Ready to talk Ranger’s Postseason

The Texas Rangers longest winning streak since 1991, and Texas looks strong atop the AL west.

This is not the first time Texas has been in first place. Last season, its first winning season since 2004, it ended June with a half-game lead over the Angels and stayed within striking distance of the division lead until late September. But finishing a close second isn't what Young or All-Star second baseman Ian Kinsler believes is in store this season. Read more

The Rangers are well on their way in the race for the 2010 AL West Crown. Still, the division seems like it will come down to the last week of the season with a two team race between the Rangers and Angels. The Angels have won the AL West crown in five of the last six season. Texas still has to overcome some demons of their past if they want to make the playoffs for the first time since 1999. Read more on Rangers and Angels Race to 2010 AL West Crown.

The Rangers, are making headlines in the courtroom this week as it appeared creditors secured a victory in the war over the Rangers’ bankruptcy and sale Tuesday, but it might be a hollow victory.

Federal bankruptcy judge D. Michael Lynn said he could not confirm the Rangers’ pre-packed Chapter 11 plan and sale to the Rangers Baseball Express (operated by Chuck Greenberg and Nolan Ryan) as it currently stood. However, it still appears the deal might be proceeding as planned.. Read in depth article, Ryan ‘confident’ his group will be Rangers owners

At the ballpark, Texas knows it might be able to win the division as constructed, the Rangers also feel that to make noise in the playoffs they could use an ace. Cliff Lee and Roy Oswalt are likely picks. Visit links for each pitchers trade talks and rumors.

The Dallas Morning News and ESPN contributor, Tim Cowlishaw said on Tuesday that,

“In the past when the opportunity to make a playoff run presented itself, the Rangers took it too literally. They made a playoff run in 1998 against the Yankees. Pudge Rodriguez drove it in. They made another playoff run a year later against New York. Juan Gonzalez drove it in. 

This time, I think a playoff run could amount to more than a single, solitary run. That's why the trade deadline that looms at the end of July normally one of the most overrated factors in determining who gets to a World Series – has the look of a tool the Rangers can really use.” Read more on Rangers from Cowlishaw

"They've been solid all year," Rangers managerRon Washington said. "We are very 

proud of our bullpen and very proud of our starting pitching. Very proud of our position players. That's how we get this done. Everybody is playing a part. The bullpen has been solid all year."

The Ranger’s bullpen is lined up for one big debut after another as they near the All-Star break and trade deadlines. The Rangers have won 12 of their last 13 games, with the Texas relief corps allowing just six runs (1.35 ERA) in that time. That ERA drops to 1.09 in the last seven games, all victories. Read more in the June 23 article, Bullpen is streaking, too, as Rangers win ninth straight

Rotation:  

RHP Scott Feldman(notes)

RHP Colby Lewis(notes)

LHP C.J. Wilson(notes)

RHP Tommy Hunter(notes) 

Bullpen:  

RHP Neftali Feliz(notes) (closer)

RHP Frank Francisco(notes)

LHP Darren Oliver(notes)

RHP Darren O’Day(notes)

RHP Dustin Nippert(notes)

RHP Chris Ray(notes)

LHP Matt Harrison(notes)

RHP Alexi Ogando(notes)

ROSTER REPORT

Medical Watch:  

• RHP Tommy Hunter (strained hip flexor muscle) left his start June 16 start after just 2 1/3 innings. He threw a bullpen session June 19, and he started June 22.

• RHP Rich Harden(notes) (strained left gluteus muscle) went on the 15-day disabled list June 12.

• LHP Derek Holland (mild left rotator cuff inflammation) went on the 15-day disabled list retroactive to May 31. He was diagnosed June 20 with a subluxation of his right knee after a mishap during a pitcher’s fielding practice session, an injury that is likely to set him back several more days. He is expected to resume throwing sometime during the week of June 21, but might not be ready to return to the roster until the All-Star break.

• OF Nelson Cruz (strained left hamstring) went on the 15-day disabled list retroactive to May 29. He began a rehab assignment with Class AAA Oklahoma City on June 18. He was activated June 22.

• RHP Eric Hurley(notes) (right shoulder surgery in January 2009, left wrist surgeries in March 2010 and April 2010) went on the 60-day disabled list March 13. He was throwing in extended spring training in early June.

• RHP Omar Poveda(notes) (Tommy John surgery in March 2010) was recalled from the minors and placed on the 60-day disabled list April 23. He is out for the season.

Texas Rangers Fielders/Batters

Catchers:  

Matt Treanor(notes)

Max Ramirez(notes)

Infielders:  

1B Justin Smoak(notes)

2B Ian Kinsler(notes)

SS Elvis Andrus(notes)

3B Michael Young(notes)

INF Andres Blanco(notes)

INF Joaquin Arias(notes)

Outfielders:  

LF Josh Hamilton(notes)

CF Julio Borbon

DH Vladimir Guerrero(notes)

OF Nelson Cruz(notes)

OF David Murphy(notes)

JULIO BORBON, who rounded out the major’s top five hitters in the last seven weeks:

1.       Josh Hamilton, Rangers (.377)

2.       Brennan Boesch, Detroit (.355)

3.       Robinson Cano, NY Yankees (.34715)

4.       Delmon Young, Minnesota (.3466)

5.       Julio Borbon, Rangers (.3456)

has not produced as many runs(28)  as the Rangers would have expected by this point in the season.  Last year in only 45 games Borbon had 19 steals to match his 30runs.  63 games into the season Borbon has only 8 steals to match his 28 runs. This dip in his numbers can be attributed two factors. Borbon bats in the 9^th spot and leadoff hitter E. Andrus’ current slump has been affecting run production when the top of order comes up with runners on base.  Andrus’ slump will likely end as the Ranger’s continue their current winning streak of 11. The other factor affecting Borbons lack of runs and potential steal attempts was highlighted in a Sportsday blog at The Dallas Morning News which read,

“If there is a disappointment in Borbon's run, it's the relative lack of walks. He has only seven for the season, though six of those have come in the last seven weeks. His walks total puts him at a .371 OBP for the last seven weeks. It's certainly an acceptable mark, but it ranks only 50th in the majors in that time.”

If Bourbon starts taking more walks the 2^nd half of the Rangers lineup ( Cruz, Smoak,Treanor,Borbon)  will have no trouble putting runners in scoring position for the top of the lineup.  Treanor is the week link here. An increase in walks from Borbon coupled with a hitting turnaround from E. Andrus will lead right into the red hot M. Young and core of the Ranger’s lineup.

On the other hand Bourbon can continue to swing the lumber as he did in yesterday’s 6-3 Win over the Pittsburgh Pirates. In the fifth inning of yesterday’s game Bourbon topped a Ranger comeback with a two-out three-run homerun in the fifth-inning. This home run helped take the Ranger’s winning streak to nine games, tied for the second-longest streak in club history. Rangers longest winning streak is 13 games in 1991.

Ian Kinsler, who suffered a high ankle sprain that placed him on the DL earlier this year has been rather quiet until as of late.  Kinsler admitted again on June 13^th that his ankle still bothered him, until then Kinsler had just four steals in seven attempts this season.

 "I'm just grinding," Kinsler said. "I'm just working, staying with what I know and grinding through it. The whole thing is getting out of the batter's box. Once I'm on the bases, I feel like I'm at top speed. Defense is all right because I can move around and stay loose. But stealing bases and getting out of the box is the biggest thing."


His ankle seemed to be feeling better as Kinsler picked up two steals June 20^th verse the Houston Astros, his last steal had been on May 25^th vs Kansas City.

 The Ranger’s other hot bats are Josh Hamilton, Nelson Cruz,Michael Young, and Vladimir Guerrero who is back from the DL.

• Josh Hamilton(notes)) just hit his 17th home run of the season, to extend his hitting streak to 17 games. Hamilton also has hits in 19 consecutive interleague games. Hamilton is hitting .476 with eight homers and 26 RBI in 20 June games. 
• Nelson Cruz(notes) was activated from the his second DL stint after three weeks of dealing with a strained hamstring. The Ranger’s were careful in making sure Cruz’s hamstring was fully healed, as they do not need him returning to the DL this close to the All-Star Break and trade deadline. Cruz started of f the season with slightly higher numbers than Albert Pujols. In only 33 games this season, Cruz is batting .318 with 10Hrs/25RbIs/19Runs, and seven stolen bases. 

• With his 1,748th career hit Micheal Young move ahead of Ivan Rodriguez to officially become the Ranger’s all-time Hit Man. Young is quality veteran 3rd baseman who will along with Cruz and Hamilton will lead these young up and comers deep into this 2010 post-season.

• Another compelling and final reason to believe in the Rangers postseason hopes is Vladimir Guerrero, 35, an eight-time All-Star who was a thorn in the side of the Rangers when he was with the Angels for six seasons. He has found the fountain of youth in Arlington, entering the weekend batting .355 with 15 homers and 55 RBI, numbers that already matched what he did in 100 games for the Angels last year.You can read more on whether this Will be the Rangers' year to make the World Series?

Brennan Boesch Strikes Again!

Detroit Tigers, Brennan Boesch OF went yard to deep right center for his 11^th of the season in the top of the 4^th vs. the New York Mets currently hot pitcher Jonathan Niese. This 2 run-shot was not enough as the Mets easy rolled the tigers in a 14-6 loss. Boesch who was highlighted in a previous Who’s Hot - Likely free agents post , was batting .337 with 36 RBIs and 22 Runs before his two-run shot today.  

With all the media focus and Atlanta’s rising young star Jason Heyward, it seems this rookie sensation will remain a secret only of the Midwest and the Detroit faithful.  

Named Rookie of the Month in May, many have dismissed Boesch because of his higher strikeout rate. But there has got to be another reason you’re not hearing enough about him, right? Boesch is not the strongest left-fielder and actually didn’t join the team until a few weeks into the season, far into the Heyward frenzy.

As of June 18^th he was still 24 at bats short of qualifying for the percentage lists, where he would be listed with the 5-th Best OPS in the American league and the 2^nd Best Slugging Percentage. Top spot in slugging is held by fellow teammate Miguel Cabrera. 

Last Tuesday in the post, ‘Is Tigers’ rookie sensation for real?,’ Rob Neyer of ESPN.com discussed Boesch’s viability as we go forward into the season.

“Is Brennan Boesch anywhere near this good, really? Historically, Boesch has never been much of a prospect, advancing one level every season despite generally unimpressive numbers. Last year in Double-A, he slugged .510 but also posted a .318 on-base percentage. There's simply nothing in Boesch's statistical record suggesting that he's good enough to play everyday in the majors. Let alone rank among the league leaders for an entire season.

Which doesn't mean he won't. Human beings have this odd way of surprising us. It's just not the smart way to bet.”

The speed of Boesch’s progression through the farm system makes no difference to fantasy owners who are enjoying his production numbers. If anything it has shown Brennan Boeschs unwaivering determination and drive to compete in Major Leagues. So what happen? He got the chance. Boesch has been an overlooked natural talent who likely only needed the opportunity. Simply being a Tiger and playing side by side with high caliber players like Miguel Cabrera could be another factor for these all-star numbers.

Take note of Brennan Boesch, a 2006- 3round pick by  the Tigers, who each year improved, matured, and progressed through the Detroit Tigers system as continues to solidify his spot in Tigers lineup. 

MLB Armbands for Father's Day and Prostate Cancer Awareness

Initiative Benefits Prostate Cancer Foundation and has Raised Nearly $36 million Toward Prostate Cancer Research Since 1996

The annual "Home Run Challenge" is back and underway for the 2010 season to support the Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF). The initiative, which will culminate on Father's Day, Sunday, June 20, and is now in its 14th year, will help increase awareness and early detection of prostate cancer. Since its inception, this initiative has raised nearly $36 million toward prostate cancer research.

"Each year we look forward to the 'Home Run Challenge' to help raise funds for prostate cancer research," said Baseball Commissioner Allan H. (Bud) Selig. "Prostate cancer has affected many members of the Baseball family, and through this initiative we hope to generate increased awareness about the disease."

For each home run hit during 60 select MLB games from June 9 - June 20, including all games played on Father's Day, fans can make monetary donations and pledges to the Prostate Cancer Foundation at www.pcf.org. Fans can also make a $10 donation by texting PCF to 20222 (message and data rates apply). Money raised through the "Home Run Challenge" goes directly toward prostate cancer research. In 2009, $2.7 million was raised to fight prostate cancer through the PCF "Home Run Challenge".

Major League Baseball Charities has committed $50,000 to PCF as part of this program. Additionally, on-field personnel, including players, managers, coaches, trainers, umpires and groundskeepers will wear blue wristbands and blue ribbon uniform decals symbolizing prostate cancer awareness. The blue ribbon logo also will appear on the official dugout lineup cards, which will be blue. In an effort to emphasize the impact of the disease, all Major League Baseball games played on Sunday, June 20, will communicate valuable health information about prostate cancer.

CHECK OUT which stars are on the PCF Team and the Current Scoreboard.

Strikeout Prostate Cancer Challenge - Prostate Cancer Foundation

One-A-Day Men's presents MLB Strikeout Prostate Cancer Challenge

There are more new cases of prostate cancer diagnosed each year than any other non-skin cancer, and one in six men will face prostate cancer in his lifetime. To support getting the message out about this important cause, Major League Baseball All-Star pitchers John Smoltz of the Boston Red Sox and Derek Lowe of the Atlanta Braves have teamed up to join the “One A Day Men’s Presents MLB Strikeout Prostate Cancer Challenge” in an effort to raise awareness of prostate cancer and the things men can do that may help maintain their prostate health.
“Prostate cancer wasn’t something I ever really thought about until I learned how common it is. Now I want to do all I can to spread the word,” said Lowe. “I know now that there are a number of things men can do to support their prostate health like going to the doctor for regular check ups and getting proper screening to detect problems early. Along with a healthy diet, they can also take a multivitamin formulated specifically for men.”
This is the second year of the Strikeout Prostate Cancer Challenge. During the inaugural 2008 season, the program raised a total of $333,780. Based on that success, One A Day and Major League Baseball will again make a $10 donation for every strikeout recorded this season to The Prostate Cancer Foundation, the world’s largest philanthropic source of support for prostate cancer research.
“Prostate cancer is a disease that will affect one in six men in their lifetime, and yet we still do not talk about it enough. We are helping men realize the importance of prostate health,” said Smoltz. “I’m looking to strike out as many people as possible for such a good cause.”
To show their commitment to this important program, Lowe and Smoltz are also personally donating $10 to the Prostate Cancer Foundation for every strikeout they record during the 2009 season.
“The fight against prostate cancer is extremely important to Major League Baseball, and we’re thankful for all our valued business partner One A Day has done to support this very worthy cause,” said John Brody, Major League Baseball Senior Vice President, Corporate Sales & Marketing. “We applaud One A Day, The Prostate Cancer Foundation, and all within the Major League Baseball family who lend their support to this important initiative.”
“In addition to One A Day and MLB’s continued support, we are thrilled these well-known baseball players have become so involved in the effort to raise awareness of prostate cancer,” said Dave Perron, Vice President, Baseball and Sports Enterprises for the Prostate Cancer Foundation. “Through this program and the participation of John Smoltz and Derek Lowe, we know we’ll be able to do even more to find a cure for this deadly disease.”
One A Day is the official multivitamin of Major League Baseball, and both One A Day Men’s Health Formula, and One A Day Men’s 50 Plus Advantage are specially formulated to help support prostate health.
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