The Game of Baseball: April 2008

Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Bonser, Twins Top White Sox 3-1

Boof Bonser and three relievers combined on a seven-hitter as the Twins topped the White Sox 3-1 at the Metrodome. Jason Kubel drilled a two-run homer and Mike Lamb had a sac-fly in a three-run fourth inning for Minnesota, which returned home from a 2-and-4 road trip through Oakland and Texas. Bonser struck out eight while allowing six hits and one run over seven innings for his second win. Joe Nathan notched his eighth save. Gavin Floyd gave up three runs in six innings to suffer his first loss of the season for Chicago, which had won three of its previous four. Joe Crede homered for the Pale Hose.

Labels: boof bonser, joe crede, mike lamb

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:33 AM | Permalink | Comments

Kent Lifts Dodgers Over Marlins 7-6

Jeff Kent singled in the go-ahead run in the top of the ninth inning and the Dodgers held on to edge the Marlins 7-6 in the opener of a three-game set at Dolphin Stadium. Kent had two hits and three RBI, and Andre Ethier went 2-for-3 and scored three times, as Los Angeles won its fourth straight. Joe Beimel hurled a scoreless eighth inning to move to 2-and-0 with the win. Jorge Cantu was 3-for-4 with an RBI and two runs scored for Florida, which has dropped two-of-three. Kevin Gregg allowed the deciding run to fall to 3-and-1 with the loss.

Labels: jeff kent, Joe Beimel, Jorge Cantu

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:32 AM | Permalink | Comments

Huff, Orioles Down Rays 7-4 at Camden

Aubrey Huff clubbed a two-run homer as the Orioles knocked off the Rays 7-4 in the first-of-three at Camden Yards. Melvin Mora drove in a two runs, and Luis Hernandez had two hits and scored twice, as the O's snapped a two-game skid. Garrett Olson gave up four hits and two runs in six-and-two-thirds innings to pick up his first win of the year. B.J. Upton launched a two-run homer, and Carl Crawford and Akinori Iwamura each had an RBI and scored a run for Tampa Bay, which had its six-game winning streak come to an end. Jason Hammel surrendered three runs on six hits over two-and-two-thirds innings to fall to 2-and-2.

Labels: Aubrey Huff, B.J. Upton, Melvin Mora

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:31 AM | Permalink | Comments

Brew Crew Wins Slugfest with Cubs 10-7

Mike Cameron went 3-for-5 with two RBI and two runs scored in his season debut as the Brewers outslugged the Cubs 10-7 at Wrigley Field. Cameron sat out the first 25 games of the season for violating baseball's drug policy. Corey Hart, Bill Hall and J.J. Hardy also had three hits each, and Prince Fielder drove in two runs for Milwaukee. Ben Sheets gave up three hits, seven walks and four runs in five innings, but moved to 4-and-0 with the win. Eric Gagne put two on in the ninth, but hung on for his eighth save. Jason Marquis gave up 10 hits and five runs in five frames to take the loss. Derrek Lee hit a solo homer and Mike Fontenot had two hits and three RBI for Chicago, which has lost four-of-five.

Labels: Eric Gagne, Jason Marquis, Mike Cameron

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:30 AM | Permalink | Comments

Cardinals Crush Cueto, Top Reds 7-2

Rick Ankiel went 3-for-5 with two RBI as the Cardinals scored seven times in the first two innings and beat the Reds 7-2 at Busch Stadium. Troy Glaus added two hits and three RBI for St. Louis, which has won three of its last four games. Skip Schumaker went 4-for-5 and scored twice for the Redbirds. Joel Piniero pitched seven shutout innings for his second win. Johnny Cueto was tagged for eight hits and seven runs in an inning-and-two-thirds to fall to 1-and-3 with the loss. Adam Dunn slugged a two-run homer in the ninth for Cincinnati in defeat.

Labels: Johnny Cueto, Rick Ankiel, Troy Glaus

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:28 AM | Permalink | Comments

Astros Snap Three-Game Skid in 6-4 Win Over D'Backs

Geoff Blum's three-run double highlighted a four-run third inning that put the Astros ahead to stay in a 6-4 triumph over the Diamondbacks at Chase Field. J.R. Towles added an RBI double for Houston, which hung on from there to snap a three-game losing skid. Miguel Tejada and Carlos Lee drove in runs in the first for the 'Stros, but Conor Jackson hit a two-run homer in the bottom half to tie the game at two for Arizona. Jackson added an RBI groundout in the fourth and Miguel Montero had a pinch-hit RBI single in the seventh to get the Snakes within 6-4. Doug Brocail got the win and Jose Valverde fanned three in the ninth for his fifth save. Edgar Gonzalez lost for the D'backs, who had won four of their previous five games.

Labels: Carlos Lee, Geoff Blum, jose valverde, miguel tejada

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:27 AM | Permalink | Comments

Rockies Edge Giants By The Bay 3-2

Filling in for the injured Troy Tulowitzki, Chris Ianetta went 2-for-3 with a solo homer as the Rockies nipped the Giants 3-2 at AT&T Park. Tulowitzki left the game with a strained quad in the first inning. Ianetta scored the go-ahead run on a balk by Giants starter Tim Lincecum in the seventh inning. Aaron Cook gave up 10 hits and two unearned runs in seven innings to move to 4-and-1 with the win. Brian Fuentes worked the ninth for his second save. Lincecum allowed all three runs in seven innings to fall to 4-and-1 with the loss. Bengie Molina and Aaron Rowand had RBI hits in the first inning for San Francisco, which has lost three of its last four games. Colorado snapped a four-game skid.

Labels: Bengie Molina, Chris Ianetta, Tim Lincecum

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:25 AM | Permalink | Comments

Tigers Tame Yankees 6-4 in the Bronx

Curtis Granderson went 2-for-3 with a solo homer and scored three times as the Tigers defeated the Yankees 6-4 in the first of a three-game series at Yankee Stadium. Placido Polanco added four hits, an RBI and scored twice for Detroit, which has won six of its last eight games. Gary Sheffield also homered for the Tigers. Kenny Rogers hurled six innings of two-run ball to improve to 2-and-3 with the win. Todd Jones gave up a run in the ninth, but held on for his fifth save. Phil Hughes was tagged for all six runs in three-and-two-thirds innings to fall to 0-and-4 with the loss. Robinson Cano hit a two-run homer for New York, which fell to 14-and-14. Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez is headed to the 15-day DL with a quadriceps strain.

Labels: Curtis Granderson, Kenny Rogers, Placido Polanco, Todd Jones

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:24 AM | Permalink | Comments

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Zito Demoted To Bullpen

The ink was barely dry on his contract and already San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Barry Zito is being demoted to the bullpen - presumably short-term to work out his pitching issues, according to John Shea of the San Francisco Chronicle. As a result, Zito will miss his turn in the regular rotation for the firsttime in his career; Giants owner Peter Magowan told the chronicle that he was disappointed, adding, "I'll give a better answer to that in four or five years. I'm very disappointed. Barry is, too. Neither one of us signed up for this, and we both know that."

Giants coach Bruce Bochy hasn't as of this writing given a timetable for Zito's return to the rotation, but Pat Misch, recalled from Triple-A Fresno, will make his debut in Zito's spot on Friday against the Philadelphia Phillies on Friday. And in the meantime, because of upcoming off days, the Giants don't need another starter until May 10; for the short-term, they will stick to a 4-man rotation, with starter Kevin Correia being sent to the disabled list on Sunday and Noah Lowry not nearly ready to re-assume starting duties. Zito, prior to the demotion, was 0-6 with a 7.53 ERA.

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 2:18 PM | Permalink | Comments

Monday, April 28, 2008

Mussina's Strong Effort Pushes Yankees Past Indians 5-2

If two consecutive strong pitching efforts mean anything, then it is safe to say that New York Yankees starting pitcher Mike Mussina has returned to form; Mussina pitched 5 innings, leading New York to a 5-2 victory over the Cleveland Indians Monday at Progressive Field. New York was led by Hideki Matsui as he went 1-for-4 with a double and 2 RBIs; Mussina (3-3) picked up the win as he pitched 5 innings, allowing 7 hits, 2 earned runs, walking 1 while striking out 2. Closer Mariano Rivera picked up his 8th save, pitching a scoreless 9th inning. Cleveland was led by Franklin Gutierrez and Jason Michaels with 2 hits each; Aaron Laffey (0-1) absorbed the loss as he pitched 5 2/3 innings, allowing only 3 hits, 4 earned runs, walking 1 while striking out 1. New York (14-13) plays again on Tuesday as they return home to host the Detroit Tigers (11-15); Phil Hughes (0-3) gets the start for New York while Kenny Rogers (1-3) will start for Detroit. Cleveland (12-14) plays again on Tuesday as they continue their homestand by hosting the Seattle Mariners (12-14); Fausto Carmona (3-1) gets the nod for Cleveland while Carlos Silva (3-0) gets the start for Seattle.

Labels: Franklin Gutierrez, Hideki Matsui, Jason Michaels, Mariano Rivera, Mike Mussina

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 9:27 PM | Permalink | Comments

Blalock Out With Torn Hamstring

As if the Texas Rangers have enough problems already, you can add one more to their grocery list as according to the Associated Press, third baseman Hank Blalock is suffering from a small tear in his left hamstring and is expected to miss up to 3 weeks. On Monday, Blalock had an MRI followed by an injection; he had originally suffered the injury running the bases last Friday night and hasn't played since. The Rangers - who are off today - placed Blalock on the 15-day disabled list prior to their game against the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday.

Labels: Hank Blalock

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 9:09 PM | Permalink | Comments

Shields' 2-Hitter Helps Rays Blank Red Sox 3-0

I am not suggesting that the Tampa Bay Rays are all of a sudden division contenders in the American League East, but in the past week or so, they have played like a team that is better than Rays' teams from the past. Sunday's game was a prime example of that as James Shields pitched a complete game shutout, leading Tampa Bay to a convincing 3-0 win over the Boston Red Sox at Tropicana Field. Tampa Bay was led on offense by rookie Evan Longoria as he went 1-for-3 with a home run, a run scored and an RBI; the win went to James Shields (3-1) as he pitched a complete game, allowing only 2 hits, walking 1 while striking out 7. Boston managed only 2 hits - one each by Dustin Pedroia and Julio Lugo; Josh Beckett (2-2) took the loss as he pitched 7 innings, allowing 10 hits, an earned run, walking 1 while striking out 13. Tampa Bay (14-11), tied with Baltimore for first place in the AL East, plays again on Tuesday as they travel to Baltimore to face the Orioles (14-11); Jason Hammel (2-1) gets the start for Tampa Bay while Garrett Olson (0-0) makes his season debut for Baltimore. Boston (15-12) plays on Tuesday as they return home to host the Toronto Blue Jays (11-15); Daisuke Matsuzaka (4-0) gets the start for Boston while Roy Halladay (2-3) will start for Toronto.

Labels: Evan Longoria, James Shields

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 7:59 AM | Permalink | Comments

Maholm, McLouth Power Pirates Past Phillies 5-1

The Battle of Pennsylvania - in this case, the Philadelphia Phillies and Pittsburgh Pirates - if anything else, is a series dependant on offense as opposed to getting stellar pitching performances. But a funny thing happened Sunday at PNC Park - the Pirates got a little bit of both as Paul Maholm pitched a complete game and Nate McLouth slammed two home runs, leading Pittsburgh to a 5-1 win over Philadelphia. As one would expect, Pittsburgh was led by the aforementioned McLouth who went 2-for-4 with 2 HRs, 2 runs scored and 3 RBIs; not to be outdone, Jose Bautista had 3 hits and an RBI while Jason Bay, Adam LaRoche and Luis Rivas had 2 hits apiece. Maholm (2-2) got the win in pitching his best game of the season thus far; he pitched a complete game, allowing only 2 hits, an earned run, walking 4 while striking out 2. Philadelphia managed only 2 hits - one each by Pat Burrell and Eric Bruntlett; Brett Myers (2-2) was tagged for the loss as he pitched 5 innings, allowing 8 hits, 4 earned runs, walking 1, striking out 5 and allowing 2 HRs. Pittsburgh (10-15) plays again on Monday as they travel to New York (13-11) to face the Mets; Ian Snell (2-1) gets the start for Pittsburgh while Johan Santana (3-2) will start for New York. Philadelphia (14-12) plays on Tuesday as they return home to host the San Diego Padres (10-16); Cole Hamels (2-3) gets the nod for Philadelphia while Greg Maddux (2-1) will start for San Diego.

Labels: Jose Bautista, Nate McLouth, Pat Maholm

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 7:35 AM | Permalink | Comments

Lannan, Nationals Blank Cubbies 2-0

John Lannan hurled seven innings of four-hit, shutout ball as the Nationals downed the Cubs 2-0 in the rubber game of their three-game series at Nationals Park. Wil Nieves and Wily Mo Pena both swatted singles to collect an RBI apiece. Jon Rauch pitched a perfect ninth for his fourth save. Ted Lilly suffered the loss, despite a strong outing, yielding just two runs on four hits in six innings. Lilly struck out seven, but still fell to 1-4 on the season. Reed Johnson, Kosuke Fukudome, Ronny Cedeno, and Henry Blanco accounted for the four Chicago hits.

Labels: Henry Blanco, John Lannan, Kosuke Fukudome, Ronny Cedeno

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:12 AM | Permalink | Comments

Cards Top Astros 5-1 in St.Louis

Troy Glaus belted a two-run homer as part of a four-run fifth inning that helped the Cardinals top the Astros, 5-1, in the last of a three-game set at Busch Stadium. Albert Pujols launched a solo shot and Ryan Ludwick smacked a two-run double for St. Louis, which won the final two games in the series. Kyle Lohse allowed a run on four hits and a walk over six innings to move to 3-and-0 on the season. Kyle McClellan hurled three flawless innings to pick up his first save. Mark Loretta singled in the only run of the game for Houston. Brandon Backe yielded four runs on five hits and five walks over five frames to fall to 1-and-3.

Labels: Albert Pujols, Kyle Lohse, Troy Glaus

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:11 AM | Permalink | Comments

Padilla Pitches Rangers Past Twins 10-0

Vincent Padilla tossed a seven-hit, complete game shutout to lead the Rangers in a 10-0 trouncing of the Twins in the rubber match of a three-game set in Arlington. Padilla struck out two and walked two en route to moving to 3-and-2 on the season. Josh Hamilton was 3-for-4 with a solo homer, two runs scored and two RBI for Texas, which took two-of-three in the series on the heels of a seven-game losing streak. Milton Bradley added a three-run blast in the victory. Livan Hernandez was knocked around for seven runs on nine hits in only two-and-two-thirds innings of work to fall to 3-and-1. The Twins have dropped four of their last five games.

Labels: Josh Hamilton, Livan Hernandez, Vincent Padilla

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:10 AM | Permalink | Comments

Delgado Homers Twice, Mets Double Up Braves 6-3

New York Mets first baseman Carlos Delgado has been in a slump as of late - and the fans at Shea Stadium have let him know it. Perhaps Sunday's game against the Atlanta Braves was the tonic that he needed as he clubbed two home runs, leading New York to a 6-3 victory over Atlanta at Shea. New York's offense was led by the aforementioned Delgado as he went 2-for-2 with 2 HRs, scoring 3 runs and driving in 2 while Luis Castillo and reserve catcher Raul Casanova had 3 hits each - with Casanova homering, scoring a run and driving in 2. Nelson Figueroa (2-1) picked up the win for New York as he pitched 5 1/3 innings, allowing 7 hits, 3 earned runs, walking 3 while striking out 3 while closer Billy Wagner picked up his 6th save.

Atlanta was led by the trio of Jeff Francoeur, Mark Teixeira and Mark Kotsay with 2 hits each. Losing pitcher John Smoltz (3-2), who left after pitching only 4 innings due to shoulder discomfort, was tagged with the loss; Smoltz allowed 7 hits, 4 earned runs, walking 2, striking out 5 while giving up 2 HRs. New York (13-11) plays again on Monday as they continue their long homestand, hosting the Pittsburgh Pirates (10-15); Johan Santana (3-2) gets the start for New York while Ian Snell (2-1) starts for Pittsburgh. Atlanta (12-13) plays again on Monday as they make the short trip to Washington, D.C. as they face the Nationals (9-17); Tom Glavine (0-1)toes the rubber for Atlanta while Tim Redding (3-2) gets the nod for Washington.

Labels: Billy Wagner, Carlos Delgado, John Smoltz, Luis Castillo, Raul Casanova

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 7:09 AM | Permalink | Comments

Konerko, White Sox Roll Orioles

Paul Konerko slugged a pair of solo homers to lead the White Sox in a 6-1 victory over the Orioles in the third test of a four-game set at U.S. Cellular Field. Carlos Quentin was 2-for-2 with a run scored and an RBI for Chicago, which has won two straight and three-of-four overall. Jose Contreras yielded a run on five hits over six-and-two-thirds innings to move to 2-and-2 on the season. Brian Roberts launched a solo shot to provide the only run of the game for Baltimore. Jeremy Guthrie surrendered three runs on five hits over five frames to fall to 0-and-3.

Labels: Brian Roberts, jose contreras, Paul Konerko

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:07 AM | Permalink | Comments

Wang Outpitches Sabathia, Yankees Edge Indians 1-0

If you like baseball games that are full of offense, then Sunday's game between the New York Yankees wouldn't have been your cup of tea; on the other hand, if you're a baseball purist who likes the well-pitched "pitcher's duel", then this contest would be right up your alley. The pitchers in this "pitcher's duel"? Chien-Ming Wang for New York and C.C. Sabathia for Cleveland. Both pitched very well, but Wang pitched seven shutout innings, leading New York to the 1-0 win over Cleveland at Progressive Field. Offense was scarce on both sides, as New York's lone scoring was on a home run by Melky Cabrera; Wang (5-0) picked up the win for New York as her pitched 7 innings, allowing only 4 hits, walking 2 while striking out 9. Closer Mariano Rivera picked up his 7th save. Cleveland scratched out only 4 hits, only getting 6 baserunners on all day; losing pitcher Sabathia (1-4) pitched very well despite getting the loss; he pitched 8 strong innings, allowing only 4 hits, an earned run, walking 1 while striking out 8. New York (13-13) plays again on Monday as they face Cleveland (12-13) in their final game of their series; Mike Mussina (2-3) gets the nod for New York while Aaron Laffey (0-0) debuts for Cleveland.

Labels: C.C. Sabathia, Chien-Ming Wang

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 6:50 AM | Permalink | Comments

Saturday, April 26, 2008

Rangers' Washington Is Safe - For Now

The Texas Rangers, as of this writing, are 8-16. Is that win-loss record a sufficient reason for the Rangers' upper management to panic? Hard to say actually, but I guess it depends on who you hear it from - whether it is team owner Tom Hicks, general manager Jon Daniels or team president Nolan Ryan. As is typical when your team is sporting a record like Texas currently has, there's always talk about the manager's job security. In this case, Ron Washington's job. The top honchos for the Rangers, according to Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News, met Friday at Hicks' office to discuss the Rangers' current state of affairs and yes, the future of Washington.

Curiously enough, only Daniels addressed the Washington issue at the meeting; the meeting was adjourned with the group as a whole unsure whether the team is salvageable despite the season only being not quite a month old. Let's say for example that the Rangers wanted to make a change. Timing may be key in any changes the team wants to make; the team is doing a charity bash on Sunday, and an announcement of that magnitude would somewhat put a damper on things at the event. Washington was signed to a 2-year contract before the 2007 season and his option year was picked up last September; the strange thing is that of the Rangers dismiss Washington, they would have 3 ex-managers on the team's payroll - including Bucky Showalter.

You also have to factor in the unusual working relationship of Daniels and Ryan; Ryan's responsibilities include overseeing the baseball operations and could possibly use his position to make a managerial change. However, Ryan has stated that he'd prefer to leave those decisions to Daniels; assuming that's the case, it will provide a good test to their working relationship. Then there's the Hicks' factor. Hicks is no stranger to making changes as he has, in the past 12 months, changed general managers for his other team that he owns, the NHL Dallas Stars; he also put put feelers for the soccer team he owns overseas, Liverpool FC, as well as asked for the resignation of that team's chief executive. With all of these factors, things should get very interesting in Arlington. Stay tuned to Slam Dunk Central for any future developments involving the Rangers.

Labels: Ron Washington, Texas Rangers

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 10:12 AM | Permalink | Comments

Sanchez Strikes Out 10 As Giants Edge Reds 3-1

The San Francisco Giants' starting pitching, save for Barry Zito, has been surprising effective - especially Jonathan Sanchez. Friday's game showcased Sanchez as he had one of his better pitching performances; Sanchez pitched 8 innings, striking out 10, in leading the Giants to a 3-1 win over the Cincinnati Reds at AT&T Park. San Francisco was led by Eugenio Velez and Bengie Molina with 2 hits each - with Velez scoring twice and stealing a base while Molina drove in 2. The winning pitcher was the aforementioned Sanchez as he pitched 8 innings, allowing only 4 hits, an earned run, walking 1 while striking out 10; closer Brian Wilson notched his 8th save. Cincinnati managed only 4 hits - 2 by Ryan Freel while pinch-hitter Brandon Phillips hit a HR, his 3rd of the year. The loss went to Aaron Harang; Harang pitched 7 1/3 innings, allowing 8 hits, 2 earned runs, walking 1 while striking out 8. San Francisco (11-13) plays again on Saturday as they host Cincinnati (9-15); Kevin Correia (1-3) gets the start for San Francisco while Matt Belisle (0-1) toes the rubber for Cincinnati.

Labels: Bengie Molina, Brandon Phillips, Eugenio Velez, Jonathan Sanchez

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 9:43 AM | Permalink | Comments

Haynes' Base Hit in 11th Helps Rays Edge Red Sox 5-4

It was apparent that Tampa Bay Rays manager Joe Maddon wanted to end the game as quickly as possible, mindful that the game was in extra innings; Maddon summoned Nathan Haynes, a little-used outfielder to go up to the plate to swing the bat, instead of bunting and moving the baserunner over a base. The move proved to be the right one as Haynes delivered a run-scoring single which drove home Carl Crawford, boosting the Rays past the Boston Red Sox Friday at Tropicana Field. Tampa Bay was led by Crawford as he went 3-for-6 with two triples, a stolen base, 3 runs scored and an RBI while Akinori Iwamura chipped in with 2 hits, a stolen base and a run scored. The winning pitcher was Scott Dohmann (1-0) as he pitched 2/3 of an inning, retiring the lone batter he faced. Boston was led by Manny Ramirez and Kerry Cash with 3 hits apiece while Julio Lugo drove in 2. Losing pitcher Mike Timlin (2-2) pitched 2/3 of an inning, allowing 2 hits, an earned run and a walk. Tampa Bay (12-11) plays again on Saturday as they host Boston (15-10); Edwin Jackson (2-2) gets the start for Tampa Bay while Clay Buchholz (1-1) starts for Boston.

Labels: Akinori Iwamura, carl crawford, Kerry Cash, Manny Ramirez

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 7:34 AM | Permalink | Comments

Peralta's 3-Run HR Leads Indians Past Yankees 6-4

Cleveland Indians shortstop Jhonny Peralta is proving to be a pain in the New York Yankees' backside, much like the bugs that harassed the New Yorkers when the Yankees visited Cleveland in last year's American League playoffs; Peralta's 3-run home run in the 5th inning helped Cleveland get past New York 6-4 Friday at Progressive Field. Cleveland was led by the aforementioned Peralta as he went 2-for-4 with a HR, a run scored and 4 RBIs while Jamey Carroll added 2 hits, as well; Franklin Gutierrez added a HR. The win went to Paul Byrd (1-2); he pitched 5 2/3 innings, allowing 6 hits, 4 earned runs while giving up 3 HRs. Rafael Betancourt pitched a scoreless 9th, notching his 2nd save. New York was led by Jason Giambi as he went 2-for-3 with 2 HRs, 2 runs scored and 3 RBIs while Hideki Matsui added a HR. Losing pitcher Andy Pettitte pitched 5 innings, allowing 8 hits, 4 earned runs, walking 3, striking out 3 while giving up 2 HRs. Cleveland (11-12) plays again on Saturday in a nationally televised game on FOX as they host New York; Jeremy Sowers (0-0) makes his season debut for Cleveland while Ian Kennedy (0-2) will start for New York.

Labels: Jason Giambi. Jamey Carroll, Jhonny Peralta

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 7:11 AM | Permalink | Comments

Friday, April 25, 2008

Lopez's Grand Slam Helps Nats to 10-5 Win over Mets

Felipe Lopez clubbed a tie-breaking grand slam in the sixth inning and the Nationals went on to double up the Mets 10-5 to earn a split in their two-game set at Nationals Park. Lopez ended 2-for-6 with six RBI and a run scored for Washington, which beat New York for the first time in five tries this season. Willie Harris scored three times, and Wil Nieves and Aaron Boone had two hits and two runs scored apiece in the victory. Mike O'Connor tossed a scoreless inning of relief to collect his first win of the year. Carlos Beltran hit a solo homer and Marlon Anderson had a pinch-hit solo blast for the Mets, who have dropped four of their last five games. Oliver Perez was charged for five runs on six hits over five-and-two-thirds innings to slip to 2-and-1.

Labels: Carlos Beltran, Felipe Lopez, Mike O'Connor

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:45 AM | Permalink | Comments

Pineiro Pitches Cards Past Pirates 5-2

Joel Pineiro struck out six over seven strong innings to lead the Cardinals to a 5-2 win over the Pirates in the finale of a two-game set at PNC Park. Pineiro allowed a run on four hits and a walk en route to his first win of the season. Brian Barton had two hits and two RBI for the Cards, who earned a split in the series. Albert Pujols was 2-for-2 with two walks and an RBI in the victory. Adam LaRoche drove in a run and had two hits for Pittsburgh, which had won its previous two. Tom Gorzelanny allowed three runs on two hits and seven walks in five frames to drop to 1-and-3 with the loss.

Labels: Joel Pineiro, Tom Gorzelanny

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:44 AM | Permalink | Comments

White Sox Top Yankees 7-6 With Ninth Inning Rally

Joe Crede singled in the winning run in the bottom of the ninth inning as the White Sox prevailed 7-6 over the Yankees to salvage the finale of a three-game set at U.S. Cellular Field. Paul Konerko went 2-for-4 with an RBI and Jim Thome homered for Chicago, which blew a 6-3 lead before pulling out the victory. Bobby Jenks got the final two outs in the top of the ninth to get the win. Joba Chamberlain took the loss for New York. Mekly Cabrera hit a two-run homer and Morgan Ensberg had an RBI single in a three-run sixth to tie the game at six for the Yankees, who had won their previous three games.

Labels: jim thome, Joba Chamberlain, joe crede

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:40 AM | Permalink | Comments

Struggling Dodgers Fall to D'Backs 6-4

Chris Young scored the go-ahead run on a wild pitch in the fifth inning and the Diamondbacks went on to beat the Dodgers 6-4 at Chavez Ravine. Jeff Salazar hit a two-run homer, and Conor Jackson had two hits and two RBI, as Arizona split the series to improve to 16-and-6 overall. Edgar Gonzalez gave up three runs in five-and-a-third innings for his first win. Brandon Lyon closed it out for his sixth save. Chad Billingsley fanned 12, but gave up five runs in six frames to fall to 0-and-4 with the loss. Jeff Kent went 2-for-3 with two RBI for LA, which has lost five-of-seven. Nomar Garciaparra had two hits and scored twice in defeat.

Labels: Chris Young, jeff kent, Nomar Garciaparra

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:39 AM | Permalink | Comments

Aurilia's Homer the Dif in Giants 1-0 Win in San Diego

Rich Aurilia homered in the seventh for the game's only run as the Giants blanked the Padres 1-0 at Petco Park. Tim Lincecum struck out nine over six-and-a-third shutout innings to move to 4-and-0 with the win. Three relievers followed, with Brian Wilson fanning two in the ninth for his seventh save. Chris Young fanned 10 over seven innings of two-hit, one-run ball, but took the tough-luck loss to fall to 1-and-2. Joe Thatcher worked the final two innings for San Diego, which has lost three in a row and seven of its last eight games. San Francisco has won four of its last six games. The Pads are last in the NL West at 9-and-14.

Labels: Chris Young, Joe Thatcher, Rich Aurilia

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:38 AM | Permalink | Comments

O's Rally To Beat Mariners 8-7

Brian Roberts hit a solo homer in the top of the eighth inning to snap a 7-all tie and lift the Orioles to an 8-7 win over the Mariners at Safeco Field. Adam Jones, who was traded to Baltimore in the Erik Bedard deal, went 3-for-4 with three RBI for the O's, who rallied from an early 5-0 deficit to win their second straight. Chad Bradford got the win and former Mariner George Sherrill his eighth save. Sean Green took the loss for Seattle, which has lost four of its last six. Adrian Beltre and Ichiro Suzuki each hit home runs for the M's in the loss.

Labels: adam jones, Brian Roberts, Erik Bedard

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:36 AM | Permalink | Comments

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Berkman Powers Astros Past Reds 5-3

Houston Astros first baseman Lance Berkman seems to own the Cincinnati Reds' ball park, Great American Ball Park; he has hit 18 home runs there, tops among active ballplayers. Thursday's game saw Berkman do more of the same as he hit his 6th HR of the season and drove in 3 runs, leading Houston to a 5-3 win. Houston was led by the aforementioned Berkman as he went a perfect 3-for-3 with a double, HR, a run scored, a stolen base and 3 RBIs while Hunter Pence had 2 hits with a run scored. Winning pitcher Jack Cassel (1-0) pitched 5 innings, allowing 7 hits and 3 earned runs while striking out 1; Jose Valverde pitched a scoreless 9th inning - striking out 2 - while earning his 3rd save. Cincinnati was led by Corey Patterson and Edwin Encarnacion with 2 hits apiece; losing pitcher Johnny Cueto (1-2) pitched 7 innings, allowing 8 hits, 5 earned runs, walking 2 while striking out 2. Houston (11-12) plays again on Friday as they travel to St. Louis to face the Cardinals (13-9); Shawn Chacon (0-0) takes the mound for Houston while Braden Looper (3-1) gets the start for St. Louis.

Labels: Corey Patterson, Edwin Encarnacion, Hunter Pence, Lance Berkman

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 5:48 PM | Permalink | Comments

Thomas Signed By A's

Oakland A's general manager Billy Beane and a bargain know each other very well; after all, he wrote the definitive book on the economic side of the game in his book, "Moneyball". Well you can add another bargain to his collection: Frank Thomas. According to the Associated Press, Thomas agreed to terms with the A's Thursday after being released by the Toronto Blue Jays. The deal, in and of itself, was put together seamlessly as it came together Wednesday just hours after Thomas cleared waivers. Everything was finalized Wednesday evening and Thomas had perhaps an hour to catch a flight to Oakland.

Oakland's share of Thomas' salary for this season is minuscule - $337,000 - compared to what Toronto will pay Thomas; the Blue Jays owe the remaining balance of the $8 million due to Thomas. As you can well imagine, Oakland did some tinkering with their lineup to make room for Thomas; they placed Travis Buck on the 15-day disabled list with shin splints, retroactive to April 19; they also moved third baseman Eric Chavez to the 60-day disabled list. With Thomas officially in the fold, the A's will probably for right now move Jack Cust to left field while Mike Sweeney will probably get more time at first base, along with rookie Daric Barton.

Labels: Frank Thomas

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 5:11 PM | Permalink | Comments

Mussina Leads Yankees Past White Sox 6-4

New York Yankees starting pitcher Mike Mussina, by and large, has started slow this season - almost a continuation of last season, when he struggled. Wednesday's game against the Chicago White Sox at U.S. Cellular Field could be the boost that Mussina needed; he pitched 7 strong innings, leading New York to a 6-4 win over Chicago. New York was led by Jorge Posada with 4 hits, including 3 doubles and 2 RBIs while Johnny Damon and Melky Cabrera added 2 hits each. The win went to the aforementioned Mussina (2-3) who went 7 innings, allowing just 4 hits, 2 earned runs, walking 1 while striking out 3; closer Mariano Rivera picked up his 6th save of the season. Chicago was led by Orlando Cabrera and Jim Thome with 2 hits apiece while Joe Crede and Carlos Quentin hit a home run each - with Crede hitting his 6th while Quentin hit his 5th. Javier Vazquez (3-2) took the loss for Chicago as he pitched 5 1/3 innings, allowing 10 hits, 6 earned runs, walking 3 while striking out 3. New York (12-10) plays again on Thursday as they face Chicago (11-9); Phil Hughes (0-3) takes the mound for New York while Gavin Floyd (2-0) gets the start for Chicago.

Labels: Carlos Quentin, joe crede, Johnny Damon, Jorge Posada, Melky Cabrera, Mike Mussina

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 8:23 AM | Permalink | Comments

Astros Win 4th Straight, Rally Past Reds 9-3

The two-out base hit was the order of the day as the Houston Astros recorded 6 - yes, 6 - consecutive 2-out hits against the Cincinnati Reds on Wednesday in an explosive 4th inning, leading the Astros to their 4th straight win, 9-3, over the Reds at Great American Ball Park. Houston was led by Darrin Erstad and Hunter Pence with 3 hits apiece, with Pence adding a double, 2 runs scored and 2 RBIs; Carlos Lee and Mark Loretta added 2 hits each. The win went to Chris Sampson (1-2) as he pitched 7 innings, allowing 8 hits, 2 earned runs, walking 1 while striking out 6. Cincinnati was led by the trio of Jerry Hairston, Jr., Brandon Phillips and David Ross with 2 hits each while Ken Griffey, Jr. and Edwin Encarnacion hit a HR each - for Griffey it was his 4th of the year while Encarnacion hit his 6th. Losing pitcher Brandon Arroyo (0-3) pitched only 3 2/3 innings, allowing 10 hits, 8 earned runs, walking 1 while striking out 5. Houston (10-12) plays again on Thursday as they face Cincinnati (9-13); rookie Jack Cassel (1-1) takes the mound for Houston while rookie Johnny Cueto (1-1) gets the start for Cincinnati.

Labels: Chris Sampson, Darrin Erstad, Edwin Encarnacion, Hunter Pence, Ken Griffey

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 8:01 AM | Permalink | Comments

Tigers Explode for 11 In 6th Inning, Maul Rangers 19-6

Now this is the Detroit Tigers team that people have been accustomed to - the high powered version, that is. Wednesday's game against the Texas Rangers validated that point and then some; the Tigers exploded for eleven runs in the 6th inning as they embarrassed the pitching-deficient Rangers 19-6 at Comerica Park. Carlos Guillen led the Tigers' attack with 3 hits, including a double, a run scored and 5 RBIs while four Tigers - Curtis Granderson, Ivan Rodriguez, Jacque Jones and Edgar Renteria - had 2 hits apiece; Jones and Miguel Cabrera hit a home run each for Detroit - for Cabrera, it was his 5th of the year. Clay Rapada (2-0) got the win as he pitched 1 2/3 innings, striking out 2. Texas was led by four players with 2 hits each - Ian Kinsler, Michael Young, David Murphy and Gerald Laird - with Kinsler scoring twice while driving in 2. The losing pitcher was Frank Francisco (0-1) as he pitched 2 1/3 innings, allowing 2 hits, 2 earned runs, walking 2, striking out 1 while giving up a HR. Detroit (9-13) plays again on Thursday as they host Detroit (7-15); Jeremy Bonderman (1-2) gets the start for Detroit while Jason Jennings (0-3) gets the nod for Texas.

Labels: Carlos Guillen, Curtis Granderson, Ivan Rodriguez, Jacque Jones, Miguel Cabrera

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 7:40 AM | Permalink | Comments

Bucs Rally to Top Redbirds in Pittsburgh 7-4

Jose Batista singled in the go-ahead run in a three-run eighth inning as the Pirates rallied for a 7-4 win over the Cardinals at PNC Park. Doug Mientkiewicz added a two-run single for insurance as Pittsburgh won its second straight after a six-game slide. Jason Bay hit a two-run homer and Freddy Sanchez had two hits and scored twice for the Bucs, who overcame a 4-0 first-inning deficit. Damaso Marte earned the win in relief and Matt Capps closed it out for his sixth save. Anthony Reyes gave up all three runs in the eighth to take the loss for St. Louis, which has lost four of its last five games. Troy Glaus had a two-run double and Adam Kennedy a two-run single for the Redbirds.

Labels: Doug Mientkiewicz, Jason Bay, Troy Glaus

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:11 AM | Permalink | Comments

Prince's Two Homers Help Brewers Crown Phillies 5-4

Prince Fielder pelted a pair of two-run homers, including the go-ahead shot in the eighth inning, to power the Brewers to a 5-4 win over the Phillies at Miller Park. It was Fielder's ninth career multi-homer game. Gabe Kapler also drove in a run for Milwaukee, which won its second straight to improve to 13-and-8. Mitch Stetter threw two scoreless innings of relief to get the win and Derrick Turnbow worked the ninth for his first save. Cole Hamels struck out 11 over seven-plus frames, but gave up all five runs to fall to 2-and-3 with the loss. Chase Utley went 2-for-3 with his major league-leading 10th home run of the season for Philadelphia. Greg Dobbs and Pat Burrell also went deep for the Phils, who had won their previous three.

Labels: Cole Hamels, Gabe Kapler, Prince Fielder

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:09 AM | Permalink | Comments

Matthew's Two Homers Helps Angels in 6-4 Win in Boston

Gary Matthews Jr. clubbed a pair of solo homers as the Angels cooled off the Red Sox with a 6-4 win at Fenway Park. Casey Kotchman launched a solo shot, and Torii Hunter had four hits and an RBI, as the Angels snapped a two-game skid. Jon Garland gave up four runs on eight hits and two walks over six frames to improve to 3-and-2 with the win. Francisco Rodriguez worked a perfect ninth for his eighth save. David Ortiz hit a two-run homer for the Red Sox, who saw their six-game winning streak come to an end. Daisuke Matsuzaka was slated to start for Boston, but was scratched with flu-like symptoms. Jon Lester started in his place and gave up four runs over five frames. Craig Hansen was tagged with the loss after permitting a run in an inning-and-two-thirds of relief.

Labels: Casey Kotchman, Daisuke Matsuzaka, Gary Matthews Jr.

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:07 AM | Permalink | Comments

Marlins Top Braves 7-2 in Atlanta

Hanley Ramirez led off the game with a home run and the Marlins never looked back as they cruised to a 7-2 win over the Braves at Turner Field. Mike Jacobs clubbed a two-run shot for the Fish, who improved to 13-and-8 with their fourth win in five games. Dan Uggla finished with three hits and two RBI for Florida. Andrew Miller went five innings to pick up his first win of the season. Matt Diaz hit a solo homer and Mark Teixeira drove in a run for the Braves, who fell to 10-and-11 with the setback. Jeff Bennett allowed three runs in six innings of work to suffer the loss.

Labels: hanley ramirez, Jeff Bennett, Mark Teixeira

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:06 AM | Permalink | Comments

Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Tigers' Guillen, Cabrera To Switch Positions

In an unusual twist, according to John Lowe of the Detroit Free Press, Detroit Tigers manager Jim Leyland announced that Carlos Guillen and Miguel Cabrera will switch positions for at least the short-term future; as of this writing, Guillen will man third base while Cabrera will be the regular first baseman. Prior to the switch, Guillen had played 96 games in the major leagues at third while Cabrera had never played first base until very recently. Leyland has said very little about the switch nor has he hinted at whether this is a permanent move. Although Leyland hasn't said it outright, I get the impression that the switch was made to imply that Guillen and Cabrera were deficient defensively at their former positions.

Labels: Carlos Guillen, Miguel Cabrera

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 11:48 AM | Permalink | Comments

Reds Fire Krivsky, Hire Jocketty As General Manager

In light of the fact that the Cincinnati Reds are slumping and currently at 9-12, team owner Bob Castellini, according to Joe Kay of the Associated Press, has fired Wayne Krivsky from his general manager's post and replaced him with former St. Louis Cardinals GM Walt Jocketty; I can say that this was in the works for some time as Castellini hired Jocketty as a consultant back in January. Ironically, Krivsky was in the final year of his current contract.

Labels: Cincinnati Reds, St. Louis Cardinals, Walt Jocketty, Wayne Krivsky

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 11:34 AM | Permalink | Comments

Trio Of Yankees Go Yard, Blasts White Sox 9-5

No Alex Rodriguez? No problem - that is if you're the New York Yankees as they have been without Rodriguez due to injury and the birth of his second child; Bobby Abreu, Johnny Damon and Jason Giambi homered, powering New York past the Chicago White Sox 9-5 Tuesday at U.S. Cellular Field. New York was led by Damon with 3 hits, including a double, a home run, 3 runs scored and 3 RBIs while Abreu had 2 hits, including a HR, a run scored and 4 RBIs; Giambi added a HR for New York, as well. Winning pitcher Chien-Ming Wang (4-0) pitched 6 innings, allowing 10 hits, 3 earned runs, walking 2 while striking out 5. Chicago was led by a quintuplet of White Sox players - Orlando Cabrera, Paul Konerko, A.J. Pierzynski, Joe Crede and Juan Uribe with 2 hits each; Pierzynski hit his 3rd HR of the season for Chicago. Jose Contreras (1-2) took the loss as he pitched 6 1/3 innings, allowing 7 hits, 4 earned runs, walking 1 while striking out 3. New York (11-10) plays again on Wednesday as they face Chicago (11-8); Mike Mussina (1-3) gets the start for New York while Javier Vazquez (3-1) toes the rubber for Chicago.

Labels: Bobby Abreu, Jason Giambi. Chien-Ming Wang, Johnny Damon

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 7:41 AM | Permalink | Comments

Tigers Rout Rangers 10-2

Ramon Santiago clubbed a two-run homer and drove in three as the Tigers crushed the Rangers 10-2 in the opener of a three-game set at Comerica Park. Edgar Renteria went 4-for-4 with an RBI and two runs scored for Detroit, which has won two in-a-row to climb to 8-and-13. Justin Verlander got his first win of the season, allowing just one run over six innings. Josh Hamilton and Frank Catalanotto each plated a run for Texas, which has lost five straight to fall to 7-and-14. Vicente Padilla was lit up for seven runs in just three frames to suffer the loss.

Labels: Josh Hamilton, Justin Verlander, Ramon Santiago

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:30 AM | Permalink | Comments

BoSox Edge Halos With Late Run 7-6

Dustin Pedroia doubled home the go-ahead run in the bottom of the eighth inning as the Red Sox beat the Angels 7-6 in the first-of-three at Fenway Park. Casey Kotchman's solo homer had tied the game at six in the top half of the inning for Los Angeles. Pedroia finished 4-for-5, and Jacoby Ellsbury went 3-for-5 with a pair of solo homers and three runs scored, as Boston overcame a 5-1 deficit to win its sixth in-a-row. Mike Timlin got the win and Jonathan Papelbon his eighth save. Jeff Mathis also homered, and Garret Anderson had two hits and two RBI for the Halos. Darren Oliver took the loss for Los Angeles.

Labels: Dustin Pedroia, Garret Anderson, Jacoby Ellsbury

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:29 AM | Permalink | Comments

Snakes Overcome Early Deficit To Get By Giants

Brandon Webb pitched six innings of three-run ball and doubled in the go-ahead runs in the fourth inning as the Diamondbacks held off the Giants 5-4 at Chase Field. Webb walked two and struck out seven to improve to 5-and-0 on the season. Chris Snyder had a two-run single for Arizona, which overcame an early 3-0 deficit to win for the fifth time in six games. Brandon Lyon got the final three outs for his fifth save. The Snakes lead the majors at 15-and-5. Barry Zito allowed all five runs in three-and-two-thirds innings to drop to 0-and-5 with the loss. Fred Lewis went 3-for-5 with two RBI, and Randy Winn had two hits and drove in two for San Francisco. The Giants lost both games in the series and slipped to 8-and-13 overall.

Labels: barry zito, Brandon Lyon, Brandon Webb

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:28 AM | Permalink | Comments

Burrell's Double Sparks Phillies to 8-6 Win

Pat Burrell's three-run double in the top of the ninth inning rallied the Phillies to an 8-6 win over the Rockies at Coors Field. Greg Dobbs had a pinch-hit RBI single in the eighth to get Philadelphia within one. Jayson Werth homered and Chase Utley went 2-for-5 with two RBI as the Phils swept the two game set and won their third straight overall. Ryan Madson got the win and Brad Lidge fanned two in a perfect ninth for his fourth save. Manny Corpas blew his third save of the season and took the loss for Colorado, which dropped its third in-a-row. Matt Holliday and Garrett Atkins each went 2-for-4 with a home run and two RBI for the Rockies.

Labels: brad lidge, Greg Dobbs, Pat Burrell, ryan madson

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:27 AM | Permalink | Comments

Pirates Hook Fish 3-2 in Pittsbugh

The Pirates scored three times in the sixth inning and held on for a 3-2 win over the Marlins at PNC Park. Ryan Doumit had an RBI double and Xavier Nady a two-run single as Pittsburgh snapped a six-game losing streak. Paul Maholm allowed one run on four hits with six strikeouts in six innings to pick up his first win of the year. Matt Capps pitched a scoreless ninth for his fifth save. Jorge Cantu singled in a run in the first and homered in the seventh for Florida, which had won three in-a-row. Ricky Nolasco took the loss.

Labels: Jorge Cantu, Paul Maholm, Ricky Nolasco, Xavier Nady

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:22 AM | Permalink | Comments

Blake, Indians Slam Royals 15-1

It might be safe to say that the Cleveland Indians have broken out of their early-season slump, and nothing says "Slump's over" like a good old-fashioned behind-the-woodshed whooping - the victim in this case being the Kansas City Royals on Tuesday as Casey Blake hit a grand slam home run and starting pitcher C.C. Sabathia pitched 6 innings of shutout ball, leading Cleveland to a 15-1 annihilation of Kansas City, 15-1, at Kauffman Stadium. Cleveland's 17-hit ambush was led by the aforementioned Blake as he had 4 hits, including two doubles, a grand slam HR, 2 runs scored and 6 RBIs while Jhonny Peralta and Franklin Gutierrez had 3 hits each - with Peralta adding a HR, 2 runs scored and an RBI while Gutierrez adding 2 doubles, 3 runs scored and 3 RBIs; David Delucci chipped in with 2 hits, along with a HR, a run scored and 2 RBIs. Winning pitcher Sabathia (1-3) pitched 6 shutout innings, allowing only 4 hits, walking 2 while striking out 11.

Kansas City was led by Mark Teahen who went 1-for-4 with an RBI; the loss went to Gil Meche (1-3); Meche had his worst outing thus far this season as he pitched only 3 1/3 innings, allowing 9 hits, 8 earned runs, walking 1, striking out 2 while giving up 2 HRs. Cleveland (8-12) plays again on Wednesday as they face Kansas City (9-11); Fausto Carmona (2-1) takes the mound for Cleveland while Brett Tomko (1-2) takes the mound for Kansas City.

Labels: C.C. Sabathia, Casey Blake, Franklin Gutierrez, Jhonny Peralta

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 7:14 AM | Permalink | Comments

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Hairston's 4 Hits Allows Reds To Slam Dodgers 8-1

Cincinnati Reds outfielder Jerry Hairston, Jr., recently called up from their Triple-A club, certainly made an impressive impression upon his team Tuesday as he had 4 hits, leading Cincinnati to a relatively easy 8-1 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers at Great American Ball Park. The aforementioned Hairston led the Reds' attack with 4 hits, including a double and 3 RBIs while Joey Votto had 3 hits - including a double, 2 runs scored and an RBI; Adam Dunn and Brandon Phillips added a home run apiece for the Reds. Winning pitcher Edinson Volquez (3-0) got the win as he had another strong outing; Volquez pitched 7 innings, allowing only 3 hits, an earned run, walking 4 while striking out 7.

Los Angeles was led by Rafael Furcal with 2 hits, including a double and an RBI while James Loney stole his 2nd base of the season. Losing pitcher Hong-Chih Kuo (0-1) absorbed the loss as he pitched only 3 2/3 innings, allowing 8 hits, 5 earned runs while striking out 1. Cincinnati (9-12) plays again Tuesday as they host the Houston Astros; Bronson Arroyo (0-2) gets the start for Cincinnati while Chris Sampson (0-2) starts for Houston. Los Angeles (8-12) plays again on Wednesday as they return home to host the Arizona Diamondbacks (14-5); Derek Lowe (1-1) gets the nod for Los Angeles while Dan Haren (3-0) will start for Arizona.

Labels: Edinson Volquez, Jerry Hairston, Joey Votto, Jr., Rafael Furcal

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 9:33 PM | Permalink | Comments

Cedeno's Grand Slam Powers Cubs Past Mets 8-1

Obviously Chicago Cubs infielder Ronny Cedeno is looking to take advantage of his playing time while Ryan Theriot is out with a back injury; Cedeno took a step in the right direction as he hit a grand slam home run in the 8th inning, leading Chicago to the easy 8-1 win over the New York Mets Tuesday at Wrigley Field. Chicago was led by the aforementioned Cedeno with 2 hits, including a double, a HR, 2 runs scored and 5 RBIs while Kosuke Fukudome had 3 hits with 2 runs scored; Felix Pie added 2 hits in the Cubs' offensive attack. Ted Lilly (1-3) earned the win as he pitched 6 innings, allowing only 4 hits, an earned run, walking 4 while striking out 4. New York was led by Brady Clark who went 1-for-4 with an RBI; Nelson Figueroa (1-1) took the loss as he pitched 5 innings, allowing 7 hits, 3 earned runs, walking 5 while striking out 2. Chicago (14-6) plays again on Wednesday as they travel to Denver to face the Colorado Rockies (9-10); Rich Hill (1-0) takes the mound for Chicago while Franklin Morales (1-1) starts for Colorado.

Labels: Kosuke Fukudome, Ronny Cedeno, Ted Lilly

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 8:15 PM | Permalink | Comments

Kapler's 12th Inning Hit Helps Brewers Outlast Cardinals 9-8

Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Gabe Kapler has been enjoying a career renaissance, so to speak - especially with his bat. His hot hitting continued Tuesday as his game-winning, run-scoring single in the bottom of the 12th inning helped Milwaukee edge the St. Louis Cardinals 9-8 at Miller Park. The Brewers offense was led by Prince Fielder who had 3 hits and an RBI while Ricky Weeks and Ryan Braun added 2 hits apiece - with Weeks adding a triple, stolen base, 2 runs scored and 3 RBIs while Braun added a double, a run scored and 2 RBIs; Gabe Gross and Kapler had 2 hits each, as well. The winning pitcher for Milwaukee was Seth McClung (1-0) who pitched a scoreless 12th inning, striking out 2. St. Louis was led by Aaron Miles with 4 hits, a run scored and an RBI while Skip Schumaker and Troy Glaus had 3 hits each; Albert Pujols chipped in with 2 hits. Jason Isringhausen (1-1) took the loss as he pitched only 1/3 of an inning, allowing a hit, an earned run while walking 1. Milwaukee (12-8) plays again on Wednesday as they host the Philadelphia Phillies (10-10); Dave Bush (0-3) gets the start for Milwaukee while Cole Hamels (2-2) will start for Philadelphia.

Labels: Aaron Miles, Gabe Kapler, Prince Fielder, Ricky Weeks, Ryan Braun, Skip Schumaker, Troy Glaus

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 7:52 PM | Permalink | Comments

Big Hurt Drawing Interest From A's

Frank Thomas, at least in my opinion, still has some baseball left in him - this despite Thomas having notoriously slow Aprils lately. Apparently, at least one other American League team agrees; according to Buster Olney of ESPN The Magazine, the Oakland Athletics are debating internally as to whether they will sign Thomas to a contract - probably within the next 48 hours. Prior to his release from the Toronto Blue Jays, Thomas was batting only .167 in 60 at-bats, prompting talent evaluators to question whether Thomas' bat speed has regressed to the point of no return.

While the A's are tied for first in the AL West, they are debating whether Thomas is worth the trouble; the A's want to ensure that their young base of core players continue getting their at-bats. But on the flip-side, they're lacking in the power department against left-handed pitching; that's where Thomas may fill the A's greatest need. The A's tried to sign Thomas after the 2006 season but lost out to the Blue Jays, who are responsible for all of Thomas' salary this year after releasing him. so if the A's choose to sign him, they will only be responsible for the prorated minimum salary - which, depending on how Thomas does with Oakland stats-wise, could prove to be a bargain for them.

Labels: Frank Thomas

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 4:21 PM | Permalink | Comments

Westbrook Placed On DL

The Cleveland Indians on Tuesday suffered a blow to their pitching rotation as they placed starter Jake Westbrook on the 15-day disabled list with a muscle strain in his ribs; the move is retroactive to Sunday as Westbrook's last pitching appearance was on Saturday in Cleveland's loss to the Minnesota Twins. Westbrook, prior to his injury, had made 4 starts for the Indians while recording a 2.73 ERA.

Labels: jake westbrook

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 4:12 PM | Permalink | Comments

Marlins Sink Pirates 10-4 in Pittsburgh

Hanley Ramirez and Josh Willingham both clubbed two-run homers to power the Marlins to a 10-4 victory over the Pirates at Dolphin Stadium. Dan Uggla hit a solo shot for the Fish, who pounded out 16 hits en route to their third consecutive victory. Mark Hendrickson allowed eight hits and four runs, but just three earned, over eight innings to move to 4-and-1 with the win. Hendrickson also got the job done at the dish, going 2-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored. Xavier Nady doubled and drove in two for Pittsburgh, which has dropped six in-a-row. Matt Morris took the loss, giving up eight runs in just four innings to fall to 0-and-3.

Labels: hanley ramirez, Josh Willingham, Matt Morris

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:59 AM | Permalink | Comments

Cubs Maul Mets 7-1 at Wrigley

Carlos Zambrano pitched seven innings of five-hit, one-run ball for his third win as the Cubs mauled the Mets 7-1 at Wrigley Field. Aramis Ramirez hit a two-run home run in the fourth inning, Ronny Cedeno had a two-out, two-run single in the eighth, and Felix Pie sealed the game with a three-run dinger one batter later. Chicago has won four staight and 12 of its last 15 games. John Maine fanned six and gave up just two runs over six innings, but took the loss to fall to 1-and-2. Jose Reyes' double-play ball plated New York's only run in the sixth. Reyes committed a costly error in the eighth, leading to four unearned runs as the Cubs blew the game open. New York has lost two straight after winning its previous five.

Labels: Aramis Ramirez, Carlos Zambrano, Felix Pie, John Maine

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:57 AM | Permalink | Comments

Brewers Lose To Cardinals 4-3

The Brewers lost the opener of a two game set to the Cardinals 4-3 at Miller Park last night. Skip Schumaker doubled home the go-ahead run in the top of the ninth inning. Derrick Turnbow took the loss for Milwaukee. Rickie Weeks and Ryan Braun each scored a run in the third to tie the game at two, and Corey Hart tripled in a run to tie the game again in the eighth for the Brew Crew. St. Louis snapped a two-game skid to improve to 13-and-7. Milwaukee slipped to 11-and-8. The two teams meet again this afternoon at Miller Park.

Labels: Corey Hart, Derrick Turnbow, Skip Schumaker

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:56 AM | Permalink | Comments

Monday, April 21, 2008

Ortiz Leads Red Sox To Sweep Of Rangers 8-3

The Texas Rangers historically are a team based on offense, as opposed to their pitching; Monday's game against the Boston Red Sox, unfortunately, proved that neither their offense nor pitching was effective - at least for this series, anyways - as David Ortiz' 3 RBIs led Boston to the series sweep of Texas 8-3 at Fenway Park. Boston was led by Julio Lugo with 4 hits - including a double while Jacoby Ellsbury, Dustin Pedroia and the aforementioned Ortiz had 2 hits each - with Ortiz driving in 3 runs and Pedroia 2. The win went to Clay Buchholz (1-1) as he pitched 6 innings, allowing 5 hits, walking 2 while striking out 6. Texas was led by Josh Hamilton and Gerald Laird - with Hamilton driving in 2 runs while Laird drove in a run; Michael Young and David Murphy had 2 hits each, as well. Dustin Nippert was tagged with the loss, replacing starter Kason Gabbard as he experienced back stiffness; Nippert pitched only 2 innings, allowing 9 hits, 8 earned runs, walking 4 while striking out 2. Boston (14-7), winners of 5 straight, plays again Tuesday as they host the Los Angeles Angels; Josh Beckett (2-1) gets the start for Boston while Jered Weaver (1-2) gets the start for Los Angeles.

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 9:46 PM | Permalink | Comments

Dodgers' 15-Hit Attack Overwhelms Reds 9-3

Los Angeles Dodgers third baseman Nomar Garciaparra, at long last, is finally getting his offensive game together; he slammed his first home run of the season, leading Los Angeles to an easy 9-3 win over the Cincinnati Reds. Los Angeles' offensive attack was led by Russell Martin and Andre Ethier with 3 hits each - with Martin hitting a double; Rafael Furcal, Garciaparra and Matt Kemp added 2 hits apiece, with Furcal and Garciaparra hitting a HR each. Winning pitcher Brad Penny (3-2) pitched 6 innings, allowing 6 hits, an earned run, walking 2 while striking out 4; Chan Ho Park notched his 1st save while pitching the final 3 innings, allowing 3 hits, 2 earned runs, walking 2 while giving up 2 HRs. Cincinnati was led by Edwin Encarnacion as he went 2-for-4 with a HR, 2 runs scored and an RBI while rookie Joey Votto added a HR, as well. The loss went to Matt Belisle (0-1) who pitched 4 innings, allowing a whopping 12 hits, 5 earned runs, walking 1 while striking out 3. Los Angeles (8-11) plays again on Tuesday as they face Cincinnati (8-12); Hong Chih-Kuo (0-0) takes the mound for Los Angeles while Edinson Volquez (2-0) gets the start for Cincinnati.

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 9:23 PM | Permalink | Comments

Steinbrenner Wants Chamberlain In Yanks' Rotation

There's an old adage: "The fruit often doesn't fall far from the tree"; that can be said with confidence about the Steinbrenners - in this case, I'm talking about George's son, Hank. The New York Yankees are, by and large, having growing pains in their starting rotation - with Ian Kennedy and Phil Hughes struggling early on. Meanwhile, Joba Chamberlain is pitching middle-relief - and Steinbrenner (Hank, not George) is none too pleased about it. Hank had told the New York Times this past Sunday regarding Chamberlain, "I want him as a starter and so does everyone else, including him, and that is what we are working toward and we need him there now. There is no question about it, you don't have a guy with a 100-mile-per-hour fastball and keep him as a setup guy. You just don't do that. You have to be an idiot to do that."

As of this writing, the Yankees are 10-10, three games behind the Boston Red Sox and 1 1/2 games ahead of the Tampa Bay Rays - which should, under normal circumstances, not be a reason to push the panic button. Assuming that the Yankees do in fact put Chamberlain into the rotation, he more than likely would get a minor-league assignment in order to stretch his inning and pitch count up - even though he went into Yankees' spring training preparing as a starter. Through 6 appearances this season, Chamberlain is 1-0 with a 1.42 ERA, striking out 8 while walking 2 in 6 2/3 innings of work. Despite all of the Steinbrenner hot air up in the NYC, I still am of the opinion that it is entirely too early for Chamberlain to join the Yankees' rotation - for right now. At the 40 game juncture, depending on where they are in the standings and the progress of Kennedy and Hughes as starters will go a long way in determining when and if Chamberlain joins the Yankees' rotation.

Labels: Ian Kennedy, Joba Chamberlain, Phil Hughes

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 11:17 AM | Permalink | Comments

Sunday, April 20, 2008

Olson Pitches 7 Strong Innings, Leads Marlins Past Nationals 6-1

Last season, Florida Marlins starting pitcher Scott Olsen had a terrible year, going 10-15 with a 5.81 ERA (awfully high for an National League starting pitcher). This season, he has reverted somewhat to his old self; in Sunday's game, Olsen pitched 7 strong innings, leading Florida to a 6-1 victory over the Washington Nationals at Dolphin Stadium. Florida was led by Hanley Ramirez as he went 2-for-5 with 2 home runs, 2 runs scored and 3 RBIs while Dan Uggla and Jorge Cantu also added 2 hits apiece - with Cantu hitting 2 doubles. The winning pitcher was the aforementioned Olsen (3-0) as he pitched 7 innings, allowing only 3 hits, an earned run, walking 2 while striking out 3.

Washington was led by Austin Kearns who went 1-for-4 with a HR, a run scored and an RBI. Luis Ayala (0-1) took the loss as he pitched an inning, allowing a hit, an earned run while walking 1. Florida (11-7) plays again on Monday as they travel to Pittsburgh (7-11) to face the Pirates; Mark Hendrickson (3-1) takes the mound for Florida while Matt Morris (0-2) gets the nod for Pittsburgh.

Labels: hanley ramirez, Scott Olsen

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 7:54 PM | Permalink | Comments

Encarnacion's Blast In 10th Pushes Reds Past Brewers 4-3

Cincinnati Reds third baseman Edwin Encarnacion was having a bad day in the field in Sunday's game against the Milwaukee Brewers as he had committed an error. But he won the crowd at Great American Ball Park over as his home run (his second of the day) sparked a Reds rally as Cincinnati edged the Milwaukee Brewers 4-3 in 10 innings. Cincinnati was led by the aforementioned Encarnacion as he went 2-for-4 with 2 HRs, 2 runs scored and 2 RBIs while Jeff Keppinger and Paul Bako each added 2 hits apiece - with Keppinger adding 2 doubles; starting pitcher Aaron Harang had a solid effort as he got the no-decision, pitching 8 innings, allowing only 4 hits, 1 earned run while striking out 8. The win went to Jared Burton (1-1) as he pitched the 10th inning, allowing 2 hits, walking 1 while striking out 2.

Milwaukee was led by J.J. Hardy as he went 3-for-5 with a HR, a run scored and 2 RBIs; starting pitcher Yovani Gallardo pitched very well in a no-decision as he pitched 7 strong innings, allowing only 4 hits, an earned run, walking 3 while striking out 4; Eric Gagne (1-1) was tagged with the loss as he pitched to only 3 batters, allowing 2 hits, 3 earned runs, walking 1 while giving up 2 HRs. Cincinnati (8-11) plays again on Monday as they continue their homestand, hosting the Los Angeles Dodgers (7-11); Matt Belisle (0-0) makes his season debut for Cincinnati while Los Angeles will start Brad Penny (2-2). Milwaukee (11-7) plays again on Monday as they travel to St. Louis (12-7) to take on the Cardinals; Carlos Villanueva (1-2) gets the start for Milwaukee while Adam Wainwright (2-1) will start for St. Louis.

Labels: Aaron Harang, Edwin Encarnacion, Eric Gagne, Yovani Gallardo

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 7:28 PM | Permalink | Comments

Rollins Placed On 15-Day DL

As the old saying goes, there's a first time for everything; that holds especially true for Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Jimmy Rollins as according to the Associated Press, Rollins was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a sprained left ankle; it was originally hurt nearly two weeks ago when he was running the bases against the New York Mets on May 8. As a result, Eric Bruntlett has started at shortstop for the 11th consecutive game, batting only .179 with a home run and an RBI. Other than Tomas Perez back in 2000, Bruntlett is the first Phillies SS besides Rollins to start 10 games at the position. Prior to the injury, Rollins was batting .308 with 2 doubles, 2 HRs, 6 RBIs and 2 stolen bases.

Labels: Eric Bruntlett, Jimmy Rollins

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 7:15 PM | Permalink | Comments

Sonnanstine Pitches Complete Game Shutout, Rays Blank White Sox 5-0

It isn't very often that you hear the words shutout and Tampa Bay Rays in the same sentence - unless the Rays were the ones being shut out. But at least for this juncture of the young season, Tampa Bay received something that they haven't gotten in quite some time from a member of their starting rotation - a complete game shutout. Andy Sonnanstine pitched 9 innings of 3-hit ball, leading the Rays to a 5-0 shutout of the Chicago White Sox Saturday at Tropicana Field. Tampa Bay was led by B.J. Upton with 3 hits while Carl Crawford and Carlos Pena added 2 hits apiece. The aforementioned Sonnanstine (2-1) got the win, pitching a complete game while allowing only 3 hits while walking 1 and striking out 4. Chicago eked out 3 hits in a losing effort; the losing pitcher was Mark Buehrle (1-2) as he pitched 7 innings, allowing 12 hits, 5 earned runs, walking 2 and striking out 5. Tampa Bay (8-10) plays again on Sunday as they host Chicago (10-7); Edwin Jackson (2-1) gets the start for Tampa Bay while John Danks (1-1) will start for Chicago.

Labels: Andy Sonnanstine

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 11:07 AM | Permalink | Comments

Manny, Big Papi Spark 8th Inning Rally As Red Sox Edges Rangers 5-3

It seems like for the past several seasons, Boston Red Sox outfielder Manny Ramirez and designated hitter David Ortiz have been the heart and soul of the team as they provided numerous late-inning, heroic deeds in leading Boston to victory. Saturday's game against the Texas Rangers provided a reminder of what Ramirez and Ortiz are still capable of; Ortiz hit an 8th inning, run-scoring single while Ramirez blasted a two-run home run, leading Boston to a come-from-behind victory over Texas 5-3 at Fenway Park. Boston was led by Ramirez who went 1-for-2 with a home run, 2 runs scored and 2 RBIs while Ortiz and Kevin Youkalis added an RBI each. Reliever Javier Lopez (1-0) got the win as he pitched a scoreless 1/3 of an inning while Jonathan Papelbon recorded his 6th save.

Texas was led by Hank Blalock with 3 hits while Josh Hamilton, Jason Botts and Adam Melhuse had 2 hits apiece - with Hamilton hitting his 4th HR of the season; losing pitcher Joaquin Benoit (1-1) was saddled with the loss as he pitched an inning, allowing 3 hits, 3 earned runs while striking out 1. Boston (12-7) plays again on Sunday as they host Texas (7-11); knuckleballer Tim Wakefield (1-0) gets the call for Boston while Kevin Millwood (1-2) is scheduled to start for Texas.

Labels: David Ortiz, Jonathan Papelbon, Manny Ramirez

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 10:44 AM | Permalink | Comments

Reyes Leads Mets Past Phillies 4-2

Even though the MLB season isn't yet three weeks old, one thing is for certain: the Philadelphia Phillies do indeed miss shortstop Jimmy Rollins' presence in their daily lineup. The team, of course, will not publicly admit as much, but I mean come on - how much longer can the Phillies continue with Eric Bruntlett at SS? Be that as it may, there was a ball game to play Saturday between the New York Mets and Phillies. Jose Reyes hit a two-run home run and Oliver Perez pitched 5 2/3 innings of shutout ball, leading New York past Philadelphia 4-2 at Citizens Bank Park.

New York was led by Reyes as he went 2-for-4 with a double, HR, a stolen base, 2 runs scored and 2 RBIs while Ryan Church and David Wright added 2 hits apiece; starting pitcher Oliver Perez (2-0) got the win, pitching 5 2/3 innings, allowing 4 hits, walking 5 while striking out 7. Closer Billy Wagner notched his 4th save. Philadelphia was led by Chase Utley as he went 2-for-4 with a HR, a run scored and an RBI while So Taguchi added 2 hits, as well. Losing pitcher Jamie Moyer (1-1), despite the loss, didn't pitch that badly as he pitched 6 innings, allowing 7 hits, 2 earned runs, walking 1 while striking out 1. New York (10-6) plays again on Sunday night as they face Philadelphia (8-10); Mike Pelfrey (2-0) gets the start for New York while Philadelphia counters with Adam Eaton (0-0).

Labels: Jose Reyes, Oliver Perez

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 10:21 AM | Permalink | Comments

Saturday, April 19, 2008

Lincecum Pitches Giants Past Cardinals 3-0

After Saturday's game against the St. Louis Cardinals, I think it is safe to say that San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Tim Lincecum has the Cards' number; during his last outing against St. Louis last Sunday, he pitched 6 innings while striking out 11 in a Giants win. Lincecum mastered the Cardinals again, pitching 7 shutout innings, leading San Francisco to the 3-0 shutout of St. Louis. San Francisco was led by Aaron Rowand who went 3-for-4 with a home run, a run scored and 2 RBIs while Jose Castillo added 2 hits, including a double and an RBI. The winning pitcher was the aforementioned Lincecum (3-0); he pitched 7 innings while allowing 6 hits, walking 3 while striking out 5. Closer Brian Wilson picked up his 5th save while pitching a scoreless ninth inning. St. Louis was led by Skip Schumaker and Adam Kennedy with 2 hits each; losing pitcher Joel Piniero (0-2) had an OK outing as he pitched 6 1/3 innings, allowing 8 hits, 3 earned runs while walking 1. San Francisco (7-11) plays again on Sunday as they face St. Louis (12-6); Jonathan Sanchez (0-1) gets the nod for San Francisco while St. Louis counters with Braden Looper (3-0).

Labels: aaron rowand, Brian Wilson, Tim Lincecum

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 10:37 PM | Permalink | Comments

Hall's 10th Inning Double Rallies Brewers Past Reds 5-3

Milwaukee Brewers third baseman/outfielder Bill Hall has as of late been a Cincinnati Reds killer, especially at Great American Ball Park. Saturday's game against the Reds would illustrate that point perfectly as Hall's 2-run double rallied the Brewers as they scratched out a 5-3 win. Milwaukee was led by the aforementioned Hall, who went 2-for-5 with a double while driving in 3 runs; Corey Hart added his first home run of the year. Starting pitcher Jeff Suppan pitched well, going 6 innings, allowing only 3 hits, 2 earned runs, walking 1 while striking out 3; however, the win went to Guillermo Mota (1-0). Mota pitched 2 innings, striking out 2; closer Eric Gagne notched his 6th save while pitching a scoreless 10th inning. Cincinnati was led by rookie Joey Votto with a home run, a run scored and 2 RBIs; reliever David Weathers (0-2) was tagged with the loss; Weathers pitched 2/3 of an inning, allowing 2 hits, 2 earned runs and walking 2. Milwaukee (11-6) plays again Sunday as they face Cincinnati (7-11); Yovani Gallardo (0-0) makes his season debut for Milwaukee while Aaron Harang (1-2) gets the start for Cincinnati.

Labels: Bill Hall, Jeff Suppan, Joey Votto

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 10:13 PM | Permalink | Comments

Cubs' 12 Hits Overwhelm Pirates 13-1

The offense of the Chicago Cubs, by and large, is potent; Saturday's game against the Pittsburgh Pirates would illustrate that point - and then some. They exploded for 12 hits while getting some effective pitching from starter Jason Marquis as the Cubs mauled the Pirates 13-1 at Wrigley Field. Chicago's offensive attack was led by a trio of Cubs - Ryan Theriot, Geovany Soto and Ronny Cedeno - with 2 hits each; Theriot scored 3 runs while Cedeno scored a run and drove in a run. Soto drove in a run, as well. Derek Lee and Darryl Ward hit a home run apiece. Jason Marquis (1-0) picked up the win as he pitched 6 innings, allowing 6 hits, an earned run, walking only 1 while striking out 7. Pittsburgh was led by Freddy Sanchez with an RBI, going 1-for-3; losing pitcher Tom Gorzelanny got shelled as he pitched only 2 2/3 innings, allowing 6 hits, 7 earned runs, walking 4 while striking out 3. Chicago (11-6) plays again on Sunday as they host Pittsburgh (7-10); Ryan Dempster (2-0) toes the rubber for Chicago while Zach Duke (0-0) gets the start for Pittsburgh.

Labels: Darryl Ward, Derek Lee, Geovany Soto, Jason Marquis, Ronny Cedeno, Ryan Theriot

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 9:48 PM | Permalink | Comments

Friday, April 18, 2008

Longoria, Rays Agree To Long-Term Deal

The Tampa Bay Rays, mindful of the fact that they are a small-market team and as such, doesn't enjoy the revenue stream that teams such as the Yankees and Red Sox have. Despite that, they're slowly putting a core group of players together that they hope will turn the Rays into contenders relatively soon. Perhaps they took another step in that direction as according to the Associated Press, the Rays and rookie third baseman Evan Longoria (not Eva, but Evan) have come to terms on a six-year, $17.5 million contract; the deal could possibly increase to, over time, to as much as $44.5 million over 9 seasons. A provision written into the deal was that if Longoria isn't sent to the minors again, he is guaranteed $19 million.

Longoria will receive $500,000 this year, $550,000 in 2009, $950,000 in 2010 and $2 million in 2011; the 2011 figure could increase to $2.5 million should Longoria become eligible for arbitration in 2011. He also receives $4.5 million in 2012 and $6 million in 2013; the Rays have an option for 2014 at the cost of $7.5 million with a $3 million buyout, with the buyout rising to $4 million if Longoria becomes arbitration-eligible in 2011. Lastly, the Rays will have to determine by December of 2014 whether to exercise an option on Longoria, calling for salaries of $11 million in 2015 and $11.5 million in 2016; his 2016 salary can increase to $14 million, depending on his finish in MVP voting. Whew. This is most definitely a high-risk, high-reward deal the Rays put together and easily the most money invested in one player in the team's history, yet could possibly be money well-spent if Longoria is as good as advertised.

Labels: Evan Longoria

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 7:41 PM | Permalink | Comments

3-Run Fourth Inning Sends Cubs To 3-2 Win Over Pirates

As of this writing, the left-handed starting pitchers in the Chicago Cubs' pitching rotation (Rich Hill, Ted Lilly) had combined for zero wins; as luck would have it, their opponent on Friday was the Pittsburgh Pirates. Hill gave up a run over 5 innings and the Cubs scored all of their offense in the fourth inning as they took the opener in their series at Wrigley Field, edging the Pirates 3-2. A trio of Cubs - Ryan Theriot, Mark DeRosa and Reed Johnson had 2 hits each - with DeRosa scoring and driving in a run while Johnson drove in a run; Corey Patterson also drove in a run. Winning pitcher Hill (1-0) pitched 5 innings, allowing only 3 hits, an earned run, walking 3 while striking out 4; Kerry Wood picked up his 4th save.

Pittsburgh was led by Jason Bay and Xavier Nady with 2 hits apiece - with Nady driving in a run and Bay stealing a base - while Nick McLouth hit his 3rd home run of the season for Pittsburgh. Ian Snell (2-1) was tagged for the loss, pitching 6 innings, allowing 9 hits, 3 earned runs, walking 1 while striking out 5. Chicago (10-6) plays again on Saturday as they host Pittsburgh (7-9); Tom Gorzelanny (1-1) will start for Pittsburgh while Jason Marquis (0-0) gets the nod for Chicago.

Labels: Kerry Wood, Mark DeRosa, rich hill

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 7:14 PM | Permalink | Comments

Braves Feeling Chipper, Blank Marlins 8-0

Two of the Atlanta Braves' old standbys, Chipper Jones and John Smoltz, discovered the fountain of youth; ironically or not, the fountain of youth was located in Miami. Jones went yard twice while Smoltz went 5 scoreless innings, leading Atlanta to the shutout win over the Florida Marlins Thursday at Dolphin Stadium. Jones led the Braves' attack as he went a perfect 4-for-4 with a double, 2 home runs, 3 runs scored and 3 RBIs while a trio of Braves had 2 hits apiece - Brian McCann, Jeff Francoeur and Mark Kotsay; McCann, Mark Teixeira and Kelly Johnson added a HR apiece. Smoltz (3-0) got the win as he pitched 5 innings, allowing only 3 hits, walking 2 while striking out 10. Florida was led by a trio with a hit apiece - Hanley Ramirez, Josh Willingham and Mike Jacobs; Ricky Nolasco (1-1) got the loss; Nolasco pitched only 4 2/3 innings, allowing 9 hits, 6 earned runs, striking out 4 while giving up 4 HRs. Atlanta (6-9) plays on Friday as they return home to host the Los Angeles Dodgers (7-8); rookie Jeff Bennett (0-0) gets the start for Atlanta while Derek Lowe (1-0) starts for Los Angeles. Florida (9-6) also plays on Friday as they host the Washington Nationals (4-12); Andrew Miller (0-2) will toe the rubber for Florida while Tim Redding (2-1) gets the nod for Washington.

Labels: Chipper Jones, John Smoltz

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 7:38 AM | Permalink | Comments

Indians Rough Up Verlander, Tigers 11-1

Thursday's game between the Detroit Tigers pitted a team that has an explosive offense (Cleveland) against a team that is reeling (Detroit). The Indians' offense exploded as they had 13 hits, leading them to an 11-1 mauling of the Tigers at Progressive Field. 4 Indians - Jamey Carroll, Victor Martinez, Franklin Gutierrez and Jason Michaels - had 2 hits each; Michaels drove in 3 while Carroll added 2 RBIs. Ryan Garko and Travis Hafner added a HR apiece. Fausto Carmona (2-1) had a strong effort and got the win as he pitched 6 2/3 innings, allowing 7 hits, an earned run, walking 1 while striking out 2. Detroit was led by Miguel Cabrera as he went 1-for-3 with an RBI; Justin Verlander was tagged with the loss as he went 5 innings, allowing 7 hits, 5 earned runs, walking 4 while striking out 1. Cleveland (6-10) plays again on Friday as they travel to Minneapolis to face the Minnesota Twins (7-9); Cliff Lee (2-0) starts for Cleveland while Minnesota counters with Francisco Liriano (0-1).

Labels: Fausto Carmona, Jason Michaels, Justin Verlander, Ryan Garko, travis hafner

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 7:16 AM | Permalink | Comments

Manny Goes Yard Twice, Leads Red Sox Past Yankees 7-5

Boston Red Sox outfielder Manny Ramirez seems to always do well against the New York Yankees; in Thursday's contest against the Yankees, Ramirez' victim happened to be New York starting pitcher Mike Mussina. Ramirez hit 2 home runs as Boston held off a late New York rally, defeating the Yankees 7-5 at Yankee Stadium. Boston was led by the aforementioned Ramirez, who went 3-for-5 with 2 HRs, 3 runs scored and 3 RBIs while Dustin Pedrioa, Kevin Youkalis, J.D. Drew and Jason Varitek added 2 hits each; Jacoby Ellsbury stole his 3rd and 4th bases of the season. Josh Beckett (2-1) got the win as he pitched 8 strong innings, allowing 6 hits, 3 earned runs, walking 1 while striking out 5.

New York was led by Melky Cabrera and Bobby Abreu with 2 hits each - Cabrera also added a HR; Mussina (1-3) was tagged with the loss as he went only 3 innings, allowing 7 hits, 5 earned runs, striking out 1 while giving up 2 HRs - both to Ramirez. Boston (10-7) plays again Friday as they return home to host the Texas Rangers (7-9); Daisuke Matsuzaka (3-0) gets the nod for Boston while Texas counters with Luis Mendoza (0-1). New York (9-8) also plays on Friday as they travel to Baltimore (9-7) to face the Orioles; Phil Hughes (0-2) starts for New York while Daniel Cabrera (0-0) gets the start for Baltimore.

Labels: Josh Beckett, Manny Ramirez, Mike Mussina

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 6:49 AM | Permalink | Comments

Myers Pitches Strong, Phillies Collect 16 Hits In 10-2 Drubbing Of Astros

The Philadelphia Phillies offense that you've come to expect (Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, Pat Burrell, etc.) came home to Citizens Bank Park Thursday, looking to salvage their series against the Houston Astros in the rubber game; the offense came alive as Philadelphia ground out 16 hits while Brett Myers had a strong showing on the mound, leading the Phillies to a resounding 10-2 win over the Astros 10-2. Chris Coste led the Phillies' attack, going 4-for-5 with a home run, a run scored and 3 RBIs while Chase Utley, Ryan Howard, Pat Burrell, So Taguchi, Greg Dobbs and Geoff Jenkins added 2 hits each - with Utley, Howard and Burrell adding a home run apiece. Brett Myers (2-1) got the win as he went 7 strong innings, allowing 5 hits, an earned run, walking 1 while striking out 8. Houston was led by Miguel Tejada as he went 3-for-4 with a HR, a run scored and an RBI while Carlos Lee and Humberto Quintero had 2 hits each - with Lee adding a HR. Losing pitcher Brandon Backe (1-2) was blasted as he pitched only 3 innings, allowing 10 hits, 5 earned runs, walking 2 while striking out 2. Philadelphia (8-8) plays again on Friday as they continue their homestand, hosting the New York Mets (8-6); Cole Hamels (2-1) gets the start for Philadelphia while Johan Santana (1-2) starts for New York.

Labels: Brett Myers, Chase Utley, Chris Coste, miguel tejada, Pat Burrell, Ryan Howard

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 6:16 AM | Permalink | Comments

Tulowitzki's Game-Winning Double Ends 22-Inning Marathon, Rockies Outlast Padres 2-1

While it is true that extra-inning games are commonplace in Major League Baseball, it is extremely rare that they last as long as Thursday night's marathon between the Colorado Rockies and San Diego Padres; it was without a doubt a game that wore out both teams' pitching staffs. The game itself mercifully came to an end when the Rockies' Troy Tulowitzki's game-winning double and RBI, pushing Colorado to the 2-1 win over San Diego in 22 innings at Petco Park. Colorado was led by Willie Taveras and Matt Holliday with 3 hits each - with Taveras scoring 2 runs and stealing a base while Holliday stole 2 bases; Tulowitzki and Clint Barmes added 2 hits each. The win went to Kip Wells (1-0) as he pitched 4 innings, allowing a hit, walking one and striking out 3.

San Diego was led by a trio - Kevin Kouzmanoff, Khalil Greene and Josh Bard - with 2 hits apiece; losing pitcher Glendon Rusch (0-1) pitched 3 innings, allowing 3 hits and an unearned run while striking out 1. Both teams have little time to rest; Colorado (7-8) plays on Friday as they visit the Houston Astros (6-10) - Franklin Morales (0-1) getting the start for Colorado while Chris Sampson gets the nod for Houston. San Diego (8-8) also plays on Friday, visiting the NL West-leading Arizona Diamondbacks (11-4); Greg Maddux (2-0) gets the start for San Diego while Dan Haren (2-0) toes the rubber for Arizona.

Labels: Glendon Rusch, Jake Peavy, Jeff Francis, Kip Wells, Matt Holliday, Troy Tulowitzki

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 5:37 AM | Permalink | Comments

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Rookie Votto's 5 RBIs Lead Reds In Demolition Of Cubs 9-2

And to think it was a rookie that would help the Cincinnati Reds snap a five-game losing streak; Joey Votto was a 1-man wrecking crew as he drove in 5 runs, leading Cincinnati to a convincing 9-2 win over the Chicago Cubs Thursday at Wrigley Field. Votto led all Cincinnati batters, going 2-for-4 with a double, home run, a run scored and 5 RBIs while Ken Griffey, Jr. went 2-for 4 with a HR, a run scored and 3 RBIs; Ryan Freel, Jeff Keppinger and Edwin Encarnacion each chipped in with 2 hits apiece - with Encarnacion adding 2 doubles. Winning pitcher Edinson Volquez (2-0) pitched 5 innings, allowing 4 hits, an earned run, walking 4 while striking out 7.

Chicago was led by Reed Johnson with 4 hits while Henry Blanco and losing pitcher Ted Lilly drove in a run apiece; losing pitcher Lilly (0-3) pitched 6 innings, allowing 6 hits, 5 earned runs, walking 3 while striking out 6. Cincinnati (7-9) plays again on Friday as they host the Milwaukee Brewers (9-6); Bronson Arroyo (0-1) gets the start for Cincinnati while Ben Sheets (2-0) toes the rubber for Milwaukee. Chicago (9-6) continues their homestand as they host the Pittsburgh Pirates (7-8) on Friday; Rich Hill (0-0) will start for Chicago while Ian Snell (2-0) gets the starting assignment for Pittsburgh.

Labels: Joey Votto, Jr., Ken Griffey, Reed Johnson

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 8:27 PM | Permalink | Comments

Contreras Strong As White Sox Top Orioles

Jose Contreras pitched seven innings of one-run ball to lead the White Sox to a 3-1 victory over the Orioles at Camden Yards. Contreras allowed just four hits with no walks and six strikeouts to even his record at 1-and-1. Jim Thome smacked a three-run homer in the top of the first for Chicago, which has won three-of-four to climb to 9-and-5 on the season. Bobby Jenks pitched a perfect ninth for the save. Aubrey Huff singled in the lone run for Baltimore, which has lost six-of-eight. Adam Loewen was saddled with the loss.

Labels: bobby jenks, jim thome, jose contreras

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:31 AM | Permalink | Comments

Yanks Win Bronx Slugfest Over Red Sox 15-9

Jorge Posada went 2-for-5 with three RBI to lead the Yankees to a 15-9 win over the Red Sox in a shootout in the Bronx. Bobby Abreu slugged a two-run homer and Alex Rodriguez added the 522nd of his career to move past Ted Williams and Willie McCovey into 15th place on baseball's all-time list. New York led 7-4 after four innings, fell behind 9-7 in the fifth, and scored four times in the bottom of the fifth to take the lead for good. LaTroy Hawkins picked up the win and Brian Bruney his first save. Julian Tavarez took the loss for Boston, which had its four-game winning streak snapped. Dustin Pedroia, J.D. Drew and Sean Casey all had multiple hits and drove in two runs each for the Red Sox.

Labels: Bobby Abreu, Dustin Pedroia, J.D. Drew, sean casey

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:29 AM | Permalink | Comments

Redbirds Hold Off Brewers 5-4 in St.Louis

Adam Wainwright pitched two-run ball into the eighth inning and also homered as the Cardinals hung on to beat the Brewers 5-4 at Busch Stadium. Albert Pujols had a two-run double and Skip Schumaker also homered for St. Louis, which built a 5-1 lead in the fifth inning. Wainwright got his second win and Jason Isringhausen survived two runs in the ninth to post his sixth save as the Redbirds improved to 11-and-4. J.J. Hardy and Craig Counsell had RBI doubles in the ninth to get Milwaukee close. Carlos Villanueva took the loss.

Labels: Adam Wainwright, Jason Isringhausen, Skip Schumaker

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:28 AM | Permalink | Comments

Gonzlae's Homer the Difference in Marlins 6-5 Win Over Atlanta

Luis Gonzalez's two-run, seventh inning homer proved to be the difference as the Marlins nipped the Braves 6-5 at Dolphin Stadium. Mike Jacobs added a solo shot, and Hanley Ramirez had two hits and two RBI for the Fish, who will go for a three-game sweep on Thursday. Mark Hendrickson gave up three runs on six hits over five-and-a-third innings to move to 3-and-1. Kevin Gregg struck out two in a flawless ninth to notch his third save. Yunel Escobar smacked a two-run homer for Atlanta, which has dropped three straight. Brian McCann and Matt Diaz both plated a run to pull the Braves within one in the eighth. Tim Hudson permitted four runs in just three frames to fall to 2-and-1 with the loss.

Labels: Brian McCann, Kevin Gregg, Luis Gonzalez, Matt Diaz

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:27 AM | Permalink | Comments

Oswalt, Astros Edge Phillies 2-1

Roy Oswalt tossed seven innings of five-hit, one-run ball as the Astros went on to edge the Phillies 2-1 in the second-of-three at Citizens Bank Park. Oswalt fanned four and walked two en route to his first win of the season. Michael Bourn went 2-for-4 with a home run for Houston, which has won three-of-four to improve to 6-and-9 on the year. Carlos Lee doubled in a run in the victory. Doug Brocail closed things out for his first save. Ryan Howard singled in Jayson Werth in the first inning to provide the only run for Philadelphia, which slipped to 7-and-8. Kyle Kendrick gave up two runs in seven frames to take the tough-luck loss.

Labels: Doug Brocail, Roy Oswalt, Ryan Howard

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:23 AM | Permalink | Comments

Webb Leads D'backs Past Giants 4-1

Brandon Webb fired eight strong innings and also hit a two-run single as the Diamondbacks topped the Giants, 4-1, in the rubber match of a three-game set at AT&T Park. Webb struck out five while allowing just three hits and one run to move to 4-and-0 on the year. Brandon Lyon tossed a perfect ninth for his third save. Eric Byrnes and Orlando Hudson also knocked in a run each for Arizona, which improved to a big league-best 11-and-4 on the season. Eugenio Velez plated the lone run for the Giants, who have dropped four-of-six. Barry Zito gave up four runs, three earned, on five hits and five walks over six frames to fall to 0-and-4. Zito has lost four straight for the first time in his career.

Labels: barry zito, Brandon Webb, Eugenio Velez

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:22 AM | Permalink | Comments

Twins Rally Past Rays 6-5 at the Metrodome

Delmon Young tagged up and scored when Carl Crawford made a diving catch on a foul ball hit by Mike Lamb, giving the Twins a 6-5 win over Tampa Bay last night at the Metrodome. Had Crawford let the ball drop, Young would not have been allowed to score the go-ahead run. The Rays took the lead three times in the game, and all three times the Twins came back to tie the score or take the lead. Joe Mauer had three hits, scored twice and drove in a run, while Juan Rincon got two outs to get credit for the win that snapped the Twins' three-game losing streak. Joe Nathan pitched a scoreless ninth for his fifth save.

Labels: carl crawford, delmon young, mike lamb

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:21 AM | Permalink | Comments

Sabathia's Issues a Major Concern for Cleveland

Looking at and talking to C.C. Sabathia right now is not an easy thing to do. He is as approachable as ever, and even last night, with assembled media in the Indians locker room at Progressive Field, C.C. answered every question given, good or bad, and never backed down from the issues that currently face the CY Young award winner.

He looks like someone that just lost their beloved pet, or was just told by their wife that she was cheating on them. He is in pain, knowing that four starts into a season that was to showcase his talents for a monster free agent deal that he is pitching as poorly as at any point in his Major League career. While money for next year does not appear to be on his mind, the one thing that is and that's killing him is knowing that he's letting his teammates down.

Questions about his health quickly get brushed off. Both C.C. and Eric Wedge deny any sort of physical problem, simply saying that the issue is in command of his pitches, not a physical ailment. Sabathia himself last night pointed to the fact that he's not throwing the ball where catcher Victor Martinez is setting up, which is what is leading to at-bats like Edgar Renteria, who hit the grand slam that drove Sabathia from last night's 13-2 loss.

For now forget about his next start, Sabathia just has to get back to basics and start with good bullpen sessions before his next start. He knows that with each poor start the questions of "what's wrong" will get louder and louder, and there's nothing he can do about it, until he goes out and shows the form Indians fans are use to. Until then, frustration for the worst stretch of his career will continue to mount, and his price tag for 2009 will continue to decrease with each pitch that floats over the middle of the plate.

Labels: C.C. Sabathia, Victor Martinez

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:19 AM | Permalink | Comments

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

Four-Run Ninth Lifts Phillies Over Astros

Pedro Feliz doubled in the winning run in a four-run ninth inning as the Phillies rallied to beat the Astros 4-3 in the first of a three-game set at Citizens Bank Park. Chris Snelling led off the ninth with a pinch-hit solo homer and Pat Burrell tied the game with a two-run blast. Jose Valverde allowed all four runs in the frame to blow his second save and take the loss. Rudy Seanez tossed a scoreless inning of relief to pick up his first win for Philadelphia, which has won three-of-four to even its record at 7-and-7. Lance Berkman had two hits and scored twice, and Miguel Tejada, Geoff Blum and Hunter Pence each plated a run in defeat. Valverde's meltdown spoiled eight innings of four-hit, shutout ball by Shawn Chacon.

Labels: jose valverde, Pedro Feliz, Shawn Chacon

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:49 AM | Permalink | Comments

Kent Clutch as Dodgers Beat Pirates 11-2

Jeff Kent's three-run homer capped a five-run fifth inning to blow the game open as the Dodgers went on to drill the Pirates 11-2 at Chavez Ravine. Andre Ethier had two hits and two RBI for Los Angeles, which trailed 1-0 until scoring three in the bottom of the fourth. Andruw Jones contributed two hits and scored twice for LA, which won for just the second time in its last eight games. Esteban Loiaza [[ lo-EYE-zuh ]] worked five innings of one-run relief to get the win. Brad Penny will get the start for the Blue Crew in tonight's finale against the Bucs, going up against Paul Maholm. First pitch at the Ravine will be at 7:10.

Labels: andruw jones, jeff kent, Paul Maholm

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:42 AM | Permalink | Comments

Another 9th Inning Homer Lifts Red Sox to 5-3 Win in Cleveland

Jason Varitek snapped a 3-all tie with a pinch hit home run in the top of the ninth inning and the Boston Red Sox went on to beat the Cleveland Indians, 5-3, on Tuesday night. Kevin Youkilis added an RBI single for insurance as Boston swept the two-game series. Jed Lowrie had an infield single in the seventh for his first major league hit and drove in three for the Sox. David Aardsma picked up the win in relief and Hideki Okajima recorded his first save. Jensen Lewis took the loss for the Tribe. Victor Martinez had three hits and two RBI for Cleveland. The Indians will continue their homestand as they will open a two-game series against the Detroit Tigers tonight. C.C. Sabathia, who's 0-and-2 with an 11.57 ERA, will start for the Indians. The Tigers will send out Armando Galarraga. First pitch at Progressive Field is set for 7:05 p.m.

Labels: Armando Galarraga, C.C. Sabathia, Jason Varitek, Victor Martinez

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:41 AM | Permalink | Comments

Seattle Steamrolls KC 11-6 at Safeco

Jose Lopez knocked four runs and tied a major league record with three sacrifice flies as the Mariners rolled over the Royals 11-6 at Safeco Field. Yuniesky Betancourt had two sac-flies and plated three, and Kenji Johjima drove in two more as Seattle earned a split of the two-game series to snap a two-game losing skid. Miguel Batista earned the win, allowing four runs on seven hits over five innings. Tony Pena Jr. drove in two runs and Mark Grudzielanek collected three hits in the setback. John Bale was roughed up for five runs on seven hits over three-plus innings to fall to 0-and-3 for Kansas City. The Mariners now head to Oakland for a quick two-game set against the A's. First pitch is at 7:05.

Labels: john bale, jose lopez, Mark Grudzielanek, Yuniesky Betancourt

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:39 AM | Permalink | Comments

Brewers Reach Minor League Deal with Jeff Weaver

The Brewers reached an agreement on a minor league contract with pitcher Jeff Weaver on Tuesday. Weaver will undergo a physical and sign his contract today before reporting to Arizona where he will join Triple-A Nashville at a later date. The 31-year-old went 7-and-13 with a 6.20 ERA in 27 starts for Seattle last season.

Labels: jeff weaver

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:37 AM | Permalink | Comments

Blue Jays Explode For 16 Hits, Destroy Orioles 11-3

The Toronto Blue Jays typically have a decent offense; however on Tuesday, they went from a decent offense to an explosive one as they manufactured 16 hits, enabling Toronto to embarrass the Baltimore Orioles, 11-3, at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Toronto's attack was led by David Eckstein as he went 3-for-4 with 3 runs scored, an RBI and a stolen base while Aaron Hill went 2-for-3 with a home run, a run scored and 3 RBIs; Alex Rios, Vernon Wells and Marco Scutaro also added 2 hits each - with Scutaro adding a double. Winning pitcher Shaun Marcum (2-0) pitched 6 2/3 innings, allowing 4 hits, 2 earned runs, walking 3 while striking out 4.

Baltimore was led by Nick Markakis as he went 2-for-4 with a HR, a run scored and an RBI while Luke Scott added 2 hits; Adam Jones and Melvin Mora added a HR apiece for the Orioles. Losing pitcher Steve Trachsel (1-2) pitched only 2 1/3 innings, allowing 5 hits, 5 earned runs, walking 3 while striking out 1. Toronto (8-6) plays again on Wednesday as they host the Texas Rangers; Jesse Litsch (2-0) starts for Toronto while Kason Gabbard (1-0) gets the start for Texas. Baltimore (8-6) continues their homestand as they host the Chicago White Sox on Wednesday; Adam Loewen (0-0) gets the start for Baltimore while Jose Contreras (0-1) starts for Chicago.

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 12:36 AM | Permalink | Comments

Jackson, Owings Help Diamondbacks Take Bite Out Of Giants 8-2

Although the season is not quite three weeks old, the Arizona Diamondbacks appear to be for real; Tuesday's game against the San Francisco Giants illustrated that point as their offense was clicking yet again. A home run by Conor Jackson combined with solid pitching by Micah Owings boosted Arizona to their 10th win, blasting San Francisco 8-2 at AT&T Park. Arizona was led by the aforementioned Jackson as he went 2-for 4 with a double, HR, scoring a run with 3 RBIs while Chris Young went 2-for 4 with a HR, 2 runs scored and 2 RBIs; Eric Byrnes also added 2 hits. Winning pitcher Owings (3-0) pitched 6 innings, allowing only 3 hits, an earned run, walking 2 while striking out 6.

San Francisco was led by John Bowker who went 2-for-4 with a triple and a run scored while Eugenio Velez also added 2 hits; losing pitcher Kevin Correia (1-2) pitched 6 innings, allowing 5 hits, 5 earned runs, walking 3 while striking out 6. Arizona (10-4) plays again on Wednesday as they play San Francisco (6-9) in the final game of the Giants' homestand; Brandon Webb (3-0) starts for Arizona while Barry Zito (0-3) takes the mound for San Francisco.

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 12:03 AM | Permalink | Comments

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Angels' 3-Run 6th Inning Sends Rangers To 5th Straight Loss, 7-4

It is without question that the Los Angeles Angels have offensive firepower; it just so happened that their hero du jour (read: hero of the day) happened to be Gary Matthews, Jr.. Matthews broke out of a 3-for-27 slump as he hit a tie-breaking three-run double, allowing the Angels to send the Texas Rangers to their 5th straight loss, 7-4, Tuesday at Rangers Ballpark at Arlington. Los Angeles was led by Matthews, as he went 1-for-4 with a double and 3 RBIs while Chone Figgins, Garrett Anderson and Erick Aybar had 2 hits apiece. Casey Kotchman hit his 4th home run of the season. Winning pitcher Darren Oliver (1-0) pitched 2 2/3 innings, allowing 3 hits while Francisco Rodriguez pitched a scoreless 9th, allowing 2 walks while striking out 2, notching his 5th save.

Texas was led by Michael Young as he went 3-for-5 with an RBI while Milton Bradley, Hank Blaylock and David Murphy added 2 hits each. Losing pitcher Josh Rupe (0-1), who replaced starter Kevin Millwood when he injured his shin on a batted ball, pitched 2 innings; he allowed 2 hits, 3 earned runs while walking 4. Los Angeles (9-6) plays again on Wednesday as they return home to host the Kansas City Royals; Jered Weaver (1-2) gets the start for Los Angeles while Gil Meche (0-2) starts for Kansas City. Texas (5-9) plays again on Wednesday as they travel to Toronto to face the Blue Jays; Kason Gabbard (1-0) gets the start for Texas while Jesse Litsch (2-0) gets the nod for Toronto.

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 11:33 PM | Permalink | Comments

Ramirez's Two-Run Blast Tops Tribe 6-4

Manny Ramirez's two-run homer capped a three-run top of the ninth as the Red Sox rallied to beat the Indians 6-4 at Progressive Field. Kevin Youkilis went 3-for-4 with two RBI for Boston, which won its third straight win to improve to 8-and-6. Mike Timlin got the win in relief and Jonathan Papelbon struck out two in a perfect ninth for his fifth save. Joe Borowski allowed all three runs in the top half to suffer his second blown save and second loss. Travis Hafner and Victor Martinez combined for five hits and three RBI to lead the Tribe attack.

Labels: Jonathan Papelbon, Manny Ramirez, Victor Martinez

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:34 AM | Permalink | Comments

McLouth's Ninth-Inning Homer Propels Pirates

Nate McLouth socked a three-run homer with two outs in the top of the ninth inning to propel the Pirates to a 6-4 win over the Dodgers at Chavez Ravine. Jose Batista and Adam LaRoche singled in front of McLouth's blast of Los Angeles closer Takashi Saito. Batista earlier hit a two-run homer for Pittsburgh, which was coming off a three-game sweep of Cincinnati. Tyler Yates got the win and Matt Capps his fourth save. Russell Martin had two hits, and starter Hiroki Kuroda doubled in a run for the Dodgers, who fell to 5-and-8.

Labels: Hiroki Kuroda, Matt Capps, Tyler Yates

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:33 AM | Permalink | Comments

Greinke Throws Five-Hitter in Royals 5-1 Win Over M's

Billy Butler and Miguel Olivo homered to back a five-hitter by Zack Greinke as the Royals beat the Mariners 5-1 in the first of two at Safeco Field. Greinke walked one and fanned four to move to 3-and-0 on the season. He and Brian Bannister have thrown consecutive complete games, the first time for KC since Blake Stein and Mac Suzuki in 2000. Olivo finished 3-for-4 with two RBI and two runs scored as the Royals moved to 8-and-5. Ichiro Suzuki and Kenji Johjima had two hits each for Seattle, which has lost two straight to drop to 6-and-7. Jarrod Washburn gave up three runs in six frames to fall to 1-and-2. The second and final game of the short series is this afternoon. First pitch is at 3:40 p.m.

Labels: Billy Butler, Kenji Johjima, Zack Greinke

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:26 AM | Permalink | Comments

Reds SS Gonzalez Still Ailing

It appears Alex Gonzalez is not all that close to returning to the field. Cincinnati Reds.com reports the shortstop is still suffering from a compression fracture in his left knee. An MRI has revealed no significant improvement in his condition. The report says that, although he is still working out, Gonzalez will not be allowed to run for two-to-four weeks.

Labels: Alex Gonzalez

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:26 AM | Permalink | Comments

Twins Bullpen Fails as Tigers Rally for 11-9 Win

The Tigers wiped out a pair of five-run deficits, scoring six times in the bottom of the eighth to beat the Twins 11-9. It was like batting practice against the Twins bullpen, who gave up seven runs over three innings after starter Nick Blackburn allowed four runs in the sixth. The Tigers had not scored a run in 26 straight innings before breaking through on Blackburn. The comeback ruined a productive night for the Twins offense, which pounded out 13 hits, including three by Delmon Young and two each by Denard Span, Jason Kubel, Brendan Harris and Adam Everett.

Labels: Adam Everett, Brendan Harris, Denard Span, Jason Kubel, Nick Blackburn

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:20 AM | Permalink | Comments

Giants Beat D-Backs 5-4

Bengie Molina's sacrifice fly in the bottom of the seventh inning proved to be the difference as the San Francisco Giants went on to beat the Arizona Diamondbacks, 5-4, in the opener of a three-game series at AT&T Park. Aaron Rowand hit an RBI double while Randy Winn added an RBI single for the Giants, who have won five of their past six games to improve to 6-and-8 on the season. Keiichi Yabu picked up the win in relief of starter Jonathan Sanchez, allowing no runs on one hit over two innings of work to move his record to 1-and-1.

Brian Wilson recorded the final three outs for his fourth save. Chad Qualls suffered the loss, allowing two runs (none earned) on one hit over one and-a-third innings to fall to 0-and-1. Connor Jackson clubbed a two-run homer and later added an RBI single for the D-Backs, who dropped to 9-and-4. The series continues this afternoon at 1:35 p.m

Labels: aaron rowand, Bengie Molina, Brian Wilson

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:18 AM | Permalink | Comments

Monday, April 14, 2008

Red Sox Jersey Dug Up At Yankee Stadium

One of the workers on the crew that's building the new Yankee Stadium is a big Red Sox fan, and when he had a chance to bury a David Ortiz jersey in the ground he took it. Some coworkers who are Yankee fans didn't think his attempt to curse the Bronx Bombers was very funny, so they got their jackhammers and successfully dug up the shirt.

Yankee management has gone to the local district attorney to see if they can bring any charges against the worker who buried the shirt. The jersey is being sent to the Jimmy Fund in Boston where it will be auctioned off with all the money going to help in the fight against juvenile cancer.

Labels: David Ortiz

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:57 AM | Permalink | Comments

Angels Avoid Sweep with 10-5 Win over Mariners

Jeff Mathis went 3-for-4 with a two-run homer and three runs scored as the Angels doubled up the Mariners, 10-5, to avoid a sweep in their three-game series at Safeco Field. Vladimir Guerrero and Gary Matthews Jr. each knocked in a pair of runs, while Howie Kendrick and Casey Kotchman both went 3-for-4 with an RBI. Erick Aybar aided LA's 16-hit attack with two hits and two runs scored. Joe Saunders picked up the win after allowing two runs on six hits aver five and a third innings. Erik Bedard was slated to start for the M's, but was scratched due to left hip inflammation. Cha Seung Baek gave up four runs on seven hits over four and a third frames to suffer the loss. Raul Ibanez plated three runs for Seattle in defeat. The M's start a two-game home series with the Kansas City Royals tonight.

Labels: Cha Seung Baek, Jeff Mathis, Raul Ibanez

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:56 AM | Permalink | Comments

Brewers Rally to Top Mets 9-7 at Shea

The Brewers rallied past the Mets, 9-7, in the finale of a three-game set at Shea Stadium on Sunday. Gabe Kapler had three hits, including a homer, three runs scored and three RBI. Corey Hart went 4-for-5 with an RBI and a run scored for Milwaukee, which took two-of-three in the series. Ryan Braun and Jason Kendall plated a pair of runs apiece in the victory. Salomon Torres tossed two scoreless innings of relief to earn his second win, and Eric Gagne pitched a perfect ninth for his third save. The Brewers open a series at St. Louis tomorrow.

Labels: Corey Hart, Eric Gagne, Gabe Kapler

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:55 AM | Permalink | Comments

Pirates Beat Up Reds 9-1 to Move to 6-6

The Pirates completed a three-game sweep by pounding out three longballs en route to a 9-1 win over the Reds. Cincinnati was held to six hits Sunday, and was only able to muster four runs the entire weekend. Johnny Cueto took the loss, allowing fives runs in six innings while striking out six. The Reds are off today before opening a three-game series in Chicago Tuesday. Aaron Harang will be opposed by righty and former Red Ryan Dempster. Game time tomorrow 8:05 p.m.

Labels: Johnny Cueto

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:54 AM | Permalink | Comments

Liriano Struggles in First Start as Royals Top Twins 5-1

Francisco Liriano battled wildness in his first major league start in 19 months, while Kansas City's Brian Bannister was near-perfect in the Royals' 5-1 win over the Twins yesterday at Kauffman Stadium. Liriano allowed four runs on six hits in four and two-thirds innings, walking four and striking out five while throwing 90 pitches. He's coming back from Tommy John surgery on his left elbow. Bannister pitched his second career complete game, allowing three hits and one unearned run. The only run for the Twins came across on an R-B-I single by Justin Morneau in the first inning. The loss snapped the Twins' three-game winning streak.

Labels: Brian Bannister, Francisco Liriano

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:53 AM | Permalink | Comments

Giants Overcome Cardinals 7-4

After homering in his major league debut on Saturday, John Bowker clubbed a two-run shot and drove in four runs yesterday as the San Francisco Giants beat the St. Louis Cardinals, 7-4, to gain a split of their four-game set at AT&T Park. Eugenio Velez added a two-run single for the Giants, who improved to 5-and-8 on the season. For Bowker, Sunday was just a continuation of his dream-debut in the big leagues. Called up from Triple-A Fresno on Friday, the 24-year-old Sacramento native became just the eighth Giants player in San Francisco franchise-history to homer in his debut when he connected on a solo blast in Saturday's extra-innings loss. Tim Lincecum went the first six innings for the win, allowing two runs on six hits while striking out 11 to move his record to 2-and-0. Joel Pineiro took the loss to fall to 0-and-1. The Giants begin a three-game series at home this evening (7:15 p.m.) against the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Labels: Eugenio Velez, Joel Pineiro, John Bowker

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:51 AM | Permalink | Comments

Sunday, April 13, 2008

Lee Helps End Indians' 3-Game Losing Streak, Scalp A's 7-1

The game between the Oakland A's and Cleveland Indians on Sunday was a bit too easy for Indians starting pitcher Cliff Lee. Maybe the raw weather conditions in Cleveland had something to do with it, but nonetheless, Lee pitched well, ending Oakland's 5-game winning streak, easily defeating the Athletics 7-1 at Progressive Field. Grady Sizemore led the Indians' attack, going 2-for-4 with 2 runs scored and 3 RBIs while Travis Hafner added 2 hits and 2 RBIs; Jamey Carroll scored 3 runs. Winning pitcher Lee (2-0) pitched 8 innings, allowing only 2 hits and an earned run while striking out 8.

Oakland managed to muster only 3 hits, with Travis Buck, Mark Ellis and Kurt Suzuki with a hit apiece - with Buck scoring a run and Ellis adding an RBI. Losing pitcher Chad Gaudin (0-1) pitched 6 innings, allowing 4 hits, 3 earned runs while walking4 and striking out 4. Cleveland (5-7) plays again on Monday as they host the Boston Red Sox; Jake Westbrook (1-1) gets the start for Cleveland while Jon Lester (1-2) gets the start for Boston. Oakland (8-5) travels to Chicago to take on the White Sox; Greg Smith (0-0) takes the mound for Oakland while Mark Buehrle (1-0) gets the start for Chicago.

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 10:31 PM | Permalink | Comments

Saturday, April 12, 2008

Giants' Roberts Has Surgery, Out For Awhile

The San Francisco Giants, at least in my opinion, have a weak link in their outfield. That link was further weakened as outfielder Dave Roberts, according to the Associated Press, had surgery on his problematic left knee Saturday and may miss up to 12 weeks, as a result. Team orthopedist Ken Akizuki performed the 45-minute procedure - which included the cleaning out of cartilage behind the knee, caused by arthritis and wear and tear; Roberts will get around for the next 2 1/2 weeks on crutches. But in the meantime, he will, beginning Sunday, begin light rehabilitation exercises to start regaining his range of motion and strength while gaining strength as the swelling subsides.

Assuming the rehab goes well, Roberts could head out on a rehab assignment as early as 8 weeks from now; the knee, as it were, had bothered Roberts since spring training, but this development is obviously not good news as he had missed a month back in 2007 to have left elbow surgery. In the meantime, the Giants recalled OF John Bowker from Triple-A Fresno and in turn optioned OF Clay Timpner to Fresno.

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 4:26 PM | Permalink | Comments

Friday, April 11, 2008

Burrell Leads Phillies Past Cubs 5-3

It is without question that the Philadelphia Phillies miss shortstop Jimmy Rollins being out of their lineup; however - for one game at least - outfielder Pat Burrell picked up the offensive slack. Burrell's 2-run home run and tiebreaking double in the 6th inning enabled Philadelphia to beat Chicago 5-3 Friday at Citizens Bank Park. Philadelphia's leading hitter was the aforementioned Burrell, going 2-for-4 with a double, HR, 2 runs scored and 3 RBIs while Shane Victorino and Greg Dobbs each had 2 hits. Winning pitcher Brett Myers (1-1) pitched 8 innings, allowing 5 hits, 3 earned runs, while striking out 3 but allowing 3 HRs; closer Brad Lidge picked up his 2nd save.

Chicago was led by Aramis Ramirez and Derrek Lee with 2 hits apiece - with Ramirez adding a double, a HR, a run scored and an RBI while Lee hit a HR along with a run scored and an RBI. Alfonso Soriano added a HR, as well; losing pitcher Carlos Zambrano (1-1) pitched 6 innings, allowing 9 hits, 5 earned runs, walking 1 and striking out 6. Philadelphia (5-6) continues their homestand as they play Chicago (6-4) again Saturday; Cole Hamels (1-1) gets the start for the Phillies while Ted Lilly (0-1) gets the start for the Cubs.

Labels: Alfonso Soriano, Aramis Ramirez, Brett Myers, Derrek Lee, Pat Burrell

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 9:01 PM | Permalink | Comments

Guillen Suspension Commuted

Certainly you could hear a sigh of relief from the Kansas City Royals; according to Dick Kaegel of MLB.com, outfielder Jose Guillen will not have to serve any of the 15-day suspension that had previously been handed down. It was announced that Guillen's suspension for violations of Major League Baseball's drug-prevention policy has been commuted. All of this thanks to recommendations by former Senator George Mitchell that players in the report not be punished, not to mention that MLB and the Players Association. At the time of the lifting of the suspension, Guillen was off to a very sluggish start, batting just .162 with 2 doubles and 5 RBIs.

Labels: jose guillen

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 8:44 PM | Permalink | Comments

Jeter Likely To Sit This Weekend

A quadriceps injury can be very problematic, by nature; the New York Yankees know this better than anyone as shortstop Derek Jeter is currently suffering from that malady. Thus far, he has missed four games and is not expected to play at all this weekend. Although Jeter played catch before Friday's game, according to Yankees manager Joe Girardi, it was probably doubtful that Jeter would play before the team left town to play a short series with the Tampa Bay Rays on Monday. Jeter did perform some baseball activities - stretching and playing catch - on the field at Fenway Park; however, the weather in Boston makes a quad injury more difficult to deal with. Even Yankees general manager Brian Cashman says that he expects Jeter for the entire Red Sox series, as well. In the meantime, the Yankees are using Alberto Gonzalez at shortstop. Gonzalez was called up from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on Wednesday and started again in his place on Friday. so it appears for the short-term, expect Gonzalez to man shortstop until Jeter's return.

Labels: derek jeter

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 8:27 PM | Permalink | Comments

Cubs Sweep Pirates with 7-3 Win

The Cubs used a five-run sixth inning for a 7-3 win over the Pirates last night and a sweep of the three-game series at PNC Park. Geovany Soto had a strong night at the plate, going 4-for-5 with a pair of RBI including his second home run of the season. Mike Fontenot also went deep and Alfonso Soriano added a pair of hits. Jon Lieber pitched four and one-third shutout relief innings to pick up the win. Starter Rich Hill was lifted after three frames, having given up three earned runs on three hits. The Cubs travel to play the Phillies this evening.

Labels: Geovany Soto, mike fontenot, rich hill

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:21 AM | Permalink | Comments

Rangers Take Two From Birds

Ian Kinsler singled in the go-ahead run in the bottom of the eighth inning as the Rangers completed a doubleheader sweep of the Orioles with a 5-4 win in Arlington. Milton Bradley went 2-for-4 with two RBI and Michael Young homered for Texas. Jamey Wright got the win and C.J. Wilson his second save of the day and third of the season. Jay Payton homered for Baltimore, while Chad Bradford took the loss. In the opener, Kevin Millwood tossed seven innings of three-hit, one-run ball as the Rangers won 3-1. Josh Hamilton plated two runs, and Michael Young had two hits, an RBI and scored twice for Texas. Steve Trachsel took the loss for the O's, who had won six in-a-row.

Labels: C.J. Wilson, Ian Kinsler, Kevin Millwood

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:18 AM | Permalink | Comments

No Liriano Yet for the Twins

The Twins aren't expected to make a decision about Francisco Liriano until at least Tuesday. Liriano could have been called on to start Sunday's game in Kansas City, but yesterday's rain out in Chicago pushed the starting rotation up one day. That allowed Nick Blackburn to take Sunday's spot that was vacated by the injury to Kevin Slowey. For now, it appears Liriano will make another minor league start on Sunday for Rochester. He had a rough outing for the Red Wings earlier this week, throwing 88 pitches in four innings. Liriano is coming back from Tommy John surgery on his left elbow. He missed all of last season.

Labels: Francisco Liriano

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:18 AM | Permalink | Comments

Rays Pitcher Reyes Arrested

Rays pitcher Rafael Reyes was arrested overnight after a disturbance at a cafe in Tampa, Florida. Officials say Reyes was inside the Hyde Park Cafe when he fell against a ceramic pot. According to Tampa police, Reyes thought a bystander pushed him into the pot, so he allegedly started arguing with the man, who then punched Reyes in the face. Reyes is then said to have started spitting blood and swinging his arms at people. He had to be Tasered twice by a Tampa Police officer before he calmed down. Officials arrested Reyes and the man who punched him. Both were charged and released on their own recognizance.

Labels: Rafael Reyes

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:17 AM | Permalink | Comments

Giants Beat Cardinals 5-1 at AT&T Park

Jose Castillo hit an RBI double and Kevin Correia pitched seven-and-two-thirds solid innings as the San Francisco Giants beat the St. Louis Cardinals, 5-1, in the opener of a four-game series at AT&T Park. Aaron Rowand, Rich Aurilia and Bengie Molina each chipped in with RBI singles for the Giants, who have won three straight games to improve to 4-and-6 on the season. The 27-year old Correia scattered five hits while striking out four to move his record to 1-and-1 while Brian Wilson got the final two outs for his second save. Adam Wainwright took the loss, allowing four runs (all earned) on eight hits while striking out six over seven innings of work to fall to 1-and-1. The series continues this evening at 7:15. Barry Zito takes the mound for San Francisco against Kyle Lohse.

Labels: Adam Wainwright, Jose Castillo, Kevin Correia

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:15 AM | Permalink | Comments

Yanks Dash Royals' Sweep Hopes with 6-1 Win

The Royals may have taken their home-opening series against New York, but the Yankees made sure it wasn't a sweep. In a game that was beset by stormy weather, Kansas City fell 6-1 at the K last night. It was a double by Jose Guillen in the first inning, scoring Mark Teahen, that gave the Royals their only mark. And it was an old nemesis who did them in -- pitcher Andy Pettitte. He went six-and-two-thirds innings, giving up five hits for New York. In his last nine starts against the Royals, he's got a 7-and-0 record. The Royals are still on top of the AL Central at 6-and-3.

Labels: Andy Pettitte, jose guillen, Mark Teahen

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:13 AM | Permalink | Comments

Thursday, April 10, 2008

Robertson Beaten Up, Red Sox Destroy Tigers 12-6

The Detroit Tigers are, without a doubt, in a funk that doesn't bode well for them despite this being very early in the baseball season. Thursday's game against the Boston Red Sox illustrated that fact in a big way as Boston had 13 hits, chasing Detroit starter Nate Robertson as the Red Sox won going away, 12-6, at Fenway Park. Boston was led by J.D. Drew, going 3-for-3 with 2 runs scored and 2 RBIs while Dustin Pedroia, Coco Crisp and Sean Casey contributed 2 hits each. Winning pitcher Tim Wakefield (1-0) was effectively wild, pitching 5 innings, allowing only 3 hits, an earned run, walking 5 while striking out 5; he also hit two Tigers. Jonathan Papelbon pitched an inning to notch his 3rd save. Detroit was led by Ivan Rodriguez, going 3-for-3 with 2 runs scored and a stolen base while Placido Polanco went 2-for-4 with 2 RBIs; Brandon Inge had 2 RBIs while Magglio Ordonez hit his first home run of the season. Losing pitcher Robertson (0-1) pitched 5 1/3 innings, allowing 8 hits, 4 earned runs, walking 2 while striking out 6. Boston (5-5) plays again on Friday as they host the New York Yankees; Clay Buchholz (0-1) takes the mound for Boston while New York sends out Chien-Mien Wang (2-0). Detroit (1-8) hopes to get out of their funk as they play Friday, facing the Chicago White Sox; Dontrelle Willis (0-0) takes the mound for Detroit while Gavin Floyd (1-0) gets the start for Chicago.

Labels: Ivan Rodriguez, J.D. Drew, Jonathan Papelbon, Nate Robertson, Tim Wakefield

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 10:52 PM | Permalink | Comments

Harang, Encarnacion Boosts Reds Past Brewers 4-1

The Cincinnati Reds on Thursday, especially closer Francisco Cordero, had some motivation going for them as they faced the Milwaukee Brewers; Cordero was the Brewers' closer last season and he certainly got the business by the crowd at Miller Park. But it was the combined efforts of Reds starting pitcher Aaron Harang, Cordero and the bat of Edwin Encarnacion as they defeated the Brewers, 4-1. Cincinnati was led by Encarnacion, going 2-for-3, with a home run, 2 runs scored and 2 RBIs while Scott Hatteberg and Paul Bako chipped in with 2 hits apiece - with Hatteberg hitting a double with a run scored while Bako produced 2 RBIs. Winning pitcher Harang (1-1) pitched 8 innings, allowing only 5 hits, an earned run while striking out 3; Cordero picked up his second save of the season. Milwaukee's bats were rather quiet, led by Jason Kendall with 2 hits. Losing pitcher Carlos Villanueva (1-1) pitched 6 innings, allowing 7 hits, 4 earned runs, walking 3 while striking out 4. Cincinnati (6-4) next jets to Pittsburgh to take on the Pirates on Friday; Edinson Volquez (1-0) gets the start for Cincinnati while Paul Maholm (0-1) takes the mound for Pittsburgh.

Labels: Aaron Harang, Edwin Encarnacion, Francisco Cordero

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 10:24 PM | Permalink | Comments

Jackson Pitches Gem, Rays Blank Mariners 7-0

Better late than never, but Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Edwin Jackson seems to be finally paying dividends, especially after he lost 15 games last season. Jackson and a reliever combined for a three-hitter, allowing the Rays to shut out the Seattle Mariners, 7-0 Thursday at Tropicana Field. Tampa Bay was led by Akinori Iwamura, going 2-for-3 with a run scored and a stolen base while Jonny Gomes went a perfect 2-for-2 with a double and 2 runs scored; Carl Crawford and Mike DiFelice also had 2 hits each, with Crawford scoring 2 runs and Di Felice batting in 3 RBIs. Eric Hinske hit his first home run of the year; winning pitcher Jackson (2-0) pitched a great game, pitching 8 innings, allowing only 2 hits, walking 4 while striking out 6.

Seattle could muster only 3 hits, 2 by Adrian Beltre and one by Raul Ibanez; losing pitcher Miguel Batista pitched 6 innings, allowing 8 hits, 4 earned runs, walking 3 while striking out 4. Tampa Bay (4-5) continues their homestand as they host the Baltimore Orioles Friday; James Shields (1-1) takes the mound for Tampa Bay while Jeremy Guthrie (0-1) starts for Baltimore.

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 10:06 PM | Permalink | Comments

Carmona Signed To Extension

The Cleveland Indians appear serious about keeping a core member of their starting pitching around for quite a while as the team, according to the Associated Press and Buster Olney from ESPN The Magazine, and starting pitcher Fausto Carmona have agreed to a 4-year, $15 million contract - a deal that could be worth as much as $48 million; the deal matches the highest amount guaranteed to a pre-arbitration starting pitcher (the other being St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Adam Wainwright), and it's the highest guaranteed deal for a starting pitcher with only 1+ year of playing time.

The Carmona signing is protection of sorts in the event that they cannot keep C.C. Sabathia in the fold; Sabathia is eligible for free agency following this season, and the team is working diligently to retain him. Carmona will receive a signing bonus of $750,000 and guaranteed salaries of $500,000 this year, $2.75 million in 2009, $4.9 million in 2010 and $6.1 million in 2011. In addition, the Indians have options for $7 million in 2012, $9 million in 2013 and $14 million in 2014. The price of the first option could rise by $1 million and the price of the other two by $2 million each.

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 9:46 PM | Permalink | Comments

Lowell Day-To-Day With Bad Thumb

Wednesday's game against the Detroit Tigers proved to hurt the Boston Red Sox in the short-term as third baseman Mike Lowell sprained his thumb and had to leave in the bottom of the second inning; X-rays on his thumb proved to be negative, and as a result, has been listed as day-to-day. Depending on the team's decision today prior to their game against Detroit, it is entirely possible that Kevin Youkilis could see action at third while Sean Casey could get a start at first base.

Labels: kevin youkilis, mike lowell, sean casey

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 8:12 AM | Permalink | Comments

Royals' Guillen Receives Stay On Suspension

The Kansas City Royals have received a reprieve, of sorts - if you want to call it that - as according to Bob Dutton of the Kansas City Star, Major League Baseball and the players union agreed Wednesday afternoon to yet another stay in Royals outfielder Jose Guillen's 15-day suspension, which was originally scheduled to begin today; the new extension will allow Guillen to continue playing until at least Tuesday while both parties continue negotiations to strengthen baseball's drug agreement.

Guillen originally received a 15-day suspension on December 6 for unspecified violations in the drug policy; the suspension was originally scheduled to begin when the season started before both parties agreed to a 10-day stay on March 28. The Royals, at least for now, will retain Guillen; however, once the suspension finally kicks in, they're expected to bring up an outfielder from Triple-A Omaha - probablt Shane Acosta - to fill in for Guillen. As it were, Guillen thus far has provided little return on the Royals' investment (3 years, $36 million); as of this posting, Guillen has just 5 hits in 33 at-bats (.152).

Labels: jose guillen

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 7:52 AM | Permalink | Comments

MLB, Union Agree To Drug-Testing Deal

It looks like there will not be any strife between Major League Baseball and the players union as according to Thursday's edition of the New York Times, both entities have agreed to a deal which allows for an administrator to oversee the league's drug-testing program. According to the Times' report, under the new policy, the administrator will be appointed to a fixed term and will have protection from dismissal.

Currently, the current drug-testing program is overseen by four appointed representatives - 2 from the league and 2 from the players union; a 5th person can be appointed to resolve disputes, but some antidoping experts are questioning this method's independence. So from early indications, the initial report that was generated by former US Senator George Mitchell during the steroids investigation appears to be getting some teeth.

Labels: MLB, players union

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 7:27 AM | Permalink | Comments

Greinke and KC Keep the Yankees Quiet in 4-0 Shutout

Zack Greinke pitched eight innings of six-hit, shutout ball to lead the Royals to a 4-0 win over the Yankees at Kauffman Stadium. John Buck went 2-for-4 with a solo home run and Jose Guillen had an RBI single as Kansas City improved to 6-and-2. Jimmy Gobble got the final two outs in the ninth for his first save. Kyle Farnsworth gave up Buck's blast in the bottom of the fifth to break up a scoreless game and take the loss. Alex Rodriguez had two of the seven hits for New York, which has lost two straight to fall to 4-and-5.

Labels: John Buck, Zack Greinke

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:16 AM | Permalink | Comments

Marlins Big Fifth Leads to 10-4 Win in DC

The Washington Nationals gave up seven runs to the Florida Marlins in the fifth inning and lost 10-4 at Nationals Park. Mike Jacobs ripped two homers for the Marlins, including one that sealed the big frame. Jacobs has reached the seats four times in his last five games for first-place Florida. The power display backed impressive pitching by Scott Olsen, who dialed up his first win of 2008. Olsen allowed only four hits in seven and two thirds innings. Cristian Guzman clubbed his second homer of the season for the Nats. Paul Lo Duca plated two runs for manager Manny Acta. Washington is in a slump, having dropped its last six games after winning three straight to start the season. For the Nats, Jason Bergmann had a strong first four innings. In the fifth, his first pitch was belted into the left field seats by Jorge Cantu to tie the game at a run each. Florida sent 10 batters to the plate during its monster inning. The teams close out their series tonight. The expected starting pitchers will be Odalis Perez for the Nats and Mark Henrickson for Florida.

Labels: Cristian Guzman, Jorge Cantu, Mike Jacobs

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:14 AM | Permalink | Comments

Pujols Homers Twice as Cards Beat Astros 6-4

The St. Louis Cardinals beat the Houston Astros 6-4 yesterday at Minute Maid Park. Albert Pujols went 3-for-4 with a pair of solo homers and an RBI single to power the Cardinals. Chris Sampson gave up three runs in four frames to take the loss. Lance Berkman went 2-for-4 with an RBI and Carlos Lee singled in a run for Houston. The Astros take today off before a three-game stand against the Florida Marlins starting at 7:05 tomorrow night at Minute Maid. Roy Oswalt is set to pitch for Houston.

Labels: Albert Pujols, Chris Sampson, Roy Oswalt

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:11 AM | Permalink | Comments

Mariners at 4-5 After 7-1 Win in Tampa Bay

Jamie Burke belted a three-run homer as the Mariners ripped the Rays, 7-1, at Tropicana Field. Adrian Beltre added a solo shot, and Ichiro, Jose Lopez and Jose Vidro each plated a run for Seattle, which has won the first two in the three-game series. Jarrod Washburn tossed seven innings of one-run ball to pick up his first win of the year. He struck out two and walked only one to move to 11-and-3 all-time against the Rays. Akinori Iwamura plated the only run of the game for Tampa Bay, which slipped to 3-and-5 on the season. Andy Sonnanstine permitted four runs on seven hits over six frames to fall to 1-and-1. The Mariners will attempt to complete the sweep today. First pitch is 9:40 a.m.

Labels: Akinori Iwamura, Jamie Burke, Jarrod Washburn

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:08 AM | Permalink | Comments

Reds Pound Brewers 12-4 in Milwaukee

Adam Dunn and Corey Patterson each homered as the Reds pounded out 14 hits to bomb the Brewers, 12-4. Josh Fogg pitched five innings, allowing just one earned run to win for the first time in a Cincinnati uniform. The victory broke the Reds' two-game skid. The series finale is this afternoon with Aaron Harang looking for his first victory on the year. He'll be opposed by righty Carlos Villanueva. Game time is 1:05 p.m.

Labels: Adam Dunn, Carlos Villanueva, Corey Patterson

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:07 AM | Permalink | Comments

Wednesday, April 09, 2008

Cubs Edge Pirates 6-4 In 15 Innings

The Chicago Cubs and Pittsburgh Pirates were involved in what can be described as a wild affair - 15 innings, to be exact; fortunately for Chicago, the game came to a merciful end as Felix Pie's two-run single in the 15th inning allowed the Cubs to escape from PNC Park with the 6-4 win Wednesday. Chicago was led by Aramis Ramirez, going 3-for-7 with a double, a home run, 2 runs scored and 2 RBIs while Reed Johnson went 2-for-3 with an RBI; Alfonso Soriano went 2-for-6 with 2 walks. Kevin Hart (2-0) got the win, pitching 2 innings, allowing 2 hits, 2 earned runs while striking out 1; Sean Marshall, recalled earlier from Triple-A Iowa, notched his first save.

Pittsburgh was led by Jason Bay, going 3-for-5 with a HR, 2 runs scored and an RBI; Adam LaRoche also homered for the Pirates. Phil Dumatrait (0-1) took the loss, pitching 3 innings, allowing 3 hits, 4 earned runs, while walking 4, striking out 2 with a wild pitch. Chicago (5-3) plays again on Thursday night as they face Pittsburgh; Rich Hill (0-0) takes the mound for Chicago while Matt Morris (0-0) starts for Pittsburgh.

Labels: Aramis Ramirez, Felix Pie, Jason Bay, Ryan Dempster, Zach Duke

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 11:11 PM | Permalink | Comments

Tigers Get First Win, Maul Red Sox 7-2

It was a matter of time before the Detroit Tigers would get their first win; Wednesday's game against the Boston Red Sox would prove to be Detroit's watershed moment, as their offense exploded, especially in a 4-run fourth inning, as they notched their first win, 7-2, over the Red Sox at Fenway Park. Detroit was led by Edgar Renteria, going 3-for-4 with 2 doubles, 2 runs scored and 2 RBIs while Carlos Guillen went 1-for-3 with a home run, 3 runs scored and an RBI; Marcus Thames went 1-for-3 with a HR, a run scored and an RBI while Ivan Rodriguez' lone hit was his 2,500th hit of his career. Jeremy Bonderman (1-1) got the win, pitching 5 innings, allowing 5 hits, an earned run, while walking 4 and striking out 2.

Boston was led by Julio Lugo, going 2-for-3 with a double and an RBI while Sean Casey went 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored; Manny Ramirez went 2-for-4. Jon Lester (1-2) received the loss, pitching 5 1/3 innings, allowing 5 hits, 4 earned runs, while walking 4. Detroit (1-7) looks to win their second in a row as they play Boston (4-5) again on Thursday; Nate Robertson (0-0) starts for the Tigers while Tim Wakefield (0-0) starts for the Red Sox.

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 10:47 PM | Permalink | Comments

Arizona Wins 6th Straight, Edges Los Angeles 4-3

So far, the Arizona Diamondbacks have dominated the NL West, winning close games during their current winning streak; Eric Byrnes hit a go-ahead, 7th inning single off Dodgers starting pitcher Hiroki Kuroda, pushing the Diamondbacks past the Dodgers, 4-3 at Chase Field; the win is the 6th straight victory for Arizona. Arizona was led by Augie Ojeda, going 3-for-4 with a double and a run scored while Eric Byrnes went 3-for-5 with a run scored and 2 RBIs; Justin Upton went 2-for-4 with an RBI. Micah Owings (2-0) got the win, pitching 7 innings, allowing 7 hits, 3 earned runs, walking 1 while striking out 4; Brandon Lyon earned his 2nd save.

Los Angeles was led by Juan Pierre, going 2-for-4 with a double and an RBI while Andre Ethier went 1-for-3 with a double and an RBI; James Loney went 1-for-3 with a home run, a run scored and an RBI while Rafael Furcal went 1-for-3 with a double and a run scored. Kuroda took the loss (1-1), pitching 5 2/3 innings, allowing 9 hits, 2 earned runs, walking 2 while striking out 4. The Diamondbacks will play again on Friday as they host the Colorado Rockies; Brandon Webb (2-0) takes the mound for Arizona while Franklin Morales (0-0) will start for Colorado.

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 10:23 PM | Permalink | Comments

Davis, D'backs Dominate Dodgers 10-5

Just two days before undergoing surgery for thyroid cancer, Doug Davis took a shutout into the sixth inning as the Diamondbacks drilled the Dodgers 10-5 at Chase Field. Davis gave up a two-run double to Jeff Kent in the sixth inning, but allowed just six hits and struck out seven for the win. Mark Reynolds clubbed a three-run homer, his fifth of the season, as Arizona won its fifth in-a-row. Conor Jackson contributed two hits and three RBI to the win. Matt Kemp had three hits, and Blake Dewitt went 2-for-4 with two RBI for Los Angeles. Chad Billingsley was charged with the first five runs in less than three innings to suffer the loss.

Labels: Chad Billingsley, Doug Davis, Mark Reynolds

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:36 AM | Permalink | Comments

Holliday Helps Rockies Beat Braves 4-3

Matt Holliday went 3-for-4 with two RBI as the Rockies edged the Braves 4-3 at Coors Field. Ubaldo Jimenez allowed three runs in six innings to even his record at 1-and-1 with the win. Manny Corpas fanned two in the ninth to post his third save. Todd Helton had two hits and scored twice for Colorado, which improved to 3-and-5. Jair Jurrjens gave up all four runs in seven frames to fall to 1-and-1 with the loss. Chipper Jones had an RBI single and Mark Kotsay connected for a two-run homer for Atlanta, which slipped to 3-and-5.

Labels: Manny Corpas, Mark Kotsay, Matt Holliday

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:35 AM | Permalink | Comments

Weeks Singles In Game-Winner in Brewers 3-2 Win Over Cincy

Rickie Weeks singled in the winning run in the bottom of the 10th inning as the Brewers outlasted the Reds 3-2 at Miller Park. Corey Patterson homered off Eric Gagne in the top of the ninth to tie the game at two for Cincinnati. Jason Kendall had an RBI single in the third and Bill Hall homered in the seventh for Milwaukee, which improved to 6-and-1 on the season. Soloman Torres got credit for the win, while David Weathers suffered the loss. Patterson also singled in a run in the seventh inning for the Reds, who fell to 4-and-4.

Labels: Corey Patterson, Rickie Weeks, Soloman Torres

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:33 AM | Permalink | Comments

Mariners Top Rays on Sexson's Two-Run Single 6-5

Richie Sexson's two-run single in the top of the sixth inning proved to be the difference as the Mariners beat the Rays 6-5 at Tropicana Field. Ichiro Suzuki and Jose Lopez had three hits apiece for the M's, who snapped a four-game slide. Erik Bedard allowed five runs, but just three earned, over six innings to get his first win with Seattle. Ryan Rowland-Smith got the final five outs for the save. Shawn Riggans and Carlos Pena hit solo home runs for the Rays, who dropped to 3-and-4 with the loss. Starter Matt Garza left after just two-and-two-thirds innings with radial nerve irritation in his elbow. Gary Glover took the loss in relief. Game two of the three-game series is today, with first pitch at 4:10 p.m.

Labels: carlos pena, Richie Sexson, Ryan Rowland-Smith, shawn riggans

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:32 AM | Permalink | Comments

Red Sox Shutout Tigers in Fenway Opener 5-0

The Red Sox won their fourth straight home opener with a 5-0 win over the Detroit Tigers yesterday at Fenway Park. Daisuke Matsuzaka pitched six-and-two-thirds innings of shutout baseball to improve to 2-and-0 with the win. Kevin Youkilis had three hits and drove in two runs, and is now batting .400. Dustin Pedroia, Julio Lugo, and Jason Varitek each had two hits in the win. The Tigers had just five hits and dropped to 0-and-7 on the season. The Red Sox are now 4-and-4. Game two of the three-game series tonight at Fenway with Jon Lester pitching against Detroit's Jeremy Bonderman. First pitch is at 7:05 p.m.

Labels: Daisuke Matsuzaka, Jeremy Bonderman, Jon Lester

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:31 AM | Permalink | Comments

Orioles Blow Out Rangers in Their Home Opener 8-1

The Texas Rangers had their home opener spoiled by the Baltimore Orioles Tuesday afternoon, losing in an 8-1 blowout at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington. Ian Kinsler had the only run batted in on the day, scoring David Murphy in the seventh inning. Meanwhile, Jason Jennings' woes continued on the mound as he gave up four runs on seven hits, including a pair of homers. He was pulled after two outs in the fifth inning and was tagged with the loss. The series is set to continue tonight at 7:05 p.m., with left hander Kason Gabbard taking the mound for Texas against Baltimore right hander Steve Trachsel.

Labels: Ian Kinsler, Jason Jennings, steve trachsel

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:29 AM | Permalink | Comments

Tribe Rallies for 9th Inning Comeback in LA 4-3

One night after watching Joe Borowski blow a save opp to the Angels, the Indians returned the favor Tuesday in Anaheim, as Travis Hafner bailed them out with a two-run, two-out homer in the teams 4-3 win. The team was down to their last strike in the 9th when Asdrubal Cabrera drew a walk off of losing pitcher Justin Speier. Then Hafner hit a bomb to deep right that was never in doubt, giving the team their 4th win of the season and second in their last three games.

Props also have to go to starter Jake Westbrook, who went the distance in earning his first win of the year. Jake was sailing along, and by throwing 64 of his 95 pitches for strikes he stayed ahead of the count for a majority of the night. The Angels took a 3-2 lead off of Jake with a couple of bunt hits and then a Vlad Guerrero homer in the 6th to give them the lead.

The Indians were paced by 7 hits, and took a 2-0 lead in the top of the fifth when Cabrera came through with a two-out single that scored two runs off of Angels starter Ervin Santana to make it 2-0. Cabrera had just 22 RBI in 45 games last season, already in 2008 has six RBI in 8 games. He and Hafer both had two hits for the Indians.

Today the three-game set wraps up at 3:35 as Paul Byrd will try and rebound off his poor outing Friday night in Oakland. He will take on Dustin Moseley, who's 0-and-1 with a 9.00 ERA for the Angels.

Labels: asdrubal cabrera, ervin santana, jake westbrook, travis hafner

Posted by Matt Loede at 5:28 AM | Permalink | Comments

Tuesday, April 08, 2008

Phillies Spoil Mets' Final Home Opener 5-2

The New York Mets were hoping to begin their final season at Shea Stadium with a home opener that the packed house of 56,350 would not soon forget. As it turned out, the Philadelphia Phillies sent the crowd home with a forgettable performance by the Mets; Jayson Werth's single capped a three-run 7th inning, pushing the Phillies to a 5-2 victory over the Mets Tuesday. Philadelphia was led by Jimmy Rollins, going 2-for-5 with 2 runs scored and an RBI while Shane Victorino went 2-for-4 with a run scored. Jamie Moyer (1-0) picked up the win, pitching 6 innings, allowing 4 hits, 2 earned runs, walking 3 and striking out 1. Reliever Tom Gordon picked up his first save of the season.

New York was led by Carlos Delgado, going 2-for-4 with a home run, a run scored, an RBI while committing a throwing error while Carlos Beltran went 1-for-3 with a double and a run scored. Scott Schoenweis (0-1) picked up the loss. Philadelphia (4-4) plays again on Wednesday as they face the New York Mets (2-4); Kyle Kendrick will get the start for the Phillies while the Mets will start Mike Pelfrey.

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 10:03 PM | Permalink | Comments

Jeter to Miss Tuesday Game With Quad Injury

The New York Yankees, according to the Associated Press, will be without star shortstop Derek Jeter for Tuesday's game against the Kansas City Royals with a strained left quadriceps muscle; Jeter injured himself during Monday night's game against the Tampa Bay Rays. Prior to receiving treatment, Jeter said that he thought the injury wasn't that serious. The likeliest candidate to replace Jeter for the short-term would be Wilson Betemit, although you cannot rule out the possibility of Alex Rodriguez playing SS.

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 1:42 PM | Permalink | Comments

Harden to Miss Tuesday Start

The Oakland A's will be without starting pitcher Rich Harden for one start, according to the San Francisco Chronicle; the Chronicle reports that Harden is suffering from a minor back malady, which may be related to the recent trip to and from Japan when the A's faced the Boston Red Sox. However, Harden is expected to make his next scheduled start on Saturday against the Cleveland Indians. Chad Gaudin will come off the disabled list on Tuesday to replace Harden; the A's do not have a starter listed as of yet for Wednesday's game. Harden this season is 1-0 with a 0.82 ERA and 15 strikeouts in 2 starts.

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 1:33 PM | Permalink | Comments

Angels' Rodriguez To Visit The DL?

The absolute last thing the Los Angeles Angels need right now is for their closer Francisco Rodriguez to be placed on the disabled list. Yet, according to SportsTicker, that is what may well happen to Rodriguez; he is currently suffering from soreness in both ankles, which has affected his recent performances on the mound. Probably a good example is his most recent outing against the Cleveland Indians on Monday - a game the Angels won, 6-4.

Rodriguez blew a save, retiring only one batter while allowing 3 runs. As Rodriguez described his injury to the Los Angeles Times, "I couldn’t get any balance on my back leg, and I was using all arm, not pushing off the rubber with my leg. I couldn’t locate my fastball. I had no power in my legs." Rodriguez added, and this is most telling coming from the closer, "At this point, I think I need to go on the DL." Depending on what course of action the Angels take, the most probable reliever to replace Rodriguez would be Scot Shields.

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 1:17 PM | Permalink | Comments

Nats Lose 5th Straight; Fall to Marlins 10-7

Coming home didn't change the result for the Washington Nationals, as Washington drops its fifth straight game; this time 10-7 to the Florida Marlins. Hanley Ramirez was three-for-five with a three-run homer and two runs scored as the Marlins outslugged the Nats in the first of three at Nationals Park. Dan Uggla also reached the seats for the "Fish." Florida has won three of four and three in a row over the Nats. Renyel Pinto got the victory after tossing two and two-thirds innings of scoreless relief in place of starter Andrew Miller. He surrendered six runs on eight hits in less than four innings. Washington starter Tim Redding was rocked for seven runs on seven hits in four innings, though just one of the runs was earned. Cristian Guzman went three-for-four with two triples and three RBI for the Nats. Lastings Milledge also knocked in three, going two-for-four with a double. The Nats have the day off before the Marlins and Washington take the field in the District again tomorrow evening. The probable starting pitchers are Jason Bergmann for Washington and Scott Olsen for Florida.

Labels: Andrew Miller, Cristian Guzman, hanley ramirez, Lastings Milledge

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:31 AM | Permalink | Comments

Red-Hot O's Win Again Topping Mariners 5-4

Aubrey Huff hit a solo home run in the bottom of the eighth inning to give the Orioles a 5-4 win over the Mariners in the finale of a four-game set at Camden Yards. Melvin Mora added a two-run blast, and Brian Roberts went 3-for-4 with a run scored and two RBI as Baltimore captured the series sweep. Daniel Cabrera fanned five over six innings of work, but did not factor in the decision. Dennis Sarfate tossed an inning-and-a-third of scoreless relief to pick up his second win. George Sherrill hurled a perfect ninth to collect his fourth save. Ichiro led off the game win a home run, and Raul Ibanez also went deep and drove in two for Seattle in defeat. Eric O'Flaherty allowed the deciding run to take his first loss. The M's will try to turn things around tonight when they kick off a three-game set with Tampa Bay at 4:10 p.m. Pacific.

Labels: Aubrey Huff, Daniel Cabrera, Eric O'Flaherty, Raul Ibanez

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:30 AM | Permalink | Comments

Astros Win Home Opener 5-3 vs Cardinals

The Astros won their home opener Monday, beating the St. Louis Cardinals 5-3 at Minute Maid Park. New shortstop Miguel Tejada endeared himself to fans by hitting a two-run homer in the bottom of the 9th to bring Houston the win. Lance Berkman and Carlos Lee went back-to-back, and J.R. Towles launched a solo shot, as Houston scored all five runs over the final three frames to pick up its third win of the season. Wandy Rodriguez twirled seven-and-a-third innings of shutout ball in a no-decision. The Astros take on St. Louis again tonight at Minute Maid at 7:05 with Shawn Chacon set to pitch for Houston.

Labels: houston astros, miguel tejada, Shawn Chacon, Wandy Rodriguez

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:27 AM | Permalink | Comments

Hunter's Grand Slam Lifts the Angels to a 6-4 Win

Things seemed to be going the Indians way on Monday night in Los Angeles as they scored three runs in the ninth to take a 4-2 lead over the Angels. Then of course - enter Joe Borowski. The closer that always makes you sweat did that and more, as he got an out, but then a single and two walks later, JoeBo gave up a walk-off grand slam to Torii Hunter, and with that the Indians are back to under .500 at 3-4.

In almost a rerun of last years collapse of Borowksi in the early part of the season when he allowed Alex Rodriguez to hit a walk off homer against him early in the year in New York, this type of loss reminds fans why Borowski is just like a gas can. You never know when a fire is going to land by that gas can, and when it's going to explode, just like last night.

The Indians, after their 2-0 start, have dropped four of their last five. Yes, it's early, and yes, they are out west where it's not easy to win, but losing two games to the A's and pitchers who wouldn't be on a lot of rosters, and then to blow a game like last night is very frustrating. The team did finally put a good inning together in the 9th with three runs on hits by Victor Martinez, Jhonny Peralta and Casey Blake, but it was all for not.

Some of the positives included another good start by Fausto Carmona, who went six innings, allowing four hits, one unearned run, and while he allowed five walks, he lowered his ERA to 0.69 in two starts. Martinez was back, going 2-for-4, and his hitting and being in the lineup will be a boost. Also was good to see Peralta get some hits, as he went 2-for-4 to raise his average to .241.

Overall this was one of those tough to swallow losses, and it would be nice to see Jake Westbrook come back tonight and get the series back to 1-1 and for this team to try and wrap up this trip with two straight wins before they host Oakland then the Red Sox and Tigers starting Friday night at Progressive Field.

Labels: jake westbrook, progressive field, torii hunter, victor martizne

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:20 AM | Permalink | Comments

Monday, April 07, 2008

Maddux Nabs 348th Win, Padres Blast Giants 8-4

San Diego Padres starting pitcher Greg Maddux had, believe it or not, some first-inning jitters Monday against the San Francisco Giants; however, as in his case, he overcame that nervousness as he pitched 7 masterful innings, leading San Diego to an impressive win over San Francisco 8-4. San Diego was led by Adrian Gonzalez, going 4-of-5 with a home run, 4 runs scored and 2 RBIs while Khalil Greene went 2-for-3 with a triple and 3 RBIs; Jim Edmonds went 2-for-5 with 2 RBIs while Tadahito Iguchi went 2-for-5 with a double and 2 runs scored. Josh Bard went 2-for-2 with a double. Winning pitcher Maddux (1-0) pitched 7 innings, allowing 3 hits, an earned run, walking 2 while striking out 5.

San Francisco was led by Bengie Molina who went 2-for-4 with a double, a run scored and 3 RBIs while Aaron Rowand went 1-for 3 with a double and 2 runs scored. Losing pitcher Matt Cain (0-1) pitched 4 1/3 innings, allowing 7 hits, 4 earned runs, walking 5 while striking out 5. San Diego (5-3) plays again on Tuesday, facing the San Francisco Giants as Randy Wolf will face Tim Lincecum.

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 11:31 PM | Permalink | Comments

White Sox Win 5th Straight, Beat Twins 7-4

If early win and loss records mean anything, then the Chicago White Sox are in for a successful season; Joe Crede hit a tie breaking grand slam to cap a five-run 7th inning, enabling the White Sox to beat the Minnesota Twins in their home opener Monday at US Cellular Field. Chicago was led by the aforementioned Crede, going 2-for-4 with a double, a grand-slam home run, 2 runs scored and 4 RBIs while Jermaine Dye went 2-for-4 with a run scored and an RBI. Winning pitcher Javier Vazquez (1-1) notched the win, going 7 innings, allowing 7 hits, 3 earned runs, walking 1 and striking out 8; closer Bobby Jenks pitched a scoreless ninth for his 4th save.

Minnesota was led by Mike Lamb, going 2-for-4 with 2 doubles and 2 RBIs while Brendan Harris went 1-for-3 with a double and a run scored. The losing pitcher was Matt Guerrier (0-1); he went 1 1/3 innings, allowing a hit, 2 earned runs, 2 walks while striking out 1. Chicago (5-2) puts their 5-game winning streak on the line as they host the Minnesota Twins (3-5); John Danks (0-0) will face Scott Baker.

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 11:05 PM | Permalink | Comments

Cubs Rally For 7 Runs, Edge Pirates 10-8 In Extra Innings

The Pittsburgh Pirates, without a doubt, were looking to make a successful home debut against the Chicago Cubs on Monday; however, the Pirates' relief corps failed them as Evan Meek gave up 5 walks and 2 key runs in the 12th inning, giving Chicago the win over Pittsburgh 10-8 in the Pirates' home opener at PNC Park. Kosuke Fukudome led the Cubs, going 3-for-5 with an RBI, a run scored and a stolen base while Geovany Soto went 3-of-7 with a double, 2 RBIs, a run scored; Derek Lee went 2-for-5 with a double and a run scored while Ronny Cedeno went 1-for-5 with a double and 3 RBIs. Jon Lieber (1-1) got the win, going 3 scoreless innings while Carlos Marmol notched his first save with a scoreless 12th.

Pittsburgh was led by Nate McLouth who went 3-for-6 with a triple, 2 RBIs while Jose Bautista went 2-for-4 with a double and 2 runs scored; Ryan Doumit went 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored while Xavier Nady went 2-for-5 with a double and a run scored. Luis Rivas chipped in, going 2-for-6 with 2 runs scored and an RBI. Starting pitcher Tom Gorzelanny went 2 1/3 innings, giving up 6 hits, 7 earned runs, walking 4 and striking out 2. Losing pitcher Evan Meek (0-1) pitched an inning, giving up 2 earned runs while walking 5. Chicago (4-3) plays Pittsburgh (3-4) again on Tuesday as Ryan Dempster (1-0) faces Zach Duke (0-0).

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 10:22 PM | Permalink | Comments

Arroyo Rocked For 4 HR's, Phillies Beat Reds 5-3

The Philadelphia Phillies, despite this being the first week of the baseball season, have hit their stride, so to speak. By that analogy, I mean that the power has returned to the Phillies' lineup at an opportune time. In any case, the Phillies juiced up, hitting 4 home runs off Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Bronson Arroyo - 2 by Pat Burrell - as they defeated the Reds 5-3 Monday at Cincinnati.

Philadelphia starting pitcher Cole Hamels (1-1) went 7 innings, giving up 5 hits, 3 walks and striking out 4 while closer Brad Lidge picked up his first save of the season. Pat Burrell led the Phillies' offense, going 2-for-4, with 2 home runs, 3 RBI and 2 runs scored; Jimmy Rollins went 2-of-4, with a home run, an RBI and a run scored. Pedro Feliz added a double, going 2-of-4.

Arroyo went 5 2/3 innings for Cincinnati, giving up 9 hits - 4 of them home runs - along with 5 earned runs, while striking out 6. Ryan Freel led the Reds' attack, going 1-of-4 with a double, a stolen base and a run scored while Brandon Phillips went 1-of-4 with an RBI and a stolen base. Jeff Keppinger went 1-of-3 with an RBI. Philadelphia (3-4) next travels to New York to face the Mets Tuesday as Jamie Moyer (0-0) faces Oliver Perez (1-0) while Cincinnati (4-3) makes the short trip to Milwaukee to take on the Brewers as rookie Johnny Cueto (1-0) goes against Jeff Suppan (1-0).

Posted by Stephen G. Rhodes at 9:47 PM | Permalink | Comments

Saturday, April 05, 2008

A's Rough Up Sabathia in 6-1 Win in Oakland

Saturday was yet another rough day for the Indians out in Oakland, and more specifically for C.C. Sabathia, who continued to struggle against his hometown team. C.C. allowed four runs, six hits and four walks in 5.1 innings, as the Tribe fell under .500 at 2-3 after losing to the A's 6-1. Sabathia is now 1-4 with a 7.12 ERA in eight career starts in Oakland, where he grew up.

The team also made A's starting pitcher Dana Eveland look like a vet in his A's debut, as he went 7 innings, allowing six hits, one run, and striking out seven. The A's jumped on CC with three runs in the third after the Indians went up 1-0 after a Travis Hafner double. After a few scoreless innings, Oakland scored in the fifth on a Mark Ellis homer, and then finished off the Indians with two more in the 8th to win 6-1.

The Indians offense were only able to manage six hits, with Asdrubal Cabrera going two for four with a run scored, and Ryan Garko going two for four as well. The Tribe struck out 10 times total as a team, and left 11 men on base. The team has scrapped to score run after winning their first two games against the White Sox, as over the last three games they have scored just five runs in going 0-3.

Labels: a's, cc sabathia, dale eveland, indians, mark ellis

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:46 PM | Permalink | Comments

Friday, April 04, 2008

Abreu, Yankees Edge Jays 3-2

Bobby Abreu singled home the go-ahead run in the eighth inning as the Yankees rallied to beat the Blue Jays 3-2 in the Bronx. Jason Giambi plated a run and Johnny Damon scored on a wild pitch in the sixth for New York, which took two-of-three in the season-opening series. Phil Hughes allowed two runs on four hits and a walk over six innings, but did not factor in the decision. Joba Chamberlain pitched a scoreless eighth to get the win and Mariano Rivera closed it out for his second save. Alex Rios and David Eckstein drove in runs for Toronto. Brian Wolfe surrendered the deciding run to suffer the loss. Blue Jays DH Frank Thomas was ejected in the fourth inning for arguing balls and strikes.

Labels: Bobby Abreu, David Eckstein, Mariano Rivera, Phil Hughes

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:13 AM | Permalink | Comments

Break Up the Royals; Another Win Over Detroit 4-1

Alex Gordon smacked a two-run homer to back a solid outing from Zack Greinke as the Royals topped the Tigers 4-1 to sweep the three-game, season-opening series at Comerica Park. Greinke gave up just one run on six hits over seven innings to pick up the win. Joakim Soria tossed a perfect ninth to notch his second save. Mark Teahen added a solo homer and Jose Guillen also knocked in a run for Kansas City, which is off to its best start since winning nine straight to start the 2003 season. Brandon Inge went deep for the Tigers, who have not began a season 0-and-3 since losing nine in-a-row to start 2003. Detroit went on to lose 119 games that year. Jeremy Bonderman permitted all four runs on eight hits over six-and-a-third frames to absorb the loss.

Labels: Alex Gordon, brandon inge, jose guillen

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:12 AM | Permalink | Comments

Pirates Pound Out Extra Innings Win Over Atlanta

Xavier Nady singled home a run in the top of the 10th inning to lift the Pirates to a 4-3 win over the Braves at Turner Field. Freddy Sanchez, Ronny Paulino and Jack Wilson each plated a run for Pittsburgh, which took two-of-three in the season-opening series. Wilson had to leave the game in the seventh due to a strained calf muscle. Tyler Yates pitched a scoreless inning of relief to pick up the win, and Matt Capps closed things out for his first save. Mike Hampton was scheduled to start on the mound for the Braves, but was a late scratch because of a strained left pectoral muscle. Jeff Bennett started in Hampton's place and allowed two runs over four frames. Chris Resop was charged with the loss. Chipper Jones had three hits and a run scored for Atlanta, which slipped to 1-and-3 on the year.

Labels: Chipper Jones, Jeff Bennett, Xavier Nady

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:11 AM | Permalink | Comments

Cards Blank Colorado 3-0 at Busch Stadium

Brad Thompson and three relievers combined to throw a seven-hit shutout as the Cardinals blanked the Rockies, 3-0, at Busch Stadium. Thompson went six and-two-thirds, giving up six of the seven hits and fanning six. He also drove in a run at the plate, while Troy Glaus went 2-for-3 with an RBI. Jason Isringhausen picked up his first save of the season as St. Louis took two-of-three in the series from the defending National League champions. Garrett Atkins was 3-for-4 for the Rox in the losing effort. Ubaldo Jimenez took the loss, giving up all three runs on eight hits. Colorado took the season-opener before dropping the following two contests.

Labels: Brad Thompson, Jason Isringhausen, Ubaldo Jimenez

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:09 AM | Permalink | Comments

Phillies Complete Comeback With Walk Off Win over Nationals

Jayson Werth walked with the bases loaded in the bottom of the 10th inning to give the Phillies an 8-7 win over the Nationals at Citizens Bank Park. With Jimmy Rollins on third and one out, the Nats walked Chase Utley and Ryan Howard to get to Werth. Pedro Feliz was 2-for-5 with two RBI and Chris Coste homered as Philadelphia won its first game of the season. Clay Condrey struck out two in his lone inning of work to get the win. After Washington jumped out to a five-run lead in the first, the Phils used a six-run sixth to take a 7-6 lead. Cristian Guzman, Lastings Milledge and Jesus Flores each had three hits for the Nats in the loss. Jesus Colome was the loser, surrendering two hits and four walks along with the winning run. Washington started the season 3-and-0 before losing the finale of the three-game set to the Phillies.

Labels: Cristian Guzman, Jayson Werth, Jesus Flores

Posted by Matt Loede at 7:08 AM | Permalink | Comments

Thursday, April 03, 2008

Two Solo Homers Help Sox Top Tribe 2-1

While Jake Westbrook was awfully good, John Danks was just a bit better, and because of it the Chicago White Sox avoided a sweep in Cleveland as they eeked out a 2-1 win on Thursday afternoon. Westbrook (0-1) made two mistakes, both solo homer to Juan Uribe and Joe Crede, the 8th and 9th batters in the Sox order. Westbrook, who shined in the playoffs for the Tribe last season, lasted 7.1 innings, allowing two runs on six hits. The story though was Danks, who even getting the no decision pitched a whale of a game, holding the Indians without a hit for the first five innings. In 6.2 innings, he gave up just 1 earned run on two hits. The Sox pen then didn't allow a hit as Crede's 8th inning solo homer was the difference.

For the Indians, they struggled all day, getting just a handful of runners on, and then not being able to take advantage of it when they did get on. They left four men on base. Westbrook was able to sail through the Sox order with basic ease the first time around, not allowing a hit himself until the 5th. The problem was the bottom of the order, as both Uribe and Crede came back to haunt Jake after he fell behind in the count to put the ball out of the ballpark. The Indians only run came in the 7th to tie the game at one, when Ryan Garko doubled home Travis Hafner, who had walked, to make it 1-1.

The Sox will be at home tomorrow for their home opener as they take on the Tigers at 1:05 PM. The Indians board a plane and head out west, as their first road trip will be a 6-game west coast ride as they travel to Oakland to play the A's and then three in Los Angeles. Tomorrow night their opener with the A's is at 10:05 PM.

Labels: chicago white sox, cleveland indians, jake westbrook, john danks

Posted by Matt Loede at 3:37 PM | Permalink | Comments

Brewers Beat Up the Cubs 8-2 at Wrigley

Rickie Weeks belted a solo home run on the first pitch of the game as the Brewers crushed the Cubs 8-2 in the middle of a season-opening series at Wrigley Field. Jeff Suppan gave up just two runs on six hits over six-and-a-third innings to pick up the win. Jason Kendall went 3-for-4 with two RBI and a run scored, while Ryan Braun added three hits, an RBI and scored once for Milwaukee, which won the season-opener over Chicago 4-3 in 10 innings on Monday. Gabe Kapler, Bill Hall and Corey Hall all knocked in a run in the victory.

Labels: Gabe Kapler, Jason Kendall, Jeff Suppan, Wrigley Field

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:34 AM | Permalink | Comments

Berkman's Blast Helps Astros Win 9-6 in San Diego

The Houston Astros won their first game of the regular season last night against the Padres 9-6 in San Diego. Hunter Pence singled in the tying run and Lance Berkman hit a three-run homer as the Astros scored four times in the ninth inning. Geoff Blum, Ty Wigginton and Carlos Lee also homered. Jose Valverde gave up the go-ahead run on a sac-fly in the bottom of the eighth, but got credit for the win. Trevor Hoffman allowed three hits, a walk and all four runs in the ninth to take the loss for San Diego. Shawn Chacon is scheduled to pitch for Houston this afternoon when the Astros again take on the Padres in San Diego at 2:35.

Labels: houston astros, Hunter Pence, jose valverde

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:32 AM | Permalink | Comments

Silva Sharp As M's Top Texas 4-1 at Safeco

Carlos Silva and two relievers combined on a three-hitter as the Mariners topped the Rangers 4-1 in the rubber match of a three-game series at Safeco Field. Jose Vidro hit a solo homer in the second inning and Jose Lopez added a three-run blast in the fifth to stake Seattle to a 4-0 lead. Ben Broussard reached the seats in the sixth for the only Texas run. Silva allowed three hits, three walks and one run over seven innings to win in his Mariners debut. With closer J.J. Putz on the disabled list, Miguel Batista recorded the final three outs for the save. Jason Jennings gave up all four runs in five frames to take the loss. The M's are off today before opening a series in Baltimore against the Orioles on Friday.

Labels: Ben Broussard, Carlos Silva, J.J. Putz, Jason Jennings

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:31 AM | Permalink | Comments

Reds Top D'Backs in Walk Off Fashion

Edwin Encarnacion made up past transgressions, including not being able to put down a sacrifice bunt in the bottom of ninth, by blasting a 2-2 pitch into the seats in leftfield for a walk off three run homer in the Reds 6-5 win over the D'backs. The third baseman has struggled defensively already this season, creating an unearned run in each of the first two games with bad throws. Corey Patterson and Brandon Phillips each hit a homer in the win. The Reds will look to close out the series with a victory this afternoon with Johnny Cueto making his major league debut against lefty Doug David. Game time set for 12:35 p.m.

Labels: Corey Patterson, Edwin Encarnacion, Johnny Cueto

Posted by Matt Loede at 6:25 AM | Permalink | Comments

Wednesday, April 02, 2008

Sizemore's Hot Night Leads Indians to 7-2 Win in the Cold

Fautso Carmona didn't have his best stuff on Wednesday night, but thanks to a bunch of double plays, and some timely hitting by Grady Sizemore, it was more than enough to help the Indians beat Chicago 7-2 at the Prog. Carmona, trying to put the nightmare of last years playoff disasters behind him, went 7 innings, allowing 4 hits, one run, walking four and striking out four. He was helped out by three double plays that killed the Sox on a cold night in Cleveland.

Unlike opening day when it was near 60 degrees and it was a sellout, Progressive Field was a ghost town on this chilly night - 34 degrees at first pitch, and despite an announced crowd of 17,645, it was more like 10,000, and by the 8th inning, about 6,500. Sizemore did more than enough on offense for the Tribe, going 3-for-4 with a run scored and three RBI. He was also hit by a pitch.

The Indians jumped on Sox starter Javier Vazquez for a pair of runs in the second when Sizemore hit a two-run single with two outs. Chicago seemed to be just trying to stay warm, and finally did get on the board with a run in the 5th on a Joe Crede single to make it 2-1. After that though, the Tribe took the game over and put it away in a hurry.

Asdrubal Cabrera singled in a run to make it 3-1, and then some patience at the plate paid off for Franklin Gutierrez, as he drew a bases loaded walk to make it 4-1. The next inning against relief stiff Mike MacDougal, the Tribe jumped on the board for two more, with Sizemore and Cabrera both getting singles to make it 6-1. Ryan Garko got a cheap RBI single in the 8th to make it 7-2 with two outs.

One late note was the MLB debut of pitcher Masa Kobayashi, who lasted a whole three batters, allowing two singles before being lifted for Rafel Perez, who struck out Jim Thome to the loudest ovation of the night. Jorge Julio allowed a 9th inning homer to A.J. Pierzynski to make it a 7-2 final.

A short turnaround for the two teams in the finale tomorrow afternoon at 12:05. Jake Westbrook (6-9 last year) goes for the Indians against lefty John Danks, who was 6-13 last season.

Posted by Matt Loede at 9:28 PM | Permalink | Comments

Yankees Win Final Home Opener At House That Ruth Built Beat Jays 3-2

The New York Yankees won their final home opener at Yankee Stadium on Tuesday as they sent their fans home happy with a 3-2 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays. Yankees ace Chien-Ming Wang had a very strong outing against Toronto as he went 7 innings allowing just 2 runs on 6 hits, he struck out two, and walked two. Roy Halladay had a quality start, but Wang was just a little better. Halladay also went 7 frames and gave up three runs on 7 hits, striking out 3 and giving up 2 free passes. Melky Cabrerra went deep for the Bronx Bombers. New York is now 1-0, while Toronto is 0-1.

Posted by Jeff Sack at 3:41 AM | Permalink | Comments

Dice-K Dominates As Bo-Sox Top A's 2-1

Boston Red Sox starter Daisuke Matsuzaka was like a machine out on the mound Tuesday for the Boston Red Sox as the defeated the Oakland Athletics 2-1. Dice-K threw 6.2 innings for the Red Sox allowing just 1 run on 2 hits, striking out 9 and not walking a batter. He made one mistake, giving up a solo home run to Oakland DH Jack Cust in the second. Oakland starter Joe Blanton was almost as good, but as the old saying goes almost does not count except in horse shoes and hand grenades. Blanton went seven innings, allowed 2 runs, on 2 hits, striking out 3, and walking 1. Jacoby Ellsbury, and Jason Varitek each had 1 RBI for Boston. The Red Sox are now 2-1, while Oakland is 1-2.

Posted by Jeff Sack at 3:22 AM | Permalink | Comments

Tuesday, April 01, 2008

E60: Jose Canseco Defends Allegations In 'Vindicated'

Posted by Jeff Sack at 3:12 AM | Permalink | Comments

D-Backs Hit 3 HR's, Power Past Reds 4-2

Reported By Stephen Rhodes

The formula that enabled the Arizona Diamondbacks to win 90 games last season worked like a charm on Monday against the Cincinnati Reds; three solo home runs and some solid pitching from Brandon Webb and 3 relievers got the Diamondbacks in the right direction, beating the Reds 4-2. The aforementioned Diamondbacks' homers were hit by Chris Young, Eric Byrnes and pinch-hitter Jeff Salazar while Webb (1-0) pitched 6 innings, allowing 3 hits, 2 earned runs, 4 walks and recorded 6 strikeouts; Brandon Lyon recorded his first save.

2B Brandon Phillips led the Reds, going 1-of-4 with a triple, a run scored and an RBI while Adam Dunn went 0-of-3 with an RBI; starting pitcher Aaron Harang (0-1) didn't pitch badly either, pitching 6 innings, giving up 3 hits, 3 earned runs, 2 walks, struck out 6 but gave up 2 HR's. Arizona plays Cincinnati again on Wednesday as Dan Haren (0-0) faces Cincinnati's Bronson Arroyo (0-0).

Posted by Jeff Sack at 3:01 AM | Permalink | Comments

Penny, 3 Relievers Pitch Dodgers' Shutout; Blank Giants 5-0

Reported By Stephen Rhodes

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Joe Torre had a near-sleepless night prior to their home opener against the San Francisco Giants Monday; he had nothing to fear at all as Brad Penny (1-0) and 3 relievers pitched 9 shutout innings, blanking the Giants 5-0 in front of 56,000 at Dodger Stadium. Second baseman Jeff Kent went 2-of-4 with a home run, a run scored and 2 runs batted in while James Loney went 2-of-4 with a stolen base.

San Francisco pitcher Barry Zito (0-1) went 5 innings, allowing 8 hits while allowing 4 earned runs; Aaron Rowand had 2 hits for the Giants. Los Angeles (1-0) plays again on Tuesday night against San Francisco as Derek Lowe will start for the Dodgers while Matt Cain will take the mound for San Francisco.

Posted by Jeff Sack at 2:53 AM | Permalink | Comments

About us

I'm Matt Loede
From Cleveland, Ohio, United States
Matt has been involved in sports media for over ten years, with experience covering the NFL, NBA, and MLB for the past 13+ years.

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I'm Jeff Sack
From Bloomfield, NY
Former ESPN Radio Reporter Jeff Sack has covered the NBA, NFL, and MLB for 11 years in Cleveland, the last eight as Sports Director for Metro Networks.

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From Crescent City, CA
Stephen Rhodes has been a diehard Cincinnati Reds and MLB fan since the early 70's; his insight into today's game should make for interesting reading at The Game Of Baseball.

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Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Bonser, Twins Top White Sox 3-1

Kent Lifts Dodgers Over Marlins 7-6

Huff, Orioles Down Rays 7-4 at Camden

Brew Crew Wins Slugfest with Cubs 10-7

Cardinals Crush Cueto, Top Reds 7-2

Astros Snap Three-Game Skid in 6-4 Win Over D'Backs

Rockies Edge Giants By The Bay 3-2

Tigers Tame Yankees 6-4 in the Bronx

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Zito Demoted To Bullpen

Monday, April 28, 2008

Mussina's Strong Effort Pushes Yankees Past Indians 5-2

Blalock Out With Torn Hamstring

Shields' 2-Hitter Helps Rays Blank Red Sox 3-0

Maholm, McLouth Power Pirates Past Phillies 5-1

Lannan, Nationals Blank Cubbies 2-0

Cards Top Astros 5-1 in St.Louis

Padilla Pitches Rangers Past Twins 10-0

Delgado Homers Twice, Mets Double Up Braves 6-3

Konerko, White Sox Roll Orioles

Wang Outpitches Sabathia, Yankees Edge Indians 1-0

Saturday, April 26, 2008

Rangers' Washington Is Safe - For Now

Sanchez Strikes Out 10 As Giants Edge Reds 3-1

Haynes' Base Hit in 11th Helps Rays Edge Red Sox 5-4

Peralta's 3-Run HR Leads Indians Past Yankees 6-4

Friday, April 25, 2008

Lopez's Grand Slam Helps Nats to 10-5 Win over Mets

Pineiro Pitches Cards Past Pirates 5-2

White Sox Top Yankees 7-6 With Ninth Inning Rally

Struggling Dodgers Fall to D'Backs 6-4

Aurilia's Homer the Dif in Giants 1-0 Win in San Diego

O's Rally To Beat Mariners 8-7

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Berkman Powers Astros Past Reds 5-3

Thomas Signed By A's

Mussina Leads Yankees Past White Sox 6-4

Astros Win 4th Straight, Rally Past Reds 9-3

Tigers Explode for 11 In 6th Inning, Maul Rangers 19-6

Bucs Rally to Top Redbirds in Pittsburgh 7-4

Prince's Two Homers Help Brewers Crown Phillies 5-4

Matthew's Two Homers Helps Angels in 6-4 Win in Boston

Marlins Top Braves 7-2 in Atlanta

Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Tigers' Guillen, Cabrera To Switch Positions

Reds Fire Krivsky, Hire Jocketty As General Manager

Trio Of Yankees Go Yard, Blasts White Sox 9-5

Tigers Rout Rangers 10-2

BoSox Edge Halos With Late Run 7-6

Snakes Overcome Early Deficit To Get By Giants

Burrell's Double Sparks Phillies to 8-6 Win

Pirates Hook Fish 3-2 in Pittsbugh

Blake, Indians Slam Royals 15-1

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Hairston's 4 Hits Allows Reds To Slam Dodgers 8-1

Cedeno's Grand Slam Powers Cubs Past Mets 8-1

Kapler's 12th Inning Hit Helps Brewers Outlast Cardinals 9-8

Big Hurt Drawing Interest From A's

Westbrook Placed On DL

Marlins Sink Pirates 10-4 in Pittsburgh

Cubs Maul Mets 7-1 at Wrigley

Brewers Lose To Cardinals 4-3

Monday, April 21, 2008

Ortiz Leads Red Sox To Sweep Of Rangers 8-3

Dodgers' 15-Hit Attack Overwhelms Reds 9-3

Steinbrenner Wants Chamberlain In Yanks' Rotation

Sunday, April 20, 2008

Olson Pitches 7 Strong Innings, Leads Marlins Past Nationals 6-1

Encarnacion's Blast In 10th Pushes Reds Past Brewers 4-3

Rollins Placed On 15-Day DL

Sonnanstine Pitches Complete Game Shutout, Rays Blank White Sox 5-0

Manny, Big Papi Spark 8th Inning Rally As Red Sox Edges Rangers 5-3

Reyes Leads Mets Past Phillies 4-2

Saturday, April 19, 2008

Lincecum Pitches Giants Past Cardinals 3-0

Hall's 10th Inning Double Rallies Brewers Past Reds 5-3

Cubs' 12 Hits Overwhelm Pirates 13-1