The big argument being made in Tampa Bay is: Where should David Price pitch once he is promoted to the Rays. The Hardball Times answers this question by statistically breaking down Price's leverage in the bullpen versus starting. The verdict? It would be wise for the Rays to use Price in their bullpen.
The big argument for why Manny Ramirez is a better hitter than Jason Bay, even though they have roughly the same numbers, is that Ramirez has a better average than Bay with runners in scoring position. The Hardball Times disrpoves this argument, laying out the stats that show that Bay is a good hitter with RISP.
Even though the Yankees already have the highest revenues in the league (they earned $327 million last year), they will double their revenues when their new stadium opens next year. In addition to raising the ticket and concession price, the team will also rent out the stadium for more concerts and receive more money from the YES Network.
After a 9 game winning streak going into the break and an 18-8 July record, the struggling New York Mets have yet to win a game in the month of August. The Mets are currently in third place in the NL East and their most recent setback cae in the form of a sweep by the mediocre Houston Astros.
According to Cubs f/x, Jeff Samardzija is a really good pitcher. And even though the former Notre Dame wide receiver's fastball can be touched, it sets up his slider very effectively. The scary thing is that Samardzija is working on throwing his change-up and splitter for strikes - and when he does, he could be untouchable.
