Just wanted send my condolences to the Nahan family on the passing of the legendary Stu Nahan. For those of you not in L.A., or who don't know much about him, Stu was a well-known, well-recognized, and very well-liked figure in the world of L.A. sports. He anchored the sports segments on the local news, first for ABC 7, then later with NBC 4 before Fred Roggin was given the gig in 1986, and then finally with KTLA channel 5 after Keith Olbermann left for bigger things. Nahan retired from TV in 1999 when his role at KTLA was diminished, but he continued to do other things. Most recently, he was part of the Dodgers Radio pre-game and post-game shows on KFWB News 980. Besides his TV news gigs, he also contributed to the old "Ken And Bob Company" radio show on 790 KABC Radio in L.A. Nahan will likely be most remembered for his roles as the boxing announcer in the Rocky movies.
Friday, December 28, 2007
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Raffy Update
CORRECTION: The Times article on Furcal was written by Kevin Baxter, not Dylan Hernandez. My apologies...
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For those of you wondering what Rafael Furcal has been up to this off-season, here's a nice piece from the L.A. Times Dodgers beat-writer Dylan Hernandez from today's editions, and how he's "getting his mojo back" after a disappointing season marred by injuries...
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For those of you wondering what Rafael Furcal has been up to this off-season, here's a nice piece from the L.A. Times Dodgers beat-writer Dylan Hernandez from today's editions, and how he's "getting his mojo back" after a disappointing season marred by injuries...
Monday, December 17, 2007
Well, Almost Set...
There's still the matter of filling out the bench and relievers corps. Today the Blue inked Gary Bennett to a one-year, $850k deal to back up Russ Martin behind the dish. Bennett's signing probably would have flown under the radar but his inclusion in the Mitchell Report last week makes it a splashy signing. Bennett confessed to using HGH shortly after. He will likely start about 25 games for the Dodgers in 2008, making Martin one of the busiest everyday catchers in the bigs...
Dodgers are also expected to be one of about 10 teams who will watch Kris Benson throw off a mound tomorrow. The Dodgers are probably a long-shot to sign him. (Thank God!)
Arizona has pulled their two-year offer to back-up first baseman Tony Clark off the table, essentially cutting ties with the veteran. The Dodgers have shown interest in bringing Clark to L.A. to replace the departed Olmedo Saenz. (I like it.) Stay tuned for this one...
And finally, there is a report (or two?) floating out and about that the Dodgers have an offer out for Rudy Seanez. Since he has stated his wishes to return to the Dodgers, it seems likely he will take the offer. Whatever it takes to strengthen the bullpen!
Dodgers are also expected to be one of about 10 teams who will watch Kris Benson throw off a mound tomorrow. The Dodgers are probably a long-shot to sign him. (Thank God!)
Arizona has pulled their two-year offer to back-up first baseman Tony Clark off the table, essentially cutting ties with the veteran. The Dodgers have shown interest in bringing Clark to L.A. to replace the departed Olmedo Saenz. (I like it.) Stay tuned for this one...
And finally, there is a report (or two?) floating out and about that the Dodgers have an offer out for Rudy Seanez. Since he has stated his wishes to return to the Dodgers, it seems likely he will take the offer. Whatever it takes to strengthen the bullpen!
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Konichiwa Kuroda-san!
It's done! All that's left is an official announcement to come tomorrow at a noon PT press conference out at the Stadium. The deal for Hiroki Kuroda is reported to be three years, $35.3 million. Here is mlb.com's Ken Gurnick's report. An official press release from the team will come tomorrow.
I, for one, am ecstatic about the deal. First, they get much needed rotation depth without having to give up ANY of the kids. Second, the deal is for only three years. While we don't know what to expect from Kuroda, and while $35.3 million does seem a bit much for a middle-to-back-of-the-rotation guy, they do get some depth. This helps offset yesterday's trade that sent ace Dan Haren from Oakland to Arizona. The Dodgers now have a very formidable rotation that features Brad Penny, Derek Lowe, Chad Billingsley and Kuroda. A healthy Jason Schmidt would certainly help, or an effective Esteban Loaiza. One or the other will fill the fifth spot, probably Schmidt, while the other, likely Loaiza, will come out of the pen as a long reliever or spot starter.
Now all they have to do is find a taker for Juan Pierre and the Dodgers are set to go into Spring Training.
I, for one, am ecstatic about the deal. First, they get much needed rotation depth without having to give up ANY of the kids. Second, the deal is for only three years. While we don't know what to expect from Kuroda, and while $35.3 million does seem a bit much for a middle-to-back-of-the-rotation guy, they do get some depth. This helps offset yesterday's trade that sent ace Dan Haren from Oakland to Arizona. The Dodgers now have a very formidable rotation that features Brad Penny, Derek Lowe, Chad Billingsley and Kuroda. A healthy Jason Schmidt would certainly help, or an effective Esteban Loaiza. One or the other will fill the fifth spot, probably Schmidt, while the other, likely Loaiza, will come out of the pen as a long reliever or spot starter.
Now all they have to do is find a taker for Juan Pierre and the Dodgers are set to go into Spring Training.
Friday, December 14, 2007
Andruw, Kent, Kuroda and more...
Been a while since I've posted anything (been very busy lately) but I have some time now so I thought I'd chime in on some hot topics.
The Dodgers finally got their man: Andruw Jones is the new(est) center fielder. And I'm thrilled with it! They get the 30 year-old for only two years in a year when fellow free agent center fielders Torii Hunter got five years ($90M) at the age of 33 and Aaron Rowand got five years ($60M) from a team that needs a lot more help than what he can give them, and a year after Vernon Wells signed a $100M+ extension with Toronto.
Jones hit only .222 in 2007, but don't let that fool you. While he is only a .263 career hitter, he provides the Dodgers with a much need offensive threat in the middle of a lineup where only one player hit 20 HRs in 2007: Jeff Kent. And while many will argue he's on the down side of his career offensively, don't let that fool you either. Jones hit 51 HRs in 2005 but his production dropped to just 26 in 2007, in large part because of a glitch he picked up in his stance after the season and has corrected, and an elboy injury he quietly tried to play through all season, which is now sound and healthy. And while he may not hit 51 HRs in L.A., his numbers from 2007 would have been the highest on the Dodgers. If he's in fact healthy, you can bet he wont hit .222 again, and you can bet his 26 HRs will go back up (and keep in mind, Atlanta is a bigger park, and is tougher to hit HRs in). Jones also brings a Gold Glove caliber glove to center field, as well.
But the addition of Jones leaves the Dodgers with a surplus of outfielders. The Dodgers intention is to move weak-armed, no power-hitting Juan Pierre to left field; a big mistake if you ask me. Doing this not only weakens your offense by forcing Andre Ethier or Matt Kemp to the bench, it also exposes Pierre's defensive and throwing deficiencies. Now, any hit to left field will be an adventure watching him try to throw out runners going from first to third or second to home. The Dodgers have also made it be known they have no interest in trading Kemp (he's been asked for by a number of teams in trade talks, to which the Dodgers have steadfastly rejected all of them). Pierre's contract and lack of production (in spite of his .300 avg, 60+ SBs and 90+ runs scored) makes him nearly impossible to move. That leaves Ethier as the odd man out. Unfortunately, an outfield of Ethier-Jones-Kemp is the best combination of all the outfielders on the roster, and right now that looks like it has no chance of happening. (In fact, Pierre might just be the fifth best outfielder on the team behind the aforementioned AND Delwyn Young.) I sure hope Joe Torre is smart enough to see this in spring training and really gives the Ethier-Jones-Kemp trio a chance to be the best outfield in the league.
Speaking of Jeff Kent, he is returning for his final season. And since it has already been mentioned in this space, I wont bore you with the details of what happened between Kent and Loney and Kemp in September, except to add you can bet Torre will not allow any of that to happen under his helm. But knowing Kent will be back and will be in the lineup brings more stability to what was a shaky offense in 2007. And hopefully a Kemp and James Loney can stretch out what they did in 2007 into full seasons in 2008. And if either LaRoche or Nomar have good seasons at third, the Dodgers could conceivably have six guys in their lineup with 20 or more HRs in 2008: Russell Martin, Loney, Jones, Kent, Kemp and Ethier.
And finally, for now, still no word on what is going on with Hiroki Kuroda. He left Japan for L.A. on Tuesday night amid reports in Japan that he had chosen the Dodgers over Seattle, Arizona and KC. But so far, he has not informd any of those clubs who he intends to sign with. As of right now, he is visiting with his San Diego-based agent going over all the offers, and it appears the Dodgers have become the front-runners for his services.
More in a bit.
Stay tuned...
The Dodgers finally got their man: Andruw Jones is the new(est) center fielder. And I'm thrilled with it! They get the 30 year-old for only two years in a year when fellow free agent center fielders Torii Hunter got five years ($90M) at the age of 33 and Aaron Rowand got five years ($60M) from a team that needs a lot more help than what he can give them, and a year after Vernon Wells signed a $100M+ extension with Toronto.
Jones hit only .222 in 2007, but don't let that fool you. While he is only a .263 career hitter, he provides the Dodgers with a much need offensive threat in the middle of a lineup where only one player hit 20 HRs in 2007: Jeff Kent. And while many will argue he's on the down side of his career offensively, don't let that fool you either. Jones hit 51 HRs in 2005 but his production dropped to just 26 in 2007, in large part because of a glitch he picked up in his stance after the season and has corrected, and an elboy injury he quietly tried to play through all season, which is now sound and healthy. And while he may not hit 51 HRs in L.A., his numbers from 2007 would have been the highest on the Dodgers. If he's in fact healthy, you can bet he wont hit .222 again, and you can bet his 26 HRs will go back up (and keep in mind, Atlanta is a bigger park, and is tougher to hit HRs in). Jones also brings a Gold Glove caliber glove to center field, as well.
But the addition of Jones leaves the Dodgers with a surplus of outfielders. The Dodgers intention is to move weak-armed, no power-hitting Juan Pierre to left field; a big mistake if you ask me. Doing this not only weakens your offense by forcing Andre Ethier or Matt Kemp to the bench, it also exposes Pierre's defensive and throwing deficiencies. Now, any hit to left field will be an adventure watching him try to throw out runners going from first to third or second to home. The Dodgers have also made it be known they have no interest in trading Kemp (he's been asked for by a number of teams in trade talks, to which the Dodgers have steadfastly rejected all of them). Pierre's contract and lack of production (in spite of his .300 avg, 60+ SBs and 90+ runs scored) makes him nearly impossible to move. That leaves Ethier as the odd man out. Unfortunately, an outfield of Ethier-Jones-Kemp is the best combination of all the outfielders on the roster, and right now that looks like it has no chance of happening. (In fact, Pierre might just be the fifth best outfielder on the team behind the aforementioned AND Delwyn Young.) I sure hope Joe Torre is smart enough to see this in spring training and really gives the Ethier-Jones-Kemp trio a chance to be the best outfield in the league.
Speaking of Jeff Kent, he is returning for his final season. And since it has already been mentioned in this space, I wont bore you with the details of what happened between Kent and Loney and Kemp in September, except to add you can bet Torre will not allow any of that to happen under his helm. But knowing Kent will be back and will be in the lineup brings more stability to what was a shaky offense in 2007. And hopefully a Kemp and James Loney can stretch out what they did in 2007 into full seasons in 2008. And if either LaRoche or Nomar have good seasons at third, the Dodgers could conceivably have six guys in their lineup with 20 or more HRs in 2008: Russell Martin, Loney, Jones, Kent, Kemp and Ethier.
And finally, for now, still no word on what is going on with Hiroki Kuroda. He left Japan for L.A. on Tuesday night amid reports in Japan that he had chosen the Dodgers over Seattle, Arizona and KC. But so far, he has not informd any of those clubs who he intends to sign with. As of right now, he is visiting with his San Diego-based agent going over all the offers, and it appears the Dodgers have become the front-runners for his services.
More in a bit.
Stay tuned...
Thursday, November 1, 2007
It's Official
After several days of speculation, the team has officially signed former Yankee manager Joe Torre to a three year deal to manage in L.A.
Here is the Official Press Release from the Dodger website. For more info from local L.A. beat writers and insight from within the organization, check out the links in the column to left for the Kamenetzky Brothers' blog of the L.A. Times, Tony Jackson's blog of the Daily News and the Dodgers PR & Broadcasting Director Josh Rawitch's blog, Inside the Dodgers.
Ned and Frank are in the middle of a conference call with the media discussing the process of what led to the hiring of Torre...
More thoughts on this soon!
Here is the Official Press Release from the Dodger website. For more info from local L.A. beat writers and insight from within the organization, check out the links in the column to left for the Kamenetzky Brothers' blog of the L.A. Times, Tony Jackson's blog of the Daily News and the Dodgers PR & Broadcasting Director Josh Rawitch's blog, Inside the Dodgers.
Ned and Frank are in the middle of a conference call with the media discussing the process of what led to the hiring of Torre...
More thoughts on this soon!
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Follow-Up
It's been about a week since my last post and a LOT has transpired during that time. I haven't had much time in the last week to sit down and blog, and at the moment, I don't have the time to go in depth with my thoughts on the whole Grady Little and Joe Torre situations. I promise, though, when I have a few extra minutes, perhaps this weekend when hopefully we'll know more, I'll comment a little more on Grady's decision to leave, and his likely replacement, Torre. In the meantime, for all the best, most accurate and latest updates, be sure to check out some of the Dodger blogs, including Inside the Dodgers, the L.A. Times and the Daily News (links in column to the left), as well as the Rotoworld player news module below them!
Saturday, October 20, 2007
A Month Later...
Well it's been a month since I've had a chance to post anything, and we all know what's happened since. Dodgers got swept in Colorado, part of what has started an incredible run by the Rockies that has seen them win 21 of their last 22 games going back to Sunday before they swept the Dodgers, and earn themselves a berth in the World Series. And I must add, it has been a lot of fun watching the Rockies.
Back to the Dodgers. They went on an ugly tailspin that saw them finish 8 games out of first place and in 4th place overall in the standings. They barely finished better than .500 (the NL West is the only division in the Wild Card era to have four teams finish with better than .500 records). So now we move on to 2008...
Several players have already been cut loose: Shea Hillenbrand, Roberto Hernandez and Olmedo Saenz. Manager Grady Little will return as the manager next year despite the fact Joe Torre is suddenly available. Luis Gonzalez, Randy Wolf and Mike Lieberthal are unofficially a free agents (the filing period begins after the World Series). Gonzo is all but gone, and Lieberthal will probably return for another year as Russell Martin's primary back-up, but still no word on what they might do with Wolf. Jeff Kent's contract has become guaranteed for 2008 based on him reaching 550 plate appearances this year. But there is growing speculation in light of the clubhouse turmoil and differences between the veteran players and younger players towards the end of the season that Kent may not come back for another year.
The Dodgers have a lot of questions as they head into the off-season. Who's going to be the everyday third baseman next season? Will they pursue Alex Rodriguez should he opt of his contract with the Yankees? (Personally, I say, if he does, break the bank on him if you must!) Can Kent co-exist with Matt Kemp and James Loney should he elect to to return for his final year? Will they trade some of the young players for an established big bat in the middle of the lineup, say, of the Miguel Cabrera variety? Will Jason Schmidt be healthy enough to contribute every 5th game? Who will fill the 4th and 5th spots in the rotation? Will they move Juan Pierre to left field so they can pursue one of the better offensive and defensive free agent center-fielders on the this year's free agent market, i.e., Andruw Jones or Torii Hunter?
As the off-season kicks into high gear after the World Series, we should start to see some of these questions answered. Stay tuned after the World Series for more frequent updates and comments.
Back to the Dodgers. They went on an ugly tailspin that saw them finish 8 games out of first place and in 4th place overall in the standings. They barely finished better than .500 (the NL West is the only division in the Wild Card era to have four teams finish with better than .500 records). So now we move on to 2008...
Several players have already been cut loose: Shea Hillenbrand, Roberto Hernandez and Olmedo Saenz. Manager Grady Little will return as the manager next year despite the fact Joe Torre is suddenly available. Luis Gonzalez, Randy Wolf and Mike Lieberthal are unofficially a free agents (the filing period begins after the World Series). Gonzo is all but gone, and Lieberthal will probably return for another year as Russell Martin's primary back-up, but still no word on what they might do with Wolf. Jeff Kent's contract has become guaranteed for 2008 based on him reaching 550 plate appearances this year. But there is growing speculation in light of the clubhouse turmoil and differences between the veteran players and younger players towards the end of the season that Kent may not come back for another year.
The Dodgers have a lot of questions as they head into the off-season. Who's going to be the everyday third baseman next season? Will they pursue Alex Rodriguez should he opt of his contract with the Yankees? (Personally, I say, if he does, break the bank on him if you must!) Can Kent co-exist with Matt Kemp and James Loney should he elect to to return for his final year? Will they trade some of the young players for an established big bat in the middle of the lineup, say, of the Miguel Cabrera variety? Will Jason Schmidt be healthy enough to contribute every 5th game? Who will fill the 4th and 5th spots in the rotation? Will they move Juan Pierre to left field so they can pursue one of the better offensive and defensive free agent center-fielders on the this year's free agent market, i.e., Andruw Jones or Torii Hunter?
As the off-season kicks into high gear after the World Series, we should start to see some of these questions answered. Stay tuned after the World Series for more frequent updates and comments.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Correction...
The Dodgers have had one 5-game winning streak so far this season. But another one, or even longer, wouldn't hurt!
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Trying To Keep Up
It seems like my posts are fewer are farther between, weekly instead of daily, but I promise to at least try to stay on this more frequent!
Anyway, great homestand so far, with one more to go tomorrow. We already know how that last game in Chicago turned out, and things were looking good in San Francisco last weekend, but they Giants got the best of us in two of those three games with late inning heroics off Brox, two games the Blue had in the bag, too.
The team has been playing great since they lost the opener on Monday to San Diego. The pitching has been soild, Chad Billingsley and Takashi Saito, most notably, and how about that James Loney?! This guy is just tearing it up! He's hitting EVERYTHING in sight these days, and is almost single-handedly carrying the offense on his shoulders. But it's nice to see the rest of the offense helping out a little, and its even nicer to see a couple of the vets making their presence felt, as well. We know about Kent and his recent surge again that has seen his average get back up to near .300, and check this out... Kent's the lone Dodger with 20 dingers! But Nomar and Gonzo have really made the most of their playing time these past few days, as well. Nomar's had two very nice games this weekend so far, and Gonzo's had two huge hits this week that helped them get a couple of wins.
Dodgers have won four straight (I believe they're looking for their first 5-game winning streak of the season!) and what a perfect time for a nice long winning streak! They've made up a lot of ground in the standings of late (just 1.5 behind San Diego for the Wild Card, and 3.5 behind Arizona for first with 13 to go), so every game is magnified now as they're knocking on the doorsteps of Arizona and San Diego. They have four remaining with Arizona (one tomorrow at the Ravine, and three next weekend in Phoenix), six with the Rockies (three in L.A., three in Denver) and the final three against the Hated-Ones-to-the-North.
As for tomorrow, Esteban Loaiza gets the nod against Eddie Gonzalez. Obviously it is very crucial that Loaiza has a better game than his last outing against the Padres...
Anyway, great homestand so far, with one more to go tomorrow. We already know how that last game in Chicago turned out, and things were looking good in San Francisco last weekend, but they Giants got the best of us in two of those three games with late inning heroics off Brox, two games the Blue had in the bag, too.
The team has been playing great since they lost the opener on Monday to San Diego. The pitching has been soild, Chad Billingsley and Takashi Saito, most notably, and how about that James Loney?! This guy is just tearing it up! He's hitting EVERYTHING in sight these days, and is almost single-handedly carrying the offense on his shoulders. But it's nice to see the rest of the offense helping out a little, and its even nicer to see a couple of the vets making their presence felt, as well. We know about Kent and his recent surge again that has seen his average get back up to near .300, and check this out... Kent's the lone Dodger with 20 dingers! But Nomar and Gonzo have really made the most of their playing time these past few days, as well. Nomar's had two very nice games this weekend so far, and Gonzo's had two huge hits this week that helped them get a couple of wins.
Dodgers have won four straight (I believe they're looking for their first 5-game winning streak of the season!) and what a perfect time for a nice long winning streak! They've made up a lot of ground in the standings of late (just 1.5 behind San Diego for the Wild Card, and 3.5 behind Arizona for first with 13 to go), so every game is magnified now as they're knocking on the doorsteps of Arizona and San Diego. They have four remaining with Arizona (one tomorrow at the Ravine, and three next weekend in Phoenix), six with the Rockies (three in L.A., three in Denver) and the final three against the Hated-Ones-to-the-North.
As for tomorrow, Esteban Loaiza gets the nod against Eddie Gonzalez. Obviously it is very crucial that Loaiza has a better game than his last outing against the Padres...
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Back In It...
Been a couple of weeks since I've had a chance to post anything. Sorry for the long layoff.
Been a good couple of weeks for the Blue. They officially signed David Wells (and dumped Brett Tomko - since picked up by the Padres) who's had two effective starts so far (he is now serving his suspension he received while he was with San Diego and Eric Stults took his spot in the rotation last night). The team also picked up Esteban Loaiza off waivers from Oakland, and he had a very good start on Monday against the Cubs in his first start . Loaiza is signed through next season so this could be a bargain pick-up and he should ultimately help them next year, as well, provided he's healthy.
Minus two rough weekends (one in New York, and one in San Diego) where they lost two out of three, the Dodgers have been rolling and have picked up as much as 4.5 games in the standings in both the division and Wild Card races. They are currently three games back in the Wild Card, tied with Philly (great finish yesterday against Atlanta if you didn't see or hear about it), and four games back of Arizona in the division, three back of San Diego.
Grady still insists, even this time of year when every game is bigger than the one before with less than a month left, on giving certain guys days off and playing certain guys who really shouldn't be playing at all. Still not sure how Gonzo still finds his way into the lineup every other day. And I'm beyond disgusted with Juan Pierre's play in centerfield, even moreso because he doesn't even come close to making it up with his offense. The guy still hits far too many balls in the air. And the bone-headed base-running plays have got to stop. This team runs out of so many innings it's almost laughable. I don't mind the aggressiveness on the bases but I hate guys who don't make fundamental judgments. And because he's only 22 and hitting around .345 over the last few weeks hitting in the three-slot in the lineup, Matt Kemp gets a slight reprieve from all of this even though he's the one making more mistakes on the base paths than anyone else.
Anyway, enough ranting. The team has won 13 of its last 20 and the offense has found its groove again. The pitching has been even better, on most nights. That said, getaway day at the Friendly Confines today as the Dodgers look to take three of four in the series and five of seven overall against the Cubbies. Lineup is posted already on Inside the Dodgers. No Kent (day off) but Gonzo is in there as the clean-up hitter (why?) and Martin's back after a day-off last night and a precautionary MRI on his knee. Enjoy the game Game time is in 90 minutes on FSN Prime Ticket with Vin!
Been a good couple of weeks for the Blue. They officially signed David Wells (and dumped Brett Tomko - since picked up by the Padres) who's had two effective starts so far (he is now serving his suspension he received while he was with San Diego and Eric Stults took his spot in the rotation last night). The team also picked up Esteban Loaiza off waivers from Oakland, and he had a very good start on Monday against the Cubs in his first start . Loaiza is signed through next season so this could be a bargain pick-up and he should ultimately help them next year, as well, provided he's healthy.
Minus two rough weekends (one in New York, and one in San Diego) where they lost two out of three, the Dodgers have been rolling and have picked up as much as 4.5 games in the standings in both the division and Wild Card races. They are currently three games back in the Wild Card, tied with Philly (great finish yesterday against Atlanta if you didn't see or hear about it), and four games back of Arizona in the division, three back of San Diego.
Grady still insists, even this time of year when every game is bigger than the one before with less than a month left, on giving certain guys days off and playing certain guys who really shouldn't be playing at all. Still not sure how Gonzo still finds his way into the lineup every other day. And I'm beyond disgusted with Juan Pierre's play in centerfield, even moreso because he doesn't even come close to making it up with his offense. The guy still hits far too many balls in the air. And the bone-headed base-running plays have got to stop. This team runs out of so many innings it's almost laughable. I don't mind the aggressiveness on the bases but I hate guys who don't make fundamental judgments. And because he's only 22 and hitting around .345 over the last few weeks hitting in the three-slot in the lineup, Matt Kemp gets a slight reprieve from all of this even though he's the one making more mistakes on the base paths than anyone else.
Anyway, enough ranting. The team has won 13 of its last 20 and the offense has found its groove again. The pitching has been even better, on most nights. That said, getaway day at the Friendly Confines today as the Dodgers look to take three of four in the series and five of seven overall against the Cubbies. Lineup is posted already on Inside the Dodgers. No Kent (day off) but Gonzo is in there as the clean-up hitter (why?) and Martin's back after a day-off last night and a precautionary MRI on his knee. Enjoy the game Game time is in 90 minutes on FSN Prime Ticket with Vin!
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Rangers Romp O's 30-3
No,that is not a typo. That was, indeed, the final score last night. In case you missed it, you missed history in the making last night. In the first game of a double-header against the Orioles at Camden Yards in Baltimore, the Rangers amassed 30 (yes, that's right, 30!) runs in a 30-3 beatdown of the Orioles. The Rangers, who trailed at one point 3-0 after three innings, scored in just four of the nine innings, scoring five runs in the 4th, nine in the 6th, 10 in the 8th and six more in the 9th, en route to the... well, rout! The 30 runs scored is a modern-day Major League record (110 years since the last 30-run outburst by one team in a nine inning game). The Rangers hit two grand slams, and they had two other hitters hit two home runs with 7 RBI... each! Some of the other numbers and tidbits are staggering! Want to see more of it? Check out ESPN.com's breakdown of the numbers here. There was even a save earned in this game!
What A Difference...
A week makes. Still no winning streak of more than three games, but only two losses (one being the 14-inning affair last Saturday against the Rockies that saw them erase a 4-1 deficit in the 7th and 8th innings) since last Tuesday's bizarre ending. And despite the Dodgers insistence of still giving Gonzo regular playing time (more on this in a minute) despite his poor second half, and despite Kemp and Ethier's hot hitting of late, the offense has regained its groove. The pitching, minus Brett Tomko's start on Tuesday, has been brilliant in the last week. But could that have been his last start? He is scheduled to go Sunday, but that could change by tomorrow.
A follow-up to a Buster Olney of ESPN.com report I mentioned a week ago, according to the Newark Star-Ledger (via MLBTradeRumors.com and Rotoworld.com), David Wells might be close to signing with the Dodgers for the remainder of the season. If the deal gets done by tomorrow, he could start Sunday's game in NY at Shea against the Mets. At this point, I figure almost anyone might be a better option than Tomko.
Ok, back to Gonzo. For those who know me, I've been very skeptical of the Dodgers signings this past off-season since they happened, especially Gonzo's (mostly because they had already inked Juan Pierre to his ridiculous five-year deal). Now, I like the guy, and he's been a solid ballplayer for many years (and he showed some of this in the first half of the season, silencing me during that time), but there really is no excuse for him getting any regular playing time these days. Rotoworld had this to say abut Gonzo a couple hours ago, and I can't help but agree with it:
Gonzalez is batting just .224 with one homer in 107 at-bats since the All-Star break. He's even stopped walking, with just five base on balls in the second half after he had 41 in 293 at-bats before the break. Especially after factoring in defense, the Dodgers would seem to be quite a bit better off with both Ethier and Kemp playing regularly right now. Blame Grady Little for continuing to sign play Gonzalez, but also blame GM Ned Colletti, who gave the 39-year-old a $7.35 million contract when there was very little upside to the move. Plus, Colletti had to know Little would stick with him far too long if he wasn't any good.
A follow-up to a Buster Olney of ESPN.com report I mentioned a week ago, according to the Newark Star-Ledger (via MLBTradeRumors.com and Rotoworld.com), David Wells might be close to signing with the Dodgers for the remainder of the season. If the deal gets done by tomorrow, he could start Sunday's game in NY at Shea against the Mets. At this point, I figure almost anyone might be a better option than Tomko.
Ok, back to Gonzo. For those who know me, I've been very skeptical of the Dodgers signings this past off-season since they happened, especially Gonzo's (mostly because they had already inked Juan Pierre to his ridiculous five-year deal). Now, I like the guy, and he's been a solid ballplayer for many years (and he showed some of this in the first half of the season, silencing me during that time), but there really is no excuse for him getting any regular playing time these days. Rotoworld had this to say abut Gonzo a couple hours ago, and I can't help but agree with it:
Gonzalez is batting just .224 with one homer in 107 at-bats since the All-Star break. He's even stopped walking, with just five base on balls in the second half after he had 41 in 293 at-bats before the break. Especially after factoring in defense, the Dodgers would seem to be quite a bit better off with both Ethier and Kemp playing regularly right now. Blame Grady Little for continuing to sign play Gonzalez, but also blame GM Ned Colletti, who gave the 39-year-old a $7.35 million contract when there was very little upside to the move. Plus, Colletti had to know Little would stick with him far too long if he wasn't any good.
I'll leave it at that for now.
Anyway... nice effort the last two games in Philly. D-Lowe and Billingsley finally each found the win column again, but it was more than just run support. They both pitched solid games last night and today, respectively. They both looked like they finally found their groove again. D-Lowe had been struggling since his hip injury a month ago, and while Billingsley had been pitching solidly even before today, it was good to seem him finally get some run support for a win. The Dodgers touched the dish 20 times (15 last night) in these two games, and hopefully they can carry this combo of timely hitting and solid, effective, consistent pitching into this weekend's showdown at Shea as they continue their push back into a playoff spot.
Anyway... nice effort the last two games in Philly. D-Lowe and Billingsley finally each found the win column again, but it was more than just run support. They both pitched solid games last night and today, respectively. They both looked like they finally found their groove again. D-Lowe had been struggling since his hip injury a month ago, and while Billingsley had been pitching solidly even before today, it was good to seem him finally get some run support for a win. The Dodgers touched the dish 20 times (15 last night) in these two games, and hopefully they can carry this combo of timely hitting and solid, effective, consistent pitching into this weekend's showdown at Shea as they continue their push back into a playoff spot.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
This Just In...
According to Buster Olney of ESPN.com, the Dodgers (and Rockies) are showing interest in starting pitcher David Wells. Wells cleared waivers and became a free agent Thursday. Stay tuned as this story continues to develop...
Taking A Break...
And a good break it is for the Dodgers. They finally seemed to put it all back together again last night and earned a well-deserved and much-needed victory last night. And a team effort it was, too. Martin had two home runs and three RBI, Kemp had two hits, an RBI and a stolen base, and Pierre had two hits and a couple of stolen bases. Penny pitch a solid six innings before turning it over to Proctor, Brox and Saito in the final three innings. The win exemplified the way the team was playing earlier in the season when they were winning games. Hopefully they can continue that tonight. In the words of the manager in the movie Major League 2, "We won a game yesterday. We win tonight, that's two in a row. We win tomorrow, that's called a winning streak. It has happened before."
Didn't get a chance to chime in after Tuesday night's bizarre ending. Unfortunately, the way that game ended truly exemplified how this team has played over the last three weeks. Really, it seemed like they were finding ways to lose games, rather than finding ways to win them. So hopefully, they'll avoid games like that, and use last night's win as a starting point to get some kind of long winning streak going. This team has yet to have a winning streak of more than five games all season.
Didn't get a chance to chime in after Tuesday night's bizarre ending. Unfortunately, the way that game ended truly exemplified how this team has played over the last three weeks. Really, it seemed like they were finding ways to lose games, rather than finding ways to win them. So hopefully, they'll avoid games like that, and use last night's win as a starting point to get some kind of long winning streak going. This team has yet to have a winning streak of more than five games all season.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
It's Been Awhile...
I've been busy the last two weeks studying for my insurance license here in the state of Texas, so my apologies for not having posted anything in 12 days. I'm going to try to keep this as short as possible for the time being, as well, for that reason.
I have been keeping up with what has happened to the team and I must say it doesn't surprise me in the least bit. Some of the holes and flaws in the lineup were obvious to me in Spring Training, and they were able to play through them and get away with them for three or four months. But it was only a matter of time before it finally all caught up to them.
The team has plummeted from a first place tie to fourth place, 6.5 games out, in a matter of less than three weeks. The offense is in shambles. Andre Ethier is the only guy hitting when it matters most. Matt Kemp went on a little lull at the end of July and hasn't been in the lineup much, since Grady pulled him. I'm still baffled by Grady's use of Gonzo over him, especially hitting him in the clean-up spot when Kent gets a day off. Gonzo's had just three extra base hits in almost six weeks. The team is in a 3-for-72 slide (or something to that affect) with RISP. The lineup looks a lit better now than it did say, a month ago. Pierre has been dropped to seventh. Martin bumped up to second, Loney to third. But still, no one is hitting when it matters most.
Was listening to Kevin Kennedy and Rob Dibble on XM the past two days, and I've never heard Kevin as defiant and animated as he was in tearing the team to shreds for what has happened over the last few weeks. There were several points he made. First, he questioned some of Colletti's off-season moves as they have now come back to haunt the team. He also ripped Pierre to shreds for the kind of at-bats he's had all year: swinging at first pitches constantly, hitting the ball in the air too much, not hitting the ball on the ground enough, not bunting when he should, defensive lapses in the field. He criticized Grady for not playing Kemp enough, even after he had his little slump again. Instead of giving him a day off to clear his mind, Kemp's been sitting much of the three weeks. He chastised Grady for throwing Hendrickson back into the rotation, and continuing to use Tomko, when he should have gone to Colletti and suggested bringing up Hull, Stults or Houlton and giving them a shot. Today he made a point of saying they weren't out of it yet, but it's too late in the season to think about making up one game a week in the standings. They need to make up half the deficit NOW. They all need to stop trying to do it all themselves individually, and just PLAY!
They didn't get off to a great start on the home stand last night. They need these next three games against Houston before the Rockies come to town Friday night for the weekend.
I'm sure everyone is fully aware by now of the recent acquisitions since the non-waiver trade deadline passed. Since then, the Dodgers traded for pinch-hitting specialist Mark Sweeney from the rival Giants (first trade between the two teams since 1985, and it certainly helped that Colletti was the Giants' GM's right-hand man before coming to L.A., and the fact the Giants are buried in last place in the NL West), signed Shea Hillenbrand to a minor league deal and assigned him to Vegas, and acquired catcher Chad Moeller from Cincinnati and assigned him, too, to Vegas.
Couple of roster moves and notes... Nomar has been put on the 15-day DL with a strained left calf. Eric Hull has been recalled to take Nomar's spot on the roster. Hillendbrand, who was brought up yesterday when they sent Delwyn Young back down, will start in Nomar's place tonight. Schmidt was moved from the 15-day to the 60-day DL to make room on the 40-man roster for Hillendbrand. Speculation, as well, that LaRoche will be called back up on Friday, and rumors persist the Dodgers are showing interest in White Sox pitcher Jose Contreras. Contreras was told he was starting Friday, and then depending how he does, could end up in the pen thereafter. Contreras has told the Sox that he wants to be traded if he isn't going to be a starter there next season. Stay tuned. Contreras could be traded before the end of the month as he has cleared waivers.
I have been keeping up with what has happened to the team and I must say it doesn't surprise me in the least bit. Some of the holes and flaws in the lineup were obvious to me in Spring Training, and they were able to play through them and get away with them for three or four months. But it was only a matter of time before it finally all caught up to them.
The team has plummeted from a first place tie to fourth place, 6.5 games out, in a matter of less than three weeks. The offense is in shambles. Andre Ethier is the only guy hitting when it matters most. Matt Kemp went on a little lull at the end of July and hasn't been in the lineup much, since Grady pulled him. I'm still baffled by Grady's use of Gonzo over him, especially hitting him in the clean-up spot when Kent gets a day off. Gonzo's had just three extra base hits in almost six weeks. The team is in a 3-for-72 slide (or something to that affect) with RISP. The lineup looks a lit better now than it did say, a month ago. Pierre has been dropped to seventh. Martin bumped up to second, Loney to third. But still, no one is hitting when it matters most.
Was listening to Kevin Kennedy and Rob Dibble on XM the past two days, and I've never heard Kevin as defiant and animated as he was in tearing the team to shreds for what has happened over the last few weeks. There were several points he made. First, he questioned some of Colletti's off-season moves as they have now come back to haunt the team. He also ripped Pierre to shreds for the kind of at-bats he's had all year: swinging at first pitches constantly, hitting the ball in the air too much, not hitting the ball on the ground enough, not bunting when he should, defensive lapses in the field. He criticized Grady for not playing Kemp enough, even after he had his little slump again. Instead of giving him a day off to clear his mind, Kemp's been sitting much of the three weeks. He chastised Grady for throwing Hendrickson back into the rotation, and continuing to use Tomko, when he should have gone to Colletti and suggested bringing up Hull, Stults or Houlton and giving them a shot. Today he made a point of saying they weren't out of it yet, but it's too late in the season to think about making up one game a week in the standings. They need to make up half the deficit NOW. They all need to stop trying to do it all themselves individually, and just PLAY!
They didn't get off to a great start on the home stand last night. They need these next three games against Houston before the Rockies come to town Friday night for the weekend.
I'm sure everyone is fully aware by now of the recent acquisitions since the non-waiver trade deadline passed. Since then, the Dodgers traded for pinch-hitting specialist Mark Sweeney from the rival Giants (first trade between the two teams since 1985, and it certainly helped that Colletti was the Giants' GM's right-hand man before coming to L.A., and the fact the Giants are buried in last place in the NL West), signed Shea Hillenbrand to a minor league deal and assigned him to Vegas, and acquired catcher Chad Moeller from Cincinnati and assigned him, too, to Vegas.
Couple of roster moves and notes... Nomar has been put on the 15-day DL with a strained left calf. Eric Hull has been recalled to take Nomar's spot on the roster. Hillendbrand, who was brought up yesterday when they sent Delwyn Young back down, will start in Nomar's place tonight. Schmidt was moved from the 15-day to the 60-day DL to make room on the 40-man roster for Hillendbrand. Speculation, as well, that LaRoche will be called back up on Friday, and rumors persist the Dodgers are showing interest in White Sox pitcher Jose Contreras. Contreras was told he was starting Friday, and then depending how he does, could end up in the pen thereafter. Contreras has told the Sox that he wants to be traded if he isn't going to be a starter there next season. Stay tuned. Contreras could be traded before the end of the month as he has cleared waivers.
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Still no home runs for Bonds. Still stuck on 754. Hendrickson did a great job last night keep him off balance, and keeping the game close. After losing the first game, Dodgers finally became the first home team to win a game between the two teams this year. Thanks to Furcal and Pierre for the win. They both had clutch bunt hits that made it all the way to Omar Vizquel at shortstop, and Omar's throw to get Pierre was late and got away from Aurilia at first, allowing Furcal to get to third. Pierre then stole second, and after Martin popped out, Gonzo sliced a hit inside third that scored both Furcal and Pierre to tie the game. Then Nomar put it away with his 5th home run of the year. Saito got the side out in order and the Dodgers walked away with a win. Proctor came in and made his Dodger debut (he never played for them before he was traded four years ago to the Yanks in the Robin Ventura deal). He made one pitch and Martin threw out a runner trying to steal second to end the seventh. A slow paced game that turned into a fun game to watch.
Meanwhile, great game in San Diego, too. Chris Young stole a grand slam away from the Padres with a web gem in the middle of the game. Then, up 5-1 in the bottom of the ninth with Jose Valverde on the hill, the Padres rallied for four runs capped off by a Milton Bradley home run. Game went to extras and Arizona scored four in the 11th capped off by a Chad Tracy three-run pinch-hit home run. Arizona won to remain one game up on the Dodgers in the NL West, but the Dodger remain even in the loss column.
Finale tonight between Dodgers and Giants. Zito vs. Tomko. Could be a slugfest with those two going. No official word on whether Bonds is playing or not, but Giants manager Bochy suggested last night if Bonds is feeling good, he'll be in there. We shall see. ESPN is picking up the game again, but hopefully I'll be lucky enough to be able to catch Vin Scully on FSN Prime tonight. (I was lucky enough to get stuck with Chris Berman and Joe Morgan, or Duane Kuiper and Mike Krukow on the Giants broadcast on Extra Innings since the game was carried by KCAL in L.A.)
Meanwhile, great game in San Diego, too. Chris Young stole a grand slam away from the Padres with a web gem in the middle of the game. Then, up 5-1 in the bottom of the ninth with Jose Valverde on the hill, the Padres rallied for four runs capped off by a Milton Bradley home run. Game went to extras and Arizona scored four in the 11th capped off by a Chad Tracy three-run pinch-hit home run. Arizona won to remain one game up on the Dodgers in the NL West, but the Dodger remain even in the loss column.
Finale tonight between Dodgers and Giants. Zito vs. Tomko. Could be a slugfest with those two going. No official word on whether Bonds is playing or not, but Giants manager Bochy suggested last night if Bonds is feeling good, he'll be in there. We shall see. ESPN is picking up the game again, but hopefully I'll be lucky enough to be able to catch Vin Scully on FSN Prime tonight. (I was lucky enough to get stuck with Chris Berman and Joe Morgan, or Duane Kuiper and Mike Krukow on the Giants broadcast on Extra Innings since the game was carried by KCAL in L.A.)
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Betemit Traded to Yanks
UPDATE (6:51 pm CDT): Now official. Winner here? Pick 'em. Dodgers needed to upgrade their pitching somehow and hopefully this will persuade Grady to stop using Roberto Hernandez, or use him less. Proctor's had a decent season (2-5, ERA around 3.80, ERA+ at 113) and it should only improve slightly in the N.L. Proctor should help the Dodgers at least for 2007. He's arbitration eligible for the first time after this season, so barring any health concerns due to work overload, he should be a nice addition for the long haul. Betemit was being seldomly used, and the Dodgers are obviously looking to Andy LaRoche to eventually take over at third for Nomar.
The talks between the Dodgers and A's for Joe Blanton broke down at some point last night but were rekindled this afternoon prior to the deadline. The Dodgers apparently made an offer of LaRoche, minor league shortstop Hu, and Jon Meloan for Blanton, but Oakland GM Billy Beane apparently felt Meloan wasn't close enough to Major League ready, or he felt he wasn't getting enough for Blanton. Or there just simply wasn't enough time to try to mix and match and get the right players for Oakland.
Personally I would have loved to had seen the Dodgers make a statement that they were serious about improving the rotation and serious about winning not only this year, but for years to come, as Blanton is in the same boat as Proctor contract-wise, but they apparently figured it was either Garland, Blanton or nothing. I just hope Penny and D-Lowe are healthy enough to continue their solid seasons without further aggravating their injuries, because after Billingsley, the rotation is very beatable. Who knows when Wolf will be back, too.
**********
ESPNEWS is reporting the rumored deal to send Wilson Betemit to the Yankees for Scott Proctor has been agreed to in principle. More to come...
The talks between the Dodgers and A's for Joe Blanton broke down at some point last night but were rekindled this afternoon prior to the deadline. The Dodgers apparently made an offer of LaRoche, minor league shortstop Hu, and Jon Meloan for Blanton, but Oakland GM Billy Beane apparently felt Meloan wasn't close enough to Major League ready, or he felt he wasn't getting enough for Blanton. Or there just simply wasn't enough time to try to mix and match and get the right players for Oakland.
Personally I would have loved to had seen the Dodgers make a statement that they were serious about improving the rotation and serious about winning not only this year, but for years to come, as Blanton is in the same boat as Proctor contract-wise, but they apparently figured it was either Garland, Blanton or nothing. I just hope Penny and D-Lowe are healthy enough to continue their solid seasons without further aggravating their injuries, because after Billingsley, the rotation is very beatable. Who knows when Wolf will be back, too.
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ESPNEWS is reporting the rumored deal to send Wilson Betemit to the Yankees for Scott Proctor has been agreed to in principle. More to come...
Monday, July 30, 2007
Deadline Drama
Late report from ESPN.com tonight says the Dodgers and A's are in serious discussions tonight that could bring starting pitcher Joe Blanton to L.A. Problem is he could come costly. Oakland wants three front line prospects for him and two of the names being tossed around are Andy LaRoche and Jonathan Meloan. Blanton could really help bolster the rotation, though, and not just for the rest of this season, but for years to come. Blanton is just 26, is making just $380,000 and will be arbitration eligible for the first time this winter. That said, he'd be under the team's control for the next three seasons. As it says in the ESPN.com report, it's very rare for teams to give up on very good, young and cheap starting pitching, which might explain why Billy Beane might be asking for a lot in return. But I say, if you can get it done without giving up some of the obvious players (Kemp, Loney, Broxton, Martin, Billingsley, etc), then get it done. I'd really hate to see LaRoche go in a deal like this but this one has the potential to have a bigger positive impact on the team and it could be better one than the Brad Penny trade two years ago.
The other rumor involving the Dodgers flying around was Wilson Betemit to the Yankees for reliever Scott Proctor, whom the Dodgers traded to the Yankees in the Robin Ventura deadline deal a couple of years ago.
Was going to breakdown some of the trade rumors going around but several trades took place today already with less than 17 hours until tomorrow's trade deadline. The big one is Mark Teixeira and a pitcher going to Atlanta for Jarrod Saltalamacchia and three others. The trade, which will likely be announced tomorrow, is pending the players passing physicals. Kyle Lohse was traded to Philadelphia for a relief pitcher, and the Twins traded 2B Luis Castillo to the Mets for two minor leaguers. Nice deal for Omar Minaya and the Mets.
One possible trade was supposedly being held up by another. Octavio Dotel was all set to go from Kansas City to Atlanta for Kyle Davies, but the Braves are waiting for the Teixeira trade to finalize. Dotel may still end up somewhere else other than Atlanta by the deadline.
More to come. Stay tuned...
The other rumor involving the Dodgers flying around was Wilson Betemit to the Yankees for reliever Scott Proctor, whom the Dodgers traded to the Yankees in the Robin Ventura deadline deal a couple of years ago.
Was going to breakdown some of the trade rumors going around but several trades took place today already with less than 17 hours until tomorrow's trade deadline. The big one is Mark Teixeira and a pitcher going to Atlanta for Jarrod Saltalamacchia and three others. The trade, which will likely be announced tomorrow, is pending the players passing physicals. Kyle Lohse was traded to Philadelphia for a relief pitcher, and the Twins traded 2B Luis Castillo to the Mets for two minor leaguers. Nice deal for Omar Minaya and the Mets.
One possible trade was supposedly being held up by another. Octavio Dotel was all set to go from Kansas City to Atlanta for Kyle Davies, but the Braves are waiting for the Teixeira trade to finalize. Dotel may still end up somewhere else other than Atlanta by the deadline.
More to come. Stay tuned...
Sunday, July 29, 2007
Starting Pitcher Notes
According to Dodgers.com, Penny has been penciled in as Tuesday's starter against the Giants, and D-Lowe is slated to start Saturday's game against Arizona pending a bullpen session on Wednesday. However, Randy Wolf has been shut down indefinitely due to his shoulder injury.
Rough Day at the Ballpark
Not a good day for the Blue. Dodgers got pounded again, 9-6, but not before rallying to get the tying run on base with two outs in the 9th inning. But once again, they failed with the bases loaded when Ethier struck out to end the game. And how's this for a "go figure": coming into today, the Dodgers lead the N.L. with a .290 BA with RISP, but were a league worst .232 with the bases loaded. As I said, go figure.
No home runs today for Barry Bonds, so he remains at 754 as the "Hated Ones to the North" head south to Chavez Ravine for a three-game showdown starting Tuesday night. More on this Tuesday.
Today wasn't a good day to be a pitcher anywhere around the league. Some of these final scores today looked like an NFL Sunday scoreboard. Padres 18, Astros 11. Jason Jennings became the first pitcher in the modern era to give up 11 earned runs in the first inning when he did it in 2/3 of an inning. His ERA ballooned from 4.74 to 5.99. Yankees 10, Orioles 6. A-Rod still stuck on career home run #499. Royals 10, Rangers 0. Braves 14, Diamondbacks 0. Dodgers and D-backs remain tied atop the N.L. West as the Padres pull to within 1/2 game. And Mariners 14, A's 10.
Might be back shortly (or later tonight) with some trade rumor updates. If not, tomorrow morning. Stay tuned...
Jeff Kent had another amazing game as he nearly capped off a red-hot July (with one game to spare on Tuesday) with a 4-for-5 game today with 3 RBI, moving him into 55th place on the all-time RBI list with 1439. With one game left this month, Kent is hitting .448 in the month of July with 5 home runs and 20 RBI, and coming into today's game, had an OBP of .481 while slugging .718 for the month, raising his season totals to .305 with 15 home runs and 59 RBI while pushing his OBP over .380 and his slugging over .500. His sixth inning double was the 526th of his career, moving him past Ted Williams for 31st on the all-time list. And lastly, he has reached base in a Major League best 39 straight games.
No home runs today for Barry Bonds, so he remains at 754 as the "Hated Ones to the North" head south to Chavez Ravine for a three-game showdown starting Tuesday night. More on this Tuesday.
Today wasn't a good day to be a pitcher anywhere around the league. Some of these final scores today looked like an NFL Sunday scoreboard. Padres 18, Astros 11. Jason Jennings became the first pitcher in the modern era to give up 11 earned runs in the first inning when he did it in 2/3 of an inning. His ERA ballooned from 4.74 to 5.99. Yankees 10, Orioles 6. A-Rod still stuck on career home run #499. Royals 10, Rangers 0. Braves 14, Diamondbacks 0. Dodgers and D-backs remain tied atop the N.L. West as the Padres pull to within 1/2 game. And Mariners 14, A's 10.
Might be back shortly (or later tonight) with some trade rumor updates. If not, tomorrow morning. Stay tuned...
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Interesting Notes on Penny & Bonds
Jon Weisman of Baseball Toaster's Dodger Thoughts put together this interesting item on Brad Penny. In a nutshell, he notes that Penny could become the first Dodger since Fernando in 1981 to have a higher batting average than ERA in a season. Penny's ERA crawled up to 2.51 after Thursday nights efforts, but after going 2-for-3 with the bat, his average sky-rocketed to .293. He also notes that Penny, who is a leading candidate for N.L. Cy Young, is also starting to get some recognition for N.L. MVP, and that his total aggregate VORP as a pitcher and a hitter puts him in some pretty solid company among all National League players.
Weisman, who is also a columnist for SI.com, also had this interesting piece today on the Bonds home run chase, and what could happen if he breaks Hank Aaron's all-time career home run mark in L.A. this coming week when the Giants visit the Ravine.
Enjoy!
Weisman, who is also a columnist for SI.com, also had this interesting piece today on the Bonds home run chase, and what could happen if he breaks Hank Aaron's all-time career home run mark in L.A. this coming week when the Giants visit the Ravine.
Enjoy!
Weekly Recap
Well, I was going to wait until I had my photos uploaded from my digital camera from my trip to Houston before I posted here again, but I got lazy, and lots has happened since Sunday.
Trip to Houston was fun. Saw two of the three games: the 10-2 Dodger win on Monday, and the 2-1 loss on Wednesday. Billingsley pitched a hell of a game on Monday, coming one out shy of a complete game shut-out, instead settling on just the complete game. Kent had a great game at the plate, going 4-for-4. He finished the three games going 7-for-11. Not too shabby. He hit a monstrous home run in Wednesday's game about 415-feet off the window panels in left field just to the left of the Citgo sign in Minute Maid Park. But Carlos Lee topped it with a shot just as big (it was the game winner) off the window panels on the other side of the Citgo sign in left-center field.
Should also add that Minute Maid Park, despite its laughable name, is really one of the nicer ballparks I've been to. It's clean, the food is good, the people are nice, and the atmosphere is great. It's easy to get into and out of, at least the parking lot we parked in. The park is situated in Downtown Houston near the convention center and Toyota Center (where the Rockets play). Very accessible from anywhere in the city. Anyway, nice venue.
I've never really been much of a fan of the DH-rule, but it got me thinking a little this week because of the two scares the Dodgers got this week from D-Lowe and Penny. Can't blame Grady for using Lowe in last Sunday's game for inning since he was schedule to throw that day anyway between starts. The pen had seriously needed a break at that point, and Lowe was willing to help the team for an inning. But apparently, Lowe tweaked something in his hip area, and aggravated it on a laughable play in Houston on Wednesday night. He was already hurting a little every time he planted his foot in his follow-through after each pitch. But I could really see the expression in his face after he got a hit to right field in the sixth inning Wednesday and was promptly thrown out by the right-fielder before he reached base. He seemed to really over-exert himself trying to avoid the embarrassment by trying to leg out the hit. Instead, he made one pitch to start the bottom of the sixth and couldn't go any further. His MRI on Thursday showed some irritation in his hip, so he might miss only one start, if any at all.
As for Penny, his scare on Thursday in Colorado was a simple abdominal cramp. He suffered the injury legging out an infield hit in the sixth inning of that game. He is not expected to miss his next start. But, am I the only noticing a trend here? Fortunately, for the Dodgers, these injuries don't appear to be serious, but they can't really afford any more injuries to their starters, especially during their at-bats when they're reaching the late innings and pitching solid games. Wolf is still not ready to return, and Schmidt is done for the season. You can bet, and hope, that Colletti is looking to bolster the rotation a little bit because this team can not afford to go forward with Hendrickson and Tomko in the rotation.
Speaking of bolstering the rotation, trade deadline is Tuesday at 1pm PDT. As of right now, it would appear the Dodgers are still in the mix for Octavio Dotel from Kansas City. Speculation is they are still dangling James Loney for Mark Teixeira from Texas (Why? I don't know), but they are considered to be a long-shot wild card for him anyway. They have not been tied to any of possible starting pitchers who are rumored to be available, but if Jon Garland, Aaron Harang or Bronson Arroyo are available, they should be talking to the White Sox or Cincinnati. Other pitchers who could be options are Shawn Chacon, Jose Contreras, Kyle Lohse or Kevin Millwood (but he has a huge contract still).
Several trades have already gone down since yesterday: Kenny Lofton was traded from Texas to Cleveland (his third stint there in his career) for a minor league catcher; Tadahito Iguchi was traded from the White Sox to Philadelphia for a minor league pitcher; Padres picked up Scott Hairston from Arizona for a minor league pitcher; Tampa Bay and Milwaukee swapped Seth McClung and Grant Balfour; and Cincinnati has reportedly picked up Jorge Cantu from Tampa Bay for two players.
Last night's game was obviously rained out, and will be made up sometime in September when the Dodgers are back in Denver. Last night's scheduled starters were set to go tonight, but Colorado bumped Josh Fogg, so Jeff Francis will opposed Tomko. No Gonzo tonight, so both Kemp and Ethier are starting. Tonight's line-up has not been posted anywhere yet. More storms forecasted for the Denver area so hopefully they can get the game in without any interruptions. Enjoy the game... game time is 5:05 PT!
Trip to Houston was fun. Saw two of the three games: the 10-2 Dodger win on Monday, and the 2-1 loss on Wednesday. Billingsley pitched a hell of a game on Monday, coming one out shy of a complete game shut-out, instead settling on just the complete game. Kent had a great game at the plate, going 4-for-4. He finished the three games going 7-for-11. Not too shabby. He hit a monstrous home run in Wednesday's game about 415-feet off the window panels in left field just to the left of the Citgo sign in Minute Maid Park. But Carlos Lee topped it with a shot just as big (it was the game winner) off the window panels on the other side of the Citgo sign in left-center field.
Should also add that Minute Maid Park, despite its laughable name, is really one of the nicer ballparks I've been to. It's clean, the food is good, the people are nice, and the atmosphere is great. It's easy to get into and out of, at least the parking lot we parked in. The park is situated in Downtown Houston near the convention center and Toyota Center (where the Rockets play). Very accessible from anywhere in the city. Anyway, nice venue.
I've never really been much of a fan of the DH-rule, but it got me thinking a little this week because of the two scares the Dodgers got this week from D-Lowe and Penny. Can't blame Grady for using Lowe in last Sunday's game for inning since he was schedule to throw that day anyway between starts. The pen had seriously needed a break at that point, and Lowe was willing to help the team for an inning. But apparently, Lowe tweaked something in his hip area, and aggravated it on a laughable play in Houston on Wednesday night. He was already hurting a little every time he planted his foot in his follow-through after each pitch. But I could really see the expression in his face after he got a hit to right field in the sixth inning Wednesday and was promptly thrown out by the right-fielder before he reached base. He seemed to really over-exert himself trying to avoid the embarrassment by trying to leg out the hit. Instead, he made one pitch to start the bottom of the sixth and couldn't go any further. His MRI on Thursday showed some irritation in his hip, so he might miss only one start, if any at all.
As for Penny, his scare on Thursday in Colorado was a simple abdominal cramp. He suffered the injury legging out an infield hit in the sixth inning of that game. He is not expected to miss his next start. But, am I the only noticing a trend here? Fortunately, for the Dodgers, these injuries don't appear to be serious, but they can't really afford any more injuries to their starters, especially during their at-bats when they're reaching the late innings and pitching solid games. Wolf is still not ready to return, and Schmidt is done for the season. You can bet, and hope, that Colletti is looking to bolster the rotation a little bit because this team can not afford to go forward with Hendrickson and Tomko in the rotation.
Speaking of bolstering the rotation, trade deadline is Tuesday at 1pm PDT. As of right now, it would appear the Dodgers are still in the mix for Octavio Dotel from Kansas City. Speculation is they are still dangling James Loney for Mark Teixeira from Texas (Why? I don't know), but they are considered to be a long-shot wild card for him anyway. They have not been tied to any of possible starting pitchers who are rumored to be available, but if Jon Garland, Aaron Harang or Bronson Arroyo are available, they should be talking to the White Sox or Cincinnati. Other pitchers who could be options are Shawn Chacon, Jose Contreras, Kyle Lohse or Kevin Millwood (but he has a huge contract still).
Several trades have already gone down since yesterday: Kenny Lofton was traded from Texas to Cleveland (his third stint there in his career) for a minor league catcher; Tadahito Iguchi was traded from the White Sox to Philadelphia for a minor league pitcher; Padres picked up Scott Hairston from Arizona for a minor league pitcher; Tampa Bay and Milwaukee swapped Seth McClung and Grant Balfour; and Cincinnati has reportedly picked up Jorge Cantu from Tampa Bay for two players.
Last night's game was obviously rained out, and will be made up sometime in September when the Dodgers are back in Denver. Last night's scheduled starters were set to go tonight, but Colorado bumped Josh Fogg, so Jeff Francis will opposed Tomko. No Gonzo tonight, so both Kemp and Ethier are starting. Tonight's line-up has not been posted anywhere yet. More storms forecasted for the Denver area so hopefully they can get the game in without any interruptions. Enjoy the game... game time is 5:05 PT!
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Sunday Musings
I didn't get to see today's game as it wasn't part of the Extra Innings package today. I tried to follow as much as I could via MLB Gameday online but by the time the 9th inning rolled around, it started to fall behind and eventually it froze.
It's a shame they lost two games this weekend, one they SHOULD have won, and another they could have. I'd guess today's loss was tougher because they had a lead in the 9th inning, and it was a golden opportunity to close out the homestand on a high note, and they could have padded their lead in the division a little. Instead of a two-game lead, they head for Houston with a one-game lead on the Padres, who were shelled today by the Phillies.
Anyway, it really seems to me this team is in dire need of arms. The starting staff is starting to wear thin, and it's putting a huge burden on the bullpen. I'm still blown away by their need to have Roberto Hernandez on this team, and to even use him in close games, but I'll save my ranting on this issue for another time. (And why hasn't Jonathan Meloan been called up yet either? The kid's AA numbers are just sick: 5-2, 2.18 ERA, 0.93 WHIP, and a 70/18 K/BB rate, in 45 1/3 innings pitched.)
Jonathan Broxton is no where near ready or capable of being a Major League closer right now. I love the guy, I love his stuff, I think he's a great pitcher and will someday make a great closer, but right now, he seems to panic or come apart at the seams, as a closer, when he gives up a hit or two or the defense lets him down to put more pressure on him. Maybe he's becoming too comfortable in his role as the primary set-up guy. Maybe he isn't mentally ready for it. I don't know. But he isn't ready for the gig, even on a temporary basis.
I'd like to sit here and point a finger at and pick apart Matt Kemp for his defensive lapse in the 9th that gave the Mets the extra out to score the tying run, but I didn't see the play, and still haven't seen it on SportsCenter, Baseball Tonight or ESPNEWS. I ripped apart Juan Pierre, and to an extent, Luis Gonzales, to shreds the other day for the mental gaffe in the outfield, but they're veterans. They know what they're supposed to do. Either way, Kemp has to make those routine catches. No excuses.
THE WEEK AHEAD: I am heading off to Houston Monday morning to catch the Dodgers against the Astros for two of the three games. (I will be at the games tomorrow and Wednesday.) Chad Billingsley gets the nod tomorrow, Mark Hendrickson goes Tuesday, and Derek Lowe on Wednesday. All three games are 5:05 PM starts in L.A. I will have limited or no access to the internet until I get back Thursday afternoon, so I'll blog about my stay in Houston then. Photos might even accompany my next entry! Anyway, until then, have a safe week and remember, THINK BLUE.
It's a shame they lost two games this weekend, one they SHOULD have won, and another they could have. I'd guess today's loss was tougher because they had a lead in the 9th inning, and it was a golden opportunity to close out the homestand on a high note, and they could have padded their lead in the division a little. Instead of a two-game lead, they head for Houston with a one-game lead on the Padres, who were shelled today by the Phillies.
Anyway, it really seems to me this team is in dire need of arms. The starting staff is starting to wear thin, and it's putting a huge burden on the bullpen. I'm still blown away by their need to have Roberto Hernandez on this team, and to even use him in close games, but I'll save my ranting on this issue for another time. (And why hasn't Jonathan Meloan been called up yet either? The kid's AA numbers are just sick: 5-2, 2.18 ERA, 0.93 WHIP, and a 70/18 K/BB rate, in 45 1/3 innings pitched.)
Jonathan Broxton is no where near ready or capable of being a Major League closer right now. I love the guy, I love his stuff, I think he's a great pitcher and will someday make a great closer, but right now, he seems to panic or come apart at the seams, as a closer, when he gives up a hit or two or the defense lets him down to put more pressure on him. Maybe he's becoming too comfortable in his role as the primary set-up guy. Maybe he isn't mentally ready for it. I don't know. But he isn't ready for the gig, even on a temporary basis.
I'd like to sit here and point a finger at and pick apart Matt Kemp for his defensive lapse in the 9th that gave the Mets the extra out to score the tying run, but I didn't see the play, and still haven't seen it on SportsCenter, Baseball Tonight or ESPNEWS. I ripped apart Juan Pierre, and to an extent, Luis Gonzales, to shreds the other day for the mental gaffe in the outfield, but they're veterans. They know what they're supposed to do. Either way, Kemp has to make those routine catches. No excuses.
THE WEEK AHEAD: I am heading off to Houston Monday morning to catch the Dodgers against the Astros for two of the three games. (I will be at the games tomorrow and Wednesday.) Chad Billingsley gets the nod tomorrow, Mark Hendrickson goes Tuesday, and Derek Lowe on Wednesday. All three games are 5:05 PM starts in L.A. I will have limited or no access to the internet until I get back Thursday afternoon, so I'll blog about my stay in Houston then. Photos might even accompany my next entry! Anyway, until then, have a safe week and remember, THINK BLUE.
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Last Night... and Today
I don't think I can be anymore clear about this when I say I'm still irritated by last night's game. Brett Tomko did a wonderful job of keeping the Mets at bay through six innings, giving the Dodgers a chance to win the game. Joe Beimel did his job in the 7th inning. Then 40-something year old Roberto Hernandez, who had been ineffective in the majors for who-knows-how-long that no one wanted him anymore except for Ned Colletti and the Dodgers, came in and all hell broke loose. I'm really beginning to think the Dodgers are doing whatever they can to lose games rather than win them. Last night was a perfect example. There is no excuse for Hernandez to not only be on ANY major league roster, but to even be EMPLOYED by one. I'm still sick to my stomach over this...
Anyway, today's game is on FOX, and while it will be shown in most of the country, I won't be able to watch it here in Dallas (we've been blessed with the White Sox/Red Sox match-up). Today's line-up has been posted on Inside the Dodgers and it's good to not see Nomar in the line-up for a change. While he managed to hit his third home run last night, something is beyond wrong with him these days. He just isn't the same hitter he once was. Saw a stat last night while watching the game on Extra Innings (we had the Mets feed last night) that just blew my mind: Nomar's OPS this year is 200 points BELOW his career average. Just sad.
Couple of non-Dodger items, sort of, I wanted to mention. Caught part of the White Sox/Red Sox game last night. J.D. Drew hit what appeared to be a 3-run home run in the first inning over the Green Monster at Fenway off White Sox pitcher Jose Contreras. The ball appeared to just barely clear the wall and ricochet back onto the field. The third base umpire, Tim McClelland, one of the best in the game, ruled the ball in play. Manny Ramirez, the runner at first base, circled the bases thinking it was a home run, but was tagged out at home plate for the last out, thus ending the inning. After a dispute and an argument from Red Sox manager Terry Francona, the umpires convened, and the play stood as it was called. Francona then began to argue again and was tossed from the game. Replays clearly showed it was a home run. The Red Sox and Drew got hosed on the play, but they ended up winning anyway.
Finally, want a good laugh? This story out of Florida regarding Marlins pitcher Scott Olsen is one for the ages. Enjoy!
Anyway, today's game is on FOX, and while it will be shown in most of the country, I won't be able to watch it here in Dallas (we've been blessed with the White Sox/Red Sox match-up). Today's line-up has been posted on Inside the Dodgers and it's good to not see Nomar in the line-up for a change. While he managed to hit his third home run last night, something is beyond wrong with him these days. He just isn't the same hitter he once was. Saw a stat last night while watching the game on Extra Innings (we had the Mets feed last night) that just blew my mind: Nomar's OPS this year is 200 points BELOW his career average. Just sad.
Couple of non-Dodger items, sort of, I wanted to mention. Caught part of the White Sox/Red Sox game last night. J.D. Drew hit what appeared to be a 3-run home run in the first inning over the Green Monster at Fenway off White Sox pitcher Jose Contreras. The ball appeared to just barely clear the wall and ricochet back onto the field. The third base umpire, Tim McClelland, one of the best in the game, ruled the ball in play. Manny Ramirez, the runner at first base, circled the bases thinking it was a home run, but was tagged out at home plate for the last out, thus ending the inning. After a dispute and an argument from Red Sox manager Terry Francona, the umpires convened, and the play stood as it was called. Francona then began to argue again and was tossed from the game. Replays clearly showed it was a home run. The Red Sox and Drew got hosed on the play, but they ended up winning anyway.
Finally, want a good laugh? This story out of Florida regarding Marlins pitcher Scott Olsen is one for the ages. Enjoy!
Friday, July 20, 2007
Another Day
Fun game to watch last night. The results could have been better (if only the Dodgers could hit with the bases loaded).
Anyway, so far, in watching tonight's game, I'm beginning to become fed up with Juan Pierre again. Nevermind the guy is one of the least productive hitters on the team, but this guy has no business playing center field. Marlon Anderson hit a short fly ball to left center field with one out in the first. Both Pierre and Luis Gonzalez converge on the fly ball, both calling for it. As the center fielder, it is your job to "patrol" the outfield. After both calling for the ball, Gonzo cut in front of Pierre and ducked out of his way. Pierre slowed down and cut behind Gonzo and watch the ball drop between them for a double. There's really no excuse for it. What makes it even worse is the next hitter got a hit to score the run.
Dodgers now have first and third with two outs in the bottom of the first and Gonzo up... who just struck out looking to end the inning. End of 1, Mets 1, Dodgers 0.
Anyway, so far, in watching tonight's game, I'm beginning to become fed up with Juan Pierre again. Nevermind the guy is one of the least productive hitters on the team, but this guy has no business playing center field. Marlon Anderson hit a short fly ball to left center field with one out in the first. Both Pierre and Luis Gonzalez converge on the fly ball, both calling for it. As the center fielder, it is your job to "patrol" the outfield. After both calling for the ball, Gonzo cut in front of Pierre and ducked out of his way. Pierre slowed down and cut behind Gonzo and watch the ball drop between them for a double. There's really no excuse for it. What makes it even worse is the next hitter got a hit to score the run.
Dodgers now have first and third with two outs in the bottom of the first and Gonzo up... who just struck out looking to end the inning. End of 1, Mets 1, Dodgers 0.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Long Night?
Mets already up 3-0, with 1 out and 2 on... D-Lowe can't get ANYONE out. This is going to be a LONG night...
Forget it. Base hit for Shawn Green to right field which is overran by Kemp... 2 runs score... 5-0 Mets now... Green to third... And it's still the first inning...
Forget it. Base hit for Shawn Green to right field which is overran by Kemp... 2 runs score... 5-0 Mets now... Green to third... And it's still the first inning...
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Matinee Today
Day game today. Undefeated Chad Billingsley (6-0, 3.26 ERA) takes on Phils rookie Kyle Kendrick (4-0, 3.82) at 12:10 PM PT (2:10 PM CT). Line-up is now posted on Inside the Dodgers. FSN Prime Ticket has the game on HD today, so I'm going to check the game out on my 50" LCD HD Plasma. Enjoy the game if you're going. Hopefully the results will be better today than last night...
Latest Rumors
Apparently, according to papers in Kansas City, the Dodgers are showing interest in Royals relief pitcher Octavio Dotel. Reports are the Royals asking price is so ridiculously high, that Kansas City has asked the Dodgers for at least Russell Martin, James Loney or Matt Kemp in return for Dotel. I'm pretty sure at that point the Dodgers laughed and hung-up on the Royals.
But why Dotel? Why another reliever? Right now, starting pitching seems to be a more glaring need with guys dropping like flies onto the DL or struggling to get past the first inning without giving up three runs. They need depth in the rotation, and while starters are more costly to get, they are more valuable in the long run. By adding a starter, you bump one of the temporary starters back into the bullpen, essentially strengthening the bullpen that way.
There has been some speculation that Florida would like to move Dontrelle Willis and his contract, and that the Dodgers are showing interest in him, as well. While I don't think adding Willis could hurt the team, I don't think it would make or break them either. The Dodgers might be able to nab him cheap because his trade value is pretty low at this point (they could package Andre Ethier and a minor league pitcher for him). He hasn't had a great season (7-8, 4.81 ERA, 86 ERA+) and he's probably, at best, a number 3 rotation guy these days. On the flip side, Willis being traded somewhere else, likely to San Diego or Arizona (you can bet Florida won't send him to an East division rival), is the fact his career ERA against the Dodgers is near 7.
Stay tuned...
But why Dotel? Why another reliever? Right now, starting pitching seems to be a more glaring need with guys dropping like flies onto the DL or struggling to get past the first inning without giving up three runs. They need depth in the rotation, and while starters are more costly to get, they are more valuable in the long run. By adding a starter, you bump one of the temporary starters back into the bullpen, essentially strengthening the bullpen that way.
There has been some speculation that Florida would like to move Dontrelle Willis and his contract, and that the Dodgers are showing interest in him, as well. While I don't think adding Willis could hurt the team, I don't think it would make or break them either. The Dodgers might be able to nab him cheap because his trade value is pretty low at this point (they could package Andre Ethier and a minor league pitcher for him). He hasn't had a great season (7-8, 4.81 ERA, 86 ERA+) and he's probably, at best, a number 3 rotation guy these days. On the flip side, Willis being traded somewhere else, likely to San Diego or Arizona (you can bet Florida won't send him to an East division rival), is the fact his career ERA against the Dodgers is near 7.
Stay tuned...
Massacre at the Ravine
Well, that was quick. Five-game winning streak? Down the tubes. And talk about an ass-beating of all sorts, Mark Hendrickson was just dreadful last night, and the offense was even worse. The pitching staff gave up an L.A. Dodger-record 26 hits in last night's embarassment. How bad was it? Here's Rotoworld's take on it:
"Just as disgusting as the Dodgers' pitching performance in the 15-3 loss was the fact that they couldn't do anything at all against (J.D.) Durbin, who entered with a 13.50 ERA and nine walks in 10 innings this season. The Dodgers never even tried waiting him out and got exactly what they deserved. The "Real Deal" ended up collecting half as many hits (three) at the plate as he allowed on the mound (six)."
Meanwhile, Grady Little was at it again. While Russell Martin got a well-deserved day off before today's game, Grady continues to insert Nomar ahead of Matt Kemp in the line-up. While I like Nomar as a person, he's just not the same hitter he once was, and he's more likely to do more damage to the offense hitting 5th or 6th than he would hitting 7th.
On the bright side, the Padres lost to "El Duque" and the Mets 7-0, so the Dodgers retain first place in the West by one game. Milwaukee beat Arizona meaning the Brewers and Dodgers both have 53 wins, tied for most in the N.L., but the Brewers have one fewer loss, therefore have the best winning pct.
"Just as disgusting as the Dodgers' pitching performance in the 15-3 loss was the fact that they couldn't do anything at all against (J.D.) Durbin, who entered with a 13.50 ERA and nine walks in 10 innings this season. The Dodgers never even tried waiting him out and got exactly what they deserved. The "Real Deal" ended up collecting half as many hits (three) at the plate as he allowed on the mound (six)."
Meanwhile, Grady Little was at it again. While Russell Martin got a well-deserved day off before today's game, Grady continues to insert Nomar ahead of Matt Kemp in the line-up. While I like Nomar as a person, he's just not the same hitter he once was, and he's more likely to do more damage to the offense hitting 5th or 6th than he would hitting 7th.
On the bright side, the Padres lost to "El Duque" and the Mets 7-0, so the Dodgers retain first place in the West by one game. Milwaukee beat Arizona meaning the Brewers and Dodgers both have 53 wins, tied for most in the N.L., but the Brewers have one fewer loss, therefore have the best winning pct.
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