| Francis' return pushed back to Thursday | Wednesday 8/6, 11:51 PM CT |
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With the Rockies/Nationals game being rained out, Jeff Francis' return from the DL will be pushed back to Thursday, when the two teams will play a doubleheader.
Our View: Francis will square off against Jason Bergmann in the first game, while Ubaldo Jimenez will oppose Odalis Perez in the second tilt. |
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| Murphy headed to DL | Wednesday 8/6, 11:23 PM CT |
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David Murphy is headed to the DL because of the right knee strain he suffered Wednesday, according to the Star-Telegram. He's expected to miss 2-4 weeks.
Our View: Murphy's injury comes at a bad time for the Rangers, who are also without Milton Bradley. |
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| Bradley misses eighth straight start | Wednesday 8/6, 11:14 PM CT |
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Milton Bradley missed his eighth straight start Wednesday due to a strained left quad, though he was available to pinch hit, according to the AP. Manager Ron Washington said Bradley could be ready to return to return the lineup this weekend.
Our View: It's unreasonable to think Milton will ever be able to make it through a full year without some sort of ailment. He's at least managed to stay off the DL this year. |
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| Millwood to make rehab start Saturday | Wednesday 8/6, 11:11 PM CT |
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Kevin Millwood had a bullpen session Wednesday and will make a rehab start for Double-A Frisco on Saturday, according to the AP. Millwood has been on the DL since July 26 with a strained groin.
Our View: We'll have to see how many rehab starts Millwood needs. It's possibly Saturday's will be his only one. |
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| Matsui to begin running program Thursday | Wednesday 8/6, 11:09 PM CT |
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Hideki Matsui hit 37 pitches during batting practice at the Yankees facility in Tampa, Fla. Wednesday, according to the AP. Matsui, coming back from a left knee injury, is expected to begin a running program Thursday.
Our View: Matsui still has a ways to go. We'll continue to monitor his progress. |
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| Giese to get the ball on Saturday | Wednesday 8/6, 11:06 PM CT |
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Dan Giese will start on Saturday for the Yanks, who are looking to replace a pair of starters in Joba Chamberlain and Darrell Rasner, according to the AP.
Our View: Giese looked good in one start earlier this year but was shelled the next time out. He boasts a 2.51 ERA in 13 games (two starts) this year. |
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| Kennedy to start Friday | Wednesday 8/6, 10:59 PM CT |
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Ian Kennedy will be recalled from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre to start on Friday, according to the AP. Dan Giese will get the ball on Saturday.
Our View: Kennedy struggled earlier this year with the Yanks but appears to have righted the ship in the minors. |
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| Cards get to Lowe early and often | Wednesday 8/6, 10:51 PM CT |
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Derek Lowe was hammered for for eight runs on 13 hits in 3 1/3 innings Wednesday in a 9-6 loss to the Cardinals.
Our View: This was Lowe's worst start of the year. He pitched really well in June and July. |
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| Pujols gets a grannie | Wednesday 8/6, 10:47 PM CT |
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Albert Pujols was 4-for-4 with a grand slam Wednesday. The homer was his 23rd of the year, and he now has 73 RBI.
Our View: Albert will have to keep it rolling if he wants to extend his streak of .300-30-100 seasons going, as he needs 27 RBI over the final 46 games. |
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| Ludwick homers in fifth straight game | Wednesday 8/6, 10:44 PM CT |
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Ryan Ludwick tied a franchise record by homering in his fifth straight game Wednesday. He also added a pair of singles and drove in two and scored two.
Our View: Ludwick has been arguably the biggest fantasy surprise in baseball this year with a .307-29-82 line. He leads all of baseball in SLG %, and if the Cards manage to squeak into the playoffs, Ludwick would get serious MVP consideration. |
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| Perez picks up first career save | Wednesday 8/6, 10:41 PM CT |
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Chris Perez picked up his first career save Wednesday, retiring the final five Dodgers hitters while allowing a walk with two strikeouts.
Our View: If the Cardinals bring Adam Wainwright back as a starter and not a reliever, then Perez is the favorite for saves from here on out. Officially, the Cards are calling it a committee situation. |
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| Murphy leaves after collision | Wednesday 8/6, 10:39 PM CT |
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David Murphy left Wednesday's game after suffering a right knee strain as a result of a collision with Ivan Rodriguez at the plate.
Our View: We'll update Murphy's status when more is known. |
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| Hunter knocked around again | Wednesday 8/6, 10:36 PM CT |
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Tommy Hunter's outing Wednesday could be his last in the majors for a while. Hunter was knocked around for the second straight start, allowing five runs on eight hits over 4 1/3 innings.
Our View: It's pretty clear Hunter isn't ready for the show yet, but it's possible he could stick around until Kevin Millwood is ready. |
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| Wakefield's knuckler befuddles Royals | Wednesday 8/6, 10:32 PM CT |
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Tim Wakefield had his knuckler working Wednesday, limiting the Royals to two runs (one earned) on four hits while striking out six over six innings.
Our View: Wake's ERA sits at 3.67, which would easily be his lowest since he began starting regularly for the Sox in 2003. |
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| Ellsbury wraps three hits, including homer | Wednesday 8/6, 10:29 PM CT |
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Jacoby Ellsbury had three hits, including his sixth homer of the season, in Boston's win Wednesday.
Our View: This was Jacoby's second straight multi-hit game, which he needed given his low batting average since June. |
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| Drew gets a pair of hits out of leadoff spot | Wednesday 8/6, 10:24 PM CT |
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J.D. Drew hit leadoff for the third straight game Wednesday, going 2-for-4 with two RBI and a run scored.
Our View: Drew's OBP on the year is around .410, so he's a good fit for this spot in the order. It remains to be seen if he'll stay in the spot. |
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| Bay keeps hitting for Sox | Wednesday 8/6, 10:18 PM CT |
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Jason Bay continued his hot start with the Red Sox, picking up a pair of his and scoring two runs in an 8-2 win over Kansas City Wednesday.
Our View: Bay is hitting .423 with a homer and six RBI in six games with his new team. |
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| Verlander loses third straight | Wednesday 8/6, 10:16 PM CT |
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Justin Verlander allowed five runs on six hits and three walks while striking out eight over 7 2/3 innings Wednesday in the Tigers' 5-1 loss to Chicago.
Our View: Two of the runs charged to Justin came across the plate while Aquilino Lopez was on the mound. Verlander has given up 18 runs over his last three starts, even though he also has 22 strikeouts over that time. |
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| Danks keeps winning streak going | Wednesday 8/6, 10:06 PM CT |
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John Danks kept Detroit's offense in check Wednesday, limiting the Tigers to one run on four hits and a walk while striking out six over 6 2/3 innings. The lefty moved to 9-4 on the year.
Our View: Danks hasn't lost since May 24, even though he hadn't been very good over his last four starts. |
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| Thome belts three-run homer | Wednesday 8/6, 10:02 PM CT |
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Jim Thome provided most the offense for the White Sox Wednesday night, belting a three-run homer and scoring two runs in a 5-1 win over the Tigers. The dinger was Thome's 22nd of the year.
Our View: Thome got off to a slow start this year but has been very good since June. |
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| Pedro solid in loss | Wednesday 8/6, 9:57 PM CT |
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Pedro Martinez allowed three runs (two earned) on four hits and three walks with three strikeouts over 6 1/3 innings Wednesday in a 4-2 loss to the Padres. It was his second start since coming back from a hip injury.
Our View: Pedro fared a bit better this time out, but it wasn't good enough to pick up a win. His next start will come against the Nationals. |
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| Murphy picks up three hits | Wednesday 8/6, 9:34 PM CT |
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Dan Murphy hit second in the Mets batting order Wednesday and picked up three hits, including a triple, in a 4-2 loss to the Padres Wednesday.
Our View: Murphy is 4-for-7 in his brief time with the Mets, making a case for regular playing time should Ryan Church's return be delayed further. |
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| Wainwright likely to return as reliever | Wednesday 8/6, 9:28 PM CT |
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The Cardinals have perhaps tipped their hand as to their future plans for Adam Wainwright, who is coming back from a sprained right middle finger. The righty will go on a rehab assignment Friday and will pitch every two or three days, an indication that he'll be used in relief when he returns to active duty, according to MLB.com. "We're going to limit his pitch count and then have him go more on an every-couple-of-days schedule from there," GM John Mozeliak said. "Not drawing any conclusions, but [using Wainwright in relief] is still on the table. Clearly, we think getting him back in the bullpen sooner, rather than later as a starter, could address some immediate needs."
Our View: The Cardinals aren't saying for sure that they're planning on using Wainwright as a reliever down the stretch, but the writing appears to be on the wall. He would probably work in the middle innings initially but would almost surely go back to the closer role that he held in the 2006 playoffs. |
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| Pudge day-to-day with bruised knee | Wednesday 8/6, 9:05 PM CT |
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Ivan Rodriguez is listed as day-to-day after suffering a bruised right knee Wednesday that was the result of a collision at home plate with the Rangers' David Murphy, according to the AP.
Our View: Pudge will almost surely sit out tomorrow, but hopefully he'll be good to go for the weekend series against the Angels. |
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| Upton to take another step Thursday | Wednesday 8/6, 9:01 PM CT |
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Justin Upton will take batting practice on the field Thursday, the next step in his rehabilitation from a strained left oblique, according to MLB.com. If all goes well, Upton will hit on the field a couple more days before going on a rehab assignment. "I would say at the very least, a week," manager Bob Melvin said when asked how long of an rehab stint Upton would need. "I'd like him to feel pretty good about his swing when he comes back."
Our View: We'll let you know how Upton's hitting sessions go. It sounds like the best case scenario would have him back for the week of Aug. 18-24. |
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| Sanchez looks rusty Wednesday | Wednesday 8/6, 8:49 PM CT |
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Anibal Sanchez looked rusty in his second start back from the DL Wednesday, allowing four runs (three earned) on five hits and three walks over five innings. He struck out two.
Our View: Sanchez, who is coming back from Tommy John surgery, will have a few of these types of outings while he regains his command. He should not be used as a mixed league option right now. |
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| Kendrick notches 10th win | Wednesday 8/6, 8:46 PM CT |
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Kyle Kendrick reached double-digit wins Wednesday, as he tossed six shutout innings while allowing four hits and five walks with four strikeouts in a win over Florida.
Our View: Kendrick continues to win despite poor peripherals. He's still a borderline, at best, mixed league play, but he has significant value in NL-only play. |
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| Marcum puts together nice effort | Wednesday 8/6, 8:43 PM CT |
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Shaun Marcum looked like his old self Wednesday, allowing just one run on three hits and two walks while striking out seven over seven innings.
Our View: Marcum really struggled in his previous three outings since coming back from the DL, so his owners have to be thrilled with this effort. |
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| Gonzalez loses in debut | Wednesday 8/6, 8:40 PM CT |
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Gio Gonzalez had a decent major league debut Wednesday, but he wasn't good enough to avoid his first loss. The lefty allowed four runs on four hits and two walks while striking out six over six innings in a loss to the Blue Jays.
Our View: Not a bad debut for Gio. He'll try to pick up a win next week against the Rays. |
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| Pudge exits after collision | Wednesday 8/6, 8:19 PM CT |
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Ivan Rodriguez left Wednesday's game after being hurt on collision at home plate that ended the second inning, according to the AP. It's not clear what Rodriguez's injury is, but it appeared that the Rangers' David Murphy ran his knee hard into Rodriguez's shin guard.
Our View: Jose Molina replaced Pudge in the lineup. We'll pass along more info when it becomes available. |
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| Gordon leaves rehab game with elbow soreness | Wednesday 8/6, 8:15 PM CT |
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Tom Gordon was removed from a rehab game for Single-A Clearwater on Wednesday after experiencing right elbow discomfort, according to MLB.com. The veteran will return to Philadelphia to see team physician Michael Ciccotti.
Our View: Gordon is coming back from inflammation in his elbow. Depending on what Ciccotti says, Gordon's season could be over. |
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| Ginter placed on DL | Wednesday 8/6, 8:05 PM CT |
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The Indians placed Matt Ginter on the DL Wednesday with a right forearm strain.
Our View: Anthony Reyes will take Ginter's spot in the rotation. |
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| Donnelly expected to be recalled Friday | Wednesday 8/6, 8:04 PM CT |
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The Indians are expected to recall Brendan Donnelly from Triple-A Buffalo Friday. He is working his way back from Tommy John surgery.
Our View: Donnelly should return to being a solid setup man and is worth a look in AL-only formats. |
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| Mastny optioned to Triple-A | Wednesday 8/6, 8:00 PM CT |
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The Indians optioned Tom Mastny to Triple-A Buffalo Wednesday.
Our View: Mastny hardly made a case to stick around, holding a 10.18 ERA in nine games. |
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| Mock likely to be recalled | Wednesday 8/6, 7:59 PM CT |
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The Nationals are likely to recall Garrett Mock from Triple-A Columbus to replace Elijah Dukes, who is expected to land on the DL, according to the Washington Post.
Our View: Mock would be used as a long man out of the bullpen. |
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| Dukes expected to land on DL | Wednesday 8/6, 7:57 PM CT |
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GM Jim Bowden told the Washington Post that Elijah Dukes is likely to be placed on the DL "either today or tomorrow." Dukes ad an MRI on his injured calf injury this morning, and he'll need further time to recover.
Our View: Dukes has appeared in just two games since returning from a knee injury, and it looks like he's headed back to the DL. |
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| Francis activated, will start tonight | Wednesday 8/6, 7:48 PM CT |
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The Rockies activated Jeff Francis from the DL Wednesday. Francis, who was out with inflammation in his left shoulder, will start tonight against the Nationals.
Our View: Francis gave up just one run over his three rehab outings, so he appears to be ready. |
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| Register optioned to Triple-A | Wednesday 8/6, 7:45 PM CT |
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The Rockies optioned Steven Register to Triple-A Colorado Springs Wednesday. He struck out the only batter he faced while with the club.
Our View: Those in Steven Register-only leagues can feel free to release the reliever. |
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| Youkilis leaves after HBP | Wednesday 8/6, 7:41 PM CT |
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Kevin Youkilis was hit by a pitch on the right hand Wednesday and eventually had to leave the game, according to SportsTicker. The All-Star took his base after getting hit but was removed in between innings after getting doubled off first.
Our View: X-rays on Youkilis' hand came back negative. The Sox are off tomorrow, so hopefully Youk will be able to return to the lineup on Friday. |
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| Cuddyer to continue rehab through the weekend | Wednesday 8/6, 7:36 PM CT |
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Michael Cuddyer will remain on rehab assignment at Triple-A Rochester through the weekend, manager Ron Gardenhire told the AP. Cuddyer is coming back from a strained tendon in his left index finger.
Our View: With the way Denard Span has performed, the Twins haven't missed Cuddyer that much. We could see Span take over for Carlos Gomez in center. |
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| Cards go to closer by committee | Wednesday 8/6, 7:09 PM CT |
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The Cardinals will go to a closer by committee approach after Jason Isringhausen's latest blowup, according to the AP. Manager Tony La Russa still thinks Izzy can be a useful piece of the bullpen. "Oh yeah, I definitely do," the manager said. "I think he's got a lot he can offer us."
Our View: The Cards added youngster Chris Perez to the pen Wednesday, and he could get a crack at the job. It sounds like La Russa will play the matchups, though. |
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| Church to be examined soon | Wednesday 8/6, 7:01 PM CT |
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Ryan Church's potential return from post-concussion syndrome could hinge on an examination that he'll go through on Thursday or Friday, according to MetsBlog.com. Manager Jerry Manuel isn;t getting his hopes up. "I've said before that I'm not optimistic about [Church], because it's really foreign to all of us and we're just unsure as to whether he can go," Manuel said. "If it does turn out to be something that's favorable for us, it would be a welcomed addition for us."
Our View: The Mets could certainly use Church's bat back in the lineup. We'll let you know what comes of his exam. |
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| Grudzielanek likely done for the year | Wednesday 8/6, 6:55 PM CT |
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Mark Grudzielanek is likely done for the year after revealing on Wednesday that he has a torn deltoid ligament on the left side of his right ankle, according to MLB.com. "I'd be pressed to get back this year," he said.
Our View: Esteban German will handle the second base duties while Grudzielanek is out. If he is in fact done, Grudz will end the year with a .299 batting average. |
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| Roberts sent outright to Oklahoma | Wednesday 8/6, 6:50 PM CT |
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The Rangers sent Ryan Roberts outright to Triple-A Oklahoma Wednesday.
Our View: Roberts struck out in his lone at-bat with Texas. |
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| Giles claimed off waivers | Wednesday 8/6, 6:47 PM CT |
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Brian Giles has been claimed off waivers by an unnamed team, according to FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal. The Padres have 48 hours to complete a trade. If no deal is reached, the Padres can take back Giles, or let him go to the claiming team.
Our View: Dozens of players get claimed off waivers every year and nothing ends up happening. We'll let you know if Giles ends up departing San Diego. |
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| Britton back up from Triple-A | Wednesday 8/6, 6:43 PM CT |
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The Yankees recalled Chris Britton from Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Wednesday. He replaces Joba Chamberlain on the roster.
Our View: Britton will serve in middle relief. |
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| Meyer to start in place of Gallagher | Wednesday 8/6, 6:41 PM CT |
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Dan Meyer will start in place of the injured Sean Gallagher on Saturday, according to the AP. He tossed four scoreless innings in relief of Gallagher on Monday.
Our View: Meyer was once a top prospect, but he doesn't belong anywhere near your fantasy roster these days. |
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| Gallagher to have MRI on shoulder | Wednesday 8/6, 6:29 PM CT |
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Sean Gallagher returned to California for an MRI exam because of irritation in his right shoulder, according to the AP. Dan Meyer will start in Gallagher's place on Saturday.
Our View: Gallagher is expected to start next week against the Rays, though that could change depending on the results of the MRI. |
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| Petit sent to Triple-A | Wednesday 8/6, 6:23 PM CT |
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The A's optioned Gregorio Petit to Triple-A Sacramento Wednesday to make room on the roster for Gio Gonzalez.
Our View: Petit held his own at the plate in his brief time with the A's, but he wasn't getting enough playing time to be worthy of a fantasy roster spot. |
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| Gonzalez set for debut | Wednesday 8/6, 6:21 PM CT |
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The A's purchased the contract of Gio Gonzalez from Triple-A Sacramento Wednesday. Gonzalez will make his major league debut tonight against the Blue Jays.
Our View: Gonzalez was 8-7 with a 4.24 ERA at Triple-A, with 128 strikeouts in 123 innings. Infielder Gregorio Petit was optioned to Triple-A to make room for Gonzalez. |
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| Joba placed on DL | Wednesday 8/6, 6:10 PM CT |
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As expected, the Yankees placed Joba Chamberlain on the DL Wednesday, according to the AP. Chamberlain had his shoulder examined today by Dr. James Andrews today, who diagnosed the righty with rotator cuff tendinitis.
Our View: Joba will rest for a week and then begin a throwing program. |
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| Rowand drives in all three runs | Wednesday 8/6, 6:03 PM CT |
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Aaron Rowand notched his 10th homer of the year and drove in all three runs for the Giants Wednesday in a 3-2 win over Atlanta.
Our View: Rowand's .282-10-60 line doesn't exactly scream $60 million, but did anyone think he'd end up being worthy of that contract? |
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| Lincecum gets eight Ks, 12th win | Wednesday 8/6, 5:57 PM CT |
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Tim Lincecum held the Braves to two runs on five hits and four walks while striking out eight over eight innings Wednesday to pick up his 12th win of the year.
Our View: Tiny Tim now has 24 more strikeouts than anyone in the NL and has somehow managed to pick up a dozen wins on a horrid Giants squad. |
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| Winn collects four base knocks | Wednesday 8/6, 5:53 PM CT |
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Randy Winn had four singles and two runs scored in Wednesday's win over Atlanta.
Our View: Winn is batting .458 this month but hasn't homered since June 2. |
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| McCann picks up three hits | Wednesday 8/6, 5:48 PM CT |
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Brian McCann was 1-for-8 in his first two games back from a concussion, but on Wednesday he was up to his old tricks, going 3-for-4 with a double and run scored.
Our View: McCann looks to be good to go moving forward, though he's not going to drive in many runs in Atlanta's Triple-A looking offense. |
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| Vlad reaches 20-homer plateau | Wednesday 8/6, 5:36 PM CT |
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Vladimir Guerrero had a two-run homer and a two-RBI double in the Angels' 9-4 win over Baltimore Wednesday. The homer was Vlad's 20th of the season.
Our View: It is the 11th season in a row that Vlad has reached 20 bombs, though it's taken him a little longer this year to reach that number than in years past. |
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| The Big Unit pitches well in loss | Wednesday 8/6, 5:29 PM CT |
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Randy Johnson had his string of five straight wins snapped Wednesday, but it wasn't his fault. The tall lefty allowed only two runs on seven hits while striking out seven over 7 1/3 innings in a 2-0 loss to Pittsburgh. He was upstaged by Jeff Karstens, who nearly through a perfect game before settling for a two-hit shutout.
Our View: The Big Unit has allowed just these two runs in his last four outings, showing that he's still got something left in the tank. |
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| Karstens takes perfect game into the eighth | Wednesday 8/6, 5:25 PM CT |
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Jeff Karstens followed up his impressive Pirates' debut with an even better outing Wednesday. The righty carried a perfect game into the eighth inning and ended the day with just two hits and no runs allowed in a 2-0 win. He walked one and struck out four.
Our View: Perhaps the high upside guy that many people said the Pirates failed to come away with at the deadline was in fact Karstens. We're kidding, of course, but you have to be impressed with what he's done so far in the Steel City. We're not ready to say Karstens is a mixed league option just yet, though. |
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| Lopez starting in left field | Wednesday 8/6, 5:20 PM CT |
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The newly signed Felipe Lopez is starting in left field tonight for the Cardinals. He's hitting seventh in the batting order.
Our View: The fact that Lopez is playing the outfield in his first start seems to be proof that he'll be used a utility role and not as a starting option at shortstop or second. However, if he turns it around at the plate, that could change. |
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| Stavinoha sent down | Wednesday 8/6, 5:13 PM CT |
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The Cardinals optioned Nick Stavinoha to Triple-A Memphis Wednesday. Stavinoha has hit .200 with four RBI in 25 at-bats with the Cards this year.
Our View: Stavinoha has put up terrific numbers at Triple-A, but he hasn't looked good in his two big league stints. |
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| Perez recalled from Triple-A | Wednesday 8/6, 5:11 PM CT |
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The Cardinals recalled Chris Perez from Triple-A Memphis Wednesday. Outfielder Nick Stavinoha was optioned to make room on the roster.
Our View: With the Cards' problems at the back end of the pen, there's a chance, probably a good chance, that Perez will get a look in the closer role. |
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| Reyes to start on Friday | Wednesday 8/6, 4:37 PM CT |
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The Indians will recall Anthony Reyes from Triple-A Buffalo to start Friday against the Blue Jays, according to SportsTicker. Matt Ginter will be placed on the DL to make room on the roster.
Our View: Friday is supposed to be Paul Byrd's turn in the rotation. Perhaps the Tribe is working on a post-deadline deal involving Byrd, or maybe they'll just push him back a day. Reyes is worth a shot in AL-only leagues. |
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| Hernandez lands with the Rockies | Wednesday 8/6, 4:07 PM CT |
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Confirming an earlier report, Livan Hernandez has indeed been claimed by the Rockies off waivers, according to FOX Sports' Ken Rosenthal. The Rockies will pay the approximately $1.6 million remaining on Hernandez's contract for the year, while the Twins, who designated Hernandez for assignment last week, are responsible for the incentives the pitcher has already earned this season. At least one other National League club also made a claim on Hernandez, but the Rockies were awarded the pitcher because they had the worst record of any of the claiming teams.
Our View: Hernandez is likely to take Jorge De La Rosa's spot in the rotation. Pitching at Coors Field negates any sort of uptick Livan receives in value by going back to the NL. |
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| Theriot leaves game | Wednesday 8/6, 3:52 PM CT |
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Ryan Theriot has left Wednesday's game after six innings as he sustained an apparent foot injury.
Our View: He fouled a ball off his right foot, and was then replaced by Ronny Cedeno. We will keep you posted when the severity of the ailment is determined. |
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| Sadler recalled | Wednesday 8/6, 3:47 PM CT |
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Billy Sadler has been recalled from Triple-A Fresno, according to the AP. Right-hander Sergio Romo has been designated for assignment as the adjoining move.
Our View: Sadler issued 13 earned runs, 18 walks, and 17 hits over 23.2 innings of relief with the Giants this season, and does not garner fantasy consideration. |
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| Yabu activated | Wednesday 8/6, 3:43 PM CT |
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Keiichi Yabu has been activated from the DL following his recovery from a sprained right middle finger, according to the AP. The Giants optioned reliever Osiris Matos to Triple-A Fresno as the corresponding move.
Our View: Yabu will provide depth to the Giants' bullpen, but will hold no fantasy value in anything but deeper NL-only leagues, as he maintains a 3.64 ERA and 1.38 WHIP over 47 innings of relief this season. |
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| Sowers handed no decision | Wednesday 8/6, 3:37 PM CT |
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Jeremy Sowers issued three earned runs on six hits over six innings in Wednesday's 10-7 loss to the Rays, with three walks and two strikeouts. He exited the game with a 6-4 lead, and was handed a no decision.
Our View: Sowers holds a 1-6 record over 13 starts, and should remain a fantasy non-factor. |
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| Peralta goes 5-for-5 | Wednesday 8/6, 3:30 PM CT |
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Jhonny Peralta impressively went 5-for-5 with two RBI in Wednesday's 10-7 loss to the Rays at Tropicana Field. He hit two singles, two doubles, and a solo home run. He accounted for 10 total bases in the game.
Our View: He extended his hitting streak to 10 games, and has homered in back-to-back contests. He raised his average a few points higher to .281, and should remain in fantasy lineups while he is hot. |
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| Pena's three-run homer leads Rays | Wednesday 8/6, 3:25 PM CT |
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Carlos Pena went 1-for-2 with a three-run homer in Wednesday's 10-7 win over the Indians at Tropicana Field. He led a six-run rally in the ninth inning to pull out a hard-fought victory for the Rays.
Our View: He has 20 homers for the season, with three coming over his last seven games. His batting average will remain low, but should remain a solid source of power down the stretch for fantasy owners. |
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| Kazmir dealt no decision | Wednesday 8/6, 3:20 PM CT |
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Scott Kazmir was not in control in Wednesday's 10-7 win over Cleveland, as he surrendered five earned runs on nine hits over a mere 4.1 innings of work, with three walks and four strikeouts. Tampa Bay rallied to score six runs in the ninth inning, and Kazmir was dealt a no decision instead of a loss.
Our View: Kazmir remains at 8-5, and has been issued a no decision in three straight starts, and has not lasted beyond the fifth inning in any of those outings. |
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| Napoli expected to be activated Fri. | Wednesday 8/6, 3:03 PM CT |
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Mike Napoli is expected to be activated from the DL Friday prior to the Angels contest against the Yankees, according to Angels.com. He has been recovering from irritation in his right shoulder.
Our View: Napoli has hit .500 with one home run and three RBI over 10 at-bats with Single-A Rancho Cucamonga, and is also throwing the ball great as a catcher. He will platoon with Jeff Mathis when he returns, and will remain a solid source for home runs (12) from the position, but leaves a lot to be desired with a .204 batting average. |
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| Bruce blasts two-run homer | Wednesday 8/6, 2:55 PM CT |
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Jay Bruce went 2-for-4 with three RBI in Wednesday's 6-3 loss to Milwaukee. He hit a double and a two-run homer, and was the lone source of scoring for the Reds.
Our View: The rookie crushed his fourth homer over his last seven contests, and extended his hitting streak to 10 games. |
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| Weeks leads Brewers to win | Wednesday 8/6, 2:51 PM CT |
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Rickie Weeks was a key contributor in Wednesday's 6-3 win over the Reds, as he went 4-for-5 with a pair of RBI. All four of his knocks were singles.
Our View: He reached his highest hit total for the season, and registered multiple RBI for the seventh time. |
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| Bailey remains winless | Wednesday 8/6, 2:46 PM CT |
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Homer Bailey was rocked for six earned runs on eight hits over 5.1 innings in Wednesday's 6-3 loss to the Brewers at home, with three walks and four strikeouts.
Our View: Bailey remains winless at 0-6, and his ERA climbs higher to 7.93. The 22-year-old clearly is not ready for the majors. |
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| Suppan evens record to 7-7 | Wednesday 8/6, 2:42 PM CT |
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Jeff Suppan allowed three earned runs on seven hits over seven innings in Wednesday's 6-3 win over the Reds at the Great American Ballpark, with no walks and three strikeouts.
Our View: He evens his record to 7-7 and has won back-to-back starts. He is pitching well right now, and is worth consideration in NL-only leagues if you need help at the position. |
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| Paulino feeling tightness | Wednesday 8/6, 2:37 PM CT |
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Felipe Paulino has experienced elbow tightness in his first rehab appearance Wednesday, according to Astros.com. He didn't have a reoccurrence of the nerve issue that shelved him in Spring Training and later forced him to the DL, but his recent shoulder issue is cause for concern. He will be examined by team medical director David Lintner on Thursday.
Our View: He was scheduled to make a pair of relief appearances with Triple-A Round Rock this week, but now that plan is wiped out. On a positive note, his control was good today prior to exiting after 2/3 of an inning. The team will wait to hear from Lintner before deciding the next course of action for Paulino.
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| Cabrera injured | Wednesday 8/6, 2:02 PM CT |
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Asdrubal Cabrera was forced out of Wednesday's game in the sixth inning with what appears to be an ankle injury.
Our View: He was injured while running back onto the field to take his position. We will keep you posted when more details regarding his status are disclosed. |
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| Barfield could begin rehab stint soon | Wednesday 8/6, 1:14 PM CT |
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Josh Barfield, who is recovering from surgery on his left finger, could begin a rehab assignment as early as this weekend, according to the Indians.com.
Our View: Barfield began running the bases and taking batting practice this week, and feels he is really close now. He could platoon with Adrubal Cabrera at second base when he returns to Cleveland. |
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| Garko injured | Wednesday 8/6, 1:10 PM CT |
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Ryan Garko was forced out of Wednesday's game in the third inning due to an apparent leg injury.
Our View: He was working as the DH, and sustained the injury while grounding out in his first at-bat. He was replaced by Andy Marte. |
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| Chamberlain may spend time on DL | Wednesday 8/6, 12:48 PM CT |
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The NY Post suggests that Joba Chamberlain will be placed on the 15-day DL due to his right shoulder ailment.
Our View: The Yankees have recalled Chris Britton from Triple-A, and since he was sent down less than 10 days ago, the Yankees have to place a pitcher on the DL, which is expected to be Chamberlain, who is in Alabama right now being examined by Dr. James Andrews. |
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| Gallagher bound for DL? | Wednesday 8/6, 12:42 PM CT |
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The SF Chronicle indicates that Sean Gallagher is expected to land on the DL due to his sore shoulder. The DL move would make room for Gio Gonzalez on the roster.
Our View: Gallagher is 0-1 over his last four starts with Oakland, and only lasted beyond the fifth inning once over that span. He wasn't much of a factor as a fantasy performer, and a stint on the DL shouldn't hurt. |
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| Harang to throw bullpen session | Wednesday 8/6, 11:54 AM CT |
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Aaron Harang worked a bullpen session on Wednesday, and his next step may be to come off the DL. He made a Triple-A rehab start on Monday. "I had the normal soreness [Tuesday] with everything," Harang informs MLB.com. "I won't know more until I get out there and throw more in a little bit -- but just the normal stiffness from the day after." He is on the disabled list due to a strained right forearm.
Our View: We may know later on Wednesday what the plan is for Harang, but it sounds like he is getting pretty close to returning. |
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| Sizemore resting | Wednesday 8/6, 11:51 AM CT |
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Grady Sizemore is getting a day off on Wednesday against the Rays. Franklin Gutierrez will move to center and bat leadoff, the Cleveland Plain Dealer reports.
Our View: It's a rare day on the pine for Sizemore, who played all 162 games in both 2006 and 2007. He is not hurt, as far as we know. |
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| Hardy sitting on Wednesday | Wednesday 8/6, 11:50 AM CT |
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J.J. Hardy is getting the day off on Wednesday, and Craig Counsell will start at shortstop against the Reds, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel notes.
Our View: FYI for those of you with daily lineup changes. Hardy is 2-for-30 over the last seven games, so this breather isn't too much of a surprise. Maybe Prince Fielder needs to knock some hitting back into Hardy. |
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| Martinez hits, throws | Wednesday 8/6, 11:45 AM CT |
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Victor Martinez took batting practice from both sides of the plate on Wednesday morning and threw to all the bases from behind the plate, MLB.com reports. The catcher is still not ready for a rehab assignment, though. Martinez is recovering from right elbow surgery and may be ready to head to the minors early next week.
Our View: Fantasy owners may still hope to squeeze a good September out of V-Mart, who will likely play a lot of first base and DH down the stretch. |
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| Guardado inherits closer's role | Wednesday 8/6, 11:26 AM CT |
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Eddie Guardado will inherit the closer's job with the Rangers while C.J. Wilson recovers from bone spurs in his left elbow on the DL, according to the AP.
Our View: Guardado earned a save on Tuesday night, which was his third of the season. He holds a 3.02 ERA over 44.2 innings, but maintains a solid 0.96 WHIP and has not surrendered a run in eight straight appearances. He only has 26 strikeouts, but is worth employing as a closer if your roto-club is desperate for saves right now. |
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| Benoit to be activated | Wednesday 8/6, 11:18 AM CT |
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Joaquin Benoit will be activated from the DL to replace the injured C.J. Wilson on the roster, according to the AP. Wilson is headed for the DL due to bone spurs in his left elbow.
Our View: Benoit shouldn't be much of a fantasy factor as a reliever, as he holds a 5.60 ERA and 1.73 WHIP over 35.1 innings this season. Eddie Guardado will be taking over Wilson's role as the closer. |
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| Wilson bound for DL | Wednesday 8/6, 11:13 AM CT |
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C.J. Wilson is bound for the 15-day DL due to bone spurs in his left elbow, according to the AP. Wilson will visit with Dr. Lewis Yocum in Los Angeles to discuss the possibility of surgery. The Rangers will activate Joaquin Benoit from the DL to take Wilson's place on the roster.
Our View: Wilson nailed down 24 saves with Texas, but held a poor 6.02 ERA and 1.64 WHIP. Eddie Guardado is expected to take over the closer's role while Wilson is on the shelf. |
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| Zobrist starting in CF | Wednesday 8/6, 10:57 AM CT |
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Utility man Ben Zobrist is slated to start in center field Wednesday in place of B.J. Upton, who has been benched for failing to run out a groundout Tuesday, according to the St. Petersburg Times.
Our View: Zobrist is hitting .234 with one homer and five RBI this season, and is only worth consideration today in the deepest of leagues. |
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| Upton out of lineup | Wednesday 8/6, 10:53 AM CT |
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B.J. Upton is out of Wednesday's starting lineup after failing to give a top effort on Tuesday, according to the St. Petersburg Times.
Our View: It will be a one-day benching, and Upton could be used late in the game Wednesday if needed. Ben Zobrist is covering center field in his absence. |
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| Bale struggles in rehab outing | Wednesday 8/6, 10:47 AM CT |
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John Bale, who is recovering from left shoulder tightness, did not fare well in his latest rehab outing Monday, according to the KC Star. He pitched a 1-2-3 first inning for Triple-A Omaha, but was yanked in the second inning after allowing five earned runs.
Our View: Bale is 0-2 with an 8.22 ERA over 7.2 innings with Omaha, and is not worth waiting for as a fantasy hurler. |
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| Castillo could return this weekend? | Wednesday 8/6, 10:33 AM CT |
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Luis Castillo, who is trying to bounce back from a strained left hip flexor, went 1-for-3 and played seven innings at second base for Single-A St. Lucie Tuesday, according to the NY Daily News. Mets' GM Omar Minaya mentioned it is a possibility that Castillo could return at some point this weekend.
Our View: Castillo has been disappointing this season, and Damion Easley has fared better at second back in his absence, so fantasy owners should not consider Castillo for lineups until he proves to be effective. |
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| Maine throws pen session | Wednesday 8/6, 10:27 AM CT |
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John Maine, who is recovering from a strained right rotator cuff, threw another successful bullpen session Tuesday, according to the NY Daily News. His next step is to throw a simulated game on Friday at Shea Stadium.
Our View: That would put Maine on pace to pitch a week from today against Washington. |
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| Jones injury update | Wednesday 8/6, 10:10 AM CT |
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Adam Jones will wear a walking boot on his fractured left foot for two weeks, and then he will undergo another CT scan, according to the Baltimore Sun. Manager Dave Trembley said, "I think he's looking at a minimum of four weeks out. It's a terrible thing for him and our team. I think the world of him. I hope he gets it taken care of."
Our View: This a tough loss for the Orioles, but they are not likely to climb back into the pennant race at 13 games back in the AL East with 50 contests to go. Jones has a bright future with the club, and may be shut down for the rest of the season to play it safe. |
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| Contreras expected to return Sat. | Wednesday 8/6, 9:55 AM CT |
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Jose Contreras, who is recovering from right elbow tendinitis, is expected to be activated from the DL to start Saturday against the Red Sox, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. He has been out since July 18.
Our View: Contreras surrendered 12 earned runs over his last two starts with Chicago, but his ailing elbow played a part, and he could prove to be a solid contributor during the stretch run of the fantasy season if healthy. |
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| Guzman nearing return | Wednesday 8/6, 9:49 AM CT |
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Cristian Guzman, who is recovering from a left thumb contusion, took batting practice Tuesday and should be ready to return to game action in a few days, according to the Washington Post.
Our View: Guzman hasn't had an at-bat with Washington since July 25, and may need a few games before he regains his stroke at the plate. He leads the club with a .303 average. |
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| Kennedy may be recalled | Wednesday 8/6, 9:23 AM CT |
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Ian Kennedy may be recalled from Triple-A to replace the injured Joba Chamberlain in the rotation, according to the AP.
Our View: He would be called up in time for Saturday's game against the Angels. Kennedy struggled through eight starts with the Yankees this season, but has fared well in his last few outings in the minors, and could be worth a look in AL-only leagues if he is awarded a spot start in place of Chamberlain. |
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| McDonald promoted to Las Vegas | Wednesday 8/6, 8:55 AM CT |
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James McDonald has been promoted to Triple-A Las Vegas, according to the LA Times.
Our View: The 23-year-old hurler was 5-3 with a 3.19 ERA in double-A Jacksonville this season, and was the Dodgers' minor league pitcher of the year in 2007. He will pitch out of the bullpen at Las Vegas, to conserve his arm for a potential September call-up to the Dodgers. |
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| Schmidt to throw pen session | Wednesday 8/6, 8:51 AM CT |
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Jason Schmidt, who is recovering from right shoulder surgery, will throw a pen session late this week in what could be a last-ditch effort to pitch in the majors with the Dodgers this season, according to the LA Times.
Our View: Schmidt still has hopes of returning this season, but should not be on any fantasy rosters at this point. |
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| Hoover optioned | Wednesday 8/6, 8:43 AM CT |
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Paul Hoover has been optioned to Triple-A Albuquerque, according to Marlins.com. The Marlins activated Matt Treanor from the DL as the adjoining move.
Our View: Hoover held no fantasy value prior to his demotion, with a .200 average (no homers) over 40 at-bats. |
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| Treanor activated | Wednesday 8/6, 8:40 AM CT |
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Matt Treanor has been activated from the DL, according to Marlins.com.
Our View: He could play as early as Thursday, and is slated to initially platoon with John Baker. Treanor is displaying dedication and toughness by postponing his hip surgery, but will remain a non-factor in standard leagues, as he holds a .240 average over 54 games, with only two home runs. |
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| Dumatrait update | Wednesday 8/6, 7:55 AM CT |
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Phil Dumatrait flew to Pittsburgh from Bradenton for a medical exam to test his ailing left shoulder before taking his throwing to the next level, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Our View: He is not expected to rejoin the Pirates until September, and is not worth waiting for as a fantasy hurler, as he holds a 5.26 ERA and 1.58 WHIP over 78.2 innings of work this season. |
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| Davis to start | Wednesday 8/6, 7:52 AM CT |
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Jason Davis will be promoted to the starting rotation, with his first start scheduled for Sunday, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. He will replace Yoslan Herrera.
Our View: Davis allowed two earned runs and six hits over seven innings of relief with the Pirates this season, and is worth a look in deeper NL-only leagues if you could use some depth. |
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| LaRoche may be ready Friday | Wednesday 8/6, 7:48 AM CT |
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Andy LaRoche will resume swinging a bat on Friday, and if that goes favorably without any issues, he could play that night, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.
Our View: If he has a problem with his injured thumb on Friday, he will undergo an MRI. The injury to his right thumb is unrelated to the torn ligament that cost him two months earlier this year.
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| Bourn nearing return | Wednesday 8/6, 7:35 AM CT |
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The Houston Chronicle states that Michael Bourn is almost ready to return to the Astros' lineup following his battle with a sprained right ankle.
Our View: He missed his ninth straight start Tuesday, but hopes to be ready to return by Thursday at the latest. He is still sore, but feels better. Hopefully his speed won't be compromised when he returns, as he holds most of his fantasy value as a base stealer (has 33 steals over 97 games). |
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| Ankiel still nursing ailment | Wednesday 8/6, 7:16 AM CT |
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Rick Ankiel continues to feel pain when he runs and manager Tony La Russa said it is doubtful he'll play during this three-game series against the Dodgers, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
Our View: He has been diagnosed with an abdominal strain, and Tuesday marked the ninth straight game he has not started in the lineup. He is still seeing some action as a pinch-hitter, but hasn't hit a homer since July 18. |
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| Ryan sent down | Wednesday 8/6, 7:11 AM CT |
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Brendan Ryan has been sent down to Triple-A Memphis, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. The team signed former Nationals' infielder Felipe Lopez, and felt Ryan was expendable to free up a roster spot.
Our View: Ryan only hit .242 over 182 at-bats this season, and held very little fantasy value prior to his demotion. |
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| Lopez signed by Cardinals | Wednesday 8/6, 7:07 AM CT |
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Former Nationals' infielder Felipe Lopez has been signed by the Cardinals, according to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. He replaces Brendan Ryan on the roster, who has been sent down to Triple-A Memphis.
Our View: Lopez is a switch-hitter and will hold some value to the Cardinals as a bench performer, but does not merit fantasy attention in mixed leagues. |
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| Yabu yet to be activated | Wednesday 8/6, 7:00 AM CT |
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Keiichi Yabu is yet to be activated from the DL because the Giants cannot decide who to demote to clear a roster space for him, according to the SF Chronicle.
Our View: Yabu will provide depth to the Giants' pen, but will hold no fantasy value in standard leagues, with a 3.64 ERA and 1.38 WHIP over 47 innings of relief. |
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| Nathan shows he's human | Wednesday 8/6, 12:37 AM CT |
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Joe Nathan blew his third save of the season on Tuesday night when he allowed a double to Jose Lopez in the bottom of the eighth inning. Two inherited runners scored, and the Mariners won 8-7.
Our View: Even Nathan is human. He wasn't credited with a run despite the blown effort. The closer has still allowed only six runs over 46.1 innings this season. |
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| Putz picks up a win | Wednesday 8/6, 12:33 AM CT |
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J.J. Putz was shaky on Tuesday night, but he ultimately picked up the win against the Twins. The closer allowed a pair of doubles and walked two batters (one intentional) over 1.1 innings, and he blew the save. Putz did, however, also strike out three, hold the Twins scoreless, and improve to 4-4.
Our View: The WHIP isn't good, but we'll take the win and strikeouts. Putz has struggled badly this season, but recent reports suggest he has found his old pop. |
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| Kubel has big night | Wednesday 8/6, 12:30 AM CT |
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Jason Kubel did his best to carry the Twins on Tuesday night in Seattle. The DH hit a solo homer in the sixth, two-run shot in the eighth, and double in the ninth, but the Twins fell 8-7 to the Mariners. Kubel ended up 4-for-5 with three runs and three RBI.
Our View: Kubel even hit a rare homer off a left-hander in this contest. He mashes right-handed pitching, and if he could ever figure out the other side, we might have a pretty good fantasy player on our hands. |
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| Ibanez drives in five more | Wednesday 8/6, 12:27 AM CT |
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Raul Ibanez followed up his six-RBI night with a five-RBI effort on Tuesday. He went 3-for-5 with a homer against the Twins.
Our View: We're two days into the week and Ibanez has already wrapped up the AL honors for the period. How do the Twins not know that they should pitch around this guy? The rest of the lineup behind him is junk. |
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| Hampton gets first '08 win | Wednesday 8/6, 12:26 AM CT |
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For the Braves, it was resurgent LHP Mike Hampton getting the job done to lead his team to an 11-4 win over San Francisco. Hampton pitched seven innings, allowing two runs (both earned) on just four hits with one walk and two strikeous.
Our View: This is Hampton's first decision of the season and has him off on the right foot. When he's healthy and on, he can be a force. Thus far he's pitched a total of 16 innings over three starts with 12 total earned runs allowed. |
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| Zumaya serves up loss | Wednesday 8/6, 12:23 AM CT |
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On the day he was handed the closer's role, Joel Zumaya allowed three hits and four runs (one earned) and took a loss against the White Sox. Zumaya and the Tigers held a 8-6 lead going into the bottom of the 14th, and Nick Swisher finished the game with a three-run homer. Shortstop Edgar Renteria didn't help the cause by making an error.
Our View: Renteria can share the blame, but the shortstop wasn't the one who gave up a single, double and home run. Zumaya has allowed at least one run in four straight outings and in six of his last seven showings. |
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| Johnson posts three runs scored vs San Fran | Wednesday 8/6, 12:20 AM CT |
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