Fixing the Marlins!

[ayaghmour2]

September 28th, 2020: The last power rankings of the season list us at 18th.

The Whiite Sox were eliminated from the playoffs as the Indians clinced the division. The Angels have also clinched a playoff birth. Cleveland is just 84-74, while LA is 93-65.

Zach Davies (12-7, 3.79 ERA, 1.35 WHIP) and Alex Reyes (4-5, 3.54 ERA, 1.33 WHIP) faught in the makeup game as we took on the Cardinals. The Cards won the makeup game 6-4.

Davies allowed 5 in 4.1 innings off 8 hits and a strikeout. Max Povse allowed the last run in 1.2 innings.

We did have 9 hits, and Nicky Delmonico drove in three of the runs. He hit a two run shot and drove in the game's first run in the 1st with a single. Brinson and Almora both singled and doubled, and Victor Caratini doubles himself.

Rookie superstar Fernando Tatis Jr. went 5-for-5 in a 4-3 Padres win over Arizona. He spent a little less then half the season with the big league club, hitting .274/.339/.405 with 6 homers and 32 RBI's.

Ryan Braun hit his 400th homer as the Brewers beat the Mets 3-1. The 36-year-old is hitting exactly .300 for his career, including .303 this year.

It's back home for three with the 65-94 Tigers to finish the year. If we sweep, we will finish the year at .500. As of now, we'd see Matt Boyd (3-4, 4.58 ERA), former Marlin Alex Cobb (0-3, 6.50 ERA), and Michael Fulmer (9-14, 6.21 ERA).

September 29th, 2020: Jacob deGrom cashed in on a 4-year, $114,400,000 extension right before the start of the postseason. He'll make $28,600,000 each year, with the final year a team option with a $5.5 million buyout. The deGrominator is 13-4 with a 2.69 ERA and 1.20 WHIP this season in an extremely potent Mets rotation.

Danny Duffy (2-3, 4.01 ERA, 1.27 WHIP) opened the final home series, and final series, of the season against the former Marlin Alex Cobb (0-3, 6.50 ERA, 1.64 WHIP) who leapfrogged Matt Boyd. It was a close one, but we won 3-2 to keep .500 hopes alive.

Duffy walked just 1 in 5 innings while allowing 2 runs. He gave up 3 hits, but struck out 5 in a no decision. Kevin Chapman earned the win with just 1 pitch to finish the 7th. Steck got the hold and Shiotani the save.

We had 9 hits, 8 singles and a Brandon Lowe double. Lowe, Eliser Alvarez, and Garrett Hampson picked up steals in a base running expedition. Hampson was a perfect 3-for-3 with a walk and scored twice. Lowe drove in two and singled to go with the double, and scored a run.

September 30th, 2020: The Toronto Blue Jays clinced the playoffs. At 90-70, they hold a 2 game lead over New York and a 3 game lead over Boston.

Boyd (3-4, 4.58 ERA, 1.53 WHIP) got his turn today against veteran Zack Wheeler (8-16, 4.97 ERA, 1.58 WHIP) in what could be his final start as a Marlin. Our hopes of 81 wins is no longer, as we lost 6-2.

Wheeler allowed 3 in 5 off 5 hits and 4 walks, but he did strike out 6. James Farris had a rough night, allowing 2 runs off 4 hits and a walk, with just 1 strikeout for his only out.

Nicky Delmonico went 2-for-4 and hit a solo homer. Marcus Semien had a pair of singles and scored a run.

October 1st, 2020: With a Yankees loss, the Jays clinched the division, and now the Red Sox and Yankees are tied for the 2nd Wild Card with a 1 game lead over Texas. Anything can happen on the last day of the season! Boston plays Baltimore, New York plays Houston, and Texas plays the Angels, who hold the 1st spot.

We finished the year with Yonny Chirinos (8-3, 2.96 ERA, 1.09 WHIP) taking on Michael Fulmer (9-14, 6.21 ERA, 1.54 WHIP) and I let a lot of the callups and reserves play. The only starter I kept was Delmonico, who was at 39 homers and 99 RBI's, in hopes of a 40/100 season. He was unsuccessful, despite going 2-for-4 and scoring twice, in the 7-4 win.

Chirinos went 6 innings, allowed just 3 runs and 5 hits. He walked just 1 and struck out 5. Bulldozer Shiotani earned his 20th save to finish off the season.

The offense was solid, 12 hits total, inlcuding a Delmonico triple. D.J. Peters was the only starter who didn't record a hit. Tyler Saladino was 3-for-5 with 3 RBI's and a run scored. Ti'Quan Forbes doubled and singled in four trips, while also scoring once. Ryan Mountcastle doubled in a run in the 3rd, and eventually scored himself.

Boston, New York, and Texas all won, so Boston and New York have a tie breaker game. The same goes in the NL Central, with Chicago and Cincy both 90-72. The Mets also clinched the East, so Philly will play Atlanta in the Wild Card game.

October 3rd, 2020: Two tie breaker games took place today between the Cubs and Reds and Red Sox and Yankees. The Cubs beat the Reds 7-2 to clinch the NL Central and the Yankees crushed the Red Sox 10-2 for the 2nd Wild Card spot. The playoffs are finally finalized.

Not going to lie, I really wanted to be better the 80-82, but we're so close to making a run. I have a ton of talen in the organization, but not enough elite talent in the major leagues. My goal this offseason is to consolidate my resources and move a few decent guys for stars, even if it means giving up a bit more then market price.

A few take aways from the season:

1. Victor Caratini is gold: The 27-year-old switch hitter has really blossomed this year both offensively and defensively. He's done a real good job with the staff, especially with Chirinos. He also hit well, .313/.382/.470 with 10 HR's and 62 RBI's which are great numbers for a catcher. He was a steal in the offseason.

2. Jordan Montgomery is an ace: In each of his four seasons, his ERA has steadily decreased from 3.88 to 3.18. While he didn't get the wins, he struck out a career high 173 batters in a career high 181 innings through 33 starts. His WHIP was just 1.16 and he walked only 55 hitters. Just like Caratini, he's only 27 and has his best years ahead, although I'm not looking foward to him starting Arbitration this year...

3. Nicky Delmonico can rake: He's not the best guy out there, as shown in his 176 strikeouts, but he still hit .266/.320/.510 with the 39 homers and 99 runs batted in. His glove is elite at first, and he won't kill you at third, so he'll always find a spot in the order. He's a bit older, 28, but again, not looking foward to arbitration.

4. Is Lewis Brinson okay?: He was out only All-Star, but his bat went cold the second half of the year and he finished with a very average .246/.324/.468 line. He did hit 29 homers and drive in 69 to go with 20 steals, but he's taken a small decline in his batting ratins as well. He's still an elite glove in either corner, but I'm hoping 2021 will be a better year for Sweet Lou.

5. The farm is a lot better then 20th: There is a ton of talent in this system, and hopefully OSA will notice that in thier next list of prospect ratings. Josh Weske, out 1st rounder this year, is defintely the highlight, but the supporting cast is great as well. Jeremy Arocho, Max Marusak, and Juan Ramirez are all studs and can play multiple positions. J.P Gates, if he can rehab well, is another stud young arm and Jaheim Meggett shows a ton of promise despite his young age. Ismael Mayen will probably make the jump from the International Complex and he'll give another big name to the system. Don't forget, it's already produced a bunch of big names like Cole Brannen, Victor Arano, Garrett Hampson, Brandon Lowe, and more who have already made impacts on the big league club. The future looks bright Marlins fans!

[ayaghmour2]

Short and sweet:

WILD CARD GAMES

New York Yankees (90-73): 1
Los Angeles Angels (96-66): 0

Atlanta Braves (95-67): 0
Philadelphia Phillies (95-67): 1

AMERICAN LEAGUE DIVISIONAL SERIES

Houston Astros (98-64): 3
New York Yankees (90-73): 0

Cleveland Indians (87-75): 3
Toronto Blue Jays (91-71): 0

NATOINAL LEAGUE DIVISIONAL SERIES
Philadelphia Phillies (95-67): 3
New York Mets (97-65): 2

Chicago Cubs (91-72): 1
Los Angeles Dodgers (91-71): 3

AMERICAN LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES

Cleveland Indians (87-75): 1
Houston Astros (98-64): 4

NATIONAL LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES

Phialdelphia Phillies (95-67): 2
Los Angeles Dodgers (91-71): 4

WORLD SERIES

Los Angeles Dodgers (91-71): 4
Houston Astros (98-64): 1

In a rematch of the 2017 World Series, the Dodgers get revenge and finally win a World Series after losing three straight. Former players Colin McHugh and J.T. Realmuto earned World Series rings for the Dodgers.

It's time for the offseason!

[ayaghmour2]

The Giants fired their GM Andy Viano, the Rockies fired GM Jeff Birdich, Milwaukee fired manager Brian Drahman, the Royals fired manager John Farrell and GM Mike Cormier.

I voided the options of both David Phelps and Zack Wheeler.

Salary Arbitration
SP Ty Blach (Non-Tendered)
SP Zach Davies ($9,590,000)
SP Jordan Montgomery ($5,800,000)
RP Kevin Chapman (Traded to Houston for 2B Kyle Kasser)
RP Drew Steckenrider ($1,240,000)
CL Cam Bedrosian (Traded to Chicago for C Zack Humphreys)*
C Cameron Rupp (Non-Tendered)
1B Nicky Delmonico ($3,110,000)
3B Cheslor Cuthbert ($1,350,000)
SS Tyler Saladino ($1,150,000)
LF Charlie Tilson ($980,000)
LF Albert Almora ($1,080,000)

SS Marcus Semien, SP Zack Wheeler, and RP David Phelps field for free agency.

*Yes, I really liked Bedrosian, but he's costy and declined. Humphreys is a former 1st rounder of the Cubs who is a 1.5/4.5 and looks like an absolute stud.

Awards
AL Reliever of the Year: Texas Rangers CL Jose Leclerc
NL Reliever of the Year: Atlanta Braves CL Zach Britton

NL Platinum Stick Award: Miami Marlins C Victor Caratini!

AL Rookie of the Year: Los Angeles Angels 2B Connor Justus
NL Rookie of the Year: St. Louis Cardinals RF Jose Adolis Garcia (Yasukzau SHiotani got 1 last place vote)

AL Manager of the Year: Houston Astros A.J. Hinch
NL Manager of the Year: Los Angeles Dodgers Dave Roberts

AL Cy Young Award: Tampa Bay Rays SP Jacob Faria
NL Cy Young Award: New York Mets SP Noah Syndergaard (Jordan Mongomery got 11 points, Syndergaard got all 30 place votes and 210 points)

AL MVP: Los Angeles Angels LF Mike Trout
NL MVP: Philadelphia Phillies RF Bryce Harper

Around the League
November 8th, 2020: Baltimore sends LF Anthony Santander to the Indians for 2B Tyler Krieger and RHP Luis Araujo.

November 23rd, 2020: Houston trades RHP Gerrit Cole to the Astros for C J.T. Realmuto.

[ayaghmour2]

Free Agents filed today, and here are the top 10 to enter the Free Agent Market!

LHP Zach Britton
2B Jonathan Schoop
3B Nolan Arenado
RF Mookie Bets
1B Anthony Rizzo
3B Justin Turner
2B Brian Dozier
LHP Sean Doolittle
LHP James Paxton
RHP Mashiaro Tanaka

As usual, you can expect that none of these are likely to become Marlins.

Arenado wants almost $60 million a year! I really, really hope no one gives him that...

November 27th, 2020: Los Angeles Angels owners Arte Moreno passed away today, and the city of Los Angeles mourned his deaeth. The new owner will be his son, G.K. Moreno, and he's detremined to win a title in his father's honor.

December 3rd, 2020: The first major signing occured with the Cubs grabbing Korean outfielder Seung-ryong Yoo to a 6-year, $116,400,000 contract.

December 4th, 2020: The Cubs made another big signing, grabbing LHP James Paxton. Paxton will make $28.6 million the first four years, and the same sum in a 5th if he can amass 180 innings.

The Athletics traded 1B J.D. Martinez to the Indians for C Austin Barnes. It's a realticely even deal, although Martinez is a DH in disguise.

Deember 5th, 2020: The A's made another trade, sending C Sean Murphey and RHP Nicholas Padilla to the Rockies for RHP Kenta Maeda. I don't like the deal for Oakland, but it's not completely an unfair trade.

Deecmber 6th, 2020: The Angels signed Nolan Arenado to a 6-year, $198,000,000 contract. It's not 60 million, but he'll make $33 million for three years before an opt out, then the same for three more years if he stays with the Dodgers. He's the best replacement for Justin Turner.

The White Sox traded RHP A.J. Puckett to the Twins for CF Travis Jankowski and C Kerby Camacho. It's a decent deal, but I like the Twins side better.

I also sent in my Hall of Fame Ballot:

SP Mark Buehrle
SP Roger Clemens
SS Julio Franco
1B Jason Giambi
SP Tim Hudson
CF Torri Hunter
SP Mike Mussina
CF Juan Pierre
CL Billy Wagner
SS Michael Young

It's a rather weak class, but like usual, I like filling my ballot.

December 7th, 2020: The Yankees signed former Dodger Justin Turner to a 3-year, $16,600,000 per-year contract, with the third year a 135 game vesting option.

December 8th, 2020: Oakland traded CF Franchy Cordero to the Mariners for RHP Bryan Bonnell. It's a pretty even deal.

The Indians sent 2B Sam Haggerty to the Twins for RHP Treor Oaks. It's basically two identical players.

December 9th, 2020: Four big signings as the offseason is moving fast. Anthony Rizzo came back to the Cubs on a 5-year, $15.8 per year deal. Their south side rivals signed CL Bryan Shaw to a 3-year, $21,300,000 contract. Mookie Betts joined the Astros on a 7-year, $96.6 million dollar contract. And lastly, Korean free agent SP Song-shil Su to a 3-year, $8.6 million per year.

December 10th, 2020: I added LF Adam Hasley and 1B Pavin Smith to the active roster to protect them from the Rule-5 draft.

December 11th, 2020: The Winter Meetings started today!

The Yankees added LHP Sean Doolittle to a 3-year, $40,500,000 contract. He's saved 20+ games in four straight seasons with the Nationals, but will work the 8th with New York.

The Astros added SP Jose Quintana to a 5-year, $25.2 million per year contract as he will pitch in a major league organization that does not call Chicago home for the first time.

Gamble time: I sent RP John Curtiss and CF Anthony Alford to the Dodgers for injured stud SP Walker Buehler. Buhler has stuff that is unreal, throwing 97-99 consistently from a 3/4 angle with three pitches rated 80 or higher and a 4th at 61. The righty is still getting better, and is rated a 3.5/4, the same as lefty ace Jordan Montgomery. I really like Alford, trust me, but the system is filled with OF talent and he'd be the 4th OF anyways. This looks like a good deal for us, as long as Buhler can heal fine.

December 12th, 2020: Today was buzzing with trades, four in total.

The Dodgers sent 2B Forest Wall to the Mets for RHP Justin Dunn. It looks like they filled Buehler's spot really quickly, in what looks like an absolute steal.

The A's were at it again too, sending 3B Sheldon Neuse to the Orioles for RHP Walker Lockett. It looks like an overpay, although Neuse hasn't lived up to his ratings.

The Padres sent CF Michael Gettys and SS Justin Lopez to the Royals for 1B Dan Vogelbach. The Royals got the better end of the deal, and Gettys is a really good player. And his brother plays in our system, an 11th round pick named Jonathan.

Lastly, Seattle sent 1B Renato Nunez to the Angels for C Max Stassi and LHP Eddie Tomasi. It's a fairly even trade, though I like the Angels haul better.

I wanted a trade, but five in a day was too much, so I could wait. Instead, I purchased the contract of CF D.J. Wilson to protect him from the Rule-5 draft.

December 13th, 2020: The Cubs sent RF Teoscar Hernandez and RHP Jesus A. De Los Santos to the D'Backs for LHP Robbie Ray. It's a nice change of scenery trade for Teo and Ray.

I made a big deal of my own, acquiring CF Dustin Fowler from the A's for RF Kyle Lewis, LF Albert Almora, SP Alex Lange, and SP Jared Prentiss. It looks like I gave up a lot, but Fowler is a stud, and the rest of the players are expendable.

The 25-year-old lefty will man center and hit third and bring elite speed and power. He's a 3.5* who's a career .300/.341//.530 hitter with 34 homers and 103 RBI's as I attempt to bring more young, top quality talent to the organization.

December 14th, 2020: The Winter Meetings officially ended today.

There was a minor trade, as the Tigers acquired C Jose Treivno and C Nick Bottari from the Twins for LHP Gregory Soto. Don't quite know what the Tigers were thinking, Soto is much better, although Trevino is an elite defensive catcher.

I added 1B Evan White and RHP Nick Neidert to the 40-man roster to protect them from the Rule-5 Draft.

December 19th, 2020: I did it again! I made a monster deal to add another top starter, this time Jameson Taillon from the Pirates. It was a heaby price to pay, 2B Derwin Barreto, LHP Bryce Tucker, C Danny Jansen, and 2B Brandon Lowe, but it is more then worth it.

Taillon, 29: is an expert at keeping the ball on the ground, and has an affordable extenstion until 2024. He's got pinpoint control and a ton of stamina, and has started 33 or more games the past three seasons. He really broke out last year to a 3.61 ERA and will make an excellent #3. Our rotation of Montgomery, Buehler, Taillon, Davies, and Duffy may be the best in the league. The Mets still have the best duo, but I like the way the whole 5 stacks up.

December 24th, 2020: Okay, maybe the Mets rotation is better, as they added Cuban Superstar Luis Marrero on a 7-year, $187,200,000 contract. "Bats" is a legit 5* pitcher and the Mets' three headed monster brings chills to the league. If only we had $24 million a year sitting around...

Anyways, today is the Rule-5 Draft. I lost C Daniel Salters to the Rockies and I added C Nick Feight from the Padres. I didn't have another catcher on the roster, and he's a 1.5/2.5 who can play a little bit of first base as well. He hit .297/.355/.477 with 13 homers and 48 RBI's in 81 games for AA San Antonio this year.

December 27th, 2020: The Angels added 1B Ryan Bruan to a 3-year, $58,600,000 deal with the final a 135 game vesting optoin. He's still a good hitter, and will put on a non-Brewers uniform for the first time in his career.

December 29th, 2020: I struck again! This time on the Free Agent market, opening the pocket book for SS Andrelton Simmons. The best defender in the league is pricey, 4-years, $15,100,000 per year, but it's money well spent. "Simba" is a 3* who's a significant defensive upgrade over Semien, and has slashed .271/.319/.388 throughout his career in 1,207 games split between Atlanta and the Angels. I'd make room for him on the roster tomorrow.

The Jays inked LHP Tony Cingrani to a 1-year, $2.96 million dollar deal. He's going to work the 7th for the AL East champs.

December 30th, 2020: The Jays added another lefty pen arm, this time Brad Hand. He'll make $4.4 million per year for three years. He's going to take the 7th inning, moving Cingrani down to middle relief.

To make room for Simba, I designated 2B Eliezer Alvarez for assignment. He did decent in his 11 big league at bats, but he should clear easily.

I'm not going to say I'm done making moves, but the lineup looks amazing right now. All 2.5 or higher, with a majority above 3.

I'll start 2021 next time, and go straight to the preseason!

[ayaghmour2]

January 2nd, 2021: Well, I guess I was wrong, as the Giants claimed Eliezer Alvarez off waivers. It's not a big loss, but a depth loss.

January 3rd, 2021: I claimed righty Dylan M. Thompson off waivers from the Royals and sent him to A+ Jupiter. He's a former 4th rounder back in 2015 form the Mariners.

The Diamondbacks had a reunion with RF Adam Eaton, and signed the 32-year-old to a 2 year, $7.3 million per year contract. He's returning to the organiation he broke into the majors with and the team that drafted him out of Miami in the 19th round.

The Rockies added 3B Matt Duffy to a 6-year, $51,300,000 contract.

January 6th, 2021: I claimed 3B Tyler Nevin off waivers from the Rockies and sent him to AA Jacksnoville. He was a roster casualty after the Duffy signing.

January 11th, 2021: Since he was out of options, I shopped around Yonny Chirinos, and ended up sending him to the Pirates, re-aquiring Bryce Tucker and 1B Seth Beer.

Both are 24, and Beer is the headliner. He's average at first and can play a little corner outfield, but his calling card is his power and eye, rated 78 and 83 respectively. He's also currently a 2/3, so he's basically ready to contribute at the major league level.

January 13th, 2021: The Jays must love lefty relievers, as they added Dan Jennings to a 1-year, $3,800,000 contract.

The Rockies gave Mashiaro Tanaka 5-years and $98,400,000 to pitch in Coors field, with the last year a player option. In 2020 his ERA was 5.30, so I don't quite know how that's going to play in Coors.

January 19th, 2021: Former Marlin 1B Justin Bour signed a 3-year, $10,300,000 per year contract with the Indians. This will be his 4th organization in as many years.

January 20th, 2021: It took 9 years, but Roger Clemens is headed to the Hall of Fame! The only other players closer are Mike Mussina (67.2) and Curt Schilling (60.6) although next year will be year 9 and 10 respectively.

The Indians extended closer Cody Allen to a 3-year, $14,200,000 per year contract.

January 21st, 2021: I claimed 3B Ke'Bryan Hayes off waivers from the Pirates and sent him to AA Jacksonville.

January 22nd, 2021: Another waiver claim, this time RF Conner Capel from Cleveland, who will join Hayes in AA.

January 25th, 2021ss: A day before the start of the preseason, the Indians sent C Spencer Smith to the Pirates for LHP Steven Brault. The Indians got the better end of the deal, but it's pretty even.

[ayaghmour2]

January 26th, 2021: Today marks the start of the preseason, and my owner Tim Kuchera gave us a budget boost from $104,000,000 to $110,000,000. That gives us the 27th highest budget.

I ended up techincally re-signing Cam Bedrosian, who ended up getting non-tendered by the Cubs. He'll make $3,000,000 for three years, the final a team option. Him and Walker Buhler are headed to the DL since the preseason allows the ability to place players on the Disabled List.

The Rays opened the pocketbooks and signed 2B Brian Dozier to a 4-year, $52,800,000 contract. It's a bargain, however, for someone of his caliber.

February 3rd, 2021: The Tigers signed 1B Yonder Alonso toa 1-year, $9,200,000 contract.

February 4th, 2021: I needed a lefty for the pen, so I traded for the Mets' Matt Purke. I had to give up RHP Ian Gardeck, LHP Luke Heimlich, and RHP Chris Joyce, but it's definitely worth it. I was going to lose Gardeck to waivers anyways, and the other two prospects aren't anything special. Purke really broke out last year, and is rated as a 3* with solid stamina for a reliever, and three plus pitches.

February 5th, 2021: It was time for a blockbuster, and I acquired 2B Scott Kingery from the Phillies for former #2 overall pick 2B Tyler Callihan and RHP Hunter Harvey. Callihan doesn't look nearly as good as he did in the past, and Harvey, although talented, is something I was willing to part with.

The 26-year-old Kingery is a 3.5* with solid speed, amazing defense at second, and a scary bat. Last year he hit .272/.319/.418 with 17 homers and 56 RBI's for the Phils. This weakens them and strengthens me at the same time.

February 6th, 2021: The Mets keep adding to their stacked rotation, grabbing RHP Michael Wacha on a 5-year, $117,400,000 deal.

February 11th, 2021: I claimed LHP Corbin Clouse off waivers and added him to the big league roster. He's got very little control, but his stuff is insane and he's a groundball specialist, and he gives us another lefty option, but one with three options left.

Stay tuned for the start of Spring Training! It's almost time for Marlins baseball again!

[ayaghmour2]

February 25th, 2021: Spring Training started today and I called up a bunch of farm hands to bring the roster total to 60 out of 60. I doubt it, but I hope Walker Buehler will be ready for Opening Day.

The preseason predictions were published today, and they give us a huge boost of the record. We're predicted to be 90-72 and finish in second place, 7 games behind the Mets, but 1st in the Wild Card. Zach Davies and Yasukazu Shiotani are both predicted to be top pitchers this year.

March 6th, 2021: The Orioles have a quick injury, losig RHP Dylan Bundy for the rest of the year with a torn rotator cuff.

March 10th, 2021: The Blue Jays lost young righty Yennsy Diaz for the year with a ruptured ulnar collateral ligament.

March 11th, 2021: The Royals lost RHP Trevor May for the season with a torn flexor tendon.

March 14th, 2021: Zach Davies is headed to the DL with elbow inflammation, although he should be back by Opening Day.

March 15th, 2021: RF/SP Shoehi Ohtani is headed to the DL with a torn unlar collateral ligament, and will miss all of this season and the start of next season. It's almost like losing two players when he goes down.

March 16th, 2021: The Indians grabbed RHP Arodys Vizcanio on an affordable 1-year, $2.48 million dollar contract. He's one of many quality relievers who have not gotten the offseason they wanted.

March 21st, 2021: Another reliever off the market as the Mariners grabbed Carter Capps on a 1-year, $2,520,000 contract.

March 28th, 2021: Zach Davies is back and will make a spring start today.

March 29th, 2021: I designated Dillon Peters for assignment to make room on the active roster as I made the final roster cuts. I also traded Antonio Senzatela to the Orioles for utility man Adam Frazier.

March 31st, 2021: A pair of relievers were signed the day before Opening Day, LHP Rex Brothers and RHP Juan Nicasio. Brothers joined the Blue Jays on a 1-year, $2,040,000 contract and Nicasio joined the Royals on a 1-year, $2,320,000 contract.

[ayaghmour2]

April 1st, 2021: Happy Opening Day! I have extremely high hopes for the team, so let's see how this plays out!

Three relievers signed on Opening Day, including former Marlin Brad Brach who joined the Rangers on a 1-year, $4,200,000 contract.

The Jays added another reliever! This time a righty Alex Colome on a 1-year, $3,600,000 contract. The only pitcher in their pen to pitch on the team last year is CL Mark Melancon, who they signed the year before.

Lastly the Royals signed Blake Treinen to a 1-year, $2,670,000 contract.

I outrighted Dillon Peters to AAA New Orleans.

The top 100 prospects were published and we rank 27th, which I think is far too low, although I did trade a lot of prospects. We have a trio of top 100 guys, LF Juan Ramirez at 56th, CF Ernesto Arambula at 74th, and SP Josh Weske at 81st. We have two more guys in the top 200, 1B Seth Beer at 144 and SS Jeremy Eierman at 181.

We didn't have a game today, so here's a look at the Opening Day roster:

SP Zach Davies (3/3)
SP Danny Duffy (2/2)
SP Jordan Montgomery (3.5/3.5)
SP Bretn Suter (1.5/1.5)
SP Jameson Taillon (3/3)
RP Victor Arano (4.5/4.5)
RP James Farris (3/3)
RP Wei-Chieh Huang (2.5/2.5)
RP Tyler Jay (3/3)
RP Max Povse (2.5/2.5)
RP Drew Steckenrider (3/3)
CL Yasukazu Shiotani (5/5)
C Victor Caratini (3/3)
C Nick Feight (2/2.5)
1B Nicky Delmonico (2.5/2.5)
2B Scott Kingery (4/4)
3B Brian Anderson (2.5/2.5)
3B Cheslor Chuthbert (1.5/1.5)
SS Tyler Saladino (1.5/1.5)
SS Andrelton Simmons (3/3)
LF Lewis Brinson (3.5/3.5)
LF Charlie Tilson (1.5/1.5)
CF Dustin Fowler (3.5/3.5)
RF Cole Brannen (3/4)

Let's make the playoffs!

April 2nd, 2021: Happy Opening Day! We start the season hosting the Atlanta Braves. Our opening day starter is Jordan Montgomery, there's is Mike Soroka. The lineup is RF Brannen, CF Fowler, LF Brinson, 1B Delmonico, C Caratini, 2B Kingery, 3B Anderson, SS Simmons, P Montgomery. The Braves have more stars, but our roster is much more balanced. And balance takes the win, as we take the opening match 4-2.

Montgomery looked like an ace, just 2 runs in 6 innings with 8 strikeouts. He did allow 7 hits and 2 walks, however. Steceksaurus and Arano got holds, and Bulldoer Shiotani earned the save.

We had 11 hits, the only positional starter without a hit was Brinson. Brannen, Fowler, Delmonico, and Kingery had two hits a piece. Delmonico homered and double, scoring twice and driving in two. Brannen tripled, stole two bases, and scored twice. Kingery had two singles and a steal. Fowler was caught stealing and doubled, while driving in a run. Victor Caratini doubled home a run, but made an error.

Tomorrow is a quick off day, before finishing the series.

April 3rd, 2021: I claimed 2B Mauricio Dubon off waivers and optioned SS Tyler Saladino down to AAA. Dubon has great speed and makes a lot of contact while playing solid defense. He's a career .290/.371/.412 hitter in 44 big league games, but is out of options.

April 4th, 2021: Game two of 162 took place between righties Lucas Sims and Jameson Taillon. Taillon made his Marlins debut. It was another pitchers duel, and we took the second game 2-1.

Taillon was brilliant, just an unearned run in 6 innings. He walked 1, allowed 4 hits, and struck out 4. He didn't get the win, that was Steckenrider, who pitched a scorless 7th. Arano and Tyler Jay got holds, and Shiotani another save.

We had just 5 hits today, 4 singles and a Brian Anderson double. Cole Brannen got another steal and drove in a run, while Brinson stole his first base of the year. Anderson was charged with the error that cost a run, but it didn't end up costing the game.

April 5th, 2021: We rank 5th in the opening power rnakings, although with just two games played, it doesn't mean anything.

We could pull of the sweep with Zach Davies taking on Luiz Gohara. The outcome was different then the first two, and we fell 7-2.

Davies got a no decision, just 2 runs in 5 innings. He allowed 6 hits and struck out three. Steck was charged with the loss, 4 runs in the 7th while getting just 1 out with a strikeout. He allowed 2 walks and 2 hits. Wei-Chieh Huang also allowed a run in the 8th.

Again, just 5 hits, although Dustin Fowler swung the bat well. He doubled and hit a two run homer in 4 at bats. He drove in Cole Brannen who singled with 1 out in the 3rd.

At 2-1, we're tied for 1st in the East and will face the 2-1 Reds who sit in 2nd. We'd see Jose Rafael Lopez, Tyler Chatwood, and Tyler Mahle (0-1, 1.80 ERA). Let's win some more!

April 6th, 2021: Danny Duffy got the start against Lopez to open up the series at Great American Ball Park for the first roadtrip of the year. It was a clsoe one, but we took the opener 6-4.

Duffy didn't have the best start, allowing 4 hits and 3 walks in 4.2 innings. He did strike out 4 and allowed just 2 runs. Max Povse finished the 5th and got the win, although Arano allowed 2 in the 8th to make it a save situation. Shiotani got the save, his 3rd already.

We had 11 hits, including a pair of homers. Brinson went 2-for-4 with a 2-run homer in the 1st. He also scored again later on. Scott Kingery hit his first Marlins homer, another 2-run shot in the 1st. We scored 5 of 6th in that inning. Brian Anderson drove in the last run in the 1st in a 2 hit game. Andrealton Simmons singled twice and Mauricio Dubon pinch hit for Povse and stole a base.

April 6th, 2021: Walker Buehler is ready to come off the DL, and since he missed all of spring, I'd send him to AAA to begin rehab. He'd pitch tomorrow, and I'd want him to get at least 2 starts.

I calimed RHP Alex Balog off waivers from Washington and designated Brent Suter for assignment. Balog would enter the rotation, although his first start would come later.

Jordan Montgomery (1-0, 3.00 ERA, 1.50 WHIP) would make today's start against RHP Tyler Chatwood. Nick Feight made his major league debut today at catcher. We dropped the middle game 5-2 and would play a rubber match tomorrow.

Two players left the game with injury, Jordan Montgomery and Lewis Brinson. Monty has a sore elbow and will head to the DL, hopefully for just 10 days. He gave up 2 runs off 3 hits in 1 inning. Povse got the loss, 2 runs in 2 innings off 4 hits, 2 walks, and 2 strikeouts. Huang pitched 3 innings, allowing just a home run while striking out 3.

Andrealton Simmons had a great game, three hits in four trips. Fowler drove in two on a double, and Brinson doubled in his only at bat. He's headed to the DL as well with a strained rib cage muscle. Nicky Delmonico drove in the last run on a triple.

Brent Suter lucked out and got his roster spot back, but I'd wait to call up an outfielder until tomorrow.

April 8th, 2021: RF D.J. Peters got the call to replace Brinson on the active roster.

Alex Balog would make his Marlins debut against Reds Ace Tyler Mahle (0-1, 1.80 ERA, 1.40 WHIP). Balog, the former National, was 11-4 with a 3.36 ERA and 1.13 WHIP in 22 starts, so I'm not quite sure why he was waived or how I was able to claim him. Charlie Tilson got the start in left, but we fell 7-4.

Balog struggled, allowing 6 in 5 innings with 8 hits, 2 walks, and 8 strikeouts. Steck was charged with the last run in the 8th inning, as we dropped the series to the Reds.

We had 8 hits, including two from Kingery and Delmonico. Kingery hit a solo shot, singled, and scored twice, while Delmonico drove in three of a pair of singles. Brannen walked twice and singled, scored a base, and stole his 4th base of the season. Andrelton Simmons had a double in four at bats.

It was tough losing the series, but tomorrow we'd get an off day and would return home before hosting the White Sox and Nationals. Walker Buehler made a rehab start, allowing no runs and 3 hits in 3.1 innings with 4 strikeouts and a walk. It was a spring training like game to get him back in the groove.

[ayaghmour2]

April 9th, 2021: The Twins will be without Ryan Pressly for the year with a torn labrum.

Against the White Sox, we'd see Jon Duplantier (1-0, 1.35 ERA), Dylan Cease (1-0, 0.00 ERA), and Dane Dunning (0-1, 3.86 ERA).

April 10th, 2021: Jameson Taillon (0-0, 0.00 ERA,0 0.83 WHIP) got the ball against Jon Duplantier (1-0, 1.35 ERA, 0.75 WHIP) as we hosted the Chi Sox. It was a nail-biter, as we edged the visitors out 2-1, despite being outhit 10-5.

Taillon picked up another no deicison, just 1 run in 7 innings. He walked 1, struck out 5, and alowed 7 hits. Steck got the win, striking out the final hitter in the 8th, and Bulldozer Shiotani earned his 4th save despite allowing 2 hits in the 9th.

Our whole offense came on two pitches, a solo homer by former Sox Nicky Delmonico in the 4th, and a pinch hit homer by Nick Feight in the 8th for his first career hit. Cole Brannen doubled and singled, and picked up his 5th steal in as many attempts. It's unlikely, but he's on pace for 116 on the year.

April 11th, 2021: The A's lost LHP Daulton Jefferies for the year with a partially torn ulnar collateral ligament. He tossed 6 strong innings to start the season, allowing just 1 run off 3 hits, 1 walk, and 4 strikeouts.

Game two saw Zach Davies (0-0, 3.60 ERA, 1.20 WHIP) and Dylan Cease (1-0, 0.00 ERA, 0.60 WHIP) go at it as we looked to win the series a game early. We were unsuccessful, dropping the middle game 6-1.

Davies allowed half the runs in 5.1 innings off 5 hits, 2 walks, and two strikeouts. The other three were charged to Tyler Jay who pitched 2.2 innings, allowed 3 hits, and struck out three.

We had 9 hits, including a pair of doubles from Brannen and Dustin Fowler. Fowler singled as well and scored the only run. Andrealton Simmons singled twice and had the only RBI. Charlie Tilson had a pair of singles against his former team.

Reds 2B Shedric Long went 5-for-5 in a 9-2 win over the Pirates.

April 12th, 2021: The Mets added RHP Daniel Hudson on a 1-year, $3,560,000 deal. The 34-year-old is playing on his 6 team in 6 years.

We're back down to 16 in the power rankings.

Danny Duffy (0-0, 3.86 ERA, 1.50 WHIP) was on the mound against Dane Dunning (0-1, 3.86 ERA, 2.14 WHIP) in the season finale. Again, we took the loss, this time 5-2.

Duffy allowed 4 in 3 innings in his second rough start. Max Povse allowed just a hit and a walk with three strikeouts in 2.1 innings. The final run was charged to Arano.

We had 7 hits, including doubles from Brian Anderson and Victor Caratini. Caratini had one of the RBI's, the last a pinch hit single from Fieght. Scott Kingery walked and stole a base as well.

Greensboro 2B Kyle Kasser went 5-for-5 in a 12-4 win over Delmarva. Acquired from Houston, I've had him take reps in left.

It was dissapointing to lose another series, but we had to keep fighting. At 4-5, we're just 1 game out of first and we'd face the 2-7 last place Nationals. We needed to sweep Matt Wisler (0-1, 13.50 ERA), Max Scherzer (1-1, 2.53 ERA), and Mike Leake (0-2, 7.45 ERA).

April 13th, 2021: Brent Suter made his season debut agasint Wisler (0-1, 13.50 ERA, 2.25 WHIP) to open up the series. Balog is much better then Wisler, but who am I to judge? Either way, we won 8-2 because Wisler was on the mound, so I'll take it.

Suter surprised, just 2 runs in 6 innings off 5 hits, 2 walks, and 3 strikeouts. Steck and Arano got holds before we scored 4 in the bottom of the 8th.

Andrelton Simmons lead the way with three hits, two singles and a double, with 2 runs scored. Delmonico, Tilson, and Feight had two hits as well. Feight hit two homers, was walked twice, scored three times, and drove in three runs. Pretty good for a Rule-5 pickup. Tilson doubled and scored, as well as stealing a base. Suter himslef doubled in a run as well. Cole Brannen hit a grand slam in the 8th and walked in 5 trips to the plate. Simmons shockingly made his 2nd error of the year, although he also stole a bag.

Here's an interesting story, former 19th round draft pick back in 2018 Cody Deason of the Red Sox tossed a 5-hit shut out in a 3-0 win over the Indians. He was released after draft day by the Brewers and then signed with the Red Sox a little while after. He's slowly progressed and faught his way into the majors, and this is just his 2nd career start.

April 14th, 2021: Alex Balog (0-1, 10.80 ERA, 1.80 WHIP) looked for a revenge start against Max Scherzer (1-1, 2.53 ERA, 1.22 WHIP). I gave the ice cold Anderson a day off in favor of Chselor Cuthbert. Revenge was not served, as we dropped the middle game 5-3.

Balog was charged with the loss, although he allowed just 2 runs in 6.1 innings off 3 hits, 2 walks, and 5 strikeouts. Steckenrider allowed 2 in 1.1 innings off 3 hits, despite striking out three, and I think he needed to regroup in the minors. Shiotani allowed the last run in the 9th.

Anderson ended up playing, getting a pinch hit double in the 8th. Victor Caratini drove in a run with two singles and a double in 4 at bats. Dustin Fowler singled home a run and walked, although he was caught stealing.

I optioned Steckenrider to recall Buehler from his rehab assignment. He made his second start yesterday, and looked ready to go.

April 15th, 2021: Zach Britton does what he likes best, wait a long time and sign a monster 1-year deal. He'll join the Rangers on a 1-year, $30,500,000 contract. The last two seasons, his ERA has been below 1.25.

Jameson Taillon (0-0, 0.69 ERA, 1.00 WHIP) looked to get his first win as a Marlin against Mike Leake (0-2, 7.45 ERA, 1.86 WHIP) in a must win. Win we did, and we picked up the finale 7-3.

Taillon did allow 9 hits in his 7 innings of work, but he allowed only 2 runs. He walked 1 and struck out 6. Tyler Jay earned a hold before we scored three in the 8th. Max Povse allowed the final run in the 9th, a homer to John Hicks.

We rallied for 12 hits including three homers. Cole Brannen hit a 2 run shot in the 8th, Delmonico a solo shot in the 2nd, and Simmons a two run shot in the 6th. Delmonico singled as well, while Simmons singled twice and score another time in the game. Simmons and Fowler stole bags, and Victor Caratini had a double and later scored. Scott Kingery, who has been strugling, had a pair of singles, drove in a run, and scored.

D.J. Peters left the game with inury, and we'd await diagnosis.

Sitting at 6-6, we're out of first by just 1 game. We'd head to Atlanta to face the 5-7 Braves who we opened the season with. We'd see Luiz Gohara (1-1, 3.18 ERA), Patrick Weigel (1-0, 0.82 ERA), and Mike Soroka (1-2, 3.71 ERA). Soroka made his debut today, and tossed a really fine outing in real life.

[ayaghmour2]

April 16th, 2021: We entered Atlanta to start the three game serie. Zack Davies (0-1, 4.35 ERA, 1.26 WHIP) got the ball to start the series against Luiz Gohara (1-1, 3.18 ERA, 1.15 WHIP). A Nicky Delmonico 7th inning grand slam propelled us to a 5-4 season opening victory.

Davies went just 5, allowe 7 hits, 3 runs, and struck out 4. Offseason acquisition Matt Purke got the win, striking out 5 hitters in 2 innings. Victor Arano got a hold, and despite allowing a run Yasukazu Shiotani got the save.

April 17th, 2021: D.J. Peters is headed to the DL with a concussion. In just two days, Lewis Brinson will be eligible to come back from the DL, but for now, I'd call up Adam Hasley to make his MLB debut.

Hasley batted 2nd and played left as Danny Dufft (0-1, 7.04 ERA) and Patrick Weigel (1-0, 0.82 ERA, 1.36 WHIP) took the mound in game two. Another rough start for Duffy and we fell 7-2.

It wasn't all his fault, as he allowed 3 runs (2 earned) in 5.1 innings of 4 hits, 2 walks, and three strikeouts. Wei-Chieh Huang allowed a run in 1.2 innings and Arano allowed 3 in 0.1.

Hasley doubled in both runs in the 8th and walked in his debut. Andrealton Simmons was 1-for-4 with a steal and scored. The last hit was a Scott Kingery single.

After the game, I optioned the struggling Arano to AAA and recalled Brian Miller from AA.

April 18th, 2021: Hasley's trip on the active roster was short lived, as he'll head to AAA to make room for Brinson.

Walker Buehler made his much anticiapted season debut against Mike Soroka (1-2, 3.71 ERA, 1.29 WHIP). Brinson is back in the lineup, hitting third and playing left. We won the series and the finale, today's game was 5-2.

Buehler went just 3.2 innnings, walking three, allowing three hits, and three strikeouts, but just 1 run. Brent Suter got the win with 1.2 unspectacular, yet scorless innings. James Farris and Matt Purke got holds, and Bulldozer Shiotani got the save, striking out the side.

Brinson made his prsence known, going 3-for-4, hitting a solo homer, swiping a base, and scoring twice. Nick Feight went 1-for-3 with 2 RBI's and his 4th homer of the year. Nikcy Delmonico and Cheslor Cuthbert both doubled, although Delmonico's scored one. Cole Brannen went 1-for-4 and stole his 6th base of the year, good for a tie with Cody Bellinger and Monte Harrison.

We got tomorrow off before heading to New York for three with the Mets!

April 19th, 2021: Down in Jupiter, Brandon Riely won player of the week, hitting .611 with 4 RBI's and 3 runs scored.

Power Rankings also came out, as we moved up to 11th in the league.

Looking ahead to the Mets series, they were 1/2 a game behind us at 8-8, with just one more loss. We'd see Luis Marrero (0-1, 3.57 ERA), Jacob deGrom (2-1, 4.22 ERA), and Michael Wacha (1-1, 4.71 ERA). It'll be a really tough series.

April 20th, 2021: Alex Balog (0-2, 6.35 ERA, 1.24 WHIP) opened the series against Cuban Superstar Luis Marrero (0-1, 3.57 ERA, 0.91 WHIP). Balog was excellent, as we took the opener 4-1. We tend to win the openers, which would be good if we won the rest of the series too.

Balog allowed the lone run in 6 innings of work. He walked 1, allowed 3 hits, and 5 strikeouts. Former Met Matt Purke and Tyler Jay got holds, while Bulldozer Shiotani earned his 7th save.

We had 12 hits and 11 of them were singles. Victor Caratini was 3-for-4 with a run scored and driven in with a double. Dustin Fowler, who has struggled this season, went 4-for-5 with a run scored and driven in. Andrealton Simmons was the last Marlin with multiple hits, he was 2-for-4.

April 21st, 2021: Jameson Taillon (1-0, 1.35 ERA, 1.15 WHIP) faced off against Jacob deGrom (2-1, 4.22 ERA, 1.31 WHIP) in the middle game. The key to beating the Mets is to limit their lineup, and we did, but we just scored 1 run, so we lost 3-1.

The biggest loss of the game was Taillon, who exited in the 4th. He allowed 5 hits and 3 runs, with 3 walks and a single strikeout, so I crossed my fingers while witing for the diagnosis. Max Povse had 2.2 shutout mop up innnings, and both Farris and Purke didn't allow a hit.

We did have 7 hits, but it wasn't enough. Caratini was 2-for-3 with a double, a single, a walk, and he scored the only run on a Scott Kingery RBI single. Dustin Fowler was 1-for-3 with a walk.

April 22nd, 2021: Luckily, all results were negative on Taillon, and his oblique is fine. We dodged a bullet there...

The series finale took place between Zach Davies (0-1, 4.70 ERA, 1.30 WHIP) and Michael Wacha (1-1, 4.71 ERA, 1.38 WHIP) as we looked to win the series on the road. Instead, we fell to .500 with a 5-2 loss.

Davies allowed 4 of the 5 runs in 6.1 innings of work. He allowed 7 hits, 3 walks, and 5 strikeouts. Farris was charged with the last run, but he struck out three in 1.1 innings.

Again, 7 hits were our total. Caratini was the highlight of the offense, again, 2-for-4 with 2 runs scored and a solo homer in the 2nd. Fowler was 1-for-3 with a walk and a steal. Brian Anderso nhad a pair of singles in four at bats.

Odubel Herrera went 5-for-6 as the Phillies beat the Pirates 7-6.

We went back home for three with the Pirates, but we're now 2.5 games behind the 12-7 Phillies. The Pirates are also 12-7, but 2 games out of first. We'd see Tyler Glasnow (1-0, 3.12 ERA), Joe Musgrove (3-0, 2.67 ERA), and Mitch Keller (0-0, 6.75 ERA). Let's start winning again!

[ayaghmour2]

April 23rd, 2021: Danny Duffy (0-2, 5.54 ERA, 1.54 WHIP) hosted the Pirates and Tyler Glasnow (1-0, 3.12 ERA, 1.27 WHIP) to start the series and homestand. We scored 10 runs in the 3rd, and it was all we needed in the 10-5 victory.

Duffy finally pitched well, just a single run in 6 innings, despite allowing 9 hits. He struck out 4 and didn't walk a batter. Max Povse had a rough outing, 4 runs in 0.2 innings off 3 hits and 3 walks with a strikeout.

Dustin Fowler had a monster outing, 2-for-5 with a steal, 2 runs scored, and 6 RBI's! He hit a 2-out grandslam off the starter Glasnow. Cole Brannen and Nicky Delmonico doubled, but most of the action came from singles. Scott Kingery went 3-for-4, scored a run, and stole a base.

April 24th, 2021: Game two saw Walker Buehler (0-0, 2.45 ERA, 1.64 WHIP) took on Joe Musgrove (3-0, 2.67 ERA, 0.96 WHIP) for the middle match. Buehler pitched a bit longer as he worked back to strength, as we shut them out 2-0.

Buehler went 5.1, allowed just 3 hits and struck out 5. Brian Miller and Tyler Jay got holds, and Yasukazu Shiotani got the save, his 8th already.

We had just 6 hits, and half of them were Lewis Brinson. He singled and hit two solo homers, so he was basically the only offense. Scott Kingery was 1-for-1 with a double and two walks.

Luis Severino tossed a 4-hit shutout as the Yankees beat the rival Red Sox 4-0.

Willie Calhoun hit 3 homers for St. Louis in an 11-0 win in Colorado.

April 25th, 2021: Alex Balog (1-2, 4.67 ERA, 1.04 WHIP) took the mound against Mitch Keller (0-0, 6.75 ERA, 1.57 WHIP) as we looked to pull off the sweep. Another strong pitching performance and we finished the sweep with a 5-1 victory.

Balog went 7, allowing a single run off a walk and 6 hits, while striking out 5. Matt Purke and Tyler Jay pitched perfect frames en route to the win.

We managed 11 hits, with four players with more then one. The red hot Lewis Brinson who singled and hit a solo shot in the 6th. He also stole a base. Cole Brannen was 2-for-5 with an RBI and a triple, while Brian Anderson was 1-for-4 with a run scouring double, and later scored as well. Dustin Fowler drove in a run in a 2-for-4 performance.

We got to stay home after the sweep before facing the Reds for four. We'd see Robert Stephenson (1-1, 2.38 ERA), Vladimir Gutierrez (0-1, 3.00 ERA), Jose Rafael Lopez (0-2, 8.56 ERA), and Tyler Mahle (1-3, 5.70 ERA). We now sit in first, tied with Atlanta, with a 12-9 record. The Reds are in 5th and 5 games out, and sit at 9-13. A four game sweep would be crucial, expecially since it would be a 7-0 homestand.

April 26th, 2021: We're top 10 in the Power Rankings, up to 9th to start the week.

It what should be a pitchers duel, Jameson Taillon (1-1, 2.31 ERA, 1.33 WHIP) will battle with fellow righty Robert Stephenson (1-1, 2.38 ERA, 1.10 WHIP). We kept the hot streak gonig with a nice 4-3 win to open the first of four.

Taillon didn't do too great, just 4 innings with all three runs and 6 hits, while striking out just two. Max Povse went 2 innings of long relief with 3 K's, a walk, and two hits. Matt Purke got the win, 2 innings with just 1 hit and three K's before the Bulldozer earned his 9th save with a perfect 9th.

Dustin Fowler lead the offense with a 3-for-4 game. He doubled, scored twice, and stole a base. Nicky Delmonico was 1-for-2 with 2 walks and an RBI double. Andrealton Simmons was 2-for-4 with a double. Brian Anderosn went 2-for-4 as well, but he hit a solo homer, his 1st of the year.

April 27th, 2021: Zach Davies (0-2, 4.91 ERA, 1.36 WHIP) took the mound against Jose Rafael Lopez (0-2, 8.56 ERA, 1.83 WHIP) for game two. Another nailbiter, as we scored 5 in the 7th and 1 in the 8th to take a 7-3 lead. The Reds, however, rallied for three in the 9th, before Shiotani eventually retired the side, and we won 7-6.

Davies struggled, 6 hits and 3 runs in 4 innings. He walked 5, but struck out 4. James Farris got the win, Wei-Chieh Huang got a hold, but Miller allowed 2 runs, ,a walk and a hit, and was pulled for the closer Shiotani. He gave up 1 run of his own, but got two strikeouts and the save, his league leading 10th.

Brian Anderosn was a huge factor of the win, 3-for-4 with a solo homer and a total of 3 RBI's. Simmons doubled and scored in four at bats. Lewis Brinson hit his 6th homer of the year, a 2-run shot off Julio Urias. Delmonico was the only position player to not record a hit, as even pinch-hitter Charlie Tilson singled and scored. It's been a rough start for Nicky, as he's hitting just .233, albeit with 15 RBI's.

April 28th, 2021: Jordan Montgomery is ready to start rehab and he'll head to AAA New Orleans and make a rehab start today.

The Braves extended face of the franchise Freddie Freeman for 4-years, a total of $92,800,000 guaranteed. He'll recieve a $900,000 MVP bonus and a $190,000 All-Star bonus. It would've been nice for him to leave Atlanta...

Now with 1st place all to ourselves, Danny Duffy (1-2, 4.26 ERA, 1.53 WHIP) would battle righty Vladimir Guitierrez (0-1, 3.00 ERA, 1.11 WHIP). Duffy was brilliant, tossing a 4-hit shutout in a 1-0 victory and I don't know who's spot Montgomery will take in the rotation. Duffy struck out 7 as well, and needed just 94 pitches to get the job done.

We did have 7 hits in the game. Lewis Brinson and Dustin Fowler both had two hits in four trips. The former tripled while the latter doubled and stole a base. Anderson drove in Delmonico on a single in the 4th for the only run of the game. Delmonico also had a clutch steal in the 4th, which put him in scoring position.

There were a few other amazing pitching perfromances, the most impressive a no-hitter for Astros starter Jose Quintana as the Stros beat Seattle 3-0. Cody Deason, who I mentioned earlier, tossed another shutout, this time a 5-hitter as the Red Sox beat the Rays 3-0.

But it wasn't all about pitching, Julio Pablo Martinez of the Rangers went 5-for-5 despite his team losing 12-6 to the Royals. 22-year-old Vladimir Guerrero Jr. had a 3-homer outing as the Jays beat Oakland 12-5.

April 29th, 2021: Danny Duffy asked me for an extension, demanding a 1-year, $16,000,000 contract, but I only have a little more then 2 million for extensions. Besides, he's technically my 6th starter, and hopefully, I can earn draft pick compensation for him. Him and fellow Zach Davies are eligible for free agency this year, as well as 3B Cheslor Cuthbert.

Walker Buehler (1-0, 1.00 ERA, 1.00 WHIP) took the mound against Tyler Mahle (1-3, 5.70 ERA, 1.52 WHIP) as we looekd to finish a perfect homestand with a four game sweep. Tied 4-4 going into the 8th, we pulled ahead with three in the bottom frame and Shiotani bulldozed the Reds in the 9th, as we won 7-4!

Buehler wasn't great, allowing 6 hits and 4 runs in 3.2 innings, with 2 walks and 2 strikeouts, but Max Povse was. He tossed 3.1 mop up innings with just 2 hits and 4 strikeouts. Tyler Jay got the win after a perfect 8th, and as mentioned, Shiotani got save #11.

We had just 8 hits, but 5 of them left the yard. Both Brinson and Delmonico had two home runs and drove in 3 runs. Brinson also walked twice, stole a base, and scored three times as opposed to two, and brought his average up to .400 for the year. It's extremely impressive considering he got off to a slow start before a short DL stint. The last homer went to Victor Caratini, a solo shot in the 8th. Mauricio Dubon walked and doubled in three at bats. All seven runs came from the longball in the finale.

We'd start a 7 game road trip, beginning with four against last place Washington. At 16-9, we had a 6.5 game lead over the 9-15 Nats, and the closest team Atlanta is right on our tails, just 1 out. I can't complain about out start, but I know we have many more wins ahead of us!

[ayaghmour2]

April 30th, 2021: I claimed RHP A.J. Puckett of waivers from Minnesota. He's rated as a 2/2.5* as a starter, but the 25-year-old will pitch out of the pen for me. I'd add him to the active roster after today's game.

Alex Balog (2-2, 3.70 ERA, 1.03 WHIP) got a second chance against his former team and Miguel Almonte (0-1, 1.23 ERA, 0.95 WHIP) to start the four game set in Washington. All good things must come to an end, and we fell 12-5.

The Nats scored 11 runs in the first 5 innings of the game. Balog allowed 8 off 9 hits in 3.1 innings, although he didn't walk a single batter and struck out two. Brent Suter allowed 3 more in 1.2 innings, with 2 hits, 2 walks, and a strikeout. Max Povse faired a bit better, pitching the final 3 innings of the game. He allowed a run, 2 hits, and struck out three.

We had 15 hits, so we should've scored more then 5. Three players had three hits. Nicky Delmonico homered and singled twice, while driving in two runs on his homer. Cole Brannen had three singles, scored a run, and was caught stealing in 5 at bats. Lastly, Charlie Tilson doubled and singled twice in five trips. Lewis Brinson was 2-for-5 with a run scored, RBI, and steal. Victor Caratini and Scott Kingery both hit solo homers. Mauricio Dubon doubled in four at bats.

I designated Brent Suter for assignment to make room for Puckett on the active roster. I'd like him to clear, but it wouldn't hurt losing him.

May 1st, 2021: D.J. Peters is healthy and will be optioned to AAA New Orleans.

Sidenote: I just realized Cam Bedrosian had a setback and will now miss 13-14 more months. I don't know when this happened, but now I regret signing him again...

Garrett Hampson was named American Confrence Hitter of the Month for AAA New Orleans. He hit .385 with 25 RBI's and 26 runs scored.

One more bit of news, Trevor Rosenthal signed a 1-year, $7.7 million dollar contract with the Rockies. Rosenthal was the last big free agent available.

We looked to get back on track with Jameson Taillon (1-1, 2.96 ERA, 1.35 WHIP) facing Matt Wisler (0-3, 8.05 ERA, 1.63 WHIP). This looked like an easy win from the start, but the Nats scored three in the bottom of the 9th with a walk-off Trea Turner homer off Yasukazu Shiotani, and we fell 4-3.

Taillon went 7 and allowed just 5 hits and a run, while striking out only two. Tyler Jay got the hold, before Shiotani blew the save with 2 outs.

The bats were a bit cold, just 6 hits. All runs were scored off homers, a 2-run shot in the first by Lewis Brinson and a Dustin Fowler solo shot in the 6th. Fowler and Brian Anderson both had two hits.

The Rays Joe McCarthy hit 3 homers in a 10-1 win over the Athletics.

May 2nd, 2021: We needed to bounce back, and sent the struggling Zack Davies (0-2, 5.19 ERA, 1.58 WHIP) to the mound to face the also struggling Mike Leake (0-5, 8.37 ERA, 1.82 WHIP). It took 15 innings, but we manage to score 3 in the top to secure a 4-1 victory.

The pitching was impressive all game. Daives allowed just 1 run in 7.1 innings off 6 hits with three strikeouts. Shiotani bounced back with two solid innings with 4 K's, albeit 2 walks and 2 hits, in extras. James Farris went above and beyond and got the win, 4 scorless innings with a pair of hits and strikeouts.

We had 13 hits, and all starters besides Davies recorded a hit. All 13 hits were singles. Branne, Fowler, Delmonico, Kingery, and Anderson all had a pair of hits. Brinson and Simmons drove in a run a piece, and Delmonico drovein two. We also stole a ton of bags, both Kingery and Brinson stole one, and Fowler stole two. He was also caught once, and is now 8-for-16 on the year.

May 3rd, 2021: Hampson also won player of the week, hitting .560 with 2 homers and 11 driven in. I want him getting everyday at bats, but he may force himself back on the big league roster.

We're now up to 6th in the Power Rankings!

We looked for the split, with Danny Duffy (2-2, 2.89 ERA, 1.18 WHIP) taking on Jerald Eickhoff (2-0, 9.15 ERA, 1.68 WHIP). On paper, this is a win. And in reality, it was, as the bats woke up for an 11-2 explosion.

Duffy allowed just 1 run in 6 innings off just 3 hits and no walks. He struck out 7 in the game as well. A.J. Puckett got charged with the last run, a homer in 2 innings with 3 strikeouts in his Marlins debut.

Every starting position player had a hit today as well. Scott Kingery had a monster game, 4-for-5 with a homer, 3 RBI's, and 2 runs scored. Lewis Brinson hit a pinch hit, 2-run homer in the 8th, giving him 10 on the season. Victor Caratini was 2-for-5 with a double that drove in a pair. Delmonico was 2-for-4 with 2 runs scored, a double, and an RBI.. Andrelton Simmons doubled, walked, and scored, in 5 plate appearences. Dustin Fowler had a pair of singles, scored twice, walked, and drove in a run. Lastly, Cole Brannen singled, scored, and stole a base in the series finale as we walked away with a split.

Our next series would be tough, three in Chicago against the division leading Cubs. We're both leading our divisions, they're 20-9 and we're 18-11. We'd be looking at three tough lefties, Robbie Ray (3-0, 2.51 ERA), James Paxton (4-1, 3.66 ERA), and Patrick Corbin (3-2, 6.23 ERA). And while he won't pitch in this series, Jordan Montgomery is nearing a return to the rotation.

May 4th, 2021: Suter cleared waivers and was outrighted to AAA.

Walker Buehler (1-0, 3.55 ERA, 1.34 WHIP) started the series against Robbie Ray (3-0, 2.51 ERA, 0.87 WHIP) in a crucial series opener. The Cubs proved to be too good, taking the first of three 8-3.

Buehler lasted just 3 innings, allowing 5 hits, 4 walks, and three runs, while striking out three. The real damage was done in the pen off Wei-Chieh Huang and Brian Miller. Huang, who left with an injury, allowed 3 in 0.1 innings off 3 hits, and Miller allowed 2 in 2.2 innings with 2 hits, 2 walks, and a strikeout.

We did manage 10 hits, including a pair of solo shots from Kingery and Brian Anderson. Cole Brannen and Dustin Fowler both picked up 2 singles in 5 trips, and Brannen swpied his 8th bag.

Now with Arizona, Adam Eaton went 5-for-6 in a 19-4 crushing of Colorado.

May 5th, 2021: Alex Balog (2-3, 5.86 ERA, 1.23 WHIP) will make likely his last start in the rotation for hopefully the season against Canadian James Paxton (4-1, 3.66 ERA, 1.38 WHIP). We needed to steal a win in the middle game. And steal we did, topping the North Siders 8-6 with help from a 4 run 9th.

Balog had another rough start, 6 runs in 4.1 innnings off 11 hits, 2 walks, and 2 strikeouts, so I can understand why he was designated for assignment. The pen was sharp the rest of the way, as Tyler Jay earned win 2 and Shiotani save 12.

We had 13 hits, with all 9 starters, including Balog, recording hits. Brian Anderson had an amazing game, going 2-for-4 with a run scored and 5 RBI's, including a grand slam off Trevor Bettencourt. Cheslor Cuthbert also hit a 2-run homer, his only hit in 5 at bats.We had a bunch of doubles. Lewis Brinson had one of them, in a 3-for-4 outing, scoring twice and driving in one, to go with a walk. Cole Brannen, Scott Kingery, and Nick Feight all had doubled, their only hit each. Dustin Fowler had a triple in 5 at bats.

Brendan Rodgers went 5-for-5 as this time, the Rockies beat the D'Backs by a score of 10-7.

May 6th, 2021: Today the draft pool was released, but first Marlins baseball! Jameson Taillon (1-1, 2.62 ERA, 1.22 WHIP) looked to take the road series win against Patrick Corbin (3-2, 6.23 ERA, 1.27 WHIP). And we were able to best the 1st place Cubs with a 6-3 win.

Taillon was sharp, 2 runs off 6 hits in 6 innings with a walk and three strikeouts. Matt Purke and James Farris earned holds, and Bulldozer Shiotani got the save after Huang, who is just DTD for a handful of days, allowed a run in the 9th.

We needed only 7 hits. Three of them were from the slick fielding Simmons, two doubles and a single, and he raised his season average to .324. Cole Brannen was 2-for-4 with a run scored, 2 RBI's, and a double. Folwer Doubled as well, walking a batter, scoring a run, and driving in another. Lewis Brinson hit a two run shot in the 1st, and walked in four trips to the plate.

A small transaction was made after the game: Jordan Montgomery was recalled from his rehab assignment, and Brian Miller was optioned back to AA. He'd take the #1 spot and bump Balog to the pen.

We had a day off tomorrow, but first a quick peek at the draft pool and who OSA ranks as the top 10: The first number is my scout, the second their's.

1. RHP Luke Leto (0.5/0.5): This one puzzles me...
2. RHP Ethan Wood (3.5/4.5): This one makes sense
3. RHP Whitney Fudge (3.5/5)
4. RHP Luis Arazia (2.5/4.5)
5. RHP Pat Beamer (3.5/5)
6. RHP Dave Capetillo (2/5)
7. RHP Tommy Shores (2/5)
8. RHP Tyrese Sinkfield (4.5/5)
9. RHP Sean Geise (0.5/5): He was selected in the 2nd round by Washington last year.
10. LHP Jimmy Healy (4/5)

OSA must really love pitchers...

My scout really likes this draft and it looks like a really deep one. His two favorite guys are CF Ken 'Huge' Adeniran (5/2) and Andy 'Big Wily' Grote (5/4). I'm guessing Grote doesn't fall, but Adeniran should. I also really like Sinkfield, but while this draft is deep, it's a lot more balance then top-heavy.

I wanted to catch up on a the 2018 guys that didn't sign and where they are now.

1st Rounder: RHP Ethan Hankins (2/2)
6th Rounder: CF Tim Ball (1.5/2.5)
14th Rounder: C Erik Hoyer (0.5/0.5)
20th Rounder: LHP Jimmy Jones (1.5/2.5)
23rd Rounder: SS Tim Hubbell (2/1)
24th Rounder: C Kevin Roberts (0.5/0.5)
27th Rounder: RHP Dominic Pipkin (1.5/2.5)
29th Rounder: RHP Bradley Spooner (2/2.5)
32nd Rounder: 2B J.D. Douglas (0.5/0.5)

Luckily, it looks like none of these guys really got away. And tomorrow, is an off day to return home!

[ayaghmour2]

May 7th, 2021: Former Marlins prospect RF Monte Harrison will miss the rest of the season with a microfracture surgery in his knee. Ironically, he was origionally drafted by Milwaukee, traded to us in the Yelich trade, and then sent back in exhange for 3B Lucas Erceg.

Today was an off day before we would host Minnesota for two. The Twins are 17-14, half a game out of first, while we are 20-12 with a 1.5 game lead. We'd see Zack Littell (6-0, 2.25 ERA) and former Marlin Wei-Yin Chen (0-3, 6.10 ERA).

May 8th, 2021: Zack Davies (0-2, 4.32 ERA, 1.41 WHIP) was on the mound against Zach Littell (6-0, 2.25 ERA, 0.85 WHIP) to open the quick two game set. We were out hit 9-7, but outscored the Twins 5-2.

Davies was great despite allowing 7 hits in 5.1 innings. He didn't walk a hitter, allowed just 1 run, and struck out 6. Alex Balog finished the 6th and got the win, Wei-Chieh Huang got a hold pitching the 7th, and Yasukazu Shiotani earned his 14th save with a perfect 9th.

Dustin Fowler was the offesnive star of the game, going 3-for-4 with 2 runs and 3 RBI's, and was just a triple shy of the cycle. Him and Cole Brannen both picked up steals. Brannen was 0-for-1, but walked three times and scored twice. Andrealton Simmons had a double in three at bats.

Mike Moustakes had three homers as the Braves beat the Rockies 11-8.

May 9th, 2021: Former Marlin Wei-Yin Chen (0-3, 6.10 ERA, 1.45 WHIP) looked to get his new team the split as Jordan Montgomery (1-0, 5.14 ERA, 1.71 WHIP) made his first start since returning to the active roster. It was a rough one, as we dropped the finale 7-3.

Montgomery allowed 5 (4 earned) in 2.2 innings off 7 hits, while striking out two. A.J. Puckett had 2.1 solid mop up innings against his former team with 4 strikeouts. Matt Purke and Huang allowed a run a piece in the 7th.

We had just 4 hits all game. Brian Anderson was 1-for-2 with a walk and a solo homer. Victor Caratinit drove in two in the first on a double. Scott Kingery was charged with the error that plated a run, his 4th on the season.

We had a day off tomorrow to prepare for the Brewers who were coming into town.

May 10th, 2021: We're up to 5th in the latest edition of the power rankings. Just Houston, Tampa, the Dodgers, and Cardinals are ahead of us.

Looking ahead to th Brewers series, we'll see Brandon Woodruff (2-2, 5.76 ERA), Corbin Burnes (2-1, 4.01 ERA), and Jimmy Nelson (2-1, 3.67 ERA). We still have a 1.5 game lead and are 21-13 to start the year. Milwaukee has been less lucky, 17-18 and 5 games out.

May 12th, 2021: Walker Buehler (1-0, 4.60 ERA, 1.66 WHIP) opens the series against Brandon Woodruff (2-2, 5.70 ERA, 1.35 WHIP). The home fans were treated to a close one, as we edged the Brew Crew 7-6.

Buehler tossed just 4 innings, allowing 6 hits, 3 walks, and 3 runs (2 earned) with 5 strikeouts. Matt Purke struggled, blew the save, and allowed 3 hits and 2 runs in the 7th with a walk and two strikeouts. Tyler Jay earned the win, despite allowing a run and 2 hits in the 8th with two strikeouts. Bulldozer Shiotani got the save with 2 strikeouts and a ground out.

We had 14 hits scattered through the lineup. Fowler had another 3 hit game, doubling, scoring twice, driving in two, and wlaking. Lewis Brinson had a pair of homers in five at bats, driving in three and scoring twice. Brian Anderson made an error, but was two for four. Cole Brannen, Scott Kingery, and Nicky Delmonico had doubles. Brannen himself was 2-for-3 with a run driven in and two walks. Charlie Tilson scored in the 8th after a pinch hit single and steal of second. It's always nice to win the opener.

Speaking of Fowler, his hit streak is up to 20. After starting slow, he's now got his triple slash to .346/.388/.522 with 4 homers, 24 RBI's, and 9 steals.

36-year-old veteran Jeff Samardzija tossed a 3-hit shutout as the Mariners beat one of his former teams, the White Sox, 1-0.

May 12th, 2021: David Price is out for the year with a torn UCL. Now 35, he has just two years left in his contract that has been awful since 2018. Now fully in the pen, he had a 5.35 ERA, but a more respectable 1.30 WHIP with 25 strikeouts and 8 walks. He has, however, already allowed 8 homers in just 37 innings.

Jameson Taillon (2-1, 2.68 ERA, 1.21 WHIP) got the start in the middle game against now 31-year-old Jimmy Nelson (2-1, 3.67 ERA, 1.15 WHIP). It took 11 innings, but none other then Dustin Fowler walked it off with a single, earning a hard-faught 4-3 win.

Taillon allowed 3 in 5.1 innings off 8 hits, 2 walks, and 6 strikeouts. Matt Purke allowed 3 hits in 0.2 innings before leaving with an injury. We'd await his diagnosis. Tyler Jay picked up his 4th win, pitching a scorless 11th. Orlando Arcia actually had five hits against our pitching staff and scored once in 6 at bats.

We were outhit 14-9, but we still did enough to get the win. Fowler was 2-for-6 with a double that rose his hit streak up to 21. Scott Kingery drove in two and was 2-for-4 with a walk. Cole Brannen was 2-for-5, scored twice, stole a base, and doubled to start the game. Lewis Brinson doubled and walked in 5 plate appearences, and crossed the plate twice. Andrealton Simmons doubled in his 4 at bats.

Noah Syndergaard tossed a 5-hit shutout as the Mets beat the Cubs 6-0. The Mets are tied with Atlanta for second, and 2.5 games behind us.

May 13th, 2021: Danny Duffy (3-2, 2.65 ERA, 1.06 WHIP) faced Corbin Burnes (2-1, 4.01 ERA, 1.13 WHIP) in the finale as we looked to pull off the sweep. Again, we won 4-3, although in just 9 innings.

Duffy was great, but got the no decision, despite going 8 innings. He allowed 2 runs, 5 hits, a walk, and struck out 5. James Farris, now 3-0, blew the save, but got the win, allowing 2 hits, a run and 2 strikeouts in the 9th.

We walked off with a Nick Feight pinch hit single. All 8 of our hits came from singles. Dustin Fowler's hit streak is up to 22, 2-for3 with a walk, run scored, and run driven in. Cole Brannen was 1-for-2 with a walk, hit by pitch, and he scored twice. Lewis Brinson was 1-for-3 with 2 RBI's, one from a single, the other a sacrafice fly.

The sweep brought our record to 24-13 and we head to San Francisco for three to face the 15-21 Giants. We'd most likely see Madison Bumgarner (1-7, 5.40 ERA), Brad Keller (0-0, 0.00 ERA), and Jose Osvaldo Morel (0-1, 5.52 ERA).

[ayaghmour2]

This might be the only post for today since I likely won't have any internet connection most of the day and some of tomorrow:

May 14th, 2021: Lefty Matt Purke is headed to the 60-Day DL with bone chips in his elbow. I wanted another lefty, so 25-year-old Corbin Clouse got the callup. In 11.1 innings at AAA New Orleans, he has a 4.76 ERA and 1.68 WHIP, striking out 14, but walking 9. He'd work middle relief, pushing Farris to the 7th.

In other injury news, my favorite pitcher Aaron Sanchez tore his UCL and is out for the year. He's just a shell of his former self, but has had solid numbers the past two years. Injuries have really killed his bright career.

We'd open a long 10 game road trip with the struggling Jordan Montgomery (1-1, 7.45 ERA, 1.97 WHIP) taking on the equally struggling MadBum (1-7, 5.40 ERA, 1.51 WHIP). In another close one we scored 2 in the 7th and 3 in the 8th to eek out a 6-5 opening win.

Montgomery wasn't great, but he was better, allowing 5 runs, but just 3 were earned, with 7 hits, 2 walks, and 4 strikeouts in 5 innings. Wei-Chieh Huang got the win, pitching a scorless 7th and Clouse made his Marlins debut and earned a 2 inning save.

We had 12 hits, including two more from Dustin Fowler. In five plate appearences he doubled, walked, stole a base, was caught stealing, scored, and drove in a run. Andrealton Simmons was 2-for-4 with a three run homer in the 8th off Nate Jones. Cole Brannen went 2-for-5, scored twice, and stole his 15th base of the year. Brannen has 4 more steals then anyone else in the NL, and 2 more then anyone else in the majors.

May 15th, 2021: Brad Keller (0-0, 0.00 ERA, 1.75 WHIP) will make his first start after three relief appearences against upcoming free agent Zach Davies (0-2, 3.96 ERA, 1.40 WHIP). The Giants lineup doesn't look all too scary, but they earned the 5-3 win, despite our late inning efforts, scoring two in the 9th.

Davies did alright, but he walked 5 and allowed 5 hits in 5 innings. It just equated to 2 runs, but he struck out just 3. Alex Balog was charged with a run in 7 innings and Tyler Jay allowed 2 more in 0.2 innings off 4 hits.

We had just 6 hits, three for extra bases. Lewis Brinson was 2-for-4 with a double, a run scored, and an RBI. The ice cold Nicky Delmonico doubled in 4 trips to the plate, and Scott Kingery hit his 6th homer, a two run shot in the 9th off Colin Poche. Cole Brannen walked in four trips, and stole base #16.

The sad news was Fowler's hit streak was ended at 23, as he went 0-for-3 with a walk.

May 16th, 2021: We looked to win the series with Walker Buehler (1-0, 4.58 ERA, 1.78 WHIP) taking on Jose Osvaldo Morel (0-1, 5.52 ERA, 1.64 WHIP). In a game we should've won, we lost 5-4 in 12 innings, dropping a series we definitely should have one.

Buehler allowed just 1 run in 5.1 innings, with 4 walks and 7 strikeouts, but the pen wasn't as solid as normal. Clouse allowed 1 in 1.2 innings, Farris 2 in 1 inning, and Povse was charged with the winning run in 2 innings, although it was unearned thanks to a Brian Anderson error.

We only had 9 hits, but all 8 offensive starters had one. Kingery was the only with two, a pair of singles. Lewis Brinson was 1-for-4 with 2 runs scored, 2 walks, 2 driven in, and a homer. Anderson did double, but it wasn't enough to make up for his error. Brannen and Fowler picked up steals, the 17th and 12th respectively. They also rank 1 and 2 in the NL.

We didn't have time to dwell over the loss, as he had four in Coors Field against the 2nd place Rockies. They're 18-21, a poor start, compared to our 25-15 record. We still have a 2.5 game lead, but we needed to win at least three of these. We'd see Vince Velasquez (2-2, 5.71 ERA), German Marquez (3-3, 4.19 ERA), Jon Gray (4-2, 3.56 ERA), and Mashiaro Tanaka (3-3, 7.20 ERA).

May 17th, 2021: 2B Vidal Brujan of the Jupiter Hammerheads won Player of the Week. The 23-year-old Marlin hopeful was 12-for-22 with a homer and 6 runs driven in.

We moved all the way up to 2nd in the Power Rankings, despite dropping 2 of 3 to San Fran. We have 114.5 points, 30 behind the Astros who hold first.

In what might be a slugfest, Jameson Taillon (2-1, 2.96 ERA, 1.29 WHIP) will look to stay effective against Vince Velasquez (2-2, 5.71 ERA, 1.64 WHIP) in a pitcher's knightmare known as Coors Field. They scored 3 in the bottom of the 8th, we scored 3 in the top of the 9th, but we got our bounceback win to start the series, 4-3.

The bad news: Taillon left with an injury. He was cruising 3.1 no-hit innings with a walk and three strikeouts, but I'd hold my breath for now. Puckett came in clutch with long relief, 2.2 perfect innings. James Farris had a rough outing, 3 runs off 4 hits in 1.1 innings. Tyler Jay did earn his team leading 5th win, getting the final two outs in the 8th while facing three batters. Shiotani earned his 16th save of the seaosn.

Nick Feight, our Rule-5 pick, made the difference, taking former Marlin Trevor Rosenthal deep in the 9th with 2 outs and 2 strikes, driving in three. Lewis Brinson was 2-for-4 with a double and a steal, but was also caught trying to take third. Brian Anderson doubled, singled, and scored, in 4 at bats.

Worst case scenario, if Taillon needs to miss time, Balog can fill in, but that's not something I want to think about...

May 18th, 2021: Luckily, Taillon just has a strained back, and should miss maybe two starts. He'd head to the DL, which will make room for Drew Steckenrider. AAA has been much better then the majors for him, working a 2.31 ERA and 1.37 WHIP in 11.2 innings with 16 strikeouts.

In other injury news, the Orioles will lose 26-year-old southpaw Keegan Akin for a calender year with a torn UCL. He's not the best option out of the pen, but you never want to lose young pitching.

Danny Duffy (3-2, 2.57 ERA, 1.00 WHIP) took the mound against German Marquez (3-3, 4.19 ERA, 1.26 WHIP). Both teams scored 1 in the 1st, 2 in the 2nd, and 1 in the 3rd, but only the Marlins scored 2 in the 7th.

Duffy struggled, 4 runs (3 earned) with 5 hits and 3 walks in just 5 innings. He did, however strike out 7. Wei-Chieh Huang struck out a batter to start the 6th, but left with an injury. I've had way too many pitching injuries to start the season. Max Povse came in, got the dub, and didn't allow a run in 1.2 innings. Tyler Jay got a hold and Bulldozer Shiotani earned the save, his 17th of the season. Since becoming the closer midway through the year last season, he has 37 saves. If he was 22 not 32, he'd have a legitimate shot to break Rivera's save record.

We had 13 hits, 12 singles and a Cole Brannen leadoff homer to start the game. He was 4-for-5, scored twice, drove in three, and stole 2 bases in 3 attempts. Lewis Brinson was 1-for-4 with a walk, steal, and scored twice. Victor Caratini was 2-for-3 with a run scored, a run driven in, and a walk. Nicky Delmonico drove in two in a 2-for-5 game as we earned at least a split of the four game road series.

May 19th, 2021: Huang will be fine, just a sore back and he'd miss just today's game.

Jordan Montgomery (1-1, 6.75 ERA, 1.91 WHIP) needed a good start, but those are hard to come by in Colorado. He'd face Jon Gray (4-2, 3.56 ERA, 1.23 WHIP) as we looked to win the series a game early. "Gumby" got 12 runs of support, as we won 12-3.

He allowed all three runs in 5 innings, with 3 hits, 2 walks, and 3 strikeouts. He just hasn't looked himself this year... he pen was solid, wih Clouse, Povse, A.J. Puckett, and Steckesaurus pitching scorless innings. Clouse walked 2 and struck out 2, Puckett struck out 2, and Steck allowed a hit and got a strikeout.

We had 16 hits in the offensive explosion. Andrealton Simmons was 3-for-4 with a triple and three runs scored. Victor Caratini went 2-for-4 with a walk, 4 RBI's, and a homer. Lewis Brinson was 2-for-4 with a homer, 2 runs scored, and 2 driven in. He now has 15 homers and 33 RBI's to go with a .344 average in a MVP type season. Dustin Fowler was 2-for-5 with a run scored, a run driven in, and a steal. Cole Brannen drove in 3 and scored twice in a 2-for-4 game in 5 trips to the plate. Nick Feight and Cheslor Cuthbert both had pinch hit doubles and eventually scored. Scott Kingery also had two hits in 4 at bats, although both were singles.

Could we pull off the sweep tomorrow?

May 20th, 2021: We looked to stay hot and pick up the four game sweep with Zach Davies (0-3, 3.92 ERA, 1.47 WHIP) taking on the sruggling free agent acquisition Mashiaro Tanaka (3-3, 7.20 ERA, 1.63 WHIP). Road sweeps are hard to pull of, especially in four games, and we eventually fell 3-2.

Davies allowed all three in the 2nd, but allowed just 2 hits, 3 walks, and struck out 4. He left after a rain delay in the 5th. Huang, Farris, and Steckenrider had scorless frames, although Farris labored a bit with a walk, hit, and two strikeouts.

We did have 8 hits, but didn't do much with them. Dustin Fowler hit a 2-run homer in the 1st after Cole Brannen lead off the game with a single. Fowler, Delmonico, and Anderson were all 2-for-4 in the game.

We'd finish the road trip with three in Los Angeles before a day off in a duel of first place teams. Our record was better, 28-16, but their 26-18 isn't too shabby either. We'd see Danny Salazar (4-1, 3.55 ERA), Gerrit Cole (3-3, 4.19 ERA), and Alex Wood (4-4, 4.14 ERA) from the defending champs. Buehler should face the team that traded him in this series.

[ayaghmour2]

Again, not much internet access, so this might be the only post for today as well.

May 21st, 2021: We opened up the last series in our roadtrip with Alex Balog's (3-3, 5.92 ERA, 1.34 WHIP) return to the rotation against Danny Salazar (4-1, 3.55 ERA, 1.07 WHIP). It's certainley early, but it's worth noting backup catcher and Rule-5 pick Nick Feight has an OPS of 1.174 to start the year, as he is in the lienup today to give Victor Caratini some rest. The Dodgers took the opener 5-2 in front of their home fans.

Balog allowed 4 in 5 off 7 hits, 2 walks, and 3 strikeouts. The last run was charged to Tyler Jay in the 7th inning.

We had only 5 hits, and all our runs were scored on Scott Kingery's 2-run homer in the 4th. Cole Brannen was 2-for-3 with a walk and two steals. Dustin Fowler and Lewis Brinson swiped bags as well, although neither got a hit.

We'd took to bounce back tomorrow...

May 22nd, 2021: Walker Buehler (1-0, 3.96 ERA, 1.64 WHIP) made his return to LA to face Gerrit Cole (3-3, 4.19 ERA, 1.16 WHIP). Our team was exhausted, as four everyday starters were listed as tired, and I shuffled the lineup to give the aquedate rest. It showed, as we dropped the second game 9-6, giving us the same record as the Dodgres at 28-18.

Buehler allowed 4 runs off 8 hits in 4.1 innings with a walk and 4 strikeouts. Max Pocse allowed a run finishing the 5th, and James Farris allowed 3 (2 earned) without recording an out. Both Delmonico (in RF) and Feight (at 1B) made erros, but at positions they are not comftorable with. The last run was charged to Wei-Chieh Huang in the 8th.

We managed to steal 5 bases, one for Brannen, Mauricio Dubon, Feight, Caratini, and Charlie Tilson. We even had 12 hits, as Brannen was 4-for-5 with 2 runs scored and 2 doubles. Delmomnico was 1-for-3 with a homer and drove in 3 RBI's, 2 from the homer and the other from a sac fly. Caratini was 2-for-5 with a run scored and driven in. Lastly, Scott Kingery had a pair of singles in 4 at bats.

May 23rd, 2021: We looked to avoid the sweep in a duel of southpaws. Danny Duffy (3-2, 2.87 ERA, 1.06 WHIP) would take Alex Wood (4-4, 4.14 ERA, 1.18 WHIP) before a much needed day off. Today, two more players were out of the lineup due to fatigue. One in the 8th and 2 in the 9th gave the game away to the Dodgers, as we were walked off 6-5 on an Edwin Rios pinch hit homer.

Duffy allowed 3 in 5 off 6 hits, 2 walks, and 2 strikeouts. Farris and Povse got holds, despite the latter allowing a run, but Shiotani had bad luck. The first batter of the inning got on base from an Andrelton Simmons error, and then Rios hit the homer. It was his second blown save and second loss.

Simmons was 3-for-4 with 2 doubles and an RBI, but in the end, he sadly cost us the win. Lewis Brinson was 1-for-4 with a walk and 2-run homer. Mauricio Dudon singled twice in 5 trips, stole two bases, and scored.

It was a rough series, as we are now half a game behind the 28-18 Mets. Tomorrow would be a much needed day off, and it marks the start of All-Star voting.

May 24th, 2018: Cole Brannen was named player of the week after hitting 14-for-26 with a homer, 7 RBI's, and 7 runs scored. Our young RF is hitting .314/.407/.446 with 3 homers, 20 RBI's, and 22 steals in his first full season.

As expected, we took a tumble in the power rankings, down to 8th.

We headed home today to prepare for a series with the Phillies. At 28-19, we're just half a game behind New York and half a game St. Louis as the 1st Wild Card. We'd see the 23-23 Phillies send JoJo Romero (3-3, 3.38 ERA), Marcos Molina (5-2, 3.54 ERA), and Nathan Eovaldi (3-1, 3.96 ERA). We really needed to win this series.

May 25th, 2021: The Braves pen took a hit, losing Tommy Hunter for the year with a torn ulnar collateral ligament. He was 1-0 with 3 saves and a 2.96 ERA to start the season.

Jordan Montgomery (1-1, 6.41 ERA, 1.73 WHIP) needed a win in front of the home fans against JoJo Romero (3-3, 3.38 ERA, 1.19 WHIP). We failed to win again, losing 6-5 in a close opener.

Montgomery allowed just 3 runs in 5.1 innings off 5 hits, 2 walks, and 8 strikeouts, so at least he looked good. Huang did not, allowing 3 runs in an inning with three hits, picking up a blown save and loss.

We did have 8 hits, but it wasn't enough. Lewis Brinson was 1-for-3 with a 2 run homer and a sacrafice fly. Nicky Delmonico doubled home a run in the 1st in a 1-for-4 performance. Dustin Fowler was 2-for-4 and scored twice. Cole Brannen doubled and later scored in 5 trips to the plate.

We needed to start winning.

May 26th, 2021: Zach Davies (0-4, 4.07 ERA, 1.42 WHIP) looked to stop the skid against Marcos Molina (5-2, 3.54 ERA, 1.32 WHIP) in a must win game. The offense fell asleep in a 2-1 loss, and I wish I didn't pick the game back up again today...


Davies pitched as well as he could, just 4 hits and 2 runs in 7.2 innings. He did walk three, but struck out six.

We only had four hits, and half were Lewis Brinson, who singled and doubled. Scott Kingery hit a homer in the 7th against his former team, the only scoring we had all game.

Taijuan Walker tossed a 1-hitter against the Rockies and the D'Backs won the contest 3-0.

May 27th, 2021: All-Star voting updates: Victor Caratini ranks 3rd for catchers, Lewis Brinson ranks 2nd for leftfielders, Jameson Taillon ranks 5th for starting pitchers, and Yasukazu Shiotani ranks 5th for relievers. It's the first time we've had more then 1 guy in the top 3 or top 5.

We couldn't afford back-to-back sweeps, so Alex Balog (3-4, 6.07 ERA, 1.40 WHIP) needed to allow no runs. His opponent, Nathan Eovaldi (3-1, 3.96 ERA, 1.46 WHIP) as the mediocre Philllies looked to pull of the unexpected sweep. Perhaps this was a pitty win, as we took this one 9-7.

Fun Fact: All runs were scored in the 3rd inning. Yes, they scored 7 in the top and we scored 9 in the bottom.

Balog was awful, and I'm going to do something extreme with him. He allowed 7 runs in 3 innings off 9 hits, 2 walks, and 3 strikeouts. Max Povse, however, was perfect: 3 perfect innings with 2 strikeouts. He got the win, Tyler Jay and James Farris holds, and Bulldzoer Shiotani the save.

We had 9 hits and I'm guessing most were in the 3rd. The only non extra base hit was a Scott Kingery double in the 7th. He also singled, drove in a run, picked up a steal, and scored in that crazy third. Brian Anderson and Mauricio Dubon had steals as well. Dustin Fowler was 2-for-5 with a run scored and two driven in. Caratini and Simmons were both 1-for-4 with 2 RBI's and a run scored. Cheslor Cuthbert, who pinch hit for Balog in the third, was 1-for-2 and scored, both at bats in the third. It wasn't pretty, but we snapped the losing streak.

Nolan Arenado hit his 300th homer as the Dodgers lost to San Diego 6-4.

On the Balog debacle, he's kind of too good, at least ratings wise, to designate for assignment, but maybe someone woulk take him in a trade? Of course, there were a lot of offers, but most weren't good. I ended up working the Angels to send me CF Jordon Adell and RP Kenyan Middleton for Balog and Adam Frazier.

Starting with Jo Adell, the 22-year-old boast massive pop and is an elite defender in the outfield with elite speed. He's rated a 0.5/2.5 and can also pitch a little. I'd work him as a two-way player.

Middleton, 27, will head to the pen. He's a 3* with insane stuff, two elite pitches and one plus pitch, and solid control. "Key," like Balog, is struggling and needs a change of scenery, but I could hide him if needed in the pen, where you can't hide a starter. Taillon comes off the DL tomorrow, so I don't need another starter.

We got a home and away with the Yankees coming up. We're now 29-21 and 2 games out of first while the Yanks are 23-27 and in last place. In the two home games, we'd see Jake Arrieta (1-4, 6.00 ERA) and Zack Godley (2-2, 4.85 ERA) before heading to the Bronx. Let's hope for a solid set of games before the draft on June 5th.

[ayaghmour2]

Should be back to a normal schedule now:

May 28th, 2021: Jameson Taillon is back with the team and Wei-Chieh Huang is headed down to AAA.

Taillon (2-1, 2.76 ERA, 1.22 WHIP) took the ball to start the quick two games in New York against Jake Arrieta (1-4, 6.00 ERA, 1.47 WHIP). I'm hopinh Taillon can return to his elite pre-injury form. He wasn't great, but we still won 5-4.


Taillon allowed 4 off 4 hit in 4.1 innings. He walked 2 and struck out three in the no decision. James Farris got the win, pitching the 8th with a hit and two strikeouts. Yasukzau Shiotani earned his 19th save, striking out two and allowing a hit.

We had 8 hits, three from Lewis Brinson. The left fielder drove in three, two from a double and the other from a single. Reliever A.J. Puckett scored after doubling off Arrieta in the 5th. Victor Caratini also had a pinch hit double and scored in the 8th. Brinson, Cole Brannen, and Scott Kingery had steals, while both Taillon and Nicky Delmonico made errors.

May 29th, 2021: The Yankees will keep fireballer Aroldis Chapman in town for at least two years. He'll make $16,800,000 both years, before a team option with the same dollar value and a $3,200,000 buyout. The "Cuban Misssle" is having a down year like he did in 2019, both years an ERA over 5.00, but in his career he's never had another season with an ERA above 3.60. He also has 287 career saves and could conceiveably reach 300 this year.

I don't quite know if you can call it a sweep, but that's what would happen if Walker Buehler (1-0, 4.60 ERA, 1.70 WHIP) and the squad out score former Marlin Zack Godley (2-2, 4.85 ERA, 1.48 WHIP) and the Yankess before we head to Yankee Stadium for two more.

Well, there wasn't much pitching, but the game did go 10 innings. Victor Caratini took the newly extended Chapman deep for a walk off solo homer, and we took the 8-7 victory to push our record to 10 games over .500.

Let's start with the bad: Lewis Brinson was hit by a pitch and dislocated his finger. He's just DTD, but I think I'd play him every other game to hopefully aovid re-injury.

Buehler pitched bad as well, 10 hits in 4.2 innings with 6 runs, 2 walks, and 6 strikeouts as his ERA is gover 5 and a half. He hasn't quite been as advertised yet, but it's still early enough for the 26-year-old to rebound. Max Povse allowed the last run in 1.1 innings off 2 hits, despite striking out 2. Kenyan Middleton made his Marlins debut and struck out two in the 7th. Corbin Clouse earned the win, 2 hitless innings with a walk and three strikeouts.

Offensively, we had 10 hits, inlcuding three singles from Nicky Delmonico. He drove in two and scored once. Dustin Fowler doubled and singled in 5 at bats, as well as scoring twice. Andrelton Simmons drove in two with a pair of singles in four at bats.

We're off to New York to face Sonny Gray (2-3, 5.14 ERA) and Michael Pineda (1-2, 3.34 ERA) to finish the four with the Yanks.

May 30th, 2021: The Astros lost SP Francis Martes for the rest of the year with shoulder inflammation. The struggling 25-year-old was one of the guys I could've traded Balog for, but he was doing much, much worse, and ERA over 11 when offered.

Danny Duffy (3-2, 3.12 ERA, 1.12 WHIP) got the ball in the New York opener against Sonny Gray (2-3, 5.14 ERA, 1.55 WHIP). I gave Brinson the day off in favor of Charlie Tilson. We took game three 5-4, despite a late Yankee rally.

Duffy allowed just 1 run off 3 hits and 3 walks in 5 innings, despite striking out only two. Clouse got a hold, striking out 2 and walking 1 in the 6th, and Drew Steckenrider allowed 2 runs off a hit and 2 walks in the 8. Yasukazu Shiotani allowed 1 more in the 9th, but he finished off the inning to record the save. He does have trouble with the long ball, with all the runs he's allowed except one coming from a homer.

We had 10 hits. Simmons lead the charge with three, a pair of singles and a double, as he scored twice and drove in a run, while also reaching on a base on balls. Cole Brannen doubled, walked, and scored in 5 plate appearences. Mauricio Dubon played DH and hit 9th in an AL game, going 2-for-4 with an RBI and a steal. Dustin Fowler doubled and drove in a run in four at bats.

May 21st, 2021: Down in AAA, Ryan Mountcastle is really mashing, and this week he won player of the weak. The 3B hit .419 with 5 homers, 12 RBI's, and 11 runs scored. As a whole, he's hitting .360/.418/.654 with 14 homers and 54 RBI's, but there is no room on the active roster for him, with Kingery, Anderson, and Delmonico playing the positions he can play. Eventually he'll earn a callup, but I like how he's getting regular at bats.

The Power Rankings came out and we're in 5th, just 1 spot below Mets who we are tied with for first.

Jordan Montgomery (1-1, 6.12 ERA, 1.64 WHIP) got the ball in the final game of May against his former team and Michael Pinedas (1-2, 3.34 ERA, 1.21 WHIP). I took advanage of the DH and placed Brinson there for today's game and played Anderson in left with Cuthbert at third. The bats rallied, and we won 7-5.

Gumby still hasn't got back in the groove, allowing 4 runs in 5.2 innings, but still picked up the win. He gave up 6 hits, walked 1, and struck out 6. If you told me Montgomery and Buehler haven't pitched well all year and those two and Taillon have all spent time on the DL I would never have guessed we were in first. Farris and Tyler Jay (allowed 1 run) picked up holds and Shiotani got the save.

Everyone, but Delmonico had a hit today as we managed 16 of them. Brannen went 3-for-5 with a three run homer. Dustin Fowler was 3-for-5 with a steal. Lewis Brinson wasn't slowed down by his finger, a double and a solo homer in 5 at bats. Nick Feight also hit a homer and single in four trips, scoring twice and driving in two. Anderson looked fine in left and went 2-for-4 with a solo homer and he scored twice. Finally, Scott Kingery went 2-for-5 with a pair of singles to point out the rest of the notables.

Still tied with the Mets in first, we'd head to Washington for three. At 19-34, they're 13.5 games behind the 32-20 Mets and the 33-21 Marlins. The projected starters are Max Scherzer (3-2, 3.62 ERA), Mike Leake (1-8, 5.93 ERA), and Miguel Almonte (2-3, 3.35 ERA). Another sweep? Let's hope!

Just an interesting tidbit, the #1 Wild Card is techincally tied between us and the Mets, while the #2 spot is tied by the NL Central top two Cardinals and Cubs. The competition in both the Central and East are really tough, while the Dodgers have a 8.5 game lead with no other team at .500 or better. In comparison, the East has four and the Central three.

June 1st, 2021: The Rays lost intriguing young righty Adrian Navas to a torn rotator cuff that will cost him the rest of this and part of next season. In 21 relief apperaences and two starts he was 2-0 with 5 saves, a 1.65 ERA and 0.89 WHIP with 38 strikeouts and 12 walks in 32.2 innings.

In better news, Lewis Brinson was named Player of the Month, even though he was better in April. He hit .303 with 10 HR's and 28 RBI's. For the season, he's hitting a robust .340/.406/.748 with 18 homers and 48 RBI's to go with 10 steals. He's on pace to accumulate 8.2 WAR, MVP numbers.

Down in AAA, Mountcastle was named batter of the month. He hit .354 with 9 homers and 25 RBI's, and scored 29 times for the Baby Cakes.

One more Marlin with accolades, as RHP Jairo Solis was Southern Leauge Pitcher of the Month. The 21-year-old ace of Jacksonville was 4-1 with a 0.64 ERA in 28.1 innings, and racked up 34 strikeouts.

One more piece of news, the Red Sox traded RHP Mike Shawrayn to the Indians for 2B Jesse Berardi. I like this deal for the Indians, although I view Shawaryn as a reliever not starter.

We opened up the series in our Nation's capital with Zach Davies (0-5, 3.83 ERA, 1.35 WHIP) looking to pick up his 1st win of the year against Jerald Eickhoff (2-2, 9.10 ERA, 1.76 WHIP) who was making a spot start. I left Brinson in the lineup after his performance yesterday. On paper, this looks like an easy win. But then again, this is OOTP not paper...

Instead, we played a 13 inning marathon that lead to a Anderson Franco walkoff single off Corbin Clouse in a 6-5 loss.

Davies allowed 4 runs in 6 innings with 6 hits and two punch outs. Jay gave up the 5th run in the 7th off a homer. Farris tossed a perfect inning, and both Max Povse and A.J. Puckett tossed two perfect.

We did have 10 hits, but it wasn't enough. Brian Anderson was 2-for-6 with a single and solo homer in the 2nd. Both Delmonico and Caratini doubled in five at bats, although Delmonico drove in two. Nick Feight, who's exceeded expectations severely, had a pinch hit triple. The 25-year-old backup catcher has a .717 slugging perfecntage and is hitting .302 with 6 homers and 14 RBI's. What a steal from the Padres! Brinson was 2-for-4 with a walk and hit by pitch. He also swiped two bags.

Nathan Eovaldi of the Phillies tossed a 3-hit shutout against the Cardinals in a 2-0 victory.

June 2nd, 2021: The Indians lost LF Abraham Almonte for the rest of the year with a torn labrum.

We had a nice pitching matchup, Taillon (2-1, 3.21 ERA, 1.24 WHIP) against Scherzer (3-2, 3.62 ERA, 1.43 WHIP). I gave Brinson the day off in favor of the lefty Charlie Tilson. We bounced back to an 8-1 win.

Taillon was brilliant, despite only recording three K's. In 6 innings, he walked 1, allowed just 5 hits and a run, and earned his 3rd victory. Both Povse and Puckett didn't allow a hit to finish the game.

The hit total reached 13 today, as Taillon was the only player with a plate appearence to not record a hit. Even pinch hitters Cheslor Cuthbert and Mauricio Dubon recorded hits. The first an RBI single and eventually scored, the latter a double in which he scored as well. Victor Caratini had a two run homer and a single in 5 at bats. Dustin Fowler was 2-for-4 with a solo homer off Scherzer in the 6th. Tilson, Brinson's replacement, went 2-for-4 and scored, so it looks like I made a good choice.

June 3rd, 2021: All star voting update: Caratini sits in 3rd, Brinson in 1st, and Shiotani in 3rd. I'm shocked Brannen isn't at least 3rd for RF. He's just not popular enough.

We looked to win the series and hopefully take first, but we'd need a good start from Walker Buehler (1-0, 5.56 ERA, 1.82 WHIP). He'd face Miguel Almonte (2-3, 3.35 ERA, 1.30 WHIP) who would have to deal with a healthy Lewis Brison. If anyone is shocked with Brinson's production, I wouldn't be surprised if he develops into an MVP caliber player in real life as well.

Brinson was held quiet, but Buehler delivered the needed good start in a 4-2 victory to claim the series on the road.

Buehler was a little wild, but he really pitched well in his 6.2 innings. Just 4 hits, despite 4 walks, but he struck out 10 Nationals. Middleton allowed a run in 1.1 innings, but still got the hold, before Bulldozer Shiotani got his 22nd save.

We only had 7 hits, but three of them were Andrelton Simmons. Two were singled, and he also doubled, stole a base, and scored twice. Scott Kingery doubled and singled in four at bats, while driving in a run and scoring twice. Dustin Fowler was 1-for-3 with a walk and a steal. Now with 17 steals, he trails just Brannen in the NL.

And we're back in first! With a day off before a crucial series at home against none other then the Mets!

June 4th, 2021: Tomorrow was the Amateur Draft, but today was a free game to travel home before one of the biggest series' of the season.

At 35-22, we had a one game lead ovver the 33-22 Mets. It'd be a hard fought series, but as of now, we'd avoid Thor. We'd see Michael Wacha (3-2, 3.86 ERA), Chris Sale (4-3, 4.53 ERA), and Jacob deGrom (5-3, 3.82 ERA). These are winnable games, but It's defintely going to be tough.

But first, I'd have a special draft edition, since it happens to come right before the series starts! And like always, around the end/beginning of a new month, here's the teams stats in our semi-fixed version:

[ayaghmour2]

Welcome to this special edition 2021 Amateur Draft Edition! I haven't been the best at these, considering none of my draftees have made the majors, but that's not completely my fault, conisdering it's just been a few seasons.

With the first pick of the 2021 drafSt, the San Francisco Giants select: SP Tra'Mayne Blackburn from Alisal, a High School in Salnias, California!

I'll outline my picks below:

1st Round, 15th Overall: CF Ken 'Huge' Adeniran (5): Can't complain about this pick, this kid looks like the real deal. Almost all hs potentials are over 60 for hitting (58 eye) and he has 100/95/100 speed abilities. He's not the greatest defender out there, but he more then makes up for it with the bat. He's a franchise player, and eventually I won't be able to pay my stud outfielders. He's just 18, so the Garland, TX native has a lot of developing left to got.

2nd Round, 51st Overall: SP Jeremy 'Rebel' Kulhman (3.5): He's going to be costly, demanding over $4 million to sign, but it's definitely going to be worth it. He looks like a #2 starter and was absolutely dominate in High School, striking out 193 batters with just 13 walks in 1006 innings to go with a 0.51 ERA and 0.62 WHIP. He's got killer stuff, rated 91 potential and throws from a nasty 3/4 arm slot.

3rd Round, 83rd Overall: RF Segio "Mauler" Varas (3.5): Yes, I know I take a lot of outfielders, but he's too good to pass up. The New Jersey native has 83 power potential and an 80 arm. He has the skills to be a top defensive rightfielder and lead a team in home runs. He'll sign for slot, which makes my overall pool more affordable, and has great intangibles.

4th Round, 117th Overall: SP Josh Windom (4): He said he won't sign, but I'm willing to take the risk. He looks like a possible ace, with three plus plus pitches and the stamina to pitch 8 or 9 any given day. He won't blow by you, but he uses every one of his pitches effectively, and I hope I can convince him to forgo college.

5th Round, 147th Overall: SS Tim Webb (3): He's an elite defender with top speed, but he doesn't put the ball in play. He'll walk a ton with his great eye, but he will have his share of strikeouts. The lefty from Fordyce, Arkansas might have injuries in the future, but he's a nice lottery pick if he can improve his contact.

6th Round, 177th Overall: SP Luis 'Chuancey' Geraldino (3): The 18-year-old from Puerto Rico has a devestating change up and will develop into a middle of the rotation starter.

7th Round, 207th Overall: C Ismael Castillo (2.5): Another 18-year-old from Puerto Rico, he has massive power and calls a pretty good game. His arm isn't the strongest, and he likely won't put the ball in play much. But when he does, watch out.

8th Round, 237th Overall: RP Robby Moreno (3.5): Selected out of college, he's near big league ready and has devestating stuff. He could be a 7th or 8th inning guy.

9th Round, 267th Overall: 3B Nate Starwalt (2.5): All bat no glove, although he does have decent range and a cannon for an arm. He's a polished hitter for his age, and reminds me a lot of a right handed Nicky Delmonico with the bat.

10th Round, 297th Overall: 2B Pete Broadhead (2.5): Solid defensive middle infielder with great speed. He'll avoid striking out, but he's a light hitter.

11th Round, 327th Overall: RP Billy Probst (3.5): Another college reliever who looks like he's close to pitching in the bigs. He torches radar guns with his fastball that reaches 100 MPH, although he needs to work on his control and his curveball movement.

12th Round, 357th Overall: CF Kelyn Critch (2): Says he won't sign. Lot's of power and lot's of strikeouts for the switch hitter. Best suited for left.

13th Round, 387th Overall: RF Jorge Arroyo (2): Won't sign. All bat no glove, he'll make a lot of errors in the outfield despite his range. Nice arm too, but inaccurate. Excellent hitter.

14th Round, 417th Overall: SS Chris Drumm (2): Likely more suited for second, but his glove will be elite wherever he ends up. Decent bat too and has good speed.

15th Round, 447th Overall: SP Chris Kurek (1.5): Not much starting pitching left. He's got great stamina and great control to go with a uninspiring, but effective, 5 pitch arsenal.

16th Round, 447th Overall: SS Eric Lucas (2): Elite defender with pop. Can hit 30 homers in a year if he ever gets a full time job.

17th Round, 507th Overall: SS Tim Hubbell (2): I took him in the 23rd round back in 2018. He can play all over the diamond and has a solid bat. Great utility guy.

18th Round, 537th Overall: 3B Erik Gregg (1.5): Won't sign. Decent glove with a great eye. Sneaky power too.

19th Round, 567th Overall: CF Jorge Esquivel (2): Great speed and can play all around the diamond. Has the range for center, the arm for right, and the experience in left. Decent bat too.

20th Round, 597th Overall: CF Bob Guerin (2): Decent foot speed, but can't steal a base. Has the range for center. Great eye and decent bat.

21st Round, 627th Overall: 3B Bobby Wells (1.5): Won't sign. Can play all around the daimond and has massive pop. Good eye and doesn't strike out much either.

22nd Round, 657th Overall: 1B Jim Schlueter (2): Great bat, but can only play first. Can hit for 30 homers and over .270 in a full year.

23rd Round, 687th Overall: CF Savion Vilsaint (1.5): Probably best suited in a corner. Makes a lot of contact and has great speed. Won't sign.

24th Round, 717th Overall: SP Rogelio Velo (1.5): Last starting pitcher with upside. Can go late in games and has a wicked curveball. Spot starter at best.

25th Round, 747th Overall: SP Jon McKinley (0.5): Won't sign. Brilliant academically and an intriguing three pitch arsenal. Great control too.

26th Round, 77th Overall: RF Phil Bromley (1.5): Most likely won't sign. All bat no glove. Can hit a ton of homers.

27th Round, 807th Overall: SS Josh Presley (1.5): Great range and great versatility with a lot of power for a shortstop.

28th Round, 837th Overall: 2B Chris Giancola (1.5): Awful defender, but an insane amount of swing and miss power. Could reach 40 in a full season even if he hits .180.

29th Round, 867th Overall: RF Jaheim Broomes (1.5): Possibly the last player with any amount of upside. 40 HR power with no glove in the corners.

30th Round, 897th Overall: SP Cort Horstman (1): Nice three pitch arsenal, but nothing more then a AAA starter. Decent stamina to eat up innings.

31st Round, 927th Overall: C Chris Bell (0.5): Won't sign. Had a player with his name in another league who was decent. This guy, isn't.

32nd Round, 957th Overall: SS Bubba Pflager (1.5): From my hometown of Chicago. Decent bat and decent glove, but nothing worth noting.

33rd Round, 987th Overall: 2B Josh Zimmer (1.5): Now the last guy with any potential. Decent baserunning ability and decent bat, but not very good middle infielder.

34th Round, 1,017th Overall: SP Ronnie Bourgeois (0.5): Actually has three pitches, better then most of the leftovers. Won't sign.

35th Round, 1,047th Overall: SP Radhakrish Masarani (0.5): Awesome name, no talent. Barely has a third pitch and no stamina. But awesome name. Won't sign.

36th Round, 1,077th Overall: C Joe DeLong (1): Extremely average defensive catcher. Decent power and eye as well.

37th Round, 1,107th Overall: CF Ben Anthony (0.5): Won't sign. Origionally drafted him because of his surename, but he has 80 eye potential, so he could blossom in college.

38th Round, 1,137th Overall: 2B R.J. Price (0.5): Won't sign. Awesome power, but no discipline and he strikes out all the time.

39th Round, 1,167th Overall: SP/DH Omari Harriot (0.5): Won't sign. Kind of a two way player. Kind of. DH really doesn't count in my mind, I'm looking at you real life Shoehi Ohtani and LA, but hey, at least he's trying.

40th Round, 1,197th Overall: CF Juan Ulibarri (0.5): Extremely fast. I love fast players. Enough said.

And there you have it! The Marlins Class of 2021! Stay tuned for the highly anticipated Mets-Marlins series in beautiful Miami, Florida!

Also, in case you were wondering where the rest of my 2018 unsigned guys went, Ethan Hankins fell all the way to 99th Overall where he became a third round selection of the Cleveland Indians. Tim Ball moved up 1 round to the 5th where he was taken 162nd Overall by the Mets. Erik Hoyer was taken in the 40th Round, 1,192nd Overall by the A's, but released after draft day. Jimmy Jones moved from 20th Round to 4th Round where he was selected 105th Overall by the Orioles. Kevin Roberts was selected in the 20th Round, 587th Overall by the Tigers and then released, but I offered him a minor league deal considering his 1.5 potential. Dominic Pipkin went from 27th Round all the way to 4th round where the Padres selected him 120th Overall. Bradley Spooner went 29th Round to 14th Round where the Rays selected him 418th overall, but then released him. Considering his 1.5 potential, I offered him a contract too. Lastly, J.D. Douglas went undrafted again for the third straight year, and will return to Texas for his senior season.

[ayaghmour2]

June 5th, 2021: Ryan Mountcastle currently has a 20-game hit streak after recording a hit last year. He's going to be an amazing injury replacement or an intriguing trade candidate.

We opened the extremely tough and important series with the Mets with Danny Duffy (4-2, 3.00 ERA, 1.12 WHIP) taking on Michael Wacha (3-2, 3.86 ERA, 1.38 WHIP). I think this game is our best chance to win. With a 4 run 8th, we took the opener 6-4.

Duffy allowed just 2 of the runs in 5 innings with 3 hits, 2 walks, and 6 strikeouts in a no decision. James Farris allowed a run in the 6th on a solo homer, despite striking out two. Drew Steckenrider got the win with a hitless 8th, and Yasukazu Shiotani earned the save, despite two hits and a run, while striking out the side.

Scott Kingery had a monster game, 2-for-4 with a double and grand slam against Jacob Rhame in the 8th. Nicky Delmonico was 2-for-4 with a double and a run scored. Cole Brannen walked twice in four plate appearences while scoring and stealing a base. Dustin Fowler hit a two run homer in the 1st and drew a walk in a 1-for-3 game. He scored twice.

Kyle Schwarber hit three homers in a 9-6 Cubs loss to the Nationals.

June 6th, 2021: I say this all the time, but it's a perfect time for a quality Jordan Montgomery (2-1, 6.16 ERA, 1.57 WHIP) start. He'd face another tough lefty Chris Sale (4-3, 4.53 ERA, 1.26 WHIP) in the middle game. I can put that to rest, but we allowed 4 in the 9th to fall 8-7.

Montgomery allowed just a single run in 5 innings, despite 6 hits and 2 walks. He also struck out 5. Max Povse allowed 3 runs while getting just two outs in the 7th. The damage was done off the closer Shiotani, who allowed 4 runs, three off a Brandon Nimmo homer. He got the loss and blow save while just getting two outs.

We had 9 hits, which should have been enough, had the pitching held up. Brian Anderson, Scott Kingery, and Mauricio Dubon hit homers. Anderson also doubled and scored twice. Lewis Brinson was 2-for-5 and drove in a pair off a double. Andrelton Simmons was 2-for-3 with a walk, a run scored, and an RBI.

Despite the loss, we still have a 1 game lead, but need to win the finale tomorrow.

June 7th, 2021: 3rd Rounder Sergio Varas agreed to a $330,000 bonus. For some reason his star rating took a hit, but "Mauler" still has that massive power.

Down in AAA, D.J. Wilson won player of the week, hitting .500 with a homer, 7 runs driven in and 8 scored. That New Orleans team is stacked, 41-17 to start the season. New Orleans is home to 5 top prospects and young stars like Garrett Hampson, Mountcastle, D.J. Peters, and more.

We're back up to 3rd in the Power Rnakins, trailing just Houston and Chicago.

I guess we would see Noah Syndergaard (3-4, 3.89 ERA, 1.18 WHIP) who was bumped up in the rotation for this crucial series finale. Zach Davies (0-5, 4.04 ERA, 1.32 WHIP) looked to get his first win of the year, and this would be the perfect time. And win he did as we took the finale 5-1, winning a key series against the team right behind us.

Davies allowed 1 run in 7 innings off 8 hits and 2 walks, despite striking out 3. James Farris finished the final two innings, striking out three and allowing no baserunners.

Victor Caratini went 2-for-4 with a pair of RBI's in the 1st, and that was enough to propel us for the win. Cole Brannen went 2-for-4 with 2 runs scored, a run driven in, and a steal. Dustin Fowler also picked up a steal in a 2-for-4 with a run driven in and scored.

This was a crucial series win, and now we got to host the 29-31 Royals for three. Now at 37-23, we have a 2 game lead over the Mets. We'd see Daniel Medgden (2-6, 5.03 ERA), Foster Griffin (6-2, 2.53 ERA), and Hunter Perdue (4-3, 3.86 ERA) in the interleague matchup.

June 8th, 2021: Jameson Taillon (3-1, 3.03 ERA, 1.21 WHIP) took the mound for the opener against Megden (2-6, 5.03 ERA, 1.34 WHIP). We couldn't win the opener, falling 4-2.

Taillon allowed 3 in 7.1 innings off 6 hits while striking out 5. Corbin Clouse allowed the final run while finishing the 8th. He walked 2, allowed a hit, and struck out 2.

We only had 6 hits all game. Brian Anderson drove in the only run on a solo shot off Mengden in the 3rd. I was really shocked to lose today, but that's baseball for you...

June 9th, 2021: It took just a $33 bonus to sign Houdruan future star Luis Padilla to a minor league deal. For some reason, the Astros released the #43 prospect in baseball, who became our top prospect. He's a 4* potential with great range and a cannon for an arm. He does make his fair share of errors, but he can still develop into a gold glvoer at short. He's also got a great bat and looks like the shortstop of the future.

Walker Buehler (2-0, 4.87 ERA, 1.72 WHIP) took the mound against Foster Griffin (6-2, 2.53 ERA, 1.09 WHIP) as we looked to bounce back quickly. Griffin is a really good young lefty, so it would be tough. And tough it was, as we were shutout 3-0 and only managed two hits.

Buehler allowed 3 in 4.2 innings with 5 hits, 3 walks, and 4 strikeouts. It looks like the Royals are a tougher test then the Mets...

The two batters with hits? Cole Brannen and Vicotr Caratini. Both were singles. Both didn't help. We did have four walks, but still, it wasn't nearly enough.

June 10th, 2021: My 2nd Rounder Jeremy Kuhlman agreed to his very high $4.6 million dollar signing bonus. He gives me a nice #2 to go with last year's first rounder Josh Weske.

Former Royal Danny Duffy (4-2, 3.05 ERA, 1.11 WHIP) took the mound against Hunter Perdue (4-3, 3.86 ERA, 1.11 WHIP) as we looked to avoid the dreaded home sweep. Again, we were shutout 3-0, and I couldn't explain what happened. And again, just two hits...

We're now tied in first place and I'm too upset to even report on the game...

And to make things worse, Ryan Mountcastle's AAA streak was snapped at 24. Either way, we had tomorrow off before traveling to the west coast.

June 11th, 2021: 1st Rounder Ken Adeniran agreed to a far below slot $800,000 signing bonus. I'm just going to go ahead and call him a faster Mike Trout right now, and be as bold as possible. Between him and Arambula, we're stacked at centerfield at the low level.

We're starting a long road trip with three games against the Padres. We'll see Bobby Stiles (2-1, 2.35 ERA), Dinelson Lamet (7-5, 3.91 ERA), and Tyler Beede (4-8, 4.19 ERA). They sit at 30-35, not as good as our 37-26, but we need to finish this series 40-26.

[ayaghmour2]

June 12th, 2021: A pair young arms saw their seasons' end today. The Astros Corbin Martin partially tore his UCL, ending his rooke season. Frankie Montas of the Angels has a stretched elbow ligament and will miss the rest of the year.

Jordan Montgomery (2-1, 5.55 ERA, 1.57 WHIP) opened the series against Bobby Stiles (2-1, 2.35 ERA, 1.30 WHIP). Lewis Brinson has been cold as of late, so perhaps this is the start of a new hot streak. I'd take a win though, and we edged the Friars 2-1.

Montgomery looked like himslef today, 7 strong innings with just 4 hits and a walk. He only struck out 5, but his performance was inspiring. Drew Steckenrider earned a hold and Bulldozer Shiotani got a save.

We only had 6 hits, 5 singles and a double. The double came from Nicky Delmonico who was 2-for-4 with a run scored as well. Lewis Brinson was 1-for-3 with a walk and run scored.

June 13th, 2021: Zach Davies (1-5, 3.76 ERA, 1.33 WHIP) took on Dinelson Lamet (7-5, 3.91 ERA, 1.46 WHIP) in the second of three. The Padres walked us off on a Dan Vogelback 2-run homer in a 6-4 victory.

Davies was roughed up, 10 hits and 4 runs in 5 innings. He also struck out 4 and walked 3. Kenyan Middleton got the loss, allowing the homer and a walk while getting just 1 out via the strikeout.

We only had 6 hits, 2 a piece for three Marlins. Victor Caratini was 2-for-3 with a double and run scored. Scott Kingery was 2-for-4 with a run scored and driven in. Andrelton Simmons was 2-for-4 with a 3-run homer off Lamet in the 2nd.

We now fell back out of first, and are a game behind the Mets. We do hold the 2nd Wild Card with a 3.5 game lead over the Pirates.

June 14th, 2021: I convinced 4th rounder Josh Windom to forgo college and instead cash a $4,600,000 check to play baseball. With him, Kulhman, and Weske, I could have another three headed monster in the works. Windom is probably even better then Kulhman, the middle ground between a Jacob Faria and a Jordan Montgomery.

5th Rounder Tim Webb also agreed to a small $160,000 bonus. He's not bad, but I don't have the highest hopes for him, as he was more of a bargain signing to save money for Windom.

I now had a little bit of cash leftover to sign a few of my later round picks.

Two more pitchers had their seasons' end today. The first was the A's Blaine Hardy who tore his rotator cuff. The second, Shawn Armstrong of the Orioles, who has a damaged elbow ligament.

Lastly, we fell down to 7th in the Power Rankings. The Mets are up all the way to third.

We looked to win the series with Jameson Taillon (3-2, 3.10 ERA, 1.17 WHIP) taking on Tyler Beede (4-8, 4.19 ERA, 1.59 WHIP). Brannen, Brinson, and Delmonico were all cold, and the latter was at risk of being optioned to AAA in favor of Ryan Mountcastle. I really didn't want to do it, but if he stays cold I might have to. Our bad luck continues, as we fell 4-3 in 10 innings to end the series.

Shiotani has had it rough, picking up another loss. Taillon wasn't his sharpest, 7 hits in 5.1 innings with 3 runs, a walk, and only 2 strikeouts.

Delmonico must've heard the threat, and he went 2-for-3 before being pinch ran for in the 6th. Brannen, however, was 0-for-5 and Brinson just 1-for-5. Dustin Fowler had a great game, 3-for-5 with two doubles and an RBI. Brian Anderson had a good game as well, 2-for-2 with 2 solo homers and 2 walks.

The Reds Shedric Long was 5-for-6 in a 19-10 win over the Brewers.

We're now down to 38-28 and two games back from the Mets. We took a trip to Detroit where we'd play three games with the DH. The probable starters include Daniel Norris (2-5, 7.84 ERA), Franklin Perez (3-3, 2.86 ERA), and Matt Manning (5-2, 6.23 ERA).

June 15th, 2021: The Giants Julian Fernandez is out for the year with a torn flexor tendon. The Closer had 15 saves and a 3.86 ERA this season.

We opened the series with Detroit with Walker Buehler (2-1, 4.96 ERA, 1.72 WHIP) taking on the struggling Daniel Norris (2-5, 7.84 ERA, 1.84 WHIP). Lewis Brinson opened the game with an average below .300 for the first time in months. Luckily, we were able to outlast the Tigers in 14 innings 3-1.

Buehler was fantastic, 7.1 innings with only 3 hits and a walk, while striking out 8, but I might need a new closer. Shiotani blew another save, and his ERA in approaching 4.00. Max Povse was brilliant in extras, 3.1 innings with 3 K's and 3 hits while earning his 5th win. Steck got the save, getting the final 2 outs of the game.

We only had 7 hits all game, which a pair of hitters going 0-for-6. Dustin Fowler went 2-for-5 with a double and RBI. Nicky Delmonico was 2-for-6 with the 2 RBI's in the 12th from a double. Cole Brannen was 0-for-4, but walked twice and stole two bases. Lewis Brinson was 1-for-5 with a run scored and a steal in two attempts.

Rafael Devers went 5-for-5 as the Red Sox still fell to the Rangers 10-7.

Sidenote: I think I missed the last vote count of the All-Star total.

June 16th, 2021: Danny Duffy (4-3, 3.00 ERA, 1.09 WHIP) got the call against Franklin Perez (3-3, 2.86 ERA, 1.08 WHIP) in the middle game. Delmonico finally ins't cold, but Scott Kingery took his place. We won by the same score, but this time in 9 innings.

Duffy tossed a gem, 6 innings with 6 strikeouts, a run, and 5 hits. James Farris and Steckesaurus got holds, and Corbin Clouse picked up the save. Duffy did make an error, his 3rd of the year, but was able to work around it.

Cole Brannen broke back out, 3-for-4 with a leadoff homer and a walk. He also scored after a 3rd inning double. Scott Kingery also hit a homer, a solo shot in the 9th. Nicky Delmonico was 1-for-3 with an RBI double and a walk.

We'd look for the sweep tomorrow, but are still 2 games out of first as the Mets refuse to lose.

June 17th, 2021: Here's the All-Star update: Caratini is third for catchers, Brinson is still first for leftfielders, and somehow, Shiotani is 4th for relievers. He is extremely popular, so that defintely helps.

Jordan Montgomery (3-1, 4.85 ERA, 1.43 WHIP) took the mound against Matt Manning (5-2, 6.23 ERA, 1.49 WHIP) as we looked to pull off the much needed sweep. Instead, we fell 4-1.

Montgomery allowed 3 runs and 8 hits in 4.1 innings with 2 walks and 4 strikeouts. The last run was charged to Kenyan Middleton who hasn't had much help from his change of scenery.

We did have 9 hits, but couldn't do anything with them. Brian Anderson doubled and singled in four trips. Nicky Delmonico was 1-for-4 and scored the only run. Andrelton Simmons made an error, but was 2-for-3.

We'll finish our roadtrip with three more in Philly before returning home to host the Padres for four. We're 40-29 and 3 games out of first, while Philadelphia is 33-36 and 10 games out. We're looking at Mike Clevinger (3-5, 4.33 ERA), Aaron Nola (3-8, 4.29 ERA), and JoJo Romero (3-5, 3.28 ERA). Let's start winning again! The Mets don't need to win the East!

[ayaghmour2]

June 18th, 2021: We opened up the final series of our road trip in Philadelphia. The hometown Phillies sent out Mike Clevinger (3-5, 4.33 ERA, 1.23 WHIP) to face Zach Davies (1-5, 4.00 ERA, 1.41 WHIP). It took 10 innings, but we took the opener 3-2.

We only used two pitchers, starting with Davies who lasted 8 innings. He allowed 2 runs, 5 hits, a walk, and struck out 2. Yasukzau Shiotani finished the final two innings and got the win, allowing just 1 hit while striking out 2.

We didn't do too much on offense, although Lewis Brinson went 2-for-4 with a steal, 2 runs scored and a solo shot off former Marlin Adam Warren. Brian Anderson went 2-for-4 with 2 RBI's. Cole Brannen and Victor Caratini both doubled in four at bats. Brannen, however, left the game with an injury.

June 19th, 2021: The Pirates lost RHP George Knotos for the rest of the season with a radial nerve compression. He was 5-0 with a 3.13 ERA with 37 strikeouts in 37.1 innnigs.

Jameson Taillon (3-2, 3.25 ERA, 1.19 WHIP) took on the always dangerous Aaron Nola (3-8, 4.29 ERA, 1.49 WHIP) who is having an uncharacteristic down year. He was dominate today, however, and the Phillies won 1-0.

Taillon allowed just 1 run in the 8th inning while pitching an 8 inning complete game. He gave up 5 hits, 1 walk, and struck out 4 in a game he deserved to win.

We had just 4 hits, three singles and a Dustin Fowler double. We need to do better tomorrow in the rubber match.

June 20th, 2021: Cole Brannen will head to the DL for hopefully the minimum with a thumb contusion. Against my better judgement, I called up Ryan Mountcastle to play first, and sent Delmonico to right field. When your hitting .360/.423/.633 with 16 homers and 73 RBI's, you can't call someone else up instead. It'll be a short callup, but he'll defintiely make it hard for me to option him.

In other injury news, the White Sox lost Lucas Giolito for the year with shoulder inflammation. He's had a rough career splitting time between the rotation, bullpen, and disabled list.

Mountcastle hit third today as Walker Buehler (2-1, 4.27 ERA, 1.56 WHIP) took on JoJo Romero (3-5, 3.28 ERA, 1.18 WHIP) as we looked to take the series. Mountcastle made his presense felt, going 2-for-4 with a double and three runs scored as we took the finale 8-6.

Buehler allowed half the runs in 5 innings off 5 hits, 3 walks, and he struck out 7. James Farris blew his 5th save of the season, allowing 3 runs off 4 hits in the 6th. Tyler Jay then improved his record to a perfect 6-0 with a perfect 7th and 8th in which he struck out 4. Shiotani closed the door and earned his 25th save.

Lewis Brinson went 2-for-4 with a two run homer in the 1st inning. Nicky Delmonico showed some pop, 1-for-4 with a two run homer in the 9th to give us the lead. Charlie Tilson lead off the 9th with a solo shot, and went 2-for-4 in center today. Victor Caratini had a pinch hit double in the 9th and scored on the Delmonico homer. Nick Feight was 2-for-4 with a pair of RBI's.

We'd finally return home for four against the 35-39 2nd place Padres. We're still 2 games behind the Mets, despite our 42-30 record. We'd see MacKenzie Gore (7-3, 3.46 ERA), Dinelson Lamet (8-5, 3.73 ERA), Tyler Beede (4-8, 4.18 ERA), and Bryan Mitchell (0-1, 24.00 ERA).

June 21st, 2021: We dropped one spot to 7th in the Power Rankings and the Mets moved up one to 2nd.

Danny Duffy (5-3, 2.88 ERA, 1.07 WHIP) took the ball against MacKenzie Gore (7-3, 3.46 ERA, 1.26 WHIP) who looks like a budding star. In a well-faught pitcher duel, we came out on top 3-2.

Duffy went 6 and allowed both runs with just 4 hits, a walk, and 5 strikeouts. Tyler Jay and Drew Steckenrider got holds while Shiotani got a save. All three relievers struck out two batters in single innings.

Ryan Mountcastle went 1-for-3 with a walk and a solo homer in the 1st. Mauricio Dubon homered to lead off the third and was 2-for-4. Dustin Fowler doubled and singled in two trips to the plate and stole two bases, bringing his total up to 20, good for a tie with Xavier Edwards of the Padres for 2nd in the NL.

Athletics SS Jonathan Schoop hit 3 homers in a 4-2 victory over the Cardinals. He drove in all four runs in the game.

Since the GCL season starts today, I had to release nearly half the players on the roster, most are position players. It's hard since most of these guys have solid potential and I don't want to release anyone of value. I worked a few minor trades, however, to at least get something back for quality players.

Here are the guys I added: First, from Kansas City, 20-year-old Junior Matias. He's a solid defensive catcher rated as a 2*. Next, from Colorado, CF Danielsan Heueraux. He's a speedy centerfielder with gold glove potential in the outfield. Stanly Consuerga is next, a SS/CF who's just 20-years-old and rated a 2.5* potential player. He's got a well-rounded bat and a cannon for an arm. I'm trying him out in right. Last came 23-year-old SP Moises Servino. He's more of a reliever, but has a great three pitch arsenal.

It was really hard making cuts since I had so many young, talented players in the lower levels that I had to let go.

June 22nd, 2021: Jordan Montgomery (3-2, 4.98 ERA, 1.51 WHIP) looked to stay on track after a couple solid starts against Dinelson Lamet (8-5, 3.73 ERA, 1.39 WHIP). It took 11 innings, but we won 2-1.

Montgomery was near perfect, just the 1 run with a pair of walks and hits in 8 innings. He struck out 5 as well. Shiotani, Steckenrider, and Corbin Clouse all pitched scorless innings, with Clouse earning the win.

Victor Caratini scored Lewis Brinson on a walk-off double to win the game. Nicky Delmonico was 2-for-4 with a double and RBI.

I also decided to do a little reshuffling of the defensive order, moving Mountcastle to second, Delmonico back to first, and Kingery to right. I might eventually swap Brinson and Kingery as well, since Brinson has the better arm.

June 23rd, 2021: Bryan Mitchell (0-1, 24.00 ERA, 3.67 WHIP) skipped up in the rotation to face Zach Davies (1-5, 3.83 ERA, 1.35 WHIP). The bats woke up for the first time in a while, and we took this one 10-3 to clinch a series victory. Only problem is Scott Kingery was injured getting hit by a pitch, and will head to the DL with a foot contusion.

Davies allowed all three runs in his 5 innings of work. He allowed 5 hits, walked 2, and struck out 4. A.J. Puckett got a 3 inning save, striking out 3 and allowing just 2 hits in the final 3 innings of the game. He has a miniscule 0.45 ERA since coming over from Minnesota in a waicer claim.

All 8 starting position players got hits in today's matchup. Dubon went 2-for-4 with a 3 run homer and 4 RBI's. Nicky Delmonico hit a two run shot in the 1st. Andrelton Simmons was 1-for-3 with a walk and solo homer in the 8th. Nick Feight was 2-for-2 with a double, run driven in, and he scored twice as well. Kingery doubled, scored, and drove in a run in three trips before leaving with his injury.

June 24th, 2021: I called up LF Adam Hasley who is attempting to be a two-way player. He's tossed 7 solid innings in AAA, but is mostly a LF. He played one game earlier in the season, and was hitting .346/.454/.542 with 6 homers and 48 RBI's in 60 games with New Orleans.

All-Star Update: Caratini is in third for catchers, Brinson fell to second for left fielders, and Shiotani remains in fourth for relievers.

With a win here and a Mets loss we can regain a tie for first. Jameson Taillon (3-3, 3.04 ERA, 1.15 WHIP) would face Tyler Beede (4-8, 4.18 ERA, 1.57 WHIP) in the finale. Haseley is in the lineup and will bat leadoff and man left. It was a close one, but we earned the sweep with a 3-2 win.

Taillon allowed just 1 in 7 innings and earned the win. He struck out a whopping 12 hitters and didn't walk a single hitter. Tyler Jay allowed 1 in the 8th, but still got the hold, while James Farris earned his first save of the season.

We only had four hits, but it was enough for the win. Ryan Mountcastle hit an RBI double in the 6th off Beede, Haseley went 1-for-4 and scored. Dustin Fowler was 1-for-3 with a steal.

Checking out Garrett Hampson down in AAA, he went 5-for-6 in a New Orleans win over Nashville. The versatile Hampson is hitting .332/.393/.495 at the highest minor league level, and also deserves to be in the bigs, but needs everyday at bats.

We had an off day tomorrow before the D'Backs came in town.

June 25th, 2021: At 46-30, we're now tied once again with the Mets. Our next series will be three with Arizona, but after that we head to the Big Apple to face the Mets for a quick road trip.

Looking at Arizona, we'd see Jose Almonte (0-2, 6.75 ERA), Jhoan Duran (5-4, 2.84 ERA), and Riley Wade Smith who would make his major league debut.