Periscope Podcasts With Danny B
Starting 1/11 we will be using periscope to provide a Live Feed to our friends on Twitter ...
Once Baseball Season begins I will release daily Periscope Picks...
I also wanted to thank Mike Brenner from www.sportsbookreview.com for spending time with me on my last podcast and sharing several selections including SMU 1st half easy winner vs Temple..
You can catch a replay of all my podcasts and radio shows at www.dannybiancullo.com
Danny B.....
INSIDE THE NUMBERS w/ DANNY B & SPORTSBOOKREVIEW.COM'S OWN MIKE BRENNER/ PLUS MATT FROM "MEET THE MATTS" CALLS IN...
In this episode we talk NFL with Mike Brenner and get a call from Danny's friend Matt from the popular show "Meet the Matts."
NFL Wild Card Games...
Here are the odds for Wild Card Weekend...
1/7 Oakland at Houston -3-20 total 37
1/7 Detroit at Seattle -7.5 total 42.5
1/8 Miami at Pittsburgh -10 total 47
1/8 New York at Green Bay -4 total 44
This Saturday I will cover all these games on my radio show... You can catch a replay on this site...
Also on 1/4 we will cover the games on my podcast...
Happy New Years .... Danny B
The Danny B Sports Network
Look for my next podcast on January 4th at 7 pm... I will cover all 4 NFL Wild Card Games plus the NCAA Championship Game on January 9th.. Each week I will feature Betting Experts and Oddsmakers who will share some advise that can be very useful to the average sports bettor..
We will also hear from former NBA Referee Tim Donaghy who will share his thoughts throughout the NBA Finals..
Have a Happy New Year...
Danny B
NFL Power Numbers Top 5
NFL Power Rankings - Week 17: Cowboys, Patriots still locked in up top
theScore
1. Dallas Cowboys
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
1st2nd1st1st
Previous Rank: 1st
The Cowboys are only getting better as the season goes on. Here's your runaway Super Bowl favorites in the NFC. - Wilkins
2. New England Patriots
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
2nd1st2nd2nd
Previous Rank: 2nd
New England hasn't exactly struggled to put points on the board without Rob Gronkowski. Tom Brady and Bill Belichick may never stop. - Wilkins
3. Kansas City Chiefs
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
3rd4th3rd3rd
Previous Rank: 3rd
Alex Smith has the best weapons of his career, with the likes of Travis Kelce and Tyreek Hill in outstanding form, and is backed by a potentially championship-caliber defense. Snatching the AFC West from the Raiders would be huge. - Browne
4. Pittsburgh Steelers
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
4th3rd5th5th
Previous Rank: 7th
If you give the Steelers offense an inch, they'll take a mile. With the three B's clicking, the Patriots should be looking over their shoulders in the AFC. - Sanderson
5. New York Giants
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
9th6th4th6th
Previous Rank: 5th
New York is quietly among the NFL's elite despite some inefficient play from Eli Manning. The veteran quarterback recapturing his playoff magic would put this club over the top. - Wilkins
EPISODE 033 - "Danny B's Bowl Selections..."
In this episode we cover the bowl games! Danny Biancullo gives his "insiders look" at which games to play this holiday season.
We'll be back after the Holiday!
Part 33 Dealing With The Media
By mid November of 2010 word got out that former NBA referee Tim Donaghy was working with me and my phones were ringing off the hook from the Media to Sports Bettors it was just insane!
The Media was tuff on Tim without even knowing what role he played or what he did or did not do for me, they were just dead against it... Tim's book Personal Foul was also turning heads as it exposed the NBA & explains the betting scandal and why Tim got involved etc... Its a must read for all fans!
Tim was still on probation and there were terms he had working for me and the (1) must was he was not to sell picks or talk point spreads on air.. Basically Tim Donaghy was allowed to discuss his book and share some thoughts about the NBA and calls on the court that were controversial and effected the results of the game.. Tim also did videos on my website pointing out bad calls or calls that were missed during NBA Playoff Games..
Tim was also able to travel to Allentown once a month to meet with me to do live radio shows which was always fun, plus we always had some laughs and my kids really enjoyed when he stayed with us.. We also spent a week with Tim in Sarasota with his 4 beautiful girls who are doing very well these days...
In June of 2011 I flew the family down to Miami to meet with Tim and Peter Gold who at that time ran Vegas Insider website, a very popular site for sports bettors and fans... We were trying to put together a partnership that never paned out but Tim went on record with them and said Dallas would beat Miami after they were down 1 game to the Heat, as we know Dallas won the NBA Championship that year in Miami...
Over the summer Tim and I got together several times to game plan for the upcoming season and how to deal with the press who hated everything we were doing and continued to bash Tim & I for exposing the NBA and speaking openly about the scandal.. Not all the press was narrow minded and gave Donaghy a fair shake, guys like David Purdum and Tim Livingston were very fair, the rest were just outright mean and fueled by then NBA commissioner David Stern who had the press eating right out of his hands...
Danny B
Part 32 Meeting Tim Donaghy
Our visit to Hollywood was fantastic... We stayed at the W Hotel on Hollywood Blvd across from Dillon's Irish Pub ... Not sure if its still open but at the time it was a great place to eat and drink... The first day we got there we ran into Magic Johnson who was fantastic... Magic gave us about 10 minutes of his time taking pictures and talking NBA Playoffs... Cool guy..
After spending 2 days in Hollywood I sat with Endemol, the Company interested in doing a show based on sports betting and featuring me as the main Handicapper to the Stars... The meeting went well and I was told they needed time and would get back to me... It look 6 months, but they did...
We spent the next few days touring with the kids and family that lived in California.. We also ran into several actors like Henry Winkler, Jay Leno, Larry David.. We also met Terrell Owens and Chad Johnson... It was just a wonderful trip overall...
Football season 2010 was underway when an old friend gave me former NBA Referee Tim Donaghy's contact info telling me to reach out to him and get him on my radio show to discuss the up coming NBA season.. I sent Tim an email and within a few hours we were on the phone talking and right away we built a friendship that continues to this day..
For those that don't know Tim Donaghy's story I advise you read his book Personal Foul which covers Tim's 13 year career as a NBA Referee and what lead up to the NBA Betting Scandal of 2007 .. You can also visit Tim at www.refpicks.com
After having Tim on my show in late October of 2010 we made arrangements for Tim to fly into Allentown to talk about working with me full time.. I remember the day I picked Tim Donaghy up at the airport he gave me a Kobe Bryant Hand signed Game Jersey and a winning NBA Play... It was a great way to start a friendship and a great way to tip off the season together...
Danny B
Danny B Starting A New Podcast In January...
In January I will be launching a new Podcast that will be geared totally to Sports Betting..
The North Bergen Breakdown will continue but will be limited to 1 show a month..
The new show will feature some of the Nations Top Sports Bettors that will offer betting tips and predictions on all major sports..
I will also be posting videos that offer betting tips and advise ..
Meanwhile look for my Weekly Radio show that airs every Saturday coast to coast and can also be found right here on my website..
Happy Holidays ... Danny B
EPISODE 033 - "Danny B talks Thursday Night Football and Championship Weekend."
Danny B shares some thoughts on Thursday night Football, Saturday's games, and life.
NCAA Football Rankings
CFP Rankings: Michigan falls to No. 5, Washington claims 4th spot
by Dane Belbeck
Michigan's heart-breaking loss to Ohio State dropped them out of the top 4 of the latest edition of the CFP rankings, as both Clemson and Washington vaulted past the Wolverines who now sit fifth.
Alabama and Ohio State continued to sit in the top-2 spots on Tuesday's list, while the Huskies entered the playoff picture for the second time this season.
RankTeamRecordPrevious Rank
1Alabama12-0
2Ohio State11-1
3Clemson11-1
4Washington11-1
Colorado's win over Utah to clinch the Pac-12 South saw the Buffaloes vault over idle Oklahoma to the No. 8 spot, while the Sooners fell to No. 9 ahead of this weekend's rivalry game with No. 10 Oklahoma State.
The fact Oklahoma fell without playing this past weekend likely spells the end for any Big 12 team's hopes of making the playoff, as it's practically impossible to make up five spots in one weekend.
Alabama, Clemson, and Washington all play in conference championship games this weekend, and should be guaranteed a spot in the playoff with wins. Should that happen, the only question that remains is whether the winner of the Big Ten title game between Penn State and Wisconsin will replace Ohio State in the top 4.
RankTeamRecordPrevious Rank
5Michigan10-2
6Wisconsin10-2
7Penn State10-2
8Colorado10-2
9Oklahoma9-2
10Oklahoma State9-2
11USC9-3
12Florida State9-3
13Louisville9-3
14Auburn8-4
15Florida8-3
16West Virginia9-2
17Western Michigan12-0
18Stanford9-3
19Navy9-2
20Utah8-4
21LSU7-4
22Tennessee8-4
23Virginia Tech9-3
24Houston9-3
25Pitt8-4
Blogs by Danny B Part 31 (New)
It was early August 2005 when I opened up my first office in Allentown, It seems like yesterday but it was over 11 years ago and the Sports Handicapping Business has changed completely since then.. The first signs of change was in October of 2006 when the Unlawful Internet Gambling Act came into law.. To give a brief breakdown of what it means ... The Banks were no longer able to process transactions for offshore gambling, this included credit cards, pay pal, net teller, western union, etc... Of course the casinos found away around the law but sports bettors became weary and had to go through tougher channels to open up a betting account... We look at this like the Prohibition Law back in 1920 regarding the sale of booze... People that wanted to drink found a way to do it!
Even with the new law and the Internet changing the way sports bettors got their advise my radio show continued to be very successful and business was booming to the point I needed a bigger office which I did open in August of 2007...
In September of 2009 Jamie and I had our second son Jace, times were good and we were on top of the world.. I had everything most people wanted.. A beautiful wife, two handsome and healthy kids plus I was making a shit load of money... I
In February of 2010 I had a falling out with some guys that worked for me after I found out they were stealing from me. I closed down my office in Allentown and turned my basement into a home office while I maintained satellite offices in California,Vegas, Hoboken, Florida and Long Island... I have great resources so closing down one office did not effect business at all, in fact it got better...
In May of 2010 I got a call from an Entertainment Group in Hollywood telling me they love my radio show and wanted to turn it into a reality show and invited me and the family to come out and talk some shop... We did and looking back it was our favorite trip as a family...
Danny B
NFL Week 12 Fantasy Rankings
Fantasy: Week 12 Rankings (Updated)
by Justin Boone
Quarterbacks
PlayerOpp
1Tom Brady@ NYJ
2Aaron Rodgers@ PHI
3Drew Breesvs LA
4Russell Wilson@ TB
5Ben Roethlisberger@ IND
6Dak Prescottvs WAS
7Cam Newton@ OAK
8Eli Manning@ CLE
9Marcus Mariota@ CHI
10Derek Carrvs CAR
11Tyrod Taylorvs JAC
12Kirk Cousins@ DAL
13Matt Ryanvs ARI
14Colin Kaepernick@ MIA
15Matthew Staffordvs MIN
16Carson Palmer@ ATL
17Philip Rivers@ HOU
18Carson Wentzvs GB
19Ryan Tannehillvs SF
20Jameis Winstonvs SEA
21Sam Bradford@ DET
22Blake Bortles@ BUF
23Joe Flaccovs CIN
24Brock Osweilervs SD
25Ryan Fitzpatrickvs NE
26Andy Dalton@ BAL
27Josh McCownvs NYG
28Trevor Siemianvs KC
29Scott Tolzienvs PIT
30Alex Smith@ DEN
31Jared Goff@ NO
32Matt Barkleyvs TEN
EPISODE 032 - "Danny shares Thanksgiving Day Memories..."
In this episode Danny B and Andy share their childhood memories from Thanksgiving. We also get some knowledge from Danny B about the Thanksgiving Day games. Thanks to all our listeners during the Holiday Season!!!
NFL Week 12 Power Numbers
NFL Power Rankings - Week 12: Redskins move into top 10 with SNF win
Via the score
1. Dallas Cowboys
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
1111
Previous Rank: 1st
One of the few remaining questions about Dak Prescott was his lack of chemistry with Dez Bryant. The duo put that to bed with two touchdown connections against Baltimore. - Browne
2. New England Patriots
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
2223
Previous Rank: 2nd
New England might still look vulnerable on defense, but they don't face another legit offense for the rest of the regular season. We'll likely have to wait for the divisional round to see if Belichick's tinkering pays off. - Browne
3. Seattle Seahawks
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
3332
Previous Rank: 3rd
Rebounding from a slow start in impressive fashion, the Seahawks have quickly re-established themselves as a Super Bowl favorite. Sound familiar? - Wilkins
4. Oakland Raiders
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
4444
Previous Rank: 4th
Even when not at their best, the Raiders just keep finding a way to win. That's all that matters come playoff time. - Wilkins
5. Denver Broncos
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
5555
Previous Rank: 6th
Flawed as this year's Broncos team may be, the opportunity for a deep playoff run is still there. Sunday night's matchup with the division-rival Chiefs will provide a strong indicator of where Denver stands. - Wilkins
6. New York Giants
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
7866
Previous Rank: 8th
New York has yet to put on a dominant display, with all seven of their wins coming by eight or fewer points. That should change next week with Cleveland upcoming. - Browne
7. Atlanta Falcons
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
6778
Previous Rank: 7th
If the Falcons used their late bye week properly, they should be well set up to avoid a 2015-esque collapse and stroll to the division title. - Sanderson
8. Kansas City Chiefs
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
8687
Previous Rank: 5th
Losing to Tampa Bay is a major disappointment, but perhaps we should have seen it coming. Neither of the Chiefs' previous two wins, each coming against weaker competition, were the most convincing of performances. - Wilkins
9. Detroit Lions
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
1091011
Previous Rank: 12th
The Lions are a prime regression candidate, leading the NFC North with a measly +6 point differential. Until then, they'll feature as the NFL's most frenetic team. - Srinivasan
10. Washington Redskins
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
912910
Previous Rank: 13th
"How do you like me know?!" was Kirk Cousins' message to Redskins GM Scot McCloughan after throwing three scores in a rout of Green Bay. Cousins knows he's getting paid, and paid big. - Browne
11. Pittsburgh Steelers
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
1210149
Previous Rank: 10th
The Steelers are the league's most puzzling 5-5 team but they catch a break, squaring off against a Colts squad that will likely be without Andrew Luck on Thanksgiving. - Srinivasan
12. Philadelphia Eagles
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
11151312
Previous Rank: 9th
A loss to Seattle doesn't change how the Eagles should be viewed: They're a solid team that is being held back by the inexperience of their rookie quarterback, their receivers' constant drops, and the strength of the NFC East. - Browne
13. Houston Texans
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
14131214
Previous Rank: 11th
Without the laser pointers, homophobic slurs, high altitude, and poor officiating breaks in Mexico City on Monday, the Texans might have actually beaten a quality team for the first time since Week 2. - Sanderson
14. Minnesota Vikings
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
13111615
Previous Rank: 16th
Minnesota stopped its four-game losing streak but it's still too early to determine whether it'll regain the outstanding form it showed at the start of the year. - Srinivasan
15. Miami Dolphins
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
17191113
Previous Rank: 18th
This looks like a team destined to be exposed in the wild-card round of the playoffs. - Browne
16. Arizona Cardinals
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
16181518
Previous Rank: 14th
Is it finally time to stop expecting the Cardinals to put it all together? Aside from the continued dominance of David Johnson, there isn't anything all that promising about Arizona's level of play through 10 games. - Wilkins
17. Buffalo Bills
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
15171719
Previous Rank: 21st
Buffalo kept its head above water with a close win over Cincinnati, but will have to play better to stay in the AFC wild-card hunt - Browne
18. Baltimore Ravens
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
14142216
Previous Rank: 19th
Baltimore got bullied at their own game against Dallas, but will be thankful this winter that the rest of their division is facing a myriad of problems of their own. - Srinivasan
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
18221921
Previous Rank: 25th
Jameis Winston said the tomahawk chop in Kansas City made him feel like he was back at Florida State. The fans in Seattle this week won’t be creating such a welcoming environment. - Sanderson
20. Green Bay Packers
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
23162617
Previous Rank: 15th
At some point, Aaron Rodgers has to be complicit for the team's landslide into mediocrity. It's OK to criticize the quarterback fairly, no one will revoke your press pass. - Srinivasan
21. Indianapolis Colts
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
20201824
Previous Rank: 26th
Having yet to win games in back-to-back weeks this season, Thursday night against the Steelers won’t be an easy way to break that trend for the Colts. - Sanderson
22. Carolina Panthers
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
19232122
Previous Rank: 24th
It's going to be quite a challenge for the Panthers to continue on this season without Luke Kuechly, both schematically and emotionally. - Sanderson
23. Tennessee Titans
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
21212025
Previous Rank: 17th
The Titans were looking poised to finally get a win off Andrew Luck behind Marcus Mariota and a strong running game, but alas, they did not, leaving their division record at 1-3. - Sanderson
24. New Orleans Saints
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
22242323
Previous Rank: 20th
For the second week in a row, a blocked kick cost the Saints a win. Maybe Drew Brees should play special teams too. - Sanderson
25. San Diego Chargers
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
25252520
Previous Rank: 23rd
While a playoff spot may be unlikely, the Chargers still have some dangerous spoiler potential. Nobody should want to play this team down the stretch. - Wilkins
26. Cincinnati Bengals
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
26262426
Previous Rank: 22nd
Let's take a moment to reflect on the Bengals' five consecutive playoff appearances, a streak that will almost certainly be halted with A.J. Green and Gio Bernard suffering severe injuries. - Srinivasan
27. Los Angeles Rams
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
27272727
Previous Rank: 27th
The decision to start Jared Goff was long overdue. He wasn't great in his debut, but these are important reps for him to receive as the Rams build for the future. - Wilkins
28. Chicago Bears
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
29282929
Previous Rank: 28th
The Jay Cutler era in Chicago may finally be over. Too early to tell whether Bears fans will properly appreciate his career. - Srinivasan
29. New York Jets
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
30292828
Previous Rank: 29th
Can the Jets be on bye for the rest of the season? - Browne
30. Jacksonville Jaguars
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
31303030
Previous Rank: 30th
Not many players can throw an interception deflected off a teammates' foot, but only Blake Bortles can do it twice in two weeks. - Sanderson
31. San Francisco 49ers
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
28313131
Previous Rank: 31st
At what point do we wonder whether the 49ers will make a coaching change for the second straight offseason? As weak as the roster may be, Chip Kelly isn't exactly bringing much hope. - Wilkins
32. Cleveland Browns
BrowneSandersonSrinivasanWilkins
32323232
Previous Rank: 32nd
NFL Week 12 Fantasy Notes
Fantasy: Waiver Wire - Week 12
by David P. Woods
Quarterback
Colin Kaepernick, 49ers
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
at MIA18%$1
Kaepernick has thrown five touchdowns to just one interception across his last three games, and is adding a few fantasy points each week (plus the chance for a rushing touchdown) with his legs. You could do worse.
Ryan Tannehill, Dolphins
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
vs. SF24%$1
With two touchdown passes in back-to-back games and the 49ers on tap, Tannehill is an option for owners who stream quarterbacks.
Running Back
Rob Kelley, Redskins
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
at DAL64%$100
There's a good chance Kelley is already owned, but if you play in the 30% of leagues where he remains available, spend the rest of your FAAB budget to acquire him. Kelley probably won't score three touchdowns in a game again this season, but he's a locked-in feature back in a high-scoring offense.
Dion Lewis, Patriots
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
at NYJ60%$35
Lewis put to rest any questions about his agility and explosiveness in his first game back from ACL surgery, looking like the dangerous weapon he was last season. The issue for Lewis' fantasy value is that LeGarrette Blount and James White remain in the picture. Bet on Lewis leapfrogging White within the next few weeks.
Derrick Henry, Titans
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
at CHI48%$11
Purely an upside stash, Henry would be a borderline RB1 if DeMarco Murray were to get hurt - and Murray has shown some signs of wearing down.
Chris Ivory, Jaguars
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
at BUF48%$9
T.J. Yeldon suffered an ankle injury in Week 11, which should only cement Ivory's status as the Jaguars' lead rusher. Temper your expectations here, since the Jaguars have a very bad offense, but Ivory should see enough touches to have value as a RB3/FLEX.
Tim Hightower, Saints
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
vs. LA51%$7
Mark Ingram sustained a concussion on Thursday and is no lock to play in Week 12. Hightower will start and get a heavy workload if Ingram is ruled out.
Kenneth Dixon, Ravens
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
vs. CIN28%$7
Dixon and starter Terrance West are splitting touches roughly 50-50, with neither player looking all that impressive. At some point, the Ravens might decide to give their rookie a bigger piece of the pie.
Wendell Smallwood, Eagles
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
vs. GB5%$3
Ryan Mathews (knee) and Darren Sproles (rib) should both be considered questionable for Week 12. Smallwood would start if neither can go, and would take on a bigger role if either veteran sits.
Mike Gillislee, Bills
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
vs. JAX25%$2
LeSean McCoy is reportedly expected to play in Week 12 after undergoing thumb surgery Monday. But it remains to be seen whether McCoy actually sees the field (the Bills are often overly optimistic about their injured players) and how effective he'll be if so. Gillislee is next in line.
Wide Receiver
Rishard Matthews, Titans
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
at CHI70%$30
Matthews is already owned in most fantasy leagues, but needs to be owned in all of them. He and Marcus Mariota are developing some real chemistry.
Tyler Boyd, Bengals
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
at BAL6%$20
A.J. Green's hamstring injury should keep him sidelined for several weeks, and the rookie Boyd will be asked to step up. Don't expect Green-like numbers, but Boyd could see enough targets to join the WR3 conversation.
Sammy Watkins, Bills
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
vs. JAX41%$15
Watkins has yet to resume practicing after being placed on IR in late September, but it sounds like the Bills expect him back within the next few weeks. For playoff-bound fantasy owners, Watkins makes an excellent stash. He could be a difference-maker in Weeks 14-16.
Cameron Meredith, Bears
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
vs. TEN57%$4
With Alshon Jeffery suspended and Zach Miller out for the season with an injury, the Bears have no choice but to target Meredith in the passing game.
Eli Rogers, Steelers
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
at IND23%$3
With an injury limiting Sammie Coates, Rogers has established himself as the Steelers' No. 2 receiver.
Marqise Lee, Jaguars
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
at BUF6%$1
There isn't much fantasy value to be found in the Jaguars' passing attack, but Lee has been a bright spot. He has at least 50 yards in five of his last six games.
Tight End
Jared Cook, Packers
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
at PHI12%$5
The wire is pretty barren at tight end this week. Coming off a 105-yard performance, Cook is easily your best option.
MLB All Stars That Need A New Team
5 All-Stars who could use a change of scenery
by Bryan Mcwilliam
The Major League Baseball offseason is already budding with a plentiful amount of hot stove rumors featuring high profile names such as Chris Sale, Ian Kinsler, Chris Archer, J.D. Martinez, Sonny Gray, and more.
While rumors are rumors, some are more legitimate than others and could have a player on the move who may be thankful for a fresh start in new surroundings.
Here are five players who could benefit from a change of scenery:
Chris Sale, White Sox
With the Chicago White Sox rumored to be transitioning into a potential rebuild, the name of their ace Sale has prominently been featured in numerous trade reports, with the Washington Nationals and Atlanta Braves showing interest.
The wirey 27-year-old could use a change of scenery, especially after an incident this past July, where he was sent home after cutting up a White Sox throwback jersey, citing its discomfort.
He later stated the team - who finished 78-84 - was more interested in making PR moves than winning ball games.
Ryan Braun, Brewers
Braun has had a spectacular 10-year run with the Milwaukee Brewers, which has featured a Rookie of the Year and MVP award, but the 33-year-old, who is under team control until 2021, hasn't appeared in the postseason since 2011 and it doesn't appear the Brewers will be doing so anytime soon.
His name has swirled in trade rumors since before this past season's trade deadline, and despite loving Milwaukee, he's admitted losing as much as the Brewers do has been hard on him.
Joey Votto, Reds
For the seventh time in his 10-year career, Votto surpassed .400 in on-base percentage in 2016. Too bad, he plays for the rebuilding Cincinnati Reds who finished 68-94 last season.
The 33-year-old Canadian could be an incredible addition to a winning club interested in acquiring him and the $172-million remaining on his contract until 2023.
Votto's displeasure with playing for a losing team may have shown its colors over the past two seasons when he frustratingly got into an argument with a Reds fan while attempting to catch a foul ball this past August, which was less than a year after he was suspended for an altercation with an umpire.
Yasiel Puig, Dodgers
It wasn't the greatest of seasons for Puig in 2016, the eccentric Cuban outfielder of the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Not only did the 25-year-old struggle at the plate, he was demoted to Triple-A in August in favor of Josh Reddick, who was acquired via trade, and still had the reputation as a divisive personality in the clubhouse.
The Dodgers reportedly tried to trade him to the Brewers in exchange for Braun, and the deal could be revisited if the stars align, which could pull Puig out of the L.A. spotlight and allow him to focus on baseball.
Mike Trout, Angels
How much longer is Trout going to be in a Los Angeles Angels uniform?
The franchise player of not only the Halos, but perhaps baseball, is entering the prime of his already dominant career and he's now on a losing club, who could use a change of direction.
A trade of Trout, arguably baseball's best player, would be a bold move by the Angels that could presumably make them the butt of a joke for years to come, but it could help the team clear payroll, and restock MLB's worst farm system in the process.
Trout isn't one to voice his displeasure, but if 2017 ends in another losing season, it could be the kickstarter towards a blockbuster trade and perhaps a healthy change of scenery for the 25-year-old superstar.
NFL Week 11 Betting Tips
Week 11 Warmup: Packers face must-win; Cowboys on upset watch
by Dan Wilkins
The Rundown
Prescott's biggest challenge
Dak Prescott has been sensational. As difficult as the decision may have been, the Cowboys really had no choice but to relegate Tony Romo to a backup role. That said, the rookie signal-caller still has a long way to go before he's on Romo's level as a passer. Sunday's game could present him with his most difficult matchup yet, as Baltimore boasts one of few defensive fronts that stands a chance at limiting Dallas' league-best rushing attack. Precsott leading the way to another win with a strong passing performance could silence any remaining doubters.
Packers facing early must-win
Green Bay's running out of time to put it all together. Sitting at 4-5 after dropping three consecutive games, falling Sunday to the Redskins just isn't an option. Having one of the NFL's all-time great quarterbacks will always give the Packers a chance to break out of their struggles, and there's certainly potential for a big day against a Washington defense allowing 23.2 points per game. But if last week's disaster against the Titans is any indication, it's the defense that has the most work to do.
NFL returns to Mexico
This week's Monday nighter sees the Raiders and Texans go head-to-head in Mexico, the NFL's first trip south of the border since 2005. Houston will hope that taking on a still-leaky Raiders secondary can finally allow Brock Osweiler to get on track, but this one should be decided on the other side of the ball. Oakland won't be deviating from the run-oriented strategy that earned them a convincing win over the Broncos prior to last week's bye. The Texans' 26th-ranked run defense will need to come through with its best showing of the year.
Must-See Matchups
Seahawks O-Line vs. Eagles D-Line
A Sunday night road win over the Patriots appropriately has many pinning the Seahawks as a Super Bowl favorite. One of few concerns remaining on an otherwise stacked roster is the offensive line. The underwhelming unit in front of Russell Wilson could be exposed by a talented Eagles defensive front, potentially setting Seattle up for a letdown just one week removed from a statement victory.
Carson Palmer vs. Vikings defense
The Cardinals offense has recently been flashing signs of the explosive unit the football world was expecting heading into the season. With the recent performances coming against subpar opponents, though, facing Minnesota's third-ranked defense should tell us everything we need to know about the legitimacy of that trend. Palmer will have to take care of the ball for Arizona to avoid another costly loss.
Mike Evans vs. Marcus Peters
Evans is the only real threat for the Buccaneers passing attack, so its only fitting he leads the league with 108 targets through nine games. Now's the ideal time for Kansas City to alter its typical strategy and have Peters travel around the field in coverage. These two young playmakers going head-to-head on every snap would provide football fans with one of the season's most entertaining individual matchups.
Upset Watch
Ravens over Cowboys (-7)
The Cowboys have established themselves as legitimate playoff contender, but the Ravens match up too well not to give them a run this week. Look for the Baltimore defense to do everything it can to limit Ezekiel Elliott's impact and force the ball into Prescott's hands. That'll be a relatively new experience for the rookie, so it'd be no surprise to see him struggle.
Stat of the Week
Unexpected Star
Percy Harvin, Bills
The Bills didn't bring Harvin out of retirement for nothing. Now that he's had a few weeks to get himself back into playing shape, there's no reason not to design a few plays that can utilize his athleticism. What better game for a breakout performance than taking on a Bengals defense that can't seem to stop anyone?
Updated NFL Fantasy Tips
Fantasy: Week 11 Rankings (Updated)
by Justin Boone
Quarterbacks
PlayerOpp
1Cam Newtonvs NO
2Tom Brady@ SF
3Ben Roethlisberger@ CLE
4▲Andrew Luckvs TEN
5Drew Brees@ CAR
6▲Aaron Rodgers@ WAS
7Marcus Mariota@ IND
8Matthew Staffordvs JAC
9Russell Wilsonvs PHI
10▲Kirk Cousinsvs GB
11▼Derek Carrvs HOU
12Tyrod Taylor@ CIN
13▲Eli Manningvs CHI
14▼Dak Prescottvs BAL
15Blake Bortles@ DET
16Andy Daltonvs BUF
17Colin Kaepernickvs NE
18Jameis Winston@ KC
19▲Alex Smithvs TB
20▼Carson Palmer@ MIN
21Joe Flacco@ DAL
22Ryan Tannehill@ LA
23▲Sam Bradfordvs ARI
24▲Cody Kesslervs PIT
25▼Jay Cutler@ NYG
26Brock Osweiler@ OAK
27▼Carson Wentz@ SEA
28Jared Goffvs MIA
NFL Week 11 Fantasy Tips
Fantasy: Waiver Wire - Week 11
by David P. Woods
Quarterback
Tyrod Taylor, Bills
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
at CIN61%$5
Taylor's ownership has dropped to the point where he may be available in your league. With Sammy Watkins eligible to return from IR in a few weeks, Taylor could be worth stashing. He also makes a decent streaming option in Week 11.
Alex Smith, Chiefs
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
vs. TAM25%$1
Smith gets the Buccaneers in Week 11, which makes him a viable bye-week replacement.
Running Back
C.J. Prosise, Seahawks
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
vs. PHI35%$45
Prosise broke out in front of a national audience Sunday night, collecting 17 carries for 66 yards and seven passes for 87 yards on the Patriots. He played more than three-quarters of the Seahawks' snaps and appears not just to have edged past Christine Michael on the depth chart, but to have left him in the dust. Acquiring Prosise should be your top priority on the waiver wire this week, but it's important to note that Thomas Rawls is expected to return to the lineup Sunday. It's possible Prosise will settle into a role as a passing-down specialist. He'll still have fantasy value in such a role, but he likely won't be the a league-winning type of player.
Thomas Rawls, Seahawks
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
vs. PHI48%$45
The Seahawks' Week 1 starter, Rawls hasn't played since injuring his leg in Week 2. He's healthy now, though, and looks primed to play in Week 11. What his role will be remains a complete mystery, but it's possible Rawls will emerge as the Seahawks' best option on early downs and near the goal line. He's worth a sizable FAAB bid if he's on the waiver wire in your league.
Rob Kelley, Redskins
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
vs. GB48%$40
In Kelley's first game as the Redskins' starter (Matt Jones was a healthy scratch), he made it clear he deserves to keep the job by taking 22 carries for 97 yards. Kelley isn't a top talent, but he's far more consistent than Jones ever was and should retain low-end RB2 value for the rest of the season.
James Starks, Packers
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
at WAS27%$25
Starks returned from knee surgery in Week 10 and played ahead of Ty Montgomery as the Packers' lead running back. It's a role he's likely to retain moving forward, though we've seen enough of Starks in a featured role in previous seasons to conclude he's unlikely to be anything more than a low-end RB2.
Jeremy Langford, Bears
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
at NYG26%$9
Bears starter Jordan Howard hurt his lower leg Sunday and the team suggested it could be an Achilles injury, which might put the rest of Howard's rookie season in jeopardy. If Howard misses time, Week 1 starter Langford would presumably return to the top of the depth chart.
Dion Lewis, Patriots
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
vs. SF58%$3
Lewis is eligible to return to the Patriots' lineup after a stint on the PUP list, but the team seems to be in no rush to get him back. Every week, Lewis' remote chances of being a fantasy factor this season get even slimmer.
Wide Receiver
Michael Floyd, Cardinals
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
at MIN45%$20
Floyd posted his first 100-yard game of the season in Week 10 and finally looked like the physically dominant receiver he was during the second half of last season. Owners probably can't trust him to keep it up, but another week or two of top production from Floyd could put him right back in the WR2 conversation. If you're hurting at the position, he should be the first wideout you target on the waiver wire this week.
Kenny Britt, Rams
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
vs. MIA57%$18
Much of the football world chuckled at Britt's recent campaigning for a Pro Bowl berth, but he's right that he is quietly having the best season of his career. He should be owned in every fantasy league and has a very appealing matchup against the Dolphins' weak secondary on tap.
Jamison Crowder, Redskins
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
vs. GB48%$8
Crowder has scored a touchdown in five of nine games played this season. One score is probably his weekly upside, but that's more than many players can say.
Rishard Matthews, Titans
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
vs. IND54%$8
Emerging as Marcus Mariota's favorite red-zone passing target not named Delanie Walker, Matthews has six touchdown catches in his last six games. As Mariota's star continues to rise, Matthews will be pulled upward by its gravitational force.
Corey Coleman, Browns
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
vs. PIT57%$4
Coleman has been quiet since returning from a hand injury two weeks ago, but he has the potential to post one or two big games down the stretch and in the fantasy playoffs.
DeVante Parker, Dolphins
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
at LA63%$3
Parker topped 100 yards receiving for the first time since Week 2 on Sunday. He has the chance to do it a few more times before the season's end.
Tight End
Eric Ebron, Lions
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
vs. JAX57%$7
Still available in four of 10 fantasy leagues, Ebron has been a big part of the Lions' offense since returning from a foot injury three weeks ago. He has top-three tight end upside.
Cameron Brate, Buccaneers
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
at KC52%$2
Make America Brate again. (Sorry. He's mentioned in this column almost every week. What else can be said about him at this point? Pick him up if you're in a deep league and you want a tight end who's guaranteed to get targets.)
Julius Thomas, Jaguars
Next UpOwnershipFAAB bid
at DET58%$1
The Lions are the NFL's worst team, by far, against tight ends. That makes Thomas an options for streamers.