2009 MLB AL East Predictions

[UndergroundVint]

Rays will beat the Dodgers in the World Series.

A-Rod will hit below .280 with under 35 homers.

Jeter and Posada won't have 200 hits between them.

Sabathia and Burnett won't have 30 wins between them.


AL East Standings:

Rays 97-65
Red Sox 96-66
Yankees 94-68
Blue Jays 81-81
Orioles 68-94

[Yankee Univox]

Rays will beat the Dodgers in the World Series.

A-Rod will hit below .280 with under 35 homers.

Jeter and Posada won't have 200 hits between them.

Sabathia and Burnett won't have 30 wins between them.


AL East Standings:

Rays 97-65
Red Sox 96-66
Yankees 94-68
Blue Jays 81-81
Orioles 68-94:rolleyes:

[mrp3118]

Go Cleveland!!!

[Luke]

The Yankees will win the division because at the trading deadline they will spend WHATEVER it takes this year. George is at the end of his life cycle and they have a new stadium. If Cashman refuses to do the deals Hanenstein will to appease dad's final wishes.

[Yankee Univox]

:rolleyes:Go Cleveland!!!:rolleyes:

[QRSS]

Rays will beat the Dodgers in the World Series.

A-Rod will hit below .280 with under 35 homers.

Jeter and Posada won't have 200 hits between them.

Sabathia and Burnett won't have 30 wins between them.


AL East Standings:

Rays 97-65
Red Sox 96-66
Yankees 94-68
Blue Jays 81-81
Orioles 68-94

you again? :)

[mertzy]

UGV - Wow...a little obsessed with the Yankees...must be a Sox fan.

[UndergroundVint]

Just a fan of good American League baseball. I dont follow the NL that much. Not obsessed with the Yankees, just making predictions on some key players and stats. Here are some more:

The Red Sox will have no players with 30 or more homeruns.

The Rays will have three, maybe four players with 30+ homeruns.

BJ Upton will be the AL MVP.

[Trandy]

A-Rod - .324 - 42 dingers - 120+ RBI's.

Jeter - .318 - 160 hits

Posada - .289 - 21 dingers - 88 RBI's

Yankess win the east....then the pennant...then go to the series ...but lose...to the CUBS!!

:eek:

[Yankee Univox]

A-Rod - .324 - 42 dingers - 120+ RBI's.

Jeter - .318 - 160 hits

Posada - .289 - 21 dingers - 88 RBI's

Yankess win the east....then the pennant...then go to the series ...but lose...to the CUBS!!

:eek: Breaker breaker *fzzzzzzzzzzzzz* breaker breaker *fzzzzzzzzzzzz* Um,Tim my man...you've done some damage out here in these parts *fzzzzzzzzzzzzzz* :NUTS

[Trandy]

Breaker breaker *fzzzzzzzzzzzzz* breaker breaker *fzzzzzzzzzzzz* Um,Tim my man...you've done some damage out here in these parts *fzzzzzzzzzzzzzz* :NUTS

Maybe...but it's all in good fun.

I DO think A-Rod will have a good year though.

[jimfog]

You're kidding, right?

Who's pitching for the Dodgers this year? Plus, when and IF Manny gets paid, no way does he play like the end of last year. He was on a mission.

NL will be among Cubs, Phil and Mets.

Rays will be good again, but as much as I hate to say it, the Yankees will be better.

[Smakutus]

I wouldn't be surprised to see the Rays not even make the playoffs this year.

Jeff

[Yankee Univox]

I wouldn't be surprised to see the Rays not even make the playoffs this year.

Jeff
I wouldn't be surprised to see the Rays not even break .500 this year! :puh

[FiestaRed]

It will definitely be interesting to see what the Rays do this season.

[bilbal]

It's gonna be another good year for THE SOX!!!!

[UndergroundVint]

It will definitely be interesting to see what the Rays do this season.

If their pitching is even 80% as good as last year the AL East will be all their's. Shouldn't be a prolem with David Price added to the starting rotation.

There were no major threats in the order offensively last year, especially with Pena and Crawford never getting in their grooves and Upton in pain every day of the season. The order was loaded top to bottom with .260ish hitters. This year I expect Upton, Pena, Longoria, and maybe Burrell to each hit 30+HR/100+ RBI. Add to that 30+ steals each from Crawford, Upton, Aki, and the right field platoon. I forget how the Rays SS did last year but their catcher led the team in batting average. Face it folks, there is no other lineup in the either league this young, this balanced, or this talented.

Compare it to the Red Sox who are sitting ducks if Youklis or Pedroia go down. The Rangers pitching staff can pick them apart. The Yankees are guaranteed to be plagued by injuries offensively. At least two of these players will miss 40 games each: Damon, Jeter, A-Rod, and of course, Posada.

[jimfog]

Face it folks, there is no other lineup in the either league this young, this balanced, or this talented.

Ummm....other than that team who blew your doors off in the Series, you meant to say, right?

[Yankee Univox]

http://www.thespread.com/sports-betting-top-stories-900/2009-mlb-world-series-odds-to-win-yankees-favored-by-oddsmakers-a.html

Yes,the games still have to be played,and injuries will factor in for EVERYBODY.Both the Rays and Sox are pretty distant runners in this race however! :)

[UndergroundVint]

Let's see....

The Phillies have two power hitters, two base stealers, and no high average hitters.

How oh how will pitchers ever get through THAT lineup??


A week ago I took the Rays at 15/1. Does a single person here dare take the Yankees??

[Yankee Univox]

Let's see....

The Phillies have two power hitters, two base stealers, and no high average hitters.

How oh how will pitchers ever get through THAT lineup??


A week ago I took the Rays at 15/1. Does a single person here dare take the Yankees??
Yeah,I will.

[UndergroundVint]

A-Rod - .324 - 42 dingers - 120+ RBI's.

Jeter - .318 - 160 hits

Posada - .289 - 21 dingers - 88 RBI's

Yankess win the east....then the pennant...then go to the series ...but lose...to the CUBS!!

:eek:

Solid predictions but I'm putting my money on those players each going down with injuries. Cubs are a better pick than the Dodgers in the NL for sure. a Mets/Cubs NLCS would be great for baseball.

[MOJO]

Rays will beat the Dodgers in the World Series.

A-Rod will hit below .280 with under 35 homers.

Jeter and Posada won't have 200 hits between them.

Sabathia and Burnett won't have 30 wins between them.

AL East Standings:

Rays 97-65
Red Sox 96-66
Yankees 94-68
Blue Jays 81-81
Orioles 68-94


Arod :
anythings possible but doubtful...i think it more likely he has a drop in HR but hits .300 or better. Arod's known for having big season after mediocre
ones


jeter/posada : not going to happen even if posada plays 1/2 a season

Sabathia and Burnett : so a 15 win season is below par for you?? i'll take it


Standing : your probably right around the ballpark on this one..with the top 3 being
inter-changable

[Smakutus]

Arod :
Sabathia and Burnett : so a 15 win season is below par for you?? i'll take it


Sabathia is a fat tub of goo.. Not worth what the Yankees paid for him.

Jeff

[Derwood]

It's going to be close, I think.
But the Red Sox will win either the east or the wild card.
Just because.

[daveg777]

Yankees: Sabathia, Burnett, Wang, Chamberlin, and Pettitte for starters. Superb hitting and defensive in-field, plus Damon in the OF. Gonna be the best Yankees team in 10 years...


Dave

[UndergroundVint]

Not bashing here, I just dont see where the power is in the Yankees lineup. Jeter and Damon's defense will be liabilities, not assets.

[Luke]

Not bashing here, I just dont see where the power is in the Yankees lineup. Jeter and Damon's defense will be liabilities, not assets.

1B (33HR), 3B (35 HR) and DH (22HR)

Swisher, Posoda and Nady should come up with another 50+ HRs

The Yankees will hit 200 HRs in 2009 as a team.

[Yankee Univox]

Not bashing here, I just dont see where the power is in the Yankees lineup. Jeter and Damon's defense will be liabilities, not assets.Oh let's see...despite what you say,we all know that A Rod,unless he gets hurt,will be good for 35-40 dingers MINIMUM!

He's finally got a young,and focused stud protecting him in Texiera as opposed to the washed up Giambi,and head case Sheffield that he has had...Texiera-25-32 HRs.

Posada will add another 18-24.

Assuming Matsui's knee is fully healed...20-25.

Look for Cano to come back with plenty of pop,and prove that last season was an anomaly...18-22.

Nady-15-22,or so.

The Yankees have got more than adequate pop,what lineup are you looking at? :huh

[jimfog]

The Yankees have got more than adequate pop,what lineup are you looking at? :huh

Probably looking in the same Crystal Ball that had him last year predicting a Rays World Series sweep! lol

[UndergroundVint]

Probably looking in the same Crystal Ball that had him last year predicting a Rays World Series sweep! lol

Yep, it was the same crystal ball that told me the Rays would win the AL.....in May of 2008. When did you start believing the Phillies would make it to the World Series? October?? (Go back and check your posts now.)

Sorry, I dont see Matsui, Cano or Posada contributing in the homerun department. Damon, Jeter, and A-Rod will have the worst years of their careers. (Look for Jeter in center field next season).

The Rays will have more hits, homers, and steals than the Yankees or Red Sox.

[getbent]

Rays will beat the Dodgers in the World Series.

A-Rod will hit below .280 with under 35 homers.

Jeter and Posada won't have 200 hits between them.

Sabathia and Burnett won't have 30 wins between them.


AL East Standings:

Rays 97-65
Red Sox 96-66
Yankees 94-68
Blue Jays 81-81
Orioles 68-94

I'll have whatever he is having being mindful that the momentary glee of preseason prediction is frequently met with the hangover of actual occurrences. Betting against Jeter has never worked out... but, okay.

and picking the Orioles last is like making a mother in law joke. Kinda funny, kinda true, but bring us some hope OBi Wan.

I'll take the Yankees to win the division, Boston hot on their heels, the rays, respectable but back to earth.

[madsr]

Sox will win it!

[UndergroundVint]

I'll have whatever he is having being mindful that the momentary glee of preseason prediction is frequently met with the hangover of actual occurrences. Betting against Jeter has never worked out... but, okay.

and picking the Orioles last is like making a mother in law joke. Kinda funny, kinda true, but bring us some hope OBi Wan.

I'll take the Yankees to win the division, Boston hot on their heels, the rays, respectable but back to earth.

So I'm drunk for predicting the AL champs will win the East and a hack for putting the Orioles at the bottom?

[blood5150]

Dude... Sabbathia is a stud..... Im sure if he were on some other team you would be predicting 20 wins.....

[JohnK24]

Yankees take the east...they need to be smart with Posada - already missed a game 'cause his repaired shoulder hurt...hmm, perhaps they need to resign Pudge asap (ain't like they don't have the cash). Jeter has a stellar year and CC makes jaws drop all summer long !

Yankees vs Phillies in the October Classic

and my local Pirates...finish in the cellar ...again....

[madsr]

Red Sox win it all.. Yanks 2nd.. Tampa middle of the pack.

[MOJO]

.)

Sorry, I dont see Matsui, Cano or Posada contributing in the homerun department. Damon, Jeter, and A-Rod will have the worst years of their careers. (Look for Jeter in center field next season).

.

i think it's just more wishful thinking on your part

matsui avg's 23 HRs a year

posdao 24

cano 17

add in

nady 21

more then plenty of pop in the yankee lineup

and if you mean jeter has an off year..he'll only hit .300

Arod at worst .285 with 30+ HRs and 100 Rbi's

[Yankee Univox]

So I'm drunk for predicting the AL champs will win the East and a hack for putting the Orioles at the bottom? Lighten up dude,it's figurative language used here.If you want to start these threads,fine...but prepared for the reality that not everyone is going to go along with what you want to happen.

But as a sports fan,you know this stuff already.











Right? ;)

[ripvanwinkle]

the 3 teams that should finsih tops in the AL east are really the class of the league this year. The starting pitching talent and depth really is head and shoulders above the rest of the AL except maybe Anaheim.

TB Rays look good, but i worry about the bounceback effect of pithers that go deep into the post season the prior year. That's a lot of innings on some young arms. The line-up is improved, but i have some real questions about that bullpen...i think the bullpen blows more than a few games for them this year.

NYY spent a lot of money over the winter, but a lot of their key players are aging past prime years, and may be due for a decline. Not sure Teixeira + Nady is really that much of an improvement over Giambi + Abreau. I think the defense up the middle is not very good. jeter is a statue out there. A Lot spent on pitching this winter and the rotation looks really solid. Nobody doubts CC's heart or horse status, but can he handle the pressure in NYC? Where does Joba slot? rotation or pen? Great pitcher..but can he be durable enough to pitch 165+ innings?

Red Sox bring back pretty much the same team as last year with a few notable improvements to the bullpen. Added some low risk/high reward signings that could really make the difference if a few of them pay off. Some real injury/recuperation issues to the middle of the order in Ortiz (wrist) Lowell (hip) Drew (back). Can Pedroia and Youkilis play at the level they did last year? All in all i think the red sox have the best pitching depth and have payroll flexibility to add a major player at the deadline. I also think John Smoltz will be a huge 2nd half addition for them and enough to tip the scales.

Prediction:

Boston Red Sox 95 wins
NY Yankees 94 Wins
Tampa Rays 93 wins

yeah, i think it will be that close. cleveland wins the central and texas (!!) wins the west.

Network finally gets a Red Sox/Cubs world series, and the rotation of Beckett, Smoltz, Lester and Matsuzaka are too much for the cubbies. Sox in 6.

[blood5150]

Not sure Teixeira + Nady is really that much of an improvement over Giambi + Abreau. .



:messedup:jo:bong

[UndergroundVint]

the 3 teams that should finsih tops in the AL east are really the class of the league this year. The starting pitching talent and depth really is head and shoulders above the rest of the AL except maybe Anaheim.

TB Rays look good, but i worry about the bounceback effect of pithers that go deep into the post season the prior year. That's a lot of innings on some young arms. The line-up is improved, but i have some real questions about that bullpen...i think the bullpen blows more than a few games for them this year.

NYY spent a lot of money over the winter, but a lot of their key players are aging past prime years, and may be due for a decline. Not sure Teixeira + Nady is really that much of an improvement over Giambi + Abreau. I think the defense up the middle is not very good. jeter is a statue out there. A Lot spent on pitching this winter and the rotation looks really solid. Nobody doubts CC's heart or horse status, but can he handle the pressure in NYC? Where does Joba slot? rotation or pen? Great pitcher..but can he be durable enough to pitch 165+ innings?

Red Sox bring back pretty much the same team as last year with a few notable improvements to the bullpen. Added some low risk/high reward signings that could really make the difference if a few of them pay off. Some real injury/recuperation issues to the middle of the order in Ortiz (wrist) Lowell (hip) Drew (back). Can Pedroia and Youkilis play at the level they did last year? All in all i think the red sox have the best pitching depth and have payroll flexibility to add a major player at the deadline. I also think John Smoltz will be a huge 2nd half addition for them and enough to tip the scales.

Prediction:

Boston Red Sox 95 wins
NY Yankees 94 Wins
Tampa Rays 93 wins

yeah, i think it will be that close. cleveland wins the central and texas (!!) wins the west.

Network finally gets a Red Sox/Cubs world series, and the rotation of Beckett, Smoltz, Lester and Matsuzaka are too much for the cubbies. Sox in 6.


Well said Rip. We agree on the Yankees but I think those young arms will bounce back fine for the Rays. I expect problems with at least a few of those Red Sox body parts. Baldelli will probably be there to cover Drew's numbers but the other guys must stay healthy for the Sox to prosper. In any case, it looks like it might be a three team race after 159 games.

[WesKuhnley]

...cleveland wins the central...


You're DREAMING...

[ripvanwinkle]

You're DREAMING...

obviously a lot can happen over 162 games, but I think Cle has the best chanch to win that division. we shall see

Cle 86 wins
Det 84 wins
MInny 81 wins
KC and Cws are in the mid/low 70s

you can come back and make fun of me in october :)

[WesKuhnley]

obviously a lot can happen over 162 games, but I think Cle has the best chanch to win that division. we shall see

Cle 86 wins
Det 84 wins
MInny 81 wins
KC and Cws are in the mid/low 70s

you can come back and make fun of me in october :)


Don't worry, I will, but It's going to have to wait till November...Twins are going to the Series this year...

Twins 95 wins
Chicago 92 wins
KC 89
Detroit and Cleveland MIGHT see the low 80's...

NO ONE in the central has a better startering rotation than the Twins, in addition to Mauer and Morneau, Kubel hit 20+ HRs last year, Cuddy is back finally (another 20+ if he's good all season), picked up Crede (25+ if he stays healthy), both Gomez and Young are due to start showing their true power, and none of that counts the Twins ability to score runs WITHOUT HR's...

Last season we scored about as many, maybe more runs than Chicago, with less than half the HRs.

Take into consideration our starting pitching, all very young true, but all are capable of being 15+ win pitchers. The bullpen might be the only hole, but prospects like Mijares and Humber could fill those innings.

Obviously, the season is VERY long, but if all goes well this looks like one of the best teams in baseball, not just the AL central...

[Yankee Univox]

Don't worry, I will, but It's going to have to wait till November...Twins are going to the Series this year...

Twins 95 wins
Chicago 92 wins
KC 89
Detroit and Cleveland MIGHT see the low 80's...

NO ONE in the central has a better startering rotation than the Twins, in addition to Mauer and Morneau, Kubel hit 20+ HRs last year, Cuddy is back finally (another 20+ if he's good all season), picked up Crede (25+ if he stays healthy), both Gomez and Young are due to start showing their true power, and none of that counts the Twins ability to score runs WITHOUT HR's...

Last season we scored about as many, maybe more runs than Chicago, with less than half the HRs.

Take into consideration our starting pitching, all very young true, but all are capable of being 15+ win pitchers. The bullpen might be the only hole, but prospects like Mijares and Humber could fill those innings.

Obviously, the season is VERY long, but if all goes well this looks like one of the best teams in baseball, not just the AL central...The Royals are going to win 89 games? Sorry kind sir,but I find your credibility a little...questionable. ;)

[WesKuhnley]

The Royals are going to win 89 games? Sorry kind sir,but I find your credibility a little...questionable. ;)

Call it wishful thinking...Anything to keep the Tigers and Sox down...

[UndergroundVint]

i think it's just more wishful thinking on your part



more then plenty of pop in the yankee lineup


Arod at worst .285 with 30+ HRs and 100 Rbi's


A-Rod is out for 10 weeks with hip surgery. Next up, injuries for Posada and Matsui.....

[blood5150]

A-Rod is out for 10 weeks with hip surgery. .....


Watch, the Yanks will post a winning record without him.

[DGDGBD]

The Yankees' pitching staff needs to get off to a good start. The sox look like the favorites now in the east.

[UndergroundVint]

Red Sox now have SS Lugo undergoing surgery and Pedroia has injured his abs. I know Lugo wasn't a dominant player but losing him can't help. The Sox must get another phenominal season out of Pedroia to compete.

[QRSS]

Red Sox now have SS Lugo undergoing surgery and Pedroia has injured his abs. I know Lugo wasn't a dominant player but losing him can't help. The Sox must get another phenominal season out of Pedroia to compete.


.....or, average seasons out of beckett, ortiz and lowell. lugo's defense will not be missed.

[NHDave]

Red Sox now have SS Lugo undergoing surgery and Pedroia has injured his abs. I know Lugo wasn't a dominant player but losing him can't help. The Sox must get another phenominal season out of Pedroia to compete.


don't get too excited. Lugo lost his starting position
to Jed Lowrie. Out of courtesy, the sox allowed the
two to compete for the starting spot this spring and both
were playing well... That said, if Theo Epstein could have
dumped Lugo's contract over the winter, he'd be gone now.
The Pedroia injury is being reported right now as a strain...

BTW: love love love the new Rays spring training place in
Port Charlotte near where my parents live, tiki bar and pub
seats along the entire outfield fence, nice...

[UndergroundVint]

I have season tickets to the new park but haven't seen a game yet. Sounds pretty nice.

I just think that's a lot of pressure to put on Lowrie. I didn't like his demeanor last season at all. I just dont think he's ready for the big stage.

[UndergroundVint]

The Yankees' pitching staff needs to get off to a good start. The sox look like the favorites now in the east.

Sabathia was worthless in his big Yankees debut....against the mighty Orioles. Ouch.

Meanwhile, Beckett was on fire today against the Rays.

[Yankee Univox]

Sabathia was worthless in his big Yankees debut....against the mighty Orioles. Ouch.

Meanwhile, Beckett was on fire today against the Rays.Only 161 more to go,eh? :munch

[bilbal]

I know it's super early, but man did Red Sox pitching look good this afternoon!!!

GO SOX!!!!

[UndergroundVint]

Only 161 more to go,eh? :munch


T'was worth noting because the entire team is relying on Sabathia to deliver. More so than probably any opening day pitcher..... hmmm, ever.

[UndergroundVint]

After Week 1 the Blue Jays and Orioles are off to strong starts. Red Sox seem fine yet somehow are just 2-4. Longoria is looking at a monster season...5 homers in his first 6 games. Yankees sure could use A-Rod back...his replacement Ransom is 1 for 20, yeesh (.050).

Big Rays/Yankees series tomorrow. Kazmir gets the win with the help of 4 or 5 Rays homers. The loud home opener should pump up the Rays but will also awake Jeter out of his 1 for 17 slump. Should be fun.

[Yankee Univox]

I'll be content if the Yanks can hang around .500 until Rodriguez gets back,then look out!

I think Nick Swisher is going to prove to be a HUGE pickup...big year for Swish! :boxer

[UndergroundVint]

I laughed when I heard NY signed Swisher but he's doing great. A whole lot better than Texieria.

I figure the Rays will be in good shape if they can squeak out a 18-17 start. After that the schedule gets a lot easier. Can't wait for for MVP candidate BJ Upton to come back and replace FORMER minor league coach Gabe Kapler in the outfield.

The Red Sox need to pull away early while Upton and A-Rod are out....and before their own guys (Lowell, ortiz, Drew) start going down.

[jimfog]

What happened to Upton? Did he hurt himself strolling to 1st on a ground ball?

[Yankee Univox]

What happened to Upton? Did he hurt himself strolling to 1st on a ground ball? :rimshot

[UndergroundVint]

He played most of last season and all of the playoffs with a torn labrum. He's playing tonight in the Rays massacre over the Yankees. 1 for 3 with 3 walks and 2 runs.

[DGDGBD]

He played most of last season and all of the playoffs with a torn labrum. He's playing tonight in the Rays massacre over the Yankees. 1 for 3 with 3 walks and 2 runs.
you forgot to rub in, i mean, mention the great catch in CF. :puh

[UndergroundVint]

Didn't see that. I did, however, see the Yankees use their best hitter Swisher for one inning of relief pitching. Pretty risky.

[dets1]

Didn't see that. I did, however, see the Yankees use their best hitter Swisher for one inning of relief pitching. Pretty risky.
and it appears it was the best pitched inning of the day for the yanks. if c.c. and a.j win 30 between them, that is a HUGE failure. 240 million should get 50-60 wins. EACH!!!!!!!!

[DGDGBD]

swisher seems like a real character. could be good or bad, whos knows? I think if he can loosen up the clubhouse a little, might be just what the team needs.

[Yankee Univox]

The Captain puts 'er away! :stir



http://mlb.mlb.com/media/video.jsp?content_id=4142419

[UndergroundVint]

swisher seems like a real character. could be good or bad, whos knows? I think if he can loosen up the clubhouse a little, might be just what the team needs.

Yep, a poor man's Damon.

[Yankee Univox]

...and the first series goes to the Yanks! :boxer

[pavlov]

Nice to see Burnett dominate the Rays last night and better to see Jeter kill the Ray's twice in 2 days. The only reason the Yanks didn't sweep is because Wang doesn't have his head screwed on right. The Rays didn't even have to deal with Arod or Sabathia.

It's still going to be a good race but the Yanks will win the East with the Sox and Rays fighting for the wild card. However, the Sox look like crap without Manny in that lineup. And Ortiz looks shot.

[pavlov]

It will definitely be interesting to see what the Rays do this season.


They've got good pitching. They should win more than 87 games. I cheer for them everytime they play the Sox.

One thing that people overlook is how good Baltimore's lineup is. They will score a lot of runs and knock around a lot of pitchers and play spoiler. They just don't have the pitching to keep up.

[DGDGBD]

The only reason the Yanks didn't sweep is because Wang doesn't have his head screwed on right.

His head is fine. Its his sinker that isn't working.

[57special]

A-Rod's power numbers will mysteriously drop.

[Yankee Univox]

Hey Vint,where ya at brah? :munch

[UndergroundVint]

Tough losses for the Rays the last two days. They need David Price immediately. Offense is looking good though, should easily lead the league in runs.

The Red Sox are going to need to turn it around offensively asap. Dice-K is down with "arm-fatigue" and Beckett is going to be suspended 6 games. Wakefield's performance today was just what the Sox needed but was a bit of a fluke.

I'm happy for the Orioles and Jays but neither will make a run for the playoffs. Looks like they'll keep the win totals down for BOS/NY/TB though.

[pavlov]

A-Rod's power numbers will mysteriously drop.

Just like David Ortiz.

[pavlov]

. Offense is looking good though, should easily lead the league in runs.



They were 9th in the AL last year. in runs, what makes you think they will even be in the top 5 this year? Texas will score more runs than anyone. The Yanks scored more runs last year than Tampa and that was with Arod and Cano having off years and no Posada. And they added Texeria and Swisher is on fire.

Even teams like Cleveland and Minnesota scored more runs than Tampa last year.

[UndergroundVint]

Tampa had the off-year last year offensively: Power hitters Pena and Longoria had month long injuries with broken hands. Not to mention that Longoria started the year in the minors. 30HR/100RBI man Pat Burrell wasn't on the team last year nor was he a DH. Look for those three to hit 120 homers just by themselves. Right now Pena and Longoria have more homers than 15 American league teams.

Barring lengthy injuries, this is what the team is likely to hit for homers:

45 Longoria 3B
45 Pena 1B
30 Burrell DH
30 Upton CF
30 Gross/Joyce/Kapler/Perez RF
30 Aki/Aybar 2B/3B
20 Zobrist/Bartlett SS
15 Crawford LF
15 Navarro/Riggins C


That's just homers. As far as runs go the Rays' ability to walk and steal bases combined with all those RBI guys should speak for itself.

The Yankees? I wouldn't count on Posada lasting 80 games this season. And at the risk of pointing out the obvious...A-Rod is having a little more than an off-year so far. Let me check his stats.....

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000 .000 .000 .000

Not exactly a good start. When he returns he'll be off the juice and the whole world will be harrassing him about it. When the pressure is on he always comes through right? Oooh, wait...no, he never comes through.

[pavlov]

Tampa had the off-year last year offensively: Power hitters Pena and Longoria had month long injuries with broken hands. Not to mention that Longoria started the year in the minors. 30HR/100RBI man Pat Burrell wasn't on the team last year nor was he a DH. Look for those three to hit 120 homers just by themselves. Right now Pena and Longoria have more homers than 15 American league teams.

Barring lengthy injuries, this is what the team is likely to hit for homers:

45 Longoria 3B
45 Pena 1B
30 Burrell DH
30 Upton CF
30 Gross/Joyce/Kapler/Perez RF
30 Aki/Aybar 2B/3B
20 Zobrist/Bartlett SS
15 Crawford LF
15 Navarro/Riggins C


That's just homers. As far as runs go the Rays' ability to walk and steal bases combined with all those RBI guys should speak for itself.

The Yankees? I wouldn't count on Posada lasting 80 games this season. And at the risk of pointing out the obvious...A-Rod is having a little more than an off-year so far. Let me check his stats.....

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .000 .000 .000 .000

Not exactly a good start. When he returns he'll be off the juice and the whole world will be harrassing him about it. When the pressure is on he always comes through right? Oooh, wait...no, he never comes through.


WOW, put down the Rays Kool-Aid. Who's in last place right now? Who got a game winning Home Run for the Yanks today? :rotflmao Who got a game winning Homer for the Yanks on Friday?:rotflmao The Yanks took 2 of 3 in Tampa without Arod and with Wang pitching a game:D

[Yankee Univox]

Here's how it breaks down for NY-
1) No A Rod
2) Wang has been pure garbage so far,and CC hasn't really gotten it going yet.
3) Nady probably lost for the season
4)Tex's wrist
5) Matsui's knee
6) Horrible performance from the bullpen.


...and yet the Yanks are still 7-6,and in 2nd place.With everything that has gone wrong,I'll take that.What do you think they'll do when A Rod gets back,and they start to get healthier? :huh

[UndergroundVint]

That's what you don't get...the Yankees NEVER get healthier! They only break down further throughout the year. A fire or two will be put out at the trading deadline but that never seems to be enough.

EVERY year someone on here says if not for injuries last year the Yankees would have went all the way. Ya don't say. And every year the core of that team gets older while the rest of the division gets younger. Or in the case of the Rays, older (but still very young) and not even close to being in their prime years.

I agree, the Yankees have made the most out their bad play, especially compared to Boston and Tampa. Honestly though, what players besides Tex and and injured A-Rod do you expect to actaully have great offensive seasons?

Boston, by the way, might be losing Lowrie for the season. Another blow to a sinking ship.

[silencer eleven]

Man you couldn't be anymore incorrect at this point! Baseball is a funny funny game.

You're kidding, right?

Who's pitching for the Dodgers this year? Plus, when and IF Manny gets paid, no way does he play like the end of last year. He was on a mission.

NL will be among Cubs, Phil and Mets.

Rays will be good again, but as much as I hate to say it, the Yankees will be better.

[Yankee Univox]

You'll never read me say that...the Yanks just didn't get it done last year,period.

...but I'm not looking at last year anymore,I'm trying to guage what I've seen so far this year.

[AgentWalrus]

Just like David Ortiz.

no no david ortiz was never special unless he had manny hitting behind him

[QRSS]

no no david ortiz was never special unless he had manny hitting behind him

he would be failing right now even with manny behind him.

[UndergroundVint]

I'd rather have this year's Rays team than the Yankees'. I think anyone other than a Yankees fan would too.

[jimfog]

Man you couldn't be anymore incorrect at this point! Baseball is a funny funny game.

.....and a long, LONG season.

It's early. I'll stick with what I said.

[UndergroundVint]

Just got back from the Rays/Red Sox game. What a masterpiece by Garza! One-hitter against red hot Boston. Beckett was useless. Bay blew a couple plays too which is not like him at all.

Make or break series for the Rays. So far so good.

[Yankee Univox]

Good to see the Yanks get that 1st win against those flippin' Angels,a team that ALWAYS seems to have their number! :stir

[jimfog]

Upton? - .158

Burrell? - 1 HR

Pitching? - awful

Rays? Cellar


:huh

[UndergroundVint]

Easy Jim. Aren't you supposed to wait until late October to start talking baseball? You know, after it's down to just two teams and a favorite is determined that happens to be from your town?

If you want to talk about Burrell or Upton though, I'll still take them over Boston or NY's leadoff and DH guys. Ortiz doesn't have ANY homers yet. Burrell is holding his own. Tough to drive in runs when the leagues top two RBI leaders bat right in front of you. Upton's still the best center fielder in the game and will come around at the plate.

[Yankee Univox]

:banana

[jimfog]

Easy Jim. Aren't you supposed to wait until late October to start talking baseball?

I'm NOT talking about baseball......I'm talking about the Tampa Bay Devil Rays!

;)



BTW....nice win tonight.

[UndergroundVint]

Could have done without the Yankees come from behind win tonight. Oh well.

Rays handled the Sox just fine with a 6-2 win. Two more homers and five more RBI's for Pena/Longoria.

[pavlov]

Could have done without the Yankees come from behind win tonight. Oh well.

Rays handled the Sox just fine with a 6-2 win. Two more homers and five more RBI's for Pena/Longoria.

You were right about Posada and Jeter not having 200 hits from both of them this year. It will be more like 300.:banana Posada with the game winning hit tonight.

And Cano is looking every bit like an MVP contender if he keeps this up.

[UndergroundVint]

If everyone keeps this up Cano is looking at about 5th place in the MVP voting.

Posada and Jeter need to stay healthy to reach those numbers. Do you really expect them to play a combined 200+ games this year?

[Yankee Univox]

'Upton's still the best center fielder in the game..."

So you really think bee jay is better than Grady Sizemore,eh? :huh

[jimfog]

'Upton's still the best center fielder in the game..."

So you really think bee jay is better than Grady Sizemore,eh? :huh


Yes, he does.

But he also thinks the Devil Rays are going to win the AL East this year.

Just as he thought they were going to sweep the Phils in the series last year.

:NUTS

[UndergroundVint]

If you're going to sound like a broken record Jim, please tell the whole story. In October you rooted for the favorite (Phillies) to win the World Series. In May I predicted the Rays would win the AL East. I got greedy and wanted a Rays sweep of the Phillies. You, to date, have never made an educated guess or prediction on any baseball stat. Easier to play the contrarian role I guess.

As far as Sizemore and Upton go, of course Upton is the better center fielder. Sizemore had 5 fewer errors last season which is all you two will judge this on but here's some more data:

Upton - 16 assists, 5 double plays, 2.84 range factor, 378 putouts, .273 batting average, 44 stolen bases, in 143 games.

Sizemore - 2 assists, 1 double play, 2.58 range factor, 382 putouts, .268 batting average, 38 stolen bases, in 151 games.


It'll take Sizemore 7 more years to gun down as many runners as Upton did last year alone. Upton's 16 assists were more than Coco Crisp, Torii hunter, Vernon Wells, and Grady Sizemore had combined.

Enough stats for tonight. Back to the loony bin for me. :NUTS

[jimfog]

If you're going to sound like a broken record Jim, please tell the whole story. In October you rooted for the favorite (Phillies) to win the World Series. In May I predicted the Rays would win the AL East. I got greedy and wanted a Rays sweep of the Phillies. You, to date, have never made an educated guess or prediction on any baseball stat. Easier to play the contrarian role I guess.

First........I've rooted....no, lived and died with the Phillies since before long the Rays even existed. In fact, I'm betting since well before YOU...and possibly your PARENTS.......existed. lol

Favorites? All I saw were the "experts" picking the Rays to win the series.....not too many gave the Phils a chance all post-season long, other than the Brewers series.

No, I don't make hard and fast predictions. They just make you look silly. I'll make an educated guess from time to time (see early in this thread), but if you think you know how ANY team WILL do, you're delusional. That kind of thinking makes the sports books rich.

You got one right with your support of your team last year. Congrats. Don't read too much into it. Even a stopped clock, etc, etc.

Contrarian? nah.......I just like tweaking people who think they know. :argue

Upton vs Sizemore? No contest......I'll pick the guy with desire, heart, hustle and respect for the game, any day.

It's cool, though. All a game.

Enjoy!.....and keep supporting your team, even should they tank.

:dude

[dets1]

i hate to chime in on the lovefest, but i was stunned last year when philly won the series, and more stunned because they beat the rays who i feel were the best team in baseball last year. i think with good health the rays will be right there again this year. i can't remember (jimfog?) if the mets didn't collapse, would the phillies have gotten in as a wildcard? that's an honest question. not sarcasm. and for the record- i make these statements about the rays because they've been KICKING THE CRAP OUTTA MY BELOVED RED SOX!!!!!!!!! i'm getting sick of these punks and they're going to be around for a while. a lot of youth.

[UndergroundVint]

First........I've rooted....no, lived and died with the Phillies since before long the Rays even existed. In fact, I'm betting since well before YOU...and possibly your PARENTS.......existed. lol



No, I don't make hard and fast predictions. They just make you look silly. I'll make an educated guess from time to time (see early in this thread), but if you think you know how ANY team WILL do, you're delusional. That kind of thinking makes the sports books rich.

You got one right with your support of your team last year. Congrats. Don't read too much into it. Even a stopped clock, etc, etc.

Contrarian? nah.......I just like tweaking people who think they know. :argue



:dude


The Phillies are the better example of a broken clock, etc. etc. You rooted for them as much during all those non-World Series years as you did in 2008. Lets be clear, I rooted for the Red Sox but predicted that the lowly Rays would win the AL East. That kind of thinking and bold predictions made me a ton of money last year. Your predictions might make you look silly. I can see why you dont make them anymore.

[Yankee Univox]

I predict the Yankees will come back strong tomorrow,and take 3/4 from those dreaded Angels.Given their track record against Anaheim,I'd have gladly taken that coming in.


I also predict,that CC better find his groove quick before NY starts to become an unpleasant place for him! :argue

[pavlov]

First........I've rooted....no, lived and died with the Phillies since before long the Rays even existed. In fact, I'm betting since well before YOU...and possibly your PARENTS.......existed. lol

Favorites? All I saw were the "experts" picking the Rays to win the series.....not too many gave the Phils a chance all post-season long, other than the Brewers series.

No, I don't make hard and fast predictions. They just make you look silly. I'll make an educated guess from time to time (see early in this thread), but if you think you know how ANY team WILL do, you're delusional. That kind of thinking makes the sports books rich.

You got one right with your support of your team last year. Congrats. Don't read too much into it. Even a stopped clock, etc, etc.

Contrarian? nah.......I just like tweaking people who think they know. :argue

Upton vs Sizemore? No contest......I'll pick the guy with desire, heart, hustle and respect for the game, any day.

It's cool, though. All a game.

Enjoy!.....and keep supporting your team, even should they tank.

:dude


Yup, making predictions on baseball is the LAST sport where you can look at things on paper and think they will work out.

And last year it seemed that the long 7 game series with the Red Sox took a lot out of the Rays. That, and the fact that the Phillies are a winning bunch of players. They have these big comebacks often and the way that they shoved the Mets faces in the dirt the past 2 years really shows a lot.

As a Yankee fan i get annoyed when most every Met fan i know picks the Sux as their second favorite team. **** them, they push me into cheering for the Phillies whenever they face the Mets.

And good for the Rays for being good last year. But now they have a bullseye on them, they aren't sneaking up on anyone and their pitching staff has a lot to prove still. Funny how they beat up on the Red Sox but everyone esle has been beating on them.

And yes, Philly fans have always had a lot of passion. I went to some Philly games in the early 90's and it was a blast. MUCH better experience than those animalistic Eagles fans.

[UndergroundVint]

Rays take the series 3-1 over the Red Sox.

SIX steals by Carl Crawford. WOW!

[QRSS]

SIX steals by Carl Crawford. WOW!

and it wasnt even wakefield. :huh

[UndergroundVint]

Red Sox beat the Yanks tonight in NYC 6-4. NY had the bases loaded in the 9th but couldn't get it done.

Rays were upset by the Orioles in St. Pete. Yeesh. They just cant play well for more than 1-2 games in a row. Can't play Boston every day I guess.

[UndergroundVint]

Joba and the Yanks lose to the Red Sox again....0-5 on the year. At least those $2500 seats are selling well. Oh, I mean like crap. Posada is on the DL with oldness in his age.

Rays win and face NY and BOS the next five games....time to make up some ground. Crawford and Longoria are on track for 100 steals and 200 RBI's respectively.

Blue Jays are still on top though. That shouldn't last much longer. Right??

[Stratobuc]

Go St. Pete Rays!!!!!!!!

[Yankee Univox]

I am getting sooooo sick of losing games like these...tying run 90 ft. away with 2 cracks at it.Neither Texiera,nor Matsui can getter done! Yanks are 0-5 against Boston,and 4/5 of those games were games they either should have/were in an excellent position to win.


It's starting to look like last season all over again with the complete -0- in clutch hitting! :FM

[UndergroundVint]

Tex finally came through with the game tying RBI's but choked in the end.
He can't wait for A-Rod to come back. Me neither, the Yankees need another overpaid .200 hitter in their lineup.

Yet another homer, RBI, and steal for Pena, Longoria, and Crawford. Awesome.

The Yankees SHOULD beat the Rays by five runs on Thursday with Niemann pitching. We'll see if they win at all.

[pavlov]

I admit the Yanks suck right now. And it's really not their starting pitching. Their bullpen is a major disaster, not including Mariano, and the lineup is too inconsistent. They'll score 11 runs one game, then go the rest of the week scoring 3 runs.

But the season is young, nobody is running away, and there's an awful lot of talent on the Yanks this year that they should be in the thick of it.

Tex is starting to come alive. He's been the offense as of late and they can't expect him to do everything.

[Zelmo]

For all the trash talk that I'm hearing - the usual SOS - it still occurs to me that the Rays are - what? - 6.5 games out of 1st place? I reckon that would be 4.5 games behind the Sox if my math is correct.

Yep. Thought so.

Yeah - I know: come September, the Rays are gonna... - they woulda, shoulda, coulda...blah, blah, blah.

[UndergroundVint]

Un-timely/poor hitting put the Rays in this hole. The bats have come around and their pitching is already better than NY and BOS. The Rays are 5-2 over BOS and 3-2 over NY. Next three games are against BOS, let's see what happens.

[Zelmo]

Un-timely/poor hitting put the Rays in this hole. The bats have come around and their pitching is already better than NY and BOS. The Rays are 5-2 over BOS and 3-2 over NY. Next three games are against BOS, let's see what happens.
Yeah right - whatever is most convenient for the excuse du jour. It's either 'wait until this coming series', or 'let's see what happens in September'.

Fact is that right now, the Rays are sucking hind teat at 4.5 back from the Sox. I cannot predict what will happen in the future as well as other people apparently can.....but for now, all this smack talk is really just laughable.....

[UndergroundVint]

Un-timely/poor hitting is not an excuse, it's the least flattering thing I could say about their lineup. The Rays obviously have lots of offense but couldnt get it done against teams like Seattle, Baltimore, and Minnesota.

Calling them out for basically leaving dozens of runners in scoring position seemed like smack to you? Your reaction has been the most smack filled reply in this whole post.

[zekmoe]

it's a long season. Yanks will take it all by the end. No doubt whatsoever.

[John Hurtt]

it's a long season. Yanks will take it all by the end. No doubt whatsoever.


Lot's of doubts, I would think. Boston and Tampa Bay both have excellent teams. It's a long season, and should be entertaining to watch this division.

[Zelmo]

Your reaction has been the most smack filled reply in this whole post.

... Can't play Boston every day I guess.

Right.....:messedup

[Yankee Univox]

Yanks come back strong and take 2/3 from those unstoppable Jays. :bow



Despite all the injuries,and A Rod basically doing nothing offensively since homering on the first pitch he saw,we're at .500 and right in the thick of it.

NY will gitter going soon! :boxer

[NHDave]

Couple thoughts

Big Papi, could be done. 0 for 7 last night and left 12
runners on base. I think it's time for him to come down
with a case of the Pawtucket flu...


The Jays... I think we'll see what's up with them and
quick. Up to this point, they hadn't played one game
against either the Sox, Yanks or Rays.

Interesting stat about Longoria... If you took his
recent numbers against the Sox and projected it over
162 games. It was something like .412 with 90 home
runs...

[UndergroundVint]

Sunday night on ESPN Joe Morgan was taking credit for Ortiz'x turnaround. Next time Papi should take advice from John Miller instead.

A-Rod has been worthless since his return. Texieria's numbers aren't much better.

Rays are still struggling but just had the big game they needed. Came back from a 7-0 deficit with BJ Upton ending it with a walk-off homerun. Another 5 steals for the team too.

Rays should catch up to the Red Sox by the end of the month.

[Yankee Univox]

Another nice come from behind win for the Yanks...Gardner with an inside the park HR! :boxer

[UndergroundVint]

Another walk-off win for the Yankees today. That's starting to get old.

Crazy game in St. Pete today. Tampa's pitcher Sonnenstine had to hit instead of Longoria (DH) because of a lineup card snafu. Worked out because he went 1-3 and doubled in an RBI. Later on cleveland brought in hard thrower Kerry Wood to bean BJ Upton. Tried twice and failed but somehow wasn't ejected. Evidently the Cleveland catcher was mad because Upton kept stealing bases the other night while down 9-0...depsite it only being the 6th inning.

19th straight game with a steal for the Rays. They are completely dominating on the base paths.

[NHDave]

Rays should catch up to the Red Sox by the end of the month.[/QUOTE]


No offense, the Rays are good, but you're dreaming if you
don't realize the AL east will be a 4 team dogfight this
year.

[jimfog]

Later on cleveland brought in hard thrower Kerry Wood to bean BJ Upton. Tried twice and failed but somehow wasn't ejected. Evidently the Cleveland catcher was mad because Upton kept stealing bases the other night while down 9-0...depsite it only being the 6th inning.

Man......I've said it before, and this just confirms it.

Upton is a little stat-hound, selfish PUNK.

Stealing UP nine runs??? He deserved one in his ear......and any veteran on his team who hasn't pulled him aside and read him the "rules" of the game deserves one, too.

What a POS.

[tybone]

The Jays... I think we'll see what's up with them and
quick. Up to this point, they hadn't played one game
against either the Sox, Yanks or Rays.

runs...

Having dispatched Chicago handily (swept 3 game series) this weekend I hope to have the last laugh on this one. At 26-14 the Jay's are looking pretty good right now. Doc Haliday, with his league leading 8th win, is a key.

Cito is a fantastic manager who has 2 World Series wins. Second only to NY during the 90's with the Braves (with Jimy one m Williams) in 3rd.

At 2.5 in front of Boston and 4.5 in front of NY I feel good about the team....especially with a wack of wounded starting pitchers.

[UndergroundVint]

Man......I've said it before, and this just confirms it.

Upton is a little stat-hound, selfish PUNK.

Stealing UP nine runs??? He deserved one in his ear......and any veteran on his team who hasn't pulled him aside and read him the "rules" of the game deserves one, too.

What a POS.




You misunderstood, the Rays were DOWN 9 runs, not up. His two steals helped the Rays put 6 runs on the board that inning. Again, it was only the 6th inning. And Maddon called for the steals reasoning that if nothing else the Indians would use up some bullpen guys which could help them later in the 4 game series. That worked like a charm because the next night the Rays came back from a 7-0 deficit and won the next two games as well.

Today, Kerry Wood was brought in like a mercenary to bean Upton while the Indians were down 2 runs in the 8th. In a thousand years, regardless of what era of baseball it is, that will be far worse than a runner stealing a base in the 6th inning....up or down 9 runs.

[UndergroundVint]

Having dispatched Chicago handily (swept 3 game series) this weekend I hope to have the last laugh on this one. At 26-14 the Jay's are looking pretty good right now. Doc Haliday, with his league leading 8th win, is a key.

Cito is a fantastic manager who has 2 World Series wins. Second only to NY during the 90's with the Braves (with Jimy one m Williams) in 3rd.

At 2.5 in front of Boston and 4.5 in front of NY I feel good about the team....especially with a wack of wounded starting pitchers.

I'm happy for the Blue Jays and hope they stay in it for as long as possible. Like most people though, I don't expect them to keep up this '08 Rangers type offense all season. They hit .264 as a team last year and are averaging .290 now. Their pitching might hold steady but their hot offense has only one direction to go...down.

[tonedaddy]

Man......I've said it before, and this just confirms it.

Upton is a little stat-hound, selfish PUNK.

Stealing UP nine runs??? He deserved one in his ear......and any veteran on his team who hasn't pulled him aside and read him the "rules" of the game deserves one, too.

What a POS.You misunderstood, the Rays were DOWN 9 runs, not up. His two steals helped the Rays put 6 runs on the board that inning. Again, it was only the 6th inning. And Maddon called for the steals reasoning that if nothing else the Indians would use up some bullpen guys which could help them later in the 4 game series. That worked like a charm because the next night the Rays came back from a 7-0 deficit and won the next two games as well.

Oops....

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5BxwvKo5JP0/SXgN1cVD-FI/AAAAAAAAA9g/s5DBONhl9gU/s400/RosannaDanna_l.jpg

Never mind.
;)


And yeah, of all the nerve, that little little stat-hound, selfish PUNK, POS Upton won that 7-0 deficit game with a walk-off homer, too.
Bastid.
:D

[jimfog]

Oops....

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5BxwvKo5JP0/SXgN1cVD-FI/AAAAAAAAA9g/s5DBONhl9gU/s400/RosannaDanna_l.jpg

Never mind.

;)


Bahhhhh!!! Don't confuse the issue with facts. He's STILL a punk! :FM

I bet he stiffed the waiter, too!!!

:mob

[tonedaddy]

bahhhhh!!! Don't confuse the issue with facts. He's still a punk! :fm

i bet he stiffed the waiter, too!!!

:mob

:roll

[DGDGBD]

oops...you mean...http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/dhruth/misc/emily-litella.jpg


not...Oops....

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_5BxwvKo5JP0/SXgN1cVD-FI/AAAAAAAAA9g/s5DBONhl9gU/s400/RosannaDanna_l.jpg

Never mind.
;)


And yeah, of all the nerve, that little little stat-hound, selfish PUNK, POS Upton won that 7-0 deficit game with a walk-off homer, too.
Bastid.
:D

[tonedaddy]

oops...you mean...http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/dhruth/misc/emily-litella.jpg


not...

Oops.

Never mind.
;)

[UndergroundVint]

Getting back on track here...

Do you think the Red Sox will shop for a new DH? Don't know where they're more cursed, Ortiz's spot or at the SS position. Green cost them the game today and Lugo is..... being Lugo.

You're right Jim, Burell is a dud. Philly can have him back.

And let's congratulate A-Rod on getting his 5th hit of the year! It only cost the Yankees $7 million so far this season!

[jimfog]

You're right Jim, Burell is a dud. Philly can have him back.


.....and then he'll literally put the team on his shoulders for an entire month with HUGE MVP numbers and clutch hits........and at the end of what seemed like a sucky year, he'll have his typical good career averages.

A VERY frustrating hitter.

[re-animator]

As a Yankee fan i get annoyed when most every Met fan i know picks the Sux as their second favorite team. **** them, they push me into cheering for the Phillies whenever they face the Mets.


pardon me, but isn't this the exact same thing?

[Yankee Univox]

'Another walk-off win for the Yankees today.That's starting to get old.'



...aint it though?! :boxer

[DGDGBD]

And let's congratulate A-Rod on getting his 5th hit of the year! He's only hitting .172 in 9 games but three of the five hits went yard, and he has 7 rbis to show for it. Oh yeah, nine bb's and .385 obp. Most importantly, yanks are 7-2 since he returned.

[UndergroundVint]

Sorry, there's no reason not to hate someone who takes steroids, pads his numbers through cheating, gets paid $200,000+ per game (while dozens of players better than him this season make $400,000 per year), and single handedly drives the prices up for everybody and everything in baseball. He is why there are empty seats at Yankee Stadium. He is the reason god-awful players like Julio Lugo make $9 million per year. He's the reason why millions of casual baseball fans, especially in this economy, will not be able to afford a game.

[Yankee Univox]

Oh ok...so now everything that is wrong with baseball can be traced back to A Rod? :rolleyes:

Let's see...Rose,Martin,Canseco,McGuire,Howe,Strawberry, Gooden,Sheffield,Bonds,RAMIREZ,(add names here)...no,there haven't been plenty of selfish,egotistical prima donnas over the last 25-30 years whom have all contributed to the sport getting to the point it's at today,huh?:munch

You know,getting rid of friggin' Selig,and Boras would be a great place to start!

[UndergroundVint]

I didn't say "everything" that is wrong with baseball is A-Rod's fault. Please re-read my post.

None of those other players is nearly as greedy as A-Rod. None makes $33 million per year either, deservedly or otherwise.

Rose? I consider him one of the greats. What he did with his bookie is no business of mine. And Canseco is looking more and more like the sole person responsible for cleaning up baseball. He's broke and is being treated like an outcast while A-Rod gets paid millions to hit a ball off a tee in Tampa for a month.

I'll agree with you on Boras but these are grown men he represents, the greedy ones are still greedy.

[Yankee Univox]

Yanks keep truckin' along...6 straight.Posada,and hopefully a re-tooled Wang soon to come back.

[pavlov]

Arod and Tex are really heating up. Yanks are looking good now.

[UndergroundVint]

AL East will change shape this month one way or the other as the Red Sox and Jays play two series against one another.

Rays are heating up too and play Oakland, Florida, Cleveland, and Minnesota to end the month. Pretty easy schedule.

Looks like the Yanks and Rays will both overtake Boston by the end of the month.

[dets1]

i'll be at fenway tonight to see the beginning of the end for the jays. wakefield is pitching so the game should be about 5 or 6 hours.

[frankencat]

I predict that the Rays are AWESOME!!!! :)

[Mandoboy]

Looks like the Yanks and Rays will both overtake Boston by the end of the month.

That'll be June 1st, about 6 weeks (or say 40 games or so) before the All Star break...plenty of time for the Rays and Yanks to tank :AOK

[stratzrus]

I just picked up a Phillies World Champion longsleeve durning lunch on South Street.

I'm thinking repeat....Go Phils!

[jimfog]

I just picked up a Phillies World Champion longsleeve durning lunch on South Street.

I'm thinking repeat....Go Phils!

No, no........you're misremembering.

The Rays SWEPT the Phils.

Nostradamus told me, so it must be true!

:rotflmao:rotflmao:rotflmao

[UndergroundVint]

This has gone on long enough Jim. I'm going to need you to show me where I said they'd sweep. I definitely rooted for them to win but I absolutely did not want them to sweep.

I had World Series Games 6 and 7 tickets pre-sold WEEKS before the Rays beat Boston in the ALCS. I can't imagine myself rooting to give all that money back.

Maybe I said, "with my luck, the Rays will sweep." This isn't Wikipedia Jim, I'm going to have to be see your source for that quote.

[frankencat]

I would LOVE to see the Rays and Phils again in the series. That would be a good one. We ran out of steam last year but I think the team will peak much later this year and it would be a good match up....If we can get our pitching together.

[jimfog]

If we can get our pitching together.

Same here!! It's been simply brutal.

[jimfog]

This has gone on long enough Jim.

C'mon.......don't go all revisionist on me now. :nono

I'm just being a dick........but you KNOW you said it. I was busting your chops all Series about it, as well.

Very convenient to ask for "proof" NOW when your old thread has somehow disappeared.

Don't be that way. Man up. I'll dial it back

(fun to know I'm getting under your skin a wee bit, though. :stir)

Ain't sports grand?

:banana:banana:banana

[Yankee Univox]

Seperate sandboxes,girls... :rolleyes:


Yanks continue their upward climb with a 9-1 blasting of the Os,and a great outing by CC! :BEER

[UndergroundVint]

What gets under my skin is that I cant remember what I said about that series. I'm sure you can look up what I said. One thing is for sure, I got several 100:1 shot predictions right last year and so far all you've done is call me out on something I'm 99.9999% sure I didnt say. (i.e., you made it up).

Wasn't kidding about needing the series to go 7 games either. Over $15,000 worth of tickets were sold on Stubhub for 6 and 7. All I needed to cash in was for the games to actually be played. And the orders were placed in September, long before anyone thought Philly would win the NL.

Sorry dude, I'm convinced I never said it. Find me proof and I'll give you two tickets for the Phillies/Rays game in St. Pete in June. Front row on the field next to the Phillies dugout.

[jimfog]

Sorry dude, I'm convinced I never said it. Find me proof and I'll give you two tickets for the Phillies/Rays game in St. Pete in June. Front row on the field next to the Phillies dugout.

Found it!!!! :dude


No contest.....the Rays will win this World Series in 4 games. Can you say SWEEP!?! The Phils have no chance.

I am saying this on October 21st, 2008...........and BTW, I have a mancrush on BJ Upton, even though I know he's a slacker.

signed, UndergroundVint

Cool......fork those seats OVER, brother!!!


:rotflmao:rotflmao:rotflmao

[Yankee Univox]

D'oh! :facepalm

[UndergroundVint]

Scared me there for a second. You got greedy with the mancrush line though. Just cost you two tickets.

[Yankee Univox]

Meanwhile,the PinStripe machine continues to steamroll 'em! :boxer

Swisher/Cano/Cabrera with back to back to back taters in the 2nd!

[UndergroundVint]

Bunch of homers for the Red Sox tonight including one by Ortiz. Finally!

Rays have lost frigging two in a row to the A's. Inches away from winning both nights. They'll need a Sox/Yanks type streak soon before this gets out of hand.

How 'bout the Manny-less Dodgers? In that division they might clinch in August.

[dets1]

Meanwhile,the PinStripe machine continues to steamroll 'em! :boxer

Swisher/Cano/Cabrera with back to back to back taters in the 2nd!
what's up with the new stadium? it seems like a snap throw to first base from the catcher has a chance to go over the right field fence! and who's next on the schedule for the yankees, taiwan little league? sorry to interrupt. now back to the rays/phils bash fest.

[Yankee Univox]

what's up with the new stadium? it seems like a snap throw to first base from the catcher has a chance to go over the right field fence! and who's next on the schedule for the yankees, taiwan little league? sorry to interrupt. now back to the rays/phils bash fest. Hey hey hey...just wanted to say congratulations! Fat Alb,*ahem* I mean David Ortiz finally hit his first HR of '09!!!! :horse

[UndergroundVint]

You really don't think he is in any way obese do you? Texieria is chubbier than Ortiz.

[Yankee Univox]

You really don't think he is in any way obese do you? Texieria is chubbier than Ortiz.How do you figure? :huh

[DGDGBD]

He probably meant Sabathia.

[UndergroundVint]

How do you figure? :huh

Ortiz is 6'4, 230 and Texieria is 6'3, 220. Would be a wash if Ortiz's shoulders were about 3 inches wider than Texieria's.

Ortiz simply isn't fat by any stretch of the imagination.

[Yankee Univox]

Ortiz is 6'4, 230 and Texieria is 6'3, 220. Would be a wash if Ortiz's shoulders were about 3 inches wider than Texieria's.

Ortiz simply isn't fat by any stretch of the imagination.Dude...if Ortiz is 6'4",I assure you he weighs more than 230.I'm 6-3, 240,and Ortiz is considerably chubbier than me!

[UndergroundVint]

His arms, legs, belly, and face are not chubby at all. His frame is just wider than any other person's in the game. Stadium too for that matter:

http://img195.imageshack.us/img195/2779/picture9165.jpg (http://img195.imageshack.us/my.php?image=picture9165.jpg)

http://img199.imageshack.us/img199/8480/picture2998.jpg (http://img199.imageshack.us/my.php?image=picture2998.jpg)




http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/110/picture7254.jpg (http://img132.imageshack.us/my.php?image=picture7254.jpg)

[Yankee Univox]

Okeee,well...Yanks rock n' roll again...will go for 10 straight starting tomorrow night against the Champs! :boxer:boxer:boxer






:bender

[UndergroundVint]

And Joba left the game hurt. Nothing a fifth of bourbon couldn't cure I'm sure.

Sox won too marking the start of Toronto's fall back to earth. Rays score 3 in the bottom of the 9th to beat the mighty (ha) A's.

[UndergroundVint]

LETS GO PHILLIES:banana cha cha ...cha,cha,cha.

[mysocalledchaos]

Okeee,well...Yanks rock n' roll again...will go for 10 straight starting tomorrow night against the Champs! :boxer:boxer:boxer






:bender

too bad that ended. :)

[pavlov]

As long as the Sox lost all is well. And looks like all those innings that Kasmir threw last year caught up to him. I don't think Tampa's pitching will keep them in it this year.

[UndergroundVint]

Percival is out too, possibly for good. Only good news is that David Price has had a few good starts in a row and is being called up.

The Edwin Jackson trade for Matt Joyce is looking more and more like a top 10 dumbest trade of all time candidate. 14 game winner last year as a spot starter and has 2.55 ERA now. I don't even know where Joyce is. Maybe the Rays can trade three or four of their right fielders for a Jackson type pitcher.

Jays, Yanks, and Red Sox al lost tonight though while the Rays won 15-2. The perfect storm.

[tonedaddy]

Percival is out too, possibly for good. Only good news is that David Price has had a few good starts in a row and is being called up.

The Edwin Jackson trade for Matt Joyce is looking more and more like a top 10 dumbest trade of all time candidate. 14 game winner last year as a spot starter and has 2.55 ERA now. I don't even know where Joyce is. Maybe the Rays can trade three or four of their right fielders for a Jackson type pitcher.

Jays, Yanks, and Red Sox al lost tonight though while the Rays won 15-2. The perfect storm.

At the time, I thought the Jackson-Joyce trade looked pretty good on paper, primarily due to a robust pitching staff and Joyce's low payroll cost compared to what else was on the market at the time.

Long-term? Who knows?

Probably going to have to let it play out a few years before we'll know if Joyce delivers above-average performance for (what appeared to be) a below-average paycheck.

Joyce seems to be seasoning well down in AAA-Durham.
He appears healthy, and is playing daily.
34 games, leading the team in batting with a .320 avg, and a .413 OBP, and .516 SLG.
A pretty good performance considering his tendonitis early in the year.

I agree on Percival, I think he's history.
Ever since last year I cringe when he goes to the mound, expecting to royally injure himself.
Love the guy, when he's on he's great, love his desire, but man the body has to be shot.

[UndergroundVint]

I do have hope for Joyce but I thought when we made the trade he was ready to play. And I LOVE Perez. As soon as those two can start sharing RF then Kapler and Gross need to go. Sooner the better before the Yankees start their injury/trade-fest. Zobrist can handle RF anyway.

[tonedaddy]

I do have hope for Joyce but I thought when we made the trade he was ready to play. And I LOVE Perez. As soon as those two can start sharing RF then Kapler and Gross need to go. Sooner the better before the Yankees start their injury/trade-fest. Zobrist can handle RF anyway.

+1 on all counts.

I believe they thought Joyce was ready to play as well.
I think he's down in Durham as much for psychology work as physical rehab.... maybe more.
I think they want him joining the roster feeling confident, and not struggling after an injury like at the beginning of the season.

[Yankee Univox]

too bad that ended. :)2 outta 3,2 outta 3...:bumpbump

[frankencat]

I do have hope for Joyce but I thought when we made the trade he was ready to play. And I LOVE Perez. As soon as those two can start sharing RF then Kapler and Gross need to go. Sooner the better before the Yankees start their injury/trade-fest. Zobrist can handle RF anyway.

+1. How about that new guy Thayer last night? I thought he looked great. Kapler actually wasn't crappy last night and made a couple of nice defensive plays but I agree, Zobrist needs to be in there every night and where the heck is Perez?? We also need to bring up Price and send down Kasmir....don't even get me started on Kaz...

Go Rays!

[Mandoboy]

As long as the Sox lost all is well.

A radio host observed that our variety of shortstops has cost us 2 or 3 wins- including last night... can't argue that.. :facepalm

[dets1]

A radio host observed that our variety of shortstops has cost us 2 or 3 wins- including last night... can't argue that.. :facepalm
lugo was two of those two or three. when he first got back he blew two easy double play balls that lead to the loss of the games. i'll take nick green any day. the sox never should have traded alex gonzalez. or OC for that matter. i heard that hal steinbrenner has been in touch with hideki irabu to try and shore up that bullpen.
:stir

[Yankee Univox]

Yanks back in the dub yuh column today! :)

[UndergroundVint]

Another Rays win too. 25 runs over the last two games.

Red Sox lose via instant replay. They're ALWAYS on the wrong side of that green monster shelf homerun call.

[pavlov]

Another Rays win too. 25 runs over the last two games.

Red Sox lose via instant replay. They're ALWAYS on the wrong side of that green monster shelf homerun call.


It was clearly a home run. Both New York teams win today in dramatic fashion.

And so much for Arod not getting clutch hits. He had a walk off homer last week and a 2 run homer in the bottom of the 9th off Lidge to tie the game. I've been rough on Arod but heck, i cheer for the pinstripes.

[UndergroundVint]

I know it was clearly a homer but more than once I've seen that play ruled a double for Red Sox hitters. I'm glad the replay got it right. The more reviewable plays there are in baseball the better. In any case, Pabelbon was on fire and that was one big clutch homer.

A-Rod's had some timely hitting but a .200 average ain't gonna cut it. Visiting teams will be hitting lots of dingers in that park too and the Yankees' pitching staff isn't exact spectacular.

[jimfog]

Yanks back in the dub yuh column today! :)


Ooops.

Even with Lidge self-destructing before our very eyes, the World Champs snag 2 of 3.

A good weekend.

[UndergroundVint]

I like the Phillies catcher Ruiz. Great arm.

Toronto lost the top spot in the AL today, no surprise.

Rays lost in extra innings and lost second baseman Akimura in a double play take-out. Gotta jump there dude.

[jimfog]

I like the Phillies catcher Ruiz. Great arm.

Chooch is really good behind the dish.....calls a terrific game. He has a tendency to hit into DP's, but when he goes on a streak like he's on now, it makes this team real tough. Almost no one to pitch around.

Hopefully, the pitching is coming around, but the starters and Lidge have been pretty sketchy.

[tonedaddy]

Rays lost in extra innings and lost second baseman Akimura in a double play take-out. Gotta jump there dude.

Man, that made my knees weak just watching it. I ran it back in super slow-mo several times and he got off the ground with both feet just a few inches, but lands back down on the left foot just before he tries to get the throw off when he gets hit.

I hope he may not have had too much weight on that leg or he was light on his feet. Down side is it looked like he got hit with the front of the guy's knee which was fixed and bent.

[UndergroundVint]

And they didn't bother sending him to the hospital in Miami. If it can wait til tomorrow in St. Pete then maybe there's hope. For now though maybe Zobrist will get a few more at bats at 2B.

David Price gets the start tomorrow in Cleveland. The Rays never do well there so a win from him will be huge.

[UndergroundVint]

Akimura is out for the season. Crap. Not good for the team or the game of baseball in general.

[Yankee Univox]

Yanks with a share of 1st...FINALLY! :bumpbump

[WesKuhnley]

Yanks with a share of 1st...FINALLY! :bumpbump

You're welcome.

[pavlov]

I know it was clearly a homer but more than once I've seen that play ruled a double for Red Sox hitters. I'm glad the replay got it right. The more reviewable plays there are in baseball the better. In any case, Pabelbon was on fire and that was one big clutch homer.

A-Rod's had some timely hitting but a .200 average ain't gonna cut it. Visiting teams will be hitting lots of dingers in that park too and the Yankees' pitching staff isn't exact spectacular.


Since Arod has been back Texeria is looking like an all world hitter and the Yanks are 14-4. Soo much for Arod not having that big of an impact for the Yanks.

If the Rays want to compete at all they need to do something about their bullpen, it's an absolute disaster.

[Yankee Univox]

:boxerPosada back this weekend,hopefully!

[DGDGBD]

Wang pitched well in relief last night. Hopefully he'll be back in the rotation soon and pitching well.

[QRSS]

Wang pitched well in relief last night. Hopefully he'll be back in the rotation soon and pitching well.

what was his velocity?

[QRSS]

what was his velocity?

found this;
http://riveraveblues.com/2009/05/yanks-stick-it-to-rangers-in-finale-12323/

he's back to 92. should be back in rotation after a couple more mop-ups.

[DGDGBD]

:drinkYanks are in first place this morning.

[Yankee Univox]

Time to find something out this weekend,huh? :band

[Yankee Univox]

:boxer

[Yankee Univox]

Has everyone else abandoned this here thread? :huh

[UndergroundVint]

Relax. It was the first Rays loss in the new Yankee stadium and it took a bases loaded error by Aybar to happen. Should have been an inning ending double play. Yanks got lucky today.

Look for the Rays to tee off on Pettitte Monday night.

[dets1]

Has everyone else abandoned this here thread? :huh
nope. i'm just waiting for tuesday night when the sox move back into first place.

[Yankee Univox]

nope. i'm just waiting for tuesday night when the sox move back into first place.Looks like Pettitte kept that TB juggernaut in check last night. To Boston 'we' go!!!! :band:boxer

[UndergroundVint]

Disappointing game. The Rays hit four homers off Pettitte last time there, thought they were looking good to repeat. Can't believe how easily the ball carries to RF in that park. Don't know why NY would bother signing another right handed hitter again.

Have fun with Boston. The Rays are looking at the easiest three week schedule of the season.

[dets1]

looks like rain all week up here in the great northeast. could put a damper (no pun intended) on the yanks - sox series. i can't believe i left arizona for this. should have extended vacation.
funny story- while on vacation in sedona arizona, my wife and i were walking around town, me proudly strutting about with my red sox hat on. suddenly i hear a guy driving by in his pickup truck yelling "GO YANKEES!!"
my northeastern instinct told me to flip him off, but vacation attitutude took over. i turned and caught his eye as we both had a good laugh.

[UndergroundVint]

They were 9th in the AL last year. in runs, what makes you think they will even be in the top 5 this year? Texas will score more runs than anyone. The Yanks scored more runs last year than Tampa and that was with Arod and Cano having off years and no Posada. And they added Texeria and Swisher is on fire.




Rays are leading the both leagues in runs scored.

[QRSS]

Rays are leading the both leagues in runs scored.

and run differential. why the so-so record? 12-3 wins and 4-3 losses?

[UndergroundVint]

Yep. I don't know how to look it up but they must be leading the planet in stranding runners.

I blame Upton's slow start, Burrell's uselessness, and the lame platoon the Rays have in RF. Too many holes in the lineup. Burrell's right handed power was supposed to balance out the middle of the order. All-Stars Zobrist and Bartlett have picked up his slack though.

And Upton's doing much better now. He hit about .160 his first month and .280 his second month. Matt Joyce is finally playing and contributing in RF. I hope Burrell stays hurt.

[UndergroundVint]

5 wins in a row for the Rays with 12 more easy NL games to play this month. Gabe Kapler of all people leading the charge.

[DGDGBD]

The Rays are quietly climbing back into the division race.

[jimfog]

...... Burrell's uselessness, and the lame platoon the Rays have in RF. Too many holes in the lineup. Burrell's right handed power was supposed to balance out the middle of the order. ........ I hope Burrell stays hurt.


Funny thing about Pat.

When he was here, NOT putting up great RBI numbers, the conventional wisdom was "After Rollins, Utley and Howard, there weren't any RBI's TO get..........."

Raul Ibanez, hitting in that same 5th spot, is leading the league.

Hmmmmmmmm.......

[UndergroundVint]

For most of the season #3 hitter Longoria was leading the league in doubles and #4 Pena in walks. There's no reason a DH in the #5 spot shouldn't knock in a few with those two ahead of him.

Today he was put in the #2 spot while Crawford was given a day off. I guess Maddon was hoping he'd be hit by pitches and awarded second and third bases via balks all game. WTF!

[jimfog]

If I were a Rays fans, I'd be starting to seriously question Maddon at this point. I remember thinking he made some pretty sketchy decisions in the WS.

[UndergroundVint]

In general I like Maddon. He's probably the most intelligent person in the game but he's coaching a little TOO outside of the box.

[dets1]

the rays are slowly but surely creeping up. on a side note i'd like to thank the ny mets for not showing up against the yankmees.

[Mondoslug]

2009 MLB AL East Predictions



Red Sox suck.

[UndergroundVint]

Jason Bay is looking like a good MVP candidate. Tough to acoomplish with Pedroia and Youklis on the team. He's basically picking up Manny AND Ortiz's production.

[jimfog]

After seeing the Sox this weekend, I have to say...........I think that division is their's.

(trust me....no fan here.....it pains me to say this!)

They have a good lineup, sure....but what they REALLY have is a simply amazing pitching staff. They just throw arm after arm at you, each one as good as the last.

Also, their hitters, to a man, are very, very patient. Never seen a team so disciplined.

I'll take my Phils starting 8 against them, but that pitching is hard to touch.

[Yankee Univox]

I think the Yankees have played very well overall since A Rod has returned,barring their complete 0fer against the Red Sox.I think they can easily compete for the division,and to get back to the WS,IF they can stay healthy,and get some help for that bullpen!

[UndergroundVint]

And help for all the other position players that are sure to go down as well. When are the Yankees EVER completely healthy from July-October?

[Yankee Univox]

Nope...they just need a couple pieces in the bridge between starters > Rivera,and I believe they'll be fine,at least Wild Card.

[jimfog]

Thank you Tampa, for being our "Slump Buster". :aok

10-1

Playing the Rays.......good for what ails ya'! :rotflmao

[markguitar]

Red Sox suck.

Yeah it really sucks to be in 1st place and up 5 games!!;)

[jimfog]

Ooops........nevermind.

Turns out WE were Pat Burrell's slump busters!!

[Mondoslug]

Yeah it really sucks to be in 1st place and up 5 games!!;)
I wasn't referring to the standings.:dude

[tonedaddy]

Ooops........nevermind.

Turns out WE were Pat Burrell's slump busters!!

Yeah.... hope he continues.

Thanks for coming to town, though.
We needed the boost.
;)

[UndergroundVint]

Must be nice to be in a division where the Phillies can lose 10 of their last 12 and still be in first place.


Rays will soon have Kazmir back. That'll mean Niemann, Price, or Sonnanstine will have to go to the bullpen.

[jimfog]

Must be nice to be in a division where the Phillies can lose 10 of their last 12 and still be in first place.

:dunno

Who cares what road you take, so long as you get there.

Didn't seem to hurt them much in the playoffs last year.

We'll see, this year..............although I can't say I feel super-confident. I'll put our lineup against ANY team, but pitching is really biting us in the ass this year.

[UndergroundVint]

Big debut for Smoltz tonight for Boston. Didn't go so well.

C.C. is supposedly ready to pitch again against the Mets. I bet he gets pulled early.

[UndergroundVint]

Rays sweep the Marlins. Also the earliest a team has ever reached 100 homers and 100 steals in a season. AL East race should be pretty tight by the All-Star break.

[UndergroundVint]

Red Sox blew a 10-1 lead against the Orioles while the Rays won their seventh straight against the Jays. Yanks won't seem to go away.

[tonedaddy]

the Rays won their seventh straight against the Jays.

And the Rays' remaining games vs. Jays represent nearly 20% of their remaining games.
An advantage over those 16 games could be the difference for the season.

[Yankee Univox]

Yanks are really beginning to hit their stride again after a brief slump there.Look for them to pick up some bullpen help by the trading deadline.Now they just have to figure out how to hold a lead until the END OF THE GAME against the Sox!

[JohnK24]

FIRE SALE...contact the Pittsburgh Pirates...offer a cow and a used John Deere and you'll probably get our best infielder (I know...we really don't have one, but...Freddie Sanchez ain't bad) and along a few C minus pitchers just to sweeten the deal !!!

I love baseball, just not Pirates Baseball....


GO YANKEES !!!!!!!!!!!!

[coldfingaz]

The Red Sox are currently the best team in the league in spite of their monumental collapse last night. They just have more balance across the board than anyone else from starting to relief pitching, hitting, running, defense, etc.

But, I'd love to see the Rays continue to turn it on and once again spoil the big payrollers' parties. As a pure fan of the game, there's no team in MLB I enjoy watching more than the Rays. If their starting pitching stabilizes, they could win it all.

[JohnK24]

The Red Sox are currently the best team in the league in spite of their monumental collapse last night. They just have more balance across the board than anyone else from starting to relief pitching, hitting, running, defense, etc.

But, I'd love to see the Rays continue to turn it on and once again spoil the big payrollers' parties. As a pure fan of the game, there's no team in MLB I enjoy watching more than the Rays. If their starting pitching stabilizes, they could win it all.

I agree..the Rays are fun to watch, I try to catch them on ESPN or Fox on weekend games...too bad they had a meltdown against Philly last fall (God knows, I hate Philadelphia)...

[Zelmo]

I agree..the Rays are fun to watch, I try to catch them on ESPN or Fox on weekend games...too bad they had a meltdown against Philly last fall (God knows, I hate Philadelphia)...
They were expected to make a big move in June, but they are just now starting to climb out of the 7-game-behind hole that they found themselves in.

[stonedtone]

Rays will beat the Dodgers in the World Series.

A-Rod will hit below .280 with under 35 homers.

Jeter and Posada won't have 200 hits between them.

Sabathia and Burnett won't have 30 wins between them.


AL East Standings:

Rays 97-65
Red Sox 96-66
Yankees 94-68
Blue Jays 81-81
Orioles 68-94
why would the Red Sox fall from being the best team in baseball?

[UndergroundVint]

Dice-K and Lowell are injured. Ortiz is still batting .225 and unlike last season, Pedroia isn't there to bail him out. Drew hasn't taken his month off yet. Bay was doing great but is 2 for his last 30. And I personally think last night's blown save (or was it a loss?) by Papelbon is something we'll see more of this season.

Yanks and Rays don't plan on trading for anyone so it might come down to who Boston can snag by the trading deadline.

[QRSS]

what does boston need to snag at the deadline?
weaknesses?

[Mondoslug]

why would the Red Sox fall from being the best team in baseball?
Destiny.

[UndergroundVint]

what does boston need to snag at the deadline?
weaknesses?


If they want to hold off the Rays and Yankees don't you think they should at least try to improve their hitting? They have been cruising by on good pitching but the team ERA has slipped to below that of the Rays, who are starting to pitch very well.

That all boils down to the Red Sox needing to add some hitters.

[QRSS]

If they want to hold off the Rays and Yankees don't you think they should at least try to improve their hitting? They have been cruising by on good pitching but the team ERA has slipped to below that of the Rays, who are starting to pitch very well.

That all boils down to the Red Sox needing to add some hitters.

i'm good with hitting(3rd) and pitching(4th). it's the defense(7th) that annoys me most.

[UndergroundVint]

The Rays have Longoria/Pena and the Yankees have Texieria/A-Rod. The Red Sox now just have Youklis. Clearly they need to trade for that missing power hitting 1B or 3B. Especially since they can't get anyone solid at SS.

[QRSS]

sox new ownership doesnt operate with fear. fortunately for the fans, we're not going to see bagwell for larry andersen knee-jerk moves. sure they'll make mistakes(arroyo, lugo....). whatever they decide, i'm good with. they've proved me wrong with their second title. i no longer second-guess them. if they dont make the playoffs this year, then they didnt deserve to. i hate the trade deadline. i like winning with what you've got organizationally. i dont want to trade anyone, unless there's a taker for lugo. :)