MLB 2019 Week 5 Recap (4/22/19 - 4/28/19)

First pitch (1st Inning)
Hello readers! A month has past since the start of the season. It has brought with many intriguing storylines and quite a few teams benefited from the month of April and the month hasn't been kind to a few teams. The column will feature a recap of all 30 teams and a final out of a debut of perhaps epic proportions for years to come. Let's get to work!
American League

American League East (2nd Inning):

Baltimore Orioles (5th in AL East; Week Record: 2-4; Overall Record: 10-19; Week Runs Scored: 18):
The Orioles took 2 of 3 against the White Sox and got swept against the Twins in 3 games. The Orioles have in general been in free fall since the first week but this wasn't too shocking for most baseball people. Andrew Cashner already has 4 wins on the year when last year he had the same number. Just gotta take wins as much as possible, you're not gonna get a lot of them this year.

This week: 3 games @ Chicago (AL); 3 games vs Tampa Bay

Boston Red Sox (4th in AL East; Week Record: 2-4; Overall Record: 11-17; Week Runs Scored: 27):
The Red Sox took 2 of 4 against the Tigers and took 0 out of 2 (possible 3rd game was postponed, moved to June 8th) against the Rays. It was another frustrating week if you're a Red Sox fan. They just haven't put a string of wins together and not all facets of their game have been a factor. Hangover of magnitudes could be a factor too. Hopefully they'll put it all together soon.

This week: 3 games vs Oakland; 4 games @ Chicago (AL)

New York Yankees (2nd in AL East; Week Record: 6-1; Overall Record: 17-11; Week Runs Scored: 46):
The Yankees took 3 of 4 against the Angels and swept the Giants in 3 games. Offense still keeps producing runs despite the fact that many of their starters are currently injured. You also have to give it to their pitching too for stepping it up. Overall great week for the Yankees and certainly this upcoming week could be even better.

This week: 2 games @ Arizona; 3 games vs Minnesota

Tampa Bay Rays (1st in AL East; Week Record: 4-1; Overall Record: 18-9; Week Runs Scored: 20):
The Rays took 2 of 3 against the Royals and took 2 out of possibly 3 (3rd game was postponed and will be played on June 8th) against the Red Sox. Tampa has to feel good being in 1st place in the division while the surging Yankees are closing on them. Tyler Glasnow continues to be a star on a team that's bread and butter is their starting pitching. Will they continue their success? I can't see it happening but what do I know.

This week: 4 games @ Kansas City; 3 games @ Baltimore

Toronto Blue Jays (3rd in AL East; Week Record: 3-2; Overall Record: 14-14; Week Runs Scored: 22):
The Blue Jays got swept in 2 games and swept the Athletics in 3 games. The Blue Jays offense really took off this week and their pitching was on lockdown as well. They also added Vladimir Guerrero Jr to their roster, hopefully he can be good like his father.

This week: 3 games @ Los Angeles (AL); 3 games @ Texas

American League Central (3rd Inning)

Chicago White Sox (4th in AL Central; Week Record: 3-2; Overall Record: 11-14; Week Runs Scored: 32):
The White Sox took 1 of 3 against the Orioles and took 2 out of possibly 3 (Saturday's game was postponed) against the Tigers. Certainly the White Sox offense has been showing flashes of brilliance. The loss of Eloy Jimenez for a few weeks will be a factor in the coming weeks.

This week: 3 games vs Baltimore; 3 games vs Boston

Cleveland Indians (2nd in AL Central; Week Record: 3-3; Overall Record: 15-12; Week Runs Scored: 18):
The Indians split a 2-game series against the Marlins and took 2 of 4 against the Astros. The loss of Mike Clevinger on Monday will be a big loss as he won't return until July. Their offense just hasn't gotten them wins enough to get them past the Twins.

This week: 2 games @ Miami; 3 games vs Seattle

Detroit Tigers (3rd in AL Central; Week Record: 2-4; Overall Record: 12-14; Week Runs Scored: 30):
The Tigers took a 4-game split against the Red Sox, then took 0 out of a possible 3 (Saturday's game was postponed). The Tigers had some promise in shutting down offenses in their series against Boston which is a noble effort because they are the defending champions but to lay an egg against a below average White Sox team is no excuse. Doesn't help their cause that Shane Greene got only one save this week.

This week: 2 games @ Philadelphia; 3 games vs Kansas City

Kansas City Royals (5th in AL Central; Week Record: 2-4; Overall Record: 9-19; Week Runs Scored: 28):
The Royals took 1 of 3 against the Rays and Angels in both of their series. Kansas City pretty much has had a week like every other week. The offense can be either good or quiet on some nights. Their pitching situation isn't helping either. Their World Series title seems so far away now.

This week: 4 games @ Tampa Bay; 3 games @ Detroit

Minnesota Twins (1st in AL Central; Week Record: 4-2; Overall Record: 16-9; Week Runs Scored: 35):
The Twins took 1 of 3 against the Astros and swept the Orioles in 3 games. Minnesota has looked stellar so far in the year despite losing the series to the Astros earlier this week. Their formula of hitting and solid pitching has done well for them. You don't picture them to be a home run hitting club but they hit them nonetheless, for example Max Kepler.

This week: 4 games vs Houston; 3 games @ New York (AL)

American League West (4th inning)

Houston Astros (1st in AL West; Week Record: 4-3; Overall Record: 17-11; Week Runs Scored: 34):
The Astros took 2 of 3 against the Twins and split a 4-game series against the Indians. Houston looked well enough but could they still improve on it, sure. They're starting to hit their stride, pitching is back to form and their offense is keeping opposing pitchers agitated, not much to really state.

This week: 4 games @ Minnesota; 2 games @ Los Angeles (AL)(Games in Monterrey, Mexico)

Los Angeles Angels (Week Record: 3-4; Overall Record: 12-17; Week Runs Scored: 40):
The Angels took 1 out of 4 against the Yankees and took 2 of 3 against the Royals. Albert Pujols is getting closer to that 2,000 RBI's in his great career. The story is relatively the same for the Angels, great offense, and pitching that can't stop people. That was evident against the Yankees in that series. Still has to be nice that Mike Trout is still on your team for the next decade.

This week: 3 games vs Toronto; 2 games vs Houston (Games in Monterrey, Mexico)

Oakland Athletics (4th in AL West; Week Record: 3-3; Overall Record: 14-16; Week Runs Scored: 30):
The Athletics swept the Rangers in 3 games and got swept in 3 games against the Blue Jays. Brooms were a factor this week in Oakland. They were the sweeper and then they were the ones who get swept. The pitching in Oakland is still questionable but their offense can get them runs. Just an average week for the Athletics.

This week: 3 games @ Boston; 3 games @ Pittsburgh

Seattle Mariners (1st in AL West; Week Record: 2-4; Overall Record: 18-12; Week Runs Scored: 24):
The Mariners got swept in 2 games against the Padres and took 2 of 4 against the Rangers. The Mariners took a bit of a detour this week and it didn't result in wins for them. The first half of their series against the Rangers was good but to give up 29 runs in 2 games has to spell bad news for their pitching's psyche. Baseball is baseball and they could just go off on a tear.

This week: 2 games vs Chicago (NL); 3 games @ Cleveland

Texas Rangers (3rd in AL West; Week Record: 2-5; Overall Record: 13-13; Week Runs Scored: 46):
The Rangers got swept in 3 games against the Athletics and took a split in a 4-game series against the Mariners. The bigger stories of the week is how many runs the Rangers put on the Mariners on Saturday and Sunday. The run totals of 15 and 14 for both of those games were quite impressive as the Rangers allowed only 2. Other than that it has been a rough week for the Rangers who had before that couldn't put runs on the board.

This week: 2 games vs Pittsburgh; 3 games vs Toronto

National League

National League East (5th inning)

Atlanta Braves (3rd in NL East; Week Record: 2-4; Overall Record: 13-14; Week Runs Scored: 28):
The Braves took 1 of 3 in both of their series against the Reds and the Rockies. The prospects of returning to the playoffs took a steep turn as Arodys Vizcaino will be out for the season. The Braves bullpen will be also missing a few pieces in Jonny Venters and Darren O'Day as they will miss some time due to injury. Their offense and starting pitching can play well when it gets deeper into the season but having bullpen issues is not a good remedy.

This week: 4 games vs San Diego; 3 games @ Miami

Miami Marlins (5th in NL East; Week Record: 2-4; Overall Record: 8-20; Week Runs Scored: 18):
The Marlins split a 2-game series against the Indians and took 1 of 4 against the Phillies. Not too much to say on this one, they're god awful, very little offense to piece together a string of wins and pitching that is near the bottom of the rankings. I hear 'em tanks a rolling.

This week: 2 games vs Cleveland; 3 games vs Atlanta

New York Mets (2nd in NL East; Week Record: 3-3; Overall Record: 14-13; Week Runs Scored: 27):
The Mets took 2 of 3 against the Phillies and took 1 of 3 against the Brewers. It certainly looked promising for Jacob DeGrom who started off so well throwing the ball and now dropping his 3rd straight start, certainly Mets fans have to be worried about their ace. All in all it has been an average week for the Mets who didn't gain or lose ground in the division.

This week: 4 games vs Cincinnati; 3 games @ Milwaukee

Philadelphia Phillies (1st in NL East; Week Record: 4-3; Overall Record: 16-12; Week Runs Scored: 29):
The Phillies took 1 of 3 against the Mets and took 3 of 4 against the Marlins. The honeymoon of Bryce Harper and the Phillies should be starting to wane as the season moves into May but so far so good for the Phillies despite playing poorly against a Mets team that was struggling on offense. They did take 3 of 4 against a bad Marlins team though, which matters.

This week: 2 games vs Detroit; 3 games vs Washington

Washington Nationals (4th in NL East; Week Record: 2-4; Overall Record: 12-14; Week Runs Scored: 30):
The Nationals took 1 of 3 against the Rockies and against the Padres. Washington's bullpen looks more of a mess than trying to control a bull in a pen. Their offense has had to bail them out quite a few games this week especially in their Sunday game against the Padres. The injuries to Ryan Rendon and Ryan Zimmerman will be a factor as well as they are top players in their system.

This week: 4 games vs St. Louis; 3 games vs Philadelphia

National League Central (6th inning)

Chicago Cubs (2nd in NL Central; Week Record: 4-2; Overall Record: 14-12; Week Runs Scored: 33):
The Cubs took 2 of 3 against the Dodgers and took 2 of 3 against the Diamondbacks. One of the hotter teams of late is the Chicago Cubs. Winning 7 of their last 10 games. Getting good starts from their pitchers and good offense.

This week: 2 games @ Seattle; 3 games vs St. Louis

Cincinnati Reds (5th in NL Central; Week Record: 3-3; Overall Record: 11-16; Week Runs Scored: 29):
The Reds took 2 of 3 against the Braves and then took 1 of 3 against the Cardinals. It was an average week for the Reds. The offense showed some flashes of great against a quality Braves team that probably should've taken that series victory. Nonetheless if the Reds could play the rest of the year like that against quality opponents they'd be in conversation of a playoff contender. Unfortunately, they're still rebuilding.

This week: 4 games @ New York (NL); 3 games vs San Francisco

Milwaukee Brewers (3rd in NL Central; Week Record: 2-4; Overall Record: 15-14; Week Runs Scored: 30):
The Brewers got swept in 3 games against the Cardinals and took 2 of 3 against the Mets. Christian Yelich has hit 14 home runs in the month of April, one word to describe it: outstanding. Despite this, Yelich did have to go out of Sunday's game to a possible injury from the back. Fortunately for the Brew Crew the ballplayer should be back in a few days. Their team ERA is still high for the most part.

This week: 4 games vs Colorado; 3 games vs New York (NL)

Pittsburgh Pirates (Week Record: 0-7; Overall Record: 12-14; Week Runs Scored: 16):
The Pirates got swept in 4 games against the Diamondbacks and got swept in 3 games against the Dodgers. Pittsburgh's offense was the story this week as they could only muster 16 runs in 7 games this week. Perhaps they weren't quite the contender that perhaps some people thought they were. You still have the Steelers to cheer about, Pittsburgh though you lost both of your key offensive players in Le'Veon Bell and Antonio Brown in the offseason. Maybe you can recover after this past week.
This week: 2 games @ Texas; 3 games vs Oakland

St. Louis Cardinals (1st in NL Central; Week Record: 5-1; Overall Record: 17-10; Week Runs Scored: 34):
The Cardinals swept the Brewers in 3 games and took 2 of 3 against the Reds. With Milwaukee struggling to get wins the Cardinals and Cubs took advantage of it. The Cardinals this year have done it with their offensive power with a pitching staff that can compile wins, but not dominating. Jordan Hicks would be exception as he got 3 saves this week for the Redbirds.

This week: 4 games @ Washington; 3 games @ Chicago (NL)

National League West (7th inning)

Arizona Diamondbacks (3rd in NL West; Week Record: 5-2; Overall Record: 16-13; Week Runs Scored: 44):
The Diamondbacks swept the Pirates in 4 games and took 1 of 3 against the Cubs. The offense was very productive this week. Their starting pitching did well against Pittsburgh and Zach Greinke threw 7 scoreless innings in a 5-0 shutout on Thursday. It still surprises me how well they are doing on offense without their star players lost in the offseason.

This week: 2 games vs New York (AL); 3 games @ Colorado

Colorado Rockies (4th in NL West; Week Record: 4-2; Overall Record: 13-15; Week Runs Scored: 43):
The Rockies took 2 of 3 against the Nationals and took 2 of 3 against the Braves. Colorado is starting to recover nicely after a very rough start to the season. I feel they are a team that if they can get a winning streak going they can be a force to be reckoned with as they were picked to get far into the season, this week will be a huge week for the Rockies as they are taking on two weaker pitching teams in the Brewers and the Diamondbacks.

This week: 4 games @ Milwaukee; 3 games vs Arizona

Los Angeles Dodgers (1st in NL West; Week Record: 4-2; Overall Record: 18-11; Week Runs Scored: 26):
The Dodgers took 1 of 3 against the Dodgers and swept the Pirates in 3 games. Los Angeles looked to continue their success of last week and keep off the Diamondbacks for 1st place in the division. The underrated candidate for NL MVP this year, Cody Bellinger, has been on a tear in April. I feel its time to say that they are the best team in baseball right now, hopefully they don't lay an egg again this week.

This week: 3 games @ San Francisco; 3 games @ San Diego

San Diego Padres (3rd in NL West; Week Record: 4-1; Overall Record: 16-12; Week Runs Scored: 24):
The Padres swept the Mariners in 2 games and took 2 of 3 against the Nationals. San Diego had a better week than last week and you have to give the credit to their closer Kirby Yates who added 3 saves this season to 13 total on the year. Of course, their offense does help too. I'm looking at you Fernando Tatis.

This week: 4 games @ Atlanta; 3 games vs Los Angeles (NL)

San Francisco Giants (5th in NL West; Week Record: 2-3; Overall Record: 11-16; Week Runs Scored: 22):
The Giants swept the Blue Jays in 2 games and got swept against the Yankees in 3 games. Same story this week, offense bad, pitching good. Not gonna win a lot of games if you're offense can't rise above that .211 team batting average. Certainly you could look at Brandon Crawford and Evan Longoria for the Giants struggles at offense.

This week: 3 games vs Los Angeles (NL); 3 games @ Cincinnati

League Leaders (8th Inning)

In the American League, the offensive leaders in batting average is Tim Anderson with a .402, Eddie Rosario with 11 home runs, and Domingo Santana with 30 RBI's. The pitching leaders are Marco Gonzales with 5 wins, Marcus Stroman with a 1.43 ERA, and Shane Greene with 11 saves.

In the National League the offensive leaders are: Cody Bellinger with .420 batting average, Christian Yelich with 14 home runs, and 34 RBI's. In pitching, Zach Greinke and Jake Arrieta have 4 wins, Luis Castillo has a 1.23 ERA and Kirby Yates has 13 saves.

The Final Out (9th inning):

The Toronto Blue Jays haven't had a whole lot to cheer for in a few years since they were in the playoffs but on April 26th, 2019, the son of Vladimir Guerrero Sr., debuted. His son, appropriately named, Vladimir Guerrero Jr would have a few key defensive plays and a double in the game. Certainly if he has 1/4 of the talent that his father had, he'll still be a solid ballplayer. Here's a video of his debut. I'll see you all next week for next week's recap.

MLB 2019 Week 4 Recap (4/15/19 - 4/21/19)

First pitch (1st Inning)
Hello readers! Another week of Major League Baseball action has come to an end. High scoring games, low scoring games, pitching duels, and hitting displays galore, we have it all this week's column. In this week's column, I'll talk about all 30 teams week that were, injuries, news and notes, and a remarkable "Final Out" that you have to see. Let's get to work!
American League

American League East (2nd Inning):

Baltimore Orioles (5th in AL East; Week Record: 2-5; Overall Record: 8-15; Week Runs Scored: 32):
The Orioles would take a split in a 4-game series with Boston, take 1 of 3 against Tampa Bay, and get swept by Minnesota in 3 games. The long hitless streak from Chris Davis is finally over but the injuries for the O's piled up during their weekend series against the Twins. Seems that first week of the season drifted away like a dream. Should be noted that I only took Monday's game of their series against Boston into account for this week.

This week: 3 games vs Chicago (AL); 3 games @ Minnesota

Boston Red Sox (4th in AL East; Week Record: 3-3; Overall Record: 9-13; Week Runs Scored: 20):
The Red Sox would take a split against the Orioles in 4 games, get swept by the Yankees in 2 games, and sweep the Rays in 3 games. The offense and starting pitching has still yet to figure its groove but certainly a sweep against the division leading Tampa Bay Rays has to give them some confidence. Chris Sale needs to improve as well. The loss of Dustin Pedroia yet again is hard to swallow as well. Might be time for him to retire.

This week: 4 games vs Detroit; 3 games vs Tampa Bay

New York Yankees (2nd in AL East; Week Record: 5-1; Overall Record: 11-10; Week Runs Scored: 36):
The Yankees swept the Red Sox in 2 games and took 3 of 4 against the Royals. The Yankees still keep rolling along despite hovering above .500 for this season. The injuries to Aaron Judge on Saturday could be impactful if this team wants to get to the playoffs again. Yet again they seem to be doing just fine with their offense. Pitching has stepped up big time for the Bombers.

This week: 4 games @ Los Angeles (AL); 3 games @ San Francisco

Tampa Bay Rays (1st in AL East; Week Record: 2-4; Overall Record: 14-8; Week Runs Scored: 29):
The Rays took 2 of 3 against the Orioles and got swept by the Red Sox in 3 games. The division leading Rays took a bit of a detour this week as their pitching went south. Tyler Glasnow has looked a bit more vulnerable now and Blake Snell was hit with an injury but will be back later in the week. Hard to say that this is the Rays team that we expected but they need to get back to their bread and butter with pitching. At least their offense somewhat kept them in games.

This week: 3 games vs Kansas City; 3 games @ Boston

Toronto Blue Jays (3rd in AL East; Week Record: 6-1; Overall Record: 10-12; Week Runs Scored: 39):
The Blue Jays took 3 of 4 against the Twins and swept the Athletics in 3 games. The Blue Jays were one of the better teams this week. Taking on some quality teams and running them over. Their offense needed it too. I mean to put up 39 runs. The loss of Matt Shoemaker for 2 weeks will be tough to manage. Aaron Sanchez would get hit with the injury bug too but will be out for at least a week.

This week: 2 games vs San Francisco; 3 games vs Oakland

American League Central (3rd Inning)

Chicago White Sox (4th in AL Central; Week Record: 3-3; Overall Record: 8-12; Week Runs Scored: 30):
The White Sox took 2 of 3 against the Royals and took 1 of 3 (possible 4 but the April 20th game will be played on August 6th) against the Tigers. The Southsiders were .500 for the week and certainly it can be said for their season so far. Their offense looks good to keep them in games but their pitching has still hasn't come to bat. The loss of Lucas Giolito for a week will be hard but they can't do worse than lose every game.

This week: 3 games @ Baltimore; 3 games vs Detroit

Cleveland Indians (2nd in AL Central; Week Record: 4-2; Overall Record: 12-9; Week Runs Scored: 26):
The Indians took 3 of 3 against the Mariners and took 1 of 3 against the Braves. Cleveland is an interesting team, they can have a good day on hitting, then a bad one, likewise for pitching. They can score 6 runs in one game and then 1 run the next. Fortunately that 1 run was a 1-0 shutout. They really took it to the Mariners and then look awful against a Braves team with bullpen issues. I don't know what to think of this team.

This week: 2 games vs Miami; 3 games @ Houston

Detroit Tigers (3rd in AL Central; Week Record: 2-3; Overall Record: 10-10; Week Runs Scored: 19):
The Tigers were swept in 2 games against the Pirates and took 2 of 3 (possible 4th was postponed and was rescheduled for August 6th) against the White Sox. Getting enough runs and innings enough to get to Shane Greene is a sound strategy for the Tigers. Greene got two saves this week increasing his season total to 10. Christin Stewart will miss a week due to injury but its the Tigers batting that can't seem to get them wins.

This week: 4 games @ Boston; 3 games @ Chicago (AL)

Kansas City Royals (5th in AL Central; Week Record: 2-5; Overall Record: 7-15; Week Runs Scored: 25):
The Royals took 1 of 3 against the White Sox and took 1 of 4 against the Yankees. Kansas City has a lot of problems, their offense doesn't score enough runs, their pitching can't stop no one and a bullpen to close down opponents. The loss of Danny Duffy to injury will be less than a week but their injury list of pitchers is one too many problems that KC can handle. The basement in the division is nice and cool.

This week: 3 games @ Tampa Bay; 3 games vs Los Angeles (AL)

Minnesota Twins (1st in AL Central; Week Record: 4-3; Overall Record: 12-7; Week Runs Scored: 42):
The Twins took 1 of 4 against the Blue Jays and swept the Orioles in 3 games. A whopping 42 runs were scored by the Twins this week. They score 16 on Saturday against the Orioles. Still its the Orioles who have not a lot of pitching depth. The Twins have the best batting average in the majors with .275, not too shabby. Their pitching can always improve too.

This week: 3 games @ Houston; 3 games vs Baltimore

American League West (4th inning)

Houston Astros (2nd in AL West; Week Record: 2-3; Overall Record: 13-8; Week Runs Scored: 31):
The Astros took a 2-game split against the Athletics and took 1 of 3 against the Rangers. The Astros had a meh week. Average would be more like it to them. Gerritt Cole has certainly been questionable with his 1-3 record and an ERA over 5. They should be fine but certainly your division games are important, especially against an in-state rival. Michael Brantley has a 13-game hitting streak though.

This week: 3 games vs Minnesota; 4 games vs Cleveland

Los Angeles Angels (5th in AL West; Week Record: 1-6; Overall Record: 9-13; Week Runs Scored: 37):
The Angels got swept against the Rangers in 3 games and took 1 out of 4 against the Mariners. Their offense can get them runs but their pitching has done jack for them. Same story, same old Angels.

This week: 4 games vs New York (AL); 3 games @ Kansas City

Oakland Athletics (4th in AL West; Week Record: 1-4; Overall Record: 11-13; Week Runs Scored: 9):
The A's took 1 of 2 against the Astros and took 0 of 3 against the Blue Jays. A whopping 9 runs of offense. The most they would get was 4 in a 5-4 loss against the Blue Jays. Their offense took a week off this week certainly. Still, Ramon Laurenado is quite a spectacle on defense.

This week: 3 games vs Texas; 3 games @ Toronto

Seattle Mariners (1st in AL West; Week Record: 3-4; Overall Record: 16-9; Week Runs Scored: 34):
The Mariners got swept in 3 games against the Indians and took 3 of 4 against the Angels. The Mariners are still a pretty solid club who was laxed on offense earlier in the week and then took advantage of not good Angels pitching. Need to get better to keep off the surging Astros though.

This week: 2 games @ San Diego; 4 games vs Texas

Texas Rangers (3rd in AL West; Week Record: 5-1; Overall Record: 12-8; Week Runs Scored: 44):
The Rangers swept the Angels in 3 games and took 2 of 3 against the Astros. Certainly the bigger surprise this week was the Rangers who took it to the defending division champs at home. Their offense really took off and certainly their pitching has done well too. Kudos to Texas.
This week: 3 games @ Oakland; 4 games @ Seattle

National League

National League East (5th inning)

Atlanta Braves (2nd in NL East; Week Record: 2-4; Overall Record: 11-10; Week Runs Scored: 32):
The Braves got swept against the Diamondbacks and took 2 of 3 against the Indians. Bullpen issues still plague the Braves as Arodys Vizcaino was hit with injury and his season was over. Not looking promising for Atlanta but you did look good against a solid Indians team on the road.

This week: 3 games @ Cincinnati; 3 games vs Colorado

Miami Marlins (5th in NL East; Week Record: 2-4; Overall Record: 6-16; Week Runs Scored: 14):
The Marlins got swept against the Cubs in 3 games and took 2 of 3 against the Nationals. The worst team in the majors had a bright spot in taking 2 of 3 against a good Nationals team. Other than that their offense is non-existent and their pitching can't keep offenses off base. Its a long season yet.

This week: 2 games @ Cleveland; 4 games @ Philadelphia

New York Mets (3rd in NL East; Week Record: 2-4; Overall Record: 11-10; Week Runs Scored: 23):
The Mets took 1 of 3 against the Phillies and 1 of 3 against the Cardinals. Mets took a hit for pitching as Jacob DeGrom was diagnosed with an elbow injury that will last for a week. Their pitching hasn't kept offenses off the bases. Still if you can get through to the 9th with a lead, Edwin Diaz can get them a save if its possible.

This week: 3 games vs Philadelphia; 3 games vs Milwaukee

Philadelphia Phillies (1st in NL East; Week Record: 3-4; Overall Record: 12-9; Week Runs Scored: 37):
The Phillies took 2 of 3 against the Mets and took 1 of 4 against the Rockies. The offense is still quite good if only the pitching can stop giving up home runs. Bryce Harper is quite fun to watch.

This week: 3 games @ New York (NL); 4 games vs Miami

Washington Nationals (4th in NL East; Week Record: 3-3; Overall Record: 10-10; Week Runs Scored: 26):
The Nationals took 2 of 3 against the Giants and took 1 of 3 against the Marlins. Max Scherzer was hit with a rib injury but it will be a short injury stint. The Nationals offense was a bit lax and a bit up and down during the week. Didn't quite gain any ground on teams in their division.

This week: 3 games @ Colorado; 3 games vs San Diego

National League Central (6th inning)

Chicago Cubs (4th in NL Central; Week Record: 5-1; Overall Record: 10-10; Week Runs Scored: 24):
The Cubs swept the Marlins in 3 games and took 2 of 3 against the Diamondbacks. On the Northside this week the Cubs improved greatly this week. They had good pitching performances like Tyler Chatwood (who would get a no decision) and Cole Hamels. Hamels is sporting a 3-0 record so far this season. Offense is efficient as well.

This week: 3 games vs Los Angeles (NL); 3 games @ Arizona

Cincinnati Reds (5th in NL Central; Week Record: 3-4; Overall Record: 8-13; Week Runs Scored: 20):
The Reds got swept in 3 games against the Dodgers and took 3 of 4 against the Padres. The Reds are certainly a team in rebuilding and a 3-4 record this week and only 20 runs scored. The offense could do better but no one on bat stands out as a powerhouse that can put up numbers. Pitching as well.

This week: 3 games vs Atlanta; 3 games @ St. Louis

Milwaukee Brewers (3rd in NL Central; Week Record: 3-4; Overall Record: 13-10; Week Runs Scored: 30):
The Brewers took 2 of 3 against St. Louis and took 1 of 4 against the Dodgers. Christian Yelich is probably best thing the Brew Crew have had a long time. Their offense and bullpen are playing well but its their starting pitching that still proves to give them hiccups.

This week: 3 games @ St. Louis; 3 games @ New York (NL)

Pittsburgh Pirates (1st in NL Central; Week Record: 4-1; Overall Record: 12-7; Week Runs Scored: 17):
The Pirates took a 2-game sweep against the Tigers and took 2 of 3 against the Giants. Pittsburgh's pitching did really well against some decent hitting teams in the Tigers and the Giants.
This week: 4 games vs Arizona; 3 games @ Los Angeles (NL)

St. Louis Cardinals (2nd in NL Central; Week Record: 3-3; Overall Record: 12-9; Week Runs Scored: 28):
The Cardinals took 1 of 3 against the Brewers and took 2 of 3 against the Mets. St. Louis' offense has shown to get 10+ run games while not always the case as they can win games with lesser run amounts, the pitching should be called into questioning during their series against the Brewers. It needs to get better against a team like the Brewers if they want to get to bigger and better things.

This week: 3 games vs Milwuakee; 3 games vs Cincinnati

National League West (7th inning)

Arizona Diamondbacks (3rd in NL West; Week Record: 4-2; Overall Record: 11-11; Week Runs Scored: 24):
The Diamondbacks swept the Braves in 3 games and took 1 of 3 against the Cubs. It's quite preposterous how well the Diamondbacks are at .500 this week. All their facets to the game they do well at. The record could've been easily 5-1 had they not lose a game in a walk-off fashion on Sunday at Wrigley Field. You don't quite know what you're going to get with this team.

This week: 4 games @ Pittsburgh; 3 games vs Chicago (NL)

Colorado Rockies (4th in NL West; Week Record: 5-1; Overall Record: 9-13; Week Runs Scored: 32):
The Rockies swept the Padres in 2 games and took 3 of 4 against the Phillies. Colorado needed this week to get back into the division race and boy did they answer. The Rockies got a good week from Jon Gray who got 2 wins during the week. Offense too is starting to wake up after a early slump.

This week: 3 games vs Washington; 3 games @ Atlanta

Los Angeles Dodgers (1st in NL West; Week Record: 5-1; Overall Record: 15-9; Week Runs Scored: 26):
The Dodgers swept the Reds in 3 games and then took 3 of 4 against the Brewers. Kenley Jansen got 3 saves this week increasing his total to 7. The Dodgers had a better week than last week in terms of record and certainly you have to give the credit to their pitching while their hitting has given them enough runs to close games out.

This week: 3 games @ Chicago (NL); 3 games vs Pittsburgh

San Diego Padres (2nd in NL West; Week Record: 1-5; Overall Record: 12-11; Week Runs Scored: 13):
The Padres got swept against the Rockies in a 2-game set and took 1 of 4 against the Reds. I certainly thought the Padres would fall back down to earth eventually but certainly not against a Reds team. I felt the Padres offense was better. Baseball is a finicky sport. Still Kirby Yates got his 10th save on Sunday.

This week: 2 games vs Seattle; 3 games @ Washington

San Francisco Giants (5th in NL West; Week Record: 2-4; Overall Record: 9-14; Week Runs Scored: 20):
The Giants took 1 of 3 against the Nationals and took 1 of 3 against the Pirates. The Giants still are struggling on offense, this has been most of the case so far this year. While their pitching can do so much to help the team.

This week: 2 games @ Toronto; 3 games vs New York (AL)

League Leaders and Notes (8th Inning)

Your American League leaders in batting are: Tim Anderson (White Sox) with .422 batting average, Khris Davis (Athletics) 9 home runs, Domingo Santana (Mariners) with 25 RBI's. In pitching your leaders are: Tyler Glasnow (Rays) and Marco Gonzales (Mariners) tied with 4 wins, Tyler Glasnow with a 1.13 ERA, and Shane Greene (Tigers) with 9 saves.

Your National League leaders in batting are: Cody Bellinger (Dodgers) with .407 batting average and Christian Yelich (Brewers) with 13 home runs and 31 RBI's. In pitching Zach Greinke is tied with 4 other pitchers with 3 wins, Joe Musgrove (Pirates) with a .081 ERA, and Kirby Yates with 10 saves.

In injury news, Aaron Judge will be out until May 28th with an Oblique injury that was suffered during a Saturday game against the Royals. Matt Shoemaker of the Blue Jays was put on the 10-day Injury List with a left knee injury he suffered during a rundown. Rich Hill of the Dodgers is expected to throw during a spring game before returning to the club to start next Sunday against the Pirates.

The Final Out (9th inning):

If in case you haven't learned about Ramon Laureanado of the Athletics, you've either been living in a cave or you try not to remember him because he's not on your team. On Sunday's game against the Blue Jays, he made a play that has to be considered play of the year. I'll be back next week to recap the week that was in baseball, until then, enjoy the video and have a good week.

MLB 2019 Week 3 Recap (4/8/19 - 4/14/19)

First pitch/Hello (1st Inning)

Hello readers! Another week of the Major League Baseball season has come to a close. April has brought some good vibes to some teams while some have had bad. In this week's column I'll talk about the week that was for all 30 teams as well as injury news and stats leaders. Let's get to work!

American League

American League East (2nd Inning):

Baltimore Orioles (T-3rd in AL East; Week Record: 2-5; Overall Record: 6-10; Week Runs Scored: 35):
The Orioles took 1 of 4 against the Athletics and currently have taken 1 of 3 (4th game of the series will be on Monday but that game will on next week's column) against the Red Sox. The Orioles offense has been active but not a lot of wins to show for it. Chris Davis finally got his first hit out of 55 at-bats. Maybe his funk can be figured out.

Next week: 1 game @ Boston, 3 games @ Tampa Bay; 3 games vs Minnesota

Boston Red Sox (T-3rd in AL East; Week Record: 3-2; Overall Record: 6-10; Week Runs Scored: 27):
The defending champs had a better week in the win column for most of the week. They split a 2-game series against the Blue Jays and have taken 2 of 3 (4th game will be played on Monday but that will be on next week's column). The bright spot has been Mitch Moreland who has gotten the Red Sox out of jams and is certainly the reason why they have six wins. Then you have to go on another road trip after Monday's Patriots Day game.

Next week: 1 game vs Orioles, 2 games @ New York (AL), 3 games @ Tampa Bay

New York Yankees (2nd in AL East; Week Record: 1-5; Overall Record: 6-9; Week Runs Scored: 22):
The Yankees got swept against the Astros in 3 games and took 1 of 3 against the White Sox. The Yankees this week ran into a buzzsaw in the Astros who haven't had a great start to the season either. The pitching has kept them in ballgames and certainly you could say the same for their offense but in order to win games you need to have solid pitching and great hitting and a little luck. The Yankees don't seem to have that at the moment. Still Domingo German has 3 wins on the young season.

Next week: 2 games vs Boston; 4 games vs Kansas City.

Tampa Bay Rays (1st in AL East; Week Record: 5-1; Overall Record: 11-4; Week Runs Scored: 44):
The Rays swept the White Sox in 3 games and took 2 of 3 against the Blue Jays. One of the crazier stats is that they have the best team ERA in the majors but in general their pitching staff isn't loaded with Cy Young caliber players. Jose Alvarado is a save machine, Tyler Glasnow and Charlie Morton both have 6 wins and 42 strikeouts combined. Its preposterous how good the Rays are playing right now.

Next week: 4 games vs Baltimore; 3 games vs Boston

Toronto Blue Jays (5th in AL East; Week Record: 2-3; Overall Record: 5-11; Week Runs Scored: 27):
The Blue Jays split a 2-game series against the Red Sox and took 1 of 3 against the Rays. Their offense had a better week this week compared to last week, just not a lot of wins to show for it. Matt Shoemaker is a bright spot on the Blue Jays starting rotation. Their offense has abysmal numbers with their offense batting .201 and scoring 52 runs (28th and 23rd in the majors respectively). Still Vlad Jr is possibly coming up.

Next week: 4 games @ Minnesota; 3 games @ Oakland

American League Central (3rd Inning)

Chicago White Sox (4th in AL Central; Week Record: 2-4; Overall Record: 5-9; Week Runs Scored: 21):
The White Sox got swept by the Rays in 3 games and took 2 of 3 against the Yankees. Tim Anderson is still having a great year along with productive offense from his fellow teammates. The White Sox still have a problem with their team's ERA which is currently dead last with 5.56, can't win games with that high of an ERA. Still to take a series victory in New York has to say a lot.

This week: 3 games vs Kansas City; 4 games @ Detroit

Cleveland Indians (2nd in AL Central; Week Record: 2-4; Overall Record: 8-7; Week Runs Scored: 22):
The Indians took 2 of 3 against the Tigers and get swept by the Royals in 3 games. The Indians this week looked good to start the week and then ended bad at the end of the week. Their offense took a nap during the two games of the Royals series before scoring 8 on Sunday. Even that was not enough. Doesn't help that their team's batting average is .185 which is 30th in the majors. Not looking promising for the Chief Wahoo Crew.

This week: 3 games @ Seattle; 3 games vs Atlanta

Detroit Tigers (T-2nd in AL Central; Week Record: 1-4; Overall Record: 8-6; Week Runs Scored: 13):
The Tigers took 1 of 3 against the Indians and got swept in 2 games (the 3rd game will be made up on May 11th) against the Twins. The Tigers on offense showed some fight more in the Twins series than the Indians series but they need to get more runs as they are dead last in runs scored. Their pitching is doing well enough as Shane Greene has 8 saves in the season. Certainly if the Tigers can get to the 9th inning with a lead they can get a win. That's a big if unto itself there.

This week: 2 games vs Pittsburgh; 4 games @ Chicago (AL)

Kansas City Royals (5th in AL Central; Week Record: 3-4; Overall Record: 5-10; Week Runs Scored: 39):
The Royals got swept in 4 games against the Mariners and swept the Indians in 3 games. The brooms were the story for the Royals this week. They were the victim of the sweeping and they returned the favor. Their offense has picked up a bit since last week and a pitching staff to match. Alex Gordon has 13 RBI's on the year and Jorge Soler and Adalberto Mondesi has 12 RBI's and 11 RBI's respectively. The pitching's ERA can get better.

This week: 3 games @ Chicago (AL); 4 games @ New York (AL)

Minnesota Twins (1st in AL Central; Week Record: 3-1; Overall Record: 7-4; Week Runs Scored: 30):
The Twins took a split against the Mets and swept the Tigers in 2 games (the 3rd game will be made up on May 11th). The Twins are doing well on both pitching and batting. Good performances by Michael Pineda and Jose Berrios show that the Twins have one of the best rotations in baseball and an offense that can get them wins. The sky is the limit for them.

This week: 4 games vs Toronto; 3 games @ Baltimore

American League West (4th inning)

Houston Astros (2nd in AL West; Week Record: 6-0; Overall Record: 11-5; Week Runs Scored: 24):
The Astros swept the Yankees in 3 games and swept the Mariners in 3 games as well. The only team that posted a perfect record on the week. After a slow start for the Astros they proved to be what most people expected them to be, solid pitching, great offense and solid bullpen play. Exhibit A for bullpen: Roberto Osuna with 7 saves.

This week: 2 games @ Oakland; 3 games @ Texas

Los Angeles Angels (3rd in AL West; Week Record: 4-1; Overall Record: 8-7; Week Runs Scored: 27):
The Angels swept the Brewers in 3 games and took a 2-game split (3rd game was postponed due to inclement weather, no makeup date planned yet) against the Cubs. The Angels offense did very well despite the loss of Mike Trout on the injury front. Their pitching had a great week as well holding opponents to 22 runs for the week.

This week: 3 games @ Texas, 4 games vs Seattle

Oakland Athletics (4th in AL West; Week Record: 4-2; Overall Record: 10-9; Week Runs Scored: 50):
The Athletics took 3 of 4 against the Orioles and took 1 of 2 (3rd game of the series will be played on June 8th) against the Rangers. The Athletics on offense features a great offense and a solid defense with Ramon Laureanado. You need to see highlights of him! Shoutout to Blake Treinen getting saves.
This week: 2 games vs Houston; 3 games vs Toronto
Seattle Mariners (1st in AL West; Week Record: 3-3; Overall Record: 13-5; Week Runs Scored: 28):
The Mariners swept the Royals in 3 games and got swept by the Astros in 3 games. The Mariners did some sweeping and were victims of the sweeping. The offense is still having a field day going yard in 18 straight games. Unfortunately their offense outside of home runs has been lacking. Still they have the best record in the majors right now.

This week: 3 games vs Cleveland; 4 games @ Los Angeles (AL)

Texas Rangers (Week Record: 2-2; Overall Record: 7-7; Week Runs Scored: 22):
The Rangers split a 2-game series with the Diamondbacks and took 1 of 2 (3rd game of the series will be played on June 8th) against the Athletics. The Rangers are nearly at the bottom third in pitching and offensive rankings but they are still at .500 at the end of this week. Joey Gallo still continues to do damage at a low batting average.

This week: 3 games vs Los Angeles (AL); 3 games vs Houston

National League

National League East (5th inning)

Atlanta Braves (3rd in NL East; Week Record: 4-2; Overall Record: 9-6; Week Runs Scored: 38):
The Braves took 2 out of a possible 3 (3rd game will be played on August 26th) against the Rockies and took 2 of 4 against the Mets. The Braves offense had a good week and certainly you can say their pitching has done well too. They had good offensive performances by Nick Markakis and Dansby Swanson their mainstay players. Shoutout to Josh Donaldson who has hit in 7 straight games.

This week: 3 games vs Arizona; 3 games @ Cleveland

Miami Marlins (5th in NL East; Week Record: 1-5; Overall Record: 4-12; Week Runs Scored: 13):
The Marlins got swept by the Reds in 3 games and took 1 of 3 against the Phillies. The Marlins this week were terrible to say the least. The Marlins continued the week with a 5-game losing streak before breaking out in a 10-3 victory against Philadelphia on Saturday. The pitching can keep them in games. The offense needs to show up when the Marlins got shut out twice against the lowly Reds. Need more than 13 runs for sure.

This week: 3 games vs Chicago (NL); 3 games vs Washington

New York Mets (T-1st in NL East; Week Record: 3-3; Overall Record: 9-5; Week Runs Scored: 36):
The Mets took a 2-game split against the Twins and took 2 of 4 against the Braves. The Mets have been doing well on offense and their pitching has well not done so well. Jacob DeGrom has fallen back to earth going 2-0 with his 0.82 ERA last week, he is now at 3.18 ERA to end the week. Still a good week staying with the Phillies for that first place mark.

This week: 3 games @ Philadelphia; 3 games @ St. Louis

Philadelphia Phillies (T-1st in NL East; Week Record: 3-3; Overall Record: 9-5; Week Runs Scored: 28):
The Phillies took 1 of 3 against the Nationals and took 2 of 3 against the Marlins. The pitching took a beating in a 15-1 loss against the Nationals on Wednesday but would still hold steady at the offensive game. Its more on the bat of Rhys Hoskins and not of Bryce Harper so far this season for the Phillies.

This week: 3 games vs New York (NL); 4 games @ Colorado

Washington Nationals (4th in NL East; Week Record: 3-3; Overall Record: 7-7; Week Runs Scored: 37):
The Nationals took 2 of 3 against the Phillies and took 1 of 3 against the Pirates. The Nationals on offense was stellar posting two 10+ run games against the Phillies. Their offense took a nap a bit against the Pirates but the pitching needs to improve on ERA as they have a team ERA over 5.00, not a good mark.

This week: 3 games vs San Francisco; 3 games @ Miami

National League Central (6th inning)

Chicago Cubs (T-4th in NL Central; Week Record: 3-2; Overall Record: 5-9; Week Runs Scored: 24):
The Cubs took 2 of 3 against the Pirates and split a series against the Angels (the 3rd game was postponed due to inclement weather, no plans have been made to make it up). The Cubs offense took off with a 10-0 victory against Pittsburgh on Monday. The pitching too was improved as they posted another shutout and a 1-run game. They needed a better week and it showed.

This week: 3 games @ Miami; 3 games vs Arizona

Cincinnati Reds (T-4th in NL Central; Week Record: 4-1; Overall Record: 5-9; Week Runs Scored: 31):
The Reds swept the Marlins in 3 games and split a 2-game series against the Cardinals. Another team that did well this week. The Reds offense scored 14 runs on the Marlins. You could say that the Bengals scored two touchdowns on the Dolphins in this one. Their pitching has been their go to for victories but their offense has done enough to give them W's.

This week: 3 games @ Los Angeles (NL); 4 games @ San Diego

Milwaukee Brewers (1st in NL Central; Week Record: 2-4; Overall Record: 10-6; Week Runs Scored: 25):
The Brewers got swept by the Angels in 3 games and took 2 of 3 against the Dodgers. The Crew didn't get to Josh Hader this week but still managed to play average. The offense has been damaging but their achilles heel has certainly been their starting pitching. Christian Yelich has cooled off this week as well.

This week: 3 games vs St. Louis; 4 games vs Los Angeles (NL)

Pittsburgh Pirates (T-2nd in NL Central; Week Record: 3-3; Overall Record: 8-6; Week Runs Scored: 17):
The Pirates took 1 of 3 against the Cubs and took 2 of 3 against the Nationals. The week was an up and down one for the Pirates. They win a game, they would lose a game, and so forth. The Pirates were shutout twice in their series against the Cubs so certainly their offense needs to step up better as their pitching is doing their job well.

This week: 2 games @ Detroit; 3 games vs San Francisco

St. Louis Cardinals (2nd in NL Central; Week Record: 5-1; Overall Record: 9-6; Week Runs Scored: 37):
The Cardinals swept the Dodgers in 4 games and split a 2-game series against the Reds. The Cardinals this week played really well against my self-proclaimed "best team in baseball right now" team in the Dodgers. Their offense has had a slow start but they have been picking it up this week and their pitching as well has improved.

This week: 3 games @ Milwaukee; 3 games vs New York

National League West (7th inning)

Arizona Diamondbacks (3rd in NL West; Week Record: 2-4; Overall Record: 7-9; Week Runs Scored: 25):
The Diamondbacks split a 2-game series against the Rangers and took 1 of 4 against the Padres. The offense has been better than expected when they lost two of their position players in the offseason. The pitching has been laxing a bit, near the bottom third of home runs given up and ERA. Rough season in Arizona.

This week: 3 games @ Atlanta; 3 games @ Chicago

Colorado Rockies (5th in NL West; Week Record: 1-5; Overall Record: 4-12; Week Runs Scored: 15):
The Rockies got swept in 2 games (3rd game will be made up on August 26th) against the Braves and took 1 of 4 against the Giants. Their offense still continues to haunt them but their pitching has been up to par so far this season. Hopefully when the weather gets warmer the Rockies bats can get going but if there was a chance to get started, now would be good.

This week: 2 games @ San Diego; 4 games vs Philadelphia

Los Angeles Dodgers (2nd in NL West; Week Record: 1-6; Overall Record: 9-8; Week Runs Scored: 25):
The Dodgers got swept by the Cardinals and took 1 of 3 against the Brewers. I give them a great compliment last week and they shit the bed the next week. Their offense didn't get the job done and their pitching laxed a lot. Still Cody Bellinger is one heck of a baseball player.

This week: 3 games vs Cincinnati; 4 games @ Milwaukee

San Diego Padres (1st in NL West; Week Record: 5-2; Overall Record: 11-6; Week Runs Scored: 29):
The Padres took 2 of 3 against the Giants and 3 of 4 against the Diamondbacks. The nicer stories of the year is out in San Diego where the Padres have taken sole possession of 1st place in the NL West. I can't say that Machado has been a factor but it is nice to have him as a player for them. Kirby Yates has 9 saves with a 0.90 ERA, not too bad.

This week: 2 games vs Colorado; 4 games vs Cincinnati

San Francisco Giants (4th in NL West; Week Record: 3-3; Overall Record: 7-10; Week Runs Scored: 22):
The Giants took 1 of 3 against the Padres and took 3 of 4 against the Rockies. Offense still hasn't shown signs of improvement but their pitching enough has gotten them wins. Not much to really say else.

This week: 3 games @ Washington; 3 games @ Pittsburgh

League Leaders & Notes (8th Inning)

In the American League your batting leaders are: Tim Anderson with .444 batting average, Khris Davis with 10 home runs, Domingo Santana with 22 RBI's. Your American League leaders in pitching are: Marco Gonzales with 4 wins, Tyler Glasnow with 0.53 ERA, and Shane Greene with 8 saves.

In the National League your batting leaders are: Cody Bellinger with .422 batting average, Bellinger with 9 home runs, and Bellinger with 22 RBI's, certainly he is having a good season so far. The National League leaders in pitching are: Sean Doolittle with 3 wins, Joe Musgrove with 0.00 ERA, and Kirby Yates with 9 saves.

The week that was brought some injuries to some key players. Gary Sanchez was injured with a left calf strain earlier this week that will be a 10-day stint in the Injury List, should be back later this month. Mike Trout is day-to-day with a right groin strain and he should be back to the lineup any day. Rougned Odor was injured on Saturday with a right knee sprain with no possible return date planned yet.

German Marquez had a possible no-hitter going into his start on Sunday. Evan Longoria ended any hope for the Rockies pitcher to get one in the 8th inning off a 0-2 pitch. The Rockies would still get a 4-0 shutout victory, ending their 8-game losing streak.

The Final Out (9th inning)

Baseball will be celebrating an anniversary on Monday, April 15th. The date marks the first game that Jackie Robinson would play as a major league player. Since that day 72 years ago in 1947, the game of baseball and certainly civil rights in the United States would not be the same. The coaches and players of all 30 clubs will wear Jackie Robinson's number, 42, in rememberance of the event. Here's a little video one of Robinson's famous moments as a player, The Steal Home. Enjoy and I'll see you guys next week for another recap.

MLB 2019 Week 2 Recap (4/1/19 - 4/7/19)

First pitch (1st Inning)
Hello readers! The 2nd week of the 2019 Major League Baseball season is past us. With it harrowing baseball, with slugfests, pitching duels, and home openers for the teams that haven't had the chance to play at home for Opening Day.
The column is a little different this week as each segment will have a particular inning associated with it. The 1st inning will be a sort of introduction into the week's column and then the 2nd through 7th innings will have a recap of all 30 teams this week. The 8th inning will be for League Leaders and Notes. Finally, the 9th inning will have a sort of final out to it, like a sort of "goodbye" to it.

American League

American League East (2nd Inning):

Baltimore Orioles (3rd in AL East; Week Record: 2-4; Overall Record: 4-5; Week Runs Scored 22):
The Orioles took 2 of 3 against Toronto and got swept in a 3-game set against the Yankees at home. The Orioles had a promising start when they took 2 of 3 against New York. Trey Mancini is off to a great start with four home runs so far this season. Not also to mention he has 9 RBI's. That 15-3 drubbing on Sunday doesn't help with morale.
This week: 4 games vs Oakland; 3 Games @ Boston

Boston Red Sox (4th in AL East; Week Record: 2-5; Overall Record: 3-8; Week Runs Scored: 21):
The defending champs took 1 out of 4 against Oakland and took 1 of 3 against Arizona this week. The starting pitching struggles continues for the Red Sox as they couldn't keep the opposing bats in check. The offense couldn't get a lot going during most of the week, especially the back-to-back shutouts on Monday and Tuesday. On Sunday the Red Sox did get a 1-0 win to finish off a rough road trip. The hangover is certainly real in Beantown.
This week: 2 games vs Toronto; 4 games vs Baltimore

New York Yankees (2nd in AL East; Week Record: 4-2; Overall Record: 5-4; Week Runs Scored: 34):
The Yankees took 1 out of 3 against Detroit and swept the Orioles on the road. The Yankees on offense struggled against an average team in the Tigers but the Yankees would rebound on Friday with a 8-4 win, scoring 8 unanswered runs. The Yankees on offense are a formidable force with Luke Voit's 8 RBIs and DJ LeMahieu's .458 batting average so far this season.
This week: 3 games @ Houston; 3 games vs Chicago (AL)

Tampa Bay Rays (1st in AL East; Week Record: 4-2; Overall Record: 7-3; Week Runs Scored: 23):
The Rays took 2 of 3 against Colorado and took another 2 of 3 against San Francisco. The nicer stories so far this season is the team in Tampa. The Rays are hitting it off nicely with all facets in the game playing to their potential and beyond. Tyler Glasnow is so far 2-0 with a 0.82 ERA and an offense that is top to bottom competing for runs. Such bats like Kevin Kiermeier, Austin Meadows and Ji-Man Choi. Time will tell how well this team does come August and September but you gotta feel good if you're a Rays fan.
This week: 3 games @ Chicago (AL); 3 games @ Toronto

Toronto Blue Jays (5th in AL East; Week Record: 1-6; Overall Record: 3-8; Week Runs Scored 17):
The Blue Jays took 1 of 3 against Baltimore and got swept in 4 games against the Indians. The Blue Jays were mostly picked to finish last in the division and they certainly appear to be heading that way. Bar some continuous shitting the bed with Boston. The team has a bright spot with Matt Shoemaker who has two wins and a 0.00 ERA so far this year. Richard Urena and Freddy Galvis has a batting average above .300 and the rest are below .250, certainly their hitting needs to be improved as well.
This week: 2 games @ Boston; 3 games vs Tampa Bay

American League Central (3rd Inning)

Chicago White Sox (4th in AL Central; Week Record: 2-2; Overall Record: 3-5; Week Runs Scored: 29):
The White Sox took a split against the Indians in 2 games and lost 1 of 3 (the April 4th game was postponed) to the Mariners. The White Sox on offense can either have a good day or a bad one. Score 10 runs one day, and then 2 the next. The team on pitching still has a lot of question marks. Still a ripe division for the taking for the Sox, should they take the opportunity.
This week: 3 games vs Tampa Bay; 3 games @ New York (AL)

Cleveland Indians (2nd in AL Central; Week Record: 5-1; Overall Record: 6-3; Week Runs Scored: 25):
The Indians took a split against the White Sox and they swept the Blue Jays in 4 games. The better teams to finish the week was Cleveland. The offense was back to normalcy and the pitching outside of Kluber is doing well. Jon Edwards has two wins in relief and Carlos Santana putting up a .444 batting average with 7 RBI's so far this season. They did play some weak competition but if they play this well against other top teams they have the tools to do well.
This week: 3 games @ Detroit; 3 games @ Kansas City

Detroit Tigers (1st in AL Central; Week Record: 5-1; Overall Record: 7-3; Week Runs Scored: 20):
The Tigers took 2 of 3 against New York and swept the Royals in 3 games. The team's success seems to be their pitching holding down the fort against some really tough offenses like New York. Their MVP right now is Shane Greene who has 7 saves in 7 opportunities. Insane stuff! Christin Stewart is a nice story as well with a grand slam on Saturday. The Tigers need him to stay on top of offense with his bat for sure.
This week: 3 games vs Cleveland; 3 games @ Minnesota

Kansas City Royals (5th in AL Central; Week Record: 0-5; Overall Record: 2-6; Week Runs Scored: 19):
The Royals were swept in a 2-game series vs Minnesota and then swept against Detroit. The one of two teams this week to not post a win. The offense couldn't quite put up enough runs to give their starters a chance and vice versa to their pitching. Their lone bright spot has been Alex Gordon who has put up 6 RBI's this week (7 in total this season).
This week: 4 games vs Seattle; 3 games vs Cleveland

Minnesota Twins (3rd in AL Central; Week Record: 3-2; Overall Record: 5-3; Week Runs Scored: 23):
The Twins swept the Royals in a 2-game series and took 1 of 3 against the Phillies. The Twins on offense has been great with Nelson Cruz's 6 RBI's and Michael Pineda's 2.00 ERA. The team's ERA is a bit high for most folks but you somewhat forgot they went toe to toe against a good Phillies team this past week.
This week: 2 games @ New York (NL); 3 games vs Detroit

American League West (4th inning)

Houston Astros (3rd in AL West; Week Record: 4-2; Overall Record: 5-5; Week Runs Scored: 24):
The Astros took 1 of 3 against rival Texas and swept the Athletics in a 3 game series. The week started off weak for the Astros but finished strong. The offense is being led with George Springer's 7 RBI's and Michael Brantley's 6. The pitching is still a question mark but they are showing improvements especially against a good offense like Oakland's.
This week: 3 games vs New York (AL); 3 games @ Seattle

Los Angeles Angels (5th in AL West; Week Record: 3-3; Overall Record: 4-6; Week Runs Scored: 23):
The Angels were swept against the Mariners and took 3 of 4 against the Rangers. The story this week for LA is Mike Trout. The man has 10 RBI's so far this season and the closest guy is Kole Calhoun with 4. Certainly Trout can will his team to victory but can doom it if he goes 0-for-4. They need better performances from their offense. Justin Anderson has certainly showed some flash on the mound in relief. He has two wins so far this season.
This week: 3 games vs Milwaukee; 3 games @ Chicago (NL)

Oakland Athletics (4th in AL West; Week Record: 3-4; Overall Record: 6-7; Week Runs Scored: 28):
The Athletics took 3 of 4 against the Red Sox and would get swept by the Astros in 3 games. The week started good for the A's but would finish in tremble. The A's on pitching were dominant against a juggernaut in the Red Sox but would have no answer for the Astros, same story for the offense. Still Stephen Piscotty and Khris Davis are having great starts to the season so far and Mike Fiers and Brett Anderson both have 2 wins each and a manageable ERA.
This week: 4 games @ Baltimore; 3 games @ Texas

Seattle Mariners (1st in AL West; Week Record: 4-1; Overall Record: 9-2; Week Runs Scored: 37):
The Mariners swept the Angels in 2 games and took 2 out of 3 (the April 4th game would be postponed) against the White Sox. The league's best offensive team has to certainly be the Mariners so far this year. Four players have 10+ RBI's so far this season. Insane stuff. Certainly Marco Gonzales is happy with the production as he has 2 wins so far this season. Time will tell if this team has the stuff to stay on top.
This week: 4 games @ Kansas City; 3 games @ Houston

Texas Rangers (2nd in AL West; Week Record: 3-4; Overall Record: 5-5; Week Runs Scored: 26):
The Rangers took 2 of 3 against the Astros and took 1 out of 4 against the Angels. The strength for the Rangers this week has been their bats, at least when they had a 3-game winning streak. The bats were shutdown in the series against the Angels. Shawn Kelley has two wins in relief so far this season. Not bad. Joey Gallo has 9 RBI's so far. Hard to say how well this team can do with such offense.
This week: 2 games @ Arizona; 3 games vs Oakland

National League

National League East (5th inning)

Atlanta Braves (3rd in AL NL East; Week Record: 5-1; Overall Record: 5-4; Week Runs Scored: 33):
The Braves swept the Cubs in a 3-game series and took 2 of 3 against the Marlins. The Braves rebounded quickly after getting hammered against the Phillies last week. Their offense was a big factor. One of the driving forces was Dansby Swanson's 5 RBI's this week (7 in total). Their pitching put up two shutouts. That helps as well.
This week: 3 games @ Colorado; 4 games vs New York (NL)

Miami Marlins (5th in NL West; Week Record: 1-5; Overall Record: 3-7; Week Runs Scored: 19):
The Marlins got swept by the Mets and took 1 of 3 against the Braves. The Marlins on offense were in general inept but it was the pitching that couldn't give their offense a chance to get them a win. Martin Prado has 9 hits on the year but no Marlin batsmen has more than 7 RBI's as Jorge Alfaro has 6. It's a long season.
This week: 3 games @ Cincinnati; 3 games vs Philadelphia

New York Mets (Week Record: 4-2; Overall Record: 6-3; Week Runs Scored: 34):
The Mets swept the Marlins in 3 games and took 1 out of 3 against Washington. The Mets on pitching has been stellar with Jacob DeGrom posting a 2-0 record with a 0.00 ERA along with 24 strikeouts. The offense has been off the charts as well as Peter Alonso's 8 RBI's. Need to do well in your division games though.
This week: 2 games vs Minnesota; 4 games @ Atlanta

Philadelphia Phillies (1st in NL East; Week Record: 3-2; Overall Record: 6-2; Week Runs Scored: 30):
The Phillies split a 2-game set against the Nationals and they took 2 of 3 against the Twins. The Bryce Harper return to Washington was somewhat of a success as it seemed to be the start of a long time of Harper coming to the Capital (at least 200+ games worth). The offense outside of Harper has been doing well as Maikel Franco has 10 RBI's and Rhys Hoskins has 11. The pitching is a bit of a question mark as Jake Arrieta has a 1-1 record with a 2.77 ERA with 9 walks. Aaron Nola has an ERA of 7.00 with a 1-0 record so far.
This week: 3 games vs Washington; 3 games @ Miami

Washington Nationals (4th in NL East; Week Record: 3-2; Overall Record: 4-4; Week Runs Scored: 32):
The Nationals split a 2-game series against the Phillies and took 2 of 3 against the Mets. The Nationals took it to heart when their former star Bryce Harper came to town. They gave him an earful of boos. The pitching this week has been a bit off but Max Scherzer did get his first win on the year on Sunday in a 12-9 win. The offense has been doing very well as Ryan Zimmerman got 4 RBI's this week. The loss of Trea Turner could be a factor as he was placed in the 10-day Injury List.
This week: 3 games @ Philadelphia; 3 games vs Pittsburgh

National League Central (6th inning)

Chicago Cubs (4th in the NL Central; Week Record: 1-5; Overall Record: 2-7; Week Runs Scored: 28):
The Cubs got swept against the Braves in 3 games and took 1 of 3 against the Brewers. The Cubs are certainly a shocker to some people's eyes. The pitching has been dismal while the offense has been doing well enough to keep them in competitive games. When you have Jason Heyward on your team and have 8 RBI's so far this season, you won't get shutout a lot.
This week: 3 games vs Pittsburgh; 3 games vs Los Angeles (AL)

Cincinnati Reds (5th in the NL Central; Week Record: 0-7; Overall Record: 1-8; Week Runs Scored: 16):
The Reds would get swept in 3 games vs the Brewers and then by the Pirates in 4 games. The team in general needs help after looking promising to start the week, the team would get shutout for 3 straight games. Their pitching can keep them in games but you can't possibly think you can scrap by with the lineup you have. Having a Team Batting Average of .165 isn't good.
This week: 3 games vs Miami; 2 games vs St. Louis

Milwaukee Brewers (1st in NL Central; Week Record: 5-1; Overall Record: 8-2; Week Runs Scored: 34):
The Brewers swept the Reds in 3 games and would take 2 of 3 against the Cubbies. The Brewers continue their success this week. Their bread and butter has been their bullpen with Josh Hader having 5 saves so far this season even Alex Wilson would get some love with a save for himself. The NL MVP Christian Yelich continues to have a hot start with his 10 RBI's and 4 homers.
This week: 3 games @ Los Angeles (AL); 3 games @ Los Angeles (NL)

Pittsburgh Pirates (2nd in NL Central; Week Record: 4-2; Overall Record: 5-3; Week Runs Scored: 26):
The Pirates got swept by the Cardinals in 2 games and would sweep the Reds in 4 games. The pitching got two shutouts against the Reds (Yes its against the Reds but still) and would get some timely hitting from Josh Bell's 5 RBI's this week. Not too impressed but the Pirates have a winning record right now.
This week: 3 games @ Chicago (NL); 3 games @ Washington

St. Louis Cardinals (3rd in NL Central; Week Record: 3-2; Overall Record: 4-5; Week Runs Scored: 21):
The Cardinals swept the Pirates in a 2-game series and would take 1 out of 3 (the April 4th game was postponed) against the Padres. The Cardinals looked good against the Pirates on offense but came up limping against a Padres team that was on the verge of becoming good in a few years. Certainly Paul Goldschmidt hasn't been a disappointment with his 9 RBI's and five home runs, despite posting a .219 batting average.
This week: 4 games vs Los Angeles (NL); 2 games @ Cincinnati

National League West (7th inning)

Arizona Diamondbacks (3rd in NL West; Week Record: 4-2; Overall Record: 5-5; Week Runs Scored: 39):
The Diamondbacks took 2 of 3 against the Padres and 2 of 3 against the Red Sox. The Diamondbacks looked really good against two offensive teams. Adam Jones, the one free agent that no one wanted has been putting up numbers in Arizona with his 6 RBI's, 16 hits, and .400 batting average. It certainly helps when you have that and an offense that puts up 5+ runs a game. They are 28th in ERA though.
This week: 2 games vs Texas; 4 games vs San Diego

Colorado Rockies (5th in NL West; Week Record: 1-5; Overall Record: 3-7; Week Runs Scored: 16):
The Rockies took 1 of 3 against the Rays and got swept by the Dodgers in 3 games. The Rockies looked to be a division winner on paper but on the field, not so much. I feel its more on the pitching staff of the Rockies than the batting. Certainly the batting could be better but pitching matters in baseball. Though a Team batting average of .207 is not going to get you a lot of wins, an era of 4.56 certainly has to be improved. David Dahl is a nice piece of hitting though.
This week: 3 games vs Atlanta; 4 games @ San Francisco

Los Angeles Dodgers (1st in NL West; Week Record: 5-1; Overall Record: 7-2; Week Runs Scored: 42):
The Dodgers took 2 of 3 against the Giants and swept the Rockies in 3 games. The story for the Dodgers this week is pretty much their consecutive home-run streak. As well as Cody Bellinger's hot streak. One could certainly say that they're the best team in baseball right now. Pitching is doing well, their offense is putting up runs, their fielding is holding steady. All this without Clayton Kershaw. I was certainly shocked by how well the Dodgers are playing right now. Of course baseball always changes, and you can't crown yourself a champion this early in April.
This week: 4 games @ St. Louis; 3 games vs Milwaukee

San Diego Padres (2nd in NL West; Week Record: 3-3; Overall Record: 6-4; Week Runs Scored: 24):
The Padres took 1 of 3 against the Diamondbacks and 2 of 3 against the Cardinals (the April 4th game was postponed). The offense has been shown as promised, a good offense. The pitching is promising as well. Joey Lucchesi record of 2-0, and an ERA of 0.00 is noteworthy. He also has 13 strikeouts too. Decent week for the Padres, but I can't imagine them to take the league by storm. at least not yet.
This week: 3 games @ San Francisco; 4 games @ Arizona

San Francisco Giants (4th in NL West; Week Record: 2-4; Overall Record: 3-7; Week Runs Scored: 20):
The Giants took 1 of 3 against the Dodgers and then 1 of 3 against the Rays. Brandon Belt has been an offensive force for the Giants with his 8 RBI's and 8 hits. The brighter side is that the pitching has improved in terms of ERA even though the staff haven't had a lot of success in terms of wins. For example Madison Bumgarner who has a 0-2 record but a 1.38 ERA (harkoning back to the 2014 World Series with an ERA like that). The Giants on offense is just meh compared to their championship teams earlier in the decade.
This week: 3 games vs San Diego; 4 games vs Colorado

League Leaders & Notes (8th Inning)

Now it is time for some leaders and notes. This is where each category is lead by which player on which team. I will feature both offensive and pitching stats.

 Leading the majors in offensive categories are: Tim Anderson (White Sox) in batting average of .560, Cody Bellinger (Dodgers) leads the majors in runs, Home Runs, and RBI's (17, 7, and 18 respectively) and Dee Gordon (Marlins) leading with 5 stolen bases.

Leading the majors in pitching: Marco Gonzales (Mariners) leads in wins with 3, Shane Greene leads the majors in saves with 7, 6 pitchers lead in ERA with 0.00 (Not gonna tell you who but you can read them on this column), and Max Scherzer (Nationals) leads the majors in strikeouts with 28.

In the notes segment I'll talk about news and notable things that happened in the majors this week. This would include historical milestones, suspensions, etc. Or anything out of the ordinary in the world of baseball.

In Sunday's Reds-Pirates game, 5 players were ejected after a brawl that involved players from both benches. The brawl started after a thrown pitch by Pirates starter Chris Archer towards Reds batter Derek Dietrich. Dietrich who had hit a home run ball earlier in the game took a while to get around the base paths and thus the Pirates retaliated. Hard to say if there's gonna be fines or suspensions but certainly there has to be some disciplinary action from the league office.

During the 5th inning of the Rangers-Angels game on Sunday, there was a delay due to the fact that bees invaded the bullpens of both teams. You could say it was quite a buzzkill to the game at hand. I'll stop.

The Final Out (9th inning)

To close out the week's column, I though I'd share a player that deserves to be in the Hall of Fame. A player who started up with the Dodgers organization in 1998 and finished his career with the Rangers in 2018. He has put a remarkable resume of a lifetime batting average of .286, 3,166 hits, 477 home runs, and 1,707 RBI's. Did I also mention that he has a birthday today (April 7th)? Cheers to the birthday boy and welcome to 40!

See you guys next week!
Tom