METS: The only move the Mets made was the acquisition of Twins 2B Luis Castillo.  The Mets didn't end up going after a starting pitcher and didn't end up with Nats RP Chad Cordero.  I'm glad the Mets held on to their main prospects, but I am a little disappointed that they could not come through with Cordero.  Castillo should slightly improve the mets offensively and defensively, but isn't a major change.  With all the Braves moves during the trade deadline, the Mets will have to play much better down the stretch to hold them off for the division title.

RED SOX:  The Sox made the big splash of the AL, aquiring Eric Gagne from the Rangers.  I am a little disappointed that the Sox had to give up Kason Gabbard, who is a good young pitcher.  But, the bottomline is when Schilling comes back and with Lesters return we dont need him.  Okajima, Gagne, Papelbon is the scariest threesome in any bullpen by far in baseball.  The Sox already had the best bullpen in the majors and now its just sick.  Add that to a great rotation and the Sox are ready for a very serious run.  I'm kind of indifferent with the whole Dye situation, but I dont understand why the White Sox are thinking about extending him.  He's entering the downside of his career...what the heck are they thinking?  Anyways, the Red Sox added to what was already the best team in baseball and stole a valuable bullpen guy away from the Yanks.  They are the winners of the AL.

The Trade Deadline has come and passed and here are many of the deals that went through:

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The RED SOX acquired RP Eric Gagne from Texas for SP Kason Gabbard and prospects.

The Braves acquired RP Octavio Dotel from the Royals in exchange for SP Kyle Davies.  They also acquired former Met Royce Ring from the Padres.

The Phillies acquired RHP Julio Mateo from the Mariners.

The Yankees traded RP Scott Proctor to the Dodgers for IF Wilson Betemit.

The Padres acquired Rob Mackowiak and Morgan Ensberg.

The RED SOX traded away Joel Pinero to the Cardinals for a player to be named later.

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OTHER NOTES

The Mets reportedly offered Phillip Humber straight-up for Washington's Chad Cordero.  The Nats wanted more, like Lastings Milledge.  The Mets also thought about offering Carlos Gomez in a package for Eric Gagne but didn't pull the trigger before the Sox did.  The Brewers actually were closer to a deal for Gagne than the Mets were.  The Mets were also discussing a 3-way deal with the Nats and Diamondbacks that involved Humber and Cordero. 

The Red Sox-White Sox talks about OF Jermaine Dye completely fell apart sometime Tuesday afternoon.  The Red Sox were willing to depart with Manny Delcarmen in a package. Dye is now apparently discussing a contract extension with Chicago.

The Dodgers and A's reportedly had discussions about SP Joe Blanton, but nothing ever went through.  The Mets were never really that interested in Blanton, despite many reports.

Despite already acquiring Dotel and Teixeira, the Braves also made a push for Bronson Arroyo to boost their starting rotation.

 

 

 

 

The Trade Deadline is heating up and today a few deals actually went through.  Many rumors remain out there as there is less than 24 hours to the deadline.

TRADES

The Atlanta Braves acquired Rangers 1B Mark Teixeira for Jarrod Saltamalacchia and others.

The METS acquired 2B Luis Castillo from the Twins for 2 minor-league players.

RUMORS

The RED SOX were reportedly close to acquiring RF Jermiane Dye from the White Sox, but the negotiations have stalled as the White Sox apparently want "too much."

The METS, Yanks, and RED SOX are all still very interested in Eric Gagne, but all are unwilling to depart with key prospects in their respective organizations.

The METS still are intersted in OF Jay Payton.

The METS still want Chad Cordero, but the NATS want Lastings Milledge in return.

After the bad managing by Mets Manager Willie Randolph yesterday in Game 2, the Met fans throughout the blog world are going crazy and many are demanding Willie get fired immediately.  This has been expressed a lot lately, mainly through the comment sections of blogs, such as MetsBlog and Mets Merized.

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In my opinion, this is ridiculous.  First of all, Willie has done a great job since he became manger in 05.  He's well over .500 and kept the team together throughout the good and the bad times.  And despite 12 players on the DL, underachieving carlos's, and inconsistent pitching, people want Willie fired?  You people are absolutely nuts.  Yea, sure let's get someone to step in right now, who has no idea about the team and doesn't have a relationship with the team.  That's a great idea.  Last time I checked the Mets had the best record in the National League, despite all their problems.  Willie has kept the team chemistry good throughout his 3 seasons and he's gotten the team to win.  He's also done a great job at mentoring his young players, including Wright and Reyes.  So, please cut all the crap all of you out there who want willie fired now....because you're not going to find anyone better out there.  All managers make mistakes...not all managers are as good as Willie and I'm thrilled to have him.  Willie is far from our biggest problem...and when you think about it...first place aint all that bad

Unfortunately no trades have happened today, but the rumors are flying from team to team.  Here are the latest rumors and for more stay updated with FOX Sports.

RUMORS

The METS are looking at pitchers Joe Blanton and Jon Garland, but the prices may be too high for both.  The METS interest in 2B Luis Castillo is now believed to be "mild."

The Phillies have also showed interest in Blanton, while also looking at Reds P Kyle Lohse and Astros P Jason Jennings.

The Diamondbacks have joined the Mark Tiexeira race, but the Braves remain the favorites.

The Cubs may still have some interest in former-Met Jay Payton.

The Padres are interested in Mark Loretta and Mike Lamb.

Sammy Sosa is unlikely to be traded.

The Twins are very close to officially becoming sellers.

The RED SOX remain intersted in RP Octavio Dotel

It is unlikely Jason Isringhausen will be traded away from the World Champion Cardinals.

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The deadline is Tuesday @ 4 PM ET.  We'll have updates when and if anything happens through that time.

 

Here are the trade deadline moves, news, and rumors of the day.  This will take place through the trade deadline, Tuesday

TRADES

Tampa Bay Devil Rays trade former Met Ty Wiggington to the Houston Astros for RP Dan Wheeler

Tampa Bay Devil Rays trade Jorge Cantu and Shaun Cumberland to Reds for 2 minor league pitchers.

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RUMORS

Mets are giving a look at Twins 2B Luis Castillo.  They are also interested in Drays players, such as RP AL Reyes.  Mets, along with the Padres are interested in Mark Loretta.

Mark Teixeira to Braves is now considered unlikely.  The Angels remain interested.

Everyone is interested in Octavio Dotel.  Expect him to be moved to the highest bidder.

Angels may consider making a push for Athletics C Mike Piazza.

 

In the latest ESPN Power Rankings, the Boston Red Sox regained the #1 spot after taking a 1 week break from the list.  The Sox 62-40 record is the best in baseball.  The Mets jumped up a surprising 6 spots to #4.  The Mets all of the sudden have the best record in the NL again.  The Yankees have somehow moved up from 11th to 5th.

#1#2#3 #4#5#6

To view the complete list through July 26, click HERE

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The Sox deserve to move back into the 1 spot, after taking 3/4 from the very talented Cleveland Indians.  Last week, I complained that the Mets deserved to be higher than 10th and were not worse than 3 other NL teams.  While I do think the Mets are the best team in the NL, #4 may still be a little high for them, as the AL is so much better than the weak NL.  The Yankees makes absolutely no sense to me.  They're beating up on some of the worst teams and pitching staffs in baseball (TB, KC) and they should get rewarded for that?  There is no way in hell that the Yanks are a better team than the Angels (#6), who happen to have a 4.5 game better record.  In reality, it wouldn't matter anyways if the Yanks were #5, because they'd have to get past DET or CLE for the wild card and BOS for the division.  None of that will happen.  I still believe the Yanks will miss the playoffs...lets see them beat some teams that are even remotely mediocre.

Once again, Curt Schilling spoke out, not afraid to speak his mind.  This time he talked about the taciturn nature of both Barry Bonds, Mark McGuire, and other potential steroid users.  Schilling implied several times that if you don't deny it then your admitting to it.  Curt said all of this on HBO's "Costas Now."

Schilling also made negative comments against Barry Bonds earlier in the year and attended that faithful Congress meeting a few years ago.

To read more quotes from Schilling visit this report at ESPN by the AP.

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Unlike most people, I don't mind it when Schilling speaks up and speaks his mind.  It is wrong for someone to actually give their opinion on the "steroid era?"  Schilling has done a great job discussing tough issues, including steroids over the past few years.  His statements make sense.  If you don't deny it, you probably did it.  We all know Bonds and McGwire did it and Schilling is just stating what most players probably feel.  Unfortunately for Bonds, unlike McGwire, he has remained in the spotlight for several years and continues to receive these verbal blows.  But, he deserves it and he will constantly deny steroids, despite the fact that he admitted to a grand jury that he did indeed take steroids .  The bottomline is Palmeiro, Bonds, Giambi, McGwire and others have all cheated over the years and deserve some type of punishment, even if its only verbal punishment.  Keep talking Schilling.  Baseball needs more players like you.

 

One week after Jerry Crasnick gave his Starting 9 for Potential Impact Players in the 2nd half, Crasnick gives his Starting 9 for several recent trades in July, that have had a strong impact come October.  One Sox and Mets trade are included in the list.

#4- Boston's acquisition of SS Orlando Cabrera and 1B Doug Mientkiewicz in a four-team deal, that included trading SS Nomar Garciappara to the Cubs.

#9- Mets acquisition of SS Mike Bordick from Baltimore, in exchange for Melvin Mora and others.

To read about all 9 trades, view the whole ESPN list HERE

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The Boston's trade was one of the boldest moves ever made by a GM and turned out to be extremely successful.  Theo Epstein traded away long-time fan favorite and seemingly always injured Nomar Garciappara away for better defense.  Theo realized that his team had good enough offense and pitching to win, but they needed help in defense.  Cabrera was a great acquisition and he should've never been let go.  How great would it be if we still had him here, instead of going out to sign Edgar Renteria, which completely flopped.  And who can forget Doug, who played great defense all season and in the playoffs and eventually the man who will be infamously known for catching the Foulke flip to win the Sox the World Series in 04.  Besides the fact that Doug went on to steal the ball, he will always be remembered for that catch and that image will never leave any red sox fan's head.  Great trade by Theo!

As far as the Bordick things concerned, I'm not really sure why he is on the list.  All I remember about him is that first HR in his first AB.  He barely had an impact for the Mets run in 2000, but did have a successful first month with the club.  Mora went on to become a pretty good player with the O's.  Not a great trade by Steve Phillips, but they needed a SS, with the injury to Rey Ordonez.

Red Sox SP Jon Lester made his first start on Monday Night against Cleveland, since being diagnosed with cancer about a year ago.  Lester made a remarkable and fast recovery just to pitch again.  Last night, he was once again given the shot at the major league level.  With his parents on hand, Lester pitched a very good game.  Lester gave up just 2 ER in 6 solid innings of work to help the Sox win 6-2. Lester is now 8-2 in his career with the Sox.

To hear from Lester, click this BOSTON.COM video.

For more information visit ESPN RECAP

And for more on Lester's Inspirational Story, click HERE, for an article at ESPN by Sean McAdam.

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It was great to watch Lester's emotional return last night.  You have to believe everyone was rooting for him to do well last night and he was very good.  The greatest moment had to be when he got out of a bases loaded jam in the 4th, by striking out Sizemore.  As he pumped his fist on the mound, his parents pumped their fist with excitement, relief, and joy.  His parents were clearly very nervous all game, but it was great to see them celebrate during and after it.  His parents remained in their seats and cheered the team on, even after Lester was taken out.  It was definately a wonderful moment.

Besides all the inspirational stuff, Lester should have a positive impact on the Sox rotation, as he provides another good young arm for them to use down the stretch.  I'm thrilled to have Lester back!  Way to go kid! You are an inspiration to us all!

Having a little problem lately with the Website and it may shut down at some point for as much as a week.  I am hopeful this will not occur, but I am warning you first.  Thanks all for your patience and again I'm sorry for any inconvenience

Red Sox 23-year old SP Jon Lester will return to the Major League squad and start on Monday when the Sox begin a 4-game set on the road at Cleveland.  It will be Lester's first start since 2006, when he left when he became ill with cancer.  In 2006, Lester was 7-2 with a 4.60 ERA.  He will replace Tavarez in the rotation.

To read more about Lester's return visit SOX & Dawgs and/or ESPN

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This is great news. I'm thrilled to see Lester back.   His numbers don't show it, but in 2006 he was really good for a while.  He was the only starter who was consistently succeeding for a while.  Maybe the cancer played a role in his later struggles.  I'm glad to see he has beaten the cancer; it's a great, emotional story.  It should be interesting to see how he pitches, as he returns to the mound.  Tavarez's time is finally up.  You had to know it would happen eventually.  He did have some solid starts and held his spot together for a while.  He wasn't terrible, but he was never going to be a guy who could stay in a rotation the whole season.  Welcome back Jon and good luck kid!

The Mets closed out their 7-game west coast swing by defeating the Dodgers 5-4 in 10 innings Sunday afternoon.  After losing 2 out of 3 to the Padres, the Mets took 3 out of 4 from a talented Dodgers club to finish 4-3 on their road trip.  The Padres and Dodgers are two of the best teams in the National League, but the Mets were able to survive a difficult task and come home winners.  The Mets will face the Pirates and Nationals in their next 7 game stretch.  Hopefully, the momentum will continue.

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Great trip, but mostly a great series against LA.  The Mets fought hard and their bats came alive in every game, which is great to see.  And a great win today, as Chip Ambres was the hero with a clutch 2-out RBI.  The Mets winning record on this road trip definately gives me confidence and they should be able to at least go 5-2 against the Pirates and Nationals next week.  Hopefully, this is the time we start seeing the real mets.  Alou will be back, and eventually Pedro as well.  The Mets must not lose their momentum now.  It will be hard to retrieve it back down the road if they falter now.

Thanks to all who voted in the First Have MVP Polls and here are the results:

METS: SP John Maine won the vote, receiving 53% of the votes.  Reyes came in 2nd with 28%, and Wright came in 3rd with 14%.  Billy Wagner received the other 3%.  Beltran received 0 votes.

RED SOX: SP Josh Beckett won the vote, receiving 66% of the votes.  Ortiz and Papelbon finished tied for 2nd with 13% of the votes.  Youkilis received the other 6%.  Surprisingly, no votes went to Mike Lowell, who led the team in RBI thfirst half or rookie sensation Dice-K.

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I guess Maine deserves it, because he had a brilliant first half to help an inconsistent starting rotation.  Reyes deserves it too, but the offense was not good enough in the first half.  Thus, the best pitcher deserves more credit than the best hitter.

Beckett definately deserves it for the Sox, as he was one of the best pitchers in all of baseball through the first half.  Where would the Sox be with lets say, the 06 version of Beckett, instead of the 07 version?  I'm really surprised no one voted for Lowell, as Mike had an outstanding first-half, carrying the offense along with YOOUUK, when Ortiz and Manny were struggling.

Thanks again all for voting and be sure to vote in the new polls before the trade deadline hits soon!

 

Curt Schilling had a rehab start with AAA Pawtcuket on Saturday and was very effective. He did not surrender a run and struck out 6 in 3 innings of work. Schilling's velocity was good and he only allowed 2 hits.    more »

In ESPN's Weekly Power Rankings, the Tigers keep the #1 spot, while the Sox remain #2, despite an awful week. The Mets fell 3 spots to #10, only 1 spot ahead of the #11 Yankees. The Cubs, Brewers, Padres, and Dodgers are all listed ahead of the Mets. For the complete rankings through July 20, click HERE    more »

The Mets are 9-38 this season when their opponents score 4+ runs.

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Last season the Mets were a threat to score 10 runs every game.  This year once they give up 1-2 runs, there is already a fear of a loss.  The biggest difference is the Mets hitting with RISP and 2 out and their clutch hitting late in the game.  At METSBLOG, Anthony De Rosa compares 2007 numbers and career numbers for both of these situations for many of the Mets players.  It is very disappointing to see the downfall from 06-07.  Last year, the Mets were extremely clutch and everyone seemed to hit over 300 in these situations.  Now, the Mets are lucky if their all hitting 200 in those situations.  You keep hoping things will turn around, but before long it's just too late.  The Mets are just no where near as good as last year and their ganna need some timely hitting come October (if they get there) to finally get back to the World Series.

In an article for ESPN.COM, Jerry Crasnick names his 9 guys to keep an eye on in the second half-the most likely candidates to make a huge impact.  Among the 9 are former Red Sox teammates, Curt Schilling and Pedro Martinez.  Both helped the 2004 Red Sox win the title, having huge impacts in the regular season and the postseason.  Pedro is listed as the #1 candidate, and Schilling is listed as #3.  Former teammate of Schilling on his 2001 championship Diamondbacks squad, Randy Johnson also makes the list.  Crasnick elaborates on the potential  for both pitchers, who could both return soon and help their respective teams.

Great article.  Both had a huge impact on the Sox in 04, and with both the Mets and Sox contending this year, they could have a major impact again.  Pedro can help an inconsistent pitching staff and secure them with a veteran ace heading into the postseason.  Schilling can join Matsuzaka and Beckett, and form one of the scariest three-some in the postseason.  But, lets not get ahead of ourselves.  They have to get healthy soon.  There is more of an urgency for Pedro, but the Sox have struggled a bit lately as well and could use the veteran in their rotation immediately.  Hopefully, they both do indeed have positive impacts down the stretch, that hopefully can lead to a rematch of 1986. 

 

You voted and you have decided that your most hated Yankee is the one and only Roger Clemens.  Clemens received 51% of the votes in the first ever poll.  Jeter was second with 20% of the votes and A-Rod received 17% of the poll.  Damon and Giambi combined for the other 8%.  Thanks to all those who voted.

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I have a feeling most votes came from Met fans, but the results still make sense to me.  Clemens will always be hated, even a little more than Jeter and A-rod.  This is mostly because of the picture above.  Roger will never be forgiven for that, no matter what excuse he or Torre can come up with.  I may put the poll up again later in the year.  Anyways, once again thanks all for voting!

The Red Sox failed to win the 4-game set against the Toronto Blue Jays, by losing the series finale 2-1.

Since June, the Sox have lost 9 1-run games including today's game.  Their total record since then in 1-run games is 6-9.  The Sox have a 9 game lead in the AL East, but it would be bigger if the sox were lets say, 8-7 in those 15 games.

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It has gotten extremely frustrating that the Sox continue to lose tough 1-run games to below-par teams.  They never seem to put that extra run across, and today was a perfect example.  Ortiz was thrown out at the plate at their shot at the game-tying run.  Once the Sox fell behind 2-0 early, it seemed like they were dead.  The Sox are successful when they score early.  If they dont score early, their unforutantely out of it of late and that really angers me.  Losing 2-1 is not acceptable and the Sox wasted a great pitching performance by their ace.  The Sox cannot play this poorly in 1-run situations any more, because come playoff time they'll need to come through in these types of games, especially at home.  This is too good of an offense to constantly lose 1-run games.  They should've won 2 nights ago and they definately should've won today.  This is tough, but the bottomline is the Sox must get it together come October.  There are still plenty of holes that this team needs to fill. 

According to FOXsports.com, the Red Sox still may have interest in making a big push for A-Rod.  Since prior to the 2004 season, team President Larry Lucchino has always been extremely interested in acquiring the all-star.  If A-Rod were to become available, the Sox may just throw some money at him and try to sign him.

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I flat out hate A-Rod.  That's the bottomline.  I hate the way he plays, I hate his demeanor and his attitude, I hate his ego, I hate everything about him except his regular season talent.   In the 2003 offseason, I was devistated when the Sox didn't land him and he went to the Yanks.  However, I do not today regret the move.  With A-Rod, he Sox would have NOT won the title in 04.  World Series MVP Manny would have been gone and A-Rod flat out stinks in the playoffs.  Thus, I am glad he wasn't a sox back in '04.

I hope A-Rod leaves the Yanks, because I can't stand him here in New York.  However, because of his regular-season talent I would definately be interested in bringing him into Boston.  It would be an ultimate slap in the face to the Yanks, especially if he actually did something come October.  I dont like A-Rod's negative chemistry effect on teams and I am fearful of him trying to appease a new city and attempting to conquer his playoff fears and struggles.  But the bottomline is it's still A-Rod and I wouldn't rule out the Sox going after him.  But as of now, I still hate him.  We'll see what happens.

The next few days are the last chance to vote in the MetsSox first ever Most Hated Yankee poll.  Before the blogharbor version of MetsSox perishes forever, please take part in the vote.  I will post the first results within the next week.  Thanks!

 

In the first Power Rankings of the 2nd half, ESPN ranks the Red Sox at #2, behind the Detroit Tigers and the Mets at #7.  The Yankees move up to # 12.

For the complete list through July 13, click HERE

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It makes sense that the Sox are behind the Tigers after a disappointing series this past weekend.  Right now the Tigers are the better team.  The Mets are the 2nd best team in the NL in this list to San Diego.  I still believe the Mets are better BUT they haven't proven it yet.  The rest of the list makes sense and the Yanks have finally moved into the top-half of the majors.  Yay, 500!  27 games against under .500 teams could move the Yanks up the list some more over the next few weeks.  Hopefully, the Sox can maintain a double-digit lead.

Red Sox star DH/1B David Ortiz told reporters last night that he has been playing with a torn meniscus in his right knee since the middle of last season.  He has never needed surgery because it has not become inflamed.  Although Ortiz said "it's no big deal," he has been bothered by it a little more this year than expected.  Ortiz's power numbers are down but his AVG is not and he is still producing for the first-place Sox.

For more info read the AP @ ESPN.

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Scary to know that Ortiz has been injured for this long.  It may be a reason why his HRs are down.  Ortiz is on pace to hit about as half as many HR as he did last year.  But the Sox still need his bat in the lineup, especially when he's still hitting over .300.  Hopefully it never gets to the point where he cant play during the season.  Maybe he can correct it with surgery in the off-season.  Just get through the season Papi.  We need ya, especially in the clutch!

For all of those interested in out-of market games and don't currently own MLB.TV or MLB Extra Innings, the cable version of MLB Extra Innings, ran by On Demand, is in the midst of a 1-week free trial from July 12-July 18.  Enjoy it!

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Although the DirecTV product of MLB Extra Innings is a little better, the cablevision version is just as good.  I need to get my Sox games living here in NY, and Extra Innings has 'em all.  Any baseball fan should have this package.  It's a ton of fun to watch all the games every night.  For those who don't get it every day, enjoy the free preview!

From late Wednesday Night throughout Thursday the Mets were very busy making some changes before the 2nd half got underway.  First they fired Rick Down and replaced him with coach Rickey Henderson.  Then it was speculated that Howard Johnson, the Mets 1st-base coach would resume Down's responsibilities as hitting coach, while Henderson helped the staff in some other way.  The full-time hitting coach is still unknown.  The Mets then decided to release Julio Franco and called up Lastings Milledge.  The oldest member of the team was released for his lack of ability so far this season and apparent complaints about playing time.

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I'm glad they finally released Down.  He needed to be released, looking at the terrible offensive struggles that the Mets have had all season.  They need a new perspective and a new start.  An interesting but exciting choice to bring Rickey in.  He's smart, had over 3,000 hits, stole a ton of bases, and no matter what he does will have a positive impact on the team.  I do hope the Mets do pick an official hitting coach ASAP.  They also needed to get rid of the 126-year old Julio Franco, whom wasn't productive at all throughout the first-half.  He was useless at the plate.  I will miss his wisdom and the impact his veteran leadership had on the youngsters, but the bottomline was he had to go.  I think L-Millz will have a positive impact early as he'll be eager, anxious, and excited to get back on the diamond.  Hopefully, his trade value will increase as well.  Here's too a much better, positive 2nd-half.

Here is a recap of all the players who were selected as 2007 all-stars from the New York Mets and Boston Red Sox.

NEW YORK METS

SS JOSE REYES 3-4 R, SB

CF CARLOS BELTRAN 1-3, R, 2 LOB, K

3B DAVID WRIGHT 1-3, 1 LOB

RP BILLY WAGNER 1 IP, 2 ER, 2 HIT, K

BOSTON RED SOX

3B MIKE LOWELL 1-1, R

1B DAVID ORTIZ 0-2, 2 LOB

PH MANNY RAMIREZ 0-1

RP JOSH BECKETT (W) 2 IP, 0 ER, HIT, 2K

RP JONATHAN PAPELBON (H) IP, HIT, 2K

RP HIDEKI OKAJIMA DNP

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Reyes was clearly the most valuable of the bunch in this game, while Lowell, Wright, and Beltran contriubuted for their respective offense.  Beckett got the win with a solid 2 inning performance for the Sox and Papelbon got an earned hold.  There were 2 disappointments:  Billy Wagner struggled and Okajima didn't play.  I guess everyone can't play and it's not that shocking that Okajima didn't get a shot.  He did warm up at one point in the game.  Wagner may have helped cost the Mets home-field advantage, but the bottomline is we need him for to be good for the Mets and another major reason why the All-Star Game should not count.

 

The American League defeated the National League for the 10th straight time by defeating them 5-4 Tuesday Night in San Francisco.  Ichiro won the games MVP, with his 3 hits, including a 2-run inside the park home run, the first inside the park hr in all-star game history.

WP: Josh Beckett

LP: Chris Young

SV: Francisco Rodriguez

The NL had a spark from Jose Reyes, who had 3 hits and scored a run on a 2-out clutch RBI single by Ken Griffey Jr.  However, the AL finally striked back with the Ichiro HR in the 5th and the Crawford solo shot in the 6th.  A Victor Martinez 2-run shot off Billy Wagner gave the AL a 5-2 lead.  The NL looked like they had a comeback in the making with a 2-out rally in the 9th, but they fell just short.  Alfonso Soriano's 2 run shot made it a 1-run game off J.J. Putz.  The NL proceeded to load the bases but K-Rod finished it off by getting Aaron Rowand to pop up.

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My Thoughts on Everything All-Star Game:

-Great pre-game ceremony with Willie Mays and all the players.  It was great to see Jose Reyes catch the ball and get an autograph.  You can't get much better than that!

-Overall, bad job by FOX.  Buck mistakenly said the Mets lost their series in Houston, when they split it.  McCarver had to bring up the Beltran curveball...again!  They didn't criticize the NL enough for not using Pujols.  Then in the postgame right in front of Ichiro Jeannie Zelasko announced to San Fran that he was going to be a free agent when it was just announced hours before everywhere, including FOX that he was going to most likely stay in SEA.  Even if that weren't true it's disrespectful to Ichiro and the Mariners organization to say that. 

-The Mets once again continue to do pretty much everything for the NL team.  Last year they scored the only 2 runs and they scored the only 2 runs through the first 8 innings in this year's game.  Reyes was excellent with his 3-4 performance and SB.  Beltran hit a triple and scored a run as well.  Besides Griffey the first 8 innings were dominated by Mets, at least from the offensive side.

-The Home Field Advantage and the All Star Game needs to be changed.  If your going to make it count, than you need to end the stupid every team must be represented crap.  Replacing Wright for a Pirate makes no sense late in the game.  There is too much of an obligation to bring in that one representative than keep the better players in.  Speaking of better players how do you not use Albert Pujols in that situation?  La Russa is an idiot for not doing that and that's plain and simple.  I dont know the truth behind the rumors that he left the building, but what I do know is either La Russa or Albert does not care enough about the game.  Thus, they can end up costing the mets home-field.  This is why everyone hates the damn Cardinals.  And thus a Phillie ended the game.  So we can blame the Cards and Phils for not getting home-field if it comes to that later in the year.  Thanks a lot Tony!

-And it wouldn't all of mattered if Billy Wagner didn't give up the HR to Victor Martinez.  If he doesn't hit the HR, than Soriano's 2-out 2-run shot turns into a dramatic game-winner.  It's unfortunate, but Wagner also cost the NL home-field in a way.

-Anyways it's frustrating that the same team always wins.  It's no fun when that happens and some things just need to change Bud.  O well, I guess the Mets/Sox rematch this time will start @ Fenway.

 

 

David Ortiz was seen hitting baseballs into McCovey Cove in San Francisco right outside of AT&T Park.  He was promoting his new sneaker and showing many children his all-star skills.  To watch the video visit YOUTUBE

Thanks a lot Chris for the link.

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It's always great to watch Big Papi, no matter what he is doing.  He's a very likeable guy, as shown in yesterday's Home Run Derby when he helped out Guerrero by giving him his magic bat.  It'll be fun to watch him and other Sox at the All Star Game.  Enjoy the game and the video!  Thanks Chris!

 

 

At the Boston Herald, Tony Massarotti gives his mid-season report card for all the Red Sox players.  Here you can check them out in an online slide show.  Many of the Red Sox receive high grades, while others like the disappointing J.D. Drew and Julio Lugo received lower ones.

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Great job by a great writer.  The Sox have had a brilliant season so far and their rankings thus are very high.  Keep it up in the second half guys!

At Newsday, David Lennon gives his mid-season report card for the New York Mets.  The average was a "B" for the Mets, but some did receive the honor of an "A".  Wagner, Maine, Feliciano, and Reyes (A-) all got the highest rating.  Schoenweis, Mota, and Pelfrey all received the lowest rating of a "D".

To view the entire ratings, click HERE

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Good ratings by Lennon and the average of a "B" seems to make sense for the team.  It was intersting that he gave Reyes an A-, only for his lack of hustle right before the all-star break.  Hopefully, Reyes has learned his lesson and the Mets can improve in the 2nd half.

The 2007 Starting Pitchers and Starting Lineups were announced on Monday.  Here are the all those selections for both the NL and AL with the Sox and Mets in bold.

NL LINEUP

SS JOSE REYES

LF BARRY BONDS, SF

CF CARLOS BELTRAN

RF KEN GRIFFEY JR., CIN

3B DAVID WRIGHT

1B PRINCE FIELDER, MIL

C RUSSEL MARTIN, LA

2B CHASE UTLEY, PHI

STARTING PITCHER: JAKE PEAVY, SD

AL LINEUP

CF ICHIRO SUZUKI, SEA

SS DEREK JETER, NYY

1B DAVID ORTIZ

3B ALEX RODRIGUEZ, NYY

RF VLADIMIR GUERRERO, LAA

LF MAGGLIO ORDONEZ, DET

C IVAN RODRIGUEZ, DET

2B PLACIDO POLANCO, DET

STARTING PITCHER: DAN HAREN, OAK

For more information on all the starters visit ESPN

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No idea why Bonds is 2nd...he should be 3rd and beltran should be 2nd but other than that both lineups are very good.  The NL has a ton of power, especially from the left side of the plate.  The AL has a better overall 3-4-5.  Both starting pitchers are well deserving and were good selections.

 

 

 

On Saturday Night's epic 17 inning win for the Mets, Carlos Beltran made an amazing catch running up the hill in Houston to save the game in the 14th inning.  It was one of the greatest catches this year in all of MLB.

To watch the catch visit YOUTUBE

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Unbelievable catch by Beltran and the best since Endy's phenominal catch.  He ran a long way, then up a hill and made an unbelievale catch over his shoulder to rob Luke Scott of a game winner. For a guy who struggles in the clutch hitting, he sure never fails in the outfield.  He saved the game and then delivered the go-ahead RBI single.  Great job by Beltran showing off against his former team. 

The Detroit Tigers swept the Red Sox in the last series of the first half.  The Tigers won Saturday's and Sunday's game by 1 run.  The Sox have lost 6 straight on the road.  The Tigers won 4 of 7 against the Sox this year and may now be considered the best team in baseball through one half.

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It is concerning that the Sox have been extremely inconsistent since June, especially on the road.  They continue to lose 1-run games and their offense is up one day and down the next.  It is ridiculous to go 12 innings without a run yesterday and frustrating that 5 was not enough today.  It always seems that they always need that 1 more run.  If they were better in 1-run games they could have at least a 15 game lead-not like a 10 game lead @ the all star break is disappointing.  However, the Sox have lost 2 games on their lead in 3 days and go into the break on a sour note.  Tough game for Matsuzaka who had been brilliant the last few months.  Although he gave up 3 runs, the 6th run that he gave up was the ultimate killer.  Very disappointing that the Sox couldn't come back fully late.  Hopefully they turn it around on a long, easy home stand after the break. 

Another Note:  Manny did not start on Sunday because of "intestine turmoil."  If that's not the funniest and most unique injury in the league so far this year, than I don't know what is.  Only Manny folks, only Manny. 

And congrats to the youngster Bailey who hit his 1st ML Homer on Sunday.

At ESPN.COM, Jayson Stark gives his AL and NL awards for the first half.  Red Sox SS Julio Lugo got the Lease Valuable Player Award and Hideki Okajima received Rookie of the Year. 

To see all the AL and NL awards click Here

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I agree that Lugo has had a terrible season and thus he should be AL LVP.  Lugo was a terrible signing and an extreme disappointment for the Sox.  Okajima deserves the ROY with his .83 ERA so far this season and all-star nod.  The rest of the awards can be debatable, but all seem like respectable picks.  Notice that Ordonez gets the nod over AROD for MVP.  I hope that stays true and happens.

In an article at ESPN.COM, Buster Olney writes a brilliant piece about what makes Red Sox 1B/3B Kevin Youkilis so unique.

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Great job by Buster.  YOOK is one of my favorite players because of his heart and his effort.  He always gives 100% and really cares about how he plays the game.  Those are qualities you dont see today any more.  Keep it up YOOK!

By the way, Youkilis also writes a very interesting blog.  I suggest you all check it out HERE

 

In ESPN.COM's weekly power rankings the Red Sox remained #1 and were also named the Most Valuable Team of the first half.  The Red Sox, who hold the best record in baseball, has been #1 in 8 out of 14 weeks.  The Mets dropped 2 spots to #7 and the Yankees join the middle of the pack at #15.

To view the complete power rankings through July 6, click HERE

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I'm very happy that the Sox have clearly been the best team through the first half.  Hopefully, the Sox keep it up and win 97-100 games.

I disagree a little with the current power rankings and heres my top 10:

1. Red Sox

2. Tigers

3. Indians

4. Angels

5. Mets

6. Padres

7. Mariners

8. Brewers

9. Athletics

10. Cubs

 

Hideki Okajima was voted in by the fans to take the last spot in the all-star game.  Okajima will become the 6th Red Sox to represent the AL this year, along with his bullpen mate Jonathan Papelbon.  Okajima received a nice ovation from the Fenway Faithful when it was announced there on Thursday Night.  Chris Young was picked in the NL.

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This is excellent for Okajima.  He deserves to be in San Francisco, as he has been by far the best set-up man in all of baseball this season.  It will be fun to see him there with Papelbon, despite whether or not he gets in the game.  Congratulations buddy!

The Boston Red Sox will return after the All-Star Break without SP Curt Schilling in the starting rotation.  Schilling still has some work to do before he's fully healthy to return.  The Sox will keep Kason Gabbard in the rotation to fill Schilling's spot for the time being.  In 15 starts this season, Curt is 6-4 with an ERA of 4.20.

For more information, visit ESPN

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Hurry Back Curt!  The team needs Schilling's veteran leadership down the stretch and along with Beckett and Dice-K, the Sox have a very strong big 3 when healthy.  Then again, what really is the rush?  We have a 12 game lead over the Yanks and the Blue Jays are double-digits back as well.  Division race should be over.  Lets go Sox!!

The wife of Alex Rodriguez made headlines again today for wearing an obscene shirt with the words F*** You clearly written on it. 

Mrs. Arod had been in the headlines earlier this year when Arod was caught cheating on her. 

For more information read the New York Post Article

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Well it appears Mrs. Arod can no longer handle all the pressure that Arod has brought her in the city of New York.  This could be dedicated at the public, the media, Arod, or just the world in general.  Who knows.  Maybe she has just gone crazy.  I wonder if Arod gave her that shirt on Mother's Day.  She is so fond of wearing it in the public with her child in her arms.  Maybe this will turn into the Bensons and the Yanks will have to get rid of them.  Hah, I wish that was the case.  But I do believe Arod and his dumb wife will opt out after the 07 season and hopefully they'll be out of our lives for ever. Good luck on the West Coast you 2!

P.S. I wonder if Arod will bring his mistress with him to the All-Star game festivities.  After all, he was the highest vote getter...time to party!

 

The 2007 all-star game rosters were announced on Sunday Night.

NL: The Mets will be represented with 4 all stars in 2007.  3 of them will start for the NL.  David Wright will start at 3B, Jose Reyes will start at SS, and Carlos Beltran will start in the OF along with Barry Bonds.  Billy Wagner was also selected as a RP.

AL: The Red Sox will be represented with 5 all stars in 2007.  Only David Ortiz will start for the AL, as he starts at 1B.  Josh Beckett was selected as a SP and Jonathan Papelbon was selected as a RP.  Mike Lowell and Manny Ramirez join the squad as AL reserve hitters.

For the complete all-star rosters for 2007 click on  he following:

AL

NL

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I'm disappointed that Lo Duca didn't make it and I'm also surprised Maine was not chosen.  However, I am excited to see the NL starters once dominated by the Mets with 3 starting the game.

The Red Sox are well represented but they may deserve more.  Kevin "YOOK" Youkilis deserves a spot as a reserve and you could make strong cases for rookies Okajima and Matsuzaka. 

I am very angry Bonds was voted to start, but it should still be an exciting all-star game.