BD Hot Stove: 2010, A Look Back At Wheeling and Dealing | Baseball Digest

BD Hot Stove: 2010, A Look Back At Wheeling and Dealing | Baseball Digest

t’s the final day of 2010 (for me personally this year went very fast.) and as many of you know it is customary this time of year to take a look back at events of the closing year. For the Baseball Digest Hot Stove column that means pondering the best moves in major league baseball over the past year.

The Cliff Lee double whammy: Seattle realized they weren’t going anywhere as the trade deadline approached in 2010, so they worked out one deal with the Yankees, and then went with a trade they felt was better for them in the short and long run. The Mariners landed slugger Justin Smoak and the Rangers got themselves a pitcher that led them to the World Series.

Then it was the Phillies turn to land Lee, bringing him back to the team he helped them to the 2009 World Series, and in the process set up a killer rotation with Roy Halladay, Roy Oswalt, and Cole Hamels.

Roy Meet Roy: Long before re-acquiring Lee, the Phillies first dealt J.A. Happ and two minor leaguers last July to the Astros for Oswalt. The veteran right-hander, who had spent a decade with Houston, went 7-1, 1.74 after the trade to help the Phillies win their fourth consecutive NL East division.

Boston Bashers: The Red Sox lost Victor Martinez and Adrian Beltre from a lineup that was beset by injuries in 2010. GM Theo Epstein dealt for 1st baseman Adrian Gonzalez and signed outfielder Carl Crawford to a long term deal. He also attempted to shore up the bullpen by signing Bobby Jenks.

The Team With Big Shoulders: The White Sox prepped for the 2011 season by re-signing Paul Konerko and A.J. Pierzynski and inked slugger Adam Dunn to a free agent deal. GM Kenny Williams also acquired starter Edwin Jackson at the trade deadline and cut bait with the inconsistent Jenks.

Lilly Loves LA: The Dodgers acquired Ted Lilly too little late for the 2010 season, but then signed him to a new deal for 2011. They also went out and got Jon Garland on the cheap ($5M for one year) and re-signed Vincente Padilla to team with Clayton Kershaw and Chad Billingsley to create a formidable rotation.

A New Year’s Memory

On December 31, 1974 George Steinbrenner began his assault on the free agent market. I had just gotten into the car with family after seeing “Freebie and the Bean” in the movie theater. The radio was on and the sports report was beginning. The Yankees had just signed Jim “Catfish” Hunter to a five year, $3.75M contract. By today’s standards it was a mere pittance, but at the time it was a huge amount of money. The length of the contract was quite a committment as well. But signing one of the best pitchers/biggest winners in the game was a monumental move for the the Yankees. Yes, even a better move than signing Reggie Jackson two years later.

Hunter taught his teammates how to win, how to carry themselves with class, what it means to “want the baseball” in the big spot, and to be a team. His deal also opened the way for many free agent deals, not only with the Yankees, but for all of baseball.

Rumors News and Transactions

The Mariners shopping of closer David Aardsma ground to halt when it was discovered the righty needed to have a surgery Monday for a torn hip labrum. Aardsma is expected to start throwing again a month after surgery and hopes to ready for the start of the season.

Shortstop Edgar Renteria has decided he wants to play two years, but still hasn’t decided where to play. The Reds are the latest team he has spoken with.

The Royals inked former Tigers’ left-hander Zach Miner to a minor league deal.

Bartolo Colon, attempting to make a comeback, said that the Yankees, Rangers, and the Indians have recently shown some interest in him.

From everyone here at BaseballDigest.com, we wish a very Happy, Healthy, and Safe New Year!

I've Lost That Loving Feeling

In the early part of the 2009 season there was no way you could realistically believe that the Yankees were a championship caliber team. The bullpen was in shambles. The hitting was inconsistent. The team seemed uninspired (except for some pie shots). But, the key to things staying steady and eventually improving was the starting rotation.

CC Sabathia was, well, CC Sabathia. A.J. Burnett had his ups and downs, but there were more ups than downs. Chad Gaudin stepped up to the point where he was actually being considered for a playoff start. And of course there was the Yankee of all Yankees, Andy Pettitte, doing his Pettitte best.

Things started out well this season despite an inconsistent offense and a prolonged slump by Mark Teixeira. But as we near the beginning of September this team is back to not looking like a championship caliber team. All you have to do is look at the starting pitching to figure that out.

And I repeat, CC Sabathia is, well, CC Sabathia. And then things go kind of off track.

Phil Hughes has had his struggles in the 2nd half, but he's still a 15 game winner. A 15 game winner with an innings limit that has about 30 innings left.

A.J. Burnett is about as lost as Hansel and Gretel were and he may just get baked by the witch. I'm tired of hearing from the YES and WCBS-AM announcers about how good his stuff is. Granted, he gets run support, but the White Sox Freddy Garcia, who does not have a lot left in the tank, is 11-5!

Andy Pettitte is the worrysome one. He threw 25 pitches off the mound yesterday, but didn't push off with any kind of resistance and didn't exactly sound upbeat when interviewed on Michael Kay's radio show. Without Pettitte the Yankees aren't going very far if they hang on and make the playoffs.

The pleasant surprise has of course been Dustin Moseley. But Dustin Moseley is not a household name just yet.

So what happens next: Chad Gaudin will not be in the rotation this year and Sergio Mitre blew his chance.

As expected, the Dodgers today placed Ted Lilly on waivers. You can bet the Yankees have an interest, but you can also bet another team lower in the standings is likely to claim him. Another possibility could be Lilly's teammate Hiroki Kuroda, a Japanese veteran who has just three years of MLB experience.

Looking at the list of pending 2011 free agents, there are no other pitchers out there substantially better than what the current staff is made up of. Perhaps a flier on Livan Hernandez, but that's unlikely.

Ideally, Pettitte gets physically healthy, Burnett gets mentally healthy, and the Yankees gear up for number 28. Without it, you can forget a serious run at a back to back title.

On a non-pitching note, don't be surprised if the Yankees were to claim a veteran catcher (if he's put out there), such as Brad Ausmus. Though Ausmus doesn't hit, his defensive skills and game calling are superior to Francisco Cervelli's.

Photo courtesy of NY Daily News

Yankees Chasing Berkman?

According to the NY Post's Joel Sherman the Yankees are taking a serious look at Astros 1st baseman Lance Berkman.

Berkman has struggled in this, his 12th season, posting an .808 OPS is that is well below his career average. He has about 1/3 of his $14.5 million salary remaning for this year and can be a free agent after the season. The Astros hold a $15 million option with a $2 million buyout.

Berkman is a better all around hitter than the Nats' Adam Dunn so a rental deal would make sense as long as the Yankees don't have to give up too much in return.

On the downside, Berkman is hitting just .161 and has an OPS of .559 against left-hander this year. Both marks are well below his career marks of .262 and .781.

Foxsports' Jim Bowden tweeted earlier that the Yankees are going hard at Ted Lilly and Scott Downs. Then again the source is Jim Bowden, whose GM results were about as good as Steve Phillips.

It does make sense for the Yankees to get Downs. I've mentioned before that he would be a great addition. But I'm not sold on Lilly at this point. Can he get AL hitters out with an 86 mph fastball? I'm not convinced he can.

UPDATE 6:25 pm

Both Ken Rosenthal and Joel Sherman have said that a deal has been agreed upon for Berkman, but K-Ros also added that things have to be ironed out that will take more time. That would have to do with Berkman's no-trade clause and a guarantee that his option won't be picked up in 2011.

UPDATE 9:45 PM

The Berkman should be announced at roughly 1:30 pm on Saturday. The Yankees will pay $4 million of the $7 million owed to Berkman. The prospects going to Houston are believed to be right-hander Mark Melancon and infielder Johnny Paredes.

No great loss IMO on Melancon. He's shown so far that he's nothing more than a 4-A reliever. All in all good job by Brian Cashman on this one.

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.

Injuries, Ineffectiveness Should Have Cashman Shopping | Baseball Digest

Wrote this piece for BaseballDigest.com; please click the link to read.

Injuries, Ineffectiveness Should Have Cashman Shopping | Baseball Digest

The moment Andy Pettitte left this past Sunday afternoon’s game with a groin strain, you knew that Yankees’ GM Brian Cashman would start to go through his mental rolodex.

Pettitte’s injury, which is expected to keep him out of action for 4-5 weeks, compounded an already difficult situation for Cashman, who knows he must re-tool the current bullpen if the Yankees are to repeat in 2010.

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.

Around the Horn - 7/29

The Cubs and Brewers started their big 3-game series last night with left-handers Ted Lilly and CC Sabathia facing off. The lead seesawed back and forth with the Brewers' Russell Branyan hitting a game tying home run in the 8th. The Cubs prevailed in the 9th when Derek Lee doubled in a run and Mark DeRosa followed with an RBI single. The Cubs now lead the Brewers by 2 games in the NL Central.

The Mets have to be concerned after John Maine left yesterday's game with the Marlins with shoulder stiffness. They have to be even more concerned with a bullpen that flat out stinks. They blew 2-0 and 3-2 leads before losing 7-3 to the Marlins.

Greg Maddux's winless streak finally ended at 14 games when the Padres topped the 1st place Diamondbacks last night, 8-5. It was career win number 351.

Neither the Dodgers or Rockies could gain ground on the Dbacks as they both lost as well. The Dodgers nearly rallied from a 7-0 deficit to the Giants, but lost 7-6. But Joe Torre has a new fan. The Rockies had an early 3-0 lead but fell to the Pirates 8-4.

The Angels put a six spot on the board against Dice-K and hung on to beat the Red Sox 7-5. The Angels are 4-0 against the Sox this month.

The Blue Jays beat the Rays 3-1 behind 7 stellar innings from A.J. Burnett. The right-hander, who struck out 10, will not be dealt before the trade deadline, according to GM J.P. Ricciardi.

The Twins got back to a 1.5 games of the White Sox behind a complete game shutout by Kevin Slowey. The 4-game series continues tonight with rookies Clayton Richard and Glen Perkins squaring off.

The Atlanta Journal Constitution reports that Braves right-hander Tim Hudson may have to undergo season ending Tommy John surgery.

Around the Horn - 7/29

The Cubs and Brewers started their big 3-game series last night with left-handers Ted Lilly and CC Sabathia facing off. The lead seesawed back and forth with the Brewers' Russell Branyan hitting a game tying home run in the 8th. The Cubs prevailed in the 9th when Derek Lee doubled in a run and Mark DeRosa followed with an RBI single. The Cubs now lead the Brewers by 2 games in the NL Central.

The Mets have to be concerned after John Maine left yesterday's game with the Marlins with shoulder stiffness. They have to be even more concerned with a bullpen that flat out stinks. They blew 2-0 and 3-2 leads before losing 7-3 to the Marlins.

Greg Maddux's winless streak finally ended at 14 games when the Padres topped the 1st place Diamondbacks last night, 8-5. It was career win number 351.

Neither the Dodgers or Rockies could gain ground on the Dbacks as they both lost as well. The Dodgers nearly rallied from a 7-0 deficit to the Giants, but lost 7-6. But Joe Torre has a new fan. The Rockies had an early 3-0 lead but fell to the Pirates 8-4.

The Angels put a six spot on the board against Dice-K and hung on to beat the Red Sox 7-5. The Angels are 4-0 against the Sox this month.

The Blue Jays beat the Rays 3-1 behind 7 stellar innings from A.J. Burnett. The right-hander, who struck out 10, will not be dealt before the trade deadline, according to GM J.P. Ricciardi.

The Twins got back to a 1.5 games of the White Sox behind a complete game shutout by Kevin Slowey. The 4-game series continues tonight with rookies Clayton Richard and Glen Perkins squaring off.

The Atlanta Journal Constitution reports that Braves right-hander Tim Hudson may have to undergo season ending Tommy John surgery.

Around the Horn - 4/3

Rich Harden and Jon Lester hooked up in a pitcher's duel in the A's-Red Sox series finale, but it was the A's bullpen that blinked first. David Ortiz had been 0-for the season before belting a 2-run HR off of Alan Embree in the 7th. Lester, Bryan Corey, and Manny Delcarmen combined on a 4-hitter in the 5-0 shutout.

The Rays have hopes of reaching .500 this season, but most of that will depend on their pitching. If last night was an indication they're in trouble. Starter Matt Garza and reliever Al Reyes blew a 6-3 lead to a weak Orioles team. Aubrey Huff homered and drove in 4 for the O's.

Seattle learned earlier in the day they would be without their closer J.J. Putz for at least 2 weeks due to mild costochondritis, an inflammation of the ribcage. For now, M's manager John McLaren is going with closer-by-committee, but last night one time Jays closer Miguel Batista finished off a 4-1 win with a scoreless ninth against the Texas Rangers.

Royals starter Brian Bannister was as good as it gets in a 4-0 win over the Detroit Tigers. Think the Mets could use the guy they mistakenly dealt for Ambiorix Burgos? Bannister is now 13-9, 3.71 in his 1 year and 1 start for the Royals.

Fausto Carmona walked 4 hitters in 7 innings, but the Indians starter pretty much picked up where he left off last season, limiting the White Sox to 1 run in the Tribe's 7-2 victory. Carmona lead the AL in inducing double play grounders last season and started off '08 with 3 more.

Nick Blackburn's wild pitch provided the only run in the Angels 1-0 win over the Twins. Blackburn was great, but Joe Saunders (8 IP) was even better as he and K-Rod combined on the shutout. Torii Hunter finally gave his old fans a treat with his first two hits of the season.

We picked Pedro Martinez to be our NL comeback player of the year, but we just know we are not a jinx like the Sports Illustrated cover (we think that's garbage anyway). Pedro was put on the DL with the hamstring he injured Tuesday night. He's expected to miss 4-6 weeks. The Mets took their frustration out on the Marlins last night in a 13-0 blow out.

Look at those Nats! The Washingtonians improved to 3-0 with a 1-0 blanking of the Phillies. Tim Redding went 7 innings and allowed 1 hit, the only hit the Phils would get on the night. Ryan Zimmerman hit his 2nd game winning home run of the season.

The Brewers pounded Ted Lilly and the Cubs 8-2 to improve to 2-0. Jeff Suppan picked up the win over the team many have picked to win the NL Central.

After a 72 minute rain delay the Giants finally got their first win, a 2-1 edging of the Dodgers. The Dodgers won't have 3rd Base coach Larry Bowa who was suspended 3 games for Tuesday night's ejection. Bowa is NOT happy!

It wasn't an important game, but there was Trevor Hoffman blowing another save for the Padres. After the Astros tied the game, Lance Berkman hit a game winning 3-run HR (Astros 9 Padres 6) off the all-time saves leader.

The Diamondbacks Brandon Lyon can empathize with Hoffman. He didn't retire any of the 3 Reds batters he faced in the 9th last night. The last one, Edwin Encarnacion, hit a walk-off 3-run HR to give the Reds a 6-5 win.

The Braves pounded the Pirates 10-2 for their first win of 2008. Pirates lefty reliever Damaso Marte was in much demand prior to the season. So far in 2 appearances he's allowed 6 runs and only recorded 2 outs.

The Cards picked up their first win too with an 8-3 win over the Rockies. Rick Ankiel, who heard off-season P.E.D. rumors, hit his 1st home run.

Around the Horn - 4/3

Rich Harden and Jon Lester hooked up in a pitcher's duel in the A's-Red Sox series finale, but it was the A's bullpen that blinked first. David Ortiz had been 0-for the season before belting a 2-run HR off of Alan Embree in the 7th. Lester, Bryan Corey, and Manny Delcarmen combined on a 4-hitter in the 5-0 shutout.

The Rays have hopes of reaching .500 this season, but most of that will depend on their pitching. If last night was an indication they're in trouble. Starter Matt Garza and reliever Al Reyes blew a 6-3 lead to a weak Orioles team. Aubrey Huff homered and drove in 4 for the O's.

Seattle learned earlier in the day they would be without their closer J.J. Putz for at least 2 weeks due to mild costochondritis, an inflammation of the ribcage. For now, M's manager John McLaren is going with closer-by-committee, but last night one time Jays closer Miguel Batista finished off a 4-1 win with a scoreless ninth against the Texas Rangers.

Royals starter Brian Bannister was as good as it gets in a 4-0 win over the Detroit Tigers. Think the Mets could use the guy they mistakenly dealt for Ambiorix Burgos? Bannister is now 13-9, 3.71 in his 1 year and 1 start for the Royals.

Fausto Carmona walked 4 hitters in 7 innings, but the Indians starter pretty much picked up where he left off last season, limiting the White Sox to 1 run in the Tribe's 7-2 victory. Carmona lead the AL in inducing double play grounders last season and started off '08 with 3 more.

Nick Blackburn's wild pitch provided the only run in the Angels 1-0 win over the Twins. Blackburn was great, but Joe Saunders (8 IP) was even better as he and K-Rod combined on the shutout. Torii Hunter finally gave his old fans a treat with his first two hits of the season.

We picked Pedro Martinez to be our NL comeback player of the year, but we just know we are not a jinx like the Sports Illustrated cover (we think that's garbage anyway). Pedro was put on the DL with the hamstring he injured Tuesday night. He's expected to miss 4-6 weeks. The Mets took their frustration out on the Marlins last night in a 13-0 blow out.

Look at those Nats! The Washingtonians improved to 3-0 with a 1-0 blanking of the Phillies. Tim Redding went 7 innings and allowed 1 hit, the only hit the Phils would get on the night. Ryan Zimmerman hit his 2nd game winning home run of the season.

The Brewers pounded Ted Lilly and the Cubs 8-2 to improve to 2-0. Jeff Suppan picked up the win over the team many have picked to win the NL Central.

After a 72 minute rain delay the Giants finally got their first win, a 2-1 edging of the Dodgers. The Dodgers won't have 3rd Base coach Larry Bowa who was suspended 3 games for Tuesday night's ejection. Bowa is NOT happy!

It wasn't an important game, but there was Trevor Hoffman blowing another save for the Padres. After the Astros tied the game, Lance Berkman hit a game winning 3-run HR (Astros 9 Padres 6) off the all-time saves leader.

The Diamondbacks Brandon Lyon can empathize with Hoffman. He didn't retire any of the 3 Reds batters he faced in the 9th last night. The last one, Edwin Encarnacion, hit a walk-off 3-run HR to give the Reds a 6-5 win.

The Braves pounded the Pirates 10-2 for their first win of 2008. Pirates lefty reliever Damaso Marte was in much demand prior to the season. So far in 2 appearances he's allowed 6 runs and only recorded 2 outs.

The Cards picked up their first win too with an 8-3 win over the Rockies. Rick Ankiel, who heard off-season P.E.D. rumors, hit his 1st home run.