This baseball season has been an interesting one and not a whole lot has gone according to the plan of the baseball "experts". Technically I was not much better myself with my picks. However, I think we can all agree that MLB has some dreamy World Series matchups still available and they are mostly between a few teams. For this season, their top 5 matchups are still available. I will break down each one and state why it is the dream matchup for the league.
5. Los Angeles Dodgers v. New York Yankees
This matchup engages both coasts. It pits the team that everybody loves to hate against the team with the pitcher that everybody loves. This is the game of the two franchises that typically spend the most money. The teams that are supposed to be there that never end up there at the same time. When you put Kershaw against ARod, a lot of people will want to tune in.
4. Chicago Cubs v. New York Yankees
The lovable osers against the evil empire. The cursed team against the team that curses opponents. The team that has won more than 20 championships against the team that never wins. These are two of MLB's top franchises and the story-lines write themselves.
3. Washington Nationals v. Los Angeles Angeles of Anaheim
Trout v. Harper. Enough said.
2. Los Angeles Dodgers v. Toronto Blue Jays
Two of the games best pitchers against the games best lineup. A matchup between two countries. A true World Series. A team ending the longest playoff drought in American sports heading to the World Series to take on baseball's highest payroll. Price v. Kershaw. Tulowitski in the World Series. There is just so much potential here.
1. Chicago Cubs v. Toronto Blue Jays
Same as the previous matchup except add the Cubs cursed history to it. This matchup would have eyeballs galore. People want to see the Cubs and Blue Jays square off in the World Series. This World Series would be mega $$$$ for MLB.
Now, all of these would be $$$$ for MLB, but that last one (last two actually) would be on a different level IMO.
-Noland
Showing posts with label New York Yankees. Show all posts
Showing posts with label New York Yankees. Show all posts
9.29.2014
The Derek Jeter Legacy
As an Oriole fan I should really dislike the Captain of the Yankees. The Yankees were always our biggest rival and robbed the Orioles of their only legit WS shot of my lifetime. You see the best Orioles team of my lifetime was the 1996 team that lost to the Yankees in the American League Championship Series. Game 1 of that series was controversial after the Orioles lost on a freak play involving Jeter. You see Jeter hit a long fly ball to right field that would have been a routine play for Tony Tarasco, but a 12 year old named Jeffrey Maier reached over the railing and caught the ball that was still in play. The umpire, in an incredibly obnoxious move, ruled it a home run and the Orioles went on to lose the game and the series. Many Orioles fans, including me, went on to hate the kid and Jeter for a while. This image was our symbol over so many losing seasons.
However, as time went on, I grew to appreciate everything Jeter brought to the table. I even eventually started to like Derek Jeter. It seems that during this farewell tour more and more have gone on to appreciate Jeter the way I have. You see it wasn't Jeter's fault that the fan caught the ball, that the umpire called it a homer, or that the Orioles would blow the series. Jeter was just doing what he has done his entire career, he was playing his butt off. Derek Jeter played as hard as anybody I have every seen. He never shrunk in the big moment and never let an opportunity slip by. This guy just played baseball day in and day out and he did it the right way. If Jeter had been an Oriole, we would have said that he did it the Oriole Way.
This talk about Jeter having class comes down to one thing, integrity. Derek Jeter has integrity plain and simple. During this era of cheaters no one has ever or will ever accuse Jeter of cheating. In fact, if you asked any baseball fan who the least likely cheater in the game is, 85% of them would say Derek Jeter. He is clean. He is baseball. People love baseball because of guys like Derek Jeter. They trust that the game isn't a sham because of guys like Derek Jeter. Jeter obviously is not the only clean baseball player, but he is the face of the clean baseball player. Never once did this guy have off the field controversy, never once did he treat any employee with anything but class, and never once was he afraid of being an ambassador for the game of baseball. Baseball is better because of Derek Jeter.
Maybe this farewall tour is a bit overblown. I admit, I thought it was hogwash that he was being called the greatest Yankee ever by so many. It seems a big stretch to call him the best player in this generation as well. For me he ranks somewhere between 6-10 of the players I have seen, behind Griffey, Alomar, Henderson, Ripken, and Pudge Rodriguez for sure. However, there is no denying how great he was. No arguing how important he was for the game. No debate about him being in the conversation. No doubt that he made the game better. So when you think of the legacy of Derek Jeter, remember that. Remember that he did it his way and he did it the right way. Remember that he was clean without a shadow of a doubt. Remember that every fanbase in the country respected him. Remember that everyone in America liked him. Derek Jeter was probably the most likable athlete in the country. This guy was a class act. He is a class act still. And that is why we have given him so much Respect.
Farewell Captain.
-Noland
This talk about Jeter having class comes down to one thing, integrity. Derek Jeter has integrity plain and simple. During this era of cheaters no one has ever or will ever accuse Jeter of cheating. In fact, if you asked any baseball fan who the least likely cheater in the game is, 85% of them would say Derek Jeter. He is clean. He is baseball. People love baseball because of guys like Derek Jeter. They trust that the game isn't a sham because of guys like Derek Jeter. Jeter obviously is not the only clean baseball player, but he is the face of the clean baseball player. Never once did this guy have off the field controversy, never once did he treat any employee with anything but class, and never once was he afraid of being an ambassador for the game of baseball. Baseball is better because of Derek Jeter.
Maybe this farewall tour is a bit overblown. I admit, I thought it was hogwash that he was being called the greatest Yankee ever by so many. It seems a big stretch to call him the best player in this generation as well. For me he ranks somewhere between 6-10 of the players I have seen, behind Griffey, Alomar, Henderson, Ripken, and Pudge Rodriguez for sure. However, there is no denying how great he was. No arguing how important he was for the game. No debate about him being in the conversation. No doubt that he made the game better. So when you think of the legacy of Derek Jeter, remember that. Remember that he did it his way and he did it the right way. Remember that he was clean without a shadow of a doubt. Remember that every fanbase in the country respected him. Remember that everyone in America liked him. Derek Jeter was probably the most likable athlete in the country. This guy was a class act. He is a class act still. And that is why we have given him so much Respect.
Farewell Captain.
-Noland
6.26.2014
Respecting the Enemy: New York Yankees
Too often in sport and in life we are negative. Too often we are hateful and too often we focus on bad stories. When I started this site, I wanted to point out the good guys in sport. However, I too sometimes fall into the captivity of negativity. I have posted my fair of negative stories as well. Here in America though, we are better than that. We do not need to physically fight for our team in sports. It is not necessary to hurt others to get our point across. While disagreeing with somebody, we can be civil and we can show respect. Therefore, I decided to do a little project.
This project was to point out likable things about the sports teams that I cannot stand. I decided to pick the three professional sports teams that I disliked the most and point out three brilliant people in their organization. Three people that I would love to have in my organization. Three people that I respect. I will say why I do not like that organization, but also point to brilliant people in that organization. This will be done for the Seattle Seahawks, the New York Yankees, and the Boston Red Sox.
Yesterday, I talked about the Seattle Seahawks.
Today, we will discuss the Evil Empire, the New York Yankees.
These guys are the Evil Empire. People who do not like the Yankees call them the Evil Empire because they fear one day that their team's superstar will leave to the Yankees for more money. A lot of the time, that is what happens. However, more recently the Dodgers have started to spend far more than even the Yankees eliminating that notion a little bit. They are still the most hated team in baseball. These guys used to be my most hated professional sports team. Now, they are my #2 most disliked pro team. Their main rival passed them for reasons to be discussed tomorrow.
Don't be fooled though, I still cannot stand the Yankees. I still loathe Joe Girardi. The arrogance of Girardi to turn down a MLB managing job with the Baltimore Orioles. While it worked out better for the Orioles and we got Buck and a playoff bid, I still dislike Giradi. He still turned us down. He still insulted the entire organization and our fanbase. He thought he was too good for us.
For much the same reasons, I dislike Mark Teixeira very strongly. He gave the Orioles hope that he wanted to come home and help bring the franchise back to glory. This guy kept feeding the media and O's fans nonsense. He used the Orioles to drive the price up on other teams. The one positive I will say about that is that I am very glad the Yankees overpaid.
Finally, I hate the Yankees because they have been our main rival as long as I can remember. This is the 1st sports rivalry that I got really into and understood. The rivalry cooled down when the Orioles sucked, but in the mid-90s it was awesome. Except when their fans cheated and that punk kid gave the Yankees a playoff win. The punk kid who actually affected the game. Bartman gets crap for hitting a foul ball. The kid who helped the Yankees touched a ball in fair territory and won the Yankees the game. He gave them a home run. This guy cost the Orioles a shot at the World Series. However, we haven't chased him down and made his life miserable. That just shows the difference in class between Orioles and Cubs fans, but I will drop that here.
As much as I hate the Yankees, there are a few guys in recent memory that are a joy for even me to watch. It is hard to admit, but some involved with the Yankees have been pure class.
Here are the guys I have liked in pinstripes in recent memory.
This project was to point out likable things about the sports teams that I cannot stand. I decided to pick the three professional sports teams that I disliked the most and point out three brilliant people in their organization. Three people that I would love to have in my organization. Three people that I respect. I will say why I do not like that organization, but also point to brilliant people in that organization. This will be done for the Seattle Seahawks, the New York Yankees, and the Boston Red Sox.
Yesterday, I talked about the Seattle Seahawks.
Today, we will discuss the Evil Empire, the New York Yankees.
Don't be fooled though, I still cannot stand the Yankees. I still loathe Joe Girardi. The arrogance of Girardi to turn down a MLB managing job with the Baltimore Orioles. While it worked out better for the Orioles and we got Buck and a playoff bid, I still dislike Giradi. He still turned us down. He still insulted the entire organization and our fanbase. He thought he was too good for us.
For much the same reasons, I dislike Mark Teixeira very strongly. He gave the Orioles hope that he wanted to come home and help bring the franchise back to glory. This guy kept feeding the media and O's fans nonsense. He used the Orioles to drive the price up on other teams. The one positive I will say about that is that I am very glad the Yankees overpaid.
Finally, I hate the Yankees because they have been our main rival as long as I can remember. This is the 1st sports rivalry that I got really into and understood. The rivalry cooled down when the Orioles sucked, but in the mid-90s it was awesome. Except when their fans cheated and that punk kid gave the Yankees a playoff win. The punk kid who actually affected the game. Bartman gets crap for hitting a foul ball. The kid who helped the Yankees touched a ball in fair territory and won the Yankees the game. He gave them a home run. This guy cost the Orioles a shot at the World Series. However, we haven't chased him down and made his life miserable. That just shows the difference in class between Orioles and Cubs fans, but I will drop that here.
As much as I hate the Yankees, there are a few guys in recent memory that are a joy for even me to watch. It is hard to admit, but some involved with the Yankees have been pure class.
Here are the guys I have liked in pinstripes in recent memory.
Derek Jeter
Derek Jeter is the golden boy in baseball. He is still the face of the game. This guy is everything that is right and pure with baseball. Sure his game isn't the same, sure he isn't as good. That's how it should be though. We shouldn't have people getting better at the back end of their careers. It is one of the many reasons that Jeter is that one guy we can all be confident in not being a user. When I hear comments like they are all using, I say not Jeter. Out of all current players, he is the guy I am most confident never took a performance enhancing drug and that says something about Jeter.
This guy should be a guy I hate as an Orioles fan, but I just can't do it. Eventhough, he hit the homer in question, I cannot dislike Jeter. He is too classy, he is too good of a guy, he represented Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, and most importantly he is clean. Jeter was excellent and he did it the right way.
Mariano Rivera
The greatest closer of all-time is Mariano Rivera. Heck, the greatest relief pitcher of all-time is Mariano Rivera. It is a fact and nobody disputes it. Nobody disputes that this guy is/was pure class either. That says a lot that nobody disputes this guy being nothing but class. What a testament to Mariano's character that everyone says he is a class act.
One of the coolest things about Mariano and another testament to his character is that he is the last baseball player to wear #42 full-time. If it was anybody else, I don't think MLB says its okay for them to wear Jackie's number full-time anymore. However, with Mariano it is okay and it was a great tribute to Mr. Robinson. This guy is a baseball legend and clearly deserves the respect of every baseball fan.
Buck Showalter
Finally, I always loved Buck Showalter. Even back when he was the manager of the New York Yankees. He was on the greatest sit-com of all-time playing himself as Yankees manager on Seinfeld. He was hilarious then and is still one of the funniest guys in baseball. How many managers can say they were on Seinfeld anyway?
Showalter didn't stop when he left New York. The guy managed brilliantly for the Texas Rangers and Arizona Diamondbacks before joining ESPN's baseball coverage. In my opinion, he was the best guy on that coverage team and gave great analysis at all times. Then he became our manager and I was thrilled.
Buck is beloved by all Orioles fans. After so many losing seasons, Buck gave us hope. Then he sent our beloved Orioles into the postseason and helped turned them into a team that can compete year in and year out. With Buck at the helm, the Orioles will eventually get that World Series win that I have not seen in my lifetime. He started with the Yankees, but he eventually joined the good guys.
-Noland
9.09.2012
Markakis Injuried, Tex Whines, Now What?
The Orioles and Yankees had another epic game last night that again moved the two teams into a tie above the AL East. There was a lot that happened in this game that perhaps brings new life to the old bitter rivalry. Buck loved the final score last night at least.
Before we get to the Orioles side of things, how pathetic was Mark Teixeira whining. Yes, Teixeira was safe, but are you kidding me. Oh and by the way Nick Swisher went out of the baseline to slide into JJ Hardy which is the only reason Teixeira beat the throw anyways. He should have been called out automatically for Swisher's interference. Are you kidding me you whiny punk? This is the first call in 10 years I have seen go against the Yankees that was close (and it wasn't really as I said). Well, other than when they play the Red Sox maybe. Not even kidding. Yankees hitters have absolutely no strike zone, but their pitchers have an extra 1 foot in any direction to throw strikes. This stuff cracks me up. Now he has a sore calf and can't play. So glad this turkey did not sign with the Orioles a few years back. You can keep him Yankees. We will continue to boo Teixeira.
One guy that hasn't turned his back on Baltimore is Nick Markakis. The right fielder is my favorite player in the majors. He has been huge for the Orioles this year. You could argue most important player for Markakis. Their worst stretch was when he was out. Now he is the leadoff hitter. Unfortunately last night he was hit by a CC pitch in the hand. Now that hand is broken. You knew it was bad because Markakis went out right away. This is the guy who played through a broken hamate bone, and has been playing through a biceps injury. When Markakis eventually had to go out because of the hamate bone the Orioles looked lost. However, that will not happen this time even with Markakis out the rest of the regular season.
How is it possible that the Orioles could be successful without Markakis? LJ Hoes will come up and be the next Oriole to lead us in some Oriole Magic. LJ is ready Orioles, let's make it happen. This guy is not the same player Markakis is, but he can fill some of the void left by Markakis. He also can provide a spark and not be an automatic out. This guy is ready. Let's make it happen.
With one more game coming today against the Yankees, hopefully the Markakis injury will not sink the birds. If our Orioles manage to pull it out today, they will be back in sole possession of 1st place. Orioles Magic indeed.
-Noland
How is it possible that the Orioles could be successful without Markakis? LJ Hoes will come up and be the next Oriole to lead us in some Oriole Magic. LJ is ready Orioles, let's make it happen. This guy is not the same player Markakis is, but he can fill some of the void left by Markakis. He also can provide a spark and not be an automatic out. This guy is ready. Let's make it happen.
With one more game coming today against the Yankees, hopefully the Markakis injury will not sink the birds. If our Orioles manage to pull it out today, they will be back in sole possession of 1st place. Orioles Magic indeed.
7.31.2012
Orioles 5 Yankees 4
Sometimes the best way to start off a conversation is to say the score of an important game. Well, guess what? The Orioles beat the Yankees! Go O's! Now see how it happened...
Miguel Gonzalez pitched a pretty fantastic game. Buck may have left him in too long, but Gonzo grinded it out. He gave up back to back homers in the 7th to keep the Yankees close, but he was strong through 6 2/3. Including the homers, he gave up 4 runs in those 6 2/3 innings. Not bad against the Yankees, especially considering if Buck had taken him out a little sooner it would have been 2 runs in 6 2/3 innings. Gonzo also managed to have 8 huge strikeouts. That makes 20 strikeouts by Oriole starters in 2 games. Pretty fantastic.
The bullpen was great for their 2 1/3. Perhaps the biggest strength for the Orioles this year, the bullpen came through again. Darren O'Day started the charge for the Orioles as he ended the seventh. O'Day picked up his 8th hold and lowered his ERA to 2.88. As I have said numerous times, the 8th inning is the best time for the Orioles. Our secret weapon enters the game at that time, Pedro Strop. Once again, Strop was brilliant in the 8th. Strop lowered his ERA to 1.34 and picked up his 17th hold. This guy is awesome. Then comes the 9th, which is of course, Jimmy time! Jim Johnson did not disappoint. He delivered again. Johnson is now at 31 saves on the season. He looks like he might get that record. We will see of course.
The pitching wasn't the only thing working for the O's last night. They got some key hits as well. Nick Markakis led the charge from his leadoff spot again. Markakis is hitting .364 since coming off the DL and leading off. After last night, he raised his season average to .286. I'd say Orioles MVP is between him, Jones, and Strop. I would vote Markakis, Strop, Jones personally. Why Markakis #1? He sets the tone for this team. Last night, he was 3-4. Markakis also drove in 2 and scored once. This guy makes the Orioles a much better team. Wilson Betemit also picked up multiple hits. He was 2-4 including his 12th home run of the season. Very huge game from Betemit who also scored twice.
Finally, Omar Quintanilla came through again with the bat. Quintanilla was 1-2 with an RBI and a run scored. He is doing a fantastic job getting on base and having quality at bats. Very impressed so far with this guy.
-Noland
Miguel Gonzalez pitched a pretty fantastic game. Buck may have left him in too long, but Gonzo grinded it out. He gave up back to back homers in the 7th to keep the Yankees close, but he was strong through 6 2/3. Including the homers, he gave up 4 runs in those 6 2/3 innings. Not bad against the Yankees, especially considering if Buck had taken him out a little sooner it would have been 2 runs in 6 2/3 innings. Gonzo also managed to have 8 huge strikeouts. That makes 20 strikeouts by Oriole starters in 2 games. Pretty fantastic.
The bullpen was great for their 2 1/3. Perhaps the biggest strength for the Orioles this year, the bullpen came through again. Darren O'Day started the charge for the Orioles as he ended the seventh. O'Day picked up his 8th hold and lowered his ERA to 2.88. As I have said numerous times, the 8th inning is the best time for the Orioles. Our secret weapon enters the game at that time, Pedro Strop. Once again, Strop was brilliant in the 8th. Strop lowered his ERA to 1.34 and picked up his 17th hold. This guy is awesome. Then comes the 9th, which is of course, Jimmy time! Jim Johnson did not disappoint. He delivered again. Johnson is now at 31 saves on the season. He looks like he might get that record. We will see of course.
The pitching wasn't the only thing working for the O's last night. They got some key hits as well. Nick Markakis led the charge from his leadoff spot again. Markakis is hitting .364 since coming off the DL and leading off. After last night, he raised his season average to .286. I'd say Orioles MVP is between him, Jones, and Strop. I would vote Markakis, Strop, Jones personally. Why Markakis #1? He sets the tone for this team. Last night, he was 3-4. Markakis also drove in 2 and scored once. This guy makes the Orioles a much better team. Wilson Betemit also picked up multiple hits. He was 2-4 including his 12th home run of the season. Very huge game from Betemit who also scored twice.
-Noland
7.24.2012
Evil Empire Acquires Ichiro
Well the Orioles lost last night. They got their 6th straight quality start, but the bats went quiet. A very unfortunate game. However, that wasn't the worst news on the night in Baltimore. The New York Yankees added a key piece.
Struggling since they lost Brett Gardner, the Yankees added one of the best players of the past 10 years. They added perhaps the most popular baseball player worldwide. Sure, he is declining and having his worst season, but do you really expect him to not contribute. I mean the Yankees were throwing DeWayne Wise out there with Gardner's injury. Even at his advanced age, Ichiro is a much better option than DeWayne Wise.
We can only hope Ichiro isn't here past this season. That he retires. The last thing the Yankees need on the all star ballot is an international superstar besides Cano. The Yankees also don't need more fans. They don't need millions of Japanese rooting for the team solely because of Ichiro. I just don't like it.
As for this year, it was unlikely that the O's would catch the Yankees. However, they got the deficit down to 6.5 games before the trade was made. The Yankees were struggling without Gardner, and now its not so bad. Ichiro is one of the most consistent players ever. The Yankees don't need someone who has been this good for this long. I have liked to root for Ichiro in the past. I will not anymore, but I hate to say that he doesn't need it. Yankees-Rangers is looking like a strong bet to be the ALCS at this point. However, I thought that before the trade. Gardner is still the better player, but with DeWayne Wise in LF some other teams had a lot more hope than they do now.
It just looks wrong. It sure would have been nice to see Ichiro stay in Seattle.
-Noland
Struggling since they lost Brett Gardner, the Yankees added one of the best players of the past 10 years. They added perhaps the most popular baseball player worldwide. Sure, he is declining and having his worst season, but do you really expect him to not contribute. I mean the Yankees were throwing DeWayne Wise out there with Gardner's injury. Even at his advanced age, Ichiro is a much better option than DeWayne Wise.
We can only hope Ichiro isn't here past this season. That he retires. The last thing the Yankees need on the all star ballot is an international superstar besides Cano. The Yankees also don't need more fans. They don't need millions of Japanese rooting for the team solely because of Ichiro. I just don't like it.
As for this year, it was unlikely that the O's would catch the Yankees. However, they got the deficit down to 6.5 games before the trade was made. The Yankees were struggling without Gardner, and now its not so bad. Ichiro is one of the most consistent players ever. The Yankees don't need someone who has been this good for this long. I have liked to root for Ichiro in the past. I will not anymore, but I hate to say that he doesn't need it. Yankees-Rangers is looking like a strong bet to be the ALCS at this point. However, I thought that before the trade. Gardner is still the better player, but with DeWayne Wise in LF some other teams had a lot more hope than they do now.
-Noland
6.08.2012
MLB All-Star Balloting Through 6/5
Here are the All-Star balloting totals through 6/5. It is an absolute crime that Adam Jones is not in the top 3. There are some other noticeable omissions. However, the AL OF is stacked and the leading vote getter definitely deserves it. Looks like the fans love the Rangers. In a couple days, I will vote for the all-star game and disclose my ballot. Voting is currently open on mlb.com
AMERICAN LEAGUE
FIRST BASE
Prince Fielder, Tigers: 1,027,070
Mark Teixeira, Yankees: 697,602
Paul Konerko, White Sox: 671,430
Mitch Moreland, Rangers: 618,226
Albert Pujols, Angels: 478,020
SECOND BASE
Ian Kinsler, Rangers: 1,447,171
Robinson Cano, Yankees: 1,164,448
Dustin Pedroia, Red Sox: 699,422
Robert Andino, Orioles: 317,434
Chris Getz, Royals: 278,585
THIRD BASE
Adrian Beltre, Rangers: 1,179,864
Miguel Cabrera, Tigers: 886,365
Evan Longoria, Rays: 789,434
Alex Rodriguez, Yankees: 657,315
Mike Moustakas, Royals: 432,379
SHORTSTOP
Derek Jeter, Yankees: 1,698,777
Elvis Andrus, Rangers: 1,033,986
J.J. Hardy, Orioles: 489,941
Alcides Escobar, Royals: 392,195
Asdrubal Cabrera, Indians: 344,065
CATCHER
Mike Napoli, Rangers: 1,224,565
Matt Wieters, Orioles: 713,469
Joe Mauer, Twins: 637,364
Russell Martin, Yankees: 431,435
A.J. Pierzynski, White Sox: 424,646
DESIGNATED HITTER
David Ortiz, Red Sox: 1,204,904
Michael Young, Rangers: 1,049,170
Raul Ibanez, Yankees: 492,183
Billy Butler, Royals: 477,257
Edwin Encarnacion, Blue Jays: 391,131
OUTFIELDERS
Josh Hamilton, Rangers: 2,587,991
Curtis Granderson, Yankees: 1,406,128
Nelson Cruz, Rangers: 992,992
Jose Bautista, Blue Jays: 930,814
Adam Jones, Orioles: 857,543
David Murphy, Rangers: 652,379
Nick Swisher, Yankees: 624,215
Brett Gardner, Yankees: 437,126
Ichiro Suzuki, Mariners: 433,899
Jeff Francoeur, Royals: 422,304
Austin Jackson, Tigers: 389,664
Nick Markakis, Orioles: 384,390
Alex Gordon, Royals: 378,459
Jacoby Ellsbury, Red Sox: 346,774
B.J. Upton, Rays: 277,173
NATIONAL LEAGUE
FIRST BASE
Joey Votto, Reds: 1,314,516
Lance Berkman, Cardinals: 634,473
Freddie Freeman, Braves: 576,255
Bryan LaHair, Cubs: 391,497
Adam LaRoche, Nationals: 331,772
SECOND BASE
Dan Uggla, Braves: 872,136
Brandon Phillips, Reds: 586,835
Omar Infante, Marlins: 512,049
Rickie Weeks, Brewers: 512,021
Jose Altuve, Astros: 472,292
THIRD BASE
David Wright, Mets: 856,887
David Freese, Cardinals: 824,801
Chipper Jones, Braves: 727,719
Pablo Sandoval, Giants: 648,303
Aramis Ramirez, Brewers: 386,013
SHORTSTOP
Troy Tulowitzki, Rockies: 823,708
Rafael Furcal, Cardinals: 803,254
Starlin Castro, Cubs: 526,811
Jose Reyes, Marlins: 425,682
Alex Gonzalez, Brewers: 399,218
CATCHERS
Yadier Molina, Cardinals: 1,100,048
Buster Posey, Giants: 1,072,464
Brian McCann, Braves: 707,508
Carlos Ruiz, Phillies: 562,021
Jonathan Lucroy, Brewers: 457,590
OUTFIELDERS
Matt Kemp, Dodgers: 1,952,910
Carlos Beltran, Cardinals: 1,212,030
Ryan Braun, Brewers: 1,112,971
Andre Ethier, Dodgers: 827,262
Melky Cabrera, Giants: 714,642
Matt Holliday, Cardinals: 667,544
Jason Heyward, Braves: 515,340
Michael Bourn, Braves: 498,070
Jay Bruce, Reds: 460,853
Andrew McCutchen, Pirates: 457,223
Hunter Pence, Phillies: 446,460
Corey Hart, Brewers: 417,929
Carlos Gonzalez, Rockies: 386,860
Jon Jay, Cardinals: 373,833
Shane Victorino, Phillies: 373,034
-Noland
AMERICAN LEAGUE
FIRST BASEPrince Fielder, Tigers: 1,027,070
Mark Teixeira, Yankees: 697,602
Paul Konerko, White Sox: 671,430
Mitch Moreland, Rangers: 618,226
Albert Pujols, Angels: 478,020
SECOND BASE
Ian Kinsler, Rangers: 1,447,171
Robinson Cano, Yankees: 1,164,448
Dustin Pedroia, Red Sox: 699,422
Robert Andino, Orioles: 317,434
Chris Getz, Royals: 278,585
THIRD BASE
Adrian Beltre, Rangers: 1,179,864
Miguel Cabrera, Tigers: 886,365
Evan Longoria, Rays: 789,434
Alex Rodriguez, Yankees: 657,315
Mike Moustakas, Royals: 432,379
SHORTSTOPDerek Jeter, Yankees: 1,698,777
Elvis Andrus, Rangers: 1,033,986
J.J. Hardy, Orioles: 489,941
Alcides Escobar, Royals: 392,195
Asdrubal Cabrera, Indians: 344,065
CATCHER
Mike Napoli, Rangers: 1,224,565
Matt Wieters, Orioles: 713,469
Joe Mauer, Twins: 637,364
Russell Martin, Yankees: 431,435
A.J. Pierzynski, White Sox: 424,646
DESIGNATED HITTER
David Ortiz, Red Sox: 1,204,904
Michael Young, Rangers: 1,049,170
Raul Ibanez, Yankees: 492,183
Billy Butler, Royals: 477,257
Edwin Encarnacion, Blue Jays: 391,131
OUTFIELDERSJosh Hamilton, Rangers: 2,587,991
Curtis Granderson, Yankees: 1,406,128
Nelson Cruz, Rangers: 992,992
Jose Bautista, Blue Jays: 930,814
Adam Jones, Orioles: 857,543
David Murphy, Rangers: 652,379
Nick Swisher, Yankees: 624,215
Brett Gardner, Yankees: 437,126
Ichiro Suzuki, Mariners: 433,899
Jeff Francoeur, Royals: 422,304
Austin Jackson, Tigers: 389,664
Nick Markakis, Orioles: 384,390
Alex Gordon, Royals: 378,459
Jacoby Ellsbury, Red Sox: 346,774
B.J. Upton, Rays: 277,173
NATIONAL LEAGUE
FIRST BASE
Joey Votto, Reds: 1,314,516
Lance Berkman, Cardinals: 634,473
Freddie Freeman, Braves: 576,255
Bryan LaHair, Cubs: 391,497
Adam LaRoche, Nationals: 331,772
SECOND BASE
Dan Uggla, Braves: 872,136
Brandon Phillips, Reds: 586,835
Omar Infante, Marlins: 512,049
Rickie Weeks, Brewers: 512,021
Jose Altuve, Astros: 472,292
THIRD BASE
David Wright, Mets: 856,887
David Freese, Cardinals: 824,801
Chipper Jones, Braves: 727,719
Pablo Sandoval, Giants: 648,303
Aramis Ramirez, Brewers: 386,013
SHORTSTOP
Troy Tulowitzki, Rockies: 823,708
Rafael Furcal, Cardinals: 803,254
Starlin Castro, Cubs: 526,811
Jose Reyes, Marlins: 425,682
Alex Gonzalez, Brewers: 399,218
CATCHERS
Yadier Molina, Cardinals: 1,100,048
Buster Posey, Giants: 1,072,464
Brian McCann, Braves: 707,508
Carlos Ruiz, Phillies: 562,021
Jonathan Lucroy, Brewers: 457,590
OUTFIELDERSMatt Kemp, Dodgers: 1,952,910
Carlos Beltran, Cardinals: 1,212,030
Ryan Braun, Brewers: 1,112,971
Andre Ethier, Dodgers: 827,262
Melky Cabrera, Giants: 714,642
Matt Holliday, Cardinals: 667,544
Jason Heyward, Braves: 515,340
Michael Bourn, Braves: 498,070
Jay Bruce, Reds: 460,853
Andrew McCutchen, Pirates: 457,223
Hunter Pence, Phillies: 446,460
Corey Hart, Brewers: 417,929
Carlos Gonzalez, Rockies: 386,860
Jon Jay, Cardinals: 373,833
Shane Victorino, Phillies: 373,034
-Noland
5.25.2012
Former Yankee Faces Teen Sex Charges
The evil empire moniker doesn't seem like it will be leaving the Yankees anytime soon. One of the players that they employed is involved in a huge scandal. Chad Curtis has been charged with sexual misconduct in Michigan. Curtis was volunteering at a high school when two girls accused him of touching them inappropriately. The 43 year old was released on $250,000 bond after paying $25,000 of the bond in cash. He was in line to be named that school's football coach prior to this scandal. Chad Curtis played for 5 teams in his career, but he is best known for his time with the Yankees. He won 2 World Series rings with the Bronx Bombers. What a shame.-Noland
5.16.2012
Wei Yin Chen Shuts Down Yankees
Right now, Wei Yin Chen is the best Orioles starter. He is mr. dependable among the group. The guy we can count on. Once again, Chen had a terrific outing tonight. Not only that, but he did it against the team we struggle with the most. Chen was brilliant as he moved to 4-0 on the season. He gave up two runs on four hits over seven innings. The runs he did give up were on a home run hit by Curtis Granderson, but Xavier Avery looked like he was going to catch it. It appeared that a fan hit Avery's glove and we had a Jeffrey Maher 2 on our hands. Only this time it was at our own stadium. I don't know why we can't overturn these home runs, especially with instant replay. These Yankee fans have got to learn that they can not do that. This outing was only the Orioles 3rd quality start of the last 10 games. That is not all the news about the Orioles' new x-man. This guy plays with such a great energy and effort. We have not seen too much of this over the last 14 years as O's fans. The guy is a breath of fresh air. Avery went 1 for 3 with a beautiful bunt single. Again, the hustle plays, how many bunt singles have we seen lately? He also scored his third run of the season following a walk. Avery is also showing patience, something that has been very rare out of Oriole pitchers. The guy drew a walk against one of the best pitchers in baseball, before this year the Orioles would get shut down by some turkey with a 6.00 ERA and let him only throw 85 pitches in the process. Avery is a keeper.
Steve Tolleson also had a big night for the birds. Every game there's a different star, that's the magic of Orioles baseball. I guess the magic is back. I was not expecting big things from Tolleson when he came up, but so far he has delivered. Tolleson was 2 for 3 with a double. The guy is now hitting .400 in his short time with the Orioles. Small sample size I know, but we have to be pleased with his contribution. Tolleson has come a long way since his previous pro experiences.JJ Hardy was another Oriole that had a big night at the plate. Hardy was also 2-4 with a double and also drove in two runs. The Oriole SS has been on a tear lately. JJ has raised his average to .252 after being in the .100s all of April. Perhaps it is time to switch him and Nicky in the order?
Adam Jones continues to pace the Oriole offense. Jones went 2-3 with a walk last night. He also registered his 11th home run on the season. This is incredible. At this rate, Jones may get to 50. Absolutely, unbelievable job by Adam Jones. For sure, this guy will be an all-star. I guess it was a really good move to keep him this offseason. We can definitely build around Adam Jones if he is mashing like this.Pedro Strop got his 5th hold in this game as he held the Yankees scoreless for an inning. Strop now has an ERA that sits at 1.29. This guy has been one of the best set-up men in baseball. He has been setting up for the best closer in baseball. Oriole closer Jim Johnson converted his 12th save in 12 chances last night. The closer has converted 20 straight saves dating back to last season. His ERA now sits at 0.54. If we come into the 8th with a lead, I feel pretty comfortable and that might be the biggest reason we are still in 1st place.
-Noland
5.01.2012
Orioles Finally Beat Yankees
Not only did the Orioles beat the Yankees, but Nick Johnson finally got a hit and Brian Matusz was pitching for the O's. We can only hope that Matusz is back on the right track and this will continue. Back to back good starts from Matusz is certainly an encouraging sign. He went 6 1/3 today and I am thrilled with how he shut down the Yankee lineup.The offense was paced by Chris Davis. Davis went 3 for 4 raising his average to .333. The first baseman also scored three runs and hit his 5th home run on the year. Chris Davis is off to an amazing smart and is making the Koji trade look better by the day.
Nick Markakis was 2 for 5 and appears to be breaking out of his slump. If we can get Markakis going this is going to be a fantastic season.
Robert Andino was 1 for 2 and is still hitting over .300. Andino's average sits at .316. He also walked twice and scored a run. Once again, the guy is a gamer. Do you remember how we got Andino? Hayden Penn ring a bell? If it doesn't check out the picture on the left. This is looking like one of the best trades in recent club history. If not the best trade in recent history.O'Day and Ayala were amazing again in relief. Neither reliever gave up a run. I sure am liking this bullpen other than Gregg. It sure is nice to see Orioles 7, Yankees 1 after the game. Maybe the O's can do this again tomorrow night.
-Noland
4.09.2012
Orioles vs. Yankees
Here is the Orioles lineup courtesy of Roch Kubatko.
Nolan Reimold LF
J.J. Hardy SS
Nick Markakis RF
Adam Jones CF
Matt Wieters C
Mark Reynolds 3B
Wilson Betemit DH
Chris Davis 1B
Robert Andino 2B
Brian Matusz LHP
This is basically what the birds sent out against the Twins with a few changes each day. I like Reimold at the top of the order and Markakis looks good in the three hole this season, let's hope he continues his hot start. Of course, the biggest key like always is the starting pitching. Let's hope Matusz pitches like end of 2010 season Matusz and not 2011 season Matusz. The guy has so much potential, but I am worried. Go Orioles!
Let's also hope Verizon Wireless still has free MLB Extra Innings Preview so I can actually watch the game.
Btw, I thought this little tidbit was interesting.
"The last time that the Yankees and Red Sox started out 0-3 was 1966.
Anyone know how the Orioles finished that year?" - Roch Kubatko
Well wouldn't that be nice, the Orioles of course were World Champs in '66. I'm not getting my hopes up too much after starting 6-1 last year and then becoming the Orioles, but it is nice to have a little hope.
-Noland
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