Cubs' Piniella, Rays' Maddon Voted Top Managers

Both win easily, with Tampa star a unanimous choice in AL

(NEWSER) - Chicago Cubs catcher Geovany Soto and Tampa Bay third baseman Evan Longoria were named the rookies of the year today in the National and American leagues, respectively. Soto, 25, was voted an All-Star Game starter and finished the season with a .285 batting average, 23 home runs, and 86 RBI, the Tribune reports. He easily beat out Cincinnati first baseman Joey Votto. More»

(NEWSER) - What a difference a year makes. The once-lowly Tampa Bay Rays clinched their first playoff appearance in franchise history today with a 7-2 win over Minnesota. The Rays will earn at least a wild-card spot, but they also hold a 2 1/2-game lead over Boston in the AL East, the Tampa Tribune reports. Tampa finished with a league-worst record of 66-96 last season. More»

Detroit gives up utility man Infante to the Cubbies

(NEWSER) - The busy Detroit Tigers picked up another left-handed bat, acquiring outfielder Jacque Jones from the Chicago Cubs yesterday for Omar Infante. Jones, a nine-year vet, is expected to be the main left fielder but could also spell stars Curtis Granderson and Magglio Ordonez, reports the Associated Press. Jones, set to make $5.5 million, has four seasons of 20-plus home runs. More»

Pittsburgh series' win keeps things interesting in the NL Central

(NEWSER) - Freddy Sanchez' second-inning bases-loaded triple yesterday propelled a Pirates victory over the Cubs, 10-5. The loss allowed Milwaukee to take sole possession of first place in a congested, bumbling National League Central that Chicago had led since August 17. Call-up outfielder Nyjer Morgan continued to impress with three RBIs and a circus catch. More»

Piniella, on suspension for dirt-kicking tantrum, settles beef between Barrett, Zambrano

(NEWSER) - Four days after Cubs ace Carlos Zambrano sent his battery partner Michael Barrett to the hospital with a split lip, manager Lou Piniella resolved their differences in a 10-minute reconciliation meeting. Piniella himself is serving a four-game suspension for kicking dirt at an umpire. Barrett will catch Zambrano in the future. More»