Joba Rules 3.0 - What a joke

What is it with these Joba Rules? This is Major League Baseball, not a recreational Little League where you can’t throw on consecutive days or more than three innings in a game.

3 innings and 35 pitches and out of the game! Are you kidding me? I am surprised that they let the kid play Guitar Hero, lest he might hurt himself!

If you are going to make it so that Joba Chamberlain can only throw 35 pitches then he should be in the bull-pen and he can pitch the 7th and 8th innings. Phil Hughes gets the starter spot and that’s it.

What’s the point on being a starting pitcher if you can only go 3 innings? The Yankee’s have the best record in baseball in spite of themselves.

Joba may turn out to be a wonderful starting pitcher, something that was worth the wait. But he’s a young healthy strong young man and if he’s got all this talent and upside they are wasting it.

Exactly what are they waiting for? If he pitches for 15 years and has an exceptional 10 years, what’s the problem with those 10 years being his 1st 10 years?

Either Joba has a condition or injury that has yet to be disclosed, one that will find out that he somewhere down the road, or they Yankees are just morons.

What if he gets hit by a car? What if he falls down the steps? There are 50 bazillion combinations and permutations of things that can happen to a person that would prevent him from being a successful MLB pitcher. The Yankees are at risk of having a pitcher on their roster for 3 years that they claim can be one of the very best in baseball, yet never have given him the opportunity to do that. Jerks.

And how the hell am I gonna get any stats from the guy? He can pitch 3 perfect innings and I can’t even get a win! Gee Wiz!

Has there ever been a pitcher more coddled and babied by a manager and front office than Joba Chamberlain?

When he first came up, the initial "Joba Rules" were developed, mostly to protect Joba from Joe Torre, who made a habit of overusing relief pitchers. That version of the rules prevented Torre from using Joba until his arm fell off, as he had done previously with Scott Proctor, Paul Quantrill, Tom Gordon, Tanyon Sturtze and others who didn't have nearly the talent Joba had.

Those rules made sense, because Torre was, and is, an idiot when it comes to managing a bullpen.

Version 2.0 of the Joba Rules began last season in the form of an overall innings limit. When arm trouble prevented him from reaching their innings goal, 2.0 carried into the 2009 season.

Now, with Joba closing in on the presumed limit, we've been introduced to the latest set of guidelines to protect him, which apparently include removing him from a game after three innings and 35 pitches.

P.S. - Does anybody in Boston still want to talk about how Mark Teixeira isn't worth the money? - Peter Costa

Pete is a serious Rotisserie participant playing the same league with the same guys for 17 years. Not only has Peter never finished in the money; he’s finished last 13 times and no higher than 10th (in a league with 14 guys). Join us in following Peter’s trials, tribulations and frustrations, as he attempts to navigate his way out of the basement in 2009.

REMINDER - Starting September 1st, you can get your fill of both NFL and NCAA Football on our sister site @ Extra Point (Football Blogs)

M * E * T * S or M * A * S * H

Although official records on the disabled list go back only about 15 years, that's far enough to show how the number of disabling injuries has increased dramatically in recent years.

Not only are players getting hurt more often (despite supposedly being better conditioned with superior offseason training regimens), but because of the money invested in them, teams are quick to throw them on the disabled list rather than have them play through their injuries.

In the first 80 years of baseball, players were loathe to go on the DL for fear of losing their jobs. Who knows how many pitchers plugged on in pain with torn elbow ligaments, before the advent of Tommy John surgery?

Strained quads? Back then they called them "Charley horses" and they'd get 'em rubbed down for a couple of days and be right back out there.
In any case, in 1996 there were a total of 398 DL stints in baseball, an average of 14.2 per team. Over the next decade that number gradually increased until 2007, when it suddenly spiked from 413 to 480 or 16 per team. Last year, the number jumped to 532, or an average of 17.7 per team, with the Nationals surpassing the 2004 Texas Rangers' record of 29 stints on the list.

But the news on the Mets just gets worse and worse and, for them, this season can't end soon enough.

It seems no matter what it is, the Mets come up losers, mired in misery. Would you believe, after all the carnage at Citi Field, the Mets can't even claim the title of the most injured team in history?

Depending on how you choose to look at it, that dubious distinction goes either to the Washington Nationals of last season, who had 30 players go on the disabled list, or the 2004 Arizona Diamondbacks, whose players lost 2,167 days to the DL.

So far this year, the Mets have had 22 players land on the disabled list, which ties them with the Texas Rangers (who, by contrast, have somehow managed to remain squarely in the American League wild-card hunt.) In addition, Mets players, entering the weekend, lost 1,095 days to the disabled list, second to the San Diego Padres' 1,151 days.

But no matter how you look at it, a distinction must be made in the case of the '09 Mets. There has been no team that on Sept. 1 had three of its Opening Day starting pitchers, its first baseman, shortstop and center fielder all on the disabled list and done for the year.

There has been no team that had eight former All-Stars (David Wright, Carlos Beltran, Carlos Delgado, Billy Wagner, Johan Santana, Gary Sheffield, J.J. Putz and Jose Reyes) who all spent time on the DL in the same season.

M * E * T * S  or  M * A * S * H- Blake Kearny

Blake Kearny is a retired baseball scout from Los Angeles, California. He currently runs a baseball school for children in Los Angeles

Roto-Rx

The Doctor is in...

Question #1: Who was the best Athlete you’ve seen play baseball? – Frankie, Long Beach, NY

Frankie: A big shout out to everyone in Long Beach. Grandma Roto used to live there when I was a Baby Doc...it's a great place in the summer time. Ok, now to your question...Dr. Roto knows that there have been many amazing athletes to play the game of baseball, but the best that Dr. Roto has seen is none other than---Bo Jackson. How many guys could hit a 450 ft HR, throw a runner out at home from deep CF, and run for a 99 yd TD on Monday night football? Bo was a monster...

Question #2: Alberto Callaspo has had a pretty good year. I have him for $1. Is he worth keeping? – David, Tampa, FL

David: What does Callaspo really do well? He hits for a nice average, but has no speed or power to speak of. Is he decent? Sure. But is he a protect...only if you are desperate. Ask yourself this question: How much did Aaron Hill go for at your draft this year? My guess was not much (assuming you are in a mixed league). Pass on Callaspo.

Question #3: Where will Pablo Sandoval’s permanent position ultimately be? – Rick, San Francisco, CA

Rick: You ask a great question here, Rick. Dr. Roto makes the guess that 3B will be the spot for Sandoval. I am not sure they want to burden him behind the plate (he makes a great 3rd catcher on their roster), and his 1B defense is just so-so. Right now, Juan Uribe is NOT the 3B of the future in SF. Sandoval could fill the position for years if Brian Sabean chooses.

Question #4: What effect if any does expanding the MLB rosters have on Rotisserie Baseball? – Carlos, New Orleans, LA

Carlos: It has a huge effect on rosters. Unless a team is competing for the playoffs, they want to see how their young players stack up at the major league level. Regulars may only play 6-7 innings, they may also sit an extra game or two. Now is the time to really pay attention if you are close to winning your league. You have to know who is getting the AB's and who is getting the green light on the bases. Also, pay close attention to guys who are padding stats. Just watch some guys get 5-10 SB in the last two weeks of the season...it is the easiest thing to inflate when pitchers stop holding them close.

The Doctor is out...

Mark Bloom (aka Dr. Roto) is the former owner of Roto-Rx, a fantasy website featured in a UPN newscast. He has been an active competitor and commissioner in fantasy leagues for close to 20 years winning numerous league titles.

Ask Dr. Roto your rotisserie baseball questions.

Follow Dr. Roto on Twitter

REMINDER - Starting September 1st, you can get your fill of both NFL and NCAA Football on our sister site @ Extra Point (Football Blogs)

The best athlete to ever play baseball

Dr. Roto gets about 180-200 requests a week from our readers looking for answers to readers questions. Depending on how hot a topic is, often many of the questions are on similar topics.

For some odd reason, this week there were 14 questions about who the greatest athlete to play the game of baseball was.

Dr. Roto will be answering that himself but it's a question I wanted to weigh in on as well.

When you think of great athletes in baseball you think of Ricky Henderson, Micky Mantle, Barry Bonds, etc. Players with speed and power.

For my money, it was someone that you won't find in the hall of fame, someone you probably weren't thinking about.

Ok, the picture gave it away (so much for suspense). Here's a reprint from the "Remember When" section of our site that I think sums it up quite well.

"Best pure athlete I've ever seen, hands down. "WORLD CLASS." He should have been an Olympian in something. What a shame we didn't get to see more. The breaking the bat over his knee only added to his legend. (Now it's just vogue when someone does it.) He broke a bat over his head too (Haven't see anyone else try to copy that....) In a world where we scour the world to find professional athletes, he was a two sport All-Star in both MLB and the NFL. If he had more time, I'm sure he could have chosen just about any sport he wanted and been world class at it."

If you have a "Remember When" Moment, send it in. It's one of the neatest places to go on this site. - David Fry

David Fry is an independent sports photographer currently covering Major League Baseball. David will be reporting on observations as he sees them in MLB stadiums throughout the year.

Roto-Rx

The Doctor is now in...

Question #1: Will the Texas Rangers be able to pull this off and make the wild card? – Michael, Carrollton, TX

Michael: It will be a close one, Michael. The Rangers picked up a fantastic win against the Yankees on Tuesday at Yankee Stadium (holding off a furious 9th inning Yankee rally). That said, if the Rangers bullpen doesn't do a better job of holding leads, they won't make it to the playoffs. Dr. Roto loves Ron Washington and his magic toothpick, so there is hope...

Question #2: The Rockies are on the verge of the greatest comeback in MLB history (in coming from 15 games back). Will the Rockies make the playoffs? – Maurice, Denver, CO

Maurice: Hold off on those greatest comebacks in history words...as any fan will tell you that the Yankee comeback culminating with Bucky Dent's HR at Fenway is what all comebacks are measured against. Jim Tracy should be up for manager of the year...the job he is doing is superlative. The Rockies are closing in, but never doubt that Joe Torre and Manny Ramirez may have a few aces up their sleeve.

Question #3: Will Billy Wagner get meaningful innings in Boston? - Jennifer, Mesquite, TX

Jennifer: The Red Sox will try to spot Billy as best they can to get some outs, Jennifer. Dr. Roto is not a big fan of Wagner for the long haul, but he should be able to get a big out of two in the 7th or 8th inning in September.

Question #4: Bobby and Barry Bonds or Ken Sr. & Jr. Griffey. Who was the better baseball family? – Bryce, Berkley, CA

Bryce: Although Ken Griffey Sr. was a great player (as is his son, Junior), people seem to forget that Bobby Bonds was the original leadoff 30-30 threat. So, you may not love Barry, but he and his dad deserve their due as the best combo.

Question #5: What players turned out to provide the biggest positive and negative surprises this year? – Paula, Antioch, CA

Paula: Dr. Roto will give you two from each league: National League Positive (Mark Reynolds--who would have thought that he had that type of speed!); National League Negative (Stephen Drew--Baseball Prospectus touted him as the next great NL star). American League Positive (Jason Bartlett--great speed, average, and added power to boot); American League Negative (Chris Davis--a young gun that never hit)

The Doctor is out...

Mark Bloom (aka Dr. Roto) is the former owner of Roto-Rx, a fantasy website featured in a UPN newscast. He has been an active competitor and commissioner in fantasy leagues for close to 20 years winning numerous league titles.

Ask Dr. Roto your rotisserie baseball questions.

Follow Dr. Roto on Twitter

REMINDER - Starting September 1st, you can can your fill of both NFL and NCAA Football on our sister site @ Extra Point (Football Blogs)

Another update on Beltre's ball...

Adrian Beltre was back in the Mariners clubhouse yesterday and seemed in good spirits.

For those of you who don't know what happened to Beltre, read Adrian Beltre goes on DL after being hit in the balls (but there's more...) and An update on Beltre's ball... (but I suggest not on a full stomach.)

Beltre - "It's better than it was before, but there's still pain. I haven't moved to see how it's going to be. Maybe today or tomorrow is going to be a good test to see how it's going to be in the next couple of days."

Sitting in Beltre's locker was a brand new cup still in the wrapper. Beltre admitted he didn't know who put it in there, but that he was probably going to have to use it.

Since Beltre hadn't talked with the media since that fateful night, he kind of relived it.

Beltre - "I thought, it exploded!" It was weird, because it hit right on it, right on top of it. I felt like going down, but I saw the ball right next to me, and I wanted to finish the play. Then I made a wild throw. It was on target, but low."

After that, Beltre didn't lay down, he kind of walked around to shake it off. A lesser man would have curled up in the fetal position in pain.

Beltre - "There were camera's around. You can't lie down on the ground."

Not only didn't he lie down on the ground, he also kept playing for the next five innings.

Beltre - "I didn't have any option. I couldn't because Jack (Hannahan) was hurt. He hurt hamstring, so we didn't have an extra infielder. Two or three innings after that, I dove in first, and it really hurt. That's when I started thinking ... but even if I wanted to, we didn't have an extra infielder. Jack was out in the fifth inning. At times it hurt a lot, but other times, it didn't hurt that much because of the adrenalin of the game." It was a close game, nothing-nothing, and we're just trying to get the game over. When I was running, it didn't really feel that bad."

Apparently Ken Griffey Jr. has now given him the nick name of “nutcracker.” Not exactly a nick name you want to have……. - Mike Gross

Michael Gross, in conjunction with a prominent sports agency runs a strength, conditioning and agility program that many agents send their “to-be-drafted” athletes, prior to being drafted. Many pro athletes have also used the facilities for rehabilitation after injury. Over 90 professional athletes including current MLB ball players have attended his institution during the past 3 years.

REMINDER - Starting September 1st, you can can your fill of both NFL and NCAA Football on our sister site @ Extra Point (Football Blogs)

No Joba - Phil

I was in bar / restaurant last night watching the Yankees / Red Sox game and I overheard the bartender asking a baseball trivia question to the 30 or so men sitting at the bar.

Anyone who answered the question correctly was to receive free drinks for the rest of the night. The rules were that you had to write the answer on a napkin and put it into a hat.

The question was:

In this decade, there was a New York Yankee 8th inning pitcher who was Mariano Rivera’s set-up guy. During 26 games he threw 31 innings, gave up only 20 hits and 8 walks for a WHIP of .903, gave up only 3 runs having an ERA of .097, had 39 strikeouts. Who is that Yankee player?

When the napkins were collected and the answers read there were NO WINNERS. Every single guy in the bar answered Joba Chamberlain.

The answer was Phil Hughes. Those are the stats from his last 26 appearances. - Paul Leume

Paul Leume is a MLB columnist from Montreal, Canada. Paul, a one-time beat writer covering the Montreal Expos for the Montreal Gazette is a proud grandfather of 3 girls and now spends his time offering his thoughts and prospective on Major League Baseball on a variety of blogs and websites throughout Al Gore’s internet.

REMINDER - Starting September 1st, you can can your fill of both NFL and NCAA Football on our sister site @ Extra Point (Football Blogs)

Inside the numbers

HR’s
Albert Pujols – 40
Mark Reynolds – 38
Carlos Pena – 34
Adam Dunn - 33
Prince Fielder – 33
Adrian Gonzalez – 33

SLG
Albert Pujols - .6651
Joe Mauer - .6352
Prince Fielder - .5942
Mark Reynolds - .5929
Adam Dunn - .5857

OBP
Joe Mauer - .4487
Albert Pujols - .4410
Chase Utley – .4229
Hanley Ramirez - .4215
Adam Dunn – 421.2

RBI
Price Fielder – 110
Albert Pujols – 106
Ryan Howard – 99
Justin Morneau – 94
Mark Teixeira – 93
Adam Dunn - 89
Ryan Braun – 89

A few observations:

- Prince Fielder is both a better hitter and a better eater than his father (which is sating quite a lot on both fronts) and the Fielder father / son tandem takes a back seat to only the Bonds and Griffey famlies (but another few years at this pace will undoubtedly place them ahead of the Griffey’s).

- Albert Pujols is really good.

- The numbers that Joe Mauer is putting up as a catcher are 2nd on record to only Mike Piazza’s 1997 year. 40 HR / 124 RBI / .362 BA / 104 RS / .431 OBP / .638 SLG

- Carlos Pena is Dave Kingman from the left side of the plate.

A closer look:

Adam Dunn is batting is batting .288 (not bad right? – you would have signed for that in a heart-beat in the beginning of the year) and having fantastic year!

In all of MLB he ranks tied for 4th in HR, ranks 5th in SLG, ranks 5th in OBP, and ranks tied for 6th in RBI.

But Adam Dunn has it even worse than Adrian Gonzalez in terms of a supporting cast behind him. The guys in front of him are ok but after him, other than Josh Willingham – it is minor league central. How inept can the Nationals be? They don't put out a major league product on the field, heck they can't even dress their players properly? They sent their two best players Dunn and Zimmerman out on the filed with misspelled jerseys! (see pic above)

Dunn has 66 runs score and ½ of those are produced by himself with his 33 Hrs!

Even with his new contract, the Nationals could have gotten quite a lot for Dunn at the trading deadline. They aren’t going to win during the duration of his contract anyway (Strasburg may add 5-7 wins to their total over the course of a year, but that's it.)

The Nationals didn’t move Dunn at the trading deadline; they should do so this off season. – Mike Cardano

Mike Cardano is the founder of the Around The Horn (Baseball Blogs) and Extra Point (Football Blogs). Mike is also the founder of the fantasy sports games Ultimate Franchise Baseball™ and Ultimate Franchise Football™.

REMINDER - Starting September 1st, you can can your fill of both NFL and NCAA Football on our sister site @ Extra Point (Football Blogs)

MLB and Twitter

So the NFL is coming up with a Twitter policy. Apparently they don’t want Chad Eight Five (does he know that Ocho Cinco is 8 - 5 and not 85?) to tweet, “In your face” when he gets to the side lines after scoring a touchdown.

There is a lot of down time on MLB rosters during a game only 9 (10 in the AL) players are playing at any one point and there are more people on the roster not working at any one time then there are working. Unless I’ve missed something, MLB does not have a Twitter policy. There is a sign in the locker room that says you can’t wager, but not one that says you can’t tweet.

It’s only a matter of time before some pitcher on his off day, bored out of his mind, starts tweeting during the game. Either that or Gary Sheffield or one of our other lovable characters of the game will tweet during the game even when they are in the lineup.

Can’t you picture one of the more vocal guys in baseball doing that? I can see it now, the Phillies are pounding someone 12-1, Jimmy Rollins gets up and hit’s his 2nd HR of the game, comes into the dugout and tweets, “this pitcher sucks.”

But my money is on Manny. I can see Manny tweeting from left field during a pitching change, “oh, shit, they are bringing in him!? We are fucked!”

P.S. -

Speaking of Twitter, did you know that you can catch all Around The Horn blog posts and Dr. Roto's daily thoughts on Twitter?

And starting September 1st, you can can your fill of both NFL and NCAA Football on our sister site @ Extra Point (Football Blogs) - James Morrison

Jim (no relation to the dead Door’s guy) is a self proclaimed rotisserie expert. Jim has been participating in an serious Ultra-Rotisserie league (you can protect some minor leaguers too) at $2,600 per team instead of $260 (similar to Ultimate Franchise Baseball ™) for the past 17 years and has finished in the money 14 times with 8 First place finishes and over $260,000 in total winnings over the 17 year period. While the world is full of institutions and people that come with disclaimers on how past performance is no guarantee of future results, Jim is brazen enough to claim that it will be in your best interest to follow his advice going forward. He’ll write it, we’ll publish it and we shall see………

Roto-Rx

The Doctor is in...

Question #1: Who do you think has a better future as a starter, Joba Chamberlain or Phil Hughes? – Phillip, Kansas City, MO

Phillip: What a great question, Phillip! You should have cc'd this to Brian Cashman. Here's Dr. Roto's take on it: Dr. Roto would love to see Phillip Hughes hang out in the pen for the next couple of seasons and be the shutdown 7th and 8th inning pitcher that the Yankees need to get the game to Rivera. Then in 2011, after Rivera finally hangs them up, Hughes becomes closer. Will this happen? Not a chance! Why you ask? Because it is the Yankees. So, Hughes will go back into the rotation and Mike Francesca will scream on the radio for more bullpen help. While this will be going on, Joba will continue being a solid pitcher while he matures his overall game and learns how to pitch well late into games.

Question #2: What are your thoughts on Micah Hoffpauir as a keeper given that he’s been demoted? I have him for $2. – Mark, Ozone Park, NY

Mark: There is a little known fact called the roto window that Dr. Roto needs to discuss with you. This window is dependant upon age, talent, opportunity, and organization. Whereas the Pirates can give 28 year old Garret Jones a new lease on life in Pittsburgh, Micah Hoffpauir's 29 year old window is running out of time with the Cubs. Basically, Hoffpauir can hit, he's proven that...but unless he gets the PT (or traded), he's not a protect.

Question #3: Do you think Billy Wagner will be a closer somewhere next year? - Joey, Wembley, England

Joey: Dr. Roto is very confused. If you're in England, shouldn't you be asking Dr. Roto about his thoughts on whether Manchester United can get past Arsenal next week? (Go Man U) Ok, Dr. Roto digresses...Billy Wagner will end up somewhere next year for sure. One place he will not end up is ON DR. ROTO'S TEAM! Let someone else have the pleasure of a 38 year old pitcher recovering from TJ surgery.

Question #4: Is Everth Cabrera a top prospect? I hadn’t heard of him. Does he have any other qualities besides speed? – Matthew, Atlanta, GA

Matthew: Just because you haven't heard of him doesn't mean Cabrera can't play. He can and he is good. Dr. Roto had a positive twitter update about him just last week. Cabrera has speed, can hit for average, and should bat high enough in the lineup to score some runs for the Padres. He would make a nice pickup now if he is still out there in your league.

Question #5: Joel Pineiro is having a sweet year. Is this a one -time thing or can he do this again next year? – Ethan, Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Ethan: Don't be fooled by Pineiro. His last good year came in 2003. Come to think of it a lot of players had great years around then....hmmmm. Put your faith in the fact that Dave Duncan is a genius pitching coach and look for Duncan's next reclamation project in St. Louis. If Pineiro was on any of Dr. Roto's teams, I can guarantee you I would be working the phone lines hard in the off-season to move him (mention his stellar WHIP).

Bonus Question: What’s your best guess as to what Matt LaPorta’s full season numbers will be next year? Will he qualify at more than one position? – Douglas, Iraq (yes that Iraq – say a prayer for me and my buddies)

Douglas: Dr. Roto loves hearing that there is fantasy baseball talk going on in Iraq! Matt Laporta is a beast. Dr. Roto saw this kid play in college and can tell you he will be a stud hitter. If he can get 400 AB next year, put LaPorta down for .260 with 20-25 HR. Dr. Roto predicts that he will start the year in the OF, but when the Indians realize that he fields with an iron glove, they will move him to 1B (probably by the end of next season). So your answer is that he probably will qualify at both positions, but it may take some time depending on the number of games your league uses for eligibility. BTW Douglas...Dr. Roto says a prayer for you and your buddies every day and wishes you all home safely (and soon!)

The Doctor is out...

Mark Bloom (aka Dr. Roto) is the former owner of Roto-Rx, a fantasy website featured in a UPN newscast. He has been an active competitor and commissioner in fantasy leagues for close to 20 years winning numerous league titles.

Ask Dr. Roto your rotisserie baseball questions.

Follow Dr. Roto on Twitter

Neftali rules?

When the New York Yankees brought Joba Chamberlain up in 2007, they had Joba rules. For every inning he pitched, he got a day off. In Chamberlain's case, that applied on the front end too (he could pitch two innings if he had two days off before the outing). It was an example of a team being careful with a young starter's arm as he was used out of the bullpen in the majors.

The Rangers now have Neftali rules. Anytime Neftali Feliz is on the mound in a game, he gets a day off. If he pitches 2 innings, he gets two days. If it's 2 1/3 (or a bundle of pitches), that could go to three days.

Last night, Feliz threw 2 pitches to get a huge double play ball to get out of a bases-loaded jam in the sixth. He went back out in the seventh and threw 16 pitches for 18 pitches total. Manager Ron Washington pulled him after that because since he threw just 18 pitches and 1 1/3 innings, that means he could pitch him again on Saturday -- with one day off -- if necessary. No word on whether he would only pitch one inning in that case (but probably so).

Most people probably think this is smart. The argument is that it may seem drastic and it does handcuff the manager to have a guy in the bullpen that has to be used like that, but the organization can't take a chance on hurting Feliz's arm long-term. Better to be cautious with a talent like that.

Nolan Ryan has made a big push this year to let his pitchers throw as much a possible. He was campaigning all over the nation earlier thi syear to let pitchers throw more. They are trying to do away with pitch counts (within reason) in the Rangers minor league system. I don’t understand why this should be any different? Seems like Nolan isn't as keen on that idea as he previously sounded? I wonder if some of their minor leaguers have been getting hurt?

What do you think? Good idea? - Keith A. Baker

Keith A. Baker is a sports agent in Stamford, Connecticut. His goal is to offer a unique insight to the world of sports and Major League Baseball in particular. Comments in his columns are for entertainment purposes only and do not reflect the views and opinions of his firm or his clients.

Wouldn’t it be interesting if “Gary was being Many” and “Many was being Gary”??

So before yesterday’s game, Gary Sheffield asked the Mets for a contract extension, the club rejected the request so Sheffield threatened to leave the team and head home. Baseball has two charters being themselves – “Many being Many”, and “Gary being Gary.” Wouldn’t it be interesting if “Gary was being Many” and “Many was being Gary?”

Here’s how the conversation actually went between Gary and Omar Minaya.

“Omar, if you don’t guarantee me a job for next year I’m going to take my 40 year old ass, go home and sit in my bedroom and hold my breaff. You don’t believe me I’ll do it!”

Mets pitcher Tim Redding actually claims he heard Sheffield had been released. Obviously that didn’t happen, because he pinch struck-out last night. That was just wishful thinking for Redding because he knows that he’s next to be released and he was lucky that Livan Hernandez got released and not him.

Sheffield had been part of the original lineup for Thursday night's game against the Braves, but Jerry Manuel said that Sheffield had pulled himself to clear his head.

Clear his head? How do you clear an empty space?

In large part Sheffield has been a good soldier with the Mets. But it was only a matter of time. He’s ultimately had a problem everywhere he has gone, and this was going to be no different.

He’s had a nice offensive career. You wouldn't have thought it in the late 80's, but Gary certainly ended up having a better overall career than his uncle Doc Gooden. That's Gary and uncle Doc in the picture up there 20 something years ago.

He’s got a few obstacles in his way to make the Hall of Fame though. The steroids are a given, but everyone was doing them, so I’m not sure that will hurt him too much. But the things that have come out of his mouth may make it tough. For me, I found it hard to be a Sheffield fan over the years ever since he was a rookie in Milwaukee and he threw the ball away on purpose because he wasn’t happy. That’s messing with the game and in my eyes isn’t much different then betting on the game AGAINST YOUR TEAM. Not even Pete Rose did that.

Whether he plays next year or not, he does have some impressive stats. Should he be enshrined in the MLB Hall of Fame? You decide……

Career BA of .292, .393 OBP, .514 SLG 509 HR’s, 1471 RBI, 1635 RS, 104 SB’s

In short, over 20 + years he’s averaged .292 BA / 32 HR’s / 106 RBI / 103 RS

Not bad. - Paul Leume

Paul Leume is a MLB columnist from Montreal, Canada. Paul, a one-time beat writer covering the Montreal Expos for the Montreal Gazette is a proud grandfather of 3 girls and now spends his time offering his thoughts and prospective on Major League Baseball on a variety of blogs and websites throughout Al Gore’s internet.

The Mets activate Billy Wagner - Excited?

So the Mets released Livan Hernandez and activated Billy Wagner today.

Excited? Didn’t think so.

I wonder if this will increase the Mets fan confidence rating? Who runs that anyway, is that one of those Quinnipiac University polls?

What a disaster. The stadium has no Franchise presence (well actually it does have a franchise presence, a Dodgers presence.) The Mets recently put up a few team accomplishment banners in the outfield – woopie!

The injuries to Wright, Reyes, Delgado, and Beltran are astounding really. Think about it, they lost ½ of their position players – the best ones.

To put things in perspective last year those 4 players accounted for 114 HR’s 419 RBI and 440 RS. This year those four players total 22 HR’s 133 RBI and 147 RS. That’s devastation. Actually, when you think about it, they are doing pretty well not falling 10 games under .500 (yet).

If the Mets have anything at all go their way this season, Wagner will have 3 or 4 good outings and they can trade him for something. – Josh Bolan

Josh Bolan is a retired AP baseball reporter and now works as a freelance writer in Fresno California. Josh has been contributing to baseball publications as a writer since 1996.

Roto-Rx

Question #1: Now that the 2009 draft signing period has concluded, what team do you think did the best in this year’s draft? – Chris, Atlanta, GA

Chris: Dr. Roto has two answers to this question: 1) The Nationals did the best, especially if Steven Strasburg is as good as the scouts project; 2) This question cannot be answered for at least 3-5 years until we see who has made an impact in the majors. As opposed to the NFL and the NBA where rookies have a big impact, in baseball it can often take years to determine whose scouting was the best.

Question #2: If a batter hits a home run over the fence and gets hurt swinging and can’t even make it to first base, what happens? – George, Stamford, CT

George: Thanks for the question, George. Dr. Roto is more of a fantasy player expert than a MLB rules expert, but if I am correct, in the event a hitter cannot complete his home run trot, a pinch runner can be inserted for him.

Question #3: Fantasy Football season is upon us. What do you consider a harder task, being routinely successful in Fantasy Baseball or being routinely successful in Fantasy Football? – Robert, Philadelphia, PA

Robert: Love this question, Robert. Many people have asked Dr. Roto over the years which sport he finds easier. In truth, it is all about predictability. Football is very volatile due to the injury factor as well as the schedule. So, for instance, you can have the best team for 14 weeks and make the playoffs in your fantasy football league. But, if in Week 15 your team has bad matchups, you may end up losing in the playoffs. In fantasy baseball, that seldom occurs. Players may be streaky, but they normally play to expectation level. Baseball, however, is more of a grind. Players play most everyday and the minor leaguers that come up during the year often make an impact on the outcome. The key to success in both sports is preparation (and patience).

Question #4: If you had room to protect only one based on performance expectation alone for next year, who would you protect, Chris Tillman or Mat Latos? – Ralph, San Jose, CA

Ralph: Dr. Roto has one axiom that must be followed: try to avoid young AL EAST pitchers whenever possible. So, although Dr. Roto likes Tillman, he does not like the fact that 10 of Tillman's starts come against the Yankees, Red Sox, Rays, and Jays. For that reason, plus the fact that Latos is a great strikeout pitcher. Dr. Roto will put his money on Latos.

Question 5: What MLB team did the best job at the trading deadline this year? – Vincent, Lynbrook, NY

Vincent: Dr. Roto likes what Kenny Williams and the White Sox have done. Getting Jake Peavy was a steal and picking up Alex Rios on waivers was worth the risk. The South Side of Chicago should be happy!

Bonus Question: Lots of talk in NY this week on the radio about Gil Hodges and the hall of fame. Do you think he should be in? – Scott, Babylon, NY

Scott: Dr. Roto needs all New Yorkers to step back for a second and try to be objective. Is Hodges a HOF because he was the Amazin's manager in 1969, or because he was one of the best 1B of his time? It's a close call here...370 HR are a bit short, as is the career .273 BA. The Gold Gloves help, as does his managerial success. Tough one...but Dr. Roto will say no HOF for Hodges.

The Doctor is out...

Mark Bloom (aka Dr. Roto) is the former owner of Roto-Rx, a fantasy website featured in a UPN newscast. He has been an active competitor and commissioner in fantasy leagues for close to 20 years winning numerous league titles.

Ask Dr. Roto your rotisserie baseball questions.

Follow Dr. Roto on Twitter

Would you get fired if you lost 3.4 million at your company?

There are rumors all over the place that Washington GM Mike Rizzo will be fired.

Fired two days after signing Stephen Strasburg you say? Yes, and here’s why.

Austin Kearns was put on waivers (sounds reasonable - he's been a collassal dissapointment for 8 million) and then claimed (hard to see why anyone would do that - perhaps they should be fired too - given that the team would have to pay his salary.)

But the Nationals didn't wait to find out if anyone claimed him and put him on the DL retroactive to August 4th which in effect, annulled the claim!

Rizzo, obviously concentrating on the Strasburg signing showed that multitasking was not his stregnth. They could have saved 3.4 million by just letting him go to the other team! DOH!

For a team scraping money off the floor to come up with 15 million to sign Stephen Strasburg, that was pretty inept.

Being inept at your job will tend to get you fired. - David Fry

David Fry is an independent sports photographer currently covering Major League Baseball. David will be reporting on observations as he sees them in MLB stadiums throughout the year.

Was Strasburg really signed in time?

Alright, hear me out on this one. So Stephen Strasburg was signed by the Washington Nationals at 11:58 and 43 seconds. So when I do my Peter math, they had 1 minute and 17 seconds to spare.

Strasburg gets a four-year contract covering 2009-12. The exact amount depends on prorating his $400,000 salary for this year, based on the date the contract is official. Nevertheless, the deal is worth $15.067 million. Good for the kid, god for the Nat’s and good luck to all.

But back to that time of agreement, exactly how does that work? Is it like the time of birth where the doctor or nurse looks at the clock and calls it? They do that with time of death too don’t they? You always see them on TV on the operating room working on some poor dude and then when they see it’s a lost cause someone says “call it” and they call out the time of death. But no one breaks it out to seconds.

I once got a traffic ticket for going 67mph in a 65 (was the end of the month – I think he was trying to make his quota.) I argued that my tires may not have been inflated properly and that caused the calibration to be off. The officer actually agreed with me and said that it was actually probably the case, but gave the ticket to me anyway because:

1) It was my fault that the tires weren’t inflated properly
2) He could

My point is leaving only 1 minute and 17 seconds is cutting it pretty close. What clock did they use? Did they use the digital stadium clock at Nationals Park? It’s a new stadium, new clock – gotta be close to accurate right (assuming it was set correct to begin with)? Did Scott Boras whip out his gold train conductor pocket watch and call it? Did Strasburg look down at his Micky Mouse watch his grandmother gave him and yell 11:58:17!

Unless they used the official time kept by the government I would think it would be worth it for the Pirates, Padres, Royals, Orioles, A’s or anyone else that might have a chance to have the opportunity to get him with the 1st pick in the draft next year (The Nat’s can’t take him again unless he agrees and they will defiantly have the worst record and 1st pick again next year) to file a grievance questioning the official time.

You know those people who keep their clock 5 minutes fast so they are not late? (Never understood that, if you know it is 5 minutes fast then you would just take your time because you know your early?) Maybe Washington Nationals GM Mike Rizzo is one of those who keeps his clock 5 minutes slow – (executives always think it’s fashionable to show up at press conferences late – it makes them feel important. Like they were involved in some intense negotiation that made them late.)

I would file a grievance. Make them prove it.

On a separate note - I understand that the French have banned nude beaches! I can't believe the French of all people have become tightwads. What's next, is Amsterdam going to ban drugs and prostitutes?- Peter Costa

Pete is a serious Rotisserie participant playing the same league with the same guys for 17 years. Not only has Peter never finished in the money; he’s finished last 13 times and no higher than 10th (in a league with 14 guys). Join us in following Peter’s trials, tribulations and frustrations, as he attempts to navigate his way out of the basement in 2009.

Why Todd Helton will be in the Hall of Fame

Todd Helton has spent his entire 13 year career playing for a small market team, so you may not realize the quality and quantity of his stats without looking into it.

Career Stats
BA - .328
HR's- 321
RBI – 1181
SLG - .569
OBP - .426

One of the most interesting stats that Todd has to his credit is that on July 22, Todd Helton became the fastest MLB player to reach 500 doubles in a career. There have only been 49 players to previously reach the mark and 46 of them are in the Hall of Fame. Craig Biggio, Edgar Martinez and Pete Rose are the only players from the 500 Double club to not currently be in the Hall. Both Biggio and Martinez are not eligible yet and Rose of course is ineligible at this time. To me this makes this club one of the most prestigious in baseball history and to be the fastest player to reach it in history is a remarkable feat.

In the era we are in today with all the acquisitions of performance enhancing drugs being used, Helton has managed to bypass all of them. Sure his power numbers dipped a little bit throughout the years but he was sidelined with a pretty serious back injury which contributed to the decline of those stats.

The Rockies made a remarkable run in 2007 and are in the hunt for the wild card this year. Todd has provided this team and franchise with much needed leadership and has proved to be the greatest Colorado Rockies player to date.

Helton has been a staple for the team since 1997 at the plate and at first base. Tallying three gold gloves and providing leadership to the organization on and off the field, Helton has helped Colorado gain notoriety as a MLB franchise.

All the numbers prove that Helton should be the first Colorado Rockies player to be enshrined into the Baseball Hall of Fame. - James Morrison

Jim (no relation to the dead Door’s guy) is a self proclaimed rotisserie expert. Jim has been participating in an serious Ultra-Rotisserie league (you can protect some minor leaguers too) at $2,600 per team instead of $260 (similar to Ultimate Franchise Baseball ™) for the past 17 years and has finished in the money 14 times with 8 First place finishes and over $260,000 in total winnings over the 17 year period. While the world is full of institutions and people that come with disclaimers on how past performance is no guarantee of future results, Jim is brazen enough to claim that it will be in your best interest to follow his advice going forward. He’ll write it, we’ll publish it and we shall see………

Offered 17 million plus incentives supassing 20 million, if Strasburg doesn't sign the Nat's might draft him again!

Ok, I’m not looking to make this Stephen Strasburg day today, but the reality of the situation is that it is.

The Washington Nationals have till midnight tonight to sign No. 1 overall pick Stephen Strasburg and it seems like anybody's guess whether the deal will get done or not.

With less than 11 hours to go here is where we stand; MASN the network that has the rights to the Nationals and Orioles games are reporting that Strasburg and his loveable agent, Scott Boras, have a contract in their hands worth $17 million with easily reached incentives that would take the contract to more than $20 million.

Never the less, I don’t know anyone who expects a deal to get done, if it gets done at all, until the 11th hour….. literally.

Here’s the best part – While Scott Boras has attempted to stick it to the Nat’s telling them that if they don’t increase the offer (or the years or whatever the greedy bastard wants) that he might ship his client off to Japan for big money for 1 year instead of playing in the Independent League (which isn’t much of a bargaining chip although J.D. Drew did it). MASN now reports that the Nat’s have now turned around and said that if he doesn’t sign, they will attempt to draft him again next year!

I love it……. I haven’t seen anyone stick it to Boras yet, it’s usually the other way around…. But that would be funny. (Not sure about the MASN reporting thought – I think there is a rule that says Strasburg would have to consent.) Makes for an interesting storyline though doesn’t it?

Can you imagine walking away from $17 million your 1st year out of college? Wow. - Mike Gross

Michael Gross, in conjunction with a prominent sports agency runs a strength, conditioning and agility program that many agents send their “to-be-drafted” athletes, prior to being drafted. Many pro athletes have also used the facilities for rehabilitation after injury. Over 90 professional athletes including current MLB ball players have attended his institution during the past 3 years.

Strasburg going to Japan?

Sources requesting anonymity because of the sensitivity of negotiations are reporting that if the Washington Nationals and Stephen Strasburg do not get a deal done by the deadline that agent Scott Boras will have Strasburg renter the draft in 2010. Apparently, Strasburg will not sign for the amount currently offered.

But that’s not the news – apparently, rather than play independent baseball for a year, Boras is considering sending Strasburg to Japan to play for a year.

Washington's current offer has been on the table since the team's ownership group, along with president Stan Kasten and acting general manager Mike Rizzo, traveled to California last week to meet with Strasburg.

This has turned out to be the ultimate game of chicken. The specific amount of the Nats' current offer to Strasburg remains unknown, but it exceeds the $10.5 million awarded to Chicago's Mark Prior in 2001, still the record for an amateur pitcher.

The Nat’s apparently have taken the position that they are going to offer him the richest contract ever, however that number is not negotiable and is a take it or leave it offer.

I don’t know how anyone turns down a sum of money of more than 10.5 million dollars for their first job out of college, but that’s where they are. Almost all involved, to this point, expect the negotiations to go down to the final hours, if not the final minutes. Strasburg has until midnight on Monday to sign with the Nationals.

Boras often gets blamed for these things but he’s just doing his job. If the player really wants to sign, he has the right to tell Boras to just take the deal. So if this deal doesn’t get done – Boras shouldn’t get blamed. The ball is in Strasburg’s court. Tick-Toc-Tick-Toc – Josh Bolan

Josh Bolan is a retired AP baseball reporter and now works as a freelance writer in Fresno California. Josh has been contributing to baseball publications as a writer since 1996.

Roto-Rx

The Doctor is in....

Question #1: My friends and I are definitely going to play in the Ultimate Franchise Baseball League next year. What advice can you give from the standpoint of budgeting $2,600 instead of $260? Should I do anything different besides multiply everything by 10? – Miguel, Tribeca, NY

Miguel: Great question...easy answer. You are right on target with just multiplying everything by 10. While it will seem that paying $400 for Pujols will be high, it is the exact same as paying $40 in a $260 draft.

Question #2: BJ Upton: Buy, Sell, or Hold?--Rob, Staten Island, NY

Rob: Dr. Roto is a big fan of Upton. His shoulder recovery got him off to a rocky start this season, but he seemed to be back on track until the last month or so. Joe Maddon doesn't like his free swinging ways at the top of the lineup, so he put Jason Bartlett at leadoff instead. Here's the rub...the Rays need Upton to be good to have any chance of making the playoffs. He's a Gold Glove caliber centerfielder, and he can carry a team with his hitting when in the zone (see last years playoffs). Dr. Roto says hold. Maddon and Upton will end the struggle and all will be fine in Tampa.

Question #3: What player (that has not been injury ridden) has had the most disappointing season YTD based on your expectations. Do you think he will bounce back next year? – Melissa, San Antonio, TX

Melissa: Lots of guys to choose from here. Dr. Roto can think of a bunch off the top of his cap: JJ Hardy, Corey Hart, Adrian Beltre, Garrett Atkins, etc. But the one I will discuss with you now is: Russell Martin. Like many out there, Dr. Roto was hoping that Martin was going to take the next step up in his rise amongst the top young catchers in MLB. While he may be great in "real" baseball, his fantasy stats have been poor this year, especially in the power department. 3 HR and 33 RBI's are not going to cut it. While Martin's 9 Sb's have helped, it has not been enough to merit the $$ spent on auction day. Will Martin bounce back next year? Dr. Roto thinks you might get him undervalued, but Martin's days of 15-18 HR may be gone.

Question #4: I was offered Ubaldo Jimenez for Max Scherzer a few weeks ago (both $7) and I didn’t do the deal. I’m starting to think that I made a mistake going into next year. What are your thoughts? - Michael, San Jose, CA

Michael: Dr. Roto thinks you made two mistakes: 1) not consutling Dr. Roto first about the deal, and 2) not making the trade. Dr. Roto LOVES Ubaldo.

Question #5: Is Jason Bartlett the real deal? He went from a slick fielding SS that would get you 20 SB’s to a roto stud out of nowhere. Would you consider him one of the 1st SS’s off the board next year? – Tony, Bronx, NY

Tony: Dr. Roto hasn't put his projections together for next year just yet, but feels confident that Bartlett is in the upper echelon of Fantasy shortstops for sure.

The Doctor is out...

Mark Bloom (aka Dr. Roto) is the former owner of Roto-Rx, a fantasy website featured in a UPN newscast. He has been an active competitor and commissioner in fantasy leagues for close to 20 years winning numerous league titles.

Ask Dr. Roto your rotisserie baseball questions.

Follow Dr. Roto on Twitter

The Curse continues...

Someone pissed someone off when they build Citi Field, and that someone is exacting revenge.

In a season plagued by injury and disappointment, David Wright is the latest Mets player to go down. Wright left Saturday afternoon's 5-4 loss to the Giants in the bottom of the fourth inning after being hit in the helmet with a pitch by Matt Cain. He was in an 0-2 count when Cain's four-seamer struck the left side of his helmet by his ear, and the infielder immediately fell down on his stomach, where he lay motionless until team trainers rushed out. After several minutes, Wright was flipped over and was able to walk off the field under his own power, albeit with some help from the trainers.

Closeup angles of Cain showed him talking with catcher Brian Schneider while Wright was being examined on the field. "He just asked how David was, asked if he was doing all right," Schneider said. "And I didn't have an answer for him."

"I've known Matt Cain for a long time," said Jeff Francoeur, who spoke briefly to Cain during the inning and also spoke with Wright before he was transported to the hospital. "Obviously, I'm sure that no one feels worse than he does."

Following the game, a serious and somber Cain told reporters it was nice to see Wright be able to walk off the field. "Hopefully he'll be all right," Cain said. "I'll try to see if I can get a hold of him [Sunday] or see him on the field."

"I don't know what else we can go through, to be honest with you," said starter Johan Santana, who admitted to retaliating by throwing behind Pablo Sandoval in the seventh inning. "Throughout this whole season, it's been crazy for us, and it's not good to see [Wright] going down that way. It's not good at all."

The Mets lost to the Giants in 10 innings today, by the score of 5-4, in what's becoming an oh-too-familiar blown game by K-Rod.

Wright was brought to the Hospital For Special Surgery about 50 minutes after being hit. A CT Scan was negative, but Wright did suffer a concussion and will remain in the hospital overnight for observation.

So now it's official, the Mets core has been peeled. Wright; Beltran; Delgado; Reyes - all now injured this season. It is not yet known how long Wright will be out, but maybe the Mets will put him on a plane to Colorado..... - Paul Leume

Paul Leume is a MLB columnist from Montreal, Canada. Paul, a one-time beat writer covering the Montreal Expos for the Montreal Gazette is a proud grandfather of 3 girls and now spends his time offering his thoughts and prospective on Major League Baseball on a variety of blogs and websites throughout Al Gore’s internet.

An update on Beltre's ball...

So a grounder clipped one of his testicles. It’s the best contact he’s made all season!

I heard that when he was reached for comment, Beltre said, “Aw, nuts!”

And after being badgered, he yelled, “Stop busting my balls!”

Turns out, Beltre doesn’t wear a protective cup. He claims it’s uncomfortable. You know what else is uncomfortable? A bleeding testicle!

Beltre could be out for the season, but he hasn’t really been much use this year so his owners shouldn’t worry. On a related note, I wonder if he’ll let his teammates sign his cast...............

The above post was sent in by comedian Dane Cook.

Adrian Beltre goes on DL after being hit in the balls (but there's more...)

Adrian Beltre has a reputation as a slick fielding third baseman. He possesses great range, soft hands and a cannon for throwing arm. Adrian may have been been too confident in his fielding abilities though, and it could cost him a month or even the rest of the season.

On Wednesday, fate kicked him where it hurts. Beltre said he is likely to have surgery and will miss at least three weeks. In the ninth inning Wednesday night at Safeco Field, Beltre took the brunt of a hard grounder by the White Sox' Alexei Ramirez to the groin area. Beltre recovered the baseball but threw wildly to first base for an error. He remained in the game, but labored for three more at-bats. Amazingly, he collected a single in the 14th inning and scored the winning run on Ken Griffey Jr.'s single.

On Thursday, Mariners manager Don Wakamatsu, shaking his head in bewilderment, announced Beltre would be placed on the disabled list with a torn right testicle and was even more stunned when told that Beltre does not wear an athletic supporter, better known as a cup that protects the groin area.

Beltre has never worn a cup, telling reporters in past years that it was uncomfortable. And for the past 11 seasons, he has gotten away with it because of those quick hands. As to whether he'll wear a cup when he returns, the third baseman wasn’t sure.

"That's a good question, I don't know. If it happens every 10 years and you get hit there, it's not bad. I have never been hit right on the spot. It's been close, which hurt but not right on one of the testicles. So this was my first."

So let me get this straight. This guy stands 90 feet from the batter’s box (sometimes less), doesn’t wear a cup, gets hit in the nutz – it’s bad enough that he may need surgery, and he doesn’t know if he’s gonna wear a cup when he gets out there again?!?!

ADRIAN, YOU HAVE A BALL CONTUSION! YOUR HUDAT TORE AWAY FROM YOUR WATTCHAMACALLIT!

You know what Adrian, you deserve to get hit it the other testicle on the first ground ball that comes your way! I hate to kick a guy when he’s down, but you sound like a moron. It’s like a police officer getting shot in the abdomen while wearing no bullet proof vest, then when he gets back to work goes out on the street with no vest again!

I don’t get it, I just don’t get it. I guess at this point Adrian is looking forward to the “happy ending” rehabilitation massages…….- Keith A. Baker

Keith A. Baker is a sports agent in Stamford, Connecticut. His goal is to offer a unique insight to the world of sports and Major League Baseball in particular. Comments in his columns are for entertainment purposes only and do not reflect the views and opinions of his firm or his clients.

Albert Pujols’ quest for the Triple Crown

It’s been 42 years since anyone has won the Tipple Crown in Baseball.

Perhaps you emember reading Professor Lee Moquin’s piece on Carl Yastrzemski back on June 3rd. Carl was the last player to win the Tripple Crown in 1967.

Here are the previous winners….

1967 AL Carl Yastrzemski BOS .326, 44 HR, 121 RBI
1966 AL Frank Robinson BAL .316, 49 HR, 122 RBI
1956 AL Mickey Mantle NYY .353, 52 HR, 130 RBI
1947 AL Ted Williams BOS .343, 32 HR, 114 RBI
1942 AL Ted Williams BOS .356, 36 HR, 137 RBI
1937 NL Joe Medwick STL .374, 31 HR, 154 RBI
1934 AL Lou Gehrig NYY .363, 49 HR, 165 RBI
1933 AL Jimmie Foxx PHA .356, 48 HR, 163 RBI
1933 NL Chuck Klein PHI .368, 28 HR, 120 RBI
1925 NL Rogers Hornsby STL .403, 39 HR, 143 RBI
1922 NL Rogers Hornsby STL .401, 42 HR, 152 RBI
1909 AL Ty Cobb DET .377, 9 HR, 107 RBI
1901 AL Nap Lajoie PHA .426, 14 HR, 125 RBI
1894 NL Hugh Duffy BSN .440, 18 HR, 145 RBI
1887 AA Tip O'Neill STL .435, 14 HR, 123 RBI
1878 NL Paul Hines PRO .358, 4 HR, 50 RBI

Albert’s got a shot. Right now he has the NL and ML lead in HR’s with 38 and the NL and ML lead in RBI with 102. Mark Reynolds has 36 HR’s and Price Fielder has 100 RBI, so it’s not like he can coast to the finish.

Albert is tied for 3rd with Todd Helton @ .327 and has Pablo Sandoval batting .329 and Hanley Ramirez batting .351 ahead of him. Albert does in fact have a realistic shot at it but more than anything he needs Hanley to slump. With only 46 games left for Albert and 48 games left for Hanley there isn’t much time left. Averages are harder to move towards the end of the season because of the number of at bats and that compounds the problem.

If Albert is going to be able to catch Hanley, it will have as much to do with stuff out of his control as it will with stuff that is in his control because he will need Hanley to slump. Hanley won’t get many days off down the stretch because the Marlins are in a pennant race so it’s not like he can sit out at all and protect his lead.

I don’t recall the last person to have a legitimate shot going down the stretch but this one has the chance to be real exciting. Enjoy. I’m not sure why, but I think we are going to be in for a treat. - Robert FairchildRobert

Fairchild is a professional sports gaming professional. He legally wages on professional and collegiate sporting events for a living. Robert is NOT suggesting that you quit your day job and try to wager on sports for a living. He is contributing his thoughts and experience to assist you in a recreational activity that you as an informed adult may choose to take part in. Robert will NOT give specific wagering advice on any particular proposition in this forum.

Roto-Rx

The Doctor is in...

Question #1: If you had it to do over again, what mistake(s) did you make during this past year’s draft in any of your leagues. –Andy, Lubbock, TX

Andy: Excellent question, Andy. Two regrets that Dr. Roto can think of is: 1) Sticking with Chris Davis for way too long. Dr. Roto believed then (and still does now) that Davis has 40 HR potential in his bat. However, Dr. Roto turned down a few off-season trades and protected Davis who ended up hitting about .198 2) Trading for J. Soria. Dr. Roto thought that Soria was a lock to be a top three closer, so he invested big $$. Soria got hurt and hasn't had nearly as many chances this year to close out games. Of course, Andy...don't doubt that Dr. Roto had many more successes than regrets this year!

Question #2: What is your take on the White Sox Rios wavier claim? Money well spent? – Andrew, Aurora, IL

Andrew: Dr. Roto scouted Alex Rios closely in spring training a few years back and I can tell you one thing...Rios is an excellent 5 tool player. In fact, Chicago might be a perfect fit for Rios. It is a hitters park and Ozzie Guillen is a players manager (as long as you don't piss him off). Did GM Kenny Williams overspend by a few million? Maybe. But the White Sox are close to the playoffs, and with Peavy joining the team (and with Dye and Thome becoming free agents at the end of the year), it looks like a good move. BTW Kenny Williams is one of Dr. Roto's favorite GM's.

Question #3: If you had to call it today, what teams will make the MLB playoffs? – Grace, Fort Collins, CO.

Grace: Big fan of Fort Collins...Dr. Roto used to have many friends who played for the CSU Rams! Ok, for your question...I will give you three locks for each league and one surprise. Locks in the AL: Yankees, Angels, White Sox (Surprise wild card team: Rays). Locks in the NL: Phillies, Cardinals, Dodgers (Surprise wild card team: Braves).

Question #4: What would you say is the most common mistake made by owners on draft day in auction drafts? – Al, Brooklyn, NY

Al: The most common mistake made by owners in an auction draft is falling in love and overpaying for a certain player. For example, Dr. Roto loved Adam Jones at this year's auction, but when the guy next to me said $25, Dr Roto was out of the bidding. Of course, Dr, Roto then drafted Kendry Morales for $4 and Hank Blalock for $6.

Question #5: Who does your crystal stethoscope say will win the AL & NL MVP’s? – Jerry, San Francisco, CA

Jerry: Albert Pujols should be a lock for the NL MVP. As for the AL...Dr. Roto will hedge and give you three guys: M. Teixeira, Justin Morneau, and Joe Mauer. Smart money is on Tex, unless Mauer hits close to .400 and the Twins make the playoffs.

Question #6: Let’s see if Dr. Roto knows his stuff. Without looking it up, name as many of the ’82 Brewers (my favorite team) as you can. Don’t cheat! – Manny, Las Vegas, NV

Manny: Ok, you're on! Harvey's Wallbangers had: Paul Molitor, Robin Yount, Cecil Cooper, Stormin Gorman Thomas, Don (you are so) Money, Ted Simmons, Ben Oglivie, and Pete Vuckovich was on the mound. I am missing a couple of others, but hey you caught Dr. Roto by surprise!

The Doctor is out...

Mark Bloom (aka Dr. Roto) is the former owner of Roto-Rx, a fantasy website featured in a UPN newscast. He has been an active competitor and commissioner in fantasy leagues for close to 20 years winning numerous league titles.

Ask Dr. Roto your rotisserie baseball questions.

Follow Dr. Roto on Twitter

What the hell was Cecil Cooper thinking?

Cecil Cooper's postgame quote on the subject was: "I don't have a problem with that."

He doesn't have a problem with Hanley Ramirez knocking in a run AFTER the Astros intentionally walked Nick Johnson with a man on second and two out in the sixth to bring up Ramirez? That RBI capped a three-run inning that gave the Marlins a 7-2 lead. What the heck?

I'm not a big fan of second guessing managers. Even when they do something that prompts fans and us in the press box to raise a collective eyebrow, they typically have a darn good reason that's just not abundantly clear. In this situation though, I'm at a loss as to why Cooper would call for the IBB on Johnson with Ramirez and his NL leading .419 average with RISP on deck.

Unless the guys name is Albert Puljos, how do you intentionally walk anyone pitch to H-Ram? I understand that Johnson is a lefty first basemen like you were Coop, but Johnson doesn’t have anywhere near the resume that you did, and even if he did, walking him would still be crazy!

Ramirez figured Cooper just wanted a righty-on-righty match-up. OK, let's look at that...Ramirez is hitting .362 against right-handers compared to Johnson's .280. Sampson is holding right-handers to a .245 average. Lefties are batting 53 points higher off him, but with no homers.

Sampson hadn't faced either Johnson or Ramirez before.

“It was surprising, but I don’t pretend to be the manager," Marlins catcher John Baker said. "Maybe he knows something about the match-up I don’t know. The way Nick has been playing, he probably would have walked anyway.”

No need for the Marlins to ask why. They should just say thank you and move on.

I’m guessing that in today’s game Cooper might walk the pitcher to get to the leadoff hitter……. - Keith A. Baker

Keith A. Baker is a sports agent in Stamford, Connecticut. His goal is to offer a unique insight to the world of sports and Major League Baseball in particular. Comments in his columns are for entertainment purposes only and do not reflect the views and opinions of his firm or his clients.

Who will blink first?

The Washington Nationals have until midnight, August 17th to sign right-hander Stephen Strasburg or lose the rights to him. That’s less than one week away.

President Stan Kasten and acting GM Mike Rizzo have said they won't negotiate through the media. They've done an excellent job of keeping any talks between the Nationals and Strasburg's advisor, Scott Boras, quite.

It's been written that Boras is seeking a deal in the neighborhood of $50 million for his client, but I don't think it will take that much to sign him. The question is, how much should the Nationals offer to Strasburg? $15 million, $20, $30?

I don't have the answer to that, but this much I do know, I don't think Washington should break the bank for the 21-year old.

Let me explain, the kid has never pitched a day in the big leagues or in pro ball for that matter. Yes he throws over 100-MPH and has a knee-buckling breaking ball, but does that mean he deserves more money than anyone has even gotten before stepping on a Major League field? I say no.

I know Mark Prior received around $10 million when he signed and Strasburg is an once-in-a-lifetime prospect, but that's all he is at this point, a prospect.
Pitchers, of all positions in baseball, have the hardest time living up to their potential. Anyone remember the name Brien Taylor?

What I'm trying to say is, Washington should offer him $20 million and not a dollar more. More or less a take it or leave it offer. If he signs, great, if not, move on.

Will there be backlash if the Nationals fail to sign him? Of course.

But they shouldn't mortgage the future to sign him. If Washington doesn't sign him, they will get the second overall pick in the 2010 draft.

It's going to be interesting to see who will blink first.

If you ran the Nationals, what would you do? I'm interested to hear what, you, the fan, think. – Josh Bolan

Josh Bolan is a retired AP baseball reporter and now works as a freelance writer in Fresno California. Josh has been contributing to baseball publications as a writer since 1996.

Victorino comes out of the closet...........

By now most of you have had to have seen the highlights of Shane Victorino getting thrown out of yesterday’s game while playing centerfield.

If you haven’t seen it, Victorino was waving his arms up and down in centerfield in protest of some ball / strike calls during the half inning prior, and the home plate umpire tossed him (he was in his line of sight waving his arms in protest, showing him up). After some initial confusion about the ejection, Victorino sprinted at full speed from center field to the area behind home plate. On the way in from center he waved off Howard and violently shoved catcher Paul Bako to get close to Ed Rapuano the home plate umpire who tossed him before he was eventually restrained by Howard and Bako.

While it is always entertaining watching a player open a can of whoop-ass on the umpire, the post game interview about the situation was a bit more….. how do you say……. well……revealing.

You see Shane Victorino decided to come out of the closet on Sunday. Shane Victorino stood in front of a group of reporters and told everybody that he actually loves Ed Rapuano. So much, in fact, that he routinely plays “grab-ass” on the field with him. Here’s the quote:

“I love the guy, that’s why, I think I was even more upset it’s that, he’s just one of those guys you can play grab-ass with and have fun with out there on the field. You know, I mean, sincerely.”

If you would like to see the actual interview, our friends over at The Fightins have the clip.

Look, what the guy does on his own time is his own business, but since he just made it public, it’s now up for discussion. All I’d like to say is, Shane this is baseball - so whether you like to pitch or catch makes no difference to me. Good luck with your relationship and congrats on coming out. – James Morrison

Jim (no relation to the dead Door’s guy) is a self proclaimed rotisserie expert. Jim has been participating in an serious Ultra-Rotisserie league (you can protect some minor leaguers too) at $2,600 per team instead of $260 (similar to Ultimate Franchise Baseball ™) for the past 17 years and has finished in the money 14 times with 8 First place finishes and over $260,000 in total winnings over the 17 year period. While the world is full of institutions and people that come with disclaimers on how past performance is no guarantee of future results, Jim is brazen enough to claim that it will be in your best interest to follow his advice going forward. He’ll write it, we’ll publish it and we shall see………

The Butler did it (well, he's doing it now)

Billy Butler is now hitting .302/.358/.485 for a 127 OPS+. Billy's on pace for 20 homers and 50 doubles. Those are pretty decent numbers, especially for a guy who -- it's easy to forget this -- just turned 23 in April.

These aren't unprecedented numbers, of course, but you have to be encouraged by the company he's keeping.

This year, there are four others Billy's age or younger matching his OPS+. They are Evan Longoria, Pablo Sandoval, Adam Jones and Justin Upton.

Here is the list of guys to do it in the last five years: B.J. Upton, Hanley Ramirez, Nick Markakis, Prince Fielder, Grady Sizemore, Robinson Cano, Joe Mauer, Miguel Cabrera, David Wright, and Jhonny Peralta.

Here is the list of 23-year-olds to hit 20 homers with 48 doubles in baseball history: Ramirez, Cabrera, Sizemore, Albert Pujols, Alex Rodriguez and Hank Greenberg.

Put those lists together and you're looking at one guy who's in the Hall of Fame, several more who are going there, a few with a shot, and then some scrubs who are merely really good players.

Billy still scuffles at time in the field, and, let's be honest here, outside of hitting, really doesn't do any baseball-related skill even average. But it's a hell of a skill to have, one the Royals are absolutely desperate for, one that will earn Billy -- at least -- tens of millions of dollars, and here's where we get to the point.

When should the Royals start thinking about locking him up long-term?
When does the risk of him regressing become too small in the face of what will likely be a rising cost?

Billy will most likely have one more year before he hits arbitration, which would make him a free agent after the 2013 season. There's plenty of time there, and the Royals probably won't feel rushed to get something worked out for at least a few years.

But if there is an early judgment to be made, Billy's putting together the type of career from a homegrown prospect that the Royals have publicly said is important for them to sign long-term.

Throw a few dollars Billy’s way at next year’s draft. You won’t be disappointed. - Robert Fairchild

Robert Fairchild is a professional sports gaming professional. He legally wages on professional and collegiate sporting events for a living. Robert is NOT suggesting that you quit your day job and try to wager on sports for a living. He is contributing his thoughts and experience to assist you in a recreational activity that you as an informed adult may choose to take part in. Robert will NOT give specific wagering advice on any particular proposition in this forum.