MLB odds and ends

Ryan Braun is calling out GM Doug Melvin to improve the pitching staff.

Ryan Freel was traded to the Royals for a player to be named later. The Cubs also sent cash to KC. When Freel was designated for assignment last week, the Cubs had 10 days to trade or release him. Fortunately, someone was interested, and the Cubs will at least get something back.

Highly touted pitching prospect Aroldis Chapman defected from Cuba last week, and could be in the big leagues soon. The lefty throws 100 mph and defected by simply leaving his hotel and not returning during a tournament in the Netherlands. (hat tip: Krista Cardona)

Albert Pujols leads the NL in HR and RBI, and is just 10 points behind Hanley Ramirez for the league lead in batting average.