Top 3 Match-ups Weekly Preview

[Baltimore Orioles (Vince)]

Top 3 Match-ups for Weeks 15/16

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                As the old adage goes, post All-Star break is when the real season begins in baseball. The same adage applies to Turtle Ball’s inaugural season. Thus far, 2019 has been full of trades, roster maneuvering and prospect call-ups. Break-out performances from emerging rookie stars and unexpected success from established and unknown big leaguers alike have defined the inaugural 2019 Turtle Ball season. With the trade deadline approaching and 10 weeks to go in the 2019 regular season, here are the top three Turtle Ball match-ups to watch heading into week 15/16:

#3: Tampa Bay Rays at New York Yankees 

The Storylines to watch: Heading into this multi-week AL East clash, the Rays sit comfortably atop the AL East at 95-63-10 and are seeking to tighten their stranglehold on the division by defeating their divisional foe. With a divisional record of 33-13-2, a resounding Rays victory over the Yankees would ensure the Rays control their own destiny in the division going forward. Barring injuries to key players or a major downturn in play, it would not be unfathomable to say that this match-up’s outcome could determine the Rays ability to remain firmly atop the AL East through the rest of this season. On the other hand, the New York Yankees are jockeying for position in the wildcard race. Sitting at 8th place overall at 72-77-19 in the AL standings, the Yankees could use a decisive victory over their divisional rivals to fuel a second-half run and remain in the hunt for a wildcard spot for the playoffs.

The Stats to consider: Through 15 weeks, the Tampa Bay Rays have consistently been the better team. The Rays have scored 75 more points than the Yankees. While the Yankees have scored more points per match-up based off of AVG and OPS (NY 20 AVG, 22 OPS versus TB 16 AVG, 11 OPS), the Rays have scored more points in every other hitting category than the Yankees. And while the Yankees’ pitching staff have more quality starts than the Rays’ pitching staff, the Rays’ pitchers have scored more points per match-up in each recorded pitching category. The Yankees must have a solid week of pitching if they intend on defeating the Rays.

The Players to watch: For the Rays, look for the dynamic trio of Trevor Story, David Dahl and Omar Narvaez to continue to put up home-runs, RBIs and solid percentages for the team this week. However, keep in mind the back injury to Randal Grichuk. The center fielder hurt his back the week before the All-Star break and has put up solid numbers across the board for the Rays all season. Should Grichuk not be able to go this week, the Rays could have a hole in their lineup at CF considering their only other CF eligible player is David Dahl who is currently their only LF eligible player. For the Yankees, Aaron Judge getting into a groove is much needed. With the injuries to Yadier Molina and CJ Cron, Judge’s resurgence is needed to help Colin Moran, Chris Taylor and Dwight Smith Jr. who comprise the heart of this team’s batting order. Also, the Yankees will need a stronger pitching performance than their staff has produced over the course of the season this week to knock off the Rays. Kevin Gausman, who has been out for over a month, could return this week and could be that added arm the Yankees pitching staff needs to win this pivotal match-up.

#2: Cleveland Indians at Chicago Whitesox 

The Storylines to watch: In another intra-divisional match-up, the Cleveland Indians take on the Chicago Whitesox. If the playoffs were to begin today, the Whitesox at 83-71-14 would claim the final wildcard slot in the AL. Being only 12.5 back in the AL Central division race, a huge victory over the Indians coupled with a shaky week from the Detroit Tigers could propel the Whitesox into division title contention as well after this week. While the Whitesox have a talented roster, the injury bug has struck at an inopportune time. The Indians have a huge opportunity this week to make headway into the wildcard race and deliver a decisive blow to a vulnerable divisional opponent. The Indians head into this matchup at 73-80-15 and are seeking knock their intra-divisional foe out of the playoff picture. A down week for the Indians this week could make their margin for error even tighter as they are one of five teams jockeying for the second wildcard spot in the AL.

The Stats to consider: Surprisingly, the Indians have scored 23 more points than the Whitesox this season yet they sit out of the playoff picture while the Whitesox would make the playoffs. A closer look at the numbers underscores why that is so and why this match-up is critical to both teams. While the Indians hitters have stuffed the stat sheet more than the Whitesox (runs, HRs, RBIs, SBs; CLE 76.5 compared to CSW 60), the difference between the Whitesox batters’ AVG and OPS compared to the Indians’ batters is stark (25 AVG, 27 OPS for CSW versus 6 AVG, 16 OPS for CLE). The only conclusion that can be drawn is the Whitesox hitters have had a more consistent season than the Indians hitters. The same difference in a single category also applies to analysis of both teams pitching staffs. The Indians pitchers have scored 62 more points than the Whitesox pitchers (QS, K, HLD, ERA, WHIP combined for CLE 121 versus CSW 59). However, the Whitesox have clobbered the Indians when it comes to saves (2 for CLE versus 27 for CSW). While the Whitesox may lose out to the Indians this week in pitching stats, the Whitesox closers could prove to be the difference. All things considered, season tatistics indicate the strongest part of the Indians is their pitching staff and they will need them to produce this week to defeat the Whitesox.

The Players to watch: The wily vets Jay Bruce and Juan Soto will have to continue to produce in order for the Indians to be victorious this week. The emergence of Yordan Alvarez has given the Indians consistent offense at a much needed time before the second half of the season push begins. The return of Orlando Arcia is welcome news for the Indians who were facing having to start Tommy Edman at SS who has only started 23 games in his career thus far. With that being said, the Indians go as far as their pitchers can take them. Trevor Bauer will have to continue his dominance this season and set the tone for the Indians pitchers to win out against the Whitesox’s pitching staff. For the Whitesox, injuries to Carlos Correa and Eddie Rosario have affected their season’s outlook. With no depth coming off the bench, the Whitesox veterans will need to find a way to fill their lineup and fend off the Indians. Six of the Whitesox pitchers are on the shelf through 15 weeks. If the Whitesox intend to split the series with the Indians and cause a draw with their pitching, Homer Bailey, Jordan Lyles and Julio Uries must step up and answer the bell. Look for the Whitesox closers to hang tough and come through for their team by soundedly winning in the save and hold category this week.

#1 Texas Rangers at Oakland Athletics 

The Storylines to watch: Is it a coincidence that the two 100 win teams in the AL are facing off at the coliseum this week to battle it out? We think not. Unarguably the two best teams in the AL this season, the Rangers take on the Athletics in a match-up that will impact both the AL West division race and the race for the number one seed in the AL. The Athletics, the number 1 seed and the leader of the AL West, are looking to flex their dominance over the AL by taking down their intra-divisional foe this week. The Rangers, the number 4 seed and second in the AL West, are seeking to pry control of the division away from the Athletics. With both teams having scored over 230+ points through 15 weeks, this match-up will be nothing short of a complete fireworks show.

The Stats to consider: To be frank, neither team is better than the other and both teams have been consistently dominant this season. Compiling over 100 wins and over 230+ points respectively, it is hard to compare and contrast these two behemoths before their big duel. However, there are some slight differences that might foretell how this match-up goes down. When it comes to stolen bases, the Rangers have the Athletics beat (3 for OAK versus 15 for TEX). Should this match-up come down to a proverbial coin flip, stealing bases may make the difference in the end. On the other hand, the Athletics smoke the Rangers when it comes to batting average. (24 for OAK versus 9 for TEX). The more consistent bats have resided in Oakland that could be the stat the decides this crucial bout. As for pitching, both teams pitching staff numbers are similar (137.5 total points for OAK versus 126 total points for TEX). The biggest difference between both staffs is when it comes to holds with Oakland having an 11.5 point edge. In a match-up that could be very tight, Texas’ intermediate relievers must bring their A game to close that margin between themselves and Oakland’s staff.

The Players to watch: Alex Bregman, George Springer, Tommy Pham and Ian Desmond versus Cody Bellinger, Justin Turner, Miguel Cabrera and Brandon Lowe? That’s a 4th of July level fireworks show right there. However, an untimely injury to both squads could prove to be the difference here. For the Athletics, Brandon Lowe who was scheduled to be activated after the All-Star break for a shin injury has now no expectation to return any time soon. Look for Daniel Murphy to slide over to 2B while Miggy comes in to play 1B in the interim. For the Rangers, a head injury to Alex Bregman could create a problem for the Rangers coaching staff as Bregman is their only SS on the roster at the moment. A repeat performance from starters Charlie Morton and David Price could help the Rangers chances of bumping off the Athletics this week as well.

- Vince

[Baltimore Orioles (Vince)]

Top 3 Match-Ups for Weeks 15/16 REVIEW

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Rays savor huge victory over the Yankees

#3. Tampa Bay Rays at New York Yankees: A wire to wire victory for the Tampa Bay Rays as they defeated the New York Yankees 11-1-0. The Rays' batters caught fire this week and did not stop pouring it onto the Yankees batting order as the Rays swept the Yankees in each batting category. As noted in the preview, the Yankees had scored more points per match-up based off of AVG and OPS but the Rays got the better of the Yankees in those categories as well. Yuli Gurriel and Aaron Judge were the only Yankees batters to provide any offense as every other bat for the Bronx Bombers was ice cold. Chris Taylor's forearm injury only made matters worse for the Yanks as the core of Taylor, Smith Jr. and Cron provided the Yanks with little to no offense whatsoever. The Yankees poor offensive performance overshadows a valiant effort by their pitching staff. The Times indicated in its preview that in order for the Yankees to win this week they would need a solid wire to wire effort from their pitchers and for Kevin Gausman to return immediately back to the form he left before his injury. In 79 innings the Yankees pitchers threw 73 SO, compiled an ERA of 5.27, a 1.326 WHIP and threw for 5 QS, 2 SV and 3 HLD. Kevin Gausman returned with a vengence throwing 7 innings for 8 SO and a team best ERA of 1.29. In the end, the Yankees pitching staff gave the Rays pitching staff a run for their money but they only came away with one categorical victory (HLD). The 1-11 loss to the Rays drops the Yankees nearly out of contention and places the Rays in firm control of the AL East. 

Indians celebrate their decisive rout of their divisional foe 

#2. Cleveland Indians at Chicago White Sox: The Indians had their way with the injury plagued Chicago White Sox as they went on to rout Chicago 10-2-0. Arguably the best win of the season for the Indians, Cleveland now has a legitimate chance of securing the second AL wildcard slot down the stretch thanks to an all around team effort this week. From start to finish, the Cleveland Indians outmatched the Chicago White Sox. The Indians doubled the White Sox when it came to AB appearances by their batters and IP for their pitchers highlighting the injury bug's effect on the White Sox's roster. However, injuries are a part of the game and that should not detract from the solid outing by the Indians. Five of the Indians starting batters had an average over .300 by weeks end. Yordan Alvarez continued his red hot streak of hitting and led the way for the Indians at bat. In addition, the Indians destroyed the White Sox when it came to runs, home runs and RBIs. More importantly, the Indians beat the White Sox at their own game by having a higher AVG and OPS signifying the Indians, not the White Sox, were the more consistent producers this week. All in all, the Indians had a full healthy lineup of batters who did go on a tear this week but the White Sox only had six healthy batters take the plate this week which doomed them from the start. As for pitching, the Indians took advantage of the injury riddled Chicago rotation and let them have it across the board. The White Sox's pitchers only saw the mound in 41 innings while the Indians' arms saw the mount in 84 innings. Recording nearly 100 Ks in 84 innings, the Indians pitchers decimated the White Sox's pitching staff in every category except saves. Trevor Bauer and Yonny Chirinos set the tone for the Indians with two QS a piece and over 15 SO. This weeks huge loss is a devastating blow to a White Sox team that was building momentum throughout the early parts of this season. One can only assume that this loss could change Chicago's status from buyers into sellers as the trade deadline approaches.

Athletics beat out Rangers in a back and forth duel

#1. Texas Rangers at Oakland Athletics: Inconclusive. That is the only word to describe this past week's number one match-up between these AL West rivals. Coming into this week with over 100 categorical wins, these two juggernauts left it all out on the diamond this week. Alex Bregman returned to the lineup for the Rangers out of the All-Star break and went on an absolute tear. George Springer and Josh Donaldson proved to be helpful partners for Bregman in his return as they too helped the Rangers edge out the Athletics' batters in four out of six hitting categories. However, the Athletics got a monster week from Travis d'Arnaud and solid numbers from both Cody Bellinger and Daniel Murphy. d'Arnaud capped off the week with a grand slam to give him 10 RBIs for the week which gave a boost to the A's RBI numbers. The most telling stat on the hitting side from this matchup is six Rangers batters hit below a .200 average while six Athletics batters hit above a .275 average. Moreover, seven batters for the A's had an OPS above .800 while only four batters for the Rangers had an OPS above .800. While the Athletics lost out statistically for HRs, Rs and RBIs, their batters continued their reputation as being more consistent than their divisional foes' batters. On the mound, the Athletics' arms out gunned those of the Rangers. Even though only one Athletics pitcher (Robbie Ray) saw the mound over 10 innings, the Athletics pitchers were very efficient with the innings they were used for. 61 innings for 62 strikes outs is the definition of efficiency. The Athletics utilized their superior arms to blast the Rangers in nearly every pitching category except saves and holds where they tied the Rangers. The Rangers intermediate relievers did bring their A game as was called for in the preview but their stars David Price and Charlie Morton put forth mediocre efforts in the end. Overall, the Athletics remain atop the AL West and fended off their divisional foe but both teams will see each other again and will look to sure up their lineup via trades or their farm systems to ensure a more resounding victory next time around this season and in the playoffs. 

[Baltimore Orioles (Vince)]

Top 3 Match-ups for Week 17

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#3: Seattle Mariners at Kansas City Royals 

The Storylines to watch: With both teams teetering on the edge of remaining in contention or completely falling out of the playoff push, this is a match-up to watch this week. With this match-up coming before the trade deadline, contending teams will be interested to see which team here after this week will put out the "for sale" sign out depending on the result here. For the Royals (75-85-20), a recent string of success has the Kansas City faithful thinking playoffs. Currently in 9th place in the American League standings, a big win this week could propel the Royals into that final AL Wildcard slot or at least maintain their status as in contention. However, a major loss could flip the script for the Royals and leave them in a position where selling would be a better option than holding out hope for the last six weeks of the season. For the Mariners (74-94-12), they are emerging from another frustrating loss and have found no momentum this year whatsoever. A decisive loss this week could force their GM's hand to be very aggressive at the deadline to strip down the team and look forward to wooing FAs and deciding which players they want to remain a part of this team's future. 

The Stats to consider: To put it mildly, the Mariners batters have produced subpar offense all year long. Through 17 weeks, the Mariners have only two double digit wins in the batting categories (AVG and OPS) so while the Mariners are making contact rather consistently they are failing to go deep or produce runs on the field. On the other hand, the Royals have been above average when it comes to winning the RBI category (20) and batting average (21). If the Mariners are to avoid total collapse this week, their batters must produce at the plate and avoid a lack-luster week of hitting. On the other side of the equation, the Mariners have produced more quality starts, strikeouts and ERA categorical wins than the Royals. While the Mariners' arms have the edge when it comes to Ks and quality starts, the Royals' relievers have the Mariners' relievers beat when it comes to holds (Kansas City 25 compared to Seattle 2). If the Royals' relievers can pitch out holds at the pace they have been this entire season, they may come away from this match-up with a win.

The Players to watch: The hot bats of Domingo Santana, Freddie Freeman and Jason Heyward will have to continue their success thus far to power Kansas City to a win this week. The Royals are a relatively healthy team and will become even healthier with the announcement that Chris Duffy (3B) will return to action for the first time this year. Look for Duffy to have an instant impact for the surging Royals right off the bat. For the Mariners, they will need their lineup to assist Gleyber Torres who has proven to be the most consistent weapon for the Mariners this season. Whether it's Yas or Big Panda Sandoval, someone on the Mariners must have a solid week if they have any hope of coming away with a victory. As for pitching, the Mariners cannot solely rely on Sonny Gray for production. Domingo German and Jeff Samardzija must come through for the Mariners starting pitchers again if the Mariners plan on splitting a categorical victory with the Royals. Six pitchers are on the shelf for the Mariners, including Johnny Cueto, which makes the room for error nearly none. On the other hand, it is a simple equation for the Royals. When Jacob DeGrom throws a gem the Royals win. Look for the Royals relievers to continue to supplement DeGrom's excellence on the mound to make in grounds against the Mariners in the pitching categories this week. 

#2: Houston Astros at Detroit Tigers

The Storylines to watch: In another match-up of two teams going in the opposite direction, this intra-conference battle will be an intriguing match-up to keep an eye on. The "soft-rebuild" pioneers better known as the Houston Astros (72-88-20) are going to have their biggest test this season as they face the AL Central leading Detroit Tigers (102-69-9) on their home turf. Should Houston be routed by Detroit, Houston's plan of a "soft rebuild" may become moot as their season could be effectively over this week. The Tigers have been cruising for most of this season and are seeking to rack up another victory as they make their late season playoff push.

The Stats to consider: The Tigers have over 100 categorical victories and yet their bats have been anything but consistent this year having won AVG two times and OPS only three times. Stolen bases have been the best category for the Tigers as they have racked up 27 categorical wins for highway robbery this season which ranks highest in the league. It wouldn't be surprising if the Astros split the batting categories with the Tigers and yet still walk away with a decisive loss based on how the Astros' luck has gone this season. Speaking of luck, the Tigers' pitching staff has been all about skill and nothing to do with luck. The Tigers have one of the strongest groups of starters and relievers in the league this season and it has shown as they have scored over 20 categorical wins in five out of six possible categories. The Astros on the other hand have struggled to produce all season long as their ERA and WHIP categorical wins rank towards the bottom of the league. The Tigers bread and butter is pitching which should provide them with enough firepower to walk away with this match-up victorious. 

The Players to watch: The Tigers have a few holes in their roster coming into this week due to injuries. Adalberto Mondesi, Eloy Jimenez and Jean Segura are all dealing with being banged up and may miss some of this week. Pay close attention to their combined health and those three combine for over 900 plate appearances for the Tigers this season. Look for veterans Kevin Pillar and Paul Goldschmidt to step up with their teammates sidelined momentarily to help with this weeks outing against the Astros. For those Stros hitters, consistency will be key this week. Jose Altuve, Kris Bryant and Dee Gordon must tap into their veteran experience to combat the Tigers to ensure a Houston victory this week. The injury to catcher Wilson Contreras will hurt the Astros chances as he was the only catcher on the team's roster. A farm system call up or a mid-season FA acquisition could be necessary to fill the catcher position for the Astros. Starters Sandy Alcantara and Andrew Cashner will need to see their teammates get more opportunities on the mound for the Astros to pick up the win here. The Tigers have an elite pitching rotation headed by Justin Verlander so the Astros have no room for error here. The injury to Max Scherzer will hurt for the Tigers but their combined low ERA and high strikeout rate will soften the blow as Scherzer goes into his IL stay.

#1: Texas Rangers at Cleveland Indians

The Storylines to watch: Fresh off a big win and a bitter loss, both of these teams will collide this week with playoff implications on the line. For the Indians (83-82-15), defeating the Chicago Whitesox has propelled them into the AL Wildcard picture and they are riding high off the big win. For the Rangers (102-60-16), a tough loss to their divisional rival Oakland Athletics has put them in a position where a win is much needed to regain confidence and momentum. Both organizations will want to either continue or regain their footing as both teams down the stretch appear to be in the late season push towards the playoffs.

The Stats to consider: Statistically speaking, this is the closest match-up between two teams in the league this week. Batting wise both teams are not that efficient when it comes to winning the AVG category but they have put up similar numbers across the board in each category. In trying to find some sort of difference between these squads, the Rangers have more categorical wins for stolen bases and OPS so in this toss up type match-up those two categories could be the deciding factor here. The real difference between both teams here is when it comes to pitching. The Indians have over 20 categorical victories in every pitching category except saves. The Indians have an above average rotation who have produced several quality starts with a solid combined ERA. While the Rangers pitchers are not below average, they have failed to produce the same categorical victories like the Indians have when it comes to quality starts and strikeouts from their starters. The Rangers ace in the hole could be their closers producing saves as they rank top of the league for saves. With this match-up being a toss-up type game, saves could prove to be Texas' saving grace.

The Players to watch: The Rangers saw Alex Bregman return last week and get back to making winning plays alongside his partner in crime George Springer. Look for that duo to continue to produce for the Rangers batting order which will only continue to get better. Josh Donaldson and Tommy Pham will also be called upon to produce for this Rangers squad seeking a big bounce back victory this week. As for the Indians, they too saw a player return, Orlando Arcia, and immediately return to steady production. A repeat all around team performance as what happened last week against Chicago could be exactly what the doctor orders to keep their playoff dreams alive. On the mound, both teams will look to their key starters and closers to have an impact on this game. Trevor Bauer and company have been nothing short of dominant this season for the Indians and they will need a repeat performance of last week to come away with a victory here. Charlie Morton and David Price must shake off their mediocre game from last weeks duel with the A's in order for the Rangers pitching staff to out gun that of the Indians. This match-up will ultimately be decided by pitching and if Morton and Price fail to produce again the Rangers could find themselves upset by the upstart Cleveland Indians this week.

[Baltimore Orioles (Vince)]

Top 3 Match-Ups for Week 17 REVIEW

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Mariners defeat Royals 8-4 

#3. Seattle Mariners at Kansas City Royals: On the road with their season essentially on the line, the Seattle Mariners mustered enough production to defeat the surging Kansas City Royals by a margin of 8-4. The win is a welcome sight for the Mariners who were teetering near the trade deadline as a complete seller while the loss is a tough pill to swallow for the Royals. The Royals had nearly 30 more at bat chances than the Mariners but they failed to produce much offense. Kansas City lost their bread and butter categories (RBIs and batting AVG) to a team that has been one of the worst when it comes to making contact and using their plate appearances efficiently. Jason Heyward and Domingo Santana put forth a subpar effort which disappointed their teammate Freddie Freeman who seemed to be the only member of the Royals who had a big week at the plate. On the other side, Yas and Big Panda Sandoval were supplemented by Corey Seager's big week which led the Mariners to win five out of six batting categories this week. To make matters more unfortunate for the Royals, the Mariners who have struggled to put forth much success when it comes to starting or relief pitching had their best pitching week of the season. Sixty-nine innings and sixty-nine strikeouts is a recipe for success and that's what happened for the Mariners pitching staff this past week. From Cahill to Cessa to German, nearly every inning pitched by the Mariners produced a strikeout. The Royals only saw their pitchers take the mound 45 times and although they produced 44 strikeouts, they failed to produce quality starts and any saves. The result here could have an impact on the impending trade deadline. The Seattle Mariners could be rethinking a total rebuild and selloff while the Kansas City Royals may be poised to be a total seller at the deadline after this disappointing loss. 

Tigers continue to roll by beating the Astros handily 

#2. Houston Astros at Detroit Tigers: It was all Tigers all week in Detroit as the Tigers rolled to a convincing 8-2 victory over the Houston Astros. The stolen base category was the only real surprise finish this week as the Astros resoundingly won that category by a 5-0 margin. Other than stolen bases, the entire week was a clinic from Detroit. Despite having nearly 40 less plate appearances than the Astros batting order, the Tigers made the most of their chances and turned in their most efficient effort at the plate for the season. Paul Goldschmidt turned in a red hot week of production batting nearly .350 and producing 13 RBIs while Renato Nunez (.321) and Melky Cabrera (.294) helped out their teammate with their own solid outings as well. Jose Altuve was the only real bright spot for the Astros as the rest of their batting order struggled to make the most of their chances at the plate this week. On the mound, the Tigers once against showed off their dominant starters and relievers again and proved that they have the best starting rotation in the entire league. 40 innings on the mound produced 58 strikeouts for the Tigers along with a stellar combined 2.21 ERA. The Astros struggled to keep up with the superb Detroit pitchers as Jake Arrieta posted a below average 7.20 ERA and two of their starters, Pineda and Givens, were traded away mid-week. The Tigers continue to roll and sit comfortably atop the AL Central after another week of dominant all around performances from their batting order and pitching rotation. 

Rangers get back on track with a 7/4 win over Indians

#1. Texas Rangers at Cleveland Indians: The Times' top rated match-up for week 17 produced a bounce back victory for the Texas Rangers and a disappointing loss for the Cleveland Indians. In a role reversal from last week, the Rangers got back to playing winning baseball while the Indians were left feeling they may have left a few categorical wins on the table this week. The Rangers avoided losing ground in the AL playoff race by defeating the Rangers 7-4. Texas had a very hot week at the plate which ultimately put them over the top. In 194 at bat appearances for both teams, the Rangers hit the lights out while the Indians watched their batters strikeout over and over again. Every batting category went to the Rangers and not by a slim margin but rather a decisive one. A pitiful .196 batting average for the Indians highlighted a week of disappointed at bats for every player on their batting order. Yordan Alvarez continued his efficient batting for Houston but no one else on Houston assisted the rookie in any meaningful way. Most notably, Orlando Arcia returned for the Indians last week but in his second week back he produced an awful .063 batting average and whiffed time and time again at the plate. Additionally, the Rangers saw Alex Bregman also fail to replicate his first week back in the lineup but had assistance that Arcia for the Rangers was not afforded. Pham, Smoak, Donaldson and Wong were very good this week for the Rangers as they helped the Rangers produce a solid .258 batting average for the week. On the rubber, the Rangers pitchers only saw the mound 38 times compared to the Indians 73 times. As a result, the Indians pitchers took 4 out of 6 pitching categories albeit by a slim margin. While the Rangers may be concerned with such limited opportunities for their pitchers this week that produced very below average results, they will enjoy this victory and remaining solidly in the first wildcard slot in the American League as Week 18 begins. 

[Baltimore Orioles (Vince)]

Top 3 Match-Ups for Week 18:

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#3: Tampa Bay Rays at Baltimore Orioles

The Storylines to watch: The Tampa Bay Rays hit the road this week to take on their divisional rival Baltimore Orioles in a pivotal match-up for both teams. For the Rays, they are in firm control of the AL East at 122-69-13 and are chasing the Oakland Athletics for the number one seed in the AL playoff race. For the Orioles, a loss last week lessened their momentum but Baltimore has been on an upswing and has stayed in the second AL Wildcard slot at 100-86-18 the past few weeks. While the division may not be in play this week, both teams have goals of solidifying their position as the playoffs begin in a matter of a few weeks. 

The Stats to consider: Simply put, the Tampa Bay Rays have been the better and more consistent offensive team this season compared to the Baltimore Orioles. The Orioles are above average when it comes to runs, RBIs and stolen bases but have lacked when it comes to batting average, home runs and OPS compared to the Rays. The Rays have won every batting category more than 20 times this season where the Orioles have failed to win any batting category more than 20 times. The Orioles have had weeks where they have bucked the trend of offensive inconsistency and they will need a repeat performance of the past few weeks to beat their divisional foe this week. On the mound this match-up becomes much more competitive. Both the Orioles and the Rays tout an above average pitching rotation compared to the rest of the league. However, the Rays have produced more quality starts and saves compared to the Orioles whose staff has been struck by the injury bug and has lacked a true closer all season long. The Orioles have been better than the Rays at holds, ERA and WHIP this season which are categories they must excel at this week if they are looking to maintain their spot in the playoff picture.

The Players to watch: Needing a big performance this week from their bats, the Orioles will again call upon Xander Bogaerts and David Peralta to lead the charge against the Rays. However, the Orioles will need an all around effort to emerge with the win this week. With Gio Urshela appearing to be hindered by injury as the week begins, the Orioles will need assistance from others in their lineup like Adam Frazier or Leury Garcia to have a hot week at the plate to supplement their main stars in Bogaerts and Peralta. For the Rays, the goal is to stay the course and they should expect their stars such as Omar Narvaez and Trevor Story to continue their red hot performance at the plate. While their lineup may take a hit with David Dahl being sidelined by injury, the Rays have players on an upswing such as Anthony Santander, Brandon Dixon and Jose Ramirez who should soften the loss of Dahl in their batting order this week. Blake Snell's absence is hampering the Orioles ability to pull out victories in pitching categories which have carried them all year long. While the team did trade for Sean Manaea last week, it appears the star pitcher will not make an appearance this week meaning Kenta Maeda and Adrian Sampson must come through on the mound and not put the Orioles staff in an ERA hole early in the week. The Rays pitchers have been continuously stellar and that should not change this week. Even with Michael Pineda on the IL for a short stint, Mad-Bum, Aaron Nola and Felipe Vasquez will continue to shine and should be a tough out all week long for their opponent.

#2: San Francisco Giants at Los Angeles Dodgers

The Storylines to watch: In the second ranked match-up for Week 18, an NL West divisional showdown takes center stage. The San Francisco Giants take their playoff push on the road against the NL West leading Los Angeles Dodgers. The Giants have been holding steady in the hunt for the NL playoffs and have multiple avenues to make the postseason this year by either winning the NL West or making it into the NL Wildcard round. The Los Angeles Dodgers have been on top of the NL West for most of this season and yet their divisional lead has shrunk to just 7 wins making this week's match-up very crucial for their postseason aspirations. By the end of this week, the Dodgers can either tighten their grip over the NL West or they may be just hanging on by a thread to their divisional rival Giants.

The Stats to consider: The tight race in the NL West as the regular season winds down should surprise no one who takes a look at the stat sheet. Both teams batting orders have been consistent and very similar when it comes to productivity. The Giants and the Dodgers are most similar when it comes to runs, home-runs and RBIs meaning both teams know how to score and how to do so effectively. The two categories to keep an eye on this week between these two divisional foes is stolen bases and OPS. The Giants have been thieves this season winning the stolen base category a league high 30 times. With nearly every other category being very similar with their opponent, the Giants league best ability to steal bases may lead them to a close victory against the Dodgers. However, the Giants must pick up their ability to produce a better OPS percentage. The Dodgers have handily beaten the Giants when it comes to OPS (LA 22 vs. SF 10) signifying their sluggers have made better ball contact and have reached the bag more consistently than their opponent. Do not be surprised if both teams split the batting categories based on their season long trends and that this match-up comes down to a pitching battle. Both teams have produced the same amount of wins in the quality start category (17) but the main difference on the mound has been the simplest stat of all; ERA. The Giants are a top 5 team in the league when it comes to winning the ERA category and have been very effective in the innings their southpaws have taken the mound. The Dodgers have only won the ERA category 10 times and must improve that statistic if they are going to win a match-up that appears to have all the makings of a game decided by a pitching duel.

The Players to watch: Mike Trout, Francisco Lindor and Eric Hosmer have been a potent trio at the plate all season long and look to continue their combined success this week. The stars on the Dodgers will produce, the question is will the rest of the team produce this week. If the season long trends continue this week, the others on this squad such as Alex Gordon and Buster Posey should continue to supplement the likes of Lindor and Trout in pushing for a victory this week. On the other side of the line, the Giants will be counting on their own dynamic trio of Ronald Acuna Jr., Tim Anderson and Marcell Ozuna to produce a similar result. This match-up will be predicated upon whether or not "the others" can produce. The Giants will continue to start Avisail Garcia who has been on a tear recently to back-stop their own trio of stars to lead their team to a win this week. When it comes to pitching, this will become a duel between Patrick Corbin for the Giants and Lance Lynn. Two of the best starters in the league will face off and determine the outcome here from the mound. The Dodgers are hoping Edwin Diaz turns a corner as the final stretch begins and if that becomes the case their relief staff could become dangerous if Diaz comes back to form alongside Brad Hand and Brandon Workman. 

#1: New York Mets at Miami Marlins

The Storylines to watch: The inaugural Turtle Ball 2019 season has produced several fascinating storylines down the stretch of the regular season. None may be more captivating than the virtual tie in the NL East headed into Week 18. The Mets and the Marlins are separted by just one win as the postseason approaches meaning this match-up is as critical as it can get for both clubs. Each team head into this divisional clash off a loss making each team equally hungry for a bounce back victory. Additionally, both teams are in the hunt for the number one overall seed in the NL and a loss could severely hamper their goal of attaining the coveted number one seed. The NL East could be decided based off of the result of this match-up and all eyes around the league will be watching intently as to how these two divisional foes will battle it out on the field. 

The Stats to consider: Both the Mets and the Marlins have mashed at the plate from wire to wire this season when it comes to runs, home-runs and RBIs. Similar to the second ranked match-up this week, the Marlins are the second best in the league when it comes to winning to stolen base category (29 wins) this season. The Marlines continued thievery could persist this week against the Mets which may be one of several deciding factors in this week's top ranked match-up. Another category that will be very telling as to how this match-up plays out is batting average. The Mets (29) have been the more efficient batting group compared to their divisional rival Marlins (21). The Marlins must make the most of their plate appearances if they wish to emerge from this week with a decisive intra-division win. Pitching will be a strong focus for the Mets this week as they have had the Marlins number all year long when it comes to pitching categories. The Mets are outpacing their divisional opponent when it comes to ERA and saves while the Marlins have produced a few more quality starts and more holds than the Mets. Ultimately, this match-up on the mound will come down to efficiency and if a bet were to be placed on this match-up the disparity between the Mets (21) and the Marlins (6) when it comes to ERA could be the telling stat for whom to side with here.

The Players to watch: The Mets assembled a powerful batting order that they are hoping puts its power on full display this week against the Marlins. DJ LeMahieu, Ketel Marte and Pete Alonso have strong-armed opponents wire to wire this season and have a good chance of turning in a similar effort this week against the Marlins. The resurgence of Amed Rosario and Michael Conforto is a welcome sight for the Mets as those two bats add an extra layer of potency to a lineup which was already humming along for most of the season. On the other hand, the Marlins have also compiled an excellent group of batting talent which have been dominant all season long. The Marlins rely on Javier Baez to set the table for them each week and this week will prove to be no different from the last. Keston Hiura has been a helpful addition for the Marlins who will look to the rookie to continue his winning ways this week at the plate. The Marlins have four pitchers with over 100 Ks and four relievers with 10 plus holds. Conversely, the Mets pitchers have rattled off similar stats when it comes to strikeouts and holds. Cole Hamels for the Marlins versus Jon Gray of the Mets has all the makings of a pitching duel that will be very entertaining to follow as Week 18 unfolds. 

[Baltimore Orioles (Vince)]

Top 3 Match-ups for Week 18 REVIEW

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The Orioles get the best of their divisional rivals by a score of 8-3 

#3. Tampa Bay Rays at Baltimore Orioles: The Baltimore Orioles defeated their divisional foe in convincing fashion by a score of 8-3. From the beginning of the week, the Orioles had their sights set on obtaining a decisive victory and settling for nothing less. The Orioles victory was predicated upon efficiency. Although Baltimore had 34 less at-bats than Tampa Bay, the Orioles were the more efficient team the entire week. Gio Urshela, Xander Bogaerts and Dexter Fowler led the way for the Orioles as the team beat out the Rays in five out of six batting categories. Omar Narvaez and Trevor Story, both of whom the Times highlighted as major pieces for a Tampa Bay victory, had a quiet week with only a combined 10 hits over the course of a week. Jose Ramirez remained scorching hot for the Rays but he received little help from his teammates in the batting order for the Rays last week. Even without Blake Snell and newly acquired Sean Manaea, the Baltimore Orioles were able to hold their own with the Tampa Bay Rays dominant arms. Both teams had between 31-33 innings to show their stuff and the results were essentially a draw. The Orioles were able to inch out the Rays pitchers by striking out 12 more batters and recording a WHIP under 1.000 last week. Gerrit Cole and Kenta Maeda held the fort down for Baltimore as they were excellent when on the mound last week. With the win, the Orioles remain firmly in control of their playoff destiny as they play 3 below .500 teams the rest of the way. For the Rays, the loss is a disappointment but they still control their own destiny as they have firm control of the division despite their schedule being a bit difficult down the stretch.

 

Giants rout the NL West leading Giants 9-2

#2. San Francisco Giants at Los Angeles Dodgers: A statement victory for the San Francisco Giants could be their biggest of the year as they defeat their division's leader by a score of 9-2. The Giants came into Los Angeles with no fear of being on the road and delivered a wire to wire clutch performance. Simply put, the Giants had more opportunities at the plate than the Dodgers did all week long. With a whopping 44 more plate appearances, the Giants were able to make the Dodgers pay by pouring it on through a near sweep of every batting category. The Times noted both teams were very effective and efficient at the plate and that the two categories which could be decisive here could be stolen bases and OPS. As expected, both teams were effective but the Giants were able to make contact more by compiling 67 hits compared to only 41 for the Dodgers. Stolen bases were a tie between the teams and the Giants, as expected by the other batting categories, had the hotter slugging percentage this week as well as reaching the bases far more often than the Dodgers batters did. The same opportunity disparity played out on the mound as well. The Giants had 13 more innings than the Dodgers did to go to work on the mound. Pitching was noted as the deciding side of the ledger here and although that did not prove to be true it still turned out to be a pitching duel. In the end, the Giants dished out four quality starts while the Dodgers barely produced two. The same can be said for San Fran's relievers who churned out four holds to the Dodger's two. The win for the Giants is critical for their playoff push as now they are both holding firm to a wildcard spot while also making the NL West into play down the stretch. The room for error for the Dodgers has shrunk with this disappointing loss this week. 

Mets outlast Marlins in 8-4 victory

#1. New York Mets at Miami Marlins: Coming into the week with the same record, both teams were amped to get on the field and break the first statistical team in league history. When the dust settled, the New York Mets pulled out another win against a quality club by a score of 8-4. Impressively, the Mets batters saw the plate nearly 30 less times for yet they produced better results than their opponent. Five out of six batting categories went to the Mets and they did so with an offense that was sizzling hot all week long. Rookie standout Pete Alonso and veterans Ketel Marte, Nolan Arenado and Michael Conforto all hit above .300 over the course of the week and produced consistent offense for the club. The Marlins on the other hand failed to capitalize on standout performances of their own with Jonathan Villar and Whit Merrifield hitting over .400 on the week. The Mets needs their hot offense to continue last week because their pitchers again failed to produce many victories for them. Three of their four categorical losses came on the mound as the Mets pitchers saw 20 less innings and produced no quality starts on the rubber compared to those of the Marlins. However, the Mets walked away with an impressive performance from their relief pitchers as they racked up 7 holds for the Mets over the course of last week. The Mets not only broke the tie with the Marlins but snatched the division lead away from the Marlins as well. The NL East will be a fight to the finish but the Mets may call upon Week 18 fondly as the week they pulled away from the Marlins if they win the NL East down the stretch.