Lavarnway More Than Doubles His RBI Total

Batting 6th, Ryan Lavarnway was 1-3 with 1 BB, 1 HR (his 2nd), 4 RBIs, and 1 run scored against the Blue Jays. The 4 RBIs Lavarnway had tied a career-high for a game, which he set last September. Coming into tonight, Lavarnway only had 3 RBIs on the season.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 1-3 with 1 BB, 1 HBP, 1 HR (his 19th), 1 RBI, and 1 run scored against the Twins.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 2-5 with 1 HR (his 17th), 1 RBI, and 1 run scored against the Mariners.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 1-3 with 1 BB against the Mets.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 0-5 with 1 RBI against the Brewers.

Pinch hitting, Sam Fuld was 0-1 against the Yankees.

Coming Down The Home Stretch

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 2-5 against the Indians.

Pinch hitting, Sam Fuld was 0-2 against the Orioles.

Pinch hitting, Ryan Lavarnway was 0-1 against the Yankees.

Craig Breslow pitched 1 scoreless inning of relief on 1 BB and 1 K against the Yankees.

It's Gotta Be The Stache!

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 2-4 with 2 HRs (his 17th and 18th), 4 RBIs, and 2 runs scored against the Tigers.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 2-4 with 1 double (his 40th) and 1 run scored against the Indians.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 2-5 with 1 run scored against the Braves.

Pinch hitting, Ike Davis was 0-2 against the Nationals.

Sam Fuld was a late inning defensive replacement in left field against the Orioles.

Ryan Kalish was a late inning defensive replacement in right field against the Yankees.

Kinsler Approaching 40 Doubles

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 1-4 with 1 double (his 39th) and 1 RBI against the Indians. Kinsler's career-high in doubles for a season is 41, set back in 2008.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 0-2 with 2 BBs against the Nationals.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 0-3 with 1 BB against the Tigers.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 0-4 against the Braves.

Pinch hitting, Sam Fuld was 0-1 against the Orioles.

Craig Breslow pitched 1 scoreless inning on 1 BB against the Yankees.

This Reaffirms Why Mondays Suck

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 0-2 with 2 BBs (1 IBB) against the Braves.

Batting 5th, Ike Davis was 0-3 with 1 BB against the Nationals.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 0-4 against the Tigers.

The Wrist Is Acting Amiss

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 2-4 with 1 RBI against the Braves.

Batting leadoff, Ryan Kalish was 1-2 with 1 BB against the Blue Jays.

Batting 8th, Ryan Lavarnway was 1-3 with 1 double (his 4th) against the Blue Jays.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 0-3 against the Cardinals. Braun left the game after apparently re-aggravating his wrist.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 0-4 against the Rays.

Sam Fuld was late inning defensive replacement in left field against the Rangers.

Congrats Youk!

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 3-5 with 1 run scored against the Cardinals.

Batting leadoff, Sam Fuld was 1-4 with 1 RBI against the Rangers.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 1-3 with 1 BB against the Braves.

Batting 6th, Ryan Lavarnway was 0-2 with 2 BBs and 1 run scored against the Blue Jays.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 0-4 with 1 BB against the Rays.

Kevin Youkilis was attending the birth of his child and so was held out of the lineup.

Braun Comes Up Big Again

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 2-6 with 1 HR (his 38th), 1 RBI, and 1 run scored against the Cardinals. Braun's blast in the 13th inning was the game-winner for the Brewers. His 38th HR is a new career-high for a season and was also his 100th RBI this year.

Batting 9th, Ryan Kalish was 1-2 against the Blue Jays.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 1-4 against the Rays.

Batting 5th, Ike Davis was 0-2 with 2 BBs against the Braves.

Batting 9th, Sam Fuld was 0-3 against the Rangers.

Pinch hitting, Ryan Lavarnway was 0-1 against the Blue Jays.

Another Push For 30 SBs?

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 1-3 with 1 RBI and 1 SB (his 23rd) against the Marlins.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 1-5 with 1 triple (his 5th) and 1 run scored against the Royals. Kinsler's 5 triples are a career-high for a season.

Scott Feldman got a no-decision. He went 6 1/3 innings and gave up 3 runs on 6 hits, 0 BBs, and 6 Ks against the Royals.

A Tale Of Two Halves

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 1-3 with 2 BBs, 1 HR (his 26th), 3 RBIs, and 1 run scored against the Cardinals. Ike's 3-run shot off Adam Wainwright in the 5th inning ended up being the game-winner for the Mets and once again secured the victory for R.A. Dickey.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 2-4 with 1 double (his 38th), 1 RBI, and 1 run scored against the Royals.

Batting leadoff, Sam Fuld was 1-2 with 1 BB and 2 runs scored against the Yankees.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 1-4 with 1 BB (IBB) and 1 double (his 29th) against the Marlins.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 0-3 with 1 BB and 1 run scored against the Twins.

Batting 7th, Ryan Lavarnway was 0-4 against the Mariners.

Call A Guy Out And He Takes One Out

Batting 7th, Ryan Lavarnway was 1-4 with 1 HR (his 1st), 1 RBI, and 1 run scored against the Mariners. Lavarnway's rocket to left in the 6th inning turned out to be the game-winner for the Red Sox.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 2-5 with 1 double (his 28th) and 2 RBIs against the Marlins.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 1-3 with 1 BB and 1 double (his 37th) against the Royals.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 1-2 with 1 run scored against the Twins. Youk was among many Sox starters pulled early from the game in what turned out to be a blowout.

Pinch hitting, Ike Davis was 0-1 against the Cardinals.

Ryan Kalish was a late inning defensive replacement in left field against the Mariners.

Craig Breslow picked up his 7th hold of the season (3rd with the Red Sox). He pitched 1/3 of an inning on 2 hits and 1 K against the Mariners.

Lavarnway Not Taking Advantage Of PT

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 2-3 with 1 BB, 1 double (his 13th), and 1 run scored against the Twins. Youk scored what turned out to be the game-winning run in the 7th inning.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 2-5 with 1 RBI against the Marlins.

Batting 8th, Ryan Kalish was 2-4 against the Mariners.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 1-3 with 1 BB and 1 double (his 22nd) against the Cardinals.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 1-5 against the Royals.

Batting 6th, Ryan Lavarnway was 0-3 against the Mariners.

What More Can You Say About Him?

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 2-5 with 1 HR (his 37th), 3 RBIs, and 1 run scored against the Pirates. Braun's 37 HRs tie a career-best that he set back in 2008.

Batting 5th, Ike Davis was 1-3 with 1 BB and 1 run scored against the Marlins.

Pinch hitting, Sam Fuld was 1-2 against the Blue Jays.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 0-3 with 1 HBP against the Tigers. Youk is 0 for his last 19.

Batting 6th, Ryan Lavarnway was 0-4 against the A's.

Ian Kinsler sat out with lower back stiffness. Rookie phenom Jurickson Profar filled in for Kinsler and had a fantastic MLB debut. The Rangers offseason should be interesting...

Craig Breslow pitched 1 scoreless inning of relief on 2 Ks against the A's.

Feldman A Hard-Luck Loser

Batting 8th, Ryan Lavarnway was 1-3 against the A's.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 0-2 with 2 BBs (1 IBB) and 1 SB (his 22nd) against the Pirates.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 0-3 with 1 BB against the Mets.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 0-4 against the Indians.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 0-4 against the Tigers.

Scott Feldman picked up his 11th loss of the season. He went 6 innings and gave up 4 runs on 6 hits, 1 BB, and 5 Ks against the Indians. His groundball to flyball ratio was 13-2.

What A Turnaround!

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 1-3 with 1 HR (his 25th), 3 RBIs, and 1 run scored against the Marlins. Ike supplied all the run support R.A. Dickey and the Mets would need to win.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 2-5 with 1 double (his 36th), 1 RBI, 1 run scored, and 1 SB (his 21st) against the Indians.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 1-5 with 1 run scored against the Pirates.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 0-4 with 1 BB and 1 run scored against the Tigers.

Craig Breslow pitched 1/3 of an inning and gave up 5 runs (4 earned) on 3 hits and 1 BB against the A's.

Braun Deserves Back-To-Back MVPs

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 3-4 with 1 BB, 1 HR (his 36th), 1 double (his 27th), 2 RBIs, 3 runs scored, and 1 SB (his 21st) against the Cubs. Braun leads the NL in HRs, RBIs, OPS, and total bases. He is now 1 HR shy of his career high in a season, and we still have a lot of baseball left to play. Andrew McCuthen has slowed down considerably in the 2nd half. Braun should probably be the frontrunner to win MVP. Going by the numbers, he is the most deserving candidate at this point.

Batting 7th, Ryan Lavarnway was 0-3 with 1 BB against the Angels.

Batting 9th, Sam Fuld was 0-3 against the Blue Jays.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 0-4 against the Phillies.

Kevin Youkilis had the day off, even though the White Sox were facing a lefty. Bad decision, Ventura.

Fuld Finding His Niche?

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 2-4 with 1 double (his 26th) against the Cubs.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 2-4 with 1 run scored against the Phillies.

Batting 9th, Sam Fuld was 1-4 with 1 triple (his 2rd), 1 run scored, and 1 SB (his 7th) against the Rangers.

Batting 5th, Ryan Lavarnway was 1-4 against the Angels.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 0-4 against the Orioles.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 0-5 against the Rays.

Pinch hitting, Ryan Kalish was 0-1 against the Angels.

A Pair Of Game-Winners

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 1-4 with 1 HR (his 16th), 1 RBI, and 1 run scored against the Rays. Kinsler's HR in the 4th inning off James Shields was the game-winner for the Rangers.

Pinch hitting, Sam Fuld was 3-3 with 1 SB (his 6th) against the Rangers.

Batting cleanup, Ryan Lavarnway was 1-2 with 1 BB, 1 double (his 3rd), 1 RBI, and 1 run scored against the Angels.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 1-5 with 1 double (his 21st), 1 RBI, and 1 run scored against the Phillies. Ike drove in the game-winner in the 10th inning with his RBI-double.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 1-4 with 1 double (his 25th) against the Cubs.

Batting 7th, Ryan Kalish was 1-4 against the Angels.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 0-4 against the Orioles.

Takin' It To The Streets

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 4-6 with 1 HR (his 35th), 1 double (his 24th), 5 RBIs, and 3 runs scored against the Cubs. Braun leads the NL in HRs and total bases.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 2-4 with 1 HR (his 16th), 2 RBIs, and 1 run scored against the Orioles.

Batting 7th, Sam Fuld was 0-3 with 1 HBP against the Rangers.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 0-4 against the Rays.

The Mets' Walkoff Hero

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 2-4 with 2 HRs (his 23rd and 24th), 2 RBIs, and 2 runs scored against the Astros. Ike's 2nd blast of the day was a walkoff HR as the Mets won by a score of 2-1. Ike provided both runs, obviously. This was his 2nd career walkoff HR.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 1-3 with 1 triple (his 2nd) and 1 RBI against the Mariners.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 1-4 with 1 run scored against the Twins.

Batting 6th, Ryan Lavarnway was 1-5 with 1 run scored against the Royals.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 0-3 with 1 BB against the Pirates.

Craig Breslow picked up his 6th hold of the season (2nd with the Red Sox). He pitched 1 scoreless inning on 1 hit and 2 Ks against the Royals.

Scott Feldman picked up his 10th loss of the season. He went 5 2/3 innings and gave up 6 runs (5 earned) on 10 hits, 1 BB, and 4 Ks against the Twins. His groundball to flyball ratio was 11-5.

Jason Marquis was placed on the 15-day DL with a broken left hand after he was hit by a liner in his last start against the Pirates. Marquis broke his non-pitching hand in the 2nd inning, but he remained in the game into the 6th inning - because he's tough like that. Marquis was a having a very solid season with the Padres.

Home Sweet Home

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 3-5 with 1 HR (his 15th), 1 triple (his 4th), 4 RBIs, and 1 run scored against the Twins. Kinsler has pronounced splits at home versus on the road.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 2-2 with 1 BB, 1 HBP, and 1 run scored against the Mariners.

Batting 7th, Ryan Lavarnway was 2-4 with 1 BB and 1 run scored against the Royals. Lavarnway figures to get more playing time with Adrian Gonzalez and Carl Crawford no longer on the team.

Pinch hitting, Ike Davis was 1-1 against the Astros.

Batting 2nd, Sam Fuld was 0-3 with 1 BB and 1 SB (his 5th) against the A's.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 0-4 against the Pirates.

Craig Breslow picked up his 1st blown save of the year. He pitched 1 1/3 scoreless innings on 1 hit, 1 BB (IBB), and 1 K against the Royals.

Clutch Is Youk's Middle Name

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 2-4 with 1 BB, 2 RBIs, and 1 run scored against the Twins.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 1-4 with 1 BB, 1 RBI, and 1 run scored against the Mariners. Youk tied the game in the bottom of the 9th inning with an RBI single. The Sox would go on to win the game.

Batting 6th, Ryan Lavarnway was 1-4 against the Royals.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 0-2 with 3 BBs (1 IBB) and 1 run scored against the Pirates.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 0-2 with 2 BBs against the Astros.

Sam Fuld pinch ran against the A's.

That's How You Set The Table

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 1-3 with 2 BBs, 1 RBI, and 3 runs scored against the Twins.

Batting leadoff, Sam Fuld was 1-4 with 1 RBI and 1 run scored against the A's.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 0-2 with 2 BBs against the Rockies.

Batting 6th, Ryan Lavarnway was 0-3 against the Angels.

Craig Breslow pitched 1 scoreless inning of relief on 1 hit, 1 BB, and 2 Ks against the Angels.

Remarkable

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 3-4 with 1 HR (his 34th), 1 triple (his 3rd), 1 double (his 23rd), 2 RBIs, and 2 runs scored against the Cubs. Braun's HR in the 6th inning was the game-winner for the Brew Crew. Braun has now surpassed his HR total from last year - in 118 less ABs and 35 fewer games. Remarkable.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 2-5 with 1 double (his 35th) against the Orioles.

Batting 7th, Ryan Lavarnway was 1-3 with 1 BB, 1 double (his 2nd), 1 RBI, and 1 run scored against the Angels.

Batting 5th, Ike Davis was 1-3 with 1 BB and 1 RBI against the Rockies.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 0-1 with 1 BB, 1 HBP, and 1 RBI against the Yankees.

Pinch running, Sam Fuld scored 1 run against the Royals.

Granny!

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 1-4 with 1 BB, 1 HR (his 15th), 4 RBIs, and 1 run scored against the Yankees. Youk's grand slam off Ivan Nova in the 5th inning was the game-winner for the Sox. It was his 3rd career granny.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 1-4 with 1 BB, 1 HR (his 14th), 1 RBI, and 1 run scored against the Orioles.

Batting 3rd, Ike Davis was 1-4 against the Rockies.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 0-3 with 1 BB against the Cubs.

Jason Marquis received a no-decision against the Pirates. He went 5 1/3 inning and gave up 3 runs (2 earned) on 7 hits, 3 BBs, and 5 Ks. His groundball to flyball ratio was 8-4.

Scott Feldman picked up his 9th loss of the season. He went 5 innings and gave up 5 runs (4 earned) on 7 hits, 1 BB, and 4 Ks against the Orioles.

Youk Gets Drilled A Lot

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 1-2 with 2 BBs, 1 double (his 34th), and 1 RBI against the Orioles.

Batting 7th, Sam Fuld was 2-4 with 1 double (his 3rd) against the Royals.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 2-5 with 1 run scored against the Cubs.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 1-3 with 1 BB against the Rockies.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 1-4 with 1 HBP and 1 run scored against the Yankees.

Braun > Schwimer

Batting 5th, Ike Davis was 1-4 with 1 double (his 20th) and 1 run scored against the Nationals.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 1-4 with 1 double (his 22nd) against the Phillies.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 1-5 with 1 BB and 1 double (his 33rd) against the Blue Jays.

Pinch running, Sam Fuld scored 1 run and stole a base (his 4th) against the Angels.

Kevin Youkilis had the day off against the Royals.

Michael Schwimer pitched 1 scoreless inning of relief on 2 hits and 2 Ks against the Brewers. One of the hits was a double from Braun.

And Milestones To Go Before I Sleep

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 3-4 with 1 HR (his 33rd), 2 RBIs, 1 run scored, and 1 SB (his 20th) against the Phillies. This is Braun's 3rd career 30/20 season. And he still has a shot at another 30/30 season. Come to think of it, he has a shot at a 40/30 season!

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 2-4 with 1 HR (his 22nd), 2 RBIs, and 1 run scored against the Nationals. Ike's two-run oppo taco in the 7th inning was the game-winner for the Mets.

Batting 9th, Sam Fuld was 2-3 with 1 BB, 1 RBI, and 1 run scored against the Angels.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 1-4 with 1 run scored. Youk's lone hit was his 1,000th career hit. Incidentally, Braun also reached that milestone earlier this season. Youkilis would go on to score on Adam Dunn's 400th career HR. Yep, another milestone.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 0-4 against the Blue Jays. Kinsler is slumping pretty hard right now.

Batting 6th, Ryan Lavarnway was 0-4 against the Yankees.

Craig Breslow picked up his 5th hold of the season (1st with the Red Sox). He pitched 2/3 of an inning against the Yankees.

Stay Hot!

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 1-4 with 1 HR (his 32nd), 2 RBIs, and 1 run scored against the Phillies.

Pinch hitting, Sam Fuld was 1-1 with 1 triple (his 1st) and 1 run scored against the Angels.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 0-3 with 1 BB against the Blue Jays.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 0-3 with 1 HBP against the Royals.

Pinch hitting, Ike Davis was 0-1 against the Nationals.

Braun Takes Cliff Lee Deep - Twice

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 2-3 with 1 BB (IBB), 2 HRs (his 30th and 31st), 2 RBIs, and 3 runs scored against the Phillies. This is Braun's 5th season with 30+ HRs. He's 8 away from 200 for his career.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 2-4 with 1 BB, 1 HR (his 21st), 1 double (his 19th), 2 RBIs, and 2 runs scored against the Reds.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 1-4 with 1 run scored against the Blue Jays. He should have been 2-4, but the scorekeeper got it wrong in his 1st AB. Just saying.

Ian Kinsler had the day off against the Yankees.

Jason Marquis picked up his 11th loss of the season (7th as a Padre). He only lasted 4 2/3 innings and gave up 6 runs on 8 hits, 4 BBs (1 IBB), and 4 Ks against the Braves. Chipper Jones owns him. No shame in that, though. He owns a lot of pitchers. At the plate, Marquis was 1-2 with 1 double (his 3rd). He's hitting .290 on the season.

Fuld's Rays Part Of Perfection

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 1-4 with 1 HBP and 1 run scored against the Blue Jays.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 0-4 against the Yankees.

Batting 5th, Ike Davis was 0-3 against the Reds.

Batting leadoff, Sam Fuld was 0-3 against the Rays. Fuld wasn't alone in being held hitless. Felix Hernandez was awesome. He had a perfect game. At least Fuld didn't strike out.

Danny Valencia was a late inning defensive replacement at third base against the Orioles.

Ryan Braun had the day off against the Rockies. He's mired in a prolonged slump.

Craig Breslow pitched 1 1/3 scoreless innings on 1 K against the Orioles.

Scott Feldman picked up his 8th loss of the season. He went 6 innings and gave up 3 runs on 7 hits, 4 BBs, and 7 Ks against the Yankees. His groundball to flyball ratio was 8-4.

Michael Schwimer pitched 2/3 of an inning and gave up 2 runs on 3 hits and 1 K against the Marlins.

A Dull Day At The Plate

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 1-4 against the Blue Jays. Youk did make about three critical plays in the field. Why were they critical? Because the White Sox only won by 1 run.

Batting 6th, Ryan Lavarnway was 1-4 against the Orioles.

Batting 9th, Danny Valencia was 1-4 against the Orioles.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 0-3 with 1 BB against the Reds.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 0-4 against the Yankees.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 0-5 against the Rockies.

Fuld Pulling His Weight

Batting 9th, Sam Fuld was 1-4 with 1 run scored 2 SBs (his 2nd and 3rd) against the Mariners.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 1-5 against the Rockies.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 0-3 with 1 HBP against the Yankees.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 0-4 with 1 BB against the Blue Jays.

Ike Having A Good Second Half

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 2-4 with 2 RBIs against the Braves.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 1-4 with 1 double (his 32nd), 2 RBIs, and 1 run scored against the Tigers.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 1-4 with 1 RBI against the Astros.

Batting 8th, Danny Valencia was 0-4 with 1 RBI against the Indians.

Sam Fuld pinch ran and scored 1 run against the Twins.

Pinch hitting, Ryan Lavarnway was 0-1 against the Indians.

Kevin Youkilis had the day off. He was hit by a pitch, and his forearm is sore.

Ryan Kalish was sent back down to AAA.

Michael Schwimer pitched 1 inning and gave up 3 runs on 3 hits and 1 BB against the Cardinals.

A Complete Performance

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 2-4 with 1 HBP, 1 HR (his 14th), 2 RBIs, and 2 runs scored against the A's.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 1-3 with 1 BB and 1 run scored against the Braves.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 1-5 against the Astros.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 0-4 against the Tigers.

Batting 7th, Ryan Lavarnway was 0-3 against the Indians.

Danny Valencia was a late inning defensive replacement at third base against the Indians.

Jason Marquis picked up his 8th win of the season (6th with the Padres). Marquis was masterful against the Pirates. He pitched 9 scoreless innings on 2 hits, 1 BB, and 4 Ks. His groundball to flyball ratio was 17-5. He took a no-hitter into the 7th inning. This was Marquis' 8th career complete game and 5th career complete game shutout. At the plate, he was also 2-4 with 1 run scored. He's hitting .276 on the year. With the Padres, his ERA is 3.60 and his WHIP is 1.20.

Michael Schwimer pitched 1 scoreless inning and struck out the side against the Cardinals.

Craig Breslow pitched 2/3 of an inning and gave up 1 run on 2 hits and 1 K against the Indians.

Valencia On His Way?

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 2-4 with 1 double (his 21st) and 1 RBI against the Astros.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 1-5 with 1 double (his 31st) and 1 run scored against the Tigers.

Batting 7th, Ryan Lavarnway was 1-3 against the Indians.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 0-4 against the A's.

Pinch hitting, Sam Fuld was 0-2 against the Twins.

Ike Davis had the day off.

Red Sox third baseman Will Middlebrooks was hit by a pitch and his wrist is likely broken. As a result, Danny Valencia is expected to be recalled from AAA.

Scott Feldman picked up his 7th loss of the season. He went 5 2/3 innings and gave up 4 runs on 6 hits, 1 BB, and 2 Ks against the Tigers.

Breslow Doing Well Back In The AL

Batting 5th, Ike Davis was 1-4 with 1 run scored against the Marlins.

Batting leadoff, Sam Fuld was 0-4 with 1 BB against the Blue Jays.

Craig Breslow pitched 1 scoreless inning of relief on 2 BBs (1 IBB) and 1 K against the Indians.

Snapping A Slump In Style

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 1-4 with 1 double (his 20th) and 1 RBI against the Reds. Braun's RBI double in the 8th inning was a game-winner and snapped an 0-18 slump.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 0-3 with 1 BB, 1 HBP, 1 run scored, and 1 SB (his 20th) against the Red Sox. This is Kinsler 5th season with 20 or more SBs.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 0-3 with 1 BB against the Marlins.

Batting 7th, Ryan Lavarnway was 0-4 with 1 BB against the Rangers.

Batting cleanup, Kevin Youkilis was 0-4 against the Royals.

Ryan Kalish pinch ran against the Rangers.

Michael Schwimer pitched 1 scoreless inning of relief on 2 Ks against the Braves.

Youk Bends The Knee To The Royals

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 2-5 with 2 RBIs and 1 run scored against the Red Sox.

Pinch hitting, Ike Davis was 1-2 against the Marlins.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 0-4 with 1 run scored against the Reds.

Batting 8th, Ryan Kalish was 0-4 with 1 run scored against the Rangers.

Sam Fuld pinch ran against the Blue Jays.

Kevin Youkilis was scratched from the lineup due to a sore right knee.

Craig Breslow pitched 1/3 of an inning and gave up 1 run on 1 HBP against the Rangers.

Bullish On Kalish

Batting 8th, Ryan Kalish was 1-3 with 1 BB, 1 run scored, and 1 SB (his 3rd) against the Rangers.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 1-4 with 1 double (his 12th) and 1 RBI against the Royals.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 0-3 with 1 BB against the Red Sox.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 0-4 against the Reds.

Michael Schwimer pitched 2 innings and gave up 1 run on 1 hit and 2 Ks against the Braves.

Valencia Joins Breslow In Boston

Danny Valencia was traded to the Red Sox for Jeremias Pineda. Valencia was optioned to AAA.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 1-2 with 2 BBs, 1 HR (his 13th), 1 RBI, and 1 run scored against the Angels.

Batting 8th, Ryan Kalish was 1-4 with 1 double (his 3rd), 1 run scored, and 1 SB (his 2nd) against the Twins.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 1-4 with 1 double (his 18th) and 1 run scored against the Padres. The double was off Jason Marquis.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 0-4 against the Cardinals.

Pinch hitting, Sam Fuld was 0-1 against the Orioles.

Ian Kinsler had the day off.

Jason Marquis picked up his 7th win of the season (5th with the Padres). He went 6 1/3 innings and gave up 3 runs on 4 hits, 1 BB, and 5 Ks against the Mets.

Craig Breslow pitched 1/3 of an inning against the Twins.

Feldman's Winning Streak

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 2-3 with 1 BB, 1 HBP, 2 HRs (his 11th and 12th), 3 RBIs, and 2 runs scored against the Angels.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 3-5 with 1 run scored against the Royals.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 2-5 with 1 RBI and 1 run scored against the Padres.

Batting 7th, Sam Fuld was 1-4 against the Orioles.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 0-3 with 1 RBI against the Cardinals.

Batting leadoff, Ryan Kalish was 0-2 with 1 BB and 1 run scored against the Twins.

Pinch hitting, Ryan Lavarnway was 0-1 against the Twins.

Scott Feldman picked up his 6th win of the season. He went 7 2/3 innings and gave up 2 runs on 6 hits, 1 BB, and 4 Ks against the Royals. His groundball to flyball ratio was 12-9. In his last 7 appearances (1 in relief), Feldman has 6 wins. In July, he had a 1.96 ERA and a 0.96 WHIP in 23 innings. For the season, he has 53 Ks against just 17 BBs, good for a 3.12 K/BB ratio.

Craig Breslow pitched 1/3 of an inning against the Twins.

Braun On the Cusp Of 30 HRs, 20 doubles, 20 SBs

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 3-5 with 2 doubles (his 18th and 19th) against the Cardinals. Braun is 1 HR shy of 30, 1 double shy of 20, and 1 SB shy of 20.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 1-3 with 1 BB and 1 run scored against the Royals.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 1-4 with 1 BB and 1 run scored against the Angels.

Batting 5th, Ryan Lavarnway was 1-5 with 1 double (his 1st) against the Twins.

Batting 5th, Ike Davis was 1-4 against the Padres.

Batting 6th, Danny Valencia was 0-4 with 1 RBI against the Red Sox.

Pinch hitting, Sam Fuld was 0-1 against the Orioles.

Craig Breslow pitched 1 1/3 scoreless innings of relief on 1 hit against the Twins.

Kinsler Clips The Angels' Wings

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 3-5 with 1 BB, 1 HR (his 13th), 1 double (his 30th), 2 RBIs, and 4 runs scored against the Angels.

Batting 6th, Danny Valencia was 1-4 with 1 run scored against the Red Sox.

Batting 6th, Ryan Lavarnway was 0-3 with 1 BB against the Twins.

Batting 8th, Ryan Kalish was 0-3 against the Twins.

Pinch hitting, Ike Davis was 0-1 against the Giants.

Michael Scwhimer pitched 1 scoreless inning of relief on 2 BBs and 2 Ks against the Nationals.

Kinsler's Clutch Clout

Both Ryan Kalish and Ryan Lavarnway were recalled by the Red Sox.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 3-6 with 1 HR (his 12th), 1 double (his 29th), 2 RBIs, and 2 runs scored against the Angels. Kinsler's bomb in the bottom of the 9th inning off Ernesto Frieri tied the game and sent it into extra innings. The Rangers would go on to win in the 10th inning.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 2-3 with 1 BB, 1 HBP, 1 HR (his 29th), 3 RBIs, and 3 runs scored against the Astros.

Batting 7th, Danny Valencia was 1-3 with 1 BB, 1 HR (his 2nd), 1 RBI, and 1 run scored against the White Sox.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 1-3 with 2 BBs and 1 double (his 17th) against the Giants.

Batting 8th, Ryan Kalish was 1-3 with 1 BB against the Tigers.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 1-4 against the Twins.

Craig Breslow pitched 1 1/3 scoreless innings of relief on 1 hit and 2 Ks against the Tigers.

Breslow Traded To Red Sox

Craig Breslow was traded to the Red Sox for Scott Podsednik and Matt Albers. Breslow briefly played for the Red Sox back in 2006.

Batting 9th, Sam Fuld was 3-4 with 1 run scored against the A's.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 1-2 with 2 BBs, 2 runs scored, and 1 SB (his 19th) against the Astros.

Batting 7th, Danny Valencia was 1-4 with 1 RBI against the White Sox.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 0-4 against the Angels.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 0-4 against the Twins.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 0-4 against the Giants.

Michael Schwimer pitched 1 scoreless inning and struck out the side against the Nationals.

Jason Marquis picked up his 10th loss of the season (6th with the Padres). He went 6 1/3 innings and gave up 7 runs on 8 hits, 2 BBs, and 5 Ks against the Reds. His groundball to flyball ratio was 13-6. At the plate, he was 2-3 with 1 double (his 2nd) and 1 run scored. He's hitting .273 on the year.

Valencia Stating His Case For Staying

Batting 7th, Danny Valencia was 2-3 with 2 RBIs against the White Sox.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 1-5 against the Angels.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 0-3 with 1 BB and 1 HBP against the Twins.

Batting 5th, Ike Davis was 0-4 with 1 HBP against the Giants.

Pinch hitting, Sam Fuld was 0-3 against the A's.

Ryan Braun had the day off to give blisters on his hand time to heal.

Craig Breslow pitched 1 scoreless inning of relief on 2 Ks against the Dodgers.

Feldman Shuts Down Chi Sox

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 1-5 with 1 SB (his 19th) against the White Sox.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 0-5 with 1 BB and 1 run scored against the Nationals.

Batting 2nd, Sam Fuld was 0-4 with 1 run scored against the Angels.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 0-4 against the Rangers.

Batting 7th, Danny Valencia was 0-4 against the Indians.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 0-5 against the Diamondbacks.

Scott Feldman was brilliant, picking up his 5th win of the season. He tossed 8 shutout innings on 7 hits, 0 BBs, and 5 Ks against the White Sox. His groundball to flyball ratio was 14-8. He was also quite efficient. It only took him 88 pitches to get through 8. Sounds like he actually could have got a complete game shutout, something he's never done before. It's a shame Ron Washington didn't give a chance to do it. Youk was 0-4 against him. In his last 6 outings (1 in relief), Feldman has 5 wins.

Evidently, He Likes Hitting In Arizona

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 4-4 with 3 HRs (his 18th, 19th, and 20th), 3 RBIs, and 3 runs scored against the Diamondbacks. Ike has hit 7 HRs in his last 10 games. This was Ike's first 4-hit game since September 5, 2010 and the first game that he's ever hit 3 HRs in.

Batting 7th, Danny Valencia was 1-4 with 1 double (his 6th), 1 RBI, and 2 runs scored against the Indians.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 0-2 with 2 BBs and 1 run scored against the Rangers.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 1-4 against the Nationals.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 0-4 with 1 SB (his 18th) against the White Sox.

Youk Versus Yu

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 1-3 with 2 BBs, 1 HR (his 10th), 2 RBIs, and 2 runs scored against the Rangers.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 1-4 with 1 HR (his 17th), 1 RBI, and 1 run scored against the Diamondbacks. Ike has now hit 6 HRs in July; he also hit 6 HRs in June.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 1-4 with 1 RBI, 1 run scored, and 1 SB (his 18th) against the Nationals.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 1-2 with 1 BB, 2 HBP, 1 run scored, and 1 SB (his 17th) against the White Sox.

Batting leadoff, Sam Fuld was 1-3 with 1 double (his 2nd) against the Angels.

Craig Breslow pitched 2 scoreless innings of relief on 1 BB and 1 K against the Mets. Breslow got Ike to ground out to short.

Fuld Back In the Swing Of Things

Batting 7th, Sam Fuld was 3-4 with 1 double (his 1st) and 2 RBIs against the Orioles.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 0-4 against the Nationals.

Batting 5th, Ike Davis was 0-4 against the Diamondbacks.

Braun Rakes, Marquis Deals

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 3-4 with 2 BBs (2 IBBs), 2 doubles (his 16th and 17th), 1 HR (his 28th), 2 RBIs, and 1 run scored against the Phillies.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 1-4 with 1 HR (his 16th), 1 RBI, and 1 run scored against the Nationals.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 1-2 with 1 RBI against the Twins. Youk left the game with a sprained left ankle. He is considered day-to-day.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 1-4 with 1 RBI against the Red Sox.

Pinch hitting, Sam Fuld was 1-2 against the Orioles.

Jason Marquis was masterful, picking up his 6th win of the season (4th with the Padres). He went 7 1/3 innings and gave up 3 runs (1 earned) on 3 hits, 1 BB, and 8 Ks against the Giants. His groundball to flyball ratio was 11-2. Marquis has 56 Ks against just 17 BBs in 62 innings with the Friers, which comes out to a 3.3 K/BB ratio. He also has a 3.48 ERA and 1.32 WHIP.

Michael Schwimer picked up his 2nd win in as many days. He pitched 1 inning and gave up 1 run (0 earned) on 1 BB (IBB) against the Brewers.

Schwimer Schwimer Chicken Dinner

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 3-4 with 1 HR (his 27th), 1 RBI, and 3 runs scored against the Phillies.

Batting 7th in his 1st game of the season after recovering from wrist surgery, Sam Fuld was 1-3 with 1 BB, 1 run scored, and 1 SB (his 1st) against the Orioles.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 0-3 with 2 BBs and 2 runs scored against the Twins.

Batting 5th, Ike Davis was 1-4 against the Nationals.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 0-0 with 1 HBP against the Red Sox. He was ejected from the game after arguing getting picked off.

Michael Schwimer picked up his 1st win of the season. He pitched 1 scoreless inning of relief on 1 K against the Brewers.

Feldman Shuts Down Bo Sox

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 1-4 with 1 HR (his 15th), 1 RBI, and 1 run scored against the Nationals.

Ian Kinsler was 3-4 with 1 BB, 1 double (his 28th), 2 runs scored, and 1 SB (his 16th) against the Red Sox.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 1-3 with 1 BB and 1 run scored against the Twins.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 1-4 with 1 RBI and 1 SB (his 17th) against the Phillies.

Filling in for Roy Oswalt, Scott Feldman picked up his 4th win of the season. He went 7 innings and gave up 1 run on 7 hits, 0 BBs, and 5 Ks against the Red Sox.

Michael Schwimer pitched 1 scoreless inning of relief on 1 BB and 2 Ks against the Brewers. One of the batters he struck out was Braun.

Hey Tigers, Hear Him Roar

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 1-5 with 1 HR (his 9th), 1 RBI, and 1 run scored against the Tigers.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 1-5 with 1 BB, 1 double (his 16th), 1 RBI, and 1 run scored against the Dodgers.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 1-5 against the Reds.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 0-4 with 1 BB against the Angels.

Don't Leave Me Hanging Bro

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 2-5 with 1 HR (his 11th), 1 double (his 27th), 3 RBIs, and 2 runs scored against the Angels.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 1-4 against the Reds.

Batting 6th, Ike Davis was 1-4 against the Dodgers.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 0-4 against the Tigers.

Craig Breslow pitched 1 inning and gave up 1 run on 3 hits and 1 K against the Astros.

No Such Thing As An Ugly Win?

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 1-4 with 1 RBI and 1 run scored against the Dodgers.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 2-4 against the Reds.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 0-4 against the Tigers.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 0-4 against the Angels.

Jason Marquis picked up his 5th win of the season (his 3rd with the Padres). He went 5 innings and gave up 5 runs (3 earned) on 9 hits, 0 BBs, and 2 Ks.

Michael Schwimer pitched 1 scoreless inning of relief on 1 hit and 1 K against the Giants.

Craig Breslow pitched 2/3 of an inning on 1 BB and 2 Ks against the Astros.

Ike & Wright Put On A Show

Batting 6th, Ike Davis was 2-4 with 1 HR (his 14th), 2 RBIs, and 1 run scored against the Nationals. Either this is how Ike bats against lefties (in this case, Gio Gonzalez) or he's changed his stance - again.

Kevin Youkilis sat out against the Red Sox with a tight hamstring. The injury is not considered serious.

Braun's Day Of Rest

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 1-4 against the Red Sox.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 1-5 against the A's.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 0-4 against the Nationals.

Michael Schwimer pitched 1/3 of an inning on 1 BB and 1 K against the Dodgers.

Brewers manager Ron Roenicke said he expects Ryan Braun will be back in his lineup on Friday. The Brewers have an off-day on Thursday.

Couldn't Script It Any Better In Beantown

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 1-4 with 1 BB, 1 HR (his 8th), 3 RBIs, and 2 runs scored against the Red Sox. Youk's 3-run blast in the 4th inning was the game-winner for the Pale Hose. Ya think the Red Sox are starting to regret this trade?

Batting 6th, Ike Davis was 1-4 against the Nationals.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 0-3 with 2 BBs against the A's.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 0-3 against the Cardinals. Braun left the game with a right groin strain. The injury is not considered serious.

Craig Breslow pitched 1 scoreless inning on 1 hit and 1 K against the Reds. It's been a nice bounceback season for the 31-year old southpaw with the Diamondbacks. In 38 2/3 innings, he has a 2.79 ERA and 1.19 WHIP. He also has 36 Ks against just 11 BBs, which is by far the best K/BB ratio of his career (3.27).

Michael Schwimer pitched 2/3 of an inning against the Dodgers.

Youk's Homecoming

Batting 2nd in his 1st game back in Boston since being traded to the White Sox, Kevin Youkilis was 3-4 with 2 doubles (his 10th and 11th) and 1 run scored against the Red Sox. Here's a look at Youk's homecoming.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 1-4 with 1 double (his 15th) and 1 RBI against the Cardinals.

Padres A Good Fit For Marquis

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 1-3 with 1 BB, 1 HR (his 10th), 1 RBI, and 2 runs scored against the Mariners.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 1-4 with 1 run scored against the Pirates.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 0-4 against the Braves.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 0-4 with 1 BB against the Royals.

Jason Marquis picked up his 4th win (2nd with the Padres) of the season. He went 6 innings and gave up 2 runs on 6 hits, 3 BBs (2 IBBs), and 2 Ks against the Dodgers. Since joining the Padres, Marquis has posted a respectable 3.62 ERA in 8 starts.

Craig Breslow pitched 2/3 of an inning on 1 K against the Cubs.

Ike Likes Away Games

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 2-4 with 1 BB, 1 HR (his 13th), 1 double (his 15th), 1 RBI, and 2 runs scored against the Braves. Good sound off the bat. That one got out in a hurry. Ike's splits at home and away are noticeable. His OPS at home sits at a paltry .429 while his OPS on the road is a robust .927.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 0-2 with 2 BBs and 1 run scored against the Pirates.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 0-4 with 1 BB (IBB) against the Royals.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 0-4 against the Mariners.

Braun's Bashing of the Bucs

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 4-4 with 1 BB, 2 HRs (his 25th and 26th), 3 RBIs, 3 runs scored, and 1 SB (his 16th) against the Pirates.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 2-5 with 1 RBI against the Mariners.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 1-4 with 3 BBs, 1 RBI, and 2 runs scored against the Royals. Youk's sacrifice fly in the 14th inning was the game-winner for the Sox. He's driven in a run in 8 straight games.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 1-3 with 2 BBs against the Braves.

Michael Schwimer pitched 2/3 of an inning and gave up 3 runs on 3 hits, 2 BBs, and 1 K against the Rockies.

Braun's Star Shines A Little Brighter

In his 5th consecutive All-Star Game appearance, Ryan Braun was 2-3 with 1 double, 1 triple, 1 RBI, and 1 run scored against the American League. Prior to this game, Braun was 0-7 in previous All-Star contests. Here's his RBI-double off Justin Verlander, which incidentally was the game-winning hit.

In his 3rd All-Star Game appearance, Ian Kinsler was 0-2 against the National League.

Call me crazy, but I don't think Ron Washington is very fond of the White Sox. After A.J. Pierzynski was snubbed for Mike Napoli, my Sox swept the Rangers right before the All-Star Break. Matt Harrison and Joe Nathan each pitched in the Mid-Summer Classic while Jake Peavy sat on the bench. And Adam Dunn didn't get a PA. We get it, Ron. You don't like the White Sox. See you in October.

Kinsler/Feldman A Winning Combination

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 4-7 with 1 RBI and 1 run scored against the Twins. Kinsler hit the game-winner in the bottom of the 13th inning. Have a look at the walkoff hero. Would have been a double under normal circumstances.

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 3-4 with 1 BB, 1 double (his 9th), 1 RBI, and 1 run scored against the Blue Jays.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 2-4 with 1 BB (IBB), 1 double (his 14th), 1 RBI, 2 runs scored, and 2 SBs (his 14th and 15th) against the Astros.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 0-4 against the Cubs.

Scott Feldman picked up his 3rd win of the season. He pitched 2 scoreless innings of relief on 1 hit against the Twins.

Jason Marquis picked up his 9th loss of the season, although he didn't pitch too poorly. He went 5 innings and gave up 3 runs on 7 hits, 0 BBs, and 5 Ks against the Reds.

Michael Schwimer pitched 1/3 of an inning against the Braves.

Red Sox outfielder Ryan Kalish was optioned to AAA.

Re-Jew-venated!

Sorry for the sabbatical I took. But like Youk's rejuvenation with the White Sox, I also have come back from the dead. And so the saga of regular updates and commentary continues here at Jews in Baseball... too melodramatic?

Batting 2nd, Kevin Youkilis was 1-3 with 1 BB, 1 HR (his 7th), 2 RBIs, and 1 run scored. The blast to center in the 5th inning was a game-winner for the Pale Hose. What a horrible trade Ben Cherington made. What a great trade Kenny Williams made. You get Brent Lillibridge and Zach Stewart and you're paying $5.5 million of his salary? Essentially, this is a utility player and below average long reliever for an elite player when he's healthy - and motivated. Carlton Fisk 2.0. Happy to have him here in Chicago.

Batting cleanup, Ike Davis was 1-4 with 1 HR (his 12th), 2 RBIs, and 1 run scored against the Cubs. Like Youk, Ike's blast was also a game-winner. After a horrible start to the season, Ike got back on track in June, posting a line of .264/.363/.563 for an OPS of .926 in 87 ABs. He hit 8 doubles, 6 HRs, drove in 24 runs, and scored 16 runs. Let's hope it carries over into July.

Batting 3rd, Ryan Braun was 1-4 with 1 BB and 1 run scored against the Astros.

Batting leadoff, Ian Kinsler was 1-5 against the Twins.

Batting 6th, Ryan Kalish was 0-4 against the Yankees in game 1 of a doubleheader.

In other news, my brother had his best game as a professional last night. He was 4-5 with 2 doubles, 2 HRs, 6 RBIs, and 4 runs scored. His 2nd HR was a walkoff in the 9th inning with 2 outs, 1 runner on, and his team was down by 1. His 1st double is at the 2:36 mark. He scores on a wild pitch at the 3:50 mark. His 2nd double is at the 4:45 mark. He scores on a base hit to center immediately following the double. He makes a nice catch in left at the 5:45 mark. His 1st HR is at the 6:42 mark. And his walkoff HR is at the 7:25 mark.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNSW_LzyJk0&list=UU0Ch9PvdTNdaPbz79enE1yA&index=4&feature=plcp

And here is another look at the walkoff HR with Zach being interviewed.

http://www.kcrg.com/sports/local/Borensteins-walk-off-homer-gives-Kernels-unbelievable-12-11-win-161679215.html

Ike Can't Catch A Break

Ike Davis is being treated for Valley Fever. He hasn't received an official diagnosis and the blood test results from a test administered 11 days ago aren't in yet, but the Mets are treating Davis as if he has Valley Fever.

This is the type of illness that can interfere with a season or even end a career, so this is actually pretty serious. Conor Jackson contracted Valley Fever a few years ago and had to miss most of the 2009 season. Hopefully, Ike has better luck than Jackson.

For more on this bummer of a story, here's the article from MLB.com.

Overturned!

Suspend your disbelief. Ryan Braun's 50-game suspension was overturned today by baseball arbitrator Shyam Das. This is the first time a baseball player has successfully challenged a drug-related penalty in a grievance.

The decision was announced one day before Braun was due to report to Spring Training. Talk about coming down to the wire! If you'll recall, Braun tested positive for elevated testosterone in October, and ESPN broke the story in December.

MLB executive vice president Rob Manfred and union head Michael Weiner were part of the arbitration panel, and they split their vote 1-1. Das, an independent panel member, was the deciding vote.

Every Mensch Has His Month

Ryan Braun's best month was April. He posted a line of .358/.441/.695 for an OPS of 1.136 in 95 ABs. He hit 9 HRs, 3 doubles, 1 triple, drove in 22 runs, scored 21 runs, stole 3 bases, and had a BB/K ratio of 14/16. It should be noted that Braun posted an OPS well above .900 every single month except May, which was .796.

Craig Breslow's best month was September. He pitched 12 innings and posted a 2.25 ERA and 0.92 WHIP. He gave up 3 runs on 8 hits (.195 BAA), 1 HR, 3 BBs, and 8 Ks.

Ike Davis' best month (and only full month of play) was April. He posted a line of .337/.414/.600 for an OPS of 1.014 in 95 ABs. He hit 5 HRs, 8 doubles, 1 triple, drove in 20 runs, and scored 16 runs.

Scott Feldman's best month was August. He was 1-0 in 19 innings and posted a 2.84 ERA and 1.00 WHIP. He gave up 6 runs on 14 hits (.206 BAA), 2 HRs, 5 BBs, and 14 Ks.

Sam Fuld's best month was August (However, his most productive month was April). He posted a line of .296/.472/.444 for an OPS of .917 in 27 ABs. He hit 2 doubles, 1 triple, drove in 1 run, scored 5 runs, stole 1 base, and had a BB/K ratio of 9/7. In April, he posted a line of .289/.358/.433 for an OPS of .791 in 97 ABs. He hit 1 HR, 7 doubles, 2 triples, drove in 8 runs, scored 17 runs, stole 10 bases, and had a BB/K ratio of 11/13.

John Grabow's best month was August. He was 1-0 in 12 innings and posted a 3.00 ERA and 1.25 WHIP. He gave up 6 runs (4 earned) on 11 hits (.250 BAA), 1 HR, 4 BBs, and 8 Ks.

Ian Kinsler's best month was September, which carried over into the postseason. He posted a line of .330/.421/.711 for an OPS of 1.132 in 97 ABs. He hit 11 HRs, 2 doubles, 1 triple, drove in 17 runs, scored 29 runs, stole 8 bases, and had a BB/K ratio of 16/10.

Ryan Lavarnway's best month was August. He posted a line of .304/.407/.391 for an OPS of .799 in 23 ABs. He hit 2 doubles, drove in 3 runs, scored 3 runs, and had a BB/K ratio of 4/6.

Jason Marquis' best month was April. He was 3-0 in 34 1/3 innings and posted a 2.62 ERA and 1.17 WHIP. He gave up 10 runs on 35 hits (.269 BAA), 1 HR, 5 BBs, and 24 Ks. For those wondering, that comes out to a 4.8 K/BB ratio. All 5 of his starts were quality starts, and the last one that month was a complete game shutout against the Giants.

Josh Satin didn't have a best month, as he only played in September with limited success. He posted a line of .200/.259/.240 for an OPS of .499 in 25 ABs. He hit 1 double, drove in 2 runs, and scored 3 runs.

Michael Schwimer's best month was August. He pitched 5 innings and posted a 3.60 ERA and 1.20 WHIP. He gave up 2 runs on 4 hits (.222 BAA), 1 HR, 2 BBs, and 5 Ks.

Danny Valencia's best month was July. He posted a line of .303/.336/.468 for an OPS of .804 in 109 ABs. He hit 4 HRs, 6 doubles, drove in 20 runs, and scored 15 runs.

Kevin Youkilis' best month was June. He posted a line of .289/.408/.482 for an OPS of .890 in 83 ABs. He hit 3 HRs, 7 doubles, drove in 21 runs, scored 14 runs, and had a BB/K ratio of 16/15.

Bill James' 2012 Projections

Sorry for the lack of updates, faithful readers. I've been really busy. New job. New residence. Very little free time.

Ryan Braun: 157 games, 674 PAs, 195 hits, .317/.382/.571 for an OPS of .953, 35 HRs, 43 doubles, 4 triples, 115 RBIs, 111 runs scored, 59 BBs, 25 SBs, 7 CS, 351 total bases, 8.8 BB%, 16.0 K%, .254 ISO

Obviously, Braun's current projections would be contingent on his 50-game suspension being overturned. We should find out on Monday whether or not Braun's suspension will be reduced, thrown out, or upheld. Either way, the 28-year old reigning NL MVP should have a good season. You would think he would be extra motivated. Then again, the added pressure could get to him. If he misses some time, the counting numbers will take a hit. Braun will also miss the protection Prince Fielder provided. Still, Aramis Ramirez is no slouch. The 351 total bases would set a new career-high (currently 350 back in 2009), as would the 115 RBIs (114 in 2009). This would be Braun's third 20/20 season and his second 25/25 season.

Craig Breslow: 4-3, 62 innings, 3.34 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, 8.0 H/9, 0.73 HR/9, 3.34 BB/9, 7.84 K/9, 2.4 K/BB, 3.60 FIP

This would be a nice bounceback season for Breslow. I think these numbers are very reasonable for the 31-year old southpaw. I don't think his WHIP will be in the 1.5 range like it was in 2011. However, I could see it being in the 1.3 range. He did give up a lot of hits last year, and his strikeout rate was noticeably down. I'm sure if you asked Breslow right now if he'd take these numbers, he'd give you an emphatic yes.

Ike Davis: 141 games, 593 PAs, 150 hits, .288/.377/.504 for an OPS of .881, 25 HRs, 35 doubles, 1 triple, 87 RBIs, 80 runs scored, 73 BBs, 262 total bases, 12.3 BB%, 20.9 K%, .216 ISO

It looked like this was the kind of season Ike was going to have in 2011 before he got permanently sidelined with that foot injury. I don't think James is overshooting the mark here at all. Hopefully, Ike plays more than the 141 games projected. If he comes close to 162 games, 30 HRs and 40 doubles are not out of reach, especially with Citi Field's dimensions being moved in. The Mets will miss Jose Reyes and Carlos Beltran, but Lucas Duda arrived last season and David Wright should return to form this year and that can only mean good things for Ike. The soon-to-be 25-year old slugger has shown he can hang with the big boys. If he stays healthy, the numbers will be there by season's end.

Scott Feldman: 3-3, 60 innings (4 starts, 17 appearances), 4.05 ERA, 1.35 WHIP, 9.5 H/9, 1.1 HR/9, 2.7 BB/9, 5.1 K/9, 1.9 K/BB, 4.51 FIP

Apart from the ERA, this is pretty much in line with Feldman's career numbers. This would be a decent year when you consider that Feldman is a swingman. Feldman gave the Rangers quality innings in 2009, 2011, and the postseason last year. His peripherals last season were also impressive, although I could see him coming back down to Earth somewhat. At the same time, his new and improved changeup that he used in 2011 is a weapon in his arsenal that he didn't have before. The 29-year old Feldman can't like the fact that Albert Pujols is in the division now, but the Mariners and A's will still have relatively weak lineups.

Sam Fuld: 65 games, 131 PAs, 29 hits, .248/.333/.342 for an OPS of .675, 1 HR, 6 doubles, 1 triple, 9 RBIs, 14 runs scored, 14 BBs, 6 SBs, 3 CS, 40 total bases, 10.7 BB%, 10.7 K%, 0.94 ISO

With the defense Fuld provides in the outfield, pretty much anything he gives you at the plate is gravy. James projects a dropoff in playing time for Fuld, and that's hard to argue with the talented Desmond Jennings now in the mix. That said, I could see Fuld putting up better numbers than this. Last year, he may have gotten exposed somewhat because of how much he played. In a smaller sample size, a player like Fuld could really flourish. Joe Maddon likes to run and gave Fuld the green light a lot in 2011, so I think he could easily swipe 10+ bags in 2012. I don't think he'll duplicate the slash line he had with the Cubs in 2009, but a line of .270/.355/.355 wouldn't surprise me for the 30-year old sparkplug.

John Grabow: 3-4, 58 innings, 4.50 ERA, 1.47 WHIP, 9.0 H/9, 1.1 HR/9, 4.2 BB/9, 7.0 K/9, 1.7 K/BB, 4.60 FIP

There's no guarantee Grabow will even pitch in the Majors this year; he has a minor league contract with the Dodgers. Coming off 2 consecutive subpar seasons, the 33-year old southpaw has a lot to prove. These numbers would not constitute a great season. However, they would be a slight improvement over last year. I'd honestly be surprised if Grabow logs this many innings in 2012. At this point in his career, facing righties probably isn't a good idea, so 30 or so innings seems more realistic.

Ian Kinsler: 146 games, 647 PAs, 156 hits, .271/.358/.468 for an OPS of .826, 25 HRs, 34 doubles, 2 triples, 78 RBIs, 108 runs scored, 72 BBs, 25 SBs, 7 CS, 269 total bases, 11.1 BB%, 11.6 K%, .197 ISO

Pretty much the type of season we've come to expect from Kinsler, assuming he can stay on the field. This would be his fourth 20/20 season and his third 25/25 season. Kinsler epitomizes a five-tool player and is a terrific table-setter. On another team, he'd be a very good run producer as well. James' 2012 slash line is almost identical to Kinsler's career line of .275/.355/.469. Can't argue with this projection for the Rangers' 29-year old elite second baseman, nor would I want to. We're not there yet, but it will be interesting to see what the Rangers do with Kinsler and double play partner Elvis Andrus after 2013. Kinsler is signed through 2013 and the 23-year old Andrus is signed through 2014. Why is it interesting, you ask? Look up their top position prospect, Jurickson Profar. He's a middle infielder, and he could be just a few years away from The Show.

Ryan Lavarnway: 77 games, 231 PAs, 57 hits, .275/.351/.527 for an OPS of .878, 13 HRs, 13 doubles, 41 RBIs, 31 runs scored, 24 BBs, 109 total bases, 10.4 BB%, 21.6 K%, .252 ISO

If Lavarnway comes close to these numbers, I could live with the playing time James projects for him in 2012. All signs point to the Red Sox platooning Lavarnway and Jarrod Saltalamacchia at catcher. Lavarnway mashes against lefties. Salty does not. Salty can hit righties. Lavarnway is more of an unknown against them. Defensively, each of them leaves something to be desired, although as of right now Salty has the edge. But there are other factors to consider. Who calls a better game? Who represents the future and who is the stopgap guy? Lavarnway is 24. Salty will turn 27 in May. We've seen what Salty can do with nearly 1,300 MLB plate appearances. Lavarnway is more of a mystery, to be sure, but he also has way more upside. Curiously enough, Saltalamacchia has the longest last name in MLB history. But I have a feeling when it's all said and done, Lavarnway's name will resonate more with Red Sox fans and the front office.

Jason Marquis: 6-8, 118 innings (21 starts), 4.42 ERA, 1.42 WHIP, 9.7 H/9, 0.9 HR/9, 3.1 BB/9, 5.0 K/9, 1.6 K/BB, 4.50 FIP

Once considered a reliable innings eater, Marquis has failed to come close to 200 innings in each of the last 2 seasons. For 20 starts last year with the Nationals, Marquis was more than serviceable, posting a 3.95 ERA with a record of 8-5. But his subsequent 3 disastrous starts and season-ending injury with the Diamondbacks marred what had been a fairly decent season. Marquis will start 2012 in the AL in spacious Target Field with the Twins. He has never pitched for a team in the AL before. While the AL is the harder league to pitch in for obvious reasons (DH), it also usually takes half a season for hitters to adjust to pitchers they haven't faced much before, so that bodes well for Marquis, especially when you consider that he is more of a 1st half pitcher (career 4.29 ERA, 1.37 WHIP, .260 BAA). His home park also doesn't yield very many HRs, and he's a groundball pitcher. Then again, the Twins don't have great infielders, so pitching to contact with that team may not be the best recipe for success. James' projections for Marquis aren't inspiring, but they could be worse. Or better. 

Danny Valencia: 114 games, 402 PAs, 104 hits, .278/.328/.420 for an OPS of .748, 9 HRs, 24 doubles, 1 triple, 50 RBIs, 46 runs scored, 28 BBs, 157 total bases, 7.0 BB%, 15.2 K%, .142 ISO

One player Marquis will be counting on to turn groundballs into outs is this guy. Valencia's projections for games played and PAs are a little strange, as the Twins' top prospect and third baseman, Miguel Sano, is still a few years away from being a threat to Valencia's playing time; Sano hasn't even played in Single-A yet. And I seriously doubt the Twins would risk rushing him and stunting his development. Still, James' slash line for Valencia would be a significant improvement over his 2011 line (.246/.294/.383) and more akin to his 2010 line (.311/.351/.448). According to James, Valencia's walk rate, strikeout rate, and ISO will all improve next year. Valencia will be 27 in 2012, and that's usually a magic number for ballplayers. A magic trick consist of 3 stages: The Pledge, The Turn, and The Prestige (great movie, by the way). This will be Valencia's 3rd stage (season) in MLB. Do you believe in magic?

Kevin Youkilis: 135 games, 576 PAs, 140 hits, .281/.389/.489 for an OPS of .878, 21 HRs, 37 doubles, 2 triples, 86 RBIs, 87 runs scored, 77 BBs, 244 total bases, 13.4 BB%, 19.6 K%, .208 ISO

The good news: Youk reportedly just got engaged to Julie Brady, Tom Brady's sister. The bad news: Youk hasn't been able to stay on the field for more than 120 games in each of the last 2 seasons. The 3-time All-Star will be 33 in 2012 and injuries have been a problem for him. He had a really good 1st half in 2011 (.911 OPS), but his 2nd half (.660) is one I'm sure he'd like to forget. We can give him a pass for that 2nd half, though, because he was playing hurt. James' projections for Youk don't seem outlandish to me. The .208 ISO is around what it was last year (.204), and that is a departure from what it had been the previous 3 seasons (around .250). If James is to be believed, Youk's ability to drive the ball isn't what it used to be. Still, the 2012 slash line is right around Youk's career line of .289/.391/.492. I don't think him playing in 135 games is unreasonable, either. He's signed through 2013 with the Red Sox, but I would not be surprised to see him dealt before then. Theo Epstein recently acquired former Red Sox prospect, Anthony Rizzo, for the Cubs. The Cubs are clearly in rebuilding mode and could use a solid veteran like Youk to man the hot corner for them and set a good example for their younger players, now that Aramis Ramirez is gone. We'll see how the Ian Stewart experiment goes. Epstein has always been very fond of Youk. Can you see how much I want this to happen?

Minor League Standouts In 2011

AAA

Ben Guez - Guez split time between AA (38 games, 146 PAs) and AAA (95 games, 348 PAs). Overall in 133 games and 494 PAs, he put up a line of .284/.345/.438 for an OPS of .783. He hit 7 HRs, 31 doubles, 8 triples, drove in 56 runs, and scored 59 runs. His ISO was .154, although at AA it was .205 and at AAA it was .133. While his walk rate went down from 9.4% to 6.9%, he at least managed to lower his strikeout rate from 23% to 19%. Last year in AAA, he hit for more power and walked more, but this year he raised his average from .251 to .278. Guez will be 25 in 2012 and profiles as a backup outfielder.

Ryan Lavarnway - Lavarnway had an outstanding season. Splitting time between AA (55 games, 239 PAs) and AAA (61 games, 264 PAs), he put up a line of .290/.376/.563 for an OPS of .939 in 503 PAs. He hit 32 HRs, 23 doubles, drove in 93 runs, scored 75 runs, and had 245 total bases. He was solid at AA, posting a line of .284/.360/.510 for an OPS of .869 with an ISO of .226. But he absolutely tore the cover off the ball at AAA, posting a line of .295/.390/.612 for an OPS of 1.002 with an ISO of .317. Overall, his ISO was .274, which was actually a little higher than Ryan Braun's ISO this year. Lavarnway also knows how to take a walk. At AA, his walk rate was 10.5% while at AAA it was 12.1%. Lavarnway didn't catch full-time, but he did put on the gear in 62 games and threw out 37% of the baserunners who attempted to steal on him. He's never been lauded for his defensive abilities, but he's clearly worked on that part of his game. Lavarnway is only 24 and should get a fair amount of ABs with the Red Sox in 2012. By season's end, I wouldn't be surprised if he were the primary catcher over Jarrod Saltalamacchia, who has never had much success against lefties. Lavarnway, on the other hand, feasts on southpaws. At the very least, you can see the makings of a catching platoon here.

Michael Schwimer - Schwimer was utterly dominant this year. In 68 innings, he was 9-1 with 10 saves, a 1.85 ERA, 1.07 WHIP, 6.8 H/9, 0.5 HR/9, 2.9 BB/9, 11.4 K/9, 3.91 K/BB, and 2.45 FIP. He'll be 26 next year and presumably will battle for a spot in the Phillies' bullpen in Spring Training. However, he may already have a roster spot locked up, especially with the departure of Ryan Madson. Either way, Schwimer was unquestionably the best Jewish minor league reliever this year, and I'm fairly certain we'll see him again in 2012 at the MLB level.

Josh Satin - Satin was the Mets' minor league player of the year in 2011; that's how good he was. He split time between AA (94 games, 404 PAs) and AAA (38 games, 160 PAs). Overall in 132 games and 564 PAs, he put up a line of .323/.411/.495 for an OPS of .906. He hit 12 HRs, 43 doubles, 2 triples, drove in 76 runs, scored 77 runs, drew 71 BBs, and had 239 total bases. It should be noted that his plate discipline and power dropped off when he went to AAA. At AA, he had a walk rate of 14.1% while at AAA it was 8.8%. His ISO at AA was .213. At AAA, it was 0.76. Notwithstanding his lack of pop, he was still pretty good at AAA, posting a line of .317/.381/.393 for an OPS of .774. He tore up AA, posting a line of .325/.423/.538 for an OPS of .962. His ISO has gone up every season for the last 3 years, from .139 to .156 to .172. So, he has remained remarkably consistent with the contact and has made strides with the power. Satin will be 27 in 2012 and could battle for a utility spot on the Mets' roster next year, as he can play third base, second base, first base, and now outfield.

AA

Eric Berger - Berger split time between AA (31 appearances, 57 appearances) and AAA (11 appearances, 14 1/3 innings). Coming into 2011, Berger had primarily been used as a starter, but this year the Indians decided to use the southpaw out of the pen, and it would appear that this is where he belongs. Berger was terrific in AA. He 2-0 with a 2.53 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, 6.9 H/9, 0.6 HR/9, 3.5 BB/9, 10.6 K/9, 3.05 K/BB, and 2.97 FIP. At AAA, it was a different story. Overall in 71 1/3 innings, he was 2-1 with a 4.04 ERA, 1.49 WHIP, 8.8 H/9, 0.8 HR/9, 4.5 BB/9, 11 K/9, and 2.42 K/BB. Berger will turn 26 next year and will either start the season in AA or AAA. The Indians have to be pleased with the jump in his strikeout rate this year.

Charles Cutler - Cutler had a nice bounceback season after struggling in AA a year ago. In 62 games and 232 PAs, Cutler put up a line of .333/.398/.475 for an OPS of .874. He hit 5 HRs, 8 doubles, 3 triples, drove in 34 runs, scored 37 runs, and had a BB/K ratio of 21/28. He threw out 24% of the baserunners who attempted to steal against him. His ISO was .142. Cutler will turn 26 next July. He profiles as a backup catcher and now that he's with the Pirates, an organization in dire need of catchers, his chances of making it to The Show are a little better than they were with the Cardinals.

Daniel Rosenbaum - Rosenbaum split time between Class A-Advanced and AA, with 19 of his 25 starts coming at Class A-Advanced and 6 starts coming at AA. Overall in 25 starts and 171 1/3 innings, he was 9-6 with a 2.52 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, 7.4 H/9, 0.2 HR/9, 2.7 BB/9, 7.1 K/9, and 2.60 K/BB. In Class A-Advanced, he was 6-5 with a 2.59 ERA, 1.17 WHIP, 7.7 H/9, 0.3 HR/9, 2.8 BB/9, 7.4 K/9, 2.63 K/BB, and 3.05 FIP. He tossed 2 complete games and 1 complete game shutout. In AA, he was 3-1 with a 2.29 ERA, 0.97 WHIP, 6.2 H/9, 0.0 HR/9, 2.5 BB/9, 6.2 K/9, 2.45 K/BB, and 2.82 FIP in 39 1/3 innings. Rosenbaum will be 24 next year and will likely start the year in AA. If the trend holds up of advancing a level every season, he'll be in AAA by the end of 2012. I would say his MLB ETA could be as soon as 2013. He even has a shot at being a September call-up next year with the Nationals. Doesn't hurt that he's a lefty. With Stephen Strasburg, Jordan Zimmermann, and now Gio Gonzalez, it would appear that the Nationals are set with 3 starters, but the back-end of their rotation remains wide open for the future. Fellow lefty pitching prospect, Matt Purke, has the edge over Rosenbaum, but to quote an old Chicago Bulls promo (probably my most esoteric reference yet): "Anything can change in the blink of an eye."

A+

Nate Freiman - In 138 games and 618 PAs, Freiman put up a line of .288/.354/.487 for an OPS of .842. He hit 22 HRs, 35 doubles, 4 triples, drove in 111 runs, scored 81 runs, drew 50 walks, and stole 6 bases (1 CS). In just his 3rd professional season, Freiman set career-highs in HRs, extra base hits (61), triples, hits (158), SBs, RBIs, SLG, ISO (.199), K% (15), HBP (11), and total bases (267). He led all Jewish minor leaguers in total bases. At 24, Freiman may have been a little old for Class A-Advanced. He'll be 25 next year and will presumably start the season at AA. Now that Adrian Gonzalez is gone, Freiman is no longer blocked at 1B, although he'll still face fierce competition from Jesus Guzman and a few other prospects. The Padres trading Anthony Rizzo to the Cubs certainly doesn't hurt Freiman's chances. I would say he is one of the Padres' better-kept secrets in their farm system. His MLB ETA could be 2013 if things continue to progress for the 6'7" slugger.

Casey Haerther - In 117 games and 470 PAs, Haerther put up a line of .293/.330/.426 for an OPS of .756. He hit 8 HRs, 34 doubles, drove in 68 runs, and scored 54 runs. His ISO has gone up every year, from .107 to .125 to .133. So, Haerther and the Halos have to be heartened by that. He had an excellent 1st half (.861 OPS in 269 ABs) but had an abysmal 2nd half (.583 OPS in 168 ABs). My guess is he played hurt in the 2nd half. He hit .361 with runners in scoring position. Haerther will be 24 next season and will likely start the year in Class A-Advanced or AA.

Jeffrey Kaplan - Kaplan missed all of 2010 with an injury. A few years ago, he was a starter. Now, he's being used as a full-time reliever. He split time between Class A-Advanced (45 appearances, 57 1/3 innings) and AA (3 appearances, 4 innings). Overall, he was 2-5 with 12 saves, a 3.52 ERA, 1.34 WHIP, 8.2 H/9, 0.4 HR/9, 3.8 BB/9, and 7.0 K/9. Kaplan will be 26 next year and will likely start the season in AA. Kaplan was lights out in the 2nd half at Class A-Advanced, posting a 1.90 ERA in 23 2/3 innings. In the 1st half, his ERA was 4.54 in 33 2/3 innings.

Jake Lemmerman - Lemmerman split time between Class A-Advanced (103 games, 469 PAs) and AA (21 games, 93 PAs). Overall, in 124 games and 562 PAs, the shortstop put up a line of .283/.370/.415 for an OPS of .785. He hit 10 HRs, 29 doubles, 2 triples, drove in 65 runs, scored 82 runs, drew 55 BBs, had 14 HBP, and stole 10 bases (3 CS). His ISO was .132. For just about anyone, these would be solid numbers. For a middle infielder, these are really good numbers. Lemmerman will only be 23 next year and will probably start the year at AA. He was outstanding in the Rookie Pioneer League in 2010, but that's a big-time hitter's league. What the Dodgers can take away from 2011 is Lemmmerman can hold his own outside a league where everyone's numbers are inflated.

Brett Lorin - In 17 starts and 25 appearances, Lorin was 7-6 with 1 save, a 2.84, 1.04 WHIP, 7.9 H/9, 0.5 HR/9, 1.5 BB/9, 7.6 K/9, 5.21 K/BB, and 3.03 FIP in 117 1/3 innings. He tossed 1 complete game as well. This was a nice bounceback season for Lorin after he missed most of 2011 because of injuries and struggled in A when he finally did take the field again. He set career-bests in WHIP, BB/9, and K/BB. Lorin will be 25 next year and could start the season in AA. He has a chance to be in AAA by the end of 2012. The Diamondbacks recently selected him from the Pirates in the Rule 5 draft. Lorin has to remain on their 25-man roster all year or be offered back to the Pirates. In all likelihood, Lorin will be back with the Pirates before long. But now that he's healthy again, it may not be long before he advances up the minor league ladder. As a starter, his ERA was 3.26 in 85 2/3 innings. As a reliever, his ERA was 1.71 in 31 2/3 innings. Lorin was outstanding in the 1st half (2.82 ERA in 54 1/3 innings) and 2nd half (2.86 ERA in 63 innings). He's not a big name, but he's definitely one of the more promising pitchers we have in the minors.

Jack Marder - Marder only got 81 PAs in 18 games, but he made the most of his playing time. He posted a line of .324/.380/.493 for an OPS of .873. He hit 2 HRs, 6 doubles, drove in 12 runs, scored 11 runs, and stole 3 bases. Marder played 5 games at 2B and 9 games at catcher.

Ari Ronick - Ronick missed most of 2010 with an injury. This year in 45 appearances and  60 2/3 innings he was 3-1 with 1 save, a 3.56 ERA, 1.43 WHIP, 7.6 H/9, 0.6 HR/9, 5.3 BB/9, and 8.0 K/9. Ronick will turn 26 next year and will likely start the season in AA. The key for this southpaw will be improving his command.

Cameron Selik - Selik did well last year in Short-Season A used exclusively as a reliever. In his 2nd year of pro ball, the Nationals decided to use him mostly as a starter. Selik made 21 starts and 27 appearances in 120 2/3 innings, splitting time between A (5 starts, 29 innings) and Class A-Advanced (16 starts, 22 appearances, 91 2/3 innings). Selik was untouchable at Single A; his ERA was 0.31 and his WHIP was 0.90. At Class A-Advanced, his ERA was 4.52 and his WHIP was 1.28. Overall, he was 7-9 with a 3.51 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, 8.5 H/9, 0.4 HR/9, 2.2 BB/9, 6.1 K/9, and 2.83 K/BB. Selik also had 3 complete games at Class A-Advanced, the most of any Jewish pitcher this year. The 24-year old from the University of Kansas will likely start 2012 in Class A-Advanced or AA.

A

Mike Brownstein - Brownstein split time between A (45 games, 178 PAs) and Class A-Advanced (40 games, 152 PAs). The middle infielder (34 games at 2B, 33 games at SS, 17 games at 3B) did very well in A, posting a line of .277/.381/.372 for an OPS of .752. His BB/K ratio at that level was 24/25. However, at Class A-Advanced Brownstein struggled quite a bit. Overall, he posted a line of .261/.350/.335 for an OPS of .684 in 330 PAs. He hit 2 HRs, 13 doubles, 1 triple, drove in 29 runs, scored 35 runs, and stole 13 bases (5 CS). The 24-year old middle infielder will likely start next season at Class A-Advanced.

Ben Orloff - In 96 games and 376 PAs, Orloff put up a line of .284/.359/.373 for an OPS of .733. He hit 2 HRs, 15 doubles, 4 triples, drove in 31 runs, scored 51 runs, stole 12 bases (6 CS), had 13 HBP, and had a BB/K ratio of 27/16. Orloff played 80 games at SS and 15 games at 2B. He'll turn 25 next year and profiles as a backup middle infielder. He has no power to speak of, but he hardly ever strikes out (6.9 K%) and has some speed.

Jeff Urlaub - Urlaub split time between Short-Season A (23 appearances, 37 2/3 innings) and A (14 appearances, 18 1/3 innings). The 24-year old southpaw was dominant at Short-Season A and pretty solid at A. His strikeout rate was excellent at both levels. Overall in 56 innings, Urlaub was 4-3 with 5 saves, a 2.41 ERA, 0.98 WHIP, 7.2 H/9, 0.6 HR/9, 1.6 BB/9, 11.6 K/9, and 7.20 K/BB. Urlaub is a little old for the lower minor league levels, but you can't hold that against him; his 1st year of pro ball was last year when he was 23. Urlaub will be 25 in 2012, and I would expect him to start the season in A or Class A-Advanced.

Rookie League/A-

Corey Baker - Baker was drafted this year in the 49th round by the Cardinals, but he certainly didn't pitch like a 49th rounder. At Short-Season A in 53 innings (4 starts, 19 appearances), Baker was 5-3 with a 2.89 ERA, 1.15 WHIP, 9.2 H/9, 0.2 HR/9, 1.2 BB/9, 5.4 K/9, 4.57 K/BB, and 2.86 FIP. I would expect the 22-year old right-hander to start 2012 in A.

Zach Borenstein - In 31 games and 136 PAs, my brother put up a line of .274/.397/.451 for an OPS of .848. Zach hit 2 HRs, 6 doubles, 4 triples, drove in 21 runs, scored 21 runs, stole 12 bases (1 CS), and had a BB/K ratio of 17/21. His walk rate was 12.5% and his strikeout rate was only 15.4% while his ISO was .177. He'll turn 22 next July. I don't want to appear too biased, so all I'll say is the Angels are lucky to have this stud-in-the-making.

David Colvin - Colvin split time between Rookie Ball (1 start, 11 appearances, 22 1/3 innings) and Short-Season A (5 appearances, 6 2/3 innings). Overall in 29 innings, he was 2-1 with a 2.17 ERA, 1.56 WHIP, 9.9 H/9, 0.3 HR/9, 4.0 BB/9, 9.0 K/9, and 2.23 K/BB. The ERA doesn't really correlate with the peripherals, but the 23-year old's strikeout rate was pretty good.

Adam Ehrlich - This 6th round pick by the Cardinals posted a line of .237/.333/.339 for an OPS of .672 in 69 PAs in Rookie Ball. Ehrlich hit 1 HR, 3 doubles, drove in 6 runs, and scored 3 runs in 19 games. He caught 17 of those games and threw out 21% of the baserunners who attempted to steal against him. He'll be 19 in 2012.

Jeremy Gould - In Short-Season A, Gould was 1-3 with 5 saves, a 3.26 ERA, 1.32 WHIP, 8.9 H/9, 0.6 HR/9, 3.0 BB/9, 13.6 K/9, 4.60 K/BB, and 2.01 FIP. The southpaw's strikeout rate had to please the Mets. Oddly enough, Gould was primarily used as an everyday player at Duke and not a pitcher. He was a good hitter, too, finishing with a lifetime .331 average and .863 OPS.

Lenny Linsky - Linsky split time between Short-Season A (12 appearances, 24 2/3 innings) and A (4 appearances, 4 2/3 innings). The Rays' 2nd round pick was 3-0 with 3 saves, a 1.23 ERA, 0.99 WHIP, 6.8 H/9, 0.6 HR/9, 2.1 BB/9, 9.2 K/9, and 4.29 K/BB. His FIP at each level was 3.04 and 2.56, respectively. Linsky will turn 22 next year and is one of the better young arms we have in the minors, and the Rays' track record of developing pitchers in their farm system speaks for itself.

Max Perlman - Perlman had an excellent career at Harvard and was drafted in the 35th round by the A's. Splitting time between Rookie Ball (5 starts, 13 appearances, 42 1/3 innings) and AAA (2 starts, 9 innings), the 23-year old righty was 3-2 with a 2.63 ERA, 0.94 WHIP, 6.1 H/9, 0.4 HR/9, 2.3 BB/9, 8.2 K/9, and 3.62 K/BB in 51 1/3 innings. Perlman will be 24 in 2012. It's hard to say where he'll start next season, but if I had to guess I would say probably A or Class A-Advanced.

Nick Rickles - Rickles split time between Rookie League (6 games, 27 PAs) and Short-Season A (41 games, 166 PAs). In 47 games and 193 PAs, the young catcher put up a line of .310/.370/.458 for an OPS of .829. He hit 2 HRs, 11 doubles, 4 triples, drove in 35 runs, scored 21 runs, and stole 6 bases (1 CS). His ISO was .149. He also threw out 42% of the baserunners who attempted to steal against him. He'll turn 22 next year. Taken in the 14th round by the A's, Rickles could be a steal.

Jadd Schmeltzer - This Cornell graduate was a 49th round pick by the Red Sox. In Rookie Ball, Schmeltzer was 0-2 with a 2.92 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 7.7 H/9, 0.0 HR/9, 3.3 BB/9, and 4.4 K/9 in 24 2/3 innings. That's not a very good K/BB ratio, but Schmeltzer only allowed 21 hits in his 24 2/3 innings and didn't give up any gopher balls. For a pitcher, he was also a decent hitter in college.

Lavarnway Finally Cracks Sawx Top 10

Baseball America has at last put Ryan Lavarnway in the Red Sox top 10 prospect list, seen here. Lavarnway is currently ranked the 9th best prospect in the organization. Untested Blake Swihart is ahead of him at catcher, although it should be noted that the high school pick hasn't played at all yet. In my opinion, Lavarnway should have made this list last year as well, but better late than never, I guess. More on him later when I go over how the top Jewish minor leaguers fared in 2011.