MLB Thread

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Matt Holliday officially rules himself out of the ASG with his quad injury. Bochy names Ryan Braun as the replacement.

Man...fuck Holliday. He had to have known the odds were low that he'd actually be ready to play. Had he told Bochy that right from the get-go, Braun might have been made the Brewers rep instead of K-Rod and Jeurys "27 saves, 1.25 ERA, 43 K, 0.90 WHIP" Familia wouldn't be sitting home.

I mean the guy has pitched a LOT this year, so it's probably better for him to get the break. But still. Cunts.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>All told, helluva first half for the Mets. Amazing start, excruciatingly frustrating through May and much of June, but they've been playing much better baseball of late. I'd have signed up for 5 games over .500 and a game out of a playoff spot out of the break in a heartbeat.</font>

[ClockShot]

Yankees take 2/3 in Boston, The Ref hits his first major league homer, and the ripcord got pulled just in time. Not bad for a team that's thrown together with duct tape and minor leaguers.

Pitching's gotta get better. Hopefully the braintrust will get together during the week and figure out what the plan is come trade deadline time. Unless a miracle happens and Sabathia turns it around during the 2nd half, someone's gotta get sent down we gotta get a rental arm. There really is not real ace in the rotation at the moment.

[Damian Rey]

I'll trade you guys Andrew Cashner for Aaron Judge.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>holy balls, what a meltdown from Trevor Rosenthal just now</font>

[Corndad]

Pirates walk off Cards again in extras. Wow is this fun.

[poopfromweiner dude]

Anyone catch that shot of Refsnyder's family during Saturday's game

Apparently he is some kind of Korean orphan who got adopted by one of those "families of the world" type white California people. So they showed "Rob Refsnyder's family" on the YES Network and there were two old white people and a bunch of 20ish year old people who were all white/black/Asian etc...

Idk was funny. Apparently he hits so *fingers crossed*

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Official starting lineups:

AL:
1. Mike Trout, CF, LAA
2. Josh Donaldson, 3B, OAK
3. Albert Pujols, 1B, LAA
4. Nelson Cruz, DH, SEA
5. Lorenzo Cain, RF, KC
6. Adam Jones, LF, BAL
7. Salvador Perez, C, KC
8. Jose Altuve, 2B, HOU
9. Alcides Escobar, SS, KC
Dallas Keuchel, SP, HOU

NL:
1. Andrew McCutchen, CF, PIT
2. Todd Frazier, 3B, CIN
3. Bryce Harper, RF, WAS
4. Paul Goldschmidt, 1B, ARI
5. Buster Posey, C, SF
6. Anthony Rizzo, DH, CHC
7. Johnny Peralta, SS, STL
8. Joc Pederson, LF, LAD
9. DJ LeMahieu, 2B, COL
Zack Greinke, SP, LAD</font>

[ClockShot]

I'll trade you guys Andrew Cashner for Aaron Judge.

The Honorable Judge Aaron Judge is off limits.

[ClockShot]

Foul pole to foul pole safety netting at baseball parks.

For or against? Ever since that Boston fan took that bullet a few days ago, a lawsuit was filed by an Oakland A's fan to try to get safety netting from pole to pole.






http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/13250418/lawsuit-seeks-safety-netting-mlb-ballparks

[Emperor Smeat]

On paper it sounds like a good idea but probably going to be a lot more expensive to do in certain stadiums because of the need to consider weather reasons late in the season. Pretty much getting rid of foul ball plays if that netting gets used.

Was easy for the NHL to do it since they already had glass sounding the rink and didn't need to worry about any possible weather issues.

[Frank Drebin]

Just wanted to give a quick shout out to droford for giving up Jake Arrieta (and a late innings reliever) for a rental #4 starter.

[ClockShot]

Papelblown wants out of Philly......again.

Nobody took him last season, don't see why this season would he'd get bounced. Or is a team in need of a closer in a really bad way?

[Damian Rey]

Supposedly there was a deal being worked on but Philly pulled out due to the hiring out McPhail, which sounds like daft reasoning but whatever.

[Bad News Gertner]

Papelblown wants out of Philly......again.

Nobody took him last season, don't see why this season would he'd get bounced. Or is a team in need of a closer in a really bad way?

My Blue Jays say hello

[road doggy dogg]

I didn't get a chance to watch the Derby. Heard it was really good. Any reason why it wasn't on At Bat?

Will it be watchable on MLB.tv? (not at home so can't really check)

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Whoever trades for Papelbon better be ready to fork over $13 million for a closer next year as well. His 2016 option will vest if he finishes 19 more games this year.

Was a smart decision by his camp to have the option be based on games finished rather than saves. Pitching the 9th inning of a blowout loss counts as a game finished.</font>

[Damian Rey]

The Padres could hose the Phillies by putting Kimbrel on the market. Better, younger, comes at a similar contract value but is potentially signed through 2018.

[Emperor Smeat]

MLB considering on the idea of doing some expansion in the near future and would prepare to lose TB and Oakland as part of those plans if needed. Montreal's been pushing to get a new team but MLB wants them to build a new stadium to really be considered.

Manfred said MLB has compiled a list of cities that might be viable options through expansion or possible relocation from existing markets. Tampa Bay and Oakland have been mentioned as markets that could eventually risk losing their teams if their ongoing stadium issues are not resolved.

Montreal, Charlotte, North Carolina, San Antonio, Portland, Oregon, Las Vegas, Oklahoma City, northern New Jersey, Mexico City or Monterrey, Mexico, are among the markets that could eventually land on baseball's radar as potential locations for new franchises.

[Droford]

Hope Kane comes out and tombstones Pete Rose

[ClockShot]

Why the hell is Mexico being considered?

Anyway, wouldn't mind Montreal getting a team back and reviving the Expos. Las Vegas would be hot as hell during the summer, enough teams in San Antonio.

Portland and Charlotte wouldn't be bad. Weather's nice, could rule the state in terms of sports popularity, and it would be logical for Tampa Bay and Oakland since they're a short distance.

[Damian Rey]

Love the Cincinnati crowd the last few nights. They've been shit hot and it's fucking awesome. The ovation they gave their franchise four, particularly Johnny Bench and Pete Rose, was out fucking standing.

If there's one thing I love for live events, it's hot crowds.

[DaveWadding]

My uncle from Vegas was pretty hilarious when the Expos were being moved. "They could move em to Vegas and not even change the name! Expos are what Vegas is built for!"

and a hypothetical stadium in Vegas would need a roof like the one the Dbacks have here.

[Frank Drebin]

Harold Reynolds almost as painful to listen to as Chris Berman

"You notice the stars on the jerseys? Its a new little added touch for the All-Star games. They put stars on there representing how many games you've played. (Camera shows two on Kris Bryant) Not two for you."

[Damian Rey]

What's worse is they've been doing that shit for years. How Harold Reynolds still has a job is beyond me. The only time I've ever enjoyed him was when Brian Kenny tore him a new ass hole daily on MLB now.

[Frank Drebin]

I figured out Harold Reynolds' celebrity lookalike:

https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fa/Harold_Reynolds_2008.jpg/200px-Harold_Reynolds_2008.jpg

http://cbsnews2.cbsistatic.com/hub/i/r/2014/11/18/a5ed393f-a15c-42ac-b15b-3fb97283ff86/thumbnail/620x350g2/55d9af8f28256a2fc808ef813fa8ae00/81977465.jpg

[ClockShot]

Not digging the all-star caps.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Holy fuck, Jacob deGrom</font> :love:

[SlickyTrickyDamon]

Brockstar stolen base leads to the run! Whoo.

[Frank Drebin]

Can we ever get rid of God Bless America in the middle of games? So terrible.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Bochy really blew it in the 7th IMO. Even if K-Rod had put up a 1-2-3 inning, did he really need to pitch in this? Dude's already been in a ton of ASGs.

Meanwhile you have a guy with a really nice story like AJ Burnett in his first ASG, or at least put in Shelby Miller or somebody.</font>

[Damian Rey]

Joe Buck has been fucking terrible calling this game. Everybody's gritty and now he's claiming a catcher with a surgically repaired knee can run and isn't slow. Does Buck watch baseball?

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Vegas odds probably just swung for a few AL teams thanks to this stupid, arbitrary way in which they decide home field advantage of the biggest series of the season.</font>

[road doggy dogg]

Mike Trout baby

Bunch of salty KC fans whining about him winning the MVP

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Trout was the only real choice.

AL has dominated the ASG for like 20 years now. Gotta figure constantly having guys on the team like Trout, prime A-Rod, etc. over the years has helped.</font>

[Ruien]

Why did Chris Sale not pitch in the ASG?

[screech]

Mike Trout baby

Bunch of salty KC fans whining about him winning the MVP

F them, Mike Trout #1

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Here are each team's "Franchise Four" players that were voted on by the fans.

Angels
Vladimir Guerrero
Nolan Ryan
Tim Salmon
Mike Trout

Astros
Jeff Bagwell
Lance Berkman
Craig Biggio
Nolan Ryan

Athletics
Dennis Eckersley
Jimmie Foxx
Rickey Henderson
Reggie Jackson

Blue Jays
Roberto Alomar
Joe Carter
Carlos Delgado
Roy Halladay

Braves
Hank Aaron
Chipper Jones
Greg Maddux
Warren Spahn

Brewers
Cecil Cooper
Rollie Fingers
Paul Molitor
Robin Yount

Cardinals
Lou Brock
Bob Gibson
Rogers Hornsby
Stan Musial

Cubs
Ernie Banks
Ryne Sandberg
Ron Santo
Billy Williams

D-backs
Paul Goldschmidt
Luis Gonzalez
Randy Johnson
Curt Schilling

Dodgers
Don Drysdale
Sandy Koufax
Jackie Robinson
Duke Snider

Giants
Barry Bonds
Willie Mays
Willie McCovey
Buster Posey

Indians
Bob Feller
Tris Speaker
Jim Thome
Omar Vizquel

Mariners
Ken Griffey Jr.
Felix Hernandez
Edgar Martinez
Ichiro Suzuki

Marlins
Jeff Conine
Mike Lowell
Gary Sheffield
Giancarlo Stanton

Mets
Keith Hernandez
Mike Piazza
Tom Seaver
David Wright

Nationals/Expos
Gary Carter
Andre Dawson
Vladimir Guerrero
Tim Raines

Orioles
Jim Palmer
Cal Ripken Jr.
Brooks Robinson
Frank Robinson

Padres
Tony Gwynn
Trevor Hoffman
Randy Jones
Dave Winfield

Phillies
Richie Ashburn
Steve Carlton
Robin Roberts
Mike Schmidt

Pirates
Roberto Clemente
Bill Mazeroski
Willie Stargell
Honus Wagner

Rangers
Adrian Beltre
Ivan Rodriguez
Nolan Ryan
Michael Young

Rays
Evan Longoria
David Price
James Shields
Ben Zobrist

Red Sox
Pedro Martinez
David Ortiz
Ted Williams
Carl Yastrzemski

Reds
Johnny Bench
Barry Larkin
Joe Morgan
Pete Rose

Rockies
Andres Galarraga
Todd Helton
Troy Tulowitzki
Larry Walker

Royals
George Brett
Dan Quisenberry
Bret Saberhagen
Frank White

Tigers
Miguel Cabrera
Ty Cobb
Hank Greenberg
Al Kaline

Twins
Rod Carew
Harmon Killebrew
Tony Oliva
Kirby Puckett

White Sox
Harold Baines
Paul Konerko
Minnie Minoso
Frank Thomas

Yankees
Joe DiMaggio
Lou Gehrig
Mickey Mantle
Babe Ruth</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>I think most of them are spot-on. There's definitely a bit of recentism bias as per usual when things like this are done but most are probably justifiable. Ex: for the Giants I really don't know how you leave off a guy like Juan Marichal...but Posey's been a centerpiece to 3 titles in the last 5 years so it's understandable that he won the vote.

Feel like Pujols would have made it for the Cards if he was still playing there now, although I have no idea which of those 4 guys you'd take off.

The Rays list is kinda hilarious to look at. That being said I have no idea how you leave off Carl Crawford who still holds many of their offensive records.</font>

[Bad News Gertner]

I'd put Dave Stieb on the list over Joe Carter. Hell, I'd put Bautista over Carter. Take away the walk off home run and Carter really isn't that special.

[Bad News Gertner]

Lol @ Omar Vizquel on the Indians list. Nolan Ryan made 3 lists. Incredible.

[Droford]

The Orioles 4 are all hall of famers

As, Cardinals, Cubs, Dodgers, phillies, Pirates and Yankees only other teams with their 4 in the HOF

[road doggy dogg]

Tigers 4 are good... would be nice to see Sweet Lou or Trammell on the list but not sure who I'd take off

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>The Mets are the exact 4 I voted for. 1 rep from each "era" of the team. Yeah Gooden and Strawberry were viewed as the cornerstones of the '86 championship team, but Keith was still the final piece of the puzzle and was the captain. Plus Doc/Straw allowed their personal demons to screw their legacies with the team. Keith's still ridiculously popular today, has his number out of circulation, is hysterical as an announcer, etc.</font>

[ClockShot]

I'd swap out Pedro or Ortiz for the Red Sox and stick Clemens in there.

Happy the Old Guard is in for the Yankees. Thought for sure Derek Jeter was gonna get one of those spots.


Everybody else looks fine.

[ClockShot]

Nolan Ryan showing up on 3. If I ever meet than man before I die, I'm just gonna drop to my knees Wayne's World style and just say "I'm not worthy". Damn that man is a god.

[Emperor Smeat]

I'd swap out Pedro or Ortiz for the Red Sox and stick Clemens in there.

Happy the Old Guard is in for the Yankees. Thought for sure Derek Jeter was gonna get one of those spots.


Everybody else looks fine.

Wouldn't swap Pedro out for Clemens but maybe for Ortiz had Clemens been on the actual ballot. Then again Cy Young was on the ballot for the Sox.

[McLegend]

I don't think I agree with The Phillies "4." I would leave Richie Ashburn off the list, and put Utley or Howard on it.

[Droford]

Didn't realize trout had hit for the natural cycle in his last 4 asg 1st at bat
12 single
13 double
14 triple
15 hr

[DaveWadding]

The Cubs and Dbacks lists are alright by me. :y:

[Frank Drebin]

Jeff Conine FTW

[road doggy dogg]

Love the first day back after the break. Baseball. Woo!

[Droford]

You should probably just skip the next 3 days

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Let's see where my preseason predictions are at right now:

NL
East - Nationals
Central - Cardinals
West - Dodgers
Wild Card - Pirates, Mets

I have it nearly spot on so far. Top 4 seeds all in place atm and the Mets are just 1 game behind the Cubs for the 2nd WC. Given the Mets' offensive woes I could unfortunately see them having their usual second-half swoon, but hopefully I'm wrong. The other 4 teams feel safe though. Cards/Bucs should fight for the division until the final week but both should make the playoffs comfortably. Nats are bound to pull away once their injured players return. Dodgers just feel like they have too much talent to not make it.

AL
East - Blue Jays
Central - Tigers
West - Angels
Wild Card - Mariners, Red Sox

Welp...this one looks pretty bad right now. Angels are the only ones that would be right if the season ended today. Still think they're looking good in the West as I feel like the Astros' inexperience will catch up with them down the stretch. Jays are under .500 but only 4 games out in the awful AL East. I had the Royals and Twins finishing 4th and 5th in the Central and boy how wrong I was...Detroit should stay in the Wild Card hunt but making up a 9 game deficit in the division? That's tough. And the Wild Card teams, ouch. Knew I shouldn't have allowed myself to get caught up in the stupid Mariners hype.

MVP: Trout and Harper. Both seem extremely safe right now. Not sure I can really make a case for anybody except Trout in the AL atm. Harper's top competition is Goldschmidt but knowing the way voters think he'll need to get the Triple Crown or something to win the award if his team doesn't make the playoffs.

Cy Young: Price and Kershaw. Price is definitely one of the top contenders in the AL. NL is absolutely loaded with amazing SP right now so Kershaw's best bet is to hope many of the voters look beyond the traditional stats like ERA (and the old fogeys who still care about W-L for pitchers).

ROTY: Norris and Bryant. Norris? Lol...nope. Seems clear the NL will be either Bryant or Pederson. I wonder if Pederson getting the slight head start to his season may end up the difference maker.

Comeback: Machado and Harvey. It's hard to predict who voters will even consider for this award. Machado is beasting it up though and I still think Harvey has done enough to earn voter support.

MOTY: McClendon and Maddon. McClendon, again...lol nope. Maddon I'd think would need to be the frontrunner for the NL atm. Tough to vote MOTY for a team everyone knew would be good like the Cards, Dodgers, Nats, etc. Cubs were a joke for a few years and are now well over .500 and in the race.</font>

[screech]

Love Pederson, but will voters pick him if he's still hitting ~.230 by season's end?

[road doggy dogg]

You should probably just skip the next 3 days

I'm going to the Saturday and Sunday games

Yes I'm a masochist

[Droford]

I'm going to the Saturday and Sunday games

Yes I'm a masochist

There's no delmon young to destroy your hopes anymore

[Frank Drebin]

How's Scott Feldman doing for the O's this year, droford?

[road doggy dogg]

More importantly, how's Corey Feldman doing?

[Frank Drebin]

Not banging Susie Feldman anymore, so probably not well.

[Damian Rey]

Padres released the 2016 all-star logo just now, and it's such a boring, uninspired, unidentifiable generic pile of shit I'm not gonna post it here out of respect for the the integrity of this classy thread.

[Ruien]

Someone tell me why Chris Sale did not pitch in the damn ASG. I am baffled.

[Frank Drebin]

Hes all your Sox have. They would probably keep him in a wood crate stuffed with packing peanuts if they could.

[Ruien]

Hes all your Sox have. They would probably keep him in a wood crate stuffed with packing peanuts if they could.

Haha. Your jealous:D

[Frank Drebin]

Schwarber, Baez, Almora and a pitcher for Sale is a distinct possibility.

[Bad News Gertner]

The Jays have score 10 or more runs 19 times already this year.

[DaveWadding]

Schwarber, Baez, Almora and a pitcher for Sale is a distinct possibility.

Noooooooooooooooooooooooooo

[SlickyTrickyDamon]

Wade Miley just gave up his first hit in the bottom of the 7th.

[Frank Drebin]

Noooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Let's say the Sox call and put Sale on the table. Do you hang up? What would you give for a Cy Young contender who is owed only 45 mil thru the 2019 season?

[Damian Rey]

I don't think either team buys on that trade Frank.

[Frank Drebin]

Who hangs up first?

[road doggy dogg]

Wade Miley just gave up his first hit in the bottom of the 7th.

hah we were at the bar last night after all the games we cared about ended, checking phone app

"Oh hey, Miley's got a no-hitter going through 7"

*flip on game*

*first pitch we see is an off-the-wall double*

ha ha suck it Miley!

[SlickyTrickyDamon]

thats what it was with me too

[Damian Rey]

Who hangs up first?

Hmmmm...

Given his penchant for holding onto prospects both in Chicago and San Diego, I'd say Hoyer hangs up first. Sale is also a bargain contractually. I'll day Hahn and the Sox hang up first for 500.

[Frank Drebin]

Hawk Harrelson is comparing Zach Putnam to Bruce Sutter.

[DaveWadding]

Let's say the Sox call and put Sale on the table. Do you hang up? What would you give for a Cy Young contender who is owed only 45 mil thru the 2019 season?

I'm okay with Baez and Almora, but not Schwarber.


It should be Schwarberin Time on the North Side for the never 15 years.

[Frank Drebin]

He's not as valuable if he can't catch though. I love his bat, but every team has a masher who can't play defense in their system. Cubs still have Vogelbach for example.

Schwarber's callups have a distinct feel of a showcase. I don't think they would trade him for a rental, but he's on the table if it's Hamels or Sale.

[Ruien]

Can't see the Sox trading Sale. He is the only draw they have. They have time to build into a contender before his contract is up. Not that I have faith in the organization to actually do that.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>At this point it seems like any time a team has a big offseason bonanza at this point, it leads to a shit first year. White Sox and Padres both fit that mold this year.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>In July the Mets are averaging precisely 3 runs per game. They are already down 4-0 in the first inning.

At least I can spend my evening watching something else.</font>

[DaveWadding]

He's not as valuable if he can't catch though. I love his bat, but every team has a masher who can't play defense in their system. Cubs still have Vogelbach for example.

Schwarber's callups have a distinct feel of a showcase. I don't think they would trade him for a rental, but he's on the table if it's Hamels or Sale.

It's not that he can't defend, it that he can't play the hardest defensive position on the diamond.

Remember when Bryce Harper was a catcher? Me too.

[DaveWadding]

Anyways, Bryant seems perfectly capable at 3rd, so why not just move Schwarber to left where they have a paucity of ML quality talent as is?

[Frank Drebin]

What position does Bryce Harper play now? How much more valuable would he be if he could catch? Is Schwarber Bryce Harper? Think a guy with that body type can transition as easily to another position as Harper did?

If he could play left, he would be doing it. He can't right now. Who knows if he ever will be able to. He may be Jake Fox on defense for all we know.

(Funniest scouting report I've ever read was about Jake Fox's defense being described as "a notch above horrific")

[Droford]

Feel bad about RDD seeing the Tigers get 1 hit by Chris Tillman. He's not this good

[Frank Drebin]

I don't think the plan is to trade him, but I think they're playing the "showcase card" with him very well. If you can get a team to value him as a catcher, they'd be getting a lot more for him in a return.

As far as left field goes....Stick him in left, his value drops no matter how he plays. If he sucks, it's there for the world to see and it's one less versitle thing he can do if he can't catch. If he's ok, you're still conceding that he isn't a catcher long term after saying this whole time that he IS a catcher for the long term and his development at that position is paramount.

[Frank Drebin]

So Lester had a 1 hitter going on a questionable hit/error call on a Nick Markakis grounder to Kris Bryant in the first inning. They just changed the scoring in the 7th inning to an error so now it's a no hitter. Never seen them change a call when a no hitter was on the line.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Of course Michael Cadaver would get 3 hits and a HR during a 8-0 game.</font>

[Droford]

Lol tigers got 1 hit and it was in the 1st.

Best pitched Os game of the year

[Frank Drebin]

Vito Cruz ' s dream job is running the Mets twitter account.

[Droford]

Verlander tagged for 7 runs in 3.2 innings
Kate Upton has pretty much sucked away all of his talent amongst other things

[Bad News Gertner]

She's a DK: dream killer

[Bad News Gertner]

Jose Bautista just finished off a 10 pitch at bat with a 2 run jack to center.

Jays might finally beat Chris Archer.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Here in late July the Mets are on pace to score fewer run than the 1962 Mets. The same 1962 Mets that lost 120 games.

That's remarkable.</font>

[Damian Rey]

Hey Vito, what do you think would be a realistic acquisition coming back if the Mets were to acquire Justin Upton? I'm thinking it'd have to be a decent, major league caliber prospect, just not sure who they'd realistically move.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>I think they would seriously consider moving Wheeler if a team were willing to take a gamble that he's the stud many think he could be. Of course, that means the team taking him would need to wait until next June for him to return.

In spite of what they've said publicly I think they'd trade Nimmo for the right player. Can't see them dealing Conforto though.

This is the problem really. The offense is beyond dreadful but trading prospects is not in Sandy's DNA.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Oh great...extra innings of a 0-0 game. More innings for the Mets to not score in.</font>

[Ruien]

Vito what do you think of Granderson? Known him since I was in the 3rd grade. Still see him a few times a year due to him being best friends with my brother.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Grandy seems like such a nice dude so it's hard to dislike him. He's not hitting for average as always, but he seems to be the only guy who has a clue how to get on base.

Unfortunately, because he's the only person who knows how to get on base he's the only guy Collins considers to be a true candidate to hit leadoff. Therefore his power potential (the main reason he was signed) is wasted. Only 30 RBI to show for his 14 HR because there's almost never anybody on ahead of him.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>And the Mets leave another runner in scoring position. 0-for-13 with RISP in this game and 2 for their last 49 with RISP.</font>

[Damian Rey]

I'd seriously consider Nimmo, but I'm not sure he could hold down center, which is a giant gaping hole for the Padres. Didn't Nimmo have knee surgery?

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Nimmo had a sprained ACL earlier in the year, but it didn't require surgery. He's back in center now. I think most scouts expect Nimmo to settle into a corner OF spot with how bad Lagares' offense has been of late (and the fact that Granderson and Cadaver are eating up the corner OF spots) the Mets will probably keep Nimmo in CF for now.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Mets finally end their RISP drought and push a run across in the 13th...but Kevin Plawecki gets stranded on 3rd with no outs.

That lost opportunity, of course, loomed large as Wong immediately hit a game-tying HR in the bottom of the 13th.

They're now headed into the 15th inning and the only pitchers the Mets have left in the bullpen are Carlos Torres and Alex Torres. Kill me.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Duda strikes out with the bases loaded in the 17th. The Mets are now 1-for-25 with RISP. Literally 2 dozen runners left in scoring position.

This game has broken baseball.</font>

[ClockShot]

Don't jump, Vito. It ain't worth it.

Although the Mets are approaching another full game. If they lose this, gonna be a hard pill to swallow, and New York radio got something to talk about tomorrow.

[screech]

Stupidly hot at the Phillies game today, but they won! Wooooo!

[ClockShot]

Yankees gonna take a 2nd look at Johnny Cueto tomorrow.

I don't know why? Not a fan of the pitching, but they're getting the wins.

[ClockShot]

And the Mets escape.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>That game took about 5 years off of my life.

I'm fine escaping St. Louis with a game. If they can somehow with the Nats series that would be fantastic. They need some actual hitters, though. Just waiting for a supposed Wright return is not gonna cut it.</font>

[Damian Rey]

At least your team didn't trade their entire farm system to get a bunch of players only to be 10 games out of first.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Michael Cadaver's knee is acting up again. Sounds like a DL trip is a very real possibility.

They really just need to say fuck it and call up Conforto. He's killing it in AA. And frankly I don't want the Mets' top hitting prospects to go to AAA because everybody's numbers are completely inflated in the Pacific Coast League.

The thought it "we don't want to rush him" or "it'll be too much pressure on him when the offense is this bad". Fuck it. Just give him a trial run to see if he's ready in any shape or form to contribute in the big leagues. If it doesn't work out? You send him back down in a couple of weeks. I doubt it'll kill the kid's confidence.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Oh and I've also heard "they don't want to send him down in 2 weeks and waste an option year". Please. With a bat like that are you really going to worry about whether or not he can be sent down in 2018? The Cubs sure didn't when they gave Schwarber a 2-week trial earlier in the year before burning an option year.</font>

[Droford]

Orioles are apparently interested in Justin Upton and Carlos Gomez. Gomez is signed through next year and would require more in the trade but he's having a worse year. The Os OF situation is pretty much shit outside of Jones though. And only 4 gb in 2nd place plus still in the WM hunt I guess they need to make some kind of move for some offense..

[road doggy dogg]

I picked a hell of a weekend to watch some baseball. Jesus that was ugly.

[Frank Drebin]

Droford, do you want Jake Arietta back?

[Droford]

I picked a hell of a weekend to watch some baseball. Jesus that was ugly.

Hate to say it but..I told you so

[Droford]

Droford, do you want Jake Arietta back?

The Os are fine in the SP department for now until Chen leaves for FA after this season .
also gonna lose Bud Norris but he's in the bullpen.

[Damian Rey]

I'll trade you Justin Upton for Kevin Gausman or Dylan Bundy.

[Frank Drebin]

droford's post was serious wasn't it

[Damian Rey]

He's just a serious homer is all. The Orioles have clearly hosed themselves in dealing both Arrieta and that Rodriguez kid to Boston. I also hear they want too change both Gausman and Bundy's pitching repertoire, which I find odd.

[Droford]

Tillman, Gonzalez and Jimenez are all capable of pitching well. Gausman will be a great starter when he's given the starting spot out of spring training next year and not dicked around with between starting, pitching in the bullpen and pitching in AAA Norfolk. They can replace Chen in the offseason just like they'll be replacing Davis, Wieters, Norris, Tommy Hunter, Steve Pearce, Nolan Reimokd and Brian Matusz. The only free agent they will probably resign is Oday, and even he's expendable if he gets a big offer somewhere else. For the first time in a long time the Orioles will have to be major players this offseason purely on the fact they're going to be losing 1/3rd of their 25 man roster.

[weather vane]

Hate baseball.

[Frank Drebin]

So droford is cool with all those free agents and not Jake Arietta. K.

[Damian Rey]

The Orioles haven't made a significant offseason acquisition or trade in ages. If I were Droford I'd be shitting my pants.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Ed Coleman (the guy who works the Mets beat for WFAN and generally does a very accurate job with his reporting) says that the Mets are balking on Ben Zobrist because he's owed $2-3 million the rest of the season.

:|

I don't think Zobrist would magically turn around the offense. But he'd be a clear improvement to what they have and help provide one of the best pitching staffs in baseball with SOME offensive boost. If they seriously won't trade for a guy just because he's $2-3 FUCKING MILLION DOLLARS, which should be essentially nothing to a Major League ballclub, that just says it all about the state of the franchise and their penny-pinching owners.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>I hope the Wilpons get beaten with heavy clubs and are left bleeding in the moonlight.</font>

[Droford]

So droford is cool with all those free agents and not Jake Arietta. K.

The problem is I saw several years off the bad Jake Arrietta and it's biased my opinion of him even be when he's not a shitty pitcher

[Frank Drebin]

Is it just me, or has there been no action thus far on the trade front? Like, we haven't gotten a single noteworthy deal. I realize you can attribute part of this to the 2nd wild card spot, but that was in play last year and we had major deals go down before now anyway.

[Emperor Smeat]

According to ESPN, Phillies probably going to have to give up more than they'd get back in order to trade Jonathan Papelbon. Jays, Cubs, and Dodgers all gave up whatever remaining interest they had recently.

Had a chance to trade him earlier in the season but pulled a possible deal at the last moment because of management issues.

[DaveWadding]

Is it just me, or has there been no action thus far on the trade front? Like, we haven't gotten a single noteworthy deal. I realize you can attribute part of this to the 2nd wild card spot, but that was in play last year and we had major deals go down before now anyway.

Trumbo trade

DBacks selling Touki Toussaint

[Nicky Fives]

I REALLY hope the Jays don't trade for Papelbon..... This is the year they can make the Playoffs, they need to go all-in, but to get the right pieces.... not an aging closer that'll leave next season, but a middle-aged "young veteran" that will want to stay and grow with the team.....

[Bad News Gertner]

Their bullpen is fine. Just stop putting Aaron Loup in high pressure situations ffs.

[Damian Rey]

Ross or Cashner and Kimbrel for Norris and Hoffman. Supposedly the Jays and Padres have had talks about moving some pitching

[Frank Drebin]

If they move Cashner, I'm interested to see what they want in return. Wadding had the thought the other day of the Cubs going after him. If it's young pitching prospects, as that report suggests, the Cubs have zero to offer.

[DaveWadding]

TINSTAAPP.

[Emperor Smeat]

Trade Deadline rumor:

Braves-Red Sox considering a possible deal with Braves' Julio Teheran as the centerpiece. Other teams also interested but been hinted the Red Sox have the best offer or the most to give at the moment because of their strong farm system (#1 ranked by ESPN at the moment).

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>And we have a trade!

Athletics get: RHP Daniel Mengden, C Jacob Nottingham
Astros get: LHP Scott Kazmir</font>

[road doggy dogg]

fuck

Kazmir was the guy I really wanted the Tigers to go after (if they weren't selling)

[road doggy dogg]

Like, even with Detroit's barren farm system, we could've given up comparable talent to land that. Fucking fuck!

[ClockShot]

Kept him in the division so this may come back to bite the A's.


Had him starting today for fantasy today. Hope he goes tomorrow, now.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>It seems like a decent get for the A's. Both guys are only in A-ball but Nottingham has been killing it as the youngest catcher at his level. Projects out as a big leaguer so if nothing else he could be an option to replace Vogt a few years down the line once age catches up with him.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Mets have John Mayberry Jr hitting 4th tonight, and Eric Campbell 5th. Both guys are hitting well under the Mendoza line. Jesus.

Might as well put Kershaw on a perfect game watch before the game has even begun.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Kershaw perfect through 3...</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>4...</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Eric Campbell clearly beats out a dropped 3rd strike. Called out. Collins sits on his ass in the dugout.

Through 5...</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>6...</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Granderson ends it! And he was hitting .100 off of lefties this year lol.</font>

[Damian Rey]

When are you guys gonna give us Nimmo for Upton?

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Maybe if the Wilpons collectively choke to death on their own vomit before July 31.</font>

[Damian Rey]

Knowing your luck, they'll feel Nimmo for Will Venable instead.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Sounds like they may actually call up Conforto by the end of the week if they have to put Cadaver on the DL...if only to appease the fans.

Is he ready? Probably not. But at this point I don't even care. If he slumps, send him back down when Cadaver heals. It's not gonna kill his confidence. You burn an option year but I really think that's inconsequential.</font>

[Damian Rey]

You'd think they'd just acquire a bat instead of potentially hindering their top hitting prospects development.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>I kinda doubt it'll hinder his development that much, really. Probably will learn more at the big league level for a few weeks than he would in Vegas where everybody rakes.

Every hitter the Mets have called up this year to shore up their bench (Danny Muno, Darrell Ceciliani, Dilson Herrera, etc) had gaudy AAA numbers and sucked a fat dick at the big leagues.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>but yes, the Mets not trading for anybody will probably break me to the point where I go to no more games this year even though I really love live baseball. Not taking advantage of this pitching staff is a complete slap in the face to the fans.</font>

[Damian Rey]

Agreed. Are they just not willing to eat cash and move a solid prospect?

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Both, it seems. Sandy even said to the media today "we definitely have room to add to the payroll...even though none of you will believe me". He makes arrogant quips like that constantly. The Wilpons have said they expect they can have their payroll to be around $100 million every year. Last year? $79 million. No wonder we don't believe him.

And he clings on to his prospects like grim death. I'm not saying to sell the farm...but jesus, you do realize you have to trade someone decent to get a difference maker, right?</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Oh and even though this pitching staff figures to contend through at least 2018 (Harvey's last year)...you need to strike when the iron is hot with pitching-centric teams. Starting pitchers are gonna get hurt. That's just the reality of baseball.</font>

[Damian Rey]

You'd think with Harvey and Wheeler going down like they did Alderson and company would try to go out and get someone other than Cuddeyer to shore up the offense. At least get some decent, league average sticks in there. Two league average bats in their lineup would be a massive addition for them.

[Emperor Smeat]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-cards="hidden" lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Jose Altuve's walk-off home run lifts Astros over Red Sox, 5-4. Boston loses 8th straight game. <a href="http://t.co/93mWuld8jN">pic.twitter.com/93mWuld8jN</a></p>&mdash; SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) <a href="https://twitter.com/SportsCenter/status/624425753833283584">July 24, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

:nono: Team's been a huge disappointment this season. Every time it seems like they might be turning around the corner, they follow it up with an even worse streak than before or momentum killer games.

[ClockShot]

Pittsburgh re-acquires Aramis Ramirez and cash from the Brewers for Yhonathan Barrios.

12 years ago yesterday, Pittsburgh traded Ramirez to the Cubs.

[Evil Vito]

You'd think with Harvey and Wheeler going down like they did Alderson and company would try to go out and get someone other than Cuddeyer to shore up the offense. At least get some decent, league average sticks in there. Two league average bats in their lineup would be a massive addition for them.

<font color=goldenrod>Yep. It's awful. And now trade talks with Zobrist are reportedly dead in the water. Beane turned down the likes of Nimmo, Montero, Gavin Cecchini, and Michael Fulmer. It was one of the big pitchers or bust for him.

I expect it's gonna continue that way. The Mets have zero leverage with how bad their offense has been, so everyone will ask for one of the top arms from them.</font>

[Damian Rey]

If they're offering up and combination that includes Nimmo I'd buy in a heartbeat

[Damian Rey]

The Mets place Cuddeyer on the dl and bring up Conforto to take his place.

[Sepholio]

Braves still suckin? Yeah?

Go figure >_<

[ClockShot]

Cards get: Steve Cishek

Marlins get: Kyle Barraclough

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Braves get: RHPs John Gant Robert Whalen
Mets get: 3B Juan Uribe and UTIL Kelly Johnson

I don't see either of those guys putting the Mets over the top by any stretch, but given the current state of the lineup it's still a clear improvement over what is currently on the roster. And they traded two guys who really weren't all that high on their prospect radar in a deep farm system.</font>

[Damian Rey]

It's actually a solid low cost move. Add Conforto to the mix and your Mets are decently improved going forward.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>I'd have to think Uribe slots right in at 3B. Wright returning this year seems less and less likely. I suspect they might put Murph back at 2B and Flores at SS again but that defensive alignment cost them so many runs. I'm inclined to just stick with Tejada and Flores up the middle and then play Murph at 1B for a few games. Duda badly needs to sit a few days...he's been completely lost since the start of June.

Kelly Johnson probably just plays wherever he's needed on a given day. I don't see a regular, every day spot for him unless they do something stupid and send Conforto back down after one day in the big leagues.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Cole Hamels tosses a no-hitter against the Cubs in possibly his final start as a Phillie.</font>

[screech]

WOOOOOOOOOO

[ClockShot]

Good for Cole Hamels.

Bad for Cole Hamels is he wants to traded. Value probably went up a few points and Amaro will probably ask for more now.

[Bad News Gertner]

Vito Cruz has died and gone to heaven lol

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>This was awesome. Yeah they were facing a guy making his debut and a host of crappy relievers, but it's nice to at least see some life in the lineup before facing Greinke tomorrow.</font>

[ClockShot]

Johnny Cueto was on his way to Kansas City last night. But the deal fell through because the players the Reds were getting had some medical issues.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>The deal is reportedly now completed. Cueto to the Royals. The return for the Reds has not yet been announced.</font>

[Damian Rey]

Was just about to report the same before my colleague, Vito, broke the news.

Great nab for the Royals. Interested to see who they gave up. I'm gonna guess former seemingly consensus would be superstar Bubba Starling is part of the package.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Sounds like Brandon Finnegan is the headliner in the deal for Cueto. If so, that's definitely a huge get for the Reds.

They probably could have gotten David Price from the Tigers for Finnegan...but trading a guy like that to a division rival would have come back to bite them in the ass.</font>

[Damian Rey]

I'm not so sure. Finnegan is short and throws really, really straight. Maybe he works out as a backend starter but I'm feeling he's more of a high leverage reliever long term. It's a nice pickup but for hopefully that's not the center of deal for the Reds.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>THE METS SCORE AGAINST ZACK GREINKE!!!

http://cdn.fansided.com/gif/PE.gif

THEY CONQUERED THE STREAK!!!</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>And it's official. Cincy gets a trio of lefties:

Reds get: LHPs Brandon Finnegan, John Lamb, and Cody Reed
Royals get: RHP Johnny Cueto

At the end of the day, trades are harder to come by now since traded players don't yield comp picks/ Reds obviously felt what they got trumped what their potential comp pick would be.</font>

[Damian Rey]

I think it's fair to say that they did get at least comparable and potentially more cake moving Cueto now rather than waiting for him to walk. Finnegan should probably slot into the rotation, and the other 25 year old starter is seemingly major league ready. Two guys who could be solid or better mlb starters for the next 5 to 7 years is not a terrible get. I will admit I'm a bit underwhelmed but for the Royals, it's a great trade. Instantly becomes their best pitcher going forward. How often does that happen?

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>deGrom outduels Greinke and tosses 7.2 scoreless. Then Familia coughs it up in the 9th and the game is tied.

Games like this are why anybody who puts any stock in the Wins stat anymore need to be euthanized.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Juan Uribe :love:

Good things happen when you have actual Major League players on the bench.</font>

[Frank Drebin]

One of the problems with having the MLBTR app open is I think I've gotten 8-10 alerts telling me about the Kelly Johnson Juan Uirbe trade in various manners.

[Emperor Smeat]

Rangers and Dodgers currently the heavy favorites to get Cole Hammels. A few other teams are also bidding but none are offering anything close than two are for a deal.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Would be pretty ecstatic if the Mets were able to pry away Joaquin Benoit from the Padres before this series with them wraps up.

Familia's blown both save opportunities since the ASB, and Parnell blew a game last week. Hopefully it's just a bad stretch for them but regardless they could use someone else to help bolster the pen. Mejia has been outstanding since his return, but if the Mets were to somehow make the playoffs he'd be ineligible to participate because of the new suspension rules.</font>

[Damian Rey]

Benoit also comes with a modest $8m option for next year as well so he wouldn't be a one and done rental. A package of Upton and Benoit would be a nice get for you guys.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Supposedly the Mets have ruled out Upton at this point, citing both sides being too far apart in asking price. Not sure the Mets would pay $8 million for a set-up guy knowing the Wilpons, but I'm sure Sandy and Preller will discuss him a lot this week.

They might also be closing in on a Tyler Clippard deal instead, which I'd be fine with too. I've always liked him.</font>

[Damian Rey]

That'd be a nice get as well. Feel like one more high leverage reliever and bat could put the Mets over in the wildcard hunt.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>They'll also find out tomorrow if there's any chance at all that Jerry Blevins will return. He was so money in the first couple weeks of the season and they haven't had a true LOOGY since he got hurt.

The top 5 guys in the pen being something like Familia, Clippard/Benoit, Mejia, Parnell, and Blevins down the stretch sounds wonderful.

And even in a scenario where they make the playoffs and don't have Mejia...they'd probably pull a Cardinals at that point and toss Syndergaard and Matz into the bullpen so that they're not totally breaking the bank with their innings. Fuck that'd be so fun to watch. May as well dream big.</font>

[ClockShot]

TRADE NEWS!

Angels get Shane Victorino from the BoSox for Josh Rutledge.

Mets acquire Tyler Clippard and a bag of cash from the A's for Casey Meisner.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Fuck yeah!!!</font>

[ClockShot]

Cubs cut Edwin Jackson loose, call up Rafael Soriano.

Adjust your fantasy rosters accordingly.

[Emperor Smeat]

TRADE NEWS!

Angels get Shane Victorino from the BoSox for Josh Rutledge.

Mets acquire Tyler Clippard and a bag of cash from the A's for Casey Meisner.

Seems a bit odd of a deal for the Angels unless they are expecting Victorino to suddenly improve hitting wise this season and pray he doesn't get hurt again. Red Sox had to eat the bulk of his contract to move him but at least Rusney Castillo gets some quality playing time now.

[Damian Rey]

It is an odd move for the angels. Don't know what they're seeing in Victorino.

[screech]

Think they still go after Carlos Gomez?

[Damian Rey]

Who? The Mets? Mets have the talent in their farm system to acquire virtually any player on the market. Just gonna come down to whether they're willing to part with said talent and of ownership is willing to commit dollars.

In Padres news, Padres and Cubs have been talking Starlin Castro. The Padres are desperately trying to push James Shields, but Cubbies are more interested in Tyson Ross. Personally, I'd stay away from Castro. He's going to increase in salary commitments, and he's been a below average player through this point in his career. Doesn't hit for power, doesn't get on base, can't field. No thanks.

Preller has also been getting a lot of buzz on Kimbrel, especially from Washington, to the point of trying to re acquire ss prospect Trea Turner back, which made me lol. Nonetheless, multiple teams trying to trade for Kimbrel can only be a good thing for my Padres.

Baltimore has apparently inquired on Justin Upton as well as starters Andrew Cashner and Tyson Ross. Ross has a bit more value due to having team control through the end of 2017. Cashner walks after next year. Orioles have some decent arms that could facilitate a trade.

Lastly, Yasiel Puig has become available, which is ridiculous to me, however, the Dodgers are open to offers.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>With these standings being so close I've officially gone into scoreboard watching mode. So here's a nice big :fu: to the Rockies for blowing the game to the Cubs in the 9th.

Kinda feel better about the Mets managing to steal the division away from the Nats than I do about them getting a Wild Card, tbh. Expecting 2 of 3 of the Pirates, Giants, and Cubs to play like shit for a long period of time is a pretty tough ask. Dodgers too actually, now that the Giants have nearly drawn even with them in the West. If nothing else this should be a fun final 2 months.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Meanwhile, the AL East went from a total LOL division where the winner might barely be over .500, to a division that the Yanks are probably going to win in a cakewalk.

A-Rod will always be a massive dickhead but what he's doing this year is pretty ridiculous.</font>

[Simple Fan]

Blue Jays got Tulo for Reyes and minor leaguers from the Rockies.

[Damian Rey]

And King Gertner may have just suffered an imploded penis. Holy shit Toronto. If healthy, Tulo and Donaldson maybe the best left side of the infield in history.

[screech]

@Damian Rey I meant Gomez to the Angels. I read they were "in play" for him but that was before the Victorino trade.

[ClockShot]

That is the get of all gets for the Blue Jays. Alex Anthopoulos pretty much MUST deliver a World Series to Toronto within the next few years. Staked his name on it. And we all know what happens to GMs who spend a lot of money, and nothing happens.

Jose Reyes never worked out. Always injury prone. Maybe he can salvage something in Colorado.

[Bad News Gertner]

They'd better still trade for a starter

[ClockShot]

BUT, BUT, YOU GOT JOURNEYMAN LATROY HAWKINS IN THE DEAL!

[Bad News Gertner]

Reyes has been so friggen bad this year. I much would have rather they put Goins at short and acquire a syarter with the young arms they dealt.

[Bad News Gertner]

Although the thought of a line up featuring Tulo, Encarnacion, Bautista, Donaldson and Martin just makes me giddy.

[road doggy dogg]

That is the get of all gets for the Blue Jays. Alex Anthopoulos pretty much MUST deliver a World Series to Toronto within the next few years. Staked his name on it. And we all know what happens to GMs who spend a lot of money, and nothing happens.

Jose Reyes never worked out. Always injury prone. Maybe he can salvage something in Colorado.

whoa now

let's see them make the playoffs first aight

[road doggy dogg]

But holy shit, Tulo. Huge trade to wake up to. That lineup is filthy.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>As someone who has been dealing with "Tulo to the Mets" rumors for months on end...this feels sorta like a gut punch seeing as the prospects the Rockies got from the Jays sound a whole lot like the Nimmo and Montero types the Mets were reportedly willing to part with for Tulo.

But, this also goes along with what the Rockies had been saying all along. They weren't worried about moving Tulo to shed salary in the short-term. They wanted prospects AND a legitimate big league bat to replace Tulo with because they feel they can still win in the near future with Arenado, Blackmon, CarGo and the like. So while Reyes is a clear downgrade over Tulo, it's not like the Mets had a similar player to offer them. Reyes will be a washout from a salary standpoint but he does free up payroll a couple years down the line, earlier than Tulo would have.</font>

[Droford]

Toronto a joke. They needed a starter, not another bat.

[Droford]

Going to the os game tonight vs the Braves, first game this year

[Frank Drebin]

Although the thought of a line up featuring Tulo, Encarnacion, Bautista, Donaldson and Martin just makes me giddy.

No lefties? KC'S pen will have their way with them.

Toronto a joke. They needed a starter, not another bat.

They'll win games 7-5 rather than 5-3......in the regular season.

I'll be interested to see if this unconventional move pays off but it's been pretty well proven that winning in the playoffs is different from winning in the regular season. Going up against nothing but Frontline starters and dominant bullpen arms may mitigate alot of this offensive power in a playoff series.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Supposedly Tulowitzki told Rockies ownership very specifically that he did not want to go to the Mets.

Well...that's what having owners with a terrible reputation will do to you.</font>

[Bad News Gertner]

Toronto a joke. They needed a starter, not another bat.

Still plenty of time. And Reyes being dealt helps their pitching. Reyes has been AWFUL this year. I still want a starting pitcher though.

[road doggy dogg]

What's more impressive to me is that they were able to pull the trade off without trading Norris or Sanchez in the process

[Bad News Gertner]

I have a feeling Norris is going to be gone.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Zobrist to the Royals</font>

[ClockShot]

Royals gearing up for another run to the World Series it seems.

[Ruien]

Whoa. How do the White Sox have the same winning percentage as the Tigers? Something is wrong.

[Emperor Smeat]

Nationals-Phillies near a deal for Jon Papelbon where the Nats would get Papelbon and in return the Phillies get a minor league pitcher. Phillies would also cover part of Papelbon's salary for the rest of this season and next season.


MLB Hall of Fame trimming the number of voters eligible by kicking out anyone who hasn't been an active writer for at least 10 years. Those who get removed can rejoin the voters list if they return to writing about the sport and meet a certain requirement.

[ClockShot]

Another condition of that trade is that Papelbon is the closer for the nationals.

Sucks for Drew Storen because he's become of the top closers in the game. Now gonna be knocked down a rung and will be the 8th inning guy.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Good thing Sandy got Clippard yesterday...because Jenrry Mejia just got suspended again. :|. 162 games. Not even 3 weeks after returning from his 80 game suspension.

Hope they just release him outright. If you're retarded enough to be suspended twice in one year you shouldn't play Major League Baseball.</font>

[Frank Drebin]

Hi Jenrry





Bye Jenrry

[ClockShot]

A lot of news in such a short amount of time.


Big news is that Mets pitcher Jenrry Mejia got slapped with a full season suspension for popping positive on a PED test. This is strike 2. DON'T JUMP, VITO! IT AIN'T WORTH IT


Papelblown gets his wish. Trade is official. Nats send Nick Pivetta over in exchange.


Angels acquire David Dejesus and David Murphy from the Rays and Indians.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Bautista pays tribute to former teammate Jose Reyes by blowing out his hamstring in the very first game after the trade.</font>

[Damian Rey]

Hahaha I thought the tribute bit was dead serious till I got to the end. Well played.

[Droford]

Saw Chris Davis smash 2 hrs in the first 2 innings, was a pretty fun game

Was pissed about the Yankees game though. How the hell did the rangers give up 11 runs in 1 inning?

[ClockShot]

BLACKJACK!

But Chris Capuano didn't do any better.

[Frank Drebin]

Latos to Dodgers....Dodgers also get Morse from Miami

[Frank Drebin]

Reports say San Diego is about to do something "big"

Just speculation on my part but Castro and Soler are both out of the lineup for the Cubs today.

[road doggy dogg]

SPECULATION brewing that the White Sox are looking at being buyers now that they're in sniffing distance of a wildcard spot

[Frank Drebin]

Sure they will. This would be their MO. Take a meh team and sell out to make it a slightly better meh team with less of a future than they had previously.

[road doggy dogg]

I think it was just more along the lines of they might not get rid of Samardzija rather than being true buyers

[Frank Drebin]

That's wouldn't be the worst option since they would probably tender him a qualifying offer. Still better to trade a guy and get lottery tickets with better odds rather than a supplementary draft pick with far worse odds.

[Frank Drebin]

White Sox are always in a tough spot because they can't get people to the park with a good team. If they put up a white flag their attendance would be Expos level laughable.

The owner is also an old guy who probably isn't interested in going through a lengthy rebuilding process.

[Damian Rey]

Their owner is notorious for skimping on draft picks and hating the idea of paying amateur talent.

As a Padres fan I'd much rather have Baez over Castro.

[RP]

Reports say San Diego is about to do something "big"

Just speculation on my part but Castro and Soler are both out of the lineup for the Cubs today.

I would be shocked if the Cubs traded Soler. James Sheilds better be coming in return.

[RP]

Or Tyson Ross

[RP]

Its sort of odd that Soler is out of the lineup. He's been producing the last week. I haven't heard of an injury.

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>Tigers are out of their minds if they don't unload Price by Friday. I know they pulled out a pretty fluky win today when they seemed primed to be perfect game'd by Chris Archer, but still.

It just seems irresponsible to not move him. Their farm system is totally barren and a Price trade would go a long way to giving it a jolt. Those "untouchable" prospects teams like the Dodgers and Yankees have talked about? I guarantee one of them will cave and include a stud prospect or two if Price suddenly becomes available. And let's be real...no matter what Price says about wanting to stay in Detroit, we know he'll go to the highest bidder in the offseason. And that's probably going to be a team like the Dodgers with their unlimited money cheat code.</font>

[Evil Vito]

<font color=goldenrod>I can understand why the owner would be hesitant to sell, though. He's 86 and has said repeatedly that his last goal in life is to get Detroit a title. He doesn't have a lot of time left and trading Price is basically admitting defeat.

But the rebuild was gonna need to start next year, anyway. Sucks because I actually pull for the Tigers (close family friend is a diehard, long-suffering Detroit sports fan).</font>

[road doggy dogg]

I'm firmly off the "Sell" bandwagon. If you think about it, the Tigers have so much money tied up in VMart, JV, and Miggy regardless of anything else, so even if they unload Price and Cespedes they aren't going to be able to truly "rebuild" for a few years anyway. Might as well keep pushing since they're already all-in anyway.

They won't get a top-tier prospect for 2 months of Price.

[ClockShot]

Yankees DFA Chris Capuano.

Here I was thinking something was in the works. Instead another minor leaguer got called up to take his spot

[Evil Vito]

They won't get a top-tier prospect for 2 months of Price.

<font color=goldenrod>A month or so I would have agreed but some of the teams closer to playoff spots right now have some pretty glaring needs in the rotation. I could honestly see a team caving at the last minute. It's happened before with these deadline deals.

I wouldn't begrudge them if they kept Price and it came out that the offers they were getting are underwhelming. But they need to at least explore it rather than just resigning themselves as buyers no matter what.

Unless their "we're buyers" talk was simply to drive up Price's price (lol) to interested teams. Love trade deadline rumors.</font>

[road doggy dogg]

Mike Hessman ties the record for most HR all time in the minors with 432.

Having that record would probably make me want to kill myself

[RP]

Cubs have traded Brian Schlitter to the Tigers for David Price and Cespedes

[Ruien]

Frank is a hater. White Sox are going to pass the Twinkies up.

[ClockShot]

Hey Vito, at the top of the MLBTR page the Mets nearing a "big trade" for a "big bat". Any guesses as to who?

Oh, and the Mat Latos trade is on hold due to someone's medicals raising a red flag.

[Evil Vito]

Hey Vito, at the top of the MLBTR page the Mets nearing a "big trade" for a "big bat". Any guesses as to who?

Oh, and the Mat Latos trade is on hold due to someone's medicals raising a red flag.

<font color=goldenrod>I'm gonna guess Jay Bruce. Mets have been scouting him heavily and reportedly offered Zack Wheeler for him last week and got turned down. Reds are said to not be looking to move Bruce, but if the Mets upped their offer they might have reconsidered.

Dunno how I'd feel about Bruce. He'd be an upgrade, certainly. But probably not worth the "OMG HUGE TRADE" hype that's been going around. Also his numbers away from Great American Ballpark are really not that good. He also hasn't played CF since 2008 so assuming he and Grandy are gonna cover the corner OF it'll spend a quick end to Michael Conforto's stint in the big leagues.</font>

[Bad News Gertner]

Tulo goes yard in his second at bat.