2016 MLB thread. THE CUBS HAVE BROKEN THE CURSE! Chicago Cubs are your 2016 World Series champions

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We all already knew that though, right? 
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Originally Posted by Kevin Cleveland

We all already knew that though, right? 
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I do, but can't say I feel very 
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 about it.
[table][tr][td] East[/td][td]W[/td][td]L[/td][td]Pct[/td][td]GB[/td][td]Home[/td][td]Road[/td][td]RS[/td][td]RA[/td][td]Diff[/td][td]Streak[/td][td]L10[/td][/tr][tr][td] New York Yankees[/td][td]40[/td][td]25[/td][td].615[/td][td]--[/td][td]19-12[/td][td]21-13[/td][td]309[/td][td]253[/td][td]+56[/td][td]Won 9[/td][td]9-1[/td][/tr][tr][td] Baltimore Orioles[/td][td]39[/td][td]27[/td][td].591[/td][td]1.5[/td][td]19-14[/td][td]20-13[/td][td]299[/td][td]284[/td][td]+15[/td][td]Won 2[/td][td]7-3[/td][/tr][tr][td] Tampa Bay Rays[/td][td]37[/td][td]29[/td][td].561[/td][td]3.5[/td][td]21-15[/td][td]16-14[/td][td]286[/td][td]266[/td][td]+20[/td][td]Won 1[/td][td]6-4[/td][/tr][tr][td] Toronto Blue Jays[/td][td]34[/td][td]32[/td][td].515[/td][td]6.5[/td][td]19-15[/td][td]15-17[/td][td]315[/td][td]283[/td][td]+32[/td][td]Won 3[/td][td]4-6[/td][/tr][tr][td] Boston Red Sox[/td][td]33[/td][td]33[/td][td].500[/td][td]7.5[/td][td]14-19[/td][td]19-14[/td][td]330[/td][td]303[/td][td]+27[/td][td]Won 2[/td][td]5-5[/td][/tr][tr][/tr][/table]

This is the primary reason behind that dominance. As an O's fan 
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Re-alignment, anyone? 
 
I know they have him for a few years but I didn't think Latos would look THIS bad outside of Petco. He's been terrible, especially for the kids they traded for him.
 
Originally Posted by Proshares

I know they have him for a few years but I didn't think Latos would look THIS bad outside of Petco. He's been terrible, especially for the kids they traded for him.
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I'll say what I said back in December. That package should have been offered to the A's for Gio. 
Tonight his wife blamed his performance on the Indians tipping pitches. 
 
Ehhhhhhhh, put Gio in a hitters park and he might be worse than he is now. Don't get me wrong, the K's are up and the BB's are down which are huge for him. I never thought he'd have the control he does so far this year. But he's still in a pretty decent sized pitcher's park and you'd like to see the control stay steady before you give him the vote of confidence.

I think both were steals by the A's/Padres.
 
What's next for R.A. Dickey?

Spoiler [+]
When you think of dominating hurlers, classic power pitchers like Justin Verlander or Stephen Strasburg may be the first names you think of. Or perhaps it's Cliff Lee's patently unfair changeup or Mo Rivera's eternally unhittable cutter that pop into your mind. All good answers, but at this very moment, no pitcher in baseball is destroying batting averages or slugging percentages to the extent of a 37-year-old journeyman with 52 career major league wins, one Robert Alan Dickey.

Baseball has always had its share of crazy out-of-nowhere stories, but Dickey's story is definitely one of the good ones. Drafted in the first round by the Texas Rangers in 1996, team doctors found a rather usual injury. It's not uncommon for a team to find a previous unknown injury in a pitcher's elbow or shoulder, but what made Dickey's case surprising was that he was completely missing a ligament in his elbow. The Rangers reduced their signing bonus offer by 90 percent, and Dickey signed with the team.

Through the end of the 2009 season, Dickey's career line stood at 22-28 with a 5.43 ERA and 5.5 strikeouts per nine innings, not exactly numbers that make you want to sign a mid-30s pitcher. Dickey initially learned to throw a knuckler after the 2005 season but still hadn't had much success with the pitch until he joined the New York Mets. Since signing with the Mets in December 2009, Dickey's won 30 games with an ace-worthy ERA of 2.86.

As of this morning, Dickey's is 11-1 with a 2.00 ERA this season, good enough to possibly be the favorite for the NL Cy Young if the season ended today. His 11th win came in stylish fashion, throwing his second consecutive one-hitter and striking out 13 against the Balitmore Orioles. Just how dominating has Dickey been this year? Let us count the ways.

• The last time Dickey allowed an earned run was May 22 against the Pittsburgh Pirates, or 43 innings ago. That's already the longest streak in Mets history by more than 10 innings, the previous best being Jerry Koosman's 31 2/3 innings in 1973.

• Going back to 1918, Dickey's only the 10th pitcher to throw a one-hitter (or better) in two consecutive games.

• Dickey now has five straight starts of zero earned runs allowed and eight or more strikeouts, the longest streak in MLB history according to the Elias Sports Bureau.

• Dickey is the only the eighth starter (again going back to 1918) to not allow a single earned run in five consecutive games of seven innings or more.

• Dickey's 2.86 ERA at age 35 ranks 10th in baseball history among pitchers at least his age, and it's the best since *@*@@+ Ford in the mid-60s. During the divisional era, Bob Gibson's 3.22 comes the closest.

• According to sabermetrician/chemist Chris Dial, the highest seasonal strikeout rate for a knuckleball pitcher in at least 100 innings is Tim Wakefield's 7.9 K/9 for the 2001 Red Sox. Dickey is at 9.4.

The knuckleball pitcher has been a historical oddity in baseball, a type of player that doesn't seem to conform to the general rules of the sport. Baseball's equivalent of black magic -- knuckleballers would've fared poorly during the Inquisition -- the mystery of the knuckleball has been difficult to unravel. So, just how does Dickey compare to baseball's other sorcerers?

Unfortunately, only two other knuckleballers have pitched any significant amount of time in the majors recently: Wakefield and Steve Sparks. Compared to those two knucklers, Dickey actually throws his around 10 mph faster, almost at the level of a Jamie Moyer "fastball." Not surprisingly, Dickey's contact stats are better than any season he's had so far, in particular his rate of swinging strikes -- his 12.7 percent this season is a large step up from his 8.4 percent and 7.8 percent in 2010 and 2011, respectively.

From a general standpoint, the ZiPS projection system projects Dickey to finish the season at 18-6, 2.80 ERA in 209 innings. During his three year period with the Mets, that would total 592 innings of 2.98 ERA baseball, good enough for a 126 ERA+. That compares very favorably to Wakefield's best, a 126 ERA+ from 2001 to 2003, but 60 fewer innings.

Charlie Hough's best three-year run was a 120 ERA+ (in more innings). Dickey can't match Hoyt Wilhelm's best (482 IP of a 149 ERA+) or the durability of Wilbur Wood in the early 1970s (averaging more than 300 innnings a year), but his run can be compared to the best knucklers ever without any embarrassment.

Coming into this season, ZiPS saw Dickey as only a solid No. 3 starter, projected at an 11-8 record and 3.77 ERA in 179 innings. Suffice it to say, he's obliterating that projection, with his current 2.00 ERA bettering his 99th-percentile projection of 2.12. Even assuming regression as ZiPS does to get him down to a 2.80 ERA at the end of the season, that still would represent his 88th-percentile projection before the season.

Not surprisingly, his drastic improvement in performance, backed up by an equivalent jump in his peripheral numbers, has changed his career trajectory going forward. ZiPS previously expected Dickey to pitch 1,000 more innings with a 4.04 ERA, essentially league-average for a starter. In less than half a season, Dickey's changed that expectation by nearly half a run, with his current rest-of-career projection at 3.58 and 60 wins left in his arm.

Even at an advanced age, Dickey's legitimately boosted his outlook from that of an above-average inning-eater. And as knuckleballers seem to last until they start collecting Social Security, he can play a bigger part in the future of the Mets.

Bob Uecker once said that "the way to catch a knuckleball is to wait until it stops rolling and then pick it up." Uecker never caught Dickey. If you're not watching Dickey right now, you're missing out on one of the most dominating pitching performances you're ever likely to witness.

Clemens and the flunked Mitchell report.

Spoiler [+]
The prosecutors representing the government in the case against Roger Clemens called dozens of witnesses, including experts in everything from beer cans to the handling of DNA. The attorneys argued so meticulously, in such excruciatingly thorough detail, that some jurors were excused during the nine-week trial because they fell asleep.

But in the end, in the face of that mountain of preparation and presentation, jurors decided overwhelmingly and quickly -- so quickly that Clemens had to scramble to be in the court to hear the verdict -- that the pitcher was not guilty beyond a reasonable doubt on each of six counts of perjury.

And yet five years ago, those who generated the Mitchell report -- most notably, George Mitchell, the former senator -- determined that it was appropriate to publish a public indictment of Clemens based on the word of one person, trainer Brian McNamee.

The 12 jurors voted that Clemens was not guilty. But they also, by extension, effectively repudiated the standard of proof used in the Mitchell report -- a woefully incomplete history that was a bad idea at its inception and became, in the end, an unconscionable exercise that generated a handful of scapegoats to distract the mob from the failings of more powerful men.

Nobody should be naive about what took place during the steroid era. It may well be that all 86 players linked to the use of performance-enhancing drugs in the Mitchell report did, in fact, take steroids or human growth hormone or some other form of performance-enhancing drug.

Clemens was found to be not guilty, which is not the same as being found innocent. He was cleared of perjury charges, which doesn't mean he told the truth. The inclusion of his name in the Mitchell report was incredibly unfair, but after his name was published, he made some awful choices. In trying to save a pitching legacy that was already lost the instant the Mitchell report was released, he exposed those around him to unnecessary embarrassment and scrutiny.

Andy Pettitte, who was like a little brother to Clemens, chose a different path, acknowledging his use of performance-enhancing drugs and then moving on, and the split in their stories effectively led to the end of their friendship.

But none of the players should've been forced to defend themselves, ever. Bud Selig, the commissioner of baseball, should've done that for them -- and instead, he chose to expose the sport, unnecessarily, to an investigation that never had a chance for success.

The entire institution of baseball -- the union leaders, the owners, Selig, clean and dirty players, those who covered the sport in the media -- failed to respond quickly as the use of performance-enhancing drugs grew exponentially during a period of about 20 to 25 years. Selig had been called to Congress repeatedly to explain baseball's handling of the steroid mess, and as a result, Major League Baseball and the players' association greatly strengthened their drug-testing system.

The commissioner should've been satisfied with that. He should have been willing to simply say that terrible mistakes were made, including some of his own, and because of those mistakes, the sport had been deeply infected and affected by drug use.

But Selig went a different way. Maybe he felt he had absorbed an unfair share of criticism; in the '90s, after all, the greatest portion of the sport's practical power actually resided in the hands of union leaders Don Fehr and Gene Orza. Maybe Selig was as concerned with shaping and preserving his legacy as Clemens would become with his own.

Whatever the root cause, Selig chose to devote millions of dollars to hire Mitchell -- and more importantly, Mitchell's good name -- to start an investigation that was doomed from the start. There was no chance that the union was ever going to allow its members to participate and expose themselves to what was essentially a private investigation, and therefore, there was no chance -- ever -- that the full context of what happened and when it happened would ever be learned. Mitchell and his lawyers never held subpoena power.

There was no chance, of course, that Fehr and Orza would participate and talk about their evolution of thought and action. Based on the information in the final report, there is little indication that Mitchell and his investigators delved into the conversations about steroids among the owners and Major League Baseball's power brokers. After all, there were reports of steroid use in baseball as far back as 1988, a decade before the Mark McGwire-Sammy Sosa summer of '98.

But Selig hired Mitchell, against the advice of others around him, and as the former senator waded into a murky history, he must've learned what everybody in sport understood -- that by the first years of the 21st century, there had probably been hundreds of ballplayers who had used performance-enhancing drugs in the major leagues and minor leagues.

Nevertheless, what Mitchell produced in his report, most notably, were the names of 86 suspected users, with a high percentage through the reprinting of media reports.

A small handful of names were generated through Mitchell's investigation. Clemens was among those, after McNamee was compelled to speak to the Mitchell lawyers by federal investigators. Clemens was given an opportunity to respond to allegations, generally, although he was never formally presented with the precise details of exactly what McNamee had said before Mitchell's report went to print.

Clemens did not respond, and we'll never know what he and others would have done if they had known that Mitchell's standard of proof was like something pulled out of the Joe McCarthy playbook: If somebody accuses you, that's good enough for us.

What was sacrificed in the Mitchell report, of course, was the all-important context. If Clemens and the other 85 players used performance-enhancing drugs, then they were among many at a time when the sport effectively condoned use through inaction. But Clemens was used as the crown jewel in the Mitchell report; he became Public Scapegoat No. 1.

Now, years later, a jury determined that McNamee's word -- even when braced and bolstered by experts and exhibits -- wasn't good enough.

Monday's verdict was really only about jail time for Clemens. He won't have to go to prison, but he'll never recover his legacy.

For Selig, the verdict was only about legacy. In what has generally been a strong career in baseball, this is the end of a chapter that should embarrass him.

Clemens is free to go, the judge told him. Here's how some voters will view the verdict, writes Lynn Zinser.

It's the fans who lose, writes Mike Lupica. The steroid era has struck out, writes Steve Popper.

The verdict doesn't change suspicions, writes Mike Wise.

The Houston Astros are open to Clemens' joining their organization now, says owner Jim Crane.
[h3]Dickey's amazing run[/h3]
R.A. Dickey's baseball career was almost over a few years ago, and now he's the NL front-runner for All-Star Game starter and the Cy Young Award .

From ESPN Stats & Information: With a one-hitter Monday night on the heels of a one-hitter last Wednesday, R.A. Dickey became the first pitcher with consecutive one-hitters since Dave Stieb in 1988. Stieb did so by having back-to-back no-hit bids broken up with two outs in the ninth inning.

From Elias: Dickey is the first pitcher in modern baseball history (since 1900) with back-to-back complete game one-hitters with 10-plus strikeouts.

One-hitter or no-hitter in consecutive appearances (since 1900, from Elias):

2012: Dickey, New York Mets
1988: Dave Stieb, Toronto Blue Jays
1966: Sam McDowell, Cleveland Indians
1944: Jim Tobin, Boston Braves
1943: Mort Cooper, St. Louis Cardinals
1938: Johnny Vander Meer, Cincinnati Reds
1934: Lon Warneke, Chicago Cubs
1925: Dazzy Vance, Brooklyn Robins
1923: Howard Ehmke, Boston Red Sox
1911: Rube Marquard, New York Giants
Note: *@*@@+ Ford had one-hitters in consecutive starts in 1955 but had a relief appearance in between.

Eleven or more wins, an ERA less than 2.50 and a strikeout per inning through the first 14 starts of a season in MLB history (from Elias):

2012: R.A. Dickey<<, Mets
2006: Francisco Liriano, Minnesota Twins
2000: Randy Johnson, Arizona Diamondbacks
1999: Pedro Martinez, Red Sox
1966: Sandy Koufax, Los Angeles Dodgers
>>11-1, 2.00 ERA and 103 K in 99 IP this season

From Elias: Dickey now has seven straight starts with eight or more strikeouts and two or fewer walks, matching the longest single-season streak since 1900. Others:

2001: Randy Johnson -- 7
1997: Curt Schilling -- 7
1965: Sandy Koufax -- 7

Dickey now has five straight starts of zero earned runs and eight-plus strikeouts, the longest streak in MLB history. The previous mark was four -- Gaylord Perry (1967), Ray Culp (1968) and Pedro Martinez (2002).

From Elias: Dickey's current streak of innings without an earned run of 42 2/3 is the second longest in Mets history. The franchise record for consecutive innings without allowing an earned run is 49 by Dwight Gooden in 1985 (Aug. 31 to Oct. 2).

From ESPN Stats & Info: How Mets starter R.A. Dickey dominated the Orioles

A. Dickey threw 35 knuckleballs at 80 mph or higher, the third straight start in which he's thrown at least 30 knuckleballs at that speed. Before those three starts, his previous high in a start was 17 such pitches.
B. He's thrown 106 knuckleballs at 80 mph or higher in his last three starts; he threw 100 in his first 11 starts. He threw 32 two-strike knucklers, 26 of which were 80 mph or harder. Eleven of his strikeouts came with the knuckleball, including nine at 80 mph or harder. Dickey got four called strikeouts, two more than his previous season high.
C. Eleven of the 15 balls in play against Dickey were grounders (73 percent), his second-highest percentage this season.
D. Orioles hitters were 0-for-7 with seven strikeouts in at-bats ending with a ball up in the zone from Dickey. Six of those strikeouts were against knuckleballs.
[h3]Top things to know[/h3]
From ESPN Stats & Info

1. Aaron Hill hit for the cycle against the Seattle Mariners. He is the second to hit for the cycle this season (Scott Hairston on April 23). Hill is the fifth to hit for the cycle in Diamondbacks history.
2. The New York Yankees won their 10th straight game, the longest winning streak this season.
3. Matt Cain was less than perfect Monday against the Angels after throwing a perfect game in his last start. On Monday he allowed six hits, four walks and three earned runs in five innings. His bullpen, though, was perfect. Shane Loux, Sergio Romo, Jeremy Affeldt and Santiago Casilla combined to throw a perfect four innings, allowing Cain to pick up his eighth straight win.

Yankees hitting on all cylinders.

Spoiler [+]
After getting off to a good start this season, the New York Yankees slumped in the first three weeks of May. But they have come back with a vengeance in June. Fueled largely by their pitching, the Bronx Bombers have won nine in a row and 19 of their past 23. As a result, they move up to second overall in this week's ESPN Power Rankings, their highest spot since they started the season in the top spot.

The Yankees have put the clamps on opposing hitters all month. During the month of June, they have allowed a major league-low 36 runs. And in a twist, one-third of those runs this month have been allowed by the team's best pitcher, CC Sabathia. The other four starters -- Hiroki Kuroda, Phil Hughes, Andy Pettitte and Ivan Nova -- have allowed just 15 runs in 84 1/3 innings. The starting staff has really taken shape since Andy Pettitte returned. The seemingly ageless lefty, who came out of retirement to make his season debut on May 13, has given the Yankees at least six innings in all seven of his outings, five of which were quality starts. He is generating a better swinging strike percentage (11.2) than he has in any season since FanGraphs began tracking the stat in 2002.

Pettitte's return allowed the Yanks to move promising rookie David Phelps back into a relief role, which he adapted to well before being sent down on Thursday to make room for David Robertson. More importantly, it helped eliminate the temptation to move Freddy Garcia back into the starting rotation. Garcia allowed 20 runs in his first four starts, covering 13 2/3 innings, and while he probably is better than that -- and has pitched better than that in relief since -- with the American League East being so competitive, New York didn't want to find out how long it would take him to improve.

That is only part of the equation, though. Another large part of the rotation's step forward has been Hughes' return to form. After allowing four runs or more in four of his first five starts, Hughes has allowed three runs or fewer in seven of his last eight outings. This season has the potential to be Hughes' best as a major leaguer. He is striking batters out at a better rate than at any point since 2009, and he has posted a 2.43 BB/9 that is easily the best of his career. He still needs to work on getting more grounders, as his fly ball and home run rates are both career highs, but at the moment everything else is working for the 26-year-old righty. His fastball velocity is better than what it was last year, and his swinging strike percentage is up, as well.

Pair Hughes and Pettitte in the middle of the rotation with Nova at the back end, and Kuroda and Sabathia up front, and you have quite the rotation. Nova has had some bad home run luck, but his K/BB this season is nearly double what his career mark was entering 2012. Kuroda was derided a bit in the early part of the season, but he has proved just as consistent as any other New York pitcher. Kuroda has allowed three runs or fewer in 10 of his 13 starts this year, and two of the three others were two of his first three starts. And despite being the least successful New York starter thus far in June, Sabathia remains the straw the stirs the drink, as his 3.41 FIP and 2.1 WAR are both rotation bests. And as of Sunday, only nine pitchers in the game had been more valuable than the big man.

It's not just the rotation that has fueled this recent surge, either. Everyone on the Yankees is chipping in. In fact, entering Sunday's play, New York was the only team in the majors that didn't have a player with a negative WAR this season. The Yankees also entered Sunday as the only team whose top eight players in terms of plate appearances all had a wRC+ of 100 or better. With just one fewer plate appearance than Eric Chavez, Andruw Jones is close to making that everyone in the top nine, and if Brett Gardner can pick up where he left off when he returns, it could end up being 10 for 10 by the end of the season. Heck, Chavez hasn't even been that bad, and his 91 wRC+ puts him within hailing distance of the average 100 mark, as well. The team has even survived the loss of Mariano Rivera with aplomb. Rafael Soriano and Boone Logan have been piling up the bagels -- Logan has 12 straight scoreless appearances, and Soriano hasn't allowed a run in 13 of his last 14 outings -- and with Robertson back, the trio forms an imposing force at the end of games.

Entering the season, it was expected that the Yankees would pile up the runs, and as one of seven teams to have already crossed the 300 runs threshold, they have done just that. The only real question was whether their rotation could keep enough runs off the board. And after just 14 quality starts in their first 50 games, that remained an open question as the calendar flipped to June. But with 14 quality starts in their last 15 games, the doubts are beginning to fade. The rotation may be playing its best baseball of the season during this recent run, but the pieces are there for it -- and the team as a whole -- to remain dominant for the rest of the season.

Rumors.

Spoiler [+]
http://[h3]The Mets at the deadline[/h3]
10:15AM ET

[h5]New York Mets [/h5]


[h5]Potential Targets in Queens[/h5]
Written off as a last-place team in spring training, the Mets have their kept their heads above water and Terry Collins deserves early consideration for NL Manager of the Year. Mets fans who have known nothing but bad news in recent years are enjoying the ride, even if they are unsure how long it will last. After all, R.A. Dickey can't start every game.

Deadline Strategy
The Mets have avoided a widely-predicted season of doom and gloom, but that doesn't automatically make them deadline buyers. GM Sandy Alderson said recently the Mets haven't drawn up plans for buying, selling or staying put because "circumstances can change so dramatically." It seems reasonable to take him at his word.

Alderson could still decide to be a buyer, although it seems he will wait until near the deadline to see where his team stands. The Mets may still be more interested in acquiring the likes of pitcher Zack Wheeler (obtained for Carlos Beltran last July), rather than trading them away.

Money
The Wilpons are still climbing out of the financial hole suffered as a result of their involvement in the Madoff Ponzi scheme. The Opening Day payroll was slashed over $50 million after the club lost between $60-70 million in 2011. There are indications, however, that money could be available for the right deal after the club found the cash to give Jonathon Niese a $25.5 million extension in April.

Bait
If the Mets end up as sellers, they could drive a hard bargain with Scott Hairston, who would fit in nicely on a host of teams as a backup outfielder and pinch-hitter. As of Monday, Hairston tied for the major league lead with seven homers off lefthanders.
Given Alderson's history of building from within, top pitching prospects Wheeler and Matt Harvey are untouchable. If the Mets seek a top-of-the-shelf reliever, teams could ask for outfielder Matt Den Dekker, who was hitting .340 at Triple-A Binghamton before being promoted.
Targets
The Mets' bullpen ERA has been the worst in the majors. Relievers like Minnesota's Matt Capps, Oakland's Grant Balfour and Houston's Brett Myers could be available. If the Mets think they can contend, they could look for a moderately priced outfielder, especially since the return of unproductive left fielder Jason Bay is uncertain due to a concussion.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
New York Mets, Grant Balfour, Matt Capps, Brett Myers, Scott Hairston, Jonathon Niese, Jason Bay

http://[h3]Next wave of call-ups[/h3]
10:00AM ET

[h5]Next wave of call-ups [/h5]

[img]http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/leagues/lrg/trans/mlb.gif[/img]
Jason A. Churchill

The latest crop of minor leaguers to hit the big leagues include right-hander Garrett Richards, shortstop Andrelton Simmons and righty Jacob Turner, who will make his first big-league start of the season Thursday versus the St. Louis Cardinals.

Who's next?

Danny Hultzen, LHP -- Seattle Mariners
Hultzen, unlike most nearing a call-up to the majors, is still in Double-A where he is set to start the Southern League All-Star Game Tuesday. He's likely to be shipped to Triple-A soon after and barring any major potholes in the Pacific Coast League, should hit the big leagues in July.

Hultzen isn't considered a big strikeout pitcher, despite 79 whiffs in 75 1/3 innings this season, but he's sure stingy with the base hit, yielding just 38 of them in 13 starts. There's No. 2 upside in his left arm, led by a low-90s fastball and plus changeup, suggesting there is also some fantasy value there for the final two or three months of the season.

The Mariners likely make room for Hultzen next month by shipping Erasmo Ramirez back to the minors, or sending him to the bullpen and letting go of left-hander Oliver Perez. Kevin Millwood or Jason Vargas could be traded to a contender, another way to make room for last June's No. 2 overall pick.

Trevor Bauer, RHP -- Arizona Diamondbacks
Bauer, unlike Hultzen, is a strikeout pitcher, tallying 44 of them in 37 innings at Triple-A Reno, and he'll take the mound Tuesday in what is almost certainly one of his final half-dozen outings before the Diamondbacks bring him up to the big leagues.

He's 4-0 for Reno and is showing stretches of better control and fastball command since the promotion, and it's a feat in itself to hold a 2.68 ERA considering his home park is a hitter's paradise.

Joe Saunders doesn't figure to hold off Bauer much longer, despite being solid in his last two starts and owning a 3.44 ERA for the year. The left-hander could be trade bait this summer, however, which could push back Bauer's ETA until a deal is consummated.

Jeff Clement, 1B -- Pittsburgh Pirates
Clement has hit a snag the past 10 games, batting under .200 during that span, but has had a strong season, batting .286/.367/.518 with 28 extra-base hits and could provide the Pirates with a boost at first base where Matt Hague is struggling and Garrett Jones has needed a recent hot stretch to get to .253/.273/.461 for the year.

The Pirates could try to trade for a veteran first baseman, but might decide to give Clement a shot before they do so, and if that is the plan, the wheels may start turning very soon. Clement has struggled in his stints in The Show in the past, so his leash wouldn't likely be very long.

Ryan Lavarnway, C/DH -- Boston Red Sox
With both Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Kelly Shoppach hitting the ball well in Boston, Lavarnway's best shot at the big leagues before September is a trade. Two types of deals make sense. One is where the right-handed hitter is sent away as the Red Sox try to acquire pitching help. Or the Sox ship out Shoppach to a contender looking for catching help, opening the door for Lavarnway.

The slugger is hitting .360 with a .720 slugging percentage in June for Triple-A Pawtucket, and has shown he can make consistent contact, with just 40 strikeouts in more than 230 plate appearances. The 24-year-old may have more value to the team in a trade scenario, especially since Shoppach is the better defender of the three backstops and is batting .273/.364/.519 in his own right.

Jeff Locke, LHP -- Pittsburgh Pirates
Locke has done his job in Triple-A Indianapolis this season and appears ready to replace Brad Lincoln in the starting rotation. The left-hander is 5-3 with a 3.27 ERA overall, but has been lights out in his last 10 starts, posting an ERA just over two. He's throwing tons of strikes, as evidenced by his 64-16 K/BB ratio and despite his problems versus right-handed batters, is certain to be an upgrade over Lincoln if given the chance.

The right-handed Lincoln, a former top-5 draft pick, has surrendered 13 earned runs in his past 11 2/3 innings of work, covering three starts. He's served up four long balls in that span and may be out of chances to start in the Steel City.

Others: John Ely, RHP -- Los Angeles Dodgers; Adeiny Hechavarria, SS -- Toronto Blue Jays; Matt Harvey, RHP -- New York Mets; Travis d'Arnaud, C -- Toronto Blue Jays

Tags:
Toronto Blue Jays, New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, Boston Red Sox, Pittsburgh Pirates, Arizona Diamondbacks, Seattle Mariners, Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Kelly Shoppach, Jeff Clement, Ryan Lavarnway, John Ely, Jeff Locke, Brad Lincoln, Matt Hague, Garrett Jones, Joe Saunders

http://[h3]The White Sox at the deadline [/h3]
9:54AM ET

[h5]Chicago White Sox [/h5]


[h5]Potential Players to target for CWS[/h5]
This was supposed to be the start of a rebuilding campaign on the South Side. Emphasis on "supposed to be." When the games started, Adam Dunn, Alex Rios and Jake Peavy returned to form alongside MVP candidate Paul Konerko and young breakout players Chris Sale, Dayan Viciedo and Addison Reed. Now more than one-third of the way through the year, the Chicago White Sox own the top spot in the AL Central and have the postseason well within their sights. Certainly, the division is still up for grabs, as both the Cleveland Indians and Detroit Tigers -- everyone's preseason favorite in the Central -- are closer than shouting distance, but it would seem that GM Kenny Williams will once again be in position to do what he loves to do: wheel and deal.

Deadline Strategy
Williams has a reputation for going all-in when his team is competing for a playoff berth, which could make the White Sox an intriguing deadline mover-and-shaker. However, the dearth of prospects in a system that has been gutted by some of Williams' previous deals will make it tougher to match up with non-contending clubs looking to acquire young, cost-controlled players on the verge of the big leagues.

Money
Owner Jerry Reinsdorf doesn't easily open his wallet for big payroll additions during the season -- especially after the team claimed Rios' $60 million off waivers three years ago -- but with the AL Central so wide open, we wouldn't put it past Williams to persuade his boss to give him some leeway to make a move or two.

Bait
As mentioned above, the White Sox lack top talent in the minors, which will be Williams' biggest challenge come July. Simon Castro and Nestor Molina, the two young pitchers acquired in separate winter deals for Carlos Quentin and Sergio Santos, have both struggled to advance above Double-A so far, and Molina has clearly taken a step back this year after a breakout 2011. Perhaps powerful yet raw outfielder Trayce Thompson or Jared Mitchell, an outfielder at Double-A who's overcome injury issues and contact questions since being drafted in the first round in 2009, could entice a seller.

Targets
The rotation is one area that remains vulnerable, as the White Sox now have to worry about losing John Danks for the season and could sorely use a durable, productive, innings-eating starter (ideally a lefty), which makes the decision to let longtime starter Mark Buehrle walk in the offseason even more painful right about now. So expect Williams to hone in on Rodriguez, as well as Greinke, Dempster or Marcum, while also keeping an eye on Vargas, Blanton and Colon.

The other gaping hole? Third base, where the likes of Brent Morel, Orlando Hudson and Eduardo Escobar have combined to post a heinously atrocious sub-.500 OPS, easily baseball's worst at the hot corner. While Youkilis would be a nice fit, his salary (prorated $12 million plus $1 buyout for 2013) probably won't be; so a younger, cheaper option like Headley, who is under team control through next season, could work, if the White Sox can come up with a prospect or two to the Padres' liking. Other than that, there's a chance Williams bolsters his outfield or middle infield depth with an affordable option like Scutaro or DeJesus.

Almost everyone incorrectly counted out the White Sox heading into the season, so it would be wise not to do so again, when the club has a chance to improve a rotation that is dominant at times and a lineup that is already potent.

- Jason Catania

Tags:
Chicago White Sox, Kevin Youkilis, Chase Headley, Zack Greinke, Ryan Dempster, Shaun Marcum, Wandy Rodriguez

http://[h3]Could the Padres keep Quentin?[/h3]
9:49AM ET

[h5]Carlos Quentin | Padres [/h5]


The trade rumors regarding Carlos Quentin heated up immediately after the Padres outfielder came off the disabled list a few weeks ago, and a .400 average and six home runs in 17 games has only enhanced his value.

While Quentin is a free agent at season's end, a trade before the July deadline may not be a foregone conclusion. Ken Rosenthal says the Padres could take their chances and keep Quentin, knowing they have a reasonable chance of re-signing him.

Closer Huston Street, shortstop Jason Bartlett and second baseman Orlando Hudson (now with the White Sox) will be off the books in 2013, representing a combined savings of $18.5 million. Quentin could be retained while keeping the payroll in the $55 million range.

ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney recently suggested a handful of potential landing spots, including the Cincinnati Reds, Tampa Bay Rays, Los Angeles Dodgers and Atlanta Braves. The Reds, Olney adds, haven't been able to solve left field and the Rays and Indians needs pop -- the Indians need more balance in the form of a right-handed hitter.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Carlos Quentin, San Diego Padres

http://[h3]Waiting for Rizzo[/h3]
9:32AM ET

[h5]Chicago Cubs [/h5]


The Chicago Cubs prepared for the arrival of Anthony Rizzo by moving Bryan LaHair off first base and starting him in right field for the first time this season in Monday's 12-win over the White Sox.

The 24-year-old Rizzo has been tearing up Triple-A pitching, leading all minor leaguers with 23 home runs heading into play Monday. He is batting .364 with 59 RBI.

While the slick-fielding Rizzo may be ready, the Cubs have good reason to hold off the promotion until Saturday, according to Bruce Levine and Doug Padilla of ESPNChicago.com. If Rizzo is called up to the major leagues before Saturday he will qualify for free agency in 2017 instead of 2018. A recall any time after Friday gives him one more season of club control, even though Theo Epstein insists the promotion will come down to Rizzo's readiness.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Anthony Rizzo, Bryan LaHair, Chicago Cubs

http://[h3]Impact of Danks injury[/h3]
9:12AM ET

[h5]Chicago White Sox [/h5]


Earlier this week, Rumor Central's Jason A. Churchill discussed how the first-place White Sox may be targeting starting pitching as the trade deadline approaches.

That pursuit should only intensify after the White Sox learned Monday that John Danks has a tendon tear in his left shoulder and is out indefinitely. With Danks remaining the shelf, the White Sox need improved performances from the struggling Gavin Floyd and Philip Humber now more than ever.

Trade targets could include the usual suspects such as Cubs right-handers Ryan Dempster and Matt Garza, Astros lefty Wandy Rodriguez and Brewers righty Zack Greinke.

Meanwhile, GM Ken Williams once again said his ability to make trades and add salary for a continues to ?<a href=/www.suntimes.com/sports/13271971-419/sox-gm-ken-williams-reiterates-need-for-attendance-at-cell-to-improve.html?">http://www.suntimes.com/s...at-cell-to-improve.html?" target=new>depend on ticket sales, which have been lagging at U.S. Cellular Field even though the Sox are in first place.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Philip Humber, Gavin Floyd, John Danks, Chicago White Sox

http://[h3]Markakis back next week?[/h3]
8:34AM ET

[h5]Nick Markakis | Orioles [/h5]


Orioles right fielder Nick Markakis, who had surgery June 1 for a broken hamate bone in his right wrist, hopes to return to the lineup sometime next week, reports Dan Connolly of the %u201D<a href=/www.baltimoresun.com/sports/orioles/bs-sp-orioles-notes-0619-20120618,0,1593506.story%u201D">http://www.baltimoresun.c...18,0,1593506.story%u201D" target=new>Baltimore Sun.

Markakis, who will not swing a bat until he gets back to Baltimore Friday, may have a short rehab stint before returning. Manager Buck Showalter has started Chris Davis in right field the last four games after trying several other candidates .

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Chris Davis, Nick Markakis, Baltimore Orioles

http://[h3]Setback for Longoria[/h3]
8:21AM ET

[h5]Evan Longoria | Rays [/h5]


Any hopes of Evan Longoria returning to the Rays lineup appeared to end Monday when the third baseman left Monday?s game for Triple-A Durham after feeling discomfort in his partially torn left hamstring.

Longoria, on the shelf since the end of April, will join the Rays in Washington on Tuesday to continue his rehab.

The Rays have used five different starting third basemen in the absence of Longoria, including Sean Rodriguez, normally a shortstop.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Evan Longoria, Tampa Bay Rays

http://[h3]Progress for Carpenter[/h3]
8:09AM ET

[h5]St. Louis Cardinals [/h5]


The St. Louis Cardinals continue to get some encouraging news regarding Chris Carpenter, who accompanied the club to Detroit Monday afternoon after completing a side session at Busch Stadium.

Carpenter, who is recovering from shoulder surgery, could be paired against hitters as soon as this weekend in Kansas City, reports Joe Strauss of the Post-Dispatch.

General manager John Mozeliak has said previously the Cards hope to clarify Carpenter's timetable before July 1. Carpenter's health could determine whether the Cardinals actively pursue another starter as the trade deadline approaches. The Cardinals already are dealing with the recent shutdown of lefthander Jaime Garcia due to shoulder problems, so pitching could be a priority even if Carpenter returns.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Jaime Garcia, Chris Carpenter, St. Louis Cardinals

http://[h3]Dempster's DL stint[/h3]
7:39AM ET

[h5]Ryan Dempster | Cubs [/h5]


The Chicago Cubs, owners of the worst record in the majors, are clearly headed for sell-off mode this summer, and the rumors regarding right-hander Ryan Dempster have picked up steam in recent weeks.

A minor roadblock to a deal surfaced Monday when Dempster landed on the disabled list with tightness in his latissimus dorsi muscle. Dempster is expected to miss only a few starts and should be back well before the July 31 deadline, so the injury will not affect his trade value, says ?<a href=/espn.go.com/chicago/mlb/story/_/id/8068725/chicago-cubs-ryan-dempster-goes-disabled-list?">http://espn.go.com/chicag...ster-goes-disabled-list?" target=new>Doug Padilla of ESPNChicago.com.

The Los Angeles Dodgers are among the interested teams, Danny Knobler of CBSSports.com recently tweeted. And Gordon Wittenmyer of the Chicago-Sun Times reports that the New York Yankees are also in the hunt.

A Yankees executive told Joel Sherman of the New York Post that Dempster would just "muddy up the waters," however, so perhaps the Yankees stand pat or look at other options on the trade market, potentially including Dempster's teammate, Matt Garza.
The Detroit Tigers, Boston Red Sox, Texas Rangers and Cleveland Indians could be among those joining the chase.
ESPN Insider's Jim Bowden has the Cubs on his list of deadline sellers and gives a possible destination for Dempster, while ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney explains how another team could be a fit:

- Doug Mittler and Jason A. Churchill

bowden_jim_30.jpg
[h5]Jim Bowden[/h5]
Deadline Sellers
"Dempster will waive his no-trade rights and should be pitching for a contender. The Tigers could use another veteran arm."
Click to expand...

olney_buster_30.jpg
[h5]Buster Olney[/h5]
Dodgers after Dempster?
"They are prepared to make moves to add a hitter, reliever and a starting pitcher, but haven't found many sellers. They are viewed by rival executives as a natural landing spot for Ryan Dempster of the Chicago Cubs, if Chicago can identify a suitable prospect in a deal."
Click to expand...
Tags:
Cleveland Indians, Detroit Tigers, Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, Texas Rangers, Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago Cubs, Ryan Dempster

http://[h3]Youkilis talks heating up?[/h3]
7:26AM ET

[h5]Kevin Youkilis | Red Sox [/h5]


[h5]Any interest in Youkilis?[/h5]The Boston Red Sox have stepped up their efforts to trade Kevin Youkilis and are willing to include cash in any deal for the third baseman, reports Ken Rosenthal and Jon Morosi.
The FoxSports.com report says that while no deal is imminent, the Red Sox have intensified their efforts to trade Youkilis over the past 24-48 hours.

Any discussion about Youkilis, 33, starts with the fact that he's owed a prorated amount of his $12 million for the rest of 2012 with a club option at $13 million for next season ($1 million buyout). If the Red Sox are willing to eat some salary, the deal will happen sooner than later.

Rosenthal and Morosi list the Diamondbacks, White Sox, Dodgers, Indians, and Pirates among the teams interested in Youkilis. The Reds, who got Scott Rolen back from the disabled list Monday, are not on the list.

Youkilis would be far more attractive trade bait if he breaks out of a 1-for-21 slump that has dropped his average to .215.

ESPN Rumor Central's Chris Sprow recently explained why it makes sense for the Red Sox to seriously consider moving Youkilis.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Arizona Diamondbacks, Cincinnati Reds, Kevin Youkilis, Domonic Brown, Matt Garza, Detroit Tigers, Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Seattle Mariners, Oakland Athletics, Gerardo Parra, Arizona Diamondbacks

http://[h3]Vlad not close to a deal[/h3]
7:03AM ET

[h5]Vladimir Guerrero | Blue Jays [/h5]


Vladimir Guerrero appeared to be close to a return to the major leagues before the Toronto Blue Jays decided to part ways with the former AL MVP, granting him his request to be released from his minor league contract.

A week has passed, and Guerrero is not close to re-signing with another team, tweets Jon Morosi.

Where Guerrero goes from here is unclear. He had trouble finding a job all winter and the Jays seemed like a logical fit due to their limited production from their designated hitters. The DHs for the Athletics and Mariners are both hitting around the Mendoza Line, but neither team has expressed any interest.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Vladimir Guerrero, Toronto Blue Jays

http://[h3]Four unexpected buyers?[/h3]
6:51AM ET

[h5]Surprise Buyers [/h5]

[img]http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/leagues/lrg/trans/mlb.gif[/img]
The trade deadline is less than six weeks away and clubs are constantly jockeying for position on that front. Those in contention consider adding to their club, those clearly out of the race head into sell mode. There are still 17 teams within five games of their division leaders beginning play Friday, which is likely to lead to some surprise buyers this summer..

There are the obvious buyers, and ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney opined last month which of those might be the most aggressive.

I'm not sure anyone would have bet that both the Baltimore Orioles and Cleveland Indians might be in a position to improve their roster mid-season. In fact, most would have wagered that their respective GMs, Dan Duquette and Chris Antonetti, would be selling off major pieces in July, potentially including Adam Jones and Shin-Soo Choo.

The O's lead the American League East -- tied with the Rays -- and the Indians are within a game and a half in the Central, and if things don't change dramatically over the next 5-6 weeks, both clubs are likely to make deals toward a pennant run, rather than aiming at next year. Both likely will look to add pitching -- the O's could probably use a veteran starter and some relief help, while the Indians' relief corps has been among the worst in the circuit.

The Pittsburgh Pirates could be surprise buyers this summer, as they sit just four games back of the Reds. Pitching and a veteran bat might be on their wish list.

Astros lefty Wandy Rodriguez and Cubs right-handers Matt Garza and Ryan Dempster could interest any contender.

The Kansas City Royals are exactly five games back entering play Monday and have won five out of their last six. General manager Dayton Moore is likely to seek pitching if he decides to be aggressive in adding help to his 2012 roster.

The one thing that could make it difficult is money, as neither the Royals, O's, Indians nor the Pirates are likely to add significant payroll, which could eliminate both Rodriguez and Garza and limit each GM at the deadline.

- Jason A. Churchill
 
Originally Posted by Naija Nitemare

We are never catching Texas
eyes.gif
Click to expand...


laugh.gif
They've played nothing but bad teams for almost 6 weeks now...Wait until the latter part of July when the schedule gets tough. You'll have your chance.Oswalt makes his debut tomorrow. Feldman back to the pen (thank god) and Grimm stays in the rotation for now.
 
Melky Cabrera's big leap forward.

Spoiler [+]
If All-Star voting ended today, two of the three starting outfielders for the National League would be repeat representatives. The leading vote-getter, Matt Kemp, made the team last season and went on to be runner-up in the NL MVP race. Behind Kemp is Carlos Beltran, who's been to six All-Star Games.

But the player who recently displaced reigning MVP Ryan Braun to take over third place has never been an All-Star. He's never come close to winning any major awards or leading the league in any important statistical category. He's been a punch line and an afterthought, and before this season, he'd never been one of baseball's best players.

That player is Melky Cabrera, who has undoubtedly been one of baseball's best players in 2012. Even after an 0-for-4 performance against Jered Weaver on Wednesday night, Cabrera is batting .363. He leads the NL with 101 hits and, among NL players, trails only Joey Votto and David Wright in wins above replacement player (WARP).

One other stat about Cabrera stands out: Like Kemp, who was having a spectacular season of his own before hurting his hamstring, he's 27 years old. In his 1982 Baseball Abstract, Bill James observed that "both pitchers and non-pitchers attain their greatest aggregate value at the age of 27." Since then, 27 has been widely regarded as an age of special seasons. Each spring, writers release lists of players primed for age-27 "breakouts," and fantasy players pick them up, expecting to receive career years in return. If Cabrera keeps this up, he'll be a perfect example of a 27-year-old player who played at a dramatically different level than at 26.

However, it might be premature to proclaim Cabrera the poster boy for the age-27 effect. In fact, there's little evidence to suggest that breakouts happen more often at 27 than they do at other ages, and good reason to think that calling Cabrera's 2012 a breakout would be overblown.

Last year, Baseball Prospectus author Derek Carty did a study designed to detect the alleged age-27 breakout effect. Carty looked at all players since 1953 with at least one season of 400 plate appearances or 130 innings pitched, then compared each player's numbers in each such season to his numbers in the next, grouping the players by age. He defined a "breakout" as a season in which a player outperformed his previous year's production by at least 20 percent, though he later repeated the study with the minimum improvement set to 10 percent and 30 percent.

No matter where Carty set the cutoff, he couldn't find any evidence that age-27 seasons were especially likely to lead to breakouts. The results showed that the highest breakout rates were associated with earlier ages: Ages 22 through 26 all yielded higher breakout rates than age 27. Hitters were no more likely to have breakouts at 27 than they were at 36. It's reasonable to expect a player to post a peak season at 27, but as Carty pointed out, his actual improvement in that season will almost always be incremental. In most cases, players who had peak years at 27 were almost as good at 26.

By all appearances, Cabrera is an exception to the rule of incremental age-27 improvements. His first few months have been fantastic -- especially his .429/.457/.647 May -- and barring a severe slump in the next few weeks, he'll earn a starting All-Star spot. However, what appears to be a breakout now might look a lot more like an incremental improvement by the end of the year, since the development most responsible for Cabrera's success isn't likely to survive the second half.

Cabrera's walk and strikeout rates are almost identical to their 2011 levels. He's not hitting home runs more often, and the percentage of his hits that have gone for extra bases is lower now than it was last season. The improvement in his surface statistics is almost entirely attributable to one change: He's hitting singles in about 30 percent more of his at-bats than he did last year.

Unfortunately for the age-27 breakout believers, Cabrera's current rate of hitting singles isn't sustainable. His .404 batting average on balls in play is the second-highest in baseball behind Votto. Only four players have recorded a BABIP higher than .400 in a season of at least 500 plate appearances: Roberto Clemente, Rod Carew, Manny Ramirez and Jose Hernandez. Hernandez was the last to do it in 2002.

Cabrera's career BABIP is almost 100 points lower than his 2012 mark, and his expected BABIP based on his batted-ball statistics is roughly 50 points lower than that .404 figure. Take 50 points of batting average away from Cabrera, and his numbers start to look a lot more like they did in 2011.

[h4]Melky's improved approach[/h4]
Cabrera's swing rates compared to last season (Percentages in order: Total swings, outside strike zone, inside strike zone, total contact).
[table][tr][th=""]
Year
[/th][th=""]
Swing %
[/th][th=""]
O-Swing %
[/th][th=""]
Z-Swing %
[/th][th=""]
Contact %
[/th][/tr][tr][td]
2011
[/td][td]
51.2
[/td][td]
37.3
[/td][td]
64.4
[/td][td]
87.3
[/td][/tr][tr][td]
2012
[/td][td]
47.5
[/td][td]
29.1
[/td][td]
67.0
[/td][td]
89.7
[/td][/tr][/table]

That's not to say that Cabrera is no better now than he was last season. His plate discipline statistics paint a picture of a player with an improved approach (see chart).

Cabrera is swinging less often overall, but he's actually swinging more often at pitches inside the strike zone. The reduction in his swing percentage is entirely attributable to a decreased tendency to go after pitches outside the zone. Since he's laying off pitches he probably couldn't have hit anyway, he's making more contact when he does decide to swing. More contact means more balls in play, and more balls in play mean more hits.

Since a higher percentage of Cabrera's swings have been aimed at hittable pitches, he's probably also making harder contact, so it's reasonable to expect more of the balls he puts in play to become hits. He's also hitting more ground balls, which tend to become hits more often than balls hit in the air (albeit not the extra-base kind). And while conditioning has been a problem for him in the past, he's worked hard to get in shape, which may be helping him eke out a few hits he wouldn't have otherwise.

All of those factors point to an improvement, but only an incremental one typical of a player at his peak. That's not bad news for the San Francisco Giants. Although his terrible 2010 made more of an impression on most fans, Cabrera was worth four wins to the Kansas City Royals last season, so a Cabrera who's just a bit better than that is an extremely valuable player.

As good as Cabrera has been, anyone stubbornly holding out hope for the age-27 breakout theory might be better off using the Rays' Matt Joyce as an example. Joyce's improvement isn't dependent on a BABIP boost. Like Cabrera, he's shown a more refined approach at the plate, but his maturation has manifested itself in patience and power, not an ephemeral average. As a result, he may have a better chance of being the same player at the end of the season as he's been so far.

It's easy to find examples of players who've made major improvements at age 27, but the opposite is also true. For every Cabrera or Joyce, there's a Drew Stubbs, Brennan Boesch or Ryan Zimmerman enduring a down year at what's supposed to be his peak. It's fair to expect career years from 27-year-old players -- Cabrera included -- but breakouts are a bridge too far.

The difference in Andrew McCutchen.

Spoiler [+]
Andrew McCutchen did not wait before beginning his swing reconstruction last fall. He didn't head off to Aruba for a couple of weeks to decompress, didn't lie on a couch someplace, didn't spend October managing his fantasy football team.

The Pirates' 2011 season ended Sept. 28, and how long was it before McCutchen was back in a batting cage and adjusting to the significant changes he had made with his stance? "Three weeks," McCutchen recalled in a recent conversation. "I wanted to get comfortable."

While the Texas Rangers and St. Louis Cardinals journeyed their way to the World Series, McCutchen was back at work in a Florida cage with former teammate Steve Pearce, fixing his swing mechanics, working on getting the right measure of balance on his back leg. Too often, McCutchen had felt his timing had been inconsistent. "There were times when my [swing] path to the ball was either too early or too late," McCutchen said. "There were pitches that I should've been on" -- and mashing -- "but instead, I rolled over the ball."

Before McCutchen started in the cages, he had watched videotape of hitters he thought would help serve as models for a new setup. Manny Ramirez, who has always been viewed by his peers as one of the most balanced of hitters. Ryan Braun, who had an MVP season last year. Yadier Molina, who has gotten better and better at the plate throughout his career. "I wanted to see how they went through their swing -- the rhythm, the timing," McCutchen said.

McCutchen decided to open his stance: A right-handed hitter, he moved his front leg -- his left leg -- back from home plate.

Now, as a pitcher begins his delivery, McCutchen's swing mechanics are triggered. He raises the bat in his hands; he lifts his left leg slightly and then plants his front foot. His weight shift, from his back leg into his swing, is smooth and powerful, and he fires his bat through the zone.

But it didn't feel natural to him at the outset, when McCutchen first started his offseason work in the cage with Pearce at Florida Southern. "I told myself that the more that I did, the more I worked with it, the more comfortable I'd be," McCutchen said.

He kept swinging through November and December, and when he joined a minicamp the Pittsburgh Pirates held in January, he could feel the difference; he was able to really drive the ball to right-center "with some authority," he said.

The offseason work carried over into this season; he's hitting .332 with 12 homers, 39 RBIs, 14 steals, a .951 OPS.

If you filled out an NL MVP ballot today, it might look something like this:

1. Joey Votto, Cincinnati Reds
2. Braun, Milwaukee Brewers
3. David Wright, New York Mets
4. McCutchen, Pirates
5. Carlos Gonzalez, Colorado Rockies
6. Carlos Beltran, Cardinals
7. R.A. Dickey, Mets
8. Melky Cabrera, San Francisco Giants
9. Matt Kemp, Los Angeles Dodgers
10. Molina, Cardinals
[h3]Elsewhere[/h3]
• Brandon Beachy is having Tommy John surgery, a body blow for the Atlanta Braves. Rival executives believe that Atlanta will be active in the market for starting pitching.

• After the battle of words between Joe Maddon and Davey Johnson, Stephen Strasburg shut down the Tampa Bay Rays.

When a players is traded and later faces his old teammates, his old team will change its signs, as a matter of course. It's considered fair game to ask an incoming player for information about his previous team's signs, or about how to pitch to batters on his old team, or about some other elements of that club. I've heard of teams specifically acquiring a player recently dumped by a rival largely for the information -- especially catchers, who are the information highways of the sport.

But where is the line about what information you can use?

It falls within that gray area covered in the volumes of baseball's unwritten rules, apparently.

Johnson did concede that Maddon is the more dominant force in the Twitter realm, as Marc Topkin writes.

Peralta could hear about the penalty he faces today.

From ESPN Stats and Info, how Strasburg won:

A) Missed bats: Strasburg induced a career-best 21 swings and misses. All 10 of his strikeouts were swinging. It's Strasburg's sixth career game of 10 or more strikeouts, but the first in which all were swinging.
B) Rays hitters missed on 11 of their 14 swings (79 percent) against Strasburg's changeup, including all six swings before two strikes. His five changeup strikeouts tied a season high. Only two Strasburg changeups were put in play, both of which were on the ground.
C) Twenty-five of the 26 changeups (96 percent) Strasburg threw were down or below the strike zone, his highest percentage in his career (min. 10 changeups).

Highest miss percentage on changeups this season (qualified starters)
Strasburg -- 55 percent
Cole Hamels -- 48 percent
Johan Santana -- 45 percent
Felix Doubront -- 43 percent

• I don't think any team is having a tougher season than the Rockies, who came in with some high expectations. Colorado has pitched terribly, and on Wednesday, the Rockies suffered a gut-wrenching loss and learned that shortstop Troy Tulowitzki is going to be out a long time.
[h3]Moves, deals and decisions[/h3]
1. Justin Verlander could get the ball for the All-Star Game if asked. He'd be an excellent choice.

2. Danny Hultzen was promoted to Triple-A.

3. Tyson Ross was promoted.

4. There are no moves on the horizon for the Miami Marlins, says Ozzie Guillen.

5. Roy Oswalt is set to start for the Rangers.

6. The Rangers should get Chone Figgins, writes Evan Grant.

7. Jacob Turner makes his 2012 major league debut today, and Mike Matheny is excited to see him pitch.

8. The Boston Red Sox have stepped up their efforts to trade Kevin Youkilis, writes Nick Cafardo.

9. The New York Yankees signed a left-hander from Cuba.
[h3]Dings and dents[/h3]
1. Jerome Williams had a scary episode.

2. Mitch Moreland is headed to the disabled list.

3. Drew Hutchison won't need elbow surgery.

4. Salvy Perez appears to be very close to returning to the big leagues, as Bob Dutton writes.

5. The Reds are downplaying Aroldis Chapman's ailment.

6. A Chicago Cubs reliever got very lucky.

7. Shaun Marcum's elbow is OK, in the big picture, but he still might wind up on the disabled list.

8. Joe Mauer may not start until Friday.

9. Chase Utley had another good day.

10. Dustin Pedroia got a scare.

11. Nick Markakis needs more time.
[h3]By The Numbers[/h3]
From ESPN Stats and Info

4: Tommy Hanson, Phil Hughes and Jason Vargas each allowed at least four home runs.
9: Home runs combined for the Braves (5) and Yankees (4) on Wednesday.
10: David Ortiz's grand slam was his 10th as a member of the Red Sox, second-most in franchise history.
20: Home runs for Ryan Braun this season, first NL player to do so.
29: The Mets pitchers had their scoreless streak end at 29 innings.
42: The number of home runs hit Wednesday, tied for the second-most in a single day this season.
[h3]Wednesday's games[/h3]
1. Jim Leyland tipped his cap to the opposing pitcher.

2. Jason Heyward was The Man for the Braves, mashing two of the five homers hit by Atlanta.

[h4]Having a month[/h4]
Jason Heyward struggled in April and May but has turned it up in June.
[table][tr][th=""]
Stat
[/th][th=""]
April-May
[/th][th=""]
June
[/th][/tr][tr][td]
BA
[/td][td]
.233
[/td][td]
.351
[/td][/tr][tr][td]
HR
[/td][td]
6
[/td][td]
4
[/td][/tr][tr][td]
OPS
[/td][td]
.739
[/td][td]
1.068
[/td][/tr][tr][td]
K rate
[/td][td]
25.4%
[/td][td]
18.3%
[/td][/tr][/table]

From ESPN Stats and Info: Heyward homered twice in the win against the Yankees, his third career multi-home run game. It continued a June renaissance for Heyward, who struggled mightily in May (see chart).

3. Jason Vargas was pounded.

4. The Giants were shut out again.

5. Watched a lot of Jered Weaver's start against the Giants Wednesday night, and he was back to doing what he usually does.

6. The Dodgers struggled for runs.

7. Justin Upton and the Arizona Diamondbacks exploded for 14 runs.

8. Ricky Nolasco was blown up. Ozzie Guillen defined the tonic for a bad day.

9. Gavin Floyd stepped up, as Toni Ginnetti writes.

10. Jordan Lyles threw well but lost.

11. The Rangers are feasting in interleague play, and Wednesday, Yu Darvish picked up his ninth victory.

12. Jonathan Broxton and the Royals just keep winning -- although they had some tense moments Wednesday.

13. Jake Westbrook and the Cardinals climbed over .500.

14. Justin Masterson was The Man for the Cleveland Indians.

15. Tom Haudricourt tweeted during Wednesday's games that anybody who didn't hit a home run in the Jays-Brewers series should be DFA'd, which means everybody's safe.

16. Francisco Liriano pitched well.

17. The Philadelphia Phillies pieced together a victory.

18. Felix Doubront got a whole lot of run support.

19. Dillon Gee had a good outing for the Mets.

20. Phil Hughes gave up a bunch of long balls. It was hot in the Bronx and the ball was flying; when Heyward hit his second homer, he was on his front foot and flicked his wrists. Watching on TV, I thought Heyward might've hit a flare between the outfielders -- and the baseball soared into the stands in right field.

Hughes has problems when his fastball is off, writes Bob Klapisch.

The 'dream' team.

Spoiler [+]
Recently, an editor at ESPN told me he was taking his kid to a minor league game and asked which players he should keep an eye on. As he was seeing the Rangers' low Class A Hickory affiliate, one of the first players that came to mind was outfielder Jordan Akins, for whom I added a comment amount him possibly having the widest gap between the player he is and the player he has the potential to be.

That led to greater discussions about players to "dream" on, so here is the All-Dream team currently in the minors. In essence, the one prospect at each position with the largest gap between current ability and future potential. All of these players could be impact players in the big leagues, but every one of them has a long way to go and a lot of work to do.

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[h3]C: Blake Swihart, Boston Red Sox[/h3]
The 26th overall pick in last year's draft, Swihart's $2.5 million bonus was more in line with that of a top-10 pick, and he has rare tools for a catcher. Still, as a product of a New Mexico high school -- which is a low level of competition by high school standards -- he has a long way to go, as he hit just .250/.302/.375 during the first half of the season for low Class A Greenville.

A switch-hitter who is very athletic for a catcher, Swihart has the potential for average or more power down the road, and he shows a solid approach and good feel for contact so far. He has the potential to be a good defender as well, but like his hitting, it's still a work in progress.

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[h3]1B: Telvin Nash, Houston Astros[/h3]
Nash has incredible raw power, including 18 home runs in 226 at-bats this year at high Class A Lancaster, but questions remain about his ability to tap into it as he progresses. At 6-foot-1 and 250 pounds, he's a physical beast, but his swing mechanics are just as beastly.

With more than 60 percent of his hits this year going for extra bases, Nash makes dangerous contact. But with 114 strikeouts in 226 at-bats, it might not ever matter. It's hard to make the majors if you strike out that frequently. For example, Adam Dunn fanned roughly once every four at-bats in the minors, which goes to show that even the most strikeout-prone major leaguers made more frequent contact in the minors.

hou.gif

[h3]2B: Delino DeShields, Houston Astros[/h3]
The Astros knew they were drafting a raw product when they made DeShields the eighth overall pick in the 2010 draft, but he was a bit more unrefined than expected, hitting just .220/.305/.322 in his full-season debut and earning a return ticket to low Class A Lexington this year.

With a batting average of .265 and 45 stolen bases in 66 games, DeShields has certainly made some progress, but his raw power is still in the potential phase of the game. He just doesn't make as much loud contact as you'd like to see in a player who could, if everything works out, hit 15 home runs and steal 50 bases annually.

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[h3]3B: Aderlin Rodriguez, New York Mets[/h3]
Rodriguez is the hot corner version of Nash. He's a massive player with massive power, but he's yet to hit enough to make a difference with it. Spending his second straight year at low Class A Savannah, Rodriguez is hitting .254/.326/.459, and scouts have noted some big steps forward in his game.

He's relaxed his swing and begun to trust his strength, which has led to a dip in strikeouts. Scouts have also noted defensive improvements, but whether or not he ends up being able to stay at third base is open to debate.

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[h3]SS: Luis Sardinas, Texas Rangers[/h3]
Sardinas earned a seven-figure bonus out of Venezuela three years ago, but 2012 is the first season he's been healthy. Still just 19, Sardinas has some drool-worthy upside, especially on the bases and defensively, as he's a plus-plus runner who has 21 stolen bases in 24 attempts. He also has well above-average range, hands and arm strength.

Now for the bad news: He's skinny and weak, and that's holding him back at the plate, where he is hitting just .259 for Hickory, and 46 of his 50 hits have been singles. If he can just develop enough offensively to hit at the bottom of a lineup, he'll have significant value.

tex.gif

[h3]OF: Jordan Akins, Texas Rangers[/h3]
The aforementioned Akins has the size and athleticism to earn comparisons to a young Matt Kemp, but he's not on the same planet as Kemp in terms of baseball ability. He's a plus-plus runner who earns equal grades for his raw power, but he has almost zero feel for hitting.

His .207/.235/.346 line at Hickory includes 76 strikeouts in 217 at-bats and just seven walks. There's no prospect in baseball who fits the "spectacular mess" label more than Akins, but he'll get (and deserves) plenty of time to figure things out.

min.gif

[h3]OF: Byron Buxton, Minnesota Twins[/h3]
This year's second overall pick, Buxton's $6 million bonus will almost certainly be the 2012 draft's biggest payday, and he earned it with his tools. He has the potential to be a dynamic center fielder with above-average power, blazing speed and outstanding defense.

That said, he will be a bit of a project, as while he held his own on the national tournament circuit, he simply did not see any quality pitching during his years at a rural Georgia high school. His ceiling in this year's draft class was unmatched, but he's not expected to move quickly through the system, and many adjustments will be necessary.

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[h3]OF: Bubba Starling, Kansas City Royals[/h3]
Starling was last year's Buxton, but he might have even more upside yet also more risk. At 6-4 and 180 pounds, he has the potential to be a five-tool monster, but he was as focused on football as baseball in high school, so he remains quite raw.

All of the tools are there, including plus-plus power and arm strength and well-above-average speed, but his hitting ability is still a work in progress. After signing late last year and being held back in extended spring training in 2012, he turns 20 in August and has yet to make his official debut. He's arguably the biggest lottery ticket in the game.

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[h3]SP: Luis Heredia, Pittsburgh Pirates[/h3]
Some think Heredia is the best pitching prospect ever to come out of Mexico, and the Pirates showed they might share that perspective when they signed the then 16-year-old to a $2.6 million deal two years ago. Heredia held his own in the Gulf Coast League last year and will begin his 2012 season in the New York-Penn League as a 17-year-old, and there's still plenty of room for growth in his game and body.

Already 6-6, Heredia can touch 96 mph with his fastball while comfortably sitting at 90-93. He's still refining his mechanics and is struggling to find consistency in his delivery due to his length, but he does know how to spin a breaking ball and has some feel for a changeup. He might be five years away from Pittsburgh, but Heredia has a ceiling that ranks with much more well-known Pirates arms like Gerrit Cole and Jameson Taillon.

Rumors.

Spoiler [+]
http://[h3]KC to buy?[/h3]
2:26PM ET

[h5]Surprise Buyers [/h5]

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The trade deadline is less than six weeks away and clubs are constantly jockeying for position on that front. Those in contention consider adding to their club, those clearly out of the race head into sell mode. There are still 17 teams within five games of their division leaders beginning play Friday, which is likely to lead to some surprise buyers this summer..

There are the obvious buyers, and ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney opined last month which of those might be the most aggressive.

I'm not sure anyone would have bet that both the Baltimore Orioles and Cleveland Indians might be in a position to improve their roster mid-season. In fact, most would have wagered that their respective GMs, Dan Duquette and Chris Antonetti, would be selling off major pieces in July, potentially including Adam Jones and Shin-Soo Choo.

The O's lead the American League East -- tied with the Rays -- and the Indians are within a game and a half in the Central, and if things don't change dramatically over the next 5-6 weeks, both clubs are likely to make deals toward a pennant run, rather than aiming at next year. Both likely will look to add pitching -- the O's could probably use a veteran starter and some relief help, while the Indians' relief corps has been among the worst in the circuit.

The Pittsburgh Pirates could be surprise buyers this summer, as they sit just four games back of the Reds. Pitching and a veteran bat might be on their wish list.

Astros lefty Wandy Rodriguez and Cubs right-handers Matt Garza and Ryan Dempster could interest any contender.

The Kansas City Royals are exactly five games back entering play Monday and have won five out of their last six. General manager Dayton Moore is likely to seek pitching if he decides to be aggressive in adding help to his 2012 roster.

The one thing that could make it difficult is money, as neither the Royals, O's, Indians nor the Pirates are likely to add significant payroll, which could eliminate both Rodriguez and Garza and limit each GM at the deadline.

- Jason A. Churchill

Tags:
Baltimore Orioles, Cleveland Indians, Adam Jones, Shin-Soo Choo, Jason Vargas, Matt Garza, Wandy Rodriguez, Brandon League, Brett Myers, Houston Astros, Seattle Mariners, Chicago Cubs, Pittsburgh Pirates

http://[h3]Valbuena to get more time?[/h3]
1:57PM ET

[h5]Luis Valbuena | Cubs [/h5]


Luis Valbuena, a second baseman by trade and a very solid defender by reputation, is handling third base right now for the Chicago Cubs as Ian Stewart nurses an injury and a slumping bat. While it's far from traditional, Valbuena could continue to get regular time at the hot corner if he keeps hitting.

The left-handed hitter has five hits in his last 11 at-bats, including two long balls, and defensively he has all the tools to be a good defender anywhere on the infield.

Despite the presence of Darwin Barney, Valbuena could eventually get time at his natural position, and battle for innings there in future seasons.

- Jason A. Churchill

Tags:
Luis Valbuena, Ian Stewart, Chicago Cubs

http://[h3]Could Prior help Red Sox?[/h3]
1:41PM ET

[h5]Mark Prior | Yankees [/h5]


His signing went under the radar, but Mark Prior's performance in Triple-A Pawtucket has not, suggesting the right-hander could help the Boston Red Sox out of the bullpen this season, and that time could come sooner than later.

Prior has made six appearances for the Paw Sox, allowing just four hits in eight innings while piling up 19 strikeouts. Alex Speier of WEEI.com reports that the curveball is back and Prior has sat in the 90-93 mph range with his fastball.

He has issued five walks but the 31-year-old has pitched around them for the most part, yielding just two earned runs, both coming in his latest outing Monday when he served up a two-run homer to Xavier Paul.

Another handful of strong outings by Prior could be enough to get him a call from the big club, even if Daniel Bard continues to right the ship in a relief role as he's done his past few appearances.

- Jason A. Churchill

Tags:
Mark Prior, Daniel Bard, Alfredo Aceves, Boston Red Sox

http://[h3]Puig nearly a free agent?[/h3]
1:07PM ET

[h5]Yasel Puig [/h5]

[img]http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/leagues/lrg/trans/mlb.gif[/img]
Cuban defector Yasiel Puig, a 21-year-old outfielder, has already established residency in Mexico and is slated to work out for MLB clubs next week, reports Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com. And if all goes according to plan, Puig could be declared a free agent and signed by a team as soon as next weekend, according to his agent Jaime Torres.

Puig could get a contract similar to that of Jorge Soler, who received a nine-year, $30 million deal from the Chicago Cubs earlier in June.

The reason for such a high price? Well, aside from his age and talent, there's a key timing factor that could give Puig a lot of leverage. The new regulations set forth by the CBA allow clubs all of $2.9 million to spend on international free agents (including Cuban defectors), but that doesn't kick in until July 2. So if Puig is declared a free agent before then, teams will be fighting over his rights -- and have more money to spend.

As for the teams expected to be after Puig, ESPNDeportesLosAngeles.com's Enrique Rojas mentions the following in the link above: Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, San Francisco Giants, Philadelphia Phillies and Arizona Diamondbacks.

- Jason A. Churchill and Jason Catania

Tags:
Arizona Diamondbacks, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies, San Francisco Giants

http://[h3]Cashner's timetable[/h3]
12:05PM ET

[h5]Andrew Cashner | Padres [/h5]


Right-hander Andrew Cashner was sent to the minors to stretch out into a starting role and he's taken well to the transition so far, and may be nearing his second big-league start of the season.

He fanned nine in five strong innings Monday in Double-A and may have just one or two more starts before taking a spot in San Diego Padres' rotation.

One current starter whose spot is likely safer than expected is veteran Jason Marquis, who struck out 10 Texas Rangers Monday and has been stellar since joining the Padres. Ross Ohlendorf has not been bad, either, but could be the odd-man out and head to the bullpen to make room for Cashner.

Whether the Padres would consider using six starters is unclear, but it's a rebuilding season for the club, so anything is possible.

- Jason A. Churchill

Tags:
Andrew Cashner, Jason Marquis, Ross Ohlendorf, San Diego Padres

http://[h3]The Pirates at the deadline[/h3]
10:05AM ET

[h5]Pittsburgh Pirates [/h5]


[h5]Potential Targets in Pittsburgh[/h5]
The Pittsburgh Pirates are an entertaining team looking to end a string of 19 straight losing seasons. A reminder -- they were in a similar situation last summer before the bottom fell out in August.

Deadline Strategy
The garage sale sign no longer hangs outside of PNC Park. Late July has traditionally been the time when the Pirates threw high-priced talent overboard, but that has changed, as evidenced by last July's trade for Derrek Lee. Manager Clint Hurdle even admitted over the weekend the Bucs have discussed trades with teams for six weeks.

The Pirates have somehow stayed near the top of the NL Central despite scoring the fewest runs in the majors, so offense is a priority.

Money
The Pirates are 27th in MLB payroll at $63 million, and GM Neal Huntington has hinted the club can take on more salary, as long as the cost is reasonable.

Bait
The Pirates have built their farm system around pitchers Gerrit Cole and Jameson Taillon, and they are staying put. Starters Rudy Owens and Jeff Locke are enjoying strong seasons at Triple-A Indianapolis, but the Bucs may need them in Pittsburgh instead due to the season-ending injury to Charlie Morton.

Targets
Josh Willingham would fit in nicely in left field if the Twins become sellers. Willingham's trade value may never be higher and he's already under contract for the next two seasons, at $7 million per year, a relatively modest price compared to what free agents will command in the offseason.
Pirates first basemen (Casey McGehee and Garrett Jones) have accounted for just 26 RBI as of Wednesday, which ranks 24th in MLB. There are rumors the 36-year-old Lee is still open to the right opportunity, which could be in Pittsburgh. Maybe the Pirates eat some of the salary of Houston's Carlos Lee, who will be a free agent after the season. The Pirates are still waiting for Pedro Alvarez to find his groove at third base, prompting legitimate interest in Boston's Kevin Youkilis.
- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Clint Hurdle, Boston Red Sox, Pedro Alvarez, Derrek Lee, Brandon Inge, Kevin Youkilis, Pittsburgh Pirates

http://[h3]No panic on South Beach[/h3]
9:45AM ET

[h5]Miami Marlins [/h5]


The Miami Marlins made the biggest offseason splash this side of Anaheim, adding Jose Reyes, Mark Buehrle and Heath Bell. Despite the roster boost and the fancy new digs at Marlins Park, the Fish (33-35) are not even treading water almost three months into the season.

Even after a 15-5 loss in Boston Wednesday, manager Ozzie Guillen says there are no trades on the immediate horizon, writes Coley Harvey of the Sun-Sentinel.

Owner Jeffrey Loria also is unfazed by the June swoon, calling his Marlins "an excellent team."

The Marlins are still keeping their options open. MLB.com's Joe Frisaro said earlier this week the Marlins are actively looking for speed in the outfield while Emilio Bonifacio recovers from thumb surgery that could keep him out until the All-Star break.

The Twins' Denard Span and the Angels' Peter Bourjos, the subject of numerous rumors in recent months. could be high on their list. The Fish also could be among the teams taking a look at Houston first baseman Carlos Lee.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Carlos Lee, Peter Bourjos, Denard Span, Miami Marlins

http://[h3]Markakis out until July[/h3]
9:26AM ET

[h5]Nick Markakis | Orioles [/h5]


Orioles right fielder Nick Markakis, who had surgery June 1 for a broken hamate bone in his right wrist, had hoped to return to the lineup sometime next week. That may have been too optimistic.

Manager Buck Showalter does not expect Markakis to be activated by the end of an upcoming homestand, which ends July 1, reports Dan Connolly.

Showalter has started Chris Davis in right field in five of the last six games.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Baltimore Orioles, Nick Markakis, Chris Davis

http://[h3]All-Star start for Verlander?[/h3]
9:14AM ET

[h5]Justin Verlander | Tigers [/h5]


Timing is everything when it comes to who are the starting pitchers for the All-Star Game. We're about three weeks away from 2012 game in Kansas City, and things are lining up for the Tigers' Justin Verlander to be the American League starter.

John Lowe of the Detroit Free Press reports the way the Tigers' rotation unfolds, Verlander's final start before the All-Star break would come July 4, six days before the game. Even if Verlander pitches two innings, Verlander might be able to start the Tigers' first game after the break, which comes three days after the All-Star Game.

Verlander (7-4, 2.57) is a virtual lock to be named to the AL roster.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Justin Verlander, Detroit Tigers

http://[h3]Tribe in hot pursuit of Youkilis?[/h3]
8:55AM ET

[h5]Kevin Youkilis | Red Sox [/h5]


[h5]Any interest in Youkilis?[/h5]We mentioned earlier this week that the Boston Red Sox have stepped up their efforts efforts to trade Kevin Youkilis and are willing to include cash in any deal.
The chances of a deal will only increase once Youkilis emerges from a deep slump and demonstrates that he is still a productive player. Another positive sign came Wednesday when he went 2-for-3 with a double and a walk in a 15-5 win over the Marlins, pushing his average to .225.

In Thursday's Boston Globe, Nick Cafardo says the Indians, who could use a righthanded bat at a corner position, are "very much involved" in talks with the Red Sox.

The Diamondbacks, White Sox, Dodgers, Indians, and Pirates are among the teams linked to Youkilis. While the Dodgers are scouting Youkilis, the Red Sox reportedly are not keen on getting James Loney in return.

Cafardo says the Sox will have to assume most of the remaining $12 million on Youkilis' contract and the $1 million buyout of his option.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Arizona Diamondbacks, Gerardo Parra, Oakland Athletics, Seattle Mariners, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Angels, Detroit Tigers, Matt Garza, Domonic Brown, Kevin Youkilis, Cincinnati Reds, Arizona Diamondbacks

http://[h3]Top Trade Candidates[/h3]
8:41AM ET

[h5]Trade Candidates [/h5]

[img]http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/leagues/lrg/trans/mlb.gif[/img]
Jason A. Churchill

Since early this season there has been buzz on the trade front involving a handful of prominent players. Those players have done their parts, their respective teams have done theirs. Here are there stories.

Kevin Youkilis, 3B -- Boston Red Sox
Youkilis has not been healthy and has struggled when active, but there are clubs willing to take the risk on his track record at the plate if the price is right. We learned earlier this week that Boston asked the Arizona Diamondbacks for outfielder Gerardo Parra in exchange for Youkilis, a request that was declined.

Clubs looking for corner infield bats include the Cleveland Indians and perhaps the Detroit Tigers and Los Angeles Dodgers. The Angels seem like a potential landing spot on the surface but ESPNLosAngeles.com's Mark Saxon reported Monday that the Halos are not a fit.

With rookie Will Middlebrooks continuing to produce at the plate, it seems Youkilis is destined to be dealt this summer, and FOXSports.com's Ken Rosenthal wrote Monday night that trade talks have "intensified" over the past few days.

Ryan Dempster, RHP -- Chicago Cubs
Dempster, a free agent at the end of the season, has a no-trade clause but the buzz was that the right-hander was amenable to a trade to a contending team and it's believed he's had conversations with the front office about his future with the team.

There is one hurdle to a trade involving Dempster, however, and that is the fact that he was just placed on the disabled list and isn't eligible to return until the first week of July. A trade still seems likely, but now the time frame on such a deal is pushed back at least a few weeks.

Potentially interested clubs include the Tigers, Rangers, Red Sox, Indians, Dodgers, Brewers and Reds.

Matt Garza, RHP -- Chicago Cubs
Garza is not a pending free agent, and in the end could sign an extension with the Cubs, but until that occurs he's a prime target for trade.

He might be more attractive to teams that are looking for more than just a two-month rental, although the Indians, Orioles, Reds and other contenders without deep pockets, may see Garza's salary situation as major stumbling block.

The Cubs' asking price is likely to fairly steep, too, and common sense suggests GM Jed Hoyer will request young pitching -- the organization's greatest weakness -- in exchange for Garza's services.

Cole Hamels, LHP -- Philadelphia Phillies
Hamels may never hit the block as the Phillies are expecting to get back Chase Utley and Ryan Howard in the coming weeks and sit just five games back in the Wildcard race entering play Wednesday.

If the Phillies continue to struggle, however, GM Ruben Amaro could choose to trade Hamels rather than make a qualifying offer to the southpaw over the winter and receive draft-pick compensation if and when Hamels signs elsewhere.

There is heavy belief that the Los Angeles Dodgers are the overwhelming favorites for Hamels in free agency, though it may not be entirely out of the question that the Phillies find a way to keep Hamels long term, despite how difficult it is to see them handling such a payroll moving forward.

Wandy Rodriguez, LHP -- Houston Astros
Rodriguez's contract stipulates that the club's 2014 option -- worth $13 million -- becomes a player option should he be traded, whuch means he'd be owed a grand total of $31 million guaranteed. That's a large number and clubs balked at the same notion last summer, though there certainly was some interest in the player.

The Yankees were one of those clubs linked to the left-hander a year ago, and this summer the Red Sox, Tigers and Dodgers could also be intrigued by Rodriguez, despite the salary. One question contenders may consider is how well Rodriguez fits in their ballpark, division or league. He's not overpowering and induces a slightly above-average rate of fly balls, which doesn't bode well in smaller ballparks, or perhaps in the American League, where premium offenses reside.

Carlos Quentin, OF -- San Diego Padres
Quentin could be the best bat on the market and is likely to generate tons of interest, provided he stays healthy between now and July 31.

Clubs such as the Tigers and Brewers have already been linked to Quentin, in terms of reported interest or common sense -- the Brewers need offense, for example -- and the Dodgers could upgrade left field with Quentin, who isn't a strong defender but is a better bat than Juan Rivera, who could then play some first base, particularly versus left-handed pitching.

Shane Victorino, CF -- Philadelphia Phillies
Like Hamels, Victorino is likely going nowhere until Amaro is convinced it's in the best interest of his club to acquire pieces that the team can control through next season.

Earlier this season the Toronto Blue Jays were reported to have interest in Victorino, but with the recent hot streak by Colby Rasmus, who hit two more long balls Tuesday night, such interest may no longer live.

Other clubs that could use a center field upgrade for the final two or three months include the Texas Rangers, who could then use Josh Hamilton in a corner in an attempt to keep him healthy.

The Boston Red Sox figure to get Jacoby Ellsbury back soon, and Carl Crawford may not be far off, either, but Victorino could give them some stability. The Tigers could also be a fit, though Victorino would likely play left field in Motown with Austin Jackson manning center, and the same goes for the Dodgers who have Matt Kemp in center -- once he's back from the DL.

Denard Span, CF | Justin Morneau, 1B -- Minnesota Twins
Span is signed through 2014 with a reasonable option for 2015 and the Twins don't likely feel a need to move him. They could, however, attempt to rebuild their pitching staff by trading Span, and there are plenty of clubs out there in need of center field help.

The Washington Nationals are among those teams and the Texas Rangers could also be a strong bidder if the Twins put Span on the market and perhaps the Cardinals could see such value in Span and be willing to part with one of their top two pitching prospects to get him.

Morneau is healthy, hitting and a free agent after 2013 and could intrigue the Dodgers, Nationals, Rangers or Blue Jays. Toronto has a rather large crop of young arms they could package to get the first baseman, though few of them are near the big leagues, which could be a sticking point for the Twins.

Tags:
Washington Nationals, Toronto Blue Jays, Texas Rangers, St. Louis Cardinals, San Diego Padres, Philadelphia Phillies, Arizona Diamondbacks, Baltimore Orioles, Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, Cleveland Indians, Houston Astros, Detroit Tigers, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, Milwaukee Brewers, Minnesota Twins, Justin Morneau, Denard Span, Carlos Quentin, Wandy Rodriguez, Matt Garza, Ryan Dempster, Shane Victorino, Gerardo Parra, Cole Hamels, Kevin Youkilis

http://[h3]Another chance for Lincoln[/h3]
8:24AM ET

[h5]Brad Lincoln | Pirates [/h5]


Pirates manager Clint Hurdle continues to have faith in Brad Lincoln, who will remain in the rotation and start Saturday against the Detroit Tigers.

Lincoln is 0-2 in his past three starts in which he allowed 13 runs and 23 hits in 11 2/3 innings for a 10.03 ERA. "I think we have continued to show patience in a lot of different areas, and this is just another one that we will show a little more patience to," Hurdle tells the Post-Gazette.

Lincoln may simply be filling the final spot in the rotation until Jeff Karstens comes off the disabled list later this month. Karstens pitched seven innings of one-run ball Tuesday for Double-A Altoona, allowing six hits and could start for Triple-A Indianapolis over the weekend.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Brad Lincoln, Pittsburgh Pirates

http://[h3]Interest in Drew?[/h3]
8:07AM ET

[h5]J.D. Drew | Red Sox [/h5]


Agent Scott Boras tells Rob Bradford of WEEI.com that a "couple of teams" have inquired about free agent J.D. Drew, who never found a job to his liking during the offseason.

Boras says he was left with the impression that the 36-year-old Drew has no intention of continuing his playing career, but has not addressed the issue with his client.

Drew hit just .222 for the Red Sox, so his market value is limited. A team could be tempted to give Drew a short minor league audition, similar to what the Blue Jays did with Vladimir Guerrero before releasing the former AL MVP.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
J.D. Drew

http://[h3]Could Tulowitzki move to 3B?[/h3]
7:43AM ET

[h5]Troy Tulowitzki | Rockies [/h5]


Troy Tulowitzki hates the label of injury-prone player, but the Rockies shortstop will have surgery on his left groin area on Thursday and will likely be sidelined for eight weeks, reports Troy Renck of the Denver Post.

Marco Scutaro has been manning shortstop in Tulowitzki's absence and will continue to start, though Jonathan Herrera is close to returning from his rehab assignment and could see time at the position, as could Chris Nelson. Given the Rockies' disappointing season, it seems unlikely Colorado will look to deal for a shortstop.

Renck notes that Tulowitzki's latest setback will only increase the volume of those calling for him to move to third base, where he might be less prone to injury. Tulowitzi, on the DL for the fourth time in his career, wants no part of the idea. "I didn't get hurt on defense."

If the Rockies went that route, they would at some point need to find a new position for third base prospect Nolan Arenado, a .300 hitter over parts of four minor league seasons.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Marco Scutaro, Troy Tulowitzki, Colorado Rockies

http://[h3]Who wants Wandy?[/h3]
7:17AM ET

[h5]Wandy Rodriguez | Astros [/h5]


[h5]Potential Teams Targeting Wandy[/h5]
Houston Astros left-hander Wandy Rodriguez has been on the trade block since last June. What does the trade market for the veteran pitcher look like a year later?

First off, it's worth pointing out that Rodriguez is arguably having the best season of his career, sporting a 3.29 ERA and 1.26 WHIP. However, there are signs that his stuff is declining a bit, as he's been slightly more hittable this year (9.3 H/9) than he has in recent years (8.6 H/9 from 2008-2011) and the bigger concern right now is his plummeting strikeout rate (just 5.7 K/9 compared to 8.2 the past four seasons).

The other issues are his age and contract. He's 33, which while not old is still something for teams to consider, especially given that he's signed through 2013 at $10 million this year and $13 million next. And then there's the team option for another $13 mill in 2014 that -- and here's the kicker -- becomes a player option if he's traded. That potentially puts any interested clubs on the hook for about $30 million all told from here on out.

So just who might those interested parties be? For starters, the Yankees, Blue Jays and Giants all scouted Rodriguez during his start Tuesday night against the Royals. The Yankees, of course, were closely linked to Rodriguez last summer, and the Blue Jays lost three-fifths of their rotation just last week.

Another report says scouts from the Dodgers and Red Sox - Jason Catania

Tags:
San Francisco Giants, Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago White Sox, Boston Red Sox, Baltimore Orioles, Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, Wandy Rodriguez

http://[h3]Jays are still buyers[/h3]
7:10AM ET

[h5]Toronto Blue Jays [/h5]


The Toronto Blue Jays may be a last-place team in the ultra-competitive AL East, but can still be classified as trade market buyers, tweets Jon Morosi.

Morosi says the Jays are "scouting major leagues hard" and obviously are in search of pitching since Kyle Drabek, Brandon Morrow and Drew Hutchison all landed on the disabled list recently.

The Jays have been linked to Colorado's Jeremy Guthrie and Houston's Wandy Rodriguez. Zack Greinke could be a fit if the Brewers are in sell-off mode.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Wandy Rodriguez, Jeremy Guthrie, Toronto Blue Jays

http://[h3]Royals catcher getting closer[/h3]
6:52AM ET

[h5]Salvador Perez | Royals [/h5]


The Kansas City Royals have spent all season without their starting catcher, but Salvador Perez is getting closer to finally making his 2012 debut, says Bob Dutton of the Kansas City Star.

Perez has played in 11 games at Triple-A Omaha, hitting .340 (17-for-50), including a 4-for-4 performance while catching all nine innings for the second day in a row Wednesday.

It's looking like Perez could be back by next week, which would beat the initial timetable (i.e., the All-Star break) when he needed surgery to repair a torn meniscus in spring training.

Humberto Quintero and Brayan Pena have shared catching duties this season, and neither player has produced at the plate. One of them is likely to be the odd-man out at some point, but both are out of minor-league options, so the Royals have indicated they may carry three catchers until they're sure Perez is fully recovered.

- Jason Catania
 
Originally Posted by Nowitness41Dirk

Originally Posted by Naija Nitemare

We are never catching Texas
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They've played nothing but bad teams for almost 6 weeks now...Wait until the latter part of July when the schedule gets tough. You'll have your chance.Oswalt makes his debut tomorrow. Feldman back to the pen (thank god) and Grimm stays in the rotation for now.
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I was listening to Angels Radio last night after the game. Some dude called in saying that we have a VERY rough schedule left. We definitely flubbed by losing so many damn games in the beginning of the year.

It's a wonder what a Vernon Wells injury does to team morale
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A More Radical Pitching Staff Proposal.
Spoiler [+]
Yesterday, we talked about the four man rotation experiment that the Rockies are trying out, and while I expressed some skepticism that it is going to work in their specific situation, I do applaud the effort to try something new. What we know about the relative of performance of starters and relievers suggests that teams could theoretically get better run prevention by getting more innings to their relievers — or at least pitchers working in a role that looks something like a reliever.

So, is there a way to create a pitching staff where this effect is taken advantage of more thoroughly? In looking at the requirements that a pitching staff faces over the course of a season, I think there just might be.

A major league pitching staff is asked to throw about 1,450 innings per season. Last year, it took an average major league team 6,175 batters to get through those innings during the course of the year — or, essentially, 38 batters per game. Because each plate appearance takes about 3.8 pitches, each team threw about 145 pitches each time they took the field, broken down by about 97 for the starters and 48 for the bullpen. An average relief performance involves 17 pitches thrown, so in a standard MLB game, it takes three relievers to finish off the day’s work after the starter leaves. The average MLB game right now involves four pitchers, with one doing two-thirds of the work and the other three splitting the remaining one-third.

What if we kept that four-pitcher framework, but redistributed the amount of pitches they threw within a single game? If we made it completely equal — with each pitcher essentially doing one-fourth of the day’s work — we’d need them each to throw 36 pitches. Given that it takes about 3.8 pitches per batter faced, that’s essentially nine batters per pitcher — or one time through the line-up for each pitcher.

Based on what we know about a pitcher’s performance against the same batter multiple times within a single game, that could be exactly the kind of break down we should be looking for. I showed this data in yesterday’s post too, but it’s worth repeating here:

First PA vs SP: .247/.310/.393
Second PA vs SP: .260/.321/.417
Third PA vs SP: .271/.332/.444

The first time through the order, opposing batters put up a .704 OPS against starting pitchers, but that jumps to .738 the second time through and .776 the third time through. Most of the gap in starter/reliever performance comes from the fact that starting pitchers have to face hitters several times per game. Even with the fact that starters have to pace themselves for longer outings and have to face line-ups built to counteract their own platoon splits, the gap between OPS versus starters (.704) on the first match-up and OPS versus relievers on the first match-up (.691) is only 13 points. This data suggest that a significant part of the advantage of being a reliever is the one-and-done nature of the match-ups.

So asking four pitchers to go through the line-up one time each would get you 36 batters faced — or 95% of the way toward a complete game — based on normal standards under the current system. To make sure those last several batters are covered — and to give yourself a little more flexibility for extra-inning affairs — let’s be safe and say that each pitcher will be asked to face 10 batters per game, which translates to about 38 pitches apiece.

With 12 roster spots allocated for pitchers on most teams these days, that would leave you with three groups of four pitchers. Essentially, each pitcher would be given two days off between outings. Over the course of the season, each pitcher would have 54 expected outings and would have to throw about 2,000 pitches, or about one-third less than a standard starting pitcher.

From an overall workload standpoint, this is something like the role Alfredo Aceves filled for the Boston Red Sox last year. He pitched in 55 games (four of those being starts), faced 474 batters and threw 1,757 pitches. They didn’t deploy him in 35-pitch outings every three days, but over the season, his workload approximated what we’d be asking from every pitcher on our staff under this proposal. It would certainly require an adjustment, but it isn’t so strenuous that it couldn’t be done.

If we accept that it’s an acceptable work/rest balance that wouldn’t shred arms and ask pitchers to do things of which they weren’t capable, then the question is simply whether we could expect this system to be an improvement over the current setup.

The times-through-the-order bonus would essentially transfer 15 plate appearances from a second or third look to a first look, so dealing with league averages again, you’d be swapping out 15 plate appearances with an expected .753 OPS for 15 PAs with a (roughly) expected .704 OPS. That’s 15 plate appearances in each game, or 2,430 plate appearances over an entire season. That’s a significant difference, and a potentially large advantage in favor of the face-everyone-once strategy.

The cost of this system is the lack of ability to mix-and-match based on platoon situations and based on leverage. By rigidly asking each pitcher to face nine to 10 batters per outing — regardless of who those batters were or what the score was — you couldn’t reallocate the more important innings to the better pitchers. You’d also have to do away with the notions of getting selective platoon advantages through frequent pitching changes.

The leverage thing is a real negative, as this rigid structure would mean that you’d be forced into using the same pitchers regardless of the score, so you couldn’t ensure that your best pitchers were regularly on the mound in the situations where preventing a run was more likely to impact the outcome of the game. Pitchers would have their set days of pitching and rest, and whether it was 1-0 or 15-0, you’d have to stick to the plan. However, the hope would be that this system would allow each pitcher to perform well enough that you wouldn’t hate having any of them on the mound in a close game. Still, there’s no question that the lack of ability to give better pitchers the more important innings is a drawback to this kind of structure.

The platoon advantage isn’t quite as big of a loss, I don’t think, and not because platoon advantages don’t matter, but because this system would essentially trade off when those platoon match-ups happened. Ideally, you’d want two right-handed pitchers and two left-handed pitchers with your four daily pitchers, which would make setting the line-up for the opposing manager a bit of a headache. If you’re starting a right-handed pitcher but everyone knows he’s only going to face nine batters, do you bother stacking the line-up with lefties? Probably not. At that point, knowing that the late game chess match has essentially been canceled, he might as well just start his nine best players regardless of what side of the plate they bat from. And while that means that you’re not getting those late game left-on-left match-ups, you’re also going to be facing fewer opposite-handed hitters earlier in the game. You’d almost certainly want to mix up the order in which the pitchers appeared so that a manager couldn’t save a few pinch-hitters knowing that LHP Pitcher X always works the last nine batters, but overall, I wouldn’t expect that you’d see a drastic change in the amount of times the team faced a platoon disadvantage.

The other significant negative associated with this strategy is the need for a 13th pitcher. As we’ve outlined, this strategy gets you through nine or maybe 10 innings, but has no real plan for anything in innings 11 and beyond. In reality, there will be games that go beyond 10 batters, and unless you’re just willing to blow up the last pitcher’s arm by forcing him to keep pitching until the game ends, you need another guy on the roster who can take the mound in extra innings. However, a 13 man pitching staff also creates problems for position players, as three reserves just isn’t enough.

So, my solution? Any team trying this should acquire Micah Owings, or someone of that ilk. The two-way position player could be essentially used as an emergency pitcher for extra innings games, throwing enough on the side to be ready in case they are called upon but also serving as a pinch-hitter/defensive replacement and general backup at the positions they can play in the field. The Brewers used Brooks Kieschnick in this way in 2003 and 2004, when he combined for 144 plate appearances and 97 innings pitched. There are a good number of players who both hit and pitch in college, so finding one could fill this 25th man supersub role shouldn’t be impossible — though you’re accepting a lower quality performer on both sides in order to get the flexibility. In reality, you’d probably lose more of your extra inning games than you would under a standard system, since innings 11-plus would essentially be taken up by a part-time pitcher who is probably not up to MLB standards as a normal pitcher.

Would those trade-offs negate the gains from allowing pitchers to only face a batter once through the order, amplify their stuff in shorter outings, and see a reduction in total pitches thrown by the best pitchers? For a team setup to function under the current system, perhaps. If you already have Cliff Lee, Roy Halladay, and Cole Hamels, this system doesn’t make any sense. You don’t really want those guys pitching less than they do now, since they can perform at an elite level for longer stints.

If a team were going to try this plan, though, not having to pay premium dollars for high-end starting pitching would actually be part of the appeal. By utilizing some decent-but-not-great starters in this way, the hope would be that a team could get higher-level production without having to pay the current market rates for starters who can hold batters to a .700 OPS over six-plus innings. If you built a pitching staff with lower-cost arms who carried equal amounts the workload, you could then allocate more of your overall budget to the position players, and hopefully build out an offense and defense that were better than you could afford if you were also trying to buy market value starting pitchers.

Of course, a team would have to essentially create their own financial compensation structure, since wins and saves would no longer be targeted rewards that a pitcher could strive for and use in arbitration hearings. And this would have to be something that the organization bought into across the board, as you’d need guys on this kind of schedule in the minors in order to come up and fill in when a pitcher hit the disabled list. It would essentially require a wholesale rejection of the current five-man-rotation system, and a long-term plan that required committing to this kind of experiment for more than a few weeks. The media scrutiny would be extremely high, especially whenever a pitcher was removed while pitching well and replaced by a guy who instantly imploded.

It’s not a plan without costs, but it is also a plan that I think could allow a team to improve their run prevention simply through better controlling usage patterns, and would come with the side benefit of allowing them to spend more money on position players rather than pursuing highly coveted pitchers (who would have no interest in pitching for your team anyway). Is anyone crazy enough to try it? Probably not, especially given how well pitchers are doing under the current system. We might need to see a shift back toward expanding offensive prowess before anyone tries something this different, as the “don’t fix what isn’t broken
 
Something like 15 of the Rangers last 19 series have been against teams with losing records.
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Miguel Montero has thrown out 52.5% of runners this season. 
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Next closest is 38.6 (Kurt Suzuki).

Anyway, I stumbled on that trying to quantify Carlos Santana as a catcher. Fangraphs has him as the second best (behind Matt Wieters). Range factor has him dead last among qualified catchers. He's not in the top ten for total zone runs (can't find a full list).

There are a few strange Indians-related numbers from Fangraphs. They have Johnny Damon as a significantly better fielder than Michael Brantley, and exponentially better than Shin-Soo Choo. False.
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Defensive metrics right now are like reinventing the wheel. Too many trying to tell the same story, yet can differ way too much.

In another direction, Joey Votto is on pace for 71 doubles, 31 home runs, 107 runs batted in, 131 walks and 10 steals, to boot. On-base at .486 right now. That's like Barry Bonds Lite territory.

The Indians aren't playing tonight. I'm bored, alright?
 
Originally Posted by Kevin Cleveland

In another direction, Joey Votto is on pace for 71 doubles, 31 home runs, 107 runs batted in, 131 walks and 10 steals, to boot. On-base at .486 right now. That's like Barry Bonds Lite territory.
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and 200 hits.  only one player in the history of baseball has walked that many times with 200 hits...some guy named Babe Ruth.
and the doubles record is 67.  

I think Votto is hitting .490 for June.
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Defensive metrics are the hardest to figure out. I thought UZR would be a good one but as Osh pointed out to me it's better in a 3 year span so you still don't really get a good read on year to year stuff. FG's Fld does a decent job, the end of year stats are usually pretty reliable. But it's a huge work in progress. Like you would think Yadi would be up there defensively but he's only fourth. The glossary helps.
 
Yea but look at Baseball Reference they're screwed up with IF's too, they have Brett Lawrie playing like a prime Beltre at the corner this year
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Mike Trout -- MVP candidate?

Spoiler [+]
With just over half the season left to play, Mike Trout looks like the odds-on favorite to win the American League Rookie of the Year award. But could he pull a Fred Lynn and win the AL MVP award as well? More importantly, should he?

I have heard the argument that the Angels' season turned around when Trout was recalled, which is so much hogwash. That's the application of a concept that applies to other sports -- that one player can dramatically change a team's fortunes -- to baseball, where the impact of one player on a team's record, even a very good player, is quite limited. The best players in baseball each year are typically worth about 9 wins above a replacement-level player; according to Fangraphs, the last position player to be worth 10 WAR in a single year was Barry Bonds in 2004 (a year in which he was intentionally walked 120 times). So if we assume that Mike Trout is the best player in baseball and that he was replacing a replacement-level player, he might have added just less than three wins to the Angels' total over the 47 games he has played. Their turnaround has been a team turnaround, not just the infusion of a single player.

[+] Enlarge
Hulton Archive/Getty ImagesAn MVP for Trout would allow him to match Fred Lynn as a rookie pulling off the double.

So the argument for Trout as MVP shouldn't be built around the Angels' record with or without him because it doesn't have to be built on such a fairy tale story. Trout's own performance to date is enough justification to at least put him among the top 3-4 candidates in the league.

Trout's raw stat line heading into the weekend series against the Dodgers is impressive on its own -- .333/.397/.532 with a league-leading 19 stolen bases in just 22 attempts -- and while the batting average may not remain as high, he's a very disciplined hitter and his walk rate is likely to rise even as his BABIP (currently at .395) regresses. Metrics demonstrating his overall value tell an even more amazing story. I tend to prefer Fangraphs' version of Wins Above Replacement, and Trout fares extremely well there despite playing in fewer games than the players surrounding him on the leaderboard, ranking second in the league so far, just 0.1 wins (the equivalent of about 2 runs produced/saved) behind league leader Josh Hamilton. If you prefer Baseball-Reference's flavor, Trout ranks second in the league in WAR behind only Brett Lawrie, who benefits there from an insane (and obviously inaccurate) defensive rating that seems to think he's Brooks Robinson. The rate stat wOBA, which doesn't consider playing time, has Trout fifth in the American League, behind Hamilton again along with three players who offer no defensive value in Paul Konerko, Mark Trumbo, and David Ortiz.

(An interesting side note on Trumbo: While he continues to hit for crazy power, with 10 homers in the last 30 days, he walked just 5 times unintentionally in that same span, covering 120 PA, a sign that perhaps his abnormally high walk rate in the season's first six weeks may have been an aberration.)

[h3][/h3]
If Trout continues to produce value at the rate he's shown so far this year, he could easily end up the most valuable player in the American League -- especially if he continues to get the majority of starts in center field.

It's possible, even likely, that Trout will hit a rough patch, perhaps even an extended one, at some point before the year is out, but one major point in his favor is that he hasn't shown any clear weaknesses at the plate. His plate discipline has always been strong, both in his ability to distinguish balls from strikes and in his recognition of different pitches. He doesn't swing as often as most players, regardless of age, but when he does swing, he makes contact at very high rates -- especially when he deigns to swing at a pitch outside of the strike zone. Even the slider low and away, the bugbear of many good big league hitters, hasn't fazed him; he's shown the ability to make a high degree of contact with that pitch, even if it's just to foul it off and extend the at-bat. He's even held his own against higher velocity, seeing 43 pitches of 95 mph or better, putting 10 in play, 5 of those for hits, and swinging and missing just twice, according to Bloomberg Sports. If he has a significant flaw as a hitter, MLB pitchers haven't found it yet.

If Trout continues to produce value at the rate he's shown so far this year, he could easily end up the most valuable player in the American League -- especially if he continues to get the majority of starts in center field. The Angels would probably have to stay in the race to keep his candidacy strong among voters who mistakenly believe the MVP must come from a contender, but that's largely out of Trout's control. He could also face a disadvantage as a rookie, or as a player who wasn't on the big league roster until the very end of April, neither of which is rational but both of which could easily swing a couple of votes.

But right now it looks like Trout will at least do his part to give rational voters good reason to put him near or even at the top of their ballots.

Who to watch at the Futures Game.

Spoiler [+]
On Thursday, MLB announced the rosters for this year's Futures Game. The top eight prospects from my May update of the top 25 prospects in the minors are all invited to appear in this game, as well as nine of the remaining 17 on that list. So, good job by MLB!

Here's a rundown of my initial thoughts upon seeing the list of players who are slated to appear in the game.
[h3]Five guys most likely to do something awesome[/h3]
Billy Hamilton, SS, Cincinnati Reds (high Class A Bakersfield): He has stolen 80 bases in 66 games already. If he stole any more, he'd be eligible for TARP money.

Gerrit Cole, RHP, Pittsburgh Pirates (Double-A Altoona): Hit 101 mph in his last outing at high Class A Bradenton before promotion ... with a 92-mph slider and a 95-mph two-seamer. I can promise you he'll be trying to hit triple digits in that one-inning outing at the Futures Game. Taijuan Walker, Yordano Ventura, and Jose Fernandez could do the same.

Christian Bethancourt, C, Atlanta Braves (Double-A Mississippi): He has raw power, but I'm including him here because of his defense. He's one of the best-throwing catchers in organized baseball, and I'd love to see him get a chance to try to throw out Billy Hamilton at second.

[h4]Futures Game participants[/h4]
A team-by-team breakdown of prospects in the Futures Game.
• U.S. roster
• World roster
[table][tr][th=""]Team[/th][th=""]Players[/th][/tr][tr][td]ARI[/td][td]Trevor Bauer, Alfredo Marte[/td][/tr][tr][td]ATL[/td][td]Christian Bethancourt[/td][/tr][tr][td]BAL[/td][td]Dylan Bundy, Manny Machado[/td][/tr][tr][td]BOS[/td][td]Matt Barnes, Xander Bogaerts[/td][/tr][tr][td]CHC[/td][td]Jae-Hoon Ha[/td][/tr][tr][td]CWS[/td][td]Carlos Sanchez[/td][/tr][tr][td]CIN[/td][td]Billy Hamilton, Kyle Lotzkar[/td][/tr][tr][td]CLE[/td][td]Jesus Aguilar, Francisco Lindor[/td][/tr][tr][td]COL[/td][td]Nolan Arenado, Edwar Cabrera[/td][/tr][tr][td]DET[/td][td]Nick Castellanos, Bruce Rondon[/td][/tr][tr][td]HOU[/td][td]Jonathan Singleton[/td][/tr][tr][td]KC[/td][td]Wil Myers, Jake Odorizzi, Yordano Ventura[/td][/tr][tr][td]LAA[/td][td]Jean Segura[/td][/tr][tr][td]LAD[/td][td]Chris Reed[/td][/tr][tr][td]MIA[/td][td]Jose Fernandez, Christian Yelich[/td][/tr][tr][td]MIL[/td][td]Scooter Gennett[/td][/tr][tr][td]MIN[/td][td]Oswaldo Arcia[/td][/tr][tr][td]NYM[/td][td]Wilmer Flores, Zack Wheeler[/td][/tr][tr][td]NYY[/td][td]Tyler Austin[/td][/tr][tr][td]OAK[/td][td]Michael Choice, Chih-Fang Pan[/td][/tr][tr][td]PHI[/td][td]Lisalverto Bonilla, Julio Rodriguez[/td][/tr][tr][td]PIT[/td][td]Gerrit Cole, Jameson Taillon[/td][/tr][tr][td]SD[/td][td]Yasmani Grandal, Rymer Liriano[/td][/tr][tr][td]SF[/td][td]Tommy Joseph[/td][/tr][tr][td]STL[/td][td]Oscar Taveras, Kolten Wong[/td][/tr][tr][td]SEA[/td][td]Danny Hultzen, Taijuan Walker[/td][/tr][tr][td]TB[/td][td]Felipe Rivero, Enny Romero[/td][/tr][tr][td]TEX[/td][td]Mike Olt, Jurickson Profar[/td][/tr][tr][td]TOR[/td][td]Travis d'Arnaud, Anthony Gose[/td][/tr][tr][td]WAS[/td][td]Alex Meyer[/td][/tr][/table]

Xander Bogaerts, SS, Boston Red Sox (high Class A Salem): There are quite a few plus-power guys in the game, including Wil Myers, Oswaldo Arcia, and Michael Choice, but Bogaerts does it about as easily as any other prospect on either roster. He's not a shortstop in the long run, but could be a 30-homer bat at third base when he peaks.

Oscar Taveras, OF, St. Louis Cardinals (Double-A Springfield): Taveras has power but it's more his ability to square up pitches most other hitters couldn't that puts him in this category; he's one of the best bad-ball hitters to reach the high minors in a while, earning comparisons in that department to Vlad Guerrero and Alfonso Soriano.
[h3]Five guys who might get promoted off the rosters[/h3]
If a player ends up in the big leagues when the Futures Game takes place, MLB will replace him, and we have a few close-to-the-majors guys on these rosters right now.

Trevor Bauer, RHP, Arizona Diamondbacks (Triple-A Reno): He could be freed at any point now, needing only an opening in the Snakes' rotation, perhaps from a Joe Saunders trade or if any pitcher hits the DL.

Wil Myers, OF, Kansas City Royals (Triple-A Omaha): I don't like the idea of Myers coming up as some sort of offensive savior for the Royals, but it's pretty clear he's ready for the challenge of facing major league pitching, with a great swing, developing power and improving plate discipline.

Nolan Arenado, 3B, Colorado Rockies (Double-A Tulsa): I know there was some foolish sentiment for putting Arenado on the Opening Day roster, and I don't really think he's ready now -- especially not after talking to scouts who saw him putting in less than 100 percent effort in Double-A. But with Rockies' third basemen hitting a collective .265/.312/.381 (unadjusted) this year, calling up Arenado wouldn't be the most ridiculous thing the Rockies have done this month.

Travis d'Arnaud, C, Toronto Blue Jays (Triple-A Las Vegas): He's destroying the Pacific Coast League, but the Jays' Triple-A affiliate plays on the moon, so take any of their hitters' stats with a pound of salt. But d'Arnaud has a great swing and offers plus defense behind the plate, while the Jays are getting no value at all from J.P. Arencibia.

Mike Olt, 3B, Texas Rangers (Double-A Frisco): With Mitch Moreland on the DL, there would appear to be an opening for Olt at the big league level, especially since third base is rather occupied at the moment. As classy as he may be, Michael Young isn't the answer at first.
[h3]Five guys I'm excited for a first/fresh look at[/h3]
Matt Barnes, rhp, Boston Red Sox (high Class A Salem): He had size and arm strength but struggled with command and his breaking ball during his junior year at UConn, sliding out of the top 15 in the 2011 draft. He has been dominant so far this year, throwing more and better strikes and showing a sharper curveball than what I saw from him last spring in college.

Jake Odorizzi, RHP, Kansas City Royals (Triple-A Omaha): I haven't seen Odorizzi since he was in the low minors, but have heard he has made steady progress with his off-speed stuff, the quality of which is what determines how high his ceiling is. He's a good athlete with enough velocity and fastball command to be at least a good No. 2 starter if the secondary stuff supports it.

Christian Yelich, OF/1B, Miami Marlins (high Class A Jupiter): I haven't seen him since high school, when I loved his swing and athleticism, if not his throwing motion.

Rymer Liriano, OF, San Diego Padres (high Class A Lake Elsinore): A very toolsy outfielder with some swing-and-miss issues; he had a brutal April but has hit .355/.407/.523 since, a line more commensurate with his raw ability and size. I saw him this spring but he was overmatched by big league pitching.

Wilmer Flores, 3B, New York Mets (Double-A Binghamton): Flores -- who was promoted to Double-A this week -- is still young enough to be a prospect (20) and performed reasonably well in the Florida State League, although it's his third time through the circuit, dampening some of my enthusiasm. I'd like to see if anything has changed in the body or swing to restore his old prospect status; otherwise, Jefry Marte, who turned 20 today on Thursday and is performing just as well at Double-A, seems like a better Futures Game choice from the Mets.
[h3]Five guys who should be here[/h3]
Keep in mind, of course, that MLB may have asked for these players for the Futures Game and been denied by their clubs, or may have had to pass on a player to fill a specific need.

Matt Davidson, 3B, Arizona Diamondbacks (Double-A Mobile): He's improving across the board year-over-year, a pure hitter with a simple swing, average or better power, and solid-average defense at third. Arizona lefty Tyler Skaggs started last year's Futures Game, so I'm OK with his exclusion.

Jackie Bradley, Jr., CF, Boston Red Sox (Double-A Portland): He's a plus defender who has made several key adjustments at the plate, leading to a huge year to date. (He posted a 1.006 OPS for high Class A Salem before a recent promotion.) You can't argue with the two Red Sox selections, though.

Mason Williams, CF, New York Yankees (low Class A Charleston): With only one Yankee selected (Tyler Austin, who is raking), the omissions of both Williams and catcher Gary Sanchez are a little puzzling.

George Springer, CF, Houston Astros (high Class A Lancaster): He's the third-best prospect in their system (after Jonathan Singleton and recent No. 1 overall pick Carlos Correa), raking in a hitter-friendly environment, but also a very athletic player who's likely to do something memorable with the bat or the glove in a short look.

Miguel Sano, 3B, Minnesota Twins (low Class A Beloit): He has big raw power and a pretty high ceiling with the bat, although he's going to be so big he may outgrow third base. I'm glad to get to see Oswaldo Arcia, who's closer to the majors, in the game, but Sano is the better prospect.

And finally ...

I'm fine with MLB getting creative with a showcase game like this, and they did with one member of the World team roster. Dodgers left-hander Chris Reed was born in the U.K., so even though he grew up in the U.S. and pitched for Stanford, he's on the World team as the first British-born player to appear in the Futures Game.

Billy Hamilton's speedy rise.

Spoiler [+]
Billy Hamilton can't remember ever running on a track, so he has no idea what his time in the 100 meters would be. There was a day, he mentioned over the phone on Thursday evening, that he was asked to run a 40-yard dash at a football camp in Mississippi.

"I ran a 4.5 flat," he recalled in a conversation Thursday evening. "I was in the ninth grade."

Four-point-five seconds flat in a 40-yard dash is a respectable time for NFL running backs. But that was six years ago and Hamilton, 21, is faster now, as he wrecks stolen-base records in the minor leagues. Not long after he chatted over the phone Thursday, he went 4-for-5 and stole two more bases for the Class A Bakersfield Blaze, bringing his season total to 82 -- in 67 games.

His next attempt will be his 100th -- he's been thrown out just 17 times -- and Hamilton is swiftly approaching benchmarks established in previous generations of minor-leaguers. According to the log of records maintained by Baseball America, Otis Nixon stole the most bases for any player in Triple-A since 1962, swiping 94 in 1983. Donell Nixon swiped 102 for Chattanooga in 1984, the most in Double-A.

If Hamilton remains in Class A for the rest of this season, he would appear to have an excellent shot at breaking the record for most steals for any player, at any level, since 1962 -- Vince Coleman's 145, set in 1983 for Class A Macon.

But he's given the Reds a lot of reason to think about promoting him later in this season, given his improvement at the plate. Hamilton is hitting .331 and, more importantly, has raised his on-base percentage to .416; he has 53 walks, and could be on his way to 100 for the season.

And if he walks, or gets a hit, he's going to run. The pitchers with the fastest mechanics deliver the ball to home plate in about 1.1 seconds, a time that will convince almost all baserunners to hold their ground. But Hamilton says he will still run on a pitcher with a time of 1.1 seconds, after gauging the pitcher's pick-off throw. On anybody slower, he is always running, always looking to be aggressive. The faster the pitcher is in delivering the ball to home plate, the bigger the lead he will get, Hamilton says; if the pitcher is slower to the plate, there isn't a pressing need for a long lead.

Hamilton met Delino DeShields after the Reds drafted Hamilton in 2009, and DeShields -- who had 463 stolen bases in a 13-year career, long before his current role as a manager in the Reds' farm system -- gave Hamilton some advice: Never be afraid of getting thrown out; never lose being afraid of getting picked off.

That has not been a problem. There is now good-natured dialogue between opposing first basemen and Hamilton. When are you going to run they ask. I bet you're going to run on this pitch.

It's because Hamilton is fast that he slows the game these days. There has been a more concerted effort to slow him this year, he said; his reputation precedes him. Opposing pitchers will try to hold the ball, or slide step, and they will throw to first base … a lot. A couple of weeks ago in Modesto, Calif., he recalled, a pitcher threw to first base seven straight times, without throwing home; Hamilton knew the pitcher was trying to wear him down physically, and test his concentration. When the pitcher finally threw to home, Hamilton broke on the next pitch.

Opposing catchers will chat with him, too. Recently, a catcher who Hamilton knows from past years greeted him cheerily. But in a matter of a few innings, Hamilton had stolen five bases and before his final at-bat, the catcher said nothing.

He grew up in the south watching Rafael Furcal, and liking Furcal's style of running. He's watched Juan Pierre. He's seen highlights of Rickey Henderson from back in the day, as well as other base-stealers.

So far, Hamilton is doing stuff in the minors that none of them did.

By the way: Hamilton preferred to not talk about being robbed earlier this week.

• The number that hovers over everything that the Colorado Rockies will do with their pitching is not four or five, as in the size of their rotation. It's not 75, the number of pitches their starters will now be limited to, for the time being.

It's 5,180. That's the number of feet about sea level at which the Rockies play.

After years of trying to squeeze conventional baseball tactics into the limits and conditions created by the elevation in Denver, Rockies General Manager Dan O'Dowd has decided to build a pitching blueprint around the circumstances that the team faces. "We cannot think traditionally, because that's not what we're dealing with," he said. "After 20 years of evidence, we have to change."

O'Dowd freely acknowledges that he does not know precisely what the new parameters will be. In fact, while the Rockies' big-league team has now started on a path of a four-man rotation, with each starter limited to 75 pitches, Colorado is maintaining a standard development plan for its minor leaguers. "This is just the start of the process," said O'Dowd, who is searching for answers that may be completely out of the box of conventional thinking.

Major League Baseball planning is essentially designed with math formulas these days, and there are many factors contributing to this result, including these:

1. The games played in Colorado have always involved significantly higher scoring, with greater physical and emotional stress on pitchers. Initially, after the Rockies installed a humidor to preserve the moisture within the baseballs, the offensive numbers were depressed -- but over the last two years, the offensive production has again significantly climbed. O'Dowd believes that the environmental conditions have something to do with that; the air has been drier in Colorado, the temperatures warmer.

2. The Rockies know that there is a physical toll on pitchers competing at a higher level, where there is less oxygen, and O'Dowd believes it's not a coincidence that Colorado has never been able to count on a bedrock No. 1 starter, whether it's someone developed within the organization (Jason Jennings, Ubaldo Jimenez, etc.) or acquired (Pedro Astacio, Mike Hampton, etc.).

3. Historically, pitchers have fared better with shorter outings in Colorado. Rather than asking pitchers to give a typical 110-115 pitch outing, then, the Rockies are going to use four starters and ask them to attack with their best stuff -- for a shorter period of time. In a sense, starting pitchers are marathoners, but the Rockies think their starters may be better off being 10K racers. "We're going to increase the number of times they pitch, but decrease the number of pitches they throw," O'Dowd said.

"Is the right number 75 pitches? I don't know," he continued. "Maybe it's 65. Maybe it's 60? We're going to find out ... We've got 20 years of evidence that tells us that the way we were doing it has been working."

Generally, the plan now is for Manager Jim Tracy to have two pitchers available to throw 120 to 130 pitches for the early part of each game, rather than one starter prepared to throw 110 pitches. If this doesn't work, O'Dowd will try other variations.

"We haven't hit on a formula for our ballpark yet that will allow for consistent success," he said.

Colorado's alignment worked on Thursday.

The Rockies' rotation depends on the team's young pitching.

• Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria held a team meeting, Joe Capozzi writes. The message didn't immediately translate into success: Miami lost the final game of its series in Boston.

• Speaking of owners who want to win: Mike Ilitch hasn't lost faith in the Tigers, writes Drew Sharp.

• I heard some speculation -- and that's all it is right now -- from one corner of the industry that the maybe the best thing for the Tigers to do is trade Rick Porcello while he has some value. Porcello is a sinker-baller and generates a lot of ground balls, and he is not a good fit for the Tigers' subpar infield defense, which is not going to get better any time soon. If Detroit landed a veteran fly ball pitcher -- maybe even for Porcello -- then trading the 23-year-old right-hander would make sense.

And Porcello could be an excellent fit for a team like the Braves, who will have shortstop Andrelton Simmons manning that position for years to come, or the Reds or Cubs. You wonder if some deal could be built around Porcello and Matt Garza.

Drew Sharp writes that Porcello could be a trade commodity.

• The Toronto Blue Jays and New York Mets are among the teams that will wait before diving into the trade market. Both those teams want to see more from their own players before deciding whether to invest in upgrades.

The Jays' emergency starter was hit hard the other day.
[h3]Moves, deals and decisions[/h3]
1. The Royals are expected to activate catcher Salvy Perez in time for today's game. Kansas City enters play today 4.5 games out of first place.

2. There hasn't been any progress in the contract talks between the Phillies and Cole Hamels, who is now about 100 days from free agency.

3. Geoff Baker asks the question: What should the Mariners do with Ichiro Suzuki?

4. Arizona GM Kevin Towers is mulling trade options.

5. Derek Norris was summoned to the big leagues to share time with Kurt Suzuki.

6. Gord Ash has one regret in his time as GM of the Jays, writes Richard Griffin.

7. Brian Duensing will become the 10th pitcher to start a game for the Twins this season, writes John Shipley.
[h3]Dings and dents[/h3]
1. The Rays' Matt Joyce is hurting, as Mark Topkin writes.

2. Brandon Beachy's surgery went well, writes David O'Brien.

3. The Padres have been hit by a monsoon of injuries, writes Bill Center; they lost another starting pitcher.

4. Drew Stubbs is very close to returning to the big leagues.

5. Charlie Morton is optimistic about his recovery from Tommy John surgery, as Rob Biertempfel writes.
[h3]By The Numbers[/h3]
From ESPN Stats and Info

14: Consecutive starts with three or fewer runs allowed by James McDonald to start the season, a Pirates record.
22: Hits allowed by the A's in their last six games, a franchise record.
39: Career leadoff home runs for Jimmy Rollins, second most among active players.
[h3]Thursday's games[/h3]
1. Jacob Turner had a solid outing. The Cardinals' hitters are in a serious rut, writes Bernie Miklasz.

2. Quintin Berry sparked the Tigers, as Bob Wojnowski writes.

3. Yoenis Cespedes set off a celebration.

4. The Dodgers' offense was a no-show, again.

5. Liam Hendriks is still looking for his first victory.

6. The Phillies' offense was limited. Charlie Manuel wants more hustle.

7. The Nationals beat Joel Peralta. Earlier in the day, of course, Peralta had been given an eight-game suspension, which he has appealed.

8. James McDonald was The Man for the Pirates.

From ESPN Stats and Info, how McDonald won:

A. He got the Twins to chase 19 pitches, and they were 0 for 9 with three strikeouts in at-bats ending with a pitch out of the zone.
B. Twins hitters were 2 for 10 in at-bats ending with a breaking pitch, including 2 for 8 with three strikeouts against the curveball.
C. He threw 41 pitches up in the zone or above. Twins hitters were 1 for 14 in at-bats ending in that location, including 1 for 12 against the fastball.
D. Twins hitters were 1 for 12 with men on base.

From the Elias Sports Bureau: With his start on Thursday, James McDonald became the only Pirates pitcher since 1900 to allow three-or-fewer runs in each of his first 14 starts of a season.

9. Some young players propelled the Red Sox.

Rumors.

Spoiler [+]
http://[h3]Stubbs on the mend[/h3]
10:05AM ET

[h5]Drew Stubbs | Reds [/h5]


The Cincinnati Reds are hopeful they'll get their center fielder back soon.

Drew Stubbs, on the DL since June 6 with a strained oblique on his left side, will set out Friday on a short rehab stint, according to Tom Groeschen of the Cincinnati Enquirer.

Stubbs was eligible to return Thursday, but instead the club decided to get him back in the swing with some game action. In his stead, Chris Heisey and Wilson Valdez have handled center, but Stubbs' defense and speed -- the Reds ranks last in the NL with 31 steals, and he has 13 of them -- are key to the NL Central's first-place team.

Utility man Willie Harris is the likely cut from the 25-man roster once Stubbs is ready to be activated.

- Jason Catania

Tags:
Cincinnati Reds, Drew Stubbs

http://[h3]The Youkilis rundown[/h3]
9:21AM ET

[h5]Kevin Youkilis | Red Sox [/h5]


[h5]Any interest in Youkilis?[/h5]We mentioned earlier this week that the Boston Red Sox have stepped up their efforts efforts to trade Kevin Youkilis and are willing to include cash in any deal.
The chances of a deal will only increase once Youkilis emerges from a deep slump and demonstrates that he is still a productive player. Another positive sign came Wednesday when he went 2-for-3 with a double and a walk in a 15-5 win over the Marlins, pushing his average to .225.

In Thursday's Boston Globe, Nick Cafardo says the Indians, who could use a righthanded bat at a corner position, are "very much involved" in talks with the Red Sox.

In fact, Cafardo wrote a full rundown of the teams interested in Youkilis, with an idea or two about what it might take to get a deal done. Some of the teams in addition to the Indians? The Diamondbacks, White Sox, Dodgers, Phillies and Pirates.

Cafardo says the Sox will have to assume most of the remaining $12 million on Youkilis' contract and the $1 million buyout of his 2013 option.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Arizona Diamondbacks, Cincinnati Reds, Kevin Youkilis, Detroit Tigers, Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago White Sox, Arizona Diamondbacks

http://[h3]Oswalt set for Friday[/h3]
9:15AM ET

[h5]Roy Oswalt | Rangers [/h5]


The Texas Rangers rotation is finally getting a boost. While Derek Holland, Neftali Feliz and Alexi Ogando remain sidelined for the time being, Roy Oswalt will make his Rangers debut against the Rockies on Friday.

Since signing with the Rangers in late May, Oswalt has made four starts in the minors (three at Triple-A and one at Double-A), posting a 5.87 ERA while allowing 20 hits in 15.1 IPs and registering 13 strikeouts against 4 walks.

His most recent outing Sunday, though, was the right-hander's best, as he threw 100 pitches over six innings, allowing two runs and six hits with five strikeouts.

For now, the Rangers will move Scott Feldman back to the bullpen -- which he's not happy about, despite posting a 1-6 record and 6.43 ERA as a starter this year -- and keep rookie Justin Grimm, who won his big-league debut, in the rotation. However, Grimm's time will be up once Holland returns, likely by month's end.

- Jason Catania

Tags:
Scott Feldman, Texas Rangers, Roy Oswalt, Justin Grimm

June 21, 2012

http://[h3]Drew looks close [/h3]
8:45PM ET

[h5]Stephen Drew | Diamondbacks [/h5]


While the .250 batting average isn't necessarily anything to write home about, Arizona Diamondbacks shortstop Stephen Drew is looking the part in Triple-A Reno. He's drawn four walks and is slugging .531 in eight games, and will get another start in the field Thursday night.

Those that have seen Drew in his short rehab stint opine that he looks close. Right now it's probably just about conditioning and working him back slowly, and having just watched him take batting practice and run the bases prior to Thursday's game, I can attest that there are no visible physical limitations.

The swing certainly doesn't look rusty, either, and it wouldn't be a surprise if Drew is back sooner than later.

The D-backs will have to make a roster move to clear space on the 25-man, with John McDonald and Josh Bell two prime candidates to be shipped out as a result.

- Jason A. Churchill

Tags:
Stephen Drew, John McDonald, Josh Bell, Arizona Diamondbacks

June 21, 2012

http://[h3]Could Ramirez hit the trade block?[/h3]
4:32PM ET

[h5]Hanley Ramirez | Marlins [/h5]


The Miami Marlins sit seven games back in the National League East and have six teams ahead of them in the Wildcard chase, not to mention they're sub-.500 record of 33-35 heading into play Thursday. Considering how aggressive the team was over the winter, it's difficult to believe they would become pure sellers at the deadline, but if they were to move any one player, Hanley Ramirez could be the prime candidate.

Ramirez was mentioned in rumors over the offseason after the club signed Jose Reyes and the former shortstop, who is due another $31.5 million after this season, could be of large interest to several other clubs.

If those clubs believe he can play shortstop, his value is still quite high, despite the fact that he hasn't put up the star numbers at the plate the past year and a half.

Among those that could be interested include the Detroit Tigers and both L.A. teams. The Fish may not be open to moving Ramirez for prospects only, however, suggesting any return package might have to include players that can help right away. Ramirez may be safe this summer, but seems like a potential trade candidate until he's actually moved. Whether that comes this summer or not remains to be seen.

- Jason A. Churchill

Tags:
Hanley Ramirez, Miami Marlins

June 21, 2012

http://[h3]The Mariners and the deadline[/h3]
3:32PM ET

[h5]Seattle Mariners [/h5]


[h5]Mariners have items for sale[/h5]
The Seattle Mariners are well on their way to another summer of selling at the trade deadline, but there crop of veterans that could be available may not draw much interest, suggesting it may be a quiet July for GM Jack Zduriencik.

Deadline Strategy
The Mariners are likely to look for ways to shave payroll where they can and open spots for their younger players, but Zduriencik could also seek a deal that helps the club long term if the right player is available. Adding veterans for the rest of 2012 is not on their agenda, but if they make moves they aren't going to be limited to salary dumps and deals that create roster space.

Money
The Mariners kept payroll down prior to the season, but that wasn't out of necessity and appear willing to add to it if the right player comes along that can make an impact beyond 2012.

Bait
In order to shed the veterans that aren't likely to be here next season and make room for younger players, each of the names mention above, right, are likely in play. For a young talent to be involved, it would have to occur in a scenario such as the deal the M's made with the Detroit Tigers a year ago, sending right-hander Doug Fister to Motown for younger pieces. Ichiro Suzuki, in the final year of his contract, and the club's most valuable proven commodity, Felix Hernandez, are likely safe for various reasons.

Targets
While two-month rentals have no value to Seattle, a quality pitcher or everyday bat under contract beyond this season is certainly worth a discussion. If the Twins shop Denard Span or Josh Willingham, the Mariners could be part of those negotiations and Michael Cuddyer in Colorado is another possibility, though it appears unlikely the Rockies move him.

- Jason A. Churchill

Tags:
Colorado Rockies, Minnesota Twins, Seattle Mariners, Miguel Olivo, Brendan Ryan, Brandon League, Kevin Millwood, Jason Vargas, Chone Figgins

June 21, 2012

http://[h3]KC to buy?[/h3]
2:26PM ET

[h5]Surprise Buyers [/h5]

[img]http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/leagues/lrg/trans/mlb.gif[/img]
The trade deadline is less than six weeks away and clubs are constantly jockeying for position on that front. Those in contention consider adding to their club, those clearly out of the race head into sell mode. There are still 17 teams within five games of their division leaders beginning play Friday, which is likely to lead to some surprise buyers this summer..

There are the obvious buyers, and ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney opined last month which of those might be the most aggressive.

I'm not sure anyone would have bet that both the Baltimore Orioles and Cleveland Indians might be in a position to improve their roster mid-season. In fact, most would have wagered that their respective GMs, Dan Duquette and Chris Antonetti, would be selling off major pieces in July, potentially including Adam Jones and Shin-Soo Choo.

The O's lead the American League East -- tied with the Rays -- and the Indians are within a game and a half in the Central, and if things don't change dramatically over the next 5-6 weeks, both clubs are likely to make deals toward a pennant run, rather than aiming at next year. Both likely will look to add pitching -- the O's could probably use a veteran starter and some relief help, while the Indians' relief corps has been among the worst in the circuit.

The Pittsburgh Pirates could be surprise buyers this summer, as they sit just four games back of the Reds. Pitching and a veteran bat might be on their wish list.

Astros lefty Wandy Rodriguez and Cubs right-handers Matt Garza and Ryan Dempster could interest any contender.

The Kansas City Royals are exactly five games back entering play Monday and have won five out of their last six. General manager Dayton Moore is likely to seek pitching if he decides to be aggressive in adding help to his 2012 roster.

The one thing that could make it difficult is money, as neither the Royals, O's, Indians nor the Pirates are likely to add significant payroll, which could eliminate both Rodriguez and Garza and limit each GM at the deadline.

- Jason A. Churchill

Tags:
Baltimore Orioles, Cleveland Indians, Adam Jones, Shin-Soo Choo, Jason Vargas, Matt Garza, Wandy Rodriguez, Brandon League, Brett Myers, Houston Astros, Seattle Mariners, Chicago Cubs, Pittsburgh Pirates

June 21, 2012

http://[h3]Valbuena to get more time?[/h3]
1:57PM ET

[h5]Luis Valbuena | Cubs [/h5]


Luis Valbuena, a second baseman by trade and a very solid defender by reputation, is handling third base right now for the Chicago Cubs as Ian Stewart nurses an injury and a slumping bat. While it's far from traditional, Valbuena could continue to get regular time at the hot corner if he keeps hitting.

The left-handed hitter has five hits in his last 11 at-bats, including two long balls, and defensively he has all the tools to be a good defender anywhere on the infield.

Despite the presence of Darwin Barney, Valbuena could eventually get time at his natural position, and battle for innings there in future seasons.

- Jason A. Churchill

Tags:
Luis Valbuena, Ian Stewart, Chicago Cubs

June 21, 2012

http://[h3]Could Prior help Red Sox?[/h3]
1:41PM ET

[h5]Mark Prior | Yankees [/h5]


His signing went under the radar, but Mark Prior's performance in Triple-A Pawtucket has not, suggesting the right-hander could help the Boston Red Sox out of the bullpen this season, and that time could come sooner than later.

Prior has made six appearances for the Paw Sox, allowing just four hits in eight innings while piling up 19 strikeouts. Alex Speier of WEEI.com reports that the curveball is back and Prior has sat in the 90-93 mph range with his fastball.

He has issued five walks but the 31-year-old has pitched around them for the most part, yielding just two earned runs, both coming in his latest outing Monday when he served up a two-run homer to Xavier Paul.

Another handful of strong outings by Prior could be enough to get him a call from the big club, even if Daniel Bard rights the ship in a relief role. Bard, after a few strong outings, was roughed up a bit Wednesday.

- Jason A. Churchill

Tags:
Boston Red Sox, Alfredo Aceves, Daniel Bard, Mark Prior

June 21, 2012

http://[h3]Puig nearly a free agent?[/h3]
1:07PM ET

[h5]Yasel Puig [/h5]

[img]http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/leagues/lrg/trans/mlb.gif[/img]
Cuban defector Yasiel Puig, a 21-year-old outfielder, has already established residency in Mexico and is slated to work out for MLB clubs next week, reports Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com. And if all goes according to plan, Puig could be declared a free agent and signed by a team as soon as next weekend, according to his agent Jaime Torres.

Puig could get a contract similar to that of Jorge Soler, who received a nine-year, $30 million deal from the Chicago Cubs earlier in June.

The reason for such a high price? Well, aside from his age and talent, there's a key timing factor that could give Puig a lot of leverage. The new regulations set forth by the CBA allow clubs all of $2.9 million to spend on international free agents (including Cuban defectors), but that doesn't kick in until July 2. So if Puig is declared a free agent before then, teams will be fighting over his rights -- and have more money to spend.

As for the teams expected to be after Puig, ESPNDeportesLosAngeles.com's Enrique Rojas mentions the following in the link above: Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, San Francisco Giants, Philadelphia Phillies and Arizona Diamondbacks.

- Jason A. Churchill and Jason Catania

Tags:
Arizona Diamondbacks, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies, San Francisco Giants

June 21, 2012

http://[h3]Cashner's timetable[/h3]
12:05PM ET

[h5]Andrew Cashner | Padres [/h5]


Right-hander Andrew Cashner was sent to the minors to stretch out into a starting role and he's taken well to the transition so far, and may be nearing his second big-league start of the season.

He fanned nine in five strong innings Monday in Double-A and may have just one or two more starts before taking a spot in San Diego Padres' rotation.

One current starter whose spot is likely safer than expected is veteran Jason Marquis, who struck out 10 Texas Rangers Monday and has been stellar since joining the Padres. Ross Ohlendorf has not been bad, either, but could be the odd-man out and head to the bullpen to make room for Cashner.

Whether the Padres would consider using six starters is unclear, but it's a rebuilding season for the club, so anything is possible.

- Jason A. Churchill

Tags:
Andrew Cashner, Jason Marquis, Ross Ohlendorf, San Diego Padres

June 21, 2012

http://[h3]The Pirates at the deadline[/h3]
10:05AM ET

[h5]Pittsburgh Pirates [/h5]


[h5]Potential Targets in Pittsburgh[/h5]
The Pittsburgh Pirates are an entertaining team looking to end a string of 19 straight losing seasons. A reminder -- they were in a similar situation last summer before the bottom fell out in August.

Deadline Strategy
The garage sale sign no longer hangs outside of PNC Park. Late July has traditionally been the time when the Pirates threw high-priced talent overboard, but that has changed, as evidenced by last July's trade for Derrek Lee. Manager Clint Hurdle even admitted over the weekend the Bucs have discussed trades with teams for six weeks.

The Pirates have somehow stayed near the top of the NL Central despite scoring the fewest runs in the majors, so offense is a priority.

Money
The Pirates are 27th in MLB payroll at $63 million, and GM Neal Huntington has hinted the club can take on more salary, as long as the cost is reasonable.

Bait
The Pirates have built their farm system around pitchers Gerrit Cole and Jameson Taillon, and they are staying put. Starters Rudy Owens and Jeff Locke are enjoying strong seasons at Triple-A Indianapolis, but the Bucs may need them in Pittsburgh instead due to the season-ending injury to Charlie Morton.

Targets
Josh Willingham would fit in nicely in left field if the Twins become sellers. Willingham's trade value may never be higher and he's already under contract for the next two seasons, at $7 million per year, a relatively modest price compared to what free agents will command in the offseason.
Pirates first basemen (Casey McGehee and Garrett Jones) have accounted for just 26 RBI as of Wednesday, which ranks 24th in MLB. There are rumors the 36-year-old Lee is still open to the right opportunity, which could be in Pittsburgh. Maybe the Pirates eat some of the salary of Houston's Carlos Lee, who will be a free agent after the season. The Pirates are still waiting for Pedro Alvarez to find his groove at third base, prompting legitimate interest in Boston's Kevin Youkilis.
- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Clint Hurdle, Boston Red Sox, Pedro Alvarez, Derrek Lee, Brandon Inge, Kevin Youkilis, Pittsburgh Pirates

June 21, 2012

http://[h3]No panic on South Beach[/h3]
9:45AM ET

[h5]Miami Marlins [/h5]


The Miami Marlins made the biggest offseason splash this side of Anaheim, adding Jose Reyes, Mark Buehrle and Heath Bell. Despite the roster boost and the fancy new digs at Marlins Park, the Fish (33-35) are not even treading water almost three months into the season.

Even after a 15-5 loss in Boston Wednesday, manager Ozzie Guillen says there are no trades on the immediate horizon, writes Coley Harvey of the Sun-Sentinel.

Owner Jeffrey Loria also is unfazed by the June swoon, calling his Marlins "an excellent team."

The Marlins are still keeping their options open. MLB.com's Joe Frisaro said earlier this week the Marlins are actively looking for speed in the outfield while Emilio Bonifacio recovers from thumb surgery that could keep him out until the All-Star break.

The Twins' Denard Span and the Angels' Peter Bourjos, the subject of numerous rumors in recent months. could be high on their list. The Fish also could be among the teams taking a look at Houston first baseman Carlos Lee.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Carlos Lee, Peter Bourjos, Denard Span, Miami Marlins

June 21, 2012

http://[h3]Markakis out until July[/h3]
9:26AM ET

[h5]Nick Markakis | Orioles [/h5]


Orioles right fielder Nick Markakis, who had surgery June 1 for a broken hamate bone in his right wrist, had hoped to return to the lineup sometime next week. That may have been too optimistic.

Manager Buck Showalter does not expect Markakis to be activated by the end of an upcoming homestand, which ends July 1, reports Dan Connolly.

Showalter has started Chris Davis in right field in five of the last six games.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Baltimore Orioles, Nick Markakis, Chris Davis

June 21, 2012

http://[h3]All-Star start for Verlander?[/h3]
9:14AM ET

[h5]Justin Verlander | Tigers [/h5]


Timing is everything when it comes to who are the starting pitchers for the All-Star Game. We're about three weeks away from 2012 game in Kansas City, and things are lining up for the Tigers' Justin Verlander to be the American League starter.

John Lowe of the Detroit Free Press reports the way the Tigers' rotation unfolds, Verlander's final start before the All-Star break would come July 4, six days before the game. Even if Verlander pitches two innings, Verlander might be able to start the Tigers' first game after the break, which comes three days after the All-Star Game.

Verlander (7-4, 2.57) is a virtual lock to be named to the AL roster.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Justin Verlander, Detroit Tigers

June 21, 2012

http://[h3]Top Trade Candidates[/h3]
8:41AM ET

[h5]Trade Candidates [/h5]

[img]http://a.espncdn.com/i/teamlogos/leagues/lrg/trans/mlb.gif[/img]
Jason A. Churchill

Since early this season there has been buzz on the trade front involving a handful of prominent players. Those players have done their parts, their respective teams have done theirs. Here are there stories.

Kevin Youkilis, 3B -- Boston Red Sox
Youkilis has not been healthy and has struggled when active, but there are clubs willing to take the risk on his track record at the plate if the price is right. We learned earlier this week that Boston asked the Arizona Diamondbacks for outfielder Gerardo Parra in exchange for Youkilis, a request that was declined.

Clubs looking for corner infield bats include the Cleveland Indians and perhaps the Detroit Tigers and Los Angeles Dodgers. The Angels seem like a potential landing spot on the surface but ESPNLosAngeles.com's Mark Saxon reported Monday that the Halos are not a fit.

With rookie Will Middlebrooks continuing to produce at the plate, it seems Youkilis is destined to be dealt this summer, and FOXSports.com's Ken Rosenthal wrote Monday night that trade talks have "intensified" over the past few days.

Ryan Dempster, RHP -- Chicago Cubs
Dempster, a free agent at the end of the season, has a no-trade clause but the buzz was that the right-hander was amenable to a trade to a contending team and it's believed he's had conversations with the front office about his future with the team.

There is one hurdle to a trade involving Dempster, however, and that is the fact that he was just placed on the disabled list and isn't eligible to return until the first week of July. A trade still seems likely, but now the time frame on such a deal is pushed back at least a few weeks.

Potentially interested clubs include the Tigers, Rangers, Red Sox, Indians, Dodgers, Brewers and Reds.

Matt Garza, RHP -- Chicago Cubs
Garza is not a pending free agent, and in the end could sign an extension with the Cubs, but until that occurs he's a prime target for trade.

He might be more attractive to teams that are looking for more than just a two-month rental, although the Indians, Orioles, Reds and other contenders without deep pockets, may see Garza's salary situation as major stumbling block.

The Cubs' asking price is likely to fairly steep, too, and common sense suggests GM Jed Hoyer will request young pitching -- the organization's greatest weakness -- in exchange for Garza's services.

Cole Hamels, LHP -- Philadelphia Phillies
Hamels may never hit the block as the Phillies are expecting to get back Chase Utley and Ryan Howard in the coming weeks and sit just five games back in the Wildcard race entering play Wednesday.

If the Phillies continue to struggle, however, GM Ruben Amaro could choose to trade Hamels rather than make a qualifying offer to the southpaw over the winter and receive draft-pick compensation if and when Hamels signs elsewhere.

There is heavy belief that the Los Angeles Dodgers are the overwhelming favorites for Hamels in free agency, though it may not be entirely out of the question that the Phillies find a way to keep Hamels long term, despite how difficult it is to see them handling such a payroll moving forward.

Wandy Rodriguez, LHP -- Houston Astros
Rodriguez's contract stipulates that the club's 2014 option -- worth $13 million -- becomes a player option should he be traded, whuch means he'd be owed a grand total of $31 million guaranteed. That's a large number and clubs balked at the same notion last summer, though there certainly was some interest in the player.

The Yankees were one of those clubs linked to the left-hander a year ago, and this summer the Red Sox, Tigers and Dodgers could also be intrigued by Rodriguez, despite the salary. One question contenders may consider is how well Rodriguez fits in their ballpark, division or league. He's not overpowering and induces a slightly above-average rate of fly balls, which doesn't bode well in smaller ballparks, or perhaps in the American League, where premium offenses reside.

Carlos Quentin, OF -- San Diego Padres
Quentin could be the best bat on the market and is likely to generate tons of interest, provided he stays healthy between now and July 31.

Clubs such as the Tigers and Brewers have already been linked to Quentin, in terms of reported interest or common sense -- the Brewers need offense, for example -- and the Dodgers could upgrade left field with Quentin, who isn't a strong defender but is a better bat than Juan Rivera, who could then play some first base, particularly versus left-handed pitching.

Shane Victorino, CF -- Philadelphia Phillies
Like Hamels, Victorino is likely going nowhere until Amaro is convinced it's in the best interest of his club to acquire pieces that the team can control through next season.

Earlier this season the Toronto Blue Jays were reported to have interest in Victorino, but with the recent hot streak by Colby Rasmus, who hit two more long balls Tuesday night, such interest may no longer live.

Other clubs that could use a center field upgrade for the final two or three months include the Texas Rangers, who could then use Josh Hamilton in a corner in an attempt to keep him healthy.

The Boston Red Sox figure to get Jacoby Ellsbury back soon, and Carl Crawford may not be far off, either, but Victorino could give them some stability. The Tigers could also be a fit, though Victorino would likely play left field in Motown with Austin Jackson manning center, and the same goes for the Dodgers who have Matt Kemp in center -- once he's back from the DL.

Denard Span, CF | Justin Morneau, 1B -- Minnesota Twins
Span is signed through 2014 with a reasonable option for 2015 and the Twins don't likely feel a need to move him. They could, however, attempt to rebuild their pitching staff by trading Span, and there are plenty of clubs out there in need of center field help.

The Washington Nationals are among those teams and the Texas Rangers could also be a strong bidder if the Twins put Span on the market and perhaps the Cardinals could see such value in Span and be willing to part with one of their top two pitching prospects to get him.

Morneau is healthy, hitting and a free agent after 2013 and could intrigue the Dodgers, Nationals, Rangers or Blue Jays. Toronto has a rather large crop of young arms they could package to get the first baseman, though few of them are near the big leagues, which could be a sticking point for the Twins.

Tags:
Washington Nationals, Toronto Blue Jays, Texas Rangers, St. Louis Cardinals, San Diego Padres, Philadelphia Phillies, Arizona Diamondbacks, Baltimore Orioles, Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, Cleveland Indians, Houston Astros, Detroit Tigers, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, Milwaukee Brewers, Minnesota Twins, Justin Morneau, Denard Span, Carlos Quentin, Wandy Rodriguez, Matt Garza, Ryan Dempster, Shane Victorino, Gerardo Parra, Cole Hamels, Kevin Youkilis

June 21, 2012

http://[h3]Another chance for Lincoln[/h3]
8:24AM ET

[h5]Brad Lincoln | Pirates [/h5]


Pirates manager Clint Hurdle continues to have faith in Brad Lincoln, who will remain in the rotation and start Saturday against the Detroit Tigers.

Lincoln is 0-2 in his past three starts in which he allowed 13 runs and 23 hits in 11 2/3 innings for a 10.03 ERA. "I think we have continued to show patience in a lot of different areas, and this is just another one that we will show a little more patience to," Hurdle tells the Post-Gazette.

Lincoln may simply be filling the final spot in the rotation until Jeff Karstens comes off the disabled list later this month. Karstens pitched seven innings of one-run ball Tuesday for Double-A Altoona, allowing six hits and could start for Triple-A Indianapolis over the weekend.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Brad Lincoln, Pittsburgh Pirates

June 21, 2012

http://[h3]Interest in Drew?[/h3]
8:07AM ET

[h5]J.D. Drew | Red Sox [/h5]


Agent Scott Boras tells Rob Bradford of WEEI.com that a "couple of teams" have inquired about free agent J.D. Drew, who never found a job to his liking during the offseason.

Boras says he was left with the impression that the 36-year-old Drew has no intention of continuing his playing career, but has not addressed the issue with his client.

Drew hit just .222 for the Red Sox, so his market value is limited. A team could be tempted to give Drew a short minor league audition, similar to what the Blue Jays did with Vladimir Guerrero before releasing the former AL MVP.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
J.D. Drew

June 21, 2012

http://[h3]Could Tulowitzki move to 3B?[/h3]
7:43AM ET

[h5]Troy Tulowitzki | Rockies [/h5]


Troy Tulowitzki hates the label of injury-prone player, but the Rockies shortstop will have surgery on his left groin area on Thursday and will likely be sidelined for eight weeks, reports Troy Renck of the Denver Post.

Marco Scutaro has been manning shortstop in Tulowitzki's absence and will continue to start, though Jonathan Herrera is close to returning from his rehab assignment and could see time at the position, as could Chris Nelson. Given the Rockies' disappointing season, it seems unlikely Colorado will look to deal for a shortstop.

Renck notes that Tulowitzki's latest setback will only increase the volume of those calling for him to move to third base, where he might be less prone to injury. Tulowitzi, on the DL for the fourth time in his career, wants no part of the idea. "I didn't get hurt on defense."

If the Rockies went that route, they would at some point need to find a new position for third base prospect Nolan Arenado, a .300 hitter over parts of four minor league seasons.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Marco Scutaro, Troy Tulowitzki, Colorado Rockies

June 21, 2012

http://[h3]Who wants Wandy?[/h3]
7:17AM ET

[h5]Wandy Rodriguez | Astros [/h5]


[h5]Potential Teams Targeting Wandy[/h5]
Houston Astros left-hander Wandy Rodriguez has been on the trade block since last June. What does the trade market for the veteran pitcher look like a year later?

First off, it's worth pointing out that Rodriguez is arguably having the best season of his career, sporting a 3.29 ERA and 1.26 WHIP. However, there are signs that his stuff is declining a bit, as he's been slightly more hittable this year (9.3 H/9) than he has in recent years (8.6 H/9 from 2008-2011) and the bigger concern right now is his plummeting strikeout rate (just 5.7 K/9 compared to 8.2 the past four seasons).

The other issues are his age and contract. He's 33, which while not old is still something for teams to consider, especially given that he's signed through 2013 at $10 million this year and $13 million next. And then there's the team option for another $13 mill in 2014 that -- and here's the kicker -- becomes a player option if he's traded. That potentially puts any interested clubs on the hook for about $30 million all told from here on out.

So just who might those interested parties be? For starters, the Yankees, Blue Jays and Giants all scouted Rodriguez during his start Tuesday night against the Royals. The Yankees, of course, were closely linked to Rodriguez last summer, and the Blue Jays lost three-fifths of their rotation just last week.

Another report says scouts from the Dodgers and Red Sox - Jason Catania

Tags:
San Francisco Giants, Los Angeles Dodgers, Chicago White Sox, Boston Red Sox, Baltimore Orioles, Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, Wandy Rodriguez

June 21, 2012

http://[h3]Jays are still buyers[/h3]
7:10AM ET

[h5]Toronto Blue Jays [/h5]


The Toronto Blue Jays may be a last-place team in the ultra-competitive AL East, but can still be classified as trade market buyers, tweets Jon Morosi.

Morosi says the Jays are "scouting major leagues hard" and obviously are in search of pitching since Kyle Drabek, Brandon Morrow and Drew Hutchison all landed on the disabled list recently.

The Jays have been linked to Colorado's Jeremy Guthrie and Houston's Wandy Rodriguez. Zack Greinke could be a fit if the Brewers are in sell-off mode.

- Doug Mittler

Tags:
Wandy Rodriguez, Jeremy Guthrie, Toronto Blue Jays

June 21, 2012

http://[h3]Royals catcher getting closer[/h3]
6:52AM ET

[h5]Salvador Perez | Royals [/h5]


The Kansas City Royals have spent all season without their starting catcher, but Salvador Perez is getting closer to finally making his 2012 debut, says Bob Dutton of the Kansas City Star.

Perez has played in 11 games at Triple-A Omaha, hitting .340 (17-for-50), including a 4-for-4 performance while catching all nine innings for the second day in a row Wednesday.

It's looking like Perez could be back by next week, which would beat the initial timetable (i.e., the All-Star break) when he needed surgery to repair a torn meniscus in spring training.

Humberto Quintero and Brayan Pena have shared catching duties this season, and neither player has produced at the plate. One of them is likely to be the odd-man out at some point, but both are out of minor-league options, so the Royals have indicated they may carry three catchers until they're sure Perez is fully recovered.

- Jason Catania
 
So this is what the top 5 in WAR looks like on FG.  Defense is a big part because look at which name you would not think belongs in this conversation
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[table][tr][td]Name[/td][td]Team[/td][td]G[/td][td]PA[/td][td]H[/td][td]HR[/td][td]R[/td][td]RBI[/td][td]SB[/td][td]BB%[/td][td]K%[/td][td]ISO[/td][td]BABIP[/td][td]AVG[/td][td]OBP[/td][td]SLG[/td][td]wOBA[/td][td]wRC+[/td][td]Fld[/td][td]BsR[/td][td]WAR[/td][/tr][tr][td]Joey Votto[/td][td]Reds[/td][td]68[/td][td]296[/td][td]87[/td][td]13[/td][td]45[/td][td]45[/td][td]4[/td][td]18.60%[/td][td]18.20%[/td][td]0.291[/td][td]0.43[/td][td]0.367[/td][td]0.486[/td][td]0.658[/td][td]0.471[/td][td]201[/td][td]4.6[/td][td]-0.6[/td][td]4.8[/td][/tr][tr][td]Ryan Braun[/td][td]Brewers[/td][td]65[/td][td]285[/td][td]80[/td][td]20[/td][td]47[/td][td]51[/td][td]12[/td][td]9.80%[/td][td]18.60%[/td][td]0.305[/td][td]0.337[/td][td]0.321[/td][td]0.4[/td][td]0.627[/td][td]0.434[/td][td]179[/td][td]5.2[/td][td]1.3[/td][td]4.3[/td][/tr][tr][td]David Wright[/td][td]Mets[/td][td]66[/td][td]285[/td][td]86[/td][td]8[/td][td]46[/td][td]39[/td][td]7[/td][td]15.10%[/td][td]12.30%[/td][td]0.213[/td][td]0.394[/td][td]0.358[/td][td]0.456[/td][td]0.571[/td][td]0.428[/td][td]177[/td][td]0.9[/td][td]1.9[/td][td]4.2[/td][/tr][tr][td]Michael Bourn[/td][td]Braves[/td][td]69[/td][td]316[/td][td]91[/td][td]6[/td][td]46[/td][td]22[/td][td]18[/td][td]7.00%[/td][td]19.60%[/td][td]0.136[/td][td]0.376[/td][td]0.31[/td][td]0.358[/td][td]0.446[/td][td]0.352[/td][td]123[/td][td]11.2[/td][td]2.3[/td][td]3.7[/td][/tr][tr][td]Josh Hamilton[/td][td]Rangers[/td][td]63[/td][td]273[/td][td]80[/td][td]22[/td][td]45[/td][td]64[/td][td]6[/td][td]9.20%[/td][td]21.20%[/td][td]0.343[/td][td]0.347[/td][td]0.331[/td][td]0.388[/td][td]0.674[/td][td]0.438[/td][td]176[/td][td]-1[/td][td]1.4[/td][td]3.6[/td][/tr][/table]
 
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