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The Windup Newsletter ⚾ | This is The Athletic’s daily MLB newsletter. Sign up here to have The Windup delivered directly to your inbox.
In San Francisco, a captivating scenario is unfolding. Additionally: Ken discusses the Dodgers’ pitching injuries, the renewed rivalry between the Yankees and Red Sox, and the AL wild card race is becoming intriguing once more. I’m Levi Weaver, joined by Ken Rosenthal — welcome to The Windup!
Crystal Ball: What Does This Mean for Farhan Zaidi?
This headline serves as a Rorschach test:
With Giants ownership growing impatient, Buster Posey took the lead in Matt Chapman discussions: Sources
What do you interpret from this?
- A former player turned minority owner utilizing his connections to benefit the organization?
- A significant warning sign looming over Farhan Zaidi’s office?
The Giants’ decision to extend Matt Chapman initially suggested that Zaidi, the president of baseball operations, had some job security. An investment of $151 million over six years would not be sanctioned by ownership for someone who was considered expendable, especially since he had just signed a three-year extension last October.
However, Andrew Baggarly’s report indicates a shift in tone. Ownership’s frustration regarding the lengthy negotiations reportedly led Buster Posey to intervene and accelerate the process—this included negotiating a previously unoffered no-trade clause.
There’s another aspect to consider:
“Zaidi, in his capacity as the club’s chief baseball officer, lacked the flexibility to bypass Boras and negotiate directly with Chapman.”
This could be seen as a clever maneuver to achieve what both parties desired from the start. If that were the case, one might wonder why Boras would not accommodate his client’s preferences.
Ultimately, Baggarly’s conclusion is telling: This situation does not bode well for Zaidi, whose tenure in San Francisco over six seasons has yielded a 445-413 record—with only one season exceeding .500 (the remarkable 107-55 record in 2021).
Ken’s Notebook: Dodgers Cannot Simply Attribute Losses to Bad Luck
From my latest column:
The prevailing sentiment among the Los Angeles Dodgers is that there isn’t a singular method to capture a World Series title. The 2023 Texas Rangers claimed the championship even while pitching Max Scherzer at less than optimal strength during Game 3 and utilizing Andrew Heaney in Game 4. The 2021 Atlanta Braves succeeded by relying on bullpen games in games 4 and 5.
Despite the absence of Tyler Glasnow and their other injured starters, the Dodgers are confident that Jack Flaherty, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and whoever they choose to start during the postseason will be adequate, while their offense, defense, and bullpen may be sufficient to compete in a competitive field. Perhaps they are right, but at this juncture, theyA sprained right elbow was hardly surprising. Glasnow, at 31, has not been renowned for his durability. Historical injuries are often the strongest indicator of future issues. The Dodgers understood the risks when they traded for Glasnow from the Tampa Bay Rays, giving up right-hander Ryan Pepiot and outfielder Jonny DeLuca, and subsequently offering him a five-year, $136.5 million contract.
What the Dodgers received from Glasnow — 22 starts and 134 innings, both career records — aligned closely with their expectations. They anticipated some time lost during the regular season, just as he missed games in July due to lower back tightness, but their main goal was to have him ready for October. Glasnow only started once on four days’ rest, with fourteen of his starts on five days’ rest and seven on six or more.
Yet, he still could not complete the season.
It’s easy to reflect and think that the Dodgers might have been better off signing free-agent left-hander Blake Snell and retaining Pepiot, who boasts a 3.76 ERA across 115 innings. However, at the time of acquiring Glasnow in mid-December, the Dodgers felt that the cost for Snell was too steep, and other factors influenced their decision.
As it happened, Snell remained on the market for an additional 3.5 months before settling on a two-year, $62 million contract with the Giants, which included an opt-out after the first year. The Dodgers, known for swooping in on underappreciated talent at their desired price, were also in the mix for Snell towards the end, hoping for a deal. With Glasnow, they believed they had already secured a bargain.
More here.
Universe in balance: Yankees and Red Sox rekindle rivalry
On Tuesday, Gerrit Cole openly admitted that facing Rafael Devers was far from enjoyable. By Saturday, in Devers’ initial at-bat, Cole hit him with a pitch.
Such incidents occur! However, after an intentional walk with no runners on in the fourth inning, confusion began to surface in the visiting dugout. Were they questioning whether that first-inning hit-by-pitch was actually intentional?
Regardless, the Red Sox seemed to channel that incident into motivation. Trailing 1-0 at the time, they proceeded to score three runs in the inning, leading to a decisive 7-1 victory. Following the game, Cole discussed the strategy and conceded that it was flawed.
Moreover, the Red Sox appeared to respond when starter Brayan Bello threw a 97.4 mph sinker behind Aaron Judge on a 0-0 count in the sixth inning, following it up with a 97.2 mph four-seam fastball way inside. Usually, managers don’t openly acknowledge that a hitter was intentionally targeted, but Boston’s manager Alex Cora seemed to allude to that after Sunday’s game:
“(The case) was closed yesterday around the sixth inning,” Cora stated. “We had our chance. It didn’t happen and we have to move on.”
When asked about Cora’s remarks, Judge responded: “It’s baseball. He missed. There’s nothing I can do about it except take it and walk to first. It is what it is.”
However, the momentum that the Red Sox gained was fleeting: they suffered a 5-2 loss on Sunday, ending the weekend with three defeats out of four matches.
Standings Watch: Tigers and Mariners in tight race
The home run traveled 446 feet, slightly surpassing the bat flip from Julio Rodríguez. Yet, the magnitude of the moment on Saturday night may have transcended both. Time will tell.
For now, the Mariners certainly appear to be making a last-minute charge to…
To make up for their lackluster summer, the Seattle Mariners took three out of four games against the Texas Rangers, a series that included starts by Jacob deGrom and Max Scherzer. The team has gone 8-3 over their last 11 games, and Julio Rodríguez is getting hot, having gone 7-for-17 in the series against the Rangers, which included two home runs.
However, he is not the standout hitter on a team experiencing a resurgence in offense during this 11-game period. That distinction belongs to Victor Robles, who boasts a .531 batting average and a 1.322 OPS, and Luke Raley, who is hitting .353 with a 1.215 OPS.
“Small sample size,” I can hear you saying. Fair enough! But let’s take a look at the Detroit Tigers. Since July 4, they have posted the best record in the AL, even after trading away Jack Flaherty, Andrew Chafin, and other players at the trade deadline.
What has contributed to this turnaround? According to Cody Stavenhagen, there hasn’t been a singular pivotal moment. While having a Cy Young contender like Tarik Skubal has certainly helped, the team has also benefited from solid performances by previously unheralded players such as Tyler Holton, Keider Montero, Brant Hurter, and others.
Currently, both the Tigers and the Mariners hold a record of 77-73, trailing the Twins by 2.5 games for the final wildcard spot in the AL.
Luis Arraez No-K Streak 👀
Arraez had 16 plate appearances over the weekend without a single strikeout, bringing his streak to 140 plate appearances.
Handshakes and High Fives
(Top photo: Mark J. Rebilas / USA Today)
Navigating Tumultuous Times: Insights on the Giants, Dodgers’ Pitching Woes, and Yankees-Red Sox Rivalry in MLB
The Current State of MLB: A Landscape of Challenges
Major League Baseball (MLB) is no stranger to challenges, especially in recent seasons. With teams like the San Francisco Giants and Los Angeles Dodgers grappling with unexpected pitching woes, while the historic rivalry between the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox continues to captivate fans, it’s essential to dive deeper into these narratives. Understanding these elements can provide insights into navigating tumultuous times in MLB.
San Francisco Giants: A Season of Struggles
The San Francisco Giants have faced a myriad of challenges this season, affecting their overall performance. Here are some key points:
- Inconsistency in Pitching: The Giants’ pitching staff has struggled with ERA and strikeouts, leading to disappointing outings.
- Injuries: Key players have faced injuries that have forced the team to rely on less experienced pitchers, impacting game outcomes.
- Player Transactions: Recent trades and acquisitions aimed at strengthening the lineup have not yet produced the expected results.
Pitching Woes: A Detailed Breakdown
The Giants’ pitching woes can be summarized into three main issues:
| Issue | Description |
|---|---|
| ERA | Current team ERA is among the highest in the league, showcasing reliability issues. |
| Strikeouts | Drop in strikeouts per nine innings indicates a struggle to overpower opposing batters. |
| Injuries | Multiple injuries to starting pitchers have forced reliance on less experienced players. |
Los Angeles Dodgers: Challenges on the Mound
The Dodgers, a team historically known for their strong pitching, are also facing difficulties this season:
- Injuries to Key Pitchers: The absence of star pitchers has placed a considerable strain on the rotation.
- Overreliance on Bullpen: With starters struggling, the bullpen has been overworked, leading to fatigue and diminished performance.
- Questions about Strategy: The coaching staff faces scrutiny over their pitching strategies and game management.
Future Outlook for the Dodgers
While the Dodgers are currently experiencing pitching woes, there are potential strategies to mitigate these challenges:
- Developing Young Talent: Investing in and promoting younger pitchers from the minor leagues could provide much-needed depth.
- Reevaluating Pitching Strategies: Adapting game strategies to better fit the current roster can enhance performance.
- Monitoring Player Health: Prioritizing health and recovery protocols for injured pitchers to ensure they return stronger.
The Yankees-Red Sox Rivalry: A Timeless Clash
One of the most storied rivalries in sports is that of the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox. This rivalry embodies the spirit of competition and showcases the highs and lows of MLB.
Historical Context and Current Dynamics
The Yankees-Red Sox rivalry dates back over a century, filled with legendary moments and fierce competition. Here’s how the current season shapes up:
- Competitive Edge: Both teams have shown flashes of brilliance but have also struggled with consistency.
- Star Players: The impact of players like Aaron Judge and Rafael Devers continues to electrify the matchups.
- Fan Engagement: This rivalry not only draws fans to the ballpark but also garners national attention, making each game a must-watch event.
Impact of the Rivalry on Gameplay
Here are some impacts of the Yankees-Red Sox rivalry on gameplay:
| Factor | Impact on Gameplay |
|---|---|
| Intensity | Players often elevate their performance, leading to higher stakes and more exciting games. |
| Strategy | Managers adapt their strategies based on historical matchups between teams. |
| Fan Influence | Home-field advantage is amplified by the passionate fanbases of both teams. |
Benefits of Understanding These Dynamics
For fans and analysts, understanding the current dynamics in MLB can yield several benefits:
- Enhanced Viewing Experience: Knowing the struggles and strengths of teams increases enjoyment of games.
- Improved Fantasy Sports Strategies: Insights into player performances can aid in fantasy league decisions.
- Deeper Fan Engagement: Engaging with the complexities of team dynamics fosters a more profound connection to the sport.
Practical Tips for Fans and Analysts
Here are practical tips to navigate the current tumultuous times in MLB:
- Stay Informed: Follow credible sports news outlets for updates on injuries and team changes.
- Analyze Stats: Dive into pitching and hitting statistics to gauge team performance and forecast outcomes.
- Engage with Other Fans: Join online forums and social media groups to share thoughts and analyses with fellow fans.
Case Study: The Comeback of the Yankees
Analyzing the New York Yankees can offer valuable insights into overcoming adversity. The Yankees have faced injuries and losing streaks but managed to bounce back thanks to:
- Strategic Trades: Acquiring key players mid-season can reinvigorate a struggling lineup.
- Health Management: Implementing strict health protocols ensures that star players remain active.
- Strong Leadership: Effective management has kept the team focused and motivated despite setbacks.
First-Hand Experience: A Fan’s Perspective
As a lifelong fan, witnessing the ups and downs of MLB has been a rollercoaster ride. From the exhilarating moments of a walk-off home run to the frustration of a pitching change gone wrong, the experience shapes my understanding of the game. Engaging in discussions with fellow enthusiasts often adds layers to my appreciation of the sport.
navigating through the tumultuous waters of MLB, particularly concerning teams like the Giants and Dodgers and the enduring rivalry between the Yankees and Red Sox, offers both challenges and opportunities for fans and analysts alike. By staying informed and engaged, one can truly appreciate the evolving landscape of America’s pastime.
