| Snell will probably miss start | Monday 6/23, 11:36 PM CT |
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Ian Snell may have his next start skipped, but he is not expected to land on the DL, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. Snell has a case of "golfer's elbow" that has him listed as day-to-day. "Probably, he'll only have to miss one start," GM Neal Huntington said. "Hopefully, we can avoid the disabled list."
Our View: John Van Benschoten likely will be recalled from Triple-A Indianapolis to start Friday in place of the injured Phil Dumatrait, but it's not clear who will start for Snell if he isn't able to go. |
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| Zobrist recalled from Triple-A | Monday 6/23, 11:10 PM CT |
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As expected, the Rays recalled Ben Zobrist from Triple-A Durham Tuesday. He has four hits in 15 at-bats with the Rays this year.
Our View: Zobrist will provide insurance for the Rays on the middle infield, as Akinori Iwamura will be serving a suspension and Jason Bartlett will miss at least a game or two with his wife due to give birth. |
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| Johnson likely DL-bound | Monday 6/23, 10:52 PM CT |
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Reed Johnson is likely to be placed on the DL to make room on the roster for Sean Marshall, who will be recalled to start on Tuesday, according to the Chicago Tribune. Johnson hasn't played since last Tuesday because of back spasms.
Our View: The Cubs could use Johnson with Alfonso Soriano still out, but at least the move can be backdated. He would be eligible to return on July 3. |
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| MRI on King Felix's ankle comes back negative | Monday 6/23, 10:31 PM CT |
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X-rays on Felix Hernandez's left ankle have come back negative. King Felix, who was injured while covering a play at the plate, expects to make his next start. "Sure, I'll be there," he said in the AP.
Our View: We're skeptical that King Felix will be able to take the ball the next time out given that he could put no weight at all on his ankle without writhing in pain. We'll continue to update his status going forward. |
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| Teahen homers as Royals roll | Monday 6/23, 10:29 PM CT |
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Mark Teahen hit a three-run homer in the Royals' 8-4 win over the Rockies. It's his fifth homer this month.
Our View: Teahen's eight homers are already more than he produced all of last year. Hopefully he'll go back to showing that 20-homer potential that he showed in 2006. |
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| Bannister wins despite wildness | Monday 6/23, 10:26 PM CT |
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Brian Bannister was wild Monday, issuing a career-high six walks, but he didn't give up an earned run over seven innings in a victory over Colorado.
Our View: This is just the second time all year Bannister has allowed more than two free passes, so the control issues certainly cropped out of nowhere. He can often be hit-or-miss because of his inability to miss bats, making Bannister a risky mixed league option. |
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| Francis blasted by Royals | Monday 6/23, 10:21 PM CT |
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Jeff Francis was blasted by the Royals for seven runs on seven hits and three walks in 4 1/3 innings Monday.
Our View: Francis had been turning it around until this latest outing. Much like hit team, Francis has been very disappointing this season. |
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| Bergmann strong in losing effort | Monday 6/23, 10:15 PM CT |
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Jason Bergmann allowed only one run on six hits while striking out six over seven innings Monday, but the Nats bullpen couldn't get him a win in a 3-2 loss to the Angels.
Our View: Bergmann has been hit-or-miss this year, but he's hit on his last two starts, allowing just one run in each, though he's lost both. |
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| Lackey stellar yet again | Monday 6/23, 10:12 PM CT |
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John Lackey allowed two runs (one earned) on six hits and two walks while striking out six over eight innings Monday in picking up hist fifth win in eight starts.
Our View: Lackey has been phenomenal since coming off the DL, posting a 1.65 ERA. |
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| Beckett a tough-luck loser | Monday 6/23, 9:59 PM CT |
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Josh Beckett was terrific on Monday, but it wasn't enough. The righty allowed just two runs on five hits and two walks while striking out eight over eight innings, but he was trumped by Dan Haren.
Our View: Beckett was a tough-luck loser tonight, but with 36 wins over the previous two seasons, he has been the beneficiary of good luck in the past. |
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| Haren holds Sox scoreless over seven | Monday 6/23, 9:53 PM CT |
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Dan Haren was nails for the D'Backs Monday, holding the Red Sox scoreless over seven innings while allowing just two hits and a walk with five strikeouts.
Our View: This is the first win on the road for Haren this year. He given up just six runs in five starts this month. |
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| Laird has pulled hammy, out 4-6 weeks | Monday 6/23, 9:46 PM CT |
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An MRI has confirmed that Gerald Laird has a pulled hamstring, which will keep the catcher out 4-6 weeks, according to the Star-Telegram.
Our View: Jarrod Saltalamacchia will handle the bulk of the workload behind the plate, with Max Ramirez getting the occasional start. |
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| Blalock has another setback | Monday 6/23, 9:44 PM CT |
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Hank Blalock suffered yet another setback when he bruised his right wrist diving for a ball Sunday during the second game of a rehab assignment with Triple-A Oklahoma, according to the Star-Telegram. He was not in the Redhawks' lineup Monday, but the hope is that he can play Tuesday.
Our View: This latest setback is considered minor, but there is no timetable for Blalock's return. The Rangers had been hoping he would be back tomorrow. |
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| Santana gives up five, but just one is earned | Monday 6/23, 9:28 PM CT |
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Johan Santana allowed five runs (though just one was earned because of a David Wright error) on seven hits and two walks while striking out four over seven innings Monday in a loss to the Mariners.
Our View: Santana's line for fantasy owners ended up being very good, but his won-loss record this year (7-6) has been quite disappointing. |
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| Rhodes nails down save | Monday 6/23, 9:26 PM CT |
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Arthur Rhodes nailed down the Mariners' 5-2 win over the Mets Monday, retiring Carlos Delgado and Damion Easley via the strikeout.
Our View: Sean Green started the inning but left after allowing a run on two hits and a walk. Brandon Morrow is due back tomorrow, but it's possible this successful appearance could make Rhodes third in line for saves behind Morrow and the injured J.J. Putz. |
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| Beltran to run more often? | Monday 6/23, 9:13 PM CT |
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New Mets manager Jerry Manuel would like Carlos Beltran to run more often, according to MLB.com. "It's going to be addressed," Manuel said. "He's going to run into a couple of outs. That's OK." Beltran stole his 11th base (in 12 attempts) of the season Monday. His 88.1 percent success rate is the highest among active players with at least 200 steals. "I don't like to get thrown out," Beltran said when told of his manager's remarks. "I like to push it when I feel I can make it to second base. If it's a 3-1 count and they tell me I have to go, I'll go. But I don't like to get thrown out when I'm on my own."
Our View: We'll have to see if Carlos does end up running more often. If he does, it would obviously make his fantasy owners quite happy. |
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| Prado could begin rehab assignment this weekend | Monday 6/23, 9:02 PM CT |
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Martin Prado could also begin a rehab assignment this weekend, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Prado has missed six weeks while recovering from a partially tore a left thumb ligament.
Our View: Prado could be ready around the All-Star break, but he'll probably stay at Triple-A. |
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| Kotsay to begin rehab assignment Tuesday | Monday 6/23, 8:58 PM CT |
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Mark Kotsay will begin a minor league rehab assignment Tuesday with Double-A Mississippi, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. If all goes well, he could be activated next week when the Braves begin a homestand. He is recovering from a back injury.
Our View: Kotsay's progress had stalled, but he's made significant strides over the last week, as he's been able to take batting practice and run and throw. |
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| Chipper likely out for Milwaukee series | Monday 6/23, 8:54 PM CT |
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Manager Bobby Cox said that Chipper Jones is likely to miss the entire series with the Brewers, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. "He's not ready," Cox said. "You never know with Chip — he could come in one day and say, 'I'm in no matter what.' " Chipper is nursing a strained right quad.
Our View: Chipper can DH this weekend in Toronto, so it seems likely he'll be held out of the starting lineup until then. He's probably available for pinch-hitting duty. |
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| Francoeur fitted for contact lens | Monday 6/23, 8:51 PM CT |
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Jeff Francoeur was fitted Monday for a single contact lens for his right eye, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. The outfielder's vision has deteriorated since he was struck in the face by a pitch while squaring to bunt in a 2004 minor league game, and he thinks it might be a cause for the large gap between his stats in day and night games. "We'll see what happens," said Francoeur, who wore the contact lens in Monday night's series opener against Milwaukee. "I'm near-sighted in my right eye a little since I had surgery [for multiple fractures of his right cheek and orbital bone around the eye]. I'm not making excuses, but I feel like I haven't been able to recognize pitches. I've only got to wear it at night."
Our View: Francoeur is a career .292 hitter during the day and a .267 hitter at night, though he was better at night last season (.301, versus a .273 average during the day). You've got to think the lens can only help, so why not give it a shot? |
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| Cameron goes deep in return to lineup | Monday 6/23, 8:39 PM CT |
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Mike Cameron made a successful return to the lineup Monday after missing four games with a hyperextended right big toe. The outfielder had a two-run homer and a walk in four plate appearances.
Our View: Cameron's batting average (.224) is bad (Isn't it always?), but his power numbers (12 homers, 28 RBI) are quite good considering he's played just 41 games. |
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| Sheets dominates Braves | Monday 6/23, 8:36 PM CT |
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Ben Sheets was in top form Monday, limiting the Braves to one run on four hits and no walks while striking out seven in a complete game effort.
Our View: You know the deal with Sheets by now. When he's healthy, he's on the of the best of the game. He's been healthy, and his numbers on the year (9-1, 2.59 ERA, 1.04 WHIP) are outstanding. |
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| Helton will stay in cleanup spot | Monday 6/23, 8:32 PM CT |
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Todd Helton is three for his last 30 and is hitting an un-Helton-like .275 on the year, but manager Clint Hurdle has no plans of removing the veteran from the cleanup spot, according to MLB.com. "Any conversation I have long term," Hurdle said, "I normally have conversations with the players rather than the public. We are of the same opinion that we want to do what's best for the team, what's best for the lineup. I do believe our lineup's dynamic is best with Todd at cleanup."
Our View: Helton's OBP is still over .400, and although his power numbers (seven homers, 27 RBI) are down a bit, this slide is nothing he can't come out of. |
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| Izturis out of lineup again | Monday 6/23, 8:10 PM CT |
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Maicer Izturis was out of the lineup Monday for the second straight day with a tight right hamstring, according to MLB.com. Manager Mike Scioscia said Izturis was "feeling better" and that he would be available Monday even though he wasn't starting. "We're going to try to give him a couple of days to see if we can get this all worked out and then get him back in there," Scioscia said. "We're trying to give him a couple more days to get to... where it won't be an issue."
Our View: Erick Aybar has been at short the last two nights in place of Maicer. |
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| Decision looming on Barmes, Baker | Monday 6/23, 7:51 PM CT |
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Clint Barmes and Jeff Baker will both be able to play this week with the DH in play, but once interleague play concludes, the Rockies have a decision to make on who will be their starter at second, according to MLB.com. Barmes played second Monday in his first game back from a sprained knee, while Baker started at DH. "We'll see how he takes it up," manager Clint Hurdle said about Barmes, "and if he's as hot as he was when he left, then we can make the necessary adjustments."
Our View: As Hurdle mentioned, Barmes was red-hot before going on the DL, but Baker has been red-hot of late, winning NL Player of the Week honors last week. Barmes is the better defender at second. Keep a close eye on how these two play over the next few weeks, as the winner of the battle will likely be worth a fantasy roster spot. |
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| Youkilis leaves after getting hit in eye | Monday 6/23, 7:46 PM CT |
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Kevin Youkilis had to leave Monday's game after being struck by a ball under the right eye during in-between innings fielding practice. Brandon Moss replaced him at first.
Our View: This didn't look like anything to worry about. The Sox were likely just exercising caution. |
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| King Felix forced from game with injury | Monday 6/23, 7:24 PM CT |
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Felix Hernandez has been forced from his start against the Mets one out short of qualifying for the win after injuring his ankle on a play at the plate. Carlos Beltran scored on a passed ball while spiking Hernandez in the ankle/calf area. Hernandez tried to throw a few more pitches but was unable to do so and left the game in pain.
Our View: This didn't look good. The good news is that he was able to put some weight on the leg, but given that he was already dealing with some issues with his calf, we wouldn't be at all surprised if he is placed on the DL as a result of this collision. |
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| Three-team race for Inoa | Monday 6/23, 7:22 PM CT |
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There are mainly three teams in the running to sign 16-year-old Dominican pitching prospect Michael Inoa. "Oakland has led the pack of teams interested in Inoa, but both Cincinnati and Texas have surged in the past few days, and it is now a three-horse race of big favorites to grab this kid," sources told ESPN Deportes.
Our View: Oakland GM Billy Beane has traveled to the Dominican to evaluate Inoa, and the A's are believed to be the favorites for the youngster. He's considered the equivalent of a top-10 draft pick and will get a signing bonus in excess of $3 million. |
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| Grudzielanek out with sore back | Monday 6/23, 7:06 PM CT |
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Mark Grudzielanek was absent from Monday's lineup because of recurring back soreness, according to MLB.com. "Grud is sore in the lower back. I'm not sure if he's going to be available tomorrow or not. Hopefully he is," manager Trey Hillman said. "We'll see how his treatments go today but you won't see him on the field today."
Our View: Mike Aviles moved over to second for the Royals Monday, while Tony Pena played short. |
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| Mulder scratched from rehab start | Monday 6/23, 7:03 PM CT |
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Mark Mulder has been scratched from his rehab start for Triple-A Memphis tonight due to back stiffness, according to the AP. He is listed as day-to-day.
Our View: Mulder was in line for a start this weekend in Kansas City, but that presumably won't happen now. At least he wasn't scratched because of a problem with his surgically repaired shoulder. |
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| Batista to start on Wednesday | Monday 6/23, 6:57 PM CT |
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Miguel Batista will start on Wednesday in place of Erik Bedard, not Tuesday as previously reported, according to the Tacoma News Tribune. Baitisa threw on the side Monday.
Our View: R.A. Dickey will stay in his original spot on Tuesday. |
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| Morrow note available tonight | Monday 6/23, 6:53 PM CT |
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Brandon Morrow, who is recovering from back spasms, won't be available to pitch tonight, according to the Tacoma News Tribune. He is expected to be available tomorrow.
Our View: Morrow is serving as the team's closer while J.J. Putz is out. Ryan Rowland-Smith is a candidate to close tonight should a need arise. |
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| Johnson's season could be over | Monday 6/23, 6:10 PM CT |
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Nick Johnson could be done for the season, according to the Washington Post. Dr. Richard Berger of the Mayo Clinic recommended that Johnson undergo a diagnostic arthroscopy to evaluate ligaments in Johnson's wrist. The surgery will take place on Tuesday.
Our View: It's possible Johnson could make it back at some point this year, but given his injury history, we're not holding our breath. |
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| Escobar back in the lineup | Monday 6/23, 6:04 PM CT |
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Yunel Escobar is back in the lineup Monday after sitting out a couple games with a strained hip flexor.
Our View: Escobar is batting second in the order and playing short. Gregor Blanco is hitting leadoff. |
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| Marmol finds mechanical flaw | Monday 6/23, 5:53 PM CT |
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Carlos Marmol believes he has found a mechanical flaw in his delivery that has contributed to his recent struggles, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. In watchin videos with Cubs coaches Larry Rothschild and Lester Strode, Marmol believes he is flying open too soon and not staying on top enough with his delivery. ''I see what I'm doing good in my good games, and I think I can fix it,'' he said. ''No, not think it. I'm going to do it.''
Our View: Carlos has given up five runs over his last two games. Considering he gave up only three runs in all of March and April and four in May, there was some cause for concern. Hopefully he will get the problem fixed as he says he will. |
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| Batista in line for Tuesday start | Monday 6/23, 5:46 PM CT |
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Miguel Batista is expected to start on Tuesday, with R.A. Dickey moving back a day to start in place of the injured Erik Bedard on Wednesday, according to the Seattle Times.
Our View: Batisita had been demoted to a relief role. This could just be a spot start, as Bedard, at this point, isn't expected to land on the DL. |
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| Fulchino sent down | Monday 6/23, 5:38 PM CT |
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The Royals optioned Jeff Fulchino to Triple-A Omaha Monday. He held a 9.00 ERA in five games.
Our View: Fulchino had to throw three innings in relief Sunday, so it's not surprising that the Royals sought a fresher arm for their pen. That fresher arm belongs to Joel Peralta. |
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| Peralta recalled from Triple-A | Monday 6/23, 5:36 PM CT |
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The Royals recalled Joel Peralta from Triple-A Omaha Monday. Jeff Fulchino was optioned to make room on the roster.
Our View: Peralta didn't deserve to be sent down the first time, so it's good to see him back. |
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| Bedard expected to miss next start | Monday 6/23, 5:19 PM CT |
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ESPN is reporting that Erik Bedard is likely to miss his next start, which is scheduled for Wednesday. The lefty exited his last start with back spasms. Miguel Batista is expected to fill in for him.
Our View: Bedard was reportedly feeling much better a day after suffering the injury, but it appears the M's will play it safe and skip him. At this point, a DL stint would appear unlikely. |
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| Romero sent back down | Monday 6/23, 5:01 PM CT |
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The D'Backs optioned Alex Romero to Triple-A Tucson Monday. He has hit just .229 in 35 at-bats with Arizona this year.
Our View: Romero wasn't getting much playing time despite Byrnes being out. |
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| Byrnes activated from the DL | Monday 6/23, 4:57 PM CT |
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As expected, the D'Backs activated Eric Byrnes from the DL Monday. He had been out with tears in both hamstrings. Alex Romero was optioned to Triple-A Tucson to make room on the roster.
Our View: Byrnes had just one hit in 12 at-bats during his rehab, but the important thing is that his hamstrings are feeling better. Hopefully he'll be able to contribute in the stolen base department without hurting himself again. |
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| Parrish a candidate to replace Marcum | Monday 6/23, 4:35 PM CT |
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John Parrish is a candidate to replace the injured Shaun Marcum in the Blue Jays rotation, according to MLB.com. The lefty, who has made 151 of his career 169 appearance in the majors in relief, is 10-0 with a 2.83 ERA at Triple-A Syracuse.
Our View: Parrish's move to the rotation has gone surprisingly well. His first outing would be Saturday. Other candidates for a promotion include David Purcey and Kane Davis. |
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| Marcum gets good news on elbow | Monday 6/23, 4:31 PM CT |
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Shaun Marcum received some good news Monday on his injured elbow. The righty visited Dr. James Andrews, who confirmed what Toronto had already determined, that Marcum was suffering from strained ligaments around the elbow and forearm, according to MLB.com. The injury isn't considered serious, and Andrews gave Marcum clearance to begin a throwing program as soon as Saturday.
Our View: There is no timetable for Marcum's return, though this report suggested that the team will likely wait until around the All-Star break to activate him. |
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| No decision yet on Crisp | Monday 6/23, 4:24 PM CT |
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A decision on Coco Crisp's appeal of a seven-game suspension for his role in the June 5 bench-clearing brawl with Tampa Bay has yet to have been made, according to the Boston Globe.
Our View: You should probably avoid using Crisp this week if you can just in case. |
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| Casey to begin suspension tonight | Monday 6/23, 4:22 PM CT |
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Sean Casey will drop his appeal and begin serving his three-game suspension tonight, according to the Boston Globe. was given the suspension for his role in the June 5 bench-clearing brawl with the Rays.
Our View: Casey will be back with the team this weekend in Houston. |
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| Schilling surgery goes well | Monday 6/23, 4:18 PM CT |
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Dr. Craig Morgan, the doctor who performed Curt Schilling's shoulder surgery today, told the Boston Globe that what was found inside Schilling's shoulder was about as good as they could have hoped. "The status of the rotator cuff was much better than was predicted," Morgan said. "He did have disease in the biceps tendon, that was his major problem. We transferred the biceps tendon. [He had an] unusual tear of the rotator cuff, small partial thickness, no separation from the bone. Small undersurface tear. What we didn't want to find is a big rotator cuff tear, because that's a long rehab."
Our View: Morgan said Schilling could possibly begin a throwing program in four months, if he decides that's what he wants to pursue. He could potentially be throwing from a mound by January. |
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| Harrison named Texas League POY | Monday 6/23, 3:22 PM CT |
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Double-A Frisco outfielder Ben Harrison has been named the Texas League Player of the Week, according to the Dallas Morning News. Harrison hit .500 (14-for-28) last week, with two doubles, three homers, and five RBI.
Our View: Harrison is hitting .321 overall, with 13 homers and 45 RBI. |
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| Beckett on hill at Fenway tonight | Monday 6/23, 3:16 PM CT |
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Josh Beckett will take the hill tonight when the Red Sox host the Diamondbacks at Fenway Park, according to MLB.com. Beckett is 7-4 with a 3.87 ERA and 1.13 WHIP in 2008, but is 1-3 with a 5.65 ERA in five starts against Arizona.
Our View: His only win against Arizona did come last season as he only allowed two earned runs over eight innings, and he hurled seven scoreless innings in his last start against Cincinnati. Keep him active in your lineups. |
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| Sheets gearing up for 15th start | Monday 6/23, 3:10 PM CT |
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Ben Sheets will make his 15th start of the season tonight against the Braves in Atlanta, according to MLB.com.
Our View: The "Brew Crew" is an MLB-best 21-10 since May 20, and Sheets has only allowed 10 earned runs over 42.2 innings over that span (with no losses inherited to his record). |
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| Snell receives MRI results | Monday 6/23, 2:59 PM CT |
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Ian Snell's MRI has revealed no structural damage to the ulnar collateral ligament, but he has been diagnosed with "golfers elbow," according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.
Our View: Treatments sometimes include anti-inflammatory drugs, but more often than not rest and elbow support are the best ways to aid the problem. He is listed as day-to-day. The Pirates have not yet decided whether he will skip his next scheduled start, which would be Friday against the Rays.
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| Cameron back in action | Monday 6/23, 2:38 PM CT |
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Mike Cameron is expected to return to the Brewers' lineup tonight against the Braves, according to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. The veteran slugger missed the last four games with a hyper-extended right big toe.
Our View: He in penciled in to bat sixth in the order, between Corey Hart and Bill Hall. He is only hitting .222, but still holds value in the power department as he has 11 homers over 158 at-bats. |
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| Lannan gets CT scan results | Monday 6/23, 2:29 PM CT |
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John Lannan's CT scan revealed no serious problem in his bruised right wrist, according to the Washington Post.
Our View: The test was negative, so Lannan should be able to make his next scheduled start on Saturday against Baltimore. He is being treated for a soft-tissue contusion. Lannan is only 4-8 over 15 starts but holds a decent 3.34 ERA and 1.29 WHIP. |
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| Baker named NL Player of Week | Monday 6/23, 2:18 PM CT |
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Jeff Baker has been named the NL Player of the Week, according to the AP. Baker hit .435 (10-for-23) over six games last week with seven RBI and four homers, which came in four straight games. He registered a slugging percentage of 1.043 and an on-base percentage of .480.
Our View: He raised his season average to .294 with 21 RBI, and only hit one homer prior to his award-winning week. |
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| Haren has bad luck in Fenway | Monday 6/23, 2:08 PM CT |
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Dan Haren is 0-3 in three career starts at Fenway Park. He hopes to reverse that trend tonight when he squares off against Josh Beckett.
Our View: Haren is 2-0 with a 2.00 ERA in his last four starts but this mathup does not bode well. |
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| Francis looks to continue positive trend | Monday 6/23, 2:03 PM CT |
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Jeff Francis enters his start against the Royals tonight looking for his third win of the month. In 25 innings this month he has a 2.88 ERA and a 1.16 WHIP.
Our View: Francis appears to be rebounding from a terrible first two months. He may be a quality buy low candidate. |
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| Dye named AL Player of the Week | Monday 6/23, 1:54 PM CT |
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MLB.com reports that Jermaine Dye was named the AL Player of the Week for last week. The outfielder was 10-for-24 with five home runs, three doubles, and 13 RBI.
Our View: Dye has rebounded from a weak April and is now posting healthy power numbers while cutting down on his strikeouts. He remains a far better play at home than on the road, but expect him to continue to produce for the White Sox. |
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| Bedard's next start in question | Monday 6/23, 1:28 PM CT |
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Erik Bedard's back spasms are improving, but it remains uncertain if he will be able to make his next scheduled start, according to the Seattle Times.
Our View: Miguel Batista would cover his turn in the rotation scheduled for Wednesday against the Mets if Bedard is ultimately unable to go. |
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| Putz unlikely to pitch before July break | Monday 6/23, 1:24 PM CT |
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J.J. Putz, who is trying to bounce back from a hyperextended right elbow, is not expected to pitch again before the All-Star break, according to the Seattle Times. Jim Riggleman said, "We don't want to rush it. It seems like with those elbows, a guy says, 'I'm over it,' and then he gets in the adrenalin of a game situation, and it flares up again."
Our View: Brandon Morrow would handle the closer's role until mid-July, but needs to recover from his back spasms and prove to be healthy. |
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| Jeter leads AL All-Star voting | Monday 6/23, 12:57 PM CT |
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Yankees' shortstop Derek Jeter has taken over the lead in the AL All-Star voting on Monday, according to the AP. Jeter has received 1,988,251 votes, giving him a lead of less than 6,000 over DH David Ortiz, who remains on the DL with his wrist injury.
Our View: Jeter also has an 800,000-vote advantage at shortstop over Michael Young of the Rangers, meaning he will have a good shot to start the All-Star Game on his home turf of Yankee Stadium on July 15. |
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| Amezaga hopeful for Tuesday | Monday 6/23, 12:51 PM CT |
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Alfredo Amezaga noted that he is hopeful his tight left groin will be healthy enough for him to play Tuesday, but he remains uncertain, according to the Miami Herald. He said, "I'm going to see how it goes."
Our View: Cody Ross should roam center field if Amezaga is not ready to return on Tuesday against the Rays. |
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| Miller sent down | Monday 6/23, 12:36 PM CT |
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Outfielder Jai Miller has been sent back down to Triple-A Albuquerque, according to the Miami Herald. His demotion will free up a roster spot for Josh Willingham, who is expected to be activated from the DL on Tuesday.
Our View: Miller's stint with the Marlins lasted less than 24 hours, and he struck out in his only at-bat on Sunday. |
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| Halladay expected to make next start | Monday 6/23, 11:34 AM CT |
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Roy Halladay took a brutal line drive off his temple on Friday, but is expected to make his next scheduled start, according to the Toronto Star. Halladay said, "I was a little dizzy walking off but I was fine in the clubhouse."
Our View: His CAT-scan came back fine, and he did some running before Sunday's game. |
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| Clement moved to Triple-A pen | Monday 6/23, 11:29 AM CT |
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Matt Clement has been moved to the bullpen at Triple-A Memphis, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. GM John Mozeliak said, "At this point, we believe Mulder is farther ahead. Clement has had some good outings but has not been able to do it every fifth day."
Our View: He had a tough outing on Friday, as he tries to recover from right shoulder surgery. He hasn't pitched since 2006, when he held a poor 6.61 ERA and 1.76 WHIP over 65.1 innings. |
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| Vizquel's starting job in jeopardy | Monday 6/23, 11:23 AM CT |
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Omar Vizquel is reportedly close to being unseated by Emmanuel Burriss for the starting job at shortstop, according to the Mercury News.
Our View: Vizquel is 41-years old and is only hitting .171 over 105 at-bats, with a .258 OBP. Burriss holds a more starter-worthy .286 average, and would be worth consideration in NL-only leagues if given a chance to play regularly. |
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| Prospect Marrero out for season | Monday 6/23, 11:17 AM CT |
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Nationals' top prospect Chris Marrero will miss the remainder of 2008 due to a broken fibula, according to the Washington Times. He will need surgery to repair the broken bone and ligaments in his ankle. GM Jim Bowden said, "It's disappointing, because he had really come on strong the last month after a slow start. He hit his 10 home runs and was on pace to hit about 25 homers. We'll heal him up and get him back up starting next year."
Our View: The 19-year old first baseman won't be playing for the Nationals as soon as anticipated, but Bowden doesn't believe his development will be compromised by the injury. |
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| Langerhans accepts assignment | Monday 6/23, 11:11 AM CT |
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Ryan Langerhans, who was outrighted to Triple-A Columbus to clear a roster spot for hurler Garrett Mock, has accepted the assignment and will report to the Clippers, according to the Washington Times.
Our View: Langerhans hit .200 with nine strikeouts over 30 at-bats with Washington this season, and holds no fantasy value. |
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| Kearns will begin rehab this week | Monday 6/23, 11:08 AM CT |
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Austin Kearns, who is recovering from right elbow surgery, will begin a rehab assignment at Triple-A on Thursday, according to the Washington Times.
Our View: Kearns could be back in the Nats' lineup in time for their series in Cincinnati that begins July 3.
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| Thompson could undergo surgery | Monday 6/23, 11:03 AM CT |
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Triple-A Indianapolis outfielder Kevin Thompson could undergo season-ending surgery on his hand, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Our View: He had had trouble all season long with a wrist tendon and the hamate bone. He did not make an appearance with the Pirates this season, and held no fantasy value. |
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| Zobrist expected to be recalled | Monday 6/23, 10:29 AM CT |
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Ben Zobrist is expected to be recalled to the Rays, according to the Tampa Tribune. The team optioned outfielder Justin Ruggiano to Triple-A Durham, and Zobrist is believed to be the corresponding move.
Our View: Shortstop Jason Bartlett's wife is about to give birth, and is expected to miss a game or two. Zobrist would be added for infield depth. |
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| Pena could be a week away | Monday 6/23, 10:24 AM CT |
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Carlos Pena could be a week away from returning to the Rays' lineup as he recovers from his fractured left index finger, according to the Tampa Tribune. His injury has begun to heal and he is scheduled to participate in the team's pregame workout Tuesday at Dolphin Stadium. Pena said, "That should go very well. And then, after that, we'll set our plan to come back. If it were up to me, I'd be playing right now. But I guess there's a pattern I need to follow and a program I need to follow before I actually go out there."
Our View: While Pena hopes to return in time to play in the Rays' three-game set against the Pirates this weekend, there's a possibility he won't be ready until the series against the Red Sox, which begins June 30 at Tropicana Field.
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| Ponson could start in double-header | Monday 6/23, 10:18 AM CT |
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Manager Joe Girardi indicated that recently acquired pitcher Sidney Ponson could start a game in the Yankees' double-header on Friday, according to the NY Post. Girardi said he is one of the candidates for Friday, along with Alan Home, Kei Igawa, and Jeff Karstens.
Our View: If Ponson does start and fares well on Friday, he could potentially push Dan Giese from the rotation. |
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| Bradley isn't expected vs. Houston | Monday 6/23, 10:13 AM CT |
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Milton Bradley isn't expected to start any of the three games against Houston this week, according to the Star-Telegram. The Rangers continue to wait for his strained left quadriceps to heal. Manager Ron Washington said Bradley will be available as a pinch hitter, but there is no indication when he will be in the Rangers' outfield again. He can only work as a pinch-hitter in Houston under NL rules. Washington added, "You can’t push anyone out there if they’re not able to perform. We never expected it to last this long. We’ve just got to wait on him."
Our View: The team will remain cautious with him when he does return to the lineup. He will likely be the DH most games, and will be given occasional starts in the outfield until he shows he is at full strength again.
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| Kouzmanoff to return | Monday 6/23, 10:08 AM CT |
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Kevin Kouzmanoff is expected to return to the lineup on Tuesday after missing the previous six games with a sore back, according to the San Diego Tribune.
Our View: Kouzmanoff has a .263 batting average to go with 10 home runs and 33 RBI to this point, but has always been a good play in the 2nd half. In the 2nd half on '07 he hit .317 with 11 home runs and 37 RBI in 73 games. |
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| Doumit could pinch-hit Tuesday | Monday 6/23, 10:05 AM CT |
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Ryan Doumit, who is recovering from a mild concussion, was symptom-free on Sunday, and could serve as a pinch-hitter on Tuesday against the Yankees, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Our View: Doumit also believes he may be able to return to full duty on Wednesday, barring a setback. |
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| Nady not expected for Tuesday | Monday 6/23, 10:01 AM CT |
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Xavier Nady is not expected to play on Tuesday against the Yankees, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Our View: His bruised left shoulder still hurts when he swings, and remains a possibility to land on the DL. Nady will have a light workout and his first full batting practice Tuesday.
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| Carpenter on 60-day DL | Monday 6/23, 9:55 AM CT |
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Chris Carpenter was moved to the 60-day disabled list to make room for minor league call-up Nick Stavinoha, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Our View: Despite positive news from Dr. James Andrews last week, Carpenter's return has been moved to late in the season, if at all, as opposed to the previously predicted All-Star break. |
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| Church could return by weekend | Monday 6/23, 9:48 AM CT |
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Interim manager Jerry Manuel commented that he hopes to have Ryan Church back in the Mets' lineup by this weekend's series against the Yankees, according to the NY Post.
Our View: He is recovering from post-concussion syndrome, and will take batting practice before tonight's game with Seattle. He will then play in one or two games with Single-A Brooklyn prior to his return. |
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| Schneider expected to rest | Monday 6/23, 9:33 AM CT |
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Brian Schneider is expected to rest for a few more days to nurse his bruised left hand, according to the NY Post.
Our View: Ramon Castro should handle the catching duties while he rests. Schneider could return on Tuesday, at the earliest. |
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| Alou may not return | Monday 6/23, 9:28 AM CT |
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Acting manager Jerry Manuel stated that Moises Alou might not return to the Mets this season, and may even decide to retire at 41-years old, according to the NY Post. Manuel said, "I think he's determined to get back this season. I do believe that if this happens in the fashion that it happened before, I think he'll have some serious problems, and he'll head to the house."
Our View: Alou has already been sent to the DL three times this season, with his latest trip due to a strained left calf. |
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| Castillo will not play Monday | Monday 6/23, 9:23 AM CT |
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Luis Castillo will miss Monday's game against Seattle due to a sore left quad, according to the NY Post. Acting manager Jerry Manuel said, "I don't see Luis moving as well as I'd like to see him move right now. I know he's not quite 100 percent, and we're going to do what we can to keep him fresh."
Our View: Manuel also did not rule out a trip to the DL for Castillo, who battled several ailments this season. Damion Easley will continue to roam second base while he is out of action. |
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| Nix arrested | Monday 6/23, 9:16 AM CT |
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Brewers' minor league outfielder Laynce Nix has been arrested on Saturday on suspicion of drunk driving, according to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. He claimed his innocence and said, "I was charged with this, but everything is pending. I passed the field sobriety tests and no way was I impaired."
Our View: Nix was batting .267 with 10 homers and 35 RBI with Triple-A Nashville, and did not make an appearance with Milwaukee. |
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| Kuroda update | Monday 6/23, 9:11 AM CT |
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Skipper Joe Torre noted that the Dodgers will wait until after Hiroki Kuroda's bullpen session on Wednesday before deciding whether he would come off the DL and return to the rotation on Saturday, according to the LA Times.
Our View: He is recovering from right shoulder tendinitis. If the team waits to activate him, Chan Ho Park would get another spot start on Saturday. |
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| Nomar plans to resume activities | Monday 6/23, 9:07 AM CT |
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Nomar Garciaparra plans to resume baseball activities on Tuesday, according to the LA Times. That would be five days after his physical therapist advised he rest his strained calf for 10 days. Manager Joe Torre said, "Nomar decided. This is something that has been tough to get a grip on. You have to rely on how he feels. The whole thing is his call."
Our View: He is eligible to come off the DL on June 25, but the team did not specify when he is expected back. |
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| Sheffield delayed | Monday 6/23, 8:59 AM CT |
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Gary Sheffield's return to the Tigers will be delayed as he missed two games over the weekend during his rehab assignment at Single-A Lakeland, according to the Detroit Free Press. He missed Friday's game to attend a graduation, and Saturday's game was rained out. Sheffield's upcoming schedule has not been set, and Manager Jim Leyland said, "I don't know how that's going to play out."
Our View: It was believed that Sheffield may rejoin the Tigers before Tuesday's series opener against the Cardinals, but now his return date in uncertain. |
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| Mulder could return against Royals? | Monday 6/23, 8:44 AM CT |
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The Cardinals are projecting Mark Mulder, who is recovering from left rotator surgery, to start in the rotation in next weekend's series against the Royals, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Our View: His return will depend on a successful light outing tonight with Triple-A Memphis. |
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| Orioles looking for shortstop? | Monday 6/23, 8:21 AM CT |
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Alex Cintron is hitting .326 over 43 at-bats, but the Orioles are still believed to be looking for a shortstop, according to the Baltimore Sun. GM Andy MacPhail feels a need to upgrade the position, and said, "We're on an APB right now, trying to find a shortstop as a front office. We're going to continue to evaluate our internal options and we're going to continue to look outside the organization as well to see if we can find something. We're not really satisfied with the productivity we've gotten out of that position to this point."
Our View: The team has used five shortstops this season in an attempt to replace the elite Miguel Tejada. Cintron is faring well, but is a significant downgrade from Tejada. |
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| Marshall will start Tuesday | Monday 6/23, 8:12 AM CT |
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Sean Marshall will be recalled from Triple-A Iowa to start Tuesday against Baltimore in place of the injured Carlos Zambrano, according to the Daily Herald.
Our View: He will likely make two starts while Zambrano is out. He surrendered eight hits, seven walks, and four earned runs over 8.2 innings with the Cubs this season, and isn't worth fantasy consideration during a short stint in the rotation. |
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| Guardado sustained ankle injury | Monday 6/23, 8:06 AM CT |
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Eddie Guardado said he injured his right ankle following his second pitch in the eighth inning against the Nationals on Sunday, according to the Star-Telegram.
Our View: The severity of the ailment is yet to be determined. The 37-year old setup man has allowed 10 earned runs, 17 hits, and eight walks over 25.1 innings, with only 15 strikeouts. He holds very little fantasy value. |
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| Shelton could be odd-man-out? | Monday 6/23, 8:00 AM CT |
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The Rangers are expected to activate Hank Blalock from the DL on Tuesday, and Chris Shelton could be the odd-man-out to open up a roster spot, according to the Star-Telegram.
Our View: Hank Blalock is expected to serve at first base upon his return, and the team is not expected to keep three first basemen on the roster. Shelton has lacked power this season with only two homers in 96 at-bats, and he carries a poor .219 average, with 32 strikeouts. |
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