| Ellis finally producing hits | Thursday 6/12, 11:52 PM CT |
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Mark Ellis had two more hits on Thursday night giving him eight in his last four games as his average has climbed from .232 to .250.
Our View: Ellis is likely available in many leagues given his poor work at the plate in the early going, but if you have a need in the middle of your infield, now would seem like a good time to look him up as it is clear that he is finally rolling at the plate. |
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| Blanton falls to 3-9 | Thursday 6/12, 11:45 PM CT |
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Joe Blanton lost his ninth game of the season thanks to a grand slam by Hideki Matsui as the Athletics lost 4-1 on Thursday night.
Our View: Blanton only allowed four runs in 6.2 innings, and despite the 3-9 record his ERA is still solid at 4.23. Unfortunately he has given up 111 hits in just 100 innings which has lead to more baserunners than one would like. Blanton is solid, but clearly not a difference maker. |
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| Pettitte holds A's to one run | Thursday 6/12, 11:42 PM CT |
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Andy Pettitte held the Athletics to just one run over eight innings on Thursday night as he won his sixth game of the season. Pettitte found success by limiting his walks allowing only one on the night along with permitting just five hits.
Our View: After being a punching bag in his last two outings (14 ER in 13.2 IP), Pettitte looked liked the pitcher who owns 207 career victories tonight. No longer the pitcher he once was, Pettitte still keeps the Yankees in it most nights which meaning he still has a chance to put up a solid win total the rest of the way. |
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| Matsui hits grand slam | Thursday 6/12, 11:39 PM CT |
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Hideki Matsui knocked in all four Yankees runs on Thursday night as he hit a grand slam off Joe Blanton in the Yankees victory over the Athletics, 4-1.
Our View: Matsui has been his normal steady self this year hitting a very quiet .322, though he has knocked in only 33 RBI in 62 games. As his knee continues to strengthen, look for the extra base power to be kicked up a notch. |
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| Carroll has four hits | Thursday 6/12, 10:03 PM CT |
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Jamey Carroll went 4-for-4 for the Indians on Thursday to raise his average .028 points. He also scored a run and knocked one in.
Our View: First it was Asdrubal Cabrera and then Josh Barfield who failed to hit at second base, so now Carroll will get his shot. Carroll is hitting .273 thanks to eight hits the past three games, and he could be a nice fill in if you have an injured player, though chances of him sustaining a run of offensive excellence is pretty limited, though he did hit .300 with 84 runs scored as recently as 2006. |
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| Francisco knocks out four hits | Thursday 6/12, 10:00 PM CT |
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Ben Francisco had a big day for the Indians hitting from the third slot in the order with four hits in five trips to the plate. He also knocked in three runs.
Our View: Francisco certainly isn't a number three hitter at this point of his career, but with injuries to Travis Hafner and Victor Martinez the team needs someone to step up in the heart of the order, and for a day at least, Francisco did just that. |
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| Laffey back to baffling hitters | Thursday 6/12, 9:57 PM CT |
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Aaron Laffey limited the Twins to just one run over six innings to pick up his fourth victory of the season for the Indians.
Our View: Laffey has turned that frown upside over his last two starts allowing just three runs in 12.2 innings after his worst outing of the season on June 2nd (eight ER). He continues to operate as one of the better soft tossing lefties in the AL this season. |
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| Livan battered by Tribe | Thursday 6/12, 9:55 PM CT |
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Livan Hernandez was abysmal on Thursday allowing 12 hits and seven runs to the Indians in his fourth loss of the season.
Our View: If you had Livan in there today, you just haven't been paying attention as Livan has done his best pitching machine impersonation over his last five starts allowing at least five runs in each outing (good for a 11.10 ERA). |
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| Rollins back in the groove | Thursday 6/12, 9:51 PM CT |
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Jimmy Rollins had two hits on Thursday which led to a run scored and his 12th stolen base of the season.
Our View: Rollins has hits in 5-straight games, though in the previous four games he had only one hit. Still, it's nice to see him healthy and running again. Don't worry, the swing is almost back where it needs to be. |
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| Hermida treading water | Thursday 6/12, 9:48 PM CT |
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Jeremy Hermida went 1-for-3 on Thursday leaving his batting average at a middling .257.
Our View: Hermida has been unable to translate that sweet swing into any type of consistent production for the Marlins this year. If you've held on to him this long you might as well wait a bit longer, but if you are waiting for a breakout mirroring what he did in the second half last year (.340-10-36), you're likely going to be disappointed. |
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| Olsen loses, still pitches well | Thursday 6/12, 9:44 PM CT |
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Scott Olsen allowed two runs, one earned, in picking up his third loss of the season on Thursday. Olsen walked only one with seven strikeouts, but he faced a hot Jamie Moyer who pitched a shutout for eight innings.
Our View: Oslen has looked good as new his last two starts with 12 K and only two BB allowing just one earned run in 13 innings as he appears to have overcome the dead arm issues he was dealing with. |
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| Moyer dominates Marlins on two hits | Thursday 6/12, 9:41 PM CT |
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Jamie Moyer had a no-hitter into the sixth inning and ultimately held the Marlins scoreless for eight innings to pick up his seventh win.
Our View: Moyer eventually allowed two hits and a walk, but as he has done for most of his career, Moyer baffled hitters on this night with a series of slow, and slower, offerings. With the offense behind him he is a solid bet for wins, but he offers nothing in the strikeout department and little help in the ratio categories. |
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| Glaus powering the ball | Thursday 6/12, 9:34 PM CT |
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Troy Glaus hit his eight long ball of the year on Thursday but it wasn't nearly enough as the Cardinals lost 6-2 to the Reds.
Our View: With Albert Pujols on the shelf, the club sorely needs Glaus to step up and fill a run producing void in the middle of the lineup. He has gone deep five times in his last 11 days, so his bat is warming up at the perfect time. |
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| Phillips keys Reds victory | Thursday 6/12, 9:31 PM CT |
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Brandon Phillips knocked in three runs for the Reds on Thursday on a bases loaded triple that broke open a close game in the seventh inning.
Our View: Phillips has struggled to keep the batting average respectable (.269), but the rest of his offensive line has been solid with 12 home runs, 11 stolen bases and 40 runs scored. |
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| Arroyo rebounds in six solid innings | Thursday 6/12, 9:26 PM CT |
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Bronson Arroyo rebounded from two poor starts last week to pitch beautifully on Thursday night as he worked six scoreless innings against the Cardinals. He also went 2-for-2 at the plate with his first home runs of the season.
Our View: Arroyo continues to confound with solid strikeout numbers (75 in 79.2 innings), but an abysmal WHIP (1.60). The big culprit has been batters amazing .375 BABIP off Arroyo this season. When that number regresses, Arroyo's performance should improve. |
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| Pineiro solid in first start back | Thursday 6/12, 9:22 PM CT |
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Making his first start since May 20th, Joel Pineiro held the Reds to two runs over five innings to pick up a no-decision. Pineiro struck out six and only walked one while needing just 69 pitches in the outing.
Our View: The Cardinals desperately need some good news, and tonight it came in the form of the right arm of Pineiro who showed no ill effects from the groin injury that sidelined him. |
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| Loaiza to be released, again | Thursday 6/12, 9:08 PM CT |
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Esteban Loaiza will likely be released in order to create a spot on the roster for Adam Russel who has been recalled from Triple-A, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Russell figures to work in long relief while Loaiza will try, once again, to rekindle a sagging career. |
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| Batista to pen, Dickey to start | Thursday 6/12, 9:05 PM CT |
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Miguel Batista will be removed from the rotation and replaced by knuckleballer R.A. Dickey, according to MLB.com. "We're trying to line up our ducks the best way we can to protect ourselves," manager John McLaren said of the switch. "[Batista and Dickey] will switch roles until we get J.J. [Putz] back."
Our View: With Putz out at least through the weekend, the team made the decision that it would be better to have the fastball/slider stuff of Bautista in the pen with the fluttering knuckleball of Dickey in the rotation. |
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| Putz out through the weekend | Thursday 6/12, 9:02 PM CT |
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J.J. Putz will be out of action at least through this weekend due to discomfort in his right elbow which turned out to be a hyperextension of his elbow, MLB.com. The good news is that his UCL seems to be intact meaning he wont need Tommy John surgery.
Our View: The team hopes Putz can avoid the DL, but it seems clear that another trip to the list is quite possible. Look for Brandon Morrow to close in the absence of Putz. |
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| Albaladejo done for year | Thursday 6/12, 8:59 PM CT |
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Jonathan Albaladejo doesn't have a strained muscle in his elbow, the injury is actually a stress fracture that will cause him to miss the rest of the season, according to ESPN.
Our View: Jonathan made only seven appearances before going down with the injury, but this just leaves another spot in the Yankees bullpen to fill with Joba Chamerlain in the starting rotation. |
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| Hughes has x-rays, hears good news | Thursday 6/12, 8:54 PM CT |
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Phil Hughes had an x-ray on his injured right rib on Thursday and the results where positive with Hughes being cleared to being throwing in about two weeks, according to ESPN.
Our View: Hughes will need about six weeks of throwing to get back out on the hill meaning he likely won't return until sometime in late August, provided he doesn't suffer any setbacks. |
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| Could Upton be demoted? | Thursday 6/12, 8:20 PM CT |
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Justin Upton is really struggling hitting only .140 with 43 K over his last 93 AB, and there are internal debates going on in the D'backs front office over whether or not Upton should be sent to the minors to work on his problems, according to the Arizona Republic. "Optioning him out isn't that appealing," GM Josh Byrnes said. "We're committed to him for a reason. We believe in him. Obviously for extended stretches he has shown how good he can be."
Our View: Upton has been overmatched of late, not that surprising considering he is only 20 years of age and has such limited experience. We can't see the D'backs sending him down right now, but it certainly is a situation worthy of keeping an eye on. In the least, Upton should be on your bench until he proves he hits his way out of his funk. |
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| Cordero over flu | Thursday 6/12, 8:13 PM CT |
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Francisco Cordero returned to the Reds on Thursday after being unavailable the past two days because of the flu, according to MLB.com. "One guy out of the equation changes the whole bullpen," manager Dusty Baker said. "One guy is one-seventh of your bullpen."
Our View: Cordero has been solid all year and should continue to be so the rest of year given his overpowering stuff. |
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| Hafner continuing rehab | Thursday 6/12, 8:00 PM CT |
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Travis Hafner continues to take dry swings in the batting cage while working on exercises to strengthen his injured shoulder, according to MLB.com.
Our View: The club hopes that he will be able to begin a rehab assignment next week with the hope of possibly returning to the Indians by next weekend. |
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| Carmona progressing well | Thursday 6/12, 7:57 PM CT |
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Fausto Carmona threw his first bullpen session on Thursday since injuring his left hip on May 24th, according to MLB.com. Carmona threw 35 pitches, all fastballs and changeups, and reported after the outing that he felt fine. "It went very well," head athletic trainer Lonnie Soloff said. "If all progresses well, he'll throw a 50-pitch, all-pitch bullpen Saturday."
Our View: The plan is for Carmona to throw on Saturday and then head out for his first rehab start next week. He is likely still a couple of weeks from returning, but his progress is encouraging. |
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| Hudson treated for dehydration | Thursday 6/12, 7:52 PM CT |
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Tim Hudson held the Cubs to just one run on Thursday before he was treated for dehydration, according to MLB.com. "He couldn't bend his fingers," after being removed from the game Braves manager Bobby Cox said.
Our View: Even if his fingers couldn't bend, Hudson likely would have had a better chance of picking up the win if he had thrown underhand than he did by turning over the game to the team's bullpen. Hopefully Hudson will be able to make his next start, we'll keep you posted. |
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| Werth to serve as backup catcher | Thursday 6/12, 7:48 PM CT |
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Jayson Werth will serve as the Phillies backup catcher the next day or two as normal backup catcher Chris Coste will be away with his wife who just gave birth to their second child, according to MLB.com. "Physically, catching, the physical stuff, I don't think will be a problem," he said. "If anything it will be the game-calling and knowing the hitters."
Our View: Werth was originally drafted as a catcher, so he should be perfectly capable of handling the role if need be. Keep a close on on this situation if your league only requires one outing to qualify at a position. |
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| Giles enjoying third hole | Thursday 6/12, 7:43 PM CT |
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Brian Giles hit a home run, just the fourth of the season, for the Padres on Thursday.
Our View: Since being moved into the third spot in the order Giles has excelled with an OPS over .900 and a batting average of .342 as he has once again become a fantasy relevant outfielder. |
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| DeWitt struggling after big month | Thursday 6/12, 7:41 PM CT |
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Blake DeWitt went 0-for-3 on Thursday and now has just seven hits in his last 37 AB (.189) to drop his average to .281, this after a huge month of May that earned him Rookie of the Month honors.
Our View: With Andy LaRoche with the big league club, DeWitt had better start hitting or he could find himself losing a few at-bats in the short-term and a lot in the long-term when Nomar Garciaparra returns. |
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| Gonzalez continues to excel | Thursday 6/12, 7:36 PM CT |
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Adrian Gonzalez belted his 18th home run of the season while knocking in two runs to push his total to 60 on the year.
Our View: Gonzalez has hits in 6-straight games and hits in 12 of his last 14 outings to raise his average from .279 to .295. After a 30 home run, 100 RBI season, Gonzalez has clearly taken his game to a whole other level this season. |
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| Kuroda looks awful again | Thursday 6/12, 7:31 PM CT |
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Hiroki Kuroda was handed his sixth loss of the season on Thursday as he permitted five hits, four walks and six runs in just 2.1 innings against the Padres.
Our View: This is the second time in three outings that Kuroda has failed to throw three innings while allowing six runs. What makes his recent work so confounding is that these two horrid outings sandwiched a complete game shutout against the Cubs. |
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| Peavy dominates Dodgers | Thursday 6/12, 7:28 PM CT |
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Jake Peavy had a triumphant first effort back as he he hurled six shutout innings against the Dodgers, according to the Associated Press. “I’ve got a long way to go to be where I want to be,” said Peavy. “But I was able to make some good pitches when I had to. I wasn’t asked to grind it out because of the score. I was able to pitch to contact.”
Our View: Peavy needed just 72 pitches while allowing three hits and not walking a single batter. Feel free to activate him if you were waiting to see how he responded to his injured arm. He looked great today. |
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| Lewis drives in three runs | Thursday 6/12, 7:14 PM CT |
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Fred Lewis went 2-for-5 with two runs scored and three RBI for the Giants in their 10-7 victory over the Rockies.
Our View: One of Lewis' hits was his fifth home run of the year as he continues to provide a decent level of overall production for an outfielder in mixed leagues. |
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| Reybolds bombed in loss | Thursday 6/12, 6:56 PM CT |
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Greg Reynolds dropped to 1-4 after getting pounded for 10 hits and eight runs in just 3.1 innings against the Giants.
Our View: Reynolds is now 1-4 with a 6.69 ERA and has appeared to be overmatched at this level. The Rockies could send him back down to work on his game, something that is advisable given his terrible 0.43 K/BB ratio and overall inability to impose his will on hitters. |
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| Wilson earns 19th save | Thursday 6/12, 6:50 PM CT |
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Brian Wilson struck out two batters in an inning of work on Thursday against the Rockies to pick up his 19th save of the season.
Our View: Wilson was blowing 97 mph heat past the Rockies today, and when he is hitting the corners with stuff like that, batters have little chance. Wilson has faced some struggles this season, but he has converted 10-straight save chances for the Giants. |
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| Helton nearing .300 | Thursday 6/12, 6:44 PM CT |
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Todd Helton produced two hits and two runs on Thursday as he raised his average to .297 on the year.
Our View: .278 in April, .287 in May and now .378 in June. Helton owns a career .330 batting average, and has hit at least .320 in eight of the last nine seasons, so it was only a matter of time before the average began to climb. |
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| Sanchez perseveres for win | Thursday 6/12, 6:41 PM CT |
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Jonathan Sanchez needed 109 pitches to make it through five innings, yet he somehow managed to record the win despite allowing seven runs to the Rockies.
Our View: Sanchez is now 6-3 on the year with a strong 8.96 K/9 mark, though he often has days like this where he has difficulty finding the strike zone. This was the first time in seven starts that he allowed more than three earned runs, so look for a bounce back effort from him next time out. |
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| Durham records 2000th hit | Thursday 6/12, 6:36 PM CT |
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Ray Durham recorded two hits and two RBI for the Giants and is now hitting .305 on the year. Durham's second hit was the 2,000th of his career.
Our View: Not a bad little career for Durham who has been hitting pretty darn well of late including a ultra impressive .405 average in June. If he's on waivers, you might consider adding him to your roster while he is hot. |
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| Millar leaves game with knee injury | Thursday 6/12, 6:30 PM CT |
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Kevin Millar was forced from the Orioles and Red Sox game on Thursday with a left knee contusion, according to the Associated Press. X-rays were negative and he is being listed as day-to-day.
Our View: Oscar Salazar entered the lineup though Millar's presence will be sorely missed if he is out for any length of time, both for his attitude and recent performance on the field that includes three home runs and nine RBI in his last 10 games. |
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| Edmonds comes up big | Thursday 6/12, 6:27 PM CT |
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Jim Edmonds hit a sacrifice fly in the seventh inning and then hit a home run in the ninth inning to send the game into extra innings for the Cubs.
Our View: Believe it or not, Edmonds has actually resembled a major league hitter in June as he is hitting .321 with eight RBI in nine games on the month. |
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| Francoeur goes yard | Thursday 6/12, 6:24 PM CT |
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Jeff Francoeur went deep for the eighth time this season on Thursday on his way to two hits and two RBI for the Braves.
Our View: Jeff was the Braves offense on this day as he produced their only two runs. He continues to do just enough to stay in most fantasy lineups, but his performance thus far still has to be considered disappointing. |
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| Braves on record losing streak | Thursday 6/12, 6:19 PM CT |
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Blaine Boyer might have blown the save in the ninth inning, but it was Manny Acosta who picked up the loss in the 11th inning on Thursday. This was the Braves 21st straight loss in a one run game on the road, tied for the longest streak in major league history, according to the Associated Press.
Our View: Atrocious. The Braves might want to look up Gene Garber and see if he still has any bullets in his arm. Acosta is now 3-5 and in his last seven appearances he has two blown saves and four loses, which begs the question of why Bobby Cox keeps sending him out there? |
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| Zambrano goes seven innings | Thursday 6/12, 6:13 PM CT |
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Carlos Zambrano allowed two runs over seven innings on Thursday against the Braves. Zambrano struck out only three batters on the day with three walks to pick up the no-decision.
Our View: Zambrano continues to be unable to punch out batters out as he has had three or fewer strikeouts in six of his last nine starts, an alarmingly low rate for a pitcher who has averaged 196 K the past three years. He doesn't appear to be injured, but perhaps all the innings are starting to catch up to him? |
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| Hudson denied eighth win | Thursday 6/12, 6:04 PM CT |
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Tim Hudson limited the Padres to just one run over 6.2 innings on Thursday, but he picked up a no-decision after Blaine Boyer blew the save in the ninth inning.
Our View: The Braves bullpen simply stinks. Hudson has allowed just two runs over his last two starts, but both times he was saddled with the no-decision when the bullpen blew the game in the ninth inning. |
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| Rincon outrighted | Thursday 6/12, 5:51 PM CT |
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Juan Rincon was outrighted to Triple-A on Thursday, according to The Sports Network. Rincon has three days to decide whether or not he wants to accept the assignment. Third baseman Brian Buscher was recalled to take the roster spot.
Our View: The Twins needed to reduce their staff from 13 pitchers, and given the fact that Rincon has been so ineffective this year, it's really no surprise that he was let go. |
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| V-Mart has surgery - out two months | Thursday 6/12, 5:36 PM CT |
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Victor Martinez will undergo arthroscopic surgery on his injured elbow on Friday and will miss upwards of two months, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer.
Our View: Martinez will have bone chips removed during the procedure. Kelly Shoppach will receive a substantial boost in value given this news as he will likely take on a heavy workload with the recently recalled Yamid Haad serving as the backup. |
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| Elder Weaver released | Thursday 6/12, 5:32 PM CT |
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Jeff Weaver was released from the Brewers organization on Thursday a day after he allowed eight runs and 11 hits in six innings at Triple-A, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Weaver will look to sign on with another organization, though he didn't do himself any favors by going 2-4 with a 6.22 ERA at Triple-A. Seth McClung figures to hold on to the fifth spot in the Brewers rotation. |
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| Bourn swipes two bags | Thursday 6/12, 5:25 PM CT |
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Michael Bourn had two hits and stole two bases from the seventh spot in the order for the Astros.
Our View: Bourn has hits in four of his last five games to push his average to .228, its highest mark since April 16th. Still, you are paying a high price for those steals, and for a player with his speed to have only 26 runs scored in 63 games is almost criminal. That's right, he has as many steals as runs scored. |
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| Braun hits, steals two bases | Thursday 6/12, 5:22 PM CT |
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Ryan Braun had two hits, scored a run, knocked on in and stole two bases for the Brewers on Thursday.
Our View: Braun has looked good of late with with 11 RBI over his last 11 games. He hasn't taken the next step this year, but that hasn't stopped him from hitting the ball at a pace that would provide a .290 average with nearly 40 home runs, and most of us could certainly live with that kind of production. |
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| Hart extends hitting streak | Thursday 6/12, 5:19 PM CT |
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Corey Hart had only one hit on Thursday but it was his 10th home run of the year, a three runs shot, for the Brewers.
Our View: Hart has picked up the pace during his current 7-game hitting streak during which time he has four home runs and 11 RBI for the Brew Crew as he is well on his way to rewarding those that drafted him early this season. |
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| Bullington demoted | Thursday 6/12, 5:16 PM CT |
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Bryan Bullington was demoted to Triple-A on Thursday after two weeks of inactivity, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Our View: It does no one any good to have a guy just sitting on the bench doing nothing, that's what bat boys are for. Bullington was 3-6 with a 5.68 ERA with Indianapolis earlier in the year, and though no official news was given on who would take his roster spot, but it is expected that reliever Marino Salas will be called up. |
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| Closer struggles in non-save situation | Thursday 6/12, 5:10 PM CT |
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Jose Valverde, pitching a meaningless inning with the game well out of reach, did what many closers do in such situations, he imploded. Valverde allowed three hits and a walk which led to two runs allowed.
Our View: Why is it so hard for closers to pitch when it isn't a save situation? The plate is still the same size, and the ball still has the same number of stitches on it, but runs seem to follow in this situation nonetheless. |
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| Sheets fans nine in seventh win | Thursday 6/12, 5:06 PM CT |
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Ben Sheets struck out a season-high nine batters on his way to picking up his seventh victory of the season. Sheets walked two and allowed seven hits to the Astros in the victory.
Our View: The only thing that ever holds Sheets back from being a legitimate top-20 hurler each season is health. We are a bit concerned that he was allowed to throw 117 pitches, but high pitch counts are common when a hurler is racking up the strike outs. |
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| Varitek out with strep throat | Thursday 6/12, 5:02 PM CT |
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Jason Varitek will miss the Red Sox game on Thursday night because of strep throat, according to the Boston Herald.
Our View: Kevin Cash, who has served as the personal caddy to knuckler Tim Wakefield, figures to play until Varitek is healthy enough to make a go of it. |
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| Hurley decent in first outing | Thursday 6/12, 4:58 PM CT |
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Eric Hurley had a solid start to his major league career on Thursday as he held the Royals to four runs, including two home runs, over six innings of work in a no-decision.
Our View: If Hurley continues to allow fly balls, he will likely have a tough go of it pitching in Texas where fly balls have a tendency to leave the yard. |
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| Kinsler goes deep | Thursday 6/12, 4:53 PM CT |
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Ian Kinsler hit his ninth home run of the year, a solo shot off of Brian Bannister on Thursday.
Our View: Kinsler is again on pace for a 20/20 season, but with the way he has stolen bases this year, it would be a disappointment if he didn't go 20/30 this year, putting him on pace to be one of the top-5 second baseman in the game. |
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| Gordon's bat slowly awakening | Thursday 6/12, 4:48 PM CT |
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Alex Gordon had two hits, including his seventh home run of the season, and knocked in two runs while scoring twice for the Royals.
Our View: Gordon has hits in four of the last five games including two home runs in three nights. Still, he is barely on pace for 20 homers, and hit .267 batting average has to be considered disappointing. The talent is there, but it certainly is taking longer to show itself than many predicted. |
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| Soria returns to save game | Thursday 6/12, 4:44 PM CT |
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Joakim Soria returned from tightness in his rear end on Thursday to throw a scored ninth inning to pick up his 15th save of the year.
Our View: Well it's good to know that the new donut cushion he sits on in the bullpen is doing the trick. Seriously, the man has filthy stuff and there have been few relievers who have been more effective this year than this youngster. |
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| Bannister throws 127 pitches | Thursday 6/12, 4:39 PM CT |
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Brian Bannister used a career-high 127 pitches to make it through seven innings against the Rangers on Thursday as he allowed four runs in a no-decision.
Our View: Bannister throws about as hard as a middle school phenom, but that doesn't mean we feel comfortable with him throwing that many pitches. Watch his control the next couple of times out because if he is fatigued and doesn't have it, he could get crushed. |
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| Young solid in win | Thursday 6/12, 4:37 PM CT |
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Chris Young went 2-for-5 with a run scored and an RBI from the leadoff spot for the D'backs.
Our View: The 12 home runs are great, but the four stolen bases are very discouraging. Toss in a .234 average, and so far Young hasn't been any better than he he was during his rookie season, though that doesn't mean he has been a major disappointment, he just hasn't been able to take the next step and likely won't until he controls the strike zone better. |
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| Santana sizzles in no-decision | Thursday 6/12, 4:33 PM CT |
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Johan Santana was at his dominating best on Thursday striking out 10 D'backs while holding them scoreless over seven shutout innings. Unfortunately, Billy Wagner blew the save in the ninth before Aaron Heilman blew the game in the 10th.
Our View: This was the first time in 10 starts that Johan had struck out nine or more batters, so it was nice to see him return to the level of dominance he has shown in past seasons. There's nothing you can do when the bullpen blows a game, but that doesn't make it any less frustrating. |
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| Haren holds Mets down in no-decision | Thursday 6/12, 4:28 PM CT |
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Dan Haren worked six strong innings on Thursday permitting the Mets to score only two runs in a no-decision. Haren, as always, exhibited tremendous control walking none while striking out five.
Our View: Simply put, Haren is one of the best starters in baseball, and a tremendous number two option for Arizona. Haren has made 14 starts this year and 13 times he has allowed two or fewer walks, which goes a long way to explaining his success. |
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| Wagner blows thirs straight save | Thursday 6/12, 4:23 PM CT |
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Billy Wagner blew his third straight save on Thursday by allowing two runs wasting a tremendous effort by Johan Santana. Wagner's effort resulted in his ERA being pushed to 2.33 after it was at 0.36 just a week ago. The Mets went on to lose in 10 innings to the D'backs, 5-4.
Our View: Ugly. The Mets really don't have any other viable option to turn to, plus, it doesn't make any sense to freak out over 2.1 IP, but the situation certainly bears watching as the Mets simply cannot continue to give away games if they want to make the playoffs this year. |
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| Doumit blasts another homer | Thursday 6/12, 3:48 PM CT |
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Ryan Doumit went 2-for-3 with three RBI in Thursday's 7-5 victory over Washington. Most of the damage came on a two-run homer, which was his ninth of the season.
Our View: He raised his average to .365 over 126 at-bats, and has impressively hit a home run in three straight games, notching four over the span. |
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| Gorzelanny evens up to 5-5 | Thursday 6/12, 3:44 PM CT |
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Tom Gorzelanny allowed three runs on six hits over 5.2 innings in Thursday's exciting 7-5 win over the Nationals, with three walks and six strikeouts.
Our View: It wasn't a great effort, but was good enough for him to even his season record to 5-5. He still holds a poor 6.65 ERA. |
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| Guzman goes 3-for-5 with three RBI | Thursday 6/12, 3:41 PM CT |
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Cristian Guzman went 3-for-5 with three RBI in Thursday's 7-5 loss to the Pirates.
Our View: He has raised his season average to .314, and this was the most RBI he registered in a game, since racking up six on May 3, which was also against the Pirates. |
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| Bergmann handed fourth loss | Thursday 6/12, 3:36 PM CT |
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Jason Bergmann allowed six runs (four earned) on eight hits over 4.1 innings in Thursday's 7-5 loss to the Pirates, with one walk and two strikeouts.
Our View: He falls to 1-4 for the season, with a 5.48 ERA. He has now allowed at least four earned runs in three straight starts, after allowing no runs over a three-start stretch in May. |
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| Dye records lone RBI for Sox | Thursday 6/12, 3:32 PM CT |
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Jermaine Dye went 0-for-3 but recorded Chicago's lone RBI (on a sacrifice fly) in Thursday's 2-1 loss to Detroit.
Our View: That was his first RBI in the three games against the Tigers, and only his fourth RBI in 11 games in June. |
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| Pujols officially placed on DL | Thursday 6/12, 3:17 PM CT |
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Albert Pujols has officially been placed on the 15-day DL due to his strained left calf, according to the AP. Pitcher Joel Pineiro has been activated from the DL, as an adjoining move.
Our View: As previously noted, Pujols is expected to miss a minimum of three weeks. |
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| Pineiro activated | Thursday 6/12, 3:14 PM CT |
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Joel Pineiro has been activated from the DL, according to the AP. He has recovered from a strained right groin. Albert Pujols was placed on the DL as well.
Our View: He will return to the Cardinals' rotation tonight against the Reds. He is 2-3 with a 4.50 ERA and passable 1.36 WHIP this season. It would be best to wait to see how he responds in his first start back before considering him for your lineup, specifically for NL-only leagues. |
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| Velandia recalled | Thursday 6/12, 3:09 PM CT |
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Jorge Velandia has been recalled from Triple-A Buffalo, according to the AP. Josh Barfield has been placed on the 15-day DL, and Velandia covers his spot on the Indians' roster.
Our View: Velandia, who was previously with the Blue Jays in 2008, failed to register a hit over seven brief at-bats, with two strikeouts. He holds little fantasy value with Cleveland for this season. |
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| Barfield lands on DL | Thursday 6/12, 3:06 PM CT |
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Josh Barfield has landed on the 15-day DL, according to the AP. He has been taken down by a left finger sprain. Jorge Velandia has been called up from Triple-A Buffalo to cover his spot on the roster.
Our View: Manager Eric Wedge commented that Asdrubal Cabrera is not likely coming back to cover second base, and did not reveal who would be brought in to replace Barfield. |
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| V-Mart placed on DL | Thursday 6/12, 3:02 PM CT |
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Victor Martinez has been placed on the 15-day DL due to inflammation in his right elbow, according to the AP. Martinez winced after a swing in the first inning of the Indians’ 8-5 loss to Minnesota on Wednesday. He was then lifted from the game after grounding out to shortstop. Manager Eric Wedge said, "It nicked him up on one of his swings. The elbow is something that’s been bothering him on and off all year. It must have been one of those swings that bit him a little more than usual." Catcher Yamid Haad will fill his spot on the Indians' roster.
Our View: Martinez has also been battling a strained left hamstring for most of the season. Martinez still is yet to hit a home run over 198 at-bats, and holds a .278 average. |
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| Buehrle hurls another strong outing | Thursday 6/12, 2:56 PM CT |
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Mark Buehrle only allowed one run on seven hits over eight innings in Thursday's tough 2-1 loss to the rival Tigers, with one walk and six strikeouts. He was in control, but ended his day with a no decision. Octavio Dotel gave up a solo homer to Miguel Cabrera in the bottom of the ninth at Comerica Park to end the game.
Our View: He has only allowed one earned run in back-to-back starts, and lowered his ERA to 4.47. |
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| Rogers pitches great in no decision | Thursday 6/12, 2:49 PM CT |
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Kenny Rogers only surrendered one earned run on four hits over eight innings of work in Thursday's 2-1 win over the White Sox, with one walk and one strikeout. He pitched great, but left the game with a no decision. Miguel Cabrera broke the 1-1 tie with a walk-off homer in the bottom of the ninth.
Our View: Rogers has allowed two or less earned runs in three straight starts, two of those games which the Tigers lost. |
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| Cabrera kills Sox with walk-off homer | Thursday 6/12, 2:44 PM CT |
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Miguel Cabrera went 1-for-4 and crushed a game-ending solo homer in Thursday's 2-1 victory over the AL Central-leading White Sox.
Our View: That was his first homer in June, and his ninth of the season. |
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| Webb bruised, but not injured | Thursday 6/12, 2:37 PM CT |
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Brandon Webb is a little sore after sustaining a bruise (above his right hip) when struck by a line drive by Carlos Delgado of the Mets, but he is not injured, according to MLB.com. Webb has experienced a decrease in velocity on his pitches, but is not concerned, as he stated, "I don't know what to say about it. My arm doesn't hurt as of yet, so I'm not concerned. I think all pitchers, over the course of the year, go through a span where they have a dead-arm period, and I think that's what this is. I don't know, we'll see."
Our View: Manager Bob Melvin isn't concerned either, and noted that a decrease in velocity at points during a season is common. His next start is scheduled for Tuesday, and he will get an extra day to rest as the team has an off day Monday. |
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| Gabbard to start Saturday | Thursday 6/12, 2:29 PM CT |
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Kason Gabbard is penciled into the rotation to start on Saturday, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Gabbard will replace Doug Mathis, who will be sent to the bullpen. Gabbard is 1-2 over nine starts this season, with a 4.75 ERA and dismal 1.80 WHIP. He will be given another shot to start with the Rangers, but should not be given a chance as a fantasy performer. |
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| Figgins to be activated Friday | Thursday 6/12, 2:23 PM CT |
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Chone Figgins is expected to be activated from the DL on Friday, according to the AP. Brandon Wood is set to be optioned to Triple-A Salt Lake to make room on the roster.
Our View: Hopefully, he can put his hamstring issues behind him this time. |
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| Hill having hard time with concussion | Thursday 6/12, 2:18 PM CT |
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Aaron Hill is having a hard time dealing with his concussion, according to TSN.ca. Hill said, "This is so annoying and frustrating. If it was something else, it's easy to grind through an ankle or a knee, hip, arm, whatever, you can fight through that stuff. They've got painkillers for those types of things. But doing something with the brain, you don't want to mess with it. I would, but way too many people have told me I shouldn't, and I'm listening for a change."
Our View: He is eligible to be activated from the DL on Saturday, but isn't going to happen. The team is hoping Hill remains symptom-free through Monday, which would mark seven normal days and allow him to start a rehab assignment. If he suffers a setback, the cycle must start all over again.
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| Loe optioned | Thursday 6/12, 2:11 PM CT |
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Right-handed pitcher Kameron Loe has been optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma, according to the AP. Eric Hurley was recalled for today's start against the Royals, and Loe was optioned to make room on the roster.
Our View: Loe allowed two runs and 12 hits over 8.1 innings this season with the Rangers, with only one walk and seven strikeouts. He held his own as a reliever, but held no fantasy value. |
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| Hurley recalled | Thursday 6/12, 2:08 PM CT |
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Eric Hurley has been recalled from Triple-A Oklahoma, according to the AP. The Rangers optioned pitcher Kameron Loe to Oklahoma as an adjoining move.
Our View: Hurley was 2-5 with a 5.30 ERA in 13 starts for Oklahoma this season, and made his major league debut in the Rangers' rotation today against the Royals.
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| Cubs claim Broussard | Thursday 6/12, 2:02 PM CT |
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Ben Broussard has reportedly been claimed by the Cubs, according to ESPN 1000 Radio. He has been signed to a minor league deal.
Our View: Broussard has experience in the outfield, as he played 10 games in left field in 2007, and he could be tried out in left for the Cubs at some point while Alfonso Soriano is on the shelf. |
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| Boone leaves with injury | Thursday 6/12, 1:55 PM CT |
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Aaron Boone was forced out of action today in the sixth inning against the Pirates due to a strained neck, according to the AP.
Our View: Dmitri Young took over at first base following Boone's exit. We will keep you post regarding the severity of the ailment. |
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| Thatcher optioned to Triple-A | Thursday 6/12, 1:52 PM CT |
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Left-handed pitcher Joe Thatcher has been optioned to Triple-A Portland, according to the AP. The team activated Jake Peavy from the DL, and Thatcher was seen as expendable to make room on the roster.
Our View: Thatcher was 0-4 over 20.2 innings of relief this season, with 17 earned runs allowed and a 2.03 WHIP. He held no fantasy value prior to his demotion. |
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| Peavy officially activated from DL | Thursday 6/12, 1:48 PM CT |
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Jake Peavy has officially been activated from the DL, according to the AP. The team optioned lefty Joe Thatcher to Triple-A Portland as an adjoining move.
Our View: He has recovered from a strained right elbow, and will return to the rotation today against the Dodgers. He will be on a pitch count of 90, but should be penciled back into your fantasy lineups. |
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| Bradley not in action | Thursday 6/12, 1:37 PM CT |
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Milton Bradley was not in action today against the Royals, according to the Star Telegram.
Our View: He was going to serve at DH, but Manager Ron Washington wanted him to rest, as he will be used in the outfield in this weekend's series against the Mets, and is nursing a left quad cramp. Brandon Boggs got the call at DH today instead. |
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| Capps to rest Thursday | Thursday 6/12, 1:30 PM CT |
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Manager John Russell stated that he will rest closer Matt Capps for Thursday's finale against the Nationals, according to MLB.com. Capps has pitched in four games in as many days, and Russell doesn't want to push him one more day.
Our View: Capps has nailed down 16 saves, which ranks fourth highest in the NL, with a 0.98 WHIP. Russell will go with Tyler Yates, Damaso Marte, and John Grabow for the late-inning duties. Any of the three could be used in a save situation, and who gets the call will be dictated by the progression of the late innings. |
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| Alou could return to DL? | Thursday 6/12, 1:21 PM CT |
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Moises Alou is still being bothered by tightness in his left calf and commented that a return trip to the DL is a possibility, according to MLB.com. He underwent an MRI on Wednesday, and the results are yet to be determined.
Our View: He feels a few days away from returning to the lineup due to soreness, and isn't optimistic about playing at all during the Mets' current homestand. |
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| Hardy to have shoulder checked out | Thursday 6/12, 1:12 PM CT |
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J.J. Hardy traveled back to Milwaukee to have his ailing left shoulder evaluated by team doctors, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Hardy re-aggravated his left shoulder catching a throw in from the outfield Wednesday night. When he picked up a bat after the fifth inning of action, he said if felt like "it was 1,000 pounds" because he had a "dead arm." The official diagnosis was irritation in Hardy's shoulder, the same one he had surgically repaired in 2004, and ended his season at Triple-A Indianapolis. It isn't known yet if the current injury is related to that torn labrum. Hardy is unsure how much time he will miss but said, "I don't know. We'll see what the doctor says, but I feel like I can play today (Thursday). I think the fact that we don't know exactly what it is is annoying because it's been lingering for a while."
Our View: It is encouraging news that he felt like he could have played today, but the team will remain cautious with their young star shortstop. We will keep you posted on his status. |
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| Lo Duca could return from DL | Thursday 6/12, 1:04 PM CT |
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Paul Lo Duca could return from the DL this weekend, according to the Washington Times.
Our View: His broken right hand has healed quickly, and he deems he is ready to play. Lo Duca would share the catching duties with Jesus Flores upon his return. Lo Duca could also see time as a DH during inter-league play in AL parks. |
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| Perez could land on the DL | Thursday 6/12, 12:57 PM CT |
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Odalis Perez could land on the DL due to shoulder tendinitis, according to the Washington Times.
Our View: Perez missed his last outing due to the shoulder ailment, and he wont be ready to make his next scheduled start for Saturday either. If placed on the DL, it could be retroactive to June 4, meaning he could still return to the Nationals within another week or so. Tyler Clippard is believed to make another spot start in his place on Saturday. |
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| Kemp has suspension reduced | Thursday 6/12, 12:51 PM CT |
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Matt Kemp's suspension for his altercation with the Rockies has been reduced to two games, according to the LA Daily News.
Our View: It has been reduced from the original four games, and he will begin serving the suspension today. |
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| Cox placed on minor league DL | Thursday 6/12, 12:46 PM CT |
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J. Brent Cox was placed on the minor league DL due to shoulder tendinitis, according to the NY Daily News.
Our View: He is expected to miss about three weeks of action at Triple-A Scranton. He was believed to be in line for a promotion to the Yankees' bullpen prior to landing on the DL. |
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| Clippard will start Saturday | Thursday 6/12, 12:43 PM CT |
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The team has stated that Tyler Clippard will make another spot start on Saturday, according to MLB.com. He will cover for Odalis Perez, who could ultimately land on the DL. Perez hasn't pitched since June 3, due to shoulder tendinitis, and has already missed a start because of the injury.
Our View: Clippard allowed three runs on five hits over 4.1 innings in his Nationals' debut on Monday. He does not merit fantasy consideration. |
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| Rosa recalled from Triple-A | Thursday 6/12, 12:36 PM CT |
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Right-handed pitcher Carlos Rosa has been recalled from Triple-A Omaha, according to the Kansas City Star.
Our View: Baseball America ranked him as the Royals' sixth best prospect. Rosa was a combined 6-3 with a 2.19 ERA this season in 13 games (all starts), while splitting time at Omaha and Double-A Northwest Arkansas. He was brought in to help a struggling Royals' bullpen.
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| Tomko DFA by Royals | Thursday 6/12, 12:32 PM CT |
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Brett Tomko has been designated for assignment by the Royals, according to the Kansas City Star. Right-handed pitcher Carlos Rosa has been recalled from Triple-A Omaha as an adjoining move.
Our View: Tomko went 2-7 this season with a 5.93 ERA and 1.53 WHIP, and held no fantasy value prior to his designation. |
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| Hart optioned | Thursday 6/12, 12:23 PM CT |
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Right-handed pitcher Kevin Hart has been optioned to Triple-A Iowa, according to the AP. Infielder Micah Hoffpauir has been recalled from Iowa as an adjoining move.
Our View: Hart was rocked for 13 earned runs and 23 hits over 17.2 innings with the Cubs this season. He also issued 13 walks. He held no fantasy value prior to his demotion. |
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| Hoffpauir recalled from Triple-A | Thursday 6/12, 12:17 PM CT |
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Infielder Micah Hoffpauir has been recalled from Triple-A Iowa, according to the AP. The team also optioned right-handed pitcher Kevin Hart to Iowa.
Our View: Hoffpauir hit .421 over 19 at-bats in his previous stint with Chicago this season. He is expected to start as the Cubs' DH when they play the Jays on Friday in Toronto, and could see regular time in that role during inter-league play at AL parks. |
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| Patterson recalled from Triple-A | Thursday 6/12, 12:12 PM CT |
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Eric Patterson has been recalled from Triple-A Iowa, according to the AP. Alfonso Soriano has been placed on the 15-day DL, and Patterson will fill his spot on the roster.
Our View: Patterson registered no hits over six brief at-bats with the Cubs this season. He should continue to hold no fantasy value. |
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| Soriano placed on DL | Thursday 6/12, 12:09 PM CT |
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Alfonso Soriano has been officially placed on the 15-day DL due to his broken left ring finger, according to the AP. The team recalled Eric Patterson from Triple-A.
Our View: He is expected to miss 4-6 weeks of action, but the team will know for sure when he has his splint removed in three weeks. Reed Johnson and Jim Edmonds should both play regularly now while he is out. |
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| Wilson faces another elbow surgery | Thursday 6/12, 11:29 AM CT |
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Vance Wilson was trying to return to the Tigers this season, but that is not going to happen as he will soon undergo a second Tommy John surgery on his right elbow after tearing another ligament, according to the Detroit News. Wilson said, "I hope to play again. But you just don't know with something like this. The recovery from this is grueling, but at least I know what I'm facing."
Our View: Wilson would have served as the Tigers' backup catcher if he was able to return. Brandon Inge should continue to maintain the role. |
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| Anderson sent down | Thursday 6/12, 11:18 AM CT |
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Outfielder Josh Anderson has been sent down to Triple-A Richmond, according to Rain-Delay.com. The team replaced him on the roster with Brandon Jones.
Our View: Anderson fared well in limited action with Atlanta, as he held a .318 average over 22 at-bats, with two RBI. He will now have to wait for another chance to prove his worth with the club. |
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| Ridgway recalled from Triple-A | Thursday 6/12, 11:14 AM CT |
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Pitcher Jeff Ridgway has been recalled from Triple-A Richmond, according to Rain-Delay.com.
Our View: Ridgway allowed one hit over two brief innings with Atlanta this season, with two strikeouts. |
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| Hardy out with sore shoulder | Thursday 6/12, 11:02 AM CT |
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J.J. Hardy is out for Thursday action against the Astros due to a sore left shoulder, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. The ailment flared up on him last night, and has been lingering through the course of the season.
Our View: Craig Counsell will cover shortstop in his place. The team did not state when Hardy will return. |
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| Isringhausen to throw Friday | Thursday 6/12, 10:55 AM CT |
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Jason Isringhausen is scheduled to throw on Friday in front of the Cardinals' brass, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. If that goes favorably, he could be activated from the DL as early as this weekend. He noted that his mechanics are corrected, and his confidence restored.
Our View: He deemed himself ready to return to the Cardinals' bullpen when he returns, if not right away as the closer. |
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| Pujols injury update | Thursday 6/12, 10:46 AM CT |
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The left calf injury suffered by Albert Pujols is believed to be no worse than a moderate strain, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. It was initially believed that he had a complete tear, but the team is relieved the injury is not as bad. GM John Mozeliak said, "I think based on what we first feared, this is extremely good news. To lose arguably the game's best hitter for any amount of time is tough to take. But the fact we're talking weeks and not months is encouraging."
Our View: He is still expected to miss a minimum of three weeks, but fantasy owners should be very pleased that he avoided a much more serious injury. |
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| Willingham could return in 10-14 days | Thursday 6/12, 10:39 AM CT |
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The Marlins project to get outfielder Josh Willingham back in about 10-14 days, according to MLB.com.
Our View: He went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts in his first rehab start, and has been on the DL since May 2 due to a lower back strain. He held a .341 average over 25 games, with six homers this season. |
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| Andino recalled from Triple-A | Thursday 6/12, 10:31 AM CT |
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Infielder Robert Andino has been recalled from Triple-A Albuquerque, according to MLB.com. Struggling outfielder Jacque Jones has been designated for assignment, and Andino fills his spot on the roster.
Our View: The addition of Andino gives the team more flexibility to use Alfredo Amezaga in the outfield. The 24-year old Andino is talented, but won't see enough action to merit fantasy consideration, however. |
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| Jones designated for assignment | Thursday 6/12, 10:27 AM CT |
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Jacque Jones has been designated for assignment by the Marlins, according to MLB.com. The team recalled infielder Robert Andino from Triple-A Albuquerque as an adjoining move.
Our View: The 33-year-old left-handed hitter was brought in to platoon with Cody Ross in center field, but Jones hit just .108 (4-for-37) with two RBI in 18 games for the Marlins. He has 10 days to clear waivers, w | |
