-Dexter Sports
12:15 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Only a couple days after the Milwaukee Brewers announced they have exercised the option of center fielder Mike Cameron, the rumors have started to swirl.

According to the New York Post, The Yankees have major interest in Cameron, and would be willing to trade young, switch hitting center fielder Melky Cabrera, plus pitching the Brewers way, in exchange for Cameron.

How would this benefit the Brewers? It's simple. Cabrera adds his switch hitting ability to a weak left side lineup. He is younger, and cheaper. The Brewers would also be able to add some pitching to their system. This sounds like a Doug Melvin deal already. One thing is certain. Melky Cabrera isn't going to be the slugger Cameron has been all of his career. But I contend that he would get on base just as much. Simply put, Cameron struck out nearly as many times last season (142), as Cabrera has in his three year career (187). Cabrera could give Milwaukee that lead-off type hitter they have been looking for. He will still take a lot of work. He is a free swinger, and doesn't get on base as well as he should. His junior campaign was a bit upsetting, only hitting .249 on the season. But did Cameron do that much better? In nine less games, Cameron hit .243. He also didn't create many oppurtunities for his teammates to drive him in.

Taking a look at innings where both lead off, it is quite clear that both hitters struggled in the lead-off position in 2008. Melky led off an inning 98 times in 2008, reaching base 31 times and producing only 19 runs. Meanwhile, in 36 more innings leading off (134 total), Cameron reached base 41 times, producing thirty runs (a pretty good clip). I would argue though, that Cameron got "lucky." In 444 at bats, he only put the ball in play 306 times. 108 were hits. Meanwhile Cabrera put the ball in play 363 times in 414 at bats. He was only to reach 103 times on hits. 260 of the balls he put in play were either caught or someone made a play on them. Many would argue that this suggest a pretty even split. But lets add strikeouts.

With Balls put in play, Cameron hits a magnificent .358 average. Add strikeouts, and he 198 outs jump to 340 missed oppurtunities to reach base. For Cabrera, he caused 260 outs while putting the ball in play. With Strikeouts, Cabrera tallies 318 oppurtunites failed. He is even 20+ oppurtunities up on Cameron, even though he put the ball in play without success 62 more times.

Tack on these facts:

• Cabrera is a switch hitter.
• He is younger.
  
• He will listen to constructional criticism
  
• You get to add pitching
  
• Cabrera is a better fielder.

Seems simple to me. If the Yankees call, pull the trigger.

OTHER NOTES:

• The new president could be throwing out the first pitch in Chicago this summer. White Sox GM Kenny Williams has already offered Barack Obama the honors against Kansas City.

• Later Today: Potential Closers in the 2009 Draft
  

-Dexter Sports
3:16 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Maybe it isn't quite of a buzz, but hey, I have some news and analysis for you.

• Blues Notes has the grades of the 2008 Dodgers posted today. I was surprised a bit with Furcal's A. But Hey, when he was on the field, he was a game changer. Unsurprisingly Andruw Jones got an F. But hey, he's got a hefty contract, doesn't that automatically give him a C?

• Metsmerized plays "Should I stay or should I go" in a recent post. It seems that they don't want to bring back anyone over there. The Mets will undoubtedly have one of the most interesting off-seasons. If they don't bring in a top tier pitcher and resign Oliver Perez, then I will be shocked. Imagine, Johan Santana, Ben Sheets/Derek Lowe, John Maine, Oliver Perez and Mike Pelfrey. Pretty good rotation. I think that the Bullpen has to be an issue here. If a top tier starter isnt brought in then expect Frankie Rodriguez to be closing out games in New York. They have to add someone to that pen. I'll suggest Braden Looper.

• The Boston Herald has a bunch of good information this afternoon. Micheal Silverman covers the to do list for Theo epstein this off-season. One major on the list has to be add bullpen help. Especially if Justin Masterson is not going to be a full time reliever. But I agree with Silverman. The Red Sox need to lock up the young guns to compete in the AL East in the not to distant future. Silverman also touched upon how hard it will be to obtain Jake Peavy. All I got to say is, Forget about it!

• According to the New York Daily News, Former Yankee and Met manager Willie Randolph is high on the list of potential managers to fill the void left when the team let go of Interm Dale Sveum. Randolph was interviewed by the Brewers in 2000 as a managerial candidate, but was not choosen. There is also rumor that he could join Manny Acta's staff in Washington. Heck, its a win win for Willie. He will make 2.9 million in 2009 if he isnt hired.
  

• And Finally, Bobby Abreu wants to stay in Pinstripes according to the New York Post. I think this would be a wise move, but Abreu could pick up a bit more money on the open market. The Outfield is a pretty weak position in the upcoming free agent market, and Abreu brings a pressence a lot of teams are looking for. Abreu hit .333 in clutch situations for the New York Yankees last season.
  

-Dexter Sports
6:34 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Its upon us. Jon Lester, the ace of the Red Sox this Season. Matt Garza, the now ace that was once thought to be a part of a lopsided trade that sent Delmon Young to Minnesota. The Red Sox have certainly been in this situation before.

The Rays have not.

Tonight, expect a tough battle. No doubt about it in my mind. Both are two of the AL's best at eating innings, and performing under pressure. And I really like the Rays offense in this game seven. Expect a homer a peice from young bats B.J. Upton and Evan "Long gone"ia. The games have shown that the offenses will be there. The question mark has to be bullpen pitching. and that is what seperates these clubs.

On one end, is a bunch of solid relievers, all with great experience and a fireball youngster David Price. I say, why not throw him in for three or four innings if needbe. This kid has been lights out all year. Why not give him the ball? I say it is a must for this team to win in a close ball game.

On the other end is a closer that could quite possibly surpass Mariano Rivera's post season numbers and dominance. Jonathon Papelbon continues to answer the call time and time again. And that is going to be the game changing factor. Or so it could be.

Welcome back to the World Series Boston.

Notes from Around the League:

• Speaking of those Red Sox, top prospect, starter Clay Buchholtz, tossed five scoreless innings in AFL action on Friday. Buchholtz struggled in 2008 after having a breakout 2007 campaign. I have to admit its wierd not seeing him out there on the mound this time of the year.

• The Tigers brought in pitching coach Rick Knapp on Friday. Knapp, 46, does not have any coaching experience at the major league level. The funny part of the story though is, according to the Detroit Free Press, nobody knows or remembers who reccomended Knapp. The Tigers will also be hiring a bullpen coach later this offseason, and manager Jim Leyland says he is "99 % sure" that it will be from within the organization. Does Kenny Rogers fit the bill? Toledo pitching coach A.J. Sager has been a mainstay in the organization and could also be a very good possibility.
  

• Josh Hamilton will be releasing a book detailing his life. The book will be titled, "Beyond Belief" and will cover nearly everything that has gone on in Hamilton's life. His wife even stated there was stuff in it that she didn't know about. All I can say is Kudos to this kid for his effort to get off cocaine and to straighten up his life. Its a miracle that he made it back to the majors. I will definitely be picking up a copy.
  

That will wrap up this Around the Horn. Oh yah, Make sure you don't caught drunk driving on your way home tonight. Wouldnt want to be like Joba would you?

-Dexter Sports
4:27 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

One player I am really hating on right now is Alex Rodriguez. The first thing that irks me is that he is hanging around with Madonna, while his wife watches his newborn. Ok, it's not my business, not at all. I could really care less. BUT IM SICK OF HEARING ABOUT IT. Then the top story on the AP Wire this afternoon is the story of him and his girlfriend separating. When are writers and journalists finally realize we don't care? Ok enough of that rant. But I'm really heated on another decision by AROD.

This is the last time that the best of the game will gather together in the house that Ruth Built. Yankee Stadium is leaving the world of baseball. And Rodriguez is saying goodbye, by withdrawing from the home run derby during the all-star weekend. Shouldn't it be required? Rodriguez will someday break Ruth's record. In a Yankee Uniform. For all I know, the New Yankee Stadium could be the house the AROD built. But yet again Alex Rodriguez is showing that he isn't a franchise player.

As of now, It will be the last home run derby without a representative in Yankee pinstripes. Oh Wait, Sure there will be. David Ortiz will represent Babe Ruth in the called shot.

I really hope Rodriguez changes his mind. It would be a good opportunity to get on the fan's good side. Especially if he chokes yet again down the stretch. That is if there is even a stretch for the Yanks.

-Dexter Sports
1:20 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Everyone knows that at this point of the baseball season, many teams are looking for help on the mound. For Teams like the Brewers and Tigers, it is becuase of the loss of key components to their rotation. For others, like the Cubs and Phillies, It is about improving their staff to get that closer to the goal of a World Series. Either way, the top teams in the league have to make choices. Heres what I think will happen on the deadline. Or at least a glance at what options teams will mull.

Milwaukee Brewers: BrewersNation hit the nail on the head with the starting pitching possibilities the Brewers will mull over. What should they do when the Time comes? If I am Doug Melvin I have to feel obligated to bring in C.C. Sabathia. The Brewers have one of, if not the best package to offer. The one thing that could hold them back is that Sabathia is going to take up a lot of payroll. I just have a feeling though. I really do not see Zach Grienke or Cliff Lee as options, as BrewersNation does, but I do think another veteran starter and Cleveland Indian Paul Byrd might be a good fit. Sure, he is Jeff Suppan Jr. but in the National League, Byrd could have success. He wouldn't be that much of an upgrade over Seth McClung either. One name that does fit is Daniel Cabrera. He is actually posting a 1.40 WHIP. Like I have mentioned before, The Brewers could snatch A.J. Burnett as well, just to block the Cubs from making a deal. The Brewers would pay him and then allow him to walk next season .

New York Yankees: As much as it makes sense, I do not see the Yankees going big pitching wise. Phil Hughes is on his way back, Sidney Ponson is loving New York, and I believe that Mr. Steinbrenner believes that Mike Mussina will keep up his first half performance throughout the year. That being said, I am not sold on this bullpen. Expect this team to get in the middle of Brian Fuentes talks. How about Aaron Heilman hopping on the seven train? I don't think that is likely, but it is possible. If the Yankees could land George Sherrill inter-division or another top notch reliever, such as Jon Rauch, It will make this team that much better. A mid range starter wouldn't do any good.

Chicago Cubs: I have a bad feeling the Cubs are going to try and land someone, and overpay. It seems that the Cubs are willing to deal Rich Hill, which could be a major mistake. It would not be hard for a team like the Athletics or Mariners would be happy to take on Hill and another prospect for the contracts of Bedard or Rich Harden. Jim Hendry has been too anxious in the past and might jump on a deal too fast. This is why the Cubs have not been successful in the past. They give up on players and prospects way too fast. Going for the wrong pitcher could really hurt this system yet again. I think that the Cubs have their eyes on the top four. Burnett, Sabathia, Bedard or Harden will be in a Cub uniform.

Los Angeles Angels: Here is a good phrase that tell you the Angels' pitching situation. "If it ain't broken, don't fix it." This staff has been just short of amazing. Ervin Santana, Joe Saunders, and reliever Jose Arredondo have all been pleasant. There is no room to make a deal. I also feel that if given the chance, Nick Adenhart will blossom in his second stint with the major leagues. Heck, Jon Garland, the 5th starter in this rotation, already has 7 wins. Signing Frankie Rodriguez long term though, could be a good option.

New York Mets: I am not sure if anything will be done at the deadline, but I know that if the Mets stay around .500, Omar Minaya will wheel and deal. Remember when he went and got Cliff Floyd and Bartolo Colon? Remember when he went and got Johan Santana? Be ready for it. Something is going to happen before the deadline. I believe that Freddy Garcia will also be a Met at the deadline. Beyond that, Bedard and Burnett should be two pitchers that Minaya talks about. It will be interesting to see if the Mets can pull something together for Sabathia. Though I doubt it will happen, I believe it is a possibility.

Philadelphia Phillies: We know that Gillick is going to make a move. The question is just when. Their Bullpen has been lights out. Chad Durbin and Brad Lidge have been pleasant surprises. And the rotation hasn't been that bad. But one more piece could solidify yet another division title. Bedard is definitely the favorite. I do think that Brett Meyers will turn it around here in the second half. That should be a big boost.

-Dexter Sports
4:26 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Baseball is hopping with news including Willie Randolph's possible departure and the M's canning Bavasi. It has really been an interesting afternoon. And I am about to make it even more interesting with some more news. Let's go Around the Horn.

Top Stories:

• Omar Minaya is breathing down the neck of Mets manager Willie Randolph. Minaya stated in an interview on Sunday that Randolph was his "coach for today," and that he has time to reevaluate his coaching staff. The New York Daily News is reporting that they believe pitching coach Rick Peterson and first base coach Tom Neito could be gone before Randolph. They also report that Minaya has been given permission to fire Randolph when he feels ready. I believe the time has to be now if your going to do it. There is such little time to re cooperate from this start. I don't believe that there is a better manager available on the market that would be better than Randolph. If they decide on canning Randolph, I believe its a sign of giving up on the season. Charlie Manuel would be the interim manager if Randolph were fired.

• With Chien-Ming Wang out for six weeks or more, Tyler Kepner of the New York Times states the Obvious; It's time to turn up talks for C.C. Sabathia. If the Yankees want to compete, now has to be the time. Besides the promising Chamberlain, this staff has been questionable at times. Though Phil Hughes is do back soon, Sabathia would fit very well. He is pitching lights out right now, and the Yankees need to do something if they want to catch up to the Rays and Red Sox. I can't help but think the Yanks are the favorite to land Sabathia, but it will be tough to get him if they don't offer one of either Phil Hughes or Ian Kennedy. Throw in prospect Austin Jackson and possibly a power bat if the Indians are anywhere close to contention and it might be a deal.

• Reds GM Walt Jocketty stated today that there will be no fire sale this season. His reasoning being that having a winning season is a priority and Dusty Baker and himself have not been able to evaluate this team long enough yet. The Reds were reportedly shopping Bronson Arroyo, Ken Griffey Jr., Ryan Freel and Adam Dunn. All of those players would be hard to move anyways, because of their monstrous contracts. I still think it is a possibility to move an outfielder. Dunn and Griffey are free agents at the end of the year, so it would be a positive for the Reds to get something for those two if they can.

Links of Interest:

• Marlins slugger Jorge Cantu was close to signing a deal with the Mariners this off-season. He planned on battling for a utility role on the team. Looks like Cantu made the right choice to sign with Florida.

• With all the managerial firing talk floating around, Ernie Harwell, longtime Tigers announcer wrote an interesting piece for the Detroit Free Press about a managerial firing that happened before opening day.

• JoeSportsFan.com looks at 7 unique swings that were unconventional, but have worked out for the best.
  

-Dexter Sports
1:56 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

The Panic has set in for Tigers fans across the nation. A team that was assembled to win now is in shambles. The Tigers sit ten games back of the AL Central leading Chicago White Sox and have lost four straight. With the division rival Cleveland Indians in town for a four game series, it is imperative that the Tigers start turning it up a notch. 12 games under .500 has been a shock, but the pitching staff and offense have not clicked at the same time. Justin Verlander is 2-9, but in all reality, if his offense was behind him, he would be at least 5-6. Sluggers Gary Sheffield, Miguel Cabrera and Carlos Guillen have all struggled. Timely hitting has become an extinct species. As manager Jim Leylan put it, "Every pitcher cannot be Sandy Koufax to us." Though it is only early June, we have seen a good sample size to judge what this powerful offense will end up doing. It doesn't look good. But we have seen this before. Just last year, The Yankees were 8 games under .500 and 12.5 games out of first place to start June. This was a team that ended with 94 wins. Lets compare the two teams starts to the season.

2007 New York Yankees: 2008 Detroit Tigers:

Month Wins Losses RS Month Wins Losses RS

April 9 4 131 April 12 15 158

May 13 15 137 May 12 21 120

Though the numbers aren't identical, they tell the story. The Yankees had a hard time mustering offense. Their pitching couldn't win them ball games. Until a man named Joba Chamberlain emerged, the bullpen was blowing games left and right. One of the things that eventually propelled this team to the top was bringing in Roger Clemens. He only tallied six wins and had a 4.18 ERA, but he was able to eat 99 innings in a shortened season. The Tigers have failed to do that in the past years. Dave Dombrowski and company have gone to the minors to find a spark. In 2007, after a world series run the year before, Detroit released now Twins DH Craig Monroe and brought up top prospect Cameron Maybin to try and catch a spark in the offense. Though he had a homer off Clemens and the Yankees in his pro debut, his offense didn't pan out. The Tigers went home for October, and the Yankees went on to win the wild card.

The 08 Tigers have tried many things to get this offense going. He has moved prized off-season acquisition Miguel Cabrera to first and has placed Carlos Guillen at Third and in left. When Gary Sheffield was healthy, Leyland was even willing to stick him in the outfield to give the team some kind of energy. It hasn't worked. Now Detroit has brought in minor leaguers Brent Clevlen, Michael Hollimon, and Jeff Larish in hopes of a turn around. In reality, if the goal is to win now, why not go get someone out of the organization that has proved to be major league ready?

Especially with Jeremy Bonderman hitting the shelf for the rest of the season, it is time to make something happen. Go get someone like Matt Holliday, Rich Harden, Adam Dunn, or heck even Barry Bonds now that the court room is out of the picture for the rest of the season. Something needs to happen or this team will fail to make it back to the playoffs for two straight seasons. Dave Dombrowski took a chance when he tore apart the minor league organization. Now its time to fix the rip, or pay the price, which could happen if this team doesn't succeed in 2008.

-Dexter Sports
11:14 AM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Tonight will be the much anticipated debut of Joba Chamberlain, The re-emergence of the Pedro Factor in New York and Dontrelle Willis will try to get the Tigers rolling in Oakland. Ken Griffey Jr. will go for 600 in Philadelphia, and the Giants will send Barry Zito to the mound to get win number 9 out of the last 13 games for San Fransisco. But now, lets go Around the Diamond, checking in on the latest news around the Major Leagues.

Top Stories:

• Red Sox slugger David Ortiz could be facing season ending surgery to repair a partially torn tendon sheeth in his wrist. Ortiz will at least be out a month to heal the wrist. Two weeks will be spent with the wrist in a cast, and then a rehab assignment will follow. Manager Terry Francona says that surgery is most likely not needed. Ortiz leads the team in HRs and RBIs. Kenny Lofton, Barry Bonds, Richie Sexson, or any aging Giant could be an option for the Red Sox. For now, Sean Casey will most likely fill in at DH.

• Joba Chamberlain will make his debut for the Yankees against Roy Holliday and the Toronto Blue Jays tonight. Kyle Farnsworth will fill in as the setup man, which could be quite scary. Farnsworth has given up six runs in his last six appearances. I think the Yankees will be hunting for a cheap fix in the pen.
  

• Bill Hall of the Milwaukee Brewers wants out, his agent told Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Tom Haudricourt. Hall is upset with the shared playing time between himself and Russell Branyan. Though Hall is a super utility type player, there wont be much interest in him. Possibly the Orioles for the right price, or some other team that is still in it but weak at shortstop. Possibly the Rays and Brewers could hook up again. The Rays are in need of a decent slugging shortstop. Hall hit 35 HRs in 2006.

Other News Around the League:

• Hal McCoy, long time beat writer for the Cincinnati Reds, talks about how the Reds cannot win on the road. 9-20 on the road isn't a great number, but still it doesn't seem to be the end of the world. This team was built for their home stadium, with a bunch of home run slugging, free-swingers. In other Reds news, Adam Dunn is extremely upset with Reds fans lack of interest in Ken Griffey's 600 chase. Reds fans didn't sell out Great American Ballpark on Sunday. It is sad to see Cincinnati's son be forgotten about and good for Adam Dunn. Way to stand up for your teammate. Now, if you could go up to the plate and not strike out, Reds fans would be happy.

• Sam Mellinger comments on Trey Hillman's current downfall in Kansas City. Hillman's National League style was working to begin the season, and still might be, but pitching and hitting have both slumped at the same time. GM Dayton Moore still believes that Trey Hillman is the right man for the job. So do I. Come on, give this guy a break. He is going to need time to develop his roster. He has a lot of young talent that he is depending on, and it will take a good couple years to harness it.
  

• Are Ozzie Guillen's latest comments the last string in Chicago? Unlike most, I think not. Guillen, yet again has pulled off a genius move. With a lack of offense really being the case, the best way to get a proven hitter is to rattle your GM into thinking that his assembled roster isn't good enough yet. Though Kenny Williams took slight offense to his bellyaching, He will probably respond with yet another mid season deal for offense. This is why I love Ozzie Guillen. He is a thinker (or maybe not).
  

-Dexter Sports
2:08 PM
Dexter- Sports Inbox

The Phillies and the Cubs are going for six straight today. How good was Arizona's start? They have lost five straight and eight of ten, but they still hold the NL West by 2.5 games. They will look to get it going against the Nats later on tonight. We have some great baseball in front of us, let's take a look at the best mound battles of Saturday.

Today's Match ups:

Justin Verlander (2-7 5.16) vs. Felix Hernandez (2-5 3.60): Verlander has finally turned around his season after an unrealistic start to the season. Verlander's fastball is back up to 98 MPH and in his last two starts he has dominated. The only issue is the Tiger run support behind him. Verlander has one of the lowest in the league at 3.44 runs per start. Verlander though is undefeated in his career against Seattle. Hernandez has been strong all year in spurts, but just hasn't been able to put together a whole game. Hernandez though is 2-2 with a 3.86 in his career against Detroit.

Javier Vazquez ( 5-3 3.52) vs. Scott Kazmir (4-1 1.50): The Rays have enjoyed every second that Scott Kazmir has been off the DL. Kazmir struck out ten in his 4th win against the Rangers. Kazmir has located his fastball very well in his last few starts and that has made his slider that much better. Vazquez has slowly put together a good campaign so far. He has given up three runs or less in 3 straight starts and is second in the AL in strikeouts. Vazquez will look to get his second straight victory against the Rays this season.

Shaun Marcum (5-3 2.64) vs. John Lackey (1-1 2.05): Marcum has had a very strong start to the season. In his last outing, he went 7+ and gave up only two runs on five hits. Marcum will be opposed by the nearly unhittable John Lackey. Lackey, fresh off the DL, got beat via the walk off in his last start. Look For Lackey to come back strong with another great outing.

Here are some of the better pitching probables this Saturday, Now let's go Around the Horn.

• Tigers Manager Jim Leyland is moving Miguel Cabrera to the sixth spot in today's game against the Mariners. Leyland was straight to the point, stating that he doesn't mind if it bothers people. With Gary Sheffield on the DL, Leyland is also considering playing Carlos Guillen in Left and making Brandon Inge the full-time third baseman.

• Joba Chamberlain will make his highly anticipated debut on Tuesday. The Yankees will go with a six man rotation for the time being. It seems that Kyle Farnsworth and Latroy Hawkins will fill in the set up role for now. Russ Ohlendorf could also get a shot at it. Tigers lefty Dontrelle Willis will make his first start since coming off the DL on tuesday as well. So is New York Mets starter Pedro Martinez.
  

• Slugger Travis Hafner is finally making his way to the DL. The Indians have known of his shoulder problems for quite some time, but they have been reluctant to give him a rest. Hafner could come back healthy, but in all likeliness, we can call this an off year for the slugger. Hafner was hitting .217 with 4 homers.

• Arizona's Eric Brynes has suffered tears in both of his hamstrings. Originally it was thought that they were just sore. The next step for the energy induced Brynes the 15 day DL. This could be an oppurtunity for Trot Nixon to make his way back to the majors.

• According to the Mercury News, San Fransisco relievers could be dealt sooner rather than later. Of all the relievers, it only seems that Brian Wilson is the untouchable. Vinnie Chulk, Tyler Walker and Jack Taschner could all be solid options for those with pitching needs. The Tigers, Rockies, Mariners and Indians might all be options.
  

-Dexter Sports
1:50 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Darrell Rasner has been just the pitching help that the Yankees have been hoping for. In three starts so far this season, he is a brilliant 3-0 with a 1.89 ERA and a .84 WHIP. Rasner, who was called up to replace Phil Hughes, might not be up all season, due to the Joba experiement. He is worth the effort in any type of league though.

Though the most obvious player of the week would be Clayton Kershaw, who dominated the St. Louis Cardinals in his first start in dodger blue, I decided that Rasner would be the easiest to get. Rasner is only owned in 29 % of leagues. His winning should only improve, with Alex Rodriguez back in the lineup and Derek Jeter not going to the DL the offensive production should continue to increase. Especially if Damon and Giambi wore the gold thong at all times.

-Dexter Sports
1:45 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

UPDATE: The Mariners have nodded it all up with a four run 3rd to make it a tie ball game. So Far in the bottom half of the inning, The Yankees have loaded the bases and scored a run on a Melky Cabrera single. The Yankees lead it with the bases loaded and two outs with Johnny Damon at the dish.

Carlos Silva continues his struggles as the Yankees jump on him for a 4 run second inning so far. Silva is 0-3 in May with a 9.03 ERA. His last start against the Tigers, he gave up seven runs. Jason Giambi hit his ninth of the year to give them three and Melky Cabrera drove in Robinson Cano with a single. It seems the Mariners are well on their way to the second straight sweep of this road trip. As the inning continues, the Yankees have just batted around for the first time all year.

-Dexter Sports
12:27 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Who-Hoo! I love Saturday afternoon Baseball! We have the Mariners and Yankees,and the Royals/Blue Jays going here in five minutes and a couple match ups at 4:00. Lets get you some news before those games begin!

• Top News: Tom Haudricourt is reporting on his blog that the Brewers have interest in reliever/starter Julian Tavarez. Haudricourt asked Bob Melvin about his interest of Tavarez and there was no doubt the brewers are considering a deal to the versatile pitcher. The Brewers have so many needs pitching wise that they could use Tavarez as a starter, middle relief, or even a closer. I believe Tavarez will fill the closer role if signed, because of his previous experience and his ability to still shut down hitters. It would be a good move on the Brewers part.

• Clayton Kershaw will get the start on Sunday vs the Cardinals. Kershaw should hang around a while simply because the Dodgers have 17 straight games without and off-day. That allocates three starts to Kershaw in the 5th slot. It will be interesting to see how Kershaw pitches in his debut. We have seen in th past that sometimes he has a hard time locating pitches. That could kill you in the majors.

• Barry Zito finally got win number one last night. Zito turned in a quality start, pitching 6 plus innings of three hit ball. Though he gave up a run, his curve ball looked genuine and his off speed and fastball were well located. It is weird though that Zito's win came against the same team that gave Brandon Webb his first loss. Jacque Jones also made his debut for the Marlins, when Brett Carroll was injured after chasing a ball down at the track.

• John Fay of the Cincinnati Enquirer talks about the Reds having to make a decision of keeping or trading Adam Dunn. Dunn is showing his value as of late, and right now might be the best time to deal him. John Fay seems to think that they will keep him, but if they Yankees, Tigers, or any other contending team puts together a solid deal, I think Cincinnati can kiss Adam Dunn goodbye. Why not? he give you 40 homers, but he also has a career .248 average and strikes out a ton.

• The Yankees are upset that Major League Baseball has selected David Ortiz to replay the 1932 called shot at this year's all-star game. This will be the last year of Yankee Stadium and Yankees officials are concerned with the fact that an opposing team will represent Ruth. I can see both sides, but when it comes down to it, I cannot think of anyone better to fill the role. He is our modern day Ruth. He hits Home Runs at will, has a swing that is unique and he even has a curse like feel to his legacy. The Yankees need to calm down and realize that this is Major League Baseball, not Yankee league. Come on Bud, Make this happen!

-Dexter Sports
12:30 PM
Dexter-Sport Inbox

Dana Eveland (4-3 2.90) continues to shine. The Oakland A's starter acquired from the Diamondbacks in the Dan Haren deal went the distance and only gave up one run on three hits. What a spectacular performance. In today's news our main focus will be on pitching and even the lack thereof.

• Brandon Webb's win streak ended last night as the Florida Marlins out dueled the Arizona Diamondbacks by the score of 3-1. Florida Marlins starter Ricky Nolasco looked good on the mound pitching 7 innings while only giving up a run. Webb's runs came of a Cody Ross homer and a Luis Gonzalez triple. I still don't think that we will see Webb lose a lot of games in a row in 2008. His sinker ball was working well and the Marlins executed very well. Throw in the fact that the Diamondback offense will not score just one run in most of his starts, and I think that Webb will be just fine. Not that anybody would argue.

• Cubs ace Carlos Zambrano insisted that his shoulder was fine on Wednesday. Zambrano, who is scheduled to start on Friday, was bothered by a stiff neck early this week. Many speculated that it could be Zambrano's shoulder that has bothered him in the past. Zambrano was clear when addressing the media. Zambrano even flexed his forearm and said he will show the media on Friday. Look for Zambrano to pull out a good outing against the Pirates.
  

• The Joba experiment has started in New York. Brian Cashman announced yesterday that the project to stretch his arm out is underway. Though it was thought that Chamberlain would make a few rehab starts in AAA, it seems that the stretching could take place in New York. The Yankees threw Chamberlain out for two innings against the Orioles. One spot that seems to be protected in the rotation is that of Darrell Rasner. Rasner is 3-0 with a 1.93 ERA. With Ian Kennedy getting a second chance today to make the rotation a mainstay and Phil Hughes coming off the DL pretty soon, Rasner might be the odd man out, simply because Mike Mussina and Andy Pettitte will be there all season.
  

• Red Sox pitcher Clay Buchholz will make a rehab start at Pawtucket on Sunday. Bartolo Colon, who replaced him picked up the win last night for the Sox. Kevin Cash will be in the lineup tonight as Daisuke Matzusaka will take the mound. It will be only the second time that Mutzusaka hasn't worked with Jason Varitek. Cash will be in the game to give Varitek two nights off as knuckler Tim Wakefield will take the mound tomorrow.
  

• The Mariners have designated Cha Seung Baek for an assignment. R.A. Dickey will be on hand in the pen against the Tigers this afternoon. Dickey sports a knuckler that reaches 75 MPH and a slight fastball. The Mariners Bullpen has been atrocious so far this season and Dickey will get his chance to stop the bleeding. We could possibly see Dickey in the rotation for Miguel Bautista at some point.
  

-Dexter Sports
3:03 PM
Dexter-Sports Inbox


Nobody has to look at the standings in Major League baseball to know that the Detroit Tigers have dug a hole in last place. Who would know that Justin Verlander would have more losses than wins (2-7) and that the rest of this pitching staff would be this bad. For the Brewers, It has been much of the same story. The Brewers started off well, and for once this far in the season we see Ben Sheets pitching and not on the DL. Young ace Yovani Gallardo has landed on the DL and bullpen issues have kept them from being the powerhouse of the NL Central. These two teams are some of the biggest upsetting teams in the Major Leagues. Here are a list of "contenders" at the beginning of the season and how I believe they will end up this season.

Seattle Mariners: Many has this team slated in a battle with the LA Angels to win the AL West crown. The addition of Erik Bedard and Carlos Silva was supposed to propel this rotation to the top. Bedard has started most of the season on the DL and Silva, who gave up 7 runs last night to the Tigers has been on and off and plainly this offense just stinks. The Brad Wilkerson signing failed, Richie Sexson still doesn't know how to hit a baseball and the rest of the young infield has continued to struggle. Ichiro at the top still gives them a pretty good top of the order, but nobody is driving him in. The Mariners are 23rd in RBIs and cannot muster any offense. It seems that Adam Jones and Jose Guillen could have been better options. Add the horrid start by this bullpen and it doesn't look good for the Mariners

My Prediction: I Do not think this team has enough to put a rally together to get back in this thing. The offense is just horrible and the pitching is having a hard time staying in ball games as of late. Last Year, this teams good start is what propelled them into playoff contention. This team will finish near the bottom of the AL West.

San Diego Padres: This team was a game away from the playoffs last year and in the off season, we only saw this team get better. Though they lost Milton Bradley and Mike Cameron, they were able to bring in a couple pitchers that possibly had a lot of success in Randy Wolf and Mark Prior. We also saw the pads reach out and bring in Tad Iguchi to play second base, in what I believed was a good move. This pitching staff was going to carry the light offense. I bought into the idea that the Padres would compete in the NL West. Boy was I wrong. The Padres are a major league worse 17-30.

My Prediction: The Padres do not have what it takes to compete on the field and that has been apparent so far this season. I think sooner rather than later we will see a Padres fire sale that could see anyone go beyond Chris Young, Jake Peavy and Adrian Gonzalez. This team is just a bit too old, lacks just too much talent and also needed a hot start to make a move in the NL West.

New York Yankees: The Yankees are one of the interesting teams in the league that has seen it all so far in 2008. They have seen a young rotation falter (Ian Kennedy and Phil Hughes) yet the veterans they were hoping on have pitched well (Petitte and Mussina). The offense has been slowly pulling out of slumps but still is no where near the caliber they need to be. At 20-25 there could be a lot worse things to worry about. Yet again, who knows what this bullpen will do throughout the season, especially if Joba Chamberlain becomes a starter.

My Prediction: Last year, we saw this team in the same situation throughout the first half and many were more worried than they are now. Granted they had a great manager in Joe Torre, and the emergence of Roger Clemens helped a lot, this team still has the staff and players to get back in a playoff run. If this team adds a pitcher at the deadline they are in the hunt for the wild card. If not, Hank will have fits and the Yankees could rebuild with big cash and free agents available.

Colorado Rockies: Many thought that this team was not ready to compete everyday because of their young everyday players. Analysts stated that last years run to the World Series was just that, a run that just happened to carry them. Though I agree to some extent, I went into this season feeling this team would compete. The Rockies didn't make too many free agent moves but they still had a great lineup. Now with an 18-28 record, many believe the rebuilding is about to begin. Some of the losing has to be credited to the slow offensive start. Not bringing back Kaz Matsui might have stung just a bit. He was a major spark that is clearly missing off that roster. Either way things can only go better for the Rockies.

My Predictions: Initially my thoughts were that the Rockies would simply not be able to rebound and go on a run like they did late in 2007. This team just didn't seem to have that spark that it carried into every post season game. Thinking about it more, I just can't deny that this team will compete with the Dodgers to fight for a wild card spot in the NL. Veterans like Todd Helton and Garrett Atkins are a big part of that feeling. Soon enough Troy Tulowitzski will warm up and Matt Holliday is a tremendous talent. Plus, the pitching is young and will continue to improve as we go throughout the year and the bullpen will get stronger. This Rockies team should be in the hunt when it comes down to it, though it will be hard to catch up to that amazing Diamondbacks team.

Milwaukee Brewers: The Brewers have been one of the most interesting teams of 2008. They have seen the offense slump while the pitching was very strong. Now, we are seeing the offense explode while the pitching struggles. It doesn't hurt that they have lost their best pitcher stuff wise and all of their youngsters continue to struggle. Carlos Villanueva has moved to the bullpen and Ned Yost is searching for the stop gap. Seth McClung will get the next chance. Eventually though, this bullpen will straighten out (not that it is bad now) and become shut down. I truly believe that. Soon enough Jeff Weaver will make his way to the Majors and maybe he can be the Weaver of St. Louis. Adding a pitcher or a speedy lead-off hitter wouldn't be bad, but I don't believe that it is necessary.

My Prediction: I still stick to my prediction that this team will find a way to make the playoffs. The Brewers have too good of a lineup and what I believe is the best potential bullpen in all of baseball. The Rotation, though shaky will hold together and we will see Mike Cameron, Corey Hart and Ryan Braun continue their tears and if JJ Hardy doesn't awake his bat soon, we could see a Khailil Greene or Chone Figgins make their way to Milwaukee. I just don't see this team sitting on their hands. Especially after the offensive display last night. This team finds a way to get in the playoffs. I also think we will see the cubs falter down the line (bullpen has no history of logging long innings beyond Bobby Howry). The Cubs just have too many injury prone players to hope they can stay healthy throughout 2008.

Detroit Tigers: The Tigers were supposed to field possibly the best lineup in baseball history this season, but for some reason the offense struggled out of the gates. Then we saw a surge in offense the propelled Detroit to 5th in the league in runs scored. It didn't matter though because the pitching staff was simply horrible. Ranked Last in ERA, this staff has improved, and last night we saw the offense explode. Justin Verlander and Jeremy Bonderman have had good starts back to back and the bullpen is only going to get better with flamethrower Joel Zumaya and change up master Fernando Rodney coming back soon. Jim Leyland has exploded in the clubhouse and recently on the Detroit Radio Network, told Jim Price that he shoulders all the blame, but these players have to be responsible as well. It will be the one heck of a story if this team accepts the responsibility of play so far, and moves on to be the team they are supposed to be.

My Predictions: I left the Tigers for last because they are simply the hardest to gauge. They have been way up and they have been way down. The Offense seems to be awake, but who really knows. I really like the prospect bullpen near the middle of June, when this team will add two of the leagues best relievers to its squad. I still think this team will bust out of the gates and rip a 15 game win streak along the line. This team is just too good to not win the AL Central. They will pull out of this and give the White Sox a run for the money. Though I might be crazy, I still believe this team has what it takes to win it all

-Dexter Sports
11:29 AM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

Last night's action was some of the best this season. We saw the Brewers blow another lead in the ninth, The Orioles continue their great play, and a circus high-fiving catch by Manny Ramirez had everyone loving mid May baseball. Throw on the fact that the Royals continued their domination of the Tigers this season (now 5-0) and Robinson Cano finally got his average above .200, fans all around can rejoice this Thursday. Especially if your Ryan Braun, who signed a 7 year extension worth a reported 45 million dollars. Welcome to the club Mr. Braun. Here is some news from around the league.

• John Fay, the Reds beat writer for the Cincinnati Inquirer notes on his blog today that Jay Bruce, undoubtedly is ready for the major leagues. Bruce is hitting .667 with 3 homers and 9 RBIs over the last five games. The only issue at hand is the amount of playing time that the Reds can give him. According to GM Walt Jocketty, there will be some point where they will just have to call him up and he continues to say that Bruce is not going unnoticed. Does this mean that a Griffey Deal is in the works? Not so fast, Jocketty also went on to say that there have been no trade discussions.

• Yankees manager Joe Girardi praises defensive pitching whiz Kenny Rogers in a recent article by the Detroit Free Press. Rogers become the all time pick off leader last weekend when Girardi's Yankees came to Detroit. Girardi says that Rogers is the best double play pitcher that he has ever seen.

• The Baltimore Sun is reporting that reliever James Hoey will be out for the rest of the season after getting surgery to repair some torn cartilage in his right shoulder. Hoey appeared in 23 games for the O's last season and was once considered the closer of the future. The Orioles are comparing the surgery as something similar to Troy Patton's season ending operation at the beginning of the season. The Baltimore Sun's Roch Kubatko also wrote a great piece on prized prospect Chris Tillman, who came to the Orioles in the Erik Bedard deal.

• Jim Edmonds is officially a Cub and will split center field duties with Reed Johnson. Edmonds comes to the cubs after being released from the San Diego Padres. The Cubs will pay Edmonds around 290,000 for his duties. The Cubs will option down young Felix Pie yet again to make room for Edmonds. The Cubs hope that Edmonds will be 100% when he joins the club today. Does this mean that Felix Pie is available for the right price? Possibly but Edmonds is not the long-term solution in Chicago.

• The Dodger outfield woes continue. Last night, with the absence of Shortstop Rafael Furcal, Joe Torre put Juan Pierre at the top of the order and placed Andruw Jones second. Matt Kemp got the start and yet again Andre Either was stuck with the shaft. Joe Torre has to go with Pierre, or he has no speed currently at the top of the lineup. This would not be an issue if the Dodgers didn't blow a lot of money where they didn't need to. Hopefully Either, who has had a far more productive season than Juan Pierre, will sneak some more playing time.

• Yankees GM Brian Cashman is sick of answering the question, "When is Joba going to begin his rehab to become a Starter?" According to the New York Times, Cashman will not articulate on the plan. It seems the Joba, who has been dominant in his setup role, would be better off staying put. The Times notes that his 98 MPH fastball will not be around if he starts and that it is a risk to take such a good piece away from this team, in hope that he will be as dominant as a starter. I completely agree here. Keep Joba in the pen if you want to stay in the hunt Hank. If you love Joba so much, why don't you go find some better starters available via trade instead of wasting your time on the Kei Igawa project.
  

- Dexter Sports
11:58 AM
Dexter-Sports Inbox

What a great day of baseball last night. We saw George Sherill challenging Big Papi and winning, the Rays moved into first place with a walk-off in the 11th and the Tigers continue to lose ball games. Lets take a look at some news from around the league last night:

• Jered Weaver made a very good start for the first time in a while last night against the White Sox. He went seven one hit innings with 6 strike outs. Too bad he couldn't get the win. This means that Weaver might be on track. After an atrocious outing last time out against Kansas City, where he gave up 8 runs in less than 4 innings, Weaver was able to mix his stuff very well. Weaver wasn't credited with the win, but Fransisco Rodriguez got his league leading 16th save. The Angels pulled it out 2-0. Manager Mike Scioscia stated that Weaver's stuff was the best he has seen in two years.

• The Tigers dropped another heart breaker to the Kansas City Royals, 3-2. Soon enough this offense has to break through right? Jon Paul Morosi, writer for the Detroit Free Press, comments on the situation in Detroit, and how even thought he economy is bad, the Tigers are still pulling great attendance numbers.

• The Mets are mixed up their roster quite a bit yesterday. First off the Mets designated pitchers Nelson Figueroa and Jorge Sosa. Replacing those two will be former brewers Matt Wise and Claudio Vargas. Vargas will join the rotation and start tonight against the Nationals. Look for Vargas to try and steal the last spot in the rotation and prove Milwaukee wrong tonight. The Mets also placed outfielder Angel Pagan on the 15 DL and called up Fernando Tatis.
  

• Yankees Vice President Hank Steinbrenner is at it again. In a recent report, Hank has called out the Yankee team saying that they have not been playing the way at the level are capable of. Steinbrenner notes that he thinks it will turn around and if it doesn't by this year than he will make it "by force" next year. The Yankees lost a close one to the Rays last night, when Gabe Gross singled up the middle to drive in the winning run. Heres a news flash Hank, your team isn't going to win with Alex Rodriguez and Jorge Posada on the DL. It also doesn't hurt that Latroy Hawkins, Andy Pettite were the only free agent acquisitions of last year. Some of the blame has to float your way. Too bad you couldn't seal the deal on Johan. 19th in team ERA in the league isn't going to win you a lot of ball games, even if your offense isn't struggling.

• Eric Gagne was back to closing Tuesday night after a one game absence from it. Gagne got the save against the Dodgers, in an outing where he looked pretty comfortable. Here is an audio piece of a post game interview with Gagne. He sounds pretty pumped. Audio courtesy of Sportsbubbler.com. Speaking of the Brewers, for those worried about the middle of the order, the last few games are a sign of things to come. Ryan Braun has busted out the whooping stick, with 4 dingers in the last three games, also tagging a blazing double last night. Braun is in the zone and it looks like Prince Fielder is about to heat up as well.

Todays Transactions:

• The Pirates placed catcher Ryan Doumit on the DL today. This will give Ronny Paulino a great opportunity to make a case to be traded to a team in need of a catcher. The Pirates called up Raul Chavez from AAA Indianapolis.
  

• The Reds placed Shortstop Jeff Keppinger on the DL as well today. To fill the roster spot the Reds called up Paul Janish from AAA Louisville. This could be a great opportunity to call up youngster Homer Bailey to make a spot start, considering the Reds could fill the short stop vacancy in different ways. This is the second shortstop to go down with a broken left knee. Alex Gonzalez started the season on the DL with a bum knee.
  

• Marlon Byrd will join the Rangers tonight after being reinstated from the DL. Byrd could be the lead off spark the Rangers have been looking for all season. The only question is who he will be replacing in the lineup. With Joey Hamilton in center and Brandon Boggs killing the ball, the only spot seems to be right field, where he would replace David Murphy.
  

-Dexter Sports
1:40 AM

Derrick Turnbow once saved 51 games for a lowly Brewers club. He was an all-star reliever in a town that hadn't had a winning season until last year. Recently, the leash was let loose and Turnbow was designated for an assignment. The Brewers literally could not find a way to control him. Now many teams in the league who need bullpen help will look into taking a chance at harnessing a pitcher who has not been the same since 2005. If any team can do it, he could be the biggest asset this season. He has the stuff to make it happen, he just needs new scenery, and the right pitching coach. Mike Maddux, the Brewers long time pitching coach has given it all he has, now it simply comes down to: who wants to take on the challenge?

Now that we know that the Rangers are probably not suitors, lets take a look at a few ball clubs that should at least think about signing Turnbow.

Detroit Tigers- Though the pen has been a lot stronger in the last few weeks, losses of Jason Grilli via trade and Denny Bautista to injury, open up a spot for Turnbow. Pitching Coach Chuck Hernandez has been a key factor in developing young fireballers Justin Verlander and Joel Zumaya. He could be just the right guy to resurrect Turnbow's career. This Bullpen could be the best in baseball by the trading deadline. Fernando Rodney, Derrick Turnbow, Joel Zumaya and with the emergence of Clay Rapada and Denny Bautista could shape up nicely come playoff time. If Fransico Crueta works out, then this pen could be in tip top shape. The only problem is that turnbow might not be willing to take a middle relief job. That might be the only work available though.

Seattle Mariners- Why not shorten your bullpen a bit and give this guy a shot? Mark Lowe has been horendous and with the loss of George Sherrill, this team doesn't have a bullpen leader. I'm not saying that Turnbow can be that, but he can bring 95 MPH heat with a nasty bending curve if he is harnessed well. None other is better than pitching veteran Mel Stottlemyre who was the genius behind the beautiful Yankee pitching in the '90s and 2000's.

New York Yankees- Speaking of the Yanks, Joe Girardi could use someone down in his pen, especailly if Joba Chamberlain makes his move to the bullpen. Kyle Farnsworth and Latroy Hawkins have been atrocious. Turnbow might not be any better, but he at least has the potential to. I really think it would be wise for the Yankees, considering there is not much relief depth available at the deadline.

Chicago Cubs- Though I would be surprised to see Turnbow land with the Cubs, it would be a bad move in their part to scoop up Turnbow. I could see him coming to Chicago just for the rival factor and I can see Chicago pursuing him. Beyond Carlos Marmol and Kerry Wood, this team lacks any dominant righties. Turnbow is a better solution than Chad Fox or Micheal Wurtz.

-Dexter Sports
10:37 PM

He is the king of the long ball and arguably the best ever at getting on base. He is king in an era where steroids dominate the picture. Barry Bonds sits at home without a team. Though there is a lot of baggage with the 43 year old, some team ought to take a chance on this guy.

Like many, including Tim Dierkes of MLBTR, I believe that Bonds will take the field as a DH sometime this year. His 28 Home Runs and 66 RBIs are good enough to land him a contract. Someone will finally give in and give Bonds a chance. Even though no matter what team he lands on, fans will hate the move. He is known as a club house cancer, who is washed up and on the major decline. I think when it comes down to it though, some ball clubs will look at the .480 OBP he put up last year. They will look beyond the posse that comes with him and the press that stalks him. Does he have any chance on a NL team? I don't think so. Will he play for league minimum? I think that is a possibility and that is how 3 of the four teams on this list of possible suitors will look to land him. Here are a list of teams that should give him a chance:

Kansas City Royals: Nobody expects this team to be in the hunt for a playoff spot, but if they continue to pitch the way the have, with a little offense they could be that team that sneaks in. Barry Bonds would add a lot of dimension at either DH or LF for this ball club. They could simply put DH Billy Butler at first or move Gathright to center and deal Dejesus to make room for Bonds.

Tampa Rays- This team doesn fit the role now that they have went after Dan Johnson and Gabe Gross. They still could go after the slugger if they continue to struggle with the bat. I don't count them out, but with a lot of young talent, I don't see bonds as a big option for this club, even though there is a possibility.

New York Yankees- If there is a team that would throw money at Bonds, it is the Yankees. They could easily release the always struggling Jason Giambi and bring on big Bonds to compliment A-Rod, Abreu and Cano. I like the Yankees, simply because they are never afraid to sign anybody depsite their past history (Daryl Strawberry, Dwight Gooden).

Seattle Mariners- Though they have clearly stated that they have no interest in Bonds, this is the team that i think best fits the role. Jose Vidro could either move to the outfield or if Richie Sexson continues to struggle he could move to first base. Vidro could also become a primary bench player and Bonds could slip right into the DH spot. The cheap fix would be power bat Jeff Clement in the minors, but if the M's are in the hunt, we could see them buy success.

-Dexter Sports
10:35 PM

Good Evening to all. After watching a few games tonight, I ran into some interesting stats and tidbits that I thought I would share.

• In Denver, It looks like the second base job could become open competition again. Clint Barmes has been seeing a lot of time at second base. Clint Hurdle claims it is just riding the hot bat, but who knows. Its not like Barmes doesn't have talent. Barmes was a rookie sensation in 2005, and was in a situation much like Troy Tulowitzki in 2007. Barmes is hitting .433 with a homer. In other Rockies news backup catcher Chris Iannetta, a former top 100 prospect, has started over Yorvit Torrealba the last two games. Torreabla caught the whole 22 inning game Thursday night.

• Yankees catcher Jorge Posada threw on the first baseman's glove in tonight's loss to Baltimore. It was interesting to see, considering his shoulder won't allow him to catch. It shows how bad the Yankees need his bat. Last year the Yankees scored a little more than 5 runs a game. So far, they have only scored 4 a game. Posada hopes to catch by next Thursday. Also in other Yankee news, did you know Jose Molina is hitting .364 with 7 doubles(that leads all the majors).
  

• Eric Byrnes extended his hitting streak to 14 games today in his last at bat. To go along with the hitting streak, Chris Burke, Byrnes and bench coach Kirk Gibson are growing mustaches together to keep the Arizona Domination alive. They all look hideous. Beyond that offense, the bullpen has been lights out. Did you know that Juan Cruz was second in bullpen pitchers in k/9 last year? The only one better was Jonathon Papelbon.

• Houston Astros' Manager Cecil Cooper put shortstop Miguel Tejada in the Three Hole for the first time this season. Cooper did it to produce more base runners for Lance Berkman who is killing the ball to start the season. Carlos Lee was 5th in the order. I saw Cooper do this in spring training a few times to feel it out. I think it gives that offense the best chance to score runs.