New York magazine took Nate Silver's "Secret Sauce" theory and applied it to this year's teams, and it showed that the Yankees are favorites to succeed in this fall's playoffs. In its simplest terms, the theory emphasizes a power pitching staff, a good closer and good defense to win a short series. The Dodgers ended up second in this statistical ranking, followed by the Giants, Tigers and Red Sox.

Scott Kazmir will have the option to demand a trade from the Angels this winter. The Angels acquired Kazmir from the Rays for three prospects on Friday. Because Kazmir was traded in the middle of a multi-year contract, he can force a move. However, the pitcher isn't worried about making a decision just yet. "I'm looking at this year right now," Kazmir told the Los Angeles Times. "That's all I can think of. "I would love to finish out my contract here, in an organization like this. I'm lucky to be a part of it."

The Twins insist that they'll be able to afford catcher Joe Mauer, who can hit the free agent market following the 2010 season. "Yeah, we can afford him," team president Dave St. Peter told the Pioneer Press. However, Mauer is worried about catching the Tigers in the AL Central and not his contract status. "I haven't even thought about it," Mauer said. "I've got enough on my plate right now trying to win a ballgame."

Cardinals manager Tony La Russa said that the team plans to recall Troy Glaus when rosters expand on Tuesday. La Russa added that the team is considering bringing up a left-hander reliever as well.

The Pirates have increased their offer to Dominican prospect Miguel Angel Sano, a team source told the Post-Gazette. However, the team didn't get a response by Saturday night's deadline. Sano, a shortstop that is expected to move to the outfield, is considered the best international amateur talent. Major League teams were able to begin making him offers on July 2.

The Tigers plan to recall pitcher Jeremy Bonderman when rosters expand on Tuesday, but he will not join the team's starting rotation. Detroit manager Jim Leyland said that there's "no chance" Bonderman will start. Bonderman missed half of last season after undergoing surgery for a blood clot in his right shoulder. He lasted just four innings of his only start this summer.

David Wright will wear a new helmet when he returns to the Mets this week. Wright is hoping to return to the Mets on Tuesday after being hit in the helmet with a fastball two weeks ago. The new helmet, made by Rawlings, is called the S100 and will be required in the minor leagues beginning next season. In addition, six of the helmets are being sent to each major league team to try out this season. "I imagine they got some pretty smart people that designed them so I'm sure it works pretty good," Wright told the Associated Press. "If it provides more safety, then I'm all for it."

The Kansas City Royals today announced they have extended the contract of General Manager Dayton Moore through the 2014 season. Moore has exercised his option for 2011 with the Royals extending the deal to cover the 2012, 2013 and 2014 seasons. Consistent with club policy, terms of the extension were not disclosed. ?Although it has been a disappointing season,? said Royals? President Dan Glass, ?I believe we are heading in the right direction and Dayton is an important part of the process.?

The Kansas City Royals today announced they have extended the contract of General Manager Dayton Moore through the 2014 season. Moore has exercised his option for 2011 with the Royals extending the deal to cover the 2012, 2013 and 2014 seasons. Consistent with club policy, terms of the extension were not disclosed. "Although it has been a disappointing season," said Royals? President Dan Glass, "I believe we are heading in the right direction and Dayton is an important part of the process."

The Kansas City Royals today announced they have extended the contract of General Manager Dayton Moore through the 2014 season. Moore has exercised his option for 2011 with the Royals extending the deal to cover the 2012, 2013 and 2014 seasons. ?Although it has been a disappointing season,? said Royals? President Dan Glass, ?I believe we are heading in the right direction and Dayton is an important part of the process.?