Albert Pujols Passes Alex Rodriguez For 2nd In RBI Race
Connecting on an RBI single in the fifth inning against the Houston Astros, this RBI meant more than just in the box score. With his 12th RBI of the season, Albert Pujols surpassed Yankees’ icon Alex Rodriguez for second in the all-time RBI leaderboard. Pujols etches his name in the history books with this. Though, Pujols still has a long way to go as he sits behind leader Hank Aaron with 2,297.
On a different note, Pujols, 40, has hit four home runs in his abbreviated season and needs one more to tie Willie Mays for fifth in the all-time home run leaderboard. Pujols currently sits with 659 career home runs, with Mays just one ahead at 660. Wishing the best, Albert!
Lucas Giolito Tosses No-Hitter
Making history as the 19th White Sox pitcher to toss a no-hitter, Lucas Giolito dominated the Pittsburgh Pirates lineup. Certainly hitting his groove early, the right-hander struck out 13 in the 4-0 winning effort. Producing 30 swing-and-misses against the Pittsburgh lineup, this was the most amount in a no-hitter since 1988. Giolito lowers his ERA to 3.09 and furthers his strong season record 3-2
The no-hitter adds to the vast momentum the White Sox are certainly equipped with. A fire-powered offense coupled with a loose-energy clubhouse — nothing could be more perfect than adding a dominating no-hitter into the mix. The White Sox have been hot recently, and sitting tied for first in the AL Central with a record of 20-12. If the South Side of Chicago can keep up this production, don’t be surprised if they make a deep postseason run.
Trade Deadline Rumors
With the trade deadline approaching Sept. 1, rumors have certainly been swirling regarding trades around the league. Many players on non-contending teams will look to ship their most prized players in return for top prospects. A household name that could very much be dealt is Cleveland Indians star Mike Clevinger. In four outings the right-hander is 1-1, with a 3.14 ERA and 21 K’s. Many say the Yankees are interested and could make a deal for him. Speaking of the Yankees, a very possible return in this deal would be for OF Clint Frazier and 3B Miguel Andújar. Both players have had their name surrounded with trade rumors and the two-for-one deal would make perfect sense for both sides. Frazier brings a strong bat and a resilient work ethic to the table. While the right-handed hitting Andújar brings a solid bat to any lineup. Although the third baseman isn’t known for his defensive production, the Designated Hitter role is certainly a possibility.
Pittsburgh Pirates star Josh Bell — when hot — has been a pitcher’s worst nightmare. Although struggling this year, Bell has produced strong numbers at the dish in recent years. In the 2019 season, Bell connected on 37 home runs on 116 RBI’s, which ultimately landed him an All-Star selection. With the Pirates sinking in the standings, the front office would like to flip him for prospects to prepare for the future. A deal with the San Francisco Giants or even the Texas Rangers could be in the works for the struggling superstar.
This year’s pitching market is fully loaded with potential and could help push a team over the hump in contention. Top arms around the league could be dealt at the deadline, such as Lance Lynn and Robbie Ray. Lynn has broken onto the scene and is having a phenomenal year with the Rangers this season. Holding a 3.30 ERA and 10.9 K/9, Lynn is the most coveted pitching arm on the market. Teams who are searching for more depth in their rotation, such as the Washington Nationals or even the Chicago Cubs could make a deal for the Cy Young contender.
Trevor Rosenthal of the Kansas City Royals has also been brought up in trade deadline talks recently. The Royals right-handed closer has been electric with seven saves in 13.2 IP with 21 K’s. MLB.com’s Jon Morosi noted that the Miami Marlins are in the market for a much-needed bullpen help. This could imply that Rosenthal is on Miami’s radar. Dylan Bundy of the Los Angeles Angels has certainly impressed in his limited outings this season. With a complete game under his belt, Bundy and his 10.3 K/9 ratio will be a big target for teams in the starting pitching mix. Per Jon Morosi, the San Diego Padres and Chicago White Sox are front-runners to land the right-hander. Diamondbacks’ Robbie Ray could also be dealt at the deadline this year. The consistent starter can add depth and a strong lefty in the rotation to any contender.
Photo: Matt Marton / AP
