Jeff Mathis, Yankee Killer

Jeff Mathis is a professional catcher. Jeff Mathis is not a professional hitter...except when he plays the New York Yankees.

Though his career OPS against NY is actually lower (.547) than his overall career OPS (.564), Mathis has 16 RBI in 30 games against the Yankees. Three more of them came last night when Mathis broke a scoreless tie with an RBI double and then broke the game open with a 2-run home run in the 7th as the Angels beat the Yankees 6-0.

LA has already taken the series by winning the first two of the three game set and are just 1.5 games behind Texas in the AL West. Meanwhile, the Yankees have dropped four straight, but remain 2.5 in front of Boston, which lost for the eighth time in 10 games.

After managing just three hits and one run against Jeff Weaver and Jordan Walden on Friday night, the Yankees managed just four hits off of Dan Haren, who tossed a complete game for his 15th win. CC Sabathia struggled through six innings, but allowed just one run in seeing his record drop to 19-8.

Angels Get Dan Haren

The Angels are hoping they've replaced the hole left by the departure of John Lackey prior to this season. The Halos have acquired Dan Haren from the Arizona Diamondbacks for pitcher Joe Saunders and prospects Rafael Rodriguez and Patrick Corbin.

What's That Smell? Oh, It's The Trade Winds

We're less than a week away from the major league trading deadline. Plenty of big names are being floated - Roy Oswalt, Dan Haren, Adam Dunn - and the rumors are flying. But other than the Cliff Lee deal two weeks ago, nothing major has happened.

So let's take a look team by team of who might be moved in a deal this week.

AL East

Yankees - Clearly buyers. The Yankees lost out on Lee and have set their sights on Haren. A secondary possibility would be Ted Lilly. The Yankees also need to add to their pen and could use some bench strength. I am still of the opinion they should go after Adam Dunn to be an every day DH.

Rays - Buyers as well. The Rays have had some preliminary discussions with the Phillies for Jayson Werth and have made contact with the Royals about Zack Greinke. Neither deal is expected to happen. But the Rays will continue to look for a bat and a starting pitcher. They could also part with B.J. Upton, who has been a disappointment in a variety of ways.

Red Sox - Boston needs medical help with all of the injuries they've had. Dustin Pedroia, Victor Martinez, and Jacoby Ellsbury have been significant losses. Jason Varitek has played above his recent offensive output and is the team leader. Josh Beckett returned last night as well. In other words Boston could be back in good shape if everyone heals up. But the Sox would definitely look for a starting pitcher to be sure Beckett is okay and Dice-K holds up. Tim Wakefield has been a complete disaster and was moved to the pen when Beckett was activated.

The Red Sox have been taking a look recently at Marlins outfielder Cody Ross and closer Leo Nunez.

Blue Jays - Sellers. Teams have been making major inquiries for the suddenly Babe Ruth-esque Jose Bautista, solid reliever Scott Downs, catcher John Buck, and 1st baseman Lyle Overbay. Relievers Jason Frasor and Kevin Gregg are shaky, but still in somewhat of a demand.

Orioles - Ty Wiggington's big year has created a number of calls to the Orioles front office. Closer Mike Gonzalez is back from the DL and could be quickly moved if he proves himself somewhat healthy. With David Eckstein injured, the Padres may look into a deal for Miguel Tejada.

AL Central

White Sox - Most people didn't expect to find the Chisox in first place on July 25, but there they are. Instead of selling, Chicago is looking to buy. They have talked to Milwaukee about Prince Fielder and are willing to give up pitcher Daniel Hudson and 3rd baseman Dayan Viciedo. But so far the Brewers prefer infielder Gordon Beckham and outfielder Carlos Quentin. The White Sox are also talking to the Nats about Dunn.

Tigers - Sellers/Buyers. The Tigers started July 7-1, but a seven game losing streak took it's toll. The Tigers entered Saturday's play 2.5 behind Chicago in the AL Central, but 6.5 back in the Wildcard race. The Tigers lineup took a big blow today when outfielder Magglio Ordonez broke his ankle. He'll be out 6-8 weeks. Detroit had already lost 3rd baseman Brandon Inge for 4-6 weeks after he fractured a hand last week. I have to wonder if the injuries will change the Tigers buyers' stance.

The Tigers have been looking to add a starting pitcher - they have discussed Lilly - but now may have to go after a bat as well.

Twins - Minnesota has been a major disappointment despite the fact they're still within spitting distance in the division. The Twins have always banked on their solid pitching, but Kevin Slowey (4.94 ERA), Nick Blackburn (6.53), and Scott Baker (5.15) have been major disappointments.

The Twins would like to land Oswalt or Lilly. They could always use offensive help, especially now with Justin Morneau's return date uncertain.

Royals - Sellers, of course. The most in-demand Royal was outfielder David DeJesus, but that all changed when he suffered a season ending thumb injury against the Yankees on Thursday night. Jose Guillen has been looked at by several teams, including the Yankees. But any team thinking about Guillen also has to think about what a pain in the ass he is.

The Royals already moved infielder Alberto Callaspo to the Angels for pitcher Sean O'Sullivan and are said to be listening to inquiries about Zack Greinke.

Indians - Sellers. The Tribe has had calls about both Jake Westbrook and Fausto Carmona. The Tribe will reportedly deal one, but not both. (I can't figure out why any team would want Westbrook.) The Indians are willing to move Jhonny Peralta, Austin Kearns, and Kerry Wood, though it's hard to imagine the Indians getting much in return for Wood.

AL West

Rangers - Moderate Buyers. The Rangers are just looking to tweak right now since they landed the big fish in Cliff Lee. The Rangers bankrupcy and pending sale should prevent them from pulling off anything too big the rest of the way.

A's - Sellers. Billy Beane is cringing tonight after Oakland had to place Ben Sheets on the DL earlier today with an elbow injury. The $10 million gamble looks to have been a failure. Just about every pitcher in the A's bullpen outside of Andrew Bailey is up for discussion.

Angels - Buyers. The Halos need a lot with Kendry Morales gone for the season and the team struggling. Word is that the Angels will not likely land Dunn, but could be major players for Derrek Lee. The Angels acquisition of Callaspo from the Royals is a curious one. Did the Angels need another light hitting infielder? The Angels salivated over Paul Konerko for a long time, but clearly that's not happening with the White Sox in first place.

Mariners - Sellers. Another disappointing season in Coffee-land. The M's bullpen duo of David Aardsma and Brandon League are being looked at and the M's could move disappointing Chone Figgins or Jose Lopez. This team needs an overhaul in attitude to say the least.

NL East

Mets - Buyers. The Mets continue to explore pitching options. Ted Lilly has been the Mets' main target. They've also looked to strengthen their pen with a possible deal for Octavio Dotel or Scott Downs. The Mets would also like to move Jeff Francouer, who has been grousing about his lack of playing time.

Braves - Buyers. Did anyone outside of Atlanta expect the Braves to be in the position they're in right now atop the NL East (Maybe not even in Atlanta.) The Braves already dealt disappointing youngster Yunel Escobar for veteran Alex Gonzalez and are looking to improve their outfield. Cody Ross, Josh Willingham, and Corey Hart are among the players that have piqued Atlanta's interest.

Phillies - Good question. They might buy and sell. There have been Jayson Werth rumors for a while now, but he may not go anywhere. Raul Ibanez could definitely be moved. The Phillies have thrown their hats in the Roy Oswalt ring and are particularly in need of pitching with Jamie Moyer's elbow injury. They're also interested in Haren as well.

Nationals - Sellers. Adam Dunn is the biggest chip, no pun intended, that Washington has, but so far they don't want to deal him. If they did, they would certainly lower their asking price. The Nats should move him and try to re-sign the free agent to be if they really want him as a fixture in D.C..

Marlins - Sellers. As I mentioned earlier, several teams have looked in on Ross and what team in need of relief help would not want Nunez?

NL Central

Cardinals - Buyers. The Cardinals have been pushing hard for Oswalt, who would like to land in St. Lou.

Reds - Buyers. Not too many people saw this one coming either. The Reds are looking for some depth in the pen. Downs, Frasor, Brandon League, David Aardsma, Dotel, and Brad Ziegler are among the many arms Cincy is taking a look at.

Cubs - Sellers. Major disappointment is a major understatement to describe the Cubbies. Ted Lilly will be moved sooner rather than later. 1st baseman Derrek Lee, another free agent to be, could certainly be moved as well. Chicago would like to move Carlos Zambrano, but he has a no-trade clause and $53 million left on his contract. The Cubs should move Alfonso Soriano too, but what's that? Oh yeah, he has 4 years and $72 million left on his deal. You really don't have to wonder why the Cubs haven't won a title in a gazillion years.

Brewers - Sellers. The Fresh Prince of Fielder of course is the biggest name, no pun intended again, available. The Brewers aren't going to deal him though unless the price is right. Corey Hart could definitely go after making $4.8 million in arbitration last year and in the midst of a monster year that will see that total sky rocket next year.

Astros - Sellers. Oswalt, Oswalt, Oswalt. Lance Berkman isn't likely to go anywhere, but you never know as Houston tries to rebuild/re-tool/re-shape. Brett Myers could be moved as well.

Pirates - Sellers. There have been rumors swirling about the Pirates' best starter, Paul Maholm, despite the fact he's signed at a decent deal (he's in the 2nd year of a 3 year, $14.5 mill deal with an option in 2012). Closer Octavio Dotel will likely go to a team in need of bullpen help.

NL West

Padres - Moderate Buyers. As I mentioned earlier, shortstop David Eckstein's injury could cause the Pads to go get another middle infielder. The Padres are also in the Corey Hart hunt.

Dodgers - Buyers. Pitching is the name of the game in Chavez Ravine. The Dodgers are looking into Oswalt, Lilly, and Maholm. It wouldn't be a surprise if they moved Matt Kemp either.

Giants - Moderate Buyers. Corey Hart appears to be the number one guy on San Fran's radar.

Rockies - Buyers. The Rockies would like to improve their corner infield and are taking a look at Jorge Cantu and Ty Wiggington. The Rockies also like Dan Uggla to help out their lineup. To help their pitching, Colorado is considering making a push for Haren and are looking at relievers like Gregg and Dotel.

Yankees and Dbacks Talk Haren

The Yankees and Arizona Diamondbacks, as expected, are discussing a possible deal for starter Dan Haren.

Haren who has struggled this season, will receive $12.75 million over each of the next two years. Whichever team has him will also have an option for 2013 worth $15.5 million (with a $3.5 million buyout). The Diamondbacks would be looking for the Yankees to assume all or the majority of the money owed to the veteran right-hander.

John Heyman tweeted this morning that the Dbacks want the Yankees to take on the contracts of reliever Chad Qualls and catcher Chris Snyder. Needless to say the Yankees said no thanks. They all said no when the Dbacks asked for Joba Chamberlain.

The Yankees have reportedly offered up pitchers Ivan Nova and Zach McAllister as well as two other prospects.

Pettitte Exorcises Some Demons

A regular season game in June can't be compared to a World Series potential clincher, but Andy Pettitte had to feel some satisfaction after returning to the scene of his self proclaimed "worst start of my career". Pettitte limited the Arizona Diamondbacks to two runs over seven innings and the Yankees broke open a close game late for a 9-3 win.

Though he had been back to Chase Field (formerly "The BOB") as a member of the Houston Astros, this was the first time Pettitte stood atop the mound in his New York Yankees grey road uniform since his game six debacle (2 IP 6 ER) in the 2001 World Series. The Dbacks are not the same team in any way, shape, or form, but Pettitte sparkled in picking up his 9th win.

There was a slight bump in the road when Pettitte let a 2-0 lead, courtesy of Alex Rodriguez's first home run since June 3, get away in the 2nd inning. That's when Pettitte's counterpart, Dan Haren, poked a game tying 2-run single to right. Haren's batting average (.457) is nearly as high as his ERA (4.62)...let's not compare decimal places, shall we?...

The Yankees took the lead right back in the 3rd on an RBI single by Rodriguez and Pettitte made the lead stand up. He scattered seven hits, walked two, and struck out seven in earning his 238th career win (57th on the all time career wins list). His 2.48 ERA is the lowest of his career after 14 starts. Pettitte even amused his fellow pitchers with a base hit.

Pettitte also gave the bullpen some rest, finishing the 7th inning after going past the mystical 100-pitch mark. Haren also left after seven innings and the Yankees took full advantage of a shoddy Dbacks bullpen to bust the game open.

Mark Teixeira, Robinson Cano, and Curtis Granderson each stroked RBI singles and a Jorge Poasada sac fly gave the Yankees a 7-2 lead. That set the stage for Colin Curtis' second big league at-bat. He didn't disappoint. The Yankees reserve outfielder lined a 2-run double to deep center, much to the delight of his family, who were in attendance for the second straight evening..

Notes

The Yankees gained a game on both Tampa Bay and Boston and lead the AL East by 1.5 games. The Rays dropped their series opener to San Diego and have lost 8 of 11.

It becomes quite clear in watching Alex Rodriguez run that he's well short of being at 100%. Kim Jones reported during the YES broadcast that A-Rod has begun daily work outs in a pool to strengthen his leg and help his mobility. Last night's home run snapped a streak of 49 at-bats without a long ball. It's the third time this season that A-Rod has gone at least 40 games without a home run.

The Pennant Race - 9/17

Is it Deja Vu all over again? The Mets have lost three straight and are suddenly in second place, one-half game behind the Phillies in the NL East. It all started with a blown two run lead in the ninth to the Braves on Sunday, and has been followed up by two straight losses to the suddenly competitive Nationals. The Mets and Pedro Martinez got spanked on Monday, 7-2, and were shut down last night by Mr. Cy Young himself, Odalys Perez.

Meanwhile, Ryan Howard continues his MVP surge in Philly. The Phils trailed the Braves 7-6 in the eighth inning lats night when Howard unloaded his 45th home run of the season to put the Phillies ahead 8-7. Brad Lidge escaped a bases loaded jam in the ninth to move the Phils into first place.

The Mets also got bad news when they found out Fernando Tatis is probably done for the year with a separated shoulder.

The Rays wrested sole possession of the AL East lead from the Red Sox with a 2-1 walk off win. Dionner Navarro delivered a bases loaded single in the bottom of the ninth.

The Twins rallid from an 8-0 deficit to the Indians to take a 9-8, but ultimately lost 12-9 in extra innings on Victor Martinez's walk off home run. The loss dropped Minnesota 2.5 games behind the White Sox in the AL Central.

The Mets may be out of first place, but they do have the wildcard lead thanks to the Cubs. CC Sabathia lost for the first time since Milwaukee acquired him as he was out pitched by Chicago's Ryan Dempster, who won his 16th game, 5-4.

No movement in the NL West- the Dodgers beat the Pirates 6-2 behind three hit games from Manny Ramirez (.401) and Casey Blake. Dan Haren kept Arizona 4.5 behind the Dodgers with a complete game, 4-hit, 12 striekout shutout over the Giants. Solo home runs by Chris Snyder and Stephen Drew provided the runs in the 2-0 win.

The Pennant Race - 9/17

Is it Deja Vu all over again? The Mets have lost three straight and are suddenly in second place, one-half game behind the Phillies in the NL East. It all started with a blown two run lead in the ninth to the Braves on Sunday, and has been followed up by two straight losses to the suddenly competitive Nationals. The Mets and Pedro Martinez got spanked on Monday, 7-2, and were shut down last night by Mr. Cy Young himself, Odalys Perez.

Meanwhile, Ryan Howard continues his MVP surge in Philly. The Phils trailed the Braves 7-6 in the eighth inning lats night when Howard unloaded his 45th home run of the season to put the Phillies ahead 8-7. Brad Lidge escaped a bases loaded jam in the ninth to move the Phils into first place.

The Mets also got bad news when they found out Fernando Tatis is probably done for the year with a separated shoulder.

The Rays wrested sole possession of the AL East lead from the Red Sox with a 2-1 walk off win. Dionner Navarro delivered a bases loaded single in the bottom of the ninth.

The Twins rallid from an 8-0 deficit to the Indians to take a 9-8, but ultimately lost 12-9 in extra innings on Victor Martinez's walk off home run. The loss dropped Minnesota 2.5 games behind the White Sox in the AL Central.

The Mets may be out of first place, but they do have the wildcard lead thanks to the Cubs. CC Sabathia lost for the first time since Milwaukee acquired him as he was out pitched by Chicago's Ryan Dempster, who won his 16th game, 5-4.

No movement in the NL West- the Dodgers beat the Pirates 6-2 behind three hit games from Manny Ramirez (.401) and Casey Blake. Dan Haren kept Arizona 4.5 behind the Dodgers with a complete game, 4-hit, 12 striekout shutout over the Giants. Solo home runs by Chris Snyder and Stephen Drew provided the runs in the 2-0 win.

The Pennant Race - 8/25

Walk-off home runs affected a couple of pennant races yesterday. With the Dodgers having already lost to the Phillies, 5-0, the Diamondbacks had a chance to increase their lead in the NL West. But Padres' outfielder Jody Gerut had something else in mind: a 2-out, 2-run home run in the bottom of the ninth to give San Diego a 4-2 win. The game featured a good duel between starters Jake Peavy and Dan Haren.

Meanwhile, over in the AL, the Twins led the Mariners 2-1 in the ninth inning, but faced with a first and third and no-out situation, they elected to play for the double play. They got it when Jeff Clement bounced into a 6-4-3 twin killing. That sent the game into extra innings where Adrian Beltre decided it in the eleventh inning with a 2-run home run off of Jesse Crain.

While the Diamondbacks remained three games ahead of LA, the Twins fell into second place in the AL Central, one game behind Chicago. That's because the White Sox split a pair of 4-3 games. The first was the completion of a game suspended nearly four months ago in Chicago. The Orioles and White Sox were tied 3-3 when the game was stopped on April 28 in the 11th inning. It would take three more innings yesterday before the Orioles' Luis Montanez knocked in the go-ahead run.

In the regularly scheduled game, Jim Thome's sixth inning home run snapped a 3-3 tie and the White Sox held on to the 4-3 lead. Thome's home run was number 535, putting him one behind Mickey Mantle on the all-time HR list.

The Mets maintained their half-game advantage over the Phillies behind another dominant performance from Mike Pelfrey. The right-hander became the first Mets pitcher to throw consecutive complete games since 1995. Pelfrey is 10-2, 2.90 since the managerial change at Shea. He got plenty of offensive support in the 9-1 Mets win last night as Carlos Delgado hit a pair of 3-run home runs. Since July 1st, Delgado has 14 home runs and 45 RBI in 49 games.

Brett Myers tossed seven shutout innings in the Phillies' 5-0 win over the Dodgers. Myers is 4-1, 1.24 over his last six starts. Last year's NL MVP, Jimmy Rollins, is trying to get his game back in gear and last night helped his cause. A double, triple, walk, two RBI, and a run scored. Manny Ramirez has hit his first LA mud slide- he's in a 5-24 skid.

The Cubs blasted the Pirates 12-3 behind a 3-run blast from Aramis Ramirez and four RBI by Kosuke Fukudome. Ramirez has three home runs and 10 RBI in his last three games. Ted Lilly won his 13th game, beating Jeff Karstens, who looked more like his real self (3 IP, 5 ER). The Brewers were idle, so the Cubs' lead was increased to 5 games.


Other News

The Indians have been out of the race for a long time, but kudos to them for not giving up their season. Their 4-3, 10 inning win over Detroit last night was their eighth straight. Grady Sizmore homered twice in the game, making him only the second Indians player, along with Joe Carter, to hit 30 home runs and steal 30 bases in the same season. He has an excellent chance to join Barry Bonds, Jose Canseco, and Alfonso Soriano as the only members of the 40-40 club.

The Twins got some bullpen help yesterday, acquiring lefty reliever Eddie Guardado from the Rangers for minor leaguer Mike Hamburger. There was no side of fries.

The Pennant Race - 8/25

Walk-off home runs affected a couple of pennant races yesterday. With the Dodgers having already lost to the Phillies, 5-0, the Diamondbacks had a chance to increase their lead in the NL West. But Padres' outfielder Jody Gerut had something else in mind: a 2-out, 2-run home run in the bottom of the ninth to give San Diego a 4-2 win. The game featured a good duel between starters Jake Peavy and Dan Haren.

Meanwhile, over in the AL, the Twins led the Mariners 2-1 in the ninth inning, but faced with a first and third and no-out situation, they elected to play for the double play. They got it when Jeff Clement bounced into a 6-4-3 twin killing. That sent the game into extra innings where Adrian Beltre decided it in the eleventh inning with a 2-run home run off of Jesse Crain.

While the Diamondbacks remained three games ahead of LA, the Twins fell into second place in the AL Central, one game behind Chicago. That's because the White Sox split a pair of 4-3 games. The first was the completion of a game suspended nearly four months ago in Chicago. The Orioles and White Sox were tied 3-3 when the game was stopped on April 28 in the 11th inning. It would take three more innings yesterday before the Orioles' Luis Montanez knocked in the go-ahead run.

In the regularly scheduled game, Jim Thome's sixth inning home run snapped a 3-3 tie and the White Sox held on to the 4-3 lead. Thome's home run was number 535, putting him one behind Mickey Mantle on the all-time HR list.

The Mets maintained their half-game advantage over the Phillies behind another dominant performance from Mike Pelfrey. The right-hander became the first Mets pitcher to throw consecutive complete games since 1995. Pelfrey is 10-2, 2.90 since the managerial change at Shea. He got plenty of offensive support in the 9-1 Mets win last night as Carlos Delgado hit a pair of 3-run home runs. Since July 1st, Delgado has 14 home runs and 45 RBI in 49 games.

Brett Myers tossed seven shutout innings in the Phillies' 5-0 win over the Dodgers. Myers is 4-1, 1.24 over his last six starts. Last year's NL MVP, Jimmy Rollins, is trying to get his game back in gear and last night helped his cause. A double, triple, walk, two RBI, and a run scored. Manny Ramirez has hit his first LA mud slide- he's in a 5-24 skid.

The Cubs blasted the Pirates 12-3 behind a 3-run blast from Aramis Ramirez and four RBI by Kosuke Fukudome. Ramirez has three home runs and 10 RBI in his last three games. Ted Lilly won his 13th game, beating Jeff Karstens, who looked more like his real self (3 IP, 5 ER). The Brewers were idle, so the Cubs' lead was increased to 5 games.


Other News

The Indians have been out of the race for a long time, but kudos to them for not giving up their season. Their 4-3, 10 inning win over Detroit last night was their eighth straight. Grady Sizmore homered twice in the game, making him only the second Indians player, along with Joe Carter, to hit 30 home runs and steal 30 bases in the same season. He has an excellent chance to join Barry Bonds, Jose Canseco, and Alfonso Soriano as the only members of the 40-40 club.

The Twins got some bullpen help yesterday, acquiring lefty reliever Eddie Guardado from the Rangers for minor leaguer Mike Hamburger. There was no side of fries.

The Pennant Race - 8/21

You just get the feeling that for the second straight year, the Mets and Phillies will come down to the final weekend to determine the NL East winner. The Mets are playing good baseball, but they haven't been able to put much cushion between themselves and the Phillies since moving into first place.

Mike Pelfrey has really stepped up this season and did again last night, limiting the Braves to three hits in a complete game, 6-3 Mets victory. David Wright continued his run at the NL MVP with his 24th home run and 97th RBI. Rookie Dan Murphy's two RBI gave him 11 in 18 games and he's batting .404 in 47 at-bats.

The Phillies got a complete game of their own from Brett Myers, who scattered nine hits in shutting down the Nationals 4-0. Washington has lost 12 straight. After a brief stint in the minors, Myers has returned to form and is 3-1, 1.47 in his last five starts.

The Marlins' hopes are fading away. They dropped a 6-5 game to the Giants last night that put them 5 games behind the Mets and 7.5 behind the wildcard-leading Brewers. Florida rallied for 3 runs in the top of the ninth to tie the game, but Bengie Molina's sac fly won it for the Giants in the bottom of the ninth.

Speaking of the Brewers, they got themselves back to within 5 games of the Cubs with a 5-2 win over the Astros. J.J. Hardy hit a 2-run home run to help Manny Parra win his 10th game. Ryan Braun sat out for the 9th time in 11 games due to lower back soreness.

The Reds edged the Cubs 2-1 despite starter Ted Lilly allowing just two hits over seven innings.

The Cardinals remained 2.5 behind the Brewers in the wildcard with an 11-2 thumping of the Pirates. Todd Wellemeyer won his career-high 11th game and reached the century mark in strikeouts for the first time.

The Diamondbacks moved two games ahead of the Dodgers with an 8-6 win over the Padres. Neither starter Dan Haren nor Jake Peavy was good, but after allowing four runs in the first inning, Haren settled down to get the win. Adam Dunn belted a 3-run home run, his 34th of the season.

The Rockies played spoilers, beating the Dodgers 4-3. The Dodgers lead 3-0 early, but Brad Hawpe almost single-handedly beat LA. He reached on an error that cut the lead to 3-2, singled in the game-tying run in the seventh, and singled again in the ninth to drive in the go-ahead run.


There was no movement in the AL Central standings as both the White Sox and Twins were daytime winners. Chicago got four home runs in a 15-3 rout of the Mariners. Ken Griffey Jr. tied Sammy CheaterSosa with his 609th career home run, and his first in Chicago. Gavin Floyd earned his 13th win.

Francisco Lirano and four pitchers pitched the Twins to a 3-1 win over the A's. Little-used reserve Mike Redmond drove in two runs.

The AL East's top two teams remained 4.5 apart as they both lost last night. The Angels beat the Rays 5-4, overcoming an early 3-0 deficit, and then winning after blowing a 4-3 lead. Garret Anderson's ninth inning single was the game winner. K-Rod notched his 48th save.

The Red Sox jumped out to a 4-0 lead, but it was all Baltimore after that as the Orioles won it 11-6. Melvin Mora, who had four RBI, and Ramon Hernandez each hit 3-run home runs. Clay Buchholz was hammered for five runs in 2.1 IP and is reportedly headed back to Pawtucket.

The Pennant Race - 8/21

You just get the feeling that for the second straight year, the Mets and Phillies will come down to the final weekend to determine the NL East winner. The Mets are playing good baseball, but they haven't been able to put much cushion between themselves and the Phillies since moving into first place.

Mike Pelfrey has really stepped up this season and did again last night, limiting the Braves to three hits in a complete game, 6-3 Mets victory. David Wright continued his run at the NL MVP with his 24th home run and 97th RBI. Rookie Dan Murphy's two RBI gave him 11 in 18 games and he's batting .404 in 47 at-bats.

The Phillies got a complete game of their own from Brett Myers, who scattered nine hits in shutting down the Nationals 4-0. Washington has lost 12 straight. After a brief stint in the minors, Myers has returned to form and is 3-1, 1.47 in his last five starts.

The Marlins' hopes are fading away. They dropped a 6-5 game to the Giants last night that put them 5 games behind the Mets and 7.5 behind the wildcard-leading Brewers. Florida rallied for 3 runs in the top of the ninth to tie the game, but Bengie Molina's sac fly won it for the Giants in the bottom of the ninth.

Speaking of the Brewers, they got themselves back to within 5 games of the Cubs with a 5-2 win over the Astros. J.J. Hardy hit a 2-run home run to help Manny Parra win his 10th game. Ryan Braun sat out for the 9th time in 11 games due to lower back soreness.

The Reds edged the Cubs 2-1 despite starter Ted Lilly allowing just two hits over seven innings.

The Cardinals remained 2.5 behind the Brewers in the wildcard with an 11-2 thumping of the Pirates. Todd Wellemeyer won his career-high 11th game and reached the century mark in strikeouts for the first time.

The Diamondbacks moved two games ahead of the Dodgers with an 8-6 win over the Padres. Neither starter Dan Haren nor Jake Peavy was good, but after allowing four runs in the first inning, Haren settled down to get the win. Adam Dunn belted a 3-run home run, his 34th of the season.

The Rockies played spoilers, beating the Dodgers 4-3. The Dodgers lead 3-0 early, but Brad Hawpe almost single-handedly beat LA. He reached on an error that cut the lead to 3-2, singled in the game-tying run in the seventh, and singled again in the ninth to drive in the go-ahead run.


There was no movement in the AL Central standings as both the White Sox and Twins were daytime winners. Chicago got four home runs in a 15-3 rout of the Mariners. Ken Griffey Jr. tied Sammy CheaterSosa with his 609th career home run, and his first in Chicago. Gavin Floyd earned his 13th win.

Francisco Lirano and four pitchers pitched the Twins to a 3-1 win over the A's. Little-used reserve Mike Redmond drove in two runs.

The AL East's top two teams remained 4.5 apart as they both lost last night. The Angels beat the Rays 5-4, overcoming an early 3-0 deficit, and then winning after blowing a 4-3 lead. Garret Anderson's ninth inning single was the game winner. K-Rod notched his 48th save.

The Red Sox jumped out to a 4-0 lead, but it was all Baltimore after that as the Orioles won it 11-6. Melvin Mora, who had four RBI, and Ramon Hernandez each hit 3-run home runs. Clay Buchholz was hammered for five runs in 2.1 IP and is reportedly headed back to Pawtucket.

The Pennant Chase - 8/15

NL EAST

Look out, the Mets train is steam rolling along. They're now in sole possession of first place after beating the Nationals for the third straight night. Meanwhile the Phillies were swept by the Dodgers in a four game series.

Oliver Perez struck out eight in six-plus innings and Carlos Delgado continued his torrid second half with his 26th home run as the Mets rolled to a 9-3 win. After practically being left for dead through the end of June, Delgado hit .357 with 9 home runs and 24 RBI in July. He's added 3 home runs and 9 RBI in 12 games in August.

The Phillies meanwhile managed only 2 hits off of Hiroki Kuroda in seven innings. Manny finally went hitless, but Matt Kemp stepped up with his 14th home run of the season. On the bright side, the Phils got another solid outing from Brett Myers.

NL WEST

The Dodgers couldn't break their first place tie with Arizona though, as the Diamondbacks topped the Rockies 6-2. Dan Haren won his 13th game with help from home runs by two of the Chrises, Young and Burke.

The Diamondbacks sent catcher Wilkins Castillo to the Reds as part of the Adam Dunn deal.

The Dodgers reportedly put in a claim on Ronnie Belliard to keep him from going to the Diamondbacks, who are in need of a second baseman after the season-ending injury to Orlando Hudson.

NL CENTRAL

The Cubbies extended their lead over the Brewers to 4.5 games with an 11-7 win over the Braves. Aramis Ramirez and Alfonso Soriano homered to back Ted Lilly's pitching. Lilly almost incited a brawl when he hit Yuniel Escobar on the arm. There were no ejections though the benches emptied. The pitch was thought to be retribution for Soriano being thrown out the night before. Ramirez also had to leave the game with a bruised hip.

Mark Kotsay went 5-5 for Atlanta and became the second Brave, (Albert Hall was the other), to hit for the cycle.

Jake Peavy outpitched Ben Sheets as the Padres edged the Brewers 3-2. The Cardinals kept pace with a 3-0 behind Todd Wellmeyer's seven and two-third innings of 3-hit ball.

AL EAST

Tampa lost Troy Percival to the DL again, but after blowing a ninth inning lead they beat the A's 7-6 in 12 innings. Percival's leg injuries will make the Rays look elsewhere for a closer next season.

Dice-K and the Red Sox pounded the Rangers again, 10-0, after putting 9 on the board in the second inning.

AL CENTRAL

The White Sox moved a full game ahead of the idle Twins with a 9-2 pasting of the Royals. Chicago outscored KC, 22-2, in the three game series. The Chisox tied a major league record in the sixth inning when Jim Thome, Paul Konerko, Alexi Ramirez, and Juan Uribe connected for four consecutive home runs. Hawk Harrelson must have wet his pants.

The Twins meanwhile claimed Jarrod Washburn off waivers from the Mariners in an effort to block him from going to the White Sox. The Tigers claimed Raul Ibanez from the Tigers- for what reason we have no clue. Neither team was able to work out a deal though, and both players will stay put. A really poor job by the M's in their handling of Washburn. They could have dumped his contract on the Yankees quite easily.

The Pennant Chase - 8/15

NL EAST

Look out, the Mets train is steam rolling along. They're now in sole possession of first place after beating the Nationals for the third straight night. Meanwhile the Phillies were swept by the Dodgers in a four game series.

Oliver Perez struck out eight in six-plus innings and Carlos Delgado continued his torrid second half with his 26th home run as the Mets rolled to a 9-3 win. After practically being left for dead through the end of June, Delgado hit .357 with 9 home runs and 24 RBI in July. He's added 3 home runs and 9 RBI in 12 games in August.

The Phillies meanwhile managed only 2 hits off of Hiroki Kuroda in seven innings. Manny finally went hitless, but Matt Kemp stepped up with his 14th home run of the season. On the bright side, the Phils got another solid outing from Brett Myers.

NL WEST

The Dodgers couldn't break their first place tie with Arizona though, as the Diamondbacks topped the Rockies 6-2. Dan Haren won his 13th game with help from home runs by two of the Chrises, Young and Burke.

The Diamondbacks sent catcher Wilkins Castillo to the Reds as part of the Adam Dunn deal.

The Dodgers reportedly put in a claim on Ronnie Belliard to keep him from going to the Diamondbacks, who are in need of a second baseman after the season-ending injury to Orlando Hudson.

NL CENTRAL

The Cubbies extended their lead over the Brewers to 4.5 games with an 11-7 win over the Braves. Aramis Ramirez and Alfonso Soriano homered to back Ted Lilly's pitching. Lilly almost incited a brawl when he hit Yuniel Escobar on the arm. There were no ejections though the benches emptied. The pitch was thought to be retribution for Soriano being thrown out the night before. Ramirez also had to leave the game with a bruised hip.

Mark Kotsay went 5-5 for Atlanta and became the second Brave, (Albert Hall was the other), to hit for the cycle.

Jake Peavy outpitched Ben Sheets as the Padres edged the Brewers 3-2. The Cardinals kept pace with a 3-0 behind Todd Wellmeyer's seven and two-third innings of 3-hit ball.

AL EAST

Tampa lost Troy Percival to the DL again, but after blowing a ninth inning lead they beat the A's 7-6 in 12 innings. Percival's leg injuries will make the Rays look elsewhere for a closer next season.

Dice-K and the Red Sox pounded the Rangers again, 10-0, after putting 9 on the board in the second inning.

AL CENTRAL

The White Sox moved a full game ahead of the idle Twins with a 9-2 pasting of the Royals. Chicago outscored KC, 22-2, in the three game series. The Chisox tied a major league record in the sixth inning when Jim Thome, Paul Konerko, Alexi Ramirez, and Juan Uribe connected for four consecutive home runs. Hawk Harrelson must have wet his pants.

The Twins meanwhile claimed Jarrod Washburn off waivers from the Mariners in an effort to block him from going to the White Sox. The Tigers claimed Raul Ibanez from the Tigers- for what reason we have no clue. Neither team was able to work out a deal though, and both players will stay put. A really poor job by the M's in their handling of Washburn. They could have dumped his contract on the Yankees quite easily.

Around the Horn - 7/31

The Phillies and Mets continue to play leap frog in the NL East. The Phils took a half game lead last night with an 8-5 win over the Nationals. Chase Utley and Shane Victorino both went deep to help Jamie Moyer pick up his 240th win, 12th best (tied with Frank Tanana) among left-handers.

The Mets meanwhile couldn't hold an early lead and red hot Mike Pelfrey was cooled off by the Marlins 7-5. The Marlins sit just 1.5 games back.

Garret Anderson put up a 4-hit, 4 RBI night as the Angels beat the Red Sox 9-2. It was LA's second three game sweep of the Red Sox this month. The Rays gained a game on Boston with a 3-2 win over the Blue Jays.

Colorado still can't make up its collective mind as to buy or sell today. Had they lost three straight to the Pirates they probably would have been sellers. But the Rockies snapped the 2-game losing streak last night, 7-4, as Aaron Cook won his 14th game.

Dan Haren won his 11th game of the season in the Diamondbacks 7-3 win over the Padres. That kept them one game ahead of the Dodgers, who got a complete game shutout from Chad Billingsley in a 4-0 win over the Giants.

The Diamondbacks have to wonder what their offense would be like had they kept Carlos Quentin. The White Sox outfielder continued his breakout season with his 28th home run and drove in 4 runs in the Chisox 8-3 win over the Twins. Quentin has 83 RBI for the season.

The Cubs beat the Brewers for the third straight night, this time 7-2, behind a strong outing by Ryan Dempster, who picked up his 12th win. The Brewers will try to salvage the finale of the series, but they're up against Rich Harden.

Around the Horn - 7/31

The Phillies and Mets continue to play leap frog in the NL East. The Phils took a half game lead last night with an 8-5 win over the Nationals. Chase Utley and Shane Victorino both went deep to help Jamie Moyer pick up his 240th win, 12th best (tied with Frank Tanana) among left-handers.

The Mets meanwhile couldn't hold an early lead and red hot Mike Pelfrey was cooled off by the Marlins 7-5. The Marlins sit just 1.5 games back.

Garret Anderson put up a 4-hit, 4 RBI night as the Angels beat the Red Sox 9-2. It was LA's second three game sweep of the Red Sox this month. The Rays gained a game on Boston with a 3-2 win over the Blue Jays.

Colorado still can't make up its collective mind as to buy or sell today. Had they lost three straight to the Pirates they probably would have been sellers. But the Rockies snapped the 2-game losing streak last night, 7-4, as Aaron Cook won his 14th game.

Dan Haren won his 11th game of the season in the Diamondbacks 7-3 win over the Padres. That kept them one game ahead of the Dodgers, who got a complete game shutout from Chad Billingsley in a 4-0 win over the Giants.

The Diamondbacks have to wonder what their offense would be like had they kept Carlos Quentin. The White Sox outfielder continued his breakout season with his 28th home run and drove in 4 runs in the Chisox 8-3 win over the Twins. Quentin has 83 RBI for the season.

The Cubs beat the Brewers for the third straight night, this time 7-2, behind a strong outing by Ryan Dempster, who picked up his 12th win. The Brewers will try to salvage the finale of the series, but they're up against Rich Harden.

Around the Horn - 6/2

Late afternoon edition of Around the Horn....

First off congratulations to the man-child himself Manny Ramirez on home run #500 (and #501). We didn't have much time this weekend or we would have posted something more deserving. We're shocked that Manny is standing by home plate still admiring his shot.

Manny's Red Sox still trail those Rays. Tampa took 3 of 4 from the White Sox to maintain a 1 game lead in the AL East. These guys are NOT going away.

2 more home runs and 5 more RBI for Josh Hamilton from the weekend. Chase Utley upped his major league home run total to 20. We picked the guy to be the '07 MVP. Perhaps we were just a year off.

The Indians have to get a bat, no? They scored just 8 runs in a 3-game series with the Royals. KC snapped their 12 game losing streak on Saturday and won again on Sunday.

The Diamondbacks posted back-to-back shutouts of the Nationals. Brandon Webb won his 10th game on Saturday with a complete game effort. Dan Haren got some help from the pen to duplicate the feat on Sunday.

Trevor Hoffman is the all-time leader in saves, but he doesn't do so badly in blowing them either. He got his 3rd of the year yesterday when the Giants scored 3 off of him in the bottom of the 10th to win. The Padres may want to think about moving Josh Banks to the starting rotation full-time. He threw 6 shutout innings in last Sunday's 18 inning marathon with the Pads and followed it up with a complete game win on Saturday. He allowed just 1 unearned run and 6 hits. He's yet to allow a run in 17 innings this season.

How bummed does Justin Verlander have to be? He's 2-8 now. He can blame us for picking him to win the CY Young. Felix Hernandez was back on the beam, throwing 2-hit ball for 7 innings to beat him.

Joe Torre's trip back to NYC wasn't so great. The Mets took 3 of 4 from Torre's Dodger blue.

The Jay Bruce ERA is fully underway in Cincinnati. He had the walk off home run in the 10th on Saturday and hit another one on Sunday. So far, the 21-yr old is 13-22 (.591) with 2 HR, 6 RBI, 3 doubles, 6 walks, and 2 steals. His OBP/SLUG/OPS is .690/1.000/1.690.

Around the Horn - 6/2

Late afternoon edition of Around the Horn....

First off congratulations to the man-child himself Manny Ramirez on home run #500 (and #501). We didn't have much time this weekend or we would have posted something more deserving. We're shocked that Manny is standing by home plate still admiring his shot.

Manny's Red Sox still trail those Rays. Tampa took 3 of 4 from the White Sox to maintain a 1 game lead in the AL East. These guys are NOT going away.

2 more home runs and 5 more RBI for Josh Hamilton from the weekend. Chase Utley upped his major league home run total to 20. We picked the guy to be the '07 MVP. Perhaps we were just a year off.

The Indians have to get a bat, no? They scored just 8 runs in a 3-game series with the Royals. KC snapped their 12 game losing streak on Saturday and won again on Sunday.

The Diamondbacks posted back-to-back shutouts of the Nationals. Brandon Webb won his 10th game on Saturday with a complete game effort. Dan Haren got some help from the pen to duplicate the feat on Sunday.

Trevor Hoffman is the all-time leader in saves, but he doesn't do so badly in blowing them either. He got his 3rd of the year yesterday when the Giants scored 3 off of him in the bottom of the 10th to win. The Padres may want to think about moving Josh Banks to the starting rotation full-time. He threw 6 shutout innings in last Sunday's 18 inning marathon with the Pads and followed it up with a complete game win on Saturday. He allowed just 1 unearned run and 6 hits. He's yet to allow a run in 17 innings this season.

How bummed does Justin Verlander have to be? He's 2-8 now. He can blame us for picking him to win the CY Young. Felix Hernandez was back on the beam, throwing 2-hit ball for 7 innings to beat him.

Joe Torre's trip back to NYC wasn't so great. The Mets took 3 of 4 from Torre's Dodger blue.

The Jay Bruce ERA is fully underway in Cincinnati. He had the walk off home run in the 10th on Saturday and hit another one on Sunday. So far, the 21-yr old is 13-22 (.591) with 2 HR, 6 RBI, 3 doubles, 6 walks, and 2 steals. His OBP/SLUG/OPS is .690/1.000/1.690.

Around the Horn - 5/28

Josh Hamilton's rise back from the depths has been well documented and that rise continues this season. Last night, playing against his original organization, the Tampa Rays, Hamilton belted a grand slam and drove in 5 runs in the Rangers 12-6 win.

Franklin Gutierrez hit a grand slam in the Indians 8-2 win over the White Sox. The Indians were also credited with a triple steal. With the bases loaded, Jamey Carroll was picked off 1st Base, but got into a run down. Eventually all runners were safe with David Dellucci scoring. Which just goes to show you that official scoring rules definitely need to be changed.

Indians DH Travis Hafner could be headed to the DL with a bad shoulder.

Mark Teahen hit a game tying inside the park 3-run home run for the Royals in the bottom of the 9th, but the Royals still lost their 8th straight. Michael Cuddyer's 12th inning single gave the Twins a 4-3 win. Teahen's temporary heroics gave Joe Nathan his first blown save of the year.

Jeremy Bonderman was breezing along with a 2-0 shutout against the Angels, but LA tied it with 2 runs in the 8th and won it on Gary Matthews Jr.'s RBI single in the bottom of the 9th. Ervin Santana allowed just 3 hits in picking up the complete game win.

Greg Smith continues to impress for the A's. He tossed 6.2 shutout innings last night in the A's 3-1 win over the Blue Jays. It snapped the Jays 5-game winning streak. Frank Thomas had to leave the game with a strained quad.

The Mariners blew a 3-0 lead to the Red Sox, but snapped their 7-game losing streak with a 4-3 victory. Jose Lopez singled in the game winner off of Mike Timlin in the bottom of the 9th. Yunikesky Betancourt may be facing disciplinary actions by the Mariners after throwing a 9th inning tantrum when he was pinch-hit for.

Johan Santana is a good cure for what ails ya. Santana went out and got a much needed win for the Mets, 5-3 over the division leading Marlins.

Adrian Gonzalez and Kevin Kouzmanoff hit back-to-back home runs off of former Yankees prospect Charlie Manning to give the Padres a 4-2 win over the Nationals.

The Brewers overcame a strong outing by the Braves' Tim Hudson and rallied late from a 2-0 deficit to win 3-2. Mike Cameron's 9th inning sac fly capped the comeback.

After scoring 20 runs the night before, the Phillies put up 7 in the first two innings against the Rockies last night and held on for a 7-4 win.

The Jay Bruce ERA began in Cincinnati in a big way. Talk about a memorable debut- 3-3 with a double, 2 singles, 2 walks, 2 RBI, 2 runs scored, and a stolen base. And a post-game double shaving cream pie in the face celebration. The Reds won 9-6 over the Pirates with some help from red hot Adam Dunn who homered and drove in 4.

After 10 no-decisions, Shawn Chacon has won 2 straight. The right-hander pitched the Astros to an 8-2 win over the Cardinals. Hunter Pence was 5-5 with a couple of ribbies.

The Cubs scored 3 times in the 7th to beat the Dodgers 3-1. Hiroki Kuroda took a tough loss after a well pitched game. The Japanese media was excited about this one with Kuroda facing fellow countryman Kosuke Fukudome. Fukudome drove in the Cubs final run.

Bengie Molina hit a 3-run home run and Jose Castillo added a solo shot as the Giants beat Dan Haren and the Diamondbacks 6-3. Tim Lincecum improved to 7-1 with 7 K's in 7 innings.