With the Winter Meetings underway in Nashville, many major transactions have taken place over the first two days. Here's a roundup:
Monday, December 3:
-Cubs sign RHP Kyuji Fujikawa to 2-year, $9.5 million deal with a vesting option for 2013.
-Padres re-sign RHP Jason Marquis to a 1-year, $3 million deal.
-Rangers re-sign C Geovany Soto to a 1-year, $2.75 million deal.
-Red Sox sign C/1B Mike Napoli to a 3-year, $39 million deal.
-Rays sign 1B James Loney to a 1-year, $2 million deal.
-Giants re-sign OF Angel Pagan to a 4-year, $40 million deal.
-Rangers sign RHP Joakim Soria to a 2-year, $8 million deal with a team option for 2015.
Tuesday, December 4:
-Nationals sign RHP Dan Haren to a 1-year, $13 million deal.
-Diamondbacks sign Eric Hinske to a 1-year, $1.35 million deal.
-Red Sox sign OF Shane Victorino to a 3-year, $39 million deal.
-Giants re-sign IF Marco Scutaro to a 3-year, $20 million deal.
-Rockies trade RHP Wilton Lopez and a PTBNL to the Astros for RHP Alex White and RHP Alex Gillingham.
-Marlins trade IF Yunel Escobar to the Rays for minor league IF Derek Dietrich.
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Hot Stove Transactions Roundup - November 27-28, 2012
Tuesday and Wednesday were big days for transactions in baseball, and the major dominoes are starting to fall. Here's a roundup:
-Braves sign BJ Upton to a 5-year, $75.25 million deal. After being courted heaviily by both Atlanta and the Phillies, the Braves got their man in Upton, locking him up for the next five years.
-Yankees re-sign Andy Pettitte to a 1-year, $12 million deal. With one veteran locked up, the Yankees will turn their focus to re-signing Mariano Rivera next.
-Angels sign RHP Ryan Madson to a 1-year, $3.5 million deal. Madson will be the new closer for the Angels, and they are now working to trade Jordan Walden.
-Reds re-sign RHP Jonathan Broxton to a 3-year, $21 million deal with a club option for 2016. With Broxton locked up, the Reds will likely move Aroldis Chapman to the rotation and try to trade a starter like Mike Leake.
-Cubs sign RHP Scott Feldman to a 1-year, $6 million deal. Feldman joins Scott Baker as the newest members of the Cubs rotation.
-Rays sign IF Mike Fontenot to a minor league deal, re-sign OF Rich Thompson
-Royals trade RHP Vin Mazzaro and 1B Clint Robinson to the Pirates for minor leaguers LHP Luis Rico and RHP Luis Santos.
-Red Sox trade RHP Zach Stewart to the Pirates for a PTBNL.
-Red Sox trade RHP Sandy Rosario to the Athletics for a PTBNL or cash.
-Red Sox trade 3B Danny Valencia to the Orioles for cash.
-Padres trade RHP Cory Burns to the Rangers for a PTBNL.
-Astros are on the verge of trading RHP Wilton Lopez to the Astros, but the deal may have hit a snag late in the day.
For the latest, be sure to follow me on Twitter @TradeDeadliner.
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-Braves sign BJ Upton to a 5-year, $75.25 million deal. After being courted heaviily by both Atlanta and the Phillies, the Braves got their man in Upton, locking him up for the next five years.
-Yankees re-sign Andy Pettitte to a 1-year, $12 million deal. With one veteran locked up, the Yankees will turn their focus to re-signing Mariano Rivera next.
-Angels sign RHP Ryan Madson to a 1-year, $3.5 million deal. Madson will be the new closer for the Angels, and they are now working to trade Jordan Walden.
-Reds re-sign RHP Jonathan Broxton to a 3-year, $21 million deal with a club option for 2016. With Broxton locked up, the Reds will likely move Aroldis Chapman to the rotation and try to trade a starter like Mike Leake.
-Cubs sign RHP Scott Feldman to a 1-year, $6 million deal. Feldman joins Scott Baker as the newest members of the Cubs rotation.
-Rays sign IF Mike Fontenot to a minor league deal, re-sign OF Rich Thompson
-Royals trade RHP Vin Mazzaro and 1B Clint Robinson to the Pirates for minor leaguers LHP Luis Rico and RHP Luis Santos.
-Red Sox trade RHP Zach Stewart to the Pirates for a PTBNL.
-Red Sox trade RHP Sandy Rosario to the Athletics for a PTBNL or cash.
-Red Sox trade 3B Danny Valencia to the Orioles for cash.
-Padres trade RHP Cory Burns to the Rangers for a PTBNL.
-Astros are on the verge of trading RHP Wilton Lopez to the Astros, but the deal may have hit a snag late in the day.
For the latest, be sure to follow me on Twitter @TradeDeadliner.
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Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Mets Update: Wright Contract Offer; Dickey Status Uncertain
There is less than a week until the 2012 Winter Meetings get underway in Nashville, Tennessee, and the hot stove is already heating up for the New York Mets.
It has been well-documented that the Mets are attempting to reach contract extensions with two of their marquee players, David Wright and R.A. Dickey. Both Wright and Dickey had club options in their contracts for the 2013 season, and the Mets have already exercised the options for both of those players.
Wright will make $16 million in 2013, while the reigning N.L. Cy Young Award winner will earn $5 million. Although securing these players for next season is not a concern, if the Mets are unable to lock them up for a longer deal, there is a chance that one, or both of them, won't be in Flushing for the duration of the 2013 season.
Today, multiple reports confirmed that general manager Sandy Alderson offered Wright a 6-year/$100 million contract extension. This comes on the heels of third baseman Evan Longoria's extension with the Tampa Bay Rays, which was for the same length and dollar value that the Mets have reportedly offered their franchise third baseman.
However, the belief is that Wright will turn down the Mets offer, and is looking for an extra year on the contract. This contract will be the last chance for Wright, who turns 30 in December, to get a long-term deal in his career.
Dickey's situation is more complex than Wright's is. The right-hander is coming off of the best year of his career, but at age 38, doubts remain about whether he can replicate the success of 2012.
The Mets are looking to cut payroll, and if they feel that they either can't afford to sign Dickey beyond 2013, or that he won't be able to register the same stats that he has over the last few seasons, they could easily look to trade him while his value is still high.
- Michael Rappaport
It has been well-documented that the Mets are attempting to reach contract extensions with two of their marquee players, David Wright and R.A. Dickey. Both Wright and Dickey had club options in their contracts for the 2013 season, and the Mets have already exercised the options for both of those players.
Wright will make $16 million in 2013, while the reigning N.L. Cy Young Award winner will earn $5 million. Although securing these players for next season is not a concern, if the Mets are unable to lock them up for a longer deal, there is a chance that one, or both of them, won't be in Flushing for the duration of the 2013 season.
Today, multiple reports confirmed that general manager Sandy Alderson offered Wright a 6-year/$100 million contract extension. This comes on the heels of third baseman Evan Longoria's extension with the Tampa Bay Rays, which was for the same length and dollar value that the Mets have reportedly offered their franchise third baseman.
However, the belief is that Wright will turn down the Mets offer, and is looking for an extra year on the contract. This contract will be the last chance for Wright, who turns 30 in December, to get a long-term deal in his career.
Dickey's situation is more complex than Wright's is. The right-hander is coming off of the best year of his career, but at age 38, doubts remain about whether he can replicate the success of 2012.
The Mets are looking to cut payroll, and if they feel that they either can't afford to sign Dickey beyond 2013, or that he won't be able to register the same stats that he has over the last few seasons, they could easily look to trade him while his value is still high.
- Michael Rappaport
Sunday, November 25, 2012
What To Watch For: Week of 11/26-12/1
Over the past week, a few notable free agents have been signed, and some trades have been made.
Free agent signings:
-Cubs re-signed Shawn Camp to a 1-year, $1.35 million deal.
-White Sox re-signed Dewayne Wise to a 1 year, $700,000 deal.
-Red Sox signed OF Jonny Gomes to a 2-year, $10 million deal.
-Royals re-signed RHP Jeremy Guthrie to a 3-year, $25 million deal.
-Yankees re-signed RHP Hiroki Kuroda to a 1-year, $15 million deal.
Trades:
-Mariners traded OF Trayvon Robinson to the Orioles for IF Robert Andino.
-Rockies traded LHP Matt Reynolds to the Diamondbacks for IF Ryan Wheeler.
-Cubs traded RHP Jake Brigham to the Rangers for RHP Barret Loux.
With the Winter Meetings right around the corner, teams are preparing to make their boldest moves of the offseason in the upcoming weeks. Although the Meetings in Nashville don't start until December 3rd, the Hot Stove will be simmering all week leading up to them. Here are some things to watch out for:
-This week, free agent BJ Upton will likely make a decision on where he will be playing in 2013 and beyond, according to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times. The Philles and Braves are the favorites to sign the talented outfielder, and are engaged in a bidding war after meeting with him last week. The Reds and Nationals also have interest in Upton, but the general consensus is that he will end up in either Philadelphia or Atlanta.
-Mike Napoli, also a free agent, may also sign soon after meeting in Boston this weekend with Red Sox management. He is also drawing heavy interest from the Mariners and Rangers, reports Jon Heyman of CBS Sports, and according to Jim Bowden of ESPN.com, the Mariners may be willing to offer a fourth year that the Red Sox will not.
-Shortstop Stephen Drew, arguably the best middle infielder on the market, is drawing interest from the Red Sox, Tigers, and Yankees, according to Heyman. One potential scenario is that he will sign with the Tigers, and then Detroit will trade Jhonny Peralta to either the Diamondbacks or the Red Sox.
-The Padres are looking at starting pitching options, and according to Bill Center of the San Diego Union-Tribune, have Dan Haren as their top target, followed by Shaun Marcum. Daisuke Matsuzaka has also expressed an interest in pitching for the team, and there is likely mutual interest there.
-Zack Greinke, the top pitcher available, is drawing interest from the Rangers, Angels, and Dodgers, and will likely end up with one of those teams.
-Josh Hamilton's market is still unclear, so don't expect him to sign anywhere soon. He will likely be a late offseason signing, and the Orioles, Red Sox, Mariners, Brewers, Rangers, and Braves have all shown some level of interest in him.
For the latest updates, stay here at MLBReaction or follow me on Twitter @TradeDeadliner.
Free agent signings:
-Cubs re-signed Shawn Camp to a 1-year, $1.35 million deal.
-White Sox re-signed Dewayne Wise to a 1 year, $700,000 deal.
-Red Sox signed OF Jonny Gomes to a 2-year, $10 million deal.
-Royals re-signed RHP Jeremy Guthrie to a 3-year, $25 million deal.
-Yankees re-signed RHP Hiroki Kuroda to a 1-year, $15 million deal.
Trades:
-Mariners traded OF Trayvon Robinson to the Orioles for IF Robert Andino.
-Rockies traded LHP Matt Reynolds to the Diamondbacks for IF Ryan Wheeler.
-Cubs traded RHP Jake Brigham to the Rangers for RHP Barret Loux.
With the Winter Meetings right around the corner, teams are preparing to make their boldest moves of the offseason in the upcoming weeks. Although the Meetings in Nashville don't start until December 3rd, the Hot Stove will be simmering all week leading up to them. Here are some things to watch out for:
-This week, free agent BJ Upton will likely make a decision on where he will be playing in 2013 and beyond, according to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times. The Philles and Braves are the favorites to sign the talented outfielder, and are engaged in a bidding war after meeting with him last week. The Reds and Nationals also have interest in Upton, but the general consensus is that he will end up in either Philadelphia or Atlanta.
-Mike Napoli, also a free agent, may also sign soon after meeting in Boston this weekend with Red Sox management. He is also drawing heavy interest from the Mariners and Rangers, reports Jon Heyman of CBS Sports, and according to Jim Bowden of ESPN.com, the Mariners may be willing to offer a fourth year that the Red Sox will not.
-Shortstop Stephen Drew, arguably the best middle infielder on the market, is drawing interest from the Red Sox, Tigers, and Yankees, according to Heyman. One potential scenario is that he will sign with the Tigers, and then Detroit will trade Jhonny Peralta to either the Diamondbacks or the Red Sox.
-The Padres are looking at starting pitching options, and according to Bill Center of the San Diego Union-Tribune, have Dan Haren as their top target, followed by Shaun Marcum. Daisuke Matsuzaka has also expressed an interest in pitching for the team, and there is likely mutual interest there.
-Zack Greinke, the top pitcher available, is drawing interest from the Rangers, Angels, and Dodgers, and will likely end up with one of those teams.
-Josh Hamilton's market is still unclear, so don't expect him to sign anywhere soon. He will likely be a late offseason signing, and the Orioles, Red Sox, Mariners, Brewers, Rangers, and Braves have all shown some level of interest in him.
For the latest updates, stay here at MLBReaction or follow me on Twitter @TradeDeadliner.
Friday, November 16, 2012
Hot Stove Roundup - November 16, 2012
After a quiet start to the offseason that brought only a couple of low-impact signings, the past few days have been extremely busy in player movement, and the course of the offseason has begun to take shape. Here's a recap:
-The Blue Jays-Marlins megadeal that was written about here (http://mlbreaction.blogspot.com/2012/11/marlins-blue-jays-complete-12-player.html) is not yet official. Because it takes a lot of time to get all twelve players through physicals in addition to league approval, the trade will likely be announced Saturday.
-The Cubs signed RHP Scott Baker to a 1-year, $5.5 million deal. Chicago was reaching out to all low-cost free agent pitching options, but settled on the former Twin to fill their rotation spot.
-Reliever Jeremy Affeldt re-signed with the Giants on a 3-year, $18 million deal, as was expected.
-Cubs signed C Dioner Navarro to a 1-year, $1.75 million deal.
-After losing their backup catcher David Ross to the Red Sox, the Braves signed Gerald Laird to a 2-year deal to fill the void.
-Athletics traded RHP Tyson Ross and IF A.J. Kirby-Jones to the Padres in exchange for IF Andy Parrino and LHP Andrew Werner.
-LHP Brian Fuentes retired after spending 2012 with the Athletics and Cardinals.
There were two major free agent signings over the last few days:
-Tigers signed Torii Hunter to a 2-year, $26 million deal. After receiving interest from many teams including the Red Sox, Rangers, Yankees, Phillies, Dodgers, and Braves, the Tigers emerged as a favorite early in the week and the sides were able to work out a deal. Hunter joins an already impressive lineup in Detroit and wil try to win his first World Series ring with the 2012 American League Champions.
-Blue Jays signed Melky Cabrera to a 2-year, $16 million deal. Cabrera, who was a leading candidate for National League MVP before his positive drug test and subsequent suspension, was an interesting free agent case, and received interest from a handful of teams. The Blue Jays, who have had a very busy week, took the risk of signing the tainted outfielder, and now have a very solid lineup in place for 2013 with the additions of Cabrera and Jose Reyes this week.
Some news has broke on some unsigned free agents as well:
-BJ Upton is now a hot name on the free agent market, and it looks like he will wind up in the NL East. According to Mark Bowman of MLB.com and Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports, Upton met with both the Braves and Phillies at their parks this week, and the Nationals are also interested to a lesser extent. Offers were likely made, and Upton's days in Tampa Bay are almost definitely over.
-Add the Angels to the Hiroki Kuroda sweepstakes, says Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com. As Alden Gonzalez reports, the Angels are prioritizing Zack Greinke and will look to Kuroda as a back-up plan. The Dodgers, Yankees, and Red Sox have all expressed interest in Kuroda to this point in the offseason.
-After reports out of Miami pointed to Ricky Nolasco as the next Marlin to be moved in the firesale, officials from the team say that a trade involving the right is unlikely. Logan Morrison is being shopped, however, and the Red Sox are a possible fit.
-There is mutual interest between Lance Berkman and the Astros for a reunion, says Mark Berman of FOX 26 Sports Houston. The sides are expected to meet later in the week to discuss.
With two big free agents off the board and one epic trade completed, the offseason is hurdling towards its climax at the winter meetings in early December. If moves are made in the coming week, they will likely be made before Wednesday, as it is unusual to see player movement over Thanksgiving weekend. If anything does break, stay here at MLBReaction or follow me on Twitter @TradeDeadliner.
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-The Blue Jays-Marlins megadeal that was written about here (http://mlbreaction.blogspot.com/2012/11/marlins-blue-jays-complete-12-player.html) is not yet official. Because it takes a lot of time to get all twelve players through physicals in addition to league approval, the trade will likely be announced Saturday.
-The Cubs signed RHP Scott Baker to a 1-year, $5.5 million deal. Chicago was reaching out to all low-cost free agent pitching options, but settled on the former Twin to fill their rotation spot.
-Reliever Jeremy Affeldt re-signed with the Giants on a 3-year, $18 million deal, as was expected.
-Cubs signed C Dioner Navarro to a 1-year, $1.75 million deal.
-After losing their backup catcher David Ross to the Red Sox, the Braves signed Gerald Laird to a 2-year deal to fill the void.
-Athletics traded RHP Tyson Ross and IF A.J. Kirby-Jones to the Padres in exchange for IF Andy Parrino and LHP Andrew Werner.
-LHP Brian Fuentes retired after spending 2012 with the Athletics and Cardinals.
There were two major free agent signings over the last few days:
-Tigers signed Torii Hunter to a 2-year, $26 million deal. After receiving interest from many teams including the Red Sox, Rangers, Yankees, Phillies, Dodgers, and Braves, the Tigers emerged as a favorite early in the week and the sides were able to work out a deal. Hunter joins an already impressive lineup in Detroit and wil try to win his first World Series ring with the 2012 American League Champions.
-Blue Jays signed Melky Cabrera to a 2-year, $16 million deal. Cabrera, who was a leading candidate for National League MVP before his positive drug test and subsequent suspension, was an interesting free agent case, and received interest from a handful of teams. The Blue Jays, who have had a very busy week, took the risk of signing the tainted outfielder, and now have a very solid lineup in place for 2013 with the additions of Cabrera and Jose Reyes this week.
Some news has broke on some unsigned free agents as well:
-BJ Upton is now a hot name on the free agent market, and it looks like he will wind up in the NL East. According to Mark Bowman of MLB.com and Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports, Upton met with both the Braves and Phillies at their parks this week, and the Nationals are also interested to a lesser extent. Offers were likely made, and Upton's days in Tampa Bay are almost definitely over.
-Add the Angels to the Hiroki Kuroda sweepstakes, says Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com. As Alden Gonzalez reports, the Angels are prioritizing Zack Greinke and will look to Kuroda as a back-up plan. The Dodgers, Yankees, and Red Sox have all expressed interest in Kuroda to this point in the offseason.
-After reports out of Miami pointed to Ricky Nolasco as the next Marlin to be moved in the firesale, officials from the team say that a trade involving the right is unlikely. Logan Morrison is being shopped, however, and the Red Sox are a possible fit.
-There is mutual interest between Lance Berkman and the Astros for a reunion, says Mark Berman of FOX 26 Sports Houston. The sides are expected to meet later in the week to discuss.
With two big free agents off the board and one epic trade completed, the offseason is hurdling towards its climax at the winter meetings in early December. If moves are made in the coming week, they will likely be made before Wednesday, as it is unusual to see player movement over Thanksgiving weekend. If anything does break, stay here at MLBReaction or follow me on Twitter @TradeDeadliner.
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Thursday, November 15, 2012
R.A. Dickey finishes Outstanding Season With N.L. CY Young Award.
New York Mets Pitcher R. A. Dickey started the 2012 season as a 4 or 5 starter in the Mets starting rotation, but the Mets and R. A. Dickey himself had no idea what 2012 had in store for Dickey. Dickey would go 20-6 with a 2.73 ERA in 33 starts and 230 SO in 233.2 innings pitched. Dickey pitched back to back complete game shutouts and 32 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings in june. He also had a stretch of 44 2/3 innings without an earned run. He struck out at least 10 batters or more in seven starts this year, including a career high 13 on the day of his 20th victory Sep. 27th. Dickey led all N. L. pitchers in strikeouts, innings, and shutouts. Dickey also ranked second in wins and ERA. Dickey received 27 of a possible 32 first place votes and finished with 209 points, almost double what the runner-up, LA Dodgers Clayton Kershaw received. "This is a story that's beyond me," Dickey said. "It transcends R. A. Dickey. It's bigger than that." Jared Pate
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Marlins, Blue Jays complete 12-player blockbuster
The 2012-2013 offseason can no longer be called quiet, as the Marlins and Blue Jays shocked the baseball world by pulling off one of the biggest mega-deals in recent history on Tuesday night. In a matter of minutes, five veterans from the Marlins were headed to Toronto in exchange for seven Jays. Here's a breakdown:
Blue Jays acquire:
RHP Josh Johnson
LHP Mark Buehrle
SS Jose Reyes
OF Emilio Bonifacio
C John Buck
$4 million cash
Marlins acquire:
SS Yunel Escobar
C Jeff Mathis
2B Adeiny Hechavarria
OF Jake Marisnick
RHP Anthony DeSclafini
RHP Henderson Alvarez
LHP Justin Nicolino
At first glance, it looks like the Blue Jays were the big winners in this deal. By adding Johnson and Buehrle to a rotation that already includes Ricky Romero, Brandon Morrow, and JA Happ, the Jays have a very strong rotation that will make them contenders in the AL East for many years to come. Johnson, widely regarded as one of the National League's top pitchers over the past few years, has been a hot name in trade rumors, and received strong interest from the Rangers and Red Sox at the deadline in July 2012. Buehrle, who is known for being picky about geography, may not be happy with the deal, but will provide a strong veteran presence, joining Romero and Happ in a lefty-heavy rotation north of the border. Even though he struggled a bit in 2012, Reyes is an upgrade over Escobar at shortstop, and the Blue Jays have him under control for the next five years following the huge contract he signed with Miami last offseason. Buck, who played for the Jays in 2010, will likely be dealt elsewhere this offseason, as the Jays already have JP Arencibia behind the plate and top prospect Travis D'Arnaud ready for major league time. The versatile Bonifacio will likely be used as a utility player in Toronto, as he has the ability to play second base, shortstop, or the outfield.
The Marlins also received talent in this deal, receiving three of the Blue Jays' top eight prospects (according to Baseball America) in Marisnick (#2), Nicolino (#5), and Hechavarria (#8). Marisnick, 21, was a third round pick of the Blue Jays in 2009, and finished 2012 with AA New Hampshire. He is a five-tool player who projects as a major league centerfielder, and will likely start 2013 in AAA New Orleans for the Marlins. Nicolino, 20, had a very strong season at Single-A Lansing, and projects for major league arrival in 2014 or 2015. Hechavarria, who is Cuban, will likely start 2013 in the Majors with Miami as their second baseman. Escobar, also Cuban, is a fit in the Miami market, and Mathis will get a chance for playing time behind projected starting catcher Rob Brantly. DeSclafini, a 22-year old righty, was teammates with Nicolino in Lansing, and also had a strong year. Alvarez, 22, will likely be a member of the depleted Marlins rotation in 2013 after spending 2012 in the big leagues with the Jays.
By dealing away many key pieces in the past four months, including Hanley Ramirez, Omar Infante, Anibal Sanchez, Heath Bell, and now these three players, the Marlins have once again sold off all of their assets in an effort to build up a strong farm system for continued franchise growth. Last winter, the Marlins were a team that seemed destined for greatness, moving into a brand new ballpark and signing three key free agents: Heath Bell (3 years, $27 million), Mark Buehrle (4 years, $58 million), and Jose Reyes (6 years, $106 million). Less than a year later, following a dismal 69-93 season in 2012, all three of those players have been traded and the Marlins are in rebuild mode again. After a strong effort to rebuild their team's image and roster last offseason, the Marlins are back to square one, and the firesale is likely not over. Many believe that right-hander Ricky Nolasco will be the next to be traded, and the possibility of trading slugger Giancarlo Stanton cannot be completely ruled out. Stanton publicly voiced his frustration tonight, tweeting "Alright, I'm pissed off!!! Plain & Simple", in reaction to the deal. Due to his weakened relationship with the Marlins and the extremely high return he would get on the trade market, the Marlins are likely going to be inclined to listen to offers for the slugger.
Ken Rosenthal and Jon Morosi of FOX Sports were the first to report the deal, with Buster Olney of ESPN, Bob Elliott of the Toronto Sun, and Juan C. Rodriguez of the Miami Sun-Sentinel adding information.
For the latest on the busy offseason, stay right here or follow me on Twitter @powermonster1
-Jared Pate
Blue Jays acquire:
RHP Josh Johnson
LHP Mark Buehrle
SS Jose Reyes
OF Emilio Bonifacio
C John Buck
$4 million cash
Marlins acquire:
SS Yunel Escobar
C Jeff Mathis
2B Adeiny Hechavarria
OF Jake Marisnick
RHP Anthony DeSclafini
RHP Henderson Alvarez
LHP Justin Nicolino
At first glance, it looks like the Blue Jays were the big winners in this deal. By adding Johnson and Buehrle to a rotation that already includes Ricky Romero, Brandon Morrow, and JA Happ, the Jays have a very strong rotation that will make them contenders in the AL East for many years to come. Johnson, widely regarded as one of the National League's top pitchers over the past few years, has been a hot name in trade rumors, and received strong interest from the Rangers and Red Sox at the deadline in July 2012. Buehrle, who is known for being picky about geography, may not be happy with the deal, but will provide a strong veteran presence, joining Romero and Happ in a lefty-heavy rotation north of the border. Even though he struggled a bit in 2012, Reyes is an upgrade over Escobar at shortstop, and the Blue Jays have him under control for the next five years following the huge contract he signed with Miami last offseason. Buck, who played for the Jays in 2010, will likely be dealt elsewhere this offseason, as the Jays already have JP Arencibia behind the plate and top prospect Travis D'Arnaud ready for major league time. The versatile Bonifacio will likely be used as a utility player in Toronto, as he has the ability to play second base, shortstop, or the outfield.
The Marlins also received talent in this deal, receiving three of the Blue Jays' top eight prospects (according to Baseball America) in Marisnick (#2), Nicolino (#5), and Hechavarria (#8). Marisnick, 21, was a third round pick of the Blue Jays in 2009, and finished 2012 with AA New Hampshire. He is a five-tool player who projects as a major league centerfielder, and will likely start 2013 in AAA New Orleans for the Marlins. Nicolino, 20, had a very strong season at Single-A Lansing, and projects for major league arrival in 2014 or 2015. Hechavarria, who is Cuban, will likely start 2013 in the Majors with Miami as their second baseman. Escobar, also Cuban, is a fit in the Miami market, and Mathis will get a chance for playing time behind projected starting catcher Rob Brantly. DeSclafini, a 22-year old righty, was teammates with Nicolino in Lansing, and also had a strong year. Alvarez, 22, will likely be a member of the depleted Marlins rotation in 2013 after spending 2012 in the big leagues with the Jays.
By dealing away many key pieces in the past four months, including Hanley Ramirez, Omar Infante, Anibal Sanchez, Heath Bell, and now these three players, the Marlins have once again sold off all of their assets in an effort to build up a strong farm system for continued franchise growth. Last winter, the Marlins were a team that seemed destined for greatness, moving into a brand new ballpark and signing three key free agents: Heath Bell (3 years, $27 million), Mark Buehrle (4 years, $58 million), and Jose Reyes (6 years, $106 million). Less than a year later, following a dismal 69-93 season in 2012, all three of those players have been traded and the Marlins are in rebuild mode again. After a strong effort to rebuild their team's image and roster last offseason, the Marlins are back to square one, and the firesale is likely not over. Many believe that right-hander Ricky Nolasco will be the next to be traded, and the possibility of trading slugger Giancarlo Stanton cannot be completely ruled out. Stanton publicly voiced his frustration tonight, tweeting "Alright, I'm pissed off!!! Plain & Simple", in reaction to the deal. Due to his weakened relationship with the Marlins and the extremely high return he would get on the trade market, the Marlins are likely going to be inclined to listen to offers for the slugger.
Ken Rosenthal and Jon Morosi of FOX Sports were the first to report the deal, with Buster Olney of ESPN, Bob Elliott of the Toronto Sun, and Juan C. Rodriguez of the Miami Sun-Sentinel adding information.
For the latest on the busy offseason, stay right here or follow me on Twitter @powermonster1
-Jared Pate
Sunday, November 11, 2012
Hot Stove Update - November 11, 2012
Only two free agent signings have occurred over the first week of free agency, but countless rumors have been swirling. Here's a roundup:
-Blue Jays signed IF Maicer Izturis to a 3 year, $9 million deal with a $3 million option for 2016. Izturis, 32, played for the Angels from 2005 to 2012 and projects as a utility infielder for the Blue Jays.
-Red Sox signed C David Ross to a 2 year, $6.2 million deal, as was reported first by Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports. Because of this, many speculate that the Sox will be willing to deal Jarrod Saltalamacchia, possibly for a starter or outfielder.
-The Dodgers won negotiating rights with Korean pitcher Hyun-Jin Ryu, paying $25.7 million to negotiate with him. The sides will have 30 days to work out a deal. Ryu projects as a starter in the major leagues.
-After rumors swirled about an imminent Justin Upton trade early in the week, talk has cooled down as the GM meetings came to a close. The Yankees and Red Sox, who were early favorites, no longer are heavily involved in talks. The Diamondbacks will still likely trade the outfielder, and the Rangers, Rays, Tigers, and Braves are interested in a trade.
-The top free agent hitter on the market, Josh Hamilton, has an interesting free agent case and is being pursued by many teams. The Rangers have stated they are only willing to give him a three-year deal, which means Hamilton's time in Texas is likely over. The Mariners, Orioles, Brewers, and Yankees have all been linked to the outfielder so far this winter.
-Michael Bourn, widely regarded as the second best outfielder on the market, is drawing interest from the Nationals, Phillies, Red Sox, Reds, and Braves.
-Shane Victorino is drawing interest from the Indians, Reds, Red Soxx, and Rangers.
-Ryan Dempster, who may be available for a cheap price, is being pursued by the Twins, Brewers, and Red Sox.
-The Twins are keeping busy with free agent pitchers, and are interested in Dempster, Anibal Sanchez, Brandon McCarthy, Joe Blanton, and Brett Myers.
-Anibal Sanchez, one of the top pitchers on the market, has set his asking price at 6 years, $90 million, and is being pursued by the Dodgers, Tigers, Twins, and Red Sox.
-Nick Swisher, whose asking price is currently very high, is being courted by the Rangers, Mariners, Orioles, Phillies, Giants, and Braves.
This week should be a busy one in baseball, as teams begin to jockey for position in the hot stove race. Stay here or follow me on Twitter @TradeDeadliner for the latest updates.
-Blue Jays signed IF Maicer Izturis to a 3 year, $9 million deal with a $3 million option for 2016. Izturis, 32, played for the Angels from 2005 to 2012 and projects as a utility infielder for the Blue Jays.
-Red Sox signed C David Ross to a 2 year, $6.2 million deal, as was reported first by Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports. Because of this, many speculate that the Sox will be willing to deal Jarrod Saltalamacchia, possibly for a starter or outfielder.
-The Dodgers won negotiating rights with Korean pitcher Hyun-Jin Ryu, paying $25.7 million to negotiate with him. The sides will have 30 days to work out a deal. Ryu projects as a starter in the major leagues.
-After rumors swirled about an imminent Justin Upton trade early in the week, talk has cooled down as the GM meetings came to a close. The Yankees and Red Sox, who were early favorites, no longer are heavily involved in talks. The Diamondbacks will still likely trade the outfielder, and the Rangers, Rays, Tigers, and Braves are interested in a trade.
-The top free agent hitter on the market, Josh Hamilton, has an interesting free agent case and is being pursued by many teams. The Rangers have stated they are only willing to give him a three-year deal, which means Hamilton's time in Texas is likely over. The Mariners, Orioles, Brewers, and Yankees have all been linked to the outfielder so far this winter.
-Michael Bourn, widely regarded as the second best outfielder on the market, is drawing interest from the Nationals, Phillies, Red Sox, Reds, and Braves.
-Shane Victorino is drawing interest from the Indians, Reds, Red Soxx, and Rangers.
-Ryan Dempster, who may be available for a cheap price, is being pursued by the Twins, Brewers, and Red Sox.
-The Twins are keeping busy with free agent pitchers, and are interested in Dempster, Anibal Sanchez, Brandon McCarthy, Joe Blanton, and Brett Myers.
-Anibal Sanchez, one of the top pitchers on the market, has set his asking price at 6 years, $90 million, and is being pursued by the Dodgers, Tigers, Twins, and Red Sox.
-Nick Swisher, whose asking price is currently very high, is being courted by the Rangers, Mariners, Orioles, Phillies, Giants, and Braves.
This week should be a busy one in baseball, as teams begin to jockey for position in the hot stove race. Stay here or follow me on Twitter @TradeDeadliner for the latest updates.
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
Hot Stove Roundup - Wednesday November 7, 2012
Although Wednesday was not filled with many transactions, with the GM Meetings in California in full swing, the offseason chatter finally picked up on a day filled with numerous rumors about almost every team in the league. Here's a recap:
On the transactions side:
-Mets decided to part ways with Jason Bay, terminating his contract and letting him become a free agent. By agreeing to pay the remaining $21 million on his deal, the move is basically a release, and possible fits for the new free agent include the Indians, Mariners, and, less likely, the Red Sox.
-Padres traded OF Blake Tekotte to the White Sox for RHP Brandon Kleoss.
-Red Sox signed OF Mitch Maier to a minor league deal.
-Diamondbacks signed P Garrett Mock to a minor league deal, as reported by FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal.
-Pirates signed OF Jared Goedert to a minor league deal, also reported by Rosenthal.
And now to the rumors:
-The Diamondbacks are engaged in "active discussions" regarding outfielder Justin Upton, and he will likely be traded in the coming days. Arizona is asking for a third baseman or a shortstop in talks, says Bob Nightengale of USA Today, and the Red Sox are out. The Rangers have emerged as a favorite in talks, and could offer Elvis Andrus or Jurickson Profar for Upton. Other involved teams could include the Indians, Pirates, Tigers, Phillies, and Yankees.
-Torii Hunter is drawing a lot of free agent interest, and the teams involved include the Red Sox, Yankees, Phillies, Rangers, and Angels. He is not expected back in Anaheim, and the Red Sox and Yankees are considered the favorites.
-Josh Hamilton, the most coveted free agent of the offseason, is drawing interest from the Mariners and Orioles, says Danny Knobler of CBS Sports. The Brewers, to a lesser extent, are interested, and the Rangers seem to be losing ground.
-In addition to Hamilton, the Orioles are also looking at Cody Ross as a potential free agent pickup, according to Jon Paul Morosi or FOX Sports, and the Braves and Red Sox are among the other possibilities for Ross.
-Zack Greinke set his asking price today, and it's 6 years, $150 million, says John Perrotto of Baseball Prospectus. The Angels, Dodgers, Rangers, and Brewers are among the possibilities with the Braves not involved.
-The Cubs, looking for starting pitching help, are interested in free agents Shaun Marcum and Brandon McCarthy, and trade candidate Jeremy Hellickson of the Rays.
-Adam Laroche is drawing interest, says Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports. Along with the Nationals, both the Rangers and Red Sox are interested in the first baseman. He is expected to decline the Nationals' qualifying offer.
-Braves are not going to go after Josh Hamilton or Zack Greinke, but will likely pursue Michael Bourn, Cody Ross, or BJ Upton.
-Indians are looking to make deals this offseason and may part with Shin-Soo Choo, Justin Masterson, Asdrubal Cabrera, or Chris Perez. Out of that group, Knobler predicts that Choo and Cabrera are the most likely to be traded.
CC
On the transactions side:
-Mets decided to part ways with Jason Bay, terminating his contract and letting him become a free agent. By agreeing to pay the remaining $21 million on his deal, the move is basically a release, and possible fits for the new free agent include the Indians, Mariners, and, less likely, the Red Sox.
-Padres traded OF Blake Tekotte to the White Sox for RHP Brandon Kleoss.
-Red Sox signed OF Mitch Maier to a minor league deal.
-Diamondbacks signed P Garrett Mock to a minor league deal, as reported by FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal.
-Pirates signed OF Jared Goedert to a minor league deal, also reported by Rosenthal.
And now to the rumors:
-The Diamondbacks are engaged in "active discussions" regarding outfielder Justin Upton, and he will likely be traded in the coming days. Arizona is asking for a third baseman or a shortstop in talks, says Bob Nightengale of USA Today, and the Red Sox are out. The Rangers have emerged as a favorite in talks, and could offer Elvis Andrus or Jurickson Profar for Upton. Other involved teams could include the Indians, Pirates, Tigers, Phillies, and Yankees.
-Torii Hunter is drawing a lot of free agent interest, and the teams involved include the Red Sox, Yankees, Phillies, Rangers, and Angels. He is not expected back in Anaheim, and the Red Sox and Yankees are considered the favorites.
-Josh Hamilton, the most coveted free agent of the offseason, is drawing interest from the Mariners and Orioles, says Danny Knobler of CBS Sports. The Brewers, to a lesser extent, are interested, and the Rangers seem to be losing ground.
-In addition to Hamilton, the Orioles are also looking at Cody Ross as a potential free agent pickup, according to Jon Paul Morosi or FOX Sports, and the Braves and Red Sox are among the other possibilities for Ross.
-Zack Greinke set his asking price today, and it's 6 years, $150 million, says John Perrotto of Baseball Prospectus. The Angels, Dodgers, Rangers, and Brewers are among the possibilities with the Braves not involved.
-The Cubs, looking for starting pitching help, are interested in free agents Shaun Marcum and Brandon McCarthy, and trade candidate Jeremy Hellickson of the Rays.
-Adam Laroche is drawing interest, says Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports. Along with the Nationals, both the Rangers and Red Sox are interested in the first baseman. He is expected to decline the Nationals' qualifying offer.
-Braves are not going to go after Josh Hamilton or Zack Greinke, but will likely pursue Michael Bourn, Cody Ross, or BJ Upton.
-Indians are looking to make deals this offseason and may part with Shin-Soo Choo, Justin Masterson, Asdrubal Cabrera, or Chris Perez. Out of that group, Knobler predicts that Choo and Cabrera are the most likely to be traded.
CC
Monday, November 5, 2012
Hot Stove Roundup - Monday November 5, 2012
Monday was the calm before the storm that is this week's GM meetings in Palm Springs, and was a relatively slow day in the baseball world.
-Rays re-signed Joel Peralta to a 2-year, $6 million deal with $2.5 million option for 2015.
-Although they are trying to move James Shields and the Dodgers are very interested in him, the Rays have been getting the most calls on RHP Jeremy Hellickson in trade talks.
-Twins re-signed pitchers Samuel Deduno and Esmerling Vasquez to minor league deals.
-Brewers signed RHP Jairo Asencio to a minor league deal.
-Yankees claimed C Eli Whiteside off waivers from the Giants.
-Yankees have been identified as a possible suitor for pitcher Joakim Soria, who has already gotten interest from 8 teams, including the Royals.
Hot Stove talk should pick up as the GM meetings get started in Palm Springs tomorrow.
Chris Cotillo
-Rays re-signed Joel Peralta to a 2-year, $6 million deal with $2.5 million option for 2015.
-Although they are trying to move James Shields and the Dodgers are very interested in him, the Rays have been getting the most calls on RHP Jeremy Hellickson in trade talks.
-Twins re-signed pitchers Samuel Deduno and Esmerling Vasquez to minor league deals.
-Brewers signed RHP Jairo Asencio to a minor league deal.
-Yankees claimed C Eli Whiteside off waivers from the Giants.
-Yankees have been identified as a possible suitor for pitcher Joakim Soria, who has already gotten interest from 8 teams, including the Royals.
Hot Stove talk should pick up as the GM meetings get started in Palm Springs tomorrow.
Chris Cotillo
Saturday, November 3, 2012
Angels Decline 2013 Option On Haren After Crazy Friday
After what started as him being the newest member of the Chicago Cubs, ended with veteran pitcher Dan Haren becoming a free agent. Friday started with the LA Angels trying to decide what to do with veteran pitcher Dan Haren. They had until midnight to either trade him or to decline his 15.5 mil option for 2013 and buy him out for 3.5 mil. And then at 5:15 p.m. p.t.reports surfaced that Haren had been traded to the Chicago Cubs for hard-throwing righty Carlos Marmol. Marmol announced to a Dominican Republic newspaper that he had waived his no- trade clause to go to the Angels. But three hours later at about 8p.m. p.t. Angels GM announced that the deal was off, and that the Angels had decided to decline Haren's 15.5 mil option for 2013 and buy him out for 3.5 mil. While Haren's 12-13 record wasnt bad, Haren battled through a lingering back pain that saw him post a career high 4.33 ERA and a career low in innings pitched at 176.2. Jared Pate
Sunday, October 28, 2012
And That's a World Series Sweep
It took 10 innings, but the San Francisco Giants completed the sweep of the Detroit Tigers with a 4-3 victory. NLCS MVP Marco Scutaro drove in the go-ahead run in the top of the 10th, while Sergio Romo struck out the Tigers in order in the bottom of the inning to close it out.
The Giants took a 1-0 lead in the top of the second inning after Hunter Pence hit a ground-rule double and scored on a Brandon Belt triple. In the bottom of the third, the Tigers finally scored - and took a lead for the first time in the Series - when Miguel Cabrera hit a two-run homer that energized the Comerica Park crowd.
Yet the excitement was relatively short-lived. Buster Posey's two-run homer in the top of the sixth gave the Giants a temporary lead, until ALCS MVP Delmon Young hit a solo shot in the bottom of the inning to tie it 3-3.
Both Matt Cain and Max Schezer allowed three runs each, with Cain striking out five and Scherzer eight. The Giants relievers didn't allow a hit, while the Tigers shut down the Giants until the 10th.
That's when designated hitter Ryan Theriot - now a back-to-back World Series Champion - led off with a single to center. He advanced to second on a sacrifice bunt by Brandon Crawford, then scored on Scutaro's single.
Pablo Sandoval was named World Series MVP after going 8 for 16 with three homers in Game One. He's only the fourth player in MLB history to hit three homers in a World Series game, joining Babe Ruth, Reggie Jackson and Albert Pujols.
This is the Giants' seventh championship in franchise history, and second since moving to San Francisco. Their first, of course, was in 2010. It also marks the third straight year the National League has won the World Series, and fourth year of the past five.
Christine Coleman
The Giants took a 1-0 lead in the top of the second inning after Hunter Pence hit a ground-rule double and scored on a Brandon Belt triple. In the bottom of the third, the Tigers finally scored - and took a lead for the first time in the Series - when Miguel Cabrera hit a two-run homer that energized the Comerica Park crowd.
Yet the excitement was relatively short-lived. Buster Posey's two-run homer in the top of the sixth gave the Giants a temporary lead, until ALCS MVP Delmon Young hit a solo shot in the bottom of the inning to tie it 3-3.
Both Matt Cain and Max Schezer allowed three runs each, with Cain striking out five and Scherzer eight. The Giants relievers didn't allow a hit, while the Tigers shut down the Giants until the 10th.
That's when designated hitter Ryan Theriot - now a back-to-back World Series Champion - led off with a single to center. He advanced to second on a sacrifice bunt by Brandon Crawford, then scored on Scutaro's single.
Pablo Sandoval was named World Series MVP after going 8 for 16 with three homers in Game One. He's only the fourth player in MLB history to hit three homers in a World Series game, joining Babe Ruth, Reggie Jackson and Albert Pujols.
This is the Giants' seventh championship in franchise history, and second since moving to San Francisco. Their first, of course, was in 2010. It also marks the third straight year the National League has won the World Series, and fourth year of the past five.
Christine Coleman
World Series Game Four Preview
Is tonight the final game of the 2012 Major League Baseball season?
With the San Francisco Giants holding a 3-0 lead in the World Series after Saturday night's 2-0 win over the Detroit Tigers, they certainly hope so. They no doubt would love nothing more than to win their seventh straight game tonight and capture their second championship in three years.
The Tigers, obviously, are hoping otherwise. They'd like to find a little of the momentum they had in sweeping the Yankees during the ALCS.
Taking the mound for the Giants tonight it Matt Cain, who will be attempting to win his third clinching game this October. He gave up three earned runs in 5 2/3 innings to the Cincinnati Reds on Oct. 11, as the comeback Giants won the Division Series. His most recent start was last Monday against the Cardinals in Game Seven of the NLCS, which the Giants won 9-0. He allowed five hits and struck out four in 5 2/3 innings.
Max Scherzer gets the start for Detroit, and he's been very good this postseason as well. He allowed an unearned run on three hits in 5 1/3 innings in a Tigers loss to the A's in the Division Series and was the winning pitcher in the Tiger's ALCS sweep. He gave up one run on two hits in 5 2/3 innings in that game, striking out 10.
But what the Tigers need most of all is hitting. They became the first team since the 1966 Los Angeles Dodgers to be shut out in back-to-back World Series games, who were shut out by the Baltimore Orioles. Then again, the Giants have now recorded shutouts in four of their last six games.
So will the Giants finish the sweep tonight? Or will the Tigers find a way to get some offense going and force a Game Five on Monday night?
We'll find out starting at 8 p.m. Eastern Time tonight on FOX.
With the San Francisco Giants holding a 3-0 lead in the World Series after Saturday night's 2-0 win over the Detroit Tigers, they certainly hope so. They no doubt would love nothing more than to win their seventh straight game tonight and capture their second championship in three years.
The Tigers, obviously, are hoping otherwise. They'd like to find a little of the momentum they had in sweeping the Yankees during the ALCS.
Taking the mound for the Giants tonight it Matt Cain, who will be attempting to win his third clinching game this October. He gave up three earned runs in 5 2/3 innings to the Cincinnati Reds on Oct. 11, as the comeback Giants won the Division Series. His most recent start was last Monday against the Cardinals in Game Seven of the NLCS, which the Giants won 9-0. He allowed five hits and struck out four in 5 2/3 innings.
Max Scherzer gets the start for Detroit, and he's been very good this postseason as well. He allowed an unearned run on three hits in 5 1/3 innings in a Tigers loss to the A's in the Division Series and was the winning pitcher in the Tiger's ALCS sweep. He gave up one run on two hits in 5 2/3 innings in that game, striking out 10.
But what the Tigers need most of all is hitting. They became the first team since the 1966 Los Angeles Dodgers to be shut out in back-to-back World Series games, who were shut out by the Baltimore Orioles. Then again, the Giants have now recorded shutouts in four of their last six games.
So will the Giants finish the sweep tonight? Or will the Tigers find a way to get some offense going and force a Game Five on Monday night?
We'll find out starting at 8 p.m. Eastern Time tonight on FOX.
Thursday, October 25, 2012
It Was The Bumgarner Redemption In Game Two
What a difference a night makes.
After coming out and scoring eight runs against Justin Verlander, Al Alburquerque and Jose Valverde, the San Francisco Giants were held to two runs tonight.
Luckily for them, Madison Bumgarner pitched a resplendent seven innings of two-hit ball. He walked two and struck out eight.
Not to be outdone, Doug Fister also pitched a great game. He lasted six innings, gave up only one run on four hits and struck out three. Fister was lucky to last that long. He was struck in the head with a comebacker off the bat of Gregor Blanco in the bottom of the second inning. After getting checked out by his coaches and trainer, Fister walked Brandon Crawford to load the bases but was able to get his pitching counterpart, Bumgarner to pop out to end the inning the threat.
What happened next was remarkable, Fister set down the next 12 batters before giving up a two-out single in the sixth inning. Bumgarner was also on his game. From ESPN Stats & Info: He had 10 PA where he had 2 strikes on hitter - none were put in play (2 walks, 8 K)
The Giants scored their first run in the bottom of the seventh on a bases loaded double play - Brandon Crawford hit into force out and Hunter Pence scored. They scored their second run in the eighth thanks to a Pence sac fly which scored Angel Pagan.
That was all the Giants needed. Santiago Casilla pitched a scoreless, hitless eighth and Sergio Romo came in and pitched a scoreless ninth to seal the win.
So now the Giants head to Detroit in control of the series but as we've seen so far in the postseason and in this series, you should always expect the unexpected.
After coming out and scoring eight runs against Justin Verlander, Al Alburquerque and Jose Valverde, the San Francisco Giants were held to two runs tonight.
Luckily for them, Madison Bumgarner pitched a resplendent seven innings of two-hit ball. He walked two and struck out eight.
Not to be outdone, Doug Fister also pitched a great game. He lasted six innings, gave up only one run on four hits and struck out three. Fister was lucky to last that long. He was struck in the head with a comebacker off the bat of Gregor Blanco in the bottom of the second inning. After getting checked out by his coaches and trainer, Fister walked Brandon Crawford to load the bases but was able to get his pitching counterpart, Bumgarner to pop out to end the inning the threat.
What happened next was remarkable, Fister set down the next 12 batters before giving up a two-out single in the sixth inning. Bumgarner was also on his game. From ESPN Stats & Info: He had 10 PA where he had 2 strikes on hitter - none were put in play (2 walks, 8 K)
The Giants scored their first run in the bottom of the seventh on a bases loaded double play - Brandon Crawford hit into force out and Hunter Pence scored. They scored their second run in the eighth thanks to a Pence sac fly which scored Angel Pagan.
That was all the Giants needed. Santiago Casilla pitched a scoreless, hitless eighth and Sergio Romo came in and pitched a scoreless ninth to seal the win.
So now the Giants head to Detroit in control of the series but as we've seen so far in the postseason and in this series, you should always expect the unexpected.
World Series Game Two Preview
After last night's Game 1 victory over Justin Verlander and the Detroit Tigers, the San Francisco Giants are trying to accomplish something they haven't been able to do at all so far in the playoffs, to be the team with the early series lead.
San Francisco found themselves down 0-2 in the Division Series heading to Cincinnati for three games. And in the League Championship Series they were down 3-1 to the Cardinals and were able to pull off a nearly impossible series win in seven games.
Tonight's big stories will be Madison Bumgarner and the Tigers team as a whole.
Bumgarner has not had a good postseason. He's pitched in two games and has lost them both. Both games were at home and both outings were short. He lasted only 4 1/3 innings in a 9-0 loss against Cincinnati in NLDS Game 2 and in the NLCS he was even worse, giving up six runs in 3 2/3 innings - including two home runs - in Game 1 against the Cardinals.
For the Tigers, many people were wondering if the long layoff between their sweep in the ALCS and Game 1 had anything to do with their subpar performance last night. Or maybe the fact they were an 88-win team in a division that had three 90+ loss teams was finally catching up to them.
Doug Fister is looking to continue his strong postseason pitching tonight. He's only given up two runs in 13 1/3 innings of work.
So which story will win out in the end? The Bumgarner Redemption or the Tiger Resurgence?
We'll find out at later tonight.
San Francisco found themselves down 0-2 in the Division Series heading to Cincinnati for three games. And in the League Championship Series they were down 3-1 to the Cardinals and were able to pull off a nearly impossible series win in seven games.
Tonight's big stories will be Madison Bumgarner and the Tigers team as a whole.
Bumgarner has not had a good postseason. He's pitched in two games and has lost them both. Both games were at home and both outings were short. He lasted only 4 1/3 innings in a 9-0 loss against Cincinnati in NLDS Game 2 and in the NLCS he was even worse, giving up six runs in 3 2/3 innings - including two home runs - in Game 1 against the Cardinals.
For the Tigers, many people were wondering if the long layoff between their sweep in the ALCS and Game 1 had anything to do with their subpar performance last night. Or maybe the fact they were an 88-win team in a division that had three 90+ loss teams was finally catching up to them.
Doug Fister is looking to continue his strong postseason pitching tonight. He's only given up two runs in 13 1/3 innings of work.
So which story will win out in the end? The Bumgarner Redemption or the Tiger Resurgence?
We'll find out at later tonight.
Kung Fu Panda Makes History In Giants Game 1 Win.
It was quite a setting wednesday evening in San Fransisco as the underdog Giants got set to take on the well-rested and highly favored Detroit Tigers. There wasn't any way the Tigers weren't going to be favored because they had the reigning A.L. MVP and Cy Young winner Justin Verlander on the mound. On the other side the Giants had a man on the mound who many people thought was a has-been, Barry Zito. Zito had just started building his reputation back after his best season with the Giants in which he won 15 games. And then after the Giants fell behind the defending world champs St. Louis Cardinals 3-1 in the NLCS Zito was called upon to pitch Game 5. Zito pitched 61/3 strong innings that night and the Giants went on to win Game 5 5-0. Zito continued his success with 5 1/3 innings of one run ball, but the highlight of the night was Pablo Sandoval. Sandoval hit three home runs in his first three at-bats, joining Babe Ruth, Reggie Jackson, and Albert Pujols as the only players ever to hit three homers in one world series game. The Giants, on the strength of Pablo "Kung Fu Panda" Sandoval's three homers took an 8-1 lead in the ninth inning. George Kontos took the mound to try and get the three outs to get the Giants a Game 1 victory. But after giving up a one-out single Kontos served up a three-run homerun to Detroit infielder Johnny Peralta. But the Giants bullpen held on and the Giants defeated the Tigers 8-3 to take a 1-0 lead on the series. Tonight's game two feaatures righty Doug Fister going for the Tigers and slumping lefty Madison Bumgarner for the Giants. Pregame coverage begins at 6:30 p.m. ET. The play by play begins at 7:00 p.m. ET
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
The Ozzie Guillen Era Ended Before It Started.
Everything was bright and sunny in Miami Florida in the spring of 2012. The Miami Marlins had a new stadium, new star players, and a brand new fanbase. Superstars like Jose Reyes and Heath Bell joined the Marlins in hope of a championship. But the biggest addition of the offseason for the Marlins was the hiring of former world champion manager Ozzie Guillen and signing him to a four year 10 million dollar deal to become the Marlins new skipper. But after just a week into the regular season Guillen was quoted as saying he loved former Cuban dictator Fidel Castro during an interview with Time magazine. Guillen apologized numerous times but that comment ended up being the least of his worries. The Marlins began losing game after game. The Marlins went on a stretch where they lost 27 of 30 games played. Guillen and slumping closer Heath Bell had numerous arguments in the month of July. And then in August Ozzie Guillen was quoted as saying that Marlins outfielder Giancarlo Stanton was the only reason the Marlins fans even came to the ballpark to watch the Marlins. So finally after a 69-93 finish and last place in the NL East division the Marlins finally let Guillen go yesterday.Marlins president of baseball operations Larry Beinfest says that he believes that the Marlins are a very talented team, but they just need to start over with somebody else. The search for a new manager will begin immediately. Candidates such as Brad Ausmus and Mike Redmond are being considered .
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Tigers Await World Series Opponent
After completing a four-game sweep against the lifeless New York Yankees, the Detroit Tigers are waiting to see who they will be facing in the World Series next week.
The St. Louis Cardinals took a commanding 3-1 lead in their best of seven series against the San Francisco Giants with an 8-3 win at home.
If the Cardinals win and advance to the World Series, it will be a rematch of the 2006 World Series when then 83-78 St. Louis beat the 95-67 Detroit Tigers.
This year's match up, if it happens, will pair two teams that won under 90 games in the regular season. In fact, Detroit had the 7th best record in the American League and St. Louis had the 5th best record in the National League.
Game Five will see Barry Zito attempting to extend the Giants' season against Lance Lynn who is looking to send the defending Champion Cardinals to their fourth World Series in nine years.
The St. Louis Cardinals took a commanding 3-1 lead in their best of seven series against the San Francisco Giants with an 8-3 win at home.
If the Cardinals win and advance to the World Series, it will be a rematch of the 2006 World Series when then 83-78 St. Louis beat the 95-67 Detroit Tigers.
This year's match up, if it happens, will pair two teams that won under 90 games in the regular season. In fact, Detroit had the 7th best record in the American League and St. Louis had the 5th best record in the National League.
Game Five will see Barry Zito attempting to extend the Giants' season against Lance Lynn who is looking to send the defending Champion Cardinals to their fourth World Series in nine years.
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Ludwick to turn down 5 mil mutual option, still hopes to return to reds.
Cincinnati Reds outfielder Ryan Ludwick announced today that he will decline his 5 million dollar mutual option for the 2013 season. After a rough 2011 campaign that saw Ludwick play part of the season in San Diego and part of the season in Pittsburgh, Ludwick signed a one year deal worth 2.5mil to play for the Reds. Ludwick had a breakout 2012 season in which he batted .275 with 26 home runs and 80 RBI. He also posted an .877 ops. Ludwick said today that he will keep his options open but he hopes to work out a new deal with the reds.
Saturday, October 13, 2012
Matheny to get an extension?
According to multiple reports, The St. Louis cardinals and manager Mike Matheny are working on a five year extension. Matheny lead the Cardinals in his rookie season as manager to an 88-74 regular season record and the second wild card spot. The Cardinals are still playing and are set to begin the NLCS tomorrow against the San Fransisco Giants.
Matheny is only signed through next season.
Matheny is only signed through next season.
Thursday, October 11, 2012
first post
Prediction for today's NL division series games: The Giants and Cardinals.
More to come on this blog! Stay tuned!
More to come on this blog! Stay tuned!
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