Back to the full slate again, beginning with...
The Washington Nationals hosting the New York Mets. Jonathon Niese and Ross Detwiler will get the starts. Washington led off in the fifth inning on a Tyler Moore solo home run. The Nationals added on in the eighth inning as Steve Lombardozzi doubled in Mark DeRosa. New York took a lead in the ninth inning as Jordany Valdespin hit a three-run home run, sweeping in Josh Thole and David Wright. Washington retied it in their half of the inning when Danny Espinosa singled to score Ian Desmond. The Mets got the lead again in the tenth inning on a Thole double, knocking in Daniel Murphy. The Nationals tied it again in the bottom of the tenth as Bryce Harper tripled to force in Jhonatan Solano, before winning 5-4 as Ryan Zimmerman scored on a walkoff wild pitch. Ryan Mattheus was in line for the win while Tim Byrdak was stuck with the loss.
West to Detroit, as the Tigers welcome the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. Garrett Richards and Jacob Turner are the unknown pitchers. Los Angeles was first on the board in the first inning as Albert Pujols singled in Mike Trout, before scoring alongside Torii Hunter on a three-run home run by Mark Trumbo. The Angels struck again in the second inning on a two-run home run from Trout, also scoring Bobby Wilson, followed by a Pujols solo home run. Los Angeles got going again in the sixth inning with a Kendrys Morales single to drive in Hunter before a three-run Alberto Callaspo swept in Pujols and Morales. The Angels got another in the eighth inning on a Morales solo shot. Los Angeles made it 13-0 in the ninth inning on a Peter Bourjos double to score Trout. Richards picked up the win while Turner took the brunt of the shellacking.
Back east, the New York Yankees host the Toronto Blue Jays. Brett Cecil and CC Sabathia will be sent out to pitch. New York got going in the second inning on a three-run home run by Andruw Jones, also scoring Robinson Cano and Nick Swisher. The Yankees rallied to extend the lead in the seventh inning as Chris Stewart doubled home Jayson Nix before scoring on a Derek Jeter double, and Jeter later scored as Alex rodriguez grounded into a fielder's choice. Toronto got on the board in the eighth inning as Colby Rasmus hit a sacrifice fly, allowing Jeff Mathis to score. This made it 6-1, a final, with Sabathia showing well in the win, while Rafael Soriano cleaned up a mess for the save and Cecil was responsible for the loss.
South to Tampa Bay, where the Rays host the Cleveland Indians. Josh Tomlin and Matt Moore are the young starters. Tampa Bay started in the first inning as Carlos Pena hit a two-run home run, also scoring B.J. Upton, followed by a Luke Scott triple to force in Ben Zobrist. Cleveland got on the board in the fourth inning as Jose Lopez hitting a sacrifice fly to get Asdrubal Cabrera home. The Indians pulled closer in the fifth inning on a Jason Kipnis single to plate Lou Marson. The Rays got one back in the sixth inning as Jose Lobaton singled to knock in Desmond Jennings. This was all for the scoring, leaving the final at 4-2, with Moore getting the win, Fernando Rodney tossing the save, and Tomlin suffered the loss.
Northwest again to Cincinnati, as the Reds host the Arizona Diamondbacks. Trevor Bauer opposes Johnny Cueto in pitching. Cincinnati opened in the first inning as Ryan Ludwick walked on a wild pitch, which gave Drew Stubbs time to come home. The Reds added on in the third inning as Ludwick hit a three-run home, sweeping in Zack Cozart and Brandon Phillips. There was no more scoring, with the final standing at 4-0, allowing Cueto the win, while Aroldis Chapman cleaned up a mess for a save, and Bauer had a rough outing in the loss.
Backtracking to Atlanta, where the Braves host the San Francisco Giants. Barry Zito and Jair Jurrjens are the beleaguered pitchers. San Francisco began in the first inning with a Buster Posey double to drive in Gregor Blanco. The Giants added on in the third inning with a Posey single to knock in Melky Cabrera. San Francisco rallied to extend the lead in the fourth inning beginning with Zito singling home Angel Pagan, followed by Ryan Theriot doing the same for Brandon Belt, Cabrera following suit to finish Zito's trip around, and Posey hitting a 3-RBI double to sweep in Blanco, Theriot, and Cabrera. The Giants got another in the fifth inning when Blanco singled home Brandon Crawford. This ended the scoring at 9-0, allowing Zito to coast to a dominant win, while Jurrjens was stuck with the loss.
North once again to Boston, as the Red Sox welcome the Chicago White Sox. Philip Humber is mismatched with Jon Lester. Chicago established a first inning lead when Paul Konerko doubled in Kevin Youkilis and Alex Rios singled home Adam Dunn. Boston got on the board as Carl Crawford singled to knock in Jacoby Ellsbury, before coming home on an Adrian Gonzalez single. The White Sox took the lead back in the second inning on an Alejandro De Aza doubled to plate Alexei Ramirez. Chicago padded their lead in the fourth inning as Youkilis hit a three-run home run, sweeping in Dayan Viciedo and Gordon Beckham. The White Sox got another in the sixth inning on a De Aza single to bring home Ramirez. The Red Sox got some back in the eighth inning when Will Middlebrooks singled Crawford in before scoring on a two-run home run by Kelly Shoppach. This wasn't enough, as they lost 7-5, with Humber taking the win, Addison Reed tossing the save as his fifteenth of the season, and Lester was handed the loss.
Out west, the Chicago Cubs host the Miami Marlins. Anibal Sanchez and Travis Wood will get the starting nods. Miami began in the fourth inning with Austin Kearns singling in Carlos Lee before scoring on a two-run home run by Omar Infante. The Marlins added on in the fifth inning as Lee hit a grand slam to sweep in all of the pitcher Sanchez, Jose Reyes and Emilio Bonifacio, followed by Infante singling Hanley Ramirez in. Chicago got on the board in the bottom of the fifth as Jeff Baker hit a solo home run. The Cubs got another in the sixth inning as Joe Mather reached on an error giving Geovany Soto time to come home. Miami shot back in the seventh inning on a Ramirez solo shot. Chicago got some back in the eighth inning on a Luis Valbuena double plating both Soto and Steve Clevenger, before finishing his trip on a Baker single. This was as close as it got, with the final at 9-5, giving the win to Sanchez, and the loss to Wood.
Up to Minnesota, as the Twins host the Baltimore Orioles. Zach Britton and Samuel Deduno are the complete unknown pitchers. Baltimore started as Nick Markakis scored on a wild pitch in the first inning. Minnesota tied it in the fourth inning on a Jamey Carroll double to knock in Ryan Doumit. The Orioles took the lead again in the fifth inning as Adam Jones hit a three-run home run, sweeping in Markakis and Jim Thome. The Twins rallied back in the bottom of the fifth on a 2-RBI Doumit single, scoring both Josh Willingham and Justin Morneau, followed by Brian Dozier singling to plate Trevor Plouffe. Minnesota took the lead in the seventh inning as Ben Revere singled in Carroll and Joe Mauer did the same for Denard Span. This was good enough for a 6-4 win, earned by Alex Burnett, while Jared Burton got a spot save and Luis Ayala was on the hook for the loss.
Over in Milwaukee, the Brewers host the St. Louis Cardinals. Joe Kelly goes up against Randy Wolf in pitching. Milwaukee led off in the first inning on a Corey Hart single to drive in Norichika Aoki. St. Louis answered in the third inning when Jon Jay doubled home Rafael Furcal, followed by a Carlos Beltran sacrifice fly to score Allen Craig. The Brewers tied it in the fourth inning on an Aramis Ramirez single to knock in Carlos Gomez. Milwaukee took the lead with a fourth inning solo home run by Rickie Weeks. They held on from here to win 3-2, with the win belonging to Wolf, the save to Francisco Rodriguez, and the loss to Kelly.
Back south, the Kansas City Royals host the Seattle Mariners. Blake Beaven and Ryan Verdugo are the unheard of starters. Seattle struck early in the first inning as Jesus Montero doubled in Casper Wells before scoring on a two-run home run by Justin Smoak. The Mariners added on in the second inning as Montero singled Dustin Ackley home and Kyle Seager doubled to plate both Ichiro and Montero. Kansas City got on the board in the third inning as Alex Gordon tripled to force in Jarrod Dyson, before coming the final 90 feet home on an Alcides Escobar single, and Escobar scored when Billy Butler hit a single. Seattle extended their lead in the fifth inning as Michael Saunders hit a two-run home run, knocking in Miguel Olivo, followed by Ackley tripling Brendan Ryan across the dish. The Royals pulled back in the seventh inning with Chris Getz grounding out to allow Jeff Francoeur to score, followed by Lorenzo Cain's two-run homer, plating Salvador Perez. They couldn't get any closer, falling 9-6, with the win credited to Beaven, the save turned by Tom Wilhelmsen, and the loss pinned on Verdugo.
Westward in Colorado, the Rockies welcome the Pittsburgh Pirates. Erik Bedard faces a lesser foe in Christian Friedrich. Colorado got going in the third inning as Michael Cuddyer reached on an error to bring in Marco Scutaro. Pittsburgh tied it in the fourth inning as Andrew McCutchen hit a solo home run. The Rockies took the lead back in their half of the inning as Josh Rutledge tripled to force in Willin Rosario. The Pirates rallied ahead in the fifth inning as Alex Presley grounded out to get Michael McKenry home, followed by Drew Sutton singling in Clint Barmes before scoring on a wild pitch, and Casey McGehee singled McCutchen across the dish. Pittsburgh added on in the eighth inning with a MeKenry double to drive in Neil Walker. This made it 6-2, with Bedard picking up the win, Joel Hanrahan converting his twenty-fifth save of the season, and Friedrich was designated with the loss.
West farther to Oakland, as the Athletics host the Texas Rangers. Roy Oswalt and Bartolo Colon take the mound. Texas began in the third inning on an Elvis Andrus single to knock in Craig Gentry. The Rangers added on in the fourth inning with an Adrian Beltre solo home run, followed by Mike Napoli singling Michael Young home and then Gentry laid down a bunt single, allowing safe passage home for Nelson Cruz. Oakland got on the board in the seventh inning with a Josh Reddick solo shot. Texas extended the lead in the eighth inning with a Josh Hamilton solo home run. The Rangers padded the lead in the ninth inning on a sacrifice fly from Hamilton to drive in Napoli. This produced a 6-1 final, with Oswalt getting the win and Colon taking the loss.
Down in San Diego, the Padres host the Houston Astros. Jordan Lyles and Ross Ohlendorf have the green light to pitch. Houston started in the second inning as Carlos Corporan grounded out to bring in Jordan Schafer. San Diego took the lead in the bottom of the second on a two-run Yonder Alonso home run, also scoring Yasmani Grandal. The Astros retied it in the third inning as J.D. Martinez singled to plate Marwin Gonzalez. The Padres took the lead again in the fifth inning on a Chase Headley double to knock in Logan Forsythe, followed by Headley scoring when Grandal singled. San Diego extended the lead in the sixth inning with an Alexi Amarist single providing Cameron Maybin time to dash home. The Padres padded the lead in the seventh inning as Alonso doubled in Headley and Maybin hit a ground rule double to force in Alonso and Will Venable. This was it for the scoring, with the final standing at 8-2, as Ohlendorf got the win while Lyles was pinned with the loss.
Finally, we end in Los Angeles, where the Dodgers host the Philadelphia Phillies. Roy Halladay paces the game with Stephen Fife. Philadelphia got things going in the first inning as Chase Utley grounded out to bring home Jimmy Rollins. Los Angeles took a lead in the second inning on a James Loney single driving in Andre Ethier before Luis Cruz did the same for Adam Kennedy. The Phillies took the lead back in the eighth inning as Hunter Pence singled in both Utley and John Mayberry. This gave them a 3-2 lead, which was a final, giving Kyle Kendrick the win, Jonathan Papelbon the save, and Ronald Belisario was stuck with the loss.
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Tuesday, July 17, 2012
Monday, July 16, 2012
MLB Day 102 2012
Only twelve games today as six teams are in transit for their next series. We begin the day in...
Detroit, as the Tigers host the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. Ervin Santana and Rick Porcello are the struggling pitchers. Detroit got things going in the first inning as Miguel Cabrera grounded out to plate Austin Jackson. Los Angeles got on the board in the third inning as Torii Hunter doubled home John Hester. The Tigers took the lead back in the fourth inning as Brennan Boesch reached on an error allowing Prince Fielder to score. The Angels rallied ahead in the fifth inning when Mike Trout singled in Maicer Izturis, Hunter doubled to plate both Hester and Mike Trout, and Hunter scored on an Albert Pujols double. Detroit responded in the bottom of the fifth as Fielder singled to drive in Quintin Berry and and Delmon Young did the same for Cabrera. The Tigers tied it in the seventh as Young's sacrifice fly gave time for Berry to dash home, before gaining the lead as Boesch went yard on a two-run homer and took Fielder with him. Los Angeles got one back in the eighth inning as Mark Trumbo hit a solo shot. Detroit took it right back in the bottom of the eighth as Berry singled Alex Avila home. This made the final 8-6, where Octavio Dotel was credited with the win, Jose Valverde notched the save, and LaTroy Hawkins was dealt the loss.
Back to the east, the New York Yankees host the Toronto Blue Jays. Henderson Alvarez and Phil Hughes get the starting nods. New York started in the second inning with a solo home run by Russell Martin. The Yankees added on in the third inning as Robinson Cano doubled home Alex Rodriguez. Toronto got one back in the fourth inning on an Adam Lind solo shot. The Blue Jays tied it in the sixth inning when Edwin Encarnacion doubled in Jose Bautista. New York took the lead in the eighth inning as Raul Ibanez hit a grand slam, sweeping in Rodriguez, Cano, and Mark Teixeira. Toronto tried a ninth inning rally on a J.P. Arencibia single that combined with an error to bring in Kelly Johnson, but they lost 6-3. David Robertson took the win, Rafael Soriano picked up a save, and Aaron Loup was on the hook for the loss.
Up in Boston, the Red Sox host the Chicago White Sox. Dylan Axelrod and Aaron Cook are the relatively unknown pitchers. Chicago was first on the board in the first inning as Adam Dunn grounded out, which combined with an error to bring in Kevin Youkilis. Boston tied it in their half of the inning as Adrian Gonzalez singled home Carl Crawford. The Red Sox broke the tie in the eighth inning with Gonzalez hitting a three-run home run, sweeping in Crawford and David Ortiz, followed by Mike Aviles singling Cody Ross home. This made it 5-1, a final, with Vicente Padilla in line for the win and Leyson Septimo charged with the loss.
Westward to Cincinnati, as the Reds host the Arizona Diamondbacks. Wade Miley and Bronson Arroyo are handed the ball. Arizona established a large first inning lead on a 3-RBI Miguel Montero double, sweeping in all of Stephen Drew, Willie Bloomquist, and Aaron Hill, before he scored on a Justin Upton single. Cincinnati got on the board as Brandon Phillips doubled in Todd Frazier in the bottom of the first. The Reds pulled closer in the second inning as Drew Stubbs hit a 2-RBI double, driving in Chris Heisey and Ryan Hanigan. The Diamondbacks added on in the third inning as Montero hit a solo home run. This was all for the scoring, with the final sitting at 5-3. Miley got the win, J.J. Putz turned a rocky save, and Arroyo suffered the loss.
South to Miami, where the Marlins host the Washington Nationals. Edwin Jackson and Carlos Zambrano are the veteran pitchers. Washington led off with a second inning Jesus Flores sacrifice fly to bring in Danny Espinosa. The Nationals added on in the third inning as Ryan Zimmerman hit a solo home run. Miami rallied to a lead in the bottom of the third as Carlos Lee singled home both the pitcher Zambrano and Jose Reyes before coming home on a two-run home run by Hanley Ramirez. Washington pulled back in the sixth inning as Michael Morse singled to plate Zimmerman. The Marlins extended their lead in the seventh inning as Emilio Bonifacio sacrificed to get Justin Ruggiano safely home. This was all they needed to win 5-3. Zambrano got the win, Mike Dunn headed the save committee, and Jackson was stuck with the loss.
North but still in Florida, the Tampa Bay Rays host the Cleveland Indians. Zach McAllister and Alex Cobb are the young arms slated to start. Cleveland began as Shin-Soo Choo scored on a passed ball in the first inning. The Indians padded the lead in the third inning as Choo doubled Johnny Damon across the dish before scoring on a Jason Kipnis double. Tampa Bay got on the board in the fourth inning when Jeff Keppinger singled in B.J. Upton. The Rays got another in the seventh inning on a solo home run by Desmond Jennings. They couldn't tie the game, falling 3-2, with the win going to McAllister, the save to Chris Perez, and the loss to Cobb.
Northwest to Kansas City, where the Royals host the Seattle Mariners. Jason Vargas faces a lesser foe in Jonathan Sanchez. Seattle busted things open in the first inning as Casper Wells hit a three-run home run, sweeping in Dustin Ackley and Ichiro, followed by a two-run blast from Justin Smoak, also scoring Jesus Montero. The Mariners added on in the second inning as Wells tripled to force in both Brendan Ryan and Ackley. Kansas City found the scoreboard in the third inning as Salvador Perez hit a solo home run, followed by a two-run Billy Butler home run, knocking in Eric Hosmer. Seattle shot back in the fourth inning as Ichiro tripled to knock in Munenori Kawasaki. The Mariners got another in the sixth inning as Ackley hit a solo shot. The Royals took one back in the seventh inning on a Hosmer single to bring home Alex Gordon. This was as close as it got, with the final sitting at 9-4, allowing Vargas the win while Sanchez was abused in the loss.
North still to Milwaukee, where the Brewers host the St. Louis Cardinals. Lance Lynn and Michael Fiers are the surprisingly good starters. Milwaukee started in the seventh inning on a Corey Hart solo home run. The Brewers added on in the eighth inning as Ryan Braun doubled to knock in Norichika Aoki. St. Louis rallied to tie in the ninth inning on a Matt Holliday single to score both Matt Carpenter and Rafael Furcal, followed by an Allen Craig single scoring Skip Schumaker. This proved enough for a 3-2 win, with the win going to Jason Motte and the loss, paired with a blown save, to John Axford.
Over in Minneapolis, the Minnesota Twins host the Baltimore Orioles. Chris Tillman and Scott Diamond will take the hill. Minnesota rallied to first inning lead as Joe Mauer singled home Ben Revere, before scoring alongside Justin Morneau when Ryan Doumit reached on an error, followed by Brian Dozier singling in Trevor Plouffe, and Denard Span clearing the bases with a double that saw Doumit, Dozier, and Jamey Carroll all score. Baltimore got on the board in the second inning as Wilson Betemit singled to drive in Mark Reynolds. The Twins added on in the bottom of the second as Mauer hit a solo home run. The Orioles replied in the third inning as Reynolds singled Jones safely home. Minnesota extended their lead in their half of the third as Revere singled both Carroll and Span in. The Twins struck again in the fourth inning when Plouffe grounded into a fielder's choice to get Josh Willingham home. Baltimore took some back in the fifth inning on a three-run Reynolds homer, sweeping in Nick Markakis and Jones. Minnesota shot back in the sixth inning as Morneau doubled Willingham across the dish, before finishing his trip on a Doumit sacrifice fly, followed by Carroll singling Plouffe in. The Twins got yet another in the eighth inning on a Doumit groundout giving Morneau time to dart home, followed by Carroll singling Plouffe home and Span hitting a 2-RBI double to plate Dozier and Carroll before scoring on a Revere single. The Orioles took some back in the ninth inning on a two-run homer by Endy Chavez, also scoring Steve Tolleson. This made it 19-7, with Diamond having plenty of support for a win while Tillman was shelled hard and took the loss despite significant struggles out of the bullpen as well.
Down to Colorado, as the Rockies host the Pittsburgh Pirates. Jeffs Karstens and Francis will handle the pitching. Pittsburgh finally opened the scoring in the fifth inning on a single from the pitcher Karstens to drive in Pedro Alvarez. Colorado tied it in the bottom of the fifth on a Josh Rutledge single to knock in Tyler Colvin, followed by Eric Young doubling both Willin Rosario and Rutledge in, before he scored on a Marco Scutaro single. The Pirates tied it in the ninth inning when Alvarez hit a three-run home run, sweeping in Andrew McCutchen and Walker. The Rockies won with a walkoff sacrifice fly in the bottom of the ninth from Dexter Fowler, allowing Rosario to get home safely for a 5-4 final. Rex Brothers was in line for the win while Jason Grilli took the loss.
Southwest further to San Diego, where the Padres host the Houston Astros. J.A. Happ and Kip Wells will play from the mound. Houston got things going in the first inning as Scott Moore hit a sacrifice fly to drive in Jose Altuve. The Astros added on in the third inning when Moore hit another sacrifice fly, again scoring Altuve. This was it for the scoring, with the final being 2-0. Happ got the win, Brett Myers tossed the save, and Wells was handed the loss.
Finally, up in Los Angeles, the Dodgers host the Philadelphia Phillies. Joe Blanton and Nathan Eovaldi are the back-of-the-rotation starters. Philadelphia struck first in the second inning as Juan Pierre singled in Carlos Ruiz. The Phillies added on in the third inning with a Jimmy Rollins solo home run. Philadelphia got another in the fourth inning as Ryan Howard hit a solo shot. Los Angeles got on the board in the sixth inning as Matt Kemp grounded into a double play that got Jerry Hairston, Jr. home. The Dodgers got closer in the seventh inning when Juan Rivera scored on a wild pitch. They couldn't get the equalizer, falling 3-2, with the win belonging to Blanton, the save converted by Jonathan Papelbon as his twentieth of the season, and the loss dealt the Eovaldi.
Follow me on Twitter @KipperScorpion.
Detroit, as the Tigers host the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. Ervin Santana and Rick Porcello are the struggling pitchers. Detroit got things going in the first inning as Miguel Cabrera grounded out to plate Austin Jackson. Los Angeles got on the board in the third inning as Torii Hunter doubled home John Hester. The Tigers took the lead back in the fourth inning as Brennan Boesch reached on an error allowing Prince Fielder to score. The Angels rallied ahead in the fifth inning when Mike Trout singled in Maicer Izturis, Hunter doubled to plate both Hester and Mike Trout, and Hunter scored on an Albert Pujols double. Detroit responded in the bottom of the fifth as Fielder singled to drive in Quintin Berry and and Delmon Young did the same for Cabrera. The Tigers tied it in the seventh as Young's sacrifice fly gave time for Berry to dash home, before gaining the lead as Boesch went yard on a two-run homer and took Fielder with him. Los Angeles got one back in the eighth inning as Mark Trumbo hit a solo shot. Detroit took it right back in the bottom of the eighth as Berry singled Alex Avila home. This made the final 8-6, where Octavio Dotel was credited with the win, Jose Valverde notched the save, and LaTroy Hawkins was dealt the loss.
Back to the east, the New York Yankees host the Toronto Blue Jays. Henderson Alvarez and Phil Hughes get the starting nods. New York started in the second inning with a solo home run by Russell Martin. The Yankees added on in the third inning as Robinson Cano doubled home Alex Rodriguez. Toronto got one back in the fourth inning on an Adam Lind solo shot. The Blue Jays tied it in the sixth inning when Edwin Encarnacion doubled in Jose Bautista. New York took the lead in the eighth inning as Raul Ibanez hit a grand slam, sweeping in Rodriguez, Cano, and Mark Teixeira. Toronto tried a ninth inning rally on a J.P. Arencibia single that combined with an error to bring in Kelly Johnson, but they lost 6-3. David Robertson took the win, Rafael Soriano picked up a save, and Aaron Loup was on the hook for the loss.
Up in Boston, the Red Sox host the Chicago White Sox. Dylan Axelrod and Aaron Cook are the relatively unknown pitchers. Chicago was first on the board in the first inning as Adam Dunn grounded out, which combined with an error to bring in Kevin Youkilis. Boston tied it in their half of the inning as Adrian Gonzalez singled home Carl Crawford. The Red Sox broke the tie in the eighth inning with Gonzalez hitting a three-run home run, sweeping in Crawford and David Ortiz, followed by Mike Aviles singling Cody Ross home. This made it 5-1, a final, with Vicente Padilla in line for the win and Leyson Septimo charged with the loss.
Westward to Cincinnati, as the Reds host the Arizona Diamondbacks. Wade Miley and Bronson Arroyo are handed the ball. Arizona established a large first inning lead on a 3-RBI Miguel Montero double, sweeping in all of Stephen Drew, Willie Bloomquist, and Aaron Hill, before he scored on a Justin Upton single. Cincinnati got on the board as Brandon Phillips doubled in Todd Frazier in the bottom of the first. The Reds pulled closer in the second inning as Drew Stubbs hit a 2-RBI double, driving in Chris Heisey and Ryan Hanigan. The Diamondbacks added on in the third inning as Montero hit a solo home run. This was all for the scoring, with the final sitting at 5-3. Miley got the win, J.J. Putz turned a rocky save, and Arroyo suffered the loss.
South to Miami, where the Marlins host the Washington Nationals. Edwin Jackson and Carlos Zambrano are the veteran pitchers. Washington led off with a second inning Jesus Flores sacrifice fly to bring in Danny Espinosa. The Nationals added on in the third inning as Ryan Zimmerman hit a solo home run. Miami rallied to a lead in the bottom of the third as Carlos Lee singled home both the pitcher Zambrano and Jose Reyes before coming home on a two-run home run by Hanley Ramirez. Washington pulled back in the sixth inning as Michael Morse singled to plate Zimmerman. The Marlins extended their lead in the seventh inning as Emilio Bonifacio sacrificed to get Justin Ruggiano safely home. This was all they needed to win 5-3. Zambrano got the win, Mike Dunn headed the save committee, and Jackson was stuck with the loss.
North but still in Florida, the Tampa Bay Rays host the Cleveland Indians. Zach McAllister and Alex Cobb are the young arms slated to start. Cleveland began as Shin-Soo Choo scored on a passed ball in the first inning. The Indians padded the lead in the third inning as Choo doubled Johnny Damon across the dish before scoring on a Jason Kipnis double. Tampa Bay got on the board in the fourth inning when Jeff Keppinger singled in B.J. Upton. The Rays got another in the seventh inning on a solo home run by Desmond Jennings. They couldn't tie the game, falling 3-2, with the win going to McAllister, the save to Chris Perez, and the loss to Cobb.
Northwest to Kansas City, where the Royals host the Seattle Mariners. Jason Vargas faces a lesser foe in Jonathan Sanchez. Seattle busted things open in the first inning as Casper Wells hit a three-run home run, sweeping in Dustin Ackley and Ichiro, followed by a two-run blast from Justin Smoak, also scoring Jesus Montero. The Mariners added on in the second inning as Wells tripled to force in both Brendan Ryan and Ackley. Kansas City found the scoreboard in the third inning as Salvador Perez hit a solo home run, followed by a two-run Billy Butler home run, knocking in Eric Hosmer. Seattle shot back in the fourth inning as Ichiro tripled to knock in Munenori Kawasaki. The Mariners got another in the sixth inning as Ackley hit a solo shot. The Royals took one back in the seventh inning on a Hosmer single to bring home Alex Gordon. This was as close as it got, with the final sitting at 9-4, allowing Vargas the win while Sanchez was abused in the loss.
North still to Milwaukee, where the Brewers host the St. Louis Cardinals. Lance Lynn and Michael Fiers are the surprisingly good starters. Milwaukee started in the seventh inning on a Corey Hart solo home run. The Brewers added on in the eighth inning as Ryan Braun doubled to knock in Norichika Aoki. St. Louis rallied to tie in the ninth inning on a Matt Holliday single to score both Matt Carpenter and Rafael Furcal, followed by an Allen Craig single scoring Skip Schumaker. This proved enough for a 3-2 win, with the win going to Jason Motte and the loss, paired with a blown save, to John Axford.
Over in Minneapolis, the Minnesota Twins host the Baltimore Orioles. Chris Tillman and Scott Diamond will take the hill. Minnesota rallied to first inning lead as Joe Mauer singled home Ben Revere, before scoring alongside Justin Morneau when Ryan Doumit reached on an error, followed by Brian Dozier singling in Trevor Plouffe, and Denard Span clearing the bases with a double that saw Doumit, Dozier, and Jamey Carroll all score. Baltimore got on the board in the second inning as Wilson Betemit singled to drive in Mark Reynolds. The Twins added on in the bottom of the second as Mauer hit a solo home run. The Orioles replied in the third inning as Reynolds singled Jones safely home. Minnesota extended their lead in their half of the third as Revere singled both Carroll and Span in. The Twins struck again in the fourth inning when Plouffe grounded into a fielder's choice to get Josh Willingham home. Baltimore took some back in the fifth inning on a three-run Reynolds homer, sweeping in Nick Markakis and Jones. Minnesota shot back in the sixth inning as Morneau doubled Willingham across the dish, before finishing his trip on a Doumit sacrifice fly, followed by Carroll singling Plouffe in. The Twins got yet another in the eighth inning on a Doumit groundout giving Morneau time to dart home, followed by Carroll singling Plouffe home and Span hitting a 2-RBI double to plate Dozier and Carroll before scoring on a Revere single. The Orioles took some back in the ninth inning on a two-run homer by Endy Chavez, also scoring Steve Tolleson. This made it 19-7, with Diamond having plenty of support for a win while Tillman was shelled hard and took the loss despite significant struggles out of the bullpen as well.
Down to Colorado, as the Rockies host the Pittsburgh Pirates. Jeffs Karstens and Francis will handle the pitching. Pittsburgh finally opened the scoring in the fifth inning on a single from the pitcher Karstens to drive in Pedro Alvarez. Colorado tied it in the bottom of the fifth on a Josh Rutledge single to knock in Tyler Colvin, followed by Eric Young doubling both Willin Rosario and Rutledge in, before he scored on a Marco Scutaro single. The Pirates tied it in the ninth inning when Alvarez hit a three-run home run, sweeping in Andrew McCutchen and Walker. The Rockies won with a walkoff sacrifice fly in the bottom of the ninth from Dexter Fowler, allowing Rosario to get home safely for a 5-4 final. Rex Brothers was in line for the win while Jason Grilli took the loss.
Southwest further to San Diego, where the Padres host the Houston Astros. J.A. Happ and Kip Wells will play from the mound. Houston got things going in the first inning as Scott Moore hit a sacrifice fly to drive in Jose Altuve. The Astros added on in the third inning when Moore hit another sacrifice fly, again scoring Altuve. This was it for the scoring, with the final being 2-0. Happ got the win, Brett Myers tossed the save, and Wells was handed the loss.
Finally, up in Los Angeles, the Dodgers host the Philadelphia Phillies. Joe Blanton and Nathan Eovaldi are the back-of-the-rotation starters. Philadelphia struck first in the second inning as Juan Pierre singled in Carlos Ruiz. The Phillies added on in the third inning with a Jimmy Rollins solo home run. Philadelphia got another in the fourth inning as Ryan Howard hit a solo shot. Los Angeles got on the board in the sixth inning as Matt Kemp grounded into a double play that got Jerry Hairston, Jr. home. The Dodgers got closer in the seventh inning when Juan Rivera scored on a wild pitch. They couldn't get the equalizer, falling 3-2, with the win belonging to Blanton, the save converted by Jonathan Papelbon as his twentieth of the season, and the loss dealt the Eovaldi.
Follow me on Twitter @KipperScorpion.
Sunday, July 15, 2012
MLB Day 101 2012
Full slate once again, as normal on a Sunday. We begin in...
The Bronx, where the New York Yankees host the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. Jered Weaver and Ivan Nova are sent out for the starts. Los Angeles started with a pair of solo home runs by Erick Aybar and Albert Pujols in the first inning. New York answered in the bottom of the first as Alex Rodriguez hit a two-run home run, also scoring Curtis Granderson. The Yankees took the lead in the second inning as Derek Jeter singled home Eric Chavez. The Angels replied in the sixth inning with Alberto Callaspo hitting a sacrifice fly to bring in Kendrys Morales before Maicer Izturis hit a two-run home run, sweeping in Mark Trumbo. New York got one back in their half of the inning when Granderson hit a solo shot. Los Angeles added on in the seventh inning as Pujols grounded into a double play to get Mike Trout safely home. The Yankees pulled back in the bottom of the seventh as Chavez hit a solo home run. The Angels re-extended their lead in the eighth inning when Bobby Wilson singled to knock in Izturis, followed by Trout doubling to drive in Peter Bourjos, and Aybar sacrificing to finish Wilson's trip around. Los Angeles got another in the ninth inning on a Trumbo solo shot. New York replied in the bottom of the ninth on a Mark Teixeira two-run home run, sweeping in Robinson Cano, followed by Granderson drawing a bases-loaded walk that forced in Nick Swisher, but it wasn't enough to avoid a 10-8 loss. Weaver was able to keep the win, Kevin Jepsen got a spot save as the bullpen melted down before him, and Nova was not freed from the loss.
Up to Toronto, as the Blue Jays host the Cleveland Indians. Derek Lowe and Carlos Villanueva will pitch. Toronto rallied to a lead in the third inning as J.P. Arencibia singled in Kelly Johnson, followed by Colby Rasmus singling to finish Arencibia's trip around, and Adam Lind drawing a bases-loaded walk to force Rasmus home. This was all they needed for a 3-0 win, earned by Villanueva, while Darren Oliver picked up a spot save, and Lowe had no support in the loss.
Back stateside, the Miami Marlins host the Washington Nationals. Stephen Strasburg and Ricky Nolasco are the high-expectation pitchers. Washington got things going in the fifth inning on a Strasburg single to knock in Danny Espinosa and a Steve Lombardozzi single doing the same for Jhonatan Solano. The Nationals added on in the sixth inning as Michael Morse singled home Ryan Zimmerman and Espinosa hit a sacrifice fly to get Adam LaRoche across the dish. This gave them a 4-0 lead, which was a final, setting Strasburg up for the win while Nolasco was handed the loss.
To the north again, where the Baltimore Orioles host the Detroit Tigers. Justin Verlander faces a lesser foe in Miguel Gonzalez. Detroit led off with a first inning Austin Jackson solo home run. The Tigers added on in the second inning when Jhonny Peralta singled to score Brennan Boesch. Detroit struck again in the sixth inning as Alex Avila singled to plate Prince Fielder. The Tigers got another in the ninth inning on a solo shot by Miguel Cabrera. This was good for a 4-0 win, where Verlander was his usual dominant self for a win while Gonzalez had no support in the loss.
South to Atlanta, as the Braves host the New York Mets. Johan Santana and Ben Sheets are the veteran pitchers. Atlanta rallied to a large lead in the fifth inning as Michael Bourn doubled in Matt Diaz, followed by Martin Prado hitting a sacrifice fly to drive in Paul Janish, Jason Heyward singling to finish Bourn's trip, and Freddie Freeman hitting a three-run home run, sweeping in Heyward and Chipper Jones. New York got on the board in the seventh inning as Andres Torres singled to knock in Scott Hairston. This was all they could muster, falling 6-1. Sheets notched the win and Santana was given the loss.
Into Florida again, as the Tampa Bay Rays host the Boston Red Sox. Josh Beckett and James Shields are the highly overrated pitchers. Boston was first to score in the first inning as Adrian Gonzalez singled home Daniel Nava. Tampa Bay answered in the bottom of the first with Ben Zobrist singling in Will Rhymes, followed by a 2-RBI Desmond Jennings single plating both Carlos Pena and Zobrist. The Red Sox tied it in the second inning when Mike Aviles hit a two-run home run, also scoring Will Middlebrooks. Boston took the lead in the fifth inning on a Nava solo home run and a Middlebrooks single that knocked in both Gonzalez and Cody Ross. The Red Sox got another in the sixth inning as Ross hit a sacrifice fly to allow Jacoby Ellsbury to dash home. This was good for a 7-3 win, where Beckett was the winning pitcher and Shields was the losing pitcher.
Into the Midwest, as the Kansas City Royals host the Chicago White Sox. Chris Sale and Luis Mendoza will be handed the ball. Chicago began with a first inning solo home run by Adam Dunn. The White Sox added on in the second inning as Alexei Ramirez grounded into a double play that got Alex Rios home. Kansas City got on the board in the fifth inning as Chris Getz singled home Mike Moustakas. They couldn't find an equalizer, losing 2-1, with Sale pitching erratically effective for a win, Addison Reed shutting the door for a save, and Mendoza was dealt the loss.
Up into Milwaukee, where the Brewers host the Pittsburgh Pirates. A.J. Burnett and Yovani Gallardo are the reliable starters. Pittsburgh got on the board in the fourth inning on an Andrew McCutchen solo home run. Milwaukee rallied ahead in the sixth inning as Ryan Braun singled, which combined with an error to plate Nyjer Morgan, followed by Aramis Ramirez singling to finish Braun's trip around, Rickie Weeks reaching on an error that got Ramirez home, and Martin Maldonado doubling to knock in Weeks.This rally gave them a 4-1 lead, which held to be a final. Gallardo got the win in a strong outing, while John Axford tossed the save, and Burnett was stuck with the loss.
West to Minnesota, as the Twins host the Oakland Athletics. Jarrod Parker and Brian Duensing will have the green light to pitch. Oakland quickly took a first inning lead with Yoenis Cespedes singling in Jemile Weeks, followed by Derek Norris drawing a bases-loaded walk to force in Jonny Gomes. Minnesota got one back in the bottom of the first as Josh Willingham reached on an error that allowed Darin Mastroianni to come home. The Athletics shot back in the second inning as Gomes hit a two-run home run, also scoring Weeks, followed by solo home runs from Cespedes and Chris Carter. The Twins got another back in their half of the second as Alexi Casilla hit a sacrifice fly that scored Ryan Doumit. Oakland extended their lead in the sixth inning as Seth Smith hit a solo shot, followed by Cespedes singling Weeks across the dish and Gomes scoring on a wild pitch. Minnesota got a couple back in their half of the inning when Doumit doubled Justin Morneau home and Brian Dozier grounded out to knock in Trevor Plouffe. This produced the 9-4 final, with the win going to Parker and the loss to Duensing.
Down into Chicago, where the Cubs host the Arizona Diamondbacks. Trevor Cahill and Matt Garza take the mound. Chicago led off in the first inning on an Anthony Rizzo single to knock in David DeJesus. The Cubs padded the lead in the second inning as Darwin Barney hit a two-run home run, also scoring Bryan LaHair. Arizona got on the board in the eighth inning on an Aaron Hill solo home run. This wasn't enough to avoid a 3-1 loss, with the win going to Garza, the save to Carlos Marmol as his tenth of the season, and Cahill was on the hook for the loss.
Out in Colorado, the Rockies host the Philadelphia Phillies. Cole Hamels and Drew Pomeranz will receive the starting nods. Philadelhpia got going in the first inning as Carlos Ruiz singled home Shane Victorino. The Phillies added on in the fourth inning when Placido Polanco hit a sacrifice fly to get Ruiz home. Philadelphia padded the lead in the fifth inning as Hunter Pence hit a three-run home run, sweeping in Jimmy Rollins and Victorino. Colorado got on the board in the sixth inning when Carlos Gonzalez tripled to force in Marco Scutaro. They got no more runs, falling 5-1. Hamels pitched well for the win, while Pomeranz was stuck holding the loss.
Westward to San Francisco, as the Giants host the Houston Astros. Bud Norris is mismatched with Matt Cain. San Francisco wasted little time in establishing a first inning lead, as Buster Posey singled in Gregor Blanco and Brandon Belt drew a bases-loaded walk to force in Emmanuel Burriss. Houston got one back in the third inning when Jordan Schafer reached on an error to get Marwin Gonzalez home. The Astros tied it in the fourth inning on a Chris Johnson double to plate Brian Bogusevic. The Giants took the lead in the fifth inning as Posey singled home Pablo Sandoval. This was it for the scoring, with final being 3-2, allowing Cain the win, Santiago Casilla the save, and Norris was responsible for the loss.
Down in Los Angeles, the Dodgers welcome the San Diego Padres. Jason Marquis and Chris Capuano are the mid-rotation starters. Los Angeles opened in the first inning on an Andre Ethier single to knock in Tony Gwynn, Jr. San Diego tied it in the fourth inning as Carlos Quentin grounded into a fielder's choice that combined with an error to allow Logan Forsythe to come home. The Dodgers took the lead back in the sixth inning on a Jerry Hairston, Jr. single to drive in James Loney. The Padres responded in the seventh inning when Yasmani Grandal reached on an error that allowed both Cameron Maybin and Everth Cabrera to score, followed by Alexi Amarista singling to plate John Baker. San Diego padded their lead in the eighth inning when Chase Headley hit a solo home run. The Padres got some insurance runs in the ninth inning as Quentin hit a sacrifice fly to plate Mark Kotsay and Yonder Alonso singled Amarista across the dish. This made it 7-2, a final, where Marquis got the win and Capuano was given the loss.
Northward to Seattle, as the Mariners host the Texas Rangers. Matt Harrison and Hisashi Iwakuma are the relatively unknown starters. Texas began in the first inning as Josh Hamilton grounded out, giving Ian Kinsler to score. The Rangers added on in the third inning with an Adrian Beltre single scoring both Craig Gentry and Elvis Andrus. Texas struck again in the fifth inning with a Kinsler solo home run. This was all they needed to win 4-0, with Harrison going the distance for a complete game shutout while Iwakuma had no help in the loss.
Finally, out in Cincinnati, the Reds host the St. Louis Cardinals. Jake Westbrook and Homer Bailey pace the game. St. Louis led off in the second inning on a Yadier Molina double to knock in Lance Berkman. Cincinnati responded in the third inning as Joey Votto doubled home Chris Heisey before scoring on a Brandon Phillips single. The Cardinals tied it in the sixth inning on a Molina solo home run. The Reds took the lead back in the eighth inning on a 2-RBI single from Scott Rolen, scoring both Votto and Phillips. This set them up for a 4-2 win, picked up by Bailey, while Aroldis Chapman turned the save, and Westbrook was stuck with the loss.
Follow me on Twitter @KipperScorpion.
The Bronx, where the New York Yankees host the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. Jered Weaver and Ivan Nova are sent out for the starts. Los Angeles started with a pair of solo home runs by Erick Aybar and Albert Pujols in the first inning. New York answered in the bottom of the first as Alex Rodriguez hit a two-run home run, also scoring Curtis Granderson. The Yankees took the lead in the second inning as Derek Jeter singled home Eric Chavez. The Angels replied in the sixth inning with Alberto Callaspo hitting a sacrifice fly to bring in Kendrys Morales before Maicer Izturis hit a two-run home run, sweeping in Mark Trumbo. New York got one back in their half of the inning when Granderson hit a solo shot. Los Angeles added on in the seventh inning as Pujols grounded into a double play to get Mike Trout safely home. The Yankees pulled back in the bottom of the seventh as Chavez hit a solo home run. The Angels re-extended their lead in the eighth inning when Bobby Wilson singled to knock in Izturis, followed by Trout doubling to drive in Peter Bourjos, and Aybar sacrificing to finish Wilson's trip around. Los Angeles got another in the ninth inning on a Trumbo solo shot. New York replied in the bottom of the ninth on a Mark Teixeira two-run home run, sweeping in Robinson Cano, followed by Granderson drawing a bases-loaded walk that forced in Nick Swisher, but it wasn't enough to avoid a 10-8 loss. Weaver was able to keep the win, Kevin Jepsen got a spot save as the bullpen melted down before him, and Nova was not freed from the loss.
Up to Toronto, as the Blue Jays host the Cleveland Indians. Derek Lowe and Carlos Villanueva will pitch. Toronto rallied to a lead in the third inning as J.P. Arencibia singled in Kelly Johnson, followed by Colby Rasmus singling to finish Arencibia's trip around, and Adam Lind drawing a bases-loaded walk to force Rasmus home. This was all they needed for a 3-0 win, earned by Villanueva, while Darren Oliver picked up a spot save, and Lowe had no support in the loss.
Back stateside, the Miami Marlins host the Washington Nationals. Stephen Strasburg and Ricky Nolasco are the high-expectation pitchers. Washington got things going in the fifth inning on a Strasburg single to knock in Danny Espinosa and a Steve Lombardozzi single doing the same for Jhonatan Solano. The Nationals added on in the sixth inning as Michael Morse singled home Ryan Zimmerman and Espinosa hit a sacrifice fly to get Adam LaRoche across the dish. This gave them a 4-0 lead, which was a final, setting Strasburg up for the win while Nolasco was handed the loss.
To the north again, where the Baltimore Orioles host the Detroit Tigers. Justin Verlander faces a lesser foe in Miguel Gonzalez. Detroit led off with a first inning Austin Jackson solo home run. The Tigers added on in the second inning when Jhonny Peralta singled to score Brennan Boesch. Detroit struck again in the sixth inning as Alex Avila singled to plate Prince Fielder. The Tigers got another in the ninth inning on a solo shot by Miguel Cabrera. This was good for a 4-0 win, where Verlander was his usual dominant self for a win while Gonzalez had no support in the loss.
South to Atlanta, as the Braves host the New York Mets. Johan Santana and Ben Sheets are the veteran pitchers. Atlanta rallied to a large lead in the fifth inning as Michael Bourn doubled in Matt Diaz, followed by Martin Prado hitting a sacrifice fly to drive in Paul Janish, Jason Heyward singling to finish Bourn's trip, and Freddie Freeman hitting a three-run home run, sweeping in Heyward and Chipper Jones. New York got on the board in the seventh inning as Andres Torres singled to knock in Scott Hairston. This was all they could muster, falling 6-1. Sheets notched the win and Santana was given the loss.
Into Florida again, as the Tampa Bay Rays host the Boston Red Sox. Josh Beckett and James Shields are the highly overrated pitchers. Boston was first to score in the first inning as Adrian Gonzalez singled home Daniel Nava. Tampa Bay answered in the bottom of the first with Ben Zobrist singling in Will Rhymes, followed by a 2-RBI Desmond Jennings single plating both Carlos Pena and Zobrist. The Red Sox tied it in the second inning when Mike Aviles hit a two-run home run, also scoring Will Middlebrooks. Boston took the lead in the fifth inning on a Nava solo home run and a Middlebrooks single that knocked in both Gonzalez and Cody Ross. The Red Sox got another in the sixth inning as Ross hit a sacrifice fly to allow Jacoby Ellsbury to dash home. This was good for a 7-3 win, where Beckett was the winning pitcher and Shields was the losing pitcher.
Into the Midwest, as the Kansas City Royals host the Chicago White Sox. Chris Sale and Luis Mendoza will be handed the ball. Chicago began with a first inning solo home run by Adam Dunn. The White Sox added on in the second inning as Alexei Ramirez grounded into a double play that got Alex Rios home. Kansas City got on the board in the fifth inning as Chris Getz singled home Mike Moustakas. They couldn't find an equalizer, losing 2-1, with Sale pitching erratically effective for a win, Addison Reed shutting the door for a save, and Mendoza was dealt the loss.
Up into Milwaukee, where the Brewers host the Pittsburgh Pirates. A.J. Burnett and Yovani Gallardo are the reliable starters. Pittsburgh got on the board in the fourth inning on an Andrew McCutchen solo home run. Milwaukee rallied ahead in the sixth inning as Ryan Braun singled, which combined with an error to plate Nyjer Morgan, followed by Aramis Ramirez singling to finish Braun's trip around, Rickie Weeks reaching on an error that got Ramirez home, and Martin Maldonado doubling to knock in Weeks.This rally gave them a 4-1 lead, which held to be a final. Gallardo got the win in a strong outing, while John Axford tossed the save, and Burnett was stuck with the loss.
West to Minnesota, as the Twins host the Oakland Athletics. Jarrod Parker and Brian Duensing will have the green light to pitch. Oakland quickly took a first inning lead with Yoenis Cespedes singling in Jemile Weeks, followed by Derek Norris drawing a bases-loaded walk to force in Jonny Gomes. Minnesota got one back in the bottom of the first as Josh Willingham reached on an error that allowed Darin Mastroianni to come home. The Athletics shot back in the second inning as Gomes hit a two-run home run, also scoring Weeks, followed by solo home runs from Cespedes and Chris Carter. The Twins got another back in their half of the second as Alexi Casilla hit a sacrifice fly that scored Ryan Doumit. Oakland extended their lead in the sixth inning as Seth Smith hit a solo shot, followed by Cespedes singling Weeks across the dish and Gomes scoring on a wild pitch. Minnesota got a couple back in their half of the inning when Doumit doubled Justin Morneau home and Brian Dozier grounded out to knock in Trevor Plouffe. This produced the 9-4 final, with the win going to Parker and the loss to Duensing.
Down into Chicago, where the Cubs host the Arizona Diamondbacks. Trevor Cahill and Matt Garza take the mound. Chicago led off in the first inning on an Anthony Rizzo single to knock in David DeJesus. The Cubs padded the lead in the second inning as Darwin Barney hit a two-run home run, also scoring Bryan LaHair. Arizona got on the board in the eighth inning on an Aaron Hill solo home run. This wasn't enough to avoid a 3-1 loss, with the win going to Garza, the save to Carlos Marmol as his tenth of the season, and Cahill was on the hook for the loss.
Out in Colorado, the Rockies host the Philadelphia Phillies. Cole Hamels and Drew Pomeranz will receive the starting nods. Philadelhpia got going in the first inning as Carlos Ruiz singled home Shane Victorino. The Phillies added on in the fourth inning when Placido Polanco hit a sacrifice fly to get Ruiz home. Philadelphia padded the lead in the fifth inning as Hunter Pence hit a three-run home run, sweeping in Jimmy Rollins and Victorino. Colorado got on the board in the sixth inning when Carlos Gonzalez tripled to force in Marco Scutaro. They got no more runs, falling 5-1. Hamels pitched well for the win, while Pomeranz was stuck holding the loss.
Westward to San Francisco, as the Giants host the Houston Astros. Bud Norris is mismatched with Matt Cain. San Francisco wasted little time in establishing a first inning lead, as Buster Posey singled in Gregor Blanco and Brandon Belt drew a bases-loaded walk to force in Emmanuel Burriss. Houston got one back in the third inning when Jordan Schafer reached on an error to get Marwin Gonzalez home. The Astros tied it in the fourth inning on a Chris Johnson double to plate Brian Bogusevic. The Giants took the lead in the fifth inning as Posey singled home Pablo Sandoval. This was it for the scoring, with final being 3-2, allowing Cain the win, Santiago Casilla the save, and Norris was responsible for the loss.
Down in Los Angeles, the Dodgers welcome the San Diego Padres. Jason Marquis and Chris Capuano are the mid-rotation starters. Los Angeles opened in the first inning on an Andre Ethier single to knock in Tony Gwynn, Jr. San Diego tied it in the fourth inning as Carlos Quentin grounded into a fielder's choice that combined with an error to allow Logan Forsythe to come home. The Dodgers took the lead back in the sixth inning on a Jerry Hairston, Jr. single to drive in James Loney. The Padres responded in the seventh inning when Yasmani Grandal reached on an error that allowed both Cameron Maybin and Everth Cabrera to score, followed by Alexi Amarista singling to plate John Baker. San Diego padded their lead in the eighth inning when Chase Headley hit a solo home run. The Padres got some insurance runs in the ninth inning as Quentin hit a sacrifice fly to plate Mark Kotsay and Yonder Alonso singled Amarista across the dish. This made it 7-2, a final, where Marquis got the win and Capuano was given the loss.
Northward to Seattle, as the Mariners host the Texas Rangers. Matt Harrison and Hisashi Iwakuma are the relatively unknown starters. Texas began in the first inning as Josh Hamilton grounded out, giving Ian Kinsler to score. The Rangers added on in the third inning with an Adrian Beltre single scoring both Craig Gentry and Elvis Andrus. Texas struck again in the fifth inning with a Kinsler solo home run. This was all they needed to win 4-0, with Harrison going the distance for a complete game shutout while Iwakuma had no help in the loss.
Finally, out in Cincinnati, the Reds host the St. Louis Cardinals. Jake Westbrook and Homer Bailey pace the game. St. Louis led off in the second inning on a Yadier Molina double to knock in Lance Berkman. Cincinnati responded in the third inning as Joey Votto doubled home Chris Heisey before scoring on a Brandon Phillips single. The Cardinals tied it in the sixth inning on a Molina solo home run. The Reds took the lead back in the eighth inning on a 2-RBI single from Scott Rolen, scoring both Votto and Phillips. This set them up for a 4-2 win, picked up by Bailey, while Aroldis Chapman turned the save, and Westbrook was stuck with the loss.
Follow me on Twitter @KipperScorpion.
Saturday, July 14, 2012
MLB Day 100 2012
Today marks the 100th day of games in the season, although there have been a few non-game days in the mix as well. To celebrate, we begin in...
New York, as the Yankees host the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. Jerome Williams and Freddy Garcia are the back-of-the-rotation pitchers. Los Angeles wasted no time in getting on the board in the first inning with a 2-RBI Alberto Callaspo single, scoring both Mike Trout and Erick Aybar. New York tied it in their half of the inning with a Robinson Cano two-run home run, also scoring Derek Jeter. The Yankees took the lead in the third inning on a two-run Curtis Granderson home run, sweeping in Chris Stewart. The Angels pulled back in the fourth inning with Bobby Wilson grounding out to bring home Howie Kendrick. New York added on in the sixth inning as Cano singled Alex Rodriguez home. This was good for a 5-3 win, picked up by Garcia, while Rafael Soriano converted the save, and Williams was stuck with the loss.
Over in Chicago, the Cubs host the Arizona Diamondbacks. Joe Saunders and Ryan Dempster pick up the starts. Chicago got going in the third inning with a Starlin Castro fielder's choice, allowing Luis Valbuena to score. The Cubs added on in the fourth inning as Darwin Barney doubled to drive in Alfonso Soriano, followed by Valbuena singling to finish Barney's trip around. Chicago got another in the sixth inning when Barney grounded into a double play, giving Jeff Baker time to get home. Arizona got on the board in the seventh inning with a Chris Young solo home run. This was all they got, falling 4-1. Dempster got the win, Carlos Marmol tossed the save, and Saunders held the loss.
North to Toronto, as the Blue Jays welcome the Cleveland Indians. Ubaldo Jimenez and Aaron Laffey are the uninspiring starters. Toronto opened early in the first inning on an Adam Lind double to score both Colby Rasmus and Jose Bautista. Cleveland got on the board in the second inning as Shelley Duncan was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded, forcing in Jose Lopez, and they tied it on a Casey Kotchman double play the gave Carlos Santana time to score. The Blue Jays got the lead again in the third inning with two-run home runs from Edwin Encarnacion, also scoring Bautista, and Yunel Escobar, bringing in Lind, followed by J.P. Arencibia doubling to plate Kelly Johnson before scoring on a double by Brett Lawrie, and the eight-run rally ended on a 2-RBI Lind single to bring home Lawrie and Bautista. The Indians got some back in the fourth inning as Duncan hit a two-run home run, allowing Michael Brantley to get home. Toronto fired back in the fifth inning as Encarnacion lifted a solo home run. Cleveland pulled closer in the eighth inning on a pair of two-run home runs, as Brantley went yard and took Santana with him before Kotchman did the same for Duncan, followed by Travis Hafner singling in Asdrubal Cabrera. They couldn't salvage a tie, losing 11-9, with Laffey taking a rough win, Casey Janssen throwing the save, and Jimenez getting shelled in the loss.
Back in the states, the Baltimore Orioles host the Detroit Tigers. Max Scherzer and Wei-Yin Chen are handed the ball. Detroit led off in the first inning with a Prince Fielder double to plate Austin Jackson. Baltimore tied it in their half of the inning on a Jim Thome double to knock in Nick Markakis. The Orioles took the lead in the second inning on a two-run home run from Robert Andino, also scoring Chris Davis. Baltimore extended the lead in the third inning as Davis grounded into a fielder's choice that saw Adam Jones score. Detroit rallied to tie the game in the ninth inning as Jhonny Peralta singled in Miguel Cabrera, followed by Brennan Boesch doubling to plate Delmon Young and Quintin Berry singling in Danny Worth as the tying run. The Tigers took a lead in the eleventh inning as Alex Avila singled, plating Young. The Orioles retied it in the bottom of the eleventh with a Jones single to drive home Markakis. Detroit got the lead again in the thirteenth inning on a Berry single to bring home Worth. Baltimore tied it again in their half of the inning on a J.J. Hardy solo home run before winning on a two-run home run by Taylor Teagarden, sweeping in Jones for the 8-6 win. Kevin Gregg was in line for the win while Joaquin Benoit was on the hook for the loss.
Out west, the Cincinnati Reds host the St. Louis Cardinals. Kyle Lohse and Mike Leake are the underrated pitchers. Cincinnati finally got things going in the fifth inning on a Jay Bruce double to score Brandon Phillips. The Reds added on in the sixth inning as Zack Cozart's sacrifice fly allowed Scott Rolen to get home. St. Louis tied it in the seventh inning with a Yadier Molina solo home run followed by a Rafael Furcal bunt single to bring in David Freese. Cincinnati won it with a walkoff tenth inning solo shot by Ryan Ludwick for a 3-2 final. Sam LeCure was given the win while Victor Marte was stuck with the loss.
South to Atlanta, as the Braves host the New York Mets. R.A. Dickey and Tommy Hanson are the staff aces pitching. New York began with a second inning Josh Thole double to drive in Ike Davis. Atlanta took the lead in the bottom of the second with a 2-RBI Eric Hinske double, scoring both Freddie Freeman and Brian McCann, followed by Michael Bourn singling to finish Dan Uggla's trip around. The Mets got one back in the fourth inning as Davis hit a solo home run, followed by Andres Torres singling in Daniel Murphy. The Braves took the lead again in the fifth inning on a 2-RBI double from Freeman, plating both Martin Prado and Jason Heyward. New York went to work in the sixth inning with Justin Turner singling in Thole, followed by Ruben Tejada doing the same for Torres, and Jordany Valdespin following suit to finish Turner's trip. The Mets got another in the eighth inning on a Tejada single to bring in Torres. Atlanta fired back in the bottom of the eighth, pulling closer as Bourn singled to get McCann home, tying it with a Prado single to drive in Uggla, and gaining the lead as Bourn scored on a Heyward single. This 8-7 lead held up, giving the win to Anthony Varvaro, while Craig Kimbrel turned the save and Bobby Parnell was handed the loss.
Up into Milwaukee, as the Brewers host the Pittsburgh Pirates. Kevin Correia and Marco Estrada are the average starters. Milwaukee started in the second inning on a Corey Hart triple to force in Aramis Ramirez and a Rickie Weeks groundout to finish Hart's trip around. Pittsburgh tied it in the third inning on a two-run Andrew McCutchen home run, also scoring Neil Walker. The Brewers took the lead again in the bottom of the third as Ramirez reached on an error, allowing Norichika Aoki to score before Hart hit a sacrifice fly giving Ryan Braun time to dash home. The Pirates pulled back in the sixth inning with a Casey McGehee single to bring in Walker. Pittsburgh took the lead in the seventh inning when Josh Harrison reached on an error providing safe passage home for Clint Barmes and McCutchen walked on a passed ball that finished Harrison's trip. The Pirates extended the lead in the eighth inning on a McGehee solo home run. This was it for the scoring, leaving the final at 6-4, with Correia picking up the win, Joel Hanrahan getting the save, and Kameron Loe was responsible for the loss.
Back to the south, as the Miami Marlins host the Washington Nationals. Gio Gonzalez and Mark Buehrle are the reliable pitchers. Miami led off with a fourth inning Carlos Lee single to drive in Jose Reyes. Washington tied it in the fifth inning on a Jesus Flores single to plate Ian Desmond. The Marlins took the lead back in the bottom of the fifth as John Buck singled, allowing Emilio Bonifacio to come home. This was all for the scoring, leaving the final at 2-1, with Buehrle picking up the win, Steve Cishek notching the save, and Gonzalez suffering a hard-luck loss.
Northwest to Kansas City, as the Royals host the Chicago White Sox. Jake Peavy and Luke Hochevar have the pitching responsibilities. Chicago got going in the third inning as Alejandro De Aza doubled in Gordon Beckham. Kansas City took the lead in their half of the inning when Alex Gordon singled to score Jarrod Dyson before coming home on a two-run home run by Alcides Escobar. The White Sox answered in the sixth inning as Adam Dunn hit a solo home run, followed by Dayan Viciedo tripling to force in Paul Konerko. The Royals took the lead back in the seventh inning on an Escobar solo shot. Kansas City extended the lead in the eighth inning when Jeff Francoeur singled, knocking in Jason Bourgeois, followed by a Lorenzo Cain sacrifice fly that got Mike Moustakas across the dish. This was good for a 6-3 win, given to Greg Holland, while Jonathan Broxton turned the save, and Peavy was dealt the loss.
Back north, the Minnesota Twins host the Oakland Athletics. Tommy Milone and Cole De Vries are the unknown pitchers. Oakland quickly got a first inning lead as Yoenis Cespedes doubled in Josh Reddick and then scored alongside Brandon Moss on a three-run home run from Chris Carter. The Athletics added on in the third inning with a two-run Cespedes home run, also scoring Reddick. Minnesota got on the board in the bottom of the third as Brian Dozier hit a solo home run. Oakland replied in the fifth inning on a Seth Smith solo shot. The Athletics got another in the sixth inning as Moss hit a solo home run. The Twins got one back in their half of the inning on a Justin Morneau single to drive in Joe Mauer. Minnesota got another in the eighth inning on a Josh Willingham solo shot. Oakland re-extended the lead with a ninth inning Smith triple to force in Kurt Suzuki. This was it for a 9-3 final, with Milone getting the win and De Vries taking the loss.
South again to Tampa Bay, where the Rays host the Boston Red Sox. Clay Buchholz and David Price take the mound. Tampa Bay opened in the third inning on a Sean Rodriguez sacrifice fly to drive in Desmond Jennings. Boston took the lead in the fourth inning on a two-run Will Middlebrooks home run, sweeping in David Ortiz. The Rays retied in the fifth inning when Jose Molina reached on an error, allowing Jeff Keppinger to dash home. The Red Sox took the lead back in the sixth inning when Cody Ross scored on an error by Price. Tampa Bay pulled back in the seventh inning when Jose Lobaton drew a bases loaded walk to force in Luke Scott before Elliot Johnson hit a go-ahead sacrifice fly to plate Keppinger. The Rays extended the lead in the eighth inning on a B.J. Upton solo home run, for a 5-3 lead. This was a final, with Price nothing the win, Fernando Rodney turning the save, and Buchholz on the hook for the loss.
Out in Colorado, the Rockies host the Philadelphia Phillies. Vance Worley and Jeremy Guthrie will be pitching. Philadelphia started in the first inning on a Chase Utley single to knock in Shane Victorino and a Carlos Ruiz three-run home run, sweeping in Utley and Ryan Howard. Colorado got on the board in the third inning with a Dexter Fowler single to bring in Josh Rutledge and a Carlos Gonzalez double to finish Fowler's trip around. The Phillies extended their lead in the sixth inning as the pitcher Worley doubled home both Juan Pierre and Mike Fontenot. The Rockies took some back in the eighth inning on a three-run home run by Willin Rosario, also scoring Tyler Colvin and Jordan Pacheco. Philadelphia extended the lead with a ninth inning Victorino triple to force in Rollins, before he came the final 90 feet on an Utley single. This made the final 8-5, with Worley getting the win, Jonathan Papelbon turning the save, and Guthrie was hit hard in the loss.
Into California, where the San Francisco Giants host the Houston Astros. Lucas Harrell and Tim Lincecum take their turns in the rotation. San Francisco finally got things going in the fifth inning on a Melky Cabrera single to knock in Lincecum. The Giants added on in the sixth inning with a Hector Sanchez double to drive in Angel Pagan. Houston rallied in the ninth inning, as Justin Maxwell doubled in Scott Moore before scoring on a combined wild pitch and error to tie the game. San Francisco salvaged a 3-2 win in the twelfth inning as Sanchez made up for his error by singling to plate Sandoval. Jeremy Affeldt was in line for the win while Brett Myers was on the hook for the loss.
Down into Los Angeles, where the Dodgers host the San Diego Padres. Edinson Volquez and Aaron Harang are on the hill. San Diego opened with a first inning Carlos Quentin fielder's choice that got Logan Forsythe home. Los Angeles tied it in the bottom of the first on a Andre Ethier single to drive in Mark Ellis. The Dodgers took the lead in the third inning on a Ethier single plating Bobby Abreu, followed by a bases-loaded walk drawn by Juan Rivera to force in Ellis. The Padres got one back in the fourth inning on a Quentin solo home run. Los Angeles answered with a fifth inning Adam Kennedy double to knock in Rivera. San Diego fired back in the sixth inning on a two-run Chase Headley home run to tie the game as Forsythe also scored. The Dodgers took the lead back in the bottom of the sixth as Ethier went yard on a two-run home run and took Matt Kemp with him. The Padres took one back in the eighth inning when Quentin singled home Alexi Amarista. The Padres took the lead in the ninth inning as Everth Cabrera stole home and Will Venable scored on the same play via error. Alex Hinshaw was given the win in the 7-6 game, while Huston Street notched the win, and Kenley Jansen's brain fart gave him the loss.
Finally, up in Seattle, where the Mariners host the Texas Rangers. Yu Darvish and Felix Hernandez pace the game. Seattle was first on the board with a first inning rally, including John Jaso drawing a bases-loaded walk to force in Dustin Ackley, Michael Saunders reaching on an error to get Ichiro home, and Kyle Seager singling home both Casper Wells and Jaso. The Mariners added on in the fourth inning as Ackley doubled Seager home. Seattle got another in the fifth inning when Jaso hit a solo home run. The Mariners struck again in the seventh inning as Saunders doubled to plate Wells. This was all they needed for a 7-0 win, with Hernandez going the distance for a complete game shutout, allowing just three hits while striking out twelve, and Darvish obviously had no run support.
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New York, as the Yankees host the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. Jerome Williams and Freddy Garcia are the back-of-the-rotation pitchers. Los Angeles wasted no time in getting on the board in the first inning with a 2-RBI Alberto Callaspo single, scoring both Mike Trout and Erick Aybar. New York tied it in their half of the inning with a Robinson Cano two-run home run, also scoring Derek Jeter. The Yankees took the lead in the third inning on a two-run Curtis Granderson home run, sweeping in Chris Stewart. The Angels pulled back in the fourth inning with Bobby Wilson grounding out to bring home Howie Kendrick. New York added on in the sixth inning as Cano singled Alex Rodriguez home. This was good for a 5-3 win, picked up by Garcia, while Rafael Soriano converted the save, and Williams was stuck with the loss.
Over in Chicago, the Cubs host the Arizona Diamondbacks. Joe Saunders and Ryan Dempster pick up the starts. Chicago got going in the third inning with a Starlin Castro fielder's choice, allowing Luis Valbuena to score. The Cubs added on in the fourth inning as Darwin Barney doubled to drive in Alfonso Soriano, followed by Valbuena singling to finish Barney's trip around. Chicago got another in the sixth inning when Barney grounded into a double play, giving Jeff Baker time to get home. Arizona got on the board in the seventh inning with a Chris Young solo home run. This was all they got, falling 4-1. Dempster got the win, Carlos Marmol tossed the save, and Saunders held the loss.
North to Toronto, as the Blue Jays welcome the Cleveland Indians. Ubaldo Jimenez and Aaron Laffey are the uninspiring starters. Toronto opened early in the first inning on an Adam Lind double to score both Colby Rasmus and Jose Bautista. Cleveland got on the board in the second inning as Shelley Duncan was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded, forcing in Jose Lopez, and they tied it on a Casey Kotchman double play the gave Carlos Santana time to score. The Blue Jays got the lead again in the third inning with two-run home runs from Edwin Encarnacion, also scoring Bautista, and Yunel Escobar, bringing in Lind, followed by J.P. Arencibia doubling to plate Kelly Johnson before scoring on a double by Brett Lawrie, and the eight-run rally ended on a 2-RBI Lind single to bring home Lawrie and Bautista. The Indians got some back in the fourth inning as Duncan hit a two-run home run, allowing Michael Brantley to get home. Toronto fired back in the fifth inning as Encarnacion lifted a solo home run. Cleveland pulled closer in the eighth inning on a pair of two-run home runs, as Brantley went yard and took Santana with him before Kotchman did the same for Duncan, followed by Travis Hafner singling in Asdrubal Cabrera. They couldn't salvage a tie, losing 11-9, with Laffey taking a rough win, Casey Janssen throwing the save, and Jimenez getting shelled in the loss.
Back in the states, the Baltimore Orioles host the Detroit Tigers. Max Scherzer and Wei-Yin Chen are handed the ball. Detroit led off in the first inning with a Prince Fielder double to plate Austin Jackson. Baltimore tied it in their half of the inning on a Jim Thome double to knock in Nick Markakis. The Orioles took the lead in the second inning on a two-run home run from Robert Andino, also scoring Chris Davis. Baltimore extended the lead in the third inning as Davis grounded into a fielder's choice that saw Adam Jones score. Detroit rallied to tie the game in the ninth inning as Jhonny Peralta singled in Miguel Cabrera, followed by Brennan Boesch doubling to plate Delmon Young and Quintin Berry singling in Danny Worth as the tying run. The Tigers took a lead in the eleventh inning as Alex Avila singled, plating Young. The Orioles retied it in the bottom of the eleventh with a Jones single to drive home Markakis. Detroit got the lead again in the thirteenth inning on a Berry single to bring home Worth. Baltimore tied it again in their half of the inning on a J.J. Hardy solo home run before winning on a two-run home run by Taylor Teagarden, sweeping in Jones for the 8-6 win. Kevin Gregg was in line for the win while Joaquin Benoit was on the hook for the loss.
Out west, the Cincinnati Reds host the St. Louis Cardinals. Kyle Lohse and Mike Leake are the underrated pitchers. Cincinnati finally got things going in the fifth inning on a Jay Bruce double to score Brandon Phillips. The Reds added on in the sixth inning as Zack Cozart's sacrifice fly allowed Scott Rolen to get home. St. Louis tied it in the seventh inning with a Yadier Molina solo home run followed by a Rafael Furcal bunt single to bring in David Freese. Cincinnati won it with a walkoff tenth inning solo shot by Ryan Ludwick for a 3-2 final. Sam LeCure was given the win while Victor Marte was stuck with the loss.
South to Atlanta, as the Braves host the New York Mets. R.A. Dickey and Tommy Hanson are the staff aces pitching. New York began with a second inning Josh Thole double to drive in Ike Davis. Atlanta took the lead in the bottom of the second with a 2-RBI Eric Hinske double, scoring both Freddie Freeman and Brian McCann, followed by Michael Bourn singling to finish Dan Uggla's trip around. The Mets got one back in the fourth inning as Davis hit a solo home run, followed by Andres Torres singling in Daniel Murphy. The Braves took the lead again in the fifth inning on a 2-RBI double from Freeman, plating both Martin Prado and Jason Heyward. New York went to work in the sixth inning with Justin Turner singling in Thole, followed by Ruben Tejada doing the same for Torres, and Jordany Valdespin following suit to finish Turner's trip. The Mets got another in the eighth inning on a Tejada single to bring in Torres. Atlanta fired back in the bottom of the eighth, pulling closer as Bourn singled to get McCann home, tying it with a Prado single to drive in Uggla, and gaining the lead as Bourn scored on a Heyward single. This 8-7 lead held up, giving the win to Anthony Varvaro, while Craig Kimbrel turned the save and Bobby Parnell was handed the loss.
Up into Milwaukee, as the Brewers host the Pittsburgh Pirates. Kevin Correia and Marco Estrada are the average starters. Milwaukee started in the second inning on a Corey Hart triple to force in Aramis Ramirez and a Rickie Weeks groundout to finish Hart's trip around. Pittsburgh tied it in the third inning on a two-run Andrew McCutchen home run, also scoring Neil Walker. The Brewers took the lead again in the bottom of the third as Ramirez reached on an error, allowing Norichika Aoki to score before Hart hit a sacrifice fly giving Ryan Braun time to dash home. The Pirates pulled back in the sixth inning with a Casey McGehee single to bring in Walker. Pittsburgh took the lead in the seventh inning when Josh Harrison reached on an error providing safe passage home for Clint Barmes and McCutchen walked on a passed ball that finished Harrison's trip. The Pirates extended the lead in the eighth inning on a McGehee solo home run. This was it for the scoring, leaving the final at 6-4, with Correia picking up the win, Joel Hanrahan getting the save, and Kameron Loe was responsible for the loss.
Back to the south, as the Miami Marlins host the Washington Nationals. Gio Gonzalez and Mark Buehrle are the reliable pitchers. Miami led off with a fourth inning Carlos Lee single to drive in Jose Reyes. Washington tied it in the fifth inning on a Jesus Flores single to plate Ian Desmond. The Marlins took the lead back in the bottom of the fifth as John Buck singled, allowing Emilio Bonifacio to come home. This was all for the scoring, leaving the final at 2-1, with Buehrle picking up the win, Steve Cishek notching the save, and Gonzalez suffering a hard-luck loss.
Northwest to Kansas City, as the Royals host the Chicago White Sox. Jake Peavy and Luke Hochevar have the pitching responsibilities. Chicago got going in the third inning as Alejandro De Aza doubled in Gordon Beckham. Kansas City took the lead in their half of the inning when Alex Gordon singled to score Jarrod Dyson before coming home on a two-run home run by Alcides Escobar. The White Sox answered in the sixth inning as Adam Dunn hit a solo home run, followed by Dayan Viciedo tripling to force in Paul Konerko. The Royals took the lead back in the seventh inning on an Escobar solo shot. Kansas City extended the lead in the eighth inning when Jeff Francoeur singled, knocking in Jason Bourgeois, followed by a Lorenzo Cain sacrifice fly that got Mike Moustakas across the dish. This was good for a 6-3 win, given to Greg Holland, while Jonathan Broxton turned the save, and Peavy was dealt the loss.
Back north, the Minnesota Twins host the Oakland Athletics. Tommy Milone and Cole De Vries are the unknown pitchers. Oakland quickly got a first inning lead as Yoenis Cespedes doubled in Josh Reddick and then scored alongside Brandon Moss on a three-run home run from Chris Carter. The Athletics added on in the third inning with a two-run Cespedes home run, also scoring Reddick. Minnesota got on the board in the bottom of the third as Brian Dozier hit a solo home run. Oakland replied in the fifth inning on a Seth Smith solo shot. The Athletics got another in the sixth inning as Moss hit a solo home run. The Twins got one back in their half of the inning on a Justin Morneau single to drive in Joe Mauer. Minnesota got another in the eighth inning on a Josh Willingham solo shot. Oakland re-extended the lead with a ninth inning Smith triple to force in Kurt Suzuki. This was it for a 9-3 final, with Milone getting the win and De Vries taking the loss.
South again to Tampa Bay, where the Rays host the Boston Red Sox. Clay Buchholz and David Price take the mound. Tampa Bay opened in the third inning on a Sean Rodriguez sacrifice fly to drive in Desmond Jennings. Boston took the lead in the fourth inning on a two-run Will Middlebrooks home run, sweeping in David Ortiz. The Rays retied in the fifth inning when Jose Molina reached on an error, allowing Jeff Keppinger to dash home. The Red Sox took the lead back in the sixth inning when Cody Ross scored on an error by Price. Tampa Bay pulled back in the seventh inning when Jose Lobaton drew a bases loaded walk to force in Luke Scott before Elliot Johnson hit a go-ahead sacrifice fly to plate Keppinger. The Rays extended the lead in the eighth inning on a B.J. Upton solo home run, for a 5-3 lead. This was a final, with Price nothing the win, Fernando Rodney turning the save, and Buchholz on the hook for the loss.
Out in Colorado, the Rockies host the Philadelphia Phillies. Vance Worley and Jeremy Guthrie will be pitching. Philadelphia started in the first inning on a Chase Utley single to knock in Shane Victorino and a Carlos Ruiz three-run home run, sweeping in Utley and Ryan Howard. Colorado got on the board in the third inning with a Dexter Fowler single to bring in Josh Rutledge and a Carlos Gonzalez double to finish Fowler's trip around. The Phillies extended their lead in the sixth inning as the pitcher Worley doubled home both Juan Pierre and Mike Fontenot. The Rockies took some back in the eighth inning on a three-run home run by Willin Rosario, also scoring Tyler Colvin and Jordan Pacheco. Philadelphia extended the lead with a ninth inning Victorino triple to force in Rollins, before he came the final 90 feet on an Utley single. This made the final 8-5, with Worley getting the win, Jonathan Papelbon turning the save, and Guthrie was hit hard in the loss.
Into California, where the San Francisco Giants host the Houston Astros. Lucas Harrell and Tim Lincecum take their turns in the rotation. San Francisco finally got things going in the fifth inning on a Melky Cabrera single to knock in Lincecum. The Giants added on in the sixth inning with a Hector Sanchez double to drive in Angel Pagan. Houston rallied in the ninth inning, as Justin Maxwell doubled in Scott Moore before scoring on a combined wild pitch and error to tie the game. San Francisco salvaged a 3-2 win in the twelfth inning as Sanchez made up for his error by singling to plate Sandoval. Jeremy Affeldt was in line for the win while Brett Myers was on the hook for the loss.
Down into Los Angeles, where the Dodgers host the San Diego Padres. Edinson Volquez and Aaron Harang are on the hill. San Diego opened with a first inning Carlos Quentin fielder's choice that got Logan Forsythe home. Los Angeles tied it in the bottom of the first on a Andre Ethier single to drive in Mark Ellis. The Dodgers took the lead in the third inning on a Ethier single plating Bobby Abreu, followed by a bases-loaded walk drawn by Juan Rivera to force in Ellis. The Padres got one back in the fourth inning on a Quentin solo home run. Los Angeles answered with a fifth inning Adam Kennedy double to knock in Rivera. San Diego fired back in the sixth inning on a two-run Chase Headley home run to tie the game as Forsythe also scored. The Dodgers took the lead back in the bottom of the sixth as Ethier went yard on a two-run home run and took Matt Kemp with him. The Padres took one back in the eighth inning when Quentin singled home Alexi Amarista. The Padres took the lead in the ninth inning as Everth Cabrera stole home and Will Venable scored on the same play via error. Alex Hinshaw was given the win in the 7-6 game, while Huston Street notched the win, and Kenley Jansen's brain fart gave him the loss.
Finally, up in Seattle, where the Mariners host the Texas Rangers. Yu Darvish and Felix Hernandez pace the game. Seattle was first on the board with a first inning rally, including John Jaso drawing a bases-loaded walk to force in Dustin Ackley, Michael Saunders reaching on an error to get Ichiro home, and Kyle Seager singling home both Casper Wells and Jaso. The Mariners added on in the fourth inning as Ackley doubled Seager home. Seattle got another in the fifth inning when Jaso hit a solo home run. The Mariners struck again in the seventh inning as Saunders doubled to plate Wells. This was all they needed for a 7-0 win, with Hernandez going the distance for a complete game shutout, allowing just three hits while striking out twelve, and Darvish obviously had no run support.
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Friday, July 13, 2012
MLB Day 99 2012
After four days off revolving around the All-Star Game, we get back to the grind on a fine Friday. The first game is a matinee at...
Wrigley Field, where the Chicago Cubs host the Arizona Diamondbacks. Ian Kennedy and Paul Maholm are set to open the second half. After a lengthy rain delay, Arizona quickly found the scoreboard in the first inning when Justin Upton grounded into a double play to get Willie Bloomquist home. Chicago tied it in the second inning when Alfonso Soriano scored on a wild pitch. The Cubs took the lead in the fourth inning with a Soriano solo home run. Chicago padded the lead in the fifth inning as Soriano hit a three-run home run, sweeping in David DeJesus and Anthony Rizzo. The Cubs added on in the sixth inning as Maholm reached on a fielder's choice that allowed Geovany Soto to dash home. Chicago extended the lead in the seventh inning with a Soriano ground rule double to force in Starlin Castro and Bryan LaHair reached on an error to get Rizzo in. This made it 8-1, a final, with Maholm taking the win and Kennedy getting crushed in the loss.
Back east, the New York Yankees host the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. C.J. Wilson and Hiroki Kuroda receive the starting nods. Los Angeles began in the third inning when Erick Aybar hit a solo home run. New York answered in the bottom of the third as Mark Teixeira hit a two-run home run, also scoring Derek Jeter. The Angels fired back in the seventh inning on a three-run Mark Trumbo home run, sweeping in Albert Pujols and Kendrys Morales. Los Angeles added on in the eighth inning when Pujols hit a ground rule double to force in Mike Trout. The Yankees replied in the bottom of the eighth with a three-run homer by Teixeira, plating Jeter and Curtis Granderson, followed by a Russell Martin single bringing in Dewayne Wise. This gave them a 6-5 lead that they held onto, which set up Chad Qualls for the win, Rafael Soriano closed for the save, and Scott downs was on the hook for the loss.
Into Baltimore, as the Orioles host the Detroit Tigers. Doug Fister pitches against Jason Hammel. Detroit began with a 2-RBI Brennan Boesch single to drive in Austin Jackson and Miguel Cabrera in the first inning. Baltimore got one back in the third inning as Nick Markakis hit a ground rule double to force in Wilson Betemit. The Tigers answered in the fourth inning as Ryan Raburn doubled in Alex Avila. Detroit extended the lead in the fifth inning with a solo home run by Cabrera, followed by a three-run homer from Jhonny Peralta, sweeping in Delmon Young and Boesch. The Orioles tried a ninth inning rally when Matt Wieters doubled to score Adam Jones, but this only made it 7-2, a final. Fister picked up the win while Hammel was dealt the loss.
Up in Canada, the Toronto Blue Jays welcome the Cleveland Indians. Justin Masterson and Ricky Romero are the well-known starters. Cleveland started with a second inning Travis Hafner solo home run. This was all the scoring here, with the final sitting at 1-0. Masterson pitched extremely well for a win, while Chris Perez notched his twenty-fifth save of the season, and Romero took a hard luck loss.
Back stateside, the Cincinnati Reds host the St. Louis Cardinals. Adam Wainwright and Mat Latos are the staff aces pitching. St. Louis got going in the second inning as Skip Schumaker singled home Yadier Molina. The Cardinals added on in the third inning with a Matt Holliday fielder's choice allowing Rafael Furcal to get home. Cincinnati got on the board in the fifth inning with a Todd Frazier solo home run. The Reds added on in the seventh inning, as Ryan Hanigan singled in Brandon Phillips, and also Jay Bruce when an error occurred, followed by Zack Cozart hitting a sacrifice fly to provide time for Frazier to dash home. St. Louis got one back in the eighth inning as Shane Robinson singled to drive in Allen Craig. Cincinnati took it back in their half of the inning on a Ryan Ludwick triple to force in Phillips. This made it 5-3, a final, where Alfredo Simon was in line for the win, Aroldis Chapman turned the save, and Wainwright was on the hook for the loss.
Down in Tampa Bay, the Rays host the Boston Red Sox. Franklin Morales and Jeremy Hellickson are slated to start. Boston led off with a David Ortiz solo home run in the first inning. The Red Sox added on in the second inning with a 2-RBI Pedro Ciriaco single to plate both Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Ryan Sweeney. Tampa Bay got on the board with a sixth inning Sean Rodriguez double to knock in Ben Zobrist. They got no closer, falling 3-1, with Morales earning the win, Alfredo Aceves tossing his twentieth save of the season, and Hellickson suffered the loss.
Still in Florida, the Miami Marlins host the Washington Nationals. Jordan Zimmermann and Josh Johnson take the mound. Washington opened in the second inning on an Ian Desmond single to knock in Adam LaRoche. The Nationals padded the lead in the third inning as Ryan Zimmerman hit a two-run home run, also scoring Bryce Harper. Washington struck again in the sixth inning with a 2-RBI Jesus Flores single, driving in LaRoche and Desmond. Miami found the scoreboard in the seventh inning as John Buck singled to plate Justin Ruggiano. This only made it 5-1, which was final, with Zimmermann picking up the win and Johnson was stuck holding the loss.
Up a little to Atlanta, where the Braves host the New York Mets. Chris Young and Tim Hudson are given the green light to pitch. Atlanta opened in the first inning with a Jason Heyward single to knock in Michael Bourn, followed by a bases-loaded walk drawn by David Ross to force Heyward in. The Braves added on in the third inning with a three-run Ross home run, sweeping in Chipper Jones and Freddie Freeman. New York got going in the fourth inning as Scott Hairston doubled home David Wright before scoring alongside Lucas Duda on a Kirk Nieuwenhuis single, followed by Ruben Tejada singling Nieuwenhuis the rest of the way home. Atlanta responded in the sixth inning as Jones hit a solo home run, followed by Dan Uggla singling to knock in Freeman. The Mets got some back in the eighth inning when Andres Torres singled to get Ronny Cedeno home. This wasn't good enough, and they lost 7-5, with Cristhian Martinez picking up the win, Craig Kimbrel notching the save, and Young taking the loss.
Northwest to Milwaukee, where the Brewers host the Pittsburgh Pirates. James McDonald and Zack Greinke take the hill. Milwaukee quickly established a lead in the first inning with a Ryan Braun solo home run followed by a Rickie Weeks double to knock in both Aramis Ramirez and Corey Hart. Pittsburgh got on the board in the third inning when Garrett Jones reached on an error, allowing the pitcher McDonald to come home. The Pirates pulled closer in the fourth inning when Drew Sutton doubled in Rod Barajas before taking the lead on a three-run home from Neil Walker, also scoring Clint Barmes and Sutton. The Brewers answered in the fourth inning on a Braun single to bring in Martin Maldonado. Pittsburgh shot back in the fifth inning on a solo shot from Pedro Alvarez. Milwaukee fired back in their half of the inning on a Travis Ishikawa single to get Weeks safely home. The Brewers tied it in the sixth inning on another solo home run by Braun. Milwaukee took the lead in the eighth inning on a grand slam from Cody Ransom to sweep in all of Braun, Ramirez, and Weeks. The Pirates tried a ninth inning rally on an Andrew McCutchen solo shot, but it wasn't good enough and they lost 10-7. Francisco Rodriguez was in line for the win while Tony Watson was handed the loss.
Down in Kansas City, the Royals host the Chicago White Sox. Jose Quintana and Bruce Chen are tabbed to pitch. Chicago led off in the first inning with a two-run home run by Adam Dunn, also scoring Kevin Youkilis, followed by a solo home run from Alex Rios. Kansas City replied in the second inning, with Mike Moustakas hitting a solo shot, followed by Lorenzo Cain singling home Salvador Perez and then coming home himself on an Alex Gordon single. The Royals took the lead in the fourth inning as Jeff Francoeur hitting a solo home run and Alcides Escobar reaching on a bunt single to knock in Cain. The White Sox retook the lead in the fifth inning on a three-run home run by Dayan Vicieco, sweeping in Dunn and A.J. Pierzynski. Kansas City stormed back ahead in the eighth inning as Escobar tripled to force in both Cain and Gordon. Chicago tied it in the ninth inning with a Pierzynski single that allowed Youkilis to come home. The White Sox took the lead in the twelfth inning as Gordon Beckham doubled to plate Jordan Danks. The Royals tied it in the bottom of the twelfth on a Gordon groundout to get Francoeur in safely. Chicago took another lead in the fourteenth inning as Youkilis hit a sacrifice fly, allowing Beckham to cross the dish. This stood up for a 9-8 win. Dylan Axelrod was in line for the win while Everett Teaford was given the loss.
Back north, the Minnesota Twins host the Oakland Athletics. A.J. Griffin and Francisco Liriano have the manager's approval to start. Minnesota was first to score in the second inning on a Josh Willingham solo home run. Oakland took the lead in the fourth inning with a Jonny Gomes grand slam, sweeping in Jemile Weeks, Yoenis Cespedes, and Chris Carter. The Twins shot back in the bottom of the fourth as Willingham hit another home run, a two-run blast that also scored Joe Mauer. The Athletics padded the lead in the ninth inning with Gomes singling in Cespedes and Brandon Inge doing the same for Carter, making it 6-3 in the end. Griffin got the win, Ryan Cook picked up the save, and Liriano was stuck with the loss despite striking out fifteen batters.
Southwest to Colorado, as the Rockies host the Philadelphia Phillies. Cliff Lee and Christian Friedrich were sent out to pitch. Colorado drew first blood in the second inning with a Josh Rutledge double to score Michael Cuddyer. Philadelphia answered in the third inning as Jimmy Rollins doubled in John Mayberry. The Rockies fired back in the sixth inning as Rutledge hit a sacrifice fly to drive in Tyler Colvin and Eric Young singled to knock in Jordan Pacheco. Colorado padded the lead in the seventh inning when Ramon Hernandez singled home Carlos Gonzalez, followed by Cuddyer tripling to force in Hernandez and then scoring on an error by Carlos Ruiz. The Phillies got one back in the eighth inning as Chase Utley hit a sacrifice fly that got Rollins home. This made the eventual final 6-2, setting Friedrich up for a win while Lee was given the loss.
Up in Seattle, the Mariners host the Texas Rangers. Derek Holland and Kevin Millwood are the underrated pitchers. Texas started in the fifth inning as Ian Kinsler singled home Michael Young. The Rangers added on in the sixth inning as Adrian Beltre hit a two-run home run, also scoring Josh Hamilton. Seattle tried a ninth inning rally as Michael Saunders reached on an error to get Kyle Seager home, followed by Justin Smoak scoring on a passed ball, but they couldn't tie the game, falling 3-2. Holland was given the win, Joe Nathan turned an ugly save, and Millwood was not freed from the loss.
South to Los Angeles, where the Dodgers welcome the San Diego Padres. Claytons Richard and Kershaw pace the game. San Diego began with a second inning Everth Cabrera groundout to bring in Yasmani Grandal. Los Angeles replied in the sixth inning as Mark Ellis hit a two-run home run, also scoring Jerry Hairston, Jr. This was all the Dodgers needed for a 2-1 win. Kershaw got the win, Kenley Jansen closed for the save, and Richard was dealt the loss.
Finally, we end in San Francisco, where the Giants host the Houston Astros. Wandy Rodriguez and Madison Bumgarner are the staff aces pitching. San Francisco led off in the first inning with a two-run Buster Posey home run, also scoring Ryan Theriot. The Giants added on in the second inning as Joaquin Arias singled to score Angel Pagan, followed by Justin Christian grounding out to bring in Brandon Belt. Houston got on the board in the seventh inning with a solo home run by Chris Snyder. San Francisco replied in the eighth inning on a Pagan sacrifice fly to drive in Pablo Sandoval. This made the final 5-1, with Bumgarner getting a dominant win, Santiago Casilla mopping up a mess for a save, and Rodriguez having little help in the loss.
Follow me on Twitter @KipperScorpion again. Everything's back to normal.
Wrigley Field, where the Chicago Cubs host the Arizona Diamondbacks. Ian Kennedy and Paul Maholm are set to open the second half. After a lengthy rain delay, Arizona quickly found the scoreboard in the first inning when Justin Upton grounded into a double play to get Willie Bloomquist home. Chicago tied it in the second inning when Alfonso Soriano scored on a wild pitch. The Cubs took the lead in the fourth inning with a Soriano solo home run. Chicago padded the lead in the fifth inning as Soriano hit a three-run home run, sweeping in David DeJesus and Anthony Rizzo. The Cubs added on in the sixth inning as Maholm reached on a fielder's choice that allowed Geovany Soto to dash home. Chicago extended the lead in the seventh inning with a Soriano ground rule double to force in Starlin Castro and Bryan LaHair reached on an error to get Rizzo in. This made it 8-1, a final, with Maholm taking the win and Kennedy getting crushed in the loss.
Back east, the New York Yankees host the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. C.J. Wilson and Hiroki Kuroda receive the starting nods. Los Angeles began in the third inning when Erick Aybar hit a solo home run. New York answered in the bottom of the third as Mark Teixeira hit a two-run home run, also scoring Derek Jeter. The Angels fired back in the seventh inning on a three-run Mark Trumbo home run, sweeping in Albert Pujols and Kendrys Morales. Los Angeles added on in the eighth inning when Pujols hit a ground rule double to force in Mike Trout. The Yankees replied in the bottom of the eighth with a three-run homer by Teixeira, plating Jeter and Curtis Granderson, followed by a Russell Martin single bringing in Dewayne Wise. This gave them a 6-5 lead that they held onto, which set up Chad Qualls for the win, Rafael Soriano closed for the save, and Scott downs was on the hook for the loss.
Into Baltimore, as the Orioles host the Detroit Tigers. Doug Fister pitches against Jason Hammel. Detroit began with a 2-RBI Brennan Boesch single to drive in Austin Jackson and Miguel Cabrera in the first inning. Baltimore got one back in the third inning as Nick Markakis hit a ground rule double to force in Wilson Betemit. The Tigers answered in the fourth inning as Ryan Raburn doubled in Alex Avila. Detroit extended the lead in the fifth inning with a solo home run by Cabrera, followed by a three-run homer from Jhonny Peralta, sweeping in Delmon Young and Boesch. The Orioles tried a ninth inning rally when Matt Wieters doubled to score Adam Jones, but this only made it 7-2, a final. Fister picked up the win while Hammel was dealt the loss.
Up in Canada, the Toronto Blue Jays welcome the Cleveland Indians. Justin Masterson and Ricky Romero are the well-known starters. Cleveland started with a second inning Travis Hafner solo home run. This was all the scoring here, with the final sitting at 1-0. Masterson pitched extremely well for a win, while Chris Perez notched his twenty-fifth save of the season, and Romero took a hard luck loss.
Back stateside, the Cincinnati Reds host the St. Louis Cardinals. Adam Wainwright and Mat Latos are the staff aces pitching. St. Louis got going in the second inning as Skip Schumaker singled home Yadier Molina. The Cardinals added on in the third inning with a Matt Holliday fielder's choice allowing Rafael Furcal to get home. Cincinnati got on the board in the fifth inning with a Todd Frazier solo home run. The Reds added on in the seventh inning, as Ryan Hanigan singled in Brandon Phillips, and also Jay Bruce when an error occurred, followed by Zack Cozart hitting a sacrifice fly to provide time for Frazier to dash home. St. Louis got one back in the eighth inning as Shane Robinson singled to drive in Allen Craig. Cincinnati took it back in their half of the inning on a Ryan Ludwick triple to force in Phillips. This made it 5-3, a final, where Alfredo Simon was in line for the win, Aroldis Chapman turned the save, and Wainwright was on the hook for the loss.
Down in Tampa Bay, the Rays host the Boston Red Sox. Franklin Morales and Jeremy Hellickson are slated to start. Boston led off with a David Ortiz solo home run in the first inning. The Red Sox added on in the second inning with a 2-RBI Pedro Ciriaco single to plate both Jarrod Saltalamacchia and Ryan Sweeney. Tampa Bay got on the board with a sixth inning Sean Rodriguez double to knock in Ben Zobrist. They got no closer, falling 3-1, with Morales earning the win, Alfredo Aceves tossing his twentieth save of the season, and Hellickson suffered the loss.
Still in Florida, the Miami Marlins host the Washington Nationals. Jordan Zimmermann and Josh Johnson take the mound. Washington opened in the second inning on an Ian Desmond single to knock in Adam LaRoche. The Nationals padded the lead in the third inning as Ryan Zimmerman hit a two-run home run, also scoring Bryce Harper. Washington struck again in the sixth inning with a 2-RBI Jesus Flores single, driving in LaRoche and Desmond. Miami found the scoreboard in the seventh inning as John Buck singled to plate Justin Ruggiano. This only made it 5-1, which was final, with Zimmermann picking up the win and Johnson was stuck holding the loss.
Up a little to Atlanta, where the Braves host the New York Mets. Chris Young and Tim Hudson are given the green light to pitch. Atlanta opened in the first inning with a Jason Heyward single to knock in Michael Bourn, followed by a bases-loaded walk drawn by David Ross to force Heyward in. The Braves added on in the third inning with a three-run Ross home run, sweeping in Chipper Jones and Freddie Freeman. New York got going in the fourth inning as Scott Hairston doubled home David Wright before scoring alongside Lucas Duda on a Kirk Nieuwenhuis single, followed by Ruben Tejada singling Nieuwenhuis the rest of the way home. Atlanta responded in the sixth inning as Jones hit a solo home run, followed by Dan Uggla singling to knock in Freeman. The Mets got some back in the eighth inning when Andres Torres singled to get Ronny Cedeno home. This wasn't good enough, and they lost 7-5, with Cristhian Martinez picking up the win, Craig Kimbrel notching the save, and Young taking the loss.
Northwest to Milwaukee, where the Brewers host the Pittsburgh Pirates. James McDonald and Zack Greinke take the hill. Milwaukee quickly established a lead in the first inning with a Ryan Braun solo home run followed by a Rickie Weeks double to knock in both Aramis Ramirez and Corey Hart. Pittsburgh got on the board in the third inning when Garrett Jones reached on an error, allowing the pitcher McDonald to come home. The Pirates pulled closer in the fourth inning when Drew Sutton doubled in Rod Barajas before taking the lead on a three-run home from Neil Walker, also scoring Clint Barmes and Sutton. The Brewers answered in the fourth inning on a Braun single to bring in Martin Maldonado. Pittsburgh shot back in the fifth inning on a solo shot from Pedro Alvarez. Milwaukee fired back in their half of the inning on a Travis Ishikawa single to get Weeks safely home. The Brewers tied it in the sixth inning on another solo home run by Braun. Milwaukee took the lead in the eighth inning on a grand slam from Cody Ransom to sweep in all of Braun, Ramirez, and Weeks. The Pirates tried a ninth inning rally on an Andrew McCutchen solo shot, but it wasn't good enough and they lost 10-7. Francisco Rodriguez was in line for the win while Tony Watson was handed the loss.
Down in Kansas City, the Royals host the Chicago White Sox. Jose Quintana and Bruce Chen are tabbed to pitch. Chicago led off in the first inning with a two-run home run by Adam Dunn, also scoring Kevin Youkilis, followed by a solo home run from Alex Rios. Kansas City replied in the second inning, with Mike Moustakas hitting a solo shot, followed by Lorenzo Cain singling home Salvador Perez and then coming home himself on an Alex Gordon single. The Royals took the lead in the fourth inning as Jeff Francoeur hitting a solo home run and Alcides Escobar reaching on a bunt single to knock in Cain. The White Sox retook the lead in the fifth inning on a three-run home run by Dayan Vicieco, sweeping in Dunn and A.J. Pierzynski. Kansas City stormed back ahead in the eighth inning as Escobar tripled to force in both Cain and Gordon. Chicago tied it in the ninth inning with a Pierzynski single that allowed Youkilis to come home. The White Sox took the lead in the twelfth inning as Gordon Beckham doubled to plate Jordan Danks. The Royals tied it in the bottom of the twelfth on a Gordon groundout to get Francoeur in safely. Chicago took another lead in the fourteenth inning as Youkilis hit a sacrifice fly, allowing Beckham to cross the dish. This stood up for a 9-8 win. Dylan Axelrod was in line for the win while Everett Teaford was given the loss.
Back north, the Minnesota Twins host the Oakland Athletics. A.J. Griffin and Francisco Liriano have the manager's approval to start. Minnesota was first to score in the second inning on a Josh Willingham solo home run. Oakland took the lead in the fourth inning with a Jonny Gomes grand slam, sweeping in Jemile Weeks, Yoenis Cespedes, and Chris Carter. The Twins shot back in the bottom of the fourth as Willingham hit another home run, a two-run blast that also scored Joe Mauer. The Athletics padded the lead in the ninth inning with Gomes singling in Cespedes and Brandon Inge doing the same for Carter, making it 6-3 in the end. Griffin got the win, Ryan Cook picked up the save, and Liriano was stuck with the loss despite striking out fifteen batters.
Southwest to Colorado, as the Rockies host the Philadelphia Phillies. Cliff Lee and Christian Friedrich were sent out to pitch. Colorado drew first blood in the second inning with a Josh Rutledge double to score Michael Cuddyer. Philadelphia answered in the third inning as Jimmy Rollins doubled in John Mayberry. The Rockies fired back in the sixth inning as Rutledge hit a sacrifice fly to drive in Tyler Colvin and Eric Young singled to knock in Jordan Pacheco. Colorado padded the lead in the seventh inning when Ramon Hernandez singled home Carlos Gonzalez, followed by Cuddyer tripling to force in Hernandez and then scoring on an error by Carlos Ruiz. The Phillies got one back in the eighth inning as Chase Utley hit a sacrifice fly that got Rollins home. This made the eventual final 6-2, setting Friedrich up for a win while Lee was given the loss.
Up in Seattle, the Mariners host the Texas Rangers. Derek Holland and Kevin Millwood are the underrated pitchers. Texas started in the fifth inning as Ian Kinsler singled home Michael Young. The Rangers added on in the sixth inning as Adrian Beltre hit a two-run home run, also scoring Josh Hamilton. Seattle tried a ninth inning rally as Michael Saunders reached on an error to get Kyle Seager home, followed by Justin Smoak scoring on a passed ball, but they couldn't tie the game, falling 3-2. Holland was given the win, Joe Nathan turned an ugly save, and Millwood was not freed from the loss.
South to Los Angeles, where the Dodgers welcome the San Diego Padres. Claytons Richard and Kershaw pace the game. San Diego began with a second inning Everth Cabrera groundout to bring in Yasmani Grandal. Los Angeles replied in the sixth inning as Mark Ellis hit a two-run home run, also scoring Jerry Hairston, Jr. This was all the Dodgers needed for a 2-1 win. Kershaw got the win, Kenley Jansen closed for the save, and Richard was dealt the loss.
Finally, we end in San Francisco, where the Giants host the Houston Astros. Wandy Rodriguez and Madison Bumgarner are the staff aces pitching. San Francisco led off in the first inning with a two-run Buster Posey home run, also scoring Ryan Theriot. The Giants added on in the second inning as Joaquin Arias singled to score Angel Pagan, followed by Justin Christian grounding out to bring in Brandon Belt. Houston got on the board in the seventh inning with a solo home run by Chris Snyder. San Francisco replied in the eighth inning on a Pagan sacrifice fly to drive in Pablo Sandoval. This made the final 5-1, with Bumgarner getting a dominant win, Santiago Casilla mopping up a mess for a save, and Rodriguez having little help in the loss.
Follow me on Twitter @KipperScorpion again. Everything's back to normal.
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
The 2012 MLB All-Star Game
Hello everyone, and welcome to the All-Star Game, from Kauffman stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. Changing the format for the recap tonight only, to allow detailed reports of all that goes on as baseball's best join together on one field. Here's how it goes down.
In the first inning, American League starting pitcher Justin Verlander took the mound. He struck out leadoff hitter Carlos Gonzalez, but allowed a single to Melky Cabrera. Ryan Braun doubled Cabrera home to open the scoring. Verlander settled down, striking out Joey Votto next, but walks to Carlos Beltran and Buster Posey loaded the bases. Braun, Beltran, and Posey all scored when Pablo Sandoval tripled (no small feat even if it is in an exhibition level game). Sandoval then scored on a single by Dan Uggla. Verlander induced Rafael Furcal to ground into a fielder's choice to end the inning, handing the ball over to his National League counterpart, Matt Cain. Cain let leadoff hitter Derek Jeter aboard with a single, but his teammate Robinson Cano fouled out (much to the pleasure of the hometown crowd). The third batter, Josh Hamilton, followed with a flyout, and then finished the inning by striking out Jose Bautista. The National League led 5-0 at this point.
After the ugly first inning, Joe Nathan was called on to relieve a tired Verlander for the second inning on the American League side. He got Gonzalez to groundout for the first out, following up with Cabrera doing the same thing for the second out, and finished the 1-2-3 inning by having Braun flyout, minimizing the damage of the previous inning. The National League trotted Cain back out on the hill for the bottom of the second. He continued his success by getting Prince Fielder to flyout, Adrian Beltre popped up, and David Ortiz also flew out to end the inning, with the score remaining at 5-0.
The American League continued their pitcher shuffle, sending David Price to pitch in the third inning. Price made quick work of Votto, getting him to groundout, as well as Beltran, who flew out, and Posey got the last out of the inning by fouling out. The National League changed pitchers for the third inning, putting Gio Gonzalez on the mound. He quickly struck out Mike Napoli, and got Curtis Granderson to fly out, before finishing the inning with a Jeter grounder good for the third out. The strong performance kept the score at 5-0.
The American League switched to Matt Harrison for the fourth inning, and he got both Sandoval and Uggla to fly out, but gave up a triple to the last batter in the order, Furcal. Gonzalez was the first batter pulled, in favor of Matt Holliday, who singled in his teammate Furcal before scoring on a Cabrera two-run home run. Braun put Harrison back in trouble by tripling, but he got out of it by inducing Votto into a groundout. The National League chose to throw Stephen Strasburg out for the fourth inning, as well as pulling Sandoval for David Wright at third base. Strasburg allowed Cano a single, but was freed from the miscue when Hamilton hit into a double play. Bautista was then walked, but a Fielder flyout ended the inning with the National League up 8-0.
Jered Weaver was next for the American League for pitching in the fifth inning, and he walked his first batter, Bryce Harper, a pinch-hitter for Beltran. Weaver got Posey to fly out next, but Harper moved to second base on the play. Harper got no further, as Wright hit into a fielder's choice that saw Harper out at third base. Uggla's flyout ended the inning. The National League switched to Clayton Kershaw at pitcher, as well as putting Andrew McCutchen in center field for Cabrera, Jay Bruce in right field for Beltran, Harper in left field to relieve Braun, Jose Altuve at second base in favor of Uggla, and David Freese at first base over Votto. Kershaw got the first out by having Beltre ground out, but Ortiz singled to get on base. Napoli made things tricky for Kershaw by singling too, while Granderson got both runners in scoring position by grounding out. Asdrubal Cabrera was called on to hit for Jeter, who was walked to load the bases, leaving Ian Kinsler in the position of power, but he flew out to end the inning. The score remained at 8-0 over halfway through the game.
Looking for answers, or at least a hindrance to the opponents, the American League fielded Chris Sale at pitcher in the sixth inning, as well as swapping Cabrera in at shortstop over Jeter, Kinsler at second base instead of Cano, Mike Trout over Hamilton in left field, Mark Trumbo over Bautista in right field, Paul Konerko replaced Fielder at first base, Miguel Cabrera took over at third base for Beltre, Matt Wieters catching instead of Napoli, and Adam Jones taking over center field for Granderson. Furcal was first up, but he was retired by a groundout, followed by Chipper Jones replacing Holliday at designated hitter for the National League, and he got a single in his first visit to this particular park. McCutchen followed this was a single of his own, but Bruce flied out for the second out, and Freese struck out to end the inning. The National League turned the ball over to R.A. Dickey, and this meant that Carlos Ruiz took his turn behind the plate, relieving Posey. Dickey's appearance started rough, as Trout singled aboard and stole second base, trying to spark some offense into his team. Trumbo was next up, and he struck out. Dickey then plunked Konerko, but got off the hook when Cabrera hit into a double play to end the inning, keeping the score at 8-0.
For the seventh inning, it was Ryan Cook pitching for the American League. He struck out his first batter, Harper, before getting Ruiz to fly out and Wright also struck out for a quick inning of work. The National League called on Cole Hamels to relieve Dickey, and Bryan LaHair took over first base for Freese. Hometown hero Billy Butler took the first at-bat in the bottom of the seventh, but he grounded out. Wieters was next, but he flew out, and his teammate Jones grounded out to finish another inning.
The eighth inning saw the American League put Jim Johnson atop the mound to pitch, and Joe Mauer took over for Konerko at first base. Johnson put Altuve away with a groundout and pinch hitter Starlin Castro (in for Furcal) was taken out on a flyout. Michael Bourn was called on to replace Chipper Jones, but he struck out and ended the inning. The pinch hitters took over their respective positions, and Craig Kimbrel did something rare for him, as in pitching the eighth inning for the National League. He struck out Asdrubal Cabrera first, and did the same to Kinsler, but wasn't given the chance to go after Trout, as that was Aroldis Chapman's honor. He didn't take it, walking the young phenom, and he moved to second on fielder's indifference, but Chapman settled down to strike out Trumbo.
Looks line the ninth inning will be the final inning, and Fernando Rodney is given the ball for the American League, while Elvis Andrus makes an appearance at third base for his team. McCutchen was first up, but he grounded out, as did the next two batters, Bruce and LaHair. The National League looked to close up the game with Wade Miley on the hill for the bottom of the ninth. This started off a bit rough, as Mauer singled, but was out at second when Andrus reached on a fielder's choice. Joel Hanrahan replaced the ineffective Miley, but fielder's indifference put Andrus in scoring position, and he moved to third on a wild pitch. Hanrahan calmed down by striking out Butler, but wasn't allowed to go for the last out, as that was Jonathan Papelbon's honor. He took care of things by getting Wieters to fly out, ending the game at 8-0 for the National League. Whichever National League team plays in the World Series can thank these stars for the home field advantage.
Follow me on Twitter @UltBaseballTrip, and come back here on Friday when regular baseball resumes.
In the first inning, American League starting pitcher Justin Verlander took the mound. He struck out leadoff hitter Carlos Gonzalez, but allowed a single to Melky Cabrera. Ryan Braun doubled Cabrera home to open the scoring. Verlander settled down, striking out Joey Votto next, but walks to Carlos Beltran and Buster Posey loaded the bases. Braun, Beltran, and Posey all scored when Pablo Sandoval tripled (no small feat even if it is in an exhibition level game). Sandoval then scored on a single by Dan Uggla. Verlander induced Rafael Furcal to ground into a fielder's choice to end the inning, handing the ball over to his National League counterpart, Matt Cain. Cain let leadoff hitter Derek Jeter aboard with a single, but his teammate Robinson Cano fouled out (much to the pleasure of the hometown crowd). The third batter, Josh Hamilton, followed with a flyout, and then finished the inning by striking out Jose Bautista. The National League led 5-0 at this point.
After the ugly first inning, Joe Nathan was called on to relieve a tired Verlander for the second inning on the American League side. He got Gonzalez to groundout for the first out, following up with Cabrera doing the same thing for the second out, and finished the 1-2-3 inning by having Braun flyout, minimizing the damage of the previous inning. The National League trotted Cain back out on the hill for the bottom of the second. He continued his success by getting Prince Fielder to flyout, Adrian Beltre popped up, and David Ortiz also flew out to end the inning, with the score remaining at 5-0.
The American League continued their pitcher shuffle, sending David Price to pitch in the third inning. Price made quick work of Votto, getting him to groundout, as well as Beltran, who flew out, and Posey got the last out of the inning by fouling out. The National League changed pitchers for the third inning, putting Gio Gonzalez on the mound. He quickly struck out Mike Napoli, and got Curtis Granderson to fly out, before finishing the inning with a Jeter grounder good for the third out. The strong performance kept the score at 5-0.
The American League switched to Matt Harrison for the fourth inning, and he got both Sandoval and Uggla to fly out, but gave up a triple to the last batter in the order, Furcal. Gonzalez was the first batter pulled, in favor of Matt Holliday, who singled in his teammate Furcal before scoring on a Cabrera two-run home run. Braun put Harrison back in trouble by tripling, but he got out of it by inducing Votto into a groundout. The National League chose to throw Stephen Strasburg out for the fourth inning, as well as pulling Sandoval for David Wright at third base. Strasburg allowed Cano a single, but was freed from the miscue when Hamilton hit into a double play. Bautista was then walked, but a Fielder flyout ended the inning with the National League up 8-0.
Jered Weaver was next for the American League for pitching in the fifth inning, and he walked his first batter, Bryce Harper, a pinch-hitter for Beltran. Weaver got Posey to fly out next, but Harper moved to second base on the play. Harper got no further, as Wright hit into a fielder's choice that saw Harper out at third base. Uggla's flyout ended the inning. The National League switched to Clayton Kershaw at pitcher, as well as putting Andrew McCutchen in center field for Cabrera, Jay Bruce in right field for Beltran, Harper in left field to relieve Braun, Jose Altuve at second base in favor of Uggla, and David Freese at first base over Votto. Kershaw got the first out by having Beltre ground out, but Ortiz singled to get on base. Napoli made things tricky for Kershaw by singling too, while Granderson got both runners in scoring position by grounding out. Asdrubal Cabrera was called on to hit for Jeter, who was walked to load the bases, leaving Ian Kinsler in the position of power, but he flew out to end the inning. The score remained at 8-0 over halfway through the game.
Looking for answers, or at least a hindrance to the opponents, the American League fielded Chris Sale at pitcher in the sixth inning, as well as swapping Cabrera in at shortstop over Jeter, Kinsler at second base instead of Cano, Mike Trout over Hamilton in left field, Mark Trumbo over Bautista in right field, Paul Konerko replaced Fielder at first base, Miguel Cabrera took over at third base for Beltre, Matt Wieters catching instead of Napoli, and Adam Jones taking over center field for Granderson. Furcal was first up, but he was retired by a groundout, followed by Chipper Jones replacing Holliday at designated hitter for the National League, and he got a single in his first visit to this particular park. McCutchen followed this was a single of his own, but Bruce flied out for the second out, and Freese struck out to end the inning. The National League turned the ball over to R.A. Dickey, and this meant that Carlos Ruiz took his turn behind the plate, relieving Posey. Dickey's appearance started rough, as Trout singled aboard and stole second base, trying to spark some offense into his team. Trumbo was next up, and he struck out. Dickey then plunked Konerko, but got off the hook when Cabrera hit into a double play to end the inning, keeping the score at 8-0.
For the seventh inning, it was Ryan Cook pitching for the American League. He struck out his first batter, Harper, before getting Ruiz to fly out and Wright also struck out for a quick inning of work. The National League called on Cole Hamels to relieve Dickey, and Bryan LaHair took over first base for Freese. Hometown hero Billy Butler took the first at-bat in the bottom of the seventh, but he grounded out. Wieters was next, but he flew out, and his teammate Jones grounded out to finish another inning.
The eighth inning saw the American League put Jim Johnson atop the mound to pitch, and Joe Mauer took over for Konerko at first base. Johnson put Altuve away with a groundout and pinch hitter Starlin Castro (in for Furcal) was taken out on a flyout. Michael Bourn was called on to replace Chipper Jones, but he struck out and ended the inning. The pinch hitters took over their respective positions, and Craig Kimbrel did something rare for him, as in pitching the eighth inning for the National League. He struck out Asdrubal Cabrera first, and did the same to Kinsler, but wasn't given the chance to go after Trout, as that was Aroldis Chapman's honor. He didn't take it, walking the young phenom, and he moved to second on fielder's indifference, but Chapman settled down to strike out Trumbo.
Looks line the ninth inning will be the final inning, and Fernando Rodney is given the ball for the American League, while Elvis Andrus makes an appearance at third base for his team. McCutchen was first up, but he grounded out, as did the next two batters, Bruce and LaHair. The National League looked to close up the game with Wade Miley on the hill for the bottom of the ninth. This started off a bit rough, as Mauer singled, but was out at second when Andrus reached on a fielder's choice. Joel Hanrahan replaced the ineffective Miley, but fielder's indifference put Andrus in scoring position, and he moved to third on a wild pitch. Hanrahan calmed down by striking out Butler, but wasn't allowed to go for the last out, as that was Jonathan Papelbon's honor. He took care of things by getting Wieters to fly out, ending the game at 8-0 for the National League. Whichever National League team plays in the World Series can thank these stars for the home field advantage.
Follow me on Twitter @UltBaseballTrip, and come back here on Friday when regular baseball resumes.
Monday, July 9, 2012
Fantasy Baseball All-Stars week 14 2012
As we head into the official all-star break, the following players had monstrous weeks.
Batters
1. Andrew McCutchen
2. Ian Desmond
3. Mike Trout
4. Tyler Colvin
5. Kevin Youkilis
6. Justin Ruggiano
7. Brian McCann
8. Neil Walker
9. Mark Teixeira
10. Garrett Jones
Pitchers
1. Jered Weaver
2. Kenley Jansen
3. James McDonald
4. Bronson Arroyo
5. Homer Bailey
6. Chris Tillman
7. Jeff Karstens
8. Jose Quintana
9. Casey Janssen
10. Mark Buehrle
Batters
1. Andrew McCutchen
2. Ian Desmond
3. Mike Trout
4. Tyler Colvin
5. Kevin Youkilis
6. Justin Ruggiano
7. Brian McCann
8. Neil Walker
9. Mark Teixeira
10. Garrett Jones
Pitchers
1. Jered Weaver
2. Kenley Jansen
3. James McDonald
4. Bronson Arroyo
5. Homer Bailey
6. Chris Tillman
7. Jeff Karstens
8. Jose Quintana
9. Casey Janssen
10. Mark Buehrle
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