neck and neck with the Tigers 'til the end of the season.

[Skippord]

unfortunately Grady Sizemore will never be healthy

[Emperor Smeat]

Baldy to the Indians, eh. With a little luck he could right that ship and put them back in contention.

Either the Yankees are going to get Kuroda on the cheap, or it's going to be a really quiet day in the Bronx.

Kuroda wants to stay in LA for the rest of the season since he refused to wave his no trade clause.

The Dodgers could still place him on waivers but they'd get nothing of value in return besides a draft pick.

[Aguakate]

Looks like Rafael Furcal is going to be traded to St Louis...

...huh.

[Skippord]

happy for Ubaldo, he will be awesome in Cleveland

[Aguakate]

The Boston Red Sox have just acquired Rich Harden from the A's.

[Damian Rey]

Super busy day all of a sudden. Cleveland gets a nice piece but I still feel they're mortgaging their future a bit for a year where it's not even clear they can win the division.

Red Sox got that starter I was talking about, though Rich Harden is pretty injury prone. Hopefully he can hold up for them.

Furcal would be a great pickup for the Cardinals. Guys is amazingly dynamic when he's healthy.

[Aguakate]

Got this bad boy in the mail today...ordered it from Cubsworld.com:

http://i55.tinypic.com/2jadbau.jpg


...Yeah, buddy.

[Damian Rey]

I prefer flatbrims but that's a pretty sweet throwback. Please tell me it's a fitted.

[Aguakate]

Yes.

This is the back:

http://i53.tinypic.com/106d53n.jpg

[Damian Rey]

That's a solid haul, Agua. I hate that these crappy looking "snap backs" are becoming so popular. I think they look like shit yet they're selling like hot cakes.

[Aguakate]

Yeah, I can't use a hat that's not fitted...they just don't look right.

[Damian Rey]

You are just flying up the "Damian Rey Ladder of Respect" haha.

[Aguakate]

Looks like the Ubaldo to the Indians trade is a done deal.

IDK...I'm rooting for the Indians in the AL Central and all that, but I just don't feel too confident about this deal...I mean, it's kinda strange that the Rockies would want to deal Jimenez...I hope an injury doesn't flare up in the near future, and that turns out to be the reason why Colorado got the sudden urge to trade him.

[Nervous Ferret]

Fortunately for us, Grady Sizemore will always be adorable

[Damian Rey]

Looks like the Ubaldo to the Indians trade is a done deal.

IDK...I'm rooting for the Indians in the AL Central and all that, but I just don't feel too confident about this deal...I mean, it's kinda strange that the Rockies would want to deal Jimenez...I hope an injury doesn't flare up in the near future, and that turns out to be the reason why Colorado got the sudden urge to trade him.

His velo is way down this year, and they're capitalizing on selling him for the highest value. Cleveland does get a nice piece, but they sacrificed their future a bit.

[Aguakate]

So I guess the only guy, out of all those mentioned, who has yet to be traded is Heath Bell?

'Cause Kuroda won't waive his no-trade clause...so...

[Skippord]

Pomeranzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz

[Damian Rey]

Calm down, Skip. You should be sitting in a corner, naked and crying to yourself while in a feeldle position, much like I did when Jake Peavy was dealt.

Bell is still up for grabs, and I'm hearing reports from my buds that the Rangers are rumored to be finished dealing. Thinking Bell getting traded is becoming a long shot.

[Nervous Ferret]

Erik Bedard :-/

[Damian Rey]

Huh? C'mon, Mallard. What's going on with him?

[Aguakate]

The Kansas City Royals send Mike Aviles to the Red Sox for infielder Yamaico Navarro.

On a separate note, I didn't know next year's All Star Game will be in Kansas City. They have a beautiful ballpark.

[Damian Rey]

I heard their park has a lot of structural issues. Matt Vasgersian did a radio interview and said that it was his favorite place to call a game and that he wishes the Royals would win more so he'd have more chances to do so.

Nice INF help fopr the BoSox.

[Aguakate]

MLB!

Y U NO HAVE ALL-STAR GAME IN TAMPA?!

(They had it in Arizona, and the Diamondbacks made their MLB debut alongside the Tampa Bay Devil Rays, so...)

[Damian Rey]

Probably because the 'Trop is a piece of shit facility and the Rays desperately need to move out of there.

I'm waiting for one here in San Diego. The weather in July is amazing, and PETCO is a beautiful place to watch a game. The HR derby would take a shit, though. I promised myself the minute MLB announce the All Star game is coming to San Diego, I will purchase season tix.

[Skippord]

Calm down, Skip. You should be sitting in a corner, naked and crying to yourself while in a feeldle position, much like I did when Jake Peavy was dealt.

Bell is still up for grabs, and I'm hearing reports from my buds that the Rangers are rumored to be finished dealing. Thinking Bell getting traded is becoming a long shot.
I'm looking at the positive side

[Skippord]

The Home Run Derby at PETCO will be the long fly ball that dies right in front of the warning track derby

[Aguakate]

According to Buster Olney, Derrek Lee is about to get traded to the Pirates.

[Damian Rey]

The Home Run Derby at PETCO will be the long fly ball that dies right in front of the warning track derby

If the derby were to start at 4pm PCT, then they'd be ok. After about 8pm, the ball starts to die out significantly more than it does during the say, since the heavy ass marine layer air starts blanketing the field.

And at least you guys got a good haul. All the Padres got for Peavy was Clayton Richard (#3 starter at best) and 2 scrub relievers, 2 of which are no longer with the team.

[Emperor Smeat]

The Kansas City Royals send Mike Aviles to the Red Sox for infielder Yamaico Navarro.

On a separate note, I didn't know next year's All Star Game will be in Kansas City. They have a beautiful ballpark.

It was actually considered a big issue because it occurs the same year that Fenway turns 100 and Boston tried to get the park that spot but Selig refused to allow them to skip in line. Chicago is fighting to have 2014 game for Wrigley's 100th but right now Minnesota has it. Rumor is that Selig allowed the Yankees to skip in line to have the all-star game in the old stadium but it was never confirmed nor denied.

I think Tampa Bay won't get any chance at an All-Star game until the rumor of a new stadium becomes real since some concept designs have the place looking amazingly good and much better than becoming the 1st derby in MLB history where balls kept clanging off the catwalks.


Good trade moves by the Red Sox considering early concerns were teams wanted either Reddick, Buccholz, or Ellisbury in any trade done. Anderson had no chance once the team got A-Gon while Youkilis is the backup at 1st base. I'd assume the Aviles-Navarro is to boost Scutaro who's been playing poorly lately especially with his huge bunt blunder in the last extra innings game.

[Damian Rey]

Where the hell did Jed Lowrie dissappear to?

[Aguakate]

They NEED to have the All Star Game in Wrigley, man...

...the Home Run Derby will last about 6 hours, but...

[Droford]

According to Buster Olney, Derrek Lee is about to get traded to the Pirates.

Part of me wants to root for the Pirates, and then I realize that if they finish with a winning record it just puts the Os closer to being the team with the longest sub .500 streak..

plus I really hate every other team in Pittsburgh.

supposedly only a low level prospect and cash..but whatever.

[Aguakate]

It gives them a big bat to put in the middle of the order, and Lee finally has begun hitting, so...

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Though it's not confirmed officially, it's viewed as being a near-certainty that Citi Field will get the 2013 All Star Game. Think I'm gonna try my hardest to go to that.

Derby will be shit though unless you're sitting in the Pepsi Porch.</font>

[Emperor Smeat]

Where the hell did Jed Lowrie dissappear to?

He's been injured since June but a quick check on ESPN shows he's currently in Pawtucket for rehab and getting back into playing shape.

Only reason Scutaro is a starter is because of that injury even though Lowrie didn't start out as a starter at 2B when the season began.


A bit shocked to hear how the Mets never got another all-star game until the rumored 2013 game although I'd assume that could be due to the Yankees hosting it a few times for New York and MLB didn't want New York to have too many at the cost of other cities.

[Damian Rey]

I think Scutaro is starting because of his contract. Lowrie is a much better option than Scutaro. Maybe defensively, Scutaro would have some edge, but I'd take Lowrie's overall package any day.

Glad to hear he's on his way back. I've always liked the guy.

[Aguakate]

Whoa, the Indians trade Orlando Cabrera to the Giants.

[Damian Rey]

Hahahaha. Brian Sabean with a vintage "Sabean move"! Ha, I shouldn't be surprised. That makes room for Kipnis to start for the Indians every day, I would imagine, and he's a better option than a rapidly decaying Orlando Cabrera.

The Giants have to have one of the worst top to bottom defensive infields ever.

[Aguakate]

They had Edgar Renteria and Juan Uribe last year playing infield, and they won the World Series, so who knows?

Orlando Cabrera has always had a knack for being in the right place, at the right time, in terms of playing for winning teams, so...

[Damian Rey]

Yea, that's true. Renteria is not a bad defensive shortstop, even in his twighlight years. Cabrera had to move to 2nd base, if that's any indication of his defense.

[Aguakate]

Well, the Indians had Asdrubal Cabrera at Shortstop too, so no way Orlando was going to be the SS.

I kinda like the deal for the Giants, since Orlando has been on winning teams, is a veteran, etc...and I kinda think the Indians will miss him for those same reasons...he's been there, done that, and since Cleveland is in the middle of a pennant race, I tend to think they could've benefited from his experience.

[Damian Rey]

Maybe, but I don't fully buy into the veteran stuff, too much. If Lonnie Chisenhall is a better player than Cabrera, then he should be in the lineup everyday, regardless of experience. It's about fielding the best team, even if the best team is young.

Not to mention, this a typical Sabean move. Bochy loves veteran players, so he's probably rubbing one out to the idea of having yet another vet to pencil into the lineup.

[Aguakate]

The proposed trade where the Red Sox were going to get Rich Harden fell through. Apparently the Sox had concerns about Harden's medicals.