Fixing the Marlins!

[ayaghmour2]

June 18th, 2030: RF Austin Hendrick will miss the rest of the year with a torn back muscle. The former Marlin was hitting just .229 with 8 homers and 19 RBI's.

I forgot to do a "Prospect Watch" yesterday so I'll do it today instead:

Prospect Watch: LF Sam Pell (A Greensboro):

Selected back in 2026 in the 5th Round of the draft, Sam Pell has slowly risen up the system, but seemed to crash into a road block last year in a 9 game audition in Greensboro last year. He looked terrible, hitting .147/.171/.265 with 14 strikeouts and just 5 hits. He did have a homer and 7 RBI's, but he looked completley overmatched in the week plus. The switch hitter has rebounded this year, batting .292/.314/.509 with 6 homers, 43 RBI's, and 9 steals in 50 games (34 starts) with the Grasshoppers. Pell's value is in his verstatility and speed, and while he's an excellent left fielder, he has a little expereince at second, third, short, center, and right as well. He doesn't have much power, but he hits a lot of line drives and racks up doubles and triples. He's low on the prospect ladder, but his versatility makes him a valuable bench option and it should help him always find a job.

We arrived in Montreal to start a three game series with the Expos tomorrow. We'll face Regi Grace (1-6, 5.45 ERA), Pete Carreras (4-5, 4.15 ERA), and Logan Allen (1-6, 6.62 ERA).

June 19th, 2030: We opened the Expos series at Olympic Stadium with Pat Saitta (4-3, 4.60 ERA, 1.29 WHIP) facing Regi Grace (1-6, 5.45 ERA, 1.45 WHIP). The fledgling team didn't stand much of a chance, and we took the opener 6-2.

Saitta pitched well, 7 innings with a run, 4 hits, 2 walks, and 5 strikeouts. Steve Hudson went an inning with 2 hits and a run.

Ramirez doubled in the 3rd and was 1-for-5 with an RBI to keep the streak alive.

Ernie Frye was 3-for-5 with a three run homer and 4 RBI's. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-4 with a run scored and 2 doubles. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with a run scored, RBI, and 2 walks. Juan Simental was 1-for-5 with a steal and run scored.

June 20th, 2030: We looked to take the series a game early with Devon Peterson (3-3, 5.09 ERA, 1.55 WHIP) facing Pete Carreras (4-5, 4.15 ERA, 1.24 WHIP). Ramirez wasn't in the lineup, so I benched him to make sure the streak didn't get screwed over. We looked terrible today, and Montreal evend the season with a 15-3 win.

Expos 2B Jose Israel Garcia was 5-for-5...

Peterson was terrible, 2 innings with 7 hits 8 runs (7 earned, although he made the error), a walk, and 3 strikeouts. Shiro Hiraki went 2 innings with 5 hits, 2 runs, and a strikeout. Steve Hudson allowed 2 hits, 2 runs, and a walk in 2 innings despite striking out the side in both frames. Luis Alcantra, who did that earlier in the year, went 2 innings with 4 htis, a run, and 2 strikeouts.

Jon Reid was 2-for-3 with a walk. Rodolfo Solorzano was 1-for-3 with a two run homer. Noah Smith was 1-for-4 with a two run homer. Jackson Miller was 1-for-4 with a steal and run scored. Mac Horvath was 1-for-4 with a run scored.

Edwin Diaz recorded his 400th career save in a 6-3 Cubs win over the Braves. The 36-year-old Iron Man has never been injured, and owns a 2.87 ERA and 1.02 WHIP across 975.2 innings. He's struck out 1,462 and walked 288 while pitching with the Mariners, Twins, Astros, Tigers, Dodger, Blue Jays, Nationals, and Cubs.

June 21st, 2030: The rubber match saw Steve Paustian (5-6, 4.34 ERA, 1.42 WHIP) go head to head with Logan Allen (1-6, 6.62 ERA, 1.79 WHIP) in a must win game. It was way too close, but we managed to edge the hosts 3-2.

Paustian went 6.1 innings with 4 hits, a run, 3 walks, and 5 strikeouts. Juan Toribio and C.J. LaFever got holds before Chad Scoles earned his 17th save. LaFever allowed a hit, run, and 2 strikeouts.

Add anot her day to the hit streak, as Juan Ramirez was 2-for-4 to push his average to .397.

Noah Smith was 2-for-3 with a walk, steal, and run scored. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-3 with a walk, steal, and run scored. Ernie Frye was 1-for-3 with a walk and 2 steals. Omari Tetteh had a pinch hit homer in the 8th.

Another minor league Marlin won MVP in his All-Star Game. LF Ernesto Mora of the Jupiter Hammerheads was 2-for-2 in the 3-2 FSL North win over the South.

The road trip continues with three with the Cubs. We'll see Gabe Hines (6-5, 4.34 ERA), German Marquez (5-1, 3.86 ERA), and Jorge Flores (10-3, 2.39 ERA).

July 22nd, 2030: Doug Parsons will embark a long rehab assignment in AAA today. He tore his UCL on the 2nd of September, and hasn't pitched since. He has 2 options left, but I don't currenlty have an open 40 man roster spot.

Fan Vote Update: Tatis 2nd for 3B. Ramirez 1st for LF. Ernie Frye 3rd for RF. Simental 2nd for CF. Scoles 2nd for RP.

Red Sox righty Jean-Louis Vautrin will miss the rest of the year with a torn labrum. He was 5-1 with a 4.87 ERA and 1.38 WHIP in 15 games (6 starts).

We opened the series in Chicago with Dursun Erbakan (3-2, 5.00 ERA, 1.46 WHIP) looking to pitch like his last appearence against fellow righty Gabe Hines (6-5, 4.34 ERA, 1.25 WHIP). The game was called after 6 innings due to rain, and we rather unfairly lost 3-1...

But, fear not! 38 straight for Juan Ramirez! He was 1-for-3 with an RBI! I would've been so pissed if this is how his streak was ended...

Erbakan went 5 with 3 hits, 3 runs, 3 walks, and 7 strikeouts. Sam Stewart got a strikeout in the 6th.

Juan Simental was 1-for-3 with a run scored. Joey Bart and Noah Smith were 1-for-2. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-3. Erbakan was 1-for-1 with a sac-bunt.

June 23rd, 2030: We looked to even the series up in hopefully, an 8.5 inning game instead of just 6. C.J. Jorgensen (6-4, 3.00 ERA, 1.12 WHIP) took on 35-year-old veteran German Marquez (5-1, 3.86 ERA, 1.07 WHIP). We gave up 3 in the 9th, but held on to win 7-5.

C.J. went 5.2 with 2 hits, a run, 3 walks, and 3 strikeouts. Steve Hudson allowed a run, hit, and walk in 0.2 innings. Sam Stewart allowed 3 hits and 3 runs with a strikeout in an inning. Chad Scoles got a one pitch fly out to earn the save.

39 for Ramirez! He was 1-for-4 with a run scored, walk, and RBI. Sergio Tello was 2-for-4 with a run scored, 2 RBI's, and 2 doubles. Noah Smith was 2-for-4 with 2 runs and a steal. Juan Simental was 1-for-4 with a run scored, hit by pitch, RBI, and steal. Jackson Miller was 1-for-5 with a double and run scored. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-4 with a steal, run scored, and walk. Ernie Frye had a pinch-hit RBI double in the 8th. Jon Reid was 1-for-4 with an RBI.

With the GCL Opening Day tomorrow, I made my roster cuts in advance for the first time. I sent 5 prospects to the Twins for RHP Quique Flores. I sent 5 more to the Rockies for RHP Gregorio Salinas. 5 more prospects went to Oakland for SS Sergio Calderas. 5 final prospects went to the Rangers for RHP Luis Uribe.

June 24th, 2030: We dropped to 5th in the Power Rankings. At 45-32, we are 2 out of first, but we have a 1 game lead over the Brewers for the 2nd Wild Card.

Prospect Watch: C Chris Kelly (A Greensboro):

We find ourselves in Greensboro for a second straight edition, this time focusing in on young catcher Chris Kelly. Formerly a 27th Round Pick of the Mets, Kelly was released on draft day before signing with the Mariners. They later released him, and he came to us in 2026. Not too much later, we traded him back to the Mariners, who then released him again. He spent time with Atlanta, Texas, and Boston before finding his home with Miami again in August of 2029. He hasn't produced the best numbers, but Kelly is not only learning how to handle a staff well, but his hitting has taken a turn for better. Known for a great eye at the plate, Kelly's OBP is over 100 points higher then his average, and he's hit 6 homers with 19 RBI's in 45 games with the Grasshoppers after not hitting a single homer in his minor league career. His recent "power surge" has caught the eyes of organizations around the league, and he seems to be shedding the "no-hit" lable prevoiusly given to him. And while he's no star, he's an interesting prospect to keep an eye on and he can possibly develop into a suitable backup.

We looked to snatch the series from the hosts with Pat Saitta (5-3, 4.32 ERA, 1.25 WHIP) facing the resurgent Jorge Flores (10-3, 2.39 ERA, 0.87 WHIP). He was outdueled by Saitta, and we won the finale 5-1.

Saitta looked excellent, 7 innings with 2 hits, a run, 2 walks, and 7 strikeouts. Chad Scoles got the final out of the game with two runners on to earn his 19th save.

It's up to 40! Juan Ramirez was 1-for-4 with a run scored and steal in what has to be the longest streak I've ever witness in a modern day OOTP game!

Ernie Frye was 2-for-4 with 2 RBI's and 2 doubles. Noah Smith was 1-for-2 with a run scored. Saitta was 1-for-3 with a run scored, RBI, and double. Jackson Miller was 1-for-4 with a double, run scored, and RBI. Jon Reid was 1-for-4 with a run scored. Rodolfo Solorzano was 1-for-4 with a double and RBI.

Dodgers starter B.J. Russow tossed a 4-hit shutout in a 5-0 win over the Phillies. He struck out 4 and walked 2.

We won't face him, but we'd head home to face his Dodgers in a three game set. We'd see Nate Ransom (7-3, 3.39 ERA), Robinson Ortiz (3-3, 4.56 ERA), and Slade Cecconi (3-4, 4.48 ERA) as our long stretch of baseball continues.

[ayaghmour2]

June 25th, 2030: We opened a crucial series at home hosting the Dodgers with Devon Peterson (3-4, 5.83 ERA, 1.62 WHIP) facing the underrated Nate Ransom (7-3, 3.39 ERA, 1.10 WHIP). There was a lot of scoring, but most of it was for them, as we were edged 9-6.

Peterson went just 3.1 innings with 6 hits, 5 runs, 3 walks, and 5 strikeouts. Shiro Hiraki went 1.2 innings with 2 hits, 2 runs, and a strikeout. Juan Toribio tossed an inning with a hit, 2 runs, a walk, and 2 strikeouts.

Poor Juan Ramirez's streak is over, as he was 0-for-2, but with 2 walks and a run scored... 40 games is still extremely impressive!

Ernie Frye was 2-for-5 with a grand slam. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-3 with a run scored and walk. Juan Simental was 2-for-5 with a solo homer. Rodolfo Solorzano was 1-for-3 with a walk, double, and RBI. Steve Hudson was 1-for-1 with a run scored.

June 26th, 2030: We looked to even the series back up with Steve Paustian (6-6, 4.11 ERA, 1.40 WHIP) taking on Robinson Ortiz (3-3, 4.56 ERA, 1.11 WHIP). There was much less scoring today, but we were edged out 3-1.

Paustian went 5.2 innings with 5 hits, 2 runs, a walk, and 9 strikeouts. Luis Alcantra went 1.1 innings with 2 hits, a run, 2 walks, and a strikeout.

Noah Smith was 1-for-2 with a run scored, walk, double, and 2 steals. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with a walk. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-4 with a steal. Juan Simental was 1-for-4. Paustian was 1-for-2.

June 27th, 2030: Atlanta will be without Juan Ochoa for the year with a ruptured ulnar collateral ligament. He was 3-7 with a 5.32 ERA in 15 starts.

We looked to avoid the sweep with Dursun Erbakan (3-3, 5.03 ERA, 1.44 WHIP) facing Slade Cecconi (3-4, 4.48 ERA, 1.19 WHIP). It took 10 innings, but Gregorio Alvarenga sent the fans home happy with a walk-off double off Colten Panaranto.

Mac Horvath left after getting hit by a pitch...

Erbakan looked good, 6 innings with 3 hits, a run, 3 walks, and 7 strikeouts. C.J. LaFever got the win, striking out the side in the 10th.

Alvarenga was 1-for-4 with a walk and the RBIB double. Juan Simental was 1-for-4 with a solo homer way back in the 1st. Jon Reid was 1-for-4 and scored he winning run from first. Jackson Miller was 1-for-3 with a walk. Erbakan was 1-for-2.

Off to New York for three with the first place Mets, who hold onto a 1 game lead. We'll see Eligio Farentino (0-0, 3.24 ERA), Pablo Ochoa (2-3, 6.21 ERA), and Wesley Scott (4-4, 3.95 ERA) in one of the biggest series in the year thusfar.

June 28th, 2030: Fernando Tatis Jr. suffered a setback, and will miss another 5 days. Mac Horvath was diagnosed with a bruised toe, and he will just be day-to-day for 2 days.

Worse news came for the Orioles, who will be without superstar 2B Like Leto for the year with a broken bone in his elbow. He was hitting .296/.382/.498 with 12 homers and 34 RBI's.

We opened the series with C.J. Jorgensen (7-4, 2.92 ERA, 1.11 WHIP) taking on southpaw Pablo Ochoa (2-3, 6.21 ERA, 1.65 WHIP) who jumped a spot in the rotation. We looked helpless at the plate, and they won the opener 6-2...

Jorgensen was roughed up, 5.1 innings with 7 hits, 5 runs, 2 walks, and 5 strikeouts. Shiro Hiraki went 1.2 innings with 2 hits, a run, 2 walks, and 2 strikeouts.

Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-3 with a sac-fly. Noah Smith was 1-for-3 with 2 runs, a walk, and 2 steals. Jon Reid was 1-for-3 with an RBI. Ernie Frye was 1-for-4.

June 29th, 2030: I extended most of my personel that would accept extentions.

All-Star Update: Tatis Jr. is 3rd for 3B. Ramirez 1st for LF. Simental 2nd for CF. Frye 3rd for RF. Scoles 2nd for RP.

Oakland will be without RHP Jared Southard for the year with a torn flexor tendon in his elbow. He was 2-7 with a 7.71 ERA in 18 relief appearences.

Eligio Farentino (0-0, 3.24 ERA, 1.08 WHIP) made his first start of the season against Pat Saitta (6-3, 4.08 ERA, 1.20 WHIP). I'm hoping it's his last, and they beat us by the same score today. So much for getting back in it...

Saitta went 6.1 innings with 8 hits, 4 runs, 2 walks, and 4 strikeouts. Luis Alcantra tossed an inning with 2 hits, 2 runs, 2 walks, and a strikeout.

Juan Ramirez was 2-for-4 with a double and RBI. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-2 with a walk and run scored. Jon Reid was 1-for-3 with a walk. Sergio Tello was 1-for-4 with an RBI.

June 30th, 2030: Phillies closer Steve Purpura is out for the year with a torn flexor tendon. The impending free agent was really struggling, working a 5.72 ERA in 28.1 innings despite a 42/4 K/BB ratio and 1.13 WHIP. He also had 14 saves, with 75 in his career.

Arizona acquired RHP Conner Nurse and 1B Joe Camarena from the Boston Doves for SS Luis Argueta. I actually like this deal for the Doves.

We needed to avoid the sweep with the freezing cold Devon Peterson (3-5, 6.17 ERA, 1.67 WHIP) facing Wesley Scott (4-4, 3.95 ERA, 1.22 WHIP). We couldn't score, andd were shut out 1-0. Oh man...

Peterson tossed 6 innings with 5 hits, a run, 4 walks, and 5 strikeotus. The pen combined for 2 innings with a hit and 3 strikeouts.

We just managed 3 hits, all singles. Peterson was 1-for-2. Alvarenga was 1-for-2 with a walk. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-4.

Well, that's an awful way to end June...

We'll start July at home hosting the Pirates. We'll face Ryan Wimbush (6-3, 3.01 ERA), Caleb Barnsley (9-1, 1.81 ERA), and Jonathan Kearns (4-9, 5.48 ERA).

[ayaghmour2]

July 1st, 2030: Orioles LF Sean Stahl broke his kneecap, and will miss the rest of the year. He was hitting .292 with 33 homers and 84 RBI's. The 26-year-old was on pace for an insane 64 homers and 164 RBI's before his season was cut short.

None other then Juan Ramirez was named NL Player of the Month. Despite the hit streak breaking up, he hit .404 with 8 homers and 23 RBI's.

Down in New Orleans, Andy Neidig was named Pitcher of the Month in the American Confrence. He was 2-0 with a 0.00 ERA in 12 relief appearences with 5 hits, 7 saves, 4 walks, and 13 strikeouts.

In Jacksonville, LF Juan Virto was named Batter of the Month. He hit .314 with 8 homers and 24 RBI's.

Down another level in Jupiter, Jorge Cuervo was named Pitcher of the Month. He was 3-0 with a 0.40 ERA. He struck out 19 in 4 starts and 22.1 innings.

We fell way down to 13th in the Power Rankings. At 47-37, we are now 4 out of first and half a game ahead of our next opponent, the Pirates, for the 2nd Wild Card.

Prospect Watch: Jorge Cuervo (A+ Jupiter):

Very few pitchers have ever had a better month the Jorge Cuervo put together, going 3-0 with a 0.40 ERA in his 4 starts. A Florida State All Star, he's 5-3 with a 2.27 ERA and 1.15 WHIP in 14 starts this year with the Hammerheads. He struck out 49 and walked 20 in 71.1 innings. Formerly a 29th Round Pick bu the Rockies, he was released draft day and has pitched with numerous organizations before signing with us a little less then a year ago. He's got a nice three pitch arsenal with three plus pitches, including a 93-95 mph fastball. He's got plus control as well and can give you solid innings on the mound. The 24-year-old is loved in the clubhouse, and has back of the rotation potential. While he may not reach the Marlins rotation, he's nice trade bait and could help give a young rebuilding team a solid arm and positive clubhouse influence.

We really need to turn things around back home, with Steve Paustian (6-7, 4.05 ERA, 1.37 WHIP) facing Ryan Wimbush (6-3, 3.01 ERA, 1.17 WHIP). It was a well pitched game on our end, and we topped the visitors 4-2 to get back in the "W" collum.

Paustian tossed 6 with 4 hits, 2 runs, 3 walks, and 6 strikeouts. Juan Toribio, C.J. LaFever, and Chad Scoles each struck out 2 in an inning a piece. LaFever got the win and Scoles got the save.

Ernie Frye was 2-for-3 with a wlak, steal, double, and run scored. Mac Horvath was 2-for-3 with a RBI, double, and walk. Jackson Miller was 1-for-3 with a run scored, RBI, and walk. Rodolfo Solorzano was 1-for-4 with a double and run scored. Jon Reid was 1-for-4 with a triple and run scored. Juan Simental was 1-for-4 with a double and RBI.

Jupiter 1B Danny Treen was 5-for-9 despite the Hammerheads losing 6-5 to the Duendin Blue Jays in 20 innings! His teammate LF Jim Brown was a more impressive 6-for-8.

Sidenote: I'm hoping I don't forget this, since the Potomac Nationals in real life are moving to Fredricksurg, so I'll make the adequate change in the offseason as long as I don't forget.

July 2nd, 2030: The White Sox will be without LHP Brad Highlander for the year with a torn labrum. A 31-year-old who was 1-1 with a 5.73 ERA and 1.70 WHIP, it's his first big league experience since 2025, his impressive rookie year with the Cubs where he was 4-3 with a 2.74 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, and 61 strikeouts in 46 innings.

Boston will be without SP Jared Jackson for the year with radial nerve compression. The former Marlin farmhand was 4-5 with a 3.63 ERA and 1.24 WHIP in 17 starts with the Doves.

The International Pool was published and there is this amazing catcher from Aruba that I'd kill to sign. I don't have the max money to offer him, but hopefully it'll be enough. If not, there are actually some other decent pieces I could add instead.

We looked to stay perfect in July with Dursun Erbakan (3-3, 4.77 ERA, 1.41 WHIP) looking to stay hot against Caleb Barnsley (9-1, 1.81 ERA, 1.05 WHIP) who is having an absolute dominate year. The former 9th Round Pick had two solid seasons in the rotation the past two years after a rough cup of coffee in 2027. The 25-year-old has ratings comprable to Devon Peterson, but unlike Peterson, is actually playing up to them. Erbakan was near perfect, and we shut them out 6-0.

Ernakan tossed 6 innings with just 1 hit, 1 walk, and 10 strikeotus. HE BETTER BE BACK NOW!!! And he gained a half potential star back!!!

Juan Simental was amazing as well, 3-for-4 with 3 runs, a double, and 2 solo homers. Jackson Miller was 2-for-4 with a double and 2 RBI's. Jon Reid was 2-for-4 with a double and RBI. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-3 with a walk, run scored, double, and RBI. Rodolfo Solorzano was 1-for-3 with a wlak and run scored.

July 3rd, 2030: I sent Fernado Tatis Jr. to Batavia to begin rehab.

A pair of trades came next: Oakland sent RHP Marc Bjork to the Padres for CF Charlie Collins and RHP Steve Evans. The Blue Jays acquired RHP Michael Fulmer and LF Chris Branson from the Doves for RHP Alvin Rinker and CF Pat Burkeen. Advantage San Diego in the first deal, while the second deal was pretty even.

We looked to finish off the sweep with C.J. Jorgensen (7-5, 3.21 ERA, 1.14 WHIP) battling Jonathan Kearns (4-9, 5.48 ERA, 1.32 WHIP). We put up 6 in the 8th to finish the sweep with a nice 11-6 win.

Jorgensen went 6.2 innings with 6 hits, 4 runs (2 earned), a walk, and 6 strikeouts. Sam Stewart, C.J. LaFever, and Luis Alcantra earned holds. Shiro Hiraki didn't get ano out, and allowed 2 hits and 2 runs.

Ernie Frye was 4-for-5 and hit for the cycle! He scored twice and drove in 4! He's the first player of mine to hit for the cycle. Jon Reid was 2-for-3 with 2 runs, 2 RBI's, and a walk. Omari Tetteh was 2-for-4 with a three run homer. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-5 with 2 runs scored.

I earned the achievement "The Cycle" for Frye's efforts!

Former Marlin Joe LaBrie tossed a 3-hit shutout in an 8-0 Arizona win over the Padres. He struck out 4 and walked 1.

I made a bunch of roster moves, optionind Stewart and Hiraki to AAA, recalling Doug Parsons and Jamie Priest. I had to DFA Eric Moore, re-option Parsons, and then recall Andy Neidig. I needed extra arms for the upcoming series.

We'd be in Boston for three with the Doves before a needed off day. We'd face Carlos Leandro (3-4, 4.09 ERA), Josh Boyette (0-1, 9.00 ERA), and Leonel Olvera (0-7, 6.18 ERA).

July 4th, 2030: The Athletics sent RHP Joey May and 1B Dave Upham to the Rangers for LHP Matthew Liberatore and RHP Chris Alexander. I like this deal for the Rangers.

We opened the series with Pat Saitta (6-4, 4.18 ERA, 1.23 WHIP) facing Carlos Leandro (3-4, 4.09 ERA, 1.39 WHIP). We continued to keep rolling, shutting the Doves out 8-0.

Saitta was great, 7 shustout with 7 hits, 2 walks, and 7 strikeouts. Andy Neidig pitched the final 2 innings, allowing a hit, 2 walks, and 3 strikeouts.

Ernie Frye was 3-for-4 with a steal, run scored, walk, and 3 RBI's. Jon Reid was 2-for-5 with a double and 2 RBI's. Juan Simental was 1-for-3 with a run scored, RBI, and 2 walks. Rodolfo Solorzano was 1-for-5 with a run scored, 2 RBI's, and a steal. Jackson Miller was 1-for-2 with 3 runs and 2 walks. Mac Horvath was 1-for-4 with a walk. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-5 with a steal and run scored.

Eric Moore just got saved by Chris Bigsby, who will head to the 60-Day DL with a partially torn labrum. Moore will head back to AAA and regain his 40-Man spot.

July 5th, 2030: More trade action, with Eudis Irogo going from the Reds to the Diamondbacks for LF Juan Gasca. It's a great deal for Arizona.

Today's game got rained out, so we'd play a double header tomorrow.

July 6th, 2030: Yesterday was the draft pick signing deadline, so here's where the unsigned players will go:

1st Round: SS Jorge Trujillo (Long Beach State 2031)
2nd Round: CF Stephon Staggs (Dallas Baptist 2033)
7th Round: RF Jake Gilbert (Arizona State 2033)
12th Round: SP Amari Frelix (Utah Valley 2033)
15th Round: SS Chris Holman (California 2033)
20th Round: RF Eric Reid (Rice 2033)
26th Round: SP Brad Alexander (Florida Atlantic 2033)
27th Round: CF Juan Maldonado (Memphis 2033)
28th Round: SP Jim Wright (Rice 2033)
29th Round: 3B Eric McDaniels (USC 2033)
32nd Round: 2B Ben Escobar (College of Charleston 2031)
34th Round: SS Luis Polanco (Gerogia Tech 2033)
35th Round: SP Dave D'Arrigo (New York Tech 2033)
37th Round: C Kevin Snow (Middle Tennesse State 2033)
39th Round: SS Layne Valcour (Florida State 2033)

I'll edit the rest of the unsigned guys after the double header.

Fan Vote Update: Ramirez ranks 1st for LF. Simental ranks 2nd for CF. Frye ranks 3rd for RF. Scoles ranks 2nd for RP.

The Orioles sent LF Josh Shuler to the Twins for C Daniel Rosica and SS Jamari Wimby. It's an even swap.

It's nice having a day off tomorrow, so I don't have to worry about this. The first of the double header saw Devon Peterson (3-6, 5.83 ERA, 1.66 WHIP) battle his former teammate Leonel Olvera (0-7, 6.18 ERA, 1.39 WHIP) who are both having similar struggles. It took 11 innings, but that seemed to be our inning. We got 4 to take the first 9-5.

Vidal Brujan left with a Latissimus dorsi strain in his back, and will miss 4 weeks.

Peterson went 7 with 7 hits, 3 runs, and 4 strikeouts. Ken Adeniran allowed 2 hits and 2 runs in 0.1 innings. C.J. LaFever got the win, with a strikeout in a perfect 10th inning.

Brujan came off the bench and was 2-for-2 with a double and run scored before getting hurt. Juan Simental was 2-for-6 with a walk, 2 runs, a double, and RBI. Noah Smith was 1-for-1 with a solo homer and hit by pitch. Omari Tetteh had a pinch hit two run homer in the 9th to force extras. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with a run scored, a steal, and 3 walks. Jackson Miller was 1-for-4 with a run scored, sac-fly, and walk. Peterson was 1-for-2.

Before game two, I recalled Fernando Tatis Jr. from his rehab assignment.

We looked to sweep the series and double header with Steve Paustian (6-7, 3.98 ERA, 1.36 WHIP) facing Josh Boyette (0-1, 9.00 ERA, 1.75 WHIP) who's making his second start of the year. We looked great, and won the double finale 7-2.

Paustian went 7.2 innings with 7 hits, 2 runs, and 5 strikeouts. Steve Hudson went 1.1 innings with 2 hits and a strikeout.

Omari Tetteh was 2-for-3 with a double, walk, steal, and run scored. Rodolfo Solorzano was 2-for-4 with a walk and two run homer. Ernie Frye was 2-for-4 with a triple, walk, and 2 runs scored. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with 2 walks, a run scored, and RBI. Juan Simental was 1-for-4 with a walk and solo homer.

6 straight wins and a day off tomorrow! Back to just 1 game out!

[ayaghmour2]

July 7th, 2030: The San Diego Padres acquired RHP Michael Baumann and LF Jared Brandon from the Boston Doves for RHP Chris Helms, RHP Josh Carter, and SS Jonathan Gerdes. It's an even enough deal, but I like the package for San Diego (well, Baumann) better.

Another trade was between Oakland and Texas. The Athletics sent RHP Yadiel Flores and RHP Jorge Flores to the Rangers for 2B Gabe Pennella and RHP Alfredo Aldana. I really like this deal for the Rangers.

We had an off day today, and we'll head to San Francisco for three with the Giants. We'll face Eric Warren (4-4, 5.16 ERA), Dan Poinsette (6-1, 2.44 ERA), and John Swanda (5-9, 5.00 ERA).

July 9th, 2030: I made my big International Signing, gifting C Kieron Freeth a $6 million bonus. The 16-year-old from Aruba is a 5* prospect who's a way better hitter then he is defender. "Porky" has 100 rated power with elite plate discipline, plus-plus gap power, and he doesn't strike out too much. He's just an average contact hitter, but he's oozing with big league talent. With work on his defense, he could be one of the best catchers to every play the game.

Pretty big words for a 16-year-old though...

RF Ernie Frye was named NL Player of the Week! Frye hit .545 with a homer and 7 RBI's in 5 games.

Former Marlin minor leaguer Heath Hawkins will miss the rest of the year with a torn flexor tendon. The Rockies reliever was having a breakout season as a 34-year-old rookie (11.2 innings back in 2027 with the Royals the rest of his big league stats), going 2-0 with a 1.83 ERA and 1.22 WHIP with 42 strikeouts in 44.1 innings out of the pen. The extreme groundballer was a 26th Round Pick from the Brewers in 2019, but he was released draft day. He pitched for 8 total organizations in his long professional career.

We jumped up to 2nd in the Power Rankings! Just 1 game back of the Mets, we're 53-37!

Prospect Watch: SS Josh Norrod (GCL Marlins):

With the GCL seasons still towards the beginning, 2028 1st Rounder Josh Norrod has started out hot. He's hitting .395/.500/.419 in 12 games with 4 RBI's and 2 steals. As you can tell by his slugging, Norrod isn't known for his power, but he's a smart fielder with a little speed. He's a great defender at short who's extremely surehanded and smooth turning double plays. Norrod doesn't rank in our Top 30 Prospect list, but that doesn't mean he's not a quality prospect. He's got 2.5* potential still (4* when drafted) and his current ratings have increased steadily the past two seasons. He had a really rough professional debut in 2028, but he's really started to turn the corner this year. He's extremely raw, but he's got big league potential for sure.

We opened the series in San Francisco with Dursun Erbakan (4-3, 4.45 ERA, 1.34 WHIP) facing Eric Warren (4-4, 5.16 ERA, 1.40 WHIP). Erbakan has really turned the corner, with four of his last five starts he's allowed 2 or less runs, the fifth just 3. He kept that streak up, but the pen blew the game for him and it went into extras. In the 11th, Miguel Urena, a reliever, hit a walk-off single and the Giants won 5-4.

Erbakan went 6 with 6 hits, 2 runs, a walk, and 5 strikeouts. Juan Toribio went 0.2 innings with 2 hits and 2 runs. Chad Scoles got the loss, 1.1 innings with 2 hits, a run, walk, and 3 strikeouts.

Juan Simental was 2-for-5 with a double and solo homer. Noah Smith was 1-for-2 with an RBI. Sergio Tello came off the bench and was 1-for-3 with a run scored and RBI. Ernie Frye had a pinch hit RBI double in the 7th. Rodolfo Solorzano was 1-for-5 with a double.

July 9th, 2030: The Mets acquired RHP Dovydas Neverauskas from the Reds for 1B Eddie Jumpp and CF Doug Smiley. I don't know what the Reds were thinking...

I thought maybe they'd give me Aguirre for almost nothing, but I was dead wrong...

I was able to get a decent enough deal for me, but I'd wait until the All-Star Break before really getting into it.

We looked to even the series up with C.J. Jorgensen (8-5, 3.18 ERA, 1.13 WHIP) facing Dan Poinsette (6-1, 2.44 ERA, 1.10 WHIP) who's been excellent recently. Tied at 3 in the 9th, Ernie Frye hit a pinch-hit RBI triple and we took the middle game 4-3.

Not sure why Frye isn't starting...

Jorgensen went 5.1 innings with 6 hits, 2 runs, a walk, and 8 strikeouts. Juan Toribio was charged with a run and hit with 2 strikeouts. Jamie Priest got the win, 1.1 innings with a hit. Scoles tossed a perfect 9th for his 21st save.

Mac Horvath was 2-for-4 with a run scored. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-4 with a double and run scored. Jon Reid was 1-for-3 with a run scored, RBI, and walk. Sergio Tello was 1-for-3 with a sac-bunt and run scored.

July 9th, 2030: We looked to take the series with Pat Saitta (7-4, 3.90 ERA, 1.23 WHIP) facing John Swanda (5-9, 5.00 ERA, 1.42 WHIP). Despite a rough three run first, Saitta settled down and we won the finale 9-3.

Saitta managed to finish 7 innings with 7 hits, 3 runs, 2 walks, and 5 strikeouts. Steve Hudson tossed an inning with 2 strikeouts.

Juan Ramirez was 2-for-5 with a grand slam and 5 RBI's. Noah Smith was 3-for-5 with 2 runs, 2 RBI's, and a homer. Juan Simental was 2-for-2 with 2 runs, 2 walks, 2 steals, and a sac-fly. Ernie Frye was 2-for-4 with 2 runs, an RBI, and walk. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 2-for-5 with a double and run scored. Saitta was 1-for-2 with a run and sac-bunt.

Former minor league Marlin 1B Sean Taylor was 5-for-5 in a 7-2 Twins win over the Rays.

We'll finish the first half with a home series against the Pilots. We'll face Chase Cohen (2-1, 3.86 ERA), Juan Quintana (3-7, 5.40 ERA), and Joe Holden (7-4, 3.76 ERA).

July 11th, 2030: I grabbed another International Amateur, SS Silvestro Nuti, a switch hitter from Venezuela. The powerful youngster signed a $700,000 bonus. He has experience at first, second, third, short and right. He's got a plus arm and plus range in the infield and a plus-plus arm in the outfield. As a hitter, he's got plus-plus power with good footspeed, although he will struggle with strikeouts.

The Reds lost "closer" Juan Guerrero for the year with a torn labrum. He had 10 saves, but a 7.16 ERA with 23 strikeouts in 16.1 innings.

The Pilots were in town as Devon Peterson (3-6, 5.67 ERA, 1.60 WHIP) took on Chase Cohen (2-1, 3.86 ERA, 1.21 WHIP). We just outplayed them today, and won the opener 8-4.

Peterson had a great outing, 6 innings with 6 hits, 2 runs, a walk, and 10 strikeouts. Maybe he hear I considered using him in a package for Esteban Aguirre... Ken Adeniran and Jamie Priest earned holds before C.J. LaFever picked up the save. Between Adenrian and Priest, Luis Alcantra allowed 2 hits that both scored. LaFever tossed 2 innings with a hit, walk, and 4 strikeotus.

Jackson Miller was 2-for-3 with 2 runs, a walk, hit by pitch, double, and steal. Mac Horvath was 1-for-2 with a run scored, RBI, 3 walks, and a double. Juan Ramirez and Juan Simental were both 1-for-4 with 2 runs, 2 RBI's, a walk, and a homer. Jon Reid was 1-for-3 with a walk, 2 RBI's, and a double. Peterson was 1-for-2.

July 12th, 2030: The Mariners will be without SP Nate Hume for the year with a torn rotator cuff. The 25-year-old was 8-2 with a 3.80 ERA and 107 strikeouts in 111.1 innings (19 starts).

The Nationals put 5* CF Treyjn Fletcher on the Trade Block. If I didn't have such a good outfield...

The series continued with Steve Paustian (7-7, 3.86 ERA, 1.33 WHIP) battling Juan Quintana (3-7, 5.40 ERA, 1.70 WHIP). The Pilots evened the series with a 8-3 win.

Jon Reid left with a sore elbow, and he'll head to the DL for 2-3 weeks.

Paustian went 5 innings with 7 hits, 4 runs, and 3 strikeouts. Jamie Priest went 0.2 innings with 2 hits, 3 runs, a walk, and strikeout. Steve Hudson went 2 innings with 3 hits, a run, and 4 strikeouts.

Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-4 with a run scored, RBI, and steal. Joey Bart was 1-for-4 with a solo homer. Jon Reid was 1-for-2 with a run scored. Noah Smith was 1-for-3 with a walk.

July 13th, 2030: I didn't feel a need to callup a player for just 1 day, so I'll roll with a 25 man roster today.

The All-Star Rosters were announced today! CL Chad Scoles (6th), RP C.J. LaFever (2nd), and LF Juan Ramirez (2nd) will represent us, with Ramirez starting.

Ernie Frye was mega snubbed! He's hitting .373/.423/.525 with 5 homers, 48 RBI's, and 16 steals (alebit, he's been caught 15 times). How he is not an All-Star is beyond me... C.J. Jorgensen (8-5, 3.19 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, 105 K's) and Juan Simental (.288/.339/.586, 23 HR, 53 RBI) also deserved it, but neither was as big of a snub as Frye.

Minnesota sent CF Jorge Flores to the White Sox to acquire RHP Bo Takahasi. I like this deal for the Sox, although Flores has been terrible the past two seasons.

With a win here we could take first place heading into the break! Dursun Erbakan (4-3, 4.36 ERA, 1.33 WHIP) will face Joe Holden (7-4, 3.76 ERA, 1.31 WHIP) as we look to take the series. The pitching was brilliant, and we finished the 1st half with a 2-0 shutout!

Erbakan went 6 with 6 hits, a walk, and 9 strikeouts. Juan Toribio and C.J. LaFever both struck out 2 in an inning to get holds (LaFever allowed a hit). Chad Scoles walked 1 and struck out 2 to earn his 22nd save in a hitless 9th.

Rodolfo Solorzano was 2-for-3. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 1-for-4 with a solo homer. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-4 with a double and run scored. Mac Horvath was 1-for-2 with a walk. Gregorio Alvarenga and Juan Simental were both 1-for-4.

We resume baseball activities on July 17th!

[ayaghmour2]

Had a scare with my laptop today. I needed it for class but it wouldn't turn on. Thought it was dead so I charged it, but still nothing. Had to take out the battery and everything seems fine so far.

Back to baseball!

July 14th, 2030: The All-Star Break starts today, with the game tomorrow. I really want Esteban Aguirre, but I also really don't want to give up way too much to get him. I found a deal I liked, sending Devon Peterson, Sam Stewart, Jorge Tapia, and Omari Tetteh to the Reds for Aguirre and RF Alfredo Rosales.

Blockbuster!

I'm already working on a huge extension for him, but he's asking for over $50 million a year. Sadly, it might be worth it...

Let's examine the 26-year-old lefty a little bit: He's rated 100/70/71 with pitches of 68/83/100/86. He's a durable groundball pitcher who throws 94-96 over the top with 77 stamina. The 4-Time All-Star is 48-35 with a 3.17 ERA and 1.07 WHIP in 152 career starts. He's struck out 865 and walked 272 in 868 innings pitched. The last three seasons he's been absolutely dominate, with WHIP's below 1 and ERA's below 3.20 (2.59 and 2.51 in 2028 and 2029). He's struck out 200 or more the past two years and is alreaedy at 181. It really doesn't get better then Aguirre when it comes to pitchers.

I don't know how I was able to add Rosales and not some of their 2.5* prospects, but I won't complaing. Rosales is a 4.5* potential despite not being the best defender. He's got elite power, plus-plus contact, a plus eye, and he almost never strikes out. The 20-year-old lefty is having a great year at AA and is great in the clubhouse. He's currently our 15th ranked prospect, but he's definitely due a bump. OSA doesn't like him, but OSA is stupid so...

I now have two 26-year-old studs in the rotation with Aguirre and Erbakan. And I actually have some money to spend as well... Well, that is before I sign Aguirre...

Please, please win the World Series and make a lot of money!

July 15th, 2030: We remain 2nd in the Power Rankings. At 57-39, we have a 1 game lead over the Mets.

Four trades happened for the All-Star game!

Arizona acquired LHP Alpha Quivers from the Padres for LHP Josh Grosch, RF Steve Denny, and RF Mike Karlic. I really like this deal for the Diamondbacks, although it's better then the compensation pick they'd recieve for ex-Marlin.

The Yankees acquired SS Anthony Servideo from the Doves for LHP Esteban Nieves. It's a decent swap.

The Doves' crosstown buddies, the Red Sox, acquired RHP Sang-kuk Joung and RHP Josh Wellnitz from the Royals for C Andy Keathley. I really like this deal for the Bo Sox.

Finally, the Expos acquired LHP Eric Beachum from the Braes for RHP Alvaro Seijas. I like this deal for the Expos.

Cubs starter Jorge Flores was supposed to start the All-Star game, but instead reliever C.J. LaFever (7-1, 2.15 ERA, 1.05 WHIP) got the ball against Twins starter Jeremy Hunek (7-5, 4.13 ERA, 1.31 WHIP). I have never seen a weirder matchup, but LaFever becomes my first pitcher to start an All-Star Game (the recently traded Peterson was supposed to start a few years ago, but he pitched too soon to make the start). Juan Ramriez hit cleanup and payed LF in a star studded NL lineup (Three 5*, Five 4.5*, and one 3.5*). The AL won the slugfest 11-5 at the Oakland Coliseum.

LaFever was sharp, an inning with a strikeout. Flores ended up pitching the 4th inning. Chad Scoles did not pitch. Ramirez was 0-for-1 with a walk.

Red Sox C Jake Herbert was named MVP. He was 2-for-3 with a grand slam. Herbert is

July 16th, 2030: A pair of trades were made on the last day without baseball.

Former Marlin C Jake Taylor went to the White Sox from the Padres for RHP Sergio Vaca and RHP Chris Medina. I really like this deal for the Whtie Sox.

The Red Sox grabbed RHP Karl Kauffman and RHP Ayden Numa from the Rays for RHP Josh Gordainer and RHP Eric Maness. It's a fair deal, but the Red Sox got the edge.

The Cardinals come to town for three as we start Round 2! Bobby Stiles (3-1, 2.51 ERA), Nate Schneider (9-4, 5.20 ERA), and Andy Forst (1-6, 4.52 ERA) are the projected starters, but this could change with the 3 days off.

July 17th, 2030: I added both LF Chi-yong Kym and SS Rogelio Maldonado to the active roster to fill up the 2 open spots.

C.J. Jorgensen (8-5, 3.19 ERA, 1.14 WHIP) opened the second half against Nate Schneider (9-4, 5.20 ERA, 1.59 WHIP) as we welcomed the Cardinals into town. They got the upper hand in the opener, and edged us 4-3.

Jorgensen went 5.2 with 6 hits, 4 runs, 2 walks, and 3 strikeouts. Jamie Priest tossed 2 innings with a hit and 3 strikeouts.

Noah Smith was 2-for-4 with an RBI. Juan Simental was 2-for-5. Maldonado was 1-for-3 with a walk, double, and run scored. Sergio Tello had a pinch hit solo homer in the 9th. Jackson Miller was 1-for-4 with a double and run scored.

GCL Marlins 3B Zach Pontius was 5-for-5 in a 10-2 win over the GCL Orioles.

Also, I took a week off the Prospect Watch, I'll pick back up next week. There weren't really any games going on with the All-Star breaks anyways.

July 18th, 2030: We looked to even the series back up with Steve Paustian (7-8, 4.02 ERA, 1.33 WHIP) facing Andy Frost (1-6, 4.52 ERA, 1.44 WHIP). We got the better of them today, and topped the visitors 5-3.

Paustian went 5.1 innings with 6 hits, 2 runs, a walk, and 7 strikeouts. Luis Alcantra got the win, 0.2 innings with a walk and 2 strikeouts. Juan Toribio and C.J. LaFever got holds and Scoles picked up a save. LaFever allowed a hit and run in his inning of work.

Jackson Miller was 2-for-3 with a run scored, RBI, and walk. Noah Smith was 1-for-3 with 2 runs, an RBI, 2 walks, and a steal. Mac Horvath was 1-for-2 with a walk. Juan Simental was 1-for-2 with a run scored, RBI, and 2 walks. Rogelio Maldonado was 1-for-3 with a walk and RBI. Sergio Tello was 1-for-4 with a run scored.

Tigers LF Johan Sala was 5-for-5 in a 7-5 loss to the Angels.

July 19th, 2030: We looked to win the series with Livion Manzano (8-7, 3.62 ERA, 1.13 WHIP) facing the new Marlin, future Hall of Famer Esteban Aguirre (6-6, 3.19 ERA, 0.94 WHIP). He was dominate, and we really need it, as we edged the Cards 1-0 to win the rubber match.

Aguirre was everything we expected, 6 shutout innings with 5 hits and 12 strikeouts. Luis Alcantra, LeFever, and Ken Adeniran earned holds and Chad Scoles recorded the save. They combined for 3 innings with 3 hits and 2 strikeouts.

We only had 3 hits as a team. Ernie Frye was 1-for-4 with an RBI and steal. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 1-for-3. Sergio Tello had a pinch hit single in the 8th.

We get tomorrow off, and will head to Arizona for three with the Diamondbacks!

[ayaghmour2]

July 20th, 2030: I claimed CF Josh Madrigal off waivers from the Brewers and optioned LF Chi-yong Kim to AAA.

Madrigal, 25, is rated a 2.5/3 at CF and a 1.5/2.5 at LF. He's an elite defender in left, and plus-plus in center and right. He has elite range and elite speed with plus base running abilities. He has plus contact, gap, and power tools. He's played in 100 games the past three years, 5 with the Cubs, 11 with the Crew and 84 this year again with Milwaukee, and is hitting .207/.255/.330 with 6 homers, 18 RBI's, and 2 steals. He's a nice, young depth option.

The Doves acquired SS Joe Cooper from the Red Sox for LHP's Jose Amaya and Eric Richer. It's an even enough swap. Richer was one of my supplemental picks in 2027.

The Tigers acquired former Marlin C Dermott MacGregor from the Angels for LHP Mike O'Dell. I like this deal for the Tigers.

We got today off, but would head to Arizona for three. We'd see A.J. Alexy (5-7, 3.07 ERA), Sanson Faltine III (0-2, 8.00 ERA), and Jeff Slezak (8-5, 3.24 ERA).

July 21st, 2030: The Doves acquired RHP Dominic Pipkin from the Padres for RHP Esteban Salazar. I like this deal for both teams.

We opened the series with Dursun Erbakan (5-3, 4.10 ERA, 1.32 WHIP) facing A.J. Alexy (5-7, 3.07 ERA, 1.10 WHIP). Tied at 6 in the 10th, Jarrett Ford hit a walk-off double and we lost the opener 7-6.

Erbakan went just 4.2 innings with 7 hits, 4 runs, 2 walks, and 4 strikeouts. Steve Hudson blew the save, 0.2 innings with 4 hits, 2 runs, and a strikeout. Luis Alcantra got the loss, 2 hits and a run without getting an out in the extra frame.

Juan Ramirez was 3-for-4 with 3 runs, 2 RBI's, a walk, triple, and homer. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 2-for-4 with a triple, double, run scored, RBI, and walk. Jackson Miller was 1-for-3 with a walk and sac-fly. Juan Simetnal was 1-for-6 with 2 runs, a steal, and double.


Expos LF Mike Dill was 5-for-5 in a 7-1 win over the Reds.

July 22nd, 2030: Okay, here it is: Esteban Aguirre agreed to a 10-year, $45.3 million per year deal with a opt out after 2036 and a player option for 2040. It's as big as the Vladdy deal, but I have a bigger budget and I should hopefully be better equipped to handle it. If not, expect the always fun salary cutting...

Jacksonville C Esteban Moreno was named Player of the Week. He hit .450 with 2 homers and 4 RBI's.

We dropped to 6 in the Power Rankings. At 59-41, we're still 1 up of the Mets.

We looked to even the series up with Pat Saitta (8-4, 3.89 ERA, 1.23 WHIP) battling Sanson Faltine III (0-2, 8.00 ERA, 1.89 WHIP). We piled on 4 in the first and curised to a 8-2 victory.

Saitta tossed 5 innings with 3 hits, 2 runs, 2 walks, and 6 strikeouts. Jamie Priest got a hold, 2 innings with 2 strikeouts. Andy Neidig tossed 2 hitless with a walk and strikeout.

Ernie Frye was 2-for-4 with a solo homer, walk, and 2 runs scored. Juan Simental was 2-for-5 with a run scored. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 2-for-4 with a walk, double, run scored, and RBI. Rogelio Maldonaco was 2-for-4 with a run scored and RBI. Jackson Miller was 1-for-4 with a walk and grand slam in the 1st. Mac Horvath was 1-for-4 with a run scored. Rodolfo Solorzano was 1-for-4 with a double and RBI.

Prospect Watch: SS Eric Strand (AAA New Orleans):

He may have just been acquired for his name, but Eric Strand shouldn't be overlooked as a prospect. A former 25th Round Pick of the Royals, he was released on draft day before bouncing around a lot before landing with the Rays. I then sent C Dermott MacGregor to them for him in February this year. Currently in AAA, Strand was really good in Jacksonville which got him promoted. He hit .290/.395/.530 with 4 homers and 17 RBI's. The 24-year-old is a plus-plus shortstop with plus-plus range, a plus-plus arm, and 100 rated double play abilities. He has plus speed and base running, as well as a plus eye. He's not the best hitter, but he's an extremely valuable defender. With a need for infield depth, he could force himself onto the roster with at least average offense in AAA.

July 23rd, 2030: Arizona reliever Eudis Idrogo tore the labrum in his shoulder yesterday and will miss the rest of the year. The 35-year-old has a 4.76 ERA and 1.24 WHIP between Arizona and Cincinatti, but he got off to a rough start with the Diamondbacks.

Former Marlin reliever Ayden Hardemon will be out for the year with a partially torn labrum. The Phillies new closer had a 2.49 ERA, 1.14 WHIP, and 4 saves in 25.1 innings with 26 strikeouts and 12 walks.

We looked to take the finale with C.J. Jorgensen (8-6, 3.34 ERA, 1.15 WHIP) facing Jeff Slezak (8-5, 3.24 ERA, 1.11 WHIP). A ton of early runs were scored, but we left town with an 8-6 win.

Jorgensen had a rough outing, 4.2 innings with 5 hits, 6 runs (5 earned), 2 walks, and 3 strikeouts. Steve Hudson got the win, 1.1 innings with 2 hits and 2 strikeouts. Juan Toribio and C.J. LaFever got holds and Chad Scoles got the save. Scoles struck out 2 in the 9th.

Ernie Frye was 2-for-5 with a double, steal, run scored, and 3 RBI's. Rogelio Maldonado was 2-for-3 with a run scored and RBI. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-5 with a run scored and steal. Mac Horvath was 2-for-5 with a run scored. Jackson Miller was 2-for-4 with 2 runs, a steal, sac-fly, and solo homer.

Padres starter Josh Ferland tossed a 2-hit shutout in a 4-0 win over the Boston Doves. He struck out 10 hitters as well.

We flew home to face the Phillies for three games. We're projected to face Dave Orlik (9-6, 3.78 ERA), Jonathan Childress (5-5, 4.35 ERA), and Jim Gilbert (5-5, 3.44 ERA).

July 24th, 2030: The Phillies were in town as Steve Paustian (7-8, 3.98 ERA, 1.33 WHIP) did battle with 24-year-old Dave Orlik (9-6, 3.78 ERA, 1.33 WHIP). Orlik, the Phillies 8th Rounder in 2024, has turned himself into a future star, and is rated a 3.5/5* and he's been extremely hot as of late. He didn't have the best outing, but they still edged us out 5-4.

Paustian went 5 with 6 hits, 5 runs, 2 walks, and 7 strikeouts. The pen went 4 innigns with 3 hits, 2 walks, and 5 strikeouts.

Ernie Frye was 2-for-3 with a walk and three run homer. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-4 with a run scored and double. Sergio Tello had a pinch hit single and scored in the 5th. Solorzano, Simental, and Smith were all 1-for-4.

July 25th, 2030: Former 1st Round Pick Chris DePalma tore his flexor tendon and will miss the rest of the year. This pretty much spells the ends the chance of him ever becoming the top of the rotation starter he could've been. Another 1st Round selection down the drain...

We looked to even the series back up with Esteban Aguirre (7-6, 3.05 ERA, 0.93 WHIP) facing Jonathan Childress (5-5, 4.35 ERA, 1.23 WHIP). Aguirre didn't pitch that long, but long enough to secure an 8-0 shutout victory.

He went 5.1 innings and tossed just 89 pitches with 4 hits, a walk, and 7 strikeouts. Andy Neidig went 1.2 innings with 3 strikeouts. Steve Hudson went 2 innings with a hit and 3 strikeouts.

Ernie Frye was 2-for-4 with 2 runs, 2 RBI's, and a homer. Joey Bart was 2-for-3 with a run scored, 2 RBI's, homer, and walk. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-4 with a solo homer. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 1-for-4 with a triple, run scored, and RBI. Noah Smith was 1-for-3 with 2 runs and a walk.

Royals starter Zach Linginfelter tossed a 2-hit shutout in an 8-0 win over the White Sox. He walked 1 and struck out 4.

July 26th, 2030: Expos starter Regi Grace will miss the rest of the year with a torn rotator cuff. The 31-year-old rookie was 1-10 with a 6.54 ERA.

The Rays acquired C Chance Sisco from the Pilots for RHP Luis Herrera and CF Luis Escoedo. I like this deal for the Pilots.

We looked to finish the series with a win as former teammates Dursun Erbakan (5-3, 4.26 ERA, 1.34 WHIP) and Jim Gilbert (5-5, 3.44 ERA, 1.17 WHIP) faced off in the rubber match. The pitching was great, and we shut them out 7-0.

But of course, Juan Ramirez got hurt... He left with back stiffness and will head to the DL for hopefully the minimum.

Erbakan went 5 innings with 4 hits, 2 walks, and 2 strikeouts. Jamie Priest got the hold, 2 innings with a hit and 2 strikeouts.

Jackson Miller was 2-for-4 with 2 RBI's. Ernie Frye was 2-for-4 with a double and RBI. Mac Horvath was 1-for-2 with a run scored, sac-fly, walk, and 2 RBI's. Juan Simental was 2-for-4 with a run scored and RBI. Rogelio Maldonado was 1-for-4 with a ru nscored, RBI, and double. Erbakan was 1-for-1 with a sac-bunt and run scored. Josh Madrigal had a pinch-hit double and scored in the 7th.

I recalled Chi-yong Kym from AAA to replace Ramirez on the active roster.

Astros 2B Chad Kramer was 5-for-6 and LF Mickey Moniak was 5-for-5 in a 12-0 win over the Athletics.

It was on to Colorado for three with the Rockies. We'd see Sincere Hardgraves (6-8, 4.87 ERA), Ty Madden (5-6, 4.67 ERA), and Eric Dawson (9-6, 4.58 ERA).

[ayaghmour2]

July 27th, 2030: Coors Field was host to the opener in the Miami-Colorado series. Pat Saitta (9-4, 3.88 ERA, 1.22 WHIP) took on Sincere Hardgraves (6-8, 4.87 ERA, 1.30 WHIP) at the hitter's paradise. Runs were frequent, but we managed to edge the hosts 8-7.

Saitta went just 3 innings with 5 hits, 4 runs, 2 walks, and 2 strikeouts. Steve Hudson went 1.1 innings with 3 hits, 2 runs, and a strikeout. Jamie Priest got the win, 1.2 innings with a hit, run, walk, and strikeout. Juan Toribio and C.J. LaFever earned holds before Chad Scoles notched the save. Both Toribio and Scoles struck out the side, with the former allowing a hit in his inning of work.

Rogelio Maldonado was 2-for-5 with a double and 3 RBI's. Sergio Tello was 2-for-4 with a run scored, 2 RBI's, and a double. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-3 with a run scored, 3 steals, and 3 walks. Juan Simental was 1-for-3 with 2 runs, a sac-fly, hit by pitch, and steal. Josh Madrigal was 1-for-4 with a hit by pitch and sac-fly.

July 28th, 2030: The Boston Red Sox acquired SS Isaac Rodriguez from the Baltimore Orioles for LHP's Josh Brown and Tommy Partin. When factoring in Brown's salary, it's a fair swap.

We looked to take the series a day early with C.J. Jorgensen (8-6, 3.58 ERA, 1.17 WHIP) facing Ty Madden (5-6, 4.67 ERA, 1.28 WHIP). The offense exploded, including a 7 run 9th, and we crushed the Rockies 16-4.

Jorgensen pitched okay all things considered, 6 innings with 7 hits, 2 runs, 4 walks, and 3 strikeouts. Andy Neidig got a strikeout, but walked 1 and allowed a pair of hits and runs.

Fernadno Tatis Jr. was 3-for-7 with a solo homer and 3 runs scored. Gregorio Alvarenga was 3-for-4 with a run scored, 2 doubles, 3 RBI's, 2 walks, and a steal. Josh Madrigal was 3-for-6 with 3 runs, 5 RBI's, a steal, and homer. Juan Simental was 2-for-5 with 3 runs, 2 RBI's, a double, and walk. Sergio Tello came off the bench and was 2-for-2 with a run scored and RBI. Mac Horvath was 2-for-5 with a run scored and RBI. Noah Smith was 1-for-4 with a run scored, RBI, and walk. Joey Bart was 1-for-4 with 2 RBI's and 2 walks.

Former Marlin RF Palban Gamboa was 5-for-5 as his Tigers beat the Royals 9-7.

June 29th, 2030: Jacksonville RF Alfredo Rosales was named Southern League Player of the Week, hitting .484 with 4 homers and 11 RBI's. He was just acquired from the Reds in the Esteban Aguirre deal. Take that OSA!

Blue Jays SP/1B Brendan McKay will miss the rest of the year with a torn UCL. He was 10-5 with a 2.92 ERA and 0.95 WHIP in 22 starts. He also hit .210/.308/.363 with 4 homers and 15 RBI's.

We moved up to 3rd in the Power Rankings. At 65-42, we have a nice 4 game lead over the Mets.

The Seattle Pilots sent RF Victor Robles to the Brewers for SS Caiden Matheny. I like this deal for both teams.

The Oakland A's acquired 3B Sergio Palafox from the Red Sox from LHP Juan Rurvalcaba. I like this swap for both teams.

Prospect Watch: RF Alfredo Rosales (AA Jacksonville)

He's barely been in our system, and he's already making noise, being named Southern League Player of the Week. In 11 games with the Jumbo Shrimp he's hitting .362/.392/.660 with 4 homers and 11 RBI's. Rosales improved to a 1.5 current, but fell to 4 for potential. Either way, the Half-Dominican, Half-Spanish slugger is a future big league star. He has elite power with plus-plus contact, plus eye, plus gap power, and plus-plus avoid strikeout. He's not too fast, but he's an average defender in right. The lefty isn't the generic "extreme pull" power hitter that most young sluggers are, and instead can surprise you with a few oppo boppo homers. If he keeps hitting the way he is now, he could make his big league debut in September.

We looked to finish the sweep with Steve Paustian (7-9, 4.20 ERA, 1.34 WHIP) facing Eric Dawson (9-6, 4.58 ERA, 1.66 WHIP). It was a lower scoring game, but we managed to pull off the sweep with a 5-4 win.

Paustian tossed 6 innings with 5 hits, 2 runs, 4 walks, and 5 strikeouts. Ken Adenrian and Juan Toribio grabbed holds and Chad Scoles got the save. Adeniran allowed a hit, run, and strikeout. Toribio allowed a hit, run, walk, and struck out 2.

Rodolfo Solorzano was 4-for-5 with 2 doubles, a run scored, and 2 RBI's. Juan Simental was 2-for-4 with a sac-fly, double, and 2 RBI's. Noah Smith was 2-for-5 with 2 runs scored and a steal. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with 2 walks.

We're headed back home to host the Brewers for three. We'll see Rawley Hector (9-4, 4.35 ERA), Carson Fulmer (9-6, 3.56 ERA), and Charlie Neeper (6-8, 5.93 ERA).

July 30th, 2030: Jon Reid will head to A- Batavia to begin a rehab assignment.

The Rays sent CF Sean Foote and LHP Arrigo Barbiusa to the Mariners for RHP Dave Ratner, RHP Mike Frischknecht, and CF Bobby Lawrence. It's a steal for Dipoto's Mariners.

The Senators acquired LHP Kevin Harrison from the Reds for RHP Nick Jodway and Juan Cuevas. This deal is great for the Reds.

Lastly, the Phillies acquired RHP Luis Manzano from the Cardinals for LF Ben Brown and 3B Tom Gibson. I really like this deal for the Cards, even though Manzao is a 3.5 SP. Brown, is a 3.5/4.5 that I'm glad is out of my division!

I made a depth trade, acquiring 2B Kelvin Smith Jr. from the Expos for 2B Vidal Brujan and LF Jim Brown. Smith gives me a nice depth option off the bench. The righty is hitting .234/.290/.344 with 4 homers and 8 RBI's, 14 steals, and offers great defense in the infield.

I optioned Rogelio Maldonado to AAA.

We opened the series with the Brewers at home with Esteban Aguirre (8-6, 2.93 ERA, 0.93 WHIP) facing Rawley Hector (9-4, 4.35 ERA, 1.16 WHIP). It was a tight one, but we were edged 4-2.

Aguirre got the loss, 6.1 innings with 4 hits, 2 runs, 2 walks, and 9 strikeouts. Juan Toribio was roughed up, allowing 3 hits with 2 runs without getting an out.

Rodolfo Solorzano was 2-for-4 with a two run homer. Jackson Miller was 1-for-3 with a walk. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-4 with a walk.

July 31st, 2030: Happy Deadline Day!

Not too much action, but there were deals made!

The Senators acquired LF Taylor Trammell from the Dodgers for RHP Daniel Sprinkle and RHP Steve Mathie. I like this deal for the Dodgers, but it's not a bad swap for Washington.

The Astros traded 1B Carlos Correa to the Indians for SS Zack Prajzner. It's a salary dump for the Astros, but Correa is no where near the player he used to be. I might actually call this a win for Houston.

The Doves acquired RHP Garrison Bryant and SS Juan Aquino from the Braves for 1B Juan Medrano and SS Jonathan Gerdes. I like this deal for the Doves. Gerdes, was a 11th Round Pick by the Padres, and has already been traded twice, first to the Doves on the 7th and now a second time less then a month later.

I went to add to the pen, acquiring 34-year-old "rookie" from Taiwan Dan-zu Hoong from the Tigers for Esteban Miranda and Sam Pell.

Hoong, a righty, is a 3.5* who's 0-1 with a 4.26 ERA and 1.22 WHIP. He's definitely not the best player out there, but he's a hard worker that is loveed in the clubhouse, due to his friendlieness and great knowledge of the game.

We looked to even the series up with Dursun Erbakan (6-3, 4.07 ERA, 1.34 WHIP) facing veteran righty Carson Fulmer (9-6, 3.56 ERA, 1.28 WHIP). Erbakan was near perfect, and we shut them out 5-0.

Erbakan tossed 6.1 innings with just 1 hit, 3 walks, and 10 strikeotus. Jamie Priest tossed 1.2 innings with 3 stirkouets.

Noah Smith was 2-for-2 with 2 doubles, 2 runs, and 2 RBI's. Sergio Tello was 1-for-2 with a walk and sac-fly. Ernie Frye was 1-for-3 with a run scored, RBI, and 2 walks. Erbakan was 1-for-2. So he had the same amount of hits as the Brewers, a 60-50 team, had in total.

August 1st, 2030: Here's something I'd never thought I'd say this year: Joe Kramer was named Pitcher of the Month! Yes, he failed miserabley in the majors and equally so in AAA, but he was Pitcher of the Month in the Southern League! Working back as a starter, he was 4-1 with a 1.49 ERA and he struck out 30 in 36.1 innings. Is this a resurgence for the estranged 1st Roud Pick? Likely no, but it's definitely an improvement over what he was doing. He's an extremely hard worker, and perhaps he'll be back in September. And unlike Chris Bigsby, a fellow first round pick, his labrum isn't torn...

We looked to win the finale with Pat Saitta (9-4, 4.09 ERA, 1.25 WHIP) facing Charlie Neeper (6-8, 5.93 ERA, 1.46 WHIP). We got 5 in the 8th, and came back to win the finale 7-5.

Saitta was roughed up again, 4.2 innings with 6 hits, 5 runs, 3 walks, and 4 strikeotus. Ken Adeniran got the win, 2 innings with 2 strikeouts. Chad Scoles earned save #28, an inning with a hit and 2 strikeouts.

Sergio Tello was 3-for-4 with 2 RBI's. Juan Simental was 3-for-4 with 3 runs, a double, and solo homer. Noah Smith was 2-for-5 with a run scored. Adeniran was 2-for-2 with a run scored and RBI. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-2.

We get tomorrow off before the Reds come to town!

Also, did you know we were 20-6 in July!?!?!!? Man, I had no idea we did that good! After a 13-16 May and 15-13 June, this 20-6 really snuck up on me! So much so that we're better then the entire AL and we're closing in on the Cubs (70-41) and Dodgers (71-40)!

One more thing, Ernie Frye is pacing the NL with a .361 batting average. The next closest? Arizona 3B Jorge Herrera, who hitting .326. If Frye keeps this pace, it'll be his first NL Batting Title after winning back-to-back AL Batting Titles in 2028 and 2029!

I optioned Andy Neidig to AAA

[ayaghmour2]

August 2nd, 2030: We got today off and could stay home in Miami in preperation for a series with the Reds. We'll face Axsel Jimenez (3-0, 1.93 ERA), Mike Kuhns (5-9, 4.12 ERA), and Tyrese Comier (10-4, 4.04 ERA).

August 3rd, 2030: Mike Kuhnds (5-0, 4.12 ERA, 1.03 WHIP) jumped Jimenez in the rotation as the Reds came to town. C.J. Jorgensen (9-6, 3.55 ERA, 1.20 WHIP) toed the rubber for us in the opener. Our offense thought we still had the day off, and we were topped 3-1.

Jorgensen went 5.1 innings with 5 hits, 3 runs, and 7 strikeouts. Juan Toribio struck out the side in a perfect 8th inning.

Mac Horvath was 1-for-2 with a solo homer and two walks. Fernando Tatis Jr. and Jackson Miller were both 1-for-3 with a walk. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-4 with a double and walk.

Brewers 3B Mykanthony Valdez was 5-for-5 in a 10-1 win over the Giants. Mets starter Livio Montella tossed a 3-hit shutout in a 5-0 win over the Padres.

August 4th, 2030: We looked to even the series back up with Steve Paustian (8-9, 4.14 ERA, 1.35 WHIP) facing Axsel Jimenez (3-0, 1.93 ERA, 0.94 WHIP), who's making his first start after 44 relief appearences in his first year with the Reds. A key pinch-hit three run homer in the 8th from Chi-yong Kym helped in the 6-2 victory.

Paustian went 6.2 innings with 7 hits, 2 runs, 4 walks, and 7 strikeouts. Luis Alcantra got the win, allowing a hit and striking out three in an inning of work.

Noah Smith was 2-for-5 with 2 doubles and a run scored. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 2-for-4 with 2 RBI's and a double. Jackson Miller was 2-for-4 with a run scored. Juan Simental was 1-for-5 with a steal and run scored. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with a walk and RBI. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-3 with a run scored.

August 5th, 2030: We moved up to 2nd in the Power Rankings! At 69-44, we have a 5 game lead over the Mets.

An interesting August swap occurred, as the Blue Jays acquired RHP Jacob Pfennigs from the Seantors for CF Andy Foust. It's a decent swap for both teams.

Prospect Watch: SP Jorge Camacho (DSL Marlins):

Way back in 2024, a young teenager named Jorge Camacho joined the Marlins International Academy in the Dominican Republic. Now, the 21-year-old is making his pitch to continue his career stateside with the Marlins. In his third season with the DSL Marlins, he's building off a strong 2029 that was cut short by injury. He maed 3 starts with a sparkly 1.84 ERA despite walking 9 and striking out just 6 in 14.2 innings. This year, he's 4-2 with a 2.23 ERA and 1.13 WHIP in 8 starts. He's got plus stuff and plus-plus stamina and can hit 92-94 with his cutter. He also throws a plus curveball and plus-plus slider. And while Camacho doesn't currently rank high on any prospect list, you can never have too much pitching that can eat up innings.

We looked to take the finale with former Red Esteban Aguirre (8-7, 2.92 ERA, 0.93 WHIP) facing Tyrese Comier (10-4, 4.04 ERA, 1.31 WHIP). It was a nailbiter, but we managed to edge the Reds 4-3 to take the series.

Aguirre went 6 innings with 3 hits, a run, 3 walks, and 11 strikeouts. Ken Adeniran, Dan-zu Hoong, and Jamie Priest got holds. Adeniran allowed a hit and run in an inning and Priest allowed a hit and run with a strikeout in 0.2 innings. Chand Scoles recorded the save, striking out 2 in a perfect 9th.

Noah Smith was 2-for-5 with a run scored. Mac Horvath was 1-for-2 with a run scored and walk. Sergio Tello was 1-for-3 with a walk and RBI. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 1-for-3 with a run scored, double, and walk. Kelvin Smith Jr. came off the bench and was 1-for-1 with a triple to lead off the 8th. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-4 with a run scored.

Cardinals CF Rodolfo Medrano hit for the cycle in a 5-4 win over the Diamondbacks. The former Marlin has really put in a productive career in St. Louis, but his clubhouse problems were too much for me to keep him, hence trading him twice.

Off to Atlanta for three with the Braves! We'll face Eric Burtrum (1-3, 3.27 ERA), Curtis Taylor (0-2, 4.67 ERA), and Ken Harty (9-6, 2.81 ERA).

August 6th, 2030: Lot's of roster moves: Chi-yong Kym and Rodolfo Solorzano were optioned to AAA, Juan Ramirez was activated from the DL and Jon Reid was activated from his rehab assignment. I then swaped SP Jamie Pearson to the Padres for SS Ezequiel Camacho.

Camacho, 23, is a 2.5* potential prospect who's a plus-plus defender in the middle infield with elite speed.

We arrived in Atlanta as Dursun Erbakan (7-3, 3.85 ERA, 1.30 WHIP) took on southpaw Eric Burturm (1-3, 3.27 ERA, 1.21 WHIP). We got 5 runs in the 7th to help in the 9-5 opening victory.

Erbakan went 5.1 innings with 4 hits, 3 runs, a walk, and 9 strikeouts. Ken Adeniran earned a hold, tossing 2.2 innings with 2 hits, a run, and strikeout. Steve Hudson allowed a hit, run, a walk, and struck out 2 in the 9th.

Noah Smith was 2-for-3 with a run scored, steal, double, and walked. Kelvin Smith Jr. was 2-for-4 with 2 runs scored. Ernie Frye was 2-for-5 with a double, run scored, and RBI. Jackson Miller was 1-for-3 with a run scored, RBI, and double. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-5 with a grand slam in the 2nd. Mac Horvath was 1-for-4 with 2 runs, 2 RBI's, a walk, and homer. Joey Bart came off the bench and was 1-for-2 with a run scored.

August 7th, 2030: Young Giants righty Joe Burch will miss the rest of the season with radial nerve decompression surgery in his elbow. He was 1-1 with a 3.20 ERA and 1.22 WHIP in 19.2 innings with 18 strikeouts.

We looked to take the series a day early with Pat Saitta (9-4, 4.30 ERA, 1.28 WHIP) looking to get back on track against Curtis Taylor (0-2, 4.67 ERA, 1.26 WHIP). The offense continued to give us wins with an 8-4 victory. We'd prepare for the sweep tomorrow!

Saitta went 5 innings with 4 htis, 2 runs, 2 walks, and 5 strikeouts. Jamie Priest allowed 3 hits and 2 runs in 0.2 innings.

Juan Ramirez was 3-for-5 with a double, homer, 2 runs, and 4 RBI's. Jon Reid was 2-for-4 with a run scored, triple, and RBI. Sergio Tello was 2-for-5 with an RBI. Kelvin Smith Jr. was 1-for-3 with a double and RBI. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-4 with 2 runs, a walk, and steal.

August 8th, 2030: The Pirates will be without Luis Carrizales for the year with a ruptured finger tendon. In 29 relief appearences, he struck out 40 in 37.2 innings and had a nice 2.39 ERA.

We looked to finish the sweep with C.J. Jorgensen (9-7, 3.61 ERA, 1.19 WHIP) taking on Ken Harty (9-6, 2.81 ERA, 1.00 WHIP). We capped off the sweep with a 5-3 victory.

Jorgensen went 7 innings with 3 hits, 2 runs, 2 walks, and 7 strikeouts. C.J. LaFever earned a hold and Chad Scoles got the save. He went an inning with a hit, run, and walk.

Ernie Frye was 3-for-5 with 2 doubles, a run scored, and 2 RBI's. Noah Smith was 2-for-4 with a run scored and RBI. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 1-for-4 with a two run homer. Joey Bart was 1-for-4 with a double and run scored. Juan Ramriez was 1-for-5 with a run scored.

We'll look to continue our win streak at home with the Padres. We'd face Josh Ferland (9-9, 2.88 ERA), Josh Hearn (5-9, 4.37 ERA), and Michael Baumann (1-6, 4.79 ERA).

[ayaghmour2]

August 9th, 2030: The Doves will be without the recently acquired Garrison Bryant for the year with a partially torn ulnar collateral ligament. He made just 2 starts after coming over from the Braves, going 0-1 with a 1.29 ERA and 1.00 WHIP with 4 strikeouts and a walk in 7 innings. In 21 starts with Atlanta, the 31-year-old was 5-8 with a 3.63 ERA and 1.21 WHIP.

The Padres were in town for three as Steve Paustian (8-9, 4.07 ERA, 1.36 WHIP) faced the young rising star Josh Ferland (9-9, 2.88 ERA, 1.15 WHIP) in the opener. The offense was on point, and we took the opener 13-6.

Paustian went 5 innings with 6 hits, 4 runs, a walk, and 6 strikeouts. Luis Alcantra got the win, an inning with a walk. Ken Adeniran got a 3 inning "save" with 2 hits, 2 runs, a walk, and 4 strikeouts.

Jackson Miller was 3-for-4 with 2 runs, 3 RBI's, a walk, steal and a homer. Noah Smith with 3-for-4 with 2 runs, a double, and steal. Mac Horvath was 2-for-5 with 2 runs, 3 RBI's, and a homer. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-4 with 2 runs, 4 RBI's, a walk, and homer. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 2-for-4 with 2 runs, an RBI, and walk. Jon Reid was 2-for-4 with a walk.

Indians C Brandon Matorano was 5-for-5 in a 9-7 win over the Twins.

August 10th, 2030: Esteban Aguirre (9-7, 2.86 ERA, 0.93 WHIP) took on Josh Hearn (5-9, 4.37 ERA, 1.33 WHIP) in the middle game. Aguirre was as great as normal, and we won 5-1.

Aguirre went 6 with 6 hits, a run, walk, and 6 strikeouts. C.J. LaFever tossed 2 innings with a hit and 3 strikeouts.

Juan Simental was most of the offense today, 3-for-4 with 2 homers, a triple, 3 runs, and 3 RBI's. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-4 with a run scored, triple, double, and RBI. Kelvin Smith Jr. was 1-for-4 with a steal.

August 11th, 2030: We looked to finish the sweep with Dursun Erbakan (8-3, 3.90 ERA, 1.28 WHIP) facing Michael Baumann (1-6, 4.79 ERA, 1.40 WHIP). The pitching was excellent again, and we got to use our finest brooms after a 6-1 win.

1B Gregorio Alvarenga left with an injury...

Erbakan went 6 innings with 3 hits, a run, 4 walks, and 8 strikeouts. Juan Toribio got the win, an inning with a hit and 2 strikeouts. Steve Hudson was 2 innings with a hit and strikeout.

Ernie Frye went 4-for-5 with 3 doubles and an RBI. Joey Bart was 2-for-3 with a walk, run scored, and 3 RBI's. Mac Horvath was 1-for-1 with a run scored and 3 walks. Noah Smith was 1-for-3 with a run scored, walk, and RBI. Kelvin Smith Jr. was 1-for-2 with 2 runs and 2 steals after replacing Alvarenga.

We're off to Washington for three games with the Nationals, who sit 25.5 games out of first. We'll look to extend the win streak to 9 against Clint Hinshaw (2-10, 6.24 ERA), and then keep it going against Luis Escolastico (8-7, 4.24 ERA) and former Marlin Ignacio Hinojos (5-8, 3.33 ERA).

August 12th, 2030: The Cubs will be without veteran starter German Marquez for the year with a torn labrum. He's 7-4 with a 5.16 ERA in 19 starts.

And of course, we sit number 1 in the Power Rankings. At 76-44 we have a comftorable 10 game lead over the Mets.

Prospect Watch: C Esteban Moreno (AA Jacksonville):

He may not have been Player of the Week this week, but Esteban Moreno has still been red-hot. The 24-year-old backstop is hitting .272/.344/.486 with 8 homers and 32 RBI's for the Jumbo Shrimp this year, and has been worth an impressive 3.0 WAR in 77 games. Acuired from teh Red Sox back in 2027, Moreno spent a long time in the lower minors before reaching AA this season. He's got plus plate discipline and elite gap power, and is a plus-plus defender behind the plate. The La Romana native ranks 21st in our system, and is behind just Pat Hughes on the minor league C depth chart. He'll be eligible for the Rule-5 draft at the end of the year, so expect him protected or traded.

We started the series in Washington with Pat Saitta (10-4, 4.27 ERA, 1.27 WHIP) facing the strugglign Clint Hinshaw (2-10, 6.24 ERA, 1.65 WHIP). We extended the win streak to 9 with an 11-5 victory.

But it's not without cost, as Juan Simental left with an injury...

Saitta went 4.1 innings with 7 hits, 5 runs, a 3 walks, and 4 strikeouts. Jamie Priest got the win, 1.2 innings with a hit. The rest of the pen combined for 3 innings, a hit, walk, and 4 strikeouts.

Noah Smithw as 2-for-4 with a double, homer, walk, and 2 RBI's. Jackson Miller was 1-for-4 with a run scored and sac-fly. Ernie Frye was 1-for-4 with a two run homer, 3 runs, and 2 walks. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 1-for-3 with a run scored, 2 walks, and 2 RBI's. Josh Madrigal replaced Simental (who was 1-for-2) and went 1-for-4 with a run scored and RBI. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-4 with a hit by pitch. Saitta hit better then he pitched, 1-for-3 with a run scored and RBI. Jon Reid was 1-for-4 with a run scored and hit by pitch. Mac Horvath was 1-for-2 with a steal, hit by pitch, walk, run scored, and sac-fly.

August 13th, 2030: Alvarenga's injury is very minor, just a bruised foot, and he'll be day-to-day for less then a week.

More injury news, as Indians RHP Murdoch Bloom is out for the year with a torn flexor tendon in his elbow. The Canadian native was solid, tossing 53.2 innings with a 2.68 ERA and 1.01 WHIP while going 6-1 out of the pen.

Worse news came to a minor league pitpcher of mine, Josh Kelso, who tore his UCL, marking the end of his baseball career. The 31-year-old joined the organization in April, and tossed nearly 1,000 minor league innings from 2021-2030 without making his big league debut. The lefty was a 2nd Round Pick in 2020 by the Tigers, but he went back for his senior season at Coastal Carloina, and then signed after being a 3rd Round Pick by the Jays in 2021. We wish Kelso the best of luck in his recovery.

Can we make it 10? C.J. Jorgensen (10-7, 3.56 ERA, 1.16 WHIP) got the ball against Luis Escolastico (8-7, 4.24 ERA, 1.21 WHIP), who got a win against us in a start earlier this season. Despite trying to give it up in the 9th, we held off the Nats comeback to win our 10th straight 5-3.

Jorgensen went 6 innings with 2 hits, a run, 4 walks, and 6 strikeouts. Chad Scoles allowed 3 hits, 2 runs, a walk, and got a strikeout in the 9th.

Noah Smith was 2-for-4 with a double, homer and 3 RBI's. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-4 with a run scored and walk despite his injury. Mac Horvath was 1-for-2 with a run scored, RBI, walk, and hit by pitch.

August 14th, 2030: We looked to finish another sweep with Steve Paustian (8-9, 4.18 ERA, 1.35 WHIP) taking on his former teammate Ignacio Hinojos (5-8, 3.33 ERA, 1.11 WHIP). All good things must come to an end, and we were absolutely humiliated 10-1 as the hosts salvage the finale.

Paustian wasn't really hit that hard, but he allowed 6 runs off 3 hits and 3 walks in 5.1 innings. He also struck out 6. Ken Adeniran blew up, 4 hits, 4 runs, a walk, and 2 strikeouts to his credit. Jamie Priest tossed the last 2 innings with a hit, walk, and 3 strikeouts.

Ernie Frye was the only Marlin who came to play today, 2-for-4 with a solo homer. Noah Smith did fine as well, 1-for-2 with 2 walks. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-3 with a stolen base.

We can recover on the flight home and off day tomorrow, before we host the former Nationals, the Montreal Expos!

[ayaghmour2]

August 15th, 2030: Juan Simental will head to the DL with a severely strained hip muscle. He'll miss about 4-5 weeks. I recalled CF Juan Alarcon from AAA, and he'd be on track to make his big league debut.

We're headed home for three with the Expos. We'll see Erich Uelman (7-5, 4.47 ERA), Dan Leeser (2-3, 5.29 ERA), and Luis Guerrero (2-3, 3.94 ERA).

August 16th, 2030: We opened the Expos series with Esteban Aguirre (10-7, 2.81 ERA, 0.94 WHIP) facing Erich Uelman (7-5, 4.47 ERA, 1.39 WHIP). It was a tight one, but we were able to edge the Canadian visitors 2-1.

Aguirre pitched well, 5.1 innings with 3 hits, 3 walks, 8 strikeouts, and an unearned run. C.J. LaFever got the win, an inning with 2 strikeouts. Chad Scoles got the save, an inning with a hit and 2 strikeotus.

Juan Ramirez was 2-for-3 with 2 steals, a walk, and run scored. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 2-for-4 with a solo homer. Jackson Miller was 2-for-4 with a double and RBI. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-3 with a walk.

August 17th, 2030: The middle game saw the red-hot Dursun Erbakan (9-3, 3.79 ERA, 1.28 WHIP) face Dan Leeser (2-3, 5.29 ERA, 1.00 WHIP). I actually selected Leeser in the 16th Round back in 2024, to see anyone, let alone a 2/2.5* player I drafted in the Majors is a feat in itself. I traded him in the Gene Hall trade, and while his line doesn't look too impressive (the WHIP is nice), he's probably the only guys (without looking) from the 2024 class with big league experience. Way to go me! We didn't show any love to Leeser, however, and we crushed them 13-2!

But, it was not without loss, as Mac Horcath left with knee soreness and will head to the DL. I'm hoping he'll be healthy before Roster Expansion so I can bring him up on the 1st after a rehab assignment. He was 1-for-3.

Erbakan went 5.1 innings with 4 hits, a run, 3 walks, and 10 strkeouts. Luis Alcantra actually got a hold, finishing the 6th with just 3 pitches. Steve Hudson got a 3 inning save, allowing a hit and run with 3 strikeouts.

Ernie Frye was 3-for-5 with 3 runs, 2 RBI's, 3 doubles, and 2 steals. Jon Reid was 3-for-5 with a run scored, double, and 2 RBI's. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-3 with a run scored and 2 walks. Noah Smith was 1-for-2 with 2 runs, a solo homer, walk, and hit by pitch. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-2 with a solo homer, 2 sac-flies, and a walk. Jackson Miller was 1-for-3 with a run scored, sac-fly, and walk. Kelvin Smith Jr., the ex-Expo, was 1-for-2 with 2 runs, an RBI, double, and steal after coming off the bench for Horvath. Ken Adeniran had a pinch-hit RBI single and scored in the 6th. Always great when one of your relievers can hit .323 and fill in at left, center, right, and first.

Tigers LF Johan Sala hit three homers in a 12-7 win over the Rangers.

I did a little research on the 2024 class, and Leeser is not the only Marlin to play in the majors! That's the year I selected Chris Bigsby in the 1st Round. The currently injured Bigsby had a 1.17 ERA and 1.04 WHIP with 6 strikeouts and a walk in 7.2 innings last season. Josh Barrett, another 1st Rounder, has tossed 3.2 innings with the Boston Doves the past two seasons. 3rd Rounder Sam Minniefield has compiled 21.2 innings with a 3.32 ERA and 1.34 WHIP with us from 2027-2029.

But the big hitter is 4th Rounder C.J. Vick who I gave $5 million to persuade to sign instead of going to college. I then traded him in the 2025 offseason to the Rangers with Luis Padilla and Tristan Hanoian for Devon Peterson. Vick has blossomed into one of the best sluggers, going to 2 All-Star Games and winning the 2029 Platinum Stick at 1B where he lead the AL in RBI's with 144. In 317 big league games, he's hitting .299/.373/.615 with 104 homers and 295 RBI's. He's on pace for 57 hoemrs and 156 RBI's this year and is hitting .309/.383/.648! And he wanted to go to College! And I drafted him! And he has all his success with another team...

I'll still chalk this one up as a win...

Seems I didn't do too bad with this class!

Here's what I wrote about Leeser:

16th Overall, 491st Overall: CF Dan Leeser (1): He's listed as an outfielder, but I like him as a pitcher. He's got great stamina, an insane curveball, and is developing his second two pitches. With a bit more work, the slow throwing righty can force himself on a roster. He'll start as a two-way player.

He wanted be a center fielder and I tricked him into pitching! Worked well for him, as he's now a big leaguer.

August 18th, 2030: Arizona will be without RHP Josh Proctor for the year with a ruptured ulnar collateral ligament. He was 3-4 with a 4.28 ERA and he struck out 68 in 48.1 innings out of the pen.

Former Marlin Josh Brown inked a 2-year, $18 million per year deal to remain the Orioles closer. The talented lefty had a bit of a down year with Boston and Baltimore, recording 16 saves with a 4.06 ERA and 1.51 WHIP, but he was dominate for us last year. He had a 1.71 ERA and 0.99 WHIP and he struck out 85 in 63.1 innings.

Also, I changed my mind on Horvath, and I'm not going to place him on the DL. His one week is already down to 6 days, and I'll just rest him.

We looked to finish the sweep with Pat Saitta (10-4, 4.48 ERA, 1.31 WHIP) taking on Luis Geurrero (2-3, 3.94 ERA, 1.22 WHIP). We crushed the guests 14-1, to win game 81 of the season! Another .500 or better season down in Miami!

Saitta went 6 innings with 3 hits, 2 walks, and 7 strikeouts. Jamie Preist got a 3 inning save, 3 hits with a run and 3 strikeotus.

We've been getting a lot of those recently.

Juan Ramirez was a perfect 3-for-3 with a run scored, RBI, double, and walk. Joey Bart was 2-for-5 with 2 runs, 4 RBI's, a double, and a homer. Ernie Frye was 3-for-6 with 2 doubles and 2 runs. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-4 with a run scored, double, walk, and 3 RBI's. Jon Reid was 2-for-4 with 2 runs, a walk, and RBI. Josh Madrigal was 1-for-3 with a run scored, 2 RBI's, and 2 walks. Fernado Tatis Jr. was 1-for-4 with 3 runs and 2 walks.

Off to LA for three with the Dodgers. We'll face Amari Queen (12-7, 2.29 ERA), B.J. Russow (9-2, 2.97 ERA), and Nate Ransom (12-7, 3.72 ERA).

August 19th, 2030: We remain #1 in the Power Rankings. At 81-45, we have a 11 game lead over the Mets, and the best record in All of Baseball. The next best, our next opponent, the 79-47 Dodgers.

Prospect Watch: RP/CF Maddox Clancey (GCL Marlins):

Not even the biggest Marlins fans have heard of Maddox Clancey. But, maybe thhey should start taking note. A 26th Rounder Pick from St. Charles Garnier, a High School in Quebec City, Clancey had a rough professional debut last year, mostly in the rotation, with the GCL Marlins. Moved to the pen this year, he's put together one of the best seasons you possibly could. In 23 innings, he had a miniscule 0.39 ERA (1,046 ERA+) and 0.78 WHIP. He's still developing his strike out pitch, as he's walked 11 compared to 10 strikeouts, but the 19-year-old has done an extremely impressive job at getting players to make weak contact. He tosses four average pitches, a fastball, curve, slider, and change, but mixes them up well. He's a great leader in the clubhouse and is an extremely hard worker. He's extremely raw and a longshot to even reach the high minors, but he's doing what he can to make a big impact in the organization.

We made our way to Los Angeles where former Dodger C.J. Jorgensen (11-7, 3.47 ERA, 1.16 WHIP) took on the Dodgers young ace, 25-year-old Amari Queen (12-7, 2.29 ERA, 0.98 WHIP). The former 1st Rounder has broke out this year after 2 average campaigns in the 2028 and 2029. Sadly for the Dodgers, he left with a knee contusion after being hit by a Jorgensen fastball, and we took the opener 6-1.

Don't let the pro-DH supporters get wind of this...

C.J. was stellar, 6 innings with 2 hits, 2 walks, and 9 strikeouts. Juan Toribio got a hold, an inning with a strikeout. Steve Hudson pitched the last 2, allowing 2 hits, a run, and he got a strikeout.

Juan Ramirez was 3-for-5 with a double. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-4 with a run scored, double, and RBI. Josh Madrigal was 2-for-5 with an RBI. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 1-for-2 with a run scored, sac-fly, and 2 walks. Noah Smith was 2-for-4 with a walk and two run homer. Jackson Miller was 1-for-5 with a solo homer. Ernie Frye was 1-for-4 with a triple and run scored. Jorgensen was 1-for-3, and luckily, wasn't hit in retaliation.

August 20th, 2030: We looked to win our fifth in a row with Steve Paustian (8-10, 4.41 ERA, 1.36 WHIP) facing another young and talented starter B.J. Russow (9-2, 2.97 ERA, 0.98 WHIP). We continued to look unstoppable, and shocked the hosts with a 7-1 win.

Paustian went 6 innings with 2 hits, a run, 3 walks, and 6 strikeouts. Priest tossed 2 innings with a hit and 2 strikeouts.

Sergio Tello was 2-for-4 with 2 runs and a double. Jackson Miller was 1-for-3 with a run scored, RBI, and walk. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-3 with a runs cored, RBI, and walk. Noah Smith was 1-for-4 with a double and 2 RBI's. Jon Reid was 1-for-3 with 2 runs, a walk, triple, and 2 RBI's.

August 21st, 2030: We looked for the improbable sweep with the best pitcher in the league, Esteban Aguirre (10-7, 2.72 ERA, 0.95 WHIP) facing Nate Ransom (12-7, 3.72 ERA, 1.14 WHIP). Aguirre is 2-0 with a 2.63 ERA against the Dodgers this year, but wasn't as sharp today, and the Dodgers took the finale 6-3.

Aguirre went 5.1 innings with 8 hits, 4 runs, 2 walks, and 2 strikeouts. He had just 4 runs in his first 6 starts with us since coming over from the Reds. C.J. LaFever was charged with 2 hits and 2 runs in a third of an inning.

Juan Ramirez was 2-for-4 with a solo homer. Jackson Miller was 2-for-3 with a walk and double. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-5. Jon Reid was 1-for-4 with a two run homer. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with a walk and run scored. Aguirre was 1-for-3.

In the DSL, Sergio Calderas was 5-for-6 as we crushed the Astros team 24-2.

Headed back home for three with the second place Mets. We'll face Arturo Romo (11-7, 4.37 ERA), Seth Halvorsen (8-4, 3.90 ERA), and Eligio Farentino (1-4, 4.74 ERA) as we look to expand our 13 game lead.

[ayaghmour2]

August 22nd, 2030: The Mets were in town as Dursun Erbakan (10-3, 3.70 ERA, 1.28 WHIP) hosted Arturo Romo (11-7, 4.37 ERA, 1.15 WHIP). Erbakan, Ernie Frye, Juan Ramirez, Noah Smith, and Joey Bart are all currently on fire for CF Juan Alarcon's major league debut. 5 runs were scored in the 9th, inclduing a walk-off 2-run double from Juan Ramirez as we won a chaotic opener 6-5.

Erbakan tossed 6.1 innings with 6 hits, 3 runs, 4 walks, and 7 strikeouts. Despite allowing 2 hits and 2 runs with 2 strikeouts, Chad Scoles picked up the win.

Alarcon had an interesting debut, 1-for-1 with a solo homer, 2 walks, 2 runs, and 3 steals before being pinched hit for in the 8th. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-5 with 2 doubles and 3 RBI's. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-4 with a double and run scored. Noah Smith was 1-for-3 with a double and walk. Frye was 1-for-4 with a run scored and walk. Erbakan was 1-for-2 with an RBI. Ken Adeniran came off the bench and was 1-for-1 with a run scored.

August 23rd, 2030: The middle game saw Pat Saitta (11-4, 4.28 ERA, 1.29 WHIP) take on Seth Halvorsen (8-4, 3.90 ERA, 1.19 WHIP). We couldn't ride yesterday's momentum, and we dropped the middle game 5-3.

Saitta allowed 8 hits and 4 runs with a walk and 5 strikeouts in 5.2 innings. Ken Adeniran went 2.1 innings with 2 hits, a run, and 4 strikeouts.

A fully healed Mac Horvath was 2-for-4 with a double and 3 RBI's. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-4 with a run scored. Josh Madrigal was 2-for-4. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-3 with a walk and 2 runs scored.

White Sox RF Porter Brown extended his hit streak to 20 games.

August 24th, 2030: We looked to claim the series with C.J. Jorgensen (12-7, 3.34 ERA, 1.14 WHIP) facing Eligio Farentino (1-4, 4.74 ERA, 1.30 WHIP), one of the few big leaguers born in Italy. We got 4 quick runs in the first and curised to a 7-1 victory.

Jorgensen was great, 6 strong with 6 hits, a run, and 6 strikeouts. Steve Hudson went 1.1 innings with a strikeout and 4 walks.

Ernie Frye was 3-for-4 with 2 doubles, a walk, and 3 runs scored. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-5 with a two run homer and 3 RBI's. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 2-for-3 with 2 walks, a run scored, and RBI. Noah Smith was 2-for-4 with a solo homer. Jackson Miller was 2-for-4 with a double and run scored. Jon Reid was 1-for-3 with a walk and RBI.

Yankees 3B Murdoch Greenan was 5-for-5 in a 10-6 win over the Royals. The former #1 Overall Pick (yes, the evil empire got to select first), has been everything the Yankees could have envisioned, and looks like a future MVP, already hitting .323/.376/.501 in 199 career games before his 25th birthday.

Off to Pittsburgh for three with the Pirates before a needed off day. We'll face Caleb Barnsley (15-4, 2.60 ERA), Jonathan Kearns (7-13, 5.30 ERA), and Chris Androff (10-8, 3.99 ERA).

We opened the series in Pittsburgh with Steve Paustian (9-10, 4.29 ERA, 1.33 WHIP) battling Caleb Barnsely (15-4, 2.60 ERA, 1.12 WHIP), who's been one of the bigger surprises of the year. The talented 25-year-old has really broken out this year and helped the Pirates on a postseason push. He was excellent today and got more then enough run support, ad we dropped the opener 8-1.

Paustian allowed 4 runs in 4 innings with 3 hits, 2 walks, and 5 strikeouts. Jamie Priest went 1.2 innings with a hit, 3 runs, 2 walks, and 2 strikeouts. Steve Hudson went 0.2 innings with a hit, 2 walks, 2 strikeouts, and an unearned run.

Josh Madrigal was 2-for-4 with a double and run scored. Jon Reid was 1-for-2 with a walk and RBI. Sergio Tello and Ernie Frye were both 1-for-3 with a walk.

37-year-old Bryce Harper has still got it, as he launched three hoemrs in a 7-6 win over the White Sox. He's just 3 more homers away from 600.

August 26th, 2030: We remained atop the Power Rankings. At 85-48, we have a seemingly insurmountable 13 game lead on the Mets.

Prospect Watch: SP Eric Estes (A- Batavia):

Last years' 7th Round Pick, Eric Estes finds himself back in Batavia before he looks to embark on full season ball next year. Estes was taken out of the 5th Round by the Brewers back in 2026, but instead decided to honor his commitment to USC. A weaker Junior year lead his draft stock to slip a bit, but Estes is a talented arm from Miami. It's been a mixed bag for Estes this year, but he's had some really solid starts that show promise for the future. He's got plus stuff, including a plus-plus fastball that averages 94-96 with a plus slider, plus forkball, and average knuckle curve. Estes will likely end up a swing man, but he's an interesting young arm to watch that's more developed then most players from the 2029 class.

We looked to even the series up with Esteban Aguirre (10-8, 2.85 ERA, 0.98 WHIP) facing Jonathan Kearns (7-13, 5.30 ERA, 1.25 WHIP) who's just 0-2 with a 9.28 ERA against us this season. Aguirre was great, and we shut the hosts out 7-0.

Aguirre went 6 with 3 hits and 8 strikeouts to lower his Marlins ERA back down to 1.55. The rest of the pen combined for 3 innings with a hit, 2 walks, and 4 strikeouts.

Juan Alarcon was 3-for-4 with 2 runs scored. Mac Horvath was 3-for-4 with a walk and 2 runs scored. Fernado Tatis Jr. was 2-for-5 with a three run homer and 4 total RBI's. Ernie Frye was 2-for-5 with 2 RBI's. Aguirre was 1-for-2 with a sac-bunt and run scored.

White Sox LF Josh Crusan hit three homers in a 12-5 win over the Red Sox. Guaranteed Rate Field has hosted back-to-back three homer games.

Dursun Erbakan (10-3, 3.73 ERA, 1.29 WHIP) took on Chris Androff (10-8, 3.99 ERA, 1.39 WHIP) in the rubber match at PNC Park. We held the Pirates offense at bay for the second straight night, and shut them out 7-0 to claim the series.

Erbakan was brillinat, 7 innings with 2 htis, 2 walks, and 10 strikeouts. Luis Alcantra tossed the last 2 innings, allowing just 1 hit with 2 strikeouts.

Ernie Frye was 3-for-5 with a run scored. Mac Horvath was 3-for-5 with a run scored and RBI. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 2-for-3 with a solo homer, two run homer, 2 walks, and a steal. Juan Ramirez was 2-for-5 with a two run homer. Kelvin Smith Jr. was 1-for-4 with a run scored, RBI, and steal. Jackson Miller was 1-for-4 with a walk and run scored.

Despite a strained shoulder, DSL CF Juan Gaitan was 5-for-6 in a 15-1 win over the Royals DSL affiliate.

Mets CF Luis Morales was 5-for-5 in a 5-4 win over the Giants.

We get tomorrow off to head home to prepare for a meeting with the last place Doves.

Just a little interesting note, of the 16 teams we've played this year, only one team has a winning record against us. Guess who?

The New York Mets (3-6)!

The Pilots, Cubs, Diamondbacks, and Giants are all 3-3 against us, and the poor Rockies and Padres have beat us just once in 9 games.

[ayaghmour2]

August 28th, 2030: The Cubs got tough news today as it was announced starter Gabe Hines would miss the rest of the year with a torn rotator cuff. The former 15th Round Pick has blossomed into a very dependable starter, and was 11-7 with a 3.83 ERA and 1.23 WHIP in 25 starts this season.

We arrived home a day in advance for a three game set with the Doves to cap off August. We'll face Brent Honeywell (4-3, 2.64 ERA), Leonel Olvera (2-11, 5.43 ERA), and Carlos Leandro (5-7, 4.31 ERA).

August 29th, 2030: The Doves were in town as Pat Saitta (11-5, 4.36 ERA, 1.30 WHIP) taking on Brent Honywell (4-3, 2.64 ERA, 0.93 WHIP). We blew them out 10-1 to improve to 40 games over .500. 40! And I was worried we'd suck...

Saitta went 5 with 6 hits, a run, 2 walks, and 8 strikeouts. Jamie Priest stuck out 4 and walked 1 in 3 innings.

Juan Ramirez was 3-for-5 with 2 runs and an RBI. Jackson Miller was 2-for-2 with a three run homer, sac-fly, and walk. Josh Madrigal was 2-for-4 with 3 runs, an RBI, and walk. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-3 with 2 runs, a triple, steal, and 2 walks. Jon Reid was 1-for-3 with a hit by pitch. Mac Horvath was 1-for-4 with a run scored and RBI. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 1-for-4 with a walk and run scored.

Sox RF Porter Brown's hit streak was ended at 24 games.

August 30th, 2030: The first team to be eliiminated from the playoffs is the Montreal Expos. The Expos are just 47-89, and are 36 games behind the 83-53 Cubs.

Game two of three took place between C.J. Jorgensen (13-7, 3.27 ERA, 1.13 WHIP) and Leonel Olvera (2-11, 5.43 ERA, 1.37 WHIP) who probably wishes we protected him in the expansion draft. The Doves battled well, and after a 5 run 5th won the middle game 9-6.

Jorgensen had a rough start, 4 innings with 9 hits, 4 runs, 2 walks, and 3 strikeouts. Steve Hudson did worse, allowing 3 hits and 5 runs (4 earned) without getting an out.

Jackson Miller was 2-for-5 with a grand slam, double, and 2 runs scored. Sergio Tello was 2-for-4 with a double and RBI. Mac Horvath was 1-for-2 with a run scored and 2 walks. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-4 with a walk, run scored, and steal. Jon Reid and Noah Smith were both 1-for-4.

Ramirez actually left with back tightness, but it's a minor day-to-day thing with no DL stint required. I'm not taking any chances, and benching him until he's fully healed.

August 31st, 2030: Can we finish the month 22-6? Steve Paustian (9-11, 4.42 ERA, 1.33 WHIP) took on Carlos Leandro (5-7, 4.31 ERA, 1.33 WHIP) in the final. The ptiching was great, but we capped the series with a 2-0 shutout.

The only problem was Paustian wasn't the one doing all the shutting out. He left after just 7 pitches and 1 batter. His diagnosis is pending...

Jamie Priest got the win, 3 impressive innings with 2 hits and 5 strikeouts. Steve Hudson tossed 2 innings with 2 hits, a walk,a nd 3 strikeouts, but for some reason didn't get a hold. Ken Adeniran, Dan-zu Hoong, and C.J. LaFever did, setting up Chad Scoles who struck out the side in the 9th, but for some reason Hudson did not record a hold. I think he's just happy he got outs without giving up 5 runs...

Jackson Miller was 1-for-4 with a steal and run scored. Juan Alarcon was 1-for-4 with an RBI and steal. Both Priest and Hudson were 1-for-1, and Priest even had an RBI. Ernie Frye was 1-for-2 with a walk.

Down in Batavia, RF Josh Vest was 5-for-7 in an 11-7 win over the Geneva Senators.

Bigger news came in a 7-6 Red Sox win over the Rangers. Bryce Harper launched his 600th career homer. Harper, becomes the 13th Player to joing the 600 homer club, joining Stanton, Bellinger, and Trout who hit 600 in this universe.

Rosters expand tomorrow as the Giants come to town for three. We'll see Miguel Urena (5-2, 3.03 ERA), Dan Poinsette (7-6, 3.78 ERA), and Josh Canseco (1-9, 6.34 ERA).

September 1st, 2030: Luckily, Paustian just strained his oblique, and he'll be able to make his next start.

With Rosters Expanding, I made just one callup, recalling 1B Rodolfo Solorzano from AAA. The AA season ends today, and the Jumbo Shrimp should be in the postseason. The other minor league affilates in the upper levels don't end till the second week of September, so it could be a bit before all the reinforcements join the roster.

We welomed the Giants with the red-hot southpaw Esteban Aguirre (11-8, 2.75 ERA, 0.96 WHIP) taking on Dan Poinsettte (7-5, 3.70 ERA, 1.29 WHIP). We won game 90 on the season 4-2 to open the series.

Aguirre went 5.1 innings with 5 hits, 2 runs, a walk, and 6 strikeouts. Luis Alcantra, Juan Toribio, and Dan-zu Hoong earned holds before Chad Scoles got the save. Toribio allowed 2 htis, but struck out the side in the 7th. Hoong struck out the side in the 8th.

Sergio Tello was 1-for-3 with a solo homer and walk. Joey Bart was 1-for-3 with a run scored and double. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with a RBI and walk. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 1-for-4 with a solo homer. Ernie Frye was 1-for-3 with a sac-fly.

White Sox LF Sergio Castillo was 5-for-5 in a 13-4 win over the Rangers.

September 2nd, 2030: Add one more to the roster as Rogelio Maldonado was recalled from AAA.

Down in Batavia, 3B Luz Espinoza was named Player of the week, hitting .520 with 3 homers and 8 RBI's.

Of course, at 90-49 with a 14 game lead, we're ranked #1 in the Power Rankings.

A team towards the bottom, the Seattle Pilots, got the tough news that they will not be in the postseason. The 52-87 Pilots are 34 games back of the 86-53 Dodgers.

We looked to take the series a day early with Dursun Erbakan (11-3, 3.55 ERA, 1.26 WHIP) battling Josh Canseco (1-9, 6.34 ERA, 1.60 WHIP). Just think that not too long ago Erbakan had an ERA north of 6 and I wanted to dump him for Aguirre. He was great again, but we found ourselves tied at 2 in the 9th. Mac Horvath hit a walk-off single off former Marlin Greg Walston, and we walked-off 3-2 winners.

Erbakan tossed 5.1 innigns with 4 hits, a run, 4 walks, and 8 strikeouts. So maybe great was a stretch, but hey! Just 1 run!

Ken Adeniran blew the save, 1.2 innings with 2 hits, a run, walk, and strikeout. Alcantra got the win, a perfect 9th.

Horvath may have walked it off (1-for-4), but no one was better then Sergio Tello. He was 3-for-3 with a walk and 2 solo shots. Gregoroi Alvarenga was 1-for-3 with a walk and he scored the winning run. Josh Madrigal was 1-for-3.

More 5-hit madness, as the Phillies C Juan Mendez was a perfect 5-for-5 in an 11-3 win over the Nationals.

September 3rd, 2030: The third of the sophomore teams, the Boston Doves, have been eliminated from the playoffs. At 52-87, they are 38.5 games behind the best team of the 21st Century. Yes, I know I exaggerate sometimes...

We looked to finish the sweep with Pat Saitta (12-5, 4.28 ERA, 1.31 WHIP) taking on Juan Tafoya (9-3, 2.82 ERA, 1.10 WHIP). We couldn't finish it off, and they edged us 4-3.

Saitta went 5 with 2 hits, 3 runs, 3 walks, and 2 strikeouts. Ken Adeniran went 2 innings with a hit, run, walk, and 2 strikeouts.

Fernando Tatis Jr. was 2-for-4 with a solo homer. Mac Horvath was 2-for-4 with a run scored. Rodolfo Solorzano was 1-for-4 with a run scored. Rogelio Maldonado was 1-for-3 with a double and walk. Jackson Miller was 1-for-4 with 2 RBI's. Ken Adeniran was 1-for-1 with a double.

Off to Seattle for three with the recently eliminated Pilots. We'll face Bobby Nicholson (3-14, 4.39 ERA), Chaney Rogers (1-6, 6.10 ERA), and Joe Holden (10-9, 4.12 ERA).

[ayaghmour2]

September 4th, 2030: After brutal cross-country travel, we opened a series in Seattle with C.J. Jorgensen (13-7, 3.41 ERA, 1.17 WHIP) taking on Bobby Nicholson (3-14, 4.39 ERA). We looked terrible, and were shut out 5-0. Nicholson tossed a 1-hit shutout with a walk and 8 strikeouts.

Jorgensen went 5.1 innings with 7 hits, 4 runs, and 6 strikeouts. Jamie Priest went 1.1 innings with 2 hits, a run, walk, and strikeout.

Our only offense was Juan Ramirez who was 1-for-3 with a double in the 1st inning. Rodolfo Solorzano was 0-for-2 with a walk. Mac Horvath was 0-for-2 with a hit by pitch.

September 5th, 2030: The White Sox lost Mason Thompson for the year with a torn labrum. The 32-year-old rookie tossed 4.1 innings with 8 runs, 6 hits, 3 walks, and 4 strikeouts. His only other experience came in 2024 with the Angels, where he tossed 19.2 innings (3 starts, 2 relief appearences) with a 7.32 ERA and 1.73 WHIP.

We looked to look like a major league team today with Steve Paustian (9-11, 4.41 ERA, 1.33 WHIP) taking on Chaney Rogers (1-6, 6.10 ERA, 1.64 WHIP). We destroyed them 11-3 to get payback.

Juan Ramirez got injured and has his diagnosis is pending. Jackson Miller bruised his shoulder, and will head to the DL for a week.

Paustian went 5 innings with 3 hits, 3 runs, 4 walks, and 4 strikeouts. Juan Toribio got a hold, tossing 2 innings with 4 strikeouts.

Mac Horvath was 4-for-6 with a run scored and 3 RBI's. Ernie Frye was 3-for-6 with 2 RBI's and a steal. Kelvin Smith Jr. was 2-for-4 with a walk and 3 runs scored. Gregorio Alvarenga came off the bench and was 1-for-2 with a double and 2 RBI's. Rodolfo Solorzano was 1-for-5 with a double, 2 RBI's, and a walk. Juan Alarcon was 1-for-4 with 2 runs, a walk, and triple. Sergio Tello was 1-for-4 with a walk and run scored.

Note: I know I didn't do a prospect watch last write up, and with the end of most of the minor league seasons, I'll end them until next season.

Mariners 3B Nick Senzel recorded his 2,000th career hit. The 35-year-old has a .303/.373/.480 career line with 218 homers and 920 RBI's win the Reds, Angels, and now Mariners.

September 6th, 2030: Ramirez was diagnosed with a intercostal strain, and he'll miss 4-5 weeks... I called up C Pat Hughes and LF Chi-yong Kym. I also activated Chris Bigsby from the 60-Day DL, place him back on the 10-Day DL, and I'll option him to the AAA DL tomorrow.

We looked to take the series with Esteban Aguirre (12-8, 2.77 ERA, 0.97 WHIP) facing Joe Holden (10-9, 4.12 ERA, 1.33 WHIP) in the finale. Somehow, the offense went silent again, and the stupid Pilots took 2-out-of-3 with a 2-1 win...

Aguirre went 7.2 innings with 5 hits, 2 runs, a walk, and 10 strikeouts. Luis Alcantra got a 3 pitch fly out to finish the 8th.

Josh Madrigal was 1-for-3 with a double. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-3 with a run scored and double. Afuirre was 1-for-3. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 1-for-4.

Are terrible travel continues as we have to fly all the way back to Miami for three with the Cubs. We'll face Cy Young candidate Jorge Flores (18-6, 2.73 ERA), Sergio Barreto (10-8, 3.98 ERA), and Graeme Stinson (5-2, 2.18 ERA). The schedulers really weren't thinking of us...

September 7th, 2030: Both the Nationals and Padres will not complete in the playoffs after being eliminated from the postseason.

A top quality pitching match commenced for the opener, as two hot pitchers, Dursun Erbakan (11-3, 3.49 ERA, 1.27 WHIP) and Jorge Flores (18-6, 2.73 ERA, 0.98 WHIP) clashed in the Game of the Day. Flores was dominate like he tends to be against us, and we were shut out 2-0.

So much for the best team of the 21st Century...

Erbakan tossed 6 innings with 3 hits, a run, 3 walks, and, 6 strikeotus. Juan Toribio allowed a run, hit, and walk in 1.1 innings with 2 strikeouts.

Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with a walk and steal. Noah Smith, Ernie Frye, and Rodolfo Solorzano were all 1-for-4.

Rob Davis had an amazing game, as the Rangers LF was 5-for-5 with 3 homers in a 12-10 win over the Rays.

September 8th, 2030: The Braves will be without RHP Jose Persing for the year with a damaged elbow ligament. He was 3-2 with a 3.98 ERA in 40.2 innings out of the pen.

We looked to even up the series and break our little rut with Pat Saitta (12-6, 4.31 ERA, 1.30 WHIP) facing Sergio Barreto (10-8, 3.98 ERA, 1.28 WHIP). We continued our rough patch with a 7-4 loss...

Saitta had another rough outing, 3.1 innings with 7 hits, 5 runs, a walk, and 3 strikeouts. Steve Hudson went 2.1 innigns with 2 hits, a run, walk, and 2 strikeouts. Ken Adeniran went 2 innings with 2 hits, a walk, 3 walks, and 3 strikeouts.

Ernie Frye was 4-for-5 with 2 runs, an RBI, and a triple. Mac Horvath was 3-for-5 with a run scored, double, and RBI. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 2-for-5. Noah Smith was 2-for-5. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-3 with a double, run scored, and 2 walks. Pat Hughes was 1-for-4 with a walk.

September 9th, 2030: Juan Simental suffered a minor setback, and will miss 6 more days.

We dropped way down to 5th in the Power Rankings. At 92-54, we still have a 12.5 game lead over the Mets and Phillies and a magic number of just 5.

Two teams have no magic numbers, and the Athletics and Rockies can not qualify for the postseason.

We looked to avoid the sweep with C.J. Jorgensen (13-8, 3.51 ERA, 1.18 WHIP) facing Graeme Stinson (5-2, 2.18 ERA, 1.12 WHIP). We tried to come back with 4 in the 8th, but the Cubs finished the sweep with a 5-4 win...

To make things worse, Jorgensen left with an injury. He tossed 3.1 innings with 3 hits, 3 runs, 3 walks, and 3 strikeouts. Jamie Priest went 3.1 innings with 5 hits, a run, and 4 strikeouts. Ken Adeniran allowed a hit, run, and walk in 1.1 innings.

Ernie Frye was 3-for-5. Noah Smith was 1-for-3 with a sac-bunt and 2 RBI's. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-4 with a walk, run scored, and RBI. Jon Reid was 1-for-4 with a walk and run scored. Adeniran was 1-for-2 with an RBI.

Thankfully, tomorrow is an off day and we can have a break after the aqful traveling we had to do...

[ayaghmour2]

September 10th, 2030: Former Marlin minor leaguer Eric Armstrong will miss the rest of the year with a torn labrum in his shoulder. The Angels starter was 2-4 with a 5.04 ERA and 1.35 WHIP in 18 starts.

We had an off day today, and while I wouldn't use it to call up the reinforcements, the Florida State League season ends on the 11th, so I'd bring up a decent amout of guys on the 12th.

We're off to St. Louis for three with the Cardinals. We'll face Andy Frost (3-9, 4.65 ERA), Lenny Torres (11-6, 3.00 ERA), and Bobby Stiles (5-5, 2.85 ERA).

September 11th, 2030: The opener at Busch Stadium took place between Steve Paustian (10-11, 4.44 ERA, 1.33 WHIP) and Andy Frost (3-9, 4.65 ERA, 1.51 WHIP). The pitching was terrible, and after an 8 run 5th they cruised to a 12-4 win.

Paustian allowed 8 hits and 7 runs in 4 innings with 2 walks and 4 strikeotus. Jamie Priest allowed 4 more runs in 0.1 innings with 5 hits and a walk. Steve Hudson tossed 3 with a hit, run, and 5 strikeouts.

Josh Madrigal was 2-for-4 with a double and RBI. Sergio Tello was 1-for-3 with a walk and two run homer. Ernie Frye was 1-for-4 with a double and 2 runs scored. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with a walk.

Red Sox 3B Luis Camarena was 6-for-7 in a 10-9 loss to the Blue Jays in a 13 inning affair. Teammate Jake Herbert was 5-for-6.

September 12th, 2030: I made a few reinforcements to the bullpen, recalling Juan Maya (who may have to replace Jorgensen in the rotation) and Shiro Hiraki. I'd make the bulk of my callups when we return home after the Cardinals series.

We looked to even the series up with Estevan Aguirre (12-9, 2.75 ERA, 0.96 WHIP) taking on Lenny Torres (11-6, 3.00 ERA, 0.95 WHIP). Aguirre is 2-0 with a 0.71 ERA against St. Louis this year. He didn't lower that mark, but he was excellent in the 2-1 vicotry.

Aguirre went 6.1 innings with 4 hits, a run, walk, and 10 strikeouts. Juan Toribio and C.J. LaFever got holds before Chad Scoles picked up the save.

Mac Horvath was 2-for-4 with a run scored. Josh Madrigal was 1-for-4 with a solo homer. Joey Bart was 2-for-4. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 1-for-2 with a RBI double and 2 walks. Ernie Frye had a pinch hit single and stole 2nd in the 9th.

Orioles LF Josh Parker hit three homres in a 10-2 win over the Rays.

September 13th, 2030: Bad news in Miami, as C.J. Jorgensen will miss the rest of the year with an ulnar nerve entrapment. He'll end the season 13-9 with a 3.60 ERA and 1.19 WHIP with 161 strikeouts in 172.1 innings. I recalled Andy Neidig from AAA as well.

The Tigers lost a righty of their own, Bikichi Tsukamoto, for the year with shoulder inflammation. The 29-year-old closer had a rough season, 2-9 with a 6.71 ERA despite his 28 saves. He struck out 60 in 56.1 innings.

We looked to win the rubber match with Dursun Erbakan (11-4, 3.41 ERA, 1.26 WHIP) taking on Bobby Stiles (5-5, 2.85 ERA, 1.32 WHIP). It took 13 innings to determine a winner, but we managed to win the finale 4-2 to take a step closer to clinching.

Just recalled from AAA, Neidig left with an injury of his own...

Erbakan pitched fine, 5.2 innings with 5 hits, a run, 3 walks, and 3 strikeouts. Juan Toribio got a hold, 1.1 innings with 3 strikeours. Ken Adenrian blew the save, 0.2 innings with a hit and run. Shiro Hiraki recorded the win, an inning with 2 strikeouts and for some reason Pat Saitta came in to close, allowing a hit and strikeout while recorrding his first big league save. I might have to send someone in for a spot start now...

Ernie Frye was 3-for-5 with a sac-fly, walk, 2 RBI's, and a steal. Rodolfo Solorzano was 2-for-7. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-6 with a double, RBI, and walk. Jon Reid was 2-for-6 with a double and run scored. Chi-yong Kym came off the bench and was 1-for-3 with a RBI single in the 13th. Noah Smith was 1-for-4 with a run scored and 2 walks.

We're headed back home for three with Arizona. We'll face Jeff Slezak (13-8, 2.96 ERA), Mike Steele (13-6, 3.09 ERA), and Davon Amoako (0-1, 6.95 ERA).

September 14th, 2030: Juan Simental will head to AAA to begin rehab while the team is in the middle of a 5 game series with Colorado Springs.

I made a few more callups, recalling Eric Moore, Jorge Escobar, Sam Minniefield, and Doug Parsons.

The active roster now sits at 34, with the 40 Man at 38. I have Jackson Miller who can be actiavted in 2 days, Juan Ramirez who is out for 3 weeks, Chris Bigsby who is out of a week, and as mentioned earlier, Simental, who started rehab today. I have Jorgensen alone on the 60, but I will definitely add 2 more players to the active roster. As of now, I'm thinking SP Luis Nevi and 1B Luis Puerta. I could also call on LF Juan Virto, but he won't get too much playing time. Former 1st Rounder Joe Martin could also get the call. That all could change if Neidig misses a significant amount of time.

The opener back at Marlins Park saw Juan Maya (0-0, 4.91 ERA, 2.45 WHIP) make his second start of the year against Jeff Slezak (13-8, 2.96 ERA, 1.12 WHIP). This September preview for the former 4th overall pick is a nice audition for a rotation spot next season. Another 13 inning affair, but a Jorge Herrera 2-run single game the Diamondbacks a 3-1 win for their 90th win of the season.

Maya pitched well, 6.2 innings with 4 hits, a run, 3 walks, and 5 strikeouts. Sam Minniefield was charged with the loss, 1.1 innings with a hit, 2 runs (1 earned), 2 walks, and a strikeout. Jamie Priest got 2.2 innings with 4 strikeouts. And most importantly, no starter was used!

Rogelio Maldonado was 2-for-5. Jorge Escobar was 1-for-3 with a double. Jon Reid was 1-for-4 with a run scored, 2 walks, and a steal. Sergio Tello was 1-for-3. Ernie Frye came off the bench and was also 1-for-3.

September 15th, 2030: Andy Neidig was diagnosed with a torn flexor tendon and will head to the 60-Day DL. He will hopefully be ready for Spring Training, but more importantly I hope their is no talent drop for the 23-year-old 3.5/5*.

The Seattle Mariners became the first team to clinch a playoff spot. At 92-59, they have just a 2 game lead over the Astros, but have assured themselves at least the Wild Card. They were the World Series champions last year and can defend their title.

We looked to even the series up with Eric Moore (1-0, 2.57 ERA, 1.43 WHIP) "opening" a likely bullpen day with Pat Saitta forced to come out of the pen. He'll take on Mike Steele (13-6, 3.09 ERA, 1.19 WHIP). It was a rough day, and we were topped 7-3..

Moore went 3.2 innings with 8 hits, 4 runs, 2 walks, and 3 strikeouts. Doug Parsons allowed 2 runs and 3 hits in 1.2 innings with a walk and 2 strikeouts. Shiro Hiraki allowed a run off 2 hits in 1.1 innings with a walk and strikeout.

Jon Reid and Noah Smith were both 2-for-4. Reid was also hit by a pitch. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 1-for-4 with a walk and two run homer. Moore was 1-for-1 with an RBI.

September 16th, 2030: We dropped one more spot to 6th in the Power Rankings. At 94-58, we have a 9 game lead over the Phillies and a magic number of 2. We're 3-7 in our last 10 games.

Jackson Miller was activated off the DL.

We looked to avoid getting swept as Steve Paustian (10-12, 4.73 ERA, 1.36 WHIP) looked to heat up against Davon Amoako (0-1, 6.95 ERA, 1.68 WHIP). It took exras again, and in the 11th Michael Conforto hit a RBI single off Ken Adenrian to give Arizona a 3-2 lead. In the bottom hlad, Ernie Frye hit a solo homer off Andy Hobson to tie the game. Then with the bases packed and just 1 out, he hit Juan Alarcon, and we walked off 4-3 winners.

Paustian was ejected after he hit Iestyn Spreckley and Spreckley charged the mound and cleared the benches. He allowed a hit, run, and got a strikeout.

Shiro Hiraki tossed 3 innings with 3 hits, a walk,a nd 2 strikeouts. Sam Minniefield went 2.1 innings with 2 hits, a run, walk, and strikeout. Juan Toribio went 1.2 innings with a walk and 4 strikeouts. Adeniran got the win, an inning with 2 htis, a run, and walk.

Jon Reid was 2-for-6. Ernie Frye was 2-for-3 with the oslo homer off the bench. Josh Madrigal was 1-for-3 with a steal. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-2 with a steal, run scored, RBI, and 4 walks. Rodolfo Solorzano was 1-for-5 with a double and walk. Minniefield was 1-for-1 with a triple!

Paustian will be suspended 9 games. Eric Moore will jump into the rotation and make a start if needed.

The Baby Cakes were eliminated from the playoffs, so I recalled Simental from his rehab assignment. Virto got hurt, so he'll be passed up on a callup, with Luis Nevi, Joe Martin, and Luis Puerta getting their contracts purchased.

Nevi, 27 and a day old, was our 2nd Round Pick in 2025 out of Wichita State. 2025 is the same class that produced Andy Neidig. Here's what I wrote about Nevi:

2nd Round, 61st Overall: SP Luis Nevi (3): The junior from Wichita State was origionally born in Puerto Rico, but moved to the states when he was 8. He throws a little harder then Mariscal, and also keeps the ball on the ground. He's got solid stamina, a plus fastball, and solid control and movement on all three of his pitches. He's not a top guy, but he can develop into a middle or back of the rotation starter.

It took him a little, but he finally got the call. Rated a 1.5/2.5, he's a bordelrine starter, but now throws a fourth pitch. He tosses a plus-plus sinker, plus fastball, and poor curveball and change up. He's got plus stuff, plus movement, and plus control. He can throw 93-95 and is an extreme groundballer.

Martin, 22, was the 22nd Overall Pick back in 2026. He's got a ton of potential, rated a 1.5/4* and even though he was just average in Jupiter and New Orleans, he dominate in New Orleans. In 5 starts he was 5-0 with a 2.00 ERA and he struck out 29 hitters in 27 innings. Martin joins Jorge Luna, the 29th Overall Pick, as players from that class to debut. Here's what I wrote about Martin:

1st Round, 22nd Overall: SP Joe Martin (4): It was a tough choice between him and Steve Fox (5), but my scout sees Martin as a guaranteed starter and Fox just boarderline. Martin, an 18-year-old from Palo Alto, CA out of Washington HS in Fremont, CA was 9-0 in 13 starts with a 0.30 ERA and 0.64 WHIP as a sernior. He struck out 173 hitters in 91 innings with help of his 100 rated stuff. His best pitch is a devestating slider that also ranks a 100. He doesn't get the best movement, but with his sidearm arm slot and the ability to hit 93-95 with his sinker, he gets a ton of ground balls. He has a passable change up as well, but to become a true ace, he needs to refine it.

His stuff dropped a bit to 95 potential, although the slider is currently a 93/100. He's elevated to 96-98 with the sinker and he still keeps the ball on the ground. His change up is a average pick, and Martin is currently rated a 1.5/4. He's got elite stuff with plus movement and control. Martin ranks just 14th in our organization, but is the 3rd best pitcher. I can definitely see him taking a huge jump in next years rankings.

Off to Philly for three with the second place Phillies. We'll face Luis Manzao (11-10, 3.07 ERA), Dave Orlik (17-8, 3.68 ERA), and Sergio Monreal (8-7, 4.00 ERA).

[ayaghmour2]

September 17th, 2030: Lot's of playoff news: Blue Jays out, Houston in, Miami in, and the Cubs clinched the NL Central.

The Chicago White Sox fired manager Andy Haines. Haines was 66-87 this year, and has a 219-258 record in a little less then 3 seasons with the Sox. Bench Coach Derek Shelton will me in charge in the short term, as the White Sox start their managerial search.

We started a series in Philadelphia with Esteban Aguirre (13-9, 2.70 ERA, 0.95 WHIP) facing Jim Gilbert (7-8, 3.56 ERA, 1.17 WHIP). The pitching was phenominal, and we shut the hosts out 4-0.

Aguirre tossed 6 innings with 4 hits and 8 strikeouts. Luis Alcantra tossed 2 innings with a hit and 4 strikeouts. Chad Scoles got the 9th, allowing 2 hits, but getting 2 strikeouts.

Rodolfo Solorzano was 2-for-4 with a two run homer. Chi-yong Kym was 2-for-4 with a steal and run scored. Ernie Frye was 1-for-4 with a triple and run scored. Juan Simental was 1-for-4 with a double. Jorge Escobar came off the bench and went 1-for-2 with an RBI.

Padres Rookie CF Josh Connoly hit for the cycle in a 7-4 win over the Nationals. It was just the 16th big league game for the former 2nd Rounder.

September 18th, 2030: We officially clinched the east today, while the Reds have been eliminated and the Dodgers will be at least a Wild Card.

Former Philly Dursun Erabakan (11-4, 3.35 ERA, 1.26 WHIP) took on Luis Manzano (11-10, 3.07 ERA, 1.01 WHIP) in the middle game. After a long 14 inning game, Steve Hudson walked Lency Delgado with the bases loaded and the Phillies "walked" off 4-3 winners.

Fernando Tatis Jr. had a monster game, going 6-for-7! He had a double, steal, and an RBI.

Erbakan went 6 innings with 3 hits, 3 runs, a walk, and 10 strikeouts. Hudson went 1.2 innings with 2 htis, a run, 3 walks, and strikeout. Between them two, 8 relievers combined for 6 innings with 3 htis, 2 walks, and 8 strikeouts. Luis Nevi (0.1 IP) and Joe Marin (0.1 IP, K) both made their Major League debuts.

Ernie Frye was 3-for-6 with a double, run scored, RBI, and walk. Jackson Miller was 2-for-6 with a walk. Luis Puerta made his big league debut, and got a pinch hit single in the 10th. Josh Madrigal was 1-for-6 with a walk.

Just a quick look at Puerta, he might be the best 2* player in the league, with 80 contact, 80 gap power, and 84 avoid K's. His low star comes from his lack of power (18) and his below average eye (41). The switch hitter also has gerat speed and is a plus-plus first basemen.


I got the achievement "Hot Bat" for Tatis' performace.

September 19th, 2030: We looked to bounce back to take the series with Pat Saitta (12-7, 4.48 ERA, 1.32 WHIP) facing Dave Orlik (17-8, 3.68 ERA, 1.31 WHIP). The Phillies bested us in the finale, winning 7-4.

Saitta went 5.2 innings with 10 hits, 4 runs, 2 walks, and 4 strikeouts. Juan Toribio got the loss, 0.2 innings with 2 hits, 3 runs, a walk, and strikeout.

Rodolfo Solorzano was 2-for-3 with 2 runs and a walk. Ernie Frye was 2-for-5 with a pair of doubles. Pat Hughes was 1-for-2 with a sac-fly, double, and 2 RBI's. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-4 with a run scored, RBI, and double. Kelvin Smith Jr. was 1-for-4 with an RBI. Mac Horvath was 1-for-4 with a double and walk. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 1-for-4 with a walk.

We looked to shake off the rough road series at home against the Rockies. We'd face Ty Madden (7-11, 4.85 ERA), Eric Dawson (14-9, 4.21 ERA), and Cole Stringer (2-2, 3.55 ERA).

September 20th, 2030: Red Sox lefty Jacob Heatherly tore his labrum, and may miss all of next season. The 32-year-old was 12-10 with a 4.36 ERA and 1.51 WHIP in 32 starts.

Cubs righty Wender Oberto will likely miss all of next season as well, but with a torn UCL. The 30-year-old rookie was 2-1 with a 7.01 ERA and 1.64 WHIP with just 17 strikeouts in 25.2 innings out of the pen.

We opened the Rockies series with Juan Maya (0-0, 2.61 ERA, 1.55 WHIP) facing Ty Madden (7-11, 4.85 ERA, 1.40 WHIP). The Rox got 5 in the 3rd and won the opener 6-2.

Maya was roughed up for 9 hits and 6 runs in 2.2 innings with 2 walks and a strikeout. Sam Minniefield tossed 2.1 innings with a hit, 2 walks, and a strikeout. Ken Adeniran went 2 innings with a hit, walk, and strikeout.

Gregorio Alvarenga was 3-for-4. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 2-for-4 with a run scored. Sergio Tello was 1-for-3 with a double, walk, and run scored. Jon Reid was 1-for-4 with a double.

Arizona LF Michael Conforto recorded his 2,000th career hit. The 37-year-old has a career .266/.361/.530 line with 488 homers and 1,332 RBI's. He's having a great season this year, hitting .303/.388/.585 with 36 homers and 78 RBI's.

September 21st, 2030: Chris Bigsby was activated from the DL and recalled from AAA.

Doves rookie Constantin Zerillo tore his labrum, but will hoepfully be back for Opening Day. The 23-year-old rookie is rated a 2.5/5* as a RP, and went 6-2 with a 4.46 ERA and 1.53 WHIP in 72.2 innings.

The Arizona Diamondbacks have clinched a playoff spot. At 93-64, they are just 3 games behind the Dodgers for first, but have a comftorable 4 game lead on the Phillies for homefield in the Wild Card Game. The last time they made the playoffs was in 2026 (despite an expected 75-87 record) where they swept us in the NLDS...

We looked to even the series and stop our skid with Eric Moore (1-1, 5.06 ERA, 1.88 WHIP) facing Eric Dawson (14-9, 4.21 ERA, 1.51 WHIP). Tied at 4 in the 10th, Jackson Miller drew a bases loaded walk, and this time we "walked" off!

Noah Smith left with an intercostal strain, but won't have to head the DL. He will, however, be unavailable for a little less then a week. He doubled in his only at bat.

Moore went 5.1 innings with 7 hits, 2 runs, a walk, and 5 strikeouts. Jamie Priest was roughed up for 2 hits and 2 runs without getting an out. C.J. LaFever got the win, improving to 9-1, tossing an inning with a hit.

Fernando Tatis Jr. was 3-for-5 with 2 runs and a steal. Chi-yong Kym was 1-for-4 with a walk and three run homer. Jackson Miller was 1-for-4 with a walk and 2 RBI's. Ernie Frye was 1-for-4 with a walk, steal, and run scored.

Former Marlin Billy Williamson will end the season a bit earlier with a torn hamstring. The Giants LF was hitting .250/.341/.455 with 25 homers and 94 RBI's in the first year of a 7-year, $297 million contract.

Brewers CF Luis Romero extended his hit streak to 20 games.

September 22nd, 2030: The Seattle Mariners clinched the AL West. The defending champs have a nice 5 game lead over the Astros.

We looked to win the rubber match with Esteban Aguirre (14-9, 2.62 ERA, 0.95 WHIP) taking on fellow southpaw Cole Stringer (2-2, 3.55 ERA, 1.39 WHIP). Aguirre continues his historic dominance with us, and we shut them out 3-0.

Aguirre went 6 with 3 hits, a walk, and 9 strikeouts. In 13 starts in a Marlins Uniform, he's 9-3 with a 1.51 ERA and 0.94 WHIP, while striking out 106 hitters and walking just 16 in 77.2 innings. Toribio and LaFever earned holds 21 and 22 while Chad Scoles notched his 35th save.

Mac Horvath was 2-for-3 with a walk and solo homer. Ernie Frye was 2-for-4. Jon Reid was 1-for-3 with a run scored and RBI. Pat Hughes was 1-for-3 with a solo homer. Gregorio Alvarenga wasd 1-for-3 with a steal.

We get tomorrow off!

[ayaghmour2]

September 23rd, 2030: The Baltimore Orioles clinched the AL East. At 89-70, they have a 4 game lead over the Red Sox. It's their 2nd straight East tile and 4th in the last 5 seasons.

We moved up to 2nd in the final Power Rankings of 2030. At 98-61, we are 1 game behind the Cubs for homefield advantage.

Off to Milwaukee for the final series of the season. We're scheduled to face Victor Mederos (15-8, 4.32 ERA), Carson Fulmer (11-9, 3.77 ERA), and Rodlofo Espinoza (11-8, 3.34 ERA).

September 24th, 2030: We opened the Brewers series with Dursun Erbakan (11-4, 3.39 ERA, 1.24 WHIP) facing Victor Mederos (15-8, 4.32 ERA, 1.35 WHIP). We got 6 in the 8th, but allowed 3 in the bottom half to drop the opener 8-7.

Erbakan had a rough start, 4.2 innings with just 3 hits, but 5 runs, 5 walks, and 4 strikeouts. C.J. LaFever got the loss, 3 runs off 2 hits and a walk.

Jackson Miller was 3-for-5 with a double, run scored, and RBI. Jorge Escobar was 3-for-4 with a run scored and steal. Rodolfo Solorzano was 2-for-4 with 2 runs, 2 RBI's, a walk, and homer. Sergio Tello was 1-for-4 with a run scored, RBI, and walk. Juan Simental was 1-for-5 with 2 RBI's.

We did manage to end Luis Romero's hit streak at 21, but I much rather win the game...

September 25th, 2030: The Dodgers clinched the NL West. At 98-62, they have a 4 game lead over Arizona, who will host the Wild Card Game, likely against the Phillies.

I accidentally sim throughed today's game, but we won 7-6.

Saitta went 5.2 inningswith 6 hits, 4 runs, and 7 strikeouts. Jamie Priest, Joe Martin, Ken Adenrian, Dan-zu Hoong, and Chad Scoles got holds while C.J. LaFever got the save. Scoles allowed 2 runs, walked 2, and game up a hit while getting just 1 out. LaFever struck out the final 2 batters to end the game.

Ernie Frye was 3-for-5 with 2 runs, 2 doubles, and a steal. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 2-for-5 with 2 doubles and 3 RBI's. Mac Horvath was 2-for-4 with a run scored, 2 RBI's, and a hit by pitch. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-4 with a walk and run scored. Jackson Miller was 1-for-3 with a steal, run scored, and 2 walks. Rogelio Maldonado was 1-for-4 with a two run homer.

Rays starter Cullen Dana partially tore his UCL and will miss most of 2031. He was 11-8 with a 3.56 ERA and 1.20 WHIP in 32 starts.

September 26th, 2030: The postseason is almost set, as the Royals have been eliminated, the Twins clinched the Central, the Phillies the wild card, and the Pirates falling short.

The only spot left is in the AL, as the Rangers have a 1 game lead over the Red Sox for the final Wild Card spot.

We ended the regular season today with Juan Maya (0-1, 6.23 ERA, 2.08 WHIP) facing Rodolfo Espinoza (11-8, 3.34 ERA, 1.20 WHIP). We couldn't win 100, and we lost 4-2 to end the season 99-63.

Maya ended his season well, 5.2 innings with 5 hits, a run, 2 walks, anf 4 strikeouts. Luis Alcantra allowed a hit and run with out getting an out. Jamie Priest got the loss, a hit and run without getting an out as well. Steve Hudson went 0.1 innings with 2 hits, a run, and strikeout.

Rodolfo Solorzano was 1-for-3 with a walk and double. Sergio Tello was 1-for-3 with a solo homer. Jon Reid was 1-for-4 with a double and run scored. Chi-yong Kym had a pinch-hit RBI single in the 8th.

September 27th, 2030: In Greensboro, Skyler Fitzpatrick was named Reliever of the Year for the South Atlantic League. The former 10th Round Pick was 2-6 with 16 saves and a 1.58 ERA in 57 innings. He struck out 64, walked 21, and had a 1.21 WHIP.

San Diego and Toronto made a weird trade, with RHP Cole Ayers going to Toronto with LF Jared Brandon for LHP Vince Mansion. I guess it's a good trade, but I really don't know what to think of it.

The Red Sox won and the Rangers lost yesterday, so they'll play Game 163 today. Yoelvis Reyes (10-9, 5.34 ERA, 1.27 WHIP) got the start for Texas against 24-year-old Arturo Lugo (5-3, 3.72 ERA, 1.22 WHIP). Lot's of scoring in the final game of the regular season, as the Rangers won 10-6, and will face the Astros in Houston for the AL Wild Card. Guillermo Tatis was 2-for-3 with 2 walks and 2 solo homers in the win. Teammate and former Marlin Luis Padilla was 2-for-4 with a walk, 3 runs scored, and a solo homer. Red Sox LF Brett Phillips was 2-for-4 with 2 runs and a three run homer in the loss.

Ernie Frye also won his 3rd straight batting title (first in the NL), hitting .368, 50 points higher then former Marlin minor leaguer Tyer Callihan. Esteban Aguirre finished with 8.8 WAR, the best pWAR in the NL and highest figure in all of baseball. He lead the league with 287 strikeouts and was 2nd in ERA at 2.54.

Just an interesting tidbit, in April, July, and August, we were 61-20 (.753) while in May, June, and September we were just 38-43 (.469). I really October is more like April, July, and August and not May, June, and September...

Time for the playoffs!

[ayaghmour2]

September 28th, 2030: I got the achievenement "Batting Champion" for Ernie Frye leading the league in batting average.

Here is who is representing the American League:

AL East: Baltimore Orioles (91-71)
AL Central: Minnesota Twins (85-77)
AL West: Seattle Mariners (100-62)
Wild Card Host: Houston Astros (93-69)
Wild Card Guest: Texas Rangers (89-74)

And representing the NL:
NL East: Miami Marlins (99-63)
NL Central: Chicago Cubs (100-62)
NL West: Los Angeles Dodgers (99-63)
Wild Card Host: Arizona Diamondbacks (96-66)
Wild Card Guest: Philadelphia Phillies (92-70)

I got my roster ready for the start of the playoffs tomorrow.

September 29th, 2030: Jacksonville righty Dave Chutz was named Southern League Reliever of the Year. He went 7-2 with 4 saves and a 1.71 ERA in 63.1 innings. He had a 0.92 WHIP and struck out 73 hitters.

The NL kicked off the playoffs with the Phillies in Arizona to face the Diamondbacks. It was a close one, but the Phillies edged the Snakes 5-3, and will take on the Cubs in the NLDS. 2B Masyn Winn was 2-for-3 with 2 runs and a walk in the victory. Juan Morales (1-3, RBI, R, BB) and Iestyn Spreckley (1-3, R, 2 BB) were productive in the loss.

September 30th, 2030: The Rangers were in Houston for the AL Wild Card. It wasn't even close, and the Rangers dominated the 'Stros 11-1. Dan Scott tossed 6 innings with 5 hits, a run, 3 walks, and 3 strikeouts in the win. Former Marlin draftee C.J. Vick was 3-for-5 with 2 homers and 5 RBI's. Tank Espalin was 3-for-5 with a triple, 3 RBI's, and 3 runs.

October 1st, 2030: Esteban Aguirre was named NL Pitcher of the Month. He was 4-1 with a 1.44 ERA in 31.1 innings with 43 strikeotus.

He'd (15-9, 2.54 ERA, 0.94 WHIP) be on the mound as we hosted the NL ERA title winner Amari Queen (15-9, 2.42 ERA, 0.98 WHIP) and the visiting Dodgers. He continued his dominance, and we won the opener 5-2.

Juan Simental will head to the DL after leaving with a strained back.

Aguirre tossed 6.2 innings with 2 hits, a run, 2 walks, and 6 strikeouts. Chad Scoles went 1.1 innings with 2 hits, a run, walk, and 2 strikeouts. Him and Toribio got holds while C.J. LaFever got two strikeouts for the save.

Ernie Frye was 2-for-4 with a double, triple, run scored, and 2 RBI's. Noah Smith was 2-for-3 with 2 RBI's and a double. Jackson Miller was 2-for-4 with a run scored and steal. Jon Reid was 2-for-4 with 2 runs and a double. Sergio Tello was 2-for-3 with a walk and run scored.

Simental will be replaced by Juan Alarcon on the playoff roster.

In the other NL Game, the Cubs topped the Phillies 10-5 at Wrigley. Kyle Tucker was 2-for-4 with 2 homers, 3 RBI's and a walk in the win while teammate Bobby Holloway was 3-for-5 with a solo homer and 3 total runs scored.

October 2nd, 2030: New Orleans RHP Chris Cervanted was named Pacific Coast League reliever of the year. The 27-year-old was 1-3 with 2 saves and a 2.81 ERA in 51.1 innings. He struck out 68 and owned a 1.13 WHIP.

We looked to take a nice 2-0 lead with Dursun Erbakan (11-4, 3.56 ERA, 1.24 WHIP) facing B.J. Russow (9-3, 3.02 ERA, 0.99 WHIP) who's 0-2 with a 6.30 ERA against us this year. He seemed to shake things off in the playoffs, and we lost 6-3.

Erbakan went 4.1 innings with 7 hits, 4 runs, and 10 strikeouts. C.J. LaFever allowed 2 hits and 2 runs with a walk and strikeout in 0.2 innings. Dan-zu Hoon went 2.1 innings with 4 strikeouts.

The Cubs took a 2-0 lead with a 3-0 shutout of the Phillies. Sergio Barreto went 7 innings with 3 hits, a walk, and 6 strikeouts in the win.

The Baltimore Orioles took a 1-0 lead at home with a 6-4 win over the Twins. Logan Davidson was 2-for-2 with a double, homer, 2 runs, 2 RBI's, and a walk.

The Mariners survived a close one, walking off winners 3-2 in 12 innings. Raynel Delgado hit a walkoff solo homer for Seattle.

October 3rd, 2030: Only AL Games today!

Both the Orioles and Mariners took 2-0 leads!

Baltimore won 8-4 and got stunning performances from Mike Verbeck (2-3, HR, 2 RBI, 3 R, BB), Logan Davidson (3-3, HR, 2 RBI, R, BB), and Benni Vogl (2-3, 2 HR, 2 RBI, 2 R, BB) in the win. The Mariners shut out the Rangers 9-0. Luis Flores tossed 7.2 scorless innings with 5 hits, 2 walks, and 3 strikeouts.

October 4th, 2030: We looked to take the opener in Los Angeles with Pat Saitta (13-7, 4.61 ERA, 1.34 WHIP) taking on Nate Ransom (16-8, 3.41 ERA, 1.13 WHIP). Saitta was great, and we edged the hosts 3-1.

Saitta went 7.1 innings with just 1 hit, 3 walks, and 8 strikeouts. Chad Scoles went 0.2 innings, allowing 3 hits and a run while getting a hold. C.J. LaFever got the save, striking out 2 in an inning of work.

Ernie Frye was 3-for-4 with a double and RBI. Mac Horvath was 2-for-4 with a double and run scored. Jon Reid was 2-for-4. Noah Smith was 1-for-4 with a run scored. Jackson Miller was 1-for-4 with a run scored and RBI.

The Cubs swept their way into the NLCS, winning 4-3 despite falling to a 3-1 deficit after the 1st. Jake Florence got the win, tossing 6 innings with 4 hits, a run, 2 walks, and 4 strikeouts. Phillies starter Sergio Monreal went 5.2 innings wtih 4 hits, 2 runs, a walk, and 9 strikeouts in a no decision.

October 5th, 2030: New Orleans starter Charles King was named American Confrence Pitcher of the Year. The 32-year-old was 15-4 with a 3.32 ERA and 1.14 WHIP with 164 strikeouts in 162.2 innings. As a big leaguer, he's 60-69 with a 4.29 ERA and 1.38 WHIP in 233 games (189 starts) with the Astros, Padres, Tigers, and Phillies.

We looked to finish them off with Esteban Aguirre (15-9, 2.54 ERA, 0.94 WHIP; 1-0, 1.35 ERA, 0.60 WHIP) tossing on short rest against Robinson Ortiz (9-11, 4.22 ERA, 1.23 WHIP). The rest didn't matter, and we shut them out 4-0!

Noah Smith left with a twisted ankle, but should be healthy for the NLCS.

Aguirre tossed 6 shutout innings with 4 htis, a walk, and 8 strikeouts. Luis Alcantra and Chad Scoles combined for 3 innigns with 2 hits and 3 strikeouts.

Neither AL series would end in a sweep as the Rangers beat the Mariners 5-1 and the Twins beat the Orioles 10-8. Rangers starter Dan Scott tossed 6 innings with 3 hits, a run, 2 walks, and 7 strikeouts.

October 6th, 2030: C Pat Hughes was named American Confrence MVP! He hit .321/.381/.564 with 18 hoemrs and 71 RBI's in 346 at bats. He hit just .133/.263/.333 with 2 homers and 8 RBI's in the majors in 45 at bats.

The AL had the stage today. The Mariners topped Texas 8-5 to head to the ALCS.

The Twins forced game 5 with a 8-6 win over the Orioles. Sergio Ayala was 4-for-5 with a homer, 3 RBI's, and 2 runs scored. Sincere Lahens was 3-for-4 with a two run homer. Andy Eberhart was 1-for-2 with a two run homer, 2 runs, and a walk in the loss.

October 8th, 2030: After a day off, the ALDS finale between the Orioles and Twins happened at Camden Yards. The Orioles attacked the bullpen, and walked off 5-4 winners. Twins starter Jeremy Hynek pitched great, 6 innings with 6 hits, a run, and 7 strikeouts. Teammate Maurice Hampton was 2-for-4 with a solo homer and 2 runs scored. Logan Davidson was a perfect 4-for-4 with a run scored in the win.

Off to the NLCS, where Juan Ramirez (who's now officially "fragile") will join the playoff roster in the series with the Cubs.

[ayaghmour2]

October 9th, 2030: The NLCS kicks off today at Wrigley Field as we were hosted by the Cubs. Dursun Erbakan (11-4, 3.56 ERA, 1.25 WHIP) was out to face Jorge Flores (19-7, 2.82 ERA, 0.99 WHIP) in the opener. After a great comeback in the 9th, we took a 6-5 lead over the Cubs. In the bottom half, they managed to tie it and force extras. In the 11th, Steve Graham hit a walk-off homer and the Cubs won a thriller 7-6 to start the 2030 NLCS.

Erbakan allowed 4 runs (all in the 1st) in 4 innings with 3 hits, a walk, and 6 strikeouts. Steve Hudson went 1.1 innings with 3 htis, a run, and a walk. Chad Scoles blew the save, 2 innings with 2 hits, a run, walk, and 2 strikeouts. C.J. LaFever got the loss, 0.2 innings with a hit, run, walk, and 2 strikeouts.

Juan Ramirez didn't show any rust, going 3-for-5 with 2 runs, 2 RBI's, a double, and steal. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 3-for-6 with a double and 2 runs scored. Mac Horvath was 1-for-5 with a sac-fly and 2 run double in the 9th. Jon Reid was 1-for-2 with a walk. Gregorio Alvarenga and Ernie Frye were both 1-for-4 with 2 walks and a run scored.

October 10th, 2030: We looked to even the series back up with a southpaw battle between Esteban Aguirre (15-9, 2.54 ERA, 0.94 WHIP) and Sergio Barreto (12-8, 3.93 ERA, 1.25 WHIP). Aguirre continued his historic run with a dominate performance as we shut the Cubs out 4-0.

The former Red went 6 innings with 3 hits, 2 walks, and 7 strikeouts. He's now 3-0 with a 0.48 ERA in 3 postseason starts after goinog 9-3 with a 1.51 ERA in 13 starts with us. Juan Toribo and Dan-zu Hoong earned holds, but we got 1 in the 8th to get rid of the save opportunity.

Jon Reid was 2-for-3 with a run scored, RBI, triple, and hut by pitch. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 2-for-4. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with a solo homer, 2 runs, and a walk. Noah Smith was 1-for-3 with a walk and run scored.

The ALCS kicked off today with the Mariners hosting the Orioles. Seattle took the opener 6-2 after a strong pitching performance from Juan Villasenor. He tossed 6 innings with 3 hits, a run, and 6 strikeouts.

October 11th, 2030: Only the AL today as the Mariners hosted game 2. It was a dominate performance for the hosts, and the defending Champs will head to Baltimore up 2-0 after winning 9-1. Luis Flores got the win, tossing 6.2 innings with 5 hits, a run, 2 walks, and 7 strikeouts. Eric Larson was 3-for-4 with a triple, homer, and 2 runs scored while Andy Norman was 1-for-2 with a two run homer. Janisel Rivera, Osiris Johnson, and Kurt Metzger also launched homers in the 5 homer attack.

October 12th, 2030: The series shifts to Miami as Pat Saitta (13-7, 4.61 ERA, 1.34 WHIP; 1-0, 0.00 ERA, 0.55 WHIP) takes on former Marlin Jake Florence (11-8, 4.27 ERA, 1.28 WHIP; 1-0, 1.50 ERA, 1.00 WHIP) who had a bit of a down year in his second season with the Cubs (3.7 WAR each year from 2027-2029, 3.2 this year). I couldn't ask for any better pitching, and we shut the Cubs out again, this time winning 3-0 to take a 2-1 lead.

Saitta went 7.1 innings with 2 hits, 3 walks, and 6 strikeouts. Chad Scoles pitched extra for the save, 1.2 innings with a hit and 2 strikeouts.

Ernie Frye was 2-for-4 with 2 doubles and a run scored. Jackson Miller was 1-for-3 with a double, run scored, and RBI. Mac Horvath was 1-for-4 with a double and run scored. Noah Smith was 1-for-3 with a RBI

October 13th, 2030: The Dodgeres awarded 38-year-old reliever Trevor Gott with a 2-year, $5.8 million per year extension. Gott has pitched with numerous teams in his long big league career, and has totalled 954.1 innings out of the pen. He has a 3.13 ERA and 1.21 WHIP with 205 saves and 967 strikeouts.

We looked to take a 3-1 lead with Steve Paustian (10-12, 4.77, ERA, 1.36 WHIP; 0-0, 0.00 ERA, 2.25 WHIP) taking on Graeme Stinson (6-2, 2.33 ERA, 1.12 WHIP) who has yet to pitch this postseason. I don't know what else to say about this pitching, and even Paustian got in the shutout fun, as we dominated the Cubs 4-0.

Steve Paustian tossed 7.1 innings with just 1 hit, 3 walks, and 7 strikeotus. C.J. LaFever got a hold, finishing the 8th with 2 strikeouts. Juan Toribio, Luis Alcantra, and Dan-zu Hoong each got an out (hit for Toribio, strikeouts for Alcantra and Hoong) to finish the 9th.

Noah Smith was 2-for-4 with a solo homer. Jon Reid was 1-for-4 with a solo homer. Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-3 with a steal, 2 walks, and a run scored. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with a hit by pitch and 2 RBI's.

The Orioles were back home, and were able to take a game from Seattle with a 6-4 win. Juan Medina got the win, tossing 6 innings with 3 hits, 2 runs, 2 walks, and 5 strikeotus. Jim Cavabagh was 3-for-5 with a clutch 3 run homer in the 2nd that gave the Orioles a 5-0 lead.

October 14th, 2030: This seems too good to be true, but we're up 3-1 and can punch our ticket to the World Series with a win here. Dursun Erbakan (11-4, 3.56 ERA, 1.25 WHIP; 0-1, 8.64 ERA, 1.32 WHIP) will look to continue the 27 inning scorless streak against Jorge Flores (19-7, 2.82 ERA, 0.99 WHIP; 1-0, 5.91 ERA, 1.59 WHIP), the ace of this Cubs staff. They managed to score in the 5th while down 3-0, and we finished the Cubs off with a 4-2 win. Back to the World Series Baby!

Dan-zu Hoong left with hamstring soreness, but he'll be fine after a little rest.

Erbakan tossed 6 innings with 3 hits, an unearned run, 3 walks, and 7 strikeouts. Juan Toribio, C.J. LaFever, Luis Alcantra, and Dan-zu Hoong got holds before Jamie Priest got a 1 pitch pop out to end the game and earn the save. Alcantra was charged with a hit and run in 0.1 innings.

Juan Ramirez was a perfect 3-for-3 with 2 runs scored, a scary hit by pitch, and a steal. Mac Horvath was also perfect, 3-for-3 with a walk and 2 runs scored. Noah Smith was 2-for-4 with an RBI. Ernie Frye was 1-for-3 with a walk, 2 runs, and a solo homer. Jon Reid was 1-for-3 with a walk.

A thriller in Baltimore commenced between the Mariners and Orioles. With Seattle up 4-3 in the 9th, Mike Verback hit a solo homer off Victor Arano to force extras. With 2 on in the 10th, Alerick Soularie, a 31-year-old journeyman with just 2 career homers, took Dave Stoterau deep for a walk-off three run homer and the O's tied the series with a 7-4 walk-off win. Verbeck, who tied the game, was 3-for-5 with the solo homer and 2 runs scored.

October 15th, 2030: The final game at Camden Yards saw Juan Villasenor take on Sergio Garza. The Baltimore offense was firing on all cylinders, and the Orioles swept at home with a 10-3 victory. They'll head back to Seattle back up 3-2. Jimmy Turnage was 2-for-4 with a solo homer, walk, and 3 runs scored while teammate Jim Cavanagh was 3-for-4 with a double, 2 RBI's, and a run scored in the win. Eric Larson accounted for all the Mariners offense, 2-for-4 with a two run homer in the 4th and a solo shot in the 8th.

October 16th, 2030: No games today because some team decided to dominate the Cubs...

Wonder who that was?

October 17th, 2030: The Mariners looked to get back on track at home in their quest to defend their title. Luis Flores was on the mound against Fanklin Perez and the Orioles. We'll play a game 7, after the Mariners rallied for 6 in the 2nd to take a 6-2 lead. The Orioles scattered a few more runs, but fell short in the 6-4 Mariners win. Luis Flores continues his strong postseason, going 6 innings with 6 hits, 4 runs, and 4 strikeouts in the win. Juan Vlliagomez was 2-for-4 with a solo homer. Orioles LF Juan Ramos was 2-for-3 with a double, walk, and run scored in the loss.

October 18th, 2030: It's all on the line at Safeco Field for Game 7. Will pattern continue and the undefeated home teams win? Or will the Orioles break pattern to force a rematch of the 2024 World Series? Seattle is 5-0 at homer this postseason, and will send out former 9th Rounder Alex Moncrief to the mound. The 0-5 on the Road Orioles will counter with staff ace and former #4 overall pick Juan Medina. Based strictly off pitchers, Medina is worlds better, but anything can happen in October...

Even the Orioles winning on the road!

A big 4 run 5th game the Orioles a 6-1 lead that would eventually shrink to 6-2 after a full 9 innings. Medina was great, 6 strong innings with 6 hits, an earned run, walk, and 6 strikeouts. Mike Verbeck put the team on his back, going 2-for-3 with 2 walks, a two run homer in the 1st and grand slam in the 5th. Former Oriole Osiris Johnson was 3-for-3 with a walk and two solo homers in the losing effort.

Someone call 2024! We've got a rematch!

[ayaghmour2]

October 19th, 2030: This is it! A rematch of the 2024 World Series will start tomorrow as we host the Orioles to start the 7 game series!

I'll do a little team-by-team comparison before the series starts:

Catcher: Jackson Miller (5th) vs. Daniel Rosica (26th): Not even close here, as Miller is far superior to Rosica. The 34-year-old veteran was acquired from the Twins this July, while Miller has been with the club since a 2026 offseason trade with the Phillies.

First base: Mac Horvath (4th) vs. Jim Cavanagh (22nd): Another one where we blow them out of the water. Cavanagh, a former 9th Round Pick of the Blue Jays came over in a New Year's Eve trade in 2028. Horvath, the 10th Overall Pick by the Cubs in 2020, was acquired in a December trade in 2026.

Second base: Noah Smith (16th) vs. Logan Davidson (2nd): The 42nd Overall Pick in the 2018 draft out of Clemson, the switch hitting Davidson is one of the Orioles collection of 5* hitters. He's one of the best players in the League, and the longtime Oriole is making an insane $53 million this year. Smith is a solid second basemen, but he's likely a free agent at the years end. The former 9th Overall Pick in the 2021 draft by the Nationals, he's been here since December of 2027.

Third base: Fernando Tatis Jr. (6th) vs. Juan Alfredo Walls (5th) (injured): Before the comparison starts, let's make it clear that Tatis is a better player despite Walls' higher ranking. Walls is also injured, which means Jimmy Turnage (a waiver claim from Seattle) is starting at the hot corner. He's no where near Tatis' skill level, and this first (and likely last) year Marlin is by far the better player.

Shortstop: Rogelio Maldonado (9th) vs. Jorge Alanis (4th): Neither guy is starting at short, with Maldonado not on the playoff roster and Alanis injured. Smith is actually playing at short (with Jon Reid at 2B) and playoff hero Alerick Soularie gets the nod for the Orioles. Smith and Reid are much better then Soularie, who as explained, is a journeyman and former 19th Round Pick by the Mets back in 2018. Reid, a former 34th Round Pick, came off waivers from St. Louis in 2025, but has really developed into a productive big league regular.

Leftfield: Juan Ramirez (1st) vs. Sean Stahl (5th): This one is close, but a healthy Ramirez is the best player in baseball. Stahl is no slouch, as the 2028 Rule-5 Pick from the Dodgers has turned tinto an excellent slugger. He's actually a former 2nd Rounder of the Phillies. Ramirez was signed way back in 2019 as a 16-year-old out of Venezuela.

Centerfield: Juan Simental (13th) vs. Mike Verbeck (2nd): Simental is currently injured, but should be able to play as early as game three. Even if he's fully healthy, Mike Verbeck is miles better. One of the best players in the league, Verbeck is a legit 5* with no real flaws. The former 2nd Overall Pick is in his 7th season with Baltimore. Simental came from waivers via. Arizona in 2028.

Rightfield: Ernie Frye (t-3rd) vs. Josh Parker (23rd): In a few years, this might be closer, as Parker, a 5th Rounder from 2026 is not quite fully developes. He's a solid player, but the NL Batting Leader Ernie Frye is one of the better players in the league. The former 3rd Rounder came from Tampa in the offseason.

Starting Pitching: Esteban Aguirre (1st) vs. Juan Medina (20th): This is no knock to Medina, as only the best pitcher is shown in the overall rotation ranks. Medina, the 4th Overall Pick, in 2023 is a dominate hurler, but Sergio Garza, Godrell Kennebrew, and Franklin Perez are all 2 stars or less. We know the legend of Esteban Aguirre, but Dursun Erbakan is on par with Medina, and Steve Paustian and Pat Saitta would each be the undisputed #2 in Baltimore.

Relief Pitching: C.J. LaFever (1st) vs. Ken Adams (5th): Again, a group ranking, but what other reliever has started an All-Star Game? Just C.J.! Adams, the former 18th Overall Pick in 2026 is a steallar young releiver, but he tore his rotator cuff and won't pitch for a long time. With what's left, Randy Lawrence and Shamar Olsison have the 7th and 8th, but they would be at the back of my pen. They are in line with Jamie Priest, Dan-zu Hoong, and Shiro Hiraki and only better then Ken Adeniran. Juan Toribio and Steve Hudson (even though he doesn't pitch like it) would pitch the 8th and 7th for Baltimore, and C.J. LaFever would be the closer.

Closer: Chad Scoles (2nd) vs. Josh Brown (9th): Brown used to pitch the 8th for Scoles. Enough said...

No knock towards Brown, as the lefty is a dominate anchor, but LaFever would be the closer in Baltimore. Scoles has to be the most dependable 9th inning guy, and I don't know who ranks ahead of him.

Enough of the paper, time for simulated baseball!

October 20th, 2030: Here we go! Game 1 of the 2030 World Series took place at beautiful Marlins Park with the living legend Estevan Aguirre (15-9, 2.54 ERA, 0.94 WHIP; 3-0, 0.48 ERA, 0.75 WHIP) taking on Sergio Garza (9-10, 5.77 ERA, 1.52 WHIP; 0-1, 4.50 ERA, 1.33 WHIP). Aguirre was solid enough, and we were able to edge the AL Champions 4-3.

Aguirre tossed 6 innings with 5 hits, 2 runs, 2 walks, and 9 strikeouts. Dan-zu Hoong blew the game, allowing a walk, hit, and run without getting an out. Chad Scoes got the win, tossing 1.1 innings with a hit, walk, and 2 strikeouts. LaFever picked up the save, getting the final 2 outs in the 9th.

Noah Smith was 2-for-4 with a run scored. Mac Horvath was 2-for-3 with a walk and steal. Jackson Miller was 1-for-3 with a triple, walk, and run scored. Juan Ramirez was 1-for-4 with a three run homer in the 5th. Jon Reid was 1-for-3 with a walk and RBI. Ernie Frye was 1-for-4 with a walk and run scored. Scoles was even 1-1.

October 21st, 2030: We looked to extend the Orioles road struggles with Dursun Erbakan (11-4, 3.56 ERA, 1.25 WHIP; 1-1, 5.02 ERA, 1.19 WHIP) facing Godrell Kennebrew (0-0, 4.50 ERA, 2.00). For Kennebrew, he actually made his Major League Debut in the postseason, with his only Major League Appearence occurring on October 14th against the Mariners. The 23-year-old was the Orioles 2nd Round Pick in 2026. Trailing 5-4 in the 9th, Juan Ramirez was hit by a pitch with the bases juiced to tied the game at 5. Jon Reid then hit a walk-off single, and we'll head to Baltimore up 2-0 after a 6-5 comeback win!

Dan-zu Hoong may not make the trip, as he left with an injury...

Erbakan had a rough outing, lasting just 3 innings with 4 hits, 3 runs, a walk, but 6 strikeouts. Steve Hudson had it worse, 0.1 innigns with 3 hits and 2 runs. Luis Alcantra was dominate, 2.2 innings with 5 strikeouts. C.J. LaFever got the win, tossing an inning with a walk and 2 strikeouts.

October 22nd, 2030: Hoong ruptured his bicep tendon, and will have to rehab for 6 months. I added youngster Joe Martin to the playoff roster. A starter by trade, he's rated a 3.5/5* as a reliever, and he can pitch multiple innings with a lot of strikeouts and groundouts.

October 23rd, 2030: We arrived at Camden Yards with Pat Saitta (13-7, 4.61 ERA, 1.34 WHIP; 2-0, 0.00 ERA, 0.61 WHIP) taking on Juan Medina (14-6, 3.72 ERA, 1.15 WHIP; 2-0, 3.32 ERA, 1.29 WHIP). Baltimore is a perfect 6-0 at home, and they have their best starter on the mound. We couldn't get to Medina, and he left after 6 with a 2-0 lead. Luckily, their pen is weak, and we rallied for 4 in the 7th and 2 more in the 9th to win 6-2 and take a 3-0 lead. One more baby!

Saitta tossed 7 innings with 9 hits, 2 runs, 3 walks, and 3 strikeouts. Chad Scoles got the save, 2 perfect innings with 3 strikeouts.

Gregorio Alvarenga was 2-for-5 with a double. Jon Reid was 1-for-3 with 2 runs, 2 RBI's, and a homer. Mac Horvath was 1-for-3 with 2 runs scored, a steal, and walk. Juan Simental was 1-for-4 with a triple, sac-bunt, and 2 RBI's. Sergio Tello came off the bench and was 1-for-2 with a run scored and 2 RBI's.

October 24th, 2030: The nice and fancy postseason brooms were out, as Steve Paustian (10-12, 4.77 ERA, 1.36 WHIP; 1-0, 0.00 ERA, 0.81 WHIP) looked to out-duel Franklin Perez (6-9, 5.17 ERA, 1.28 WHIP; 0-2, 15.19 ERA, 2.34 WHIP) and end the Orioles season.

Seems to easy, right? How did this pitching staff makek the World Series?

The offense was relatively inept, but we did just barley enough to win 3-2. AND SWEEP THE ORIOLES!!!!

WE FINALLY WON AGAIN!!!

I DON'T EVEN CARE ABOUT THE DEBT I'M GOING TO BE IN BECAUSE OF ESTEBAN AGUIRRE!!!

CAUSE WE WON THE WORLD SERIES!!!

Paustian pitched well, 6 innings with 5 hits, 2 runs, 2 walks, and 2 strikeouts. Juan Toribio and Chad Scoles got holds before C.J. LaFever earned the save.

And a tackle from Jackson Miller. And then the rest of the team.

Juan Ramirez was 2-for-4 with an RBI. Jon Reid was 2-for-4 with a run scored. Fernando Tatis Jr. was 1-for-3 with 2 RBI's. Juan Simental was 1-for-3 with a run scored, walk, and steal. Gregorio Alvarenga was 1-for-4 with a run scored and a steal.

I earned the achievement "Doing it with Style" for the sweep.

Jon Reid was named series MVP. He was solid, but didn't really scream MVP. He was 5-for-15 with 3 runs, 4 RBI's, and a homer. He was an impressive .357/.449/.571 throughout the postseason, which should give him a nice payday in the offseason, unless I magically come up with like $100 million.

Man, this is going to be a fun offseason!

[ayaghmour2]

October 26th, 2030: You can't really do better then World Series Champion, so it's not going to be easy to improve on an amazing 2030 season.

A few moves: as noted the real life Potomac Nationals are moving to Fredericksburg, so I'd move them in game as well. They will be known as the Fredericksburg Nationals.

The bigger news comes in the Majors, as the Boston Doves will move to the AL Central in a hope to bring Interleague play back. They will now be known as the Nashville Vultures and will play their games in the Nashville Sounds old park, First Tennessee Park, although the capacity will be increased to 36,000.

The Nashville Sounds will move to Knoxville and remain the Sounds.

The Vultures A+ team, the Wilson Tobs, will also move, relocating to Fayetteville to become the Fayetteville Highlanders. Their DSL and GCL team will also be changed to the Nashville Vultures.

Alright, time for business!

My budget exploded!!! All the way up to $276,000,000 which is 14th in the league! Last year it was just $230 million.

I also got a 3-year extension for $2.2 million per year!

I have a lot of minor league personell spots to fill and re-arrange.

The White Sox sent inerim manager Jhonny Nunez way down to A+ Winston-Salem. The Royals fired manager Tony Pena Jr. The Nationals fired manager Brad Ausmus. The Doves/Vultures fired GM Billy Eppler and Manager Mike Matheny. The Brewers fired Manager A.J. Sager.

I only have six arbitration eligible players with seven impending Free Agents.

SP Dursun Erbakan (1-year, $10,530,000): I messed up on locking him up longterm...
RP C.J. LaFever (1-year, $7,470,000)
RP Jamie Priest (1-year, $3,310,000)
C Jackson Miller (6-years, $75,500,000)
CF Juan Simental (1-year, $5,350,000)
RF Ernie Frye (6-years, $115,500,000)

I extended a qualfying offer to Fernado Tatis Jr. I wanted to extend Reid, but he wanted too much (an 10-years).

November 4th, 2030: Toronto CL Sergio Morales (34/34: 170) and Miami CL Chad Scoles (33/34: 168) were named Reliever of the Year Winners. This is Scoles third and second straight time winning.

November 6th, 2030: Houston RF Joel Smiley (27/34: 156), who I traded after selecting him in the Rule-5 Draft, and Mets LF Pu-feng Ju (28/34: 158) were named Rookie of the Year.

The Pilots sent RHP Kevin Mitchell and RHP Roman Smart to the Phillies for SS Nate Ashley and RHP Tim Agyemang. I really like this deal for the Pilots.

November 7th, 2030: Astros Manager Steven Neff and Marlins Manager Aaron Boone won Manager of the Year. It's Boone's third award, as he won back in 2024 and 2026.

November 8th, 2030: I earned the achievement "Pitcher of the Year" because none other then Esteban Aguirre (34/34: 238) and Royals SP Jeff Hormann (29/34: 233) were named Cy Young Winners. I remember way back when I almost accidentally traded for Hormann. It was a great breakout for the 3* lefty.

November 9th, 2030: Rangers 1B C.J. Vick (18/34: 396) barley edged Mariners 2B Kurt Metzger (16/34: 385) in a tight AL MVP race. Just like Cubs 2B Bobby Holloway (16/34: 373) had just 1 more first place vote then Marlins SP Esteban Aguirre (15/296: 296) in the NL MVP race. No love for Juan Ramirez, although he played in just 94 games.

November 12th, 2030: I made a minor swap, sending LHP Jamie Priest to the Rockies for RHP Sergio Romero.

Romero, 25, is rated a 3/4 as a RP and a 2/3 as a SP. The former 5th Overall Pick in 2024 gotinto big league action the past two seasons. He's 2-2 with a 5.54 ERA in 41 appearences (3 starts) with 44 walks and 73 strikeouts. I think he'll love leaving Coors Field, and still has an option left to fix things up in the minors. He's got 100 rated stuff, plus movement, and just average control. His stamina isn't horrible, but not the high level I usually like. His three pitch arsenal contains an elite fastball that sits at 97-99 with a plus sinker and plus-plus change up. He's a sidearmer who keeps the ball on the ground.

November 17th, 2030: Fernando Tatis Jr. declined the qualifying offer, so I should get a compensation pick.

Free Agency is next!