Opening Day 2011 at a Glance

Opening Day for the 2011 Major League Baseball season is over, but it was full of excitement. There were a total of 16 homeruns hit today in the six games, all of which were very exciting. Rickie Weeks and Carlos Gomez hit back to back homeruns in the first two at bats. This feat has not happened on Opening Day since 1969 by Pete Rose and Bobby Tolen, which was 42 years ago. Also in the Brewers-Reds game, Ramon Hernandez hit a 3-run walk-off homerun to beat the Brewers 7-6. Another powerful homerun was hit by Mark Teixeira, who is notoriously known for slow starts, who blasted a 3-run homerun off Justin Verlander. Going into that at-bat, Teixeira had a walk and carried a .059 batting average against Verlander. Pat "The Bat" Burrell hit a homerun off Jonathan Broxton in the top of the 9th, showing that Broxton "Has never been the same since Matt Stairs' blast in '08." The last "special/exciting" homerun that I would like to talk about was Jason Heyward's homerun, making his first at-bats in both the 2010/2011 seasons homeruns. Let's check on Heyward in 2012's first at-bat, just to see what happens. 

Other things happened on Opening Day other than homeruns:

• C.C. Sabathia did not have the strongest outing on Opening Day, something that he always struggles with, but gave up 3 runs in 6 innings. Joba Chamberlain got the win for the Yankees, Rivera had the save. 
• The Angels won against the Kansas City Royals, allowing the Angels to go 7 and 8 on Opening Day in the past 8 seasons. 
• Tim Lincecum pitched 7 innings with 0 ER, with 5 hits. Kershaw got the win with 7 innings, 4 hits, 1 BB, 0 ER. Broxton with the SV
• Nationals lost....big surprise and Jayson Werth had a hit. (That's about it)
• The Padres and Cardinals went to the extra innings, with the Padres winning 5-3 in the 11th. Albert Pujols had a record setting day: Grounding into 3 Double Plays. Wow.
• As stated above, the Brewers lost to the Reds on a walkoff homerun. Joey Votto picked up where he left off in 2010, he also hit a homerun. There were a total of 6 HRs hit in that game.

(And Pete Rose was wearing what is pictured above)

Baseball 2011 is A Go

Thinking about what I was going to post for this blog is difficult, 30 Teams in 30 Days is over and tomorrow is Opening Day. Yes I could write about an exhibition game, or something along those lines, but I really don't know what to write about. There's something about Opening Day, that allows fans everywhere to feel a pulse throughout their body. Many great things have happened on Opening Day, like Jackie Robinson playing for the first time, Babe Ruth hitting a homerun in old Yankee Stadium, or even last year's amazing flip by Mark Buehrle to Paul Konerko. Regardless of the time period, the date, the weather, or even the team, Opening Day is something that only happens once a year, making it a holiday for baseball fans. I went to Opening Day last year in Washington, against the Phillies, and it was electrifying. All the players were there, and snipers were there as well (to protect the president). But you could just tell that it was going to be a special day, which it was. This year Opening Day is broken up into two different days, between the 6 games going on tomorrow, and others on Friday. I don't necessarily agree with this, because it separates the atmosphere that normally comes with Opening Day. In my opinion, it will either give MLB more publicity or can blow up in their face. I know that I will be kicking back at my house watching Roy Halladay dominate over Brett Myers and the Astros. In all seriousness, I am also going to Opening Night at Citizens Bank Park to watch Cliff Lee and the Phillies take on the Astros once again. I hope all teams good luck in the 2011 season, and wish all Opening Day starters good luck on their first outing.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Philadelphia Phillies (Day 30)

What do you mean 30 Teams in 30 Days is over? It seems like it was just yesterday when I started writing about the Baltimore Orioles, and it seems like I strategically planned it so that the Phillies would be the last team covered, mainly because I did. But anyway, 30 Teams in 30 Days wraps up with the Philadelphia Phillies who finished the season with 97 wins and 65 losses. This record was the best in Major League Baseball, and the Phillies managed to clinch the NL East Pennant for the 4th straight year. And can 2011 be the 5th season to clinch the NL East? In my opinion as a fan, and as an MLB blogger, I say yes. Phillies off season major signings and losses can be summed up into this equation: 2011 Phillies = (2010 Phillies - Jayson Werth) + Cliff Lee. Bam. Other than that, the Phillies lost Chad Durbin, gained Luis Castillo, placed Ben Francisco in right field, and have made some bench changes. Philadelphia is facing some major problems going into the 2011 season with injuries. Chase Utley has no timetable on his return, Brad Lidge is out 3-6 weeks on the DL, and Dominic Brown is out with a broken hand. Luckily ManRam's line drive to Roy Oswalt's neck was not serious, because he pitched tonight and threw four-plus innings, gave up 5 hits, 5 earned runs, with 4 walks and 4 strikeouts. Jimmy Rollins, the Phillies, Phillies fans, and I are all looking for him to have great season, whether it be for personal merit, a new contract, or even fantasy points. Who doesn't love J-Roll (and is it J-Roll or J-Rol, please let me know)? I will be at Opening Night this year, which is Saturday April 2, so be sure to look for me on Tv. I wish the Phillies luck in the 2011 season, both as a blogger and as a diehard fan.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Atlanta Braves (Day 29)

After this post there is only one more post of 30 Teams in 30 Days and this post covers the Atlanta Braves. The Braves finished 2nd in the NL East and won the NL Wildcard, but then lost to San Francisco in the first round of the playoffs. Regardless of that, Atlanta got to that position by having the best home record in Major League Baseball with a record of 56-25. As a Phillies fan, this is hard to say, but what is stopping the Braves from winning the Wildcard or the NL East Division? Where the Braves lost players, they gained better ones. Dan Uggla is an immense upgrade at 2nd base, and with Uggla there, Martin Prado will be moving into the outfield. Also in the outfield is Jason Heyward who is looking to have a full season after last year's thumb injury. Nate McLouth hopes to become "Pittsburgh Nate," the nickname given to him to so he can regain what he once had with the Pirates. In the infield Freddi Freeman at first, Uggla at second, Alex Gonzalez still at shortstop, and Chipper Jones will return to third after tearing his ACL in the 2010 season. Catching as usual will be slugger, Brian McCann. With these fielders and pitchers like: Tim Hudson, Derek Lowe, Tommy Hanson, and unknown lefty Eric O'Flaherty (look him up), Atlanta will definitely be a contender. Another newcomer to the Braves is manager Freddi Gonzalez, who looks to take the Braves to another level. I wish the Braves luck in the 2011 season and hope for their organization to stay healthy.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Florida Marlins (Day 28)

30 Teams in 30 Days team for the day is the Florida Marlins. The Marlins finished 3rd in the NL East, one game above the Mets with 80 wins and 82 losses, one game under .500. But the question is, where will the Marlins finish in the NL East in their last season in Sun Life Stadium? And where will the Marlins finish as their last season as the "Florida Marlins"? That's right, if you have not heard, the Marlins will be called the Miami Marlins at the beginning of the 2012 season, which naturally comes with new uniforms and especially exciting, a new hat! With the new name, new stadium, new uniform, and same players, I'm sorry to say Marlins' fans, but the team can probably finish anywhere from 1st to 5th in the NL East. The notable players that Florida lost this off season were Dan Uggla and Cameron Maybin. They gained few in John Buck, Javier Vazquez, Omar Infante, and Randy Choate. They also signed Greg Dobbs to a minor league deal, and extended Ricky Nolasco to a 3-year, $26.5 million contract. The Marlins also have a new manager with Edwin Rodriguez leading the way. With returning Marlins like: Gabby Sanchez, Wes Helms, Chris Coghlan, Mike Stanton, and All-Star shortstop Hanley Ramirez, the Marlins have a bright outlook in 2011. And don't forget starting pitcher Josh Johnson leading the rotation, so the Marlins should have a win once every 5 days, pending their offense. I wish the Marlins luck in the 2011 season, and I am glad that they are getting a new stadium, because watching games at Sun Life looks empty and depressing.

30 Teams in 30 Days: New York Mets (Day 27)

30 Teams in 30 Days continues today after being halted, once again by faulty wifi in hotels. I hope you are not too upset, but today there will be two posts between today's blog and tomorrow's. But this blog features the New York Mets, who finished 4th in the National League East. The Mets won 79 games in the 2010 season, and are facing quite a predicament this season. If you are unaware, the Mets are facing a $1 billion lawsuit due to their involvement with Bernie Madoff, and with that, they were also loaned $25 million from Major League Baseball. I was talking to a Mets fan about the 2011 season and my thoughts on how they would play. They stated, "Before the lawsuit, they will be in first place, and afterwards.....it will not be good." My thoughts exactly, a lawsuit will be very distracting for the ball club, and if they lose, there is a chance that their payroll will be nonexistent. The Mets recently released Luis Castillo and Oliver Perez, Castillo went to the Phillies, and Perez to the Nationals. New York did not do much signing over the off season but still retain the players that got them to 79 wins like: Jason Bay, David Wright, Ike Davis, Carlos Beltran, Angel Pagan, K-Rod, and my favorite, Jose Reyes. Reyes will be a free agent at the end of the season and hopefully the Mets will trade him to another team so I can wear his t-shirt and not look like a Mets fan (Fingers crossed). And to go with my hats, I am purchasing shirts, (at a slower rate), to show my love for the sport, and my favorite player on each team. But I wish the Mets luck in 2011 and wish Jose Reyes luck wherever he goes.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Washington Nationals (Day 26)

30 Teams in 30 Days continues by starting coverage of the National League East. It feels so good for me to be back "home" within my own favorite division. At the bottom of the NL East in the 2010 season was the Washington Nationals, who won 69 games. That may not be impressive for some, but they won 59 in both the 2008 and 2009 seasons. I know that at Opening Day 2010 in Washington, they handed out pamphlets which described how the Nationals wanted to finish at or above .500, meaning they need to win 81 games. They fell short of this goal, but after this off season, combined with wins from last season, they might have a chance. People everywhere know that Jayson "Teen Wolf" Werth signed with the Nationals for a 7-year, $126 million contract. And there is a blog about Werth if you did not already read it. Other Nationals' pickups were Rick Ankiel, and personsal favorite: Adam LaRoche. The two veterans will add to the young club in D.C. Former Phillie Matt Stairs is also trying out for the team, and his Spring Training performances may get him on the roster as bench player. Most importantly, Bryce Harper has been practicing with the team. The "Lebron James" of baseball has been adapting to and learning the outfield position, but still manages to talk to "Pudge" Rodriguez about catching. The Nationals will be missing Stephen Strasburg for part of the season, depending on recovery from his Tommy John surgery. With players such as Ryan Zimmerman, Pudge, Jordan Zimmermann, John Lannan, Tyler Clippard, and Ian Desmond returning with the team, the Nationals should have a better chance at 81 games. I wish the Nationals luck in the 2011 season, and hope that they finish 4th in the NL East. And on a side note, Nationals Park is a very nice stadium where you can attend a game for only $5, so if you would like to go down for a day, I recommend it.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Cincinnati Reds (Day 25)

30 Teams in 30 Days is still going on! But we are winding down on day 25 with the Cincinnati Reds, who were atop the National League Central for the first time since 1995, when the NL Central only had 5 teams. Regardless of that fact, the Reds proved themselves by winning 91 games in the regular season, but were swept by the Phillies. Maybe it was because the Reds were rusty in the post season, or the large amounts of errors they committed. The Reds seemed like nothing could stop them, with NL MVP Joey Votto leading the team, hard throwing Aroldis Chapman, and the rest of the Reds' lineup behind them, I don't see why the Reds didn't do better. The Reds resigned several of their players to extensions that are both long and short, they include: Joey Votto, Johnny Cueto, Jay Bruce, and Bronson Arroyo. Aroldis Chapman was signed in January of the 2010 season and left behind his entire family to come play for the Reds. MLB did an interview with him today, and he stated that he is more confident than ever. If a guy that can throw consistently over 100-mph is confident, I would not want to be the batter. In other news, the Reds have returning faces that did not play often in the 2010 season, such as: Drew Stubbs, Scott Rolen, Jay Bruce, Ramon Hernandez, Brandon Phillips, and Joey Votto. I am currently following Brandon Phillips on Twitter and he has some interesting stuff to say. Check it out. Once again, I love the steamboat at the Great American Ballpark, and I wish the Reds luck in 2011.

30 Teams in 30 Days: St. Louis Cardinals (Day 24)

30 Teams in 30 Days is still going with the St. Louis Cardinals, here on day 24. The Cardinals finished second in the National League Central. St. Louis finished with 86 wins and 76 losses which is over .500, which is more than 4 out of the 6 teams in the NL Central can say. The 2010 season with the Cardinals reflected the playing of Albert Pujols. Pujols ONLY posted a .312 batting average with 42 homeruns and 118 RBIs. But compared to other seasons, this was a "slumping" year for the 3-time NL MVP. Another Cardinals/Pujols related story was that the Cardinals and Pujols did not sign a contract extension before Spring Training started. Pujols did not want to be a distraction throughout the season and stated that all contract negotiations will be dealt with at the end of the season when he hits free agency. Other bad news for the Cardinals in 2011 is that they will not have pitcher Adam Wainwright due to Tommy John surgery. More news in St. Louis' off season was that they acquired Lance "Big Puma" Berkman with a one-year, $8 million contract. Berkman will play in right field, and is playing outfield fulltime for the first time since 2004. Ryan Theriot also joins the Cardinals in the 2011 season; Theriot was acquired from the Cubs. But with Chris Carpenter, Colby Rasmus, Matt Holliday, Yadier Molina, and Albert Pujols still on the team, the Cardinals are going to try and knock of the Reds from the top of the NL Central. I wish the St. Louis luck in the 2011 season and if Tony La Russa still bats the pitcher 8th, the Cardinals should be fine.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Milwaukee Brewers (Day 23)

30 Teams in 30 Days continues with a personal favorite, the Milwaukee Brewers. If I did not like the Phillies, the Brewers would be my next team. Ryan Braun is my favorite player in Major League Baseball ever since he was Rookie of the Year in 2007. But back to the team, the finished 3rd in the NL Central but were only one game ahead of the Astros, and two games ahead of the Cubs. And if you've been reading the past few days, that means that they only won 77 games and lost 85. The Brewers really stepped up their game this off season by resigning Corey Hart, Yovani Gallardo, and Rickie Weeks. They also were able to acquire: Zack Greinke, Shawn Marcum, Yuniesky Betancourt, and as of today, Brett Carroll. Unfortunately for Brewers fans, Greinke cracked a rib playing basketball and will not be starting until mid-April. With that, the Brewers will have a 4 man rotation starting off the year. The Brew Crew really would like to get to the playoffs in 2011, especially with their highly upgraded pitching staff and stacked offense. Prince Fielder, their powerful first baseman, will be playing for a new contract this year, because he will be a free agent at the end of the 2011 season. Depending on the Brewers situation mid-season, they could opt to trade him. And depending on how well Fielder plays this season, he may have a "Ryan Howard-like" contract, or even a contract similar to Miguel Cabrera's. The Brewers should have no problem keeping their 3rd place position in the 2011 season, but beating Cincinnati and St. Louis could be difficult. I wish the Brewers good luck in the 2011 season and especially wish Ryan Braun and Prince Fielder good luck.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Houston Astros (Day 22)

30 Teams in 30 Days continues with Houston Astros. They also happen to be my latest addition to my hat collection, and it looks great. The Astros finished 4th in the NL Central, one game above the Cubs. They also finished below .500 with 76 wins and 86 losses. No one saw Houston finishing this well after starting the season off so poorly. But let's look into what the Astros did in the 2010 off season to prepare for the 2011 season. The Astros picked up: Bill Hall, Brett Wallace, and Mark Melancon. Not to mention the players they got in the 2010 season from the Phillies, such as Nelson Figueroa and J.A. Happ. But Opening Day pitcher Brett Myers and center fielder Michael Bourn are the true stars of the Astros that came from Philadelphia. The Astros have a very young bullpen with a handful of relief pitchers that have never pitched a full season in the majors. This could work for the Astros, because they have several hard-throwing pitchers, but there is also a lack of experience. The Astros are not doing very well in Spring Training going 10-17, but there is no definite answer of where to place the blame. Is it the lack of experience? The lack of leadership or talent? I'm not quite sure because the Astros do have talent in: Michael Bourn, Hunter Pence, Carlos Lee, and Brett Myers. The Astros or as my dad refers to them as, "Philadelphia's Farm Team" have been struggling, but hopefully can find a groove in the 2011 season. I wish them luck duking it out against among the other five teams in the NL Central.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Chicago Cubs (Day 21)

30 Teams in 30 Days is more than 2/3 done, and today will cover the Chicago Cubs. The Cubs finished 5th in the National League Central, which isn't very hard to do when the Pirates win 57 games. The Cubs finished with 75 wins and 87 losses in 2010, which is actually bad for the Cubs in recent years. In 2009 they finished with 83 wins, and in 2008 they had 97 wins. What do you do when you have a bad season? That's right, come back the next season with a better team. Chicago signed new players to a few different positions. Blake DeWitt, Carlos Pena, and Matt Garza were the three largest names acquired by the Cubs in the 2010 off season. Pena can bring the long ball to Chicago, but he is also known to strike out. Matt Garza will add to the depth within the Cubs rotation, but Chicago newspapers did not know what Garza looked like. It was after Garza was acquired by the Cubs that The Chicago Sun-Times placed a picture Joaquin Benoit on the front page of their paper with "Big G" on the cover. Some call it stereotyping, others call it lazy editing. I just find it funny. The outfield for the Cubs is the same as in 2010 with Soriano, Byrd, and Fukudome. Aramis Ramirez and Geovany Soto have had off seasons in recent years, but are looking to return to their former glory. Carlos Zambrano is also looking to do that. Zambrano is known for pitching well and being a bad teammate. But regardless of that fact, Zambrano is back in the starting rotation for good, and is pitching behind Garza. I wish the Cubs luck in the 2011 season.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Pittsburgh Pirates (Day 20)

30 Teams in 30 Days continues with coverage of the National League Central, and at the bottom of the NL Central was the Pittsburgh Pirates. The Pirates finished the season 57-105, and on August 20, 2010, the Pirates were able to clinch 18 consecutive losing seasons. But somehow the Pirates were able to take 3 out of 4 games against the Phillies over 4th of July weekend. I would know, I was there for a Phillies win and loss. PNC Park is a really nice park within Pittsburgh and I would recommend it to anyone. Unfortunately for the Pirates, they had the worst road record in all of Major League Baseball going 17-64. Hometown fans did not see that bad of a home record, going 40-41, but they were very generous to their hosts. In the off season, the Pirates were able to make some decent pickups. Among those pickups were: Matt Diaz, Joel Hanrahan, Chris Synder, and Lyle Overbay. Pittsburgh still held onto Garrett Jones, Andrew McCutchen, Ronney Cedeno, and Pedro Alvarez. The Pirates also kept National League All-Star relief pitcher, Evan Meek. Ross Ohlendorf won in arbitration against the Pirates in the off season and Ryan Doumit will be the backup catcher and possible outfielder. I really think that the Pirates will win more than 60 games this season. If you have three digit totals in the the win or loss column, you're either really good or really bad. But in the only division with 6 teams, the Pirates are already at a disadvantage. I wish the Pirates luck in the 2011 season because it would good to restore some of the former glory that baseball in Pittsburgh had.

30 Teams in 30 Days: San Francisco Giants (Day 19)

30 Teams in 30 Days continues with the 2010 World Series Champions, the San Francisco Giants. It was on the last game of the season that the Giants clenched the NL West over the Padres. But really, what does it take to win a World Series? A world renowned pitching staff? An amazing offense? Great management? None of the above. It takes one man to win a World Series, and his name is Pat Burrell. How many World Series rings does he have? Two. How many rings does All-Star first baseman Albert Pujols have? One. So who is the better player? Pat Burrell. But regardless of how much I love in Pat Burrell, the Giants did win the World Series in 2010 over the Texas Rangers. It was the Rangers first time in franchise history to the World Series, and it was the Giants first win as the Giants on the West Coast. With a team including: Aubrey Huff, Juan Uribe, Pablo Sandoval, Cody Ross, and Rookie of the Year Buster Posey. Posey started in May and just kept the ball rolling ever since. With almost the same team, the Giants look to repeat what they did in 2010. But that will be difficult after several already good teams "beefed" up their teams which will hurt the Giants in the long run. The Giants kept almost their entire pitching staff by retaining Jonathan Sanchez, Matt Cain, Tim Lincecum, and closer Brian Wilson. As long as Wilson retains his beard, the Giants will be fine, and I really liked his shoes from the All-Star game. I wish the Giants luck in the 2011 season, and more importantly, I wish Pat Burrell good luck in the 2011 season.

30 Teams in 30 Days: San Diego Padres (Day 18)

30 Teams in 30 Days continues with the San Diego Padres. I would like this 30/30 to be kind of a recap of what happened to the Padres, what they did in the off season, and how that can change their 2011 season, rather than the normal format (but that is very similar to what it already is, this I know). San Diego finished second in the NL West after losing the last game of the season and were also unable to make the playoffs. This situation was very similar to the Mets end of the season in 2007. Kind of stinks doesn't it? The Padres signed Jason Bartlett to an $11 million, 2-year deal, with an optional $1.5 million buy out in 2013. Unknown to most, Jason Bartlett was originally drafted in the 13th round by the Padres back in 2001, so this will be a nice homecoming for Bartlett. Orlando Hudson, or "O-Dog" as I refer to him, also signed with the Padres. O-Dog is a personal favorite of mine, don't ask me why, but he truly is great. The Padres suffered a devastating end of the season, missing the playoffs and allowing the Giants to coast into a World Series victory. Fans everywhere are saying, "Thanks a lot San Diego...." With Chase Headley stepping up this season, and the Padres acquiring Ryan Ludwick in the 2010 season, the Padres were looking to be a top-notch team. Heath Bell is also another name being tossed around within the Padres front office, because he will be a free agent at the end of this year. He was quoted saying that he would take a pay cut to play with the Padres further on in his career. Bell had 47 saves in the 2010 season, and is one of the best closers in the game, and only making $4 million. The Padres have suffered an offensive blow this offseason but hopefully they do not retain the bad taste of last year's season in their mouth at the beginning of this one. Almost a completely new infield will start for the Padres this year, and a new first baseman will start for San Diego, since the Fryers signed Brad Hawpe in early January. I wish the Padres luck in the 2011 season, and they will need it without their All-Star first baseman.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Colorado Rockies (Day 17)

30 Teams in 30 Days continues with the Colorado Rockies. They finished 3rd in the NL West with 83 wins and a winning percentage of .512. It's very surprising that a team with that much talent could only win 83 wins. Look at the starting nine for the Rockies (On every fifth day): Miguel Olivo, Todd Helton, Clint Barnes, Troy Tulowitzki, Ian Stewart, Dexter Fowler, Carlos Gonzalez, Brad Hawpe, and Ubaldo Jimenez. I'm not necessarily surprised that they did not make the playoffs, but only win 83 games? Carlos Gonzalez was in contention for the Triple Crown of Baseball and NL MVP. Ubaldo Jimenez was in the running for NL Cy Young, with the stats from the first half of the season anyway, but did not not produce solid starts at the end of the season. Yes, Jimenez did pitch a no-hitter, but Dallas Braden threw a perfect game, step it up Ubaldo. Troy Tulowizki was the best short stop in the best shortstop in the league, outdoing Hanley Ramirez in every category except stolen bases. That was even with a season full of injuries. Everyday starters to the Rockies organization this off season are Jose Lopez, Chris Iannetta, and Seth Smith. Smith is back after sharing time with Dexter Fowler, but now that Fowler is no longer a starter, Smith will be the the primary right fielder. With "Tulo" and "Cargo" being signed to long-term deals, Colorado is putting a lot of their eggs in one basket. I wish the Rockies luck in the 2011 season and hope that their off season signings pay off for them in the end, and they now have a special place on my hat rack because their hat is one of them I now own.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Los Angeles Dodgers (Day 16)

30 Teams in 30 Days moves up the National League West by covering the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Dodgers finished 4th in the NL West with 80 wins and 82 losses. The 2010 season was a "down" season for the Dodgers but baseball analysts don't know where to place the blame. They had 95 wins in the 2009 season, and even went to the post season, only to lose to Philadelphia once again in the NLCS. The Dodgers this year will have their work cut out for them because they lost one of their biggest assets: Joe Torre. Whether you love Joe Torre or hate Joe Torre, you have to respect the man and what he has done for baseball. Torre has 4 World Series Titles and 6 Pennants under his belt, and a winning percentage of .538, so the Dodgers will have their hands full with someone other than Torre. In the off season, the Dodgers acquired Juan Uribe from the Giants, and is a much better player than people credit him. The Dodgers lost Russell Martin and Ronnie Belliard to the Yankees, what a shame. They still have great players on the field such as: Andre Ethier, Matt Kemp, Rafael Furcal, James Lonely, Casey Blake, and Rod Barajas(?). Nah, I'll pass on Barajas. Jonathan Broxton is still the Dodgers closer, meaning the 300 lb, 6'4" hurler will remain one of the best closers in the game, and in the NL West along with Heath Bell. And be sure to listen to all broadcasters talk about the vast amounts of foul territory that used to be at Dodger Stadium, the always talk about it. I know that Chris Wheeler and "Sarge" were able to talk about it for about two innings. But regardless of the large amounts of foul territory, I wish the Dodgers good luck in the 2011 season, mainly because they are my favorite team in the NL West.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Arizona Diamondbacks (Day 15)

30 Teams in 30 Days starts coverage of the National League, Today! At the end of the 2010 season, the Arizona Diamondbacks finished last in the National League West. The Diamondbacks finished the season with 65 wins and 97 losses. The Diamondbacks set an MLB record in the 2010 season, but it is a record that teams normally do not try to break. That record is the most strikeouts by an entire team, almost a sixth of them coming from Mark Reynolds alone. Other than that, the Diamondbacks did not have the best season, or even the best off season. Mark Reynolds, Dan Haren, Adam LaRoche and Brandon Webb were the four best players who left Arizona to go to other teams. In my opinion, the largest acquisition they made in the 2010 off season was signing closer J.J. Putz. Arizona still has players such as: Chris Young, Justin Upton, Kelly Johnson, Miguel Montero, and Stephen Drew. With LaRoche and Reynolds gone from the infield, and the lineup, the D'backs will have some troubles in the 2011 season. Another thing happening in Arizona this season is that the All-Star game will be held in Arizona. It was scheduled to be played there for the 2010 All-Star game, but due to political pressures and protests, the game was held in Anaheim. It will be tough for the Diamondbacks to move out of fifth place in the 2011 season, but I know they will give it their all. I wish the Diamondbacks luck in the 2011 season, as a blogger, and because they are a fun team to watch.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Texas Rangers (Day 14)

The second post of a blog "double header" covers the Texas Rangers. This is day 14 of the 30 Teams in 30 Days meaning the American League is done after this post and tomorrow, I will move onto the National League West. The Texas Rangers topped the AL West with 90 wins and won the division by 9 games. The Rangers went to the World Series for the first time in franchise history this past post season, but lost to San Francisco. This was not easy because Texas had to beat the Rays and the Yankees to get to the World Series. The Rangers had a stacked team in the 2010 season including: Josh Hamilton, Ian Kinsler, Elvis Andrus, Nelson Cruz, Michael Young, Vladimir Guerrero, Neftali Feliz, and Cliff Lee. There were plenty of injuries between these players, such as Cruz, Kinsler, and Hamilton, but the Rangers were able to fight through them, and end up successful. In the off season, the Rangers had some ups and downs. They were unable to secure Cliff Lee, but were able to obtain Adrian Beltre and Mike Napoli. Both of which can really add to the team, since the Rangers can still keep Young as a DH, and Napoli is a much better catcher than Bengie Molina. Other news coming from Texas is that Michael Young requested a trade in the off season. Philadelphia is actually looking at Young due to an injured Chase Utley. Texas is definitely looking to repeat what they did in 2010, especially since they have almost all the same players. Whether or not that formula works, I'm not sure, but I do wish them luck in the 2011 season.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Oakland Athletics (Day 13)

Once again, this blog is late due to the lack of "Free Wifi" at my hotel. But now that I am back in my normal residency, I am able to blog freely. 30 Teams in 30 Days continues in the AL West with the Oakland Athletics. The Athletics finished 2nd in the division with a record of .500. They followed the same pattern as the Detroit Tigers with a mirrored home and away record of 47-34 and 34-47. The A's missed several opportunities this off season by not acquiring Adrian Beltre or Lance Berkman. Some have speculated that it's the enormous Coliseum is the reason that players don't want to go play in Oakland. Oakland was able to make a decent amount of pick ups, by obtaining: Josh Willingham, David DeJesus, and Hideki Matsui. With Kurt Suzuki, Kevin Kouzmanoff, and Coco Crisp still on the team, Oakland could win 82 games. This season could go either way for Oakland, especially with a revamped Los Angeles Angels team. But going back to Coco Crisp, he may experience some problems with the organization after receiving a DUI last week. Or he could become one of the best players in baseball like Miguel Cabrera. Dallas Braden is the Opening Day starter for Oakland and can I just say that I'm still looking for a "Get Off My Mound!" T-shirt? If you find one in a medium, please let me know. Braden didn't have much after he threw his perfect game, mainly because he spent some time on the DL. I do with Braden and the Athletics good luck in the 2011 season.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (Day 12)

First and foremost, I am very sorry that the 30 Teams in 30 Days did not continue yesterday, the hotel I was staying at does not have very good wifi and my computer would not connect. But regardless of that fact, there will hopefully be two posts today! Today/Yesterday's team is the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, and who would have thought that they would finish under .500. The Angels finished 3rd in the AL West and won 80 games. Where would you place the blame on a team that in 2009 won 97 games and in 2008 won 100 games? Maybe on the fact that Kendrys Morales broke his leg when celebrating a walk-off win. Morales is the power hitter and cleanup man for the Angels, they lost a lot of offense when he went on the DL. And by the way, it took him 7 years to correct us, but "Kendry" Morales actually spells his name Kendrys Morales. But looking to this season, the Angels had a somewhat busy offseason, by losing some players and gaining more. Players returning to the field this year are: Kendrys Morales, Howie Kendrick, Erik Aybar, Jeff Mathis, Torii Hunter, Jered Weaver, and Bobby Abreu. With this returning squad of healthy players, the Angels should have no trouble winning more than 81 games. An aging Bobby Abreu now placed into the DH position, in my opinion, will contribute better to the team because there isn't as much of a physical toll on his body. Dan Haren and Vernon Wells are two of the biggest acquisitions that the Angels made in the offseason and hope to build off their talent. I wish the Angels luck in the 2011 season and hope they can bounce back from a sub par season.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Seattle Mariners (Day 11)

30 Teams in 30 Days continues as I start off coverage with the AL West. At the bottom at the AL West in the 2010 season was the Seattle Mariners. The Mariners have been lacking in the past few seasons, and last season went 61-101. That's pretty rough. The 2010 season looked to be a great year for the Mariners after obtaining Cliff Lee in the 2009 off season, but after Lee went "head hunting" in the 2010 preseason, he was suspended. Then around mid-season Lee went to the Rangers. Sometimes I feel like the Mariners aren't cut out for baseball, and Seattle always seems so depressing. And overcast. But going back to Seattle baseball, the Mariners still have "King" Felix, and Hernandez is without a doubt, an ace. He was in the AL Cy Young race, even with a record of 13-12. Other notable players on the Mariners are players like Ichiro Suzuki and Chone Figgins. Ichiro is one of the most consistent, and fastest ballplayers there are out there. He has 10 consecutive seasons with at least 200 hits, and just to let you know how talented he truly is: He has been voted Rookie of the Year and AL MVP in the same season, 9 All-Star Teams, 10 Gold Gloves, 6 hit streaks with 20 games or more (the highest being 27), an AL MVP in 2007, and the only player to hit an inside the park home run in an All-Star Game. With a player like that, why aren't the Mariners like what they were in the early 2000s? I'm sorry to say, but the Mariners do not have much of a chance to contend this year in the American League, but I do wish them luck in the 2011 season, and hope they have a better record.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Minnesota Twins (Day 10)

30 Teams in 30 Days is a third of the way through and today features the Minnesota Twins. The Twins had a great season in 2010 and were able to win the AL Central by 6 games. This was no easy feat, but the Twins had the best home record in the American League going 53-28. And that home record was achieved in the brand new Target Field (pronounced Tar-jay). Despite the great home record, the Twins once again were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs. Minnesota was all able to succeed without their star closer, Joe Nathan, who underwent Tommy John surgery before the 2010 season. Even without Nathan, the Twins lineup was stacked in 2010 and many of those faces are returning to Minnesota in 2011. They are: Joe Mauer, Justin Morneau, Michael Cuddyer, Jason Kubel, Denard Span, Delmon Young, Alexi Casilla, and Jim Thome. Unfortunately, Orlando Hudson "O-Dawg" (a favorite of mine) left the Twins to go to the Padres. The starting rotation is still strong, just as it was in 2010, and the bullpen will be even stronger with Nathan back. The Twins have reported that Nathan has to prove himself to obtain the closing position, because it is rightfully Matt Capps' position. Which is only fair to Capps. I do believe that the Twins are once again going to make it into the playoffs, whether it be by winning the AL Central or the AL Wildcard. Hopefully they will make it past the first round, they deserve it. Especially with Joe Mauer still on the team. I'm not sure if you follow video games, but Joe Mauer has been on the cover of MLB The Show for the past two years! Which is unheard of, I'm sorry but I had to say it. Tomorrow starts the coverage of the AL West, so be prepared. I wish the Twins and Joe Mauer luck with success in the 2011 season and hopefully the 2011 postseason.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Chicago White Sox (Day 9)

Welcome back to another day of 30 Teams in 30 Days! Moving on up the AL Central is the Chicago White Sox who finished 2nd in the division at the end of the 2010 season. The White Sox finished the season with 88 wins and 74 losses, a winning percentage of .543. The White Sox had a strong end of the season, but suffered some setbacks throughout the entire season. One of them being losing ace pitcher Jake Peavy, who suffered on of the worst injuries imaginable. The muscle in his shoulder became detached. Ouch. Also, the White Sox acquire Manny Ramirez, who did practically nothing with the White Sox. Regardless, the White Sox have an overall solid team this year and really will be in contention and may even take the AL Central from the Twins. Juan Pierre, Alex Rios, and Carlos Quentin are in the outfield. Three solid players who can hit, run, steal, and field the ball well. Second baseman Gordon Beckham had an amazing finish to the 2010 season and would even be a good fantasy choice. Shortstop Alexi Ramirez will be back with the White Sox this season after extending his contract in the 2010 off season. A.J. Pierzynski will be backing up the plate once again and Paul Konerko will be at first. The White Sox lineup is very similar to their 2010 lineup. But the biggest move the White Sox did in the off season was the signing of Adam Dunn. Dunn will be the White Sox's DH and posts great numbers and averages 40 home runs per season. I wish the White Sox luck in the 2011 season and I think that all other teams are "Dunn." (I couldn't resist the pun.)

30 Teams in 30 Days: Detroit Tigers (Day 8)

30 Teams in 30 Days continues with the Detroit Tigers. The Tigers finished 3rd in the AL Central and were able to complete the season at .500. With 81 wins and 81 losses, the Tigers also had a mirrored home and away record with a 52-29 home record, and went 29-52 on the road. At Comerica Park, the Tigers look to have a better season this year and hoping to not face the "drop off" that occurred. In September of 2010, Miguel Cabrera seemed like the only player on the team who was contributing, mainly because he was still in the race for the AL MVP. This year the Tigers acquired Victor Martinez from the Boston Red Sox for their 19th draft pick. Martinez signed for 4 years, $50 million and will likely be the Tigers full time DH. With Austin Jackson, Ryan Raburn, and Magglio Ordonez in the outfield, the Tigers will keep a very similar outfield from what they had last year. Justin Verlander is the Tigers ace, and is a one of the largest assets to the Tigers. Over the past 5 seasons, Verlander has recorded 83 wins with the Tigers, something that is quite impressive. One of the biggest questions coming from the Tigers organization is what are they going to do with Miguel Cabrera's drinking problem. Last month was the second incident within the last 17 months which Cabrera was improperly using alcohol. Both occurrences happened while he was playing for the Tigers. I believe that the AL Central will be a little tighter this year and it could be anyone's game. The Tigers could finish anywhere from first to 4th. I wish them luck in the 2011 season.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Cleveland Indians (Day 7)

The Cleveland Indians are todays focus of the 30 Teams in 30 Days series. The Tribe managed to finish the season with 69 wins and 93 losses. The Indians finished 4th in the AL Central at the end of the 2010 season, and unfortunately for Indians fans, will probably finish 5th at the end of the 2011 season. Cleveland spent the least amount of money in the offseason this year, with less than $5 million spent so far. Most of that money actually comes from the signing of Chad Durbin, who is eligible for approximately $1.8 million in 2011. How can a team place almost the entire offseason payroll be placed into one player? The answer to that is: a team that does not wish to contend. The Indians now are looking to sign Nick Johnson of the New York Yankees, pending a physical. Bad news for the Tribe. Johnson has already been told that he will not clear a physical due to injury. So there is no need to rush into any major talks or contract negotiations with the Yankees or Johnson's agent. The Indians still have players such as Grady Sizemore, Shin-Soo Choo, Asdrubal Cabrera, and Orlando Cabrera in the roster. And rookie Carlos Santana is behind the plate for Cleveland, looking to capture what Buster Posey did for the Giants last year. Because of their lack of off season spending, I don't know what else I can I can say but good luck in the 2011.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Kansas City Royals (Day 6)

30 Teams in 30 Days continues with the coverage of the American League Central. At the bottom of the American League Central at the end of the 2010 season was the Kansas City Royals. This blog has now become personal because my future roommate is a diehard Royals fan, and I have to remain neutral, while also respecting the team. The Royals finished with 67 wins at the end of the AL Central, but are never out of contention. The Philadelphia Inquirer and many other sources have reported that Kansas City has the best prospects and the best farm system in the Major League. 4 out of the top 10 prospects are within the Royal's organization. MLB Trade Rumors conducted a story/survey asking when the Royals will have a contending team, it may not be in the 2011, 2012, or even 2013 seasons, but will eventually happen. This is circumstantial, because the possibility of trading away those prospects is always in the air. Kansas City suffered a major loss after losing their best pitcher, Zack Greinke to the Brewers. But with an overall young  team and even younger infield. The oldest player on the team is catcher, Jason Kendall who is 37 and most starters on the team are only 24 or 25. Billy Butler is now the team's DH due to his offensive abilities, but lack of defensive skills. With a relatively young team, the Royals can really emerge in the next few seasons. But little by little, a few games here and a few games there can move the Royals up within the AL Central. That may be this year, judging by the fact that they are leading Spring Training with 5 wins and 1 loss. I do wish the Royals luck in the 2011 season and hope they move up within the AL Central.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Tampa Bay Rays (Day 5)

30 Teams in 30 Days continues with the Tampa Bay Rays. In 2010 they finished atop the AL East, holding the best record in the America League with 96 wins. They also had the best road record (47 wins) in all of Major League Baseball. Unfortunately, that momentum was quickly stopped by the Texas Rangers, who were on their way to the World Series. Unfortunately for the Rays, there was a very low fan basis for the entire season, causing them to give away thousands of free tickets for post season games. Tampa Bay somewhat disassembled and then reassembled their team in the offseason. The Rays lost Matt Garza, Carl Crawford, Carlos Pena, Rafael Soriano, and Jason Bartlett. Their two major signings were Johnny Damon and Manny Ramirez. Bringing the two veterans into the game should help the team continue what they had in 2010, but with five of their best players gone, it may be difficult. They did keep star third baseman Evan Longoria, along with B.J. Upton, Ben Zobrist, and David Price. I don't doubt that the Rays will make the playoffs, if it's winning the division or the AL Wildcard, I'm not sure. The Rays have been more successful since 2008, when they dropped the "Devil" in front of their name, and went to the World Series, only to lost to Philadelphia. Joe Maddon, the Rays manager, is preparing for another season with the Rays by inviting them to his house to dinner each night. This is because Maddon's house is so close to the Rays' Spring Training field, and it was reported that he and B.J. Upton had a very nice dinner a week ago. Good for them! I wish the Rays luck in the 2011 season, and I look forward to the AL East in general.

Tomorrow starts the AL Central, so be prepared! I was also discussing the Rays rules about the several catwalks they have in their dome, you would think that they would build a stadium that wouldn't have so many obstructions in the field of play. I look forward to a new dome or stadium!

30 Teams in 30 Days: New York Yankees (Day 4)

30 Teams in 30 Days continues with, the Yankees. Unfortunately, my "excitement" over covering a team I really don't care for doesn't translate onto print. Nonetheless, I have to talk about the Yankees and I intend to do it well. The Yankees did not make many major off season acquisitions but did manage to acquire Rafael Soriano, Russell Martin, and some other pitchers. Plus they signed several minor league deals with several pitchers. And who can forget that the Yankees resigned Derek Jeter? Why they did that, I do not know, but I do know that Jeter is not what he once was and the Yankees are just wasting their money. Another thing the Yankees did not manage to do this off season was successfully sign Cliff Lee. It was speculated that Lee would either stay with the Rangers or go to the Yankees, but the Yankees came up short. Maybe it was because Yankee fans spit on Lee's wife. The Yankees finished second in the AL East and were a game behind the Rays. They clinched the AL Wild Card, made it to the ALCS and lost to the Rangers. But enough about the 2010 season, in 2011, the Yankees will probably finish 3rd in the AL East and miss the playoffs. Sorry Yankees fans, but it's the truth. The Yankees lost their amazing pitching that they had in 2009, which then led them to the World Series. But now it is up to C.C. Sabathia and A.J. Burnett to take them back to the post season. C.C. will probably turn town $92 million and leave the Yankees after this year, and may even sign with the Phillies. Who knows? I did some research and found out that if C.C. does leave the Yankees, that will free up $92 million that the Yankees can then offer to Albert Pujols. Let's hope that trade does not happen. Anyway Yankees, I may not like you, but I do respect your team. Good luck to the Yankees in 2011 in the AL East.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Boston Red Sox (Day 3)

30 Teams in 30 Days continues moving up the AL East by covering, the Boston Red Sox. The Red Sox have spent enormous amounts of money this off season, and they have created a team that is very likely to succeed in the post season come October 2011. Fenway Park has been alive for years, and after this off season, tickets will be even harder to come by. What Boston's front office did this off season can be summed up into two names: Adrian Gonzalez and Carl Crawford. Carl Crawford signed with the Red Sox for 7 years, $142 million contract. Adrian Gonzalez was signed days later for 7 years, $154 million contract. 14 years, $296 million for two players shows that Boston wants to win, win, win, no matter what the cost. At the beginning of the off season, there was speculation between the Red Sox and Jayson Werth, but talks fell through after the Red Sox only offered 5 years to the outfielder. The potent offense really leaves the American League East in their hands, pending injuries. Boston will look to Dustin Pedroia and Jacoby Ellsbury's full return, after their injury-plagued 2010 seasons. With the Yankee's pitching staff taking a turn for the worse and Toronto making almost no acquisitions they will have no problem pitching and outscoring them. The Orioles are probably in the same position as well. The Rays I believe are Boston's true competitor, after having the best record in the American League. With Youk' now being moved to third base, Marco Scutaro still at shortstop and Big Papi still on the roster, the Red Sox won't have any troubles making the playoffs, or clenching the AL East without any trouble. I wish them luck, because acquiring two biggest free agents on the market is impressive. I would be upset if they do not succeed, especially with the money they shelled out this off season. Plus I love seeing the long ball hit over the Green Monster, but who doesn't?

P.S. - Today in a Spring Training exhibition game, David Ortiz had a stolen base. This means that the Boston Red Sox cannot be stopped. You've been warned.

30 Teams in 30 Days: Toronto Blue Jays (Day 2)

Day 2 of the 30 teams in 30 days "special" covers our neighbors to the North, the Toronto Blue Jays. The Blue Jays finished above the Orioles in the AL West and were 8 games above .500 with 85 wins. The 2010 season was a "different" season for the Blue Jays because they did not have ace pitcher Roy Halladay. Regardless of the fact, Toronto still had a decent season, which is difficult in a division where the Yankees won 96 games and the Rays won 95 games. The Blue Jays traded outfielder Vernon Wells to the Angels to acquire Juan Rivera, who they intend on using, and Mike Napoli, who was then traded to the Rangers. Toronto did not have many major off season trades after this deal. Jose Bautista almost carried the Blue Jays with his 54 home runs in the 2010 season, and in the off season signed 5 years, $64 million contract. But this year, it does not appear that the Blue Jays will be in contention. I'm sorry Toronto fans, but the 2011 season will be difficult with: the Red Sox almost completely revamping their team, the Yankees being the Yankees, the Orioles doing more off season acquisitions more than usual, and the Rays disbanding and then reassembling their team. Not even 6'11" pitcher Jon Rauch can change that, but seriously, he's 6'11"! Who wouldn't be intimidated by that pitcher? Toronto's rotation has very little depth and the bull pen is looking even worse. With this kind of rotation and lack of offense, I would really be surprised if the Blue Jays finish over .500 or even finish 4th in the AL East. I do wish the Blue Jays luck in the 2011 season, because in the American League East, THEY not the Orioles will be the team that needs it. (If you would like to look at the Blue Jays current roster or depth chart please click the link here: Depth Chart Active Roster).