MLB The Show 25 Franchise Discussion

[kb0731]

Half way through June and the Yankees are 41-27 - 2.5 up on the Orioles and Rays in the division

Notable Injuries: Stanton Bruised Arm 1-6 days, Cody Bellinger Broken Shin 1-2 weeks, and Gerrit Cole Torn Rotator Cuff 6+ months

Aaron Judge is chasing the triple crown batting .335 second in the AL, with 24 home runs 1st in the AL, and 67 RBI's 1st in the AL. Right now he is having another MVP type season.

The offense has been steady with Ben Rice batting .294, Grisham .283, Jazz .274 and Goldschmidt at .272. Austin wells and Anthony Volpe have both been struggling all year while batting .221 and .199 respectively. Right now we have a lot of players on cold streaks so they are going to have to find away to get back on track.

Pitching hasn't been as consistent as I've wanted with Fried (6-5), Schmidt (6-3) and Rodon (5-2). Rodon and Schmidt have both been pleasant surprises all year but Max Fried has been a little of a disappointment so far.

As a team we are 9th in batting average, 3rd in home runs, 3rd in RBI's, and 3rd in strikeouts which is great. On the other hand we are 26th in stolen bases, 23rd in striking out, 20th in ERA, and 19th in blown saves. We definitely have to sure those things up if we want to become true contenders.

We won the first game of a three game series at Boston. Our goal is to continue to win each series however we have to do it. Let's see if we can stay consistent going into July.

[countryboy]

Cardinals win series against the Cubs - take 2 game lead into final week of the season

RECORD: 82-74
DIVISION: 1ST (+2 OVER CUBS - +2.5 OVER REDS)
WILDCARD: -

The Cardinals won an extremely pivotal series against the Cubs over the weekend as they took 3 out of 4 and now lead the NL Central Division by 2 games heading into the final week of the regular season.

New acquired and rotation addition Bobby Miller got the ball on Thursday night and was terrific in his outing. Miller got thru 6 innings allowing a single run on 5 scattered hits. Miller only struck out 2 but he had the Cubs off balance at the plate all night. Jordan Hicks, Luke Weaver, and Ryan Helsley closed out the 3-1 win without allowing a run and scattering 2 hits over the final 3 innings. Nolan Arenado's 2 run double in the 4th got the scoring started and a late RBI single from Chase Davis put the Cards up 3-1 which would be the final tally.

It wasn't all great on Thursday night as Willson Contreras left the game with a hamstring injury and will be placed on the IL and miss the remainder of the regular season.

Matthew Liberatore took the mound on Friday night and was knocked around pretty good as was the bullpen. Liberatore lasted just 5.1 before being pulled after a Eugenio Suarez grand slam stretched a 4-0 lead to an 8-0 lead. Ryan Fernandez would give up another 3 runs out of the pen as the Cubs dominated the Cards 11-1. Masyn Winn accounted for the only RBI on a sac fly in the 8th.

Saturday things turned back around as Dustin May pitched one of his best games of the season tossing 7 innings of 1 run baseball while striking out 10. May struck out the first 4 batters he faced and the last 3 batters he faced before turning the ball over to Chad Green who recorded the last 6 outs as the Cards beat the Cubs 7-1. Alec Burleson hit a 3 run bomb in the 4th that put the Cards up 3-1 and then a Jordan Walker bases clearing triple stretched the lead to 6-1 in the 6th. Ivan Herrera's homerun in the 9th just added insult to injury.

Sunday it was Sonny Gray doing what Sonny Gray does. 7 innings, 2 runs on 4 hits and 11 strikeouts as he now leads the National League in strikeouts at 213. Ryan Helsley would record his 45th save of the season by striking out the side in the 9th on 11 pitches. Ivan Herrera and Michael Helman added the offense as both hit 2 run homeruns during the game as the Cards would win 4-2 to take the series and the 2 game divisional lead.

Next up is an off day on Monday as the Cardinals head home for the final 6 games of the season. They will welcome the Marlins to town starting Tuesday night for a 3 game series before closing 2026 out with the Pirates over the weekend.

Dodgers lose Shohei Ohtani for rest of 2026 including the playoffs

The Dodgers will be without the undoubtedly 2026 NL MVP as Shohei Ohtani will miss at least 6 weeks with fractured shin. Ohtani who was leading for the triple crown this year in the National League and in the race for NL Cy Young award will now have to cheer on his Dodger teammates who are looking to win the World Series after the special season they have put forth. The Dodgers will have home field advantage throughout the playoffs this October.

[jamm113]

ESPN Tampa Recap: Rays Drop 3 of 4 to Yankees Despite Signs of Life, Fall to 6-16

Game 21: Jazz Hits the High Note, Judge Homers Again as Yankees Edge Rays 6-4

St. Petersburg, FL — Tropicana Field had the Bronx buzz in the air with over 16,000 in attendance, a loud 70-30 split in favor of Yankees fans. And once again, the home crowd went home quiet.

Drew Rasmussen pitched efficiently through five but unraveled in the sixth. A walk, an Escarra double off the wall, and an intentional walk to Aaron Judge loaded the bases with two outs. That’s when Jazz Chisholm delivered the backbreaker: a towering grand slam to right, silencing the Rays' early momentum and putting New York up 4-1.

Tampa fought back. Jake Mangum ripped a two-run double in the 7th, followed by a game-tying single from Jose Caballero. But the Yankees answered immediately in the 8th. Edwin Uceta issued a leadoff walk, and Judge launched a no-doubt missile into left field for his 7th homer of the year, putting New York ahead for good.

Junior Caminero (2-for-4, RBI) continued to impress, but Josh Lowe struck out three times and the team left too many chances stranded.

Game 22: Baz Battles, but Bullpen Breaks in Extras as Rays Drop Finale 5-4

Shane Baz looked every bit the former top prospect, shaking off a shaky first to retire 15 of the final 17 batters he faced. But despite Caminero's dramatic 2-run homer in the 10th, the Yankees once again showed why they're one of the most complete teams in baseball.

Ben Rice (2-for-4, 2B, RBI) and Jazz Chisholm (2-for-4, HR, 3 RBI) stayed scorching, while Carlos Rodon twirled 7 strong innings with 7 strikeouts. Kevin Kelly took the loss after Jazz crushed a two-run homer in the 10th, followed by a solo blast from Trent Grisham just for insurance.

Yandy Diaz quietly reached base three times (2-for-4, BB), and Danny Jansen worked three walks and knocked in a run, but the Rays fell just short of stealing a split in the series.

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Prospect Watch: Rays Eye the Future as Season Slips Early

As the Rays drop to 6–16, all eyes begin to drift toward the June draft. Scouting director Pete Clay and Savannah Locke are zeroing in on a much-needed wave of arms:

• Chad Poirier (LHP, 19, Ranked #3 on Rays board): With 3 plus-pitch offerings and elite upside, he's becoming the favorite for pick #14. His sinker/curve/sweeper mix projects well in the Trop.
• Tristan Goff (RHP, 20): High-octane fastball (tops at 98) with a devastating 12–6 curve. Command is still raw, but scouts are drooling over the ceiling.
• Russ Robbing (RHP, 22): More polished than flashy. Cutter and curve combo could plug a rotation hole fast, but low strikeout rate concerns evaluators.
• Charles Ortiz (2B, 18): Recently identified by scout Tristan Blum, Ortiz offers a contact-first bat and solid glove, reminiscent of a young Luis Arraez.

Expect the Rays to heavily scout college arms and athletic up-the-middle players. With a bottom-five ERA and a farm system light on ready starters, the pressure to hit on early picks is sky-high.

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Injury Update:

Kameron Misner, who began the season showing power-speed flashes, was placed on the 60-day IL with cartilage damage in his shoulder. Ha-Seong Kim was called up in response and is expected to split SS/2B duties with Walls and Caballero.

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Inside the Trop: 95.7 “The Sting” Postgame Radio Wrap-Up
🎙 with Mike "Big Sting" Castillo and Paulie from Pinellas

Mike: "Well, Paulie, you gotta give ‘em credit. That Sunday comeback win in extras had grit. But let’s be real — this team is playing uphill baseball every night. Jazz smoked us, Judge lit us up, and we just can't get timely pitching."

Paulie: "I liked what I saw from Baz. That was a big-boy start. But the bullpen — again — collapsed like a wet beach chair. And Josh Lowe? Man’s colder than a Publix freezer aisle."

Mike: "Caminero, though! That kid's gonna be a star. He’s hittin’ .317 with pop and presence. You gotta feel like he’s the real deal."

Paulie: "Yeah, and Aranda’s still rakin’ .394! We’ve got pieces. But we need more than vibes and walk-up songs to climb outta this hole."

Mike: "Amen, brother. And it doesn’t get easier — Arizona, San Diego, and a young, hungry Royals team are up next. Better find some road magic fast."

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Up Next: West Coast Swing + Kansas City Comeback Tour

Game 23–25: @ Arizona Diamondbacks (11-11)

• Probable Pitchers: Rasmussen (0-3, 4.56 ERA) returns, followed by Baz and Pepiot.
• Watch Out: Corbin Carroll’s heating up; Merrill Kelly sporting a 2.41 ERA.

Game 26–28: @ San Diego Padres (13-9)

• Machado, Bogaerts, and Tatis await. Expect high leverage late innings.
• Tampa will need its bullpen (ranked last in MLB ERA) to flip the script.

Game 29–30: vs Kansas City Royals (10-12)

• Royals are scrappy and athletic. Bobby Witt Jr. is a gamebreaker.
• Aranda, Caminero, and Yandy must continue to lead the offense.

Rays at a Glance:

• Record: 6-16 (Last in AL East)
• Team ERA: 5.37 (30th)
• Team BA: .244 (17th)
• Runs: 68 (T-25th)
• HR: 19 (T-18th)

The Rays are on the ropes. The story now is whether they’re writing a comeback chapter — or a cautionary tale. Stay tuned.

[jmcole33]

The Amazins

Rockies Show Life, Force Game 5
October 13, 2029

The Rockies refused to go out without a fight. They put up 8 runs, 6 of which came off rookie LHP Jeremy Pacheco in the first two innings. Pacheco's playoff debut was as short as it was forgettable. He gave up 2 HR in the first inning. The first, a 3-run HR by C Mariano Cruz. The second was a 2-run HR by LF Dave Iverson. Cruz enjoyed a 3 for 4 day, including 4 RBI and the first inning blast that tied the game.

It was actually the Mets who got out to an early lead, as RHP Miguel Valdez could not find the strike zone in the first inning. He walked 3 of the first 5 batters of the game and the Mets managed to score three runs in the top of the first. It might have been more, but LF Michael Conforto grounded into a double play that would limit the damage. After the the homerun barrage in the bottom half of the inning, the Rockies would add another in the second.

Both teams would add a couple more and the Rockies would take an 8-5 lead into the 8th inning. The Mets managed to bring the tying run to the plate, but CF Nick Craven would fail to deliver. He struck out on a high fastball to end the Mets' last threat of the night.

The series remains in Colorado for Game 5 as RHP Anderson Espinoza will take the mound and face RHP Mike Nikorak. Nikorak won 19 games this year and had a sub-3 ERA, finishing second in the CY Young voting to Sean Machado. The Rockies have their guy on the mound if they want to extend the series, but so do the Mets.

The Mets are headed back to NY after this game regardless, either for Game 6 or with the NL pennant in hand.

[countryboy]

Cardinals take series from Marlins - lead division by single game heading into final weekend

RECORD: 85-74
DIVISION: 1ST (+1 OVER CUBS +2 OVER REDS)
WILCARD: -

The Cardinals took 2 games of a 3 game series with the Marlins and now lead the NL Central Division by a single game heading into the final weekend of the regular season.

Things started out rough on Tuesday night as the Cardinals were shutout 4-0 as they just couldn't get the bats going against Sandy Alcantara. Michael McGreevy didn't have his best stuff but he wasn't terrible either as he gave up 2 runs thru 6. The bullpen allowed 2 more runs while the offense struggled to do anything.

Wednesday with Bobby Miller on the mound things started out rocky again with the Cards trailing 5-1 going to the bottom of the 7th, but a 5 run 7th capped by Alec Burleson's 3 run blast would put the Cards up 6-5 which would be the final score. Ryan Helsley locked down his 46th save of the year.

Thursday was comeback day again as Matthew Liberatore allowed only 2 runs thru 7 but the offense couldn't do anything. In the bottom of the 8th it was a Nolan Gorman 3 run bomb that put the Cards up 3-2 and they would go on to win 5-2 with Ryan Helsley getting the save.

The Cardinals will now welcome the Pirates to town for the final 3 game series of the regular season. The Cards just need to win to lock up the division and their first trip to the postseason in 3 years.

[countryboy]

Cardinals swept by Pirates but still reach postseason as wildcard team

RECORD: 85-77
DIVISION: 2ND (1GB OF CUBS)
WILDCARD: 2ND SPOT

With everything on the line the Cardinals were absolutely embarrassed by the Pirates in the final series of the season. The Cardinals were swept and outscored 22-4 over the 3 game series. Not really much to write about aside from the Pirates kicked our *** and luckily the Reds and Giants struggled so we will be the #2 wildcard and play the Phillies in the NL Wildcard Series.

Its good that the 3 year drought is over, but damn to go from the high of beating the Cubs 3 of 4, taking the series from the Marlins, and just needing to win 2 games or even one to win the division is just a tough pill to swallow.

Damn

[Arkansas Ranger]

Cardinals swept by Pirates but still reach postseason as wildcard team

RECORD: 85-77
DIVISION: 2ND (1GB OF CUBS)
WILDCARD: 2ND SPOT

With everything on the line the Cardinals were absolutely embarrassed by the Pirates in the final series of the season. The Cardinals were swept and outscored 22-4 over the 3 game series. Not really much to write about aside from the Pirates kicked our *** and luckily the Reds and Giants struggled so we will be the #2 wildcard and play the Phillies in the NL Wildcard Series.

Its good that the 3 year drought is over, but damn to go from the high of beating the Cubs 3 of 4, taking the series from the Marlins, and just needing to win 2 games or even one to win the division is just a tough pill to swallow.

Damn

Congrats on post season. Tough luck on division, but at least your in. I had a similar thing happen last year but it cost me the playoffs altogether. Lost 4 of 6 in final 2 series against non playoff teams to miss the postseason by 1 game

[Arkansas Ranger]

Texas Rangers Season 3 MOM update

The Texas Rangers continue a disasterous season as they fall to 47-73, 11 and a half games out of first. The other 4 teams have all had their runs at the lead. The Angels have gotten hot winning their last 7, and now lead the division by 3 and a half games. They are still 3 games under 500, which got me asking. Has anyone ever won a division in baseball history with a below 500 record? Jake Bauers has been the teams best offensive player with 15 hrs. He's the only player on my team with double digit hrs. Langford is hitting 230 with 2 hrs. 42 games left. The only thing we are playing for is to see who comes back next year. Matt Manning and Cody Bradford have been really good for me. Both guys have ERAs in the low 3s. Manning is 2nd in the American League. The offense is just terrible

[countryboy]

Cardinals season ends in the Wildcard Series to the Phillies

The Cardinals run in the 2026 season has come to an end as they lost to the Phillies in 3 games in the Wildcard Series in Philadelphia.

The Cardinals won Game 1 Tuesday night by coming back from a 3-0 score and scored runs in the 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th (2) to win 5-3. Griffin Canning took the ball in his first start since his shoulder injury. Willson Contreras hit a big 2 run homer in the 9th that broke the 3-3 tie and would end up the game winner. Ryan Helsley got the save with 3 outs on 8 pitches.

Matthew Liberatore got the ball for Game 2 and just got rocked. By the time he left in the 4th is was 7-0. Zack Wheeler kept the Cards at bay tossing a 2 hit complete game shutout.

Game 3 saw Sonny Gray take the ball and dominate for 7.1 innings. He was pulled after a Elias Diaz homer in the 8th made it 5-1. The Cards felt good turning the ball over to back end of the bullpen. What took place was gutwrenching. The Phillies would score a total of 7 runs (6 off the bullpen) to take a 7-5 lead and break the hearts of the Cardinals and its fans. The Cards did nothing in the 9th as Winn grounded out, Arenado struck out, and Contreras flew out to end the game and the Cards season.

Just a deflating way to end a 2026 season that was supposed to be season where the Cards hoped to be .500. Instead they battled for the divisional title, losing it on the last day, but still making the postseason for the first time in 3 seasons only to lose in heartbreaking fashion as the bullpen couldn't get 5 outs with and protect a 4 run lead.

This winter should be interesting for the Cardinals as they look to re-load in hopes of returning to October baseball by winning the division.

[countryboy]

Minnesota Twins are the 2026 World Series Champions

The Minnesota Twins defeated the Atlanta Braves in 6 games to win the 2026 World Series. The Twins got here by beating the Yankees in the ALCS while the Braves beat the ever impressive, Shohei Ohtani less, Dodgers in the NLCS.

In the AL Wildcard Series the Tigers beat the Orioles while the Rangers beat the Mariners. In the ALDS the Twins beat the Rangers and the Yankees beat the Tigers.

In the NL Wildcard Series the Phillies beat the Cardinals while the Giants beat the Cubs. In the NLDS the Dodgers beat the Phillies and the Braves beat the Giants.

The #1 and #2 from each league met in the League Championship Series with the #2 seed winning both series.

I had a video wrap up of the season but for some reason its not working so this is the briefest of recaps.

[jamm113]

APRIL RECAP – TAMPA BAY RAYS FRANCHISE REPORT
By ESPN.com Staff Writer

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Rays Limp Through April; Caminero Hurt, Diaz Rakes, Prospect Spotlight Heating Up


The Tampa Bay Rays wrapped up April in a tailspin, dropping 7 of their final 10 games to close the month at a bleak 9–21, dead last in the AL East and tied for the second-worst record in baseball. While injuries and inconsistent pitching continue to plague the club, a few bright spots emerged from both the big-league roster and the farm system, offering hope for a slow-burn turnaround.

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MLB – LATE APRIL SKID, CAMINERO GOES DOWN


After a brief two-game spark in San Diego, where the offense exploded for 18 runs, Tampa was quickly grounded again with a 10–4 home loss to Kansas City.
Junior Caminero, one of April’s lone bright spots (.299/.336/.481), exited with a strained tricep after a hot start and will miss a few games.

Despite strong homers from Yandy Diaz (8), Danny Jansen, Jose Caballero, and Brandon Lowe, poor outings from Zack Littell (0-4) and relievers Cole Sulser and Garrett Cleavinger (3 ER each) sunk the Rays.

Standout Performers (April):

• Yandy Díaz: .331/.376/.548, 8 HR, 24 RBI
• Junior Caminero: .299/.336/.481, 3 HR, 16 RBI
• Jose Caballero: 10 SB, HR in final April game
• Taj Bradley: 2–3, 4.19 ERA, 1.29 WHIP
• Mason Englert: 2.40 ERA in 15 IP

Troubling Signs:

• Brandon Lowe (.155) likely benched moving forward.
• Zack Littell, Drew Rasmussen, Shane Baz all own ERA over 4.70.
• Relievers Uceta and Cleavinger both near or above 7.00 ERA.

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AAA DURHAM – PROSPECT WATCH: DE LUCA, LESKO & MORE


A two-game player-lock spotlight brought clarity to two future names in the Rays' system:

Dylan Lesko (SP, 21) faced big-league vet Nelson Cortez in a marquee matchup. The former first-rounder battled but faltered late:
5.0 IP, 4H, 2BB, 1K, 3 ER. Lesko’s command looked shaky at times, but the stuff still flashed.

Jonny DeLuca (CF, 26) exploded with a 3-5 game including 2 HR and a double, leading Durham to an 8-1 win. With Misner still recovering, DeLuca could be an MLB call-up candidate soon, now slashing .301/.379/.422.

Joe Rock (7 IP, 3 H, 0 ER) dominated that same game and continues to show consistency in the rotation.

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AA MONTGOMERY – STARS AND GROWING PAINS


The Montgomery Biscuits went under the lens as player locks focused on top-end and under-the-radar talent:

Carson Williams (SS, 21, 8 MLB prospect) showed mixed results:

• Game 1: 1-3, 2B, BB
• Game 2: 2-4, 2B, RBI
  Defense remains elite, but the bat is inconsistent (.211/.291/.268 overall).

Tre’ Morgan (1B, 22) went 1-4 with 2 K in his feature game, but showed strong defense. The bat (.176 avg) still needs work.

Brock Jones (RF, 23), one of the hottest AA hitters coming in, fizzled in his spotlight with an 0-4, 3 K line. Still slashing a strong .333/.413/.652 for the season.

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SCOUTING TRAIL – DRAFT FOCUS INTENSIFIES


Tristan Goff (SP, 20, South Carolina) – High velocity and sharp break. Projected 80–94 potential. Scouting now complete.

Chad Poirier (SP, 19, LSU) – Balanced lefty with high stamina. Shows solid control but limited breaking ball feel.

Victor Colón (SP, 22, Dominican Republic) – High-upside lefty (89–99 POT). Fastball/slider combo with promising curve development.

Charles Ortiz (OF, 18, HS Minnesota) – Elite speed, contact bat, and plus defense. Still very raw.

Sutton Kurtz (SP, 20, NY) will be next up for evaluation, showing deep pitch mix and advanced command.

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STANDINGS SNAPSHOT – APRIL END


AL East:

• Boston Red Sox: 21–11
• Yankees: 19–12
• Orioles: 17–15
• Blue Jays: 12–19
• Rays: 9–21 🔻

AL Awards Race:

• MVP: Zach Neto (.357, 8 HR), Westburg (.320, 30 RBI)
• Cy Young: Lucas Giolito (5-1, 2.93), Luke Weaver (5-0, 2.35)
• ROY: Kristian Campbell (.309), Jacob Wilson (A’s, .276)

NL Standouts:

• MVP: Schwarber (11 HR, 28 RBI), Contreras (.357)
• Cy Young: Ohtani (5-1, 2.17, 57 K), Senga (5-1, 2.32)
• ROY: Luisangel Acuña (.266, 5 HR)

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WHAT’S NEXT FOR TAMPA?


With Caminero day-to-day and Brandon Lowe struggling, expect more shuffling between Durham and Tampa. Jonny DeLuca looks ready, while names like Curtis Mead and Kyle Manzardo might not be far behind.
Expect more lineup experimentation and a close eye on bullpen reshuffling, especially with Uceta and Cleavinger on the hot seat.

Stay tuned!

[jamm113]

[LIVE BROADCAST] — WTBZ 960 AM “The Heat on the Bay” Host: Rick Marino | Segment: Rays Roundup | Date: May 1st
Opening Music: “Can’t Stop” by Red Hot Chili Peppers fades out


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🎙️Rick Marino (Host):
“Good evening, Tampa Bay! This is ‘The Heat on the Bay,’ I’m Rick Marino, and folks—we’re officially one month deep into this rollercoaster of a season. The Rays? 9 and 21. That’s not a typo. 9...and...21. I’ve seen Florida sinkholes that feel less like rock bottom. But we’ve got a full house tonight—calls, interviews, and yes, we’re opening up the therapy hotline for Rays fans everywhere. Let’s break it down, let’s talk it out.”


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📞 CALL-IN SEGMENT 1
Caller: “Big Mike from Clearwater”

Big Mike:
“Rick, I’m telling you man—I don’t care if Yandy is hittin’ like Manny Ramirez. This team’s pitching is Swiss cheese, Littell’s ERA is lookin’ like my cholesterol level after tailgating at the Trop. When are we gonna make a move?!”

Rick:
“You’re not wrong, Mike. Littell is 0-4 with a 5.50 ERA. Rasmussen, Baz, even Cleavinger—all struggling. If it wasn’t for Mason Englert quietly pitching like a discount Trevor Hoffman, we’d be talking about sending in the Bay Area Little League bullpen. The arms are tired, the vibes are worse.”


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🎙️INTERVIEW: AAA Durham Bulls Insider - Kyle Delaney

Rick:
“Joining me now is Kyle Delaney, Durham’s own dugout whisperer. Kyle, I want to talk about one name: Dylan Lesko. First-rounder, 21 years old. We player-locked him last week. What’s the inside buzz?”

Kyle Delaney:
“Rick, the numbers won’t jump off the page—5 innings, 3 ER—but Lesko’s poise was special. Faced Nelson Cortes on a rehab start, and he was pounding the zone early. Got hurt by a couple bad breaks. His fastball command? Above his age group. Just needs to build strikeouts back into the profile.”

Rick:
“You worried about that K rate? Just 1 strikeout that start.”

Kyle:
“Long-term, no. But he’ll need to miss more bats if he wants to leapfrog a few names. Still, he’s ahead of schedule.”


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📞 CALL-IN SEGMENT 2
Caller: “Janice from St. Pete”

Janice:
“Rick, please talk to me about Jonny DeLuca. Two bombs, a double, and speed to burn. Is this the Misner replacement while he’s out?”

Rick:
“Girl, you read my mind. DeLuca is cooking. .301 average with pop, elite speed, and made a beautiful running catch on a liner. Don’t let that 72 overall fool you—he’s got real role-player upside. If Misner’s not 100%, I’d give Jonny a May audition. You heard it here first.”


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🎙️MINOR LEAGUE SPOTLIGHT: Carson Williams & Tre’ Morgan

Rick:
“Now, not everything’s sugar and sprinkles in the minors. Carson Williams is still searching for his bat—.211 average, no homers. He did show some signs of life with a double and a walk, but that swing looks like it’s chasing shadows.”

“Tre’ Morgan? Defense is slick, but hitting .176 in AA... yikes. He’s got great contact mechanics, but it’s not translating. The Biscuits are ice cold. And Brock Jones—our early season darling—went 0-for-4 with 3 strikeouts last week. The hype train is slowing.”


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🎙️SCOUT SCOOP w/ Savannah Locke (Pre-recorded)

Savannah:
“We’re seeing real potential out of Chad Poirier—high stamina, limits hits, lefty with workhorse projection. And watch out for Victor Colon. 22 years old, electric fastball touching 98, developing a curve that could make him nasty in the pen or rotation. We’re pushing these arms hard. The draft board is firming up.”


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🔥 HOT TAKE OF THE WEEK: Caminero Injury Fallout

Rick:
“Junior Caminero pulled his tricep. He’s expected to miss a few days, but let’s be real—the Rays can’t afford to lose one of the only bats bringing life to the Trop. Caminero was hitting .299 with a .481 SLG. He was our heartbeat. Now we’re trotting out Coco Montes and asking Caballero to play hero ball. What’s next—summoning the ghost of Evan Longoria?”


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📞 CALL-IN SEGMENT 3
Caller: “Tony the Uber Driver”

Tony:
“Rick, I’ve had three fares today talking about firing Kevin Cash. C’mon man, isn’t this the guy that got us to the Series in 2020?”

Rick:
“Tony, listen. I love Kevin Cash. But we’re nine and twenty-one. You bench Brandon Lowe. You yank Littell from the rotation. This is survival time, not loyalty time. If we don’t rattle off 12 wins in May, someone’s seat is heating up.”


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🏁 WRAP-UP: April by the Numbers

Rick:
“Here’s your stat snapshot before we close shop: Yandy Diaz is your MVP so far—.331 average, 8 bombs, 24 RBIs. Caminero was hot before the injury. Jose Caballero is stealing bags like he’s playing GTA. But the pitching? Burn it down and start over.”

“We’ve got Boston and New York running away with the AL East, and Tampa Bay dead last. May is our month to either claw back into relevance or start eyeing 2026. Rays fans—we ride together. Call in tomorrow—we’ll be talking trades, prospect call-ups, and if Zach Eflin can save our sorry rotation. Spoiler: doubtful.”

🎶 Closing Music: “Learn to Fly” by Foo Fighters


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📻 “The Heat on the Bay” airs nightly on WTBZ 960 AM, streaming on all major platforms. Call in at (813)-555-RAYS

[bigjdotcom01]

June 9-11: TAHOE (43-27) @ LAS VEGAS (24-43)
Stadium: Ballys Ballpark (Capacity: 26,976)

June 9: Silver Kings 3, Lake Monsters 1
June 10: Silver Kings 2, Lake Monsters 0
June 11: Lake Monsters 3, Silver Kings 1

Las Vegas, NV (AP) - Las Vegas took two of three from first place Tahoe to close out their home stand.

Las Vegas opened up their series against the first-place Lake Monsters with an impressive 3-1 victory. Kevin Perez (5-6) was once again great, tossing 6.2 innings and allowing one run on seven hits, striking out six, to key the Silver Kings to victory.

Las Vegas would jump in front in the fourth on a two-run single from Vladimir Escalera, scoring David Tejeda and Mariano Hidalgo. Las Vegas would add a run in the fifth on a two-out RBI single back up the middle from David Tejeda with Todd Matsumoto scoring.

Tahoe would finally break through in the seventh with a two out rally. Three straight singles from Robby Lancaster, Quentin Jamison and Jose Dominguez plated the first run for Tahoe. Rob Porter would come on and get Guillermo Esquivel to fly out to left to end the threat.

Jeff McArthur came on in the eighth and gave up a lead off triple to Reese Cherry, but stranded him at third. Kai Ransom came on in the ninth and gave up a two-out single to make things interesting, but locked down the save, his fourth.

Quentin Jamison went 3 for 4 with a double in the loss for the Lake Monsters. Ray Hunter (5-7) took the loss. He went five innings, allowing three runs on six hits.

On Tuesday evening, the Silver Kings got another great pitching performance to blank the first-place Lake Monsters 2-0. Emery Hutchinson (5-5) tossed seven shutout innings, scattering five hits and striking out 12, to help Las Vegas win a second straight game.

The Silver Kings went up 1-0 in the third. Russell O'Reilly tripled, and then scored on a passed ball and throwing error from catcher Guillermo Esquivel. They would add to that lead in the sixth as Caden Juarez beat out an inning ending double play, allowing Stephen Park to score.

The Las Vegas bullpen made things interesting as they always do. Henry Coronado struck out the side in the eighth. Eric Herman came on in the ninth. He quickly got the first two outs. Jose Dominguez then grounded one to Stephen Park in what looked like the game ending play, but Park booted the easy grounder to keep the game alive. Alex Prado then walked. The Silver Kings turned to closer Kai Ransom and he struck out Guillermo Esquivel to end the game and pick up his fifth save.

In Wednesday afternoon's finale, the Lake Monsters jumped on Antonie Swanger early for three runs and made that hold up in a 3-1 victory to avoid a three game sweep at the hands of the last place Silver Kings. Dirk Osborne (3-1) tossed 6.2 innings, allowing one run on five hits, striking out one, to pick up the win.

Henry Reyes opened the game with a lead off triple to right. Gilberto Cardona was injured on the play as he tried to make a leaping catch. Alex Prado grounded out 5-3, allowing Reyes to score to put Tahoe up 1-0.

In the second, Edgar Rosa tripled to center to start the inning. Jose Dominguez singled him home to make it 2-0. Ozzie Rivera singled Dominguez to third. Guillermo Esquivel added a sacrifice fly to score Dominguez to make it 3-0. That was all that Tahoe would need in this one as Osborne kept Las Vegas off balance the entire game.

The Silver Kings would finally get to him in the seventh. Caden Juarez reached on a throwing error by Robby Lancaster. Russell O'Reilly then lined a two-out single to center. Junior Maldonado doubled to left to score Juarez to cut it to 3-1. But Eric Machado flew out to center to end the inning, stranding two runners in scoring position.

Antoine Swanger (5-4) took the loss, allowing three runs on 11 hits in seven innings of work.

The Silver Kings (24-43) will now hit the road for a trip to Mesa (37-30) and Chandler (35-31).

Around the League: Fort Worth's Eli Sexson (9-3) picked up his ninth win on the season on Sunday afternoon as the Drillers beat West Texas 5-2. Jay Plaza homered twice (9,10) and drove in four of the Fort Worth runs.

Albuquerque has traded 32-year-old third baseman Geraldo Chacin (78 OVR, B POT) to Long Beach for 32-year-old catcher Demarcus Rosenberg (76 OVR, C POT). Chacin was hitting .272 with seven home runs and 24 RBIs in 206 at-bats for the Mariachis. Rosenberg was hitting.150 in only 20 at-bats for the Surf Dawgs in 2025.

Phoenix's Phil Chapman homered twice (7,8), driving in six, as the Firebirds won their fifth straight game, a 10-1 victory over Mesa.

San Diego's Cristian Johnson (6-7) threw a complete game, four hit shutout, striking out three in a 3-0 victory for the Seals over Glendale that runs their winning streak to 11 games. The Seals are now just a game back of Tahoe for first in the DL West.

Emery Hutchinson tossed a gem on Tuesday evening. He lead the Desert League in strikeouts with 99.

[Itsma806]

2025 Houston Astros 09/05-09/07

Overall Record: 71-73 (3rd AL West/12.0 behind Texas/5.5 behind final wildcard spot (Mariners 76-67)

Game Results:

Game 1
Astros-8
Rangers-7

Game 2
Astros-7
Rangers-1

Game 3
Rangers-6
Astros-4

Astros win second consecutive series as they continue to try to keep postseason hopes alive.

Its not likely but the Astros 2025 playoff hopes are still alive and only took a minor hit with their 2-1 series victory over the West leading Texas Rangers. For the Astros, offensively, it was a series of big innings late in the ball game.

Games 1 and 2 saw those big innings come in the 7th with Houston scoring 5 in that inning in the first game to flip the game on its head and take the 8-5 lead that would eventually turn into a 8-7 victory. Houston then went on to score three in that same inning in game two to the give the Astros the 6-1 lead that would end in a 7-1 victory.

Then much like the Yankees series, Houston entered game three with the chance to sweep the series only to fall short.

It wasnt Spencer Arrigheti's best game as he lasted just 4.1 innings allowing 8 hits and 6 runs. Those six are all that Texas would score but that was enough as they avoided the sweep and claimed the game three victory, 6-4. All of Houston's 4 runs came via Yainer Diaz's 6th inning grand slam.

Houston will now have a day off before they head to Canada to face the Blue Jays (63-80/5th AL East).

[jmcole33]

The Amazins

Rockies Rally Late, Series Headed Back to New York
October 14, 2029

Colorado hit two HR in the bottom of the 8th inning force a Game 6 back in New York. Down 4-3, CF Marcus Wilson hit his second HR of the game to level the score, and a couple of batters later 1B Greg Uribe would put the Rockies ahead for good. LHP Donald Beals was on the receiving end of both HR. Suddenly, the Mets are desperate for answers.

CF Nick Craven gave the good guys the lead before most of the Mile High crowd found their seats. He took a high fastball 427 ft to dead center for a leadoff HR. The Rockies would strike back immediately however, hitting 2 HR in the bottom half of the first courtesy of Wilson and LF Micker Adolfo. The Mets would then tie the game at 3 in the 4th.

After the first, RHP Anderson Espinoza would settle down. He was impressive into the 6th inning when a 90 minute rain delay ended his night prematurely. He would leave the game with the lead thanks to an RBI single by 1B Ray Velazquz in the top half of the inning.

Donald Beals entered the game in the 8th up 4-3 to face the top of the Rockies' order. Regular closer RHP Steve Roy was tasked with the 7th inning, which he got through unscathed. The Mets planned on using Beals to get through the lefty heavy 1-4 batters of the Colorado lineup. Unfortunately, Beals couldn't get the job done. Despite 36 saves during the regular season, Beals was replaced as the closer in mid-July because the Mets weren't satisfied with the way he was closing games. It seems they should have stuck with their gut rather than following the analytics.

The series now heads back to NY with the Mets still clinging to a 3-2 series lead. This is where the absence of LHP Sean Machado will be sorely felt. Instead of turning to the 2029 CY Young winner for a pivotal Game 6, they'll be left with the likes of LHP Julio Fernandez, RHP Luis Severino, and RHP Travis West to finish the series. The rookie might be their best option, but he won't be available until a potential Game 7.

It was only a couple days ago the Mets were designing their NL CHAMP t-shirts in anticipation of clinching the series. Right now, that seems to have been premature.