Considering the swing-and-miss arsenal that Justin Verlander possesses, he’s always been someone who lets his nastiness do the talking, rather than try to out-think opposing hitters.  After all, that’s essentially the catcher’s job anyway. Verlander is a pitcher who’s at his best when he isn’t over-thinking a given situation.

Well, it seems that his little brain might have been working a bit too hard as he prepared to face the A’s David DeJesus, with Daric Barton (always a threat to steal) taking a baby lead at first base.

What happened next is totally unprecedented and perhaps the wackiest balk in the history of the game.  Believe me, I have seen some crazy stuff on the baseball field, but nothing as bizarre as this.

(more…)

Before the Detroit Tigers landed Victor Martinez, the Texas Rangers were allegedly interested in landing the free agent catcher.  The Rangers, who seem to be looking for an upgrade from Mitch Moreland at first base, now might be interested in Paul Konerko. [Baseball Time in Arlington]

Jim Margalus shares his thoughts on the Chicago White Sox decision to decline arbitration on catcher A.J. Pierzynski.  He also explores the potential outcomes of the White Sox decision, ranging from the “most likely to the most dangerous.” [Sox Machine]

(more…)