Fixing the Marlins!

[ayaghmour2]

It's time! It's the 2029 MLB draft where the Seattle Pilots own the first pick! The Indians have the 2nd Pick for not signing their first rounder last year, followed by the Washington Senators, Boston Doves, and Montreal Expos. These are the first ever picks for four of the five teams. I don't pick until 32.

The Pilots selected Chris Carpenter 1st overall, the only player I really wanted to draft. He's a 5* stud who's durable, and extreme groundballer, has top stamina, and 100 rated stuff. He looks like a lock for star.

The Senators took Chris Prochaska 3rd Overall. He's another starter with elite stamina and is rated a 3* potential.

The Boston Doves took a starter of their own, southpaw Luis Jaquez out of Puerto Rico. Another 3* with elite stamina and stuff.

Lastly, the Expos selected SP Jeremy Gilmore, a 3.5* starter who was my next pick with Carpenter off the board at #1. He's an extreme groundballer with elite stamina, plus-plus stuff, and plus movement and control.

1st Round, 32nd Overall: SP Chris DePalma (3.5): Okay, I lied. DePalma was actually my number 2, not Gilmore, and I somehow managed to get him. Drafted out of Ludlow HS in Massachusetts, the 19-year-old has elite stamina, plus-plus control and stuff, and plus movement, all while keeping the ball on the ground. His slider is a great wipeout pitch, but his plus fastball just sits at 90-92. He's "clutch" and shuts out stress with ease. He's got mid-rotation potential, but reminds me a lot of Joe Kramer, who's ended up turning into a late inning relief prospect/big leaguer.

1st Round, 41st Overall: SP Joel Vibbert (3.5): He's a compensation pick for the signing of Jake Florence, and sadly, isn't nearly as good as Florence. He's a borderline starter, kind of like Chris Bigsby, with elite stamina, plus-plus stuff, but with plus-plus control as well. Both guys also have plus-plus fastballs and curves with an average change. Bigsby throws harder, but just barely, and Vibbert has nice potential. He was absolutely dominate and Colony High School, and the California native has big leaguer written all over him, whether it's as a starter or reliever.

2nd Round, 73rd Overall: SP Joey Winterscheidt (3): Another high school reliever, Winterscheidt has plus-plus stuff with plus control and average movement. The southpaw has an elite curveball, but his cutter sits at just 87-89. He's got elite stamina with back of the rotation potential. He's got a lot of work, but he's got a long way to go. With good work and good luck, he's got the intangibles to intrigue.

3rd Round, 107th Overall: 3B Zach Pontius (3): The first htiter selected this year, Pontius has a cannon at third and elite power. He's got a plus eye, but doesn't make much contact, and he strikes out a lot. He's got decent speed, and can offer on the basepaths desptie the lack of range at the hot corner. He's got a little ability at second base, but it's more of a last resort position. It's a great birthday gift for him to get selected on his 18th birthday.

3rd Round, 113th Overall: SP Joe Valrie (3): He's a fringe starter, with barley enough stamina to be a starter. But, what he does have, is elite stuff with an 100 rated slider. He's got a plus fastball that sits around 92-94 and an average change up. He's got plus-plus control as well, but doesn't have the movement needed to excel, yet. He's part Venezuelan, but was born and raised in Oregon.


4th Round, 147th Overall: CF Charlie Dennis (2.5): He's a fringe prospect, but could eventually become a 4th outfielder in the big leagues. He's got elite speed and is a plus-plus baserunner. He's got elite range and will track down almost every ball in the outfield. He doesn't have much of an arm, btu has good contact, power, and an elite eye. He's a light hitting singles hitter, but he'll strike otu a lot.

5th Round, 181st Overall: SP Steve Gullo (3): Says he won't sign, but I'd like to change his mind. He's got 100 rated stamina, plus-plus stuff and control, but just average movement. He's got a nice curve, and throws just 89-91 with his plus fastball. He's got a lot of growing to do, but he does have his share of upside.

6th Round, 215th Overall: CF Bobby Fitzgerald (2.5): He's more of a corner outfielder, but he does have the range for center. He's got great speed and a great eye, but not much of a bat. He's got some upside, but could just be another one of "those" prospects that look good and then fiz out.

7th Round, 249th Overall: SP Eric Estes (2): A junior out of USC, Estes was taken by the Brewers in the 5th Round in 2026, but has dropped a little. That's not to say that he's not talented, as the Miami native has an intriguing four pitch arsenal with a plus fastball that can touch 97. He's got potential, but is likely a longman.

8th Round, 283rd Overall: SP Josh Welsh (2): He's got a ton of stamina and plus stuff, but he relies much too much on his natural talent. He's got a plus-plus fastball that can touch triple digits with a plus curveball and average change up. He's not too special, but definitely worth a look.

9th Round, 317th Overall: SS Ken Neiderhauser (2.5): Won't sign. He's a future elite defender with good speed, but isn't much of a baserunner. He rarley strikes out, and has a decent overall bat, but heading to college should really help him. He's been linked to North Carolina.

10th Round, 351st Overall: C Ernie Erickson (2): Undrafted out of high school, he went to Contreras College in Los Angeles and excelled. He's got the defensive skills to be a plus catcher, and has plus contact at the plate. He's got a good eye as well, and is an intriguing young prospect.

11th Round, 385th Overall: SP Danny Sauls (2): Nicknamed "D-Money" by his high school friends, the Florida native features a plus slider and a fastball that hits 90-92 with ease to go with an average change. He's got the stamina to pitch deep into games and plus control.

12th Round, 419th Overall: 3B Braedon Leshane (2): A versatile righty from Winnipeg, Leshane turned 19 today. He's got an elite arm and elite range in the infield, as well as plus range and arm in the outfield. He can play first, third, left, center, and right, but needs to learn how to turn double plays better for the middle infield.

13th Round, 453rd Overall: SP Chris Wright (2): Won't sign. An undersized righty, Wright needs to grow a little if he wants to take advantage of his arm. He can still reach mid 90s with his fastball, and he can drop on a plus-plus curveball. He's got plus stuff and control as well.

14th Round, 487th Overall: SS Mike Berry (2): Undrafted out of High School, he went to Morton Memorial and put together a solid collegeiate career. He's an elite defender with elite speed, but not much of a bat. He's likely to be a defensive utility man.

15th Round, 521st Overall: C Jeremy Kyle (2): Won't sign. He'll develop into a solid catcher defensively, but is known for his elite eye. College should help polish him off, and he's been linked to Auburn and Alabama, as he wants to stay close to home.

16th Round, 555th Overall: CF Whitney Lindstrom (2): Won't sign. He's got elite range, a plus arm, and can catch almost everything hit to him. He's a durable lefty who needs to work on his contact before taking the next leap.

17th Round, 589th Overall: SS Mike Segal (2): Another undrafted high school senior, he went to Warren College in California, and had a really solid senior season. He's an elite infield defender and has a cannon in the outfield. He's lined up at second, short, third, left, and right. He's got good speed as well, but needs a little more power.

18th Round, 623rd Overall: SP Luis Alejo (1.5): A southpaw with elite stamina, he's got a decent three pitch arsenal. He's got a plus-plus curve and plus stuff. He needs to get his other pitches movement better, but he's worth the late selection.

19th Round, 657th Overall: SS Bubba Hyde (1.5): Hyde dropped all the way from a 3.5* to 1.5* before draft day. He's got plus-plus defensive ability and can stick at short or be a top second basemen. He's got plus speed, plus contact, and a plus-plus eye, but "Yac" will have more then his fair share of strikeouts.

20th Round, 691st Overall: SP Chris King (1.5): Won't sign. He's got elite stamina, plus control, and a nice circle change, but he's an incomplete prospect. College should help him out, and he has his choice of California schools.

21st Overall, 725th Overall: SP Caleb Downing (1.5): I actually like him. He's got plus-plus stamina and plus control with a four pitch arsenal. His changeup is his best pitch, but he can barely hit 90 with his cutter. He's more of a Zach Davies type pitcher then Jake Florence, but he could be an interesting youngster.

22nd Overall, 759th Overall: SS Zack Roeske (1.5): He's a decent infielder, but has absolutely no speed. He makes up for it with solid instincts, but he will make a lot of errors. He's got plus contact and power, and is a much better hitter then defender.

23rd Overall, 793rd Overall: SS Erik Miller (1.5): We're now at the point where all the guys who are more then 1* are "fake" prospects and it's really all a guessing game. Miller is intriguing because he has experience at second, third, short, left, and right. He's got a great arm, which makes it likely he ends up at third or right. He does have the range for short, but isn't the best on the double plays. He's not much of a hitter, but he's got a good eye.

24th Round, 827th Overall: CF Steve Locastro (1.5): A walk-on at Mississippi, Locastro could be a solid outfielder if he ever stays healthy, which is what lead to his walk-on status. He's got elite speed and range, and can stick in center. He just almost never hits the ball, but the lefty will draw walks and hit doubles down the line.

25th Round, 861st Overall: CF Pete Caulkins (1): Won't sign. Another California native, he's a decent outfielder who can stick in center. He's not much of a base runner or hitter, but he's got a little potential. He's linked to a lot of the second tier of California schools.

26th Round, 895th Overall: CF Maddox Clancey (0.5): I'm drafting him as a pitcher, not outfielder, but will use him as a two way player. The Canadian switch hitter has elite speed, elite range, and a plus-plus eye, but without any bat. As a pitcher, he actually has 1.5 potential with plus stuff and control. Three of his four pitches are plus pitches, and his average fastball sits around 88-90.

27th Round, 929th Overall: SP Jimmy Wein (0.5): He's got 100 rated stamina, so that's a start. He also has a plus-plus changeup and plus control. Other then that, not too special, but hey, he can get better.

28th Round, 963rd Overall: CF Dave Bair (1.5): He's a good runner who has plus-plus range and can stick in center. He's got a plus eye as well, but doesn't have too much of a bat. He is durable, so at least he won't get hurt.

29th Round, 997th Overall: SP Mike Cartolano (0.5): He's got elite stamina and a decent three pitch arsenal. His slider is a plus pitch and he hits 90-92 with his fastball.

30th Round, 1,031st Overall: CF Josh Fonseca (0.5): I took him in the 28th Round in 2027, and he's been at Curry Junior College the past two seasons and has hit pretty well. I'm going to use him as a two-way player. He's got great defensive abilities and can stick in the outfield despite his lack of speed. He doesn't hit much though. He's got plus-plus stuff and good stamina out of the pen.

31st Round, 1,065th Overall: CF Jim Ahrens (1): If you haven't noticed I like two-way players, and here's another one. He's a decent hitter for a 31st Round pick, and has solid range and speed. He's likely a left fielder position wise. As a pitcher, he doesn't have the stamina for a starter, but he's got a plus-plus curve with a plus fastball and change. He's an average starter, and could push to the high levels of the minors.

32nd Round, 1,099th Overall: CF Mat Trent (1.5): Think worse version of Joey Gallo offensively. Lot's of swing and miss power with a solid eye. He's a decent defender as well, and can play all three spots. He's a Miami Gardens native as well.

33rd Round, 1,133rd Overall: SP Chris Alexander (0.5): Won't sign. Elite stamina, two plus pitches, but that's about it. Well, he's also a 6'7'' righty at 18 with joint baseball-basketball scholarships.

34th Round, 1,167th Overall: SS Dan Platenberg (0.5): Won't sign. He's an intriguing prospect with not much of a position. He likely ends up at first, but he played short in High School. He's a Florida native.

35th Round, 1,201st Overall: SP Ben Studivant (0.5) He moved up a round since 2026 when the Angels selected him 1,076th Overall, but as you can see, was selected later overall. He attended Washington, but really struggled as a junior. He can throw a knuckleball, however, so I grabbed him. He has four other pitches, but none are really that good.

36th Round, 1,235th Overall: SP Jonathan Dickerson (0.5): He's dropped a ton since the Astros took him in the 13th Round in 2026. He attended a smaller school in Fairfield, and did not play well at all. He throws five pitches, has elite stamina, and throws 92-94 consistently.

37th Overall, 1,269th Overall: CF Joey Greenmyer (0.5): Won't sign. This lefty has an elite eye, plus-plus speed, and a cannon in the outfield, which will likely lead him to right field. He can't hit much, but he's got time to work on it.

38th Round, 1,303rd Overall: SP Rory Baker (0.5): He was selected by the Phillies in the 18th Round in 2026, but struggled at San Jose State. He's got elite stamina and throws 90-92 with his cutter, but he has absolutely no control.

39th Round, 1,337th Overall: SP Josh Staley (0.5): He's got plus control and elite stamina, but lacks the third pitch currently to be a starter. His change ranks as just a 4, and his other two pitches are nothing special either. He also doesn't throw too fast, but is just 18.

40th Round, 1,371st Overall: SP Jake Miller (0.5): My first ever Mr. Irrelevant! Miller was my 32nd Round pick in 2026, but he didn't do enough at Stony Brook to propel his draft stock. He is a durable righty, but lacks the stamina to be a starter. He hits 91-93 and throws five below average to average pitches. He's interesting enough to re-select.

Here's where my other undrafted guys from 2026 went:

2nd Round: SP Shawn Perryman: Selected by the Senators in the 7th Round
8th Round: SP Nate Walters: Selected by the Astros in the 7th Round
14th Round: 2B Kennan Muttart: Selected by the Dodgers in the 33rd Round, then released
15th Round: CF Juan Escudero: Selected by the Mets in the 7th Round
18th Round: CF Juan Montoya: Selected by the Twins in the 34th Round
22nd Round: CF Dan Hitz: Selected by the Phillies in the 27th Round, then released
27th Round: C Murdoch Levick: Selected in the 10th Round by the Seantors
31st Round: SS Ethan McKinney: Returned for his senior year
33rd Round: C Daniel R. Suber: Returned for his senior year
35th Round: CF Ernesto Vuelvas: Selected by the Expos in the 15th Round

Up next, a review of the 2019 Draft on its' 10th aniversary:

In the majors:

2B Tyler Callihan (1st): I wouldn't label him a star, but he's had a great career in the bigs. I traded him and Hunter Harvey to the Phillies for Scott Kingery, and let's just say the Phillies won that trade. He spent 2024-2028 with them in the bigs, putting togehther three straight seasons of 3.5 or more WAR before being traded to the Reds midseason. He was great in 2028 with the Reds, and has put togehter a solid 2029. He's hitting .286/.354/.453 with 86 homers, 341 RBI's, and 60 steals in 696 big league games.

Retired Major Leaguers:

RP Jaheim Meggett (2nd): You can barley call him a big leaguer, but he did toss 8.1 innings with the Blue Jays in 2025 with a 3.24 ERA and 0.84 WHIP. He had a lot of talent, and was on my 40, but dealt with a ton of injuries that eventually cut his career short.

Active, but not employed:

LF Chad Greyerbiehl (5th): He spent a season with us before being traded to Baltimore. They released him in 2021, and then he came back to Miami. He spent 2021-2025 with us before being released. He hooked on with the A's in 2026, and they released and resigned him before cutting him for good in 2027. He has a few at bats in AA, but really hasn't done much with his career.

SP Josh Reynolds (17th): He spent 2019-2024 in the GCL, before finally breaking through to Batavia in '24. He made it to Jupiter in 2025, then got hurt for the rest of the year. He took a carosuel of rehab with Seattle, Toronto, and Cleveland before signing with the Clinton Pilots in 2027 where he started for an extended time. He then went to the Dodgers system, was released, and signed with the Twins. He pitched well in AA last year, but hasn't gotten a new contract.

Retired Minor Leaguers:

RF Steve Catteron (3rd): Here's a useless pick, he spent two seasons in the GCL before being traded to the Mets. They released him the day after, and he eventually retired in 2023.

SP Joe Sheridan (4th): He had a ton of talent, but had a ton of injuries. He tossed 321 innings in the minors, but never got past Single A. We released him in 2023, and then he spent a little time with Tampa and Washington in their farms.

RP Keylan Killgore (6th): He spent his whole minor league career in Miami before retiring in 2026. He tossed 482.2 innings from the Rookie Leagues all the way to AAA, working a 4.20 ERA and 1.48 WHIP with 359 strikeouts and 254 walks. He almost earned a callup, but was passed on and never signed after becoming a minor league free agent.

RP Joe Stapelton (7th): He was released in 2021, but caught on with Minnesota for a few days in 2022, and then a month with the Angels. He also spent time with Seattle and New York, but never passed A ball.

RF Jamie Ross (8th): Traded to Baltimore after a year in the system, they ended up releasing him in 2021. He spent time with Seattle and Pittsburgh, but he never really did much with his opportunities.

1B Brody Cook (10th): He had 2,244 minor league at bats with a solid .266/.325/.385 line. In 2024, we trade him to the Angels who released him at the end of the year. He latched on with Boston, but was cut before the year started. He then went to Washington for 2025, the Phillies for the offseason, then cut and sent to Tampa for 2026, the last time he played.

SP Cameron Kovachik (11th): He tossed 527.1 big league innings with a 4.13 ERA and 1.39 WHIP. He started 86 of his 130 minor league games. Mainly a Marlin, he did spend a season with the Brewers.

RF Kyle Jacobsen (13th): He ha da long minor league career, that spanned between short season and Double A. He played with us, the Yankees, Phillies, Padres and Indians.

RF Chrisstian Bullock (14th): In real life, I plaeyd against him at Morgan Park. He spent his whol professional career with us, but never really hit much.

2B Luis Madrid (16th): He spent his whole minor league career with us. The Puerto Rican native never really hit much, and never got passed Jupiter.

SP Jared Prentiss (18th): We traded him to the A's in the Dustin Folwer deal in 2020. He then bounced aaround in the miniors, before topping out in AA in 2026, the last year he appeared in organized baseball.

LF Wil Dalton (20th): He only played in 2019 before his released in 2020. He then retired in 2022.

LF Chris Cirrincione (21st): He was traded to the Orioles in 2020. He spent a year there before heading to the Giants system and the Yankees system.

RP Andrew Cioli (24th): He tossed 229.1 innings in the minors and spent 2019-2023 with us before being released midseason. He latched on with the Angels for two days, before spending 9 day with the Nats. He finisehed his 2023 with the White Sox, and then retired.

RP Matt McGarry (26th): Pitched 26.2 innings in 2019, his only professional season.

CF Steve McCornell (29th): He was releaesd in 2020, signed with the Pirates, but didn't play. He had a few bats in 2021 and 2023, but was signed and released by a ton of teams.

1B Juan Montalvo (30th): Appeared in 6 games in the GCL and hit 1-for-6 with a double. That's all the appearences he got.

3B Rylan Thomas (31st): He got 62 plate appearences in 2019 and 2 in 2020 for his entire career.

SS Cole Daily (33rd): He appeared in 132 inor league games and hit .256/.361/.376 with 3 homers, 16 steals, and 44 RBI's. He bounced around a lot, and even appeared in 3 games with AA Biloxi.

C Greg Powers (37th): He spent his whole career in the Rookie Leagues, playing in just a handful of games with us and the Reds.

RP Omari Poullard (38th): He tossed 7.1 innings with the GCL Marlins for the enitrely of his career.

LF E.P. Reese (40th): He was released by us, the Mets, and Pirates before signing with Baltimore. He played 5 games in the GCL in 2020, and then played in 2 games, including his first start, in AAA Norfolk. That's his career.

So 2 of the 26 guys I signed made the majors, not the best ratio. But, one of those, Tyler Callihan, is an All-Star who has played well in his big league career, so I'd consider this draft a minor success, since I actually made a good pick with the 3rd Overall pick, even if I did trade him. It definitely could have been better, but again, one guy who's made $20 million and counting is better then 11 fringe big leaguers.

On to Chicago to get back to winning!

[ayaghmour2]

June 6th, 2029: We were in Chicago to open a three game set with the Cubs. Pat Saitta (6-2, 2.58 ERA, 1.10 WHIP) took on former Marlin Jared Taylor (4-0, 6.46 ERA, 1.89 WHIP) in the opener. The Cubs got 5 in the 5th and won 9-3 to improve to an impressive 43-18.

Saitta went 4.1 innings with 7 hits, 7 runs, 4 walks, and 2 strikeouts. Cho-yeong Hyoun went 0.2 innings with 2 htis, 2 runs, and a strikeout. C.J. LaFever tossed 2 innings with a walk and 4 strikeouts.

Mac Horvath was 1-for-2 with a run scored and 2 walks. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-4 with a double. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-4 with a run scored. Isaac Nunez came off the bench and was 1-for-2 with a solo homer.

Mets starter Sergio Fuentes tossed a 1-hit shutout in a 5-0 in win over the Brewers. He struck out 13 and didn't walk a single batter. The only blemish was a Mykanthony Valdez single with 1 out in the 1st, so Fuentes didn't even think about perfection.

June 7th, 2029: Fan vote update: Miller third for catcher. Reid third for first. Ramirez first for left. Kelenic second for right. Saitta fourth for starters. Hinojos second and Scoles fifth for relievers.

We looked to even up the series with C.J. Jorgensen (4-4, 3.96 ERA, 1.13 WHIP) facing ex-Marlin Jorge Flores (5-3, 2.55 ERA, 0.79 WHIP). We just need Jake Florence for the trifecta! Flores dominated us, and we were shut out 3-0...

Jorgensen went 6.2 innings with 5 hits, 3 runs, 2 walks, and 8 strikeouts. Ignacio Hinojos pitched the 8th with 2 walks and 2 strikeouts to lower his ERA to a minscule 1.36.

Jorgensen was the ebst hitter of the day, 1-for-2. Jackson Miller and Noah Smith were 1-for-3 while Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-4.

Down in New Orleans, Segio Tello matched our total hits, and hit for the cycle in a 14-2 win over the Las Vegas 51s.

Friday 8th, 2029: 2nd Round Pick Joey Winterscheidt signed a $550,000 signing bonus.

We couldn't get swept, could we? Devon Peterson (5-2, 3.25 ERA, 1.30 WHIP) would look to salvage the finale against Jose Espada (2-5, 4.33 ERA, 1.54 WHIP). Florence was rested, but for some reason, they wanted to go with Espada. We managed to stage a late inning comeback and win the finale 5-3.

Peterson went 7 innings with 6 hits, 3 runs, 2 walks, and 6 strikeouts. Luis Alcanta, Gene Hall, and Josh Brown all got single outs in the 8th, with the first and third getting strikeouts, with Brown the win. Chad Scoles allowed a hit in the 9th, but earned save #15.

Eric Kisela was 2-for-5 with a run scored and double. Jackson Miller was 2-for-4 with a double and 2 RBI's. Chris Reid was 2-for-5 with a run scored. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-3 with two walks and a two run homer off Edwin Diaz in the 9th. Jon Reid was 1-for-3. Jarred Kelenic had a pinch hit RBI single in the 8th. Gregorio Alvarenga also had a pinch hit single.

We're headed home to host the Expos for three games. We'll see Crusito Mieses (3-6, 4.45 ERA), Luis Peraza (2-6, 4.81 ERA), and Joseph Jarneski (1-6, 5.83 ERA).

June 9th, 2029: We hosted the Expos for the first time this year, as Juan Coira (5-4, 5.09 ERA, 1.27 WHIP) faced Cursito Mieses (3-6, 4.45 ERA, 1.41 WHIP). We looked great today, and crushed the visitors 14-3!

Chris Reid left with a sore groin, but will be day-to-day for just a few days.

Coira went 6 with 6 hits, 2 runs, a walk, and 4 strikeouts. Hyoung allowed a run and 2 hits in 2 innings with a walk and 3 strikeouts.

Juan Ramirez was 3-for-3 with 4 runs, 4 RBI's, 2 walks, and 2 homers. Isaac Nunez was 2-for-4 with a three run homer, sac-fly, and 6 total RBI's. Chris Reid was 2-for-4 with 2 runs, a walk, and double. Mac Horvath was 2-for-4 with 2 runs, 2 RBI's, and a walk. Jorge Tapia was 2-for-4 with a walk, homer, and 2 RBI's. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-3 with 2 walks, a run, and steal. Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-3 with 3 runs and 2 walks.

Another cycle, but today, in the Majors. Angels RF Peter Crow-Armstrong did it in a 10-9 loss to the Rangers.

June 10th, 2029: We looked to ride yesterday's momentum as Steve Paustian (5-3, 4.28E RA, 1.29 WHIP) looked to stay hot against Luis Peraza (2-6, 4.81 ERA, 1.62 WHIP). It was much closer, but we managed to edge them 5-4.

Paustian went 5 innings with 7 hits, 3 runs, a walk, and 6 strikeouts. Ignacio Hinojos fot the win, an inning with a hit, run, and 3 strikeouts. Brown and Hall got the holds, and Chad Scoles the save. Hall struck out all three hitters he faced in the 8th.

Gregorio Alvareng had an amazing game, 4-for-4 with 2 runs, an RBI, and two steals. Jackson Miller was 3-for-4 with a run scored and 2 RBI's. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-5 with a run scored. Noah Smith was 1-for-3 with a walk and RBI. Isaac Nunez was 1-for-3 with a walk. Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-2 with 2 walks.

A pair of shutouts were tossed today, with Eric Dawson of the Rockies and Luis Escolastico of the Nationals earning the stellar performances. Dawson tossed a 1-hitter against the Pirates in a 4-0 win and Escolastico a 4-hitter in a 4-0 win over the Giants. Dawson had just 1 walk and 7 strikeouts, and was perfect into the 8th. With two outs, Bobby Eaton singled and then he walked Nathan Perry before getting former Marlin prospect Derwin Barreto to ground out to end the inning.

June 11th, 2029: We actually moved up to third in the Power Rankings. At 41-24, we have a nice 8.5 game lead over the Phillies who sit at 32-32. With the NL Central looking like the best division, this might be the first year in literally forever the NL East doesn't have a Wild Card team.

Prospect Watch: SP Sean Clark

Currently in Greensboro, Clark has been hot as of late, but has put in a mediocre 2029. Between the pen and roatio, the Grasshopper as appeared in 19 games (7 starts) with a 4.66 ERA and 1.37 WHIP. He is 2-3 in 48.1 innings with 60 strikeouts and 26 walks. Acquired from the Rays for Jake Taylor in 2028, the southpaw was dominate in the GCL out of the pen last year, tossing 13.2 innings with 4 saves, a 0.66 ERA, and 0.80 WHIP. Tampa's 4th Rounder back in 2027, he can hit triple digits with his elite fastball and then drop an elite curve on you. His stuff is rated 97 potential, but his awful changeup is holding him back from projecting as a big league starter. He's listed as a 1.5* as a starter, but an impressive 4.5* as a reliever. A good comp for him is Joe Kramer, but he has throws way harder and has higher upside.

We looked to finish the sweep with Pat Saitta (6-3, 3.24 ERA, 1.18 WHIP) taking on former Marlin Joseph Jarneski (1-6, 5.83 ERA, 1.53 WHIP).

And then my game froze... Please don't make me lose this week...

I did the most magical thing ever, and actually "restored" the program, and it worked! I instantly saved to be save as well.

Back to the game!

It was another solid game, and we finished the sweep with a 5-3 win!

Saitta went 5.2 innings with 2 hits, 2 runs, 3 walks, and 8 strikeouts. Joe Kramer got the hold, 2.1 innings with a hit, run, and 3 strikeouts. Chad Scoles got the save, allowing a hit and striking out the side in the 9th.

Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-3 with a run scored, walk, and 3 RBI's. Mac Horvath was 2-for-4 with a double, walk, run scored, and RBI. Jon Reid was 1-for-3 with a walk. Jackson Miller was 1-for-3 with a double, 2 walks, and 2 runs. Isaac Nunez was 1-for-4 with an RBI. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-5 with a double and run scored.

Reds 1B Jamie Zeger went 5-for-5 in a 8-5 win over the Diamondbacks.

Another cycle happened down in Jacksonville, as RF Esteban Miramon was 4-for-4 in an 11-9 loss to the Mississippi Braves.

We played well at home, and would head to San Francisco for three with the Giants. We'll see Joe Brausen (4-2, 2.91 ERA), Juan Tafoya (2-8, 3.96 ERA), and Eric Warren (2-5, 4.43 ERA). Let's keep it up!

[ayaghmour2]

June 12th, 2029: Chris Reid asked me for an extension, but wants $37.5 million per year for 7 seasons. That's a lot for an almost 33-year-old who can barley play defense. But, some team will pay him that...

3rd Rounder Joe Valrie signed a $360,000 signing bonus.

Cubs starter Jose Espada, who was injured in the game against us, is out for the year with a torn labrum in his shoulder. He was 2-5 with a 4.15 ERA in 12 starts.

We opened the Giants series at AT$T Park with C.J. Jorgensen (4-5, 3.97 ERA, 1.12 WHIP) taking on Joe Brausen (4-2, 2.91 ERA, 1.29 WHIP). We have the always fun advantage at every position today as well! They got 7 in the 7th to win the opener 11-7.

Jorgensen did fine, 5 innings with 3 hits, a run, 3 walks, and 5 strikeouts. Ignacio Hinojos got a "hold" with 0.2 innings, 2 his, 2 runs, and a strikeout. Jarred Kelenic also got a "hold" an inning with a hit, 3 runs (2 earned), a walk, and 2 strikeouts. Gene Hall got the loss, 2 hits, a walk, and 3 runs without getting an out. Luis Alcantra allowed a solo homer in 0.1 innings. Joe Kramer pitched the 8th, a hit, run, and strikeout.

Juan Ramirez was 2-for-4 with a homer, walk, and 4 RBI's. Daylen Lile was 2-for-5 with 2 runs and a solo homer. Noah Smith was 2-for-4 with a double and solo homer. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-4 with an RBI. Mac Horvath was 1-for-4 with a double. Chris Reid was 1-for-4 with a walk and run scored. Jackson Miller was 1-for-4 with a run scored.

June 13th, 2029: 5th Rounder Steve Gullo didn't accpet my $4 million offer, and instead will attend college.

We looked to even the series with Devon Peterson (5-2, 3.30 ERA, 1.28 WHIP) taking on former #1 Overall Pick Juan Tafoya (2-8, 3.96 ERA, 1.13 WHIP). All the scoring was in the 4th, and we lost 3-2. Back to sucking...

And even worse, Juan Ramirez left with an injury...

Peterson went 5.2 innings with 6 hits, 3 runs, 2 walks, and 5 strikeouts. Ignacio Hinojos tossed 1.1 innings with 3 strikeouts.

Daylen Lile was 3-for-5. Jarred Kelenic was 2-for-4 with a steal and run scored. Isaac Nunez was 2-for-4 with a double and two run homer. Jackson Miller came off the bench and was 1-for-2. Peterson was 1-for-2.

June 14th, 2029: 1st Rounder Chris DePalma signed a $900,000 signing bonus.

All-Star update: Miller is third for catcher. Ramirez is first for left. Kelenic is second for right. Saitta is 4th for starter. Scoles is third and Hinojos is fourth for relievers.

We looked to avoid the sweep with Juan Coira (6-4, 4.93 ERA, 1.27 WHIP) taking on Eric Warren (2-5, 4.43 ERA, 1.34 WHIP). Avoid we could not, and the Giants shut us out 2-0 to finish the sweep.

Now they are 33-35...

Coira tossed 6.1 innings with 4 hits, 2 runs, 5 walks, and 6 strikeouts. The pen went 1.2 innings with 3 hits, 2 walks, and strikeouts.

We only had three hits. Jarred Kelenic went 1-for-4 with a steal. Jorge Tapia is 1-for-3. Mac Horvath was 1-for-4.

At least we are heading home... We'll face the Nationals for three games. We'll see Luis Escolastico (5-4, 2.91 ERA), Chris Dorman (1-2, 4.25 ERA), and Clint Hinshaw (5-6, 3.40 ERA).

June 15th, 2029: Juan Ramirez sprained his ankle, and will head to the DL for about 4 weeks. I recalled Rogelio Maldonado and will shift Isaac Nunez to left field. He actually has decent outfield ratings: 66-78-70.

We looked to stop losing as we hosted the Nationals. Steve Paustian (5-3, 4.35 ERA, 1.31 WHIP) took the mound against Luis Escolastico (5-4, 2.91 ERA, 1.15 WHIP). I guess the guys missed home cooking, and we topped them 6-3 in the opener.

Paustian went 6 innings with 6 hits, 3 runs, 3 walks, and 10 strikeouts. Josh Brown got the hold, tossing 2 perfect innings with a strikeout. Chad Scoles got the save, an inning with a walk and 2 strikeouts.

Daylen Lile was 1-for-3 with a triple, run scored, RBI, hit by pitch, and steal. Chris Reid was 1-for-3 with a solo homer and walk. Eric Kisela hit a pinch hit two run homer. Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-3 with a walk and 2 runs scored. Isaac Nunez was 1-for-3 with an RBI in his first big league start in left field. Mac Horvath was 1-for-4 with an RBI. Paustian was 1-for-2 with a run scored.

June 16th, 2029: 3rd Rounder Zack Ponitus agreed to a $380,000 bonus and 4th Rounder Charlie Dennis agreed to a $270,000 bonus. If Dennis' recent potential spike from a 2.5* to a 5* is accurate, I might have gotten the steal of the draft.

We looked to start streaking with Pat Saitta (7-3, 3.24 ERA, 1.16 WHIP) taking on Chris Dorman (1-2, 4.25 ERA, 1.38 WHIP). Both guys lost their only starts against the opponent this season. The Nats pounded us 9-1 to tie up the series.

Another outfielder bites the dust, with Daylen Lile leaving with back tightness. Luckily it's a relatively minor day-to-day injury.

Saitta tossed 5 innings with 5 hits, 3 runs, 5 walks, and 3 strikeouts. Hinojos, who's had a tough go as of late, allowed 2 hits and 2 runs with a strikeout. Cho-yeong Hyou went 1.1 innings with 6 hits, 4 runs, and a walk.

Lile was 2-for-4 with a steal before leaving the game. Chris Reid was 1-for-3 with a walk. Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-4 with a walk. Jon Reid and Parker Meadows were both 1-for-1 off the bench.

I optioned Hyoun to New Orleans and recalled Zaire Moneyham.

June 17th, 2029: 1st Rounder Joel Vibbert agreed to a $600,000 signing bonus.

The Indians will be without RHP Yoiber Marquina for the rest of the year with a torn labrum. He owned a 3.27 ERA in 22 innings with 15 strikeouts.

San Diego will miss righty Sergio Andrade for the rest of the season with shoulder inflammation. He was 1-1 with a 4.85 ERA in 26 innings. He got a save, walked 11, and struck out 22 in 20 appearences.

We looked to win the rubber match and take the series with C.J. Jorgensen (4-5, 3.84 ERA, 1.13 WHIP) taking on Kevin Steck (1-2, 2.91 ERA, 1.20 WHIP). We got single runs in the 7th, 8th, and 9th to take the series with a 6-3 series ending victory.

Jorgensen went 5 with 5 hits, 3 runs, 2 walks, and 7 strikeouts. Hinojos improved to 6-0, tossing an inning with 2 walks and a strikeout. C.J. LaFever got a hold, 2 innings with 2 hits and 3 strikeouts. Chad Scoles got the save, an inning with a strikeout.

Isaac Nunez was 2-for-5 with a steal, double, homer, and 2 RBI's. Jarred Kelenic was 2-for-3 with a double, 2 walks, run scored, and RBI. Rogelio Maldonado was 2-for-3 with a two run homer and walk. Mac Horvath was 1-for-2 with 2 runs and 2 walks. Jorge Tapia was 1-for-2 with a walk, run scored, and hit by pitch. Gregorio Alvarnga was 1-for-4 with a walk.

We get tomorrow off, which will be nice since we haven't had one since June 5th.

Here's a crazy statistic: At 44-28, we are just the 4th best division leader. The worst are the Rangers and Dodgres, who are both 43-29. Baltimore is 50-22, Minnesota 44-27, and Cubs 48-24.

[ayaghmour2]

June 18th, 2029: LF Omari Tetteh was named American Confrence Player of the Week, hitting .591 with 3 homers and 12 RBI's. Fitting enough, he'll be the "Prospect Watch" player this week:

LF Omari Tetteh: The former 20th Overall pick in 2025, Omari Tetteh came from Tampa in a trade for 2B Devonte Brown. It looked like Tetteh would leave the organization, as the Diamonbacks selected him in the 5th Round of the Rule-5 Draft, but 5 Rule-5 guys is too much to carry, and they returned him Opening Day (they kept former Marlin Juan Morales and returned to the rest). As noted above, Tetteh has been red hot, increasing his Baby Cakes line to .278/.367/.507 with 13 homers and 53 RBI's as well as 14 steals. He has elite speed, is a great defender in left field, and has shown pop as of late. He's got average power, but he hits a ton of extra base hits, as evident in his slugging percentage. He also shows plus contact and won't strike out too much. Rated our #4 prospect and 130th Overall, he seems like a lock to be protected from the Rule-5 Draft, or a late season callup. This time I won't make the mistake of leaving him unprotected.

Down in Jacksonville, RF Esteban Miramon was named Southern League Player of the Week. He hit an insane .889 with a homer and 4 RBI's.

We dropped to 6th in the Power Rankings. At 44-28, we have a 7 game lead.

With the off day, we're headed home for a three game set with the Dodgers. We'll see Robinson Ortiz (6-2, 3.58 ERA), Amari Queen (2-2, 3.88 ERA), and Mike Hines (1-0, 2.02 ERA).

But first, I have to turn 65 into 40 at the GCL level. I sent 5 prospects to the Rockies for C Sergio Argueta. I sent 5 more to the Pirates for CF Juan Gaitan. 5 more to the Reds for RP Jon McCardle. 5 more to the White Sox for SP Arturo Contreras.

June 19th, 2029: The Dodgers came to town for three, and the opener saw Devon Peterson (5-3, 3.40 ERA, 1.29 WHIP) face Robinson Ortiz (6-2, 3.58 ERA, 1.13 WHIP). Peterson struggled against the Dodgers earlier in the year. He was much better today, and we edged them 3-2.

He only went 4.1 innings with 4 hits, 2 runs, 4 walks, and 6 strikeouts, but it was enough. Joe Kramer tossed 2 innings with a walk and 2 strikeouts. Jarred Kelenic got the win, an inning with a hit. Gene Hall finished the 8th with a three pitch strikeout to get a hold. Chad Scoles got the save, 2 strikeouts in a perfect 9th.

Isaac Nunez was 2-for-3 with a double, steal, and RBI. Chris Reid and Gregorio Alvarenga were both 1-for-4 with a steal and run scored. Jackson Miller was 1-for-3.

June 20th, 2029: We looked to take the series a game early with Juan Coira (6-5, 4.77 ERA, 1.28 WHIP) facing Amari Queen (2-2, 3.88 ERA, 1.01 WHIP). My outfiled is so depleted, and three infielders (Isaac Nunez, Gregorio Alvarenga, and Eric Kisela) make up the outfield. The Dodgers got 5 in the 8th, and evened the series with a 8-5 win.

Coira went 6 with 7 hits, 3 runs, 4 walks, and 4 strikeouts. Gene Hall didn't get an out, allowing a hit, 2 walks, and 3 runs. Ignacio Hinojos allowed 2 hits and 2 runs in 0.2 innings with a strikeout.

Chris Reid was 2-for-3 with a homer, sac-fly, and 4 RBI's. Isaac Nunez was 2-for-3 with 2 runs, a walk, RBI, and double. Daylen Lile came off the bench (PH, CF, LF, CF) and was 1-for-2. Eric Kisela was 1-for-4 with a run scored and double. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-4 with a double and run scored.

June 21st, 2029: We looked to take the finale with Steve Paustian (6-3, 4.37 ERA, 1.33 WHIP) taking on Mike Hines (1-0, 2.02 ERA, 1.43 WHIP). It was a tight one, but we escpaed with a 6-5 win to take the series.

Paustian struggled, 5.1 innings with 8 hits, 5 runs, 3 walks, and 7 strikeouts. The pen combined for 3.2 innings with 3 hits, a walk, and 5 strikeouts. Kramer got the win, and Scoles the save.

Jackson Miller was 2-for-4 with a steal, 2 runs, 2 RBI's, and a homer. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-5 with a run scored and two steals. Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-4 with a double and 2 RBI's. Chris Reid was 1-for-3 with a walk, run scored, and RBI. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with a run scored and walk. Jon Reid had a pinch hit RBI double in the 8th that gave us the lead.

We're off to Arizona for three with the Diamondbacks. We'll face Jeff Slezak (5-3, 3.35 ERA), Tyler Glasnow (6-4, 4.92 ERA), and Cole Stringer (1-6, 3.79 ERA).

June 22nd, 2029: Fan vote update: Miller 3rd for catcher. Reid 3rd for first. Ramirez 1st for left (he's got to get healthy...). Kelenic 2nd for right. Saitta 5th for starters. Scoles 3rd and Hinojos 5th for relievers.

We opened the Arizona series with Pat Saitta (7-4, 3.36 ERA, 1.21 WHIP) facing Jeff Slezak (5-3, 3.35 ERA, 1.12 WHIP). Arizona is an extremely balanced team (Except for Iestyn Spreckley who is an absolute stud first basemen) and always give us trouble. They got 4 in the 4th, and took the opener 5-4. Man am I lucky my division sucks this year...

Saitta had a rough one, 4 innings with 7 hits, 5 runs, a walk, and 4 strikeouts as he's really had it tough as of late. The pen tossed 4 much better innings with a hit, 2 walks, and 5 strikeotus.

Jackson Miller was 3-for-5 with a steal. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-4 with a run scored, 2 RBI's, double, and steal. Isaac Nunez was 2-for-3 with 2 runs, a double, RBI, walk, and walk. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with a walk and run scored. Jon Reid was 1-for-3 with a double.

Angels 1B Dominic Smith hit his 300th career homer. The long time Met has a career .271/.341/.472 line with 986 RBI's in 1,718 games with the Mets, Rangers, and both LA Teams.

June 23rd, 2029: We looked to even the series back up with C.J. Jorgensen (4-5, 3.93 ERA, 1.14 WHIP) taking on Tyler Glasnow (6-4, 4.92 ERA, 1.47 WHIP). We came back for vengence, and toppled the hosts 11-4 to even the series up.

Jorgensen went 4.1 innings with 3 hits, 2 runs, 3 walks, and 7 strikeouts. Kramer finished the 5th, getting a strikeout and fly out, and got the win. Zaire Moneyham allowed a hit, walk, and 2 runs without getting an out. Luis Alcantra and Gene Hall split the 8th to earn holds, but we scored 4 in the 9th to make a save irrelevant.

Those 4 were courtesy of Eric Kisela, who hit a pinch-hit grand slam. Jackson Miller was 3-for-5 with 2 runs, 4 RBI's, 2 doubles, and a homer. Chris Reid was 2-for-3 with 2 doubles, 2 runs, 2 RBI's, and 2 walks. Jon Reid was 1-for-4 with a run and walk. Isaac Nunez was 1-for-3 with a run scored, RBI, and 2 walks.

June 24th, 2029: Juan Simental will head to New Orleans for a quick rehab assignment. I'm hoping 3 or 4 games and he'll be good.

We looked to take the finale with Devon Peterson (5-3, 3.44 ERA, 1.32 WHIP) facing Cole Stringer (1-6, 3.79 ERA, 1.26 WHIP). We fell way short, and they shut us out 5-0.

Peterson had a rough outing, 5 innings with 8 hits, 5 runs (4 earned), 4 walks, and 2 strikeouts. Ignacio Hinojos tossed 2 innings with a hit, walk, and strike out.

Rogelio Maldonado was 2-for-3 with awalk. Jorge Tapia and Chris Reid were both 1-for 3 with a walk.

Off to Pittsburgh for three with the Pirates. We'll see Brad Rauter (7-4, 4.25 ERA), Jonathan Kearns (6-2, 2.92 ERA), and Jorge Morales (1-1, 4.22 ERA).

[ayaghmour2]

June 25th, 2029: We dropped to 7th in the Power Rankins. At 47-31, we have a 9 game lead over the 38-40 Nationals and Mets.

Prospect Watch: Luis Pastrana, C (DSL)

Signed as an International Free Agent back in 2025, Luis Pastrana has been red=hot in the DSL this season. Origionally signed for a $550,000 bonus, the lefty/righty isn't really known for being a defender, but he delivers with the bat. As a 20-year-old, he's in his 2nd professional season, and is hitting an astronomical .415/.465/.631 (206 OPS+) with 2 homers and 11 RBI's in 17 games this season. He has great extra base hit potential, but doesn't have any other offensive tool that shows too much promise. He may never show too much promise, but he's a hard eough worker to force himelf into future considereation.

We opened the series in Pittsburgh with Juan Coira (6-5, 4.75 ERA, 1.31 WHIP) taking on Brad Rauter (7-4, 4.25 ERA, 1.30 WHIP). Neither pitcher has much success against the opposition in their only starts. We got 5 big runs in the 3rd, and took the opener 7-4.

Coira went 7.2 innings with 8 hits, 3 runs, a walk, and 3 strikeouts before Gene Hall struck out the final batter in the 8th. Chad Scoles got the 9th, an inning with 2 hits, a run, walk, and 2 strikeouts.

Rogelio Maldonado was 2-for-5 with a 2 doubles and 2 runs scored. Chris Reid was 2-for-5 with a run scored. Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-4 with a run scored and base clearing double. Mac Horvath was 1-for-2 with a walk, 2 hit by pitches, a run scored, and RBI. Daylen Lile was 1-for-3 with a run scored, walk 2 RBI's, and a sac-fly.

Juan Simental was diagnosed with a sore back in New Orleans, and will head back to the DL, but the 7=Day AAA DL not the 10-Day.

June 26th, 2029: Game two saw Jonathan Kearns (6-2, 2.92 ERA, 0.98 WHIP) took on Steve Paustian (6-3, 4.63 ERA, 1.37 WHIP) in the middle game. The offense took today off, and the Pirates shut us out 3-0 to even the series back up.

Paustian went 6 with 8 hits, 3 runs, 2 walks, and 7 strikeouts. The pen tossed 2 innings with a strikeout.

He had just 3 hits and a walk. Isaac Nunez and Jackson Miller were both 1-for-3 and Noah Smith 1-for-4. Chris Reid was 0-for-3 with a walk.

We did have a Reed-Miller-Reed double play (3-2-3) so that's kind of cool.

Rays RF Tim Green was 5-for-5 in a 9-7 loss to Oakland. It's the third five hit game of his career, although it seems like he has one all the time.

June 27th, 2029: Toronto reliever Kymani McKever is out for the year with a torn flexor tendon in his elbow. He had a 2.49 ERA in 24.1 innings with 31 strikeouts and a 0.99 WHIP.

We looked to take the finale and the series with Pat Saitta (7-5, 3.70 ERA, 1.25 WHIP) taking on Caleb Barnsley (3-5, 3.82 ERA, 1.26 WHIP). We woke back up to today, and edged the hosts 7-5 to take the rubber match.

Isaac Nunez left with an injury...

Saitta went 6 innings with 6 hits, 3 runs, 3 walks, and 9 strikeouts. Jarred Kelenic allowed 3 hits and 2 runs in an inning. Gene Hall earned a hold and Chad Scoles got the save. The first 1 walk and 1 strikeout, the second 2 walks and 2 strikeouts.

Chris Reid was 2-for-4 with a double, 2 runs, 2 RBI's, a homer, and walk. Jorge Tapia was 2-for-4 with a double, run scored, and RBI. Mac Horvath was 2-for-4 with a run scored, RBI, and walk. Noah Smith was 1-for-4 with a run scored, double, and 2 RBI's. Pat Saitta was 1-for-3 with an RBI. Parker Meadows came off the bench for Nunez (1-for-1) and was 1-for-3 with 2 runs and a hit by pitch.

Down in Batavia, CF Mike Guerrero was 5-for-6 in a 11-4 win over the Hudson Valley Rengades.

Not only did Rays 1B Matt Walner hit 4 homers, the 4th homer was the 300th of his career. A former Rays 5th Rounder in 2019, he's hit .262/.353/.542 with 802 RBI's in 4,011 at bats from 2022-2029.

We're headed home for three with St. Louis. We'll face Lenny Torres (6-4, 3.03 ERA), Andy Frost (5-2, 3.75 ERA), and Luis Manzano (5-4, 3.56 ERA).

June 28th, 2029: Back at homer, C.J. Jorgensen (4-5, 3.94 ERA, 1.15 WHIP) got the ball against Lenny Tores (6-4, 3.03 ERA, 1.01) as we opened a three games set with the defending champion Redbirds. We got a little revenge, and edged the guests 2-1.

Jorgensen tossed 5.1 innings with 3 hits, a run, 2 walks, and 11 strikeouts. Zaire Moneyham got a hold, 1.2 innings with a hit, walk, and 2 strikeouts. Luis Alcantra and Josh Brown struck out the side in a split 8th to earn holds as well. Chad Scoles earned the save, strking out 2 in the 9th.

Rogelio Maldonado was 2-for-3. Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-4 with 2 RBI's. Jon Reid was 1-for-3. Jorgensen was 0-for-1 with a sac-bunt and run scored.

June 29th, 2029: Isaac Nunez strained his medial collateral ligament, and will head to the DL for 5 weeks. I didn't have a healthy position player on the 40 to call up, I traded Zaire Moneyham to the Kansas City Rouals for 1B Luis Puerta to free up a spot. Puerta is actually a former prospect of mine.

I then recalled Omari Tetteh and Jake Yearick from New Orleans.

I also extended most personell that would agree to extensions.

Fan vote update: Miller 3rd for C. Reid 3rd for 1B. Ramirez 1st for LF. Kelenic 2nd for RF. Saitta 5th for SP. Scoles 2nd, Hinojos 5th for RP.

The Athletics and White Sox made a trade, with RHP Eudi Asencio heading to the Soc and RHP Chris Robbins to Oakland. The A's got the better side.

Game two saw Devon Peterson (5-4, 3.65 ERA, 1.38 WHIP) take on Andy Frost (5-2, 3.75 ERA, 1.14 WHIP). The Cardinlas got three quick runs in the first to tie the series with a 5-2 win. Tetteh made his debut with a pinch hit appearence.

Peterson went 4.1 innings with 7 hits, 4 runs, 2 walks, and 4 strikeouts. The pen tossed 4.2 innings with 2 hits, 2 walks, and 5 strikeouts.

Chris Reid was 2-for-4 with a solo homer. Daylen Lile was 1-for-3 with a walk and steal. Jarred Kelenic waent 1-for-4 with a run scored. Jackson Miller was 1-for-3 with a hit by pitch.

June 30th, 2029: We looked to finish June over .500 (14-13 currently) with Juan Coira (7-5, 4.66 ERA, 1.30 WHIP) taking on the red-hot Luis Manzao (5-4, 3.56 ERA, 1.10 WHIP) in the finale. We fell short, and were edged 4-3 in the finale.

Coira had a rough outing, 7 hits and 4 runs in 3.2 innings with 3 walks and 4 strikeouts. C.J. LaFever tossed 2.1 innings with a walk and 3 strikeouts. He was also 1-for-1.

Jackson Miller was 2-for-3 with 2 runs and 2 walks. Gregoria Alvarenga was 2-for-4 with a walk, triple, and run scored. Mac Horvath was 1-for-4. Chris Reid was 1-for-2 with a steal, RBI, and 2 walks.

Boston 2B Noah Campbell was 5-for-6 in a 8-4 win over the Athletics.

Off to New York for three against the Mets. We'll face Sergio Fuentes (3-4, 4.58 ERA), Diego Blanco (4-3, 4.50 ERA), and Pablo Ochoa (5-4, 4.32 ERA).

[ayaghmour2]

July 1st, 2029: Down in New Orleans, Segio Tello was named American Confrence Batter of the Month. He hit .341 with 5 homers and 22 RBI's. I would've called him up, but he's currently injured with a hamstring strain. Luckily, Juan Simental will restart rehab tomorrow.

Jacksonville starter Alfredo Minjares was named Southern League PItcher of the Month. The 24-year-old was 5-0 with a 3.16 ERA in 6 starts with 27 strikeouts.

We opened the series at Citi Field with Steve Paustian (6-4, 4.62 ERA, 1.39 WHIP) taking on the reliever turned starter Sergio Fuentes (3-4, 4.58 ERA, 1.14 WHIP). The pitching was excellent on both sides, and 3 hits was enough for the 1-0 win.

Paustian tossed 7 innings with 4 hits and walks and just 2 strikeouts. He was a lot more lucky then good, but he definitely got the job done. Jake Yearick and Josh Brown split the 8th to earn saves, and Chad Scoles struck out 2 in a perfect 9th for the save. He's been great this year, with a 1.53 ERA, 24 saves, and 52 strikeouts in 35.1 innings.

Eric Kisela was all the offense, and he had a pinch hit homer in the 8th. Parker Meadows came off the bench and was 1-for-1 with a steal. Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-3.

I just wanted to highlight Kisela really quick, in 55 at bats in 44 games, he's hitting .345/.477/.618 with 4 homers and 16 RBI's to be a really pleasant surpise from our depth.

July 2nd, 2029: The International Pool was published today, and one player in perticular really catches my eye.

The Power Rankings moved us up to 6th. At 51-34, we have a nice 8 game lead over the Mets who sit at 43-43.

Prospect Watch: RHP Alfredo Minjares

Fresh off a Player of the Month Award, the former 6th Round Pick has shown a lot of promise at the higher levels this year. Before this season, he jsut made 1 start in AA, but has made 15 (and 1 relif appearences) this year with a 3.46 ERA and 1.40 WHIP. He's 8-3 with 69 strikeouts, but has definitely struggles with the walks, walking 43 in 83.1 innings (4.6 BB/9). Walks have always been a problem for Minjares, who really struggles with his control. His career totals, including his impressive high school stats, is 3.7 BB/9, and generally sits in the 4-5 range. He does boast a plus-plus fastball that hits triple digits, with a plus sinker and an above average change. He's got plus-plus stuff potential and plus-plus movement with elite stamina. With work on his control, he can turn into a durable back of the rotation arm.

Juan Simental will head back to New Orleans for more rehab.

We looked to score a little more today with Pat Saitta (8-5, 3.75 ERA, 1.26 WHIP) taking on Diego Blanco. We got 5 quick runs in the 1st, and then eventually held off the Mets 7-5.

Saitta pitched alright, 5 innings with 5 hits, 2 runs, 3 walks, and 6 strikeouts. Ignacio Hinojos tossed 2.1 inings with a hit, run, and 4 strikeouts. C.J. LaFever tossed 0.2 innings with a hit, run, and strikeout. Chad Scoles got a hold, 0.1 innings with a hit, unearned run, and strikeout. Gene Hall got the save, 0.2 innings with a strikeout.

Chris Reid was 2-for-4 with 2 runs, 3 RBI's, and a double. Rogelio Maldonado was 1-for-3 with 2 RBI's, a double, and sac-fly. Daylen Lile was 1-for-3 with a walk and steal. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with 2 runs, sac-fly, an RBI, and hit by pitch. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-5 with a double and run scored.

July 3rd, 2029: The Pittsburgh Pirates acquired RHP Cody Sedlock and LF Rogelio Valenzuela from the Rays for RHP Bobby Bellair and LF Humbereto Orozco. I really like this deal for the Pirates, although they did have to take on Sedlock's contract.

The Blue Jays snet LHP Brian Gonzalez to the Twins for fomer Marlin CF Jhon Solarte. Solarte, origionally a Blue Jay, will return to the orgnaization that signed him out of Venezuela in 2017.

We looked to finish the sweep with C.J. Jorgensen (5-5, 3.82 ERA, 1.14 WHIP) facing Pablo Ochoa (5-4, 4.32 ERA, 1.17 WHIP). The Mets managed to salvage the finale with a 6-2 victory.

C.J. allowed 4 hits and 4 runs in 6 innings with 4 walks and 4 strikeouts. Luis ALcantra hit the only batter he faced, who later scored. Joe Kramer went 1.2 innings with 2 htis, a run, and 2 strikeouts.

Jackson Miller was 2-for-4 with 2 RBI's. Mac Horvath was 2-for-3 with a run scored and walk. Noah Smith was 1-for-3 with a steal, run scored, and walk. Jon Reid was 1-for-3 with a walk.

Down in New Orleans, Michael Baumann tossed a no-hitter in a 7-0 win over the Colorado Springs Sky Sox.

We're headed home to host the Pilots for a three game set. We'll see Jonathan Bahn (3-3, 3.48 ERA), Joe Holden (7-5, 3.40 ERA), and Sergio Liciaga (2-0, 4.63 ERA).

July 4th, 2029: The Rangers extended RHP Carter Stewart 2-years for $7,680,000.

The Pilots were in town for a three game series. The opener saw Devon Peterson (5-5, 3.95 ERA, 1.41 WHIP) take on Jonathan Bahn (3-3, 3.48 ERA, 1.22 WHIP). It was a close one, and we edged them 4-2.

Peterson went 6 innings with 6 hits, 2 runs, 5 walks, and 2 strikeouts. Josh Brown allowed a hit in the 7th and struck out the side. Gene Hall went 1.1 innings with a hit and two strikeouts. Both got holds. Chad Scoles struck out the final two batters of the game for the save.

Noah Smith was 2-for-4 with a run scored and RBI. Jarred Keleic was 2-for-4 with a run scored ad steal. Omari Tetteh was 1-for-4 with a run scored and steal. It was the first hit of his big league career. Eric Kisela was 1-for-3 with a double, RBI, and walk. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-4 with a double and RBI. Peterson was 1-for-2 with an RBI.

July 5th, 2029: I signed 1 of my 2 International targets, SS Sergio Medina. A Native of the Domincan Republic, he's a 2.5* with the range for short, but the arm for third base. He's got great speed and great power, but will struggle with strikeouts. For a $1 million investment, it's a small risk for good upside.

The Braves acquired former Marlin Trevor Gott from the Pilots for 3B Juan Arroyo. It's a steal for the Braves, but the Pilots have nothing to lose.

Oakland sent RHP Franklin Perez and LHP Jorge Flores (not the snake) to the Rangers for LRHP Luis Navarro and SS Greg Turney. It's a decent deal.

Game two saw Juan Coira (7-6, 4.84 ERA, 1.36 WHIP) face Joe Holden (7-5, 3.40 ERA, 1.20 WHIP). Seattle evened the series with a 7-4 win.

Coira went 5.1 innings with 7 hits, 4 runs, and 4 strikeouts. Joe Kramer went 0.2 innings with 4 hits, 2 runs, and a strikeout. C.J. LaFever went 0.1 innings with 2 hits, a run, walk, and strikeout.

Jarred Kelenic was 3-for-5 with a run scored, double, steal, and RBI. Chris Reid was 2-for-4 with an RBI. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-5. Rogelio Maldonado was 1-for-4 with a two run homer. Eric Kisela had a pinch hit double and scored in the 9th. Jon Reid was 1-for-4 with a run scored. Jackson Miller was 1-for-5 with a double.

The draft pick signing deadline is today, so after the Pilots finale, I'll do my edits.

July 6th, 2029: Here's where my unsigned Class of 2029 draftees will attend.

5th Round: SP Steve Gullo (Northeastern 2032)
9th Round: SS Ken Niederhauser (Arizona 2032)
13th Round: SP Chris Wright (Western Carolina 2032)
15th Round: C Jeremy Kyle (Wallace CC-Selma 2032)
16th Round: CF Whitney Lindstrom (North Central 2032)
20th Round: SP Chris King (Rice 2032)
25th Round: CF Pete Caulkins (Sacramento State 2030)
33rd Round: SP Chris Alexander (Briarcliffe 2032)
34th Round: SS Dan Plantenberg (Miami FL 2032)
37th Round: CF Joey Greenmyer (Akron 2032)

Here's a fan vote update: Jackson Miller is 3rd for Catchers. Chris Reid is 3rd for First. Juan Ramirez is 1st for Left. Jarred Kelenic is 2nd for Right. Pat Saitta is 5th for Starters. Chad Scoles is 2nd and Ignacio Hinojos 5th for Relievers.

I also expanded the All-Star Rosters from 34 to 36.

We looked to take the finale with Steve Paustian (7-4, 4.28 ERA, 1.38 WHIP) taking on Sergio Liciaga (2-0, 4.63 ERA, 1.41 WHIP) who's pitched for both the Expos and Pilots. The offense was working well and we took the finale 9-5.

Paustian went 5 innings with 4 hits, 3 runs, 2 walks, and 9 strikeouts. Joe Kramer allowed 2 hits and 2 runs with a walk. Ignacio Hinojos got a 2 inning save, a hit and 4 strikeouts to his credit.

Jarred Kelenic was 2-for-2 with 4 runs, 2 RBI's, 2 walks, a double, hit by pitch, and homer. Daylen Lile was 2-for-4 with 2 RBI's. Jackson Miller was 1-for-3 with a run scored, 2 walks, and 2 RBI's. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-2 with a hit by pitch, 2 runs, and 2 walks. Chris Reid was 1-for-4 with a walk and 2 RBI's. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with a walk.

And guess what, Simental got hurt on rehab, again, with his diagnosis pending.

Rays LF Ernie Frye increased his hit streak to 20 games.

Giancarlo Stanton update: He's at 759 home runs, just 3 behind Barry Bonds' career record.

We get tomorrow off before heading to Philadelphia!

One of the prospects to take note of is Bobby McKnight, who is going to be a Matt Kilroy rebirth. For those who don't know, Kilroy is a former lefty who struck out 513 batters as a 19 year old. Here are his rookie stats:

29-34, 3.37 ERA, 583 IP, 476 H, 218 ER, 182 BB, 513 K, 1.13 WHIP, 18.9 WAR.

For McKnight, I'm using the "Create potential ratings based on stats" feature to create his potentials.

It'll be interesting to follow 'K'Man's' career.

[ayaghmour2]

July 7th, 2029: Pat Riley will head to New Orleans for a rehab assignment.

We got today off, but would head to Philadelphia for three with the Phillies. We'd see Dursun Erbakan (3-3, 3.02 ERA), Cullen Dana (5-10, 4.38 ERA), and Jonathan Childress (2-0, 4.09 ERA). We have just two more series' before the All-Star Break.

July 8th, 2029: Juan Ramirez will head to New Orleans for rehab, with Juan Simental returning from rehab, and Omari Tetteh being optioned to the Baby Cakes.

The Rays sent SS Tyler Freeman and RHP Bobby Bellair to the Cubs for LF Jarrod Pelot and SS Da-xia Que. It's a decent salary dump for Tampa, but Freeman is a solid player.

We opened the series in Philly with Pat Saitta (9-5, 3.75 ERA, 1.28 WHIP) facing the red-hot Dursan Erbakan (3-3, 3.02 ERA, 1.11 WHIP). We got four in the 1st, but Philly rallied for 4 in the 7th. In the 10th, Masyn Winn drew a walk with the bases loaded, and the Phillies walked-off 5-4 winners in the opener.

Saitta went 6.2 innings with 4 hits, 4 runs, a walk, and 6 strikeous. Josh Brown got the loss with 2 hits, a run, 2 walks, and a strikeout.

Jackson Miller was 3-for-5 with a run scored. Daylen Lile was 2-for-5 with a double and run scored. Chris Reid was 2-for-5. Mac Horvath was 1-for-5 with a run scored, double, and 3 RBI's. Jon Reid was 1-for-3 with an RBI and walk.

Twins RF Sergio Ayala was 5-for-5 in a 5-4 win over the Orioles. Dodgers starter Nate Ransom tossed a 2-hit shutout in a 8-0 win over the Pilots. He struck out 10.

July 9th, 2029: We dropped to 7th in the Power Rankings. At 54-37, we have just a 6 game lead over the red-hot Mets.

Some trade action: The Mets sent CF Arturo Rodarte to the Braves for 2B J.R. Markowitz and RHP Jim Tate's contract. It's a good trade for the Mets, considering Tate isn't too epensive.

The Royals sent RF Julio B. Rodriguez to the Cubs for LHP Dave Schultz.

Prospect Watch: RF Esteban Miramon (AAA New Orleans): Recently Player of the Week in the Southern League, Miramon has now been promoted to New Orleans in the Pacific Coast League. Starting in Jacksonville, he hit .301/.372/.425 with 1 HR, 18 RBI's, and 6 SB in 44 games (42 starts). In New Orleans, he's appeared in 21 games (16 starts) and hit .300/.417/.367 with 4 RBI's and 3 SB. Not known for much power, Miramon is a disciplined and athletic outfielder who records a lot of groundball base hits. Never known for much power, he came over to the Marlins in a trade with the Dodgers in 2024. He signed with them in 2022 out of the Dominican Republic. All told, the 23-year-old has a .278/.354/.395 line with 25 triples, 20 homers, 201 RBI's, and 57 steals. He may not factor in the top 30 Prospect List, but with all the outfield injuries, he may force promotion.

We needed to even the series up with C.J. Jorgensen (5-6, 3.94 ERA, 1.15 WHIP) taking on Cullen Dana (5-10, 4.38 ERA, 1.28 WHIP). We scored 3 in the first today, and they answered with 3 in the 4th. Down 5-4 in the ninth, Juan Simental hit a two-run homer off Steve Purpura, to give us a 6-5 lead we'd be able to save.

Jorgensen went 5 innings with 8 hits, 4 runs, 3 walks, and a strikeout. Jake Yaerick was charged with a hit, run, and 2 walks in 1.1 innings with 2 strikeouts. Gene Hall got the win, stiking out 2 in a perfect 8th. Chad Scoles earned the save, allowing a hit in the scorless 9th.

Chris Reid was 3-for-4 with 2 runs, 2 RBI's, a double, and walk. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-4 with a double, RBI, walk, and steal. Mac Horvath was 2-for-5 with a run scored, double, and RBI. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-4 with an RBI, walk, steal, and double. Simental was just 1-for-5 with the 1 being the big hit. Noah Smith was 2-for-5 with a double and 2 runs scored.

July 10th, 2029: The Padres acquired C Jake Taylor and 1B Pat Hardy from Tampa for SS Sean Lasecki and RHP Jim Hamilton. Really nothing here.

The finale would see Devon Peterson (6-5, 3.90 ERA, 1.44 WHIP) face the most resurgent pitcher this year, Forrest Whitley (11-4, 2.68 ERA, 1.15 WHIP) who has really dominated in his first year in Philadelphia. Peterson dominated the Phillies last start, but Whitley was even better, and we were shutout 2-0.

Peterson still hasn't given up a run against the Phillies, tossing 6 innings with 7 hits, 2 walks, and 4 strikeouts. Joe Kramer got the loss, 2 hits and 2 runs in 0.1 innings.

Jackson Miller was 2-for-4. Chris Reid was 2-for-3 with a walk. Juan Simental was 1-for-3 with a walk. Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-4.

Ernie Frye's streak was ended at 22 games today.

We headed back to Marlins Park for the last series before the break. We'd face Patrick Raby (6-3, 3.65 ERA), Esteban Aguirre (10-6, 3.02 ERA), and Mike Kuhns (2-4, 4.01 ERA).

July 11th, 2029: I made a big international signing, grabbing 5* C Luis "Stocky" Figueroa out of Venezuela. Signed for a $4.6 million bonus, he's got 94 rated power and calls a decent game. He will strike out a lot and miss a lot of easy pitches, but he makes up for it with the power.

The Reds were in town for three, and Juan Coira (7-7, 4.94 ERA, 1.35 WHIP) got former Marlin Patrick Raby (6-3, 3.65 ERA, 1.16 WHIP). Despite a 5 run comeback in the 9th, we were topped 10-9.

Rogelio Maldonado was ejected arguing a pitch call.

Coira was roughed up, 3 innings with 7 hits, 5 runs, a walk, and 2 strikeouts. Ignacio Hinojos went 2 innings with a hit, 2 runs (1 earned), and 5 strikeouts. Jake Yearick went 1.2 innings with 2 hits, a run, and 2 strikeouts. C.J. LaFever went got a strikeout with 2 hits and 2 runs.

Daylen Lile was 2-for-3 with 2 runs, 2 walks, and a steal. Jorge Tapia was 2-for-4 with a double, run scored, and RBI. Mac Horvath was 2-for-5 with a run scored and RBI. Juan Simetnal went 1-for-4 with 2 runs, a RBI, walk, double, and steal. Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-4 with a sac-fly and 2 RBI's. Eric Kisela had a pinch-hit, two run double in the 9th. He later scored.

Angels starter Liam Norris tossed a 1-hit shutout in a 4-0 win over the White Sox. He struck out 4, and the one blemish was a Juan Garza single with 1 out in the 2nd.

July 12th, 2029: We needed to even the series and turn things around with Steve Paustian (8-4, 4.34 ERA, 1.37 WHIP) facing Esteban Aguirre (10-6, 3.02 ERA, 1.01 WHIP). It was another one run game, and this time, we came out on top 6-5.

Paustian went 6 with 4 hits, 4 runs, a walk, and 8 strikeouts. Jake Yearick got the win, an inning with a hit, walk, and strikeout. Luis Alcantra got a hold, but allowed 3 hits and a run with a strikeout. Hall got a better hold, walking 1 and striking out 2. Chad Scoles got the save, 2 strikeouts in a perfect 9th.

Mac Horvath went 2-for-4 with 2 runs and a walk. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-3 with a run scored, 2 RBI's, and a sac-fly. Jon Reid was 1-for-3 with a walk. Chris Reid was 1-for-2 with 2 runs, 2 walks, and a double. Juan Simental was 1-for-4 with a run scored, steal, and RBI.

Former Marlin Brendan Rodgers hit three homers in a 10-2 Cardinals win over the Mets.

July 13th, 2029: The All-Stars were announced today! Representing the Marlins: Ignacio Hinojos (2nd), Chad Scoles (5th), Jackson Miller (1st), and Juan Ramirez (1st). Ramirez is starting in left field.

We looked to end on a strong note, as Pat Saitta (9-5, 3.85 ERA, 1.25 WHIP) taking on Mike Kuhns (2-4, 4.01 ERA, 1.00 WHIP). It wasn't the best way to end the second half, as the game headed to extras tied at 5. In the 10th, Juan Simental tripled to lead off the inning. Jarred Kelenic did his job, hitting a fly ball to deep center, far enough for Simental to tag on, and we walked-off winners to finish the first half.

Chris Reid left with back tightness, but should be healthy after the break.

Saitta went 6.2 innings with 6 hits, 4 runs, 2 walks, and 5 strikeouts. Luis Alcantra blew the save, 0.1 innings with 2 hits, a run, and strikeout. Josh Brown got the win, 0.2 innings with a hit, walk, and 2 strikeouts.

Simental was 3-for-5 with 3 runs, a double, and triple. Reid was 2-for-3 with a double and 2 RBI's. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with a run scored, sac-fly, and 3 RBI's. Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-1 with a triple, run scored, sac-fly, and 3 walks.

After the game, I optioned Joe Kramer to New Orleans and recalled Jamie Priest.

On to a quick break!

[ayaghmour2]

July 14th, 2029: The All-Star Break starts today, with a day off, the All-Star Game, and another day off.

July 15th, 2029: Orioles righty Tyrese Sinkfield is out for the season with a stretched elbow ligament. He was 2-2 with a 4.44 ERA in 48.2 innings. He struck out 58 and walked 12.

The Nationals acquired 2B Brice Turang from the Mariners for RHP Victor Aranoand LHP Arturo Zapata. I really like this deal for the Mariners.

The Cubs acquired RHP Sean Geise from the Athletics for LF Kevin Quarles. It's a fair trade.

Jeremy Hynek (11-5, 2.46 ERA, 1.11 WHIP) of the Minnesota Twins represented the American League and Esteban Aguirre (10-6, 3.14 ERA, 1.04 WHIP) of the Cincinnati Reds represented the National League at Coors Field for the 2029 All-Star Game. Juan Ramirez declined to play, while still rehabbing in New Orleans. The NL dominated, blowing out their counterparts 12-3!

Ignacio Hinojos pitched an inning with a hit and strikeout. Josh Brown, who I didn't know made the All-Star game, went an inning with a strikeout. Rafael Devers was named MVP, going 2-for-3 with a solo homer, two run hoemr, and walk.

July 16th, 2029: The Power Rankins were announced, moving us up to 4th. With the second half starting tomorrow, we're sitting at 57-39 with a 6 game lead over the resurgent Mets.

The Rays traded RHP Miguel Romero to the Cubs for 2B Mike Fellows. It's a good deal for Tampa.

Atlanta acquired LLHP Jarred Miller and LF Jorge Salinas from the Pilots for RHP Sergio Navarro and 1B J.J McCarthy. I like this for the Braves.

Prospect Watch: LHP Juan Maldonado (A Greensboro): Origionally a member of the Red Sox, Maldonado signed with them out of Venezuela in 2024. In 2027, his time with Boston ended, and he spent 3 days as a Free Agent before latching on with the Marlins. Since then, he's done nothing except impress, and was even named to the 2029 South Atlantic All-Star Game. The 21-year-old southpaw has appeared in 43 games with a 2.51 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, and has recorded 18 saves. He's struck out 62 and walked 26 in 43 innings in his first full season experience. After spending 2027 in the GCL and 2028 in Batavia, he's slowly climbed up the minor league ladder. He's rated with 3* potential, elite stuff, and plus-plus stamina. His elite fastball can hit triple digits and his curveball is another solid offering. If he developed his change up he'd be a valuable starter, but he should make a solid career as a reliever.

We're off to Atlanta to start the second half! We'll see Juan Ochoa (5-6, 3.58 ERA), Curt Schneider (3-9, 3.02 ERA), and Konnor Pilkington (1-0, 3.46 ERA).

July 17th, 2029: I recalled Juan Ramirez from his rehab assignment and optioned Rogelio Maldonado to AAA.

Ramirez would hit 3rd and play left as Juan Ochoa (5-6, 3.58 ERA, 1.30 WHIP) and the Braves hosted us and C.J. Jorgensen (5-6, 4.09 ERA, 1.20 WHIP). We got four in the first, and eventually topped Atlanta 9-7 to start hot out of the gate.

Jorgensen went 5 with 9 hits, 4 tuns, 2 walks, and 2 strikeout. C.J. LaFever was roughed up, 3 hits and 3 runs in 0.1 innings. Jake Yaerick tossed 1.2 innigns with a walk and 2 strikeotus for the hold. Gene Hall got a strikeout in a perfect 8th for a hold. Chad Scoles earned the save, tossing an inning with a hit, walk, and strikeout.

It was his 300th career save in his 617th career game. He's saved 25 or more games every year of his career except his Rookie season in 2021 where he got just 11. He has a career 2.76 ERA and 1.00 WHIP in 645 innigns with 867 strikeouts.

Jackson Miller went 3-for-4 with 5 RBI's. Juan Simental was 2-for-5 with 2 runs, a solo homer, and steal. Jorgensen was 1-for-3 with an RBI. Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-5 with a run scored. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-4 with a steal. Eric Kisela was 1-for-5 with a two run homer.

July 18th, 2029: Isaac Nunez suffered a rehab setback, and will miss another 3 weeks. Despite being fragile, the last five seasons he played in 140 games or more, and this has really been the only season he's missed significant time.

Game two saw Devon Peterson (6-5, 3.68 ERA, 1.44 WHIP) face Curt Schneider (3-9, 3.02 ERA, 1.22 WHIP). We tried really hard to lose, allowing 3 in the 8th and 4 in the 9th, but we just bairly squeaked by the Braves 9-8.

Peterson pitched fine, 5.2 innings with 4 hits, a run, 2 walks, and a strikeout. Ignacio Hinojos allowed 3 htis, 3 runs, 2 walks, and got a strike out in an inning. Jamie Priest went 1.1 innings with a hit, 3 runs, a walk, and a strikeout. Scoles got the save (despite allowing a grand slam), allowing 2 htis and a run in 0.2 innings.

The Braves hit three batters (Mac Horvath, Juan Simental, and Juan Ramirez (twice!)), and for some reason nothing was done about it... Jon Reid went 3-for-4 with a run scored, RBI, walk, and 3 doubles. Horvath was 3-for-5 with a run scored. Jackson Miller was 2-for-4 with a 2 doubles, a walk, and 3 RBI's. Juan Simental was 1-for-4 with a three run homer. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-4 with 2 runs scored. Noah Smith was 1-for-4 with 2 runs and a walk.

39-year-old shortstop Didi Gregorious hit his 300th homer as the Rays lost to his former team, the Yankees. "Sir Didi" has accumulated 7,164 career at bats in 1,957 games with a .278/.318/.458 line. He's drove in 1,029 RBI's, and suited up for the Reds, Diamondbacks, Yankees, Red Sox, Giants, Blue Jays, and Rays.

July 19th, 2029: We looked to finish the sweep with Pat Saitta (9-5, 3.93 ERA, 1.24 WHIP) taking on Konnor Pilkington (1-0, 3.46 ERA, 1.27 WHIP). Much less scoring today, but the Braves managed to salvage the finale at home with a 3-2 victory.

Saitta went just 4.2 innings with 5 hits, 3 runs, 3 walks, and 5 strikeouts as he's really had it rough lately. The pen combined for 3.1 innings with a hit, 2 walks, and 6 strikeouts.

Jorge Tapia was the whole offense, 1-for-2 with a walk and two run homer. Noah Smith was 1-for-3 with a run scored. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-3 with a walk. Chris Reid was 1-for-4.

We get tomorrow off before heading home to host the Brewers!

[ayaghmour2]

July 20th, 2029: The Rays shipped CF Juan Ibarra to the Doves for RHP Ryan Dease. A good deal for the Rays, although Dease is a rental.

We're headed home to host the Brewers for three. We'll face Rawley Hector (8-5, 4.25 ERA), Jimmy Healy (4-8, 4.04 ERA), and Rodolfo Espinoza (8-4, 4.04 ERA).

July 21st, 2029: The Padres acquired Zach Linginfelter from the Pilots for RHP Chris Brummel. I like this deal for both teams, as the Pilots move a rental for a decent enough prospect.

A hair under 40,000 people were in attendence to watch Steve Paustian (8-4, 4.43 ERA, 1.34 WHIP) and the Marlins take on Rawley Hector (8-5, 4.25 ERA, 1.20 WHIP) and the Brewers. It was a solid performance all around, and we claimed the opener 6-2.

Daylen Lile left with knee tendinitis, and will head to the DL.

Paustian went 6.1 innings with 3 hits, a run, 2 walks, and 9 strikeouts. Josh Brown, Jake Yearick, and Jamie Priests earned holds before we scored 2 in the 8th. Yaerick allowed a hit, run, and got a strikeout in 0.2 innings.

Jackson Miller was 2-for-5 with 2 runs and a double. Paustian was 2-for-2 with a sac-fly and 2 RBI's. Jon Reid had a pinch-hit, two run double in the 7th. Mac Horvath was 1-for-4 with a run scored. Eric Kisela was 1-for-3 with a walk, RBI, and hit by pitch. Noah Smith was 1-for-4 with a walk, run scored, RBI, and double.

Orioles SS Logan Davidson hit his 300th career home run today. The former 1st Round Pick in 2029 is now making $53 million a year, with a .310/.387/.599 career triple slash. He's driven in 759 runs and has hit 35 or more homers in each year of his career. He's also swiped 85 bases and has won 2 MVP awards.

July 22nd, 2029: I recalled Sergio Tello from AAA to replace Lile.

Game two saw Juan Coira (7-8, 5.22 ERA, 1.39 WHIP) face Jimmy Healy (4-8, 4.04 ERA, 1.39 WHIP). We got 5 in the first and cruised to a nice 6-3 win.

Coira went 7 with 6 hits, 3 runs, a walk, and 7 strikeouts. Gene Hall got the hold, striking out 1 in the 8th. Chad Scoles struck out 1 in the 9th to get the save.

Juan Ramirez was 3-for-4 with a double and run scored. Juan Simental was 2-for-4 with 2 runs, 2 RBI's, and a double. Chris Reid was 1-for-2 with a sac-fly, homer, walk, and 4 RBI's. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with a walk and run scored.

Arizona Catcher Raymond Torres was 5-for-6 in a 9-7 loss to the Pirates.

July 23rd, 2029: We hopped up to 3rd in the Power Rankings. At 61-40, we have a 8 game lead over the Nationals and Mets.

The Indians sent 2B Bo Bichette to the Yankees for RHP Joe LaBrie. I really like this deal for the Indians.

Prospect Watch: RHP Joe Martin (A Greensboro): Formerly a 1st Rounder in 2026, Martin doesn't quite look like the starter he was when we selected him, but he's still a 3.5* potential. The only problem is his third pitch, a change up, that needs more development if he wants to start in the big leagues. If the minors is any indication, he looks like he can handle staring. He's been real hot of late, and is 6-2 with a 3.50 ERA and 1.28 WHIP in 14 starts with the Grasshoppers. He does need to improve his strikeouts, just 52 in 79.2 innings, but the 21-year-old has elite stuff. His tosses a 97 rated slider and 79 rated sinker from a sidearm motion. He has plus movement and control, and generates a lot of groundballs. His sinker averages between 96-98, and his slider is very hard as well. Ranked #9 in the organization, Martin could be a rare Marlins 1st Rounder who has a solid career.

We looked to finish the sweep with C.J. Jorgensen (6-6, 4.23 ERA, 1.24 WHIP) taking on Rodolfo Espinoza (8-4, 4.04 ERA, 1.29 WHIP). In a well pitched game, the visitors came on top 3-2.

Jorgensen went 7 with 6 hits, 3 runs, a walk, and 10 strikeouts. Four pen guys combined for 2 innings with a hit and 5 strikeouts.

Mac Horvath was 2-for-3 with a double, run scored, RBI, and walk. Segio Tello was 2-for-3 with a walk and RBI. Noah Smith was 2-for-3. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-4.

Off to Boston for three with the Doves! We'll face Jake Webb (3-4, 4.89 ERA), Carlos Leandro (4-4, 3.63 ERA), and Jared Jackson (5-5, 3.78 ERA).

July 24th, 2029: More trade action: the Cardinals acquired RHP Josh Watson and RHP Sergio Navarro from the Pilots for RF Oswolt Bernstein and RHP Deshawn McCandies. I like this deal for the Cardinals.

We opened the series with the last place Doves today. Devon Peterson (7-5, 3.57 ERA, 1.42 WHIP) took on Jake Webb (3-4, 4.89 ERA, 1.41 WHIP) in a battle of pitchers who have been on a nice hot streak. Neither was hot today, and the Doves shocked us 9-6.

Peterson went 4 innings with 6 hits, 5 runs (2 earned), a walk, and 3 strikeouts. C.J. LaFever went 1.1 innings with 4 hits, 2 runs, and a strikeout. Jamie Priest went 1.1 innings with 3 hits, 2 runs, and a walk. Ignacio Hinojos went 1.1 innings with a strikeout.

Jarred Kelenic was 3-for-4 with 2 RBI's, a walk, and steal. Juan Simetnal was 2-for-4 with a solo homer. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-4 with a run scored. Jackson Miller was 2-for-4 with 2 runs scored. Sergio Tello hit a pinch-hit two run homer in the 9th. Noah Smith was 1-for-3 with a run scored.

I optioned Priest to AAA and recalled Ayden Hardemon. He's got a 2.00 ERA and 1.00 WHIP in 36 innings as a Baby Cake with 25 saves and 46 strikeouts.

July 25th, 2029: A "same team" trade, as our opponent sent RHP Jonathan Visocky and LHP Eric Beachum to the former Boston Doves, the Atlanta Braves, for RHP Billy Ketcherside. It's an even deal.

We looked to even our series with the Doves as Pat Saitta (9-6, 4.010 ERA, 1.26 WHIP) took on Carlos Leandro (4-4, 3.63 ERA, 1.43 WHIP). It took 10 innings, but Juan Ramirez's solo shot in the top of half was the deciding run in a 5-4 win.

Saitta went 5.2 innings with 6 hits, 3 runs, 2 walks, and 6 strikeouts. Jarred Kelenic went 1.1 innings with a walk, unearned run, and strikeout. Josh Brown got the win, 0.2 innings with a strikeout. Chad Scoles earned the save, an inning with a walk and strikeout.

Noah Smith was 3-for-4 with a run scored, solo homer, and sac-fly. Juan Simetnal was 2-for-4 with a walk and solo homer. Jorge Tapia was 1-for-3 with a double and run scored. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-5 with a solo homer. Kelenic was 1-for-1. Eric Kisela was 1-for-2 with a solo homer.

July 26th, 2029: Mariners C Kurtis Byrne is out for the year with a torn ACL. He was hitting just .214 with 10 homers and 29 RBI's.

The Red Sox sent RHP Wesley Scott to the Dodgers for RF Brett Phillips and SS Alex Thomas. I like this deal for the Red Sox, although Phillips' contract is going to suck.

The Brewers sent RF Emanuel Dean to the Indians for LHP Juan Castro and C Amari Hardemon. I like this deal for the Crew.

The Senators sent RHP A.J. Alexy and LHP Mike MacDonald to the Diamondbcaks for RHP's Jon Burns and Jorge Tovar. It's an even enough deal.

The finale saw Steve Paustian (9-4, 4.26 ERA, 1.31 WHIP) take on former Marlin minor leaguer Jared Jackson (5-5, 3.78 ERA, 1.27 WHIP). Jackson is dealing with a minor blister. A 9 run explosion in the 7th was helpful in a 17-6 victory in the rubber match.

Paustian had a rough outing, 2.2 innings with 8 hits, 6 runs, 2 walks, and 2 strikeouts. Ignacio Hinojos went 2.1 innings iwht a walk and 3 strikeouts. C.J. LaFever went 2.1 innings with 2 hits and 4 strikeouts. Jake Yaerick pitched the 6th and got the win with 2 walks and 2 strikeouts.

Noah Smith was 4-for-6 with 3 runs, 3 steals, a walk, and a double. Juan Ramirez was 4-for-5 with 2 runs, 2 RBI's, a steal, and a double. Jarred Kelenic was 4-for-5 with 2 doubles, 2 runs, 2 RBI's, a steal, and a walk. Mac Horvath was 3-for-4 with a steal, 2 runs, 3 RBI's, and a walk. Eric Kisela came off the bench and was 3-for-3 with 2 homers, 3 runs, and 5 RBI's. Jorge Tapia was 2-for-6 with 2 runs, 3 RBI's, and a double.

Down in New Orleans, LF Kyle Lewis was 5-for-5 in a 10-4 win over the Tacoma Rainers.

Dodgers rookie Milt Springer was 5-for-6 in a 12-1 win over the Brewers. Springer is a former 3rd Rounder who's part South Korean.

We're heading home for three with the Padres. We'll see recently acquired Zach Linginfelter (6-6, 3.64 ERA), Josh Ferland (8-6, 4.33 ERA), and Josh Hearn (6-8, 5.76 ERA).

[ayaghmour2]

July 27th, 2029: Atlanta will be without LHP Bryan Batista for the year with a damaged elbow ligament. He had a nice 3.62 ERA and struck out 38 in 37.1 innings.

The Padres acquired RHP Eric Walker from the Rays for CF Luis Escobedo. I like this deal for the Rays.

The Rays also acquired RHP Nate Blind and RHP Jorge Saucedo from the Senators for 1B Phil Walker and C Murdock Deville. I like this deal for both teams, even though it's kind of a salary dump.

I made a blockbuster trade, sending 2B Jorge Aguilar, SP Pat Riely, SP Lucio Ottini, RP Ayden Hardemon, and C Jorge Moreno to the Phillies for SP Dusrsun Erbakan, C Rogelio Rangel, and CL Ethan Pistner.

Yep, it's a big one!

Erbakan, 25, is definitely the headliner. At 4/4.5*, he's 3-5 with a 3.34 ERA and 1.12 WHIP in 19 starts this season. He's struck out 148 and walked 37 in 113.1 innings. In his career, he's 24-16 with 4 saves in 99 games (70 starts). He has a 3.80 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, and has struck out 531 in 403 innings pitched. A former 12th Round pick by Baltiomre, they pitchingless Orioles released him after draft day, and then he signed with the Phillies. He's really blossomed from there, and has turned into a young ace. He has elite 100 rated stuff with a elite fastball and perfect curveball and change up. He keeps the ball on the ground, throws 94-96 consistently with his fastball, and can pitch deep into games. He's basically everything you could ask for in a starting pticher.

Rangel, 23, is a decent 2* potential catcher who is plus as a defender with a great ability to avoid strikeouts. The Panamian native known as "Trashman" signed a $4.8 million bonus back in 2022, but hasn't really proved to be a valuable investment. He currently ranks as our 22nd best prospect and fourth best catcher.

Pistner, 21, is a southpaw that the Phillies selected 12th overall in 2026. He's got a four pitch arsenal, but only two of them are viable, is plus-plus fastball and plus splitter. His curve is below average and his change pitiful, and his stamina isn't quite where it's needed to become a starter. He does hit 96-98 with the fastball and keeps the ball on the ground. The 3* prospect has plus stuff and plus movement with average control.

I recalled Doug Parsons from New Orleans to replace Hardemon on the Active Roster, but he'd be optioned tomorrow to make room for Erbakan.

We'd start a three game series with the Padres as Juan Coira (8-8, 5.14 ERA, 1.37 WHIP) makes likely (hopefully) his last start of the season against former minor league Marlin Zach Linginfelter (6-6, 3.64 ERA, 1.06 WHIP). Coira showed why I needed Erbakan, and we were topped 9-4 with 5 of the runs coming after the 7th.

Coira went 5 with 8 hits, 3 runs, 2 walks, and 5 strikeouts. Doug Parsons blew the save, an inning with a hit, run, and 2 strikeouts. Josh Brown got the loss, 1.2 innings with 2 hits, 2 runs, and 2 strikeouts. Luis Alcantra allowed 2 runs, a walk, and hit with a strikeout. Chad Scoels allowed a hit, run, and struck out 2.

Noah Smith was 3-for-4 with 4 RBI's. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-3 with 2 runs and a walk. Jackson Miller was 1-for-2 with 2 walks. Chris Reid was 1-for-4 with 2 runs and an walk.

I optioned Parsons to AAA and purchased Erabkan's contract. He'll slot in as the ace in our rotation.

July 28th, 2029: The Padres lost southpaw Luis Mendiola for the rest of the year with bone chips in his elbow. He was 1-1 with a 3.14 ERA in 21 relif appearences.

Pilots righty Juan Gerrero is out for the season with a torn flexor tendon in his elbow. He had a 7.06 ERA in 21.2 innings with 30 strikeouts and 14 walks.

We looked to even the series back up with C.J. Jorgensen (6-7, 4.20 ERA, 1.23 WHIP) taking on Josh Ferland (8-6, 4.33 ERA, 1.41 WHIP). The pitching was great, and we dominated them 8-1.

Jarred Keleic left with back tightness and will hit the DL for likely the minimum. He was 3-for-3 with 2 runs, a double, homer, and steal.

Jorgensen went 7.1 innings with 5 hits, a run, and 8 strikeouts. The pen combined for 1.2 innings with a walk and 2 strikeouts.

Juan Simental was 3-for-4 with a walk and two solo homers. Eric Kisela was 2-for-5. Kelenic's replacement Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-2 with an RBI. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-4 with a double, sac-fly, and 2 RBI's. Jackson Miller was 1-for-4 with a solo shot. Chris Reid was 1-for-4 with a run scored and walk. Noah Smith was 1-for-4 with an RBI. Jon Reid had a pinch hit single and scored in the 8th.

Brewers 2B Andrew Benefiled hit his 300th career homer. A former 14th Round pick by the Crew in 2018, he's really blossomed as a big leaguer, recording 700 RBI's and a 24.1 WAR in 8 seasons with Milwaukee. The 29-year-old has a .254/.306/.518 career triple slash in 4,113 at bats.

July 29th, 2029: We looked to win the rubber match with Devon Peterson (7-6, 3.61 ERA, 1.43 WHIP) taking on Eric Walker (2-2, 6.04 ERA, 1.41 WHIP). I forgot to callup a 26th man, but it didn't matter, as we took the finale 8-4.

Peterson went 5.2 innings with 7 hits, 3 rusn, a walk, and 4 strikeouts. Jake Yearick, Gene Hall, and Luis Alcantra earned holds. Yearick went 1.1 innings with a hit and strikeout, while Hall allowed a run, walk, and 2 hits in 0.1 innings.

Mac Horvath was 2-for-5 with a run scored. Chris Reid was 2-for-5 with 2 RBI's and a double. Eric Kisela was 2-for-5 with an RBI. Jackson Miller was 2-for-4 with 2 runs, an RBI, and a double. Juan Ramriez was 1-for-2 with a run scored, RBI, double, and 3 walks. Sergio Tello was 1-for-3 with 2 walks and a run scored.

Whlie Benefield may have 300 homers, Mike Trout hit his 600th today. He isn't the Mike Trout we know in real life, and has jsut a .286/.405/.553 slash with 601 homers and 1,596 RBI's. He has been worth 100.4 Wins Above Replacement, but the 37-year-old hasn't been "Mike Trout" since 2020.

A little late, but Giancarlo Stanton now has 768 homers, 6 more then what Bonds had. He broke it with a 2 home run game in Tampa on July 13th.

Off to Colorado for three games with the Rockies. We'll see Walker Buehler (1-3, 7.52 ERA), Luis Ardon (5-9, 6.44 ERA), and Shoehi Ohtani (7-9, 5.42 ERA), a trifecta of former Marlins!

July 30th, 2029: I activated LF Daylen Lile from the Disabled List.

Despite being injured, Jarred Kelenic was named NL Player of the Week. The 30-year-old was 12-for-17 with a homer and 5 RBI's. He's hitting .316 with 7 homers and 44 RBI's this season.

Speaking of injuries, Indians ace Mike Seig is out for the year with a torn flexor tendon. He was just 3-7 with a 4.17 ERA in 22 starts.

We remained 3rd in the Power Rankings. With the deadline tomorrow, our 65-43 record gives us a 9 games lead over the Nats and Mets.

And it looks like Buehler won't be pitching today, as the Rockies sent him to Arizona for C Nate Goldstein and CF Jim Hancock. Absolute steal for the Rockies. Absolute steal.

The Phillies continued their unload, sending LHP Cullen Dana to the Braves for LHP Jeff Dubas, C Juan Mendoza, and 2B Mike Shupe. I like this swap for both teams.

Prospect Watch: RHP Juan Cuevas (AA Jacksonville):

A 25-year-old, Juan Cuevas has had an excellent run in an excellent season with the Jumbo Shrip. In 20 starts, he may be 4-5, but he has a 2.91 ERA and 1.17 WHIP to go with 84 strikeouts in 105.1 innings. Origionally a 4th Round Pick by the Rockies in 2026, he was relaeased in 2028 before signing with Miami later in the season. He was excellent in 6 starts with Jupiter last year, 1-1 with a 2.83 ERA and 1.19 WHIP. He did walk 10 hitters and strike out just 20, but he allowed less then a hit per inning. He's not a spectactualr prospect, but he has no single flaw. He's got plus stuff with average movement, control, velocity, and stamina. He has a nice three pitch arsenal and can start in the majors. Injuries have been a problem for Cuevas, but most was while he was at Le Moyne for college.

Dursun Erbakan (3-5, 3.34 ERA, 1.12 WHIP) will make his Marlins debut against spot starter Tanner Burns (3-1, 4.05 ERA, 1.48 WHIP) who is a tired reliever in disguise. He's made 37 appearences, and just 2 were starts. We locked up the position advatage at all 9 slots, with even back up catcer Jorge Tapia better then the corresponding 8th hitter in the Rockies lineup. Erbakan had a rough outing, and they edged us 5-4.

The new acquisition went just 3 innings with 7 hits, 4 runs, a walk, and 2 strikeotus. The pen went 5 innings with 5 hits, a run, 2 walks, and 6 strikeotus. Jake Yearick got the loss, an inning with 2 hits, a run, and strikeout.

Lile went 2-for-5 in his return to the lineup. Noah Smith was 2-for-3 with a homer, 3 RBI's, and a walk. Mac HOrvath was 2-for-3 with a walk and run scored. Chris Reid was 1-for-3 with a wlak and run scored. Juan Simental was 1-for-4 with a steal, walk, and run. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-5 with a double. Tapia was 1-for-4 with an RBI.

July 31st, 2029: Happy Deadline Day!

I should've pounced quicker on Alpha Quivers, as the Nationals sent him and RHP Dusty Schroeder to the Padres for SS Wander Samuel Franco and RHP Rogelio Funes. Steal for San Diego...

The Mets acquired LHP Jake Baker from the White Sox for RHP's Juan Milanes and Mike Fierst. I like this deal for the Mets.

The Tigers sent LHP Yoelvis Reyes to the Rangers for 1B Bert Robertson, RHP Juan Vargas, and SS Joe Vanderwal. Great deal for the Tigers.

The Phillies sent RHP Alan Taylor and 1B Deshawn Faggett to the Royals for SS Juan Blancas and 1B Jamie Herron. I like this for the Royals.

I hit the Phillies back up, sending SP Cho-yeong Hyoun and 1B Jon Carpenter for RP Steve Hudson.

Hudson, 30, has a 2.86 ERA and 1.18 WHIP in 34.2 innings with the Senators and Phillies this year. Hes struck out 27 in 34.2 innings as well. The 4* reliever has elite stuff, plus-plus movement, and plus control. I optioned Yearick to AAA to add him to the active roster for today's game.

We looked to even the Rockies series up with Pat Saitta (9-6, 4.04 ERA, 1.27 WHIP) facing former Marlin Luis Ardon (5-9, 6.44 ERA, 1.63 WHIP) who has pitched nearly identical this year in Colorado as Miami (6.22 ERA vs. 6.65 and 1.64 WHIP vs. 1.63 WHIP with 36 strikeouts vs. 32) in 10 starts a piece. We rallied for 3 quick runs in the 1st and cruised to a 7-1 win.

Saitta looked good, 7 innings with 4 hits, 3 runs, and 10 strikeotus. Ignacio Hinojos didn't, allowing a hit, run, and 3 walks with a strikeout in the 8th. Luis Alcantra got a strikeout in the 9th.

Juan Simental was 2-for-4 with a run scored, 2 RBI's, sac-fly, and double. Mac Horvath was 2-for-4 with an RBI and double. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-3 with 3 runs, 2 walks, and a steal. Jackson Miller was 1-for-3 with a RBI and walk. Eric Kisela was 1-for-4 with a run scroed, RBI, walk, and triple. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-3 with 2 runs, 2 walks, and a double. Saitta was 1-for-4 with a double.

Nationals starter Chris Dorman tossed a 6-hit shutout in a 1-0 win over the Expos. He struck out 10 and didn't walk a single hitter. The Nats only had 5 hits themselves, and Expos starter Joseph Jarneski was cruising before leaving the 7th with none on and 1 out with a strained hamstring.

August 1st, 2029: Michael Bauman was named American Confrence Pitcher of the Month. The New Orleans righty was 3-1 in July with a 0.59 ERA and he struck out 33 in 30 innings. He only allowed 3 runs (2 earned) in the whole month, and didn't allow a run until the 24th.

In Jacksonville, RF Rodolfo Ramirez was named Southern League Batter of the Month. The RF hit .321 with 7 homers and 24 RBI's.

We looked to take the series with Steve Paustian (9-4, 4.63 ERA, 1.36 WHIP) facing Eric Dawsosn (6-9, 6.06 ERA, 1.54 WHIP). Paustian in 2-0 with a 2.92 ERA against the Rockies this year. Despite late inning efforts, we blew by the hosts 7-2.

Paustian was great, 6.1 innings with 3 htis, 2 walks, and 3 strikeouts. Steve Hudson made his Marlins debut, 2.1 innings with 3 hits, 2 runs, a walk, and 4 strikeouts. Scoles allowed a hit before finishing the game with a ground out.

Mac Horvath was 3-for-4 with 2 steals and a run scored. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-5 with a run scored and 3 RBI's. Jackson Miller was 2-for-4 with an RBI and walk. Noah Smith was 2-for-5 with a run scored and triple. Jon Reid was 2-for-4 with a three run homer. Juan Simental was 1-for-4 with a run scored and walk.

We get tomorrow off before heading home to face the Cubs!

[ayaghmour2]

August 2nd, 2029: A nice off day so we can head home for a three game set with the Cubs. Jake Florence (10-4, 3.65 ERA) will make his return to Marlins park in the opener, with German Marquez (8-4, 4.74 ERA) and Gabe Hines (8-3, 3.13 ERA) working in the final two games.

August 3rd, 2029: The Twins will be without RHP Casey Mize for the rest of the year with shoulder inflammation. In 47 games out of the pen, he tallied 59.2 innings with a 3.77 ERA and 1.17 WHIP. He was 7-3 with a save and 53 strikeouts.

Jake Florence (10-4, 3.65 ERA, 1.17 WHIP) got the mound and made his first start back in Marlins Park since leaving in free agency in the offseason. He got a warm welcome and standing ovation when he walked on to the field, and we compiled a nice highlight video for the 30-year-old. He faced C.J. Jorgensen (7-7, 4.04 ERA, 1.20 WHIP). It was a pitching duel for the ages, and we edged them 2-1 to start the series out right.

Jorgensen went 8 innings with 3 hits, a run, and 7 strikeouts. Chad Scoles got the save with a perfect inning.

Jackson Miller was 2-for-3 with a steal. Mac Horvath and Chris Reid were both 1-for-3 with solo homers. Juan Simental was 1-for-3 and Daylen Lile was 1-for-4.

Interesting fact of note, not a single player on either team drew a walk. This is insane considering we walk the most in the NL as hitters, and are 14th in the NL in pitcher walks. The Cubs, however, walk the least amount of hitters, and their hitters are only 10th in the league for walks.

August 4th, 2029: Game two saw Devon Peterson (8-6, 3.66 ERA, 1.43 WHIP) go against German Marquez (8-4, 4.74 ERA, 1.15 WHIP). We got two runs again, but the Cubs tripled that, and took the middle game to even the series.

Peterson had a rough outing, 2.1 innings with 6 hits, 5 runs, 4 walks, and 3 strikeouts. Ignacio Hinojos went 2.2 innings with a hit and 5 strikeouts. The rest of the pen combined for 4 innings with 2 hits, a run, 3 walks, and 4 strikeouts.

Noah Smith was 1-for-2 with a run scored and walk. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-3 with a double, walk, and RBI. Eric Kisela had a pinch hit single and scored in the 8th. Mac Horvath was 1-for-4.

Reds 2B and former Marlin Tyler Callihan was 5-for-5 in a 12-3 win over the Nationals.

August 5th, 2029: Isaac Nunez will head to Batavia to begin rehab and will take some reps in Center.

We looked to take the finale with Dursun Erbakan (3-5, 3.56 ERA, 1.16 WHIP) taking on Gabe Hines (8-3, 3.14 ERA, 1.08 WHIP). The offense was non existent, and we were shutout 3-0.

Erbakan went 6.1 innings with just 3 hits, 2 runs, a walk, and 8 strikeouts. Juan Coira allowed 2 hits, a run, and a walk in an inning with 2 strikeouts.

Noah Smith was 1-for-3. Juan Simental was 1-for-4 with a double. Both Daylen Lile and Eric Kisela were 1-for-4.

We're off to Montreal for three with the Expos. We'll see Dan Droege (0-4, 5.23 ERA), Joey Brown (1-2, 4.60 ERA), and Eric Miller (1-3, 6.03 ERA).

August 6th, 2029: Toronto righty Juan Rivera is out for the year with elbow ligament reconstrucction surgery. He was 1-1 with a 4.63 ERA in 68 innings with 51 strikeouts and a 1.38 WHIP.

We dropped to fourth in the Power Rankings. At 68-46, we have a secure 8 game lead over the Nationals.

Prospect Watch: RHP Juan Ventura (AAA New Orleans):

A 24-year-old from Colombia, Juan Ventura has really held his own in the Pacific Coast League. In 21 starts, he's an impressive 10-3 with a 3.57 ERA and 1.19 WHIP. He's struck out 108 and walked just 30 in 118.1 innings. This is his first season in the Marlins organization, as he joined as a minor league free agent in the offseason. He origionally joined the Red Sox in 2021, but was released in 2024 before appearing in a game. He spent a little time with the Rangers before spending 2024-2028 in the Cardinals organization with decent results despite his share of injury problems. Ventura boasts elite stuff with a five pitch arsenal. His change up is useless, but the other four pitches (fastball, curve, splitter, and knuckle-curve) are plus or better, with the knuckle-curve a 90 rated potential. He's got plus-plus control as well, and can pitch deep enough into games. He's good enough to force himself into the big league pitcher and at least recieve consideration for a 40-Man spot in the offseason.

We opened the series in Montreal with Pat Saitta (10-6, 3.85 ERA, 1.25 WHIP) facing Dan Droege (0-4, 5.23 ERA, 1.49 WHIP). The pitching was great, and we took the opener 4-1.

Saitta looked like what I paid for today, 7 innings with 4 hits, a run, and 11 strikeouts. Gene Hall got a hold and Chad Scoles got the save.

Noah Smith was 2-for-4 with 2 runs, a steal, and a double. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-2 with a solo homer and 2 walks. Juan Simental was 1-for-4 with a double. Saitta was 1-for-3 with an RBI. Sergio Tello had a pinch hit two run homer in the 9th.

Red Sox slugger Cody Bellinger launched his 600th career homer. He has a .280/.377/.588 career line with 1,584 RBI's in 1,943 games with the Dodgers, Tigers, and Red Sox. He's earned his fair share of hardware, 3 MVP's, 5 Silver Sluggers, 10 All-Star Selections, 2 World Series Rings, and the 2017 NL Rookie of the Year Award.

August 7th, 2029: We had the possibility to expand our division lead to double digits with Steve Paustian (10-4, 4.34 ERA, 1.33 WHIP) facing Joey Brown (1-2, 4.60 ERA, 1.53 WHIP). Tied at three entering the 9th, Mac Horvath walked with the bases loaded, and we won 4-3.

And I guess I was wrong, the Nats didn't play today, so our lead is 9.5 games...

Paustian went 6 with 7 hits, 3 runs, 2 walks, and 7 strikeouts. Josh Brown got the win, 2 innings with 2 strikeouts. Chad Scoles earned save #34 by striking out the side in the 9th.

Daylen Lile was 4-for-4 with a run scored, RBI, walk, and steal. Eric Kisela was 2-for-2 with a double off the bench. Jackson Miller was 1-for-3 with a run scored, RBI, walk, and steal. Noah Smith was 1-for-2 with 2 runs and 2 walks. Chris Reid was 1-for-4.

August 8th, 2029: Jarred Kelenic will begin rehab in New Orleans.

We looked to finish the sweep with C.J. Jorgensen (8-7, 3.81 ERA, 1.15 WHIP) looking to build off an excellent start and 28-year-old Rookie Eric Miller. Four is our lucky number, and we won the finale 4-1.

Jorgensen got a three pitch strikeout before leaving the game with discomfort. Luckily, x-rays came back negative and he has just a mild oblique strain, and should make his next start. THe ven was great, combining for 8.2 innings with 4 hits, a run, 2 walks, and 10 strikeouts. Hinojos improved to 7-0 with 2.1 innings with a hit, 2 walks, and 3 strikeouts. LaFever and Hall got holds before Scoles retired all three hitters via. the strikeout.

Sergio Tello was 1-for-2 with a walk, sac-bunt, and two run homer. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-4 with a solo homer and steal. Noah Smith was 1-for-4 with a double and run scored. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with a walk.

We're headed back home for three with the Giants. We'll see Eric Warren (5-9, 3.84 ERA), Joe Brausen (7-7, 5.24 ERA), and Dan Poinsette (6-6, 4.91 ERA).

[ayaghmour2]

August 9th, 2029: Former Marlin and current Dove Leonel Olvera will miss the rest of the season with a ruptured finger tendon. He was -6 with a 4.14 ERA in 15 starts.

We opened the series hosting the Giants with Devon Peterson (8-7, 3.95 ERA, 1.48 WHIP) taking on Eric Warren (5-9, 3.84 ERA, 1.21 WHIP). Both pitchers lost their only starts against the opposition, and Peterson has seen his ERA jump recently. It was a close one, but they managed to edge us 3-2.

Juan Simental left with a sore elbow, but will just be DTD for a few days.

Peterson went 5.2 innings with 7 hits, 3 runs, 5 walks, and 2 strikeouts in another subpar start. The pen went 3.1 innings with 3 hits, 2 walks, and 6 strikeouts.

Juan Ramirez was 2-for-4 with 2 runs, a solo homer, and steal. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with a RBI and hit by pitch. Jorge Tapia was 1-for-3 with a double. Daylen Lile was 1-for-3 with a walk and hit by pitch. Chris Reid was 1-for-3 with a walk.

August 10th, 2029: I recalled Isaac Nunez from his rehab assignment and optioned Sergio Tello to AAA.

We looked to even the series back us with Dursun Erbakan (3-6, 3.52 ERA, 1.13 WHIP) facing Joe Brausen (7-7, 5.24 ERA, 1.41 WHIP). Our offense was missing, and we were shut out 2-0. We lost two straight at home to a team that is 10 games under...

Erbakan went 5 innings with 4 htis, 2 runs, 3 walks, and 6 strikeouts. The pen combined for 3 innings with a hit, walk, and 4 strikeouts.

Noah Smith was 2-for-4 with a triple and steal. Parker Meadows and Chris Reid were 1-for-3 with a walk.

August 11th, 2029: The Yankees will be without SS Juan Salas for the rest of the year with a partially torn labrum. He was hitting .251 with 22 homers and 46 RBI's.

We looked to avoid the sweep with Pat Saitta (11-6, 3.70 ERA, 1.22 WHIP) looking to stay hot against Dan Poinsette (6-6, 4.91 ERA, 1.68 WHIP). We tried really hard to lose, but Chris Reid was able to hit a walk-off two run homer to avoid the humiliating sweep and give us a 5-4 win.

Saitta went 5.2 with 2 hits, 3 runs, 2 walks, and 6 strikeouts. Chad Scoles got the win, despite allowing a hit and run while striking out the side in the 9th. Gene Hall struck out the side in a perfect 8th.

Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-4 with a double, walk, and 2 RBI's. Chris Reid was just 1-for-4 with the two run homer. Jackson Miller was 1-for-4 with a run scored. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-3 with a walk, run scored, and hit by pitch.

We're on to Washington for three with the Nationals. We'll see Steve Vincent (8-6, 3.14 ERA), Sonny Warner (7-9, 3.87 ERA), and Luis Escolastico (9-9, 4.19 ERA).

August 12th, 2029: We opened the series in our nations' capital with Steve Paustian (10-4, 4.400 ERA, 1.34 WHIP) facing fellow Steve, Vincent (8-6, 3.14 ERA, 1.06 WHIP). Our rough patch continues, and we were walked off 6-5 after tieing the game in the top of the 9th.

Paustian allowed 5 hits and 5 runs in 4 innings with 2 walks and 4 strikeouts. Gene Hall allowed a solo homer to Joe Medina to lead off the 9th.

Jon Reid was 2-for-4 with 2 runs, 3 RBI's, and a home run. Isaac Nunez was 2-for-4. Jackson Miller had a pinch hit solo homer in the 9th. Jorge Tapia, who he pinch hit for, was 1-for-3 with a double. Parker Meadows was 1-for-3 with a walk. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-5 with a steal.

August 13th, 2029: We fell to 6th in the Power Rankings. At 72-49, we have an 8 game lead over today's opponent.

The Padres and Cubs made a waiver swap, sending LHP Graeme Stinson and RHP Greg Sankoh to the Cubs and 2B Ben Boyd to the Padres. Nice trade for the Cubs, but they had to take on salary.

Prospect Watch: RHP Joe Valrie (Rookie GCL):

Our 3rd Round pick this year, Joe Valrie has really turned heads quickly. A starter by trade, the 18-year-old from Oregon has made 21 appearences (1 start) and gone 1-2 with 11 saves. He's got a 1.22 ERA, despite a 1.85 WHIP. He's walked 15 hitters and struck out just 4, which are extremely concerning numbers for someone with his talent. Rated a 4.5* as a CL and 3* as a SP, he's got elite studff and three quality pitches, a plus fastball, perfect slider, and average change up. He averages 92-94 with the fastball and has the stamina to start. He does have plus-plus future control, but he's really struggled with is so far. Still very raw, however, he's got a lot of blooming to do, although scouts are split on his future. There's about a 50/50 split on whether he'll end up a starter or a reliever, but I'm hoping my scouts are the accurate ones.

It's a must to even the series, with Sonny Warner (7-9, 3.87 ERA, 1.04 WHIP) taking on C.J. Jorgensen (8-7, 3.86 ERA, 1.15 WHIP) who seems to have found his groove. Juan Ramirez loves facing Warner, and is an impressive 9-for-16 head-to-head. A four run fourth was too much to overcome, and we were topped 6-4.

Jorgensen went 6 with 6 hits, 4 runs, 2 walks, and 7 strikeouts. Luis Alcantra allowed 2 hits and a run without getting an out. Ignacio Hinojos allowed a hit and run while striking out the side in the 8th.

Juan Ramirez was 2-for-4 with a solo homer. Isaac Nunez was 1-for-3 with a solo homer. Juan Simental was 1-for-4 with a solo homer. Jackson Miller was 1-for-3 with a sac-fly. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-4 with a steal and run scored.

August 14th, 2029: I recalled Jarred Kelenic from his rehab assignment and optioned Eric Kisela to AAA. I also traded 2B Jeremy Eierman (who I signed to a minor league deal and he used to play for me from 2020-2022) to the Rangers for RHP Sean Robinson.

Robinson, 24, is a former 7th Round Pick out of Newark Academy in Livingston New Jersey. He's split time between the rotation and bullpen all througout his career, and likely profiles as a long man in the bigs. He's rated a 1.5/2* as a starter, but barley has the needed stamina. What he does have is four plus pitches and he does a good job keeping the ball on the ground.

We looked to avoid the sweep with Devon Peterson (8-8, 3.98 ERA, 1.51 WHIP) facing Luis Escolastico (9-9, 4.19 ERA, 1.24 WHIP). Luckily, Peterson was brilliant, and we shut them out 3-0 to salvage the finale.

Peterson went 6.1 innings with 5 hits, a walk, and 7 strikeouts. He also hit 1-for-3 with a double and run scored. Luis Alcantra and C.J. LaFever earned holds and Chad Scoles got the save.

Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-2 with a double, run scored, RBI, walk, and scary hit by pitch in his return to the active roster. Noah Smith was 1-for-3 with a solo homer. Daylen Lile was 1-for-4 with a steal. Jackson Miller was 1-for-4 with an RBI.

Well, we have tomorrow off to forget about that awful 6 game stretch!

[ayaghmour2]

August 15th, 2029: No baseball today for Miami, as we'll head to Los Angeles for three games with the Dodgers. We'll face Nate Ransom (15-4, 2.21 ERA), Wesley Scott (4-10, 4.76 ERA), and Amari Queen (4-8, 4.47 ERA).

August 16th, 2029: Chris Reid asked for an extension, but he wants $235 million for 7 years, which is about 200 million more then I'd want to spend on a 33-year-old with very limited defensive ability. I don't doubt that someone will give him what he wants, but it's more then I'm willing to dish out.

Maybe his old team and our opponent today, the Dodgers, will give him that money. We'd send Dursun Erbakan (3-7, 3.52 ERA, 1.14 WHIP) to the mound against Nate Ransom (15-4, 2.21 ERA, 1.01 WHIP) who has been excellent this season. I tried trading for him in the offseason (before acquiring Saitta), but the Dodgers wouldn't budge. This is after a 13-8 year with a 4.05 ERA and 1.28 WHIP, so it's not like he was pitching like he is this year, but maybe they could see the future better then I can... The off day may have served us well, and we took the opener 4-2!

Erbakan went 5+ innings with 3 hits, a run, walk, and 6 strikeouts. Juan Coira allowed a run in 2 innings with 2 htis, a walk, and 2 strikeouts. Gene Hall got the hold, an inning with a hit, walk, and 2 strikeouts. Chad Scoles recorded the save with 2 strikeouts and a hit.

Erbakan did make a difference with the bat, 1-for-1 with two sac bunts and a three run homer, the first homer of his career. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-5 with a double and RBI. Isaac Nunez was 1-for-2 with 2 runs and 2 walks. Juan Simental was 1-for-4 with a walk. Jackson Miller and Gregorio Alvarenga were both 1-for-4.

August 17th, 2029: Game two of the series saw the red-hot Pat Saitta (11-6, 3.74 ERA, 1.20 WHIP) take on Wesley Scott (4-10, 4.76 ERA, 1.34 WHIP) who's struggled in his three starts with LA since being acquired from the Red Sox. It took 11 innings to declare a winner, and we edged the hosts 4-3.

Saitta went 6 innings with 3 hits, 3 runs, 3 walks, and 5 strikeouts. The pen was great, with 5 pitchers (Brown, Hall, LaFever, Scoles, and Coira) tossing scorless innings, allowing just 2 hits and striking out 7 as a unit. Scoles got the win and Coira the save.

Jon Reid was 2-for-5 with a triple, RBI, and hit by pitch. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-5 with 2 runs and a walk. Juan Simental was 2-for-6 with a double, RBI, and steal. Chris Reid was 1-for-5 with a walk. Isaac Nunez tripled in his only at bat.

Rays starter Chris Villaman really hit his groove today, tossing a no-hitter in a 4-0 shutout of the Blue Jays. He struck out just one, but also walked just 1, catcher Arturo Alatorre.

August 18th, 2029: Montreal will be without RF Jon Hubbard for the rest of the year with a torn posterior cruciate ligament. The 26-year-old was hitting .260/.365/.433 with 7 homers and 25 RBI's as a Rule-5 Pick. He was a 34th Round Pick by the Red Sox back in 2022 and grinded to get to the bigs.

We looked to complete the sweep wtih Steve Paustian (10-4, 4.60 ERA, 1.35 WHIP) taking on B.J. Russow (10-6, 4.45 ERA, 1.48 WHIP). The brooms had to stay on standby, and the Dodgers got 4 in the 8th to take the finale 4-2.

Paustian went 7.1 innings with 6 hits, 3 runs, 3 walks, and 5 strikeouts. Josh Brown blew the save, 0.2 innings with a hit, run, and 2 strikeouts.

Chris Reid was 1-for-3 with a walk and two run homer. Paustian was 1-for-2 for a sac-bunt. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-4 with a run scored. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with a walk.

We're headed home to host the Pirates for a three game set. We'll face Chris Androff (6-13, 5.83 ERA), Brad Rauter (10-9, 4.14 ERA), and Caleb Barnsley (5-9, 4.16 ERA).

August 19th, 2029: Isaac Nunez also wants an extension, $229 million for 9 years. If only he wasn't fragile, I'd likely give him a deal, but then again, I don't have the money to spend. Good thing I have Rogelio Maldonado waiting in AAA, who's a better overall player (way better hitter, little worse fielder, slower), 23, and durable.

Brad Rauter (10-9, 4.14 ERA, 1.28 WHIP) and the Pirates were welcomed into town by the red-hot C.J. Jorgensen (8-8, 3.95 ERA, 1.16 WHIP) in a packed Marlins Park. It was a solid way to regain momentum, and we took this one 5-1.

C.J. went 5.2 innings with 4 hits, a run, and 9 strikeouts. Jarred Kelenic went 2.1 innings with a hit and 2 strikeouts. C.J. LaFever struck out 2 in the 9th.

Juan Simental was 2-for-4 with a two run homer. Noah Smith was 2-for-4 with a triple and RBI. Isaac Nunez was 2-for-4 with a double, run scored, and RBI. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-4 with a run scored. Daylen Lile was 1-for-3 with a run scored and 2 walks. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-3 with a wlak and RBI.

August 20th, 2029: We went up a spot to 5th in the Power Rankings. At 76-51, we are cruising towards another winning season and likely another division championship.

Prospect Watch: RF Wilfredo Vinchez (AA Jacksonville):

Half Venezuelan and Half Columbian, Wilfredo Vichez was born in Venezuela, attended grade school in Columbia, and then moved back to Venezuela in High School to play baseball. He joined our International Complex in 2022, and has shown solid tools even when the results haven't been there. This year in Jacksonville, he's really played well, hitting .280/.367/.380 with 7 homers, 53 RBI's, and 19 steals in 117 games. He's also shown positive zone ratings in both corners (still inexperienced in center) and profiles as an elite defender in either. He has plus range with an elite arm and he makes all the routine plays and more. He's got great speed and is even a better base runner. His bat is still developing, but he has a plus eye and contact tool. He's not ranked in the top 30 prospects currently, but my scout is fond of him and sees him as a future 4th/5th outfielder. He's very similar to current Marlin Parker Meadows.

The middle game saw Devon Peterson (9-8, 3.80 ERA, 1.49 WHIP) match up with Caleb Barnsely (5-9, 4.16 ERA, 1.29 WHIP). Another solid game for the homeside, and we won 6-1 to get the brooms warmed up for tomorrow.

Peterson went 7 with 7 hits, a run, walk, and 8 strikeouts. Hinojos and Hudson got innings out of the pen, striking out 2 and 1 a piece.

Isaac Nunez was 3-for-4 with a run scored, RBI, and steal. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-3 with a run scored, walk, double, and steal. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-3 with 2 runs, a walk, a double, and his 30th steal of the year. Juan Simental was 1-for-4 with a solo homer. Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-3 with 2 RBI's, a double, and walk. Jorge Tapia was 1-for-3 with a run scored and walk.

August 21st, 2029: 24-year-old Dan Droge will miss the rest of the year with shoulder inflammation. Another Rule-5 Pick of the Expos, he was 0-5 with a 4.67 ERA and 1.48 WHIP with 38 strikeouts and 18 walks in 54 innings. A former 2nd Rounder of the Angels, he found a new home with one of the fledgling squads.

The finale saw Dursun Erbakan (4-7, 3.46 ERA, 1.13 WHIP) take on Jonathan Kearns (7-7, 3.89 ERA, 1.11 WHIP) as we looked for our first sweep in forever. Erbakan was brilliant, and we shut them out 1-0 in an offensive explosion!

Well, can't complain about a sweep!

Erbakan finally looked like the pitcher I gave up way too much for, tossing 6.1 innings with a hit, 2 walks, and 9 strikeouts. Luis Alcantra and Josh Brown earned holds before Chad Scoles got the ave.

Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-3 with a double, run scored, and walk. Noah Smith was 2-for-4. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-3 with a double, walk, and steal. Jackson Miller was 1-for-3 with a RBI and walk.

The legend himself Giancarlo Stanton launched three homers in a 10-6 Twins win over the Yankees. The All-Time Home Run leader now has 781 in his ledger. The 39-year-old announced his retirement, but would've had a legit chance for 800.

Red Sox RF Brett Phillips hit his 400th career homer. He has a .252/.325/.507 line with 1,066 RBI's with Milwaukee, Cincy, the Dodgers, and the Red Sox.

We're off to St. Louis to face Juan Sevilla (5-8, 3.60 ERA), Lenny Torres (9-11, 2.84 ERA), and Nate Schneider (6-4, 4.44 ERA).

[ayaghmour2]

August 22nd, 2029: We started a three game set in St. Louis with Pat Saitta (11-6, 3.77 ERA, 1.19 WHIP) facing Juan Sevilla (5-8, 3.60 ERA, 1.07 WHIP), a future star who's just 24. We got 5 in the 5th, and that was barely enough for the 5-4 win.

Saitta looked great, 7 innings with 5 hits, a run, and 5 strikeouts. Gene Hall wasn't great, 3 hits and 3 runs in 0.2 innings with a strikeout. Luis Alcanta finished the 8th with a 1 pitch fly out to earn a hold. Chad Scoles got the save, getting a strikeout in a 9th.

Jarred Kelenic was 3-for-5 with a double and run scored. Chris Reid was 2-for-4 with a walk and three run homer. Saitta was 1-for-3 with a run scored. Jon Reid was 1-for-4 with an RBI. Jackson Miller was 1-for-4 with a run scored and hit by pitch.

Down in Jacksonville, 3B Ryuki Takaki was 5-for-5 in a 12-1 Jumbo Shrimp win over the Mississippi Braves.

Yankees 1B Matt Olson hit his 500th career homer. He's having a rough year this season, hitting .168 with 9 homers and 22 RBI's, but the 35-year-old has a .239/.337/.511 career line with 1,232 RBI's.

August 23rd, 2029: We looked to keep rolling with Steve Paustian (10-5, 4.55 ERA, 1.35 WHIP) taking on Lenny Torres (9-11, 2.84 ERA, 0.97 WHIP). We only had 1 run in the first 6 innings, but we scored 3 in the 7th, 7 in the 8th, and 1 more in the 9th to win the middle match 12-4.

Paustian went 5.1 innings with 6 hits, 4 runs, 2 walks, and 3 strikeouts. Josh Brown got the win, an inning with a strikeout.

Jorge Tapia was a perfect 4-for-4 with 2 runs, 4 RBI's, and 2 doubles. Jon Reid was 3-for-5 with 3 runs, a solo homer, and steal. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-4 with 2 runs, a walk, double, and steal. Mac Horvath was 2-for-2 with a double, run scored, and 3 RBI's off the bench. Juan Simental was 1-for-5 with a three run homer. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-4 with a hit by pitch.

August 24th, 2029: We looked to finish the sweep with the red-hot C.J. Jorgensen (9-8, 3.86 ERA, 1.14 WHIP) facing Nate Schneider (6-4, 4.44 ERA, 1.53 WHIP). It was a close one, but we were edged 3-2 as the hosts were able to avoid the sweep.

Jorgensen went 6 innings with 9 hits, 3 runs, 3 walks, and 8 strikeous. Luis Alcantra struck out 2 in an inning. Gene Hall allowed a hit and got a strikeout in an inning of work.

Mac Horcath was 2-for-4. Chris Reid was 1-for-3 with a solo homer and walk. Noah Smith was 1-for-4 with a run scored. Jackson Miller was 1-for-3 with a walk.

We're headed home for three with the Mets. We'll face Arturo Romo (10-7, 3.34 ERA), Livio Montella (10-9, 3.99 ERA), and Jim Tate (8-8, 5.16 ERA).

August 25th, 2029: Interesting thing to note: I have 6 impending free agents (Josh Brown, Gene Hall, Ignacio Hinojos, Jarred Keleic, Isaac Nunez, and Chris Reid) who are each asking for $15 million or more, which means I could have 6 compensation picks! Granted, Hall or Hinojos could both accept, but even then it's four guys. I already extended Jorgensen, and Chad Scoles could opt out, so I could have hypothetically had 8 compensation picks!

Anyways, the Mets were in town as we hosted them in front of a packed crowd. We looked to win game 81 with Devon Peterson (10-8, 3.68 ERA, 1.47 WHIP) looking to stay hot against Arturo Romo (10-7, 3.34 ERA, 1.16 WHIP). That name may be familiar to some, as he used to be a Marlin. I signed him as a minor league free agent, and then trade him to the Rockies. He's pitched against me a lot, and I thought I recognized the name, so I had to check his history this time. The pitching was eexcellent, and we will at least finish the season .500 with a 5-1 victory.

Peterson went 6.2 with 8 hits, a run, walk, and 5 strikeouts. Chad Scoles struck out the side in the 9th.

Noah Smith went 3-for-4 with a run scored and RBI. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-4 with a double and run scored. Daylen Lile was 2-for-4 with a steal and run scored. Isaac Nunez was 1-for-4 with a three run homer. Juan Simental was 1-for-3 with a walk and RBI.

August 26th, 2029: Durusun Erbakan (5-7, 3.30 ERA, 1.10 WHIP) looked to build off a great start against Livio Montella (10-9, 3.99 ERA, 1.26 WHIP). He wasn't terrible, but was't great, and they evened the series with a 5-3 win.

Erbakan went 5.1 innings with 5 hits, 5 runs, 4 walks, and 8 strikeouts. The pen went 3.2 innings with a hit, walk, and 5 strikeouts.

Jon Reid was 3-for-4 with a double, run scored, and RBI. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-3 with a walk, double, and hit by pitch. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-2 with a run scored, RBI, double, and walk. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with a run scored and walk.

August 27th, 2029: The Power Rankings have us rated 4th. At 81-53, we have a 13 game lead over the Nationals.

Prospect Watch: RHP Chris Bigsby (AAA New Orleans):

Formerly the 22nd Pick overall in 2024, Chris Bigsby looked like a star in the making, but he tore his flexor tendon in 2026 that really set him back. He was able to bulid back up despite the drop off from future ace to middle of the rotation starter, and he got his contract purchased in the offseason to protect him from the Rule-5 Draft. He started out 2029 strong, but partially tore his labrum which has set him back even more. He's working back from that now, and has been red-hot in New Orleans, making 4 straight starts with 2 or less runs allowed after his 9 relif appearences. He has a 3.44 ERA and 1.09 WHIP with 36 strikeouts in 36.2 innings. He's not the elite pitcher he used to be, but he still boasts a 81 rated fastball that can touch triple digits. He's got elite stamina, but needs to fix up his change up if he wants to start in the big leagues. At just 23, he can still work to improve, and should recieve a cameo in September.

We looked to take the series finale with Pat Saitta (12-6, 3.66 ERA, 1.17 WHIP) facing Jim Tate (8-8, 5.16 ERA, 1.17 WHIP). We looked absolutely awful, and they shut us out 8-0.

C.J. LaFever also left with an injury, the diagnosis still pending. He was the best pitcher today, 1.1 innings with 2 hits and 3 strikeouts.

Saitta really didn't pitch too bad, 4 innings with 5 hits, 2 runs, 5 walks, and 6 strikeouts. Ignacio Hinojos tossed an inning with 4 hits, 2 runs, and 2 strikeotus. Juan Coira pitched an inning with 3 hits, 2 runs, a walk, and strikeout. Steve Hudson went 1.1 innings with 2 hits, 2 runs, 2 walks, and 3 strikeouts.

We had just two hits, both doubles. Jon Reid was 1-for-3 and Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-4.

Padres CF Ron Burk hit three homers in a 4-1 win over the Atlanta Braves.

We get tomorrow off before heading to Seattle to finish up August!

[ayaghmour2]

August 28th, 2029: We got today off before heading to basically the entire opposite side of the United States in Seattle for three with the Pilots. We'll face Sergio Liciaga (4-1, 4.21 ERA), Joe Holden (10-9, 4.10 ERA), and Bobby Nicholson (6-9, 4.17 ERA).

August 29th, 2029: Minnesota will miss SS Luis Garcia for the rest of the year with a fractured ankle. He was hitting .272 with 5 homers and 50 RBI's.

We opened the Pilots series with Steve Paustian (10-5, 4.63 ERA, 1.35 WHIP) taking on Sergio Liciaga (4-1, 4.21 ERA, 1.28 WHIP). Paustian is 1-1 with a 7.00 ERA against Seattle, so this may be a rough one for us. Instead, it was a masterful pitchers duel that we lost 1-0...

Poor Paustian allowed just 2 hits, a run, and 3 walks in 7 innings with 6 strikeouts in the losing effort.

We doubled their hits, but didn't do anything with them. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-4 with a triple. Mac Horvath was 1-for-4 with a double. Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-3 with a walk. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-4.

August 29th, 2029: The Montreal Expos have officially been eiliminated from the playoffs, the first time in their new history and the first team of 2029. At 45-91, they are 46 games behind the Cubs. The Expos really suck, just two players ranked higher then 28th at their position (1B Vladimir Guerrero Jr, 9th and RP Aydan McFarlen 12th) and really their only good player is CL and former Marlin Jorge Luna.

We looked to stop our awful skid and win game #82 with C.J. Jorgensen (9-9, 3.88 ERA, 1.17 WHIP) facing Joe Holden (10-9, 4.10 ERA, 1.20 WHIP). I think we have a full 2* advantage at every post in the lineup, and their best player (Taylor Trammell) is just a 2.5* although Holden is a 2.5/3. Holden held his own, but the pen exploded and we took the middle game 7-3.

Jorgensen went 5.2 innings with 6 hits, 3 runs, a walk, and 3 strikeouts. Jarred Kelenic tossed 1.1 innings with a hit, walk, and 2 strikeouts. He was also 1-for-1 with a steal.

Juan Ramirez was 2-for-4 with 2 doubles, a run scored, and RBI. Noah Smith was 2-for-3 with 2 runs, 2 doubles, steal, and walk. Chris Reid was 2-for-5 with a double and RBI. Jorgensen was 1-for-1 with a double, sac bunt, run, walk, and 2 RBI's. Isaac Nunez was 1-for-4 with a run scored, RBI, and steal. Daylen Lile was 1-for-4 with a double, run scored, and walk. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-5 with a run scored and 2 RBI's.

We now officially finished over .500 for the 9th straight season. Since 2018, that's 9 of 12 seasons for me above .500. In the firsrt 25 years of the Marlins, they only manage to finish over .500 six times. This decade has been much better.

August 31st, 2029: C.J. LaFever will head to the DL with bicep tendinitis. I recalled Jake Yearick to replace him.

We looked to take the finale with Dursun Erbakan (5-8, 3.49 ERA, 1.12 WHIP) facing Bobby Nicholson (6-9, 4.17 ERA, 1.24 WHIP). The offense was more like yesterday then the opener, and we won 8-2 to take the series.

Erbakan pitched really well, 7 innings with 3 hits, a run, and 11 strikeouts. Ignacio Hinojos went 2 innigns with 2 hits, a run, and 3 strikeouts.

Juan Ramirez was 3-for-6 and a mere single away from the cycle. He drove in 3. Mac Horvath was 2-for-4 with 2 runs, a walk, a double, and hit by pitch. Jackson Miller was 2-for-5 with a solo homer and walk. Isaac Nuenz was 2-for-4 with a run scored, double, and walk. Juan Simental was 2-for-6 with a double, run scored, and 2 RBI's. Jon Reid was 1-for-3 with a sac-fly, walk, and 2 RBI's. Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-2 with 3 walks, a double, and 2 runs scored.

We're headed back home for three with the Phillies. We'll see Sergio Monreal (8-6, 4.68 ERA), Jim Gilbert (11-10, 3.21 ERA), and Forrest Whitley (14-6, 3.07 ERA).

September 1st, 2029: Rosters expand today!
One team that can really use it, the Athletics, have officially been eliminated from the postseason. At 50-88, they are 31 games behind the Astros and Mariners. Oakland has now missed in back to back seasons after back to back appearences.

Speaking of the Astros, they will be without SP Michael Doolin for the rest of the year with a torn labrum. He was 10-7 with a 3.23 ERA in 25 starts.

Pittsburgh will miss RHP Ken Haugen for the yera with a torn labrum of his own. He was 0-6 with a 4.98 ERA and 1.25 WHIP in 13 starts and 1 relief appearence. Of course, he got hurt in the one relief appearence.

Jacksonville RF Jorge Escobar was named Batter of the Month in the Southern League. He hit .309 with 6 homers and 18 RBI's. He's moved up from Greensboro all the way to Jacksonville this season.

In the GCL, Kasey Feild was named Pitcher of the Month. He was 3-0 with a 0.62 ERA in 29 innings. He struck out 18 and walked 7.

I made a few callups, grabbing RHP Joe Kramer, C Dermott MacGregor, and LHP Jamie Priest. The AA and AAA seasons are about to end, but Jacksonville and New Orleans are both in first. A+ Jupiter is 59-70, but their season doesn't end until the 12th. A Greensboro ends the 3rd, so I may make some more callups then.

Former Marlin farmhand Sergio Monreal (8-6, 4.68 ERA, 1.54 WHIP) got the ball in the opener against Devon Peterson (11-8, 3.58 ERA, 1.46 WHIP). It was a tight one, but after blowing the lead in the 9th, Jackson Miller walked it off with a sac-fly and we took the opener 5-4.

Peterson went 5 with 6 innings, a run, 2 walks, and 4 strikeotus. Josh Brown allowed 2 runs and 4 hits in 0.2 innings with 2 strikeouts. Gene Hall went 1.1 innigns with 3 strikeouts. Chad Scoles blew the save, but got thw in, allowing 2 hits and a run with a strikeout in the 9th.

Juan Simental was 2-for-4 with a solo homer, walk, and 3 runs scored. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-3 with a sac-fly, walk, and steal. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-5. Chris Reid was 1-for-2 with 3 walks and a run scored. Peterson was 1-for-2. Mac Horvath had a pinch hit RBI single in the 6th.

I made one extra callup I forogt to make earlier, grabbing LF Sergio Tello.

September 2nd, 2029: Junior Fernandez got the sad news that his playing career was over. After a setback in the recovery of his torn tricep, the doctors determined he would no longer be able to play baseball. The 32-year-old never really found his groove, but seemes to turn the corner last year with the Mets where he went 6-4 with a 3.76 ERA in 43 games (9 starts). He struck out 85 and had a 1.40 WHIP in 105.1 innings. The Santo Domingo Native played with Detroit, Milwaukee, St. Louis, and the Mets.

We looked to get closer to clinching with Pat Saitta (12-7, 3.68 ERA, 1.20 WHIP) taking on Jim Gilbert (11-10, 3.21 ERA, 1.11 WHIP). Very similar to yesterday, Scoles blew the save in the 9th, but we walked it off in the bottom half. This time, MVP candidate Juan Ramirez (automatic win if he stayed healthy...) hit an RBI single.

Saitta went 5.2 innings with 4 hits, 2 runs, 5 walks, and 7 strikeouts. Juan Coira, Josh Brown, and Luis Alcantra earned holds. Scoles allowed 2 runs, a hit, hit by pitch, and got a strikeout in the 9th.

Noah Smith was 2-for-3 with a double, walk, run scored, and RBI. Ramirez was 2-for-4 with a hit by pitch, double, run scored, and RBI. Daylen Lile was 2-for-5. Isaac Nunez was 1-for-4 with 2 RBI's. Jorge Tapia was 1-for-4 with a double and run scored. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-3 with a steal.

September 3rd, 2029: C Pat Hughes joined the active roster.

We moved up another spot to 3rd in the Power Rankings. At 85-55 we have a 13 game lead and a magic number of 10 for the division.

Prospect Watch: RF Jorge Escobar (AA Jacksonville):

This is an easy one right here, as the 21-year-old has been amazing at every level this year, actually getting better when advancing levels. An International Amateur from Mexico, Jorge Escobar signed back in 2024 for a $1.4 million bonus that looks like an absolute steal. Currently the 10th Ranked prospect in the organization and the top RF in the system, Escobar is a 4* who is at least plus at nearly every tool. He has plus contact, gap, and defensive rating in right with plus-plus power, an elite eye, plus-plus speed and base running as well as a plus arm and error ability in the outfield. He's best suited for right field, and the lefty can almost field as well as he hits. This year, he spent 61 games in Greensboro hitting .272/.362/.491 with 8 homers and 43 RBI's before getting promoted to Jupiter. Jupiter was a short stop, as he spent 21 games there and hit .291/.391/.506 with 3 homers and 20 RBI's. Next was Jacksonville where he won Hitter of the Month. He's hit an impressive .315/.436/.509 with 6 homers and 23 RBI's in 31 games. He hasn't made an error all year, but has a negative zone rating. This makes sense, since range is not Escobar's strong suit, but he has racked up 13 outfield assists and a positive range factor. The big league outfield is stacked right now with Juan Ramirez, Daylen Lile, Juan Simental, and Jarred Kelenic all rotating in, but the youngster Escobar has done everything he can to force his way into that group. With Kelenic likely gone in Free Agency at the end of the year and the fact he needs to be protected from the Rule-5 Draft, he could start making a big league impact as soon as next year.

We looked to finish the sweep with Steve Paustian (10-6, 4.48 ERA, 1.32 WHIP) taking on Forrest Whitley (14-6, 3.07 ERA, 1.16 WHIP). The Phillies were shutting us out 6-0 before the 9th, where we put up 5 runs with just 1 out. Jackson Miller was up with a chance to tie the game, but he grounded into a double play, and our rally fell short in a 6-5 loss.

Former Philly Isaac Nunez left with a sprained knee, and will head to the DL for likely the minimum. He was 1-for-2.

Paustian went 5 with 6 hits, 5 runs, 3 walks, and 3 strikeouts. Steve Hudson tossed 2 innings with a hit, run, 3 walks, and 4 strikeouts.

Juan Ramirez was 2-for-3 with a walk, run scored, and double. Noah Smith came off the bench for Nunez, and was 1-for-2 with a two run homer. Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-3 with a run scored and walk. Jon Reid was 1-for-4 with a triple.

I recalled Rogelio Maldonado from AAA to replace Nunez.

Off to Cincinatti for three with the Reds! We'll take on Caleb Gilberet (6-9, 3.96 ERA), Patrick Raby (9-6, 3.98 ERA), and Mike Kuhns (2-6, 4.32 ERA). Not going to lie, when I had Raby, I never would have expected him to be a starter, but he's actually done pretty well, especially recently.

[ayaghmour2]

September 4th, 2029: San Diego superstar 3B Bobby Witt Jr. will miss the rest of the year with a fractured ankle. He was hitting .310 with 9 homers and 31 RBI's in 69 games. At just 29, his injury list is a few pages long...

We opened the series at Great American Ballpark with C.J. Jorgensen (10-9, 3.91 ERA, 1.17 WHIP) facing Caleb Gilbert (6-9, 3.96 ERA, 1.43 WHIP). Chad Scoles' rough streak continues, as the Reds got three in the 9th to walk-off 8-7 winners.

Jorgensen went 5 innigns with 3 hits, 3 runs, 3 walks, and 4 strikeouts. Jake Yaerick allowed a hit, 2 walks, and 2 runs with a strikeout. Scoles didn't get an out, allowing 3 hits and 3 runs.


Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-4 with a run scored, 3 RBI's, a walk, and steal. Mac Horvath was 2-for-4 with 2 RBI's. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-4 with a hit by pitch, double, 2 runs, and an RBI.Noah Smith was 1-for-2 with a run scored and walk. Juan Simental was 1-for-5 with a solo homer. Jon Reid was 1-for-3.

September 5th, 2029: Doug Parsons won't pitch again until possibly 2031 as he tore his UCL. He will head to the 60-Day DL, giving us 2 open spots.

The Cleveland Indians will not compete in the postseason this season. At 59-83, they are 26 games behind the Twins. They haven't made the postseason since 2022.

We looked to even the series with Dursun Erbakan (6-8, 3.39 ERA, 1.09 WHIP) taking on Patrick Raby (9-6, 3.98 ERA, 1.20 WHIP). It was a complete and utter anihilation, and we destroyed the Reds 11-0.

Erbakan was solid, 6.2 innings with 4 hits, 3 walks, and 5 strikeouts. Joe Kramer went 2.1 innings with 2 hits, 2 walks, and 2 strikeouts. The pitching wasn't as great as the score indicated, but it really wasn't close.

Chris Reid was 3-for-5 with 3 runs, 2 RBI's, a double, and homer. Jarred Kelenic was 3-for-5 with a double and 2 runs scored. Jon Reid was 3-for-5 with 2 RBI's. Jackson Miller was 2-for-3 with a run scored, RBI, and 2 walks. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-3 with 3 runs, 4 RBI's, 2 walks, and a home run. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-4 with a double, run scored, RBI, and walk.

September 6th, 2029: The Baltimore Orioles have become the first team to clinch a postseason spot. At 87-56, they have a comftorable 20 game lead over the Rays. Baltimore missed the postseason last year, but won 106 games in 2027.

The Chicago Cubs also clinched a playoff spot. At 96-47, they have a 11 game lead over the Brewers, who would only be one game behind me. The Cubs haven't made the playoffs since 2025.

Devon Peterson (11-8, 3.52 ERA, 1.47 WHIP) took on Mike Kuhns (2-6, 4.32 ERA, 1.06 WHIP) in the rubber match. The pitching wasn't effective, and they took the finale 8-3 to win the series.

Peterson went 4.1 innings with 9 hits, 5 runs, 5 walks, and 3 strikeouts. Luis Alcantra allowed a run off 3 hits in 2 innings with 2 strikeouts. Jake Yearick pitched the 9th, but allowed 3 hits, 2 runs, a walk, and got a strikeout.

Juan Ramirez was 1-for-3 with 2 walks and a solo homer. Jorge Tapia was 1-for-4 with a two run homer. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-4 with a walk and 2 steals. Noah Smith was 1-for-3 with a walk.

Giants 1B Juan Salgado was 5-for-6 in a 9-7 loss to the Diamonbacks.

Arizona will be our next opponent, and they'd meet us in Miami. We'd face Tyrese Comier (5-4, 3.08 ERA), Jeff Slezak (11-7, 4.07 ERA), and Davon Amoako (6-1, 6.29 ERA) before taking a day off.

September 7th, 2029: I just realized Jacksonville got screwed by the split-season format, so even though they had the best record in the Southern League ay 77-63, the 67-73 Pensacola Blue Wahoos (2nd Half Leader) and the 76-64 Mississippi Braves (1st Half Leaders) get to play in the postseaon. With that, I made all my callups.

First, C.J. LaFever was activated from the DL. I then recalled RHP Juan Maya, RHP Chris Bigsby, RHP Sam Minniefield, 3B Eric Kisela, and LF Omari Tetteh.

Bigsby, 23, is the most notable, my former 1st Round Pick from 2024. This is what I wrote on him:

The first of two picks, he'd be almost perfect, but his third pitch, a change up, is barely a option. Granted, if he can improve his change, "Wimpy" will be a steal. The 18-year-old from Gloucester, MA has insane stamina, one of the best curveball's you'll ever see, and averages 93-95 with his fastball. He's working on his control, but worst case, he ends up like Ben Popkin.

The sad thing is, his change up became a great pitch, and then he got hurt and it dropped again. He does look like a reliever now, but his pitches have changed a little. His fastball, now 96-98, is his best pitch and the curve is just a plus-plus offering. He now has plus control, so he's really changed as a prospect.

The only guy left on the 40 not active is Isaac Nunez, who should return in 7 days from the DL. I will callup two players later, likely relievers Andy Neidig and Esteban Miranda.

The Yankees will miss 2B Bo Bichette for the rest of the year with a torn menisucs. He's hit much better with the Yankees then he did with Cleveland, batting .281 with 4 homers and 15 RBI's compared to .216 with 8 homers and 31 RBI's in twice as many at bats.

The Washington Senators have been eliminated from postseason contention. At 61-83, they are 26 games behind the recently clinched Orioles. For an expansion team, they aren't too terrible, but again, aren't special. Jorge Abreu blossomed into a star, and has hit .301/.360/.584 with 33 homers and 81 RBI's after being claimed off waivers from the Cubs.

Arizona was in town for three games, and we opened the series with Pat Saitta (12-7, 3.67 ERA, 1.22 WHIP) facing Tyrese Comier (5-4, 3.08 ERA, 1.21 WHIP). Saitta was so dominate that he didn't allow a hit through 7 innings, but he was pulled with 105 pitches. We had a no-hitter through 9, before Chad Scoles allowed 2 hits in the 9th, and we finished the shutout 4-0.

Saitta went 7 hitless innings with 4 walks and 12 strikeouts. It I was managing, I'd have let him keep pitching, but Boone loves using the pen. Gene Hall got a hold, an inning with a strikeout. Scoles allowed 2 hits and 2 strikeouts.

Chris Reid was 2-for-4 with a run scored and RBI. Jarred Kelenic was 2-for-4 with a walk and steal. Juan Simental was 1-for-3 with a double and run scored. Rogelio Maldonado was 1-for-3. Sergio Tello had a pinch-hit 2 run single in the 8th.

I looked through Saitta's game logs this year, and the only time he topped 100 pitches before today was on the 18th against San Francisco. 90-96 seems to be the target each game, as he's only been below that twice with 76 and 88.

September 8th, 2029: Game two saw Steve Paustian (10-7, 4.62 ERA, 1.34 WHIP) battle with Jeff Slezak (11-7, 4.07 ERA, 1.20 WHIP). We only had 2 hits, but it was shockingly enough for a 3-1 win.

Paustian went 8 innings with 4 hits, a run, and 6 strikeouts. Chad Scoles got the save with a hit and strikeout in the 9th.

Noah Smith was 1-for-3 with a run scored and steal. Eric Kisela was the offense, 1-for-3 with a walk and a three run homer in the 3rd inning. Jarred Kelenic was 0-for-3, but walked and scored.

Vlad Jr. had as many homers as he had hits, launching three longballs in an 8-7 Expos win over the Brewers.

September 9th, 2029: We looked to complete the sweep with C.J. Jorgensen (10-9, 3.96 ERA, 1.17 WHIP) facing Davon Amoako (2-1, 6.29 ERA, 1.64 WHIP). The offense came back today, and we toppled the D'Backs 10-5 to finish the sweep.

Jorgensen went 5.1 innings with 4 hits, 2 runs, 2 walks, and 7 strikeouts. Jake Yearick earned the hold, 1.2 innings with a hit, run, 2 walks, and 3 strikeouts. Juan Coira allowed 3 hits and 2 runs with a strikeout. Sam Minniefield tossed 1.2 innings with 2 hits, 2 walks, and a strikeout.

Eric Kisela was 3-for-5 with 2 runs, 2 RBI's, and a triple. Noah Smith was 3-for-4 with 2 RBI's and 2 doubles. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-4 with 2 runs, 2 RBI's, a double, and homer. Juan Simental was 2-for-5 with a two run homer and steal. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-3 with a double, sac-bunt, walk, steal, and 2 runs scored. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with a run scored, RBI, and 2 walks.

Caleb Gilbert tossed a 2-hit shutout in a 6-0 Reds win over the Dodgers.

Now just a win from 89, we'd be able to take tomorrow off before starting a home series with the Braves.

[ayaghmour2]

September 10th, 2029: Oakland will lose SP Jared Southard for the rest of this year and start of next year with shoulder inflammation. The 28-year-old was 7-10 with a 5.16 ERA in 48 games (19 starts).

We sit at third in the Power Rankings. At 89-58, we have a 11 game lead over the Nationals.

Prospect Watch: RHP Esteban Miranda (AAA New Orleans):

Rumored to be recieving a callup at the end of the Pacific League Playoffs, 26-year-old Esteban Miranda has put up a solid season in New Orleans, going 4-0 with a 2.13 ERA, 0.94 WHIP, and 15 saves in 52 games. In 42.1 innigns, he struck out 58 and walked 14 in a hitter friendly league. Miranda has the rare feat of being drafted by the same team in the same round twice. As a Junior out of St. John's, the Rays selected him 19th Overall in 2024. He returned for his senior year, and then the Rays selected him 21st Overall where he signed a $1,520,000 bonus. He was then traded by the Rays to the Mariners with C Zachary Jackson as the Rays went to re-acquire Chris Archer in 2026 near the deadline. In the offseason, he came over to Miami with fellow pitchers Jared Taylor and Jimmy Chapman for SS Jordy Barley. Miranda boasts elite stuff with a two pitch arsenal, a 93 rated fastball and plus-plus slider. He consistently hits 98-96 with the fastball and gets plus movement on his slider. He's a little old to still be in the minors, but so was Greg Walston and Josh Watson, and they've both had solid careers so far. Expect to see Miranda in a Marlins jersey, at least temporarily, sooner rather then later.

No game today for the Marlins, but Atlanta is headed to town. We'll see Ken Harty (8-7, 3.15 ERA), Garrison Bryant (4-6, 4.16 ERA), and Curtis Taylor (5-0, 2.84 ERA).

September 11th, 2029: One of the best pitching matchups you'll ever see, as Dursun Erbakan (7-8, 3.25 ERA, 1.09 WHIP) took on Ken Harty (8-7, 3.15 ERA, 0.91 WHIP). Interesting enough, I almost re-acquired Harty from the Braves when I added Erbakan, but the Braves were asking for too much. Despite the rough start Erbakan had, I definitely think I made the right decision, getting the younger, higher upside, and cheaper arm. Both are current 4*, but Erbakan has the 4.5* potential that he's likely to reach. Although the Iron Man Harty can likley pitch forever.

And guess what? Erbakan left with an injury...

Chad Scoles allowed 2 runs in the 9th, and we lost the opener 7-6. I have to check on him, maybe someone has his kids hostage or something, because he's been allowing runs left and right...

Erbakan struggled before getting hurt, 4 innings with 3 hits, 4 runs, 3 walks, and 5 strikeouts. I'm awaiting in fear his diagnosis...

Chhris Bigsby made his big league debut, 2 innings with 2 hits, a run, a walk, and strikeout. Josh Brown, Luis Alcantra, and Gene Hall earned holds beofre Scoles blew his 6 save. He allowed 2 hits, 2 runs, a walk, and got a strikeout in the 9th. He still has a 2.43 ERA, but has allowed a run or more in 4 of his last 6 appearences (8 total) as opposed to 9 runs in the first 62 appearences.

Eric Kisela was 2-for-4 with 2 runs, and a solo homer. With Reid leaving, Kisela has really forced himself into considerations for the starting third base gig, shifting Horath to first. He was 1-for-4 with a steal. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-4 with a three run homer. Juan Simental was 1-for-4 with a two run homer. Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-2 with 2 walks and 2 runs. Noah Smith was 1-for-3.

With New Orleans eliminated from the playoffs, I'd make my final additions tomorrow morning.

September 12th, 2029: The Boston Doves have been eliminated from the playoffs. At 63-85, they are 26 games behind us. They aren't the Expos, but they are pretty bad too. Their outfield is solid, but their infield is atrocious and thier roation has huge wholes (Roberto Pena is their #5 starter).

As expected, I purcahsed the contracts of Esteban Miranda and Andy Neidig.

Neidig, 22, was my 3rd Round Pick in 2025, and the 99th Overall Pick has blossomed into a 2.5/4.5* reliever. Here's the draft report on him:

3rd Round, 99th Overall: SP Andy Neidig (3): He's from Arlington Christian high school, and boasts three plus pitches. His fastball and knuckle curve are equally effective, and like Mariscal, throws 90-92 while keeping the ball on the ground. He doesn't have the high stamina I like, but it's still starter worthy. He's a great example in the clubhouse, gets great break on his offspeed pitches, and has solid control.

I wish he had that thrid plus pitch still (his change up is an 18, fastball 86, and knuckle-curve 91), but he upped his velocity to 94-96 and is still an extreme groundballer. His control has dropped a bit, but he still boasts plus-plus movement. He's a clubhouse leader with elite stuff and he has closer written all over him!

Also, I think he might be the only 3rd Rounder I've ever selected that has had any sort of ability a few years later...

We looked to even the series back up with Devon Peterson (11-9, 3.70 ERA, 1.52 WHIP) taking on Garrison Bryant (4-6, 4.16 ERA, 1.31 WHIP). We changed up the game plan, and scored 2 in the 9th to litearlly walk-off (Jon Reid walked with the bases loaded) 4-3 winners. Take that Chad, can't blwo the save today!

Peterson went 5.1 innigns with 6 hits, 3 runs, 4 walks, nad 4 strikeouts. 6 relievers combined for 4.2 innings with just 1 hit and 4 strikeouts. Juan Maya made his MLB debut, getting a four pitch fly out and the win.

Jackson Miller was 4-for-4 with a run scored and double. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-5 with 2 runs scored. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-2 with 2 RBI's, a sac-fly, and 2 rwalks. Eric Kisela was 1-for-4 with a walk and run scored.

Since I mentioned it, I had to check all the 3rd Rounders I've selected, and list them by their value:

Major Leaguer: RP Sam Minniefield (2024)
Career Minor Leaguer: SS Jon Meloa (2018), 3B T.J. Paskert (2020), RF Sergio Varas (2021), Jeff Hamrick (2022)
Absolutely Useless: RF Steve Catterton (2019), C Jim Davis (2027)
Still a Marlin, but sucks: C Maddox Northeast (2024), 3B Zach Ponitus (2029)
Still a Marlin, but useful: RP Jon Clark (2026)

How does my 3rd Rounder this year already suck!?!?!? And just when I thought I was getting better at drafting...

Well, at least Minniefield has been relatively useful, 18 career innings from 2027-2029 with a 2.50 ERA and 1.33 WHIP, so I guess I should just aim for releivers, continuing Jon Clark actually still has potential from 2026.

September 13th, 2029: Erbakan sprained his ankle and will miss 4 weeks. Yay... But, at least it could be worse, and he may be available for at least part of the postseason. I'll take ankle over arm any day though... Juan Coira will rejoin the rotation.

An intersting September trade, as the Giants acquired RHP Devan Watts from the Doves for SS Gene Faller. I almost claimed Watts off waivers too, but good for the Doves I didn't. The guy they got was useless, but I don't know what the mindset was for the 67-81 Giants to acquire an impending free agent...

We looked to take the series and get revenge for Erbakan with Pat Saitta (13-7, 3.52 ERA, 1.19 WHIP) taking on Konnor Pilkington (3-3, 4.06 ERA, 1.35 WHIP). It was an all-out slugfest, and we were topped 12-9.

Saitta had a rare rough start and tossed just 78 pitches, going 4.2 innings with 6 hits, 4 runs, 2 walks, and just 1 strikeout. Ignacio Hinojos got the loss, allowing 2 walks, 3 runs, and a hit without getting an out. Jake Yaerick allowed 2 hits and a run in 0.1 innings. Jamie Preist allowed 2 hits, a walk, and 3 runs in 0.2 innings. C.J. LaFever went 1.1 innings with 3 hits and a run.

Juan Simetnal was 3-for-5 with a double, homer, and 6 RBI's. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-5 with 2 runs, a double, and 2 steals. Daylen Lile was 2-for-4 with a run scored and steal. Noah Smith was 1-for-4 with a walk. Mac Horvath was 1-for-4 with a steal. Saitta was 1-for-2 with a double. Chirs Ried was 1-for-5 with a solo homer.

Jeff Houghtby hit his 300th career homer in the Braves win. A former 18th Rounder, Houghtby has been a star for the Braves nearly his whole career, hitting .276/.347/.511 with 812 RBI's in 4,572 at bats.

White Sox C Carter Young hit in his 20th straight game.

Off to Milwaukee for three with the Brewers! We'll see Rawley Hector (10-7, 4.76 ERA), Victor Mederos (12-11, 3.88 ERA), and Rodolfo Espinoza (14-6, 3.78 ERA).

September 14th, 2029: I activated SS Isaac Nunez from the Disabled list.

We opened the series in Milwaukee with Steve Paustian (11-7, 4.45 ERA, 1.30 WHIP) taking on Rawley Hector (10-7, 4.76 ERA, 1.29 WHIP). The pitching was subpar, and they took the opener 8-3. I guess they need the wins more then me...

Paustian was roughed up, 3.1 innings with 5 hits, 6 runs (5 earned), 3 walks, and 2 strikeouts. Sam Minniefield went 2.2 innings with a hit, run, walk, and 2 strikeouts. Steve Hudson went 2 innings with a hit, run, walk, and 2 strikeouts.

Isaac Nunez had a great welcome back game, 3-for-4 with a steal and 2 runs scored. Jon Reid was 2-for-4. Jackson Miller was 1-for-4 with a steal and run scored. Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-4 with a double and walk.

Carter Young's hit streak was ended at 20 games.

September 15th, 2029: The Dodgers will be without SS Jerry Bishop for the rest of the year with a torn meniscus. He was also playing through a strained rib cage muscle since August 30th, so this is really all on the Dodgers. He was hitting .251/.315/.510 with 31 homers and 89 RBI's.

Lots of playoff news: The Red Sox are out, the Twins and Mariners in. The Twins will represent the AL Central and the Cubs will represent the NL Central officially.

We looked to even the series up against the 2nd Place team in the NL Central. C.J. Jorgensen (11-9, 3.94 ERA, 1.17 WHIP) got the start against Victor Mederos (12-11, 3.88 ERA, 1.24 WHIP). We got 3 insurance runs in the 6th to win the middle game 6-2.

C.J. went 5 with 2 hits, 2 runs, 2 walks, and 3 strikeouts. The pen comvined for 4 innings with a hit, walk, and 9 strikeouts. Both Gene Hall and Chad Scoles struck out the side.

Juan Ramirez was 2-for-3 with 2 runs, a walk, and steal. Mac Horvath was 2-for-4 with two doubles and 3 RBI's. Eric Kisela was 1-for-3 with a run scored, sac-fly, and 2 RBI's. Juan Simental was 1-for-4 with 2 runs, a walk, and solo homer.

Another catcher got a 20 game hit streak, the Brewers' Kole Cottam. Let's see if his lasts longer then Young's.

September 16th, 2029: Now 91-61, we have officially clinched a playoff spot. It's our 9th consecutive postseason appearence.

Reds starter Dallas Woolfolk tore his flexor tendon, and will likely miss part of 2030. He was 6-13 (same record as last year) with a 4.68 ERA and 1.35 WHIP.

Just 25-years-old, Kevin Steck will be forced to quit his major league career. After a setback during the rehab of his torn rotator cuff, the damage done was too severe to come back. This is something I can definitely relate to... The Young National was having a solid year, 4-5 with a 3.74 ERA and 1.34 WHIP in 21 stats. In the totality of his career, he was 7-5 with a 3.68 ERA, 1.32 WHIP, and he struck out 105 in 124.2 innings.

The Tampa Bay Rays have been eliminated from the postseason. At 72-80, they are 21 games behind the Orioles. Tampa made the playoffs last season.

We looked to secure the finale with Juan Coira's (8-8, 5.078 ERA, 1.44 WHIP) return to the rotation. He'd face Rodolfo Espinoza (14-6, 3.78 ERA, 1.28 WHIP). No more starting for him, as we were crushed 8-1...

Coira went just 2.1 innings with 7 hits, 8 runs, 2 walks, and a single strikeout. Chris Bigsby went 3.2 innings with 3 hits and 3 strikeouts. Andy Neidig made his MLB debut, 2 innings with 2 walks and 2 strikeouts.

Sergio Tello was 2-for-4. Isaac Nunez was 1-for-4 with an RBI. Jarred Kelenic, Gregorio Alvarenga, and Jorge Tapia were all 1-for-4.

We headed back home to host the Doves for a three game set. We'd see former Marlin 3B Roberto Pena (1-1, 2.08 ERA), former Marlin minor leaguer Jared Jackson (8-7, 3.24 ERA), Jorge Reyna (5-13, 7.02 ERA) who probably wish he pitched for the Marlins.

[ayaghmour2]

September 17th, 2029: We took a plummet to 7th in the Power Rankings. With the division baseically rapped up, I really have nothing to worry about until the postseason.

Speaking of the postseason: The Astros clinched a playoff spot, the Brewers will be a Wild Card, the Pirates have been eliminated, and the Dodgers have won the NL West. They are my likely opponent in the first round, and I have a 2 game lead over them for home field.

The Doves were in town, and former Marlin Roberto Pena (1-1, 2.08 ERA, 1.38 WHIP) took on Devon Peterson (11-9, 3.75 ERA, 1.53 WHIP). Not quite sure what happened today, but we let them beat us 5-4 despite out-hitting them 14-8. Well, what happened was an error by Gregorio Alvarenga cost us 2 runs...

And to make things worse, Juan Simental left with an injury... He was 1-for-2 with a hit by pitch...

Peterson went 4.2 innings with 8 hits, 5 runs (3 earned), a walk, and 6 strikeouts. Juan Maya tossed 2.1 perfect innings with 4 strikeouts. Chad Scoles struck out the side in the 9th.

Juan Ramirez was 2-for-4 with a two run homer. Mac Horvaath was 2-for-4 with a double and 2 runs scored. Jarred Kelenic was 2-for-4 with a double and run svored. Alvarenga was 2-for-4. Jackson Miller was also 2-for-4. Isaac Nuenz was 1-for-3 with a sac-fly and 2 RBI's. Eric Kisela was 1-for-3 with a double. Chris Reid pinch hit for him and doubled as well.

September 18th, 2029: We looked to even the series up with Ignacio Hinojos (7-1, 3.07 ERA, 1.09 WHIP) making his first start of the season against Jared Jackson (8-7, 3.34 ERA, 1.23 WHIP) who has been hot as of late. The Doves really have our number this series, and they took the middle game 4-2. We better not get swept...

Hinojos went 5 innings with 7 hits, 4 runs, a walk, and 7 strikeouts. Esteban Miranda made his debut, an inning with 2 strikeouts.

Juan Ramirez was 2-for-4 with a run scored. Jackson Miller was 2-for-3 with an RBI. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-3 with a run scored.

Milwaukee C Kole Cottam's hit streak was ended at 20 games.

September 19th, 2029: Simental's X-Rays came back negative, and his elbow is just bruised not broken, shattered, etc. after being hit by the pitch. He'll be day-to-day for 4 days, but to be safe, I'm benching him.

Rangers starter Zach Reed wasn't as lucky, as he will miss the remainder of the year with at torn labrum. He was 8-6 with a 4.65 ERA and 108 strikeouts in 141.1 innigns.

We looked to avoid the sweep with Pat Saitta (13-7, 3.63 ERA, 1.20 WHIP) facing Jorge Reyna (5-13, 7.02 ERA, 1.85 WHIP) who is mercilessly making his 30th start of the season. I don't know why they keep sending the 1.5/2* 27-year-old to the mound when there has to be someone else that can throw the ball. I'm no WAR fan, but a -1.5 is really impressive...

Of course, knocking him so much guarantees the sweep...

And of course, Seuly Matitas decides to hit a grand slam in the 8th, and we get swept in a 5-4 loss. At home. To an expansion team.

Well, better lose 3 in a row now then later...

Maybe it's the airplane I'm in...

Juan Ramirez left with a hip flexotr strain, and will be day-to-day. He got hurt doubling in his only at bat. He's also getting benched until healthy...

Well, Saitta was great, 6.2 innings with a hit, runs, 2 walks, and 9 strikeouts. Jamie Preist sucked, 2 hits, a walk, and 3 runs, which scored on the grand slam Luis Alcantra allowed. He gave up 2 more hits before being pulled for Miranda. Both Miranda and Scoles pitched an inning and struck out two, but the latter allowed a hit.

Jon Reid went 2-for-4 with an RBI triple. Jorge Tapia was 1-for-4 with a double. Sergio Tello, who replaced Ramirez, was 1-for-4 with an RBI. Chris Reid was 1-for-4. Gregorio Alvarenga had a pinch hit single and scored.

Well that sucked... So bad that our lead is down to 6 games...

Off to San Diego where we try to suck a little less. We'll face Zach Liginfelter (6-12, 4.32 ERA), Ryan Wimbush (10-7, 3.84 ERA), and Dominic Pipkin (9-5, 3.27 ERA) in our last road series of the year.

September 20th, 2029: The 78-78 Atlanta Braves have been eliminated from the playoffs. They haven't made the playoffs since 2026.

Also, before I forget, the Orem Owlz have announced (or announced a while ago) that they will be moving to Pueblo, Colorado in real life, so I will be changing them in game as well. They will be keeping the Owlz moniker.

We opened the series in San Diego with Steve Paustian (11-8, 4.63 ERA, 1.32 WHIP) facing Zach Linginfelter (6-12, 4.32 ERA, 1.19 WHIP). Our magic number for the division is 1, so a wain here seals the deal! I guess losing is more fun, and the Padres topped us 4-3...

Paustian went 6.1 with 8 hits, 4 runs, a walk, and 4 strikeouts. Jake Yaerick tossed 1.2 innings with a hit, walk, and 3 strikeouts.

Isaac Nunez was 2-for-3 with a double. Dayken Lile was 2-for-4 with a double and 2 RBI's. Eric Kisela was 1-for-3 with a walk and solo homer. Chris Reid was 1-for-4 with a walk, double, and run scored. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-4 with a double and run scored.

I want to have some fun with the lineup (playing three of my four catchers in one game), but we have to clinch the division first...

September 21st, 2029: The Tigers got a huge blow, finding out Nazeem bin Lahab will likely miss all of 2030 with a torn UCL. The 27-year-old superstar was 4-6 with a 3.49 ERA in 30 starts.

The Texas Rangers are heading to the playoffs as a Wild Card. At 85-72, they are third in the AL West, but 7 behind Housotn and 9 behind Seattle. This marks back-to-back Wild Card spots for the Rangers.

We've lost 5 staight, Washington has won 6 straight, and we still have a stupid Magic Number of 1. We looked to make that 0 with C.J. Jorgensen (12-9, 3.93 ERA, 1.16 WHIP) facing Ryan Wimbush (10-7, 3.84 ERA, 1.47 WHIP). Finally, despite a lack of offense, we won, and clinched the division with a 2-1 win. Of course, the Nats lost too, so it didn't really matter, but at least we won again...

C.J. went just 5 with 4 hits, a run, 2 walks, and 4 strikeotus. Jamie Preist and his now 7.78 ERA got a hold for who knows what reason, as well as Gene Hall. Chad Scoles earned the save, his 41st of the year, tieing his league leading amount from last year.

Daylen Lile was 2-for-2 with 2 RBI's, a walk, hit by pitch, double, and steal. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-3 with 2 walks, a double, and run scored. Mac Horvath was 1-for-4. Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-5 with a run scored.

Brewer Rodlofo Espinoza got his 16th win with a 5-hit shutout of the Pirates. The Crew won 6-0 and he struck out 6.

Septemebr 22nd, 2029: It's been a rough year for players, and another career has ended. This time, 31-year-old Jake Baker who tore his rotator cuff. Recently acquired by the Mets from the Sox at the deadline, the Aussie has made 30 ore more starts every year in the majors (since 2024). All told, his career will end at 74-61 with a 4.28 ERA and 1.29 WHIP, right before he would have been eligible for a big contract in Free Agency.

Time for some fun in the finale of the series between Devon Peterson (11-10, 3.80 ERA, 1.54 WHIP) and Dominic Pipkin (9-5, 3.27 ERA, 1.18 WHIP). For the tri-catcher attack, Dermott MacGregor will be behind the plate, Jackson Miller in right, and Pat Hughes at first. Interesting note on Hughes, he's made 1 career plate appearence in his Major League Career (this is his first start after 2 appearences), and he has a WRC+ of 385 despite an average of .000. He was hit by a pitch in his only plate appearence and he later scored. He didn't get his first big league hit, but was hit by another pitch! We didn't make an error, and took the finale 7-5.

Peterson had a really bad outing, 3.2 innigns with 3 hits, 4 runs, 8 walks, and 5 strikeotus. Juan Coira got the win, 1.1 innings with 4 hits and a run. Jake Yaerick and Luis Alcantra earned holds before Chad Scoles grabbed another save.

Daylen Lile was 2-for-5 with two steals and two runs scored. Jarred Kelenic was 2-for-5 with 2 runs, 2 RBI's, a triple, and homer. Jackson Miller was 2-for-3 with a walk and RBI in his first ever start. He caught the only ball hit to him. Jon Reid was 1-for-4 with an RBI. Eric Kisela was 1-for-2 with a run scored, walk, and sac-fly. Isaac Nunez was 1-for-4 with a sac-fly and run scored. Dermott MacGregor was 1-for-4 with an RBI.

We get tomorrow off to return home for our final series of the year!

[ayaghmour2]

September 23rd, 2029: It's almost playoff time again! We get today off before our last series of the year!

The Nationals clinched the Wild Card. At 88-71, they will likely be hosted by the Brewers. The Nats last made the postseason in 2027, but it was their first time since 2018.

Up next, the Rockies and Ty Madden (12-9, 3.98 ERA) followed by Cristian Sanchez (3-7, 5.63 ERA) and Tanner Burns (4-3, 4.50 ERA)!

September 24th, 2029: We're ranked 8th in the Power Rankings. At 93-66, we're a game behind the Dodgers for homefield in the NLDS.

If you noticed, last "week" I didn't post a prospect watch because the minor league season is finished, and I won't do one this week either. It'll start again next season.

We're back to full strength in the outfield, and we'd host the Rockies for the last three regular season games of 2029. Pat Saitta (13-7, 3.55 ERA, 1.18 WHIP) will take on Ty Madden (12-9, 3.98 ERA, 1.30 WHIP) in the opener. Down 5-0, we scored 5 in the 8th including a Juan Simental grand slam. No runs were scored until the 13th, where we walked off 6-5 winners!

Saitta had a rough outing, 4 innings with 2 hits, 5 runs (3 earned), 4 walks, and 4 strikeotus. So yes, extras could have been prevented... The pen though, was brilliant, combining for 9 innings with 6 hits and 10 strikeouts. Some highlights were Juan Maya (2 IP, 3 K) and Josh Brown (2.2 IP, H, 3 K). Jamie Priest got the win, pitching a shockingly perfect 13th. Again, not sure why he was used, but hey, he got the job done!

Juan Ramirez was 2-for-5 with 2 doubles, a walk, steal, and the winning run. Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-3 with a run scored, RBI, 2 walks, and a hit by pitch. Jon Reid was 1-for-5 with a run scored. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-5 with a double and RBI. Simental was just 1-for-6, but that one was a huge hit!

September 25th, 2029: Almost done for the year as Ignacio Hinojos (7-2, 3.33 ERA, 1.12 WHIP) will face Cristian Sanchez (3-7, 5.63 ERA, 1.40 WHIP) in the middle game. The offense exploded for 6 in the 7th, and we won 10-3 and would look to sweep tomorrow.

Hinojos pitched well, 6 innings with 3 hits, a run, 2 walks, and 5 strikeouts. Sam Minniefield allowed 2 runs and a hit with 2 walks and a strikeout in an inning.

We ran wild today, with six stolen bases (Kelenic, Nunez (2), Miller, Simental, Ramirez) off a solid defensive catcher in Austin Bode (65 rated, 61 ability, 63 arm) so either we were super lucky or the pitchers suck at holding runners. Get this: they don't... Sanchez has a 100 hold rating, Luilly Ovalle 74, and Cal Leyten 78. The third pitcher of the game, Sincere Hardgraves was only 42, but even that isn't terrible. Gregorio Alvarenga was caught so we weren't perfect, but 6-for-7 in one game is pretty great.

Jackson Miller was 3-for-4 with 2 runs and 2 RBI's. Alvarenga was 3-for-3 with a run scored, 2 doubles, walk, and 3 RBI's. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-3 with 3 runs, 2 RBI's, and a walk. Jarred Kelenic was 2-for-3 with a run scored, hit by pitch, and 2 RBI's. Isaac Nunez was 1-for-4 with 2 run scored and an RBI.

September 26th, 2029: The Seattle Mariners clinched their division today with a day to spare. They hold a 2 game lead over the Astros, who will host fellow AL West and Texas counterpart, the Rangers.

The brooms were ready and we looked to finish a really inetersting regular season with a sweep of the Rox. Steve Paustian (11-9, 4.67 ERA, 1.32 WHIP) taking on Eric Dawson (8-15, 5.30 ERA, 1.44 WHIP). We had a great defensive lineup, with every spot except CF (Simental) and C (Tapia) rated 85 or better at their position. The normal catcher Jackson Miller is rated an 81, but no center fielder ranks hire then Daylen Lile (in RF) at 61. All the scoring was done in the 6th, and 5 is mroe then 1, so we finished the season with a nice sweep of the Rockies.

Paustian was solid, 6 strong with 4 hits, a run, 3 walks, and 8 strikeouts. Esteban Miranda finished a perfect season with 2 innings and a strikeout. He pitched 4 perfect frames in the majors with no hits or walks. He did his part to show he belongs in the bigs.

Jorge Tapia was 1-for-2 with a double, run scored, walk, and 3 RBI's. Noah Smith was 1-for-2 with a double, run scored, and 2 walks. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-4 with a run scored. Isaac Nunez was 1-for-4 with a run scored. Daylen Lile was 1-for-4 with a steal.

Ernie Frye extended his hit streak to 20, but the Rays LF will have to wait until 2030 to continue it.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. ended the season with a bang, hitting his 300th career homer in a 4-1 loss to the Nationals, the team the origional Expos turned into. Vladdy had a resurgence in his father's old stomping grounds, hitting .304/.347/.534 with 24 homers and 66 RBI's. IN his career, he has a .296/.366/.515 line with 925 RBI's and 121 steals. I'm still playing 45% of his salary, so it's nice to see him perform again.

September 27th, 2029: Well, we ended the regular season with 5 losses and then 5 wins, so I'm hoping we don't continue with 5 more losses. The playoffs are set, and start tomorrow!

[ayaghmour2]

September 28th, 2029: The playoffs start today, and here is who is representing each league:

American League
AL East: Baltimore Orioles (101-61)
AL Central: Minnesota Twins (96-66)
AL West: Seattle Mariners (96-66)
Wild Card Host: Houston Astros (95-67)
Wild Card Guest: Texas Rangers (88-74)

National League
NL East: Miami Marlins (96-66)
NL Central: Chicago Cubs (105-57)
NL West: Los Angeles Dodgers (96-66)
Wild Card Host: Milwaukee Brewers (92-70)
Wild Card Guest: Washington Nationals (89-73)

The AL Wild Card game takes place today, with the Rangers and Dan Scott facing the Astros and Seth Halvorsen. The Astros took a 4-1 lead in the 1st, but then let the Rangers go up 7-4 by time the top of the 8th finished. The Astros cur the lead to just 1 before the 9th, where 1B Chris Konowitz hit a walk-off two run homer to give the Astros a 8-7 win. Konowitz was 2-for-5 with 2 homers and 5 RBI's. Teammate Billy Wililamson was 2-for-3 with a three run homer, walk, and 3 runs scored. Rangers LF Luis Roebrt was 4-for-5 with a solo homer and 3 RBI's in the losing effort.

September 29th, 2029: The NL Wild Card Game was today, with Luis Esolastico and the Nationals facing Rodolfo Espinoza and the Brewers. It wasn't even close, and the Brewers swept past the Nats 9-1. C Carlos Perez was 2-for-4 with a double, solo homer and run scored. Teammate Josh Madrigal had a pinch hit two run homer. Nationals LF Braden Cook was responsible for their only run, going 2-for-3 with an RBI and walk.

September 30th, 2029: The ALDS started today with the Orioles hosting the Astros and the Mariners hosting the Twins. Both home teams won, with Baltimore taking the opener 5-3 and Seattle winning 6-3. Mariners ace Sergio Barreto went 6.1 innings with 3 hits, a walk, and 8 strikeouts. Twins LF Nick Decker had his way with the Mariners pen, 2-for-3 with 2 solo homers and a walk. Janisel Rivera was 2-for-3 with 2 homers and 4 RBI's before the Twins finally walked him in his 4th at bat.

September 31st, 2029: Rodolfo Ramirez was named the Southern League MBP. In 85 games with Jacksonville, he hit .268/.355/.485 with 14 homers, 56 RBI's, and 25 steals. He got 6 of the 12 firs place votes and 137 total points.

Even though we had the same record as the Dodgers, we got to host game 1 as we looked to win our first postseason game in literally forever. Former Dodger C.J. Jorgensen (13-9, 3.87 ERA, 1.16 WHIP) took the mound against Nate Ransom (19-6, 2.69 ERA, 1.06 WHIP). Both guys have 1 start against the opponent, and both got the loss while looking terrible. We have the position advantage at every spot except #2 hitter, where Juan Simental and Amari Sanon are tied. It felt really nice to win, and the opener was ours by a score of 5-3.

Jarred Kelenic was ejected in the 7th while arguing a called third strike.

Jorgensen went 5 innings with 4 hits, 3 runs, 2 walks, and 5 strikeouts. Jake Yaerick tossed 2 innings with 2 hits. Chad Scoles got the win, an inning with 2 strikeouts and Gene Hall got the save.

Jon Reid was 2-for-3 with a double, walk, and solo homer. Isaac Nunez was 2-for-4 with a solo shot. Mac Horvath was 2-for-2 with a run scored, RBI, and 2 walks. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-4 with a walk and run scored. Jorge Tapia had a pinch hit RBI single in the 8th.

In the NL Central battle, the Cubs topped the Brewers 7-2. Jorge Flores tossed 7.2 innings with 4 hits, a run, walk, and 8 strikeouts in the win, while teammate and another former Marlin Seth Beer was 2-for-4 with a double, homer, and 4 RBI's.

In the AL, both Baltimore and Seattle took 2-0 leads with a 4-1 and 7-4 win respectively.

October 2nd, 2029: We looked to take a commanding 2-0 lead with Devon Peterson (11-10, 3.93 ERA, 1.57 WHIP) matching up against Wesley Scott (6-12, 4.87 ERA, 1.32 WHIP). The offense fell asleep, and the Dodgers evened the series with a 3-1 win.

Peterson went 7 with 3 hits, 3 unearned runs, 3 walks, and 10 strikeouts. Yep, we should've won this one... Well, it was Peterson's error... He was 1-for-2 with a double.

Jarred Kelenic was 2-for-4. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-4 with a run scored. Isaac Nunez was 1-for-3.

Milwaukee evened up the series as well, scoring 6 in the 8th to win 9-5. Luis Romero was 4-for-5 with a triple, RBI, and 3 runs scored in the win.

October 3rd, 2029: Just the AL today, as both road teams were on the brink of elimination. Houston managed to live to fight another day, winning 7-2. Seth Halvrosen tossed 5 innings with 3 hits, a run, 2 walks, and 3 strikeouts in the win. The Twins weren't so lucky, and Seattle finished the sweep with a 9-6 win. Kurt Metzger was 3-for-5 with a double, homer, 2 RBI's, and 2 runs. Sean Taylor was 2-for-4 with a homer, 2 runs, and 2 RBI's in the losing effort.

October 4th, 2029: We looked to re-take the series lead with Pat Saitta (13-7, 3.62 ERA, 1.18 WHIP) facing Amari Queen (9-10, 4.35 ERA, 1.11 WHIP). We got 4 in the 3rd and 3 in the 8th to take a 2-1 lead with a 7-4 win.

Saitta struggled a little, 5.2 innings with 6 hits, 3 runs, 4 walks, and 3 strikeouts. Ignacio Hinojos got the win, 1.1 innings with 2 hits, a run, walk, and 3 strikeotus. Scoles got the hold and Hall the save. Not sure why Scoles has been pitching the 8th...

Mac Horvath was 2-for-4 with a double and ru scored. Jon Reid was 2-for-3 with a double and run scored. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-4 with a three run homer and walk. Jarred Kelenic was 1-for-4 with a run scored, RBI, and walk. Daylen Lile had a pinch hit RBI double in the 8th and later scored. Parker Meadows had a pinch hit RBI single and stole second in the 8th as well.

The AL is done, as the Orioles topped the Astros 6-4 to take the series 3-1. Mike Verbeck was 3-for-4 with a solo homer, walk, and 2 runs scored.

The Cubs took a 2-1 lead, winning 6-2. Gabe Hines got the win, 7 innings with 3 hits, a run, 2 walks, and 6 strikeouts.

October 5th, 2029: In the Florida State League, Jupiter reliever Dave Chutz was named Reliever of the Year. He was 4-3 with 13 saves and a 1.01 ERA in 62.2 innings. He had a 1.04 WHIP and struck out 77 batters and allowed just 1 homer all year. He's a former 3rd Round Pick by the Cubs that we claimed off of waivers from the Cardinals in the offseason.

We looked to punch our ticket to the NLCS with Steve Paustian (12-9, 4.57 ERA, 1.32 WHIP) facing Robinson Ortiz (11-8, 3.68 ERA, 1.19 WHIP). The Dodgers weren't going to let that happen at home, and they crushed us 9-2.

Paustian lasted just 1.2 innings with 4 hits, 6 runs, 5 walks, and a strikeout. Jamie Priest tossed 2.1 innigns with a hit, walk, and 3 strikeouts. C.J. LaFever tossed 3 innings and struck out 2 with 3 hits. Ignacio Hinojos was awful, allowing 3 hits and 3 runs.

Juan Simental was 1-for-4 with a two run homer. Jon Reid was 1-for-3 with a double. Jackson Miller was 1-for-3. Gregorio Alvarenga had a pinch hit double.

The Brewers also managed to force a game five. It was a crazy one, tied at four heading into the 8th. The Brewers took a 5-4 lead in the 8th, but the Cubs managed to get 2 in the 9th to take a 6-5 lead. With 2 outs, Milwaukee tied it at 6 to force extras and preserve their season. Joe Folger then hit a walk-off three run homer in the 10th to win 9-6 and head back to Chicago.

October 6th, 2029: Sort of good news, I can activate Dursun Erbakan from the DL, but I can't add him to the playoff roster for this series.

No baseball today either...

October 7th, 2029: This is it: Game 5! C.J. Jorgensen (13-9, 3.87 ERA, 1.16 WHIP: 0-0, 5.40 ERA, 1.20 WHIP) will get the ball against Nate Ransom (19-6, 2.69 ERA, 1.06 WHIP: 0-0. 3.00 ERA, 1.33 WHIP). The game couldn't have gone much better, and we shut them out 6-0!

C.J. was on point, 6.1 innings with 3 hits, 2 walks, and 8 strikeouts. The pen combined for 2.2 innings with a walk and 3 strikeouts, all 3 to Josh Brown in his 1.1 innings.

Juan Ramirez was 4-for-4 with a triple, homer, and 3 RBI's. Jarred Kelenic was 2-for-3 with a double and run scored. Jackson Miller was 2-for-4 with 2 runs and a double. Chris Reid was 1-for-4 with a solo homer. Daylen Lile had a pinch hit RBI single in the 8th.

Who will we face? None other then the best team in baseball, the Chicago Cubs! They won 3-2 after a Kyle Tucker two run homer in the 8th. All four home teams won their series, something I hope will change next round.