While checking the in-game boxscores, I noted the Yankees had taken a 4-0 lead in the top of the first inning against the Royals. Was anyone surprised by that? The Royals started Scott Elarton.
Mariners' rookie reliever Brandon Morrow threw three shut-out innings in the opening game of a doubleheader against the Texas Rangers. More notable was the three strikeouts and one walk. On the season, he his innings pitched and strikeouts have surpassed his walk total - 39.2, 41 and 38 respectively. Since the All-Star Game, he has pitched 7.2 innings, struck out 9 and issued only four free passes. Has he turned a corner?
Why has anyone pointed out the Homer Run Derby Curse yet? This year's winner, Vladimir Guerrero, has yet to homered since the All-Star Break - a span of 47 ABs! Nor has he taken a walk.
The Orioles' manager Dave Trembley turned to lefty Jamie Walker to close out a second consecutive victory. Match-ups aside, two-for-two in save opportunites makes Walker the favorite to close while Chris Ray recuperates from a bone spur on his throwing elbow.
Interestingly, the Phillies' Antonio Alfonseca continues to close games despite the return of Tom Gordon. Since being activated on the 17th, Gordon has pitched twice. Both games were blowout wins and each was seperated by four days. Having previously pitched on Saturday, one would have thought pitching on a Tuesday would be reasonable.
There is a great line-up of chats today. With six days until the trading deadline, these offer some more interesting takes on trade possibilites.
FBB with Eric Karabell at 11AM.
Baseball Prospectus' Will Carroll at 1PM.
Baseball America's Jim Callis at 2PM.
FBB with Ron Shandler at 3PM.