Archives for March 2020

Who’s Your Daddy? – Randy Johnson Edition

March 27, 2020 by David

Six-foot-ten inch Randy Johnson stood tall, threw downhill and brought the heat. Drafted in the second round of the 1985 MLB draft (by the Montreal Expos) out of the University of Southern California, he pitched his way into the Hall of Fame during a 22-season major-league career that featured 303 victories (22^nd all time) and 4,975 regular-season strikeouts (second only to Nolan Ryan). He was also ten-time time All Star and five-time Cy Young Award winner (second only to Roger Clemens’ seven).

Brett Carroll – One for the Ages.

Brett Carroll, a .201 career hitter (2007-12 … Marlins/Brewers/Nationals), faced Randy Johnson in just one game (June 8, 2009), but he will have a story to share long into the future. Johnson gave up three runs in five innings of a 4-0 Giants’ loss to the Marlins – and Carroll drove in all three tallies. He only batted twice against Johnson, hitting a three-run home run in the bottom of the second inning (Carroll’s first MLB long ball) and adding a triple in the fourth. Not bad. Two career at bats against Johnson – with two hits and seven total bases. I’d leave out the part about Johnson being 45-year-old and in his late MLB season at the time. Although The Big Unit did go 8-6, 4.88 with 86 strikeouts in 96 innings that season.)

In the post, we’ll take a look at a lineup of hitters who seemed to have Randy Johnson’s number. It’s part of a series inspired by Pedro Martinez.

Who’s Your Daddy? What It’s All About.

On September 24, 2004, in the middle of a tight pennant race, the Yankees handed future Hall of Famer Pedro Martinez and the Boston Red Sox a tough 6-4 loss. Martinez went 7 1/3 innings giving up nine hits and five earned runs. The game came just five days after (in his previous start) Martinez had lasted just five frames against the Bronx Bombers (eight hits, eight earned runs) in a 16-7 loss.

After that second loss, Martinez candidly commented, “What can I say? I just tip my hat and call the Yankees my daddy.” Little did he know that his comment – and a Yankee fans’ chant of “Who’s your daddy?” would follow him into future starts in New York (all the way to his final MLB start – against the Yankees for the Phillies – in Game Six of the 2009 World Series.)

The concept of “Who’s your daddy?” became the inspiration for Baseball Roundtable to take a look at the players who “had the number” of some of MLB’s premier pitchers.

Here are links to the previous editions of this series:

Nolan Ryan, click here.

Sandy Koufax, click here.

Pedro Martinez, click here.

Bob Gibson, click here.

BBRT Note: Keep in mind, the pitchers included in the “Who’s your daddy?” series are among the “best in the business.” They are selected not because of the players who performed well against them, but rather because solid hitter performance when they were on the mound was the exception rather than the rule.

Now, a look at the mound resume that earned Johnson a spot in this series – and then a lineup of players who seemed up to the task of facing Johnson’s downhill heat.

“Randy (Johnson) carries his emotions on his sleeve. So when Randy gets pumped, it’s pretty much wise to just go home. When he gets that look in his eyes, you know you’re not going tog get a hit off him. “

16-season major leaguer Mark Grace

During his career, Johnson won 20 or more games in three seasons, leading the NL with 24 victories (five losses) in 2002. He also led his league in strikeouts nine times; winning percentage, ERA and complete games four times each; shutouts and innings pitched twice. Like a fine wine, Johnson aged well. He fanned 300 or more batters in five seasons – four after turning age 35. Similarly, he earned the NL Cy Young Award in his age 35, 35, 37 and 38 seasons. ( In short, he was an intimidating and superbly effect presence on the mound.

But again, this post is not about the many batters Johnson dispatched to the dugout shaking their heads. It’s about a lineup of hitters who stood tall versus “The Big Unit.” As you go through this lineup, you’ll find some hitters you might have expected, like Albert Pujols and Chipper Jones at the corner infield spots, and some that may seem less likely, say Ty Wigginton at second base.

–—The Randy Jones “Who’s Your Daddy?” Lineup—

Regular-season stats – 10 at bat versus Johnson minimum.

Catcher – Paul Lo Duca … RHH, 5’10”, 193 lbs. (Twenty career hits versus Johnson)

Nobody had more regular-season hits in his career against Johnson than Paul Lo Duca (20 hits in 21 games and 63 at bats (.317 average). Not only that, his 14 RBI are second only to Manny Ramirez’ 17 against the big southpaw. To top it off, Lo Duca had a pretty good strikeout-to-walk ratio versus Johnson – five walks and six whiffs.

Lo Duca is one of those players whom BBRT thinks doesn’t get enough attention. In an 11-season MLB career (1998-2008 … Dodgers/Marlins/Mets/Nationals), the four-time All Star hit .286, with 80 home runs and 481 RBI. His best season was 2001, when he went .320-25-90 for the Dodgers.

I also consider Ivan Rodriguez for this spot. I-Rod had 21 hits against Johnson. Those 21 safeties were the most of any batter against Johnson, but two of them came in the post-season. In the regular-season, he hit .244 (19-for-78) with one home run and five RBI against Johnson. Lo Duca clearly deserves this spot.

There’s Statistics and then there’s ….

In 2003, Paul Lo Duca led MLB in runners thrown out stealing (but he also allowed the second most stolen bases). In 2004, he reversed those – allowing the most stolen bases (but throwing out the second most baser runners.) Al in all, it looks like Lo Duca was consistently tested.

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First Base – Albert Pujols … RHH, 6’3″, 235 lbs. (13 RBI in xx games versus Johnson)

Photo by Marianne O’Leary

Albert Pujols hit a healthy .458 (in 24 regular-season games) against Randy Johnson. He was 11-for-24 and eight of those 11 hits went for extra bases (three doubles and five home runs). He also had 13 RBI versus Johnson. So, despite have the 196^th most plate appearances versus the HOF southpaw, Pujols was number-two in home runs and number-three in RBI against him (regular season). In Pujols’ final game against Johnson (June 30, 2009), in fact in his final two at bats against him, the 1B/OF hit a pair of home runs.

Pujols, still active, is a sure Hall of Famer. In 10 seasons (2001-19 … Cardinals/Angels), he has collected 3,202 hits (.300 average), 656 home runs and 2,075 RBI. He is a 10-time All Star, three-time league Most Valuable Player and was the 2001 NL Rookie of the Year.

Jack of All Trades

In 2002, Alert Pujols took the field defensively at 1B, 3B, SS, LF and RF.

Pujols has led his league in runs scored five times, home runs twice and hits, doubles, RBI and batting average once each. He has hit 30 or more home runs in 14 season, topped 100 RBI in 14 seasons and hit .300 or better in 11 campaigns. He is also .323-19-54 in 77 post-season games.

Consistency is Not a Hobgoblin

Albert Pujols, famously, topped .300, 30 home runs and 100 RBI in each of his first ten MLB seasons. He came close in his 11^th campaign, .299-37-99.

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Second Base – Ty Wigginton … (.393 average versus Johnson)

Ty Wigginton hit .393 and popped four long balls in xx games against Randy Johnson – all this after going zero-for-four in his first game against him (August 5, 2002). Wigginton’s success against the HOFer is a bit of a surprise, since Wigginton was a .261 career hitter over 12 seasons (2002-2013 … Mets/Pirates/Devil Rays/Astros/Orioles/Rockies/Phillies/Cardinals). Still, he had his moments – topping 20 home runs in four campaigns and making the AL All Star squad, as an Oriole, in 2010.

Where’s Waldo?

Ty Wigginton was a true journey man. In 12 MLB seasons, he suited up for eight different MLB teams – and started games at 1B,2B, 3B, LF RF and DH,

In nine games against Randy Johnson, Wigginton started for four different teams (Astros, Devil Rays, Pirates, Mets) and at four different positions (1B, 2B, 3B, LF).

Wigginton’s career line is .261-169-594.

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Third Base – Chipper Jones … SH, 6’4″, 210 lbs. (Six regular-season home runs, the most of any batter versus Johnson)

In 12 games against Johnson, Hall of Famer Chipper Jones hit .361, with six home runs and eight RBI. Those six home runs are the most by any batter against Johnson and the second-most Jones had against any pitcher. (He had seven career, regular-season long balls off Steve Trachsel, but in more than twice as many games (29 versus Trachsel and 12 versus Johnson). Jones did the most damage in 2000, when he faced Jones six times in two games and went four-for-six, with three home runs and five RBI. That season, Johnson was 19-7, 2.64, with 347 strikeouts in 248 2/3 innings – capturing his third Cy Young Award.

Bad Bookends

If you looked at his first and last games against Randy Johnson, you would not expect Chipper Jones to have put up good numbers against the big southpaw. The first time he faced Johnson (September 2, 1998), Jones, went zero-for-four, with a ground out and three swinging strikeouts. The final game in which he faced Johnson (May 27, 2009), Chipper went zero-for-three, with all three appearance ending in a strikeout (two swinging, one looking). So, for those book-ending games, Jones was zero-for-seven with six whiffs.

I did look consider a couple of other third baseman for this spot. Mike Blowers, who hit .563 against Johnson in six games (nine-for-sixteen) and Phil Nevin, who drove in the third-most runs against Johnson (13 in 24 games). Blowers’ line against Johnson was .563-0-7, while Nevin was .261-3-13. Jones got the edge for combing average and power.

Jones enjoyed a 19-season career (1993, 1995-2012 … Braves) – hitting .303, with 468 home runs and 1,623 RBI. He was an eight-time All Star and the 1999 National League MVP. He also won the 2008 NL batting title. While he never led his league in home runs, Jones hit 30 or more in six seasons and 20 or more in 14 campaigns. He had 100 or more RBI in nine seasons – eight consecutive (1996-2003). He stole 150 bases in his career, with a high of 25 in 1999.

Trivia that is Not so Trivial

Chipper Jones had more walks (1,512) than whiffs (1,409) in his career.

Only Mickey Mantle (536) and Eddie Murray (504) have more home runs among switch hitters than Chipper Jones (468).

Only Eddie Murray has more RBI (1,917) among switch hitters than Chipper Jones (1,623).

Chipper Jones is one of only two switch hitters with at least 5,000 plate appearances to hit .300 or better from both sides of the plate. Jones hit .303 left-handed and .304 right-handed. The other, by the way, is Hall of Famer Frankie Frisch, who hit .319 lefty and.308 righty over a 19-season MLB career (1919-37).

Chipper Jones is one of only two Braves with a career on- base percentage (with the Braves) over .400. Jones OBP was .401. By comparison, Hank Aaron’s OBP in 21-seasons with the Braves was .377. Billy Hamilton, who played with Braves (Beaneaters) franchise from 1896-1901 had the highest OBP for the team (.456). In a 14-season MLB career – from 1888-1901 – Hamilton .344, with a .455 OBP.

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Shortstop – Miguel Tejada … RHH, 5’9″, 220 lbs. (Hit .386 versus Johnson)

In 16 games against Johnson, Miguel Tejada hit .386, with two home runs and eight RBI. In addition, he had a 1-1 strikeouts-to-walks ratio (five walks/five whiffs). I should note this was a very close call. I also considered Randy Velarde and Rich Aurilia for this spot. Velarde faced off against Johnson in 13 career regular-season games and hit .452 (19-for-42). His 19 hits tied for the second-most regular-season safeties against Johnson. Velarde, however, had no home runs, seven RBI (one fewer than Tejada) and walked four times, while fanning ten. Aurilia took the field (and batter’s box) against Johnson in 18 games and hit .333 (18-for-59), with three home runs and six RBI. He walked five times against The Big Unit and fanned 16. Anyone of these three would have fit in here. I subjectively gave Tejada a slight edge for putting the ball in play.

Tejada played 16 MLB seasons (1997-2011, 2013 … A’s/Orioles/Astros/Padres/Giants/Royals). He hit .285, with 307 home runs and 1,302 RBI. He was a six-time All Star and the 2002 American League MVP (.308-34-131 for the A’s). Tejada hit 30 or more home runs in four seasons, drove in 100+ tallies in six seasons and hit .300+ in five. Miguel Tejada is one of only 25 MLB players to drive in at 150 or more runs in a season. (In 2004, he went .311-34-150 for the Orioles.)

We May not Know where Waldo is, but We Do Know where Miguel is – on the Field

Between June 2, 2000 and June 21, 2007 – a seven-year span – Miguel Tejada did not miss a game. His 1,152 consecutive games played is MLB’s fifth-longest streak.

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Outfield – Barry Bonds … LHH, 6’1″, 185 lbs. – or so it says in Baseball-Reference.com. (Walked once every 5.6 plate appearance versus Randy Johnson)

Barry Bonds faced off against Randy Johnson 62 times in 19 games – and put up a .306 average, with three home runs and 12 RBI. Just as important, he walked 11 times and struck out just six (and was HBP twice) – for a .452 on-base percentage.

Putting the ball in play.

In 2004, Barry Bonds faced Randy Johnson 15 times and did not strikeout once (three hits, two walks, two HBP).

Barry Bonds played 22 MLB seasons (1986-2007 … Pirates/Giants). He was a 14-time All Star, eight-time Gold Glover and seven-time MVP. He led the NL in home runs twice (an MLB record 73 in 2001); batting average twice; ruins scored once; RBI once; and walks 12 times. He finished his career with a .298-762-2,558 line and holds the career and single-season home runs records, as well as the career RBI record. In addition, his career 2,558 walks and 688 intentional walks are MLB highs. (He led his league in intentional walks 12 times – with a high of, and MLB-record, 120 in 2004. There is, of course, that “elephant in the room.”

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Not a Lot of Action

Rickey Henderson struck more often against Randy Johnson than any other batter – 30 times in 85 plate appearances/59 at bats. He also walked more times against Johnson than any other batter (26 times). When he did make contact, Henderson hit .119 (7-for-59) against him).

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Outfield – Moises Alou … RHH, 6’3″, 185 lbs. (.571 batting average against Johnson)

Moises Alou’s .571 average (8-for-14) against Randy Johnson is the highest of any hitter with at least 10 at bats against the HOF lefty, He did most of his damage during the 2000 season, when he played two games against Johnson and went three-for-five, with a walk, home run and four RBI. In his five career games against Johnson, he was never held hitless.

Alou played in 17 MLB seasons (1990, 1992-98, 2000-2008 …. Pirates/Expos/Marlins/Astros/Cubs/Giants/Mets). He was a six-time All Star, whose best season was probably 1998, when he went .312-38-124 for the Astros. Alou put up a .303 career average, with 332 home runs and 1,287 RBI. He hit 30 or more home runs three times and drove in 100+ runs in five seasons.

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Shout out to Mel Hall and Bill Pecota

Mel Hall had the most plate appearances and at bats against Randy Johnson without striking out (18 plate appearances/16 at bats). He did, however, have just three singles and two walks (.188) average. Second in both plate appearances and at bats versus Johnson without a whiff was Bill Pecota (16/11). Pecota had four hits and two walks (.364).

Hall, an outfielder, put up a .276-134-620 line in 13 MLB seasons, while Pecota (infielder) hit .249-22-148 in nine MLB seasons.

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Outfield – Manny Ramirez … RHH, 6′, 225 lbs. (17 RBI in 20 regular season games versus Randy Johnson)

No hitter drove in more regular season runs versus Randy Jonson than Manny Ramirez, who drove in 17 tallies in 20 games. His five regular-season home runs off the Big Unit is tied for second among all hitters. Overall Manny went 14-for-50 versus Johnson, with nine of those 14 safeties going for extra bases.

How About a Mulligan for 1995?

In 1995, Manny Ramirez faced Randy Johnson in just one regular-season game – going zero-for-four with two strikeouts. They matched up again in the AL Championship Series (Ramirez’ Indians versus Johnson’s Mariners) and Ramirez recorded six plate appearance against Johnson – going 0-for-6 with tree whiffs.

Manny Ramirez had a 190-season MLB career (1993-2011 … Indians, Red Sox, Dodgers, Rays, White Sox). He hit .312, with 555 home runs and 1,831 RBI. He was a 12-tie All Star and the 2002 AL Batting champ. He also led his league in home runs and RBI once each. Ramirez hit 30+ home runs in 12 seasons, drove om 100+ runs in 12 seasons and hit .300+ in 11 full campaigns. He also hit .285-29-78 in 111 post-season games – and was the 2004 World Series MVP.

Other outfielders, I took a long hard look at: Alex Rios (.500 average … 7-for-14) versus Johnson; Carlos Beltran (.409-1-8 in eight games versus Johnson); and Ellis Burks (.281-3-13 in 12 games);

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Not Again!

Jason LaRue had a tough time against Randy Johnson. He struck out the first seven times he faced him – getting to two-ball count only once. He tightened up after that going ground out, fly out, sacrifice in his final three plate appearance versus Johnson. LaRue, by the way, hit .231 over a 12-season MLB career (922 games)

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Pitcher – Seth McClung … LHH/RHP, 6’6″, 280 lbs. (Johnson never got him out)

Seth McClung only found himself matched up against Randy Johnson in one contest, it came on June 3 2008 and McClung got the win, pitching six innings of one-run ball in a 7-1 Brewers ‘win over the Diamondbacks. At the plate, McClung wen 2-for-2 versus Johnson (both singles).

BIG Time Match up

When Brewer Seth McClung started against Randy Johnson and the Diamondbacks, it was a BIG mound confrontation. The two pitchers stood a combined 13′ 4″ tall and weighed a combined 505 lbs.

McClung’s career mound record (2003, 2005-09 … Devil Rays/Brewers) was 26-34, 5.46.) At the plate he was five for 27 (.185).

O-Fer Pete’s Sake

When it comes to pitcher futility (in the batter’s box) versus Johnson, we might look to Tom Glavine who had 14 regular-seasons career at bats (17 plate appearances) versus Johnson and fanned ten times. He did draw a pair of walks and put down one successful sacrifice. For his career, Glavine had a regular-season average of .186 (246-for-1,323).

Primary Resource: Baseball-Reference.com

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Move Over Hugh “Losing Pitcher” Mulcahy – A Look at MLB’s “Lost” Records

March 23, 2020 by David

The inspiration for this post – looking at some of MLB’s lost records – is Hugh “Losing Pitcher” Mulcahy. Here’s why.

Mulcahy “enjoyed” a nine-season major league career (1935-47, minus five WWII years), primarily for the Phillies. He was given the unfortunate nickname “Losing Pitcher” by Philadelphia sportswriters for the frequency “LP” appeared beside his name in box score. That moniker (as you will see as you read on) was overly critical. Still, Mulcahy ran up a career record of 45-89, with a 4.49 ERA, leading the NL in losses twice, hits allowed once, earned runs allowed twice, walks allowed once, hit batsmen twice and wild pitches once.

So, why does BBRT say that nickname may have been overlay critical? Keep in mind that in his peak years (1937-1940 – when Mulcahy went 40-76; a .345 winning percentage), Mulcahy’s Phillies’ squads went 201-406 (.331 percentage). Notably, he made one MLB All Star team – in 194o, when he led the NL with 22 losses (versus 13 wins), despite a respectable 3.60 ERA. (That season the MLB earned run average was 4.11.)

A Phillie in the Philippines

Hugh Mulcahy was the first MLB regular to be drafted for service in World War II. A National League All Star in 1940, Mulcahy was inducted on March 8, 1941. He served 53 months in the U.S. Army, including time in New Guinea and the Philippines, missing nearly five full seasons. He was drafted at age 27, and missed what should have been his prime season. Returning to MLB in 1945, Mulcahy pitched in just 23 more MLB games (1945-47).

In this post, BBRT will take a look at some additional pitchers, who made a notable mark in the “lost” column.

Note: For a post outlining BBRT’s Best and Worst Nickname lineups, click here. Spoiler. Lou Gehrig plays first base in both lineups based on a pair of nicknames he carried – “Biscuit Pants” and “Iron Man.”

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Terry Felton – Most MLB Career Losses Without Ever Reaching the “W” Column (16)

Terry Felton was drafted right out of high school (by the Minnesota Twins) in the second round of the 1976 MLB draft. He began his professional career at age 18 and made his MLB debut on September 28, 1979 (as a 21-year old). Before being called up, he had gone 26-34, 3.50 in four minor league campaigns.

Felton made just one appearance for the Twins in 1979 and it was promising – two innings pitched (versus the Brewers), six up, six down and one strikeout. Felton opened the season with the Twins in 1980 and his first start (April 14) also showed promise. He went a strong seven innings (six hits, three earned runs, one walk, three strikeouts) in a Twins ‘5-3 road win versus the Angels. (Felton left the game with the Twins trailing 3-0. but Minnesota scored five runs over the last two inning for the victory.) Things started to unravel from there. In his next three starts, Felton lasted a total of 9 2/3 innings, giving up 12 runs (eight earned), on 11 hits and seven walks, while fanning ten) – picking up his first three career losses.

Felton spent most of the rest of the season in the minors, appearing in just one more game for the Twins, giving up three runs in one inning of relief on May 2. He also appeared in just one game at the major-league level in 1981, giving up six earned runs in 1 1/3 innings. In those two seasons, he went 14-19, 4.09 for the AAA Toledo Mudhens.

In 1982, he stuck with the big club, appearing in 48 games (six starts); while he often showed “swing-and-miss” stuff, he had command issues (in 117 1/3 innings, he fanned 92 batters, but also walked 76 and hit four). Felton also had a little trouble keeping the ball in the park, giving up 18 home runs. He finished the season 0-13, with a 4.99 ERA (three saves). How much did his command issues affect his outcomes? Hard to say, but American League hitters batted just .230 against him that season (as compared to an overall league average of .264).

Felton played two more minor-league seasons, but did not appear in the major league after 1982 His final MLB stat line: no wins, 16 losses, three saves and a 5.53 ERA in 55 appearances.

As you will see is often the case for the pitchers appearing in this post, the teams they played for had an impact on their (lack of) success. In Felton’s 0-16 season, for example, the Twins were a woeful 60-102 (5-43 in games in which Felton appeared). Felton, by the way, was 0-7, 5.79 in ten career starts and 0-9, 5.40 in 45 relief appearances.

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Anthony Young – Most Consecutive MLB Losses Between Wins (27)

From May 6, 1992 to July 24 1993, Mets’ righty Anthony Young lost a record 27 consecutive decisions. There was a lot of (bad) luck involved in setting this dubious record. Consider, for example, that his streak included a stretch in which he threw 23 2/3 scoreless innings (without picking up a win), as well as a game (loss number 26 on July 7, 1993) in which he retired 23 of the first 24 batters he faced. With two outs in the bottom of the eighth (against the Padres), Young had allowed just one base runner (a single to lead off the game), while fanning seven. At that point, however, the game was tied at zero and Young’s mound opponent (Andy Benes) was in the process of pitching a one-hit, complete-game shutout. Young ultimately gave up a single and home run and ended up with a 2-0 loss (three hits, two runs, no walks, seven strikeouts over eight innings).

Just One Win Could Save Me

Anthony Young’s 27-decision losing streak included a stretch from July 7 through August 28,1992, when (as the Met’s closer) he pitched 23 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings and recorded 12 saves in 12 opportunities.

Now for some background. The right-handed Young was selected in the 38^th round of the 1987 MLB draft (by the Mets) out of the University of Houston (where he played football and baseball.) He made his professional debut in 1987, at age 21 (A Level). In 1990, he had his best professional season, going 15-3, 1.65 in 23 starts at Double A. The following season, he was 7-9, 3.73 in 25 starts at Triple A, earning an August call up to the Mets.

Young made his MLB debut on August 5, 1991 – pitching 2 1/3 innings of one-run relief in a Mets’ 7-2 loss to the Cubs. He pitched in ten games for the Mets that season (eight starts) and put up a 2-5 record, with a 3.10 ERA.

In 1992, he started the season with the Mets and after five appearances (two starts), he was a solid 2-0, 3.26. On May 6, he took his first loss of the season giving up five runs in six innings in a 5-3 loss to the Reds. Little did he know that it would be 76 more appearances and 26 more losses before he would see a “W” next to his name again.

Young really didn’t pitch like an 0-27 hurler during the streak. (He put up a 4.36 ERA during the span.) You have to allow for the fact that he was pitching for a Mets’ team that went 72-90 in 1992 and 50-103 in 1993. During Young’s 27-loss streak, the Mets went 90-144 (and Young saved 16 of those wins).

Bad Luck CAN be Better than No Luck at All

Ironically, it took a bit of bad luck to bring Young’s losing streak to end. In a July 28, 1993 game against the Marlins, Young was summoned to the mound to open the top of the ninth with the game knotted at three runs apiece. The Marlins scratched out an unearned run to take a 4-3 lead (and put Young in line for a 28^th consecutive losing decision). However, the Mets came back with two in the bottom of the ninth to give Young (who had finished the top of the inning) the win.

During his streak, Young showed true balance – going 0-14 as a starter and 0-13 as a reliever. He did, however, put up a 3.51 ERA in 60 relief appearances, versus a 5.01 ERA in 17 starts. For his MLB career (1991-1996, Mets/Cubs/Astros), Young went 15-48, 3,89 in 181 appearances (51 starts). Notably, in 1993, when he went 1-16, his ERA was 3.77, compared to an overall National League ERA of 4.04. He clearly deserved better.

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Jack Nabors – Most Consecutive Losses in a Single Season (19)

Right-hander Jack Nabors made his debut on August 9, 1915 – at age 27 – with the Philadelphia Athletics. He earned his call up with a 12-1 season at the D-Level Georgia-Alabama League (Talladega Tigers/Newman Coweta)– a stint which included a 13-inning, complete-game, no-hit, no-walk, 11-strikeout victory (two batters reached on errors). Things did not go well for Nabors at the MLB-level. He went 0-5, 5.50 in ten appearances for the lowly Athletics (who finished with a 43-109 record).

The following season started off better for Nabors. After three starts, he had a 1-1 record with a 1.42 earned run average – but he was still pitching for the inept Athletics (who would finish the season 36-117). Little did Nabors know that his April 22, 1916 victory over the eventual 1916 World Series Champion Red Sox would be the only time he would notch a “W” in his MLB career. After his win on April 22, Nabors would take the hill 37 more times in 1916 – going a 0-19.

The Sad Case of Jack Nabors

Consider this. In nine of his 20 losses in 1916, Jack Nabors pitched seven or more innings and gave up two or fewer earned runs. Or this. In 15 of his 20 losses, the Athletics scored two or fewer runs in the game; being shutout I five of those contests.

On the season, Nabors was 1-20, with a 3.47 earned run average – slightly better than the league ERA of 3.68.

In 1917, Nabors started the season with the Athletics, but was traded to Indianapolis of the Double-A American Association after just two appearances. Indianapolis sent him on the Denver of the Single-A Western League, where his 9-17 record did include a no-hitter. 1918 saw him make brief appearances in with Indianapolis and with Sioux City of the Western League before enlisting in the U.S. Army. During his Army stint, he came down with the flu (influenza epidemic of 1918-19) and would never pitch again. He died of tuberculosis in 1923 at the age of 35.

Nabors career MLB mark was 1-25, with a 3.97 earned run average in 52 games (37 starts).

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John Coleman – Most Losses in a Season (48)

Library of Congress.

John Coleman was a 20-year-old rookie for the 1883 Philadelphia Quakers – a squad that finished the National League season with a dismal 17-81 record. Coleman started 61 of those games and appeared on the mound in 65 – going 12-48, with a 4.87 ERA. He led the league in hits allowed (772), runs allowed (510) earned runs allowed (291) and home runs allowed (17) – while pitching 538 innings. He also appeared in 31 games as an outfielder and one at second base. The game was indeed different then.

Like a Broken Record

John Coleman holds the MLB single-season record for runs allowed, earned runs allowed, hits allowed and losses – all set in 1883.

In 1884, Coleman started 21 games on the mound (relieving in three more) and went 5-17, 4.72. He also appeared in 51 games in the OF, and four at 1B. He played six more MLB seasons, primarily as an OF, appearing on the mound in just 18 more contests. For his career, Coleman was 23-72, 4.68. As a hitter, he was .257-7-29 in 629 games.

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Vic Willis – Most Losses in a Season Since 1900 (29)

Library of Congress .

When the 1905 season rolled around, Boston Beaneaters’ RHP Vic Willis was already a four-time 20-game winner. However, he had also led the NL in losses in 1905, going 18-25. 2.85 for a Boston team that went 55-98. (Note: The NL ERA in 1904 was 2.73). It was more of the same for Willis in 1905, when he went 12-29, 3.21 (the league average ERA was 2.99) and the Beaneaters were 51-103 – finishing last in run scored (averaging just 3.0 runs per game – the league-topping Giants average 5.1 RPG).

Fate smiled on Willis the next season, as he was traded the Pittsburgh Pirate, where he went on to four consecutive 20-win seasons (a four-year record of 89-46, 2.08) forging his Hall of Fame resume.

Elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1995 (Veteran’s Committee), Willis finished with a 13-season MLB record of 249-205, 2.63. He was an eight-time 20-game winner, one-time ERA leader, two-time leader in complete games and one-time leader in strikeouts.

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Bobo Newsom, Pedro Ramos, Phil Niekro – Most Seasons Leading the League in Losses (4)

Bobo Newsom

Of the three MLB pitchers who led their leagues in losses four times, two did it while playing with with one team/franchise and in four consecutive seasons. The one who accomplished the feat first, however, spaced his four loss-leading seasons over a span of 11 years and four different teams. That was right-hander Bobo Newsom – a large, tough and colorful right-hander who lasted 20 MLB seasons, pitched for nine different teams and picked up 211 wins and 222 losses along the way.

How much of a workhorse was Newsom? He not only notched 433 decisions (211-222) on the major-league level, but had a 139-105 minor league record. Newsom took the mound as a professional every season from 1928 through 1953.

Newsom started his professional career in 1928 (as a 20-year-old). In his early minor-league campaigns, Newsom showed notable potential earning (very) brief call ups to the big leagues in 1929 and 1930 (Dodgers) and 1932 Cubs. In 1933, he really punched his ticket to the big leagues with a 30-11, 3.18 record for the LA Angels of the Pacific Coast League. In 1934, he was pitching for the Saint Louis Browns – going 16-20, 4.01 and leading the AL in losses for the first time. (The Browns went 67-85 that season.) Still, he led the Browns in wins, earned run average, complete games, shutouts, innings pitched, strikeouts and (retroactively determined) even saves. The following season, Newsom started 0-6 for the Browns and was sold to the Washington Senators in May. He went 11-12 for the Senators (who finished 67-86) and his 18 losses again led the league.

Newsom went on to pitch a total of twenty seasons in the major leagues (for nine different franchises) – often suiting up for second-division squads. Still, when he had a solid team behind him, he showed what he could do. In 1940, for example, pitching for the first-place Tigers, Newsom went 21-5, with a 2.83 ERA. The very next season, as Detroit slumped to a fourth-place (75-79 season), Newsom went 12-20, 4.60 and led the AL in losses. He would top his league in the “L”column one more time. In 1945, toiling for the last-place Philadelphia Athletics, Newsom put up a 8-20, 3.29 record.

On the Big Stage

In the 1940 World Series, as his Tigers lost to the Reds four games to three, Bobo Newsom pitched three complete games, winning tw0. He gave up just four runs over 26 innings (1.38 ERA) on 18 hits and four walks, while striking out 17.

Over his career, Bobo Newsom was a four-time All Star and three-time 20-game winner. He led his league in games started four times, complete games twice and innings pitched once. His career MLB record was 211-222, 3.96 with 600 appearances and 246 complete games in 483 starts.

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Pedro Ramos

Cuban-born Pedro Ramos led the American League in losses four consecutive seasons (1958-61 -… Senators Twins). Over those four seasons, his teams finished a combined 88 games under .500.

In 1959, Pedro Ramos made his only All Star team. That season, he was 9-7, 4.29 at the break. Ramos went 4-12, 3.95 over the second half and his 19 losses led the league. For his career, Ramos was 117-160, 4.08; posting a winning record in two of 15 campaigns.

Pedro Ramos’ Day(s) in the Sun

Pedro Ramos did find success as a reliever for the Yankees. Traded from the Indians to the Yankees in September of 1964, Ramos notched one victory and eight saves for the Bombers in the stretch drive (13 appearances, 1.25 ERA) – helping New York hold off the White Sox (who finished just a game behind). Ramos went on to save 18 games for New York in 1965 and another 13 for the Yankees in 1966.

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A Special for BBRT’s Minnesota Readers – a Different Kind of Last-to-First

When the Senators moved to Minnesota, Ramos did make a bit of Senators/Twins’ history. On October 2, 1960, Ramos pitched the original Washington’s franchise’s last official game – going the distance in a 2-1 loss (four-hits, one earned run) to the Orioles in Baltimore.

On April 11, 1961 Ramos was the starting pitcher in the Twins’ first-ever MLB game. Opening against the Yankees in New York, Ramos started the franchise off on the right foot, pitching a three-hit, complete-game shutout in a 6-0 win.

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Phil Niekro

Future Hall of Famer Phil “Knucksie” Niekro finished his MLB career (1964-87) with 318 wins (274 losses) and a 3.35 ERA. The knuckleball specialist started a lot of games and tossed a ton of innings. One particularly notable stretch included four consecutive seasons (1977-80), when he pitched for a Braves’ team that went a combined 277-368. Niekro led the league in games started and losses all four years and in complete games and innings pitched in three of the four seasons (as well as in strikeouts once.)

Niekro was a well-rounded athlete, playing baseball basketball and football in high school – going 17-1 as a high school pitcher. He was signed by the Braves out of a tryout camp in July of 1958 and made is professional debut at Class D Wellsville in 1959 and reached the major leagues (as a Milwaukee Brave) in 1964. In his first three seasons with the Braves, he was used primarily as a reliever (79 appearances/one start), going 6-6, 3.54 with eight saves. In 1967, he finally got a shot at starting in the major leagues (he had been a starter in the minors), moving from the pen to the rotation in June. He tossed a two-hit, complete-game shutout in his first 1967 start (June 13). The rest is, well, history, Niekro finished the 1967 season at 11-9, with ten complete games in 20 starts. His 1.87 ERA in 207 innings was the best among league qualifiers. He was on his way – starting 30 or more games in 18 of the next 19 seasons.

Every Coin has Two Sides

In 1979, Phil Niekro led the National League with 20 losses, but he also led the league in victories (21) – the most recent pitcher to lead his league in both categories in the same season. As a further twist, Niekro actually tied for the NL lead in wins with his brother Joe, who was 21-11 for the Houston Astros.

In a 24-season MLB career, Niekro was an All Star five times, led his league in wins twice, wining percentage once, ERA once, games started four times, complete games four times, innings pitched four times and strikeouts once. In true knuckler fashion, he also led the league in walks, wild pitches and hit batsmen three times each. He also won five Gold Gloves.

Primary Resources: Baseball-Reference.com; Baseball-Almanac.com; Jack Nabors, by Stephen V. Rice (SABR); Bobo, Newsom, by Ralph Berger (SABR).

Note: BBRT published its 2020 American League Preview before the suspension of Spring Training and the upcoming MLB season (for that preview click here.) The National League Preview will be coming closer to the resumption of play.

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Filed Under: BB Fun Facts

Baseball Roundtable 2020 AL Predictions

March 12, 2020 by David

The 2020 MLB season is almost upon us -and it’s time for BBRT’s pre-season predictions. Keep in mind, of course, that these prediction are not based on any inside information. In essence, they represent informed speculation from one fan to another. We’ll start with the American League – first, overall predictions and then team-by-team observations. The National League will be coming soon. Also, for a pre-season look at BBRT’s thoughts on “Why I Love Baseball,” click here.

—–AWARD WINNERS/CANDIDATES—–

Most Valuable Player

Mike Trout, Angels … Always in the running. The addition of Anthony Rendon to the Angels’ lineup should boost his numbers.
Matt Chapman, A’s … Leather and lumber help A’s contend.
Francisco Lindor, Indians … Power and speed at the SS position; key to the Indians’ offense.
Gerrit Cole, Yankees … Could win 25 for the Bombers, impact enhanced by Severino health issues.
Shohie Ohtani … If Angels contend and Ohtani gets at least 15 starts on the bump and 20 home runs at plate, he’ll get some votes.

Cy Young Award

Gerrit Cole, Yankees … 20-25 wins, 250+ strikeouts well within reach.
Shane Bieber, Indians … Fifteen wins a year ago and ready for a breakout season.
Corey Kluber, Rangers … Two-time Cy Young winner ready to come back from a broken arm.
Tyler Glasnow, Rays … Could be the ace of a tough Ray’s rotation.

Rookie of the Year

Luis Robert, OF, White Sox … delivered a .328 average, with 32 home runs and 36 steals while going from High A to Double A to Triple A in 2019.
Jesus Luzardo, LHP, A’s … Great stuff (98 M.P.H. fastball) and control … ready for the rotation. In 2019, walked 11 and fanned 73 in 55 innings (12 IP at the Major league level).
Evan White, 1B, Mariners … .293-18-55 in 92 games at Double A last season, should get plenty of playing time with the Mariners.

Now, for a team-by-team look.

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AL EAST

FIRST PLACE – New York Yankees (95-67) … Depth balances health concerns.

Aaron Judge – Yankee power source. Photo by apardavila

The Yankees claimed the prize of the free agent market – signing Gerrit Cole. It’s a good thing, too, as they have lost Luis Severino for the 2010 season (Tommy John surgery). As of this writing, they are also looking at issues with sluggers Giancarlo Stanton (calf) and Aaron Judge (shoulder).

The Yankees won 103 games in 2019 – despite losing an all-time MLB high of 2,776 games to injury – putting 30 different players on the IL for a total of 39 stints. The depth that enabled them to sustain that 2019 performance should again carry them in 2020.

The rotation will be headed by Cy Young Award candidate Gerrit Cole and include veterans RH Masahiro Tanaka, LH J.A. Happ and LH James Paxton (expected to return in May). All are proven double-digit winners. Filling out the rotation are likely southpaw Jordan Montgomery and RH Jonathan Loaisiga. Severino will be missed, but remember, the Yankees won 103 games a year ago, when Severino started only three games and Cole was not on the staff.

It can be habit forming …

The Yankees are currently in a streak of 27 consecutive winning seasons.

New York also has a lights-out bullpen, headed by closer Aroldis Chapman (37 saves, 2,21 ERA), Zack Britton and Adam Ottavino.

Then there is a deep and “bad” (in a good way) lineup that saw 14 players reach double-digits in home runs and led all of MLB in runs scored. It looks like another winning season (they haven’t had a losing campaign since 1993) for the Bronx Bombers. Judge and Stanton will be power sources (once healthy), 2B D.J. LeMahieu is a professional hitter (.327-26-102), SS Glyber Torres powered 38 home runs and catcher Gary Sanchez hit 34. The Bombers got 20+ long balls from 1B Luke Voit, 3B Gio Urshela and OF Brett Gardner (as well as 27 homers from Judge in 102 games). While the Yankees wait for Judge and Stanton to return, Mike Tauchman and Clint Frazier are capable fill-ins (the pair hit a combined 25 home runs in 156 games).

Player BBRT will be watching: With the departure of Didi Gregorius, 23-year-old RH Gleyber Torres (who split his time between 2B and SS last season) will take over the SS position full-time. Last season, at age 22, Torres went .278-38-90). I may also keep an eye on Aaron Judge’s shoulder and on CF Brett Gardner, in his age 36 season, who showed unexpected power one year ago – .251 with career highs in home runs 28 and RBI 74.

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SECOND PLACE/WILD CARD – Tampa Bay Rays (90-72) … Quality pitching and stingy defense.

Tampa Bay continues to surprise, turning one of MLB’s lowest payrolls into a second straight season of at least 90-wins BBRT expects they will do it again – counting heavily on pitching (quality and strategy) and defense.

Dee-fense. Dee-fense.

In 2019, the Rays had the AL’s second-lowest earned run average and the third-most defensive runs saved.

Tyler Glasnow? CYA candidate?

In recent years, the Rays have leaned on the “opener” pitching strategy, but it looks like this year may see a more traditional approach – behind a strong top of the rotation. Veteran RH Charlie Morton, coming off his best season (16-6, 3.05) will head the rotation; followed by 2018 Cy Young Award winner southpaw Blake Snell; and then RH Tyler Glasnow (6-1, 1.78 in an injury shortened 2019 season). The competition for the final two spots includes: RH Yonny Chirinos (905, 3,85); LH Ryan Yarborough (11-6, 4.13); and LH Branden McKay.

In the pen, the Rays may go to a closer-by-committee strategy after trading away closer Emilio Page (4-2, 2.31, 20 saves in 66 appearances). The Rays, noted for their handling of the pitching staff, still have plenty of solid arms in the pen. The most interesting of which may be righty Nick Anderson, who went 5-4, 3.32 for the Marlins and Rays a year ago – fanning 110 batters and walking just 18 in 65 innings. He could take over the closing role. Among the other bullpen arms: RH Diego Castillo (3.41 ERA in 65 games and 81 whiffs in 68 2/3 innings); RH Oliver Drake (3.21 in 50 games); and southpaws Colin Poche and Jose Alvarado.

The lineup could use some help. Last season, the Rays finished in the middle of the AL (seventh) in runs scored. More significantly, their 769 total pales when compared to division rivals New York and Boston, who both topped 900 tallies. They are looking for help from newcomer’s RF (RH) Hunter Renfroe (.216-33-64 for the Padres last season); 1B/DH Jose Martinez (.269-10-42 with the Cardinals); and (DH Yoshitomo Tsutsugo (a 28-year-old left-handed hitter, who averaged 35 home runs in Japan over the past two seasons). Overall, the Rays have a versatile lineup and could benefit from a healthy year by 3B Yandy Diaz and 2B Brandon Lowe – who both lost significant time to injuries last season. There’s a lot of potential upside there in those two.

The Rays have proven their ability to maximize the pitching staff and, coupled with solid defense and a hopefully healthier lineup, should earn a Wild Card spot in 2019. Catching the Yankees? Not so much.

Player BBRT will be watching: 2018 AL Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell is coming off and injury-shortened (elbow surgery) 2019 season. I’ll be watching to see if he’s fully back to form. In 2018, Snell was 21-5, 1.89.

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THIRD PLACE – Boston Red Sox (83-79) … No Mookie, no post season

If the Red Sox’ third-place finish a year ago disappointed the Boston faithful, imagine how they will feel without fan-favorite and MVP-candidate Mookie Betts in the lineup. I don’t think they can do any better without him, particularly considering that Alex Verdugo – the key player the Red Sox received in the trade – may not be ready for opening day (back issue). For those who are interested, Verdugo hit .294-12-44 in 106 games for the Dodgers in 2019 and was a .309 hitter over six minor league seasons. Just 23, Verdugo has plenty of upside.

Rafael Devers. Should lead BoSox attach. Photo by DandreaPhotography

Just as troubling may be the loss (in the same trade) of veteran starter David Price – given Chris Sale’s elbow issues. From BBRT’s perspective the Red Sox seem to have a solid offense (even without Betts), led by the bats of SS Xander Bogaerts (.309-33-117); 3B Rafael Devers (.311-32-115 and an MVP in the making), and DH J.D. Martinez (.304-36-105). The BoSox can also expect contributions from: LF Andrew Benintendi (coming off a down season); 1B Mitch Moreland (19 home runs in 91 games); and C Christian Vazquez (.273-23-72). Kevin Pillar will replace Betts in RF and, while he isn’t the same threat at the plate, he does bring a plus glove and some speed on the base paths. Keep an eye on 2B Michael Chavis. He hit .254 with 18 home runs in 95 games as a rookie and can play all around the infield. Even without Betts, there is plenty of offense in Boston.

No so lucky seven …

Boston’s staff ERA (4.70) was seventh in the AL in 2019. Both of the teams they are likely to be chasing in the East – the Yankees and Rays – had lower earned run averages (4.31 and 3.65, respectively).

However, the rotation may not be ready – particularly with Sale not available to start the season – to challenge the Yankees or hold off the Rays. Note: The Red Sox did add Collin McHugh to the staff, but his late signing and past health issues make it seem likely he also will not be fully ready for Opening Day. If they are to contend, the Red Sox need lefty Chris Sale to comeback sooner rather than later. They also need a rebound from RH Nathan Eovaldi, who went down with an elbow injury last April (that required surgery) and didn’t return to the mound until late July, and another solid year from southpaw Eduardo Rodriguez, Rodriguez established himself as a top of the rotation asset (19-6, 3.81, with 213 strikeouts in 203 1/3 innings).

In the pen, quality Closer Brandon Workman (10-1, 1.88, 104 whiffs in 71 2/3 innings) has a solid supporting staff behind (in front of, really) him – including strikeout machines RH Matt Barnes (110 K’s in 64 1/3 innings) and southpaw Darwinzon Hernandez (57 whiffs in 30 1/3 innings).

Player BBRT will be watching: Darwinzon Hernandez. The 23-year-old southpaw fanned 57 batters in just 30 1/3 innings as a rookie last season (16.9 k’s per nine). If he can cut down on his walks – 26 in those 30 innings – he could be a force out of the pen. He’s a work in progress, but should be interesting to watch. Side note: In six minor league seasons, Hernandez has started 86 games (in 112 appearances). Possible switch back to that role if needed?

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FOURTH PLACE – Toronto Blue Jays (78-84) … It’s all in the genes

Over the past four seasons the Blue Jays’ win total has gone from 88 to 76 to 73 to 67. They are looking for their young talent to reverse that trend – and it should happen.

The vision for Toronto 2020 improvement begins what should be a second generation of All Stars. Three of the first four spots in the batting order should go to SS Bo Bichette, 2B Cavan B Biggio and 3B Vlad Guerrero, Jr. Bichette delivered a .311-11-21 line in 2019, with four steals in 46 games at SS – along with better than expected defense. Bichette is only 22-years old and his minor league stats (.321-37-217, with 73 steals in 323 games) point to an eventual 20-home run/20-steal season). Guerrero, penciled into the cleanup spot, hit .272, with 15 home runs and 69 RBI in 123 games for the Blue Jays last season. Just 21-years-old, look for more from Guerrero this year – a 25-30 home run campaign is a distinct possibility. Another 2019 rookie with big league genes is 2B Cavan Biggio. At age 25, the Blue Jays expect improvement on his .234-16-48 season (with 14 steals in 100 games). His solid eye at the plate did lead to 71 walks and a .364 on-base percentage. He is a work in progress on both offense (needs to cut down on his 123 strikeouts) and defense – but, again, the Blue Jays expect improvement in his sophomore campaign. Other key offensive contributors look to bed CF Teoscar Hernandez and LF Lourdes Gurriel Jr., who hit a combined 46 home runs in 209 games. Expect growing pains but the offense should be better in 2020.

Hyun-Jin Ryu. Leading a rebuilt Blue Jays’ rotation. Photo by IDSportsPhoto

Still, the optimism in Toronto stems from new mound additions. The Blue Jays’ starting ERA was north of 5.00 last season (5.25) and they revamped their rotation for 2020. The top three spots in the rotation should all to to newcomers – free agents Hyun-Jin Ryu (LH – 14-5, 2.32 with the Dodgers) and Tanner Roark (RH – 10-10, 3.35 with the Reds and A’s), along with trade acquisition Chase Anderson (RH – 8-4, 4.21 with the Brewers). Other potential starters include veteran righty Matt Shoemaker (coming off a knee injury) and RH Trent Thornton. Japanese import RH Shun Yamaguchi (a 16-game winner in Japan last season) could also be in the mix.

One for the books …

In 2019, Blue Jays’ rookie Bo Bichette set an MLB record by hitting at least one double in nine straight games. What make this all-time record even more impressive is that Bichette was only 11 games into his MLB career when he set. It.

In the pen, it all starts with closer Ken Giles. The dependable right went 2-3, 1.87 with 23 saves a year ago – fanning 83 batter in 53 innings. However, more help is needed. Other likely relief arms include: RH Anthony Bass (claimed off waiver from Seattle); RH Wilmer Font, RH Rafael Dolis, RH Sam Gaviglio; and LH Thomas Pannone. Yamaguchi could also be part of the bullpen, as well as a spot starter.

Overall, the Blue Jays should improve, but – given expected growing pains for a young lineup – are not likely to rise above fourth place.

Player(s) BBRT will be watching: Vlad Guerrero Jr. turned it up a notch in the second half of the season. His first half numbers (61 games) were .249-8-25, while his second half was .293-7-44. It will be interesting to see if he can carry his second-half bat over the full 2020 season. (I’m also curious to see where RHP Shun Yamaguchi ends up. In his final year in Japan (2019), he was 16-4, 2.78, with 194 strikeouts in 181 innings. Could he be added in the Blue Jay’s rotation?

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FIFTH PLACE – Orioles (60-102) …. Construction underway

The Orioles remain in a rebuilding mode and, while they have some exciting players, there are far from ready to move up in the standings – particular after trading away Dylan Bundy (who led the Orioles with 30 starts on the mound) and Jonathan Villar (who hit .274-24-73 at second base).

Not much went right for the O’s last season – and they don’t look to have measurably improved. Let’s start with a look at the starting pitching, which had the second-worst ERA in the AL last season (5.57). One sure candidate is southpaw John Means, an All Star and number-two finisher in last season’s AL Rookie of the Year balloting. Means went 12-11, 3.60 on a team that went 54-108. RH Alex Cobb (3-2, 3.42 in just nine starts) is looking to comeback from hip and knee surgeries. Among the other candidates are: RH’s Asher Wojciechowski; Kohl Stewart; and Brandon Bailey. The Orioles used 18 starting pitchers last season and could approach that number again.

The O’s bullpen ERA (5.79) was the worst in all of major league baseball last season. The pen put up an 18-32 record and converted only 27 of 53 save opportunities. Exactly how the bullpen lays out has yet to be seen – but among the key arms are RH Michael Givens (4.47 ERA in 58 games), southpaw Richard Bleier (3-0, 5.37 with four saves); and righty Hunter Harvey. Harvey may have the most upside.

Book me on that flight …

Orioles’ pitchers gave up a major league record 305 home runs in 2019.

The Orioles have e some exciting young players in the lineup – just not enough of them. The offense should be led by RF Trey Mancini, LF Anthony Santander and DH Renato Hernandez. That trio hit 86 home run a year ago. Mancini (.291-35-97) is a rising star.

Player(s) BBRT will be watching: Right-handed reliever Hunter Harvey (whose father Bryan Harvey racked up 177 MLB saves). The 25-year-old has a triple-digit heater and went 1-0, 1.42 in seven appearance last season. He appears all the way back from 2016 Tommy John surgery.

I’m also interested to see what happens with 1B/DH Chris Davis. Owner of a .286-53-138 season in 2013, Davis has hit under the Mendoza line the past two seasons (.168 and .179). He is, however, a two-time Al home run leader, hit 38 home runs as recently as 2016 and has looked good in Spring Training.

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AL CENTRAL

FIRST PLACE – Minnesota Twins (90-72) … Powerball at Target Field

What do DH Nelson Cruz, OF Max Kepler, 3B Miguel Sano, OF Eddie Rosario and C Mitch Garver have in common? They all hit at least 30 home runs last season (led by Cruz’ 41) and they were all in the Twins’ lineup. Five players with 30+ home runs on one team in the same season is an MLB record. Overall, the potent Twins’ lineup hit a record 307 home runs last season. And, in the off season they added 3B Josh Donaldson – a four-time All Star who hit 37 long balls for the Braves last season. Donaldson is also a plus defender at the hot corner, which will enable the Twins to move Miguel Sano over to first base. Ultimately, the acquisition improved the Twins (who won 101 games a year ago) on both offense and defense. And, let’s not forget 2B Luis Arreaz – a contact hitter who rapped .334 in 92 games, 2019 All Star SS Jorge Polanco and the versatile Marwin Gonzalez.

Kenta Maeda. Joins Twins’ rotation. Photo by apardavila

The Twins ability to successfully defend their Central Division title was advanced even further by additions to the pitching staff (the Twin had the sixth-best ERA in the AL in 2019). They retained key starters Jose Berrios and Jake Odorizzi (who combined for 29 victories last season) – and added Kenta Maeda (10-8, 4.04 for the Dodgers) and Homer Bailey (13-9, 4.57 for the Reds and A’s). RH Randy Dobnak, LH Kevin Smeltzer and veteran RH Jhoulys Chacin should compete for the fifth spot out of Spring Training. Later, veterans RH Michael Pineda (PED-suspension until May) and LH Rich Hill (recovering from elbow surgery) may be ready to step in.

Wave it bye-bye …

In 2019, the Twins became the first team to hit five or more home runs in 11 games in a season.

The Twins also bolstered the bullpen, bringing in veteran Tyler Clippard (2.90 in 53 games for the Indians last season). Taylor Rogers (30 saves) will return to close. Behind him are a host of returnees including Sergio Romo, Trevor May and Tyler Duffey. The bullpen looks solid.

The Twins have clearly “covered all the bases” and should outdistance their Central Division competitions.

Player BBRT will be watching: CF Byron Buxton has worn the mantle of potential star for a few seasons – offering a combination of power, speed and Gold Glove caliber defense. If only he could stay healthy (in the last four seasons, he’s only reaches 100 games once). A year ago, he hit ten home runs and stole 14 bases in just 87 games. If he can play a full season – 20 home runs and 20+ steals and a Gold Glove seem almost a given.

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SECOND PLACE – White Sox (85-77) … Central Division’s “most improved”

Luis Robert. Poised to make a splash in CF.

The White Sox made it clear they are serious about contending with the off-season signing of C Yasmani Grandal, who led all MLB catchers in on-base percentage year ago (Brewers) and bopped 28 home runs; two-time All Star and 2015 Cy Young Award Winner Dallas Keuchel; and DH Edwin Encarnacion (who hit 34 home runs in 2019). They also added RF Nomar Mazara (.268-19-68) via the trade route.

The three new hitters join a lineup that includes power sources 1B Jose Abreu, and LF Eloy Jimenez (who each topped 30 home runs a year ago); 3B Yoan Moncada (.315-25-79); and surprise 2019 AL batting champ Tim Anderson (.335). Oh yes, and there’s uber-prospect Luis Robert (a Rookie of the Year front runner) for CF.

Free swingers …

White Sox’ hitters took only 378 walks in 2019, lowest in the majors. By contrast, they fanned 1,549 times – seventh-most.

Southpaw Keuchel should slot number-two in the rotation behind righty Lucas Giolito (who won 14 games for the ChiSox last season). Also expected in the rotation are free agency signee veteran lefty Gio Gonzalez (3-2, 3.50 for the Brewers and a double-digit winner in nine of the last ten seasons). RH’s Reynaldo Lopez and Dylan Cease are also in the mix. Waiting in the wings is top prospect Michael Kopech, coming off 2018 Tommy John surgery.

The bullpen will be headed by reliable closer Alex Colome (30 saves in 33 opportunities a year ago), set up by newcomer RH Steve Cishek (2.95 ERA for the Cubs in 70 appearances) and southpaw Aaron Bummer. (2.13 ERA in 58 appearances.

Overall, the Pale Hose appear ready to move up in the standings, but seem to be a little short of dethroning the Twins.

Player BBRT will be watching: 22-year-old OF Luis Robert (signed out of Cuba in 2018) appears ready for the big leagues. Last season, he moved his way from High-A, to Double A to Triple A and hit a combined .328-32-92, with 36 steals. He’s had a solid Spring Training so far and, if he travels north with the big club, could add a whole new dimension to the White Sox offense.

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THIRD PLACE – Indians (83-79)

First, let’s be clear. Those who say the Indians “faded” last year – finishing second to the Twins after leading the Central Division for three straight seasons – need to take another look. Here are the Indians victory totals over the past four seasons (in chronological order): 91, 102, 91, 93. The Indians chances to regain the Central crown regressed a bit going into 2020 (with the mid-season trades of Trevor Bauer and the post-season trade of two-time Cy Young Award winner Corey Kluber).

Shane Bieber. Latest Indians’ CYA candidate.

Still, there is enough talent here to contend – if things go right. The starting pitching will be led by righty Shane Bieber, who won 15 games last year, and the Indians are hoping for a bounce back from RH Carlos Carrasco, whose 2019 season was interrupted by treatment for leukemia. Carrasco won 35 games over the 2017-18 seasons, but was 6-7, 5.29 last year. They also need a return to health from RH Mike Clevinger, a 13-game winner a year ago, who had meniscus surgery and may not be ready on Opening Day. Others looking to crack the rotation include Aaron Civale, Zach Plesac and Adam Plutko – three righties who all spent time in the minors last season – but who all performed well when called up (a combined 18-15, 3.55).

The bullpen will be led by southpaw Brad Hand 34 saves a year ago – and will be an effective change from a starting staff of all right-handers. And He will be supported by RH’s Nick Wittgen (2.81 in 55 appearances) and side-armer Adam Cimber. The Indian are also hoping for good things from 22-year-old Emmanuel Case, acquired in the Kluber trade, who brings a triple-digit fastball to the fray.

Who’s your daddy?

The Indians won 18 of nineteen against the Tigers a year ago. Don’t see that happening again.

The Indians’ offense was middle-of-the-road a year ago (tied for seventh in the AL in runs scored) and looks to be relatively stable for 2020. It will be led SS Francisco Lindor, the switch-hitting Lindor hit .284, with 32 home run and 22 steals last season. Speaking of switch-hitting. The entire Indians infield is made up a switch hitters – power sources 1B Carlos Santana and 3B Jose Ramirez at the corners (a combined 57 homers and 176 RBI) and newcomer 2B Carlos Hernandez (a solid contact hitter with some power). Roberto Perez is solid behind the plate defensively and at the plate offensively (24 home runs). Filling out the lineup are a number of candidates in the OF – Oscar Mercado, Jordan Luplow, Delino DeShields and Domingo Santana and Jordan Luplow. Expected DH Franmil Reyes can also play in the garden.

Player BBRT will be watching: Young (24-years-old) OF/DH Franmil Reyes popped 37 home runs for the Padres and Indians a year ago (playing about two-thirds of his games in the Padres “not-so-hitter-friendly” park. A full year in Cleveland and, perhaps a more selective approach (46 walks and 156 strikeouts last season), could lead to some monster power numbers. In just 237 MLB games (two seasons), he mashed 53 long balls.

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FOURTH PLACE – Kansas City Royals (71-91) … More of the same

Jorge Soler. 48 homere runs in 2019. Photo by Minda Haas Kuhlmann

Jorge Soler. 48 home runs in 2019. Photo by Minda Haas Kuhlmann

Four pieces of good news for Royals fans. 1) Six-time All Star catcher Salvador Perez is back; 2) DH/Of Jorge Soler (48 home runs) is back to hit cleanup (although, so are his league-leading 178 strikeouts); 3) OF/2B Whit Merrifield and his 206 base hits, 16 home runs and 20 stolen bases returns to lead off; 4) The Tigers are in the Central Division.

The bad news: The Royals have lost 207 games over the past two seasons – and 2020 looks like more of the same.

The rotation looks pretty much the same: LH Danny Duffy (7-6, 4.34), RH Brad Keller (7-14, 4.19), RH Jacob Junis (9-14, 5.24), LH Mike Montgomery (with competition for the fifth spot). Those first four started 59 percent of the Royals’ games last season.

A man for all seasons ….

Royals’ closer Ian Kennedy is one of just five MLB pitchers to post 20-victory and 30-save seasons.

Ian Kennedy (converted starter) will once again serve as closer (30 saves, 3.41 ERA and 73 strikeouts in 63 1/3 innings), with support from RH Scott Barlow (4.22 in 61 appearances) and possibly veteran newcomers and former closers Trevor Rosenthal and Greg Holland. LH Tim Hill is also in the bullpen mix (3.63 in 46 games), as is RH Josh Staumont (3.72 in 16 games).

Three for the road …

Only three AL players hit double digits in triples last season – and they were all royals. Ten three-bagger each for Hunter Dozier, Adalberto Mondesi and Whit Merrifield.

We’ve already noted the importance of Perez, Soler and Merrifield to a lineup that was 14^th in the AL in runs scored. The rest of the starting nine looks to include: SS Adalberto Mondesi, RF Hunter Dozier, LF Alex Gordon, 3b Maikel Franco, 1B Ryan O’Hearn and 2B Nicky Lopez. Ultimately 2020 looks a lot like 2019 for the Royals. (O’Hearn and former Phillie Franco do offer some power potential at the corner infield spots.)

Player(s) BBRT is going to watch: The Royals are looking for continued progress from 24-year-old righty Brad Keller, who went 7-14 4.19 last season and is 16-20 3.68 over two MLB campaigns. He’ll be worth a look. So will prospect Brady Singer, who has looked good in Spring Training. The righthander went 12-5, 2.85 in 26 starts at High A and Double A last season. The Royals need help and I expect Singer may be taking the major league mound early in 2020 (after some time at Triple A.) Oh, and then there are veterans Trevor Rosenthal and Greg Holland vying for spots in the pen. Between them they have five forty-save seasons on their resumes. I’ll be watching to see if they stick.

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FIFTH PLACE – Detroit Tigers (63-99) … No offense taken

Miguel Cabrera. Faceo f the Tigers. Photo by GabboT

In 2019, the Tigers scored the fewest runs in MLB and gave up the third-most – and they did not dive deeply into the off-season market. Put it this way, last season the Tigers scored 582 runs, while the Central Division-leading Twins scored 938 – and the Twins arguably, added more to their offense than the Tigers. Another long season in Detroit.

The Tigers did add some pop with free agents 1B C.J. Cron and 2B Jonathan Schoop (both Twins one year ago). Cron’s 25 home runs last season would have led the Tigers and Schoop’s 23 would have been second on the team. The fact is, in 2019, no Tiger hit more than 15 home runs nor drove in more 59. Things should e a little better in 2020. Joining Cron and Schoop I the lineup are likely to be DH Miguel Cabrera (looking recapture some power at age 37 after a .282-12-59 season); OF’s Jacoby Jones, Christian Stewart and Victor Reyes; C Austine Romine, 3B Jeimer Candelaria; and SS Niko Goodrum. The 25-year-old Reyes may be the most interesting of those. Last season, the switch-hitting Reyes hit .304, with 3 home runs, 25 RBI and nine steals in 69 games. Newcomer Cameron Maybin (.285 with 11 home runs for the Yankees in 2019) could earn some playing time.

A triple play …

The Tigers’ Miguel Cabrera is MLB’s most recent Triple Crown winner – .330 – 44-139 in 2012.

Southpaw Mathew Boyd (9-12, 4.56) is back to lead a starting rotation that includes only one pitcher to reach double-digit wins a year ago (free-agent signee Ivan Nova, who was 11-12 4.72 for the White Sox). Other likely candidates are Jordan Zimmerman, Spencer Turnbull and Daniel Norris. Michael Fulmer could provide some help if he returns (as expected) from 2018 Tommy John Surgery) in mid-2020. The 26-year-old ha a 3.81 average over 75 MLB starts.

In the bullpen, Joe Jimenez will close out games – a role he had filed since the trade of All Star closer Shane Greene last July. Other in the pen should include workhorse RH Buck Farmer (3.72 ERA in 73 games); LH Gregory Soto; and RH Jose Cisnero (4.33 in 35 games).

Player BBRT will be watching: Prospect Casey Mize could very well make the big club sometime this season. In two minor league campaigns, the 23-year-old righthander has gone 20-13, 2.96, with 120 strikeouts and just 26 walks in 123 innings, He’s knocking on the door – and the Tigers offer plenty of opportunity.

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AL WEST

FIRST PLACE – Houston Astros (91-61) … The elephant in the room

The last three seasons, the Astros have won 101, 103 and 107 games. I don’t expect them – given the departure of Gerrit Cole and Collin McHugh and Justin Verlander’s lat strain – to win in triple digits again. The Astro need to hope Verlander’s issue really is “mild” and that he returns quickly.

Then there is the elephant in the room – the sign-stealing controversey. Some think that issue may adversely affect the Astros’ performance on the field. I’m inclined to believe they will come into the season wanting to prove themselves – and, even with the pitching issues, there is enough talent on this squad to keep them atop the AL West.

Alex Bregman … MVP candidate. Photo by jimw7

The offense is nearly identical to one year ago with CF George Springer (.292-39-95) and 3B Alex Bregman (.296-41-112) at the top; 2B Jose Altuve (.298-31-74), SS Carlos Correa (.279, with 21 homers in 75 games) and DH Yordan Alvarez (.313-27-78) in the middle; and LF Michael Brantley, RF Josh Reddick and C Mandy Maldonado holding down the 7-8-9 spots. Only the Yankees and Twins scored more runs than the Astros a year ago -and the Houston offense should continue to deliver in 2020.

The rotation will not be as strong – after the loss of free agent Gerrit Cole and his 20-5, 2.50 record (not to mention the 326 strikeouts) and 2019 Cy Young Award winner Justin Verlander opening the season on the IL. The Astros will be counting on RH Zack Greinke (18-5, 2.93.). Some of the sting of Cole’s departure may be eased by the return of curve-balling RH Lance McCullers (coming back from Tommy John surgery). The back end of the rotation should include 25-year-old RH Jose Urquidy, who made his MLB debut last July and went 2-1, 3.95 in nine appearances (seven starts), walking just seem and fanning 40 in 41 innings. Others competition for a spot could be righties Brad Peacock, Josh James and Rogelio Armenteros. Cole will be missed.

From both sides now …

In 2019, Astros pitchers racked up the most strikeouts of any team (1,671), while Houston hitter fanned the fewest times (1,166).

The bullpen’s back and looks to again be a strength. Roberto Osuna (38 saves) will close – and the Astros will get to him on the arms of RH’s Ryan Pressly (2.32 ERA in 55 games), Josh James (if he doesn’t crack the rotation), Joe Smith (1.88 in 28 games) and Chris Devenski (and others). Last season, the Astros’ pen put up the third-best ERA in MLB and the fifth-best strikeouts per nine ratios. The only criticism is that the pen is bit RH-heavy.

Player BBRT will be watching: 23-year-old, left-handed swinging outfielder/first baseman Kyle Tucker bashed 34 home runs in 125 games at Triple A last season – and then went .269-4-11, with five steals in 22 games with the Astros. (He was also on the post-season roster.) I’d like to see what he can do with more MLB playing time.

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SECOND PLACE/WILD CARD – A’s (88-74) … Nice balance

Leather and Lumber in Oakland.

The A’s surprised a lot of people with their 97 wins a year ago. They can’t count on the element of surprise this season. They can., however, count on a young and talented pitching staff and a solid defense.

Veteran righty Mike Fiers (15-4, 3.90 a year ago) will lead the staff, although we may see southpaw Sean Manaea (leading the league in percentage of vowels) emerge as the ace. Manaea returned from shoulder surgery late last season and went 4-0, 1.21 in five starts. That’s a quality 1-2 punch at the top of the rotation. Beyond those two we find sound arms in RH Frankie Montas (9-2, 2.63 in 16 starts), and southpaws Jesus Luzaardo and A.J. Puk (both top prospects). The A’s rotation looks solid.

Liam Hendriks returns as closer (25 saves, 1.80 ERA a year ago) and is ably supported Yusmeiro Petit (2.71 ERA in 80, count ‘em 80, appearances). The rest of the pen (Joakim Soria, Lou Trivino) needs to step up their game. Chris Bassitt should prove valuable as a versatile swing man (middle relief, set up man, starter) – particularly with the new three batter rule. Last season, Bassitt was 10-5, 3.81 in 28 games (25 starts).

Multiple choice ….

Power hitting Matt Canha give the A’s lineup flexibility. In 2019, he started games at all three outfield positions, as well as 1B.

The A’s defense also look solid – led by 1B Matt Olson and 3B Matt Chapman (both with multiple Gold Gloves on their resumes) and dependable SS Mark Semien. Offensively, the punch comes from Olson and Chapman (who each hit 36 home runs and plated 91 a year ago) and OF’s Ramon Laureano (The A’s like those guys with lots of vowels), who hit .288, with 24 long balls, and Matt Canha (.273 with 28 home runs). Semien will be the table setter at the top (.285 average, .369 OBP in 2019). The A’s could surpass BBRT’s win expectation with a rebound form DH Khris Davis, who hit just .220 with 23 home runs last season – after three consecutive seasons of 40+ home runs and 100+ RBI. Just 32-years-old, he should have more left in the tank. The remaining the lineup spots look to go to Steve Piscotty (OF); Sean Murphy (C;) and Tony Kemp or Frank Barreto (2B).

Good D builds mound confidence …

In 2019, the A’s gave up an MB-fewest 34 unearned runs.

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THIRD PLACE – Los Angeles Angels (85-77) … Trout-Rendon to lead the way

Mike Trout … Annual MVP contender. Photo by KA Sports Photos

The Angels finally brought in high-octane protection for perennial MVP candidate CF Mike Trout. It came in the signing of 3B Anthony Rendon (.319-34-126 for the Nationals). The Trout-Rendon core is complemented by DH Shohei Ohtani (.286-18-52 in 106 games). 2B David Fletcher is a capable table setter at the to of the order (.290 and a team-leading 173 hits in 2019). The rest of the lineup looks to include defensive wiz Andrelton Simmons at shortstop, power hitting Justin Upton (looking to rebound from an off year in 2019); switch-hitting Brian Goodwin in RF; and Jason Castro/Max Stassi behind the plate. It will be interesting to see how 1B develops, as it looks like Tommy La Stella (.295-16-44 in 80 games) is poised to take more playing time from future HOFer Albert Pujols (.245-23-93 in 131 games). This is a quality offense, but does not have the depth of the division favorite Astros.

On the mound, the Angels’ fell short in the Gerrit Cole sweep stakes. They did bring in right-handers Dylan Bundy (7-14, 4.79 for the Orioles) and Julio Teheran (10-11, 3.81 for the Braves). They join Andrew Heaney (4-6, 4.91 in an injury-dampened 2019.) They are also hoping to get more starts from RH Shohei Ohtani (who has the potential to be the staff ‘ace” (at least once a week), now recovered from Tommy John surgery). Other potential starters include: RH Griffin Canning, newcomer Matt Andriese (5-5, 4.71 for the Diamondbacks) and Patrick Sandoval. There should be plenty of work to go around. In 2019, 19 different pitchers started games for the Angels. Bundy and Teheran should add some stability in the rotation, but it still is not enough to “win the West.”

Seeking stability …

Nineteen pitchers started on the mound for the Angels in 2019, fourteen of those getting at least five starts – led by Andrew Heaney’s 18 starts. The Angels are looking for a more stable rotation in 2020.

Hansel Robles will lead the pen (23 saves in 27 opportunities). The reminder of the bullpen will again be righty-dominated, likely including: Ty Buttrey (3.98 ERA in 72 games), Keynan Middleton (1,17 in 11 games), Noe Ramírez (3.99 in 51 games) and Cam Bedrosian (3.23 in 59 games).

Player BBRT will be watching: Shohei Ohtani, recovered from Tommy John surgery, is ready to get back to being a two-way player. I’ll be watching to see how he balances is mound work with his DH duties. I see 10 victories and 20+ home runs as a possibility.

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FOURTH PLACE – Texas Rangers (80-82)… Kluber joins the klub

Corey Kluber to lead Rangers’ rotation. Photo by apardavila

The Rangers’ biggest off-season move was the trade for two-time Cy Young Award winner Corey Kluber. It looks like a very positive move. Keep in mind, however, Kluber Turns 34 in April and is coming off a broken arm that limited him to seven starts in 2019. Still, he was a 20-game winner as recently as 2018 – and looks good to go for 2020. He will be the ace of the Rangers’ staff. The Rangers further bolstered their rotation – they had the AL’s fourth-highest starting ERA in 2019 – by bringing in RH Kyle Gibson (13-7, 4.84 with Minnesota) and Jordan Lyles (12-8, 4.15 with Milwaukee and Pittsburgh). Add in holdovers southpaw Mike Minor and Lance Lynn (who won a combined 30 games for Texas a year ago) and you have a solid rotation. In fact, starting pitching – a weakness a year ago, may be a strength for 2020.

Jose Leclerc returns at closer and needs to bounce back from a disappointing 2019 (his ERA went from 1.56 in 2018 to 4.33 in 2020). Still he has swing-and-miss heat, fanning 100 batters in 68 2/3 innings – and the Rangers expect a rebound. RH Rafael Montero brings similar tools to the set up role (36 whiffs in 29 innings). Among the other arms likely in the pen are likely to be RH Jesse Chavez, waiver-claim RH Nick Goody (3.54 in 39 games with the Indians), RH Jonathan Hernandez and southpaws Brett Martin and Joely Rodriguez. Rodriguez could prove interesting. The 28-year-old spent the last two seasons in Japan, where he reportedly was hitting triple-digits with his fastball. Last season, with the Chunichi Dragons, he posted a 1.64 ERA, with 77 strikeouts in 60 1/3 innings.

Singles? We don’t need no stinkin’ singles …

Joey Gallo reached 100 home runs before he reached 100 career singles. On May 8 of last season, he hit his 100^th dinger. At the time, he had just 93 singles.

The offense goes through RF Joey Gallo, who managed 22 home runs in just 70 games (oblique strain). Joining Gallo in the middle of the lineup will be newcomer Todd Frazier (3B), who hit 21 home runs for the Mets a year ago and switch-hitting CF Danny Santana.283-28-81, with 21 steaks. 37-year-old Shin-Soo Choo just keeps chugging along at leadoff (.265-24-61, with 15 steals). That’s right 15 steals in his age 36 season, While the Rangers continue to show power potential, they need more consistent contact from several spots in the order. Last season, 2B Rougned Odor popped 30 home runs, but hit only .205; 1B Ronald Guzman hit 10 home runs in 87 games, but averaged just .219; and catcher Robinson Chirinos hit 17 home runs for the Astros, but hit just .238. The Rangers appear to have uncovered a gem in outfielder Willie Calhoun, who popped 21 home runs (.269 average) in just 83 games last season. Unfortunately, the 25-year-old suffered a broken jaw (HBP) in Spring Training and will start the season on the IL. That may open the door for versatile INF/OF Nick Solak. The 25-year-old hit .293, with five home runs in 33 games as a rookie.

Got a feelin’ for stealin’ …

No team stole more bases than the Ranger in 2019 (131 steals) – with five players reaching double-digits in swipes: Elvis Andrus (31); Delano DeShields (24); Danny Santana (21); Shin-Soo Choo (15); and Rougned Odor (11). In addition, theirs 77.5 percent success rate was the best in the AL. (Six NL teams were successful at least 80 percent of the time.)

The Rangers are improved over 2019. BBRT thinks, however, that – given a “short” bullpen and some potential holes in the lineup, a fourth-place finish is most likely. However, this is a team going in the right direction.

Player BBRT will be watching: Joey Gallo has 50-home run power and, in an injury-shortened (left oblique strain/broken hamate bone) 2019 season, Gallo showed an improved ability to make contact. After reaching 40 and 41 homers runs each of the two previous season – but hitting just .209 and .206, Gallo hit .253, with 22 home runs in just 70 games. It will be interesting to see what a full season brings. (He does still have to cut down on his strikeouts – 114 whiffs in those 70 contests).

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FIFTH PLACE – Mariners (67-95) … Another long year

The Mariners won only 68 games last season and one of their best players – Mitch Haniger – will start the season on the IL. It could be another long year in Seattle.

One bullet dodged …

The Mariners dodged a bit of a bullet last season, as the pitching staff kept is ERA under 5.00 – at 4.99. Looks like it could e more of the same in 2020.

Let’s start with the rotation. It will be led by southpaw Marco Gonzalez, 16-13, 3.99 a year ago – the only Mariner with double-digit wins in 2019. He was also one of only two Mariners with at least seven starts and an ERA under five a year ago. The other was Mike Leake, who was traded to the Diamondbacks in mid-season. At the time of his trade, Leake was 9-8, 4.27. Behind Gonzalez, the rotation now looks like southpaws Yusei Kikuchi (6-11, 5.26); 23-year-old Justin Sheffield (0-1, 5.50 in eight games/seven starts); righthander Kendall Graveman (recovering from Tommy John surgery); newcomer RH Taijuan Walker (coming back from Tommy John surgery, but a nine-game winner for Arizona in 2017); and 23-year-old RH Justin Dunn (9-5, 3.55 at Double A in the Mets’ system).

Last season nine different pitcher recorded saves for the Mariners – led by Roenis Elias’ 14 saves, recorded before his trade to the Nationals in late July. Now, it appears closing duties will go to RH Matt Magill (3-2, 3.63 with five saves after coming over from the Twins in July and/or Sam Tuivailala (2.35 ERA in 23 games). Others in the competition for spots in the pen include: RH Yoshihisa Hirano (4.75 ERA in 62 games for the D-backs); Brandon Brennan (4.56 ERA in 44 games); and RH. Carl Edwards Jr. (8.47 ERA in 22 games for the Cubs and Padres, but effective for the Cubs from 2015-18). I’d expect plenty of ongoing auditions for the bullpen during the course of the season.

Kyle Seager. Will lead Mariners offense. Photo by THE Laura Smith

The offense – in the absence of Mitch Haniger (.285-26-93 in 2018; .220-15-32 in an injury -shortened 2019) – will be led by veteran 3B Kyle Seager (.239-23-63) and DH Dan Vogelbach, who hit 30 home runs a year ago, but averaged only .208. Catcher Tom Murphy should also hit in the middle of the line up (.273 with 18 long balls last season). At the top of the lineup 2B Shed Long Jr. appears to be ready to take a full-time MLB job after going .263-5-15 in 42 games a year ago – although veteran Dee Gordon’s .276 with 22 steals should earn him playing time as well. CF Mallex Smith brings speed to the offense (46 steals), but hit only .227. Rounding out the lineup we can expect SS J.P. Crawford; RF Kyle Lewis; LF Jake Farley; and 1B Evan White. White, who went .293-18-55 in 92 games as Double A last season, appears to have the most upside of that group.

Oops! My mistake …

The Mariners defense committed and MLB-highest 132 errors in 2019.

Player BBRT will be watching: Southpaw Yusei Kikuchi leveraged a 98-m.p.h fastball and a solid slider (plus a curve and change) to a 73-46, 2.77 record in eight seasons in the Japanese League. He signed with the Mariners after a 14-5, 3.04 record in Japan in 2018. In his final three seasons in Japan, he won 42, lost just 18 and put up a 2.50 ERA with 501 strikeouts in 496 1/3 innings. After a 6-11. 5.46 record in his first year in Seattle, the Mariners are hoping the 29-year-old will have further adjusted to stateside culture and level of competition, and be ready to deliver expected performance. BBRT would like to see that as well, and will be watching his progress,

Primary resources: MLB.com; Baseball-Reference.com; Fangraphs.com

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Filed Under: BB Fun Facts, News

Why I Love Baseball … at least ten reasons.

March 1, 2020 by David

BBRT lists ten great reasons to love our great game.

1. Baseball comes along every spring, accompanied by sunshine and optimism.

Baseball is the harbinger of better times. It signifies the end of winter (not a small thing if you’re from Minnesota) and the coming of spring – a season of rebirth, new life and abundant optimism. Each season, you start with a clean slate. Last year’s successes can still be savored, but last year’s failures can be set aside (although rival fans may try to refresh your memory), replaced by hope and anticipation. On Opening Day, in our hearts, we can all be in contention.

People ask me what I do in winter, when there’s no baseball.

I’ll tell you what I do. I stare out the window and wait for spring.

Honus Wagner, Hall of Famer

2. The pace of the game invites contemplation.

Between innings, between batters or pitchers, and even between pitches, baseball leaves us time to contemplate what just occurred, speculate on what might happen next and even share those thoughts with nearby spectators. Baseball is indeed a thinking person’s game.

3. Baseball is timeless and, ultimately, fair in the offering of opportunity.

The clock doesn’t run out. There is no coin flip to determine who gets the ball first in sudden death overtime. No matter what the score, your team gets its 27 outs and an equal opportunity to secure victory. What could be more fair? And then there is the prospect of endless “extra” innings, bonus baseball for FREE.

When I was young my heroes didn’t wear capes or cowboy hat. They wore stirrups and baseball caps. Many still do.

4. Plays and players are distinct (in space and time).

Baseball, while a game of inches, is also a game of considerable space. The players are not gathered along an offensive line or elbow-to-elbow under a basket. They are widely spaced, each with his own area of responsibility and each acting (as part of a continuing play) in their own time frame. (The first baseman can’t catch the ball, for example, until after the shortstop throws it.) This enable fans to follow, understand and analyze each play (maybe not always accurately) in detail. And, baseball’s distinct spacing and timing makes it possible to see the game even when you are not there. A lot of people grinned at President Gerald Ford’s comment that he “watched a lot of baseball on the radio.” In my view, he was spot on. You can see baseball on the radio – you can create a “visual” of the game in your mind with minimal description. That’s why on summer nights, in parks, backyards and garages across the country, you’ll find radios tuned to the national pastime.

5. The scorecard.

Can there be anything more satisfying than keeping an accurate scorecard at the ball park? It serves so many purposes. The keeping of a scorecard ensures your attention to the happenings on the field.

Photo by mwlguide

Maintaining the score card also makes you, in a way understandable only to fellow fans, more a part of the game. That magical combination of names, numbers and symbols also enables you to go back and check the progress of the game at any time. “Oh, Johnson’s up next. He’s walked and grounded out twice.” It’s also a conversation starter, when the fan in the row behind you asks, “How many strikeouts does Ryan have today?” And, it leaves you (if you choose to keep it) with a permanent record of the game, allowing you to replay it in your mind (or share it with others) at will. Ultimately, a well-kept score card enhances the game experience and offers a true post-game sense of accomplishment.

6. The long season.

Baseball, so many have pointed out, is a marathon rather than a sprint. It’s a long season with ample opportunity to prove yourself and lots of chances to redeem yourself. For fans, the long season also represents a test of your passion for the game. Endurance is part of the nature of the true baseball fan. And, and in the end, the rigors of a 162-game season prove your mettle and that of your team. Not only that, but like a true friend … baseball is there for you every day.

7. Baseball invites, encourages, even demands , conversation.

Reason number two hinted at the importance of conversation, noting that the pace of the game offers time to contemplate the action (past and future) and share those thoughts with others. I love that about the game, but I also love the fact that whenever baseball fans gather, their passion comes out in conversation – and they find plenty to talk about:

Statistics, statistics, statistics. Baseball and its fans will count anything. Did you know that Yankee Jim Bouton’s hat flew off 37 times in his 2-1, complete-game victory over the Cardinals in game three of the 1964 World Series? More seriously, statistics are part of a common language and shared passion that bring baseball fans together in spirited conversation. As best-selling author Pat Conroy observed “Baseball fans love numbers. They love to swirl them around in their mouths like Bordeaux wine.” I agree, to the fan, statistics are intoxicating.

Stories, stories, stories. Baseball and its fans celebrate the game’s history. And, I’m not talking just about statistics. I’m talking about the stories that give this great game color, character and characters. Ty Cobb sharpening his spikes on the dugout steps, Babe Ruth’s called shot, Louis Tiant’s wind-up, Willie Mays’ basket catch, Dock Ellis’s LSD-fueled no-hitter.

Trivia, trivia, trivia. This may fall close to the “stories, stories , stories” category, but fans cherish the trivia that surrounds our national pastime – whether that trivia is iconic or ironic. For example,it’s ironic that the iconic Babe Ruth holds the best winning percentage against the Yankees of any pitcher with 15 or more decision against them (17-5, .773). And, it’s ironic that the more recent player to steal home twice in one game (Vic Power, August 14, 1958) did it in a season when he only stole a total of three bases). Then there is the iconic performance of Ralph Kiner, who led the NL in home runs as a rookie in 1948 – and successfully defended that title in each of the next six seasons – the most consecutive home runs titles by any major leaguer ever.

Basically, I took a long time to say I love the fact that baseball fans will talk with passion about something that happened in today’s game, yesterday’s game, over time or even in a game that took place on May 30, 1894 (Bobby Lowe of the Boston Beaneaters records MLB’s first four-homer game). And, as a bonus, all this conversation – all the statistics, stories and trivia – make the games, moments within the games and the characters of the game (heroes, goats and mere participants) as timeless as baseball itself.

8. The box score.

Today’s box score – a thing of beauty.

BBRT editor’s mother used to refer to an accordion as “an orchestra in a box.” That’s how I view the daily box score – the symphony of a game recorded in a space one-column wide by four inches deep. Some would say the box score reduces the game to statistics, I would say it elevates the game to history. What do you want to know about the contest? Who played where, when? At bats, hits, stolen bases, strikeouts, errors, caught stealing, time, attendance, even the umpires’ names? It’s all there and more – so much information, captured for baseball fans in a compact and orderly space. I am, of course, dating myself here, but during baseball season, the morning newspaper, through its box scores, is a treasure trove of information for baseball fans.

9. The irony of a team game made up of individual performances.

While baseball and baseball fans live for individual statistics and, while the spacing of the players drives individual accountability, the game is, ironically, deeply dependent on the concept of “team.”

Consider the offense. Unlike other sports , where you can deliver victory by giving the ball or puck – time and time again (particularly as the clock runs down) – to your best runner, skater, receiver or shooter, in baseball, your line-up determines who will be “on the spot” and at the plate when the game is on the line. It may be your .230-hitting second basemen, rather than your .320-hitting outfielder. Yet, even as the team depends on the hitter, he is totally alone in his individual battle with the pitcher. And, achieving individual statistics that signify exceptional performance also demands a sense of team. You don’t score 100 runs without a team mate to drive you in (although the statistic remains your measure of performance) … and, you don’t drive in 100 runs if no one gets on base in front of you. And, can you think of any other sport that keeps track of – and honors – the team-oriented “sacrifice.”

On defense, the story is the same. A ground ball pitcher, for example, needs a good infield behind him to optimize his statistical presence in the “win” column. And the six-four-three double play requires masterful teamwork as well as individual performance – duly recorded in the record books as an assist for the shortstop, a putout and an assist for the second baseman and a put out for the first baseman. Then there is the outfield assist – a perfect throw from a right fielder to nail a runner at third earns an assist – even if the third baseman drops the ball and earns an error. Two individual results (one good / one bad) highlighted, but without the necessary team work – a good play on both ends – a negative outcome in terms of the game.

Ultimately, baseball is a game of individual accomplishments that must be connected by the thread of “team” to produce a positive outcome.

10. Baseball’s assault on the senses. (Indoor ballparks fall a bit short here).

The sight of a blue sky and bright sun above the ballpark or a full moon over a black sky above a well-lit stadium. The feel of the warm sun or a crisp evening breeze. The scent of freshly mowed grass or steaming hot dogs. The taste of cold beer and peanuts. The sound of the crack of the bat, the cheers (or moans) of the crowd, the musical pitch of the vendors. Baseball assaults all the senses ― in a good way.

Now, I could go on and on, there are lots more reasons to love this game: its combination of conformity (all infields are laid out the same) and individualism (outfield configurations not so much); its contributions to culture (literature and movies); its strategy (hit-and-run, run-and-hit, sacrifice bunts, infield / outfield positioning, pitching changes, etc.); triples; the 6-4-3 double play; knuckleballs; and more. But to protect myself – and BBRT’s readers – I’ve limited myself to ten. I probably could have saved a lot of time and words had I just started with this so-perfect comment from sportscaster Bryant Gumbel, “The other sports are just sports. Baseball is love.” That says it all.

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