| Snell to have MRI on elbow | Sunday 6/22, 11:48 PM CT |
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Ian Snell's elbow has been bothering him for while, and after suffering through four innings on Sunday he has been scheduled to undergo an MRI on Monday, according to the Times On Line. “It hurt on every pitch,” he said. “I’ve never had an injury before, never messed up any bones or had surgery. This is all new to me.”
Our View: Snell has been awful virtually all year, so an injury certainly seems possible. Many of Snell's fastballs on Sunday where in the 89-90 mph range, four to five miles below where he normally resides with the heat. Stay tuned for further updates, but even the best case scenario will likely have him missing his next scheduled start on Friday. |
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| Fireballing rookie promoted to Triple-A | Sunday 6/22, 11:44 PM CT |
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Jeff Samardzija has been called up to Triple-A to take the rotation spot of Sean Marshall, according to the Chicago Tribune. "His last five outings have been real good," said Oneri Fleita, Cubs vice president of player personnel after watching Samardzija produce a 2.63 ERA in that time.
Our View: The question of whether or not Jeff would be pitching in Wrigley also came up and the answer was that his production would dictate where he does his work for the remainder of the 2008 season. |
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| Counsell headed back to bench | Sunday 6/22, 11:40 PM CT |
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Craig Counsell will be returning to the bench now that second baseman Rickie Weeks has been activated from the DL, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
Our View: Counsell did quite well hitting .308 during the loss of Weeks, but he has nowhere near the upside of Weeks and is best used as a spare part at this point of his career. |
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| Duffy transferred to 60-day DL | Sunday 6/22, 11:37 PM CT |
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Chris Duffy (shoulder surgery) was transfered from the 15-day DL to the 60-day DL on Sunday, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. This move was made so the club could place T.J. Beam on the 40-man roster.
Our View: Duffy has already been on the DL for more than 60 days, so this is just a house keeping matter. He should be activated from the DL at some point this week at which time he will be sent to Triple-A Indianapolis to work on regaining his timing. |
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| Catcher loses 15-game hitting streak | Sunday 6/22, 11:02 PM CT |
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A.J. Pierzynski was held hitless on Sunday night ending his 15-game hitting streak.
Our View: Amazingly, A.J. started the streak hitting .279 and ends it hitting just .299, only .013 points above his career mark. |
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| Aramis Ramirez swinging power bat | Sunday 6/22, 10:55 PM CT |
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Aramis Ramirez continued to hit the ball hard on Sunday night as he went 2-for-4 with three RBI against the White Sox. One of his hits was his 14th home run of the season and the other was his 20th double.
Our View: Aramis has two hits in three straight games, and in each game he has also gone yard for a total of four home runs and eight RBI in three games against cross town rivals the White Sox. |
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| Patterson has huge night | Sunday 6/22, 10:53 PM CT |
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Eric Patterson started in left field on Sunday night and he made the most of the opportunity by hitting his first home run of the season on his way to a 2-for-3 night with three runs scored and two RBI.
Our View: In his last two starts, Patterson has scored five runs while producing five hits, a performance that is bound to catch the attention of Lou Pinella. |
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| Vazquez loses another outing | Sunday 6/22, 10:50 PM CT |
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Javier Vazquez had a rough outing on Sunday night as he allowed five hits and five walks which led to five runs, four earned, over six innings as he picked up his sixth loss of the year.
Our View: Vazquez is a maddening ball of inconsistency who dominates one game only to to look lost in the next. One of his big bugaboos continues to be the long ball, he allowed two tonight leading to three runs, and he has now alternated loses and wins in each of his last five starts. |
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| Dempster 9-0 at home | Sunday 6/22, 10:45 PM CT |
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Ryan Dempster dominated the White Sox for eight innings holding them to just one run on his way to his ninth victory of the season. Dempster is 9-0 at home, the first pitcher to accomplish that since 1976.
Our View: Dempster is without a win on the road in six starts, though he owns a 2.48 ERA and 1.05 WHIP in those outings so it's not like he has been an albatross when away from Wrigley. |
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| Feliz dominating with strikeouts | Sunday 6/22, 10:38 PM CT |
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Neftali Feliz struck out 10 batters on Sunday giving himself 21 K over his last two starts, according to MILB.com. Feliz leads the Midwest League with 93 K in 74.1 IP.
Our View: The 20 year old Feliz has allowed just six runs over his last 11 starts, good for a 0.91 ERA as he has held the opposition scoreless six times in that stretch. |
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| Hellickson promoted to Double-A | Sunday 6/22, 10:33 PM CT |
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Jeremy Hellickson is leading the Florida State league in wins (7-1), ERA (2.00) and strikeouts (83), and as a result he has been promoted to Double-A, according to MILB.com.
Our View: After posting an amazing 83 to five K/BB ratio, it was clear that Hellickson wasn't getting much of anything from dominating over matched hitters. |
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| Amezega could miss a few days | Sunday 6/22, 10:22 PM CT |
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Alfredo Amezaga injured his groin on Saturday and he is far from certain to be ready to go on Tuesday for the Marlins next game, according to the Palm Beach Post. "It's kind of bad," said Amezaga. "I've just got to find a way to play with pain and we'll see how it feels on Tuesday."
Our View: If Amezega is out, look for Cody Ross to pick up all the at-bats in center field for the Fish. |
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| Isringhausen rounding into shape | Sunday 6/22, 10:19 PM CT |
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Jason Isringhausen ended up loading the bases before wiggling out of the jam on Sunday against the Red Sox, according to MLB.com. "I put myself in that pressure situation, but...I was able to make good pitches when I needed to. I walked a couple guys, but I got behind them, so I'm not going to give in to them."
Our View: With Ryan Franklin far from dominating since taking over the closers role, it might just be a matter of time before Izzy is once again put into the closers role as today was a big step toward reclaiming the role. |
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| Konerko doing well | Sunday 6/22, 10:11 PM CT |
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Paul Konerko hopes that a new work regimen will allow him to return from a strained left oblique as soon as he is eligible on June 30th, according to MLB.com. "This is one of those where you know you're [going to] swing, so you kind of want to make sure [it's healed], because you wouldn't want to activate somebody and then the first night go out and then have to recall the guy you just sent down."
Our View: Konerko should be cleared to hit off the tee on Wednesday and after that be cleared for BP by the weekend. Hopefully when he comes back he will be able to return to his all-star caliber hitting and not look anything like the hitter he was for most of the early going. |
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| Brynes to be activated | Sunday 6/22, 10:07 PM CT |
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Eric Byrnes appears exceedingly likely to return from his dual hamstring injuries on Monday when the D'backs face the Red Sox, according to the Arizona Republic. "As I understand, he's running hard and feels good," GM Doug Melvin said.
Our View: Byrnes went 1-for-12 at Single-A Visalia during his rehab work, but apparently the team believes he is ready to go as is. |
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| Fastest 30 saves ever? | Sunday 6/22, 10:03 PM CT |
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Francisco Rodriguez recorded his 30th save on Sunday in the Angels 76th game, faster than any pitcher in big league history, according to the Orange County Register. K-Rod needed 36 appearances to reach the mark, one more than the record of fewest appearance of 35 set by Lee Smith and Dennis Eckersley.
Our View: Though he is on a record setting pace, the odd thing is that never before has K-Rod been as poor at striking batters out with 30 K in 33 IP. Just goes to show you, success can come in many forms. |
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| Marmol looking for answers | Sunday 6/22, 9:59 PM CT |
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Carlos Marmol has allowed eight runs in June, more than the seven he allowed in 34.2 innings in April and May, according to MLB.com. "I think it's just a question of release points," Cubs manager Lou Piniella said. "Plus, I think he was too crouched spinning out of his delivery, so I think you'll see him a little taller so he can drive down as opposed to coming up.
Our View: Forgive us if we cut Marmol some slack. Marmol has averaged 13.1 K/9 IP with a WHIP of 0.86 even with his late run of bad luck, but don't look for his struggles to continue given his dominating stuff. |
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| Ruggiano demoted to Triple-A | Sunday 6/22, 9:51 PM CT |
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Justin Ruggiano was optioned to Triple-A on Sunday, according to MLB.com. The team did not announce a corresponding roster move.
Our View: With Jason Bartlett likely to miss a few days to be with his pregnant wife, and Akinori Iwamura likely to serve his 3-game suspension, the team will probably choose to call up a utility infielder, likely either Ben Zobrist of Elliot Johnson. |
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| Barton out with injured hamstring | Sunday 6/22, 9:46 PM CT |
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Daric Barton is being listed as day to day due to a sore hamstring, according to MLB.com. Jack Hannahan filled in for Barton on Sunday.
Our View: The team hopes to have Barton back for their game with the Phillies on Tuesday, though it's not yet clear if that is wishful thinking or an honest assessment of his status. |
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| Pierre steals base, has three hits | Sunday 6/22, 8:37 PM CT |
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Juan Pierre continued his solid work at the plate for the Dodgers with three hits and a run scored, and he used his legs to score a run and steal his 29th base of the season on Sunday.
Our View: When Rafael Furcal returns to the lineup Pierre could find himself hitting second or at the bottom of the order, but either way he should continue to pile up the strikeouts as he has once again established himself as worthy of being a full time starter just as he has been since the 2001 season. |
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| Garko breaks cold spell | Sunday 6/22, 8:33 PM CT |
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Ryan Garko went 2-for-4 with an RBI on Sunday, his first multi-hit game in eight games.
Our View: Garko has been extremely inconsistent all year and his most recent downturn at the plate is yet another bump in the road as he has only three RBI in his last 11 games. |
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| Loney has 10-game hitting streak | Sunday 6/22, 8:27 PM CT |
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James Loney had two hits on Sunday to extend his hitting streak to 10-games. He is now hitting .310 with 39 RBI on the year.
Our View: Loney still hasn't developed the power which is looked for in most first basemen, but that doesn't mean he can't be an effective hitter worthy of consideration in mixed leagues. |
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| Byrd loses third straight | Sunday 6/22, 8:25 PM CT |
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Paul Byrd allowed four runs over seven innings against the Dodgers as he issued zero walks with just one strikeout. Byrd fell to 3-8 with the loss.
Our View: In 15 starts this season, Byrd has allowed five or more earned runs six times. Byrd continues to be nothing more than what he is, and that is a mildly effective fantasy hurler who is only worth starting as a replacement arm. |
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| Billingsley Dodgers best starter | Sunday 6/22, 8:21 PM CT |
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Chad Billingsley only last five innings on Saturday, but it was enough as he was able to win his sixth game of the season for the Dodgers.
Our View: Billingsley only struck out four batters, but he limited the free passes, issuing only one, which helped him to the victory on this day. |
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| Ordonez leads Tigers offense | Sunday 6/22, 8:18 PM CT |
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Magglio Ordonez took Randy Wolf deep for his 12th home run of the year as he went 2-for-5 with three RBI for the Tigers.
Our View: Though he won't be sniffing his .363 average of a year ago, that doesn't mean that Ordonez has been a disappointment given that he is on pace for a third straight season of 24 home runs and 100 RBI. |
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| Padres 1B continues homer binge | Sunday 6/22, 8:14 PM CT |
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Adrian Gonzalez went deep for the 21st time on Sunday as he took Justin Verlander deep in his first at-bat.
Our View: Gonzalez has hit at least five home runs each month this season, and over his last 49 games he has been a run producing machine with 34 runs and 46 RBI in what is shaping up to be one of the biggest offensive seasons in Padres history. |
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| Wolf strikes out 10 | Sunday 6/22, 8:10 PM CT |
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Randy Wolf struck out 10 Tigers on Sunday while allowing three runs, two of which were earned, as he fell to 5-6 with the loss to Detroit.
Our View: Wolf has been a strikeout machine this season with 87 in 94.2 IP, and his ERA of 4.09 is certainly quite serviceable for use in mixed leagues. |
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| Jones takes ball off knee | Sunday 6/22, 8:06 PM CT |
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Todd Jones was struck on the knee by a batted ball, but he remained in the game and picked up his 14th save of the season on Sunday.
Our View: Jones has been pretty effective this season given his 3.81 ERA and 14 saves in 14 chances, so don't be so quick to write him off in favor of a healthy Joel Zumaya. |
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| Verlander strikes out 10 | Sunday 6/22, 8:03 PM CT |
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Justin Verlander picked up his first road victory of the season on Sunday as he struck out 10 Padres on his way to to his fourth win of the season.
Our View: Verlander continues to brings his ratios down (his ERA is 4.55 and his WHIP 1.31), signaling that perhaps he is becoming the pitcher he has been the past two seasons. One great sign is that over his last four starts he has averaged 9.22 K/9. |
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| Hermida has 10-game hitting streak | Sunday 6/22, 7:59 PM CT |
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Jeremy Hermida had two hits, including his eighth home run of the season, on Sunday for the Marlins.
Our View: Finally. Perhaps this is the streak that will propel the sweat swinging Hermida back to where he belongs, that is as a starting outfielder in mixed leagues. During the streak, Hermida has also driven in six runs in his last six games. |
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| Ellis still mashing | Sunday 6/22, 7:56 PM CT |
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Mark Ellis was ejected for arguing balls and strikes but not before he went 3-for-5 with two runs scored for the A's.
Our View: Ellis has scored 18 times in 19 June games while hitting .308 as he has once again made himself fantasy relevant with a huge month at the plate. |
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| Miller falls to Athletics | Sunday 6/22, 7:51 PM CT |
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Andrew Miller lasted only four innings on Sunday allowing five runs, four were earned, against the A's as his record fell to 5-6. Miller only had one K on the day, but he also walked only two batters.
Our View: Miller didn't pitch terribly on Sunday, he actually ran into a bit of bad luck, but the overall line didn't show that. Don't be overly concerned with this outing, though Miller still has a ways to go to be considered worthy of starting every week in mixed leagues. |
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| Duchscherer new ERA leader | Sunday 6/22, 7:47 PM CT |
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Justin Duchscherer lowered his ERA to 1.99 on Sunday, and AL best, thanks to 7.2 innings of one run ball on his way to his eighth victory of the season for the Athletics. Justin is 4-0 in June and 6-0 at home.
Our View: Duchscherer has been spectacular this season and appears primed to be selected to the All-Star game as a starter after previously being selected as a reliever. Duchscherer can't possibly keep up this level of production, but that doesn't mean he wont continue to be a solid starter the rest of the way. |
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| Winn has four hits, hitting .311 | Sunday 6/22, 7:41 PM CT |
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Randy Winn had four hits, two runs scored and three RBI for the Giants on Sunday. Winn also stole his 11th base of the season and is hitting .311 overall.
Our View: With each outing like this, the cost of acquiring Winn in a trade continues to increase. Some team will eventually come a calling and the Giants will almost certainly oblige which could lead to increased fantasy value for Winn depending on where he ends up. |
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| Aviles equals offensive spark | Sunday 6/22, 7:38 PM CT |
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Mike Aviles stole his second base of the season and knocked in three runs for the Royals on Sunday.
Our View: With Tony Pena and Esteban German failing to hit their weight at the plate, the Royals turned to Aviles who has been spectacular hitting .328 with 12 RBI in 16 games as he has locked down a spot in the lineup on a daily basis. |
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| DeJesus producing from top spot | Sunday 6/22, 7:36 PM CT |
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David DeJesus had another big game on Sunday as he had two hits, two RBI and two runs scored for the Royals. He now has an 8-game hitting streak.
Our View: DeJesus continues to hit for average (.309) for the Royals thanks to a blistering June in which he has hit .346 with 16 runs scored in 20 games. DeJesus has been consistent hitting over .290 against righties and lefties as well as at home and on the road. |
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| Davies battered by Giants | Sunday 6/22, 7:32 PM CT |
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Kyle Davies lasted only four outs on Sunday thanks to six hits, two walks and five runs allowed to the Giants in the Royals 11-10 victory over the Giants.
Our View: Davies entered the game on Sunday having allowed a single run in each of his first four starts, but his luck ran out on him today. Davis has walked more batters (14) than he has struck out (13), and that is rarely a recipe for success. |
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| Lincecum let down by teammates | Sunday 6/22, 7:30 PM CT |
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Tim Lincecum was far from his best on Sunday as he allowed five runs in five innings, but he was still disappointed to receive a no-decision given that he left the game with a 10-5 lead.
Our View: Lincecum received an extra day of rest before this start and he was humming along at 96-97 mph in the early going leading to eight strikeouts on the afternoon though he was wild as he needed 109 pitches to complete five innings. |
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| Jackson has three hits from the outfield | Sunday 6/22, 7:26 PM CT |
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Conor Jackson started in left field for the D'backs on Sunday and went 3-for-4 at the plate with a run scored.
Our View: Jackson did lose a fly ball in the Metrodome's white ceiling, but it's tough to blame a first basemen for doing that (blame the coaches for putting him out there). Jackson has now seen action in six games in the outfield which could add to his versatility in some leagues. |
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| Casilla keeps hitting for Twins | Sunday 6/22, 7:23 PM CT |
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Alexi Casilla produced two hits and knocked in two runs for the Twins on Sunday in their 5-3 victory over the D'backs.
Our View: Nick Punto was activated from the DL, but with the way that Casilla has been hitting of late, Casilla figures to be able to hold off Punto given his overall lack of effectiveness as the dish. |
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| Nathan dominates foes | Sunday 6/22, 7:20 PM CT |
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Joe Nathan continues to rack up saves with dominating ratios as he picked up his 19th save of the season on Sunday.
Our View: Nathan owns some of the best numbers of any relief pitcher in baseball with a 1.47 ERA, 0.98 WHIP and a 5.50 K/BB ratio. Few close out games better than the Twins star. |
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| Webb loses second straight start | Sunday 6/22, 7:17 PM CT |
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Brandon Webb lost his second straight game on Sunday as he gave up five runs, four earned, over seven innings against the Twins
Our View: Since taking a ball off his hip and suffering from a "dead arm" period, Webb is 0-2 with a 8.22 ERA, awful numbers for such an excellent pitcher. The good news is that he has walked just five batters against 10 batters in those three outings, but it is clear that something could physically be bothering the big guy. |
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| Livan improves to 8-4 | Sunday 6/22, 7:11 PM CT |
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Livan Hernandez picked up his eighth win of the season on Sunday as he limited the young Diamondbacks to three runs, one earned, over seven innings.
Our View: After being beaten around like a pinata at a seven year olds birthday party over five starts, Livan has now turned in back-to-back seven innings outings with one earned run allowed. He is currently scheduled to take on the Brewers the next time out. |
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| Roberts continues to excel in leadoff role | Sunday 6/22, 7:04 PM CT |
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Brian Roberts stole his 21st base of the year while scoring a run on Sunday in the Orioles 7-3 loss to the Brewers.
Our View: Roberts continues to be a productive leadoff batter for the Orioles and he is on pace to easily eclipse the 36 SB mark for the third straight season. |
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| Hart continues to impress | Sunday 6/22, 7:02 PM CT |
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Corey Hart went deep for the 12th time this season on Sunday as he had two hits and two RBI for the Brew Crew.
Our View: Hart continues to pile up consistently solid numbers across the board with a .290 average, 12 home runs, 46 RBI and 10 SB. That is extremely useful all around production from the clubs right fielder who is fulfilling expectations of big time production. |
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| Olson falls to 5-3 | Sunday 6/22, 6:59 PM CT |
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Garrett Olson allowed four runs in over five innings against the Brewers as he was saddled with his third loss of the year.
Our View: Olson has fallen on hard times of late having allowed 14 runs in his last three starts leading to an 8.40 ERA. With a lack of production like that, you don't need us to tell you that it's best to leave him on your bench until he turns things around, if he can that is. |
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| Barmes activated from DL | Sunday 6/22, 6:51 PM CT |
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Clint Barmes has officially been activated from the DL while the Rockies decided to send down Ian Stewart to make room for the infielder, according to the Associated Press.
Our View: Barmes will serve as the backup to recently activated Troy Tulowitzki at shortstop while battling with the suddenly hot Jeff Baker for playing time at second base. |
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| Parra wins fifth straight | Sunday 6/22, 6:45 PM CT |
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Manny Parra wasn't at his best on Sunday but it was good enough for him to pick up his fifth straight win for the Brewers. Parra allowed three runs and five hits, but it was the six walks that really jumped out in his pitching line.
Our View: Parra is having an amazing run of success given the fact that he has walked at least four batters in three of his five victories. With a 4.74 BB/9 mark on the year, Parra is certainly a boom or bust option from start to start despite the recent run of wins. |
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| Fielder has long ball swing working | Sunday 6/22, 6:41 PM CT |
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Prince Fielder continued to flex his muscles as he went deep twice on Sunday giving him a total of six home runs in his last 10 games.
Our View: Fielder is now hitting .292 on the year thanks to a blazing stretch of .341 with 11 home runs over his last 36 games. So much for his early season struggles. |
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| Miles has five hits | Sunday 6/22, 6:36 PM CT |
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Aaron Miles started at second base for the Cardinals before shifting over to shortstop, as he went 5-for-6 from the plate to boost his average to .313 in 162 AB.
Our View: Miles offers no power with just six extra base hits (one home run), and hasn't stolen a single base, but that batting average certainly is useful if you can overlook his deficiencies. |
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| Lester has another solid outing | Sunday 6/22, 6:34 PM CT |
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Jon Lester picked up a no-decision on Sunday though he looked solid against the Cardinals allowing just two runs over 7.1 innings. Lester walked only one batter while picking up three strikeouts.
Our View: Lester's ERA is now 3.13 as he has lowered it in each of his last four appearances. Lester has allowed just one home run in his last nine starts, and as long as he limits the long ball he should be able to keep that ERA in the three's. |
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| Pineiro holds Sox in check | Sunday 6/22, 6:27 PM CT |
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Joel Pineiro held the Red Sox in check on Sunday allowing just two hits over seven innings to lower his ERA to 3.86. Pineiro didn't walk a batter though he did produce only a one K.
Our View: Despite all the injuries, the Cardinals continue to run out a bunch of average pitchers who are producing above average numbers. Since returning from the DL, Pineiero has allowed just five runs in three starts (2.37 ERA). |
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| Pedroia slaps out four hits | Sunday 6/22, 6:22 PM CT |
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Dustin Pedroia stole his eighth base of the season on Sunday, but the big news was the four hits he produced at the plate to raise his average to .282.
Our View: Pedroia continues to put the ball in play with only 28 K, and with a BABIP of .290, it seems reasonable to posit that Pedrioa should be able to bring up that average to the .300 mark over the coming months. |
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| Youkilis hits two bombs | Sunday 6/22, 6:09 PM CT |
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Kevin Youkilis hit two home runs, including the game winner in the 13th inning on Sunday in the Sox 5-3 victory over the Cardinals.
Our View: Youkilis has been an unexpected source of power this season with 13 HR in just 69 games, this after seasons of 13 and 16 dingers the past two seasons. He isn't David Ortiz, but his run production has certainly helped to cover up for the big fellas loss. |
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| Farnsworth hopes to avoid DL | Sunday 6/22, 6:05 PM CT |
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Updating an earlier report, Kyle Farnsworth needed three stitches on his right hand to close a wound that was the result of trying to snare a batted ball barehanded, according to MLB.com. Farsnworth doesn't think he will need to be placed on the DL.
Our View: Farnsworth is now a key component of the Yankees bullpen with Joba Chamberlain in the starting rotation, so if he were to be out for an extended period of time, the Yankees thin pen would be in trouble. |
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| Pena could be back in coming week | Sunday 6/22, 5:40 PM CT |
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Carlos Pena, out with a broken finger, is scheduled to take batting practice on Tuesday, according to the Associated Press.
Our View: If all goes well Pena could be activated toward the end of the week. Hopefully his time on the sidelines has permitted him to work out a new game plan at the plate since when disabled he was hitting a measly .227 with 71 K in 207 AB. |
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| Berkman hits a lull | Sunday 6/22, 5:36 PM CT |
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Lance Berkman went 0-for-4 on Sunday to lower his average to .354, the lowest it has been since May 6th.
Our View: Berkman is hitless in three games (0-for-9) and only has one home run in his last 10 games. His overall numbers are spectacular, but a slowdown was inevitable. |
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| Rookie 3B goes deep | Sunday 6/22, 5:34 PM CT |
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Evan Longoria socked his 12th home run of the season on Sunday, his lone hit in three trips to the plate.
Our View: Longoria is hitting .249-12-37 through 65 games, and while those aren't leap off the page numbers they are certainly serviceable numbers for a corner infielder in deep mixed leagues. |
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| Valverde returns to save game | Sunday 6/22, 5:31 PM CT |
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Jose Valverde returned to action after being given a day off because of a heavy workload of late and he held the Rays scoreless to earn his 18th save of the season.
Our View: Valverde is often the proverbial high wire act, but the bottom line is that he has converted 18 of 22 chances this season, and his fantasy owners will take that. |
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| Kazmir strikes out seven in loss | Sunday 6/22, 5:30 PM CT |
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Scott Kazmir lasted just 5.2 innings on Sunday thanks to a 106 pitch count coupled with a home runs allowed to Carlos Lee and Hunter Pence. Kazmir permitted three runs to cross the plate though he did rack up seven K.
Our View: Through 10 starts Kazmir owns a sterling 2.03 ERA and 1.02 ERA with an average of 9.87 K/9. With numbers like that, we have almost forgotten that he missed the month of April. |
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| Torrealba produces lone run | Sunday 6/22, 5:24 PM CT |
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Yorvit Torrealba hit a home run on Sunday that produced the only run for the Rockies in their 3-1 loss to the Mets.
Our View: Torrealba has hits in 5-straight games, though Chris Ianetta continues to eat into his playing time rendering his value as suspect except in the deepest of leagues. |
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| Wagner back to dominating | Sunday 6/22, 5:20 PM CT |
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Billy Wagner picked up his 17th save of the year in 22 chances as he held the Rockies to no hits in his lone inning of work on Sunday.
Our View: Despite a run of extreme ineffectiveness, Wagner's overall ratios are still sparkling with a 2.03 ERA and 0.94 WHIP as he continues to be one of the best relievers in baseball despite his advancing age. |
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| Beltran goes deep in win | Sunday 6/22, 5:17 PM CT |
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Carlos Beltran hit his 11th home run of the year leading to his 49th and 50th RBI of the season for the Mets.
Our View: Beltran has finally woken up at the plate and is hitting well over .300 since the start of May. In 20 games in the month of June he has gone deep six times with 18 RBI and is clearly back to being the type of top-25 force that we are used to seeing. |
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| Reynolds loses fifth game | Sunday 6/22, 5:14 PM CT |
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Greg Reynolds lasted seven innings on Sunday while allowing three runs to the Mets, but the Rockies offense wasn't able to do anything leading to his fifth loss of the year.
Our View: The Rockies have stuck with their young stud and it's starting to pay off as he has gone at least six innings with three or fewer runs allowed in three of four starts. We still can't recommend a guy with 15 K and 22 BB in 50.2 IP, but he is worthy of a look in NL Only leagues if you don't mind taking on the risk. |
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| Pelfrey wins again | Sunday 6/22, 5:11 PM CT |
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Mike Pelfrey won his third straight start on Sunday as he held the Rockies scoreless over 5.2 innings. Pelfrey struck out five Rockies but balanced out that production with five walks.
Our View: This was a nice bounce back effort after Pelfrey allowed six runs last time out, and it marks the fourth time in five outings that he has allowed two of fewer runs. He hasn't established himself yet, but his current run of consistency is promising. |
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| Wilson holds off Nationals for save | Sunday 6/22, 5:02 PM CT |
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C.J. Wilson earned his 15th save of the season on Sunday as he held the Nationals without a run.
Our View: The Rangers clearly want Wilson to hold off Eddie Guardado for the closers role, and today's outing was a positive outing for Wilson who had been scored on in three of his previous four outings. Guardado hurled a scoreless inning to lower his ERA to 3.55, but Wilson is still in the drivers season. |
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| Boggs hits homer, steals base | Sunday 6/22, 4:58 PM CT |
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Brandon Boggs went deep for the fourth time on Sunday while he stole his first base of the season on the base paths.
Our View: Boggs continues to get a fair amount of work, but after a strong start to the year his production has really tailed off including a 9-for-39 (.231) stretch in June. With Marlon Byrd heating up, Boggs doesn't appear to have a bead on a ton of at-bats moving forward. |
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| Belliard goes deep on Sunday | Sunday 6/22, 4:55 PM CT |
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Ronnie Belliard took Vincente Padilla deep on Sunday to pick up his fourth home run and 16th and 17th RBI of the season.
Our View: Belliard continues to see an increase in his workload over the past week due to the struggles of Felipe Lopez, but unfortunately for Belliard, his average continues to languish in the .220's though he does have five extra base hits in his last 10 appearances. |
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| Lannan picks up another no-decision | Sunday 6/22, 4:53 PM CT |
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John Lannan held the Rangers to just two runs over six innings against the Rangers during which time he struck out six batters and didn't walk a sole.
Our View: The only two runs that scored were on two solo home runs by Brandon Boggs and Ian Kinsler. Lannan has only four victories despite a 3.34 ERA in 15 starts, a testament to how little the offense has done in support of his solid work on the hill. |
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| Padilla earns 10th victory | Sunday 6/22, 4:50 PM CT |
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Vicente Padilla did just enough to give his team's offense a chance to shine on Sunday and the result was his 10th victory of the season. Padilla held the Nationals to three runs over seven innings and left the outing with a 3.74 ERA.
Our View: Padilla hasn't been dominating in many of his outings this year, but he has also kept the Rangers in almost every game in which he has taken the hill. Expecting 20 wins is a stretch, but if he continues to pitch like this he will be a fine no.4 starter in mixed leagues. |
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| Punto to be activated from DL | Sunday 6/22, 4:42 PM CT |
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Nick Punto will be activated prior to the team's game with the San Diego Padres on Tuesday, according to the Associated Press. Matt Macri was sent to Triple-A Rochester to create space on the roster.
Our View: Punto, who has been dealing with a strained left hamstring that has forced him to the DL on two occasions, will look to find playing time at shortstop with Brendan Harris who has done a solid job filling in for Punto. Neither hitter offers much value except for in deep AL Only leagues. |
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| Ryan notches 15th save | Sunday 6/22, 4:38 PM CT |
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B.J. Ryan converted his 15th save on Sunday by pitching a clean ninth inning for the Blue Jays.
Our View: After a couple of rocky outings, Ryan has now gone four outings without allowing run during which time he has walked only one while striking out four. Ryan has righted the ship and should be fine the rest of the way. |
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| LaRoche still searching for swing | Sunday 6/22, 4:34 PM CT |
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Adam LaRoche went 1-for-4 on Sunday with a run scored though he continues to languish at the plate with a paltry .217 average and seven home runs for the Pirates.
Our View: To think, just two years ago this guy produced 32 home runs and 90 RBI for the Braves. Even last years somewhat minor production (.272-21-88) appears out of reach for the lefty, though he has long been known as a second half performer. |
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| Lind comes through | Sunday 6/22, 4:31 PM CT |
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Adam Lind, taking advantage of a new lease on life as the Jays starting left fielder, went 2-for-3 with a home run on Sunday for the Jays.
Our View: Lind was just 1-for-19 earlier in the year prior to being sent back to the minors. The team finally appears committed to allowing him the chance to grow on the job. His bat should produce enough to make him an attractive AL Only option. |
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| Snell continues to limp along | Sunday 6/22, 4:27 PM CT |
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Ian Snell suffered another brutal outing on Sunday as he allowed eight hits, four walks and four runs over just four innings for the Pirates.
Our View: Snell has been dealing with some tenderness in his throwing arm for a while, but his across the board regression this season hints that the issue may be more than some minor annoyance. With a WHIP approaching 2.00, Snell has been a ratio killer. |
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| McGowan defeats the Pirates | Sunday 6/22, 4:24 PM CT |
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Dustin McGowan wasn't anywhere near his best on Sunday, but he hung on long enough to earn his sixth victory of the season. McGowan allowed four runs, three earned, with only two strikeouts over five innings.
Our View: McGowan hasn't been able to build upon the success that he flashed last season, but he continues to strikeout enough batters (74 in 94 innings) to be a useful starter in mixed leagues. The potential for growth is lurking. |
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| Bruce continues slide at plate | Sunday 6/22, 4:21 PM CT |
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Jay Bruce continues to struggle at the plate after a magnificent start as he went 1-for-4 on Sunday to drop his average down to .300.
Our View: After going 11-for-19 to begin his big league career, Bruce has hit just .235 over his last 21 games with an alarming 24 K and just eight walks. The lack of plate discipline is the main concern with Bruce, and right now you are seeing just why many pundits have suggested tempered enthusiasm with the future star. |
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| Giambi on hitting tear | Sunday 6/22, 4:18 PM CT |
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Jason Giambi went 3-for-3 with two runs scored and two RBI for Yankees on Sunday. He also stole his second bag of the year.
Our View: Long live the power of the golden thong. After hitting .164 in April, Giambi is hitting .328 with 12 home runs over his last 42 games rewarding those who had the patience to keep him on their roster during his darkest hours. |
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| Pettitte wins for eighth time | Sunday 6/22, 4:14 PM CT |
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Andy Pettitte improved to 8-5 as he held the Reds scoreless for six innings on Sunday. Pettitte walked two, struck out four and permitted just four hits.
Our View: Pettitte lowered his ERA to 4.04 on this day in his third straight sparkling performance. Pettitte, winner of 4-straight decisions, owns a 0.43 ERA over his last three starts during which time he has walked only four batters while striking out 19. He is dialed in. |
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| Cuteo pitches well, still loses | Sunday 6/22, 4:10 PM CT |
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Johnny Cueto pitched very well on Sunday allowing the Yankees just one run in five innings but he was still handed his eighth loss of the year as his offense failed to support him.
Our View: Cueto struck out seven without allowing a single walk, but he was bested by Andy Pettitte on this day. Cueto continues to pile up nice K numbers though the rest of his pitching line has been decidedly average. |
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| Farnsworth injures hand | Sunday 6/22, 4:06 PM CT |
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Kyle Farnsworth injured his right hand in the eighth inning against the Reds on Sunday and had to be removed from the game, according to the Associated Press.
Our View: Farnsworth was injured while trying to field an infield single by Brandon Phillips, and it is not yet known what the injury actually is or how long it will keep him out of action. |
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| K-Rod gets 30th save | Sunday 6/22, 3:58 PM CT |
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Angels closer Francisco Rodriguez earned his 30th save of the season today, working the ninth inning to solidify the 3-2 win over Philadelphia. K-Rod faced five batters, walking one and giving up one hit on 14 total pitches, representing one of the more worrisome outings of his season.
Our View: That's nine saves through the month of June, touting just three walks and nine strikeouts through that span. |
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| Weaver gets win #7 | Sunday 6/22, 3:54 PM CT |
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Angels RHP Jered Weaver has evened out his record at 7-7, getting the win in short work against Philly, 3-2. Weaver pitched 5 1/3 innings to allow one run on four hits, giving up three walks versus six strikeouts.
Our View: Weaver now sits at 3-1 for the month of June and 5-2 over his last seven starts. |
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| Hamels pitches well but takes loss | Sunday 6/22, 3:50 PM CT |
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Philadelphia LHP Cole Hamels put forth a respectable effort on the mound this afternoon but his team failed to support his cause, falling 3-2 to the Angels. Hamels pitched seven innings, allowing three runs (all earned) on six hits with no walks and four strikeouts.
Our View: Hamels now sits at 7-5 on the season with a 3.27 ERA. He came in riding a two-game win streak with a no-decision in between, allowing just four earned runs through those efforts. He missed the win today, but his arm remains strong and a bit of support from the offense would go a long way. |
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| Rollins swipes two vs Angels | Sunday 6/22, 3:44 PM CT |
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Philadelphia shortstop Jimmy Rollins enjoyed a strong day on offense despite his team's 3-2 loss to the Angels. Rollins went 2-for-4 with a walk, his 17th double of the season, and two stolen bases to pickup one RBI on the day.
Our View: Rollins now carries 17 stolen bases on the season, seven of them coming since June 11th. |
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| Kotchman homers in win over Philly | Sunday 6/22, 3:39 PM CT |
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The Angels completed their interleague series with Philadelphia today, wrapping with a 3-2 win with the bulk of the offensive support coming from first baseman Casey Kotchman. Kotchman went 1-for-3 with a walk and his eighth home run of the season, posting two RBIs and one run scored on the day.
Our View: Kotchman has struggled a bit at the plate this month, hitting just .226 for June coming in. This is just his second home since April 23rd. |
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| Carmona to be evaluated on Monday | Sunday 6/22, 3:33 PM CT |
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Cleveland reports RHP Fausto Carmona , listed on the team's 15-day disables list since May 24th, has been shut down for the last week and will be given a full medical evaluation on Monday, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Carmona had completed a three-inning simulated game and reported soreness in his hip the following day. Carmona (4-2, 3.10 ERA) was originally scheduled to go out on a minor league rehab assignment over the weekend, but that plan was scrapped when the soreness set in. |
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| Teixeira goes yard three times vs Seattle | Sunday 6/22, 3:27 PM CT |
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With Chipper Jones and Yunel Escobar on the shelf today, the Braves needed a source of offense to support RHP Tim Hudson against the Seattle Mariners, and first baseman Mark Teixeira provided that spark, leading his team to an 8-3 win over Seattle. Teixeira went 3-for-4 at the plate with three homers on the day, totaling four RBIs and three runs scored on the day.
Our View: This gives Teixeira 13 homers on the season, though he had not hit one since June 8th entering today. |
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| Hudson gets win #8 | Sunday 6/22, 3:22 PM CT |
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Atlanta RHP Tim Hudson wasn't especially sharp on the mound this afternoon, but he picked up the win as his Braves pulled out the 8-3 win over the Mariners. Hudson pitched seven innings of shutout baseball, surrendering just four hits with four walks and two strikeouts.
Our View: This was one of Hudson's best outings this season and brings his ERA to 2.96 on the season, touting three starts with one or fewer earned runs allowed this month. |
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| Silva trounced for three homers | Sunday 6/22, 3:17 PM CT |
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Seatte RHP Carlos Silva suffered through one of the worst outings of his professional career today, taking the 8-3 loss against Atlanta. Silva lasted just four innings, surrendering four runs (all earned) on four hits with one strikeout and no walks.
Our View: Silva surrendered three home runs on the day, giving him five total dingers he has surrendered over his past three starts. |
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| Rare day in the sun for Clement | Sunday 6/22, 3:12 PM CT |
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Seatte failed to get the offense going today, taking the 8-3 loss to the Atlanta Braves. While the Mariners suffered catcher Jeff Clement enjoyed a rare day of proficiency at the plate, going 2-for-3 with a double and his first home run of the season, totali two RBIs and one run scored.
Our View: These are the first hits Clement has posted this month, also posting his first RBIs since May 16th. |
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| Barmes to be activated on Monday | Sunday 6/22, 3:04 PM CT |
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The Rockies believe infielder Clint Barmes is nearly ready to return from the disables list, according to MLB.com.
Our View: The Rockies are expected to activate Barmes on Monday, having hit .278 (5-for-18) with three RBIs, a walk and a strikeout in five rehab games at Triple-A Colorado Springs. Barmes said he comes back with sharpness, something he couldn't do in 2005 when he missed 78 games with a broken collarbone. Barmes' .343 batting average is still the highest on the team, and he had five home runs and 20 RBIs before the injury. After starting the year as a utility player, Barmes supplanted Jayson Nix (now at Triple-A Colorado Springs) as the regular at second base. Barmes was one of the few hot Rockies during their cold start. |
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| Matsui leaves with bad hammy | Sunday 6/22, 2:56 PM CT |
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Astros second baseman Kazuo Matsui has left today's game against Tampa Bay with a strained right hamstring, according to the Houston Chronicle.
Our View: Matsui played six innings today and went 2-for-3. He grounded out to shortstop in his final at-bat in the sixth inning, and Mark Loretta took over at second base. The team believes the injury is not serious and are tentatively listing Matsui as day-to-day. |
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| Lind getting strong look in starting role | Sunday 6/22, 2:43 PM CT |
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The Blue Jays called up outfielder Adam Lind on Friday night and is now viewed by new manager Cito Gaston as the regular starter in left field, according to MLB.com.
Our View: It was an unanticipated promotion for the 24-year-old Lind, who wasn't sure when he'd be back with the Jays. In a stint with Toronto earlier this year, Lind struggled offensively and was promptly sent back to the Minor Leagues before he could break free of his slump. Then, two days after Lind was optioned back to Triple-A Syracuse, the Blue Jays acquired veteran outfielders Brad Wilkerson and Kevin Mench on May 9. The addition of that pair, along with the presence of left fielder Shannon Stewart, had Lind doubting he'd get another call soon. Now Mench has been optioned to Triple-A Syracuse, Stewart is on the DL, and Wilkerson has fallen out of favor. That gives Lind an opportunity to show and prove. |
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| Orioles add Bukvich to the bullpen | Sunday 6/22, 2:16 PM CT |
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The Orioles have purchased the contract of reliever Ryan Bukvich from Triple-A Norfolk, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Bukvich, who has pitched in the big leagues in each of the last five seasons, is likely to contribute as a long reliever. The right-hander was starting at Norfolk, where he had compiled a 5-2 record and a 3.45 ERA. Bukvich said that most of his professional experience has come out of the bullpen and that he won't have to make much of an adjustment. To make room on the roster, Baltimore has designated Freddie Bynum for assignment. |
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| Weeks returns for Brew Crew | Sunday 6/22, 2:11 PM CT |
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Milwaukee second baseman Rickie Weeks is back in the lineup for the Brewers today, activated from the disabled list this morning after missing two weeks with a sprained left knee, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Manager Ned Yost was cautious in bringing Weeks back, having been on the DL since June 7th and spending the last 15 days rehabbing his knee through strength-building exercises and baseball-related activities. Weeks showed no ill effects fielding his position in the top of the first inning on Sunday and hit a long fly ball for an out in his first at-bat. |
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| Schneider doing well but Mets are cautious | Sunday 6/22, 2:05 PM CT |
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Mets catcher Brian Schneider spoke with reporters and states he is feeling fine the day after leaving Saturday's game with swelling in his left hand, according to MLB.com.
Our View: The Mets expect Schneider will not be out long at all as manager Jerry Manuel noted he could be back in the lineup as early as Monday (though Tuesday seems much more likely). |
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| Molina playing first for Cards | Sunday 6/22, 2:01 PM CT |
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The Cardinals have fielded Yadier Molina at first base today, giving Molina his first time on the playing field since suffering a concussion last week, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Molina served as the designated hitter in the series opener on Friday. However, the imPACT concussion screening that he receives daily showed regression in his condition on Saturday, so Molina was held out of the lineup entirely on Saturday. He still has not been cleared to catch, but the club considered first base a suitable assignment. |
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| Rays promote Price | Sunday 6/22, 1:56 PM CT |
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Tampa Bay has promoted LHP David Price to Double-A Montgomery, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Price, the Rays' #1 pick in 2007 had just completed a win against the St. Lucie Mets when the team informed him of the promotion. Price is expected arrive in Montgomery on Sunday evening and could start for the Biscuits as soon as Thursday. Drafted in June 2007, the 22-year-old signed a contract with the Rays on Aug. 15, 2007, worth up to $11.25 million with $8.5 million guaranteed. |
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| Badenhop to DL | Sunday 6/22, 1:47 PM CT |
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The Florida Marlins have placed pitcher Burke Badenhop on the 15-day disabled list with right shoulder tendinitis, according to the Sports Network.
Our View: In 13 appearances this season (eight starts), Badenhop has gone 2-3 with a 6.08 ERA. To fill the roster spot, the Marlins have recalled outfielder Jai Miller from Triple-A Albuquerque. |
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| Castillo out for NY, may see DL | Sunday 6/22, 1:38 PM CT |
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Manager Jerry Manuel submitted today's starting lineup for the Mets and failed to list second baseman Luis Castillo on the card. Asked by reporters about the decision, Manuel stated Castillo will be out at least a couple of day due to pain in his right quedriceps muscle, according to the NY Post.
Our View: Manuel also said a DL stint is a possibility for Castillo, who has been battling a variety of ailments this season. |
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| Beltre out with bum finger | Sunday 6/22, 1:35 PM CT |
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Adrian Beltre is out of the lineup for Seattle today, battling an injured left index finger, according to MLB.com.
Our View: The Mariners' third baseman reinjured the finger Saturday night while fielding ground balls in pregame warmups, forcing him to sit out the game. As a precaution, he did not start in the series finale in Atlanta as well. Manager Jim Riggleman hinted that Beltre, who didn't join the team on the field for batting practice, probably wouldn't even be well enough to pinch-hit on Sunday. |
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| Encarnacion leaves with back spasms | Sunday 6/22, 1:33 PM CT |
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Cincinnati third baseman Edwin Encarnacion has left today's game against the Yankees with lower back spasms, according to the Miami Herald.
Our View: Encarnacion appeared to hurt himself on a leaping catch of a Robinson Cano line drive to end the second inning. He came down awkwardly after making the stab and did not return to the field for the third inning. Jeff Keppinger, who was activated off the 15-day disabled list before the game, moved over from shortstop to third base. Paul Janish took over at short and replaced Encarnacion in the lineup. |
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| Napoli back behind the plate for Angels | Sunday 6/22, 1:24 PM CT |
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The Angels welcome catcher Mike Napoli back to the starting lineup today as they face Philadelphia, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Mired in a 2-for-36 slump after a tremendous, power-driven start, Napoli has missed six straight games as he works to get back on track. Napoli was on a home run tear early in the season, culminating with two bombs and five RBIs in an Interleague game at home against the Dodgers on May 18. His 10 homers have come in 124 at-bats, but his average has plunged to .202. Today, the Angels will give him a shot to get his swing back on the right path to success. |
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| Aybar covers for injured Izturis | Sunday 6/22, 1:20 PM CT |
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Angels shortstop Maicer Izturis is out of the lineup today as his team fights with Philadelphia today, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Izturis felt tightness in his right hamstring Saturday night as he fielded a slow grounder after stealing second base in the first inning. He let manager Mike Scioscia know it was bothering him in the second inning. In came Erick Aybar, and out went a two-run homer by Aybar in the eighth inning to drive the Angels to a 6-2 win over the Phillies. Aybar was in the lineup, batting second, on Sunday against Phillies ace Cole Hamels as the Angels went for a sweep at Citizens Bank Park behind Jered Weaver. |
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| Royals bring Ramirez to the stage | Sunday 6/22, 1:16 PM CT |
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The Royals have purchased the contract of Horacio Ramirez from Triple-A Omaha, according to the Sports Network.
Our View: The Royals signed the 28-year-old pitcher to a minor-league deal on May 21st, going 1-1 with 1.42 ERA in three starts with Omaha. He has yet to appear in the majors this season but touts a career record of 38-29 with a 4.61 ERA. To bring Ramirez aboard, the team optioned reliever Carlos Rosa to Omaha. |
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| Dunn gets a day off | Sunday 6/22, 1:10 PM CT |
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Cincinnati outfielder Adam Dunn is getting the day off and will not be in the lineup as the Reds face the Blue Jays, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Manager Dusty Baker told reporters Dunn needed a mental day of rest, noting the slugger his pushing himself into frustration. He is there to pinch hit if needed and should not miss any more time. |
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| Kent out for Dodgers | Sunday 6/22, 1:07 PM CT |
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Dodger second baseman Jeff Kent is not listed in today's starting lineup against Cleveland, according to the LA Daily News.
Our View: Luis Maza gets the start in place of the veteran slugger, though the News fails to mention why Kent is out. We will update if news becomes available. |
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| Chacon moved to the 'pen | Sunday 6/22, 1:02 PM CT |
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The Astros have decided to move RHP Shawn Chacon from the starting rotation to the bullpen, according to the Houston Chronicle.
Our View: Chacon signed a $2 million deal with the Astros in February after being told he could compete for a spot in the rotation, but today manager Cecil Cooper informed the hurler he will be working out of the bullpen for the immediate future. |
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| Chipper, Escobar out for Braves | Sunday 6/22, 12:58 PM CT |
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The Braves will be without third baseman Chipper Jones and shortstop Yunel Escobar today, both nursing injury and in need of rest, both missing their second consecutive game, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Jones continues to battle a strained right quad while Escobar has a strained right hip flexor, but the Braves believe both will be back soon and both are available to pinch hit today if needed. In their place, Omar Infante will start at short while Ruben Gotay gets the call at third. |
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| Jackson withdraws appeal | Sunday 6/22, 12:53 PM CT |
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| As anticipated, Tampa Bay RHP Edwin Jackson has dropped his appeal with the league and will begin his five-game suspension today, according to | |
