Kuzul

When it comes to Roy Oswalt, my thoughts basically come down to this: I don’t blame Roy Oswalt for wanting to be traded.

He’s such a great pitcher who plays for bad teams. I always feel bad for players like this. They are playing like superstars but are playing for pitiful teams like the Houston Astros.

He’s a great pitcher who has had a great start to the season. His ERA is at a respectable 2.66 but currently holds a 2-6 record. As a reward for him pitching so well this season, he absolutely deserves to be pitching for team that can give him some run support.

The Astros are definitely not a team that can help Oswalt win right now, or in the future. They’ve scored an MLB-low 133 runs this season.

It’s been recently rumored that the Dodgers are interested in acquiring Oswalt.

The Astros are not looking to trade him at the moment, but signs are pointing that he will not be playing in Houston past July 31.

It’s also interesting to note that there still is a possibility that Oswalt still has a chance to pitch in the state of Texas for the remainder of the year. I’m from northern Texas and am a Rangers fan, so this is very exciting to know that Rangers’ President Nolan Ryan has expressed interest in bringing Oswalt from Houston to Arlington.

According to ESPN.com, Oswalt has about $28 million left on a five-year, $73 million contract he signed before the 2007 season, including the $2 million buyout on his $16 million club option for 2012.

I would say that Roy Oswalt could be nice fit for the Rangers considering that they are actually winning their division right now, unlike the Astros who are dead last in the NL Central.

Oswalt told reporters recently that he does have two years left on his contract and during those final two years, he would really like to go back to the playoffs, considering he hasn’t been there since 2005.

Oswalt said that he likes Houston but doesn’t see the Astros making a push to the playoffs this season. He made a good point in a recent interview. He said that he loves Houston but if you start spring training not expecting to win the World Series every year (which seems to be the case in Houston), then there’s really no sense in playing.

If Roy Oswalt goes to a team that is currently in first or second place in their division, then I would be happy for him, no matter where he ends up. So many fans and so-called experts out there want to know if his desires to be traded are just selfish or actually reasonable.

The right answer would be very reasonable! How would you feel if you were a great baseball pitcher who plays for a terrible team? I don’t blame him for this. I’d want to leave too.

You might not agree with me about that, but just remember…
That’s how I see it…

David Carter

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Carter’s MLB Power Rankings-Teams:
NOTE: Team and Player Statistics updated through 11:00 AM CT, May 23

1. Tampa Bay Rays (31-12)
For the fifth straight week, the Rays (aka-the Road Warriors) are in the top spot. They deserve to be number one.

2. New York Yankees (26-17)
Despite only going 4-6 in their last ten games, the Yankees are still the MLB’s second-best team in my book. If they keep it up offensively, they might not have much to worry about going forward.

3. Philadelphia Phillies (26-16)
The Phillies currently hold the National League’s best road record at 13-7.

4. Minnesota Twins (26-17)
The Twins seem to be liking their new ballpark. A lot. Along with the Tigers, they own the MLB’s best home record at 14-6.

5. San Diego Padres (25-18)
To all the Padres fans out there: I’m sorry for picking your team to finish in last place this year. I don’t know what I was thinking. This team can pitch!!!

6. St. Louis Cardinals (25-19)
Despite Brad Penny being put on the shelf, and the Reds holding the first place spot (for now), I still see the Cardinals winning this division.

7. Toronto Blue Jays (25-20)
With a little more pitching, they could be in the playoff race in September. The Jays certainly have the high-powered offense down.

8. San Francisco Giants (22-20)
I would have them a little higher, but the only thing that’s keeping them afloat is their pitching staff. If they can’t score runs, they won’t be playing in October.

9. Atlanta Braves (23-20)

10. Los Angeles Dodgers (25-18)
They were at my number 21 spot two weeks ago, then the 13th spot last week. I picked them to win the West when the season started. My pick is looking better and better by the week, with or without Andre Ethier.

11. Colorado Rockies (21-22)
I picked the Rockies to finish second in the division when the season started. They are a little better than their record indicates. But, based on what I’ve seen so far, they might not even contend for a playoff spot in September.

12. Texas Rangers (25-19)
The Rangers should start getting comfortable while sitting in the AL West’s top spot. They could be stay there for the rest of the year. The Rangers lead the majors with 18 home wins.

13. Florida Marlins (22-22)
I picked this team to finish 4th in the NL East. The Marlins are making me look like a genius.

14. New York Mets (21-23)
If the Mets can score a few more runs here and there, they could make some noise in the NL East. Right now, the Phillies and Braves are still the top contenders.

15. Cincinnati Reds (25-18)
Some might expect this team to be higher. Cincy has been the surprise of the National League, but they also lead the majors in one-run wins. That’s great and all, but this also tells me that they are barely squeezing by in some of their wins.

16. Detroit Tigers (24-19)
They, and the Rays, hold the MLB’s top home record at 14-6. If they can play better on the road (where they are only 10-13), they could be contenders for the American League. Right now, that’s not the case.

17. Boston Red Sox (23-21)
I hope the rest of the Red Sox pitching staff was watching Diasuke Matsuzaka, and taking notes, on Saturday.

18. Chicago Cubs (20-24)
If your projected top two hitters in April (Derrek Lee and Aramis Ramirez) are only hitting .216 and .160 through late-May, that could cause a few issues for the team’s success. They are two reasons why this team is four games under .500.

19. Oakland Athletics (22-22)
If the Athletics want to get back in contention, they have to get the job done on the road, which they have not been doing. They have an ML-worst five road wins this year.

20. Chicago White Sox (18-24)
Even if A.J. Pierzynski does get traded somewhere, I don’t know if he can do any better at his new location. His .220 average, 2 HRS, and 13 RBIS aren’t very exciting at this point.

21. Washington Nationals (22-22)
I’m officially ready for June. Can anybody guess why?? HINT: It starts with Stephen and ends with Strasburg.

22. Seattle Mariners (16-27)
I still don’t understand why the Mariners were picked by many to win the AL West at the beginning of the season. They have absolutely no offense except for Ichiro. I’m starting to feel bad for him.

23. Arizona Diamondbacks (20-24)
They certainly have the hitting down. If they had a pitching staff, they might have a decent record.

24. Kansas City Royals (18-26)
Even though they might not be very good, they’ve played reasonably well recently. Only four other teams have won at least seven of their last ten games.

25. Milwaukee Brewers (16-27)
Brewers’ season ticket holders should regret buying their seats. The Brew-Crew hold the MLB’s worst home record at 4-14.

26. Los Angeles Angels (21-24)
The Angels hold the current award for most disappointing team in 2010. Who agrees?

27. Cleveland Indians (15-26)
It’s kinda sad when your leading hitter is only batting .304.

28. Baltimore Orioles (14-30)
As expected, the Orioles are having a very poor season. Especially on the road, where they hold an ML-worst 6-18 record.

29. Houston Astros (15-28)
The ‘Stros have more home losses (17) than any other team in the majors.

30. Pittsburgh Pirates (18-25)
Only the Astros have scored less runs than the Pirates have this year.

 Carter’s AL Most Valuable Player Award Race:
1. Justin Morneau (MIN): .377 avg., 57 hits, 11 HRS, 33 RBIS
2. Vladimir Guerrero (TEX): .341 avg., 47 hits, 10 HRS, 37 RBIS
3. Miguel Cabrera (DET): .333 avg., 55 hits, 9 HRS, 38 RBIS
4. Vernon Wells (TOR): .302 avg., 52 hits, 11 HRS, 32 RBIS
5. Ty Wigginton (BAL): .300 avg., 45 hits, 13 HRS, 31 RBIS
6. Robinson Cano (NYY): .337 avg., 57 hits, 9 HRS, 28 RBIS
7. Jose Bautista (TOR): .238 avg., 38 hits, 13 HRS, 34 RBIS
8. Paul Konerko (CHW): .268 avg., 37 hits, 14 HRS, 31 RBIS
9. Alex Gonzalez (TOR): .275 avg., 49 hits, 10 HRS, 30 RBIS
10. Jose Guillen (KC): .268 avg., 45 hits, 11 HRS, 31 RBIS

Carter’s NL Most Valuable Player Award Race:
1. Andre Ethier (LAD): .392 avg., 49 hits, 11 HRS, 38 RBIS
2. Casey McGehee (MIL): .317 avg., 51 hits, 9 HRS, 38 RBIS
3. Joey Votto (CIN): .313 avg., 50 hits, 10 HRS, 32 RBIS
4. Jayson Werth (PHI): .322 avg., 48 hits, 9 HRS, 33 RBIS
5. Dan Uggla (FLA): .280 avg., 44 hits, 11 HRS, 28 RBIS
6. Matt Kemp (LAD): .286 avg., 50 hits, 9 HRS, 26 RBIS
7. Kelly Johnson (ARZ): .257 avg., 39 hits, 12 HRS, 25 RBIS
8. Mark Reynolds (ARZ): .229 avg., 35 hits, 11 HRS, 36 RBIS
9. Chase Utley (PHI): .299 avg., 44 hits, 10 HRS, 23 RBIS
10. Rod Barajas (NYM): .260 avg., 32 hits, 10 HRS, 24 RBIS

Carter’s AL Cy Young Award Race:
1. David Price (TB): 6-1, 1.81 ERA, 44 strikeouts
2. Matt Garza (TB): 5-2, 2.37 ERA, 54 strikeouts
3. Jeff Niemann (TB): 4-0, 2.54 ERA, 36 strikeouts
4. Ricky Romero (TOR): 4-1, 2.71 ERA, 64 strikeouts
5. John Danks (CHW): 3-3, 2.26 ERA, 45 strikeouts
6. C.J. Wilson (TEX): 3-1, 2.55 ERA, 39 strikeouts
7. Shaun Marcum (TOR): 3-1, 2.61 ERA, 45 strikeouts
8. Doug Fister (SEA): 32, 1.96 ERA, 25 strikeouts
9. Andy Pettitte (NYY): 5-1, 2.68 ERA, 32 strikeouts
10. Zack Greinke (KC): 1-4, 2.72 ERA, 50 strikeouts

Carter’s NL Cy Young Award Race:
1. Ubaldo Jimenez (COL): 8-1, 0.99 ERA, 58 strikeouts
2. Tim Lincecum (SF): 5-0, 2.35 ERA, 75 strikeouts
3. Roy Halladay (PHI): 6-2, 1.64 ERA, 58 strikeouts
4. Josh Johnson (FLA): 4-1, 2.68 ERA, 63 strikeouts
5. Jaime Garcia (STL): 4-2, 1.28 ERA, 42 strikeouts
6. Tim Hudson (ATL): 5-1, 2.09 ERA, 26 strikeouts
7. Adam Wainwright (STL): 6-2, 2.49 ERA, 57 strikeouts
8. Livan Hernandez (WSH): 4-2, 1.62 ERA, 19 strikeouts
9. Jon Garland (SD): 5-2, 2.38 ERA, 31 strikeouts
10. Roy Oswalt (HOU): 2-6, 2.66 ERA, 60 strikeouts

AL Gold Glove Team
1B-Kevin Youkilis (BOS)
2B-Adam Rosales (OAK)
3B-Nick Punto (MIN)
SS-Derek Jeter (NYY)
LF-Carl Crawford (TB)
CF-Franklin Gutierrez (SEA)
RF-Nick Markakis (BAL)
C-John Buck (TOR)
P-Joe Saunders (LAA)

NL Gold Glove Team
1B-Albert Pujols (STL)
2B-David Eckstein (SD)
3B-Wes Helms (FLA)
SS-Troy Tulowitzki (COL)
LF-Matt Holliday (STL)
CF-Shane Victorino (PHI)
RF-Ryan Ludwick (STL)
C-Geovany Soto (CHC)
P-Chris Carpenter (STL)

Read more MLB news on BleacherReport.com

Carter’s MLB Power Rankings-Teams:
*NOTE: Team and Player Statistics updated through 11:00 AM CT, May 16

1. Tampa Bay Rays (25-11) Last Week: No. 1
Offense Rank: fourth
Pitching Rank: third
Last 10 Games: 6-4

2. New York Yankees (24-12) Last Week: No. 3
Offense Rank: first
Pitching Rank: fifth
Last 10 Games: 6-4

3. Philadelphia Phillies (22-13) Last Week: No. 7
Offense Rank: third
Pitching Rank: seventh
Last 10 Games: 8-2

4. San Francisco Giants (20-15) Last Week: No. 5
Offense Rank: 21st 
Pitching Rank: second
Last Ten Games: 5-5

5. San Diego Padres (22-14) Last Week: No. 6
Offense Rank: 22nd
Pitching Rank: first
Last Ten Games: 6-4

6. Minnesota Twins (22-14) Last Week: No. 4
Offense Rank: 11th
Pitching Rank: sixth
Last 10 Games: 5-5

7. St. Louis Cardinals (21-16) Last Week: No. 7
Offense Rank: 18th
Pitching Rank: fourth
Last Ten Games: 3-7

8. Colorado Rockies (18-18) Last Week: No. 8
Offense Rank: ninth
Pitching Rank: ninth
Last 10 Games: 5-5

9. Toronto Blue Jays (22-16) Last Week: No. 10
Offense Rank: fifth 
Pitching Rank: 17th 
Last 10 Games: 7-3

10. Florida Marlins (19-18) Last Week: No. 15
Offense Rank: 14th
Pitching Rank: 12th
Last 10 Games: 6-4

11. Texas Rangers (20-17) Last Week: No. 12
Offense Rank: 10th 
Pitching Rank: 15th
Last 10 Games: 6-4

12. New York Mets (18-19) Last Week: No. 9
Offense Rank: 17th
Pitching Rank: 10th
Last 10 Games: 3-7

13. Los Angeles Dodgers (19-17) Last Week: No. 21
Offense Rank: eighth
Pitching Rank: 23rd
Last 10 Games: 8-2

14. Detroit Tigers (21-16) Last Week: No. 13
Offense Rank: 12th
Pitching Rank: 18th
Last 10 Games: 5-5

15. Atlanta Braves (17-19) Last Week: No. 17
Offense Rank: 20th 
Pitching Rank: 11th
Last 10 Games: 6-4

16. Boston Red Sox (19-18) Last Week: No. 20
Offense Rank: sixth
Pitching Rank: 26th
Last 10 Games: 6-4

17. Cincinnati Reds (20-16) Last Week: No. 23
Offense Rank: 13th
Pitching Rank: 20th
Last 10 Games: 7-3

18. Milwaukee Brewers (15-21) Last Week: No. 11
Offense Rank: second
Pitching Rank: 28th
Last 10 Games: 4-6

19. Washington Nationals (20-17) Last Week: No. 19
Offense Rank: 16th 
Pitching Rank: 21st
Last Ten Games: 6-4

20. Oakland Athletics (18-19) Last Week: No. 14
Offense Rank: 25th
Pitching Rank: 13th
Last Ten Games: 5-5

21. Chicago Cubs (15-22) Last Week: No. 16
Offense Rank: 15th
Pitching Rank: 24th
Last 10 Games: 2-8

22. Seattle Mariners (14-22) Last Week: No. 24
Offense Rank: 29th
Pitching Rank: eighth
Last Ten Games: 3-7

23. Chicago White Sox (15-21) Last Week: No. 22
Offense Rank: 24th
Pitching Rank: 19th 
Last 10 Games: 4-6

24. Arizona Diamondbacks (15-22) Last Week: No. 18
Offense Rank: seventh
Pitching Rank: 30th
Last 10 Games: 2-8

25. Cleveland Indians (14-20) Last Week: No. 27
Offense Rank: 26th 
Pitching Rank: 14th
Last 10 Games: 4-6

26. Los Angeles Angels (17-21) Last Week: No. 25
Offense Rank: 19th
Pitching Rank: 25th
Last 10 Games: 5-5

27. Kansas City Royals (13-24)  Last Week: No. 26
Offense Rank: 23rd
Pitching Rank: 27th
Last 10 Games: 2-8

28. Baltimore Orioles (12-25) Last Week: No. 28
Offense Rank: 27th
Pitching Rank: 22nd
Last 10 Games: 5-5

29. Houston Astros (13-23) Last Week: No. 29
Offense Rank: 30th
Pitching Rank: 16th
Last 10 Games: 5-5

30. Pittsburgh Pirates (16-20) Last Week: No. 30
Offense Rank: 28th
Pitching Rank: 29th
Last 10 Games: 5-5
 

Carter’s AL Most Valuable Player Award Race:
1. Miguel Cabrera (DET):  .362 avg., 51 hits, eight HRS, 36 RBIS
2. Evan Longoria (TB): .324 avg., 45 hits, nine HRS, 31 RBIS
3. Vernon Wells (TOR): .304 avg., 45 hits, 10 HRS, 29 RBIS
4. Robinson Cano (NYY): 336 avg., 46 hits, nine HRS, 23 RBIS
5. Alex Gonzalez (TOR): .257 avg., 39 hits, 10 HRS, 28 RBIS
6. Ty Wigginton (BAL): .314 avg., 37 hits, 12 HRS, 24 RBIS
7. Paul Konerko (CHW): .272 avg., 31 hits, 13 HRS, 28 RBIS
8. Kendry Morales (LAA): .285 avg., 41 hits, nine HRS, 28 RBIS
9. Jose Bautista (TOR): .237 avg., 33 hits, nine HRS, 33 RBIS
10. Andruw Jones (CHW): .255 avg., 25 hits, eight HRS, 19 RBIS

Carter’s NL Most Valuable Player Award Race:
1. Andre Ethier (LAD): .392 avg., 49 hits, 11 HRS, 38 RBIS
2. Albert Pujols (STL): .317 avg., 44 hits, eight HRS, 29 RBIS
3. Chase Utley (PHI): .315 avg., 41 hits, nine HRS, 22 RBIS
4. Kelly Johnson (ARZ): .279 avg., 36 hits, 11 HRS, 23 RBIS
5. Matt Kemp (LAD): .275 avg., 41 hits, eight HRS, 24 RBIS
6. Shane Victorino (PHI): .263 avg., 40 hits, eight HRS, 32 RBIS
7. Mark Reynolds (ARZ): .229 avg., 30 hits, 10 HRS, 30 RBIS
8. Joey Votto (CIN): .292 avg., 38 hits, eight HRS, 24 RBIS
9. Adam Dunn (WSH): .256 avg., 33 hits, nine HRS, 19 RBIS
10. Rod Barajas (NYM): .264 avg., 28 hits, nine HRS, 20 RBIS

Carter’s AL Cy Young Award Race:
1. Phil Hughes (NYY): 5-0, 1.38 ERA, 39 strikeouts
2. Andy Pettitte (NYY): 5-0, 1.79 ERA, 29 strikeouts
3. David Price (TB): 5-1, 2.03 ERA, 39 strikeouts
4. C.J. Wilson (TEX): 3-1, 1.48 ERA, 34 strikeouts
5. Matt Garza (TB): 5-1, 2.49 ERA, 46 strikeouts
6. Jered Weaver (LAA): 4-2, 2.47 ERA, 59 strikeouts
7. Jeff Niemann (TB): 3-0, 2.27 ERA, 28 strikeouts
8. Doug Fister (SEA): 3-1, 1.27 ERA, 20 strikeouts
9. John Danks (CHW): 3-2, 2.25 ERA, 37 strikeouts
10. Francisco Liriano (MIN): 4-2, 2.63 ERA, 46 strikeouts

Carter’s NL Cy Young Award Race:
1. Ubaldo Jimenez (COL): 7-1, 1.12 ERA, 54 strikeouts
2. Tim Lincecum (SF): 5-0, 1.79 ERA, 69 strikeouts
3. Roy Halladay (PHI): 6-1, 1.59 ERA, 52 strikeouts
4. Jaime Garcia (STL): 4-2, 1.42 ERA, 36 strikeouts
5. Barry Zito (SF): 5-1, 1.90 ERA, 30 strikeouts
6. Adam Wainwright (STL): 5-2, 2.48 ERA, 49 strikeouts
7. Livan Hernandez (WSH): 4-2, 1.46 ERA, 17 strikeouts
8. Brad Penny (STL): 3-3, 1.70 ERA, 27 strikeouts
9. Jon Garland (SD): 4-2, 1.88 ERA, 27 strikeouts
10. Roy Oswalt (HOU): 2-5, 2.62 ERA, 52 strikeouts

Carter’s AL Gold Glove Team
1B-Kevin Youkilis (BOS)
2B-Dustin Pedroia (BOS)
3B-Brandon Inge (DET)
SS-J.J. Hardy (MIN)
LF-Carl Crawford (TB)
CF-Franklin Gutierrez (SEA)
RF-J.D. Drew (BOS)
C-A.J. Pierzynski (CHW)
P-Joe Saunders (LAA)

Carter’s NL Gold Glove Team
1B-Albert Pujols (STL)
2B-Brandon Phillips (CIN)
3B-Placido Polanco (PHI)
SS-Troy Tulowitzki (COL)
LF-Josh Willingham (WSH)
OF-Shane Victorino (PHI)
OF-Jay Bruce (CIN)
C-Geovany Soto (CHC)
P-Chris Carpenter (STL)

Read more MLB news on BleacherReport.com

For the third week in a row I have the Tampa Bay Rays at the top spot. They have the best pitching staff in the majors. The best offense was a toss up between them and the Yankees. I pushed up the Yankees a spot because they are the hottest team in the majors right now, winning nine of their last 10 games. No other team can say that they’ve won at least eight of their last 10 other than the “Bronx Bombers.”

It was hard to drop the Rays with three of their guys who are in contention for the Cy Young Award (Matt Garza, David Price, and Jeff Niemann). I pushed the Phillies up four spots because of their offense and they’ve been pretty hot over the past week and a half.
 
Rounding out spots four through ten, we have the Twins, Giants, Padres, Cardinals, Rockies, Mets, and Blue Jays, with the Brewers, Rangers, and Tigers barely missing the top 10. My current MVP leaders are Andre Ethier and Miguel Cabrera while Phil Hughes and Ubaldo Jimenez sit at the top spots for my Cy Young Awards.

Carter’s MLB Power Rankings-Teams:
1. Tampa Bay Rays (22-8) Last Week: No. 1
Offense Rank: 2nd
Pitching Rank: 1st
Last 10 Games: 7-3

2. New York Yankees (21-8) Last Week: No. 3
Offense Rank: 1st
Pitching Rank: 5th
Last 10 Games: 9-1

3. Philadelphia Phillies (18-12) Last Week: No. 7
Offense Rank: 5th
Pitching Rank: 8th
Last 10 Games: 7-3

4. Minnesota Twins (20-11) Last Week: No. 5
Offense Rank: 6th
Pitching Rank: 6th
Last 10 Games: 7-3

5. San Francisco Giants (17-12) Last Week: No. 2
Offense Rank: 17th
Pitching Rank: 3rd
Last 10 Games: 6-4

6. San Diego Padres (19-11) Last Week: No. 6
Offense Rank: 18th
Pitching Rank: 2nd
Last 10 Games: 6-4

7. St. Louis Cardinals (19-12) Last Week: No. 4
Offense Rank: 16th
Pitching Rank: 4th
Last 10 Games: 5-5

8. Colorado Rockies (15-15) Last Week: No. 9
Offense Rank: 11th
Pitching Rank: 7th
Last 10 Games: 5-5

9. New York Mets (17-13) Last Week: No. 8
Offense Rank: 19th
Pitching Rank: 9th
Last 10 Games: 5-5

10. Toronto Blue Jays (18-14) Last Week: No. 15
Offense Rank: 10th
Pitching Rank: 14th
Last 10 Games: 8-2

11. Milwaukee Brewers (14-16) Last Week: No. 17
Offense Rank: 3rd
Pitching Rank: 21st
Last 10 Games: 7-3

12. Texas Rangers (17-14) Last Week: No. 13
Offense Rank: 15th
Pitching Rank: 12th
Last 10 Games: 7-3

13. Detroit Tigers (17-13) Last Week: No. 10
Offense Rank: 12th
Pitching Rank: 18th
Last 10 Games: 6-4

14. Oakland Athletics (16-15) Last Week: No. 11
Offense Rank: 20th
Pitching Rank: 11th
Last 10 Games: 4-6

15. Florida Marlins (14-16) Last Week: No. 14
Offense Rank: 14th
Pitching Rank: 15th
Last 10 Games: 3-7

16. Chicago Cubs (14-17) Last Week: No. 12
Offense Rank: 8th
Pitching Rank: 23rd
Last 10 Games: 4-6

17. Atlanta Braves (13-17) Last Week: No. 20
Offense Rank: 25th
Pitching Rank: 13th
Last 10 Games: 5-5

18. Arizona Diamondbacks (14-17) Last Week: No. 18
Offense Rank: 4th
Pitching Rank: 29th
Last 10 Games: 4-6

19. Washington Nationals (16-14) Last Week: No. 21
Offense Rank: 22nd
Pitching Rank: 17th
Last 10 Games: 6-4

20. Boston Red Sox (15-16) Last Week: No. 23
Offense Rank: 7th
Pitching Rank: 28th
Last 10 Games: 5-5

21. Los Angeles Dodgers (14-17) Last Week: No. 19
Offense Rank: 9th
Pitching Rank: 27th
Last 10 Games: 3-7

22. Chicago White Sox (13-18) Last Week: No. 22
Offense Rank: 23rd
Pitching Rank: 20th
Last 10 Games: 5-5

23. Cincinnati Reds (15-15) Last Week: No. 24
Offense Rank: 13th
Pitching Rank: 24th
Last 10 Games: 6-4

24. Seattle Mariners (11-19) Last Week: No. 16
Offense Rank: 29th
Pitching Rank: 10th
Last 10 Games: 2-8

25. Los Angeles Angels (13-18) Last Week: No. 25
Offense Rank: 21st
Pitching Rank: 26th
Last 10 Games: 3-7

26. Kansas City Royals (11-20)  Last Week: No. 27
Offense Rank: 24th
Pitching Rank: 25th
Last 10 Games: 3-7

27. Cleveland Indians (10-18) Last Week: No. 26
Offense Rank: 28th
Pitching Rank: 16th
Last 10 Games: 3-7

28. Baltimore Orioles (9-22) Last Week: No. 29
Offense Rank: 27th
Pitching Rank: 22nd
Last 10 Games: 5-5

29. Houston Astros (9-21) Last Week: No. 28
Offense Rank: 30th
Pitching Rank: 19th
Last 10 Games: 2-8

30. Pittsburgh Pirates (14-16) Last Week: No. 30
Offense Rank: 26th
Pitching Rank: 30th
Last 10 Games: 5-5
 

Carter’s AL Most Valuable Player Award Race:
1. Miguel Cabrera (DET): .371 avg., 43 hits, 7 HRS, 32 RBI
2. Alex Gonzalez (TOR): .266 avg., 34 hits, 10 HRS, 26 RBI
3. Vernon Wells (TOR): .328 avg., 40 hits, 8 HRS, 23 RBI
4. Paul Konerko (CHW): .284 avg., 27 hits, 13 HRS, 27 RBI
5. Robinson Cano (NYY): .348 avg., 39 hits, 9 HRS, 21 RBIS
6. Jose Guillen (KC): .273 avg., 33 hits, 8 HRS, 21 RBI
7. Ty Wigginton (BAL): .284 avg., 27 hits, 10 HRS, 20 RBI
8. Evan Longoria (TB): .333 avg., 38 hits, 7 HRS, 23 RBI
9. Andruw Jones (CHW): .264 avg., 23 hits, 9 HRS, 17 RBI
10. John Buck (TOR): .239 avg., 22 hits, 8 HRS, 18 RBI

Carter’s NL Most Valuable Player Award Race:
1. Andre Ethier (LAD): .394 avg., 41 hits, 10 HRS, 32 RBI
2. Albert Pujols (STL): .314 avg., 37 hits, 7 HRS, 25 RBI
3. Kelly Johnson (ARZ): .292 avg., 31 hits, 10 HRS, 19 RBI
4. Chase Utley (PHI): .299 avg., 32 hits, 8 HRS, 18 RBI
5. Mark Reynolds (ARZ): .239 avg., 26 hits, 10 HRS, 27 RBI
6. Matt Kemp (LAD): .285 avg., 35 hits, 7 HRS, 21 RBI
7. Jason Heyward (ATL): .291 avg., 25 hits, 8 HRS, 26 RBI
8. Alfonso Soriano (CHC): .323 avg., 32 hits, 7 HRS, 18 RBI
9. Jorge Cantu (FLA): .265 avg., 31 hits, 7 HRS, 28 RBI
10. Rod Barajas (NYM): .244 avg., 20 hits, 9 HRS, 17 RBI

Carter’s AL Cy Young Award Race:
1. Phil Hughes (NYY): 4-0, 1.69 ERA, 31 strikeouts
2. David Price (TB): 4-1, 1.91 ERA, 33 strikeouts
3. Matt Garza (TB): 5-1, 2.09 ERA, 39 strikeouts
4. C.J. Wilson (TEX): 3-1, 1.51 ERA, 29 strikeouts
5. A.J. Burnett (NYY): 4-0, 1.99 ERA, 28 strikeouts
6. John Danks (CHW): 3-1, 1.98 ERA, 34 strikeouts
7. Andy Pettitte (NYY): 4-0, 2.08 ERA, 27 strikeouts
8. Francisco Liriano (MIN): 4-1, 2.36 ERA, 39 strikeouts
9. Jeff Niemann (TB): 2-0, 2.23 ERA, 24 strikeouts
10. Doug Fister (SEA): 2-1, 1.71 ERA, 18 strikeouts

Carter’s NL Cy Young Award Race:
1. Ubaldo Jimenez (COL): 6-0, 0.87 ERA, 44 strikeouts
2. Roy Halladay (PHI): 6-1, 1.45 ERA, 48 strikeouts
3. Tim Lincecum (SF): 4-0, 1.70 ERA, 56 strikeouts
4. Barry Zito (SF): 5-0, 1.49 ERA, 28 strikeouts
5. Livan Hernandez (WSH): 4-1, 0.99 ERA, 11 strikeouts
6. Jaime Garcia (STL): 3-2, 1.18 ERA, 30 strikeouts
7. Adam Wainwright (STL): 4-1, 1.96 ERA, 36 strikeouts
8. Jon Garland (SD): 4-2, 1.71 ERA, 25 strikeouts
9. Roy Oswalt (HOU): 2-4, 2.48 ERA, 36 strikeouts
10. Brad Penny (STL): 3-2, 1.99 ERA, 24 strikeouts

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Usually when I hear about minor league baseball players being moved up to AAA from AA, I don’t really care. I only pay attention to the major leagues and their players and what’s going on with the big boys and the big teams.

But for some reason, this Stephen Strasburg kid is capturing my interest, even though he is in the minor leagues. Everybody has been talking about him being the best thing since sliced bread.

He also might be the only positive story related to the Washington Nationals, considering the fact that they have had absolutely no success since moving to Washington, D.C.

Apparently, Strasburg has been pitching in the minors—and very well, at that.

On the one hand, if he’s doing so well in the Nationals farm system, then once he gets to the majors, he could end up being just as good, which is just what the Nats are hoping for.

On the other hand, he’s been great in the minors, but he still hasn’t pitched in the majors against ball players that have it all together.

It was reported earlier this morning that Mr. Strasburg is one step closer to the major leagues. He has been promoted to the AAA Syracuse Chiefs, and will debut on Friday against the Gwinnett Braves.

Thus far, he has pitched well in the minors, going 3-1 with a 1.64 ERA in five starts for the Harrisburg Senators. If he continues to pitch like this in the majors, he’s going to be a leading candidate for rookie of the year.

Like many fans, I’m still a little nervous for the guy though. What if he pitches in his first few games with the Nats and ends up bombing at least two of them?

Let’s say he goes 1-2 in his first three starts with an ERA of about 3.50. (It could happen, considering the fact that he will be facing major league players who have it together.)

They say that Stephen Strasburg will be making his debut sometime next month, which excites me. He’s either going to live up to the hype or not live up to his expectations. He will either be the top dog that he was made out to be or just a dog with only a bark and no bite.

Fans should be pumped up too. Besides, even if things don’t go well, Nats fans have witnessed failures from their team, and another loss wouldn’t make much of a difference.

So, here’s what you should think about Stephen Strasburg— he is a great pitcher who deserves to get a shot at the majors this season, based on his performances in the minors so far.

He will indeed give the team a bit of a spark this year, but likely not enough for playoff contention in September.

He’s only one guy.

This team will still finish under .500 with him in the rotation and at full health. Though I’m excited to see his debut, I don’t think he’ll be able to turn this franchise around.

If you think otherwise, you need to get your head out of the clouds.

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For a second week in a row, the Rays are in the top spot in my Power Rankings. I still don’t see a reason to have them lower than that. They have the best offense in the majors by far and their pitching is also very good. If it weren’t for the Mets, I’d say that they were the hottest team in the league right now.

Matt Garza is partly to blame for the number four ranking in pitching. His 4-1 record, 2.06 ERA, and 34 strikeouts puts him in the top four in my AL Cy Young Award, which you can check out at the bottom of the page.

The San Francisco Giants are the top NL team mainly because of their pitching staff (which has been kicking some major butt this year.)

The Yankees are not skipping a beat and are right where they belong at number 3.

The red-hot Mets move up in the top ten to number eight.

The Cardinals’ pitching staff keeps them in the top four.

In the bottom five we have the Indians (bad offense), the Royals (bad pitching), the Astros (bad offense), the Orioles (also a bad offense), and the Pirates (who just absolutely stink…still.)

The Yankees’ Robinson Cano and the Cards’ Albert Pujols are my AL and NL MVP award favorites while the Twins’ Francisco Liriano and the Rockies’ Ubaldo Jimenez are my AL and NL Cy Young Award leaders.

 

Carter’s MLB Power Rankings

1. Tampa Bay Rays (17-7)

Offense Rank: 1^st

Pitching Rank: 4^th

Last Ten Games: 7-3

 

2. San Francisco Giants (14-9)

Offense Rank: 19^th

Pitching Rank: 1^st

Last Ten Games: 6-4

 

3. New York Yankees (15-8)

Offense Rank: 5^th

Pitching Rank: 6^th

Last Ten Games: 5-5

 

4. St. Louis Cardinals (16-8)

Offense Rank: 14^th

Pitching Rank: 2^nd

Last Ten Games: 7-3

 

5. Minnesota Twins (15-9)

Offense Rank: 7^th

Pitching Rank: 8^th

Last Ten Games: 5-5

 

6. San Diego Padres (15-9)

Offense Rank: 18^th

Pitching Rank: 3^rd

Last Ten Games: 7-3

 

7. Philadelphia Phillies (13-10)

Offense Rank: 4^th

Pitching Rank: 9^th

Last Ten Games: 5-5

 

8. New York Mets (14-10)

Offense Rank: 20^th

Pitching Rank: 5^th

Last Ten Games: 8-2

 

9. Colorado Rockies (11-13)

Offense Rank: 8^th

Pitching Rank: 12^th

Last Ten Games: 4-6

 

10. Detroit Tigers (15-10)

Offense Rank: 6^th

Pitching Rank: 19^th

Last Ten Games: 7-3

 

11. Oakland Athletics (13-12)

Offense Rank: 15^th

Pitching Rank: 11^th

Last Ten Games: 4-6

 

12. Chicago Cubs (12-13)

Offense Rank: 10^th

Pitching Rank: 17^th

Last Ten Games: 6-4

 

13. Texas Rangers (12-12)

Offense Rank: 17^th

Pitching Rank: 12^th

Last Ten Games: 7-3

 

14. Florida Marlins (12-12)

Offense Rank: 11^th

Pitching Rank: 16^th

Last Ten Games: 4-6

 

15. Toronto Blue Jays (12-13)

Offense Rank: 12^th

Pitching Rank: 18^th

Last Ten Games: 3-7

 

16. Seattle Mariners (11-13)

Offense Rank: 27^th

Pitching Rank: 7^th

Last Ten Games: 4-6

 

17. Milwaukee Brewers (10-14)

Offense Rank: 3^rd

Pitching Rank: 24^th

Last Ten Games: 3-7

 

18. Arizona Diamondbacks (11-13)

Offense Rank: 2^nd

Pitching Rank: 29^th

Last Ten Games: 5-5

 

19. Los Angeles Dodgers (10-14)

Offense Rank: 9^th

Pitching Rank: 25^th

Last Ten Games: 3-7

 

20. Atlanta Braves (10-14)

Offense Rank: 25^th

Pitching Rank: 13^th

Last Ten Games: 2-8

 

21. Washington Nationals (13-11)

Offense Rank: 22^nd

Pitching Rank: 20^th

Last Ten Games: 6-4

 

22. Chicago White Sox (10-14)

Offense Rank: 24^th

Pitching Rank: 21^st

Last Ten Games: 5-5

 

23. Boston Red Sox (11-13)

Offense Rank: 13^th

Pitching Rank: 26^th

Last Ten Games: 6-4

 

24. Cincinnati Reds (10-13)

Offense Rank: 16^th

Pitching Rank: 28^th

Last Ten Games: 6-4

 

25. Los Angeles Angels (12-13)

Offense Rank: 23^rd

Pitching Rank: 22^nd

Last Ten Games: 4-6

 

26. Cleveland Indians (10-13)

Offense Rank: 29^th

Pitching Rank: 14^th

Last Ten Games: 4-6

 

27. Kansas City Royals (10-14)

Offense Rank: 21^st

Pitching Rank: 27^th

Last Ten Games: 5-5

 

28. Houston Astros (8-15)

Offense Rank: 30^th

Pitching Rank: 15^th

Last Ten Games: 4-6

 

29. Baltimore Orioles (6-18)

Offense Rank: 26^th

Pitching Rank: 23^rd

Last Ten Games: 4-6

 

30. Pittsburgh Pirates (10-14)

Offense Rank: 28^th

Pitching Rank: 30^th

Last Ten Games: 3-7

 

Carter’s AL Most Valuable Player Award Race:

1. Robinson Cano (NYY): .382 avg., 34 hits, 8 HRS, 18 RBIS

2. Vernon Wells (TOR): .323 avg., 31 hits, 8 HRS, 17 RBIS

3. Paul Konerko (CHW): .295 avg., 23 hits, 11 HRS, 21 RBIS

4. Jose Guillen (KC): .292 avg., 28 hits, 7 HRS, 19 RBIS

5. Ty Wigginton (BAL): .324 avg., 22 hits, 8 HRS, 14 RBIS

6. Alex Gonzalez (TOR): .277 avg., 28 hits, 7 HRS, 19 RBIS

7. Kendry Morales (LAA): .315 avg., 29 hits, 6 HRS, 16 RBIS

8. Dustin Pedroia (BOS): .287 avg., 29 hits, 6 HRS, 18 RBIS

9. Nelson Cruz (TEX): .323 avg., 20 hits, 7 HRS, 17 RBIS

10. Andruw Jones (CHW): .276 avg., 16 hits, 8 HRS, 11 RBIS

 

Carter’s NL Most Valuable Player Award Race:

1. Albert Pujols (STL): .344 avg., 31 hits, 7 HRS, 21 RBIS

2. Andre Ethier (LAD): .350 avg., 28 hits, 7 HRS, 22 RBIS

3. Jorge Cantu (FLA): .309 avg., 29 hits, 6 HRS, 25 RBIS

4. Mark Reynolds (ARZ): .353 avg., 23 hits, 9 HRS, 23 RBIS

5. Kelly Johnson (ARZ): .310 avg., 26 hits, 9 HRS, 18 RBIS

6. Matt Kemp (LAD): .280 avg., 28 hits, 7 HRS, 20 RBIS

7. Chase Utley (PHI): .294 avg., 29 hits, 6 HRS, 15 RBIS

8. Jason Heyward (ATL): .256 avg., 20 hits, 7 HRS, 20 RBIS

9. Adrian Gonzalez (SD): .286 avg., 24 hits, 6 HRS, 17 RBIS

10. Colby Rasmus (STL): .304 avg., 21 hits, 6 HRS, 12 RBIS

 

Carter’s AL Cy Young Award Race:

1. Francisco Liriano (MIN): 3-0, 0.93 ERA, 27 strikeouts

2. John Danks (CHW): 3-0, 1.85 ERA, 27 strikeouts

3. Matt Garza (TB): 4-1, 2.06 ERA, 34 strikeouts

4. C.J. Wilson (TEX): 2-1, 1.75 ERA, 21 strikeouts

5. Andy Pettitte (NYY): 3-0, 2.12 ERA, 25 strikeouts

6. Doug Fister (SEA): 2-1, 1,67 ERA, 13 strikeouts

7. Clay Buchholz (BOS): 2-2, 2.19 ERA, 22 strikeouts

8. Mitch Talbot (CLE): 3-1, 2.05 ERA, 7 strikeouts

9. A.J. Burnett (NYY): 3-0, 2.43 ERA, 20 strikeouts

10. Ricky Romero (TOR): 2-1, 2.25 ERA, 31 strikeouts

 

Carter’s NL Cy Young Award Race:

1. Ubaldo Jimenez (COL): 5-0, 0.79 ERA, 31 strikeouts

2. Tim Lincecum (SF): 4-0, 1.27 ERA, 43 strikeouts

3. Roy Halladay (PHI): 5-1, 1.47 ERA, 39 strikeouts

4. Barry Zito (SF): 4-0, 1.53 ERA, 24 strikeouts

5. Livan Hernandez (WSH): 3-1, 0.87 ERA, 10 strikeouts

6. Jaime Garcia (STL): 2-1, 1.04 ERA, 17 strikeouts

7. Adam Wainwright (STL): 4-1, 2.13 ERA, 30 strikeouts

8. Jonathan Sanchez (SF): 2-1, 1.85 ERA, 33 strikeouts

9. Brad Penny (STL): 3-1, 1.56 ERA, 18 strikeouts

10. Johan Santana (NYM): 2-1, 2.08 ERA, 28 strikeouts

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