| Lillibridge gets first major league homer | Saturday 7/12, 11:55 PM CT |
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Not know for his offense with struggles in previous visits to the majors, Atlanta shortstop Brent Lillibridge got the job done at the plate this evening in support of the Braves 4-1 win over the Padres. Lillibridge went 2-for-3 with a double and a homer to total one RBI and two runs scored.
Our View: Lillibridge gets his first homer of the season and his career in one night, and now we wait to see if he uses it to jump as an offensive threat. |
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| Maddux fails to find needed offensive support | Saturday 7/12, 11:50 PM CT |
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Yet another pitcher watches his outing fall short of the win due to poor offensive support, this time in San Diego where veteran Greg Maddux watched his Padres fall short of need at the plate, suffering the 4-1 loss to the Atlanta Braves. Maddux pitched seven innings, surrendering three runs (all earned) on six hits with two walks and three strikeouts.
Our View: Maddux hasn't seen a win since May 10th, though he carries a respectable 3.90 ERA and has walked just 24 batters on the season. |
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| Saito exits with arm injury | Saturday 7/12, 11:47 PM CT |
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Takashi Saito left the Saturday night game against the Marlins after suffering a right arm injury. The Japanese import exited with two outs and a 2-2 count on Wes Helms. Brian Falkenborg relieved Saito.
Our View: We will update the injury to the Dodgers closer when more information is available. |
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| Athletics find nothing versus Santana | Saturday 7/12, 11:27 PM CT |
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Angels RHP Ervin Santana continues to work as one of the most dominating arms in the game, tonight putting the brakes on the Oakland A's to bring the 4-1 win to LA. Santana pitched seven innings, allowing no runs on five hits with two walks and 10 strikeouts.
Our View: Santana now sits at 11-3 on the season with an ERA of 3.34. Over his last nine starts, he has gone 5-1 with 19 walks and an amazing 65 strikeouts. |
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| Kendrick tops hitters in Angels win | Saturday 7/12, 11:21 PM CT |
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The Angels used the bats of eight different batters tonight in posting the 4-1 win over Oakland, spreading nine hits over those players throughout the game. Only second baseman Howie Kendrick managed to shine, going 2-for-4 with one RBI on the night.
Our View: The work was done with pitching, but fantasy owners should note Kendrick is hitting .385 through July with eight RBIs on the month as well. |
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| Eveland takes the loss versus LA | Saturday 7/12, 11:18 PM CT |
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Oakland couldn't turn late hits into runs and suffered the 4-1 loss to the Angels as a result, leaving LHP Dana Eveland with the short end of the stick and his sixth loss of the season. Eveland pitched 5 1/3 innings, allowing two runs (both earned) on five hits with five walks and five strikeouts.
Our View: Eveland now sits at 7-6 on the season with a 3.49 ERA. He was riding consecutive wins coming out of June but has lost two of his last three starts, though he has not allowed more than three runs in any of those games. |
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| Volquez puts the hurt on Milwaukee | Saturday 7/12, 11:09 PM CT |
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Cincinnati RHP Edinson Volquez put yet another strong outing on the mound this evening, helping his Reds to the dominating 8-2 win over the Brewers. Volquez pitched seven innings, allowing just two runs (one earned) on six hits with two walks and 10 strikeouts.
Our View: Volquez now stands at 12-3 on the season with an impressive ERA of 2.29, though this is his first win over his last four starts. |
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| Dunn keeps driving the wall vs Brewers | Saturday 7/12, 11:06 PM CT |
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Cincinnati outfielder Adam Dunn was the weapon of choice in the Reds' 8-2 win over the Brewers, going 2-for-4 with two homers to total four RBIs and two runs scored on the night.
Our View: Dunn now carries an impressive six homers for the month of July, and we aren't even half way through the month yet. |
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| McClung takes disappointing loss | Saturday 7/12, 11:02 PM CT |
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Milwaukee RHP Seth McClung watched a good outing go to the trash this evening as the Brewers failed to produce offensive supporting, giving McClung his fifth loss of the season. McClung pitched 6 1/3 innings, allowing three runs (all earned) on just three hits with three walks and seven strikeouts.
Our View: McClung now has two losses in each of his last two starts, though he's allowed just five total earned runs and one home run through that span. |
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| Fielder lone wolf in Milwaukee loss | Saturday 7/12, 10:56 PM CT |
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Only first baseman Prince Fielder showed up at the plate tonight in support of the Brewers' 8-2 loss to the Reds, going 2-for-3 with one walk and his 18th homer of the season, posting two RBIs and one run scored.
Our View: Only three other players earned hits on the night, though it's no surprise for Fielder, touting hits in eight of his last nine games. |
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| McLouth keeps ringing 'em up | Saturday 7/12, 10:50 PM CT |
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The Pirates are now celebrating the 10-inning 12-11 win over the Cardinals while leadoff man Nate McLouth continues to celebrate his work at the plate. Tonight he went 1-for-4 with one walk and his 19th homer of the season, recording three RBIs and two runs scored on the night.
Our View: Another day, another homer for McLouth. He now has four homers over his last six games, pulling nine RBIs along the way. |
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| Ludwick lights it up versus Pitt | Saturday 7/12, 10:44 PM CT |
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The Cardinals took a heart-breaking loss after 10 innings, falling 12-11 to the Pirates, but give outfielder Ryan Ludwick an "A" for effort. Ludwick went 3-for-5 at the dish with one walk, his third triple, and his 20th homer of the season to total four RBIs on the season and two runs scored.
Our View: Ludwick has provided surges of power from time to time but is not consistent enough to garner top respect. However, you can see the star working to come out of the kid, and it may be a matter of time before he realizes his full potential. |
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| Glaus homers in extra-inning loss | Saturday 7/12, 10:40 PM CT |
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The Cardinals found disappointment after 10 innings, losing 12-11 to the Pirates, though veteran outfielder Troy Glaus did what he could to change the ending. Glaus went 4-for-4 at the plate with two walks and his 14th homer of the season, recording two RBIs and two runs scored.
Our View: Glaus is hitting .237 for the month of June but now has three homers and seven RBIs through those 11 games. |
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| Bay homers twice versus St. Lou | Saturday 7/12, 10:36 PM CT |
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The Cards and Pirates battled through 10 innings of baseball this evening to decide a winner, and it was Pittsburgh drawing the lucky straw. Pinch-hitting outfielder Jason Michaels got the game winner with a two-run homer in the bottom of the 10th, but it was fellow outfielder Jason Bay keeping the Pirates in the mix, going 2-for-5 with two homers (his 18th and 19th of the season) on the night, totaling five RBIs and two runs scored.
Our View: Bay is doing well at the plate, hitting .308 through July, but fantasy owners are hoping he can step up the run production. Tonight shows he may be on the verge of doing just that. |
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| Danks rolls over Texas | Saturday 7/12, 10:27 PM CT |
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Chicago LHP John Danks was impressive once again this evening, leading his White Sox to 9-7 win over Texas. Danks pitched 7 2/3 innings, allowing four runs (all earned) on seven hits with no walks and eight strikeouts.
Our View: Danks now carries consecutive wins and have three Ws over his last four starts with one no-decision mixed in. He has allowed just seven earned runs combined through those starts with seven walks and 28 strikeouts. |
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| Thome drives in four versus Texas | Saturday 7/12, 10:21 PM CT |
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Chicago found more than a few bats to do work against the Rangers in the White Sox's 9-7 win over the Rangers this evening, but it was designated hitter Jim Thome doing the most impressive damage on the night. Thome went 2-for-4 with one walk, his 18th double and 18th homer on the season, recording a team-high four RBIs with one run scored.
Our View: Oufielder Carlos Quentin posted two RBIs of his own, as did first baseman Paul Konerko, but Thome put the wood to good use and topped 'em all, as he has all through July. He's hitting .342 with two homers and seven RBIs on the month thus far. |
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| Hamilton keeps driving 'em in | Saturday 7/12, 10:16 PM CT |
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The Rangers took the 9-7 loss against the White Sox on the chin, but outfielder Josh Hamilton is still working as one of the best in the game, going 2-for-5 with two RBIs and his seventh stolen base of the season.
Our View: Hamilton has boosted his average this month a bit, hitting .317 thus far in July, but the run production keeps us coming back. Through his last 15 games, Hamilton has failed to post at least one RBI just three times. |
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| Garko drives in five versus Rays | Saturday 7/12, 10:15 PM CT |
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The only thing better than a good night at the plate is one put forth in support of the win, a mixture Cleveland first baseman Ryan Garko enjoyed this evening as part of the Indians' 8-4 win over the Rays. Garko went 2-for-4 with his 10th double and seventh home run of the season to post five RBIs and one run scored on the evening.
Our View: Garko contributes where he can but can't be relied upon for consistent production. This was his first homer since June 9th and he had just one RBI through July coming in. |
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| Ginter uses Rays to announce arrival | Saturday 7/12, 10:04 PM CT |
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Cleveland RHP Matt Ginter earned his first win of the season, helping the Indians to a strong 8-4 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays. Ginter pitched five innings, surrendering no runs on just five hits with no walks and five strikeouts.
Our View: Ginter's first start of the season shows great promise and reason for optimism moving forward, playing against one of the hotter teams in the AL with more than a few capable hitters laid to rest along the way. |
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| Navarro drives in two through loss | Saturday 7/12, 10:00 PM CT |
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Rays catcher Dioner Navarro did what he could to get his team moving towards a win but failed as Tampa Bay fell 8-4 to Cleveland. Navarro went 2-for-3 on the night with his 16th double of the season, totaling two RBIs along the way.
Our View: Navarro has kept the bat in check through July, going 11-for-37 for a .297 batting average through July. However, he hasn't hit a homer since June 20th and has just four RBIs this month. |
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| Ramirez leaves with shoulder injury | Saturday 7/12, 9:57 PM CT |
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Following up an earlier report on the Marlins' Hanley Ramirez; he left the Saturday night game against the Dodgers with a sore shoulder, this according to the Marlins television network. Alfredo Amezaga replaced Ramirez.
Our View: The team is calling their shortstop day-to-day. |
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| Meche gets no decision in Royals win | Saturday 7/12, 9:54 PM CT |
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Kansas City RHP Gil Meche did the heavy lifting but walked away from the park with no decision despite the 5-4 win for his Royals over Seattle. Meche pitched 6 2/3 innings, allowing four runs (all earned) on 10 hits wiht one walk and one strikeout on the night.
Our View: Meche ended June with three consecutive wins but has not earned a win in three starts since, touting seven walks versus six strikeouts through that span. |
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| HanRam exits with arm injury | Saturday 7/12, 9:53 PM CT |
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Hanley Ramirez left Saturday night's game against the Dodgers with what is being reported as a arm injury.
Our View: Ramirez was hit above the elbow on Friday night, and tonight's exit could be a result of the beaning. More information on HanRam when it becomes available. |
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| DeJesus homers in ninth for win | Saturday 7/12, 9:51 PM CT |
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The Royals used the beneficial offerings of leadoff hitter David DeJesus to push past the Mariners this evening, getting the 5-4 win thanks to a walk-off two-run homer in the ninth, DeJesus' 10th of the season. DeJesus went 2-for-5 overall with two RBIs and two runs scored to show for the effort.
Our View: DeJesus is struggling to match his June success this month, hitting just .244 with one homer and eight RBIs through 10 games after hitting .361 with four homers and 19 RBIs through June. This outing may get him back in positive form. |
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| Washburn gets no decision | Saturday 7/12, 9:41 PM CT |
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The Mariners suffered the tough 5-4 loss to the Royals this evening, leaving a great outing from LHP Jarrod Washburn wasted. Washburn pitched six innings, allowing three runs (only one earned) on seven hits with one walk and one strikeout.
Our View: Washburn walked with no decision and missed a shot to get his third win in four starts due to poor relief pitching. Washburn has lowered his walk totals over recent starts and seems to be rounding into form. |
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| Rodriguez gets the win for Houston | Saturday 7/12, 9:33 PM CT |
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Houston LHP Wandy Rodriguez earned his fourth win of the season this evening, supporting the Astros' 6-4 win over Washington. Rodriguez pitched 5 1/3 innings, allowing four runs (all earned) on eight hits with one walk and one strikeout.
Our View: Wandy has struggled to go deep over recent weeks, surpassing the sixth inning just once over his last six starts. Through three July starts, he has allowed 12 earned runs with at least one homer allowed in each. |
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| Harris hoping to get moving | Saturday 7/12, 9:25 PM CT |
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The Nats suffered through the offensive drought through the roster this evening to earn the 6-4 loss against Houston, led by the leadoff bat of outfielder Willie Harris. Harris went 2-for-4 with his fourth double and fifth homer of the season, totaling one RBI and two runs scored on the night.
Our View: After hitting .293 last month, Harris has struggled through July, hitting just .233 with two RBIs coming into tonight. The Nats hope to see more from the top man in their order, especially considering his lack of basepath production this month (five stolen bases in June, none in July). |
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| Berkman looking to get back on track | Saturday 7/12, 9:19 PM CT |
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Houston first baseman Lance Berkman may have found the motivation and stride needed to get his bat on track, helping Houston get the win, 6-4, versus Washington. Berkman went 2-for-5 at the plate with his 30th double of the season to total two RBIs and one run scored on the evening.
Our View: Berkman has struggled over recent weeks, yet to hit a homer this month with a July batting average of .200. Tonight could signify a reversal of fortunes, so keep your hopes up fantasy owners. Things will improve. |
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| Pence homers in loss | Saturday 7/12, 9:15 PM CT |
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The Astros had to fight to hang on, but in the end they got the 6-4 win over Washington with a strong evening from outfielder Hunter Pence . Pence went 2-for-3 with one walk and his 12th homer of the season, posting three RBIs and one run scored for the effort.
Our View: Pence posted just three homers with nine RBIs last month. Tonight's dinger was his second for the month of July with six total RBIs thus far. |
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| Wakefield rules Baltimore | Saturday 7/12, 9:10 PM CT |
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Boston RHP Tim Wakefield continues to elude father time, earning his sixth win of the season tonight by dominating the Baltimore Orioles. Wakefield pitched seven innings, allowing one run on just two hits with one walk versus six strikeouts.
Our View: This brings Wake's ERA down to 3.60, getting his second win over his last four starts. He's allowed just five total earned runs over that time with five walks versus 21 strikeouts. |
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| ManRam heating up | Saturday 7/12, 9:05 PM CT |
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Boston outfielder Manny Ramirez enjoyed a fun night at the park in support of the Red Sox's 12-1 win over Baltimore, going 2-for-3 with his 18th homer of the season to total one RBI and three runs scored on the night.
Our View: After hitting just .286 last month, Manny is looking to get back on track in July, hitting .313 coming into tonight. He now touts seven RBIs and six runs scored over his last five games. |
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| Youkilis drives in six versus Baltimore | Saturday 7/12, 9:00 PM CT |
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Six different players posted RBIs this evening as the Red Sox wiped the mat with Baltimore, 12-1. The top man of the hour was first baseman Kevin Youkilis, going 2-for-4 with 15th homer of the season, totaling six RBIs and one run scored on the night.
Our View: Youk has remained consistent at the dish, hitting .324 through July, though his power numbers have struggled. Today's homer was just his second this month, but was also his second in three days. He may be warming up again, so be prepared. |
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| Hernandez homers on loss to Boston | Saturday 7/12, 8:55 PM CT |
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The Baltimore Orioles suffered a troublesome loss against the Boston Red Sox this evening, falling 12-1 with a total of three hits by the entire team. Only catcher Ramon Hernandez emerged as an offensive note, going 1-for-3 with his eighth homer of the season to total one RBI and one run scored.
Our View: Hernandez has struggled in July, going 8-for-35 coming into tonight. This was his first homer since June 30th. |
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| Saunders likely to miss Sunday start | Saturday 7/12, 8:27 PM CT |
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The Angels report LHP Joe Saunders is likely to miss his scheduled start on Sunday, according to MLB.com.
Our View: Saunders' wife is going into labor, and thus if the baby is not born by the end of the game on Saturday, he is likely to remain home with his wife. If Saunders can't go, the Angels will call up a Minor League pitcher for a spot start. Starter Jered Weaver would be available in relief, but Scioscia said any replacement starter "would be somebody from down under." |
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| Nats announce schedule for Zimmerman | Saturday 7/12, 8:21 PM CT |
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The Nationals have announced a rehabilitation schedule for third baseman Ryan Zimmerman , according to MLB.com.
Our View: Zimmerman will go out to Class A Potomac for games on Monday and Tuesday in Salem, Va., and then join Triple-A Columbus for games from Thursday through Sunday. Zimmerman has been on the disabled list since June 3 with a labral tear in his left shoulder. He sustained the injury sliding into second in a May 18 game against Baltimore. |
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| Wood to miss All Star Game | Saturday 7/12, 8:17 PM CT |
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Reports indicate Chicago closer Kerry Wood is likely to miss this year's All Star Game, according to the Providence Journal.
Our View: Wood is nursing a blister on his throwing hand and has no desire to make matters worse. Wood still plans to attend All-Star festivities at Yankee Stadium on Tuesday night. It was unclear whether he'll be replaced on the National League roster because the commissioner's office, as of Saturday night, had yet to be officially notified of Wood's injury. Wood's blister is on his right index finger, leaving him unavailable Saturday during Chicago's 8-7, 11-inning victory over San Francisco. |
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| Pierzynski pulled after pitch to the foot | Saturday 7/12, 7:48 PM CT |
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Reports out of Chicago note White Sox catcher A.J. Pierzynski has been pulled from tonight's game against the Rangers in the fourth inning after being hit in the foot by a Kevin Millwood pitch, according to ChicagoSports.com.
Our View: Toby Hall came in to pinch hit for Pierzynski in the fourth after Pierzynski was hit in the foot. If we get news on his status, we'll be sure to pass it along. |
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| Baker supports Minnesota win over Tigers | Saturday 7/12, 7:03 PM CT |
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Minnesota RHP Scott Baker picked up his sixth win of the season today, helping his Twins to a 6-5 victory over the Tigers. Baker pitched seven innings, allowing four runs (all earned) over six hits with no walks and four strikeouts.
Our View: The bulk of the damage was done on two homers, but it wasn't enough to stop the Twins, posting 12 total hits to give Baker plenty of offensive support. Baker now touts four wins over his last five starts. |
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| Robertson takes loss #8 | Saturday 7/12, 6:59 PM CT |
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The Tigers fought but failed to produce a win, falling 6-5 to Minnesota. Nate Robertson suffered the consequences, taking his eighth loss of the season after pitching seven innings to allow five runs (all earned) on 10 hits with no walks and four strikeouts.
Our View: Robertson had posted three consecutive wins last month but has since fallen, going 0-2 over four starts since. |
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| Harris goes 3-for-3 vs Detroit | Saturday 7/12, 6:53 PM CT |
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Minnesota earned the 6-5 win over Detroit today with big help from the bat of shortstop Brendan Harris . Harris went 3-for-3 at the plate with his fifth homer of the season, totaling four RBIs and one run scored.
Our View: Harris hit just .242 last month with two homers and eight RBIs. He's improved to .308 thus far through July, and though he does not have a homer, he has earned nine RBIs to top last month's total. |
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| Mauer leads Twins in win over Detroit | Saturday 7/12, 6:48 PM CT |
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Minnesota and Detroit did battle this evening with the Twins emerging with the win, 6-5, thanks to the prolific bat of catcher Joe Mauer . Mauer went 2-for-5 at the dish, hitting his fifth homer of the season tot total two RBIs and one run scored.
Our View: Mauer now stands with a .324 batting average on the season, right in the mix for the AL lead. He has been as consistent as any player in the game, hitting .333 through May, hitting .341 through June, and now hitting .333 through July. |
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| Rockies waste strong Jimenez offering | Saturday 7/12, 6:34 PM CT |
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The Rockies wasted a perfectly good outing today from RHP Ubaldo Jimenez , falling 3-0 to the Mets. Ubaldo pitched six innings, allowing three runs (all earned) on seven hits with four walks and eight strikeouts.
Our View: This was one of Ubaldo's more positive outings this season, but the loss brings him to 4-9 on the season with an ERA of 4.22. He is steadily improving but his teammates need to produce more than one hit (all they found this evening) to make it work for wins. |
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| Reyes homers in win over Rockies | Saturday 7/12, 6:29 PM CT |
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The Mets have wrapped their eighth consecutive win this evening, defeating the Colorado Rockies 3-0. All eight Met hits were produced by different batters, though leadoff shortstop Jose Reyes made the most of his, hitting his 10th homer of the season to go 1-for-4 with one walk, one RBI, and one run scored on the night.
Our View: Reyes has been surging after a frustrating start, now hitting .302 on the season thanks to improving his .305 June batting average to .375 this month, though he had not homered since June 25th and touts just four stolen bases this month (following 11 through June). |
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| Big Unit gets second July win | Saturday 7/12, 6:18 PM CT |
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Veteran LHP Randy Johnson wasn't at his best this evening, but his Arizona teammates insured the offense needed was there to get him his sixth win of the campaign, beating Philadelphia 10-4. Johnson pitched six innings, surrendering four runs (all earned) on five hits with one walk and three strikeouts.
Our View: The Unit gave up two homers, giving the hurler a troublesome six homers allowed over his three July starts. However, he has two more wins now over that same span than he posted all of last month, going 0-5 in five starts. |
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| Tracy, Reynolds combine for seven RBIs | Saturday 7/12, 6:13 PM CT |
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The Diamondbacks put the whooping on the Phillies this evening, taking the 10-4 win thanks to the batting duo of corner infielders Chad Tracy and Mark Reynolds. Reynolds went just 1-for-4 at the plate but made the one hit good for his 19th homer of the season, totaling four RBIs on the day. Meanwhile Tracy went 3-for-5 at the plate, hitting three singles to total three RBIs and one runs scored.
Our View: Tracy is in the midst of a strong surge on offense, hitting .421 through July with 10 RBIs thus far. However, Reynolds is heading the other direction, hitting just .192 thus far this month with just two RBIs. |
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| Victorino homers twice in loss | Saturday 7/12, 6:02 PM CT |
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The Phillies found hard times at the park this evening, falling 10-4 to the Arizona Diamondbacks, though leadoff outfielder Shane Victorino enjoyed a strong individual effort. Victorino went 3-for-3 at the dish with two home runs (his 4th and 5th of the season) to total three RBIs and two runs scored.
Our View: Victorino is enjoying a nice bounceback effort this month, hitting .320 through July with three homers and 11 RBIs, a strong performance after hitting just .235 with no homers and four RBIs last month. |
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| Lugo out 4-6 weeks | Saturday 7/12, 5:40 PM CT |
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Updating an earlier report, the Red Sox are now reporting that injured shortstop Julio Lugo will miss between 4 and 6 weeks of action, suffering a severe quad tear, according to the Providence Journal.
Our View: He suffered the injury in the bottom of the ninth inning against the Orioles Friday night at Fenway Park. Lugo was attempting to beat out a base hit when he felt a "pop" and after he crossed the first-base bag, he was in obvious pain as he lay on the ground. After the game a team doctor told him it was a tear, but the shortstop didn't believe it, so he had an MRI taken this morning that confirmed the bad news. As a result, Jed Lowrie has been recalled from Pawtucket. |
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| Oswalt says "no idea" on return | Saturday 7/12, 5:35 PM CT |
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Last evening fantay owners watched in horror as Roy Oswalt , in the midst of his first start since returning from a minor hip injury, left the game after just one inning of work. He was later diagnosed with the left hip abductor strain, and now he tells reporters that he has "no idea" when he may pitch again, according to CBSSports.com.
Our View: There were no immediate plans to place Oswalt, who is 7-8 with a 4.56 ERA, on the disabled list, manager Cecil Cooper said. Cooper had hoped to use Oswalt as the Astros' starter in the team's first game after the All-Star break Friday against Chicago, but conceded that was now unlikely. We will keep you posted on the team's decisions with medical testing and treatment as it becomes available. |
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| Pedro leaves early with shoulder pain | Saturday 7/12, 5:28 PM CT |
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New York RHP Pedro Martinez has left his start against the Colorado Rockies after four innings due to tightness in his right shoulder, according to the Associated Press.
Our View: The oft-injured Martinez missed about two months earlier this season with a strained left hamstring. He also missed most of last season after having surgery on his right shoulder late in 2006. Martinez, who walked around the clubhouse with a large ice pack on his right hip before the game, threw 66 pitches with three walks and three strikeouts. We will update his status as news becomes available. |
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| Molina keeps Giants in contention | Saturday 7/12, 4:43 PM CT |
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San Francisco catcher Bengie Molina may be starting to swing a hot bat again, going 3-for-6 in today's 11-inning loss to the Cubs (8-7). Molina hit two doubles on the day to total two RBIs and two runs scored on the day.
Our View: Molina hit .275 with 13 homers and 27 RBIs last month, but is hitting just .162 with no homers and seven RBIs through July thus far. Today could indicate the start of another streak of good fortune, so keep tabs on his progress. |
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| Edmonds drives in four versus Giants | Saturday 7/12, 4:38 PM CT |
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The offensive charge for the Chicago northsiders in today's 8-7, 11-inning win over San Francisco was led by outfielder Jim Edmonds , going 2-for-4 at the dish with his 10th double and 10th home run of the season, totaling four RBIs and two runs scored on the day.
Our View: Edmonds has struggled at the plate thus far in July, hitting just .194 on the month (disappointing after hitting .319 last month). His RBIs, six this month, have come in clusters with four today and two on July 2nd. |
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| Harden shows well in Chicago premier | Saturday 7/12, 4:32 PM CT |
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It took 11 innings, but the Cubbies have laid the San Francisco Giants to rest, 8-7. The win in late innings failed to give newly-acquired ace Rich Harden his first win as a National League employee, though the righty pitched well, going 5 1/3 innings by allowing no runs on five hits with three walks and 10 strikeouts.
Our View: That brings Harden to an ERA of 2.19 and gives fans in Chicago a reason to feel optimistic. Harden now tallies three wins over his last six starts with just one loss and five combined earned runs allowed along the way. |
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| Lind hits three-run triple | Saturday 7/12, 3:47 PM CT |
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Adam Lind went 1-for-4 with a three-run triple in Saturday's 9-4 loss to the Yankees.
Our View: That was his first triple of the season, and he extended his hitting streak to five games, with five extra base hits over the span (four doubles). He also has 11 RBI over 10 outings in July. Keep him active in AL-only leagues while he is hot. |
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| Jeter collects three RBI in win | Saturday 7/12, 3:41 PM CT |
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Derek Jeter went 2-for-5 and collected three RBI in Saturday's 9-4 victory over the Blue Jays in Toronto. He hit a single and a solo home run, his fifth of the season.
Our View: Jeter hit his first homer since June 13, snapping a 24-game drought. He also registered his fourth multi-hit game of July, and tied his season-high in RBI with three. |
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| Litsch loses at home | Saturday 7/12, 3:36 PM CT |
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Jesse Litsch had a tough day on the hill in Saturday's 9-4 loss to the Yankees at home, as he surrendered eight runs (three earned) on seven hits over a mere 2.2 innings, with one walk and three strikeouts.
Our View: Litsch falls to 8-6 for the season, and is 1-4 over his last seven starts. Keep him reserved until he proves to be effective again. |
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| Rasner claims fifth win | Saturday 7/12, 3:32 PM CT |
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Darrell Rasner allowed four runs (three earned) on seven hits over five innings in Saturday's 9-4 win over Toronto, with one walk and six strikeouts.
Our View: Rasner improves to 5-7 over 12 starts. He tied a season-high in strikeouts with six, and snapped a three-game losing streak. |
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| Slocum optioned | Saturday 7/12, 3:21 PM CT |
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Brian Slocum has been optioned to Triple-A Buffalo, according to the AP. The team called up Matt Ginter for tonight's start against Tampa Bay, and Slocum was viewed as expendable to free up a roster spot.
Our View: Slocum held no fantasy value for this season, as he was rocked for six earned runs over two brief innings of work. |
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| Ginter called up | Saturday 7/12, 3:18 PM CT |
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Matt Ginter has been called up from Triple-A Buffalo and will start tonight's game against the AL-East leading Rays, according to the AP. The team optioned righty Brian Slocum to Buffalo to make room on the roster.
Our View: Ginter posted a 6-6 record with a 4.14 ERA in 18 games (17 starts) with Buffalo this season. He doesn't merit fantasy consideration, especially with a tough first assignment against the Rays. |
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| Punto scratched | Saturday 7/12, 3:14 PM CT |
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Nick Punto has been scratched from Saturday's lineup against the Tigers due to a strained left ring finger, according to the AP.
Our View: Brendan Harris was accordingly moved from third base to shortstop, and rookie Brian Buscher was penciled in at third. Punto is day-to-day. |
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| Lugo lands on DL | Saturday 7/12, 2:57 PM CT |
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Julio Lugo has been placed on the 15-day DL due to his strained right quad, according to the AP.
Our View: Jed Lowrie will start tonight's game against Baltimore in his place at shortstop, and should remain active with the club until Lugo returns to action. |
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| Upton update | Saturday 7/12, 2:54 PM CT |
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Manager Bob Melvin is optimistic Justin Upton could be ready to return to action following the All-Star break, acccording to MLB.com. He has not played since straining his left oblique muscle on Wednesday. Melvin said, "Once we get these next three days off, we get him to a workout on Thursday, he should be a full go and hopefully starting the next day."
Our View: As for now, there is a chance Upton could be used as a pinch-runner in an emergency situation Saturday or Sunday against the Phillies, according to Melvin. This is good news, as it was previously believed that he would be placed on the DL. |
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| Lugo scheduled for MRI | Saturday 7/12, 2:45 PM CT |
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Updating a previous report, Julio Lugo is scheduled for an MRI on his injured right quad Saturday, according to the Boston Globe. Lugo said, "I'm real worried. Because I know it wasn't something that just pulled, when you pull a muscle. I felt something that popped, and that's what worries me."
Our View: Jed Lowrie was recalled as a possible replacement for Lugo in case he needs to spend time on the DL. We will keep you posted on Lugo's status. |
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| Renteria out through break | Saturday 7/12, 2:28 PM CT |
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Edgar Renteria's strained hamstring is still sore, and manager Jim Leyland indicated he will be shut down through the All-Star break, according to MLive.com.
Our View: Hopefully he will benefit from the time off, and raise his .254 average in the second half. |
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| A-Rod passes Mantle with homer | Saturday 7/12, 2:14 PM CT |
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Alex Rodriguez hit his 537th career home run Saturday, at the expense of Toronto's Brian Tallet, according to the AP.
Our View: He passed Mickey Mantle into 13th place on the all-time home run list. It was A-Rod's 19th homer of the season. |
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| Myers set for third minor league start | Saturday 7/12, 2:05 PM CT |
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Brett Myers is making his third minor league start today with Double-A Reading, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Our View: Myers is also expected to make another start before hopefully returning to the Phillies. He is not worth waiting for, as he held a 3-9 mark over 17 starts, with a poor 5.84 ERA and 1.56 WHIP. |
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| Bradley sits out another game | Saturday 7/12, 1:52 PM CT |
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Milton Bradley sat out his third consecutive game on Saturday as he continues to rest his ailing knee, according to the Star-Telegram. Manager Ron Washington said, "The important thing is that Milton gets healthy. It’s not like he’s fatigued. We’re talking about his legs, and we don’t want him favoring one leg over the other."
Our View: He remains day-to-day. Hopefully he will be healthy after the All-Star break, as he holds a .314 average with 17 homers and 54 RBI over 78 contests this season. |
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| Littleton optioned | Saturday 7/12, 1:46 PM CT |
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Wes Littleton has been optioned to Triple-A Oklahoma, according to the Star-Telegram. Kameron Loe was recalled from Oklahoma as the corresponding move.
Our View: Littleton got rocked for 10 runs over 11.2 innings, with a 1.46 WHIP this season, and he held no fantasy value prior to his demotion. |
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| Hurley set for rehab assignment | Saturday 7/12, 1:39 PM CT |
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Eric Hurley is set to begin a rehab assignment with Double-A Frisco on Monday as he continues to recover from a strained left hamstring, according to the Dallas Morning News.
Our View: Barring a setback, he would return to the Rangers soon after the All-Star break. He had decent success as a starter, with a 1-1 record and 3.57 ERA over four outings. |
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| Marcum close to return | Saturday 7/12, 1:35 PM CT |
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Shaun Marcum, who is recovering from a right elbow strain, began pitching off a mound earlier this week, according to BlueJays.com.
Our View: Barring a setback, he is on pace to return to Toronto soon after the All-Star break. This is good news, as he holds a 5-4 record, with a 2.65 ERA and 1.00 WHIP over 98.2 innings, with 86 strikeouts. |
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| Winn held out today | Saturday 7/12, 1:31 PM CT |
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Randy Winn has been held out of the Giants' lineup Saturday due to his bruised right knee, according to Giants.com. Skipper Bruce Bochy said, "I'm hoping he can play Sunday. I'm hoping before the end of the game he feels good enough to pinch-hit. Randy Winn is one of the better players in the game, and one of the more underrated players."
Our View: John Bowker replaced Winn in the outfield, and Rich Aurilia covered first base. Winn is day-to-day. |
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| Hill making progress | Saturday 7/12, 1:27 PM CT |
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Aaron Hill has started to field ground balls and hit off a tee at Toronto's complex in Dunedin, Florida, according to BlueJays.com. He has been sidelined since May 29 with post-concussion syndrome.
Our View: Hill is making progress, but there's still no timetable for his return from the DL. |
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| Accardo expected to throw pen session | Saturday 7/12, 1:24 PM CT |
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Jeremy Accardo, who is recovering from right forearm tightness, is scheduled to throw around 30 pitches off a mound on Saturday, according to BlueJays.com.
Our View: The Jays miss his late-inning arm, and he is hopeful to return to the bullpen a few weeks following the All-Star break. |
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| Lowrie recalled | Saturday 7/12, 12:14 PM CT |
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Infielder Jed Lowrie has been recalled from Triple-A Pawtuckett, according to the Providence Journal. He was brought in as Julio Lugo may have suffered a slight tear in his right quad during battle on Friday, which would send him to the DL.
Our View: This will be Lowrie's third stint with the Red Sox this season. He is worth a look in larger AL-only leagues, as he holds a .310 average with one homer and seven RBI over 42 at-bats this season. |
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| V-Mart slated to play catch | Saturday 7/12, 11:33 AM CT |
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Victor Martinez has progressed in his recovery from elbow surgery to the point he will begin to play catch next week, according to the Akron Beacon Journal.
Our View: This is favorable news, and he is on target to return to the Indians at some time in August. |
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| Izturis could return next weekend | Saturday 7/12, 11:26 AM CT |
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Maicer Izturis, who is nursing a tight right hamstring, said he felt better on Friday and could return to the Angels' lineup next weekend, according to the OC Register.
Our View: Izturis will be a welcome addition back to lineups in larger AL-only leagues, as he holds a .273 average with 35 runs scored and nine stolen bases over 64 games. |
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| Penny to begin throwing | Saturday 7/12, 11:20 AM CT |
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Brad Penny intends to start a throwing program next week, according to the LA Times. He is going to be cautious with his return to the Dodgers and said, "Since we are right in contention for first place, I'd rather take a little more time and come back fresh."
Our View: He received a cortisone shot last Monday in his ailing right shoulder, which prevented him from pitching since May 14. Fantasy owners need to be patient with him, but he could provide a boost down the stretch when he will be needed the most. Keep him reserved if you have him on your roster. |
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| Putz set for rehab | Saturday 7/12, 11:12 AM CT |
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J.J. Putz is set to begin a rehab assignment with Single-A Peoria Sunday as he continues to recover from his hyperextended right elbow, according to the Seattle Times.
Our View: If all goes favorably without a setback, he will throw another outing for Peoria on Tuesday, then another with Triple-A Tacoma on Thursday. At that point, the team will re-evaluate him and determine whether he's ready to rejoin the Mariners for its post-All Star break schedule.
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| Church update | Saturday 7/12, 11:07 AM CT |
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Ryan Church, who is still recovering from post-concussion syndrome, underwent multiple neurological tests in Cleveland over the last few days, according to Newsday.
Our View: The results were positive enough that the team is cautiously optimistic the outfielder will be able to return to action this season. The timetable for a potential return remains uncertain, however. |
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| Davis to be promoted to Triple-A | Saturday 7/12, 10:59 AM CT |
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Wade Davis is going to be promoted to Triple-A Durham after playing in Monday's Double-A Southern League All-Star Game, according to the St. Petersburg Times.
Our View: Davis is a top pitching prospect in the organization, and could be ready to make an impact as soon as next season. |
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| Reyes feeling good | Saturday 7/12, 10:56 AM CT |
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Al Reyes' shoulder felt good during his rehab outing with Single-A Vero Beach on Thursday, according to the St. Petersburg Times. He threw at 87 mph, and hit 89 mph a couple of times.
Our View: He'll throw again Sunday and Monday, and looks to be ready to return soon after the All-Star break. |
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| Kazmir comments on losing streak | Saturday 7/12, 10:52 AM CT |
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Scott Kazmir commented on the Rays' losing streak, which currently stands at five games, according to the St. Petersburg Times. Kazmir said, "We've got to worry about ourselves and concentrate on what's going on in front of us. You see guys coming in right from playing on defense and they're like, 'What's the Boston score? What's the Boston score?' That's not how you're supposed to do it. We need to still have that chip on our shoulder, that's what got us there (to first place)."
Our View: The Rays are also 5-5 over their last 10 contests, and only hold a 1.5 game lead over Boston in the AL East. Kazmir is only 1-3 over his last six starts, but has only allowed more than three earned runs once over the span. |
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| Bartlett has light workout | Saturday 7/12, 10:44 AM CT |
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Jason Bartlett, who is recovering from a sprained right knee, participated in a light workout Friday, according to the St. Petersburg Times.
Our View: He still isn't 100 percent in lateral movement, but reportedly looked good during his session. He should be ready to return to the Rays soon after the All-Star break. |
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| Bard set for rehab work | Saturday 7/12, 10:38 AM CT |
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Josh Bard is set to begin a rehab assignment with Single-A Elsinore next week as he continues to recover from a high ankle sprain, according to the San Diego Union-Tribune.
Our View: He is expected to come off the DL later this month, but an exact estimate has not been determined. Bard may not be worth waiting for as a fantasy backstop, as he was only hitting .200 prior to going down, and would likely have to fight for playing time upon his return. |
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| Drew could return Saturday | Saturday 7/12, 9:35 AM CT |
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J.D. Drew missed his second-straight game on Friday due to a sore back, but he could return today, according to the Providence Journal. He said, "It’s a little stiff, but not too bad. I’m probably a day away just to be on the safe side. Considering how I was the other day, I’m much better."
Our View: Manager Terry Francona believes Drew will be ready to play today, but fantasy owners should err to the side of caution heading through the All-Star break.
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| Lugo injured | Saturday 7/12, 9:28 AM CT |
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Julio Lugo sustained a left quad injury while beating out a base hit during Friday night action, according to the Providence Journal. Manager Terry Francona said, "I think he did it pretty good. We’ll get him looked at today but I think there’s a chance that he just didn’t strain this."
Our View: Altough the team is yet to make an announcement, it is likely he suffered a slight tear, which will require a trip to the DL.
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| Ortiz set for rehab Thursday | Saturday 7/12, 9:25 AM CT |
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David Ortiz is expected to begin a rehab assignment with Pawtuckett on Thursday as he continues to recover from his wrist injury, according to the Providence Journal. Ortiz said, "I’m going to need eight to 10 games. You’ve got to remember, I haven’t played in about five weeks."
Our View: The source suggets he could be activated in time for Boston's return to Fenway, July 26, for the start of a three-game set with the rival Yankees.
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| Cruz plays catch | Saturday 7/12, 9:05 AM CT |
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Juan Cruz, who is recovering from a left oblique strain, played catch on Friday, according to the Arizona Republic.
Our View: Manager Bob Melvin indicated there was no schedule for him to throw off a mound.
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| Snyder takes BP | Saturday 7/12, 9:02 AM CT |
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Chris Snyder took batting practice Friday for the first time since going on the DL due to a testicular fracture, according to the Arizona Republic. He also caught a bullpen session Thursday.
Our View: Snyder remains hopeful to return from the DL immediately following the All-Star break. |
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| Byrnes has 98 percent tear | Saturday 7/12, 8:58 AM CT |
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On his weekly radio segment Friday with KGME-AM 910, Eric Byrnes said he tore two-thirds of his hamstring off the bone, describing it as a "98 percent tear," as reported by the Arizona Republic.
Our View: He wasn't ready to rule himself out for the season, however. He also said he's leaning toward no surgery.
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| Liriano hurls another strong start | Saturday 7/12, 8:53 AM CT |
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Francisco Liriano has pitched well in three-consecutive starts with Triple-A Rochester, and manager Ron Gardenhire has taken notice, according to the Star Tribune. Gardenhire said, "Those are starting to get to be the numbers you are hoping for. When you haven't pitched in a long time it comes down to consistency and stretching out and he's doing it. He's done exactly what he's supposed to do."
He is 7-0 in his past eight starts and has a scoreless streak of 21.1 innings, and his fastball is topping out at 95.
Our View: Gardenhire is pleased with Liriano, but is also pleased with the current state of the Twins' starting rotation, and understands the importance of having depth in the minors. He could emerge as an option at some point after the All-Star break, however. |
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| Hernandez update | Saturday 7/12, 8:46 AM CT |
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Orlando Hernandez may have at least two more starts in the minors before being brought back to New York, according to the NY Daily News. He has reverted to his high leg kick, and his fastball was regularly hitting 83-84 mph and topped out at 86 mph last night against Dunedin.
Our View: He could be back after the All-Star break, but the Mets intend to initially use him as a reliever due to the current strength of their rotation. |
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| Munoz optioned | Saturday 7/12, 8:40 AM CT |
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Luis Munoz has been optioned back to Double-A Altoona, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. Franquelis Osoria was activated from the DL as the adjoining move.
Our View: He was brought in to eat up innings through the All-Star break to ease the workload of the bullpen, but he didn't actually make an appearance with the team. |
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| Osoria activated from DL | Saturday 7/12, 8:35 AM CT |
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Franquelis Osoria has recovered from bursitis in his right ankle and has been activated from the DL, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. Luis Munoz was optioned back to Double-A Altoona to make room on the roster.
Our View: Osoria allowed 35 earned runs, 75 hits, and 11 walks over 52.1 innings this season, with only 27 strikeouts. The reliever should not be considered for your fantasy team. |
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| Figgins heads home | Saturday 7/12, 8:29 AM CT |
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Chone Figgins' father has suffered a stroke and the Angels' star will head home Saturday to attend to his family, according to the OC Register.
Our View: It is uncertain, but Figgins could potentially be away from the team through the weekend. Adjust your lineups accordingly. |
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| Fuentes prefers Yankees? | Saturday 7/12, 8:06 AM CT |
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Brian Fuentes is said to be a top target of the first place Rays, but he stated that he would like to play with the Yankees, according to the NY Post. Fuentes commented, "I've never played in Yankee Stadium. I have no preference, but putting on the pinstripes would be something special by itself."
Our View: Fuentes wouldn't push Mariano Rivera for save opportunities, and would hold more value as insurance for Troy Percival in Tampa Bay. |
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| Flores needs more work | Saturday 7/12, 7:43 AM CT |
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Randy Flores, who is recovering from left ankle peroneal tendinitis, needs more work and will remain with Triple-A Memphis until after the All-Star break, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Manager Tony LaRussa said, "He needs to get work. He was not pitching great when he left. He could use the work."
Our View: He held a 5.12 ERA over 19.1 innings before moving to Triple-A. He won't be worth acquiring when he returns to the Cardinals' bullpen after the break. |
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| Rasmus visits team doctor | Saturday 7/12, 7:38 AM CT |
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Colby Rasmus met with a team doctor in St. Louis after lingering soreness in his groin, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. The team ruled out a sports hernia.
Our View: Rasmus, who is the Cardinals' top offensive prospect, was diagnosed with a groin strain and directed to rest. He is expected to resume baseball activities on Thursday. |
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| Gorzelanny set for Triple-A start | Saturday 7/12, 7:27 AM CT |
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Tom Gorzelanny is scheduled to start for Triple-A Indianapolis tonight, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Our View: He will pitch three innings or throw 50 pitches, whichever comes first.
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| Thomas takes BP | Saturday 7/12, 7:20 AM CT |
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Frank Thomas, who is recovering from right quad tendinitis, took batting practice by way of soft toss on Friday, according to the SF Chronicle. He plans to keep doing so through the All-Star break and hopes to take batting practice off live pitching next weekend.
Our View: He remains hopeful to return to Oakland in late July. |
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| Cust extends strikeout streak | Saturday 7/12, 7:17 AM CT |
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Jack Cust has extended his strikeout streak to 18 games on Friday, tying Reggie Jackson's record for a non-pitcher set back in 1970, according to the SF Chronicle.
Our View: He still has a three-game hitting (and RBI) streak, and homered in two of his last three outings. |
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| Murton gets the start | Saturday 7/12, 12:08 AM CT |
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Matt Murton started in left field for his new team on Friday. He finished the game 1-for-5 with two RBI.
Our View: Let's hope Murton can turn it around in Oakland, as he never really fit in with the Cubs. He batted in the No. 2 hole on Friday. Take a wait-and-see approach as he won't likely become a fantasy contributor overnight. |
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| Figgins notches first triple | Saturday 7/12, 12:05 AM CT |
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Chone Figgins went 1-for-2 with a walk, a run and an RBI on Friday. His lone hit was his first triple of the season.
Our View: First?! It appears that turning 30 has slowed Figgins down quite a bit as he has taken a hit in the stolen base category as well. He is sitting on 16 stolen bases. |
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| Hannahan puts together a nice game | Saturday 7/12, 12:03 AM CT |
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Jack Hannahan went 3-for-4 with a home run, three RBI, and two runs scored on Friday night.
Our View: That's all well-and-good, but the A's would really like to have Eric Chavez back. Hannahan is hitting just .223. |
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| Gallagher wins with Oakland | Saturday 7/12, 12:00 AM CT |
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Sean Gallagher won his Oakland A's debut on Friday. He struck out seven in seven innings while only giving up two runs to the Los Angeles Angels.
Our View: The A's could not have asked for anything more. The stadium at Oakland figures to be much more friendly to Gallagher's numbers than was Wrigley. Because of his strikeout rate and new ballpark, he is worth a look in AL only formats and in deep leagues. |
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