Baseball Beat: Thursday, July 31st

Here is the rundown for the Thursday, July 31st edition of Baseball Beat with Charley Steiner live from Los Angeles, California.  All times Eastern.

1:05 p.m.
Guest: Sean McAdam, Providence Journal; ESPN.com
1:25 p.m.
Guest: Mike Downey, Chicago Tribune
1:45 p.m.
Guest: Rob Biertempfel, Pittsburgh Tribune-Review (Pirates Beat)
2:05 p.m.
Guest: Ken Davidoff, Newsday
2:25 p.m.
Guest: Greg Schulte, Broadcaster, Arizona Diamondbacks
2:45 p.m.
Guest: Marc Topkin, St. Petersburg Times (Rays Beat)

Guest Summaries:
McAdam discussed the Boston Red Sox including the latest on Manny Ramirez trade talks, John Henry’s desire not to deal Ramirez, how the removal of the “Manny distraction factor” will impact the team, belief teammates are giving up on Ramirez, and lack of understanding at Ramirez’s unhappiness. Downey discussed the Chicago White Sox acquisition of Ken Griffey including how he will improve their lineup and hinder their defense, surprise of the trade, club preparing for a playoff run, and belief that the Chicago Cubs will not make any major move before the trade deadline minus looking for a left-handed bat. Biertempfel discussed the Pittsburgh Pirates including Jason Bay being on the trade market, present reports the three-way deal with the Boston Red Sox and Florida Marlins is dead, organization’s long-term interest in Jeremy Hermida, and how the trade with the New York Yankees was a good move. Davidoff discussed the New York Yankees including yesterday’s acquisition of Ivan Rodriguez, what the loss of Kyle Farnsworth means to the bullpen, Farnsworth’s relationship with Joe Girardi, belief the deal for Ivan Rodriguez was not necessary, reexamining the lack of impact prospects going to Pittsburgh in the Xavier Nady trade, and how it is taking four people to replace George Steinbrenner. Schulte discussed the Arizona Diamondbacks including the start of tonight’s battle for first in the National League West series with the Los Angeles Dodgers, reviewing the D’backs trade talks with the Atlanta Braves for Mark Teixeira, Adam Dunn rumors, and Chad Tracey relieved to be staying with club. Topkin discussed the Tampa Bay Rays including on-going trade talks for Jason Bay, Rays front office reluctance to deal any of their best prospects, and their tough upcoming schedule.

Tunes Summary:
1:25 p.m.
Hold on I’m Coming by Sam and Dave
1:45 p.m.
You’ve Really Got a Hold on Me by Smokey Robinson and the Miracles
2:25 p.m.
On the Western Skyline by Bruce Hornsby
2:45 p.m.
Room to Move by John Mayall

Updated: 2:58 p.m.

Baseball Beat: Wednesday, July 30th

Here is the rundown for the Wednesday, July 30th edition of Baseball Beat with Charley Steiner live from Los Angeles, California.  All times Eastern.

1:05 p.m.
Guest: Scott Miller, CBSSports.com
1:25 p.m.
Guest: Bill Plunkett, OC Register (Angels Beat)
1:45 p.m.
Guest: Joe Strauss, St. Louis Post-Dispatch (Cardinals Beat)
2:05 p.m.
Guest: Mike Krukow, Broadcaster, San Francisco Giants
2:25 p.m.
Guest: Tommy Hutton, Broadcaster, Florida Marlins
2:45 p.m.
Guest: Mark Gonzales, Chicago Tribune (White Sox Beat)

Guest Summaries:
Miller discussed national headlines and trade deadline including the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim acquiring Mark Teixeira, questions Teixeira fitting in Anaheim’s style of play, Boston Red Sox unable to get value for Manny Ramirez, and if there are any other big trades to be made. Plunkett discussed the Angels including Teixeira’s acquisition, Vladimir Guerrero starting to show his age, Teixeira as a formidable replacement for his bat, and Arte Moreno being a hands off owner. Strauss discussed the St. Louis Cardinals including Chris Carpenter’s return, likelihood of the Cardinals making deadline move, and possibility of Adam Wainwright returning to his closer role. Krukow discussed the San Francisco Giants including weak National League West, Giants need for bats, Matt Cain’s continued development as a pitcher, and Tim Lincecum’s continued dominance. Hutton discussed the Florida Marlins including their ability to stay in the National League East race, this week’s series with the New York Mets, debate whether Marlins are mature enough to succeed, and what the club is looking for at the deadline. Gonzales discussed the Chicago White Sox including the Minnesota Twins closing to within a half game in the American League Central, upcoming schedule, Scott Linebrink and Joe Crede health updates, and chances of any deadline deals.

Tunes Summary:
1:25 p.m.
New Kid in Town by The Eagles
1:45 p.m.
Hang on to Your Life by The Guess Who
2:25 p.m.
I’m Gonna Go Fishin’ by Dr. John
2:45 p.m.
Slip Away by Clarence Carter

Updated: 2:58 p.m.

Baseball Beat: Tuesday, July 29th

Here is the rundown for the Tuesday, July 29th edition of Baseball Beat with Charley Steiner live from Los Angeles, California.  All times Eastern.

1:05 p.m.
Guest: John Donovan, Sports Illustrated
1:25 p.m.
Guest: Marty Noble, MLB.com (New York Mets)
1:45 p.m.
Guest: Lyle Spencer, MLB.com (Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim)
2:05 p.m.
Guest: Phil Rogers, Chicago Tribune
2:25 p.m.
Guest: Joe Christensen, Minneapolis Star-Tribune
2:45 p.m.
Guest: Steve Gilbert, MLB.com (Arizona Diamondbacks)

Guest Summaries:
Donovan discussed national headlines and trade deadline including Mark Teixeira’s being available, Tim Hudson update, Arizona Diamondbacks deadline strategy, Brian Fuentes being shopped, belief the American League East is still ultimately between the Tampa Bay Rays and Boston Red Sox, and most likely moves before the deadline. Noble discussed the New York Mets including his belief the club will not do anything before the deadline, Mets were interested in getting Xavier Nady back, favorable second half schedule, questions Carlos Delgado’s effort level, Mike Pelfrey’s emergence, and how young players are helping the club relax. Spencer discussed the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim including the series in Boston this week, lack of reasoning behind a Mark Teixeira real, Casey Kotchman not available, and prospects looking to impact the majors. Rogers discussed the Chicago Cubs including this week’s series in Milwaukee, fans stoked about the renewed rivalry, Harden’s impact on the rotation since his arrival, and Jeff Samardzija’s debut. Christensen discussed the Minnesota Twins including this week’s series with the American League Central leading Chicago White Sox, closing to one game of the division lead, Kevin Slowey’s performance last night, unsung rotation, Francisco Liriano’s contentious run in the minors, and whether Twins will be active at the trade deadline. Near the end of the segment, an earthquake occurred in Los Angeles.  While the sound could not be heard, Charley did give his reaction.  Gilbert discussed the Arizona Diamondbacks including his report on a contract extension for Dan Haren and talks with the Atlanta Braves about Mark Teixeira.

Tunes Summary:
1:25 p.m.
Uptight by Stevie Wonder
1:45 p.m.
Searchin’ by The Coasters
2:25 p.m.
I Won’t Back Down by Tom Petty
2:45 p.m.
Whole Lot of Shakin’ Goin’ On by Jerry Lee Lewis
I Feel the Earth Move Under My Feet by Carole King

Updated: 4:01 p.m.

Baseball Beat: Monday, July 28th

Here is the rundown for the Monday, July 28th edition of Baseball Beat with Charley Steiner, live from Los Angeles. All times Eastern.

1:05 p.m.
Guest: Bob Nightengale, USA Today Sports Weekly
1:25 p.m.
Guest: Dan Shaughnessy, Boston Globe
1:45 p.m.
Guest: David O’Brien Atlanta Journal-Constitution
2:05 p.m.
Guest: Mark Feinsand, New York Daily News
2:25 p.m.
Guest: Jim Price, Broadcaster, Detroit Tigers
2:45 p.m.
Guest: Brian Anderson, Broadcaster, Milwaukee Brewers

Guest Summaries:
Nightengale discussed the national headlines including the Hall of Fame induction ceremonies and how much the Hall of Fame means to the players. Shaughnessy discussed the Boston Red Sox including the Manny Ramirez saga and the Yankees Series. Dan also talked about the ‘Manny being Manny’ act getting old and how Manny’s trade comments unfairly overshadowed David Ortiz’s return. O’Brien discussed the Atlanta Braves including the series against the Phillies and the injuries to Brian McCann and Chipper Jones. David also talked about the return of Mike Hampton and if the Braves will decide to be sellers or buyers at the trade deadline. Feinsand discussed the New York Yankees including his take on the Manny Ramirez situation as well as what has ignited the recent Yankee resurgence. Mark also talked about the trade with the Pirates bringing Xavier Nady and Damaso Marte. Price discussed the Detroit Tigers including the recent series with the White Sox and what has happened to the bullpen with the Todd Jones demotion from closer. Jim also talked about the apparent injury to Joel Zumaya. Anderson discussed the Milwaukee Brewers being on a role since acquiring CC Sabathia and previewed the big series coming up with the Chicago Cubs.

Tunes Summary:
1:25 p.m.
Song: Mr. Bad Example by Warren Zevon
1:45 p.m.
Song: It’s All Over Now by Rod Stewart
2:25 p.m.
Song: Almost Cut My Hair by Crosby, Stills, and Nash
2:45 p.m.
Song: Jenny Take a Ride by Mitch Ryder and the Detroit Wheels

Baseball Beat: Friday, July 25th

Here is the rundown for the Friday, July 25th edition of Baseball Beat with Charley Steiner, live from Los Angeles. All times Eastern.

1:05 p.m.
Guest: Tim Kurkjian, ESPN
1:25 p.m.
Guest: Steve Buckley, Boston Herald
1:45 p.m.
Guest: Todd Zolecki, Philadelphia Inquirer
2:05 p.m.
Guest: Tyler Kepner, New York Times
2:25 p.m.
Guest: Tom Candiotti, Broadcaster, Arizona Diamondbacks
2:45 p.m.
Actual Calls from Actual Listeners
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1-866-652-6696

Guest Summaries:
àKurkjian discussed the national headlines including the inductions at the Hall of Fame this upcoming weekend,  the 25^th anniversary of the infamous Pine-tar game, and what teams may be looking to deal approaching the trade deadline. Buckley discussed the weekend series between the Red Sox and Yankees, the return of David Ortiz to the lineup, and the Sox desire to fill their holes from within.  Zolecki discussed the Philadelphia Phillies struggles against the Mets in their series this week, how the PHI lineup is not hitting with runners in scoring position, and how Joe Blanton is doing better than his numbers show.  Kepner discussed how the New York Yankees have managed to stay in contention in the AL East, the New York and Boston media baseball game, and the stellar opening matchup tonight between Josh Beckett and Joba Chamberlain. Candiotti discussed  what addition of Jon Rauch means to the D’Backs bullpen, the health of Orlando Hudson, and how the Diamonbacks need a lot of wins on their 10-game road trip which starts tonight.

Tunes Summary:
1:25 p.m.
Song: Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag by James Brown
1:45 p.m.
Song: When I Get Home by The Beatles
2:25 p.m.
Song: Why Don’t We Do It In The Road by The Beatles
2:45 p.m.
Song: You Talk Too Much by Joe Jones

Baseball Beat: Thursday, July 24th

Here is the rundown for the Thursday, July 24th edition of Baseball Beat with Charley Steiner live from Los Angeles, California.  All times Eastern.

1:05 p.m.
Guest: Paul White, USA Today Sports Weekly
1:25 p.m.
Guest: Richard Justice, Houston Chronicle
1:45 p.m.
Guest: Mario Impemba, Broadcaster, Detroit Tigers
2:05 p.m.
Guest: Bill Rhoden, New York Times
2:25 p.m.
Guest: Murray Chass, MurrayChass.com
2:45 p.m.
Guest: Glenn Geffner, Broadcaster, Florida Marlins

Guest Summaries:
White discussed national headlines including the upcoming trade deadline, large amount of sellers at the trade deadline, belief the Atlanta Braves need to rebuild, Jon Rauch as an excellent acquisition for the Arizona Diamondbacks, and New York Yankees can win if their offense turns around. Justice discussed the Houston Astros including the “delusional” trade for Randy Wolf, recent bad history of trades, Lance Berkman and Roy Oswalt tired of Houston failures, and increased risk of alienating fans. Impemba discussed the Detroit Tigers including this weekend’s series with the American League Central leading Chicago White Sox, Justin Verlander back to ace status, and Tigers completely different team from April. Rhoden discussed the New York Mets including the club’s need for a leader, differences between Jerry Manuel and Willie Randolph, and thoughts on the rivalry with the Philadelphia Phillies. Chass discussed the 25th Anniversary of the Pine Tar Game and covering it for the New York Times. He also discussed his new website MurrayChass.com which he is writing new columns throughout the week as well as his thoughts on the downturn in the newspaper industry and fall-out from his past comments against bloggers on Baseball Beat. Geffner discussed the Florida Marlins including this week’s series with the Chicago Cubs, Marlins as one of the best stories in baseball, young rotation having success, and Hanley Ramirez as the face of the franchise.

Tunes Summary:
1:25 p.m.
Clap for the Wolfman by Guess Who
1:45 p.m.
Get Ready by The Temptations
2:25 p.m.
Remember Then by The Earls
2:45 p.m.
I’m Goin’ Fishin’ by Dr. John

Updated: 2:58 p.m.

Baseball Beat: Wednesday, July 23rd

Here is the rundown for the Wednesday, July 23rd edition of Baseball Beat.  Chuck Wilson is hosting today as Charley Steiner is broadcasting the Los Angeles Dodgers day game in Denver, Colorado.  All times Eastern.

1:05 p.m.
Guest: Mel Antonen, USA Today
1:25 p.m.
Guest: Anthony Witrado, Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel (Brewers Beat)
1:45 p.m.
Guest: Mark Bowman, MLB.com (Braves Beat)
2:05 p.m.
Guest: Adam Rubin, New York Daily News (Mets Beat)
2:25 p.m.
Guest: Dan Connolly, Baltimore Sun
2:45 p.m.
Guest: Jack Magruder, East Valley Tribune (Diamondbacks Beat)

Guest Summaries:
Antonen discussed national headlines including USA Today’s report of a possible urine test for HGH, baseball’s need for a better schedule, and New York Mets have difficult hurdle in getting past the Philadelphia Phillies. Witrado discussed the Milwaukee Brewers including Bill Hall’s back-to-back nights of game winning home runs, Ned Yost’s handling of the platoon at third base, CC Sabathia’s impact on the club, and Doug Melvin still considering other trades. Bowman discussed the Atlanta Braves including whether the club has a run in the second half in them, future of Mark Teixeira in Atlanta, Jeff Francoeur’s struggles and need for more time in the minors, and Tom Glavine and Mike Hampton’s progress toward returning. Rubin discussed the New York Mets including last night’s heartbreaking loss in the ninth inning to the Philadelphia Phillies, Billy Wagner’s loss is devastating to the bullpen, Johan Santana’s inability to complete a game, club’s need for another outfield bat, and if the Mets can get past the Phillies. Connolly discussed the Baltimore Orioles including tonight’s 1983 World Series team reunion, George Sherrill’s future in Baltimore, Matt Weiter’s eventual move to the major league roster, Andy MacPhail’s progress in rebuilding the organization, and Adam Jones positive progression throughout the season. Magruder discussed the Arizona Diamondbacks including yesterday’s acquisition of Jon Rauch, Brandon Lyon’s future as closer, surprise at the club’s fall after the fast start in April, and competing in the National League West.

Updated: 2:58 p.m.

Baseball Beat: Tuesday, July 22nd

Here is the rundown for the Tuesday, July 22nd edition of Baseball Beat with Charley Steiner live from Denver, Colorado.  All times Eastern.

1:05 p.m.
Guest: Hal Bodley, MLB.com
1:25 p.m.
Guest: Chris Wheeler, Broadcaster, Philadelphia Phillies
1:45 p.m.
Guest: La Velle Neal, Minneapolis Star-Tribune (Twins Beat)
2:05 p.m.
Guest: Gordon Edes, Boston Globe
2:25 p.m.
Guest: Bryan Burwell, St. Louis Post-Dispatch
2:45 p.m.
Guest: Pete Caldera, The Record (Yankees Beat)

Guest Summaries:
Bodley discussed national headlines including the life and death of Hall of Fame writer Jerome Holtzman, close races in baseball are related to bad play as opposed to good play, Philadelphia Phillies and Milwaukee Brewers are the two teams to watch in the National League in the second half, and his belief along with Phillies Manager Charlie Manuel that players today look at baseball more as a job. Wheeler discussed the Philadelphia Phillies including this week’s series with the New York Mets, unsure what to expect from Joe Blanton tonight, wild inconsistencies on-field and off of Brett Myers, and end of the order offensive struggles. Neal discussed the Minnesota Twins including this week’s series with the New York Yankees, Carlos Gomez’s struggles and how Ron Gardenhire will manage it, and whether the club can match their first half success in the American League Central. Edes discussed the Boston Red Sox including the weekend’s sweep by the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, impending return of David Ortiz and how it will improve the line-up, Jacoby Ellsbury’s recent struggles, J.D. Drew finally comfortable in Boston, and Jon Lester as the rotation savior of late. Burwell discussed the St. Louis Cardinals including this week’s series with Milwaukee, debate whether the club will make a deadline trade, how Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright’s health will impact their deadline efforts, and need for bullpen help. Caldera discussed the New York Yankees including the series with Minnesota this week, Jorge Posada possibly out for the rest of the season, Hideki Matsui electing against surgery, Johnny Damon’s return, pitching staff has been leading the club of late, and surprise the team is still in the American League East race.

Tunes Summary:
1:25 p.m.
Showdown by Electric Light Orchestra
1:45 p.m.
New York City by Delbert McClinton
2:25 p.m.
You Can Never Tell by Chuck Berry
2:45 p.m.
Feelin’ Alright by Joe Cocker

Updated: 2:59 p.m.

Baseball Beat: Monday, July 21st

Here is the rundown for the Monday, July 21st edition of Baseball Beat with Charley Steiner live from Denver, Colorado.  All times Eastern.

1:05 p.m.
Guest: Tom Verducci, Sports Illustrated
1:25 p.m.
Guest: Dan Graziano, Newark Star-Ledger
1:45 p.m.
Guest: Tom Haudricourt, Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel (Brewers Beat)
2:05 p.m.
Guest: George Frazier, Broadcaster, Colorado Rockies
2:25 p.m.
Guest: Mike Downey, Chicago Tribune
2:45 p.m.
Guest: Steve Physioc, Broadcaster, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim

Guest Summaries:
Verducci discussed national headlines including the Florida Marlins continuing to play tough in the National League East, New York Mets need to improve their outfield, Philadelphia Phillies continued pitching problems, St. Louis Cardinals surprisingly good team, Milwaukee Brewers increased versatility, Chicago Cubs the class of the National League even with current struggles, Arizona Diamondbacks in trouble, Los Angeles Dodgers finally becoming a Joe Torre team, Geoff Jenkins bat injury yesterday, and final All-Star Game thoughts. Graziano discussed New York baseball including the presently fascinating Mets, unsure if the club is downplaying Billy Wagner’s injury, Carlos Delgado’s shocking return from a year and a half of mediocrity, Yankees back in the American League East race, and thoughts on George Steinbrenner’s appearance at the All-Star pre-game event. Haudricourt discussed the Milwaukee Brewers including the weekend sweep in San Francisco, ownership making a run for the playoffs this year, acquisition of Ray Durham and how it will affect Rickie Weeks, and this week’s series in St. Louis. Frazier discussed the Colorado Rockies including the club’s sweep of Pittsburgh this weekend, how a second half surge is possible in the weak National League West, Todd Helton slowly making progress, pitching being the key to the Rockies chance at success, and this week’s series with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Downey discussed Chicago baseball including the Cubs and White Sox being in first place. They also discussed the news that Hall of Fame writer and Official Historian of Major League Baseball Jerome Holtzman died including several stories on the life and times of Holtzman. Physioc discussed the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim including the weekend sweep of the Boston Red Sox, balance of the team’s offense in spite of its desire for another bat, and the team looking good for the second half.

Tunes Summary:
1:25 p.m.
Stayin’ Alive by The Bee Gees
1:45 p.m.
I Won’t Back Down by Tom Petty
2:25 p.m.
Sitting on Top of the World by Cream
2:45 p.m.
The Harder They Come by Jimmy Cliff

Updated: 3:00 p.m.

Baseball Beat: Friday, July 18th

Here is the rundown for the Friday, July 18th edition of Baseball Beat. Chuck Wilson is hosting as Charley Steiner is off on vacation. All times Eastern.

1:05 p.m.
Guest: Danny Knobler, CBSSports.com
1:25 p.m.
Guest: Ian Browne, MLB.com (Red Sox beat)
1:45 p.m.
Guest: Nick Piecoro, Arizona Republic
2:05 p.m.
Guest: Richard Justice, Houston Chronicle
2:25 p.m.
Guest: Jim Baumbach, Newsday
2:45 p.m.
Actual Calls from Actual Listeners
1-866-MLB-ON-XM
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Guest Summaries:
àKnobler discussed the national headlines including the trade of Joe Blanton and the story about Manny getting fined by the Red Sox earlier this month.  Danny also talked about who else is out there that could be traded. Browne discussed the Boston Red Sox including the story about Manny getting fined and the fact he may have taken an at bat off as a message to the front office. Ian also talked about how the Red Sox are getting tired of the ’Manny being Manny’ act. Piecoro discussed the Arizona D’Backs and what has gone wrong with this team lately after such a hot start. Nick also talked about the D’Backs picking up Tony Clark and how much he could contribute. Justice discussed the national headlines including the Manny Ramirez story and the Joe Blanton trade. Richard also talked about the different styles of manager in the league, how the All-Star game was managed by both sides and how hot the Mets have become. Baumbach discussed the New York baseball teams and the Joe Blanton trade, the All star game and Mo Riveria’s performance in Yankee Stadium.