MLB The Show 25 Franchise Discussion

[LowerWolf]

It's mid-May of 2025 so we're still more than two months away from the trade deadline, but we're already seeing some action.

The Braves made their first significant move of the regular season, acquiring OF/1B Pavin Smith from the Diamondbacks for OF Jarred Kelenic. Smith is hitting just .193 on the season with two home runs, but the Braves think he can be a valuable piece off the bench. Kelenic is the younger and arguably more talented player but he had fallen out of favor in Atlanta. With Ronald Acuna Jr., Michael Harris II and Jurickson Profar all locked up for multiple years, playing time was going to be scarce for the former top prospect. He was optioned to Gwinnett in April to get consistent playing time. He'll get a fresh start in Arizona, but faces the same dilemma there for playing time.

The Braves also purchased the contract of right-handed RP Enoli Paredes and recalled him. Daysbel Hernandez was optioned to Gwinnett after getting tagged for six runs in a loss to the Nationals. Luke Williams was DFA'd to make room on the 40- and 26-man rosters. The Braves will try to outright Williams to Gwinnett.

In other moves around the league, the Guardians acquired SS Miguel Rojas from the Dodgers for utility man Tyler Freeman. And the Yankees beefed up their bench getting OF Alex Call from the Nationals.

<I really hated using Kelenic this year, so I put him on the block. The D-Backs had Smith on the block as well. When I inquired about Smith, they wanted Kelenic and when I'd ask them what they'd give me for Kelenic, they offered Smith. So there you go.>

[Arkansas Ranger]

Texas Rangers Season 3 MOM End of season final

Season 3 has come to an end. The Rangers finished 66-96 and last place in the division. Here are the results from the playoffs

Wild Card
Guardians over Yankees in 3
Red Sox over Astros in 2
Phillies over Mets in 3
Pirates over Diamond Backs in 3

Division
Guardians over Tigers in 4
Red Sox over Orioles in 3
Braves over Phillies in 3
Dodgers over Pirates in 5

Championship
Red Sox over Guardians in 7
Dodgers over Braves in 6

World Series
Red Sox over Dodgers in 6 MVP Bregman

League MVPs
National Brent Rooker Dodgers
American Gunner Henderson Orioles

Rangers signed Nate Lowe and Isaac Parades in Free Agency. They did not tender contracts to Langford or Carter.

[jamm113]

🏟️ ESPN.com | MLB RECAP — May Update
Title: “Rays Show Signs of Life with Road Surge, Peña Effect, and a Mangum Moment”
By: Jayson Stark | ESPN Senior Writer

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ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Don’t call it a comeback yet, but something’s stirring in Tampa Bay.

After falling to a miserable 12–28 start, the Tampa Bay Rays have shown flashes of resilience, rattling off five wins in their last seven, sweeping the Blue Jays in Toronto, and earning a series split against the lowly Miami Marlins. The team now sits at 17–29, still buried in the standings, but playing with renewed energy and purpose.

The narrative shift coincides with several key events: the arrival of hitting advisor Carlos Peña, standout performances from the rotation, and the long-awaited spark of youth and grit.

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⚾ Rotation Renaissance


What once looked like a patchwork rotation has become a point of pride over the past week:

• Drew Rasmussen continues to be the anchor, going 6.1 innings of 1-run ball in Toronto and later adding a 7-inning effort against the Marlins.
• Shane Baz reminded everyone of his ace potential with a complete game 4-hitter, dominating a potent Jays lineup.
• Taj Bradley showed maturity beyond his years, blanketing Toronto for 7.1 innings in a 5-2 victory.
• Zack Littell flirted with a complete game against the Marlins and earned his third win.

Meanwhile, Ryan Pepiot’s meltdown against Miami (5 ER in 1 inning) remains a sore spot — his inconsistency has the staff on edge.

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🌟 Peña’s Pupils Producing


Since Carlos Peña stepped in, the bats are slowly waking up. Josh Lowe is on a tear, hitting three homers in five games to reach 8 on the season. Jose Caballero, one of Peña’s top projects, hit .400 over the last seven games, with 6 multi-hit performances in his last 10.

Junior Caminero is finding his groove, notching a 3-for-5 game with a triple against the Marlins and consistently making hard contact. He's now batting .274 with 5 HRs and a team-leading 23 RBIs.

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🧨 Mangum Moment: Welcome to the Show


The Rays saved their most emotional moment for the final game in Miami.

Jake Mangum, the 28-year-old journeyman outfielder, launched his first MLB home run, a no-doubt blast into the second deck in the 8th inning to seal the Rays' 7-3 win. The dugout gave him the classic silent treatment before erupting in celebration.

“It was a blur, honestly,” Mangum said postgame. “To get that kind of love from the guys? Man, that’s what you dream of.”

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🧾 Roster Notes

• Andrew Wantz was promoted to AAA after dominating in Montgomery. Could earn a call-up with bullpen struggles ongoing.
• Rays claimed Wandy Peralta off waivers from the Padres. The southpaw has potential but will need a reset after a brutal start in San Diego (13 ER in 8.2 IP).
• Garrett Cleavinger remains unreliable in relief, surrendering runs in back-to-back outings. His leash is tightening.

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🔍 Scouting Spotlight

• Alex Hernandez (CF, Oregon) is rising fast. His elite speed, accurate arm, and disciplined bat could make him a steal at pick #14.
• Pedro Ramirez (SP, Panama) now ranks #10 on the Rays' draft board, far higher than MLB consensus. With an elite splitter and strong control, he's being viewed internally as a future #1 or #2 starter.
• JJ Wells is cooling off slightly after early hype. His electric fastball remains tantalizing, but control and consistency may push him to late-round risk territory.
• David Ting (C, South Korea) is now under the spotlight. The 6’4” 18-year-old shows promising power and strong defense — more intel to come.

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🔬 Rotation Breakdown (Ranked)

1. Shane Baz – Most complete arsenal, elite curveball, pinpoint command
2. Drew Rasmussen – Power pitcher, excels under pressure, elite velo
3. Taj Bradley – Dynamic pitch mix, nasty 12-6 curve, still maturing
4. Zack Littell – Walk-prevention specialist, limited K upside
5. Ryan Pepiot – Best pure stuff after Baz, but volatile and homer-prone

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📉 Still a Climb Ahead


The Rays are last in the AL East, but the team's ERA has dipped to 4.73, showing slight improvement from a league-worst mark earlier this month. They’ve also jumped to 16th in HRs (53) and 18th in team batting average (.248).

As they return to Tropicana Field for a nine-game stretch against the Astros, Blue Jays, and Twins, the question looms:
Is this the start of a turnaround — or just a hot week on a cold season?

Next Up:

• Home vs Astros (20–22), Blue Jays (again), and Twins (26–21)

[jamm113]

🎙️ “RAYS ROUNDUP RADIO” with Rick & Lefty
📍 Live from Tampa Bay’s WRAZ 104.5 FM – “Where Baseball Lives”
🎧 Presented by Publix – “Where Shopping is a Pleasure”

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[Opening Jingle Playing]
🎶 “Rick and Lefty on the dial, breaking it down with that Rays-style!” 🎶

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Rick:
“Welcome back to Rays Roundup, folks. I’m Rick Donnelly—back from a fishing trip and still smellin’ like snapper—and with me as always, the Sultan of Sizzle himself, Lefty DeMarco!”

Lefty:
“LET’S GOOOOOOOOO! The Rays win five of seven, the vibes are immaculate, and Jake Mangum just took one to the second deck! Call your grandma, Rick—this team’s not dead yet!”

Rick:
“Haha! Mangum mania has officially hit the Bay. But seriously, after that 12–28 start, we were writing obituaries. Now we’re talking about sweeps, walk-offs, and—dare I say it—a little momentum?”

---

⚾️ SEGMENT 1: Hot Takes & Hot Bats


Lefty:
“Let’s talk about it, Rick. Drew Rasmussen? Absolute monster. Shane Baz? That complete game was poetry. Taj Bradley? The kid is cooking.”

Rick:
“And Josh Lowe? My man has 8 home runs, 4 of ‘em in the last week. If he stays hot, you could see an All-Star push—especially if Caballero keeps driving him in.”

Lefty:
“Caballero’s got Peña’s fingerprints all over him. You can see the confidence, the aggression, and he’s got a cannon now! That double play? Laser!”

---

☎️ CALLER SEGMENT – “Your Take, Your Mic”


📞 Danny from Clearwater:
“Hey boys, love the show. Is it too early to say we fleece’d the Brewers with that Aranda deal? He’s got 6 bombs and looks like a real bat-first weapon.”

Lefty:
“Danny, let me say it loud: Jonathan Aranda is HIM. Plate discipline like a vet. I’d like to see him hitting cleanup more often.”

📞 Trisha from Ybor City:
“Love Mangum’s homer but... can we trust this bullpen? Clevinger gives me heartburn every time.”

Rick:
“Trisha, you’re not alone. The ‘Cardiac Crew’ gave up 3 in the 8th vs. Toronto and nearly coughed up another lead to Miami. But Fairbanks has been solid. We need Wantz up here—yesterday.”

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🎭 SEGMENT 2: Bloopers, Blunders, and Bench Banter


Lefty:
“Okay Rick, let’s talk about that almost-catch by Mangum.”

Rick:
“Oh my days—my man levitated half a second early, missed it by that much. I watched it in slow-mo like it was Shakespearean tragedy. Mangum flies... and gravity wins.”

Lefty:
“Also, how about Chandler Simpson accidentally sliding into third with no one on base behind him? Heads-up, but the dugout couldn’t stop laughing.”

Rick:
“And Pepiot’s face after giving up that fifth run in Miami? Looked like he just found out gas is $8 a gallon.”

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🔥 SEGMENT 3: Hot Seat Watch


Rick:
“So... the owner met with Bendix and Cash. Not a rumor—confirmed. They want results in June or changes are coming.”

Lefty:
“Front office pressure? Check. Trade block heating up? Check. Manuel Rodríguez and Richie Palacios might be packing bags if this month doesn’t turn.”

Rick:
“Let’s be real though—if the kids keep cooking and Baz looks like 2021 Shane McClanahan, you don’t trade—you build.”

---

🎯 Rays Radar: What’s Next

• 3 games vs Houston – Watch for Chandler Simpson to get more reps in CF.
• Blue Jays rematch – They’ll want revenge.
• Twins series – Could be a wildcard preview if the Rays catch fire.

---

Lefty’s Final Word:
“You want a spark? You got it. Mangum hits his first, Caballero looks like prime Zobrist, and Peña’s turning this team into believers. Next step? Win a series at home. Feed the Trop!”

Rick’s Sign-Off:
“From first-pitch fireworks to silent treatment homers, it’s been a wild ride. Stay tuned, Tampa—because this season just got interesting. For Lefty, I’m Rick, reminding you to keep your glove down and your head up. Goodnight!”

---

🎶 [Outro Jingle]
“Rick and Lefty signing off, Rays fans never soft, 104.5 brings the heat, from the Trop to your street!” 🎶

[Itsma806]

2025 Houston Astros 09/12-09/14
Overall Record: 74-75 (3rd AL West/11 behind Texas Rangers/5.5 behind last WC Spot (Orioles 79-70)

Game Results:

Game 1
Astros-4
Braves-3

Game 2
Braves-8
Astros-6

Game 3
Astros-9
Braves-8

Yordan reaches 60 as Astros take series win

The Astros won two of three in Atlanta as they continue to try to keep their playoff hopes alive. Still, with just 12 games left, their chances are diminishing. The Astros non lucky numbers are down to 2 in the division and 8 in the wildcard race. Still, Houston did get two of three wins to win the series against the Braves as they won the odd number games, 1 and 3 in the series.

The Astros will now enter their final stretch as they will now face three of their divisional opponents to end the season. The first series in that stretch is a big one against the Texas Rangers (85-65/1st AL West/4.0 over Seattle Mariners)

[MizzouRah]

The Amazins

World Series Champions - Colorado Rockies
October 25, 2029

The Colorado Rockies defeated the Chicago White Sox in a 4 game sweep to win the 2029 World Series Championship. Game 1 was won 5-4 in the 12th inning, and their magical ride this postseason kept on rolling through the next 3 games. It is the first World Series Championship in franchise history.

The Rockies had 97 wins during the regular season, good for second in the NL behind the New York Mets. They took care of the St Louis Cardinals in a 3-game sweep in the NLDS. Then came their historic comeback against the Mets. They rallied from down 3-0 to win 4 straight and claim the NL pennant. They then took care of the Chi Sox in 4 games by scores of 5-4, 7-5, 7-6, and 4-0. Games 1 and 3 needed extras to be decided.

1B Greg Uribe was your World Series MVP. He has two years of team control left and will be a big piece in the Rockies title defense in 2030.

Congratulations again to the Colorado Rockies!

Wow.. insane run by the Rockies. The playoffs in this game really get me stressed, the CPU seems to take it up a notch.

[jmcole33]

The Amazins

HOF Class Of 2029
October 25, 2029

1B Anthony Rizzo was this year's lone inductee into the Baseball Hall of Fame.

After one year in San Diego, Rizzo was traded to the Chicago Cubs prior to the 2012 season. He manned first base at Wrigley for the next 13 seasons, before spending the last 4 years of his career in the Seattle organization - the first two with Seattle and the next two with their AAA affiliate in Tacoma.

In his 15 year MLB career, Rizzo slashed .281/.369/.519. He amassed 2,369 H, 499 HR, 442 2B, and 1,378 RBI. He never was able to reach the elusive 500 HR club, but it was an outstanding career nonetheless.

[jmcole33]

The Amazins

Exclusive Free Agent Period
October 25, 2029

With the conclusion of the World Series, we immediately move into Free Agency. Teams have 5 days to negotiate exclusively with their pending free agents, as well as offer them the Qualifying Offer (1 year/$21.6M) if they so choose.

Below are the Mets players with expired contracts, as well as what their agents submitted as an initial asking price:

- RHP Steve Roy: 5 years/$39.5M
- LF Michael Conforto: 2 years/$1.1M
- CF Albert Almora: 2 years/$12.4M
- LHP Sean Machado: 5 years/$43M
- 3B Rafael Devers: 4 years/$20.4M
- OF Brandon Nimmo: 2 years/$4.8M
- RHP Luis Severino: 2 years/$5.4M
- RHP Ronald Sandoval: 2 years/$1.1M

At first glance, I would not expect the Qualifying Offer to be extended to anyone this year. Also, the odds are that everyone will hit the open market, except for Conforto. He's made it abundantly clear that he wants to finish his career in New York, and the Mets seem to have mutual feelings.

[jmcole33]

Wow.. insane run by the Rockies. The playoffs in this game really get me stressed, the CPU seems to take it up a notch.

It was a shock to the system, for sure. I still had ultimate confidence heading into Game 7, and then we went up 2-0. But then they hit the grand slam and I was like.. uh oh.

[bigjdotcom01]

June 13-15: LAS VEGAS (26-44) @ MESA (38-33)
Stadium: Sloan Park (Capacity: 13,432)

June 13: Silver Kings 11, Solar Sox 8
June 14: Solar Sox 4, Silver Kings 3
June 15: Silver Kings 9, Solar Sox 8 (11)

Mesa, AZ (AP) - Las Vegas started the road trip by taking two out of three against first-place Mesa at Sloan Park.

Las Vegas opened up the road trip with an impressive come-from-behind 11-8 victory over Mesa. Gilberto Cardona went 2 for 5 with a double, home run and five RBIs to lead the way for Las Vegas.

Mesa got to Jude Vernon early in this one, scoring three times in the first inning. Julio Mendoza lined an RBI double to left, scoring Paul Gonzalez. Steve Dewitt then singled back up the middle to plate two runs as Mesa jumped out to a 3-0 lead.

The Silver Kings would tie it up in the third on a Eric Machado three-run home run to center, his ninth on the year. Las Vegas would take the lead in the fourth on a two-run home run from Gilberto Cardona, his eighth. That chased Mesa starter Kevin Socea.

The Solar Sox would retake the lead in the bottom of the fourth on a Guillermo Velasquez three-run home run to left, his second on the season, to put Mesa up 6-5. The Solar Sox would add one in the sixth as Doyle Ramirez homered off of Jude Vernon to make it 7-5, his 11^th on the year. That spelled the end for Vernon in his worst start since being called up. He allowed seven runs on nine hits in five plus innings, striking out five and walking one.

But the Silver Kings responded big time, sending ten men to the plate and scoring six runs in the top of the seventh to roar ahead 11-7. David Tejeda singled home Danny Watt to cut the Mesa lead to 7-6. A fielding error from thrid baseman Ramirez loaded the bases with no outs. Gilberto Cardona unloaded them with a three-run triple off the wall in right center to put Las Vegas up 9-7. Todd Matsumoto would reach on an error from Steve Dewitt with Gilberto Cardona scoring. Eric Machado doubled home Matsumoto to make it 11-7.

Mesa would get one back in the ninth, but it was too little, too late, as the Las Vegas offensive explosion helped the Silver Kings to their third win in four games.

John Sato (1-6) picked up his first win out of the bullpen. He threw two scoreless innings in relief of Jude Vernon.

In Saturday afternoon's contest, the Solar Sox used a three run first inning to jump out to the lead and made that stick in a 4-3 victory. Rookie Bernardo Mendoza (1-0) picked up his first IBL win, tossing five innings and allowing three runs on eight hits, striking out five in his debut.

Mesa struck quicky as they jumped on Steve Sechrist in the first. Steve DeWitt hit a two-run home run and Mike Anderson followed with a solo shot to put the Solar Sox up 3-0. An RBI double from Julio Mendoza in the third made it 4-0.

But Las Vegas struck back with three in the fourth. Mariano Hidalgo and Caden Juarez hit back-to-back home runs to open the inning. Gilberto Cardona would add an RBI single to cut the Mesa lead to 4-3. That was as close as Vegas would get.

The Mesa bullpen then shut down the Silver Kings, allowing just one hit over the final four innings. Sam DiLuca picked up his 23^rd save as he worked a 1-2-3 ninth.

Steve Sechrist (1-7) just cannot seem to catch a break in 2025. He went six innings, allowing four runs on six hits, striking out six. Rob Porter and Eric Herman each threw a scoreless inning in relief.

Russell O'Reilly's ten game hitting streak came to an end as he went 0 for 4 with two strikeouts.

In Sunday's finale, the Silver Kings overcame a blown save to pull out a 9-8 victory in extra innings to win the series over the first-place Solar Sox. Caden Juarez hit two home runs (10,11) including a three-run shot in the top of the 11^th to help the Silver Kings pick up the victory.

Mesa took a 1-0 lead in the second on a Ramon Reyes RBI single to left that scored Doyle Ramirez. They would add another run in the third on a Steve Dewitt two-out RBI double.

Las Vegas then took the lead in the third on a three-run home run from Vladimir Escalera, his seventh on the season. But the Solar Sox answered right back with three of their own in the bottom of the fourth. Doyle Ramirez hit a solo home run to tie the game. Steve Gonzales then hit a two-run double to give Mesa a 5-3 lead.

Las Vegas tied the game up in the sixth on solo home runs from David Tejeda (9) and Caden Juarez. They would take the lead in the top of the ninth against Mesa closer Sam DiLuca as Russell O'Reilly hit a 2-2 cutter over the wall in left. His fourth home run on the season was Las Vegas' fourth of the game and put the Silver Kings up 6-5.

But Mesa answered in the bottom half against Silver Kings closer Kai Ransom. Steve Dewitt hit a ball to second that looked like it might be a game ending double play, but Dewitt beat out the return throw to allow Alan Hampton to score to tie the game at 6-6.

Neither team could push across a run in the tenth.

In the 11^th, Mariano Hidalgo was hit by a pitch. Caden Juarez then launched a three-run home run to right, his second of the game, and Las Vegas went up 9-6. Mesa would get two back in the bottom half as Steve Gonzales hit a two-run home run (14) to cut it to 9-8. But Jeff McArthur was able to get Steve DeWitt to pop out to end the game.

Steve Gonzales went 2 for 6 with a double, home run and four RBIs in the loss for Mesa. He hit three balls with an exit velocity of greater than 107 mph, two of which ended in outs.

Jeff McArthur (4-2) picked up the win for Las Vegas. He threw two innings, allowing two runs (one earned) on two hits. Starter Kevin Perez went five innings, allowing five runs (four earned) on nine hits, striking out four. Kai Ransom blew his third save, allowing the run in the ninth.

Junior Salinas (2-1) took the loss for Mesa, allowing three runs (two earned) on two hits.

The Silver Kings (26-44) will now head across town to Chandler to take on the Chiefs in a four game series to end the road trip.

Around the League: Fort Worth starting pitcher Teddy Eckert has been placed on the Injured List after tearing his rotator cuff in Friday's start. He will be out for the rest of the 2025 season. Eckert was (7-2) with a 2.57 ERA in 80.2 innings of work for a Drillers team that is right in the Wild Card chase in the Mountain League.

Colorado Springs snapped Phoenix's seven game winning streak on Sunday afternoon with an 11-1 victory. Robby McNeil went 3 for 5 with a double, home run and three RBIs to lead the Snow Sox. Dwight Saryan improved to (8-3), tossing eight innings and allowing one run on five hits, striking out six and walking one.

Surprise rallied with five runs in the top of the ninth to tie Long Beach at 6-6, only to lose on a walk-off solo home run from Ward Mejia, his 13^th on the year, in the bottom of the ninth as Long Beach managed to avoid a sweep at the hands of the Saguaros.

Flagstaff lost star third baseman Justin Long for the season with a torn ACL that he injured in the Hops 6-1 loss at Fort Worth on Sunday afternoon. Long was hitting .261 with 16 home runs and 37 RBIs.

Gilberto Cardona launches one into the gorgeous skies in Las Vegas' win on Friday night.

[bigjdotcom01]

IBL POWER RANKINGS

The mid-June Power Rankings are out!

1. Tahoe Lake Monsters (46-27) (NC): The Lake Monsters are first in batting average (.265), runs scored (363), third in walks (273), fourth in home runs (98), and second in ERA (3.35). Reese Cherry (.340, 19 HR, 50 RBI) and Shea Horton (.259, 19 HR, 60 RBI) lead the way. Julio Berroa (8-4, 1.92) and Mark Payton (9-2, 2.84) lead the pitching staff. This is a team that should be there in the end if they can stay healthy.

2. San Diego Seals (44-28) (42-24) (+6): The Seals lead the league in team ERA (3.18) and have been red-hot as of late, winning 17 of their last 20. They are fifth in slugging (.432) and first in saves (32) led by closer Norris Wal kwho has 27 saves in 28 opportunities with an ERA of 0.64 and WHIP of 0.86 in 28 innings of work. They have six players with at least 11 home runs, led by Alvin Metoyer with 14 and 45 RBIs.

3. Fort Worth Drillers (37-35) (NR): (14-4) in their last 18, the Drillers are starting to look like a team that can contend in the Mountain League. They are third in team ERA at (3.50) and third in runs allowed (264). Pedro Lantigua is having an MVP type season (.283, 15 HR, 48 RBI) to lead the charge offensively. JP Bannister (.266, 13 HR, 46 RBI) has 10 stolen bases. Eli Sexson is (9-3, 3.58) with 94 strikeouts in 93 innings of work. The loss of Teddy Eckert (7-2, 2.57) to season ending shoulder surgery is a tough blow.

4. San Antonio Javelinas (41-31) (+1): Another team that is dominating with their pitching is the Javelinas with a team ERA of (3.85). The Javelinas are in the top 10 in a bunch of categories both offensively and pitching. Leroy Hunter leads the offense (.275, 15 HR, 42 RBI) with Juan Medrano leading the way on the mound (8-3, 3.11 ERA, 1.27 WHIP) with 100 strikeouts in 89.2 innings.

5. Amarillo Honey Hunters (36-34) (-1): Marty Rosa has Cy Young numbers for the Honey Hunters (7-0, 2.54 ERA, 1.08 WHIP, 91 K's). Fredrick Tillman (6-4, 2.38 ERA, 1.09 WHIP, 94 K's) is right there also. Sutton Ruiz (.282, 15 HR, 46 RBI) and Cristian Palbicki (.304, 12 HR, 43 RBI) lead the way offensively for an Amarillo team that started out red hot but has cooled off as of late.

6. Billings Mustangs (41-29) (NC): third in home runs (100) led by Darrick Pugh (18 HR, 39 RBI) and fourth in ERA (3.50). The Mustangs are second in stolen bases (79) led by Ryan Prince who has 18. Richie Dickson (8-2, 2.75 ERA, 1.23 WHIP, 96 K's) and Percy Balk (6-3, 2.92 ERA, 1.01 WHIP, 87 K's) lead the starters. Robby Hess has 24 saves with a 1.65 ERA with four blown saves.

7. Boise Hawks (37-34) (NR): The Hawks are second in batting average (.265), lead the league defensively (.994) with the fewest errors (16). Chad Riley is the front runner for Mountain League MVP hitting (.265, 23 HR, 58 RBI). Daniel Valenzuela leads the ML with 10 wins, but has an inflated ERA (4.74) and WHIP (1.48). Sean Christensen (4-4, 3.30 ERA, 1.29 WHIP, 111 K's) leads the ML in strikeouts.

8. Peoria Pit Spitters (41-31) (+1): Yusniel Tejera is having a year for the Pit Spitters (.228, 21 HR, 63 RBI) with top pick Odell McCarthy living up to the hype (.285, 18 HR, 42 RBI). It seems like only a matter of time before Phoenix overtakes the Pit Spitters in the Central.

9. Surprise Saguaros (35-36) (NR): The offense is keeping Surprise in the DL Central race, led by MacKenzie Evans (.279, 17 HR, 52 RBI) and Edmund Isaac (.304, 16 HR, 44 RBI). Andres Guzman, taken 9^th overall in the draft, is just (2-1, 4.23 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, 29 K's) in 27.1 innings of work.

10. Salt Lake Chukars (37-35) (-8): The Chukars are third in batting (.262), third in runs scored (347), fourth in home runs (98), eighth in stolen bases (68). Henry Fishman leads the way offensively (.254, 18 HR, 49 RBI). Only one starter has a winning record in John Clemente (5-4, 3.06 ERA, 1.35 WHIP, 59 K's).

11. Phoenix Firebirds (41-32) (NR): only in top ten in one offensive category (BA, 7^th, .258). Seventh in team ERA (3.71) and second in saves (30). Rickey Pugh leads the way offensively (.316, 13 HR, 49 RBI) and George Brandt is the DL frontrunner for the Cy Young (12-2, 2.29 ERA, 1.15 WHIP, 92 K's) in 102 innings pitched. Alfonso Cruz has 28 saves in 30 opportunities with a 0.83 ERA and 0.86 WHIP.

12. Albuquerque Mariachis (39-34) (-3): The Mariachis are tenth in hitting (.257), seventh in runs (328), tenth in home runs (91), fourth in walks (271), fifth in OBP (.334) and second in pitching strikeouts (649). They are led by D'Andre McDaniel (.321, 13 HR, 48 RBI) with Conrad Rouse leading the Mountain League with 116 strikeouts in 89 innings pitched. Rouse is the only starter without a losing record (7-7, 4.35 ERA, 1.27 WHIP).

13. Glendale Desert Dogs (38-34) (-10): The Desert Dogs are sixth in scoring (330), second in home runs (105), first in walks (282), fifth in saves (27) and tenth in pitching strikeouts (604). Jay Craig leads the offensive charge (.254, 18 HR, 51 RBI) with Roberto Blanco a close second (.261, 17 HR, 53 RBI). Joseph Dowdy has been their best arm out of the bullpen (3-3, 1 SV, 1.25 ERA, 0.92 WHIP) with 22 K's in 21.2 innings.

14. Mesa Solar Sox (38-33) (NR): The Solar Sox are ninth in home runs (92), ninth in stolen bases (67), and fourth in walks allowed (222). Julio Mendoza (.302, 16 HR, 46 RBI) and Steve Gonzales (.247, 14 HR, 45 RBI) lead the offense.

15. Chandler Chiefs (36-34) (NR): (5-11) in their last 16 games, the Chiefs are slumping as of late and have fallen into fourth in the DL East, but are just 1.5 games out of first. The Chiefs are not ranked in the top ten in any offensive categories. Defensively they are buttoned up though, commiting the fifth fewest errors (24). They are tied for third with eight shutouts. Alfonzo Rosales, drafted 12^th overall, leads the offense (.291, 19 HR, 41 RBI) and Buster Kershaw is having a nice season on the bump (8-3, 2.41 ERA, 0.92 WHIP, 83 K's) in 97 innings.

16. Long Beach Surf Dawgs (36-34) (-9): The Surf Dawgs are slumping at just (6-11) in their last 17 games after a strong start. They have fallen 8.5 games back of Tahoe in the DL West. Aubrey Winkler leads the offense (.271, 13 HR, 43 RBIs). Closer Will Flaherty has been great, going 23/24 in save chances with and ERA of 0.36 and WHIP of 0.97.

17. Gilbert Barnstormers (38-35) (NR): The Barnstormers are (11-6) in their last 17 and they are back in the race in the DL East, just a game back of Mesa. The Barnstormers are eighth in scoring (326), leading the league in doubles (148), and triples (26), and fourth in slugging (.439). Pitching has been an issue as they are 25^th in team ERA (4.31), but third in shutouts with eight. Alton Callahan is having a nice year (.309, 14 HR, 45 RBI). Norm Doby (6-5, 3.94 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, 103 K's), Carlton Russell (7-4, 3.46 ERA, 1.37 WHIP, 88 K's) and Jimmy Gutierrez (8-4, 3.50 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, 74 K's) are having nice years at the top of the rotation. The bullpen has been awful.

18. Tucson Roadrunners (37-34) (NR): (4-11) in their last 15, the Roadrunners have fallen out of first place, but still sit just one game back in the DL East. Herbert Webber is having a nice year (.301, 15 HR, 42 RBI). Sean Young has been a good #1 starter (7-4, 3.91 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, 91 K's).

19. Santa Fe Jays (37-36) (NR): The Jays have been hovering around .500 for the past few weeks, just two games back of first place Albuquerque. 29^th in slugging (.387) and 27^th in OBP (.307), but fifth in team ERA (3.63). William Choi, fifth overall pick in the inaugural draft, is hitting (.230, 15 HR, 38 RBI) to lead the offense. Joe Hendrix (8-3, 2.80 ERA, 1.34 WHIP) and Phil Ibarra (3-6, 3.39 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, 98 K's) lead the staff.

20. Flagstaff Hops (34-37) (NR): the Hops are 28^th in team batting average (.234), 28^th in runs scored (263), 22^nd in home runs (80), 27^th in slugging (.389) and 29^th in OBP (.298). Justin Long was having a nice season before he was lost this week to a season ending knee injury. Long was hitting (.261, 16 HR, 37 RBI). Ellis Petit (5-5, 2.59 ERA, 1.22 WHIP) and Vern Na (2-7, 3.59 ERA, 1.13 WHIP, 96 K's) are a nice 1-2 punch at the top of the Hops rotation.

21. Colorado Springs Snow Sox (32-40) (NR): The Snow Sox seem to be playing below expectations. They are sixth in hitting (.260), tenth in home runs (90), and seventh in OBP (.331). Much like Vegas, they have a bunch of players offensively that are doing OK, but no one standing out. Buster White is hitting (.297, 16 HR, 30 RBI) to lead the team. Four of their five starting pitchers have an ERA below 3.50, led by Dwight Saryan (7-3, 3.15 ERA, 1.17 WHIP, 73 K's) and Robby Lundy (4-4, 3.44 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 114 K's).

22. Oakland Oaks (32-39) (NR): The Oaks are sitting in fourth in the DL West, 12 games back of Tahoe and 5.5 back of a Wild Card spot. Murice McGinnis leads the way offensively (.290, 8 HR, 31 RBI) with Louis Tabarne (4-7, 3.51 ERA, 1.20 WHIP, 72 K's) leading the starting staff.

23. St George Archers (33-39) (NR): just (2-11) in their last 13, the Archers have slipped into last in the ML West, nine games back of Billings. Fletcher Long, the first overall pick in the draft, is having a nice year (.296, 18 HR, 44 RBI). Michael Calzado has been the lone bright spot on the staff (4-5, 2.91 ERA, 1.23 WHIP, 80 K's).

24. West Texas Bison (32-40) (NR): The Bison have won five straight but still sit in fourth in a very top heavy ML East. Chris Christensen (.256, 12 HR, 28 RBI) and Julian Casto (.232, 10 HR, 34 RBI) lead the offense. Sandy Stephenson has been great atop the rotation (7-3, 2.60 ERA, 1.05 WHIP, 101 K's).

25. El Paso Express (33-39) (NR): Another team that is playing below preseason expectation is El Paso. Sitting in third place in the ML Central, only 5.5 games back, there is still time to right the ship. Tomas Velasquez has been a bright spot, hitting (.266, 18 HR, 40 RBI). Irwin Kelly, who came over in a trade from Tahoe and has thrown the only no hitter in IBL history, is (4-2, 3.61 ERA, 1.08 WHIP, 75 K's).

26. Las Vegas Silver Kings (26-44) (NR): How is the team with the worst record not last in the Power Rankings? This team is actually pretty good and has been unlucky. The Silver Kings are 14th in Batting Average (.255) and 11^th in ERA (3.86), but 29th in scoring (255). They are third in stolen bases (76) but 28^th in home runs (67). They are 18 games below .500, but have a run differential of only -17. Caden Juarez has been the best offensive player on the Silver Kings, hitting (.304, 11 HR, 39 RBI). Ace Emery Hutchinson has been fantastic (5-5, 3.48 ERA, 0.89 WHIP, 99 K's).

27. Austin Fire Frogs (30-41) (NR): Austin looked like a possible playoff team after Spring Training, but this season has not gone as planned. The Fire Frogs are 10.5 games out of first, and 6.5 out of the Wild Card. Seth Camp has been a bright spot offensively (.335, 9 HR, 40 RBI). Closer Sam Saldana has been their best arm (1-2, 22 SV, 2.10 ERA, 0.94 WHIP).

28. Salt River Rafters (27-38) (NR): The last place Rafters have gone (8-19) in their last 27 after a strong start. Eloy Leon is having an MVP type season on a last place club. He is hitting (.354, 17 HR, 40 RBI), but getting little help. The Rafters have the worst ERA in the league at 4.95 and they have allowed the most runs.

29. Scottsdale Scorpions (28-44) (NR): the lone bright spot on this club is stud shortstop Herb Dorsey. He leads the team in all categories (.319, 14 HR, 44 RBI) and he has ten stolen bases.

30. Denver Black Bears (30-42) (NR): The Black Bears have a big payroll, and were picked to be a middle of the pack team in 2025. That has not happened. Nino Almanzar leads the offense (.277, 10 HR, 40 RBI). Carlos Cruz (4-5, 3.60 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, 96 K's) and A.J. Cox (5-4, 3.98 ERA, 1.23 WHIP, 103 K's) have both been good at the top of the rotation. The Black Bears have a -102 run differential, worst in the IBL.

[Bgrd1080]

Another Rollercoaster Month for the Angels

July 1, 2025 — Anaheim, CA

The Los Angeles Angels wrapped up another turbulent month of baseball, finishing June with a 12-14 record that perfectly encapsulates their up and down 2025 season. The team endured both five game and four game losing streaks, only to follow them up with a six-game surge that included taking three of four from the New York Yankees (44-40) and a dominant sweep of the AL East-leading Baltimore Orioles (46-39).

Despite the hot stretch, the Angels (38-45) find themselves firmly planted in the basement of the AL West, sitting 10.5 games behind division leading Houston (49-35) and four games back of the fourth-place Oakland Athletics (44-43). With the season nearing its midway point, trade chatter around the Halos is heating up.

Sluggers Jorge Soler (14 HR) and Taylor Ward, who leads the team in doubles (18) and has quietly put together an elite defensive campaign, have found themselves in the rumor mill. Infielder Luis Rengifo, a pending free agent, has also drawn attention with his defensive versatility, team leading 37 RBI, and 15 stolen bases.

Still, the Angels' front office is pushing back against the notion of a sell off. Manager Ron Washington remains optimistic about the team’s playoff hopes.

“Just get in and see what happens,” Washington said when asked about the Wild Card race . "The Nationals and Braves proved it can be done a few years back.”

That optimism, however, clashes with reality on the field. Not a single Angels batter is hitting over .300, and the pitching staff has struggled to find consistency. One notable exception is right-hander José Soriano, who continues to shine with a 2.97 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, and 78 strikeouts over 97 innings.

Movement on the Farm
To shake things up, the Angels have turned to their farm system:

Cadence Dana (LHP): Since being called up on June 19, Dana has logged one impressive start (8 IP, 6 K, 2 ER) and seven innings of relief. There’s speculation that a six-man rotation could be on the horizon to manage innings and spark performance.

Nicky Lopez (2B): After tearing up Triple-A Salt Lake with 8 HR and a .319 average, Lopez earned his call-up on June 23. In limited action (19 AB), he’s hitting .316 with 4 RBI — though his defensive role remains fluid.

Gustavo Campero (C): The 28-year-old backstop was promoted out of necessity after starter Logan O’Hoppe suffered a fractured shin in Sunday’s loss to Washington. Campero will share catching duties with veteran Travis d’Arnaud for the foreseeable future.


What’s Next?
With the trade deadline looming and the season teetering between hope and hard decisions, July will likely define the Angels’ direction. Will they fight their way back into Wild Card contention or pivot toward a retooling effort?

For now, it's another unpredictable chapter in an increasingly familiar story the rollercoaster ride of the 2025 Los Angeles Angels.

Logan O'Hoppe watches it fly

[jamm113]

📺 ESPN MLB SHOWCASE 🎙️ "Rays Recap: A Month of May Mayhem"
By: Juan Mata, ESPN Baseball Insider


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TAMPA, FL — A whirlwind week of highs, heartbreaks, and heat-checks has the Tampa Bay Rays staggering into June with a 20–33 record. Despite showing flashes of explosive offense and promising pitching, the club has now dropped 6 of their last 8 games, including a tough sweep at the hands of the surging Astros and a bullpen implosion against the Blue Jays.

But it wasn’t all doom and gloom. Between the emergence of key prospects, an electric Memorial Day win, and overdue roster shakeups, the Rays just might be gearing up for a climb back into contention—or at least clarity.


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⚾️ WEEK IN REVIEW

🔥 HOUSTON, WE HAVE A PROBLEM

Astros sweep Rays at the Trop (12–3 cumulative run differential)

Game 1: The Rays fought valiantly in a 5–3 loss, but missed opportunities and a lack of execution sunk them late. A bizarre baserunning blunder by the normally sharp José Caballero in the 8th stifled a rally. Shane Baz (5 IP, 3 ER) exited with a minor oblique tweak but should not miss a start.

Game 2: Flat. Lifeless. Shutout. The Rays managed just 5 singles in a 3–0 loss, with Yainer Díaz and Chas McCormick providing all the fireworks.

Game 3: The bats finally woke up with 13 hits, but the bullpen (again) let it crumble. A 7–5 defeat capped the sweep. Kim, Mangum, Aranda, Morel, and Palacios all had multi-hit nights, but Ryan Pepiot and Kevin Kelly combined to allow 7 runs.


📉 STAT OF THE SERIES: Yordan Álvarez hit 3 HRs in the set. Rays' bullpen allowed 10 runs over the 3 games.


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🧨 BLUE JAYS SERIES: BOMBS, BLUNDERS, AND BULLPEN MELTDOWNS

Game 1: A late bullpen collapse erased a Zack Littell quality start in an 8–7 heartbreaker. Despite a 3-hit, 2-RBI night from Caballero and Aranda’s 7th homer, the pen surrendered four runs in the final three innings.

Kevin Kelly, Manuel Rodríguez, and Wandy Peralta all wore the horns—and Peralta was DFA’d postgame.

Rays fans online reaction:

> “I don’t care if he’s a lefty, Wandy’s arm had more holes than a sieve.” – @RaysTruthersOnly
“DFA is short for Don’t Forget Andrew [Wantz].” – @DealinWithDealin




Game 2: Finally, a clean one. A 7-inning gem from Drew Rasmussen and a walk-off blast in extras by Junior Caminero sealed a 6–1 win in 11 innings.

Game 3: Baz was brilliant again, cruising through 8 innings of 1-run ball. Everyone got involved offensively, and the Rays took the rubber match 7–1.

📈 POSITIVE NOTE: Andrew Wantz makes an immediate impact with his first win. Caballero leads MLB in stolen bases (16). Caminero beginning to look like “The Franchise.”


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🎆 MEMORIAL DAY: BRADLEY BATTLES & FRANCE GOES YARD AGAIN

Taj Bradley out-dueled Bailey Ober in a 3–1 win, showing poise and a bit of edge by plunking Ty France after a first-inning homer + celebration.

Yandy Díaz continues to rake (.305 AVG, 38 RBI).

Aranda tweaked his tricep but avoided serious injury.

Rays now 3–2 in last five, still 10 games back of the Yankees in the East.



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🔄 ROSTER MOVES & REACTIONS

🔁 Roster Shuffle Recap:

DFA’d: Wandy Peralta (5.80 ERA in high-leverage meltdown mode)

Optioned: Manuel Rodríguez (ineffective over 29.2 IP)

Promoted: Andrew Wantz (1.23 ERA, elite h/9 in AAA)

Called Up: Alex Faedo (1.86 ERA, 12 saves in AAA; potential setup man)

Trade Block: Brandon Lowe & Kyle Gibson


💬 Rays Nation Reaction:

> “About time we gave the kids a shot. Peralta’s slider had more hangtime than a pop fly.” – @TropicallyCynical
“Wantz is gonna be a dude. Bet he gets 5 saves by July.” – @RaysFarm2Fame
“If we’re selling on Brandon Lowe, make it count. No salary dumps.” – @BayRaysBlog




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🔭 SCOUTING SPOTLIGHT

David Ting (C/3B) – Early scouting says elite lefty-killer with plus power. Could be a breakout bat next season.

JJ Wells (RHP) – High-floor #2 with polished fastball/sinker/curve. Rays love the projection.

DeAndre Griffith – Raw but tantalizing. 6’5” righty, elite pitch break, lacks strikeout stuff.

Sean Wilson – Could be the steal. 19-year-old with a wicked 5-pitch mix, elite K potential. Projected #6 pick.



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🧊 ICYMI – QUICK HITS

Dylan Lesko (AAA) fractured arm, out 2–3 months. Big blow to organizational depth.

Jonathan Aranda (7 HR, .288 AVG) continues to impress. Misses a few days but no IL.

Brandon Lowe returns to form (.297, 3 HR vs RHPs this month).

Caballero now leads MLB in steals (16) and has been a spark at 2B/SS.



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🔥 HOT TAKES

1. Caballero > Walls – His defense, baserunning, and contact skills are everything the Rays want Walls to be.


2. Wantz is the new setup man – Peralta’s exit opens a door. Faedo-Wantz-King might be the trio for June.


3. Yandy for ASG? – He’s quietly putting up All-Star numbers at DH. Vote him in, Tampa!


4. Time to sell on Lowe? – If the Rays slide in June, a package for an MLB-ready arm and top-100 bat might be hard to resist.


5. Is Caminero ready to lead? – The bat is booming. With Aranda banged up, he’ll need to step up.




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🧭 ON DECK

Two more vs Twins – Rays hoping to end May on a high note.

Astros Rematch in Houston – Will be emotional, physical, and must-watch.

[MizzouRah]

Anyone notice the CPU not using the bullpen as well as when they patched it, or is it just in my head. (I'm in the playoffs in 2027)

Just seems like they are leaving them out there too long and not using the L/R matchups as much as when I first started my franchise.

[jmcole33]

The Amazins

Former Met Watch: Amed Rosario Re-Signs for 7 years/$217M
October 28, 2029

In a stunning move, the Texas Rangers re-signed their shortstop and leadoff hitter, Amed Rosario to a monster deal. The signing itself isn't stunning, but the term and dollar amount was surprising.

Rosario is already 34 years old, and by the time his contact his up he will be on the wrong side of 40. Not only that, but the Rangers back-loaded his contract. It gives them more flexibility in the short term to compete for a championship, but Rosario is booked to make $41M in the final year of the deal. The move is a statement that the Rangers are going all in over the next couple of years.

Rosario spent the first 6 years of his career in New York and was a part of three title teams - 2019, 2021, 2022. In his time in New York, Rosario slashed .255/.328/.362 with 150 2B and 150 SB while playing excellent defense up the middle. It wasn't until he got to Texas where he found his power stroke. He hit 161 HR over the last 6 seasons, including 40 in 2026.

The dominos are starting to fall already this winter.