Andrew McCutchen: The Face of a Franchise and a Legacy in Full Swing

When the Pittsburgh Pirates drafted Andrew McCutchen 11th overall in 2005, few could have predicted the profound impact he would have, not only on the franchise but on Major League Baseball as a whole. With a blend of speed, power, charisma, and professionalism, McCutchen became the heart and soul of the Pirates and one of the most respected figures in the game. Now, in the twilight of his career, his legacy is firmly cemented among baseball’s greats.

Early Days and Meteoric Rise
Born on October 10, 1986, in Fort Meade, Florida, McCutchen’s athletic gifts were evident early. After being selected by the Pirates in the first round of the 2005 MLB Draft, he rapidly climbed through the minor league system and made his MLB debut on June 4, 2009. In his very first game, he went 2-for-4 with three runs scored and an RBI, signaling the arrival of a franchise cornerstone.

By 2011, McCutchen had established himself as one of the game’s elite center fielders. His first All-Star appearance that year was just the beginning of a five-year run as one of the top players in baseball.

The MVP Years: 2012–2015

McCutchen's peak came between 2012 and 2015—a four-year stretch where he was arguably the best all-around player in the National League.

In 2012, he won his first Silver Slugger, finished third in MVP voting, and posted a .327 batting average with 31 home runs. The following year, in 2013, he reached the pinnacle of the sport: National League MVP. That season, he hit .317 with a .404 OBP, 21 home runs, 84 RBIs, and 27 stolen bases—leading the Pirates to their first playoff appearance in 21 years.

His 2014 campaign might have been even better offensively. He slashed .314/.410/.542 with a .952 OPS and a 168 OPS+, marking the most productive offensive season of his career. Despite not repeating as MVP, he was arguably the best hitter in baseball that year.

He added two more Silver Sluggers in 2014 and 2015 and was a mainstay in MVP conversations, earning five straight All-Star selections from 2011 to 2015.

The Franchise Leader

During his first tenure in Pittsburgh (2009–2017), McCutchen etched his name into the Pirates' record books. He became a franchise leader in home runs, doubles, walks, and WAR (Wins Above Replacement). His consistency at the plate, speed on the basepaths, and ability to come through in big moments made him the face of Pittsburgh baseball.

His leadership extended off the field as well. In 2015, he received the Roberto Clemente Award, honoring his commitment to community and charitable efforts, further connecting him to the legacy of one of the Pirates' most revered figures.

Journeyman Years: 2018–2022

After nine memorable seasons in Pittsburgh, McCutchen was traded to the San Francisco Giants in 2018 and later joined the New York Yankees that same year. He signed with the Phillies in 2019, where he showed flashes of his old form before suffering a torn ACL. Despite the injury, he returned to post solid seasons in 2020 and 2021. He spent 2022 with the Milwaukee Brewers, providing veteran leadership and power.

While no longer the elite player he once was, McCutchen remained a productive hitter and positive clubhouse influence throughout his travels.

A Triumphant Homecoming: 2023–Present

In 2023, McCutchen returned to the Pirates on a one-year deal. The reunion was emotional—for both fans and player. That year, he collected his 2,000th career hit and served as a designated hitter and mentor to a young Pittsburgh roster.

Now in 2025, at age 38, McCutchen remains an active contributor. As of June 1, 2025, he's slashing .258/.361/.393 with five home runs and 18 RBIs across 53 games. Most significantly, he recently tied Roberto Clemente with 240 career home runs as a Pirate, good for third all-time in franchise history.

Career Accolades and Milestones

• 5× All-Star (2011–2015)
• 2013 National League MVP (4 Top Ten Finishes)
• 4× Silver Slugger Award Winner
• 2012 Gold Glove Award
• 2015 Roberto Clemente Award
• 2,198 career hits (and counting)
• 324 career home runs
• 1,113 RBIs
• 220 stolen bases
• Over 50 career WAR

October Moments

Though limited in postseason opportunities, McCutchen made the most of them. In 13 playoff games, he posted a .264 batting average, with 5 home runs and 18 RBIs. His leadership and clutch hitting were instrumental in the Pirates’ three consecutive postseason appearances from 2013 to 2015, including their emotional Wild Card victory over the Reds in 2013.

A Lasting Legacy

Andrew McCutchen is more than a stat sheet. He is the symbol of Pittsburgh’s baseball rebirth in the 2010s. He played with heart, hustle, and humility, inspiring a generation of fans and players alike. His influence stretches beyond the diamond, as he remains deeply involved in philanthropic work and community engagement.

His Hall of Fame case will be hotly debated—but his combination of peak dominance, long-term production, and character may very well earn him a spot in Cooperstown.

As the curtain begins to fall on his incredible career, Andrew McCutchen continues to add chapters to his legacy—one hit, one walk, one ovation at a time. Whether or not he plays beyond 2025, his impact is indelible. He brought pride back to Pittsburgh baseball and did it with grace, power, and style. Simply put, Andrew McCutchen is a legend—on and off the field.

2025 may not be Cutch's finest season... but it is a good season.  As of the writing of this, he has posed a 111 OPS+ and a .754 OPS.  He is on-track to put up nearly a 2 WAR on a team that is only averaging 2.18 runs per game.  He deserves another night under the stars!

Vote Andrew McCutchen for this year's All Star Team from the Pirates!  Let's send him off as an All Star!

~~~
Bruce holds degrees in Computer Science, Biblical History, and American History from Temple University and Liberty University; he has also completed a Doctorate in Educational Organizational Leadership at Abilene Christian University.  He is a member of the Epsilon Pi Tau Honor Society, Golden Key Honor Society, Historical Studies Honor Society, and the Saber and Scroll Society.  He has worked in educational technology for 30 years and specializes in building infrastructures for schools that work to support the mission of technology in education in the classroom.  He has also served as a classroom teacher in computer science, history, and English classes at both the high school and College levels.  His baseball career spanned nearly 15 years, from high school through Division I college ball and a stint in professional ball. He is currently a co-host on the Romantic About Baseball podcast and host of Ring The Bell: A Journey Through Philadelphia Baseball History.

Bruce is also the author of several books including Sands of Time, Towering Pines Volume One:Room 509, The Star of Christmas, Philadelphia Story: A Lance Carter Detective Novel and The Insider's Story: A Lance Carter Detective Novel 

Celebrating Mother's Through a Biblical Lens: Honoring Mom through God's Gifts on Mother's Day

Celebrating Mother's Through a Biblical Lens: Honoring Mom through God's Gifts on Mother's Day

Mother's Day is a beautiful opportunity to pause and reflect on the incredible role mothers play, not only in our families but also in God's design for humanity. Throughout Scripture, mothers are celebrated for their strength, wisdom, and nurturing spirit. On this special day, let us explore what God's Word says about mothers and why their role is so significant.

Mothers as Pillars of Strength and Wisdom

Proverbs 31 paints a vivid picture of a godly woman and mother. "She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue" (Proverbs 31:25-26, ESV). These words reveal the inner strength and grace that mothers carry. They face the future with faith and courage, guiding their families with gentle and wise words. This is not merely human strength but a reflection of God's sustaining power in their lives.

Mothers Are to Be Honored and Celebrated

The Scriptures also emphasize the honor due to mothers. "Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: 'Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all'" (Proverbs 31:28-29, ESV). The love and sacrifices mothers make do not go unnoticed by God or by their families. Their faithful devotion often inspires generations, and it is fitting for us to express our gratitude and celebrate them.

The Precious Value of a Godly Mother

"An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life" (Proverbs 31:10-12, ESV). A mother who loves God and her family brings blessings beyond measure. Her faithfulness fosters trust and security, creating a home where love and peace flourish. Such women reflect the selfless love that Jesus showed during His earthly ministry.

Mothers as Spiritual Teachers and Guides

Beyond nurturing and caring for daily needs, godly mothers also play a key role in spiritual formation. "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it" (Proverbs 22:6, ESV). A mother's influence extends well beyond childhood. By teaching God's Word and modeling Christ-like living, mothers sow seeds of faith that often bear fruit for a lifetime.

Jesus' Affirmation of Honoring Mothers

Throughout His life, Jesus affirmed the importance of honoring parents. On the cross, one of His final acts was to ensure His own mother, Mary, was cared for (John 19:26-27). This tender moment reflects Jesus' deep love and respect for mothers and serves as a model for us to cherish them always.

Mother's Day reminds us to celebrate and honor the women who reflect God's love through their strength, wisdom, and nurturing care. As we reflect on the verses above, may we be intentional in expressing gratitude to the mothers in our lives. Let us thank them, pray for them, and bless them, not only today but every day, as they continue to fulfill their God-given calling with grace and faith.

~~~
Bruce holds degrees in Computer Science, Biblical History, and American History from Temple University and Liberty University; he has also completed a Doctorate in Educational Organizational Leadership at Abilene Christian University.  He is a member of the Epsilon Pi Tau Honor Society, Golden Key Honor Society, Historical Studies Honor Society, and the Saber and Scroll Society.  He has worked in educational technology for 30 years and specializes in building infrastructures for schools that work to support the mission of technology in education in the classroom.  He has also served as a classroom teacher in computer science, history, and English classes at both the high school and College levels.  His baseball career spanned almost 15 years, from high school through Division I college ball and experience in MLB.  He has coached players at various levels from ages 8 through 18.

Bruce is also the author of several books including Sands of Time, Towering Pines Volume One:Room 509, The Star of Christmas, Philadelphia Story: A Lance Carter Detective Novel and The Insider's Story: A Lance Carter Detective Novel 

---

References

English Standard Version Bible. (2001). Proverbs 31:10-12, 25-26, 28-29; Proverbs 22:6; John 19:26-27. Crossway Bibles.

2025 Kansas City Royals Preview

The 2025 Kansas City Royals: A Team Built to Rise and Reign

The 2024 Royals came into the season with no expectations except to be better.  And they were.  Improving from an abysmal 56-106 to 86-76, making the playoffs, and beating the Orioles before losing to the Yankees in the AL Divisional Series.  The Kansas City Royals are entering the 2025 season with renewed optimism after a surprising 2024 campaign that saw them win 86 games and secure a playoff berth. With a mix of young talent, key offseason acquisitions, and a solid core of veterans, the Royals are poised to make noise in the AL Central once again.  This is the 10-year anniversary of the 2015 World Series winning team - the Royals are better than they have been since that team!  

Pitching
The Royals' pitching staff is headlined by Cole Ragans, who emerged as a reliable ace in 2024. Ragans is joined by Seth Lugo, who had a career year last season, finishing second in AL Cy Young voting. The rotation also features newcomers Michael Wacha and Michael Lorenzen, both of whom bring veteran experience and stability. Kris Bubic and Alec Marsh round out the rotation, with Daniel Lynch IV providing depth.

The bullpen is anchored by Carlos Estévez, a key offseason addition who will handle closing duties. Lucas Erceg and John Schreiber are expected to play significant roles in the late innings, while Hunter Harvey and Chris Stratton add depth to a solid relief corps.

Lineup
The Royals' lineup is built around their superstar shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., who is coming off back-to-back 30/30 seasons and is a legitimate MVP candidate. Jonathan India, acquired in a trade with the Reds, will serve as the leadoff hitter and designated hitter, setting the table for Witt and the rest of the lineup. Vinnie Pasquantino provides power at first base, while Salvador Perez remains a steady presence behind the plate.

The outfield features MJ Melendez, Kyle Isbel, and Hunter Renfroe, with Renfroe expected to contribute as a designated hitter as well. Michael Massey and Maikel Garcia round out the infield, providing a mix of power and speed.

Look for Witt to have another MVP-like season while Pasquantino comes into his own and hits 30+ HRs. MJ Melendez came into spring training with an improved approach at the plate, which will finally see him become the productive force in the lineup the Royals need.

Defensive Alignment
Defensively, the Royals are a strong unit. Witt anchors the infield at shortstop, with Massey at second base and Pasquantino at first. Garcia is expected to handle third base duties, while Perez continues to provide elite defense behind the plate. In the outfield, Isbel and Melendez bring speed and range, while Renfroe adds a strong arm in right field. India's versatility allows him to fill in at multiple positions, adding flexibility to the roster.

Look for another season of Salvy alternating between catching and DH, with the capable Fermin getting more reps behind the plate and finding his swing this season.

Projection
The 2025 Royals are a well-rounded team with a strong pitching staff, a dynamic lineup, and solid defense. While they may not have made flashy offseason moves, the additions of India, Estévez, Wacha, and Lorenzen address key needs and improve the team's depth.

Projection models suggest the Royals will be competitive in the AL Central, with a realistic chance of winning 90 games, contending for a playoff spot and the division crown. If their young stars continue to develop and their pitching staff performs as expected, Kansas City could surprise the baseball world once again.

The Royals are a team on the rise, and 2025 could be the year they take the next step toward sustained success. Keep an eye on this scrappy, talented squad as they aim to build on last season's momentum and make a deep postseason run.

~~~
Bruce holds degrees in Computer Science, Biblical History, and American History from Temple University and Liberty University; he has also completed a Doctorate in Educational Organizational Leadership at Abilene Christian University.  He is a member of the Epsilon Pi Tau Honor Society, Golden Key Honor Society, Historical Studies Honor Society, and the Saber and Scroll Society.  He has worked in educational technology for 30 years and specializes in building infrastructures for schools that work to support the mission of technology in education in the classroom.  He has also served as a classroom teacher in computer science, history, and English classes at both the high school and College levels.  His baseball career spanned almost 15 years, from high school through Division I college ball and experience in MLB.  He has coached players at various levels from ages 8 through 18.

Bruce is also the author of several books including Sands of Time, Towering Pines Volume One:Room 509, The Star of Christmas, Philadelphia Story: A Lance Carter Detective Novel and The Insider's Story: A Lance Carter Detective Novel 

2024 World Series Comparison: Yankees vs Dodgers Position by Position

The 2024 World Series is upon us!

Like it or not, two of the top 5 teams from a spending perspective are facing off.  The real upside here is that we will get to see more of the stars of the game on the same field than ever before.  This is the first time in decades that two MVPs will be facing off.  This World Series boasts  4 MVPS (Judge, Ohtani, Betts, Freeman) -- the most in history.  And it is easy to argue that the two best teams in baseball will be playing one another for the first time in several years (yes, the playoffs are broken).

These two teams have a long, iconic history in the World Series.  They have faced off 11 times, with the Yankees winning 8 times.  This is the first time they have clashed in the fall classic since 1981, where the Yankees jumped out to a quick 2-0 lead, but ended up losing to the Dodgers in 4 straight after that (4-2).  Who will win this year?  I will take you through a position by position comparison.  We will start with the position players, and talk about pitching in another post.

Position by Position Comparison

Catcher
Yankees: Austin Wells
Dodgers: Will Smith

During the regular season, Will Smith had a stronger offensive performance, slashing .327 OBP, .433 SLG, and .760 OPS over 128 games. Smith's power and consistency were crucial for the Dodgers’ lineup, with 24 doubles and 2 home runs in the NLCS alone. Austin Wells, on the other hand, played 115 games with a .322 OBP, .395 SLG, and .718 OPS. Though solid, Wells’ regular-season stats fall short compared to Smith’s impact at the plate. In the postseason, Wells continued to perform admirably, but Smith’s NLCS numbers were outstanding, batting .346 with a 1.182 OPS. Smith's ability to generate runs and handle pressure situations gives the Dodgers a clear advantage at the catcher position in this matchup, making him the stronger player overall.  And let's not discount that Smith has been here before... this is new territory for Wells.  We look for a strong performance from Wells, and although Smith was an All Star, he cooled off considerably in the second half.  Still, Smith over Wells - but not by much.

Advantage: Dodgers (Smith)

First Base
Yankees: Anthony Rizzo
Dodgers: Freddie Freeman

Both Rizzo and Freeman are currently less than 100% — Rizzo battling a hand injury and Freeman nursing a bad ankle. During the regular season, Freeman had the edge, posting a stellar .378 OBP, .476 SLG, and .854 OPS across 147 games. Despite his injury, Freeman remained a key contributor to the Dodgers' lineup. In contrast, Rizzo, limited by his hand injury, put up more modest numbers with a .301 OBP, .335 SLG, and .637 OPS in 92 games. In the postseason, Freeman’s production dipped slightly, batting .167 with a .377 OPS in the NLCS, while Rizzo didn’t have postseason stats to add to his case. Even though Freeman is the bigger offensive force, Rizzo showed he can still swing the bat in the ALCS (.429/.500/1.000) across the 5 games.  With Freeman sporting a bad wheel, it'll likely rob him of some power (.167/.211/.377), it is hard to put any weight in Freeman's regular season performance here.  In fact, I wouldn't be surprise to see Muncy get a start or two, especially when Rodon pitches.

Advantage: Yankees (Rizzo)

Second Base
Yankees: Gleyber Torres
Dodgers: Enrique Hernandez/Gavin Lux

During the regular season, Torres was a consistent performer for the Yankees, with a .330 OBP, .378 SLG, and .709 OPS across 154 games. He was a key offensive contributor, racking up 151 hits and 26 doubles. In the postseason, Torres continued to provide value, though his power numbers were not as prominent. On the Dodgers' side, Hernandez and Lux offer versatility, but their regular-season stats fall short of Torres'. Hernandez posted a .393 OBP and .417 SLG in the NLCS but hit .292 in the regular season, while Lux had a .320 OBP and .383 SLG in the regular season over 139 games, showing solid contact ability. In the NLCS, Lux stepped up with a .407 average and a 1.022 OPS, giving the Dodgers an edge in recent postseason performance. However, based on overall consistency throughout the season and positional experience, Gleyber Torres stands as the better choice at second base, with his reliability across both the regular season and playoffs giving the Yankees an advantage.

Advantage: Yankees (Torres)

Shortstop
Yankees: Anthony Volpe
Dodgers: Tommy Edman

During the regular season, Volpe displayed his potential, batting .293 OBP, .364 SLG, and .657 OPS over 160 games. He contributed 27 doubles and 90 runs but struggled with consistency, particularly in terms of getting on base. In the postseason, Volpe’s production remained steady but not extraordinary. On the other hand, Tommy Edman had a strong regular season, posting a .337 OBP, .410 SLG, and .748 OPS, and his versatility in both offense and defense added significant value to the Dodgers' lineup. In the NLCS, Edman was even better, batting .407 with a 1.022 OPS and driving in 11 runs, showcasing his ability to perform in high-pressure situations. While Volpe is an exciting young talent, Edman’s superior regular-season stats and his outstanding postseason performance give him the edge, making him the better player at shortstop in this World Series matchup.  And let's not forget Edman is coming off the NLCS MVP award.  Much like at catcher, this advantage is not a big one, but I am going to go with Edman continuing his hot play.

Advantage: Dodgers (Edman)

Third Base
Yankees: Jazz Chisholm
Dodgers: Enrique Hernandez/Max Muncy

Chisholm, known for his athleticism, posted a .238 OBP, .211 SLG, and .449 OPS over 5 ALCS games, struggling to find consistency at the plate. His regular season numbers (.256/.324/.760) speak to more potential, and he did step it up once he became a Yankee (.273/.325..825) but it is hard to say who we are going to get.  Although he brings speed and defensive versatility, his offensive numbers were underwhelming in comparison. Enrique Hernandez, playing across multiple positions for the Dodgers, had a solid regular season with a .393 OBP and .417 SLG in the NLCS, showcasing his ability to perform in the clutch. Max Muncy, though injured for part of the season, remains a power threat, evidenced by his regular-season .494 SLG and .852 OPS across 73 games. In the NLCS, Muncy added value with his veteran presence and ability to hit in big moments. While Chisholm offers speed and athleticism, Hernandez's versatility and postseason performance, combined with Muncy's power, give the Dodgers a stronger overall advantage at third base.

Advantage: Dodgers (Hernandez/Muncy)

Left Field
Yankees: Alex Verdugo
Dodgers: Teoscar Hernandez

Verdugo had a respectable regular season, posting a .330 OBP, .421 SLG, and .751 OPS. Although he had stretches where he was cold and looked disconnected in left field, compared to other options he looked consistent and reliable at the plate combined with his passable defense make him the best option out there. In the postseason, Verdugo looked more like the steady player the Yankees need, though without significant power numbers. On the other hand, Teoscar Hernández excelled during the regular season with a .308 OBP, .490 SLG, and .798 OPS, hitting 26 home runs and providing power from the Dodgers’ outfield. Hernández's postseason has been even more impressive, as he slashed .346 with a 1.182 OPS in the NLCS, demonstrating his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations. While Verdugo is a more well-rounded player, Hernández’s power and clutch hitting in the postseason give him the edge in left field. His ability to change the game with one swing makes Hernández the better player in this matchup.

Advantage: Dodgers (Hernandez)

Left Field
Yankees: Alex Verdugo
Dodgers: Teoscar Hernandez

Verdugo had a respectable regular season, posting a .291 OBP, .356 SLG, and .647 OPS. Although he had stretches where he was cold and looked disconnected in left field, compared to other options he looked consistent and reliable at the plate combined with his passable defense make him the best option out there. In the postseason, Verdugo looked more like the steady player the Yankees need, though without significant power numbers. On the other hand, Teoscar Hernández excelled during the regular season with a .308 OBP, .490 SLG, and .798 OPS, hitting 26 home runs and providing power from the Dodgers’ outfield. Hernández's postseason has been even more impressive, as he slashed .346 with a 1.182 OPS in the NLCS, demonstrating his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations. While Verdugo is a more well-rounded player, Hernández’s power and clutch hitting in the postseason give him the edge in left field. His ability to change the game with one swing makes Hernández the better player in this matchup.

Advantage: Dodgers (Hernandez)

Center Field
Yankees: Aaron Judge
Dodgers: Andy Pages

Aaron Judge is simply one of - if not the - best players in baseball today.  There is no question.  And in 2024, he had another dominant regular season.  He posted a stellar .458 OBP, .701 SLG, and 1.159 OPS, along with 58 home runs. Judge’s combination of power, plate discipline, and defense makes him a cornerstone of the Yankees' lineup. In the postseason, Judge continued to be a major force, though pitchers often worked around him due to his ability to change games with a single swing. On the other hand, Andy Pages, a young and talented outfielder, had a promising regular season but lacks the experience and production that Judge brings. While Pages has potential, his .722 OPS in the regular season and more modest postseason performance don't compare to Judge's star power and proven impact in key moments. Judge’s leadership, experience, and game-changing ability at the plate give the Yankees a clear advantage in center field. His presence alone makes him the better player in this matchup.

Advantage: Yankees (Judge)

Right Field
Yankees: Juan Soto
Dodgers: Mookie Betts

This is the best match up on the field, without question.  Two of the top ten players in the game today - on the same field in the same position.  If you told me they make the same money and I had to choose between them, I could not.  But today, I have to... so here it goes.  During the regular season, both players had outstanding performances. Juan Soto posted a .419 OBP, .569 SLG, and an OPS of .989, along with 31 doubles and 35 home runs, making him one of the most dangerous hitters in the league. Mookie Betts, though slightly behind in terms of raw power, still had an excellent season with a .372 OBP, .491 SLG, and an OPS of .863, contributing 24 doubles and 18 home runs in 116 games.ve the Yankees a clear advantage in center field. His presence alone makes him the better player in this matchup.  In the postseason, both players have been key contributors to their teams. Betts slashed .346/.452/.731 with a 1.182 OPS in the NLCS, demonstrating his ability to hit for power and get on base, while driving in 9 runs. Meanwhile, Soto had a spectacular ALCS, hitting .368/.478/.895 with a 1.373 OPS, including 3 home runs and 6 RBIs in just 5 games.

Betts is just a great all-around player who can do anything on the field, and so is Soto.  Both players support the guy who is just a little bigger in the lineup.  In the end, Soto has shown he is up for the task and his power is following him into the postseason.  Edge to Soto.

Advantage: Yankees (Soto)

Designated Hitter
Yankees: Giancarlo Stanton
Dodgers: Shohei Ohtani

This is the second best match up on the field.  Ohtani is... well... Shohei Ohtani, and Giancarlo Stanton is unquestionably one of the best power bats of this generation.  If During the regular season, Ohtani had an extraordinary performance, posting a .390 OBP, .646 SLG, and a 1.036 OPS over 159 games, with 38 doubles, 44 home runs, and 134 runs scored. His ability to consistently produce at the plate made him one of the most feared hitters in baseball. In contrast, Stanton had a solid but less explosive season that was riddled with injuries, with a .298 OBP, .475 SLG, and a .773 OPS over 114 games, hitting 20 doubles and 25 home runs. In the postseason, both players have continued to be key contributors for their teams. Stanton stepped it up and had a strong ALCS, batting .222 with a .333 OBP and a .889 SLG, including 4 home runs and 7 RBIs, showing his ability to deliver power in key moments.  Big G was the ALCS MVP.  However, Ohtani was equally impressive in the NLCS, batting .364 with a .548 OBP and a .636 SLG, contributing 8 hits and 9 runs in 6 games and hitting every time someone was on base.

While Stanton’s power is undeniable, Ohtani’s overall production, both in the regular season and postseason, makes him the better player in this matchup. His ability to get on base, hit for power, and consistently deliver in clutch moments gives the Dodgers the advantage here. 

Advantage: Dodgers (Ohtani)

~~~
Bruce holds degrees in Computer Science, Biblical History, and American History from Temple University and Liberty University; he has also completed a Doctorate in Educational Organizational Leadership at Abilene Christian University.  He is a member of the Epsilon Pi Tau Honor Society, Golden Key Honor Society, Historical Studies Honor Society, and the Saber and Scroll Society.  He has worked in educational technology for 30 years and specializes in building infrastructures for schools that work to support the mission of technology in education in the classroom.  He has also served as a classroom teacher in computer science, history, and English classes at both the high school and College levels.  His baseball career spanned almost 15 years, from high school through Division I college ball and experience in MLB.  He has coached players at various levels from ages 8 through 18.

Bruce is also the author of several books including Sands of Time, Towering Pines Volume One:Room 509, The Star of Christmas, Philadelphia Story: A Lance Carter Detective Novel and The Insider's Story: A Lance Carter Detective Novel 

American History 101: The History of John's Taylors Pork Roll

When it comes to iconic American foods, few can rival the quirky charm and delicious mystery of Taylor’s Pork Roll. This beloved New Jersey staple has been tantalizing taste buds since the 19th century, but how much do you really know about its storied past? From its humble beginnings in Trenton to its status as a breakfast legend, Taylor’s Pork Roll is more than just a meat product—it’s a slice of culinary history. Join us as we dive into the savory saga of this unique delicacy, exploring its origins, its rise to fame, and why it continues to hold a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of so many. Are you ready to learn the history behind John Taylor's invention and -- finally -- put the debate about what its name is and how it got that name?

Get ready for a mouthwatering journey through time!

The Birth of Taylor's Prepared Ham: A Culinary Legend

Picture this: It's 1856 in Trenton, New Jersey, and a savvy state Senator named John Taylor is about to change breakfast forever. Known around Hamilton Square as a shrewd businessman, Taylor concocted a delectable blend of spices, salt, sugar cure, and preservatives, then smoked it to perfection. The result? A mouthwatering meat marvel he proudly dubbed "Taylor’s Prepared Ham."

But wait, the plot thickens! Fast forward to the early 1900s, and the Pure Food and Drug Act swoops in, declaring that Taylor's creation doesn't quite meet the strict definition of "ham." Undeterred, Taylor rebrands his beloved product as the "Original Taylor Pork Roll," and a legend is born. Despite the bureaucratic hiccup, this tube-shaped treat has secured its place in the annals of American culinary history, beloved by breakfast enthusiasts far and wide.

Rebranding a Future Legend

When John Taylor and his company, Taylor Provisions (established in 1939), decided to rebrand their beloved creation as "pork roll," they hoped to corner the market and keep competitors at bay. The plan? Trademark the new name and make Taylor's product the one and only pork roll in town.

But, as with many great plans, things didn't go quite as expected. The trademark attempt fell flat, and soon enough, other companies started rolling out their own versions of the tasty treat. Today, names like Case Pork Company, Mercer Meats, Thumann’s, and Kohler Provisions are all part of the pork roll family. Yet, ask any true New Jerseyan, and they'll tell you Taylor Provisions is the original.

Interestingly, George Washington Case of Case Pork Company began selling his hickory-smoked pork rolls from his Belle Mead farm in Somerset County back in 1870, just over a decade after Taylor's first batch hit the market.

Now, both Taylor Provisions and Case Pork Company call Trenton home, making New Jersey's capital the unofficial epicenter of the great pork roll vs. Taylor ham debate. 

Absolutely, here’s a more entertaining version of the phenomenon story:

Becoming a Phenomenon: The Pork Roll Craze

What started as a humble cured meat has now exploded into a statewide sensation, gracing the shelves of nearly every deli in New Jersey. It’s even made its way into Pennsylvania and Maryland, spreading the deliciousness far and wide.

But here’s the million-dollar question: Is it Taylor ham or pork roll? According to Taylor Provisions, the names are interchangeable. In North Jersey, it’s proudly called Taylor ham, while South Jersey and Philadelphia stick to pork roll.

The debate over what to call this salty breakfast delight is still sizzling, and in New Jersey, saying “both are correct” just won’t cut it. But fear not, for Peter Genovese offers a nugget of wisdom in Thrillist: All Taylor ham is pork roll, but not all pork roll is Taylor ham. In other words, thanks to competing brands, you can have pork roll that’s not Taylor ham, but Taylor ham will always be pork roll.

So What is it?

People will call it what they call it... but today, the proper name is Pork Roll - much like you make copies, not Xeroxes.  If Taylor had his way, it would have been called Taylor's Prepared Ham - but since it was not actually ham, he did not get his way.

One thins is for sure: New Jersey is undeniably the Taylor ham/pork roll capital of the United States, and probably the world. Trenton, USA - Pork Roll Capital of the World!

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Bruce holds degrees in Computer Science, Biblical History, and American History from Temple University and Liberty University; he has also completed a Doctorate in Educational Organizational Leadership at Abilene Christian University.  He is a member of the Epsilon Pi Tau Honor Society, Golden Key Honor Society, Historical Studies Honor Society, and the Saber and Scroll Society.  He has worked in educational technology for 30 years and specializes in building infrastructures for schools that work to support the mission of technology in education in the classroom.  He has also served as a classroom teacher in computer science, history, and English classes at both the high school and College levels.  His baseball career spanned almost 15 years, from high school through Division I college ball and experience in MLB.  He has coached players at various levels from ages 8 through 18.

Bruce is also the author of several books including Sands of Time, Towering Pines Volume One:Room 509, The Star of Christmas, Philadelphia Story: A Lance Carter Detective Novel and The Insider's Story: A Lance Carter Detective Novel