First to Home: July 31st MLB News and Notes
July 31, 2017
Adrian Beltre Gets 3,000: Adrian Beltre continues to cement his legacy as one of the best third basemen to ever play the game. He hit a double down the left field line on Sunday to collect his 3,000th career hit. It was a spectacular moment, well celebrated by the Texas crowd.
Pearce with Another Walkoff Grand Slam: Steve Pearce became the first player in MLB history to hit two walk-off grand slams in a calendar week. His 9th inning grand slam on Sunday downed the Angels 11-10 to avoid being swept.
Cubs Beat Brew Crew: Following an extra inning win on Saturday, the Cubs followed that act with a tightly contested 4-2 win on Sunday in the rubber match of the series. It is hard to envision the Brewers challenging the Cubs down the stretch.
Red Sox Desperate at Deadline: The Red Sox weaknesses are being undeniably exploited since the All-Star break. They are 7-10 since the break and have relinquished their divisional lead. They have the worst batting average since the break and their bullpen has been incredibly disappointing. It seems inevitable they will be very active on deadline day.
NL West Rolling: Throughout the season it became clear that the Dodger’s were always going to win the division. Yet while they hold a 14 game lead over the 2nd place D-Backs, and a 14.5 game lead over the third place Rockies, it still appears that all three teams in the division will make the playoffs. The teams chasing them such as the Brewers, Pirates, and Cardinals don’t seem capable of catching up.
Andrew McCutchen: Without a doubt the hottest bat in the majors right now. Andrew McCutchen is sizzling hot at the platte. He crushed 3 homers against the Padres on Sunday as his big second half continues. The big question is whether or not he will get moved.
Written by Paul McGovern
