| Byrd quiets Angels | Monday 7/21, 11:59 PM CT |
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Paul Byrd held the Angels to one run over 5.1 innings on Monday and improved to 4-10. The veteran right-hander scattered nine hits, walked two, and struck out five.
Our View: Byrd was awful in his six starts leading into the All-Star break, and this one good showing doesn't really get him back on our good side. |
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| Holliday collects three hits again | Monday 7/21, 11:57 PM CT |
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Matt Holliday went 3-for-3 with a double, homer, two runs, and three RBI before taking a seat on Monday night.
Our View: It was Holliday's second straight game with three hits and a homer. He probably would have had more, but the Rockies benched him when the Dodgers jumped to a huge lead. |
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| Nice night for Kent | Monday 7/21, 11:55 PM CT |
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Jeff Kent went 3-for-3 with two doubles, three runs, and two RBI in Monday's win over the Rockies.
Our View: This was Kent's most productive offensive outing of the season. Seriously, look it up. Kent hadn't been responsible for five runs in a game since July 14, 2007. |
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| Tulowitzki goes 5-for-5 | Monday 7/21, 11:51 PM CT |
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Troy Tulowitzki went 5-for-5 with a double, four singles, one run, and one RBI in Monday's loss to the Dodgers. It was his first game since coming off the DL.
Our View: Apparently his adjustments at the plate are working, huh? We'll be more inclined to believe in Tulo's resurgence when he strings together a long run of success. This is an excellent start. |
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| Loney notches five RBI | Monday 7/21, 11:49 PM CT |
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James Loney led the Dodgers in their 16-10 romp over the Rockies on Monday. The first baseman went 3-for-6 with a triple, two runs, and five RBI.
Our View: Loney hasn't emerged as hoped this year, but we can't forget that he hit .316-12-51 in 72 games after the break last year. |
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| Young works five innings in rehab start | Monday 7/21, 11:25 PM CT |
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Chris Young worked five innings for High-A Lake Elsinore on Monday night. He allowed three hits and two runs, walked one, and struck out three. Both runs came on solo homers. Young has made two rehab starts as he comes back from a fractured nose.
Our View: Young is at least one more start away from jumping back to the majors. The previous timetable called for a return before the end of July. The Padres will likely update his status on Tuesday. |
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| Qualls earns a save | Monday 7/21, 11:17 PM CT |
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Chad Qualls worked a scoreless ninth inning on Monday and picked up a save against the Cubs.
Our View: Brandon Lyon had worked the previous three nights, so he presumably wasn't available. It was still a bit surprising to see Qualls, as he hasn't pitched well in July. Qualls was fresh, though. We don't believe there is a closer controversy at this point. |
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| Harden strikes out 10, loses | Monday 7/21, 11:14 PM CT |
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Rich Harden struck out 10 Diamondbacks over seven innings on Monday, but he took a loss. The right-hander also allowed only one hit and one run (a solo homer), but Randy Johnson and two relievers held the Cubs scoreless.
Our View: Harden appears to be adjusting to NL life quite nicely, as he has 20 whiffs and one run allowed over 12.1 innings. The wins will come. |
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| Johnson silences Cubs | Monday 7/21, 11:12 PM CT |
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Randy Johnson stirred up some old magic on Monday. The southpaw held the Cubs to two hits and no runs over seven innings. Johnson walked one and struck out four. He is now 7-7 over 18 starts and has won three straight decisions.
Our View: The Big Unit remains far from the dominant start of old, but the southpaw apparently still has some game left in him. |
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| Bay reaches 20 homers | Monday 7/21, 11:05 PM CT |
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Jason Bay went 4-for-5 with a homer, one run, and two RBI on Monday. He is up to 20 long balls on the season.
Our View: Bay hit only 21 homers in all of 2007, and he continues to have a bounce back campaign. His May still stands out as by far his most productive month, but he's worth using in all fantasy formats. |
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| Sheffield goes long | Monday 7/21, 11:03 PM CT |
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Gary Sheffield went 1-for-5 on Monday, but that one hit was a three-run homer.
Our View: Sheff has two long balls in five games since the All-Star break, which is a good sign. He remains a major injury risk, but he should be useful while healthy. |
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| Valverde booted by Bucs | Monday 7/21, 11:00 PM CT |
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Jose Valverde was handed a one-run lead on Monday against the Pirates, and he allowed five hits and six runs over 0.1 innings. The closer served up two homers, three singles, and a walk before handing the ball to Tim Byrdak, who allowed an inside-the-park dinger.
Our View: Valverde has had a roller coaster season of sorts, and Monday was an obvious dip. His job is not in jeopardy. |
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| Sanchez drives in four | Monday 7/21, 10:56 PM CT |
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Freddy Sanchez capped off a huge ninth inning for the Pirates on Monday by hitting a three-run, inside-the-park homer. The second baseman went 3-for-6 with two runs and four RBI in the win.
Our View: It wasn't conventional, but we'll take it. Most fantasy owners have given up on Freddy by this point, which is reasonable. It wouldn't be too shocking, though, if he shook off a bad first half and showed up over the remaining months. |
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| Joyce stays hot | Monday 7/21, 10:53 PM CT |
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Matt Joyce can't be stopped. The outfielder went 4-for-6 with a homer, triple, three runs, and five RBI in Monday's romp over the Royals. Joyce is hitting .426 with five homers and 13 RBI over his last 13 games.
Our View: The Tigers don't have an everyday spot for this rookie, but Jim Leyland is being forced to find him more time. We're not confident he can keep this up, but fantasy owners my try to ride the hot streak. |
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| Gobble thrashed by Tigers | Monday 7/21, 10:49 PM CT |
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Jimmy Gobble posted one of the ugliest lines of the season on Monday. He served up seven hits and 10 runs over one inning of work against the Tigers. Gobble walked four batters and threw 45 pitches.
Our View: Gobble has been awful since the middle of May, but he took it to another level on Monday night. Would you believe that his last 17 appearances have all come in Royals' losses? Maybe that's not a coincidence. |
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| Cabrera collects five hits, six RBI | Monday 7/21, 10:46 PM CT |
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Miguel Cabrera led the Tigers to a 19-4 win over the Royals on Monday night. The first baseman went 5-for-6 with two doubles, three singles, two runs, and six RBI. Cabrera has driven in 19 runs over 16 games in July.
Our View: Miggy's numbers have generally been down from their usual levels this season, but it's not too late for him to make a run. It's certainly nice to see this five-hit, six-RBI line. |
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| Wolfe sent down | Monday 7/21, 10:30 PM CT |
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The Blue Jays optioned Brian Wolfe to Triple-A on Monday night in order to clear a roster spot for Shaun Marcum, the AP reports. Marcum will start on Tuesday.
Our View: Wolfe owns a 2.98 ERA and 1.04 WHIP over 55 career appearances for the Blue Jays, but apparently that's not good enough for the club. |
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| Hank hammers a homer | Monday 7/21, 10:16 PM CT |
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Hank Blalock socked a two-run homer in Monday's win over the White Sox. It was the corner infielder's first shot since April 18.
Our View: Injuries have been the story of Blalock's season, but he can still hit a little when healthy and is worth using in (at the least) AL-only fantasy formats. |
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| Quentin hits solo shot | Monday 7/21, 10:13 PM CT |
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Carlos Quentin went 1-for-4 with a solo homer in Monday's loss to the Rangers. He accounted for the team's only run.
Our View: Quentin has heated up again after an early-July swoon. He remains a must-start in all fantasy formats. |
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| Hamilton up to 98 RBI | Monday 7/21, 10:11 PM CT |
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Yawn. Another day, another Josh Hamilton homer. The Rangers outfielder socked a three-run shot off White Sox starter Javier Vazquez on Monday. Hamilton is up to 22 homers and 98 RBI.
Our View: Hamilton caused a panic by going three straight games without an RBI. He cured that with one swing. |
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| Bruney working his way back | Monday 7/21, 10:08 PM CT |
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Brian Bruney will work in back-to-back games for Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre this week, the AP notes. The reliever is on the DL due to a torn ligament in his right foot.
Our View: This should be a huge step for the setup man. Bruney has the stuff to be a pretty good seventh-inning arm, although he often battles control issues. |
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| Four hits for Hardy | Monday 7/21, 10:05 PM CT |
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J.J. Hardy went 4-for-6 with a double and an RBI in Monday's win over the Cardinals. He is hitting .348 since the start of June (35 games).
Our View: The shortstop continues to swing a hot bat and look more like the slugger who surprised the fantasy world over the first half of 2007. |
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| Franklin takes the loss | Monday 7/21, 10:02 PM CT |
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Ryan Franklin stumbled again on Monday night. The closer notched the final out in the ninth, but he allowed four hits and three runs (two earned) in the 10th frame against the Brewers. Franklin has served up eight runs over his last seven innings.
Our View: The Cards have talked about working Jason Isringhausen back into the closer mix, but Izzy hasn't been sharp. Tony La Russa might have to figure out a different solution if things continue going this way. |
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| Weeks has big night | Monday 7/21, 9:58 PM CT |
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Rickie Weeks went 2-for-5 with a homer, two runs, three RBI, and a walk on Monday against the Cardinals.
Our View: Weeks didn't have a three-RBI game this season prior to Monday, and he had gone deep only once since May 22. Do you think he noticed the Ray Durham trade? Maybe that move will spur Rickie to finally lock in at the plate. |
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| Delgado sent down | Monday 7/21, 9:56 PM CT |
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The Marlins optioned reliever Jesus Delgado to Double-A Carolina on Monday night, the AP reports. He had been called up on Saturday.
Our View: Did Delgado even get a chance to unpack his bags? He didn't even get to appear in a game. |
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| Tomko throws in bullpen | Monday 7/21, 9:53 PM CT |
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Brett Tomko threw in the bullpen on Monday. He is on the DL due to a sore right elbow. "We’ll see how he is tomorrow and determine his fate, whether he throws another bullpen or a simulated game," manager Bud Black informs the AP.
Our View: If you're waiting on Tomko to return from the DL, you must be playing in a Padres-only fantasy league. |
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| Cano stays hot | Monday 7/21, 9:52 PM CT |
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Robinson Cano went 2-for-5 with a homer and two RBI in Monday's win over the Twins.
Our View: It must be the second half of the season because Cano is on fire. Cano is a cool 10-for-19 since the All-Star break. |
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| Greene back in lineup | Monday 7/21, 9:50 PM CT |
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Khalil Greene went 1-for-5 on Monday night against the Reds. He missed the previous game due to tightness in his lower back.
Our View: The back injury obviously wasn't serious. |
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| A-Rod socks homer | Monday 7/21, 9:48 PM CT |
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Alex Rodriguez hit a three-run homer in the first inning on Monday and finished the night 2-for-3 with three RBI and two runs.
Our View: We still think he should have participated in the Home Run Derby, but Yankees fans will probably take this effort instead. |
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| Blackburn ripped by Yankees | Monday 7/21, 9:46 PM CT |
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The Yankees pounded Nick Blackburn early on Monday, and the hurler lasted only 1.2 innings. Blackburn allowed seven hits and six runs (three earned). His record slipped to 7-6.
Our View: Blackburn had pitched pretty well before this outing, and it's tough to rip a rookie when he gets pounded in Yankee Stadium. We still like him in all fantasy formats. |
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| Ponson improves to 6-1 | Monday 7/21, 9:43 PM CT |
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Sidney Ponson improved to 6-1 after a so-so outing against the Twins on Monday. He scattered nine hits and allowed three runs over 5.2 innings.
Our View: Ponson continues to walk too many people and give up too many hits, but the Yankees always offer a shot to win. |
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| Hairston homers again | Monday 7/21, 9:41 PM CT |
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Scott Hairston continues to swing a hot stick. He went 2-for-3 with a homer, two runs, an RBI, and two walks in Monday's win over the Reds. Hairston is 19-for-41 with seven home runs in 13 games this July.
Our View: Hairston has always been a streaky hitter with good potential. He is in the midst of an obvious hot run. Pick him up at your own risk. |
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| Cordero blows up again | Monday 7/21, 9:38 PM CT |
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Francisco Cordero blew his sixth save of the season on Monday. He served up two hits and three runs over 0.2 innings against the Padres. Cordero hurt his own cause by walking three batters. The closer has allowed seven runs in 3.0 innings since the All-Star break.
Our View: We're mildly worried at this point. Cordero has built up too much favor for us to panic after two bad outings. The walks are out of character, though. |
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| Lieber to begin throwing | Monday 7/21, 9:34 PM CT |
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Jon Lieber will throw three innings at the Cubs spring training complex on Tuesday, MLB.com reports. He is on the DL due to a strained right foot.
Our View: It's a good sign that Lieber is taking the mound so quickly after going on the DL. He still has a bit of value in NL-only leagues. |
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| Kouzmanoff drives in three | Monday 7/21, 9:32 PM CT |
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Kevin Kouzmanoff doubled, singled, and drove in three runs for the Padres against the Reds on Monday. The third baseman now has an RBI in six straight games.
Our View: Kouzmanoff hasn't hit as well as we hoped this season, but he has picked up his pace since the middle of June. He is hitting .343 with four homers and 19 RBI over the last 26 games. |
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| Wood applying ointment | Monday 7/21, 9:27 PM CT |
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Kerry Wood will avoid the DL, for now. The closer is putting ointment on his blister and hopes to throw on Wednesday, MLB.com reports.
Our View: Why didn't they bring out this magic ointment on July 12, one day after Kerry's last appearance? Carlos Marmol is in line to close for as long as Wood is out. |
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| Ortiz goes 2-for-3 | Monday 7/21, 9:22 PM CT |
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David Ortiz went 2-for-3 with a walk, an RBI, and a run for Double-A Portland on Monday. He is on the DL due to a torn tendon sheath in his left wrist. The Red Sox plan to activate him on Friday.
Our View: Ortiz failed to homer for the first time in four games. Maybe he forgot his Vitamin Water. |
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| Longoria stars again | Monday 7/21, 9:10 PM CT |
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Evan Longoria went 2-for-5 with a homer and two RBI in Monday's win over the A's. He is up to 19 homers and 60 RBI over 88 games.
Our View: We hear good things about this rookie. Longoria continues to strike out too much, but he also continues to show us why he was such a prized prospect. |
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| Escobar to play Tuesday | Monday 7/21, 9:08 PM CT |
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Yunel Escobar is expected to rejoin the Braves lineup on Tuesday, manager Bobby Cox tells the AP.
Our View: We expected Escobar to play on Monday, and we assume Cox opted to give the shortstop one more day to rest his shoulder. |
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| Kazmir dominates A's | Monday 7/21, 9:06 PM CT |
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Scott Kazmir tossed seven shutout innings against the A's on Monday and improved to 8-5. The southpaw allowed two hits, walked four, and struck out nine.
Our View: Kazmir had a bumpy patch before the All-Star break, but he has obviously come out firing. He remains a fantasy ace. |
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| Hernandez goes deep | Monday 7/21, 9:04 PM CT |
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Ramon Hernandez went 2-for-4 with a double, homer, two runs, and two RBI against the Jays on Monday. He is 6-for-14 with two homers and six RBI in four games since the All-Star break.
Our View: Hernandez was a disappointment over the first half of the year. It's too soon to get excited about only four games, but his mini-surge is nice to see. |
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| Litsch slapped | Monday 7/21, 9:02 PM CT |
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The hard times continued for Jesse Litsch on Monday. The right-hander allowed seven hits and six runs over 4.2 innings against the Orioles and fell to 8-7 with a 4.46 ERA.
Our View: Litsch has produced just one solid start over his last nine outings. Fantasy owners should bench him if they can afford to. |
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| Jones leads win over Jays | Monday 7/21, 9:00 PM CT |
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Adam Jones went 2-for-4 with a homer, single, two runs, and two RBI on Monday against the Jays. He is hitting .333 with two homers and 14 RBI over 16 games this month.
Our View: Fantasy owners, especially in keeper leagues, have to like the progression Jones is showing. He turns 23 on August 1, and he has a high ceiling. |
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| Bourn gets a start | Monday 7/21, 8:57 PM CT |
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Michael Bourn is in the starting lineup on Monday for the first time since July 11, MLB.com notes. He is hitting second.
Our View: Bourn had had an awful July after picking up his play in June. We expected much more out of him this season, and it'll be interesting to see how much the Astros rely on him over the final months. |
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| Teixeira goes 2-for-4 | Monday 7/21, 8:55 PM CT |
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Mark Teixeira is helping this trade value. The first baseman went 2-for-4 with a double, one run, and one RBI on Monday. He is 7-for-13 in the four games since the All-Star break.
Our View: Teixeira's potential landing spots could be the talk of baseball over the coming 10 days. He will be a fantasy stud no matter where he ends up. |
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| Volstad takes first loss | Monday 7/21, 8:52 PM CT |
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Chris Volstad worked six innings against the Braves on Monday. He allowed six hits and three runs, walked three, struck out three, and took the first loss of his career. Volstad is 2-1 with a 2.16 ERA.
Our View: Volstad was much more impressive in his previous start, but you still have to like what this 21-year-old showed on Monday. He'll probably have plenty of ups and downs as the season plays out. |
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| Quintero could return Tuesday | Monday 7/21, 8:50 PM CT |
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Humberto Quintero could be activated on Tuesday, MLB.com reports. He is on the DL due to a concussion, and he would likely replace J.R. Towles on the roster.
Our View: Towles has done nothing to suggest he belongs in the majors, which is sad. Quintero has very little value, too. |
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| Campillo tosses a gem | Monday 7/21, 8:47 PM CT |
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The Braves got a gem from Jorge Campillo on Monday. The right-hander tossed seven scoreless innings against the Marlins. Campillo allowed two hits, walked one, and struck out six.
Our View: Campillo's ERA has been on the rise since the start of June, but apparently the All-Star break came at a good time. We don't believe he can maintain his 2.83 ERA, but he is obviously helpful in the right matchup. |
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| Oswalt on track | Monday 7/21, 8:44 PM CT |
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Roy Oswalt will take it easy this week, at least as far as throwing. "We're not going to do much bullpen stuff," manager Cecil Cooper tells MLB.com. "We have to do some rehab, some stuff with the muscles on that side. That's all we can do at this point in time." Oswalt is on the DL due to a strained left hip and is expected to return on July 28.
Our View: Fantasy owners should plan on using Oswalt next week. |
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| Barlett nearly ready | Monday 7/21, 8:11 PM CT |
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Jason Bartlett worked out on Monday and tells MLB.com that his sore right knee is "close to 100 percent." He ran bases and took grounders on Monday. "I'll be ready to go come Thursday," Bartlett declares.
Our View: The Rays haven't committed to a return date, but it sounds like Barlett will, at worst, be back by the end of the weekend. |
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| Cervenak sent down | Monday 7/21, 8:05 PM CT |
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The Phillies shipped infielder Mike Cervenak to Triple-A Lehigh Valley on Monday, the Sports Network reports.
Our View: The 31-year-old Cervenak hopefully enjoyed that one at-bat. |
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| Myers called up | Monday 7/21, 8:03 PM CT |
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The Phillies recalled pitcher Brett Myers from Triple-A Lehigh Valley on Monday, the Sports Network reports. He made four minor league starts at three different levels since being sent down on July 1. Myers will start on Wednesday against the Mets.
Our View: We're not sure why the Phillies didn't wait until Wednesday to make this move, but the timing doesn't really matter. Myers was able to clear his head in the minors. We remain wary. |
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| Nunez designated for assignment | Monday 7/21, 8:01 PM CT |
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The Braves designated reliever Vladimir Nunez for assignment on Monday, the AP reports.
Our View: This news has no bearing on fantasy leagues. |
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| Soriano activated | Monday 7/21, 7:59 PM CT |
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The Braves activated reliever Rafael Soriano from the 15-day DL on Monday, the AP confirms. He had been out since June 6 due to right elbow inflammation.
Our View: Soriano has been dealing with elbow issues since spring training, and he will likely need to prove himself in a setup role before the Braves consider him as a closer. The team hasn't said how they plan to use Soriano. |
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| Glaus up to 10 games | Monday 7/21, 7:55 PM CT |
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Troy Glaus doubled in the first inning on Monday. The hit not only generated a run, it also moved Glaus' hitting streak to 10 games.
Our View: This veteran slugger is not known for hitting streaks, but he is on a very hot run right now. Fantasy owners should enjoy it. |
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| Bruce extends hitting streak | Monday 7/21, 7:52 PM CT |
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Jay Bruce doubled in the third inning on Monday and extended his hitting streak to 10 games.
Our View: It's a very modest streak, but we're looking for consistency out of this talented youngster. Bruce has all the tools to be a superstar. It's just a matter of how long it takes him to adjust. |
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| Parrish to stick in rotation | Monday 7/21, 7:47 PM CT |
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The Blue Jays will stick with John Parrish in their rotation, for now. He allowed four hits and four runs over three innings in his July 20 outing, and he is scheduled to start on Friday. "We'll evaluate from there," general manager J.P. Ricciardi tells MLB.com. "The last one he struggled -- he'll be the first one to tell you that -- and the bullpen kind of saved us. In two out of three, he's given us a chance to win the game, so I think he's deserving of another start."
Our View: The Blue Jays want to eventually open up a spot for David Purcey, and Parrish is the one who could get booted. Of course, the Jays may also have an opening if they deal A.J. Burnett. |
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| Walker suspended 50 games | Monday 7/21, 7:39 PM CT |
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Major League Baseball has suspended minor league pitcher Mathew Walker for 50 games after he tested positive for an amphetamine, the AP reports. Walker, 21, is 4-7 with a 4.86 ERA for High-A Vero Beach.
Our View: Walker is not a high-end prospect, and this news shouldn't even affect keeper leagues. |
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| Miller throwing | Monday 7/21, 7:36 PM CT |
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Andrew Miller is throwing lightly, MLB.com reports. He is on the DL due to right patellar tendinitis.
Our View: This report doesn't enlighten his status much. The young southpaw still might need an operation to correct his knee issue. |
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| Sweeney swinging | Monday 7/21, 7:05 PM CT |
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Mike Sweeney took batting practice on Monday, but he has yet to start a running program, the AP reports. The DH is on the 60-day DL due to surgery to both knees on June 11. He is eligible to return on July 28.
Our View: We'll update Sweeney's status when more is known. The A's could have a glut of DHs by the end of July. Sweeney won't likely have much fantasy value. |
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| Treanor making progress | Monday 7/21, 7:02 PM CT |
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Matt Treanor is catching and hitting, and he hopes to begin a rehab assignment or play in a simulated game by the end of this week. MLB.com reports. The catcher is on the DL due to a strained left hip.
Our View: Treanor hopes to return as part of a platoon, but he isn't assured of any playing time when he is healthy. |
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| Chavez on the mend | Monday 7/21, 7:00 PM CT |
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Eric Chavez will resume baseball activities when the A's return to Oakland on Friday, the AP reports. The third baseman is on the DL due to right shoulder inflammation.
Our View: The report did not guess at when Chavez would hurt himself again, but our bet is on Sunday. Injuries have held him to 23 games and 89 at-bats this season, and we don't have high hopes for Eric when (or if) he gets healthy. |
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| Teagarden optioned | Monday 7/21, 6:57 PM CT |
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The Rangers optioned catcher Taylor Teagarden to Triple-A on Monday, the AP reports.
Our View: Teagarden was sent down a few days early so that he could be eligible for the Olympic team. He is a decent prospect, but the Rangers are stacked with catcher talent and he may need to switch locations to truly break into the majors down the road. |
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| Feldman to start on Monday | Monday 7/21, 6:53 PM CT |
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The Rangers called up Scott Feldman to start on Monday against the White Sox, the AP reports.
Our View: Feldman will likely stick around for only one start, and we don't recommend picking him up. |
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| Thomas to run on Friday | Monday 7/21, 6:50 PM CT |
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Frank Thomas has been cleared to start a running problem on Friday, the AP reports. The DH has been taking batting practice as he works his way back from right quad tendinitis. Thomas hasn't played since May 27.
Our View: The A's don't have a set date for the Big Hurt's return, but it sounds like he's getting closer. We'll continue to follow and update his status. |
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| Hurley has arm soreness | Monday 7/21, 6:47 PM CT |
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Updating a previous report, Eric Hurley was not called up on Monday because he is dealing with right arm soreness. Hurley is expected to make his next outing, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports. He is on the DL due to a sore left hamstring.
Our View: The report makes the soreness sound quite minor, and Hurley's next turn is scheduled for Sunday against the A's. |
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| Buehrle moved up to Tuesday | Monday 7/21, 6:45 PM CT |
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Mark Buehrle has had his next start moved from Wednesday up to Tuesday due to a death in his family, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports.
Our View: The veteran southpaw will still be facing the Rangers, so this news doesn't affect fantasy teams much outside of daily transaction leagues. |
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| Salas sent down | Monday 7/21, 6:43 PM CT |
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The Pirates sent reliever Marino Salas back to Triple-A Indianapolis on Monday, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review confirms.
Our View: It's too bad the road between Indianapolis and Pittsburgh isn't longer because Salas would be racking up a ton of frequent flyer miles this year. He has no fantasy value. |
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| Wagner to be re-examined on Tuesday | Monday 7/21, 6:41 PM CT |
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Billy Wagner will be re-examined on Tuesday and may undergo an MRI if necessary, MLB.com reports. The closer experienced some tightness in his left shoulder on Sunday. Wagner says his trapezius muscle has bothered him for a couple weeks.
Our View: We can only sit back and hope for the best. Wagner did feel better after pitching on Sunday, which is good news. |
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| Garciaparra not starting on Monday | Monday 7/21, 6:16 PM CT |
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Nomar Garciaparra is not in Monday night's lineup against the Rockies, the Los Angeles Daily News reports. Angel Berroa will start at shortstop.
Our View: The Dodgers appear to just be giving Nomar a night off. It's too bad, since he's been hitting well. |
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| Cashman not counting on Matsui | Monday 7/21, 6:10 PM CT |
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Yankees general manager Brian Cashman doesn't sound positive about Hideki Matsui returning from an injured left knee. The outfielder opted against surgery on Monday. "I wouldn’t say I’m optimistic at this point," Cashman tells Newsday. "I think it speaks a lot to his heart. The doctors looked at him and recommended surgery. He wants to give this another try."
Our View: We don't know exactly what's wrong with Matsui's knee, but we have to assume the recommended surgery isn't minor. Fantasy owners shouldn't plan on Hideki helping them again this year. |
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| Kershaw to start Tuesday | Monday 7/21, 6:03 PM CT |
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Clayton Kershaw will be called up to start on Tuesday against the Rockies, the Los Angeles Daily News reports.
Our View: Expectations remain extremely high for this 20-year-old southpaw, but he produced mixed results in his previous eight starts. We're not terribly bullish about his start in Colorado. |
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| Morillo sent down | Monday 7/21, 6:00 PM CT |
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The Rockies sent reliever Juan Morillo back to Triple-A Colorado Springs, MLB.com reports. He made one scoreless appearance since being called up.
Our View: The 24-year-old right-hander needs to continue working on his control. He has a promising arm, and we'll probably see him again later this season. |
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| Koshansky back to Triple-A | Monday 7/21, 5:57 PM CT |
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The Rockies have sent Joe Koshansky back to Triple-A Colorado Springs, MLB.com reports.
Our View: We'll likely see the slugger back in the bigs this September, if not sooner. He didn't hit particularly well during this call-up, but 22 at-bats is hardly an ample sample size. |
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| Sisco moved to 60-day DL | Monday 7/21, 5:55 PM CT |
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The White Sox have transferred Andrew Sisco from the 15-day to the 60-day DL, MLB.com confirms. The left-handed reliever is out for the season due to Tommy John surgery in early April.
Our View: This news has no bearing on his rehab or in fantasy leagues. Move along. |
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| Wells returns | Monday 7/21, 5:53 PM CT |
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The Rockies activated Kip Wells from the 60-day DL on Monday, MLB.com reports. Wells had been out since April 28 due to a blood clot in his right hand.
Our View: Wells will jump into the rotation, but we don't have very high hopes for the veteran. Fantasy owners should steer clear. |
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| Nunez back in the bullpen | Monday 7/21, 5:50 PM CT |
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The Royals have activated Leo Nunez from the 15-day DL, MLB.com reports. He had been out since May 27 due to a strained right lat.
Our View: Nunez will reprise his role as a setup man for Joakim Soria. That spot doesn't have much fantasy value in most leagues, but Leo is pretty good at his job. |
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| Tulowitzki activated | Monday 7/21, 5:48 PM CT |
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The Rockies have activated Troy Tulowitzki from the 15-day DL, MLB.com confirms. He was out due to a right hand laceration.
Our View: Manager Clint Hurdle made some recent comments about Tulo working out some kinks in his swing, and hopefully he can start to turn around this nightmare season. Clint Barmes could continue to work in at short if Tulowitzki struggles. |
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| Escobar not in the lineup | Monday 7/21, 5:44 PM CT |
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Yunel Escobar is not listed in the Braves lineup for Monday's game against the Marlins despite being cleared to return. He has not played since July 9 due to inflammation in his left rotator cuff.
Our View: We're digging for more information, as we expected Escobar to be back at shortstop. Brent Lillibridge is currently listed as the starter. |
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| Conrad called up | Monday 7/21, 5:41 PM CT |
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The A's called up infielder Brooks Conrad on Monday, the Oakland Tribune reports. The 28-year-old rookie was hitting .242 with 21 homers, 67 RBI, and 71 runs over 93 games at Triple-Sacramento. Conrad will start at third base on Monday night.
Our View: Conrad has hit a little better since a rough June (.194), and he obviously brings a little pop to the table. He also strikes out a lot, and we don't envision him helping fantasy teams. |
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| Murphy designated for assignment | Monday 7/21, 5:38 PM CT |
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The A's designated infielder Donnie Murphy for assignment on Monday, the Oakland Tribune confirms.
Our View: This news shouldn't affect any fantasy teams. If you were carrying a utility infielder hitting .188, your fantasy squad has big problems. |
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| Hairston aims for next week | Monday 7/21, 5:34 PM CT |
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Jerry Hairston Jr. believes he'll be cleared to run after an examination on Monday night. The infielder/outfielder is hoping to come off the DL next week. He is out due to a strained right hamstring. "It feels a whole lot better," Hairston tells the Cincinnati Enquirer. "Hopefully, I'll start running tomorrow. If that goes well, I'll go to Dayton and get some at-bats in a couple of days and then be ready to go in Houston. That's the plan."
Our View: The Reds visit the Astros next Monday-Wednesday. Hairston has been surprising good with the bat this year (.351), and the Reds will find him semi-regular time at shortstop and across the outfield when he's ready. |
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| Cuddyer waiting on scan results | Monday 7/21, 5:31 PM CT |
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Hand specialist Dr. Tom Varecka will read the results of Michael Cuddyer's CT scan on Tuesday, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. Cuddyer has been out since June 27 due to a strained tendon in his left index finger, and his recovery hasn't gone as well as hoped.
Our View: Cuddyer hasn't been able to swing, and it doesn't matter much that Dr. Varecka can't get to the results until Tuesday. We'll let you know when we have more info. Denard Span will continue to start in right field while Cuddyer is out. |
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| Harang not throwing yet | Monday 7/21, 5:27 PM CT |
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Aaron Harang has not yet been cleared to throw, the Cincinnati Enquirer notes. The right-hander is due to be examined by Dr. Tim Kremchek on Monday night. Harang is on the DL due to a strained right forearm.
Our View: Harang obviously won't be ready to come off the DL when he is eligible on Wednesday, and our hope is that he is cleared to begin throwing on Monday night. Fantasy owners need to be patient. |
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| Everett receives cortisone shot | Monday 7/21, 5:22 PM CT |
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Adam Everett recently had another cortisone shot in his sore right shoulder, manager Ron Gardenhire informs the Minneapolis Star Tribune. The shortstop has played in four minor league rehab games.
Our View: Everett isn't much of a hitter, but the Twins would love to have his glove at short. It doesn't sound like he'll be back very soon. |
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| VandenHurk to come up on Tuesday | Monday 7/21, 5:20 PM CT |
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The Marlins are expected to call up Rick VandenHurk to start on Tuesday against the Braves, the Palm Beach Post reports. The right-hander made two starts for the Marlins early in the year, and he has gone 3-3 with a 4.23 ERA at Double-A Carolina.
Our View: The Dutchman has pitched pretty well this July, but he might only be up for one turn through the rotation. The Marlins have been patching together the starters and have Anibal Sanchez coming back soon, too. |
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| Tolbert has setback | Monday 7/21, 5:12 PM CT |
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Infielder Matt Tolbert has experienced some swelling in his left hand during rehab and has had his timetable set back to mid-August, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. He has been out since mid-May due to a torn ligament in his left thumb.
Our View: Tolbert was doing an okay job for the Twins before his injury. His future is likely as a utility infielder with no fantasy value. |
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| Jones back in the lineup | Monday 7/21, 5:07 PM CT |
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Adam Jones will start and hit second against the Blue Jays on Monday. He reported no issues with his sore right ankle. "It doesn't bother me one bit," Jones informs the Baltimore Sun.
Our View: Jones is hitting .323 since the start of June and hopefully the ankle won't affect his bat. We're beginning to see that potential shine through. |
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| Ludwick sitting, Duncan starting | Monday 7/21, 5:04 PM CT |
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Ryan Ludwick is not in the starting lineup for Monday's game against the Brewers. Chris Duncan is starting in left field, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.
Our View: Ludwick also took a seat on Thursday, and it's a bit disconcerting to see the All-Star out of the lineup in two of the last five games. We hope Tony La Russa is just being proactive is giving Ludwick a break during a long stretch for the Cards. |
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| Weeks starting on Monday | Monday 7/21, 4:59 PM CT |
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Rickie Weeks is starting at second base in Monday's game against the Cardinals and right-hander Joel Pineiro, the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel confirms.
Our View: It'll be interesting to see how manager Ned Yost eventually works Ray Durham into the mix. Durham is hitting .318 with a .843 OPS against righties, while Weeks is at .201 and .648 in those situations. |
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| Damon activated, starting at DH | Monday 7/21, 4:49 PM CT |
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The Yankees activated Johnny Damon from the 15-day DL on Monday, the AP reports. He will start at DH against the Twins. Damon has been out since injuring his left shoulder on July 4.
Our View: We would expect to see Damon spending a lot of time at DH in the near future. Hopefully his bat didn't cool off during the DL time. Damon is hitting .368 since the start of June. |
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| Posada placed on DL | Monday 7/21, 4:45 PM CT |
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The Yankees placed catcher Jorge Posada on the DL on Monday due to a sore right shoulder, the AP reports.
Our View: If you've been reading the news lately, this update comes as no surprise. We may know as soon as Tuesday if Posada will need season-ending surgery. |
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| Matsui opts against surgery | Monday 7/21, 4:44 PM CT |
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Hideki Matsui had his left knee examined again on Monday, and he has opted against surgery, ESPN.com reports.
Our View: We can only assume that the suggested operation would have been season-ending. The Yanks don't have a secure timetable for Matsui's return, and this report adds doubt to how effect he will be when and if he does get back to the field. |
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| Posada could face surgery | Monday 7/21, 4:41 PM CT |
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Jorge Posada will undergo an MRI on his right shoulder on Tuesday, and he could be headed to season-ending surgery, ESPN.com reports. The backstop has been dealing with rotator cuff tendinitis and missed more than a month earlier this season.
Our View: Posada turns 37 this August, and we'd have to wonder if surgery would mean the end of his career behind the plate. But we'll wait and see if he actually undergoes an operation before discussing such things. |
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| Hurley won't come off DL | Monday 7/21, 3:52 PM CT |
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Eric Hurley won't come off the DL and return to the Rangers' rotation Monday as previously planned, according to the Dallas Morning News. He is trying to bounce back from a strained left hamstring.
Our View: Scott Feldman will start Monday instead. We will keep you posted when more is known regarding Hurley's status. |
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| Harris earns weekly honor | Monday 7/21, 3:35 PM CT |
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Willie Harris has been named the NL Player of the Week, according to the AP. Harris hit .583 (7-for-12) with one home run and seven RBI during the short week with the All-Star break.
Our View: Harris should remain active in fantasy lineups while he is hot. He has registered multiple hits in five of his last six games, with two homers and eight RBI over the span. |
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| Scott named AL Player of Week | Monday 7/21, 3:29 PM CT |
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Luke Scott has been named the AL Player of the Week, according to the AP. Scott earned the honor by batting .538 (7-for-13) with three homers and six RBI over four games.
Our View: It marks his first career weekly award. He raised his season average to .267, and is currently riding a three-game RBI streak, with six racked up over the span. As previously stated, he could be headed for a strong second half. |
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| Posada likely headed for DL | Monday 7/21, 3:21 PM CT |
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The NY Post indicates that Jorge Posada is likely headed back to the DL due to a recurring right shoulder problem.
Our View: It appears that Posada will be out at least the next couple of weeks, and potentially the rest of the season if surgery is required.
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| Durham pleased to join Brewers | Monday 7/21, 3:15 PM CT |
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Ray Durham is pleased to join the Brewers, who he deemed a great team, according to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. Durham said, "The Giants are going young and the Brewers are dying for a playoff spot. This is a great team. I hope I can help them get to the promised land."
Our View: He will play a couple times a week at second base over Rickie Weeks, and could also see action as a pinch-hitter. He is batting .293 and although he only has three home runs, his rate could go up while playing his home games at hitter-friendly Miller Park. He is worth a look in deeper NL-only leagues. |
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| Fielder has 100 career homers | Monday 7/21, 2:58 PM CT |
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Prince Fielder's home run on Saturday against the Giants was his 20th of the season and the 100th of his career.
Our View: It took him 450 games to reach the milestone, with half of his homers coming in 2007 when he broke out with 50. Fielder is also currently riding a five-game hitting streak, with three homers and three multi-hit efforts over the span. |
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| Rios lacking power | Monday 7/21, 2:50 PM CT |
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MLB.com discusses the Home Run Derby Theory as it applies to Alex Rios' power outage. Since he placed second in the contest in 2007, he's hit just 12 home runs, and only five this season.
Our View: What about last year's Mitchell Report? Just a theory. As for the Home Run Derby Theory, we find it hard to believe that a player who focuses on hitting home runs for one night will suddenly be zapped of their home run hitting ability. This year's champion, Justin Morneau, went yard in his second game after the break. |
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| Burrell unhappy with benching | Monday 7/21, 2:34 PM CT |
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The Philadelphia Inquirer states that Pat Burrell is unhappy with being removed late in Sunday's game against the Marlins. He said, "I'm upset, absolutely. I'm upset, and I have been for a long time. It's not personal. I don't want to ever come out of close games." On Sunday, Burrell was replaced by Eric Bruntlett in the bottom of the eighth with the Phillies ahead, 2-1. Cole Hamels gave up a game-tying home run in the inning. Burrell had been 5- for-12 with two doubles and two home runs in the series. His would-be spot in the lineup came up in the top of the 11th, and Bruntlett hit a leadoff pop-up to second, dropping his season average to .231.
Our View: Manager Charlie Manuel routinely replaces Burrell with a speedier defender when the Phillies have leads late in games. Manuel is a good skipper and had good intentions, but you can't fault Burrell for being angry, as he has 25 homers and 59 RBI for the season, with a .280 average.
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| Garcia headed back to Triple-A | Monday 7/21, 2:28 PM CT |
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Jaime Garcia was demoted to Triple-A Memphis despite a quality start on Sunday. Mitchell Boggs was recalled.
Our View: The move was made to strengthen the Cardinals taxed bullpen. Garcia pitched well and could be back sooner rather than later. |
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| Boggs is recalled to join bullpen | Monday 7/21, 2:26 PM CT |
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Updating a previous note, Mitchell Boggs has been recalled from Triple-A Memphis in time to join the Cardinals bullpen for the Milwaukee series. Sunday's starter, Jaime Garcia, was demoted.
Our View: The bullpen was used extensively in the four-game sweep of the Padres and has been the biggest weakness for an otherwise solid Cardinals team. Boggs will see plenty of opportunities in the upcoming series, but doesn't figure to stick with the big-league club permanently. |
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| Pedro plays long toss | Monday 7/21, 2:22 PM CT |
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Pedro Martinez, who is recovering from a right hip strain, played long-toss Sunday and said he felt even better than Saturday when he threw lightly in the bullpen, according to the NY Post. The plan is for him to long-toss again tomorrow and throw off a mound if he feels up to it.
Our View: Barring a setback, he is expected to start this weekend against the Cardinals. |
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| Price is among the best | Monday 7/21, 2:02 PM CT |
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David Price is 8-0, with a 1.92 ERA between A-ball and Double-A. He has an impressive 62/17 K/BB ratio in 66 innings.
Our View: Price is one of the best pitching prospects in baseball and could see Triple-A before the end of the season. |
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| Ellsbury could be dropped in lineup | Monday 7/21, 2:00 PM CT |
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The Boston Globe reports that the slumping Jacoby Ellsbury could be dropped from the leadoff spot once David Ortiz returns to the Red Sox lineup.
Our View: Ellsbury has been a nightmare in his last 26 games. He has struck out more than once per six at-bats, drawn only four walks, stolen one base and been caught stealing three times. His OBP is a meager .234. He has just one home run over his last 48 games. |
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| Yost defends Weeks | Monday 7/21, 1:57 PM CT |
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Manager Ned Yost defended Rickie Weeks as his starting second baseman following the acquisition of Ray Durham from the Giants, according to the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel. Yost said, "Rickie's doing fine. I'll play Ray a couple of days a week, maybe. We'll just see how it goes. I'm not setting anything in stone. We'll take it day by day. Veteran, quality depth is what it gives us."
Our View: Weeks has been struggling with a .216 average, but Yost insists that Durham was added namely for depth and a solid bat off the bench, rather than a replacement for Weeks. So while Weeks will likely play less every week with starts given to Durham, the vet isn't a threat to replace Weeks as the regular starter at second. |
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| Russell sent down | Monday 7/21, 1:43 PM CT |
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Adam Russell has been sent down to Triple-A Charlotte, according to the AP. The team demoted him to free up a roster spot for Clayton Richard.
Our View: Russell held a 3-0 record as a reliever, but could not keep a job with the Sox as he allowed six earned runs and 13 hits over 9.2 innings. |
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| Richard called up | Monday 7/21, 1:39 PM CT |
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Clayton Richard has been called up from Triple-A Charlotte, according to the AP. He fills the roster spot for Adam Russell, who was optioned to Charlotte on Sunday.
Our View: Richard was the starting pitcher for the United States in the All-Star Futures Game, and he won all six of his starts at Charlotte, while maintaining a 2.37 ERA. |
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| Aviles extends streak | Monday 7/21, 1:31 PM CT |
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Mike Aviles quietly extended his hitting streak to 10 games on Sunday against the White Sox, according to the KC Star. Manager Trey Hillman said, "He’s showing the ability to make the adjustments that they’re trying to make to him. When he’s had bad at-bats and poor plate appearances because of swinging out of the strike zone, or not being balanced on his swings in the strike zone, he’s had the ability to fix that quicker, within the same game, even."
Our View: He extented the streak to 10 by going 3-for-5. He has a firm grasp on the starting job at shortstop, and Tony Pena will remain stuck on the bench. Scoop Aviles up in AL-only leagues if still dangling on the waiver wire. |
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| Helton increases exercise | Monday 7/21, 1:10 PM CT |
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Todd Helton has increased his exercise workload for his ailing back and hip, according to the Rocky Mountain News.
Our View: He is still yet to start any baseball related activity, but remains hopeful to return to action at some point near the end of July. |
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| Francis to pitch at Double-A Monday | Monday 7/21, 1:07 PM CT |
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Jeff Francis, who is recovering from left elbow inflammation, is scheduled to pitch three innings or 45 pitches tonight for Double-A Tulsa at Arkansas, according to the Rocky Mountain News. He will then make a second rehab start Saturday for the Drillers, working six innings or about 75 pitches.
Our View: Francis will be re-evaluated Sunday to determine whether he makes another rehabilitation start or rejoins the Rockies. |
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| Miner to start | Monday 7/21, 12:59 PM CT |
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Zach Miner will start Monday against the Royals, but the team still thinks his future rests in the bullpen, according to the Detroit News. Manager Jim Leyland likes him for the sixth or seventh inning as a reliever, and his status could depend on tonight's outing in the rotation. Leyland said, "He has two good pitches, and a third one that's OK. If the third one (his change-up) gets better, he can be a starter. But I thought he could be a good reliever for us, and I still think he could be. I like having a guy in the bullpen with a good sinker. But we'll see how he does as a starter."
Our View: Miner is worth acquiring in larger mixed-leagues following his promotion to the rotation, but may not hold much value down the stretch, as he could land back in the bullpen. |
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| Kazmir set for Monday | Monday 7/21, 12:24 PM CT |
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| Scott Kazmir is set to take the hill on Monday after a few extra days of rest following his outing in the All-Star Game, according to the Tampa Tribune. He doesn't feel like his routine has been knocked off balance and he said, "It doesn't feel like I'm rusty or anything like tha | |
