| Hermida goes yard | Friday 7/11, 11:57 PM CT |
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Jeremy Hermida hit his second homer in four games, this one a two run shot in LA.
Our View: Hermida hasn't been able to put together any consistency, but it looks like he's heating up. When he's hot, he can help out any fantasy team. |
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| Volstad lasts 8.2 innings in MLB debut | Friday 7/11, 11:55 PM CT |
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In his first career start with the Marlins, Chris Volstad nearly went the distance on Friday in Los Angeles. The lone run scored came in the bottom of the ninth when Russell Martin singled to center with two outs, scoring Delwyn Young. He struck out six, walked one and allowed four hits. Kevin Gregg came on for the save as the Marlins won 3-1.
Our View: Not bad for a 21-year-old. This kind of start might signal that he's the real deal. The Marlins feel he is one of the best pitchers to come thru the organization in a long time, and that should not be taken lightly. |
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| Hoffman strikes out everyone he faces | Friday 7/11, 11:45 PM CT |
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Trevor Hoffman struck out the only batter he faced on Friday, Brad Lillibridge, to record his 17th save of the season.
Our View: Interestingly, Mike Adams was called upon to do the dirty work. With Mark Teixeira, Brian McCann and Jeff Francoeur due up in the ninth, Adams came in. With two outs he gave up an infield single to Kotsay and then Hoffman came in for the final out. |
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| Hairston is en fuego | Friday 7/11, 11:41 PM CT |
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Scott Hairston finished 2-for-4 tonight with two runs scored. He hit his third triple of the season to go with his 15th double. Hairston is 13-for-24 over his last seven games.
Our View: Admit it. You weren't even sure Scott Hairston still had a regular gig in the majors. Playing in San Diego can make you pretty forgettable, I guess. He's likely on your waiver wire. Pick him up at your own risk. |
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| Sherrill squeaks out his 28th save | Friday 7/11, 11:38 PM CT |
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George Sherrill faced two batters to get his 28th save on Friday. First, he walked Dustin Pedroia to laod the bases. Then he promptly struck out Kevin Youkilis for the final out of the game.
Our View: Sherrill's made it a bit too interesting lately (he blew his sixth save on Thursday), but it does not look like the Orioles have anyone to spell him of save opportunities. |
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| Peavy shuts out Braves | Friday 7/11, 11:17 PM CT |
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Jake Peavy threw seven shutout innings on Friday against the run-thirsty Atlanta Braves. He allowed four hits and struck out seven.
Our View: Peavy's ERA is down to a ridiculous 2.47 after not allowing a run in the past 14 innings. |
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| Garland yanked in the third | Friday 7/11, 11:05 PM CT |
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Jon Garland, 4-10 in his career against Oakland, was pulled out of the game in the bottom of the third after allowing seven runs on 10 hits and two walks.
Our View: After allowing just one run in nine innings five days ago, this is a disappointment. This has to be viewed as an anommally. He was 8-5 with a 3.76 entering Friday's game. |
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| Murphy gets 60th RBI | Friday 7/11, 10:55 PM CT |
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David Murphy hit his third home run in five games on Friday off Chicago LHP Gavin Floyd.
Our View: Murphy has not hit lefties well this year but made solid contact tonight. He now has an impressive 60 RBI this season. |
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| Yoslan called up from Double-A to start | Friday 7/11, 10:51 PM CT |
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Yoslan Herrera has been called up from Double-A Altoona to replace Phil Dumatrait in Saturday's start against the St. Louis Cardinals, according to the AP.
Our View: At Double-A this year, Yoslan 5-8 with a 3.11 ERA. |
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| Dumatrait back on DL | Friday 7/11, 10:48 PM CT |
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The AP reports that the Pirates put scheduled Saturday starter Phil Dumatrait on the 15-day disabled list and recalled RHP Yoslan Herrera from Double-A Altoona to start against the Cardinals.
Our View: Dumatrait came off the disabled list Monday but gave up seven runs in 3 1/3 innings against Houston. |
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| Wagner earns save No. 21 | Friday 7/11, 10:42 PM CT |
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Billy Wagner pitched a perfect ninth against Colorado for his 21st save in 27 chances.
Our View: He whiffed two of three while working past the unimposing trio of Scott Podsednik, Wily Taveras, and Clint Barmes. |
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| Victorino keeps the Phils alive | Friday 7/11, 10:39 PM CT |
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Shane Victorino missed the cycle by a mere home run. He finished Firday's game 3-for-6, but his biggest hit was a two-run triple off of Tony Pena in the ninth.
Our View: The game marked the Flyin Hawaiian's fifth multi-hit effort of the month. |
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| Werth collects another game-winning hit | Friday 7/11, 10:37 PM CT |
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Jayson Werth's 12th inning single beat the Diamondbacks on Friday night.
Our View: If all Werth did was hit in the clutch, he would be a phenomenal fantasy commodity. Regardless, he is still a factor in deep leagues, but does not see enough regular duty to be a must own. |
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| Young throws simulated game | Friday 7/11, 10:34 PM CT |
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MLB.com reports that Chris Young threw around 50 pitches in three innings and said he felt good, both physically and when it came to his stuff.
Our View: Next for Young will be two to four rehab starts with the Padres' Class A affiliate in Lake Elsinore, Calif., starting Wednesday. |
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| Hall comes through in the clutch | Friday 7/11, 10:31 PM CT |
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Bill Hall filled in as a pinch-hitter on Friday and finished the game 1-for-2 with two RBI and a run scored.
Our View: Hall and Russell Branyan seem to be in an unofficial platoon at this point. Hall's terrible June won't be repeated if he only sees lefties. |
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| Bruce scores three runs | Friday 7/11, 10:29 PM CT |
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Jay Bruce scored three times including the go ahead run when he crossed the plate on a wild pitch in the eigth.
Our View: Bruce was only 1-for-4 but any signs of life from him at this point are a good thing. |
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| Howard riding HOT streak; goes yard again | Friday 7/11, 10:26 PM CT |
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Ryan Howard took Diamondbacks' starter Doug Davis yard in the second inning on Friday.
Our View: Howard now has eight home runs in his past 10 games. He has 16 RBI in that stretch bringing his total to 84 on the season. |
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| Braun hits a solo shot | Friday 7/11, 10:23 PM CT |
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Ryan Braun hit his 23rd HR of the season on Friday.
Our View: With 23 HRs and 66 RBI, Braun continues to be a force in the middle of a stacked lineup. |
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| Mendoza is lights out vs. Sox | Friday 7/11, 10:21 PM CT |
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After a horrendous start last time out, Luis Mendoza recorded eight strikeouts in six innings on Friday, He gave up just three hits and one run to the White Sox to earn his second victory of the season.
Our View: Mendoza has looked good at times this season, but he is too inconsistent at this point to warrant a pickup. |
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| Hamilton gets 93rd RBI | Friday 7/11, 10:19 PM CT |
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Josh Hamilton just won't slow down. On Friday he went 3-for-5 with two RBI and a run.
Our View: The Natural keeps at itas he is nearinf 100 RBI at the break. |
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| Gavin lasts only 2.2 innings | Friday 7/11, 10:17 PM CT |
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Gavin Floyd gave up six runs, seven walks and five hits in just 2.2 innings to the Rangers on Friday.
Our View: This was Floyd's worst start of the season and he continues to struggle away from Chicago. |
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| Yunel's shoulder flares up again | Friday 7/11, 10:12 PM CT |
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MLB.com tells us that Yunel Escobar was scratched from Fiday night's lineup after reaggravating his left shoulder.
Our View: Yunel is hitting a meager .212 since returning from the injury and it is now clear that he never fully recovered. The Braves won't make the same mistake twice so another DL stint is quite possible. |
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| Kearns has six RBI in two games | Friday 7/11, 10:09 PM CT |
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Austin Kearns is heating up. On Friday he went 2-for-2 with a home run, three RBI and two runs scored. He also drew two walks.
Our View: That makes six RBI over his last two games. If he could bring that average up, he could merit fantasy consideration in the second half. |
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| Redding shuts down Astros | Friday 7/11, 10:07 PM CT |
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Tim Redding threw six shutout innings at home against the Astros on Friday. He gave up seven hits, no walks and struck out six.
Our View: For teams looking for cheaper options to pickup for the stretch run, Redding has been impressive as of late. The Nationals are likely listening to offers. |
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| Felix returns; picks up loss | Friday 7/11, 10:04 PM CT |
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Felix Hernandez retired the first 10 batters he faced and struck out six of the first 13, but the Royals finally got to Hernandez with three two-out runs in the fifth.
Our View: The King threw 83 pitches in five innings before coming out of the game. He probably could have gone longer but the Mariners don't want to push their luck. |
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| Hochevar has best start of his career | Friday 7/11, 10:01 PM CT |
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Five days ago Luke Hochevar was rocked for his worst start of the season. On Friday, he gave up just one run in seven innings at home.
Our View: Hochevar lowered his home ERA to 3.48 but it stands at an abyssmal 6.49 on the road. |
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| Buchholz returns as loser | Friday 7/11, 9:58 PM CT |
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Clay Buchholz suffered another loss during his return to the majors on Friday. The Orioles, who fielded a lineup that was 0-for-19 in their careers against Buchholz, drew five walks on their way to scoring four runs in five innings against the young Red Sock.
Our View: Buchholz needed 107 pitches to get through five innings. The walks were just another sign that no matter how much hope The Nation puts in him, he is destined to be inconsistent. |
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| Roberts misses the cycle | Friday 7/11, 9:55 PM CT |
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Brian Roberts fell a homer short of the cycle on Friday. He finished the game 3-for-5 with a RBI, two runs scored and two stolen bases.
Our View: The stolen bases bring him to 27 on the season. |
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| Easley picks up the Mets | Friday 7/11, 9:53 PM CT |
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Damion Easley came thru in a big way on Friday when he cranked a solo shot in the eighth that would be enough for the Mets win. He was 2-for-3 on the night
Our View: The ageless one is hitting .407 with nine RBI in July, following up a June that saw him hit .340. Dare we say that the 38 year-old is a quality pickup? Maybe he was four weeks ago, but we can't bring ourselves to believe that the 16-year vet with a career .253 average will keep this up. |
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| Galarraga loses to Twins for third time | Friday 7/11, 9:48 PM CT |
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Armando Galarraga just can't beat the Twins! Friday marks the third time this season the Tigers' rookie fell to the Twins, the only team to beat him in 2008. He only gave up two runs in the loss.
Our View: Armando carries a 67/32 K/BB ratio in 93 2/3 innings so it's a wonder he hasn't avoided more losses. If the Tigers continue to amp up the offense, he should keep winning. If they slack off like they did Friday, he is due for a down second half. |
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| Belliard has big game | Friday 7/11, 9:44 PM CT |
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Ronnie Belliard went 3-for-4 with two homers and five RBI Friday.
Our View: This makes nine HRs in 54 games for Belli. Not a bad pace at all for a second baseman. Don't get too excited though. He is hitting .226 on the season. His career numbers suggest that should come quite a bit in the second half, but don't bank on it. |
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| Jhonny likes cleanup | Friday 7/11, 9:41 PM CT |
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Jhonny Peralta hit his third home run in five games on Friday of of Rays pitcher Scott Shields. His two out, opposite field blast came in the third inning with a runner on second. He was 2-for-4 with three RBI in the game.
Our View: What can we say? Jhonny loves to bat cleanup. In 18 starts batting fourth in the order, he is hitting .315 with four HRs and 15 RBI. |
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| Cook rebounds from rough start against Mets | Friday 7/11, 9:36 PM CT |
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Aaron Cook rebounded from his roughest outing of the season by giving up just one run in six innings on Friday in New York. He did not factor in the decision.
Our View: Nothing spectacular from Cook, except that he knows how to pitch himself out of jams. |
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| Crawford goes cold | Friday 7/11, 9:35 PM CT |
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Carl Crawford was 0-for-4 with two strike outs on Friday. During the Rays five game losing streak he is just 1-for-21.
Our View: This shouldn't last long. The break is coming around at just the right time. |
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| Carmona to begin rehab assignment | Friday 7/11, 9:32 PM CT |
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The AP reports that Fausto Carmona is scheduled to start a rehab assignment Monday at Class A Lake County.
Our View: It's about time! He will see multiple starts in the minors before his 3.10 ERA returns to the Cleveland rotation. |
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| Reyes has successful rehab appearance | Friday 7/11, 9:30 PM CT |
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Al Reyes pitched one scoreless rehab inning for Class A Vero Beach on Thursday.
Our View: Reyes should be ready to go following the All-Star break. |
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| Percival to throw off mound | Friday 7/11, 9:28 PM CT |
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The AP reports that Rays manager Joe Maddon said RHP Troy Percival will test his strained left hamstring by throwing off the mound Saturday.
Our View: The Rays closer has yet to pitch this month, but all indications are that he will be available following the All-Star break. |
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| Another win for Lee | Friday 7/11, 9:26 PM CT |
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Cliff Lee added his 12th victory to go with six more shutout innings on Friday against the Rays. He struck out seven in the effort.
Our View: Lee is 5-0 with a 1.62 ERA in seven home starts. |
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| Perez impressive again | Friday 7/11, 9:22 PM CT |
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Oliver Perez worked his third straight impressive start on Friday against the Rockies. Although he didn't factor in the decision, he allowed just two hits and one run over six innings while striking out seven. However, Oliver gave up an alarming six walks.
Our View: Walks have been an issue with Perez all season. The good news is that it appears he has found some new consistency under his new pitching coach. His runs are down and his strikeouts are up. |
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| Perkins wins 4th in a row | Friday 7/11, 9:18 PM CT |
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Glen Perkins brought his A game to Detroit on Friday. He allowed just two runs in 6.2 innings to move to 6-2 on the year.
Our View: Perkins has not given up more than three runs since June 4. His WHIP is unimpressive but he manages to scatter the runners around enough to keep the Twins in games. He'a risky fantasy bet, but worth considering in very deep leagues. |
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| Molina is keyed in on lefties | Friday 7/11, 8:59 PM CT |
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Yadier Molina continues to dominate lefties. He entered Friday nights game batting .373 against southpaws and manager Tony La Russa batted him fifth. He went 2-for-5 with a run and two RBI.
Our View: Molina is quietly becoming a viable starting option at the position. He is hitting .303 with just 13 whiffs this season. However, he is still suffering in the power categories. A batting spot fifth in the order against lefties should help his RBI totals. |
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| Gardner gets fifth steal; no hits | Friday 7/11, 8:54 PM CT |
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Brett Gardner struggled at the plate once again on Friday. The rookie went 0-for-3 but somehow managed his fifth stolen base of the season.
Our View: Gardner looks like a Michael Bourn clone. Despite an OBP hovering around .150 through eight games, he has managed five stolen bases. |
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| Stairs in line for starts | Friday 7/11, 8:51 PM CT |
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With Alex Rios on vacation and Vernon Wells on the DL, Matt Stairs will be called upon to hit in the middle of the Blue Jays lineup. He crushed a three-run homer on Friday against the Yankees.
Our View: Keep an eye on stairs. For owners in need of power, he should provide plenty of it until Wells comes back a month or so from now. |
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| Chamberlain loses first as a starter | Friday 7/11, 8:48 PM CT |
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Joba Chamberlain lost for the first time in eight starts on Friday. He lasted 6.2 innings and struck out nine. However, he gave up seven hits and three runs to a Blue Jays lineup without Alex Rios or Vernon Wells.
Our View: Although he lost, it was not a bad start for the converted reliever. The nine Ks have to make owners happy. |
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| Halladay tosses seventh complete game | Friday 7/11, 8:45 PM CT |
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Roy Halladay continued another Cy Young-worthy season by holding a banged up Yankees lineup to just two hits. He struck out eight in the process.
Our View: Halladay's ERA is down to 2.71. More impressively, he has 121 strikeouts in 136.1 innings. He had 139 Ks in 225.1 IP last season. |
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| Lohse picks up win No. 11 | Friday 7/11, 8:41 PM CT |
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Kyle Lohse threw seven shutout innings against the Pirates on Friday to improve to 11-2 on the season.
Our View: Incredibly, Lohse has not lost since May 8, a span of 12 starts. He has given up just two earned runs in his last 21 innings. Lohse is playing for a contract, and could be on his way to a gargantuan one. |
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| Ankiel on a power surge | Friday 7/11, 8:37 PM CT |
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Rick Ankiel went 3-for-3 with a walk on Friday. He hit his 20th home run of the year and picked up three RBI in the process.
Our View: Ankiel has hit 10 home runs in his last 21 games and becomes a stronger fantasy player by the game. |
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| Garcia impresses in debut | Friday 7/11, 8:35 PM CT |
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Jaime Garcia made his Major League debut on Friday. He tossed two scoreless innings in relief against the Pirates.
Our View: Garcia allowed one hit and one walk while striking out two. He will likely become a starter for the Cards in the future but he will spend some time working out of the bullpen first. |
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| Jenks to throw a bullpen session | Friday 7/11, 8:26 PM CT |
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Bobby Jenks is scheduled to throw a bullpen session on Saturday according to MLB.com.
Our View: Jenks will not return prior to the All-Star break. |
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| Young leaves the game | Friday 7/11, 8:23 PM CT |
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The AP reports that Dmitri Young left Friday night's game with soreness in his lower back. He walked off the field under his own power, with an 0-1 count.
Our View: Da Meat Hook missed more than a month earlier in this season with lower back pain. He may rest through the break. |
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| Pena playing thru pain | Friday 7/11, 8:10 PM CT |
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MLB.com tells us that Nationals outfielder Wily Mo Pena has been playing with a sore left shoulder for more than a month.
Our View: This could explain the horrid numbers he has produced thus far. Entering Friday's action, Pena was hitting .209 with two home runs and 10 RBIs. |
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| Duke shelled at home | Friday 7/11, 8:09 PM CT |
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Zach Duke was hit all over the yard on Friday by the St. Louis Cardinals. He gave up 10 hits and five earned runs in six innings pitched.
Our View: He also gave up two home runs, making it four in his 8.1 innings pitched. |
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| Escobar done for the season | Friday 7/11, 7:56 PM CT |
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The Orange County Register reports that Kelvim Escobar has opted to have surgery on the torn labrum in his right shoulder.
Our View: The team, as well as Escobar, delayed this decision for a while and it may come back to haunt them. He will miss nine to 12 months. |
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| Oswalt leaves after the first | Friday 7/11, 7:31 PM CT |
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Roy Oswalt, returning from a hip injury, left after one inning on Friday night with a with a left hip abductor strain, according to MLB.com.
Our View: This is not a good sign for Houston or fantasy owners. Don't be surprised if an extended trip to the DL is in the talented righties' future. |
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| Garcia will debut out of the 'pen | Friday 7/11, 7:27 PM CT |
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MLB.com reports that LHP Jaime Garcia will initially be used out of the bullpen during his stint with the Cardinals.
Our View: Garcia is a projected starter and was called up to replace Mark Mulder. However, he will start in the bullpen, where the Cards are in desperate need of a leftie. However, La Russa said on Friday, "I don't think we're going to make him a left-handed reliever. I think he's a starter, so if at some point we get Randy Flores back and Garcia benefits more from pitching every five days, we'll do it. But right now, we're keeping ourselves alive and in contention, and we've got to do everything we can to make it work for us." |
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| Guillen is a late scratch | Friday 7/11, 7:24 PM CT |
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Jose Guillen was scratched from Friday's lineup due to stiffness in his neck, according to MLB.com.
Our View: This should not be long term and Guillen should still see another start before the All-Star break. |
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| Francis throws without pain | Friday 7/11, 7:21 PM CT |
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MLB.com reports that Jeff Francis , whose endured left shoulder inflammation before the Rockies placed him on the disabled list July 3, threw from 120 feet without pain on Friday.
Our View: He is hoping to return after the All-Star break but will likely see a minor league rehab assignment of at least one game. Shoulders are iffy. Don't expect consistent big things from Francis when he returns. |
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| Rios will miss weekend series | Friday 7/11, 7:16 PM CT |
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MLB.com reports that Alex Rios has returned to Puerto Rico to be with his girlfriend who is expected to give birth on Friday. It appears he will not return to the team until after the All-Star break.
Our View: Rios has been having a good July and should continue in the second half. However, with Vernon Wells due for an extended trip to the DL, the entire Blue Jays offense may slightly suffer. |
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| Reynolds is struggling | Friday 7/11, 7:00 PM CT |
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Mark Reynolds was held out of the lineup on Friday. He made three (3) errors on Thursday.
Our View: Reynolds has committed a Major League-leading 19 errors this season. He has also struggled at the plate lately, hitting .143 (3-for-21) in his last seven games. |
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| Jones won't be overused | Friday 7/11, 6:44 PM CT |
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MLB.com reports that Jim Leyland will be keeping an eye on his closer, Todd Jones. "I'm going to back him off a little bit," Leyland said. "I'm going to watch him a little closer."
Our View: This was seemingly inevitable since the returns of Joel Aumaya and Fernando Rodney. Both those pitchers should see a slight increase in their values with this news. |
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| King Felix will start Friday | Friday 7/11, 6:36 PM CT |
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Felix Hernandez was activated from the DL earlier today in time to make the start tonight in Kansas City, according to the Miami Herald.
Our View: Hernandez is coming back from a sore ankle he suffered while covering home plate back on June 23. He has 93 strikeouts in 107 IP. |
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| Burnett to throw on short rest Sunday | Friday 7/11, 6:27 PM CT |
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A.J. Burnett will throw on short rest on Sunday against the Yankees, according to SLAM!.
Our View: The Blue Jays may be hoping for a last minute showcase of their starter heading into the All-Star break. A number of contenders, including possibly the Yankees, could be eyeing the hard-throwing righty. |
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| Bankston back to Sacramento | Friday 7/11, 6:22 PM CT |
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To make room for recently acquired Matt Murton, the A’s optioned infielder Wes Bankston to Triple-A Sacramento. Bankston hit .294 with one home run and nine RBI in nine games with Oakland.
Our View: Ironically, he hit his first major league home run the same night that the A's acquired his replacement. |
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| Murton joins Oakland | Friday 7/11, 6:21 PM CT |
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Matt Murton will join the Athletics on Friday. He was traded to Oakland in the Rich Harden deal. To make room for Murton, the A’s optioned infielder Wes Bankston to Sacramento. Bankston hit .294 with one home run and nine RBI in nine games with Oakland.
Our View: Murton should see plenty of at-bats while playing the corner outfield spots for the Athletics. He could see at-bats immediately. |
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| Damon delays rehab | Friday 7/11, 6:11 PM CT |
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Johnny Damon's shoulder is still too swollen to take part in hitting drills this weekend according to the Houston Chronicle. He hopes that he will start swinging on Monday.
Our View: Don't count on Damon to be back before the All-Star break. |
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| Yanks are interested in Sexson | Friday 7/11, 6:08 PM CT |
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New York Post reports that the Yankees have interest in Richie Sexson. "I don't know yet, we will take a look,'' Cashman said Friday about Sexson. "We will study it and see if it's something we will pursue. I think we have to look at it. I can't tell you we will (sign him) or won't. I can tell you we are interested.''
Our View: Not too long ago, Sexson was a fantasy monster. A move to a team in contention and playing in front of sold out stadiums might be what Sexson needs to re-ignite his career. We will keep close tabs on his situation. |
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| Bradley out of the lineup again | Friday 7/11, 5:56 PM CT |
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Milton Bradley is out of the Friday lineup for the Rangers. He left Sunday's game with tendinitis and is considered day-to-day.
Our View: Bradley has been a fantasy force when healthy this season, but he has traditionally been a very inconsistent player. It might be wishful thinking to say his second half will be as good as his first half. |
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| Posada returns to catching tonight | Friday 7/11, 5:53 PM CT |
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Jorge Posada got his wish for Friday night, as he will return to catching according to the pre-game lineup cards. He has not caught since July 3.
Our View: A return to catching means Posada will probably see more off days than he would see as a DH or first baseman. |
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| Milton signs with Yankees | Friday 7/11, 5:50 PM CT |
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The New York Yankees signed former Red, Eric Milton to a minor league contract. He will start his comeback at Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre
Our View: Milton underwent Tommy John elbow surgery last June, so he'll be on the disabled list initially. Milton has been ineffective since 2004. At 33, he is little more than wishful thinking for Yankee fans. |
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| Wood makes it interesting | Friday 7/11, 5:32 PM CT |
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Kerry Wood picked up his 24th save of the season, despite walking a batter and giving up two hits. The Giants scored their only run of the game in the inning.
Our View: Wood has given up four earned runs in his last three innings pitched. |
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| Bay to join the Cards? | Friday 7/11, 5:28 PM CT |
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SI.com reports that the St. Louis Cardinals are among one of the leaders in the pursuit of Pirates OF Jason Bay. Bay has rebounded from a bad 2007 to post averages of .291/.393/.526.
Our View: Tony La Russa's club is visiting Pittsburgh this weekend so it is possible we could see another big trade go down in the NL Central. The Cardinals have scored just 13 runs over the past seven games so Bay would be a giant boost to the team's success and to the fantasy success of the St. Louis hitters. The Cardinals are also said to be aggressively pursuing left-handed relievers. The Diamondbacks, Mets and Rays were also mentioned in the article as potential Pittsburgh trading partners. |
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| Aguila back to the minors | Friday 7/11, 5:22 PM CT |
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Chris Aguila did not last long with the Mets. He managed just 12 at-bats during his brief stay in New York.
Our View: Aguila has managed to find a way to become even less relevant to fantasy owners. |
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| Cancel joins the Mets | Friday 7/11, 5:20 PM CT |
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Robinson Cancel was called up prior to Friday night's game to be a third catcher. Chris Aguila was designated for assignment.
Our View: He won't likely see much playing time and only has one at-bat in the majors this season. |
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| Renteria not in Friday's lineup? | Friday 7/11, 5:18 PM CT |
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Edgar Renteria is not in tonight's starting lineup. He is nursing a sore hammy.
Our View: Renteria remains day-to-day and Jim Leyland remains confident he will play this weekend. |
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| Casey batting .371 | Friday 7/11, 5:15 PM CT |
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Sean Casey is getting a rare start at DH tonight. He is batting .371 in 116 at-bats this season.
Our View: Casey has been an excellent spot-starter/pinch-hitter for the world champs. With David Ortiz on the mend, he has been a savior. |
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| Buchholz to start tonight | Friday 7/11, 5:09 PM CT |
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As previously reported, the Red Sox have recalled Clay Buchholz has been recalled from Triple-A Pawtucket to make Friday's start against the Orioles.
Our View: Buchholz worked on a number of things while down on the farm and had some impressive starts. Tonight should be a good barometer to see just how much improvement he made. He is 2-3 with a 5.53 ERA this season with Boston. |
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| Fukudome misses start with sore leg | Friday 7/11, 4:58 PM CT |
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Kosuke Fukudome did not start against the San Francisco Giants Friday, July 11, after fouling a pitch off his leg Thursday, July 10.
Our View: No word yet how serious the injury is but we will keep you posted. |
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| Longoria joins Derby field | Friday 7/11, 4:54 PM CT |
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Evan Longoria was added to the Home Run Derby less than a day after being named to the All-Star team.
Our View: This has been quite the rookie season for Longoris and now he is already entering his first Derby. He has 16 home runs in 295 at-bats. |
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| Crisp missed fourth straight | Friday 7/11, 4:49 PM CT |
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The Boston Herald reports that Coco Crisp is out of Friday's lineup due to a sore forearm.
Our View: Crisp has not played since Monday, and owners should not count on him until he is back in the lineup. |
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| Drew scratched again | Friday 7/11, 4:46 PM CT |
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J.D. Drew has not played since leaving Tuesday's game with a sore back. He is not into Friday's starting lineup, according to the Boston Herald.
Our View: Those of you who have ever owned J.D. Drew new this time was coming. It may be nothing more than a mosquito bite, but don't be surprised if Drew sits until the All-Star break. |
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| Fontenot having a strong July | Friday 7/11, 4:43 PM CT |
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Mike Fontenot has as an impressive July going for him thru his first seven games. He is hitting .389 with three home runs, five RBI, seven runs and six walks to go with just one strike out.
Our View: Fontenot's playing time will likely take a sharp turn south after Alfonso Soriano returns, so don't get too excited over this recent surge. |
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| Galarraga struggles against Twins | Friday 7/11, 4:38 PM CT |
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Armando Galarraga faces his nemesis, the Twins, tonight. Both of his losses on the season have come against the division rivals. In 21 innings against them he has a 4.71 ERA and a 1.71 WHIP.
Our View: Galarraga has not garnered a decision over his last three starts but did look good his last time out against Seattle. He continues to be among the most impressive rookies in the AL. |
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| Bowers demoted | Friday 7/11, 4:34 PM CT |
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Cedrick Bowers made just two appearances for the Rockies before being sent back down to Colorado Springs.
Our View: Bowers gave up four runs in his three innings in the majors. It will likely be a while before he is given another shot. |
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| Speier recalled | Friday 7/11, 4:32 PM CT |
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After 10 days in the minors, the Colorado Rockies recalled Ryan Speier on Friday from Triple-A Colorado Springs after sending left-hander Cedrick Bowers to the Sky Sox.
Our View: Speier was a little better than average in his 25 games with the Rockies earlier this season. He struck out 19 in 28.1 innings, but more impressively he allowed just two home runs while pitching in Colorado. |
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| Feldman sent to the minors | Friday 7/11, 4:25 PM CT |
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Scott Feldman was sent down to Frisco by the Rangers on Friday, according to the Star-Telegram.
Our View: Feldman had piled up an impressive 87.2 innings on the season but still carries a 5.03 ERA. The Rangers will give Kam Low and newly acquired Jose Diaz a chance to show if they can do any better. |
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| Diaz joins the Rangers | Friday 7/11, 4:23 PM CT |
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The Star-Telegram reports that the Rangers have purchased the contract of reliever Joselo Diaz from Frisco.
Our View: Diaz, formerly of the Mets, does not figure to have much more impact with the Rangers. |
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| Loe is recalled from Oklahoma | Friday 7/11, 4:20 PM CT |
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The Star-Telegram reports that the Rangers have recalled Kameron Loe from Oklahoma to give them another fresh arm for their series against the White Sox. Wes Littleton was sent down.
Our View: Loe gave up one run over 8.1 innings with the Rangers earlier this season. That kind of performance this time around may mean he sticks with the club for the second half. |
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| Marquis tosses seven shoutout innings | Friday 7/11, 4:14 PM CT |
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In his first start in 10 days, Jason Marquis looked very good. He allowed no runs over seven innings, walked two and scattered four hits.
Our View: He did not factor into the decision today, but he is 4-2 over his last seven starts. With the recent Harden acquisition, it is still uncertain as to what the Cubs rotation will be following the All-Star break. Today's performance bodes well for Marquis to have a second half impact. |
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| Walker suffers another loss | Friday 7/11, 4:10 PM CT |
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Tyler Walker returned from a sore right knee on Friday and gave up a three-run shot to the Cubs' Aramis Ramirez at Wrigley. The hit allowed Walker to take his fifth loss of the season.
Our View: Although he is a decent source of holds, Walker's home run rate causes him to be ineffective even in deep league formats that count the stat. His ERA has now ballooned to an even 5.00. |
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| Ramirez carries Cubs past Giants | Friday 7/11, 4:06 PM CT |
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Aramis Ramirez hit his third home run in the last six games to power the Cubs past the Giants on Friday. His blast accounted for all three of the Cubs' RBI in the game.
Our View: Ramirez, somewhat quietly, is having as good a season as any Cub. He now leads the team in HRs (17) and RBI (66). |
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| Cain shuts out Cubs again | Friday 7/11, 4:03 PM CT |
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Matt Cain, who threw eight shutout innings against the Cubs as recently as July 1, was stellar again on Friday in Wrigley. He gave up no runs over seven innings while striking out nine. Unfortunately, he left with no decision.
Our View: Cain has had an up and down year. In between his two shutout appearances with the Cubs, he gave up five runs to the Dodgers. He remains a great source of strikeouts, though, and he is positioning himself to have a very good fantasy career because of that. |
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| Mench recalled | Friday 7/11, 3:49 PM CT |
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Kevin Mench has been recalled from Triple-A Syracuse, according to the Globe and Mail.
Our View: Vernon Wells is expected to miss at least a month of action due to his Grade 2 strain of his left hamstring, and Mench was added for depth in the outfield. He will likely see some starts against left-handed pitching, but only hit .210 over 62 at-bats this season, and is not worth targeting in anything but larger AL-only leagues. |
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| Berkman in a slump | Friday 7/11, 3:37 PM CT |
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Lance Berkman is currently in a slump, as he is only 4-for-26 (.154) over his last nine games.
Our View: Berkman has been battling eye irritation, which could be partly to blame for his slump. Fantasy owners shouldn't be concerned, and he will have the upcoming All-Star break to straighten himself out. |
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| Ramirez on fire | Friday 7/11, 3:33 PM CT |
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Hanley Ramirez is on fire so far in July, as he has generated 20 hits over his last 10 games, consisting of six doubles and four homers, to go along with nine RBI and nine runs scored.
Our View: Ramirez continues to live up to expecations as a high first-round fantasy pick. |
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| Newman claimed off waivers | Friday 7/11, 3:14 PM CT |
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Reliever Josh Newman has been claimed off waivers from the Rockies on Friday, according to the AP. The Royals made room for the lefty on its 40-man roster by recalling right-hander Ryan Braun and placing him on the 60-day DL. Braun is recovering from an April 22 elbow surgery.
Our View: Newman will report to Triple-A Omaha, and will hold no fantasy value, especially as he allowed 15 hits, six walks, and nine earned runs over 8.2 innings of work this season in the majors. |
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| Matsui may take BP Saturday | Friday 7/11, 2:52 PM CT |
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Hideki Matsui, who is recovering from a swollen left knee, may take batting practice on Saturday, according to the AP. He could also start a running program soon, and said (through a translator), "I think if everything goes well, then probably sometime the beginning of next week. As of right now, I’ve had no problems at all."
Our View: He is also hopeful he won't need surgery this season for the ailing knee. We will keep you posted on his status. |
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| Weeks will remain in leadoff spot | Friday 7/11, 2:46 PM CT |
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Rickie Weeks has been struggling, but will remain in the leadoff spot in the order, according to Brewers.com. Manager Ned Yost said, "I've seen Rickie when he's good. He's a guy that can be a real igniter at the top of that lineup. He caught fire late last year and did a nice job. There could be a lot of offensive production at the top of that lineup when Rickie gets going."
Our View: Weeks is only hitting .218, but scored 57 runs, and should continue to be productive in that category while hitting at the top of the Brewers' potent lineup that features Ryan Braun and Prince Fielder. Seven of his runs were scored over his last four games. |
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| Winn injured | Friday 7/11, 2:36 PM CT |
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Randy Winn apparently injured his knee when he fouled a ball off of it during Friday action.
Our View: As of now, consider him day-to-day. We will keep you posted when more details are known. |
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| Bernadina sent down | Friday 7/11, 2:33 PM CT |
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Roger Bernadina has been optioned to Triple-A Columbus, according to the AP. The team recalled outfielder Ryan Langerhans, and demoted Bernadina to make room on the roster.
Our View: Bernadina only hit .125 over 40 at-bats with no homers or RBI, and held no fantasy value. |
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| Langerhans recalled | Friday 7/11, 2:30 PM CT |
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Outfielder Ryan Langerhans has been recalled from Triple-A Columbus, according to the AP. The team sent down outfielder Roger Bernadina to Columbus, as a corresponding move.
Our View: Langerhans hit .200 with nine strikeouts over 30 at-bats with Washington during his previous stint this season, and does not merit fantasy consideration. |
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| Harang back in two weeks? | Friday 7/11, 2:25 PM CT |
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The Cincinnati Enquirer indicates that Aaron Harang should be back in about two weeks. His MRI confirmed that he has a right forearm strain, and he will be re-examined this weekend. GM Walt Jocketty commented, "We want to make sure he's 100 percent. But he should be ready at the end of the two weeks."
Our View: Since his upcoming move to the DL probably will be retroactive to July 8, Harang will be eligible to come off July 23, which is seven days after the All-Star Break. So if all goes favorably without a setback, he'll miss only two starts.
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| Prospect Maxwell out another month | Friday 7/11, 1:59 PM CT |
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Double-A outfielder Justin Maxwell will be out another month with a right wrist injury that has shelved him since May 29, according to the Washington Times. Nationals' GM Jim Bowden said, "Like so many of our injured players, he's another month away."
Our View: Maxwell is a top prospect and could have earned a role with the team this season if he wasn't injured, when you consider the state of their outfield, which most recently lost Elijah Dukes for up to six weeks. |
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| Steinbrenner warns Rays' fans | Friday 7/11, 1:47 PM CT |
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The Yankees' Hank Steinbrenner warned the Rays' fans and even called them arrogant, according to the St. Petersburg Times. Steinbrenner said, "There's a lot of excitement around here from the Rays fans, but almost to a point of arrogance. They better be careful. They'll learn this can change real quick. People in baseball know it, whether they want to admit it or not. It helps everyone when the Yankees are good. The Red Sox, whether they're good or not, doesn't necessarily matter, nationally. Let's face it: The Yankees are baseball history. You're talking about 26 championships."
Our View: Steinbrenner decided to rain on the Rays' fans parade with his comments, but their team does currently hold the best record in the AL at 55-36, and have a 1.5 game lead over Boston in the East, and a 6.5 game lead over the Yankees. |
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| Hairston is hot | Friday 7/11, 1:39 PM CT |
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Scott Hairston is hot right now as he is 11-for-20 (.550) with three doubles, five homers, and eight RBI over his last six games, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Our View: All other Padres have a combined total of four homers and 16 RBI for the entire month of July so far. Keep Hairston active in your lineups.
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| Wright replaces Soriano | Friday 7/11, 12:56 PM CT |
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David Wright will replace Alfonso Soriano on the NL All-Star roster, according to the AP. Soriano will not be able to participate due to his left hand injury, but will still attend the All-Star festivities.
Our View: Wright was a candidate for the All-Star final vote, as he belted 17 homers with 70 RBI over 91 games. |
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| Renteria expected to be fine | Friday 7/11, 12:52 PM CT |
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As was previously reported, Edgar Renteria's hamstring injury is not believed to be serious and he could return to the Tigers' lineup tonight, according to the Detroit Free Press.
Our View: Manager Jim Leyland believes he will be fine, but you may want to leave him on the bench if you have a better option at the position. He only has two hits over his last six outings, and hasn't registered multiple hits in his last eight outings. |
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| Tigers not likely to make acquisition? | Friday 7/11, 12:45 PM CT |
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The Detroit Free Press reports that the Tigers are not likely to make a trade for a pitcher before the deadline. The club will need a fifth starter for the rotation 10 days from now, and while it is uncertain who they will pencil into the slot, it looks like Eddie Bonine is the top candidate. GM Dave Dombrowski feels good about where the team is right now, and skipper Jim Leyland said, "I think Bonine will probably be the starter. Is it 100%? No. But is it likely? I would say yes."
Our View: The team may opt to upgrade the bullpen instead, with Pirates' left-handers John Grabow and Damaso Marte mentioned as possible targets. Rookie Bonine has been the fifth starter the past month, but he was optioned to Double-A Erie after lasting only 3.2 innings Wednesday night.
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| Batista feeling better | Friday 7/11, 12:22 PM CT |
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Miguel Batista was feeling better on Thursday after being forced out of Wednesday's start after only 23 pitches due to a strained right groin, according to the Seattle Post-Intelligencer.
Our View: Batista is not likely to pitch before the All-Star break, but the Mariners expect him to be ready to return to the rotation after the break. |
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| Hernandez to be on pitch count | Friday 7/11, 12:18 PM CT |
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Felix Hernandez isn't expected to go deep in his next start (which is scheduled about two weeks from now against the Royals), and will be on a pitch count, according to the Seattle Post-Intelligencer. Manager Jim Riggleman said, "I don't know what kind of pitch count limit we'll have him on. But he hasn't pitched in a while."
Our View: His next outing will also be cut short if they notice him experiencing any degree of discomfort. |
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| Denker optioned | Friday 7/11, 12:08 PM CT |
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Outfielder Travis Denker has been optioned to Triple-A Fresno, according to the AP. The team called up infielder Ivan Ochoa as an adjoining move.
Our View: Denker was viewed as expendable, as he only hit .243 with one homer over 37 at-bats with the Giants this season. |
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| Hart called up | Friday 7/11, 11:59 AM CT |
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The Cubs called up reliever Kevin Hart on Friday. Hart struggled with the club earlier this season, but the 25-year-old right-hander has posted a 3.35 ERA over 10 starts at Triple-A Iowa.
Our View: Hart will head back to the bullpen and likely work long relief. He has no fantasy value. |
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| Wuertz sent down | Friday 7/11, 11:56 AM CT |
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The Cubs have optioned reliever Michael Wuertz to Triple-A Iowa. He is 1-1 with a 3.55 ERA but has allowed nine runs (six earned) over his last six appearances.
Our View: We don't imagine that this news affects too many fantasy teams. |
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| Ochoa called up | Friday 7/11, 11:31 AM CT |
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The Giants have purchased the contract of infielder Ivan Ochoa from Triple-A Fresno, according to the AP. The team optioned Travis Denker to Fresno to make room on the roster.
Our View: Ochoa, who is a switch-hitter, was batting .318 with six homers, 32 RBI and 20 stolen bases in 84 games at Fresno. The 25-year-old is making his first appearance on a major league roster, and doesn't merit fantasy consideration in anything but larger NL-only leagues. |
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| Ichiro expected back Friday | Friday 7/11, 11:24 AM CT |
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Ichiro Suzuki was scratched from Thursday's lineup but is expected back Friday, according to the Seattle Post-Intelligencer. He was dealing with a tight hamstring, but is believed to be fine.
Our View: Suzuki is seemingly safe to keep in your lineup for Friday. The hamstring ailment could explain why he only registered one stolen base over his last six games. |
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| Burnett on Phillies' radar? | Friday 7/11, 11:09 AM CT |
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The Phillies covet a pitcher to upgrade their rotation, and A.J. Burnett's name is coming up, according to the Philadelphia Daily News. Toronto is known to have interest in acquiring a shortstop, and Phillies' prospect Jason Donald has garndered some interest from a few teams around the league. Catcher Lou Marson and outfielder Greg Golson are two other players who interest the Blue Jays, although the Phillies are not likely to part with Marson, who could fill a need for the club sometime in the near future.
Our View: League sources say the Blue Jays view the Phillies as one of the top potential landing places for Burnett. He has a player-friendly contract that includes an opt-out after this season or two years and $24 million remaining, and he could benefit from a fresh start in Philadelphia.
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| Matthews displeased with benching | Friday 7/11, 10:53 AM CT |
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Gary Matthews Jr. is displeased with riding the pine for the last two games, according to the OC Register. Matthews said, "I don't know if any player ever agrees with taking unwanted days off. I do know my numbers should be better than they are." He was also surprised to be called into Mike Sciosca's office on Wednesday, which is when he was told he would be sitting in favor of Juan Rivera.
Our View: Sciosca commented that Matthews has been dealing with tendinitis in his right knee, and Matthews added that he came into the season knowing the knee pain probably would be chronic. But he doesn't want to use the ailment as an excuse for his poor production. Matthews does not know how long he will be limited to the bench, but Rivera is expected to get most of the at-bats through the All-Star break.
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| Angels not interested in Sexson | Friday 7/11, 10:45 AM CT |
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The Angels have no interest in acquiring newly released slugger Richie Sexson, according to the OC Register. Manager Mike Sciosca said, "Richie is the type of player who needs a lot of playing time. He has a powerful swing and still has the bat speed to be productive. But our feeling is that he needs to play a lot. I don't know if we have enough at-bats for him. We already have guys on the bench who need at-bats and I don't know if Richie would be a fit."
Our View: The 33-year-old Sexson only hit 11 homers over 252 at-bats with the Mariners prior to his release, along with 76 strikeouts. His home run rate wouldn't likely improve much with a move to the Angels. |
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| Baker to platoon with Hoover | Friday 7/11, 10:34 AM CT |
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Manager Fredi Gonzalez indicated that John Baker is going to platoon with Brad Hoover at catcher while Matt Treanor is out of action, according to the Miami Herald. Baker was given the start on Thursday, and Gonzalez said, "He caught a heck of a game. My biggest thing is, for catchers and home-plate umpires, when you don't notice them, that's when you think they've done a good job. You didn't notice Baker back there."
Our View: Baker went 2-for-5 with a homer and RBI in his start against Los Angeles Thursday, and could prove to be useful for the short-term in larger NL-only leagues until Treanor returns. |
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| Uggla comments on first game back | Friday 7/11, 10:28 AM CT |
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Dan Uggla commented on his first game back from a sprained ankle on Thursday, according to the Miami Herald. He went 0-for-3 against Los Angeles, but drew two walks and said, "I'm about 85 percent. There's still some pain. But it's to a point where I can actually run and tolerate it. Probably the biggest test is going to be able to run the bases."
Our View: He should be peniled back into your fantasy lineups, if you haven't already done so. |
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